Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • All you need to know about 2017 Kia Forte Sedan Facelift

    2017 Kia Forte Sedan EX side view2017 Kia Forte Sedan is here and it comes equipped with some impressive goodies. In short, the refreshed Forte packs new exterior styling, new base engine with improved fuel economy and performance, and a range of updated convenience and driver-assistance features. Here is what you need to know, if you go for a 2017 Forte Sedan buy.

    Starting with the exterior enhancements, up front the car adds a new bumper and “tiger nose” grille. The latter has been extended to make a link between the refreshed headlights that could be specified with optional Xenon HID lights. The external redesign is harmonized with the newly designed taillights that also come with available LEDs.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Kia Sportage is Not Only Agile, but Also Safe. Here is What You Need to Know 

    There are three trims available for the new model year, namely LX trim, the sporty S trim and the range topping EX. While there isn’t anything special about the LX (on the outside), the S trim adds sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloys, standard LEDs, rear spoiler, and a chrome exhaust tip. The EX stands out the most with its LED taillights, 17-inch alloys, Smart Key and front door pocket lighting.

    On the inside, the LX and S trims get cloth materials for the seats. What differentiates the S trim from the LX is that the first features exclusive black cloth seats with white contrasting stitching as well as a leather steering wheel and shift knob.

    The top-of-the-range EX shows-off with leather seats (the front ones feature heating function), dual-zone full automatic temperature control, rear vents, and a push-button start with Smart Key. UVO35 telematics is standard for the S and EX, offering more in-vehicle connectivity by allowing drivers to use the touchscreen for smartphone functions.

    Kia’s navigation system and Drive Mode System have too suffered upgrades. As for the list of available advanced driver assistance systems, it has been extended and now offers the following: Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert.

    The most important change that Kia has made is probably the substitution of the 1.8-liter inline-4 cylinder unit with a 2.0-liter Atkinson I-4 paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The new engine produces 147 horsepower (108 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The other engine option is the 2.0-liter GDI I-4 that comes with six-speed automatic and produces 164 hp (120 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm.

    2017 Kia Forte Sedan will be produced in Monterrey, Mexico. Pricing to be announced soon.

    Note: 2017 Kia Forte Sedan EX trim level on the picture above.

    Source: Kia

  • Lister Motor Company launches a limited and exclusive run of Jaguar vehicles

    2017 Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss Lister Motor Company proudly announces the launch of limited run of only 10 special vehicles, Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss with handmade magnesium body and unique lightweight specifications. The idea is to resemble the type of engineering technology that was popular back in the 1950s.

    Already sold, the special vehicles are part of the celebration event of Moss’s races for Brian Lister in the 1950s. Each one of the ten comes with original techniques from that era, blended with Lister Motor Company’s precise attention to detail.

    2017 Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss

    What is interesting about this lineup is the magnesium material: incredibly lightweight, but it is also incredibly difficult to source. And provided that it takes time to be bent under engineers’ will, skill and craftsmanship, it remains one of the most expensive and difficult to work with materials in the motorsport industry.

    2017 Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss

    As you might have expected, all of the Lister Jaguar Knobby Stirling Moss vehicles come with the same specifications that aided Moss in the battle for Silverstone back in 1958. Some of vehicle’s key features include special bodyshell, also created by lightweight magnesium with special aerodynamic low-drag Long Wing Design front wings, magnesium components for the power unit, Clutch and differential also created from magnesium, lightweight tubular steel chassis, classic and distinctive green and yellow exterior paintwork that completely resembles the 1950s one.

    SEE ALSO: Exclusive ride with the new Jaguar F-TYPE SVR on Nürburgring? Yes, please!

    Furthermore, every single vehicle will be built at the very same factory as the original one in George Lister Engineering facility in Cambridge. Chassis and bodies will be shaped by using the same jig and formulas that were used for the original vehicle. Cool, right?

    2017 Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss

    Some personal specification options will also be included, like choosing fully type-approved road car or fully-race tunings. Buyers can also specify the interior having tons of choice for the combination of materials, colors and styles.

    2017 Lister Knobby Jaguar Stirling Moss

    Of course, each of the 10 owners will receive a handover from Sir Stirling Moss and a personal welcome letter from the legendary driver. Each vehicle costs one million. Deliveries will start in the autumn of 2017.

    Source: Lister Motor Company

  • Hyundai – Team Wiggins partnership results with creating a limited run of Santa Fe vehicles

    2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Team Wiggins Limited EditionHyundai Motor launches a limited run of Santa Fe models in order to celebrate the partnership with Sir Bradley’s Wigging’s cycling team! Named Santa Fe Team Wiggins Edition, the limited to 500 units edition will be available for purchase in July.

    Hyundai Motor team promises sharp new design, improvement in terms of technology and tons of additional equipment. But we will see about that!

    2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Team Wiggins Limited Edition

    Based on the Premium SE trim level, the Team Wiggins Edition will come with this new thing called Dynamic Bending Lights, a Panoramic Sunroof, Smart Electric Tailgate, Smart Parking Assist, Ventilated Front Seats and Smart High Beam, all part of the standard equipment. Sweet.

    2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Team Wiggins Limited Edition

    In terms of appearance and style, Team Wiggins proudly shows exclusive badges, distinctive 19-inch aluminums in Dark Gunmetal coloring. Buyers can also choose from five different body color finishes that include the all-new White Crystal with pearl-effect, solid Creamy White, metallic Titanium Silver, metallic Ocean View and one more pearl-effected Phantom Black.

    SEE ALSO: Safe and beautiful, 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport receives prestigious award from IIHS. Details here!

    The power unit is Hyundai’s 200hp (149kW) 2.2-CRDi diesel that can be paired to either a manual or automatic gearbox. Interesting thing is that the price for a vehicle with manual gearbox is cheaper than the Premium SE model. This also means that a Team Wiggins Edition vehicle with automatic transmission system will be approximately the same price as a Premium SE automatic. How cool is that?

    2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Team Wiggins Limited Edition

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Lo and behold! Porsche reveals the fully transformed 2017 Panamera

    2017 Porsche Panamera  front view

    Features 911 inspired design and two new engines

    The 2017 Porsche Panamera is finally here! And we love it! Its new design has kept the general expression of the outgoing model, but features some dramatic changes that bring it more to the 911. In other words, the 2017 Panamera looks more Porsche than ever! Having a spectacular world premiere last night in Berlin, the second generation of the famous sports sedan gathered glances and high appraisals. But let’s see why.

    Combining the performance of a sports car and the convenience of a luxury sedan as the previous generation, the new Panamera comes to offer new engines, design and technologies. In terms of design, the car looks closer to the Porsche 911 because of its more dynamic flyline and some of the design elements of the iconic model.

    SEE ALSO: Be the first to see the 2017 Porsche Panamera as first images leak online

    The coupe-like roof line has been kept, but is more dynamic and includes a new side window look. It seems that the design strengths of the model have been reinforced, while the regarded as weaknesses have been eradicated completely.

    Furthermore the 2017 Panamera is getting new and more powerful twin-turbo engines as well as eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK II). The result is efficiency enhanced by 16 percent. Both the 550 hp Panamera Turbo and the 440 hp Panamera 4S will be equipped with all-wheel drive as standard.

    2017 Porsche Panamera rear and side view

    Some of the new features that improve performance are the three-chamber air suspension, rear axle steering and the 4D Chassis Control chassis management system. Porsche says that it has also included new assistance systems for greater ride comfort and safety.

    Since we still have very little information, what we can tell about the interior is that Porsche is introducing what it calls “future-oriented display and control concept”. In other words, the Advanced Cockpit will feature “smartphone-like user interfaces” as well as configurable LED screens. We are impatient to see them, as Porsche is promising that they will impress us with the intuitive functionality. Customers also have to prepare to meet the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM 4.1) system with a way easier and convenient connectivity features.

    Stay tuned for more detailed information that is to follow soon!

    Source: Porsche

  • Hyundai is making the Tucson more attractive by applying a single change

    Hyundai Tucson side view

    Hyundai Tucson gets 141 PS 1.7-litre turbo diesel with 7DCT

    Hyundai Tucson is probably the company’s best selling product, so there is no need for any changes then, some may say. Hyundai is obviously has a contrasting opinion, because it has made one significant change to the Tucson, which not only makes it more attractive, but also more efficient and dynamic. The company has just added the fifth powertrain option, the 141 PS 1.7-litre turbo diesel unit. To make it cooler, it has connected it to the seven-speed double clutch transmission (7DCT) that drives the front two wheels.

    The 7DCT system has been developed by Hyundai with the goal to offer a choice between fully automatic operation and sequential manual gear changes, thus providing greater driver involvement. The other benefit of this transmission is the improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. Combined with this particular engine, it delivers only 129g of CO2 and has fuel efficiency of 57.6 mpg on a combined cycle.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco completely revealed! Here’s all you need to know!

    Delivering a maximum torque of 340 Nm, the Tucson’s new engine does this within a wide rev range of 1,750 rpm to 2,500 rpm. Making it further efficient is the addition of the Integrated Stop & Go (ISG) system as standard.

    Hyundai Tucson interior

    When it comes to safety, believe it or not, but Hyundai is among the first. The Tucson is actually one of the safest vehicles in its segment. It has been awarded with the maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. And there is a reason for that. The Tucson benefits from a solid body structure including 51% of ultra-high strength steel for better torsional rigidity and impact resistance and wide range of innovative safety features. Just to mention some of them: Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and the Lane Keep Assist System.

    Hyundai Tucson 1 .7-litre turbo diesel comes with a 7DCT and a two-wheel drive (2WD) and it is offered above the SE trim.

    Hyundai Tucson 1.7-litre turbo diesel with 7DCT Specification:

    • U2 1.7 CRDi (HIGH) 141 PS
    7DCT
    • Type
    U2 1.7 CRDi four cylinders in line DOHC with 16-VALVE
    • Capacity
    1685 cc
    • Bore x stroke
    77.2 x 90 mm
    • Compression ratio
    15.7:1
    • Power
    (104 kW) 141 PS @ 4,000 rpm
    • Torque
    340 Nm @ 1,750~2,500 rpm
    • Drivetrain
    2WD
    • Maximum speed (mph)
    115
    • 0 to 62 mph acceleration (seconds)
    11.5
    • Fuel consumption urban mpg (L/100km)
    52.3 (5.4)
    Fuel consumption extra urban mpg  (L/100km) 60.1 (4.7)
    Fuel consumption combined mpg (L/100km) 57.6 (4.9)
    CO2 combined (g/km) 129

    Source: Hyundai

  • Skoda Superb SportLine: mixes sports experience with convenience

    Skoda Superb SportLine front view

    To be offered with three petrol and two diesel engines

    Skoda is often regarded as a mediocre brand, which offers family cars based on a Volkswagen’s platform. And it is actually famous for the latter. There are a lot of faithful fans out there and an equal amount of haters. Regardless on which side you are on, Skoda is strengthening its positions in the automotive word and releasing vehicles which are better than they have ever been in the brand’s history. We are witnessing a continuous expansion of the lineup, as well as extra equipment with every single model the Czech company releases. Let’s see what’s going on in their “garage” now.

    The newest addition of the Superb lineup has been revealed. It is called SportLine and it is intended for those looking for sportier experience but still want “to keep it safe”. The first thing you have to know is that you can opt for this car in an Estate or Hatchback variant.

    SEE ALSO: Skoda reveals the new bear-inspired Kodiaq SUV with couple of sketches

    Then you should be probably thrilled to know that the Superb SportLine offers an enhanced “sporting” design. To prove this let us tell you that the car features 19-inch Anthracite Vega alloys, Bi-Xenon headlights, sports design bumpers, and black gloss grill. Sunset glass, wing mirrors, window surrounds and the body-colored spoiler are making it look even more dramatic. If you have chosen the Hatch, then you’ll also get the rear spoiler at no extra cost. To keep the family trend, Skoda has equipped the Estate with roof rails in black gloss.

    2016 Skoda Superb SportLine wheels

    The cabin has suffered some changes too: it adds a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with silver stitching, quilted Alcantara sports seats (they are kind of nice, aren’t they) and LED ambient lighting. But what really make this Superb stand out, as a sports edition, are the carbon dashboard trim and the aluminium pedals.

    The Superb SportLine has also lowered chassis. Compared to its family, it sits 15mm closer to the ground. Another benefit that brings about excitement in the driving experience is the XDS electronic differential lock, which ensures the sharper handling.

    If we have convinced you that this is the best car for you, then you should also know that it comes in various color options, but there is one in particular, which has been specifically introduced for the SportLine. It is called Dragon Green metallic (you will love it!), but unfortunately you should specify it as an option.

    At last, there are a lot of engine options offered for Skoda Superb SportLine, precisely three petrols and two diesels. The range-topping is the 2.0-litre TSI 280PS 4X4, which makes it to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and emits just 160 g/km CO2.

    Source: Skoda 

  • Silverstone Auctions is looking for the owner of a restored 1958 Lotus Elise

    1058 Lotus Elise Series IThe first production Lotus Elite, first bought by jazz legend Chris Barber and later restored for Channle 4’s For the Love of Cars will be auctioned by Silverstone Auctions at the Silverstone Classic Sale on 30th of July.

    So, what does this sweetie feature except that it its among the first in the lineup? This 1958 Lotus Elise Series I, chassis 1009 was first displayed at the 1958 Earls Court Motor Show and some months later, in December the same year was purchased by Chris Barber.

    But this is just the boring part of Elise’s history. Barber has participated in five race seasons in top race events both in UK and Europe and has also competed in three consecutive Tourist Trophy races in Goodwood respectively in 1961, 1962 and 1963.  And let’s not forget that the first sporty Elise was raced on the Nurburgring  for the British Empire Trophy. Back in these days the vehicle was also driven by sir John Whoitmore, who managed to brake the class lap record at Spa in the Grand Prix GT Support Race in 1962.

    1958 Lotus Elise Series I

    In more recent years the vehicle remained hidden for people’s eyes and eventually has undergone a well-done restoration by Ant Anstead’s team at Evanta Motors. On 30th of July there will be a special competing event at Silverstone and after that the vehicle will be offered to buyers with a starting price between $100,000 and $130,000 USD.

    What will buyers be granted with?

    We do see a 100 per cent classic vehicle: elegant lines, tight stance, expressive headlamps, distinctive rear styling, these well-known multi-spoke wheels and of course, a stupid grille smile. And let us not forget the vintage coloring and the sporty numbering on the front bonnet, doors and back.

    SEE ALSO: Lotus commemorates 50 years since Hethel opening with Evora 400 Hethel Edition

    Evanta Motors’ team, along with Lotus experts, geared Elise Series I with new refinished in UDT Green monocoque, FIA approved roll cage, created by Pete Folbigg from Fabricage, FIA homologated Tillett B6F Carbon-GRP racing seat, TRS belts and Moto-Lita steering wheel.

    1958 Lotus Elise Series I

    In terms of its drivetrain, the whole engine was revised by Coventry Climax specialist, Glyn Peacock who brought forged pistons and rods, steel crank and big valves. The original MGA gearbox was heavily revised by Mike Jennings who geared new layshaft, front and rear bearings, and a fine-tuned the clutch slave cylinder mounting. The suspension system has also received its attention and now comes with completely new parts from Mk14 Components and was also set up and fine-tuned by Elite specialists from Tolman Motorsport.

    Source: Silverstone Auctions 

  • Australian engineers pushed Toyota’s Land Cruiser to its limits. Check out what happened!

    2016 Toyota LC70Toyota’s engineers decided to put to the test the upcoming LandCruiser 70 series upgrade. The team decided to go for a rather long walk: more than 100,000 kilometers of driving in different harsh conditions around the country.

    Furthermore, about 70 per cent of the tests and experiments were made in off-road conditions that included corrugated dirt roads and rugged cattle properties with severe washouts.

    And the results? Well, they show that the vehicle will be even stronger with the adoption of a stiffer frame with thicker side rails. Engineers has also fine-tuned some of the safety features and therefore improved the stability and traction control for better off-road capabilities.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Corolla Hybrid is here. Along with its long nose.

    Also, all the 70 Series models, whether they are single or double cab-chassis, wagon or troop carrier, will be geared with these very same fine-tuned safety features, along with the hill-start assist control, trailer sway control, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution and cruise control. How cool is that?

    2016 Toyota LC70

    In case you missed, the range comes with a 4.5-liter V8 turbo-diesel power unit with common-rail direct injection and special intercooler that meets all Euro5 ecology requirements. Some sweet additions include piezo injectors and refined manual gearbox with revised gearing that delivers better fuel economy and lower noise.

    Source: Toyota

  • Volvo Cars shows the dramatic epilogue of a well-said story. Check it out!

    2017 Volvo V90 with Zlatan IbrahimovicSad, but true: Zlatan Ibrahimović says goodbye to the Swedish national football team in a special Volvo video.

    As football fans would tell you, Ibrahimović represented Sweden for 15 years as a captain to the team and has done much about country’s sport achievements. Ibrahimović thanked his enormous fan base and said that he has played his last match in the yellow jersey. And of course, Volvo managed to capture the dramatic moment in a beautiful video.

    2017 Volvo V90 with Zlatan Ibrahimovic

    In the film, Zlatan and his fellow family take an emotional road trip to the new Volvo V90 and remember football player’s most notable moments and achievements back to where it all began in the Malmö neighborhood in Rosengård.

    As you might know, Zlatan’s journey in the world of football began back in late 1990s. Through his entire football career he played for clubs such as Paris St-Germain, Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. He has received the Swedish player of the year award, the Golden Ball, for the record 10 times, nine of which are consecutive between 2007 to 2015. Cool.

    SEE ALSO: Volvo Releases the Swedish Beasts: 2017 V90 and S90 Are Available For Order

    And following the earlier success of the first Volvo/Zlatan film, named Prologue, the academy-award winner and world-renowned composer, Hans Zimmer has created a new track for the second video, named Epilogue.

    2017 Volvo V90 with Zlatan Ibrahimovic

    Following the earlier success of the first Volvo/Zlatan film, entitled ‘Prologue’, world-renowned and Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer has created a new work for this second film, entitled ‘Epilogue’, reflecting the end of one story and the start of another.

    2017 Volvo V90 with Zlatan Ibrahimovic

    httpv://youtu.be/5SRQUxdNppg

    Source: Volvo

    Video Source: Youtube

    Channel Source: Volvo Cars

  • The smallest yacht in the world: Fiat’s collaboration with Riva led to a beautiful result. [w/video]

    2016 Fiat 500 RivaFiat 500 Riva, brand’s latest model, created in collaboration with Riva is already available for order! With tons of exclusivity and neat tweaks, the vehicle tries to blend the best of the 500 lineup, along with adding these premium wood components that Riva offers.

    Exterior styling

    We do see an already known silhouette: compact design, straight lines and overall tight stance. And all that covered with exclusive Sera Blue body color. Of course, the convertible top is also painted in blue, while the back panoramic roof adds additional points to the overall elegance features.

    We do see exclusivity everywhere: the chrome-plated mirror caps, chrome-plated handles and bonnet and the double aquamarine line that runs along the belt line contribute to a distinctive and beautiful appearance. And all this is topped with neat 16-inch 20-spoke light alloys in special blue finish. Sweet.

    But we should also mention the stupid-looking face: we do know that this front styling is a sort of iconic for the lineup and the brand, but let’s be honest: people do not like it. They have just got comfortable with the small eyes and the ridiculously not-attractive grille smile.

    Design team’s trials to make the body look somehow more muscular and confident also cannot hide the ridiculous front fascia design. Something more: it makes it even worse. But hey, who cares? We got an Italian sweetheart, upgraded by a premium yacht brand. At least this sounds cool.

    Interior styling

    2016 Fiat 500 Riva

    The cabin is indeed a distinctive one. We do have this usual Fiat feel of coziness, blended with functionality, but there is something else with this vehicle: the numerous wooden components. Adding more warmth and feel of luxury Riva components really makes difference. There are numerous detailing on the dashboard, we do see solid pieces of mahogany that cover the door sills and gear lever. Of course, Riva’s signature here and there only makes the interior look even more premium and exclusive.

    In fact, we see a meticulous attention to every small detail that really makes difference: the stitching, dashboard styling, seats and every single small component that matters for the interior. Long story short, we do love the cabin and everything it offers.

    Drivetrain system

    Fiat 500 Riva comes with wide choice of engines and drivetrain components. The tried-and-tested favorite is definitely the 1.2-liter Fire with 69hp, available with neat ECO function. And even without the environmentally-free system, the powertrain comes with pretty good economy, blended with sweet power output: the CO2 emissions are only 99g/km, while the power output is measured at 105 horsepower: not bad for a two-cylinder sweetheart, right?

    SEE ALSO: 2016 FIAT 124 Spider: is it that special as brand wants it to be?

    The second choice is a 1.3 Multijet 95hp diesel engine. This one is a sort of pride and joy for FCA motor engineering and there is a reason for this: its top speed is 180km/h and offers some sweet acceleration and all of that with wonderful fuel economy. Sweet.

    Additional equipment

    Fiat 500 Riva comes with tons of standard features. There are ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, Anti Slip Regulation Hill Holder, Hydraulic Brake Assistance and emergency brake.

    Of course, driver and passengers will benefit from automatic air-conditioning, personalized TFT screen with exclusive logo and background, UconnectTM 7″ HD LIVE touch screen with tons of features. Buyers will also be pleased to know that in terms of audio, the Fiat 500 Riva is geared with Beats by Dr. Dre audio system. The BeatsAudioTM system offers a total of 440 watts of power and features a digital 8-channel amplifier. Sweet.

    We do like the new Fiat vehicle. Except some minor turn-offs, of course. We are not going to forgive the stupid face, even if the rest of the vehicle was heavily influenced by a premium yacht manufacturer. So, tell me, what do you think about world’s smallest yacht?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxe42phiNhw

    Source: Fiat

    Video Source: Youtube

    Channel Source: MOTOR1

  • You need only five steps to boost your Audi S1 to 380HP and 540Nm!

    2016 B&B Automobiltechnik Audi S1 front view

    B&B Automobiltechnik offers power upgrades for Audi S1

    B&B Audi S1 is powerful beyond measure, metaphorically speaking. The tuning company has raised the horsepower and torque of this little wolf by applying five separate stages. All you need to know from the start is that the standard output of the S1 is 231 hp (170 kW) and 370 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. A true pocket rocket!

    There is a big need for power updating obviously and here is how they have been made with these five simple steps. Basically, there has been applied not only software optimization, but also significant hardware changes. Here are the details.

    SEE ALSO: Believe it or not but this Audi RS3 can make it to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds 

    Stage 1 starts with “simple” engine conversion that includes fuelling and ignition mapping as well as elimination of the top speed limiter. The result is not much, but still satisfying: 286 hp (210 kW) and 425 Nm (314 lb-ft).

    Stage 2 is about optimization of the intake paths and air ducts, thus making it possible for the Audi to produce 310 hp (228 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). The third stage also adds hardware: a B&B downpipe with sports catalyst, which reduces backpressure. As a result, the S1 achieves 326 hp (240 kW) and 475 Nm (350 lb-ft).

    2016 B&B Automobiltechnik Audi S1 engine

    At the next stage the experts at B&B substitute the standard turbocharger with a new one, change the oil cooling system too, and remap everything accordingly. The result of this stage is power of 354 hp (260 kW) and 515 Nm (380 lb-ft). Stage 5 offers a reduction of backpressure and exhaust gas temperatures. This is made possible via bespoke downpipe, while the soundtrack is improved via sports exhaust with a sport catalytic converter. All of this brings about the ultimate result of 380 hp (280 kW) and 540 Nm (399 lb-ft)!

    The power had to be underpinned, so the tuners emphasized the purposeful stance with the addition of sports spring set (35mm lowering), KW V3 coilover suspension, high performance brake system with 342 mm vented front discs, and 18-inch B9 wheels shod with 225/35ZR18 tyres.

    At last, to tease you even more, the final effect of these five stages is not only horsepower upgrades. Here’s the deal: after the tuning, the standard 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds has been cut-off to just 4.5 seconds, while the 0-200 km/h sprint – from 23.6 seconds to 16.8 seconds. The top speed has been unleashed from the electronically limited 250 km/h to 285 km/h.

    Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

  • Toyota reveals first images and details about C-HR’s interior

    Toyota C-HR side viewToyota applies new “sensual tech” design philosophy for the first time

    Toyota C-HR remains remarkably true to the concept car that it is based on. Revealed back in 2015, the experimental SUV attracted widespread public acclaim at motor shows in Paris and Frankfurt. It is therefore no surprise that Toyota streamed the C-HR into a production variant. Now you can take a look at the emotional interior design it has as the Japanese brand is releasing the first images of the cabin. But before we jump into details, we must say that this SUV is very special for Toyota, since it represents its determination to allow greater stylistic freedom and promote engineering creativity. Nods for that!

    In short, the cabin looks contemporary and original, and reflects what Toyota is calling the new “sensual tech” design philosophy. The goal of the latter is to combine high-tech functionality with a modern style.

    SEE ALSO: Corolla celebrates its 50th anniversary with a rather special race! How cool is that?

    The interior is spacious and creates a sense for airiness through the layered architecture of the instrument panel that continues through to the door trim via stylish ornamentation and a piano black panel. Speaking of the instrument panel, it will feature a 6.1-inch touch-screen and Toyota says that it will be more functional and easier to reach and the same is promised for the center console.

    Toyota C-HR interior first image

    The design of the seats, door trims, headliner and even the needles of the driver’s analogue instrument dials feature diamond scheme; while the other decorative elements are finished in high-quality piano black and satin silver.

    Customers will have the option of purchasing features like the pre-collision system with autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering control, automatic high beam and a reversing camera as well as heated seats, smart entry and start system, privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels and bi-tone metallic paintwork.

    By the way, Toyota is making the link between interior and exterior via the addition of diamond-shaped switches, which reflect the diamond motif of the body shell. Speaking of which…

    Some words about the exterior

    Toyota C-HR rear view

    Why the Toyota C-HR is unique? The answer is that it demonstrates the flexibility of the “Toyota New Global Architecture”. The SUV is positioned between the Corolla hatch and the RAV4, measuring 4350mm in length, 1795mm in width and 1550mm in height. The wheelbase is 2640mm.

    The diamond architectural theme of the exterior is probably one of the most impressive designs we have seen on a production car lately. With its prominent and edgy wheel arches, the C-HR leaves the impression of strength and rigidity. The combination of a lowered body and raised ground clearance results in a slim and sleek coupe-like profile.

    And there are two powertrain options

    At last, we should mention that the C-HR will be offered as a hybrid as well as a full petrol vehicle. If one opts for the first variant, he or she will get the latest-gen hybrid powertrain with 120 hp (90 kW). The other option is the 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit, delivering 114 hp (85kW) and 185 Nm of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable Transmission. The latter features front or all-wheel drive.

    Source: Toyota