Auto News – Page 203 – Automobiles Review

2016 Ford KA+ is about to hit the city streets. Here’s all you need to know!

2016 Ford KA+ Ford revealed the new KA+ compact vehicle, which offers incredible interior space, excellent fuel efficiency rates and enhanced dynamics. With this release, Ford is aiming to provide buyers with an attractive vehicle with neat equipment and capabilities for a relatively small price. So, what does the sweetie offer?

Available from June this year, the Ford KA+ will come in a five-door hatchback with a plenty of space for five people with a length of little less than four meters. Slightly shorter than the Fiesta, Ka+ also provides 270 liter s of luggage space. And as we talk about space, we should mention that the cockpit is not only incredibly wide for the proportions of the vehicle, but also have some “secret” stowage places for bottles, umbrellas, bags and more.

Also, the interior features sweet grained finish on the instrument panel and hard-wearing trim materials in dark charcoal color scheme. There are numerous chrome accents, applied on the door release handles, central console, control knobs and air vents.

Drivetrain system

The KA+ will be available with an agile and responsive 1.2-liter Duratec petrol engine, available in two choices: either a 70hp (52kW) and 85hp (63kW). It will be combined to a five-speed gearbox and in Ford team’s words, this combination is enough to deliver smooth driving, blended with a spark of aggressiveness. But we will see about that.

2016 Ford KA+

Also, Ford claims that the fuel efficiency rates are achieved thanks to a comprehensive calibration, regenerative charging and using a low-friction oil.

Standard equipment

Buyers are granted with tons of stock goodies. All KA+ models are geared with power front windows and door mirrors, front fog lamps, AM/FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity, remote central double locking with perimeter alarm, safety system with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist, Deflation Detection System, Speed Limiter and Ford Easy Fuel.

So, how do you find the new Ford sweetie? Write down in the comment section!

2016 Ford KA+

Source: Ford

June 9, 2016

First ever Shelby GT-H prototype 50th anniversary edition goes to Barrett-Jackson

Shelby GT-H prototype front view If you want to own the prototype 50th anniversary edition of Shelby GT-H, now is your time! The car has been currently featured at Barrett-Jackson auction, which ends on 24^th of June, so there is more than enough time fro bidding.

Under the lot #3003, the prototype of this limited-edition muscle car will be auctioned to benefit the Carroll Shelby Foundation and all of the proceeds will go for charity. Precisely, the Foundation is dedicated to delivering medical and educational support for children and young adults.

2016 Ford Shelby GT-H has been created by the trio Ford, Hertz and Shelby American in order to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first Mustang. Based on the latest generation of the iconic muscle car, the Shelby GT-H prototype made its first appearance on the wall of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center during the 2016 New York Auto Show.

Shelby GT-H prototype rear view

It is dressed n beautiful black and gold exterior paint scheme, but more importantly the auctioned car is actually the first of only 170 total 2016 model-year Shelby GT-H coupes that are going to be built! This would most definitely raise the bids even higher, and we do expect them hitting the million threshold.

The muscle car is instantly recognizable because of its one-of-a-kind pack. The Shelby GT-H comes is performance-ready, thanks to the 5.0-liter V8 engine mated to a smooth 6-speed automatic, which delivers 435 horsepower. The car also features sharp suspension, due to the Ford Performance special-tuned dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and the 19-inch wheels that were shod with high-performance Michelin tires. Other exclusive details here include the one-off special exhaust, badges and interior trim, which is truly unique, because is available only on the Shelby GT-H.

Who is going to be the first to own a 2016 Ford Shelby GT-H? It is maybe YOU? After all, don’t forget that all proceed will support the charity founded by Carroll Shelby.

Source: Shelby American

June 9, 2016

It is never too much when it comes to tuning. Especially when it is on Lamborghini Aventador

Vitesse AuDessus Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce front view Tuners are like story tellers. They pick a car, make it more beautiful, powerful and individual, and in this way they tell us a lot about the history of the owner, his or her personality and tastes. One of those miracle-working companies out there is Vitesse AuDessus. If you remember the Lambo all dressed in carbon – it was their work. If you don’t: there is a link below, just click on it and allow yourself to get informed.

So, the point is that Vitesse AuDessus has released two one-off tuning packages and three new wheel designs for the Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce in its Coupe and Roadster variant. As you can see from the pictures in the gallery below, the custom Lambos are very colorful and expressive.

The company is actually offering external body panel for both variants. The first pack, called Essentials Package includes the lower front bumper, side skirts, mirrors and rear diffuser. The only difference that the Extended Package (the second one) has is the carbon fiber hood. One of the most beneficial things here is that the parts come in glossy or matte finish, depending on customer’s wish.

Vitesse AuDessus Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce rear view

Vitesse AuDessus has also developed special lightweight carbon fiber wheels, which are available in various styles, namely: Veneno-inspired seven spoke, the Superveloce’s OEM-style wheel and several in-house, center lock designs. Compared to the other wheels on the market, these are around 25kg (50lbs) lighter, contributing for a faster and… sexier ride.

Every Vitesse AuDessus Lamborghini Aventador will be limited to 300 examples only. And this makes things very, very exclusive.

Source: Vitesse AuDessus

June 9, 2016

Renault says that the limited edition Captur Wave is stand-out sophistication, but is it so?

Renault Captur Wave Limited Edition front view When a brand like Renault releases a new model, people aren’t usually that impressed (like for instance when Lamborghini does this). However, the French brand has its strengths, and they mainly are hidden in their aim to deliver relatively well-built and looking cars to the middle-class society. We can say the same thing about their latest limited edition, called Captur Wave, because there is nothing that can surprise us here.

Renault try to market out the model with the claim that it is a “stand-out sophistication”, and that the Captur in general is a “hugely popular model, selling to the tune of more than 32,000 units in France” alone. And this is since the start of the year.

Where does Capture Wave stand in the entire picture? As a limited edition, the car has been built with the aim to be based on the core specifics of Captur and to add some extra spiciness to it. In other words, it features some cosmetic changes like the Pearlescent White body color, the contrasting black roof, the Chrome Frost interior trim and special upholstery with blue top-stitching. If you don’t like white cars, then there is other three bi-tone option (all combined with the black roof): Platinum Grey, Pacifique Blue and Marine Fumé Blue.

Renault Captur Wave Limited Edition interior

There is more to that. Those who will eventually buy these car will get 17-inch black Explore diamond-effect alloy wheels with blue hub centre caps, wave badging, blue roof decals and door mirrors, Platinum Grey front and rear skid plates, front and rear carpet mats with embroidered Captur badging and front door sill protection.

It is obvious that Renault is really trying, but… Well, another benefit here is the high-tech equipment, which is optional for this specific model. It is called Techno Pack and includes the R-Link Evolution Multimedia System, a rear parking camera and an electrochromic rear-view mirror (a.k.a rear-parking camera). At last, but not least, the Captur range also welcomes the addition of the TCe 120 engine connected to a six-speed manual gearbox.

If this has impressed you, then it is time to prepare at least € 21,100, which is the starting price of this limited edition.

Source: Renault

June 9, 2016

Sporty, agile and sweet, the new Twingo GT hits the streets this winter!

2016 Renault Twingo GT The new Twingo GT, combining the agility of a rear-wheel drive city vehicle with Renault’s sporty expertise will be available with a neat and agile 898cc Energy TCe turbo power unit with a total output of 110hp (82kW) and 170Nm of torque. Sweet! Also, the revised intake system and the modified engine mapping will ensure smooth and pleasurable ride.

The vehicle takes advantage of the performance boost, but will also feature revised suspension, specific ESP calibration and variable-rate steering. Or, in other words, drivers will enjoy a sharp handling, smooth driving experience and precise cornering. By far all looks good. But what about looks themselves?

Exterior design

With its 17-inch wheels with distinctive appearance and lateral air intakers, and the twin exhaust tail pipe, the Twingo GT shows not only some sporty spirit, but overall passionate and beautiful looks. The distinctive Twingo III lines are also present, just like the specific NACA aircraft graphics.

2016 Renault Twingo GT

Also, the new Twingo GT comes in a choice of four exterior colors: the new orange, Lunar Grey, Diamond Black and Crystal White. Also, there is a special orange trim detailing in the cockpit, Renault Sport badges,aluminum pedals and alloy gear lever knob.

The Twingo GT will be available for order this winter.

2016 Renault Twingo GT

Source: Renault

June 8, 2016

McLaren reveals details for the stunning MSO Carbon Series LT beast

McLaren Special Operations, the well-known division of McLaren Automotive, has announced the creation of the MSO Carbon Series LT. Limited to only 25 vehicles, all already sold, the Series were created in response to the numerous requests by brand’s enthusiasts.

Based on the 675LT Spider, the Carbon Series LT lineup is entirely based on weight reductions and tons of aerodynamics optimization. As the name suggests, there are numerous carbon-fiber components that not only contribute to vehicle’s light body weight, but also enhance the aesthetics and show how capable brand’s engineers are.

Exterior looks

As we said, there are numerous carbon-fiber components. Excuse us. We meant that there are tons of carbon-fiber in this beauty. Only some of the parts, made of the light fabric are the front bumper, front under body, side skirts, side intakers, the lower side intakers, the rear fenders, rear deck, rear bumper, diffuser and the Longtail Airbrake. Also, the Carbon Series LT is geared with glossy carbon-fiber electronically retractable roof and tenneu, A-pillars, bonnet and rear deck. How cool is that?

Long story short, MSO Carbon Series LT comes with a total of 40% more carbon-fiber, compared a standard vehicle. So far, so good. But what is it under the bonnet?

Drivetrain system

The vehicle comes with a heavily reinforced 3.8-liter twin turbo V8 engine, taken from its Coupe sibling. This unit produces a total of 666hp (497kW) and 700Nm between 5,000 and 6,500rpm. The changes to the engine include component replacements in order to optimise the level of power, along with more precise torque distribution. Also, the turbo system is more efficient, just like the cylinder head movement and exhaust manifolds.

All this means that the carbon beast can sprint from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in mere 2,9 seconds and from 0 to 200km/h (124mph) in 8.1 seconds. And with the aid of the improved torque delivery that ensures maximum acceleration and minimum wheel slip, the top speed is 326km/h (203mph). Impressive.

Production of the MSO Carbon Series LT will start this autumns. This will be the time when more details will be revealed. Stick with us in the meantime!

Source: McLaren

June 8, 2016

The Hellcat is back with 900HP and more aggressive than ever!

Prior-Design Dodge Challenger Hellcat front and side view Prior-Design is mostly famous for its exclusive tuning and aerodynamic kits as well as beautiful sets of wheels. We can hardly expect from these experts engine uprating or even something that can bring out more from the inherent power of car’s powerplant. However, the case with their latest project is actually the opposite and we have surprisingly found that Prior-Design can actually make things pretty cool!

The chosen car is the newest Dodge Challenger Hellcat, which impresses with its stock output numbers coming from its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 unit. Precisely, it produces a maximum output of 707 horsepower (520 kW) and 880 Nm (650 lb-ft) of torque, which is enough to enjoy hell-of-a-ride.

But… 707 hp seem not enough for many and this is why the performance of the Hellcat has been boosted up with additional 200 horsepower, making it up to over 900 hp (662 kW)! Sadly, we can’t tell how these extra horses were achieved because no official details were announced so far.

Prior-Design Dodge Challenger Hellcat side view

Besides the output uprating the car, the car received widened exterior via the addition of a PD900HC package. Thanks to it, the car achieve not only wider but more aggressive stance. Precisely, the aero kit comprises of an add-on spoiler for the front and rear, side skirts as well as trunk spoiler. The front and rear widenings have to be mentioned as well.

Contributing for the aggressive appearance are the bronze PD3Forged wheels as well. However, we do think that the chosen bronze color is rather… strange. Just for a comparison, the Canadian studio SR Auto Group has recently introduced their Hellcat based project, which we dig very, very much (click the link above for more info)! And we like the wheels, too!

Source: Prior-Design via Facebook

June 8, 2016

When exclusivity meets style: Novitec Rosso Ferrari 488 GTB

Novitec Rosso Ferrari 488 GTB side view Novitec Rosso has released yesterday on their Facebook page an exclusive Ferrari 488 GTB project. All of you who follow us there have already seen the images , but still do not know the details around this special car. And there is a lot! Basically, the sophisticated refinement program is based on new aero components, shiny wheels and output conversion.

How to Make the 488 GTB Produce 772 HP?

Obviously, the tuners are on the opinion that “even a top-notch sports car can never have enough power”. Hence, the performance kits for the 3.9-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine of the 488 GTB were born! The most surprising moment here is that there is a special feature, which allows the engine tuning to be activated and deactivated in a flash. This happens with the help of a Manettino dial on the steering wheel.

Through the installation of two in-house made N-TRONIC control modules, which control the eight-cylinder, the specialists achieved new programmed mapping for injection and ignition and modified the electronic boost pressure control. Additional optimization of the power output is due to the new high-performance exhaust system that comes with optional electronic sound management.

The result is exceptional: the V8 adds 102 hp (76 kW) and 132 Nm (97 lb-ft) of torque, making it a total of 772 hp (568 kW) and 892 Nm (658 lb-ft) at a low 3,250 rpm. The gains also influence the performance. The updated Ferrari can sprint from rest to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 342 km/h.

Seductive Naked Carbon Fiber

Novitec Rosso Ferrari 488 GTB rear view

All of the components featured here come in a variant made from naked carbon. The designers have created out from it front spoiler lip and side flaps mounted to the bumper (they aid the speed too), an additional surround for the central air intake, rocker panels, subtle carbon surrounds for the door mirrors, new air deflection components in the side air intakes, new large rear airfoil, diffuser attachment for the rear bumper and carbon surrounds for the two tail lamps and the air outlets.

Other exclusive benefits are the new lighting elements: the black turn signals and reflectors as well the black-tinted third brake light featuring LED technology. The wheels have a decisive influence on the looks, so NF4 21-inch forged wheels fit perfectly. They are mounted with Pirelli P Zero high-performance tires of sizes 255/30 ZR 21 at the front and 325/25 ZR 21 on the rear axle.

This 488 GTB also benefits from the in-house made hydraulic suspension system, which lowers the ride height of the sports car by about 35 millimeters. Besides this function, the hydraulic front lift system can also raise the sports car by 40 millimeters at the touch of a button in the cockpit.

At last but not least, the interior of the sports car has also been updated by Novitec Rosso. Here have been included from longer carbon paddle shifters to an exclusive leather and Alcantara interior finishes.

Source: Novitec Rosso

June 8, 2016

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

2016 FIAT 124 Spider The new FIAT 124 Spider was revealed to the UK media at the International Media Event in Verona, Italy. Arriving with that impeccable classic Italian style, the vehicle remains true to its roots, but at the same time shows numerous additions and changes. So, let’s check out what the new beauty has to offer!

Exterior styling

Designed in the FIAT Style Centre, the vehicle comes with a well-known appearance, but at the same time adds and something new. The whole body is well-proportioned and muscular, resembling a pure classic roadster appearance.

The front is also inspired by its 1960s predecessors and masterfully blends the romance of a past era with today’s vision for beauty. The position of the LED headlamps and the hexagonal grille are definitely ripped off the classic roadster appearance, just like the bonnet that emulates twin power domes of the second-gen FIAT 124 Spider.

At the same time, the rear shows a swallow-tail rear wings with cascade inwards toward the decklid, sharp horizontal tail lamps with noticeable ring shape. And the rear spoiler not only enhances the aerodynamic features of the vehicle, but also contributes to that sporty and elegant stance.

2016 FIAT 124 Spider

In terms of personalization, the FIAT 124 Spider will be available in eight exterior colors: Passione Red and Ice White, which are pastel finishes, Volcano Black, Argento Grey, Fashion Grey, Magnetic Bronze and Italia Blue that are full metallic and a special tri-coat pearlescent finish: the Urban White.

Interior styling

The cabin is created in accordance to the highest standards of safety and convenience and welcomes everyone to a rather cozy and functional place, filled with premium materials , high quality components and cutting-edge technologies.

For example, the steering wheel is not only more comfortable in terms of style, but is also wrapped in high-quality leather. At the same timethe light mesh structure seats and the exclusive shape of the trim and foam parts do guarantee the highest levels of comfort and pleasure of driving.

Drivetrain system

Under the bonnet FIAT enthusiasts will find a trustworthy 1,3368cc MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder power unit that delivers a total of 140hp (104kW) and 240Nm of torque, delivered to the rear wheels, via a six-speed manual gearbox. In terms of performance capabilities, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 7,5 seconds and chases a top speed of 215km/h (134kW).

The suspension system comes with a double-wishbone layout that is fine-tuned in order to deliver more stability and flexibility while braking. Also, there are dual-pinion electric power steering system, also fine-tuned in order to give the Spider a better response.

Safety and utility features

Fiat 124 Spider comes with tons of active and passive safety technoogies. There is a voice-controlled infotainment system, LED rear light cluster, four airbags, TPMS, cruise control, a speed limiter, ESC, ABS and EBD, rear parking-assist, all part of the standard equipment.

2016 FIAT 124 Spider

In fact, the whole body is made from high-tensile materials and dedicated structures that enhance the comfort via absorbing vibrations and noise. Cool, right?

So, what do you think about the latest FIAT beast? Write down in the comment section below!

Source: FIAT

June 8, 2016

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo gets significant updates. Here is what you should expect

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is one of the most attractive models out there. It is currently being prepared to be officially launched on the market this summer, and for that reason the Bavarian company has added some significant updates, which the new customers would most definitely enjoy.

Besides the benefit of the coupe-like appearance mixed with the spaciousness of a sedan and the boot capacity of a station wagon, the 3 Series Gran Turismo can now show-off with refinements on its exterior, three additional petrol and five diesel engines (by the way they offer more hp) as well as interior infused with high quality materials, new user interface for the Navigation system Professional and even improved smartphone connectivity feature.

18 Engines Out There

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo engine

Yes, there is a total of 18 engine, transmission and drive configurations to choose for the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. The offer significant output gains but lower fuel consumption. As mentioned there are three new petrol units developing from 184 hp (135 kW) to 326 hp (240 kW), while the five new diesel variants produce 150 hp (110 kW) and 313 hp (230 kW). All come with the classical rear-wheel drive or BMW xDrive all-wheel drive, with six-speed manual or eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

The efficiency gains have been raised and the CO2 fumes are lowered considerably, says BMW. The numbers show improvements from 4.5 per cent in the BMW 318d Gran Turismo to 13,8 per cent for the BMW 320d Gran Turismo.

Exterior & Interior Updates

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo front view

The first noticeable change is that the 2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is around 200 millimetres longer than the other members of the BMW 3 Series family. It also seems that the front and the rear have been made more dynamic and sportier. The front for instance gets new standard-fitted LED headlights and foglamps, as the rear features updated LEDs too.

The interior offers sophistication with its abundantly treated cabin, including additional chrome around the interior controls, new decorative wood elements, and more colours and leather trim variants. Inside is also more spacious, because of a wheelbase lengthened by 110 millimetres (now 2,920 millimetres). At the back, the boot offers 520 to 1,600 litres of load space.

The latest BMW Navigation system Professional will be offered as an option here. It benefits from more intuitive menu and it is easier for operation. Added convenience is now delivered for the smartphones, which can now also be charged and connected to the car’s external aerial wirelessly via an inductive tray.

Three Equipment Lines

If we have already convinced you to buy the new 2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, then you should also know that there is another choice to make. And it is the trim level. You can choose between Sport Line, Luxury Line and M Sport variants. Of course the latter comes in Estoril Blue shade, exclusively (the car featured in the gallery below).

There is a lot to be happy about the new 3 Series GT, isn’t it?

Source: BMW

June 8, 2016

The impeccable Italian style will shine once again: Fiat 500 Riva is about to be unveiled!

2016 Fiat 500 Riva Two icons, two well-known symbols of automobile world and boating join forces to create an object of symbol and beauty. Indeed, the Fiat icon shows off a new exclusive made-to-measure look, especially created to demonstrate elegance and passion. Yes, indeed a Fiat 500 series is about to be revealed.

Born in 1957, the 500 model quickly becomes a popular vehicle and a symbol of Italian style. In this so-called Dolce Vita era, the lineup proved itself worthy for the Italian taste and requirements and gradually made a legend out of itself.

And since 2015, the notorious lineup demonstrates incredible change and improvements in terms of style, performance and technology: the icon has undergone its further refining cycle and one more time became a contemporary era masterpiece.

In pretty recent years, Fiat and Riva have created a limited edition series, named 500 Riva that would demonstrate incredible style appearance and comprehensive detailing. Also, there is a special and exclusive Evening Blue color exterior finish. In terms of interior and utility, the Riva will include wooden detailing, elegant lines and cutting-edge technologies. In other words, warm ambience with user-friendly contemporary systems.

So, what do we have at the end? Italian styling and tradition, a well-known and beloved automobile manufacturer and passionate team. We do believe that the tradition will continue its story and will bring even more stories for the future generation of Fiat lovers. But tell me, what do you believe in?

Source: Fiat

June 7, 2016

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is here in early 2017!

Mercedes E Class Estate Front view The estate version of the new E-Class proudly demonstrates innovative engineering and incredible intelligent gadgets. And provided that the vehicle is geared with the latest Mercedes drivetrain systems, we tend to believe that this is by far the most advanced estate that the premium brand has ever created.

Featuring an E 220 d 194hp (143kW) four-cylinder diesel engine, the lineup will be aided by a even more powerful E 350 d six-cylinder diesel that would be available later this year. At the same time, the Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC Estate that would be available from the fourth quarter will offer the aid of 401 horses (295kW) via a 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine, mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shortened shift times. But first, let’s talk about design!

Exterior styling

The new E-Class Estate looks modern, confident an agile, just as any sporty Mercedes-Benz vehicle should look like. With long bonnet, elegant lines and sporty curves, the vehicle enters the new model year with steeply tapering rear window, short overhangs, longer wheelbase and large wheels.

Completing the exterior fairytale is the rear end with broad shoulders and the roof spoiler with a third brake light that altogether define the distinctive and muscular rear. Also, all Estate models will feature and a load sill guard in stainless steel. Sweet.

Interior styling

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

The inside utilizes Saloon’s award-winning design. The instrument panel can be adorned with two optional wide and high-resolution displays, while the controls are provided in terms of touchpad with special controller that recognizes handwriting.

Also, as you might have expected, everything in the cabin is high-quality and looks premium. The open-pore wood components, wooden flowing lines, combined with metal elements contribute to that premium and comfortable ambience. And let’s not forget for that meticulous attention to details: there are attractive color combinations, various shade of gammas and overall plenty of opportunities for personalization.

In terms of space, the E-Class Estate will remain one of the best in the segment. With cargo volume of up to 1820 liters and despite the sporty roofline, the headroom and elbowroom in the rear are in turn the best in the class.

Utility and convenience

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate

The EASY-PACK tailgate, as part of the standard equipment, can be opened and closed with a touch of a button, while the keyless go and hands-free access makes loading even more comfortable: you just make a kicking motion with foot underneath the rear bumper and the boot lid opens automatically.

Also, in few simple steps, the rear bench seat becomes a communications and entertainment centre courtesy of iPad Rear Seat Integration Plug and Play.

Aiding the driver are Active Brake Assist system, along with Driver Pilot system, Distance Pilot Distronic, Remote Parking Pilot and more.