Auto News – Page 208 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-Benz SLC has never looked better and there is just one reason for this

Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz SLC front view The Mercedes SLK is celebrating this year its 20th anniversary. But this isn’t the reason why the emblematic small roadster is looking so incredibly good. Here’s the secret: to commemorate the 20^th anniversary of the model, the tuning studio Piecha Design have created a brand new styling kit with exclusive design components.

The third generation (R172) is being called SLC from this year, but it doesn’t include any significant differences with its predecessor. The rear, for instance, have been just slightly modified by Mercedes. The here presented tuning however, has made the changes much more striking and racy.

The transformation starts with LED headlights, a diamond style radiator grill and a new front bumper. The customized springs that lower the centre of gravity by up to 25mm are another striking feature, as are the wheel spacers, the real-glass wind stop, the chrome-plated Aerowings and the alloy wheels.

Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz SLC rear view

By the way, the alloys here are the in-house made Jade R sized 19-inches and available in silver finish called “Hi Power”. At the front, the tires are of the dimension 235/35 R19, while at the back they are 275/30 R19.

Another “must-have” is Piecha’s vario roof module. What is it and how does it work? With a simple push of the button on the car remote key, one can open or close the roof of the SLC. Even more, the driver can even eliminate more air turbulences with the module by closing the rear windows while driving with an open roof. At last, there is this in-house made Power Converter, which provides a much better responsiveness of the gas pedal and more agility and fun.

Now you know why.

Source: Piecha Design

May 26, 2016

Larte Design is flying high with the Range Rover Sport Winner and here is why

2016 Larte Design Range Rover Sport Winner rear view This is one of the well-known projects by Larte Design, but in a little bit different design form. We have seen different variants of the model, which have not only pleased the eye, but also have made a big furor around the world. The here presented white version of the Larte’s Range Rover Sport Winner is currently being photographed in America… in the air.

Well, not literally, but the given pictures shoes some really good postures with propeller biplanes. These machines were a big hit during the 20th century and courageous men were rushing through the air with them fast and despite that they were very fragile.

Being a modern urban hero, this Range Rover naturally “prefers” the road with its solid stance and masculine appearance. At least the photo-session is really beautiful, isn’t it?

2016 Larte Design Range Rover Sport Winner side view

About the vehicle you see here: it is equipped with Russian tuner’s WINNER body kit, which adds a little but of class and style to the car. With its help, the experts gave a new shape of the front, which is now even more aggressive and dynamic. The front fascia is further enhanced with the uniquely designed grill, characterized by three frames in form of inverted trapezoids. There is also a front apron, which completes the assertive and martial design. Various polygons, air inlets and light steps make the bumper look fantastically interwoven in the natural design.

At the back, the Winner features more irregular polygons, four-flow LARTE exhaust system and black-chrome-plated tailpipes. At last, the tuning kit adds a central LED brake light. This car is a true champion from every perspective… or?

Source: Larte Design

May 26, 2016

JMS experts make things cool with the BMW X5 Racelook Exclusive Line

JMS BMW X5 F15 front view It is a well-known fact that the X5 is one of the most desired vehicles nowadays. Because of its huge proportions and wide stance it evokes that feeling of on-road safety, exclusivity and luxury. However, it is somehow missing the racing feeling despite being an inherent BMW. Who could argue with this?

Well, not for a long time, because the experts at the German studio JMS Fahrzeugteile have created a one-off new sports-inspired look for the machine and the result is breath-taking. The styling kit carries the name Racelook Exclusive Line and it has been specifically created for the X5 F15 of the third generation.

The visual upgrade has been intended for those who do not own the M version, but still want a racy-look. So here are the details.

The JMS Racelook Exclusive Line Body Styling Kit

JMS BMW X5 F15 side view

The pack comprises of a brand new front spoiler and a couple of rear diffusers. There is also a ten-part wide wheel arch extension kit which features air outlets on the trailing edges of the arches, thus making the car looking wider at its sides. Filling out the extra-wide wheel-arches are the 22-inch Cor.Speed Deville alloy wheels that were shod with 295/30R22 tyres.

The conversion is completed off with a four oval exhaust tailpipe kit. At last, for sportier driving experience the tuners have added a KW Variant 3 coilover suspension, which lowers the ride height by 55 mm and 45 mm, at the front and rear respectively.

How cool is this BMW from the 1 to 10 scale?

Source: JMS

May 26, 2016

Citroen and Rip Curl showcase the unique C4 Cactus Special Edition!

2016 Citroen C4 Cactus Rip Rip Curl Special Edition Citroën’s C4 Cactus Rip Curl Special Edition vehicle is scheduled to go on sale on June, First, 2016. Featuring new Grip Control technology, this beauty has a lot to offer.

In fact, as you might know, Citroën joins forces with the famous surf brand, Rip Curl, in order to deliver us the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Special Edition and we do believe that the alliance made a point. Here’s why.

With fresh interior features and exterior changes, the Rip Curl Cactus complements the adventurous nature of the whole lineup and proudly shows exclusive graphics on the wings and rear quarter-lights, door mirrors and more. There are also orange seatbelts, orange detailing on the audio speakers and orange carpet mats. Sweet. Oh, yeah. There are also stylish 17-inch diamond cut “Cross” alloys with Goodyear 4 seasons Mud + Snow tires.

2016 Citroen C4 CactusRip Rip Curl Special Edition

Blending Citroën’s values of innovation, creativity and emotions, the Special Edition also includes this new Grip Control. What can offer is a selection of selectable driving modes that can deal with any given road situation.

The Special Edition will also feature panoramic glass roof and a choice of five body finishes: Obsidian Black Metallic, Arctic Steel Metallic, Pearl White Pearlescent, Sport Red and Tapenade Grey. Sweet, right?

2016 Citroen C4 CactusRip Rip Curl Special Edition

But this is not all! The standard equipment also includes aluminum-effect front and rear bumper protectors, rear parking sensors, color reversing camera, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlight and wipers, advanced satellite navigation, 6-speaker MP3 audio system, cruise control and tinted rear windows. How cool is that?

2016 Citroen C4 CactusRip Rip Curl Special Edition

Prices for the new 2016 Citroën C4 Cactus Rip Curl Special Edition start from

Source: Citroën

May 25, 2016

Volkswagen gears the almighty Touareg with luxurious trim level, called R-Line Plus. Check it out!

2016 Volkswagen Touareg R-Line Plus The latest VW Touareg is one of brand’s most popular luxury SUVs and in order to remain high in the ranks, the fellow engineers at Volkswagen upgrade the lineup with new range-topping trim level: R-Line Plus.

Offered with the highest at the moment trim level, the special upgrade has a lot to offer. First of all, there is a slight change in style: the five-seater receives 21-inch “Mallory” design wheels that replace the old 20-inch ones. In terms of performance and utility stuff, the Touareg will benefit from the impressive Area View technology, which improves the front, rear and side wide-angle cameras to provide a full 360-degree bird’s-eye exterior view.

The interior has also been refreshed with stylish “Piano Black” finish on the central console, dash and air vents. Also, the new “Vienna” upholstery dominates the whole cabin, while the new 14-way electronically adjustable seats and the front head restraints ensure comfortable and pleasurable ride.

In terms of drivetrain system and performance rates, the vehicle offers the aid of either a 3.0-liter V6 TDI with 204hp (152kW) or the 262hp (195kW) 3.0-liter V6 TDI unit. Both offer relatively good rates, measured at 42.8mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 173g/km for the 204hp version and 174g/km for the 262hp version.

2016 Volkswagen Touareg R-Line Plus

And all that topped with lowered sporty suspension, R-Line body styling, panoramic sunroof, Bi-xenon headlights, heated steering wheel, electric tailgate and keyless entry. Sweet.

Stay with us for further details.

Source: Volkswagen

May 25, 2016

2016 VW Amarok comes with refined interior and vast number of goodies

2016 Volkswagen Amarok Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has finally revealed some images of the Amarok. This latest and greatest model will aid drivers with tons of goodies: there is a special multi-function display, next-gen radio and navigation systems, 14-way adjustable ergoComfort seats and many, many more.

But of course, the interior features are not alone. Feeling comfortable both on the road and off it, the Amarok can tackle down any challenge, thanks to the 3.0-liter V6 TDI power unit, capable of producing 224hp (165kW) and 500Nm of torque. Its top speed is 193km/h (120mph) and accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 7.9 seconds.

But let’s get back to the interior. The instrument panel has undergone some changes and now makes a difference: there are new striking features and also pleasurable visual changes. With some round and elegant lines, the vehicle’s cabin appears to be bolder and cosier.

2016 Volkswagen Amarok

Furthermore, the multifunctional steering wheel also makes it easier for driver to operate the radio, mobile phone or the apps, appearing on the multifunctional display. The driving experience and convenience is further enhanced by the drivetrain upgrades: Amarok can be geared with optional paddle shifters and a 8-speed automatic gearbox. How cool is that?

Also, the “Park Pilot” parking assist system, aided by a rearview camera also contributes to that easier life. Or at least to a easier parking. An air-conditioning system, Bluetooth connection and up to four 12-volt power supply sockets are also part of the standard equipment.

2016 Volkswagen Amarok

Prices for the new Amarok start from $37,790 USD.

Source: Volkswagen

May 25, 2016

It is BMW Individual making these i8 more beautiful than ever

BMW Individual i8 Exterior Paint Programme front view BMW Individual is the least team you will expect to see involved in the i8 or any of the electric endeavors of the Bavarian company. However, it is exactly BMW Individual which will make your i8 like no other in the world.

The extending program of exterior paint finishes for the BMW i8 is now offering more than enough colors, which will put out the individuality of your i8 forefront. The benefit of having the BMW Individual collection is that you can now choose from a vast array of extraordinary paint finishes. They not only complete owner’s personality but also reflect their personal style.

Precisely, the new shades include Java Green, Speed Yellow, Solar Orange, Twilight Purple Pearl, Frozen Grey, Frozen Black, San Marino Blue and Grigio Telesto Pearl… well, the list isn’t over, but there isn’t enough space to do that (just kidding).

BMW Individual i8 Exterior Paint Programme side view

There is also a variety non-metallic, metallic or Xirallic finishes, which utilizes a mixture of synthetic mica or aluminium flakes to produce scintillating effects. How cool is that?

What is more (and more striking also, is the matt finish of the frozen paintwork. It is unique because of its shimmer, making the contours of the BMW i8 even more emphasized and underlining the sculptural character of the car. With the new and beautiful paint schemes BMW Individual is also adding the option of new Black W-Spoke alloy wheels, which are available as part of the programme.

BMW i8 is driven by a hybrid powertrain, which produces a total of 362hp (266 kW) and can also cover up to 23 miles in electric mode alone. The drivetrain also uses company’s Efficient Dynamics technology, thus releasing emissions of just 49g/km and delivering a combined consumption figure of 134.5mpg.

BMW Individual i8 BMW Exterior Paint Programme is currently available with immediate effect.

Source: BMW

May 25, 2016

Why the first production 2017 Acura NSX is a big moment for the brand and for everyone living in Ohio [w/videos]

2017 Acura NSX front view 2017 Acura NSX is finally here! The first serial production 2017 Acura NSX rolled-off the line of the new Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio. In fact, this is a big moment for the Japanese brand, because it is a culmination of more than 30 years of manufacturing experience. Based on the work of many expert technicians and with the involvement of their passion, this car has achieved major innovations in its design and manufacturing, thus delivering incredible precision crafted performance.

The happiest person on Earth now is the first customer, Rick Hendrick, who had taken the delivery of the VIN 001. For the modest amount of $1.2 million USD he won the bid at the Barrett-Jackson auction in January. The proceeds are going to two children’s charities: Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Camp Southern Ground.

Hendrick’s Acura NSX is painted in Valencia Red Pearl and features VIN 001 interwoven wheels, carbon ceramic brake rotors, leather and Alcantara interior trim and carbon fiber upgrades including the engine cover, roof, and rear decklid spoiler.

2017 NSX is actually the only supercar designed, developed and manufactured in the U.S., and specifically in Ohio. It is produced exclusively at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) there. This center was designed to blend human craftsmanship and advanced technologies in order to achieve and deliver superior quality and precision crafted performance.

In addition, at the PMC have been developed 12 patent-pending technologies and other advanced methods of producing a made-to-order supercar. At the plant there have been also made innovations to the NSX construction, painting, assembly and quality.

In another location (Anna, Ohio) is positioned Acura’s largest engine plant. There master builders hand-assemble the NSX’s 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. The unit is connected to an advanced 9-speed dual clutch transmission and rear direct drive electric motor. At last, the powerplant is installed at the PMC, as it is the front-mounted Twin Motor Unit, which enables electrically powered torque vectoring.

https://youtu.be/C0NbMNtmhqM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Acura

May 25, 2016

Top 5 facts you don’t know about Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept has debuted this weekend at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, held at Lake Como. So you have probably heard the big talk around it. However, this car is so uniquely beautiful and one-of-a-kind, that there are probably some facts you have missed during the clamor. Here are our top five facts you don’t know about the new concept.

Five is Emblematic Number

I’m not being superstitious, but the number five is definitely a meaningful number about the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept. The first and more obvious reason about it is that it is the fifth car born after the collaboration between the British experts at Aston Martin and the Italian design-house Zagato.

On second place, the long-standing partnership between the two companies have lasted (well not 5) over five decades, delivering successful designs and unforgettable emotions to the fans.

The Key in the Design is the Avant-Garde Expression Based on Tradition

Just take a look at the pictures in the gallery below. We must admit that the car looks breath-taking. Its secret is the combination of the acclaimed sporting and dynamic design made by AM, and the material qualities with Zagato’s signature design language.

All five Zagatos have been inspired by tradition: from the emblematic DB4 GT Zagato of 1960 through to the V12 Vantage Zagato of 2011. Each and every one of them has accentuated key aspects of Aston Martin’s design journey and Zagato’s own race-inspired design language. The goal of both companies was always to deliver the most avant-garde expression. And they definitely did.

The Team Behind the Latest Concept

The latest Vanquish Zagato Concept was actually created by Aston Martin Design team led by Marek Reichman and Andrea Zagato and his design team in Milan. However, the development and engineering happened at Aston Martin’s headquarters in Gaydon, England.

The Proper Use of Carbon Fiber & New Technology

Most companies rely on slight use of carbon fiber. Despite this, the concept’s bodywork has been entirely made of the lightweight material, with the split lines on the body reduced by the use of large one-piece panels. In addition, the quad-exhaust nestles have been also made by carbon fibre.

Other great design features include round tail light reflectors that evoke the classic rear view of a Zagato, incorporating the same ‘bladed’ LED technology as the Aston Martin Vulcan; the glasshouse wrap around the bodywork; and the ‘double-bubble’ roof. The good and aggressive look of the car has been matched by the uprated V12 engine, which produces 600 PS.

The Interior

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept interior

When we talk about cars we rarely speak of their interiors and they are usually staying in the shadows. Here however, we should mention some exclusive design touches like the herringbone carbon fibre, which is paired with shadow and anodized bronze and aniline leather; the ‘Z’ quilt pattern stitch on the seat and door sections, as well as the celebrated trademark Zagato ‘Z’ embossed on headrests and stitched into the centre console.

Have we missed something?

Source: Aston Martin

May 25, 2016

An achievement worth remembering: the Bulgarian team that broke a world record [w/videos]

Volkswagen Scirocco The monstrous Volkswagen Schirocco was especially built by HEED-Auto in Sofia, Bulgaria. Originally purchased for 200 euros (this is what I call money well spent), the vehicle was eventually turned to something extraordinary.

With an engine from Nissan RB30 block with Nissan RB26 head, the unit’s capacity has also been increased to 3.2 liters. Running on pure ethanol, this thing produces the titanic 1,200hp (895kW) and 737lb-ft of torque, delivered to all wheels. The engine is further paired to a five-speed Liberty transmission with air shifter, Qaife front diff, Nissan Skyline transfer box and rear diff. Incredible, right?

Volkswagen Scirocco

So far, vehicle’s best time has been 8.181 seconds at 281hp (176mph), a record set last year. Since then the engineering team has further increased the power and reduced some weight with fiberglass one-piece front. They have still not broken their current E/T record, but have set a new trap speed achievement of 287km/h (178mph). Considering road’s surface and overall harsh conditions, this achievement is still being incredible.

So, what do you think of such an achievement? It makes me proud, personally. Also, these people showed that everything is possible, if you are willing to chase your goals. So, what do you think about this monstrous machine? Write down in the comment section!

Volkswagen Scirocco

https://youtu.be/gy8-nCShXmo

https://youtu.be/GV6Yzfc07t8

https://youtu.be/fdB3HPUeO0M

Source: www.engineswapdepot

May 20, 2016

Subaru team has finally announced more details for the 2017 Forester lineup

Subaru of America, Inc. announced details for the 2017 Subaru Forester. Arriving in late Summer of 2016, the fresh model really caught our eye. Here is why.

First of all, the exterior of the 2017 Forester received some notable changes and updates, including restyled bumper and new hexagonal grille. The headlights also look different and now include Subaru’s signature C-shaped motif with black inner bezel. At the same time the rear combination lights also include the notable C-shape, but this time with LED illumination.

Furthermore, the 2017 has improved and its performance rates. The vehicle benefits from quicker steering ratio, added soundproofing, thicker door glass and restructured door seals to reduce wind noise. Also, the new aluminum alloys not only bring some style, but also contribute to the overall weight reduction.

2017 Subaru Forester

In terms of performance and drivetrain setup, the 2017 Forester is available in standard, Premium, Limited and Touring trims. Powered by a 170hp (126kW) 2.5-liter 4-cylincer BOXER power unit. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard for the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, while 2.0XT is geared with a powerful 250hp (186kW) 2.0-liter intercooled and turbocharged 4-cylinder BOXER unit. Standard feature for all trim levels is the Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, while the Premium trim level also includes 17-inch alloys, X-Mode with Hill Descent Control, Automatic HVAC controls, body-colored rear roof spoiler and illuminated dual vanity mirrors.

The limited trim also brings silver metallic and gloss black finish center dash panel trim, body color exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Also, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are present.

And last, but definitely not least, the Touring trim offers exclusive Sepia Bronze Metallic exterior color, all-new Saddle Brown perforated leather-trimmed upholstery, brown leather trim to the door panels, central console storage box lid and other interior details. Let’s not forget the heated steering wheel, followed by Steering Responsive Headlamps and Keyless Access with Push-Button Start.

Prices for the 2017 Subaru Forester start from $22, 595 USD.

Source: Subaru

May 20, 2016

Beautiful, powerful and versatile, the new 2016 Suzuki Balento is coming our way!

2016 Suzuki Balento Suzuki is brand, well known for its specialization in small vehicles. And now the team shows it one more time with the unveiling of the new Baleno hatchback. The model lineup has launched in 1955 and since then Suzuki has been upgrading and refining it in order to meet all needs of the customers.

The latest model is a bit larger than the Swift and is the more rational choice for buyers who seek for more interior space and boot capacity. Also, the Baleno offers the best tandem distance in its class with more space between the front and rear seats.

So, what are the specification highlights?

Fresh features and well-known goodies

The standard equipment for the range includes six airbags, 16-inch alloys, HID headlights, air conditioning, satellite navigation, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, Cruise Control with speed limiter and front electric windows. The SZ5 (Bootsterjet and SHVS models) also add automatic air control, rear electric windows, 4.2 inch central color trip display, LED rear lights, Adaptive Cruise Control and Radar Brake Support.

The drivetrain system

After the debut of Boosterjet in the Vitara S back in January 2016, the advanced powerplant technology is also available with the Baleno model in the variant of 1.0-liter three cylinder unit. Offering the same level of horse power and torque as a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine, this small beast is also able to deliver smooth and genuine driving experience.

2016 Suzuki Balento

The engine comes with an output of 111hp (82kW) and 170Nm of torque available at 2,000rpm through 3,500rpm. Also, with the optional six-speed automatic gearbox, the available 160Nm is available at 1,500 to 4,500rpm.

On the other hand, the 1.2-liter Dualjet with SHVS also has a lot to demonstrate. The SHVS mild hybrid uses lithium-ion battery, placed under the front passenger seat to store energy and incorporates an idle stop function via the integrated Start Generator. Furthermore, the SHVS system uses its conventional power unit starter motor, when first started from cold, under all other conditions, it uses the higher voltage ISG unit to allow smooth and quiet power unit restart.

Additional features

2016 Suzuki Balento

The special integrated audio system has a Smartphone Linkage Display Audio with large seven inch touch panel display with intuitive operation and can also be used, when wearing gloves. Sweet. Also, the three-dimensional navigation map makes landmarks easy to distinguish also allow driver and passengers to use some smart phone applications in order to enhance the quality of the final result: arriving safe and fast at the required destination.