Auto News – Page 214 – Automobiles Review

There is a special Porsche vehicle for sale. Hexagon seeks the worthy new owner.

1993 Porsche 964 Turbo Flatstone There are some rare Porsche 911 models and then there is this 964 Turbo “Flatstone”. Hexagon Modern Classics proudly announces that one of just 12 right-hand-drive “Flatstone” models is offered for sale.

Back in August 1993, as the last 964 model was coming out off the production line, Porsche produced and the final and limited-run of 76 Exclusive Department-built Turbo Flachbau (Flatstone) vehicles.

The X84 body pack included front wings and pop-up headlights, especially created for the 986, while the modified front spoilers also had air intakers for additional cooling and the rear wheel housing had air intake shafts that were similar to those, seen in 959. Also, the upgraded X88 power unit is an option. This very same 385hp (287kW) 3.6-liter flat six-cylinder engine, as in the Turbo S, features enlarged turbocharger, modified camshafts, valve timing, cylinder heads, inlet manifolds and intermediate flangers, additional oil cooler and four-pipe exhaust system.

The vehicle at Hexagon’s new flagship Finchley showroom features both X86 and X88 packs. Finished in metallic black, the vehicle shows that well-known Porsche design with muscular stance and confident look. It also features black-leather interior and has covered just 630 miles. Aging as fine wine, this beauty has been a part of large private collection for many years and has never been offered for sale.

1993 Porsche 964 Turbo Flatstone

Source: Hexagon

May 9, 2016

2017 Honda Ridgeline is soon available. Here’s what you need to know!

There are more than 1,500 associates at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama that celebrate the start of mass production of the fresh and 2017 Honda Ridgeline pickup. Scheduled to go on-sale soon worldwide, the Ridgeline is a model that will try to challenge the conventional thinking: versatility, capabilities, comfort and convenience are all features that Honda is known about.

Designed and developed in America, the new Ridgeline will also include superior on-road performance with the segment’s best handling, ride quality, cabin quieteness and comfort, along with tons of innovative and class-leading technologies as In-Bed Trunk, Dual Action tailgate, Truck Bed Audio system and many more.

Actually, the Ridgeline is produced in the same plant in Alabama, where other award winning Honda vehicles are made: Pilot sport utility vehicle, Odyssey minivan, Acura MDX luxury SUV and more.

Also, first for any pickup, the new Truck Bed Audio system and the available 400-watt power inventer contribute to making Ridgeline some hell of a machine. The system utilizes six exciters inside the bed walls, blasting out music with up to 540 watts of power.

In 2016, Honda will also continue the fortification of the light-truck family lineup with the Ridgeline and the fully restyled Odyssey minivan. As you might know, Honda was named “2016 Best SUV Brand” by US News and World Report. Also, Pilot, CR-V, HR-V and Odyssey vehicles have earned “Best Buy” award by Kelly Blue Book for 2016. Also, 2016 Pilot and CR-V have won the TOP SAFETY PICK+ rates from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, while 2016 Odyssey minivan has earned a TOP SAFETY PICK rating.

Source: Honda

May 9, 2016

Prior-Design is killing it with the Audi RS6/A6 Avant PD600R project

Prior-Design Audi A6/RS6 Avant PD600R front and side view Prior-Design has just released a stunning tuning kit for the Audi A6 Avant and the RS6. It definitely contributes for bettering (if that is even possible) car’s stance. What is more, the tuning company also offers an exciting power-modification for these models. The aim is to add more excitement to the enhanced visual appearance. Well, they’ve done it right.

PD600R Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit

The widebody kit is called PD600R and features many elements that treat the Audi very well. By the way, after the installation of the aero kit, the A6 Avant and the RS6 become 8 cm wider up front and 10 cm lower at the back. How cool is that?

To go directly into details, up front the PD600R comprises of new front bumpers and front add-on spoiler as well as front widenings. The sides are adorned by new side skirts and add-on lips. Continuing to the back of the car, new are the bumper, the diffusor, the rear trunk spoiler, the roof spoiler and the rear widenings.

PD Performance Tuning

Prior-Design Audi A6/RS6 Avant PD600R partial view

In terms of performance enhancement, there are things that could be done too. The standard 3.0 TDI engine under the hood of the A6 Avant, produces no more than 313 HP (230 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. After the customization by the specialists at Prior-Design, these numbers have jumped with 98 HP and 157 Nm, resulting in a total of 411 HP (302 KW) and 807 Nm (596 lb-ft) of torque.

When it comes to the more powerful Audi RS6 with standard 560 HP (412 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque, it gained an addition of 110 HP (81 kW) and 130 Nm. The result is impressive: 670 Hp (493 kW) and 830 Nm (613 lb-ft) of torque.

At last, but not least we have to mention that the Audis depicted in the gallery below run on 21-inch Vossen VPS-310 wheels.

Source: Prior-Design

May 5, 2016

mcchip-dkr releases speedy 485 HP Porsche 991 Carrera S

mcchip-dkr Porsche 991 Carrera S view from above Let’s go astray from the Golf GTI hype and talk about the latest project of the tuners at mcchip-dkr. It is based on a Porsche 991 Carrera S, which is not the typical car one would see on a daily basis (unless they own it). Since, mcchip-dkr is well-known for chip tuning, there is no doubt that the Porsche would feature more horses than its stock ones. Precisely, the software adjustment and development were accomplished on a high-performance SuperFlow AWD dynamometer type SF880. But to objectively see the result, we should first make a comparison.

Basically, the Porsche 991 Carrera S 3.0 has a stock output measured at 420 HP (309 kW) and 678 Nm (500 ft.-lbs) of torque. On this basis have stepped the specialists, thus developing two software optimization stages.

mcchip-dkr Porsche 991 Carrera S speed/interior

The first level comprises only of “pure software”. The gains estimate 475 HP (349 kW) and 772 Nm (570 ft.-lbs.) of torque. The second level does feature software optimization as well as mcchip-dkr valve exhaust system with sport catalytic’s “made by Capristo”. The result is an output of 485 HP (357 kW) and 793 Nm (585 ft-lbs).

The changes however do not end here. The speedy Porsche is also equipped with something called PDK-transmission optimization. This means, the enforced up- or downshifting (kickdown) is deactivated, the up- and downshifting (+/-) works like the 991 GT3 and 991 Turbo. In addition, the maximum of the engine speed/RPM is enhances and there is faster gear shifting as well as a higher clutch pressure. At last, the KW-thread springs and the striking in-house vinyl design are there to be mentioned.

Source: mcchip-dkr via Miranda Media

May 5, 2016

Self-driving car, enhanced by Google and FCA? Sounds good to me!

The Google Self-Driving Car Project and FCA announced that the advanced Google technology will be incorporated into the all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan to expand and improve Google’s self-driving test project. As you might know, this is the first time that Google chooses to work directly with an automaker in order to deliver technologies and advanced systems.

Engineering responsibilities will be further shared on each brand’s respective expertise. FCA will design and engineer 100 vehicles exclusively for Google’s systems, while the Internet giant will integrate the suite of sensor and computers into these cars.

Both brands will also co-locate part of their engineering teams at a special place in Michigan in order to accelerate the design, tests and manufacturing of the autonomous Chrysler Pacifica.

Based on recent researches, experiments show that self-driving cars have the potential to prevent about 33,000 deaths yearly only on US roads. Sad thing is that about 95% of these fatal crashes are caused by human mistake. Luckily, collaborations as this one will bring us next generation of vehicles and technologies that will prevent road accidents and fatal injuries.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Furthermore, these self-driving vehicles, produced by Google are currently being tested in four US cities and the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid will be tested in California, prior to operating in public.

Source: FCA US LLC

May 5, 2016

Volkswagen Golf GTI Heartbeat and Golf R Variant Performance 35 debut at Wörthersee

Volkswagen Golf GTI Heartbeat This year marks the 40 years of the Golf GTI and this only means that at the annual meeting at Wörthersee, we will see some very cool and one-off projects. Like these two. The first one is a show car called Golf GTI Heartbeat and made by Volkswagen’s apprentices. The other one is the Golf R Variant Performance 35 with 350 PS (257 kW).

Golf GTI Heartbeat

The heart is beating faster with this one. Made by 12 trainees from Volkswagen and Sitech Sitztechnik, the 400 PS (295 kW) Golf GTI Heartbeat has fantastic looks, sound and contrasting color scheme. There is even a honeycomb design and heartbeat symbols to match the general idea. In addition, important highlight is the sound system with 1,360 watts from seven speakers.

The exterior highlights here include exterior in reflex silver metallic with the roof and front end covered in a contrasting dark grey foil; the aforementioned GTI honeycombs in bright tornado red with contrasting dark and light grey, which delivers additional design accents on the bonnet; the closed roof and on the wings; the high-gloss body kit and 20-inch wheels featuring wide tires on BBS aluminum wheels.

The interior is as impressive. At the front the car features two folding bucket seats taken from the Golf GTI Clubsport S. They have been decorated by a crystal grey embroidered “40” emblem on the headrest and honeycomb perforations with a red background on the back rests. The same motif is repeated on the door insets.

At the back, the rear seats and the luggage space have been substituted with high-end sound system with 1,360 watts from seven speakers and a special HIFI system with LED lighting and engraved glass covers.

Golf R Variant Performance 35

This Golf is created by the apprentices from the Volkswagen’s plant at Zwickau. It will have its premiere nect to the Heartbeat project. Here the number “35” refers to the boosted power output of 350 PS (257 kW) and Wörthersee 35th edition.

To go into details, the highlights of the show car include multi-layer paintwork featuring quartzite and tornado red colors. At the front, the bonnet also includes two ventilation slots. On the inside, the design of the cabin has been harmonized with the exterior color scheme. However, the roof liner has been individually modified with the help of airbrush techniques and also features LED stars.

Again, there is a high-end sound system installed in the cargo space. It comprises of 12 speakers, which have an outputof 2,500 watts. Nevertheless, the cargo space can be fully used and is equipped with an electrically retractable cargo floor.

Wörthersee will be exciting this year!

Source: Volkswagen

May 5, 2016

2016 Lexus RX 450h named Green Vehicle of Texas: what caught the eye of the jury?

2016 Lexus RX 450h What do you get for combining stunning looks and advanced hybrid technology?

For the all-new 206 Lexus RX 450h, buyers will get that neat green award with the size of the Lone Star State. At the Texas Auto Roundup in Fort Worth this week the Texas Auto Writes Association (TAWA) named the RX 450h the “2016 Green Vehicle of Texas”. Held in May 1-3 at Texas Motor Speedway, the event witnessed more than 60 journalists that drove the vehicle and gave it ratings in different categories.

2016 RX 450 is a fine blend of sharp and elegant lines, bold expression and contemporary technology features. And as one of brand’s best-selling vehicles, designers decided to gear that particular unit with enhanced safety features, driver-aid technology and tons of convenience systems.

In terms of drivetrain system, the sweetie comes with a 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 hybrid power unit that produces a total of 308hp (226kW) output. This hybrid-powered drivetrain is the latest and most advanced technology that Lexus can offer to buyers and its key components and systems have been restyled and reengineered for a long period in order to deliver us this impeccable drive dynamics, smoothness and overall rewarding driving experience.

So, do you think this is the worthy vehicle for such a prestigious award? If not, which one do you think should take home the “2016 Green Vehicle of Texas”? Write down in the comment section.

Source: Lexus

May 5, 2016

Ford invites everyone to a special exhibition event. Check it out!

Ford Intellectual Property Power Exhibition Ford and the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum (NIHF) are to unveil an unique Mustang vehicle that blends classic and contemporary features of the 1965 model and the 2015 model in one-of-a-kind exposition.

This split-personality Mustang is part of a new Intellectual Property Power Exhibit at the NIHF and along with other exhibits, the Mustang is here to celebrate the story of intellectual property and the illumination of science and innovation in America. This interactive exhibition also highlights the importance of patents and the tremendous march of technology throughout the decades.

The NIHF sought out Ford as its main partner for this project because the well-known brand has played an important part in the history of American innovation, especially as it comes to the iconic Mustang vehicle.

As you might know, when Mustang was launched, there were no specific styling patents or similar. It was long after the car showed its true capabilities and potential and there were more than a million units sold in the first 18 months, when the styling patents were considered and applied. Cool, right?

Ford Intellectual Property Power Exhibition

Back in 1965, Mustang adopted more than 100 Ford functional patents. Some of them reflect what customers loved back then: a rear-seat speaker and a power convertible top. Also, there were some patented features that we take for granted now, just like Patent 3,271,540 – the origin of Ford’s self-canceling turn signal.

In contemporary age, Mustang is also considered as a wellspring of creative design and engineering achievements. The vehicle introduced the first passenger knee airbag system with a total of 15 patents granted. Also, it debuts electronic line-lock, along with standard launch control for more consistent performance at the drag strip. Mustang also incorporates features as seat cushion with wallet or phone pocket, more comfortable seats and more.

Ford Intellectual Property Power Exhibition

Many of those patents will be on display at the exhibition, crafted by Classic Design Concepts, combining 60 per cent of the original Mustang and another 60 per cent of a new pony car. The left side is a complete reproduction of the 1965 Mustang model, while the other side is a 2015 Mustang that is already available in more than 150 countries.

Visitors will also be able to get in the unique car in either side and directly compare the old-fashioned style to the modern vehicle appearances.

So, what do you think about the idea? Write down in the comment section!

Source: Ford

May 5, 2016

VW gears the mighty Amarok pickup with V6 power units. Here are more details

2016 Volkswagen Amarok Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles raises the bar with the latest premium pick-up vehicle, the Amarok. The vehicle is especially designed in order to deliver outstanding performance, smooth ride and overall boosted pleasure of driving. Robust and reliable, the latest pick-up vehicle adopts the power of a new 3.0-liter V6 diesel power unit with tons of horsepower and 550Nm of torque and the agility of a manual or special 8-speed automatic gearbox for reduced revs and enhanced fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, the Amarok will be available with three engine options: a 163hp (120kW), a 205hp (150kW) and the top performing 224hp (165kW). Of course, all engines meet all the Euro 6 emission standards and deliver smooth and rewarding driving experience.

2016 Volkswagen Amarok

Also, there are three different drive-system options in line with the respective engine variants: the vehicle can be specified with traditional rear-wheel drive, 4MOTION with rear-wheel drive and an engagable front axle in combination with manual gearbox, or the permanent AWD system with Torsen differential and 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Amarok also demonstrates more athletic and muscular stance and welcomes driver and passengers to a rather refined interior with new ergonomic seats, more sophisticated and elegant details and tons of utility technologies and systems.

2016 Volkswagen Amarok

Just some of the stuff, included in the standard equipment is 20-inch alloy wheels, Park Distance Control parking assistant, bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED licence plate lightning, LED-illuminated side sills and many more.

Source: Volkswagen

May 4, 2016

SVR to reveal Noble M600: what to expect?

2016 SVR Noble M600 Super Veloce Racing (SVR), recently appointed by Noble Automotive as the official sales and servivces dealer for the British premium supercar manufacturer, has announced that it will reveal the latest 405km/h (225mph) supercar at the London Motor Show on Thursday, May 5, 2016.

SVR’s M600 customer demonstrator, demonstrating a stunning “Black-Red” body finish with carbon fiber roof is to be revealed on Thursday, following intensive and comprehensive tests and experiments. In fact, this is the latest vehicle to come from the Leicester-based factory, created to meet SVR’s exact and precise requirements.

2016 SVR Noble M600

Noble has invested a total of five years of extensive development in the creation of the supercar, which somehow relates to the latest generation of the M600 and M600 CarbonSport. Every single unit is hand-crafted by the Noble engineers and meets all the high customer standards and requirements.

Along with the aesthetic details, the vehicle also offers some comprehensive drivetrain system changes. The proven 4.4-liter Yamaha V8 twin-turbo power unit, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox produces a total of 662hp (492kW) and 604 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. With a weight of just 1198kg, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in mere 3.5 seconds and from 0 to 215km/h (129mph) in 8.9 seconds.

2016 SVR Noble M600

SVR’s latest demonstration vehicle will be revealed on stand L74 in the Luxury Pavilion at the London Motor Show at 15:15 on Thursday, 5 May, 2016.

Stay with us for further information.

Source: Super Veloce Racing

May 4, 2016

The most powerful Golf GTI Clubsport broke a record! Check details here

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S The Golf GTI Clubsport S is, as we all know, the most powerful model of the Golf GTI lineup and is especially created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic hot hatchback. And with German racing driver Benny Leuchter (28) behind the wheel, the vehicle just broke the record for front-wheel-drive speed test at Nürburgring Nordschleife with a time of 7 minutes and 49.21 seconds.

This exclusively made vehicle is based on the Golf GTI Clubsport model and proudly demonstrates some neat design features, along with excellent performance rates. The numbers are indeed impressive: the power output is measured at 310hp (228kW) with 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,700 and 5,300 rpm. This means that the 0 to 100km/h (62mph) run is finished in 5.8 seconds and the top speed is 291km/h (162mph). Other notable feature is the weight reduction that contributes to the overall enhanced agility and swiftness.

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S

In fact, we can talk much about the weight savings. The two-seater was made lighter by removing the rear seats, including the central armrest. The smaller battery and the variable-height trunk floor have also contributed to some weight savings. There are numerous aluminum components on the front suspension and the brake system that also make it possible for such high performance rates.

The Golf GTI Clubsport S is also fitter with tons of utility gadgets and systems. There is the individually configurable Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), along with individual profile selection with a total of three modes, along with a special one that is purely customizable and tweakable. How cool is that?

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S

The sad thing is that there will be only 400 vehicles worldwide, 100 of which will be delivered to customers in Germany. The Clubsport S can be further ordered in “Tornado Red”, “Pure White” and “Deep Black Pearl Effect” body finishes.

Source: Volkswagen

May 4, 2016

In search for perfection Afzal Kahn creates the Ultimate Defender

Kahn Land Rover Defender Limited Edition rear view If you wonder how the “Ultimate Defender” would look like, then you should definitely visit the London Motor Show, which starts tomorrow. If you aren’t in the vicinity of the event, then you can jump into our gallery and check out the latest project of the famous Afzal Kahn. In his striving for perfection, he has eventually created the so called “Utimate” Land Rover Defender. Here are the details.

The unique Land Rover Defender designed by Afzal Kahn, is a collector’s item not only because it celebrates the world-renowned model, but also because the Defender is (sadly) no longer in production. The designer has chosen a more contemporary take on the classic forms of the vehicle.

Exterior

The exterior paint scheme of the SUV is Santorini Black and this isn’t the only eye-catching modification. The purposeful and muscular appearance is due to the addition of front and rear Satin Black wide wings with body colored arches, integrated vents and exposed bolt apertures. By the way, the new front bumper features mounted lighting and a sump guard. Rounding out the facelift are the X-Lander front grille, mesh hood vents and Kahn vinyl stripes.

The wheels were chosen carefully, namely the 20-inch Mondial heels in Volcanic Black, behind which sit Burnt Orange Metallic brake calipers. They were fitted with 275/55/20 tyres. Improving the off-road performance are the twin cross-hair exhaust system and hard-wearing mud flaps. At the back, we can’t miss the Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover.

Interior

Kahn Land Rover Defender Limited Edition interior

The cabin is rather away from the standard. Precisely, the original seats were substituted with front and rear GTB ones in Hield Fabric. The same material has been utilized for the fillets. The interior has been made complete with the addition of new centre glove box, passenger dashboard, handles, door panels, instrument binnacle, front door cards and boot panel, Churchill time clock, sat nav, reverse camera, Kahn billet and leather steering wheel, 4 speed auto gear box and vented machined aluminium foot pedals.

Commenting on the Ultimate Defender, Afzal Kahn says:

“I have designed a vehicle that celebrates the history and unique personality of the Defender. This is a fitting tribute to one of the world’s best loved vehicles and I would welcome feedback from Defender owners and enthusiasts alike who are welcome to visit my Kings Road boutique in Chelsea.”

Kahn Land Rover Defender Limited Edition “Ultimate Defender” is priced at £65,000.