Auto News – Page 234 – Automobiles Review

Nissan Previews the Future of Mobility in Geneva with a Trio of Concepts

Nissan IDS Concept Front view Nissan is currently debuting three exclusive concept vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show. They all include the advanced technology and future innovation, or the Intelligent Mobility, and are shown for the very first time before the European public. The trio comprises of the IDS Concept, the X-Trail Premium Concept and the Nissan Qashqai Premium Concept.

Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility & IDS Concept

The technologies of tomorrow pursue the aim of zero emission vehicles and zero fatalities on the road. Precisely, Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility vision features three areas of innovation, including: Nissan Intelligent Driving (company’s autonomous drive technology, Piloted Drive), Nissan Intelligent Power (more efficiency, more power, including electric vehicles), and the Nissan Intelligent Integration (the links between vehicles and society).

The Intelligent Mobility vision is entirely applied into the IDS Concept: a preview of a future Nissan electric vehicle that features autonomous driving, sophisticated EV technology, advanced aerodynamic performance, acceleration and evolved AI capability.

Nissan Qashqai & X-Trail Premium Concept

Nissan Qashqai & X-Trail Premium Concept Front View

The Qashqai crossover is going to be the first vehicle on Nissan’s line-up, which will feature autonomous drive technology. It will be equipped with ‘Piloted Drive 1.0’, which will allow it to drive autonomously and safely in a single lane in heavy traffic conditions on highways. The car will roll off the line next year.

Currently, the Qashqai is previewed in a “Premium Concept” form in Geneva alongside the X-Trail (also in Premium Concept variant). Both cars offer a fresh take on the design of the widespread appeal of Nissan crossovers.

If you are visiting Geneva Motor Show, Nissan stand (4150) is located in Hall 4.

Source: Nissan

March 3, 2016

Lamborghini Makes Tribute to Aviation with Huracan LP 610-4 Avio

Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Avio is debuting alongside the exclusive Centenario at the Geneva Motor Show this year. And unlike the latter (which will be produced in 40 examples that are already sold), the Avio will have a limited production run of up to 250 examples. The special edition is dedicated to the world of aviation and aeronautics, and this is absolutely understandable by supercar’s name, colors and materials used for its building.

For the creation of this unique car, Lamborghini was inspired by powerful fighter jets. This is exactly from where it has borrowed the technological, aerodynamic and ergonomic, and stylistic know-how. For instance, there can be made references to the aeronautical world featured in Lamborghini’s current product line, including the following: digital instrument clusters, controls located on the center console, the red engine ‘start’ button, the tight stylistic language of exterior lines and more.

The Exterior

Avio can be ordered in five new colors, which were specifically developed for it. The standard one is called Grigio Falco with pearlescent finish. The other four available finishes include the matt colors Blu Grifo, Grigio Nibbio, Grigio Vulcano and Verde Turbine. The names of the colors are taken from the coats-of-arms representing courses at the Italian Air Force Academy. If one wants to order another color, then he or she can reach the Lamborghini’s Ad Personam customization program, which allows owners to choose from further color and trim options.

Regardless of the exterior color one chooses, the Avio will feature white or grey painted details contrasting the body paint scheme. For instance, these details adorn the tops of the side member, the side view mirrors and the lip on the front spoiler. In addition, there is a double stripe in white or grey, which runs along the roof and down the front bonnet. Signifying the special Avio edition are the L63 logos found on the door panels. Here L stands for Lamborghini and ’63 is the year the company was founded.

The Inteiror

Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Avio Interior

The cabin is as exclusive as the exterior and it includes alternate black leather matched with a special black Alcantara with laser-engraved hexagonal motif. The material covers the central section of the seat, the armrest, the knee support and part of the door panel. White stitching contrasts the black interior scheme.

As on the door panels, the L63 logo can be seen embroidered (by hand) onto the sides of the seats. Another emphasis on the exclusivity of Avio is making the hand-enameled plate on the driver’s side window. This Huracán also offers a wide variety of premium functional features in its standard configuration including lifting system, cruise control and GPS.

The Engine

Just like any other Lamborghini Huracán, the Avio is powered by the 610 HP 5.2 liter V10 engine matched to a 7-speed gearbox with double clutch. It runs on hybrid chassis in aluminum and carbon fiber, and has a power/weight ratio of only 2.33 kilograms per hp. This means only breathtaking performance: 0 to 100 km/h is covered in a mere 3.2 seconds, while the maximum speed is over 325 km/h.

Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Avio is going to reach dealerships this summer.

Source: Lamborghini

March 3, 2016

Geneva Debuting Subaru XV Concept Previews Future Design Direction

Subaru XV Concept Front View Subaru XV Concept that was teased last month via exclusive images is finally being revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. As you already know from the previous news about the XV Concept crossover, it actually previews the design direction for the next generation vehicles of the brand. Of course, it is the preview-form of the new XV compact crossover.

To go into details, the XV Concept embodies Subaru’s new ‘DYNAMIC X SOLID’ design philosophy. This includes solid, robust appearance and raised ground clearance and of course, the All-Wheel Drive capability that is famous for the vehicles of the brand. The sides of the model are sleek, mimicking a normal car but at the same time staying a true crossover.

The muscular body and forms are sized 4.520mm in length, 1.920mm in width, 1.570mm in height and a wheelbase of 2.670mm. These dimensions speak of added practicality. The surfaces of the body are divided by two strong character lines. The first one extends from the front bumper, along the doors and into the rear shoulder, while the second one rises from the lower half of the doors towards the rear of the car.

The front end includes Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille and ‘hawk-eye’ headlamps, matt black body cladding running from the front bumper and going over the wheel arches, and speaking of the sides there are side sills tat flow into the rear bumper. The back of the crossover concept is wide, low and stable and matt black-clad rear bumpers and combination lamps with the same design motif as the ‘hawk-eye’ headlamps.

The paint finish you see here is specifically developed for the concept and is called ‘Glacier Khaki Silica’. Contrasting orange accents appear on the grille, front and rear bumpers, 19-inch aluminium wheels and roof rails. At last, the alloys were fitted with tires sized at 245/50 R19.

Source: Subaru

March 3, 2016

Fiat Showcases the new Tipo at the Geneva Show

2016 Fiat Tipo The fresh-out-of-the-fabric FIAT Tipo hatchback and estate made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Joining forces with Tipo saloon that was unveiled back at the Istanbul Motor Show, the latest Tipo share the same ideas for spacious interior, smooth ride and high quality elements. All this wrapped in rather nice face and offered for a sweet price.

The hatchback offers exceptional roominess both for passengers and luggage. The 4.37m long, 1.79m wide and 1.50m tall vehicle has a boot capacity of 440 liters, while the Estate version expands this volume to 550 liters. Also, the Tipo offers comfortable and highly-functional interior that also adopts the capabilities of modern-age technologies.

In terms of drivetrain system, Fiat offers a total of five engines. Two of them are turbo diesel units: the 1.3-liter MultiJet II, capable of producing 95hp (69kW) and 200Nm of torque and the 1,6-liter Multijet II with 120hp (88kW) and 320Nm of torque. The rest are petrol units that offer 95hp(69kW) and 125Nm via a 1.4-liter 16 engine, a 1.4-liter turbo unit with 120hp (88kW) and 206Nm of torque and a 1.6-liter e-TorQ engine with 110hp (80kW) and 152Nm.

The new Tipo will be offered in three trim levels with air conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows for estate, electric mirrors, six airbags, DAB digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity. Further details will be revealed soon.

Source: Fiat

March 2, 2016

Dacia Showcases Limited-Run Models at the Geneva Show

2016 Dacia Duster As you might know, Dacia achieved record sales in 2015 and also marked incredible rise in terms of fans and enthusiast. This fast-growing community means that Dacia team stays motivated and seeks not only popularity, but also approval for quality and functionality. So, what did the brand showcase at the Geneva Show?

Duster Essential: new series of limited-edition vehicles

Dacia proudly showcased series of limited-edition versions of Duster, Sander and Logan MCV, along with other models. Of course, the names of the special editions will vary, depending on the market in different countries.

Furthermore, the vehicles combine sweet looks, refined drivetrain system and competitive price. There is also a new exterior color, the Chestnut Brown, fresh alloy wheels and distinctive badges. The cabin offers some more hi-tech gadgets as Bluetooth and USB connectivity, electric front windows and central locking.

The limited editions will be available in almost 20 countries, including United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic and more.

The Easy-R automated gearbox

2016 Dacia Duster

Easy-R was launched at the end of 2015 and was first equipped to the TCe 90 Stop&Start petrol unit. Now, for the same price, this transmission can be installed on the dCi 90 diesel version of the Logan, Sander, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV. The advanced transmission offers smooth and quick shifts and contribute to better fuel economy.

Furthermore, the reliable automated transmission eliminates the need of clutch pedal and is fine-tuned to enhance the smooth and pleasurable rive in congested traffic and urban areas. And the best part is that the Easy-R is offered on wonderful price.

Source: Dacia

March 2, 2016

What Did Infiniti Showcased At the Geneva Show?

Q60 Sports Coupe Infiniti showcased its extended lineup for the first time in Europe at the Geneva Motor Show. With the presentation of two brand-new and one restyled models, Infiniti makes quite tasty offers to all of brand’s European friends.

All of the three vehicles demonstrate that bold and beautiful Infiniti design, advanced technologies and refined drive characteristics. These vehicles are indeed the all-new Q60 Red Sport coupe, offering high power output and sport-oriented performance, the QX30 premium active crossover with concept-like exterior and the refreshed Q50 sports saloon, featuring sweet dynamics and performance rates. So, let’s check them out!

Q60 Sports Coupe: performance and passion

This beauty offers not only comfortable interior, but also some sporty features. Geared with a lightweight and redesigned VR30 3.0-liter B6 twin-turbo engine, the Red Sport produces a total of 400hp (294kW). In fact, this is one of Infiniti’s best models, as it comes to performance to efficiency ratio.

Q60 also features next-generation of Direct Adaptive Steering – brand’s advanced system, along with the new Dynamic Digital Suspension, which offers some sporty feel, along with comfortable and smooth ride.

QX30: versatile and refined crossover

Infiniti QX30

Making its European debut, the QX30 joins brand’s premium compact lineup. With distinctive appearance and signature Infiniti lines, the QX30 remains true to “Powerful Elegance” concept. Further information will be delivered in the middle of 2016.

2016 Q50: a further refined sports saloon

Enhanced and improved in order to meet the requirements of the new season year, 2016 Q50 features new V6 power unit and brand’s Direct Adaptive Steering and Dynamic Digital Suspension.

But here is the video, so see for yourself what Infiniti team demonstrated at the 86th Geneva Motor Show:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DunZ_qzwJCk&feature=youtu.be

Source: Infiniti

March 2, 2016

Hyundai i10, i20 and i30 GO! are Dedicated to UEFA EURO 2016

2016 Hyundai i10, i20 and i30 GO! Front View Hyundai is premiering at the Geneva Motor Show three special editions, which are dedicated to the UEFA EURO 2016 that is going to take place in France this summer. Hyundai is again supporting as an official sponsor. The motto of the cars is “GO!” and they are of brand’s i10, i20 and i30 model variants. The cars will be painted in one of the colours of the French flag, blue, white and red, in order to go with the UEFA European soccer championships.

There are not so many specifics disclosed by the brand, but what we know is that the interior of the model will feature exclusive blue and white accents, while the body will be sitting on lightweight alloy wheels. In addition, the occupants will sit behind privacy glass from the B pillar on, thus visually setting the GO! models apart from the standard models.

Some of the special feature of the i10 GO! include privacy glass and blue stitching on the seats, steering wheel and the gearshift lever as well as a glossy black finish on the centre console. The i20 GO! on the other hand features cabin in blue and white stitching which is complemented by blue surrounds for the gearshift and outer air vents. There is also black headlining that adds a sporty ambience. The design of the alloy wheels completes the picture.

At last, the i30 GO! has the most stylish exterior featuring premium front grille and 17-inch alloy wheels. The cabin is adorned by gunmetal finish on the steering wheel, centre console, air vents and doors as well as black headlining and metallic front-door scuff plates.

The pricing of Hyundai GO! Special Edition and additional specifications will be announced close to launch.

Source: Hyundai

March 2, 2016

Aston Martin DB11 is a Thing of a Beauty in Geneva [w/video]

Aston Martin DB11 from above Aston Martin DB11 sets a new chapter in company’s history with its world premiere at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. It is the first car launched under the ‘Second Century’ plan, continuing Aston Martin’s authentic sports design and distinctive design language, but at the same time pioneering exclusive aerodynamics and in-house made 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine.

The car has been built upon a new lighter and stronger aluminium structure. In addition, the DB11 seems to be the most powerful, efficient and dynamically viable DB model.

The Design

Aston Martin DB11 Front View

As all Aston Martins, this car looks incredibly good! The front is defined by front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines. The sides are dramatic in their appearance due to the roof strakes that flow uninterrupted from A-pillar to C-pillar. The rear has a sloping decklid that smoothly blends into boldly sculpted tail-lights. The design of the car is aerodynamically enhanced via many air ducts, reduced front-end and rear-end lift, AeroBladeTM, a virtual spoiler with discreet air intakes, aperture in the rear decklid, etc.

The Performance

Aston Martin DB11 is powered by 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12, which produces 608 PS (441 kW) and 700Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. The top speed has been limited to 200 mph, while the 0-62 mph happens in just 3.9seconds. Thanks to intelligent bank activation and stop-start technology the car also delivers great efficiency.

DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been redesigned to match the capability of the new V12. In fact, the car features several driver-selectable dynamic modes, including GT, Sport and Sport Plus. The V12 is actually matched to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission together with the new electric power steering and Torque Vectoring by braking and in such way Aston Martin has enhanced the agility of the car significantly.

The Technology

In terms of technology, the DB11 has worked with Daimler AG to deliver the best! Here are included a full-colour 12” TFT LCD display, new instrument cluster displaying primary vehicle information, second centrally-mounted 8” TFT screen dedicated to infotainment, optional touchpad, satellite navigation and audio system, auto-park assist and 360-degree birds-eye view camera and more.

The Interior

Aston Martin DB11 Interior

The cabin has been enlarged and now features more head and legroom for the occupants at the rear. In addition, DB11 includes fully integrated rear ISOFIX mounting points for a pair of child seats plus a large luggage compartment. There are various color options for the interior so ever customer can express his or her individuality. For instance, the Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation can add beautiful complexity and intrigue inside, while the ornate leatherwork and the additional detailing can visual and tactile delight.

Aston Martin DB11 has a starting price of £154,900 in the UK, €204,900 in Germany and $211,995 in the USA. First deliveries are expected during the fourth quarter of this year.

httpv://youtu.be/FzmKf_amn8I

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Aston Martin

March 2, 2016

Lamborghini Centenario Takes Minds and Hearts at the Geneva Motor Show

Lamborghini Centenario Front View Lamborghini Centenario is making its world debut at 2016 Geneva Motor Show. It is a very special edition model, because it celebrates the centenary of founder Ferruccio Lamborghini’s birth. The supersports car is built in only 20 coupé and 20 roadster versions, but they have been all already sold. If you ask about the starting price: it is 1.75 million euros.

With a typical aerodynamic design for Lamborghini, the car also includes extending rear wing which provides more downforce at high speeds. More importantly, the introduction of rear-wheel steering delivers better agility and stability, while the innovative touchscreen provides connected infotainment, including internet browsing and Apple CarPlay.

The Power

Centenario is powered by a V12 engine, which produces 770 hp and catapults the car from 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, and from 0-300 km/h in 23.5 seconds. The top speed is more than 350 km/h. Deceleration is incredible with braking happening from 100 km/h to standstill achieved in 30 meters. The model is based on a carbon fiber monocoque and body, thus ensuring low weight of 1,520 kg and a weight to power ratio of just 1.97 kg/hp.

The Design

Lamborghini Centenario Rear View

The mono-body shape of the Centenario measures 4.924 m length and 1.143 m height. At the front there are large air scoops helping the air to go through the car’s front contributing to downforce on the front axle. In addition, the air flows through ducts within the front headlight casing and others in the sideskirts and around the wheel arches. The roof too includes air scoops.

Gloss carbon fibre defines the whole body of the Centenario, including the front bonnet, scissor door panels and roof line. The irregular wheel arches are a typical Lamborghini feature and they have been accented in matt carbon fibre, emphasizing the aerodynamic design of the car. The wheel arches conceal Pirelli PZero tyres, developed specifically for the model, that are fitted with exclusive 20″/21″ front/rear rims in forged and milled aluminium. Behind them the carbon ceramic brakes are finished with a central-locking wheel nut.

At the rear, we see an integrated rear, ‘Y’-shaped rear lights above it, and the already mentioned extendable rear wing.

The Interior

Lamborghini Centenario Interior

The cabin of each Centenario has been made according to client’s specification. However, there are some similarities including the sports seats made of lightweight carbon fiber, the new stitching that features on the length of the dashboard, steering wheel, sunvisors, rocker covers, and the new inner door panels made of carbon fiber and Alcantara.

Some important technologies need to be mentioned here since they are essential: satellite navigation, a high definition 10.1 inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, sophisticated telemetry function and two optional interior cameras.

At last, the 20 coupés and 20 roadsters named Lamborghini Centenario are going to be delivered from autumn 2016 and throughout 2017. And since all 40 Centenario have been already sold, Geneva Motor Show might be your only chance of seeing the model.

Source: Lamborghini

March 2, 2016

Honda Previews Next-Gen Civic Hatchback with Geneva-Bound Prototype

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype is being exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show, which started today. The car previews the next-generation Civic hatchback that heralds a significant step-change from the predecessors of Honda’s core model. If the design stays the same in the production model we will be in awe, for it is provocative design and rewarding driving dynamics. But we will have to wait until 2017, when the next-gen Civic Hatch will be introduced.

The Design

We all love Honda Civic Hatchback for its distinctive and sporty design. From what we see from the prototype, it takes it to the next level, making it sportier than ever. Another important detail, which contributes for the aforementioned fact is that the new production Civic will be 30 mm wider, 20 mm lower and 130 mm longer than the current generation. Bigger body usually means larger wheels, and this principle has been kept here. The wider wheels and tires speak of more aggressive stance, while the long wheelbase, short overhangs and sleek cabin area aid the dynamic exterior design.

The front of the prototype is adorned by a short overhang with large air intakes. And this is actually an interpretation of brand’s family face. In addition, the design of the LED headlights and DRLs flows from beneath the bonnet into the wheel arches, accentuating the profile design and culminating in the distinctive C-shaped LED rear lights. At the back we also see a bumper, which incorporates angular creases and vents.

New Engines Equals More Power

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype Rear View

There are new engines that will be featured in the 10^th generation Civic Hatchback. Precisely, it will be offered with a choice of three powertrain options: 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre VTEC TURBO petrol engines (new! new! new!), and the substantially updated 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel unit. Honda promises that they will all offer better dynamic performance, exceptional output and a fuel economy to envy. No specifics about output and torque were later disclosed.

Production Run in 2017

The good news is that the 10th generation Civic hatchback to be built in Europe and even the better one is that it will be exported globally! Honda’s production facility is based in the UK, which will be granted an investment of €270m in new production technologies and processes to prepare for the new model. From there the next-gen Civic Hatch will be exported worldwide, including the United States.

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype is also going to make its North American debut in New York on March 22, ahead of the New York International Auto Show.

Source: Honda

March 1, 2016

Chevy Showcases 2017 Corvette Grand Sport Beast at Geneva Show

2017 Chevrolet Grand Sport 2017 Corvette Grand Sport was shown today at the Geneva International Motor Show. With the well-known Corvette Racing DNA, this new family member has a lot to demonstrate. And just like 2015 Le Mans-winner Corvette C7.R GTE Pro, the latest Grand Sport blends lightweight construction, track-ready aerodynamic enhancements and naturally-aspired engine.

Drivetrain system

Engineers paid special attention to chassis fine-tuning, enhancing the cooling system and also to the whole performance features in order to deliver one-of-a-kind race machine. And apparently we see the result: a Grand Sport monster with Z07 pack is maybe one of Chevy’s most potent vehicles ever produced.

Some of the main performance equipment includes Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires, Specific Grand Sport Wheel design:19×10 inches and 20×12 inches rear, Brembo brake system with 355mm 14-unch rotors and six-piston calipers in front and 13,4 inch rotors and four-piston calipers in the rear. Magnetic ride control, specific stabilizer bars and special springs, standard electronic limited-slip differential

2017 Chevrolet Grand Sport

And all this goes hand to hand with LT1 V8 engine, capable of producing a total of 460hp (343kW) of power output. This particular unit is further paired to a seven-speed manual gearbox with active rev match or the optional eight-speed paddle-shift automatic with specific performance calibration.

Also, in addition to the track-focused aero components, Grand Sport includes specific front fender insets, Z06-style grille and wider rear fenders not only to enhance the appealing design, but also to give the vehicle some aerodynamic and track-ready attitude.

Grand Sport Collector Edition

2017 Chevrolet Grand Sport

The special edition includes exclusive Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and special Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior. Also, there is a three-dimensional representation of the original Grand Sport race car, embossed in the headrests. That shape is also includes on the instrument panel plaque.

2017 Chevrolet Grand Sport

The Collector Edition will be available for order later this year.

Source: Chevrolet

March 1, 2016

The Fastest and Most Powerful Bugatti Chiron Makes Geneva Premiere

Bugatti Chiron Front View Bugatti Chiron is a name to remember, not only because it is the latest creation of the ultra-luxury sports car brand, but also because it is expected to achieve great results in the future being absolutely ready for a new world speed record. If you are somewhere near Geneva, then go visit the Motor Show that is currently happening there. You will have the opportunity to witness the world premiere of a future legend, the new Chiron, which is planned to be built in 500 examples only. So this might be your only chance (Bugatti stand is located in Hall Nr.1).

The French luxury brand says that this is “the most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive production super sports car in the world” and we are likely to believe it! There are several reasons: first it has a power output of 1,500 HP (1103 kW), which is absolutely unprecedented for a production vehicle. Secondly, it has “huge” torque value of 1,600 Nm (1180 lb-ft), which is available between 2,000 and 6,000 rpm.

Next, it is expected that the Chiron will become the next world speed record holder, meaning that it will achieve a maximum speed significantly above the record currently held by Bugatti. In the case of the production variant of the mode, the manufacturer has limited the Vmax to 420 km/h, achieved in the Top Speed mode.

Bugatti Chiron Interior

These numbers are possible because of the unique eight-litre W16 engine that comes in combination with the four new, larger turbochargers controlled by the company’s two-stage turbocharging.

Furthermore, the Chiron is built over a new carbon fibre monocoque, it features absolutely new adaptive chassis, and runs on tires developed especially for Bugatti. In addition, the supersports car also includes other innovative technologies that make it agile, modern and with handling that delivers optimum driving pleasure.

Bugatti’s DNA has been applied to the design of the car conveying its distinctive features interpreted in a modern way. There have been added new features resulting from the technical demands of even higher performance.

At last, Bugatti Chiron is going to be built in Molsheim and can be currently. Each of the 500 examples will have a starting price of €2.4 million. The first vehicle is due to be delivered this autumn.