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Volkswagen Premieres the Goddess of Fidelity “Phideon” at the Geneva Motor Show

Volkswagen Phideon Front View Volkswagen Phideon luxury saloon is currently making a Geneva Motor Show world premiere. Although it is being premiered in Europe, it is actually created for the Chinese market, where it will be positioned between the Passat and the Magotan. It will be launched there by the end of the year. Why this debut is so important? Because the Phideon actually carries the new “face” of Volkswagen’s luxury saloons.

The design of the Phideon might look similar to this of the C Coupe GTE Concept car and the reason for this is that the first was actually derived from the concept that was presented at Auto Shanghai last year. As a matter of fact, it features only minor changes. In terms of techniques, the Phideon is based on the Modular Longitudinal Matrix (MLB) being the first VW to be based on such. In addition, the luxury saloon is also the first Volkswagen model to be equipped with camera-based night vision system.

The Name

One might also ask, what does the name Phideon stand for? Volkswagen did respond to this question philosophically, stating that the name “is a construct standing for elegance and reliability, and phonetically and symbolically evokes Fides, the Roman goddess of fidelity”.

The TSI Engines

The presented at the show top-of-the-range model is equipped with the most powerful turbocharged direct injection 3.0 V6 TSI 4MOTION engine, which produces up to 300 PS (220 kW) and drives the four wheels. The torque is measured at 440 Nm (324 lb-ft).

There are also two drivetrains to be featured in the future. The first one is the available 2.0 TSI with a front-wheel drive, while the second is a plug-in hybrid. No details were additionally mentioned, regarding torque and horsepower.

The Exterior Design

Volkswagen Phideon Side View

The exterior of the Phideon coems with sporty proportions. Precisely, it is 5.05 metres long, 1.87 metres wide and 1.48 metres high. The most important thing about the design is the “new face”, which will be applied to other VW’s future high-end saloons. It includes bonnet with sharp contours, wide and comparatively high radiator grille with four chrome bars, two chrome-plated crossbars framing the dual LED headlights and LED DRLs.

The profile is characterised by a character line formed by two lines, large wheel arches and the huge alloy wheels, which were derived directly from the C Coupé GTE. At last, the rear section I powerful and mimics the front end. It is too dominated by a horizontal division of the surfaces, accentuating the car’s width, LED rear lights and a stainless steel exhaust tailpipes.

Luxurious and Modern Interior

The sporty five-seater is spacious and comfortable inside. The dashboard and the overall interior design are focused on the technical aspects and driving dynamics, which allows for better driving experience. In terms of luxury, the car is equipped with luxurious seats that are electrically adjusted and include individual settings, have integrated seat ventilation and heating as well as a massage function. The wrap-around ambient light strip that can switch between three different colors adds to the ambient atmosphere.

The High-End Technologies

These include convenience and driver assistance systems like the air suspension system, five individually selectable driving modes, electric soft-closing system for the doors, called “Soft Close” and the MLB assistance systems like Area View, Park Assist, Side Assist, etc.

At last, we must say that we hope Volkswagen to introduce this limousine soon in other countries except China.

Source: Volkswagen

March 1, 2016

Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner: Refinement Beyond Measure

Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner Bentley revealed the Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show today. This ultimate expression of luxury, technology and craftsmanship sets new benchmark for individualization and refinement.

The Grand Limousine is one meter longer and 79mm taller than the previous Mulsanne vehicle and offers one-of-a-kind interior with private-aviation-style seating configuration. Also new for the limousine is the “smart glass” system that allows passengers to switch the interior division and rear-cabin window glass between clear and opaque with a single touch of a button. How cool is this?

Exclusivity by Mulliner

Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner

The inside of the vehicle welcomes you to an ultra-luxurious cabin with four seats, two of which are rear-facing and allow face to face conversation, crafted with unique wood-veneered roof bow and high-quality leather components.

Of course, along with the prestigious high-quality components, the cabin is also geared with hi-tech gadgets and some functional goodies as the new HVAC system, developed exclusively by Mulliner, iPad charging and docking stations, along with veneered fold-out tables, bottle cooler and soft drink cabinet with distinctive tumblers.

Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner

The exterior is clean, beautiful and still expressive. The bonnet along the sinuous body conclude the appearance of the resolved shoulders, while the exclusive 21-inch wheels contribute to that stylish and elegant silhouette of the vehicle.

And of course, in accordance with the new dimensions and passengers’ comfort, Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner is geared with advanced drivetrain system, consisting new engine, transmission and chassis.

Source: Bentley Motors, Inc.

March 1, 2016

Agile and Powerful, 911 R Brings Refined Driving Dynamics and Tons of Enhancements

2016 Porsche 911 R, unveiled today at the Geneva Show demonstrates a well-known formula, blended with contemporary approach towards premium feel and refined performance. With a total of 500hp (368kW) via 4.0-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six power unit, paired to a six-speed manual transmission, the latest 911 family member has a lot to demonstrate. Let’s check it out!

The first thing that impressed us about the vehicle is its acceleration and performance rates: from standing start this beauty completes the 0-100km/h (62mph) run in 3.7 seconds and thanks to the smooth and fast gearshifts, along with the special body construction 911 R has the potential to reach a top speed of 323km/h (201mph) and offers a combined fuel consumption of 21.2 mpg.

Exterior and interior styling

At first sight, the body reminds of the Carrera, while the nose and tear body are similar to the 911 GT3. Also, the whole body construction, along with the drivetrain system are based on the 911 GT3 RS. So, is there something unique and special about the new 911 R?

Honestly, the design of this one is based on different Porsche vehicles and is not that appealing or distinctive. Staying in close relation with the original 911 GT3, this one also shows different rear wing and reatatchable rear spoiler with some aerodynamic improvements. Furthermore, the front and rear apron also come from the 911 GT3, but the different here is the restyled spoiler lip and the sport exhaust system with titanium components. Sweet.

2016 Porsche 911 R

On the other side, the interior offers carbon-fiber bucket seats, trimmed with special fabric center panels in Pepita tartan design, resembling the classic 911 models from the 1960s. Furthermore, there is a special R-specific 360mm diameter GT sports steering wheel and short shift gearlever and of course, clutch pedal in the footwell. There are also special carbon trim strips in the interior with embedded aluminum badge on the passenger’s side to indicate the number of each 911 R. Why is that you may ask? Well…the thing is that this is a limited run of just 991 units, so if you are interested in buying one, you’d better hurry up.

Drivetrain system

Geared with exclusively fine-tuned rear-axle steering, direct turn-in and enhanced handling, the whole drivetrain system ensures high stability and maximum traction. Also, the advanced Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes are also part of the standard equipment. The disks measure 410mm in diameter on the front axle and 390mm at the rear.

2016 Porsche 911 R

We mentioned the lightweight construction. The overall weight of the vehicle is 1,370kg, which means that the team managed to remove additional 50 kilograms. The bonnet and front wheel-arches are now completely made of carbon-fiber, while the roof is made of magnesium and reduces the center of gravity. Some additional weight savings have been made by redesigning the cabin and the omission of rear bench seats.

2016 Porsche 911 R is already available for purchase and has a starting price of $190,897USD.

Source: Porsche

March 1, 2016

Happy 30th Birthday Hyundai! Sincerely, AutomobilesReview Team!

30 years ago, a small brand came to the US to sell units of its only model, the Excel. Thirty years later Hyundai is the fifth largest automobile manufacturer in the world with more than 10 million vehicle sales. Also, its Super Bowl 50 commercial won the top ranking in USA TODAY Ad Meter, which makes Hyundai the first automaker to achieve it. Oh yeah. And one more think. The team also launched one more luxury brand, called Genesis recently. Not bad for 3 decades, right?

In fact, Genesis brand set the aim to recreate the definition of luxury with some futuristic concepts and ideas for that special vehicle-man bond. Generally the idea is to blend human-focused innovation, balanced and smooth performance and appealing design.

Hyundai has also raised the eco standards with the IONIQ lineup that is the first to offer wide choice of electrified engines: plug-in hybrid and hybrid units are available in a single body type. As we have told you this special lineup breaks the traditional beliefs for electric vehicles and offers outstanding design, incredible performance features and of course, wonderful efficiency rates.

Surely one of our favourite brands, Hyundai seems to continue this productive and ever-evolving process of delivering incredible automobiles and technologies. Hopefully, we will witness even better and more advanced in the near future.

Source: Hyundai

February 29, 2016

BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer is Another “Oscar-Winner” Debuting in Geneva

AC Schnitzer BMW X6 FALCON Front View As we have told you last week, AC Schnitzer will be present at the Geneva Motor Show. There they will not only exhibit and premiere the BMW M235i ACL2 we spoke about, but also this X6 called the FALCON. The SUV has been improved with an aero kit, but also includes power uprating, depending on the engine the X6 is equipped with, which makes it perfectly practical. There are also other tweaks that are worth mentioning, that make the FALCON a true star on the road.

The Performance Upgrades

The X6 35i which originally produces 306 hp, is now boosted to 360 hp, while the X6 M’s horses jump from 575 hp to 650 hp. On the diesel side, the BMW X6 30d, 40d and M50d deliver 309 hp instead of 258 hp, 360 hp instead of 313 hp and 49 more hp than the standard engine.

In addition, the tuning brand also offers AC Schnitzer silencer options with “Racing”, “Sport” and “Sport Black” tailpipes. There are even other variants of the AC Schnitzer silencer with flap control and two “Carbon Evo”, “Sport”, “Sport Black” and “Carbon Evo” tailpipes. For those loving to make sound on the road, AC Schnitzer has created a special sound module.

The Aero Kit

Continuing with the exterior appearance, it is obvious even from the images in our gallery below that the X6 FALCON has been substantially widened. Precisely, the front is 50mm larger, while the rear is 90 mm larger. In addition, the front and rear wings, including FALCON emblem, gives the vehicle a masculine stance and powerful appearance.

The aero pack continues with the in-house made AC Schnitzer front skirt, bonnet vents, carbon mirror cover, rear wing in the export version, rear diffusor, carbon rear skirt insert and rear skirt film.

Suspension & Wheels

AC Schnitzer BMW X6 FALCON Rear View

The X6 has been lowered by 20 – 30 mm up front and 15 – 25 mm at the rear due to the addition of suspension spring sets. To make a good contrast, the tuners decided to add bigger wheels of 22-inch size and AC1 model. Dressed in two colors, the three-piece AC1 Forged Racing Rim, are matched with corresponding tires.

Interior

At last but not least, there had to be done something for the interior. Although the changes are minor, they contribute for the more comfortable feel of the cabin. The X6 FALCON impresses with its aluminium pedal set and foot rest, AC Schnitzer key-holder and velour foot mats.

The good news is that the unlike the BMW M235i ACL2 Concept, the FALCON can be ordered and is dedicated to those customers seeking more individuality. With this model, the tuning experts will once again stun the Geneva audience and will demonstrate that anything is possible beyond the standards.

Source: AC Schnitzer

February 29, 2016

BMW Competition Package: Brand’s Tribute to M3 and M4 Models

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package BMW M3 Saloon, M4 Coupe and M4 Convertible will be available with special Competition Package that improves dynamics and significantly boost performance rates.

For example, BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupe with 7-speed M Double Clutch gearbox will finish the 0-100km/h (62mph) in 4.0 seconds, while M4 Convertible will reach the same speed in 4.3 seconds. Impressive, right?

Competition Pack will grant buyers with fine-tuned Adaptive M Suspension with new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars and three selectable driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Spot+. Also, the standard Active M Differential on the rear axle and the DSC Dynamic Stability Control have been further enhanced to match the upgraded performance dynamics. And in order to give some visual effect to the drivetrain improvements, BMW also offers special multi-spoke M styling and mixed tires.

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package

For BMW M3 and M4 Coupe, the pack offers special lightweight M sports seats, along with special seatbelts with woven-in BMW M stripes for boosting that sporty ambience. There is also a high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. the glossy black finish is applied not only to the side window trim, but also to the BMW kidney grille, side grills and the badge on the tail.

Also, in terms of visual upgrades the pack includes M sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes and overall sporty appearance. And let’s get this straight. The most beautiful part of the whole upgraded vehicle is the potent sound and its emotional impact on every automobile fan out there.

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package

Special M Carbon Compound wheels for the BMW M3 GTS

The six-cylinder in-line water injection beast with 500hp (367kW) will now be part of a vehicle with one-of-a-kind Carbon Compound wheels. With significantly reducing the overall weight, these bad boys contribute to improved acceleration and better handling.

2016 BMW M4 Competition Package

Source: BMW

February 29, 2016

What Happens When You Change BMW M3’s V8 with M5’s V10? Here’s the Answer!

Alpha-N Performance BMW M3 BT92 V10 Side View Alpha-N Performance has delivered the second tuning we are showing you today. This time under the spotlight is the adorable and favorited BMW M3. The tuners engaged in the development of carbon-fibre styling package and performance upgrade here, thus making the car with better visual characteristics and more motorsport oriented.

The BT92 Aero Kit and More

Starting with the carbon-fiber aero pack, it contributes for M3’s new and more muscular forms. To go into details, the BT92 aerodynamic kit comprises of a new front bumper, rear bumper with integrated diffuser, new front wings, and new rear quarter panels with integrated side skirts.

If you look closely you will also see that the bulges of the new bonnet speak of something very powerful below it. The new boot lid has upswept integrated spoiler lip, while wheel arch liners are bespoke carbon-fibre components. The Veritas RS-Silver paint finish complements the high-tech appearance of the most powerful BT92 of the lot.

This M3 runs on 19-inch alloys shod with 265/35R19 and 305/35R19 Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tires. There is also a fully adjustable coil-over suspension set-up, which allows for adjustable ride height.

The Engine Change

Alpha-N Performance BMW M3 BT92 V10 Front View

Originally, the M3 Coupe comes from the factory equipped with the 4.0-liter V8 unit. However, the Alpha-N Performance tuners decided to give it more sporting spirit, thus substituting the original engine with a V10 unit from the big brother M5. But the changes do not end here. The 5.0 liters engine has been boosted and optimized via ECU mapping, allowing the big V10 to produce 640hp (471 kW).

In order to be in concert with the enhanced power, Brembo brakes were a must. They feautres 6-piston callipers on 380mm vented discs clamped by six-pot callipers at the front, and 355mm vented discs with four-pot callipers at the rear.

The Interior

Alpha-N Performance BMW M3 BT92 V10 Interior

We rarely see that much effort put on a project, but this BMW M3 also has its interior enhanced. The cabin was covered in the finest leather, features Recaro sports seats, BMW Performance steering wheel, dashboard, centre console, door panels and headlining, including pillar trim pieces.

Now that’s a nice way to start the day-off, isn’t it? Looks like Alpha-N Performance will catch today’s Oscar for best and most thorough custom BMW…

P.S. Look out for AC Schnitzer’s BMW that comes up next.

Source: Alpha-N Performance

February 29, 2016

G-Power Unusually Boosts the Mercedes-AMG S63

G-Power Mercedes-AMG S63 Front View G-Power is mainly responsible for the transformation of BMW cars. So this is the reason why this project is rather unusual, because it involves a Mercedes-AMG S63. Besides the new styling feats it has been equipped with, it has also received performance boost and Vmax extender. Dressed in beautiful matt-pearl grey color, this car exudes masculinity and prominence. And here are the details:

The Wheels

This S63 AMG runs on special in-house created Hurricane RR forged alloys, which are ultra weight and come in 20- and 21-inches of size. Besides the Jet Black color, they are also offered in Gun Metal Grey and Stardust Silver, and also feature optional diamond cut or high polished finish. Precisely, the front wheel arches were filled with 9,0Jx20-inch alloys connected with 255/35 R20 tyres, while the rear ones come in 10,5Jx20-inch and were mated with 285/30 R20 tyres.

We know that the weight has a direct influence on vehicle performance, but also that the lower unsprung mass of lighter wheels imposes less dynamic loads on the suspension elements. As a result, the handling and road holding as well as straight-line performance are improved.

Updates for the Engine

G-Power Mercedes-AMG S63 Rear View

The V8 motor under the hood of the S63 AMG has been tweaked via G-Power’s Bi-Tronik 5 V1 power upgrade. The result is spectacular, because it takes the vehicle from the standard 585hp (430 kW) to an incredible 705hp (518 kW), with peak torque swelling from 900 Nm (662 kW) to 1,000 Nm (741 kW).

After the removal of the Vmax limiter, the S63 coupe achieves effortlessly 330 km/h and covers the 0 to 100km/h benchmark in just 3.8 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds faster than the standard time.

Furthermore, there is high performance module, or the plug & play processor-controlled unit also programmed for crisper throttle response. This add-on system is not affected by factory software updates, and therefore the unit is also easily removed with no consequences.

Source: G-Power

February 29, 2016

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200: More Agile and Versatile Than Ever

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200 Ford revealed the new Fiesta ST200 compact hatch. More flexible and efficient, this sweetie is the most powerful Fiesta so far. With 200hp (147kW) and 290Nm of torque, produced via 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol unit we tend to believe Ford team that the new ST200 will be better than its predecessors.

Styling

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

The agile beauty proudly demonstrates new color and distinctive 17-inch alloys, red painted brake calipers and restyled interior with Charcoal Recaro leather wrapped front seats with contrasting silver stitching. There are also optional features as Storm Grey exterior finish, machined matt black alloy wheels and some special interior detailing. Sweet.

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

Drivetrain system

Thanks to the agile EcoBoost engine, this car sprints from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) for 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 257km/h (143mph). Additional improvements include improved Torque Vectoring Control with 3-mode Electronic Stability Control, modified front steering knuckle, adapted rear twist-beam with increased roll-stiffness, fine-tuned front and rear springs and dampers that now provide 15mm lower center of gravity, sharper steering ratio with shorter steering arm, improved braking system with larger tandem brake cylinder and rear disk brakes.

As you know, the Fiesta ST was launched back in 2013 and quickly became one of the leading compact performance hatchback. Since its debut this model has won more than 20 awards around the world and as it seems, Ford not only continue the fancy trend, but also improves the vehicle in ways that are both appealing and functional for buyers.

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

Source: Ford

February 29, 2016

Suzuki to Unveil Baleno at the Geneva Motor Show

The full production model of the recently showcased Baleno will be displayed at the Geneva Show from March 1st and it is expected that it will be available for order later in June this year.

As you may know, since manufacturing their first vehicle back in 1955, the Suzulight, Suzuki has showed the world numerous varieties of compact vehicles with ever-increasing capabilities and functions. And now the Baleno, benefiting from brand’s decades of experience offers elegant and notable design, spacious and cozy interior and tons of new technologies.

The drivetrain system can also impress the audience. With the rigid and lightweight new-gen platform, the responsive and agile 1.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOOSTERJET power unit and the 1.2-liter SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) with engine assist, Integrated Starter Geneator, this sweetie becomes more and more appealing.

Also, in addition to the efficient and flexible drivetrain system Suzuki has further optimized many of the hi-tech gadgets, systems and also has done a great job with all the weight reduction improvements. Definitely this vehicle combines rigorous size and enhanced flexibility. Sweet.

Additional details will be revealed on the first of March at the Suzuki press conference.

So, what are your expectations for the new Baleno? Write down in the comment section.

Source: Suzuki

February 26, 2016

Evora 410: What Makes it Better Than the Predecessor?

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410 Recently after the showcase of Elise Cup 250, Exige Sport 350 and Evora 400, Lotus takes one more step forward with the showcase of the high-performance Evora Sport 410. With tons of improvements, tweaks and fine-tunes the latest Lotus family member offers a 410hp (301kW) power unit with track-bred 3-Eleven that clocks 0-100km/h (62mph) in 3.9 seconds.

With significant weight reduction, power improvements and additional gadgets, Evora Sport 410 is capable of going for a lap in brand’s Hethel test in 1 minute and 28 seconds, making it faster with the impressive 3 seconds, compared to Evora 400.

Of course, one of the main advantages of the new Evora 410 is the lightweight construction that includes high-performance carbon-fiber front splitter, roof panel, tailgate and rear diffuser, along with restyled lightweight seats and revised front access panel. Also important to the overall performance is vehicle’s reduced kerb weight that allows some further suspension fine-tuning, which, eventually resulted on revised damping and overall ride height with 5mm lower than Evora 400. And at the end of the lightweight fairytale let’s not forget the distinctive and ultra lightweight 10-spoke aluminum wheels.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Also, to continue the sport affair, Lotus team geared the new Evora with manual gearbox that features low inertia flywheel and Torsen-type limited slip differential for improved traction and quicker exit speeds. Also new for this model is the Dynamic Performance Management that provides two driving modes: Sport and Race.

The interior also contains numerous carbon-fiber elements, like the new sport seats with Alcantara, along with the steering wheel and central console. Some more weight savings have been made by adding one-piece door trim panels, deletion of door arm rests and stowage pockets, relocation of tailgate and fuel filler. Oh, yeah. They have also removed the audio system. But don’t worry. You can get it as an additional feature.

And as we speak about additional features, we should also say that the new Evora can be further personalized with additional goodies and changes, thanks to the exclusive Lotus Exclusive program.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Oh yeah. And one more thing. Lotus Evora Sport 410 will be limited to only 150 units, so if you are interested in buying one, make it fast.

Source: Lotus

February 26, 2016

DS E-TENSE: The Modern Meaning of Beauty

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar DS Automobiles is ready to showcase the E-TENSE supercar at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next week. This electric-powered luxury sweetie blends superior craftsmanship and next-gen technologies and is expected to set new benchmark for all the luxury sport car segment.

Bold design and aggressive appearance

DS E-TENSE catches the eye with its one-of-a-kind style, elegant lines and sense of massiveness. The silhouette of grand tourer coupe is further enhancd by central chrome-plated spine and cool green color. This avant-garde design is similar to the Divine DS, as the rear widescreen is moved backwards, which gives extra space for adding more components and tweaking more feature.

Also, as an already trademark of DC, the front and rear lights proudly show their jewel-like design with DS LED Vision components. Also, the daytime running lights are picked out as if in beaded stitching. The rear demonstrates integrated indicators on the roof, similar to the original DS from 1955, while the light signature’s show-stopper are geared with full LED technology and special design that they seem to spring to life when the car is in use.

Interior styling

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar

It took the design team 800 to complete the final appearance of the cabin that features sophisticated design, useful accessories and cozy ambience. Also, the DS team collaborated with some French luxury brands in order to deliver us further refinement and exclusivity.

Drivetrain system

DS equipped their last creation with a 100% electric power unit that produces a total of 402hp (295kW) and 516Nm of torque. This means that the E-TENSE accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) for only 4.5 seconds and can cover a range of 360 kilometers with a single engine charge. The two-wheel drive system, along with the carbon monocoque chassis also contribute to achieving the top speed of 250 km/h and their lightweight design also means that the vehicle is flexible and responsive.

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar