Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • “Less is More” is True in Case You Are Driving AC Schnitzer BMW M235i ACL2 [w/video]

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Side View“Less is more” is a motto valid in not so many cases, isn’t it? However, this particular BMW Concept delivered by AC Schnitzer is one of those rare examples. Based on the BMW M 235i the project can show-off with 2.54 kg per hp. The car has another name, ACL2, with L standing for lightweight. In addition, it is so much more powerful, that it produces 570 hp with an ease.

    The additional power is due to a radical engine substitution, where the standard one has been changed with upgraded M4 power plant. In addition, the Vmax limiter has been removed, while the rear limited slip differential with Drexler diff lock from 25 to 95 percent allows quick cornering.

    SEE ALSO: Fresher Than Ever: AC Schnitzer Upgrades the Recently Premiered BMW 3-Series

    What do we have here? In short: a concept BMW M235i based model which unfortunately is not for sale. But will be in display at the Geneva Motor Show. Here are the details.

    Suspension & Handling

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Rear View

    Regarding this matter, AC Schnitzer specialist have added 6-pot fixed caliper brakes on the front with 400 x 38 mm carbon ceramic brake discs and 4-pot brakes on the rear with 380 x 28 mm carbon ceramic discs. Additional power is further ensured by the in-house made downpipe, which further boosts power and torque. The AC Schnitzer sports exhaust system with special catalytic converter (200 cpsi) combined with AC Schnitzer “Racing EVO Carbon” tailpipes delivers the unique acoustic performance.

    Furthermore, the tuners replaced the standard axles on the M 235i and then upgraded them to M4 technology. This change was accompanied by height-adjustable AC Schnitzer Clubsport suspension. M4 carbon strut braces bring motorsport experience on the road.

    On the Outside

    The suspension configuration mentioned above is additionally supported by a skirt, which optimizes air flow, new carbon front spoiler elements, front splitter and carbon front side wings. The rear also features some changes like the in-house made carbon rear diffuser and carbon “Racing“ rear wing with Gurney flap. Wheelarch extensions on the front, with air outlet openings in the wheelarch and three air deflector wings on each side also contribute for the powerful look. There are similar rear wheelarch extensions, too. These conversions add 140 mm to the width of the standard vehicle.

    The bonnet of ACL2 is made of carbon fiber but includes styling enhancements like the Bonnet Vents in black, the special paintwork in Classic Racing Green and the AC Schnitzer special “Racing” sports mirrors.

    Interior

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Interior

    The exclusivity is continued on the inside, and in fact the interior has been entirely modified. Here we see BiColor leather interior in green and perforated Nappa leather in combination with black suede with green stitching. There are also interior trim strips in matt Classic Racing Green, in-house made carbon racing bucket seats, “Evo” 3-spoke sports airbag steering wheel in Nappa and perforated leather, green suede indicator as well as carbon door handles and centre console.

    Other tuning components on the inside include AC Schnitzer keyholder, aluminium pedal set and foot rests with illuminated AC Schnitzer logo, “Black Line” aluminium gear knob and “Black Line” aluminium handbrake handle, together with velour foot mats with AC Schnitzer logo.

    Riding on 20-inch alloys fitted with appropriately sized Michelins, the ACL2 need 3.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h on the way to a higher top speed of 330 km/h.

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i ACL2 is going to officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Now here’s the teaser video that AC Schnitzer has released to promote the car:

    httpv://youtu.be/jU-lXyUi6Ok

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • JMS to Exhibit the Exclusive Caractere Range Rover in Geneva

     Caractere Range Rover Front ViewCaractere’s latest project featuring the Range Rover is heading to the Geneva Motor Show next week. The pain-striking styling- and aero-kit by the tuning company has been revealed in scarce details in the end of the year. Now it is time for the tuner to give those visiting the event a real experience of the class that only Caractere would deliver. So, we can say that this Range Rover is another reason to visit Geneva Motor Show this year in case you are still hesitating.

    An interesting fact is that the model will be presented at the stand of Caractere distributor for Germany and Austria. You might have heard about JMS Fahrzeugteile, haven’t you? Well, if you are going in Geneva sometime next week and are eager to see the project, then you should go to JMS’ stand with number #2144 located in Hall 2.

    SEE ALSO: One-Off Range Rover Sport is Caractere’s Gift for the Winter Holidays 

     Caractere Range Rover Rear View

    Speaking of the special aero kit for the Range Rover, it really adds more individuality and exclusivity of the rugged forms of the vehicle. To go directly into details, the new aero kit comprises of a front bumper, rear apron with integrated tailpipes, four wide wheel arches and deeper side sills.

    And don’t worry about the widened wheel arches, because they have been filled out with huge in-house made alloy wheels. Precisely, the alloys are 22-inches big at all four corners and are of the CW1 model. Additional spacers have been added, measuring 50mm up front and 70mm at the rear.

    Stay tuned, because more exclusive announcements regarding Geneva are to be published soon!

    Source: Caractere 

  • Larte Design Previews Exterior Details of Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Front VIewDo you remember when we talked about Larte Design’s Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Project shown a month ago? Well, the tuning company is “teasing” it again before its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next week. In fact, the Russian brand has revealed the exterior pictures of the model, which you can view in the gallery below after the pictures of the interior.

    The vehicle basically expresses the way Larte Design experts envision the future of luxury business trips. If you ask why, then they would probably tell you: “because a tailor-made van might be an even better choice than a limousine because it can offer the comfort level of a premium private plane”.

    SEE ALSO: LARTE Design V-Class Black Crystal Stands for VIP Luxury

    Based on the Mercedes V-Class, the van offers huge space inside and the ultimate comfort level.  The name Black Crystal is not coincidental. It actually pays homage to the identically named Mercedes GL-Class, which like a precious diamond attracts attention with its luxurious body and refined performance.

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Side View

    In the case of the V-Class, the Black Crystal pack adds new front and rear bumpers made of composite materials. For more expressive effect, they have been decorated with carbon elements. By the way, the front bumper has two inlaid crystals, which even further link the car to the name of the tuning kit.

    Other updates here include: fog lights with dual optical element, LED daytime running lights and a set of business wheels. We can’t skip the logo with the company’s horseshoe, which (as the brand says) is a symbol of good luck and serves as a talisman to the owner.

    We have spoken about the interior in the previous article linked above. In short, it complements the exterior perfectly with its luxurious surfaces and has been created by Klassen.

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal will be displayed in Geneva at booth # 5042.

    Source: Larte Design 

  • Chevy Gears 500 Silverado Models With eAssist Function

    2016 Chevrolet Silverado Chevy announced that a number of 2016 Silverado models will be geared with eAssist technology. The already-famous mild-hybrid electric system enhances and improves many of Chevy’s standard equipment features and also adds new ones: battery cells and some fine-tuned controls for the Volt model.

    As we have told you, this compact and lightweight system boosts the overall performance stats with additional 13 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. For now, there are about 500 Silverado models that will benefit from the new system.

    The paired to a compact lithium-ion battery pack eAssist also provides electric power boost function with addition horsepower and torque, additional 4-cylinder function, Stop/Start capability for additional fuel efficiency and economy, regenerative braking by using the electric motor as a generator that can ensure up to 13% improved fuel economy, based on EPA estimates.

    SEE ALSO: GMC Introduces 2016 Sierra With eAssist Technology

    As you might already know, the eAssist system is supplied by a 24-cell air-cooled 0.45 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, placed under the central console that shares the same battery cells as Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. Also, the software that is used to control the whole system is based on the Chevrolet Volt software, but a bit tweaked.

    This generation of advanced eAssist can be easily used on the front-wheel or rear-wheel drive system and it is also capable of using fewer cells, based on the individual needs of every vehicle and driver character.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • GMC Introduces 2016 Sierra With eAssist Technology

    2016 GMC Sierra eAssist Building on GMC Sierra’s advanced drivetrain technologies and systems, the eAssist is believed to be one of brand’s most important. In fact, this technology is innovative not only for the brand, but also for the whole industry with the achieved 13% improved efficiency.

    Released this spring, the eAssist system will be incorporated in the new 2016 Sierra 1500 SLT crew cab 2WD model with the SLT Premium Plus package. And the difference? Compared to the Sierra 1500 with 5.3-liter/8-speed engine, the Sierra with eAssist shows a 2mpg improvement and a total of 22mog combined cycle. But don’t worry about performance and power. These stats remain on high levels with 355 (261kW) and 385 lb-ft of torque.

    Along with the eAssist system, the SLT Premium Plus pack includes High-Performance LED headlamps, LED taillamps, thin-profile LED foglamps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, IntelliLink with navigation and 8-inch touch screen, Bose premium audio system, heated and vented leather-appointed seats, heated steering wheel, Lane Keep Assist, IntelliBeam headlamps, front and rear park assist and rear vision camera. Sweet.

    SEE ALSO: GMC Announces Pricing and More Standard Equipment for Acadia Denali

    But let’s go back to the eAssist feature. It also offers Stop/Start capability, Electric power boost which means that on-board motor offers power boost during acceleration and passing, while the vehicle operates with 4 cylinders. Also available is the regenerative braking system, along with aero enhancements that improve the overall aerodynamic capabilities and fuel economy.

    The eAssist system also includes a 240cell air-cooled 0,45 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, placed just under the central console.

    So, what do you think about GMC’s latest toy?

    Source: GMC

  • Mercedes-AMG Offers Exclusive Body Kit for All A-Class Models

    2016 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Body Kit front ViewMercedes-AMG has revealed its new offer for the cute A-Class, which will make it even sportier, and it is an exclusive AMG body package. The accessories featured here are similar to those who have been recently launched for the C-Class. This could make a reality the sporty ambitions and individual appearance of the A250 Sport 4MATIC as well as of all A-Class models equipped with the AMG-Line.

    The company applies the same approached used on the C-Class with the aim to create more dynamism and to rejuvenate the models. The secret behind AMG’s success is that their particularly sporty products support the fascination that comes with the brand.

    SEE ALSO: Powerful and Stylish, Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe Is Finally Here!

    To go into details, the exclusive AMG body kit comprises of four attachment parts for the bodywork and also sporty side strips that are attached as a foliation below the dropping line of the vehicle. Here have been added the following parts: new front splitter, side-sill extension, rear apron trim with diffusor-look and rear flics, which are all AMG-made.

    2016 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Body Kit Rear View

    These elements are actually add-on parts, and they have been produced through thermoforming technology. The standard color they come in is glossy black. And who doesn’t associate black with the real sporty look? Even better, the surface finish is of highest quality so it eliminates the need for a paint coating.

    And let me tell you a secret: AMG’s exclusive accessories program is going to be also offered for the C-Class Cabriolet and for the face-lift version of the CLA saloon as well. This will happen as soon as June this year. Currently the exterior AMG add-on body kit is available to order in all dealerships of the brand worldwide.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • Hyundai IONIQ at Geneva Show: Is this Lineup that Exciting?

    2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup Hyundai Motor presented the special IONIQ lineup at the Geneva Motor Show that consists IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Electric and IONIC Plug-in vehicles. And with three electric engines, IONIQ will try to make zero-emission mobility priority for everyone. Of course, all of the models show beautiful looks, combined with functional utility gadgets. So, let’s check out what the Geneva audience witnessed today.

    This new lineup is extremely important for the brand and it is expected that it will become one of Hyundai’s most popular so far. But why is that?

    IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ Plug-in feature the latest Kappa 1.6-liter GDI direct injection  four-cylinder power unit that provides a total of 105hp (77kW) and 147 Nm of torque. What is special about this one is it also offers a class-leading thermal efficiency of 40 per cent, compared to old models. Furthermore, the engine is paired to a quick-responding and smooth six-speed double clutch gearbox. With some enhanced dynamics, this combination offers smooth, but still a bit aggressive ride that will keep you pleased and excited.

    IONIQ Hybrid’s electric motor delivers a total of 43.5hp (32kW) and maximum torque of 170Nm and is powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1,56 kWh capacity. Placed under the rear seats, this sweetie offers a combined output of 141hp (103kW) and up to 265 Nm of torque, when working along with the petrol powerplant.

    2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup

    The IONIQ Hybrid’s electric motor delivers 32 kW (43.5 PS) with maximum torque of 170 Nm, powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity positioned under the rear seats. In combination with the 1.6-litre GDI engine IONIQ Hybrid offers a system output of 103.6 kW (141 PS) and up to 265 Nm of torque accelerating to a top speed of up to 185 km/h (115mph) with targeted CO2 emissions as low as 79 g/km (combined).

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Hyundai i20 Comes With More Confidence Than Ever

    On the other hand, buyers who prefer the IONIQ Plug-in will be rewarded with almost 50 kilometers (31 miles) of electric drive range, via the 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. This 61hp (45kW) motor, along with the 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder Kappa has CO2 emissions as low as 32 g/km.

    And people who prefer IONIQ Electric will benefit from pure e-mobility with the 28 kWh Lithium-ion Polymer batter that can cover up to 250 km (155 miles). A rather rewarding choice, this vehicle produces 120hp (88kW) and 295 Nm.

    2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup

    Along with the impressive and efficient drivetrain system, IONIQ also offers and functional interior with tons of gadgets, some of which are Android Auto, Apple Car Play, Tom Tom live services, 7-inch TFT and many more. In terms of safety and utility, IONIQ lineup comes with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Cruise Control and more.

    The IONIQ lineup will celebrate its world debut at Geneva Motor Show on March 1st, at the Hyundai Press Conference at 10:30 CET on Hyundai stand.

    Source: Hyundai

     

  • Next Gen 2017 Acura MDX to Stun Visitors at the New York Auto Show

    2017 Acura MDX TeaserAcura MDX is America’s best-selling three-row luxury SUV. Now it is going to be released in its MY2017 variant thus receiving substantial design changes, wide range of features and new drivetrain technology. Besides the teaser that has just been unveiled, the company also stated that the SUV will be making an international debut at the New York Auto Show on March 23. So we are eager to see the redesigned and reengineered MDX.

    Scarce information has been disclosed so far, but we know that the model will feature substantial design enhancements, improvements in terms of luxury comfort and convenience features, as well as advanced powertrain technology that is absolutely new. By the way when speaking about drivetrains we must also mention that the new one featured in the MDX will be in concert with the Acura brand’s focus on Precision Crafted Performance.

    SEE ALSO: Acura Reminds Everyone Why NSX and Precision Concept Are so Awesome 

    John Mendel, the executive vice president of American Honda, also confirmed that the company is currently sharpening the focus on the Precision Crafted Performance DNA. This is the reason why 2017 MDX will integrate all styling enhancements and innovative powertrain technology. The goal is to bring Acura closer to the next step in that direction.

    An interesting fact is that the MDX is actually the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time and Acura’s best-selling SUV. It has been sold in more than 50,000 units in each of the past three years. Just like it is now, 2017 Acura MDX will continue to be designed by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California and to be produced at the company’s Lincoln auto plant, but the East Liberty, Ohio auto plant will also aid the process. The car is slated for production in early 2017.

    More information to be revealed near official debut.

    Source: Acura 

  • Kahn Teases Special Jeep Wrangler Black Hawk Edition for Geneva

     Kahn Jeep Wrangler Black Hawk EditionKahn Design and its sub-brand called Chelsea Truck Company will be present at the Geneva Motor Show with an exclusive lineup of vehicles. The most prominent impression will be making the Vengeance, but there is also another project which has been just teased and it is named Black Hawk Edition.

    We don’t know much about the car except for it is based on the Jeep Wrangler and is a result of the joint work of Kahn and Chelsea Truck Company tuning experts. There is a teaser sketch released too, which reveals its military visual stance. Kahn said that further details will be available soon, and we hope that this will happen prior the exclusive official reveal of the Wrangler.

    SEE ALSO: Kahn is Going to Geneva and This is Why You Should Be Excited About It 

    The next exclusive news is that the impatiently expected Vengeance will be unveiled by Afzal Kahn himself. The project is based on the Aston Martin DB9 model but has “slightly” different design. The wide body two door coupe has a muscular and aggressive design due to its new front grille, hood and front fenders. Furthermore, the Vengeance will have a limited production run and will be entirely hand built.

    Other vehicles at Kahn’s Hall (#6) at the show are going to be: the famous Flying Huntsman 110 6×6 Defender Double Cab Pickup which will be also making an international debut; the Black Kirsch over Madeira Red Range Rover Vogue and the Imperial Blue Project Kahn Range Rover Sport. Further details to be revealed very soon. Stay tuned!

    Source: Kahn Design 

  • 2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover: Beautiful and Powerful Piece of Art

    2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover Land Rover announced the introduction of the latest and greatest 2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover. There will be only 30 units to reach America, which are crafted by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO). These limited vehicles offer unique green exterior paint, Holland & Holland badges, especially engraved brightwork, special dashboard, polished French walnut veneers and many more. So, let’s waste no more time and see what is going on here!

    Maybe one of the most significant features is the rear loadspace that has been restyled and now offers deployable and locking leather trimmed gun case, which accommodates two exclusive weapons from Holland & Holland.

    2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover

    Based on the SVAutobiography model, this beauty features incredible exterior enhancements and premium leather interior with one-of-a-kind finishes. In terms of drivetrain system, Range Rover team knows how it’s done: Holland & Holland is geared with a V8 power unit, producing the stunning 505hp (371kW) and 502lb ft. of torque. Also, customers are able to specify the dual-tone body color scheme with a total of nine pre-selected choices, along with Santorini Black top. Cool, right.

    SEE ALSO: This Evoque Black Label Edition by Kahn is One-Off Bijou You Must See

    Also, rear-seat passengers can relax in the luxurious exclusive seats with beverage chiller compartment, while the solid aluminum coat hooks are incorporated in the rear pillar. Also, at the rear-seat area there is a sliding luggage floor, made from machined aluminum and special wood veneer.

    2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover

    And there are even countless personalization and customization options, available at buyer’s request.

    Prices for this sweetheart start from $199,495USD.

    Source: Land Rover 

  • Powerful and Stylish, Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe Is Finally Here!

    Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC CoupéMercedes-AMG welcomed one more member to the C-Class family: The C 43 4MATIC Coupe. Incredibly dynamic and powerful, this sweetie offers 367hp (270kW) via a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo power unit, paired to a  9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox. And this, combined with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and exclusive chassis architecture makes what Mercedes-AMG is known for: power and pleasure of driving.

    All this means that the sweetie can sprint from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in just 4.7 seconds and chases the top speed of 250km/h.

    Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé

    Furthermore, the 9G-TRONIC transmission is further improved to deliver even quicker and smoother shifts and is in a way far more flexible and adaptive, thanks to the Sport and Sport Plus, Eco and Comfort modes. Sweet.

    Muscular and aggressive presence, combined with cozy interior

    The new AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe, as any other AMG vehicle is instantly recognizable with the distinctive lines, components and one-of-a-kind wheels. This well-known AMG style includes front apron with sporty air intakers, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, along with diamond radiator grille that features chrome-plated pins, high-gloss black louvre and of course, the AMG lettering.

    Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé

    There is also an optional Night Pack that adds head-insulating dark tinted glass, high-gloss black front apron trim, high-gloss black diffuser-look insert at the rear and two black tailpipes with central divider.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard Grants You with Maximum Ballistic Protection

    On the other hand, the interior offers multifunctional steering wheel, wrapped in black leather, sporty seats, ARTICO man-made leather, used on the upper edges of the body, armrests, door centers and central console. Also, the AMG instrument cluster provides all the information the driver needs in order to ensure pleasurable and rewarding driving experience.

    Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • BMW Showcases a 600hp ALPINA Monster at the Geneva Show

    2016 BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo SupersaloonSo, what is required for an Alpina supersaloon vehicle to become the most powerful yet? I’ll tell you. All you need is an ALPINA-optimized 4.4-liter V8 power unit, capable of producing 600hp (441kW) and 800Nm of torque.  Still not impressed?

    What is also special about this unit is that it is further upgraded and fine-tuned and offers high response and is geared with two especially created twin-scroll turbochargers that deliver up to 1.2-bar with minimum inertia. Furthermore, the engineering team also paid special attention to the airflow optimization with short intake paths and the near-instant throttle response. The intercooler system also deserved some attention and now offers increased power and better responsiveness with main intercooler that feeds two large-volume close-coupled intercoolers. Sweet.

    2016 BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo Supersaloon

    Further improvements have been made on the weight optimization, along with high-strength, yet lightweight materials as carbon-fiber and special aluminum components. Also, there is this new Carbon Core fabric, incorporated in vehicle’s drivetrain system, along with advanced Rear Wheel Drive system.

    Style and appearance

    SEE ALSO: Vorsteiner Releases One-Off Aero Program for BMW M4 F8X

    With 20-inch ALPINA Classic 20 spoke and optional 21-inch lightweight aluminum wheels, and aerodynamic, yet beautiful body components, this sweetie has a confident and aggressive stance. This distinctive appearance is further enhanced by the four-outlet and lightweight stainless steel ALPINA sports exhaust system. Nice, huh?

    2016 BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo Supersaloon

    The inside of the B7 Bi-Turbo can be specified with countless personalization options. The standard equipment, however, includes high-end Nappa leather, leather-covered instrument panel, ceramic applications on selected control elements, soft close doors, full-color Head-Up Display and rear view camera. Further goodies include sports steering wheel, hand-finished LAVALINA leather with blue and green ALPINA stitching and more.

    2016 BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo Supersaloon

    And here is a video for you:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-6K350r7ms&feature=youtu.be

    Source: BMW