Category: Auto News

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

  • Skoda VisionS Concept is Inspired by Real Crystal

    Skoda VisionS Concept Teaser Sketch Skoda VisionS Concept has been revealed with first couple of sketches in the beginning of this month. Now, the brand has released another image and the first of four design films that will promote the car. You can view it below the text.

    The video links the VisionS Concept to the crystalline design language in an interesting way. In it the head of Skoda’s design, Jozef Kabaň, who talks about his inspiration when working on the VisionS concept vehicle.

    SEE ALSO: Exclusive VisionS Concept Shows Future Skoda SUV Portfolio 

    VisionS is going to make its world premiere at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show this March. The company is carrying over their new emotive design language into the SUV segment with the unveiling of this innovative SUV show car. In addition, the concept will provide a glimpse of brand’s future large SUV model.

    In other words, Skoda’s new design language emphasizes these three aspects: aesthetics, functionality and crystalline effects. The new styling philosophy was first introduced two years ago through the VisionC study, and was subsequently launched into series production with the Fabia and Superb. This means that the design of the VisionS will be probably transferred into a production Yeti.

    As mentioned, this is the first of Skoda’s four VisionS promotion videos. In all of them Jozef Kabaň and his team explain what drives and inspires them in the development of company’s design language. Stay tuned, because more are coming soon!

    Source: Skoda 

  • BMW M2 Coupe Gets Equipped with M Performance Parts

    BMW M2 Coupe with M Performance Parts BMW M2 Coupe is finally getting its pack of M Performance Parts which enhance its aerodynamics, engine, cockpit and suspension. The new M2 is one of the top performance cars in its segment. In addition, its typical and charming extrovert design further underscores car’s dynamic character. Now, BMW is offering outstanding M Performance Parts for the M2 Coupe from March this year. Here are the details:

    Aerodynamic Parts

    The aero components contribute for an improved appearance and driving response. They are made of carbon-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and feature front and side sill attachments, rear diffuser and mirror caps. Except for the mirror caps, they optimize the airflow around the vehicle, for example, which improves handling and driving performance. The M Performance radiator grille comes in carbon too and includes integrated BMW M logo in the M colors (red, blue and light blue).

    SEE ALSO: BMW to Produce Limited Series of i8 Protonic Red Edition 

    Options for Engine, Suspension and Brakes

    BMW M2 Coupe with M Performance Parts Rear View

    Better sound is delivered via the M Performance flap silencer system. It features two operating modes Sport and Track can be set by Bluetooth. The flap exhaust system further enhances the car visually due to its high-gloss silencer unit including deep-embossed M Performance logo, tailpipes with a diameter of 80 millimetres and perforated inner pipe. Another option is carbon fibre tailpipe trim available for the M Performance exhaust system with a diameter of 93 millimetres.

    M2 Coupé can be also fitted with M Performance coil-spring suspension, which reduces ground clearance by 5 millimetres. There is a coil-spring technology which can be used to lower the vehicle by an additional 20 millimetres. The shock absorbers can be also adjusted to 16 levels. This makes it possible for the driver to make their own suspension set-up according to personal preference.

    M Performance sports brake pads with high resistance to thermal stress can stand extreme use. They also offer improved and more direct response than the standard ones.

    Interior Options

    BMW M2 Coupe M Performance Parts Interior

    The interior options for the M2 Coupe are all inspired by motorsport racing. The M Performance Parts cabin include LED door sill cover strips for the driver and passenger side, branded floor mats, stainless steel pedal covers, steering wheel with grip areas covered in Alcantara and three-colour M seam and the optional open-pore carbon fibre trim element.

    There is an option of a steering wheel with race display and carbon fibre trim and integrated function display in the upper rim. In addition to the race display there is also a gear shift indicator: two bi-colour LED light strips on the right and left that run towards each other.

    At last, the range of M Performance Parts for the M2 Coupe is rounded out with M Performance Interior Kit Carbon. It includes parts for the twin-clutch transmission gear selector level, centre console and handbrake handle and the M Performance interior trim finishers with their blend of Alcantara and carbon fibre.

    Source: BMW

  • Rinspeed Is To Unveil Ʃtos Concept at Geneva Motor Show

    2016 Rinspeed Σtos ConceptIncredible technologies and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship are the main features that contribute to the distinctive appearance of “Ʃtos” Concept car. One more time the Swiss manufacturer went for the approach of “self-driving car”, but now the accent is not on the “self-drive” itself, but rather on the next-gen gadgets and systems which are expected to reshape the face of vehicles with own character.

    Exterior styling

    The elegant, yet aggressive Ʃtos is not only a highly versatile car, but also a furious racer. And how does it express it? With the demonstration of deep black 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims, widened body and adding numerous lightweight aluminum and glass materials that not only improve the performance capabilities, but also enhance the aggressive character of the vehicle. And along with the neatly designed trim strips, the vehicle also demonstrates some titanium elements.

    SEE ALSO: Rinspeed Σtos Concept Revealed. Debuts at CES and Geneva

    Some of the most notable exterior features are of course the beautiful LED headlights, placed just above the massive jaw. The sides are somehow simple-looking, but let this fact not disappoint  you: the engineer team knows exactly how to maintain both beauty and power at the same time. The rear also looks massive and it looks like designers went for that “beauty through simplicity” approach that happened to be the right one. Sweet.

    Interior styling

    2016 Rinspeed Σtos Concept

    First of all, we should mention that the cabin benefits from the innovative Harman Connected Car technologies that offer not only personal assistant features, but also infotainment, connectivity and safety features. Something more: with every mile  Ʃtos tells its recommendations, needs and advices, when it comes to performance and safe drive. Sweet, right?

    In terms of comfort, the interior offers comfortable seats, covered in exclusive leather and synthetic materials, relaxing atmosphere and useful and user-friendly technologies. Furthermore, polymer specialist Rehau created special lightweight dashboard system and also makes clever usage of the luggage shelf with detachable umbrella holder.

    Additional equipment

    2016 Rinspeed Σtos Concept

    In terms of safety, Ʃtos comes with intelligent connectivity technologies, including automatic payment for parking, wireless cell phone charging, smart access solutions and keyless remotes for unlocking, starting and customizing.

    Further features, drivetrain system details and capabilities will be soon announced, so stick with us for further information!

    Rinspeed Ʃtos will make its european debut at the Geneva Motor Show at Rinspeed booth 6240.

    Source: Rinspeed

     

  • SsangYong to Unveil Tivoli XLV and SIV-2 Concept At Geneva Show

    SsangYong Tivoli XLVAfter the successful launch campaign of Tivoli, SsangYong is ready to demonstrate extended lineup at this year’s Geneva Motor Show that will witness the unveiling of Tivoli XLV and SIV-2 Concept.  As you might remember, XLV was first shown as XLV Air Concept at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt last year and since then SsangYong receives mainly positive feedback. So, what does Tivoli XLV mass production vehicle has to offer? Let’s check out!

    SsangYong Tivoli XLV

    SsangYong Tivoli XLV

    Coming with the same platform and 2,600mm wheelbase as the previous Tivoli, XLV also offers lengthened body and a notable increase of 235mm over the standard model that contributes to bigger load volume of up to 720 cubic liters. Sweet. Furthermore, the exterior design is refined and now includes fused SUV body shape, sporty coupe appearance and floating roofline.

    Especially created to be multifunctional and versatile and preferable to wide range of buyers, XLV offers this exact performance capabilities and dynamics which will fit the needs of all these different customers. And provided that it comes with a choice of either Euro 6 1.6-liter petrol or Euro 6 1.6-liter diesel unit, paired to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Aisin automatic and with the option of two-wheel or four-wheel drive, XLV becomes more and more appealing to all automobile lovers out there.

    SsangYong Tivoli XLV

    SsangYong SIV-2 Concept

    Also following the popularity and success of SIV-1 Concept that debuted at Geneva back in 2013, SsangYong is ready for the next step. And that is indeed SIV-2 Concept and the approach for “Dynamic Motion”.

    SEE ALSO: SsangYong Expands The Available Via Motability Scheme Models

    Based on brand’s theme of “Robust, Speciality, Premium”, the fresh concept vehicle will pursue that dramatic interface and connection between driver and car and will try to become a key model along SsangYong model range.

    SIV-2 is a mild-hybrid, geared with a 1.50liter direct injection turbocharged petrol unit that works in perfect harmony with a 10kW electric motor and a 500Wn lithium ion battery. This combination of electricity and petrol power ensures high power, dynamics and dramatically reduced CO2 emissions.Also, the eco-friendly vehicle offers lightweight body, low center of gravity, fine-tuned suspension and chassis system.

    We do expect further details to be announced soon, so stick with us!

    Source: SsangYong 

  • Meet Kaege Porsche GT3 RS: Lighter and More Powerful

    Kaege Porsche GT3 RS Front ViewOne has to be very brave to make any kind of tuning on a Porsche, especially a GT3 RS. This however, didn’t scare the specialists at KAEGE Automobiles, who stepped in when it came to the conversion of this particular model. The main changes are in the engine, there is also a lot of weight optimization done as well as some exterior and interior cosmetic tweaks.

    Optimization of Horsepower and Weight

    To start with the performance boost, we should first tell you that the stock 3.6 liters engine of the Porsche GT3 RS produces no less than 415 HP (305 kW). First, the experts added club sports packet, and then the additional optimization required an installation of M+M muffler system with fan type exhaust manifold and 200 cells cats. The result is an addition of 8 HP and weight reduction by 7 kg.

    SEE ALSO: Kaege Reinterprets the Porsche Macan S [VIDEO]

    This also affects the sound sent into the surroundings, which is now exceptional. An extra 7 HP is ‘received” due to the carbon fiber air box, which ensures higher air inlet. Furthermore, the weight distribution from rear to front was optimized due to the substitution of the hydraulic pump with an electrical power steering pump. This adds 10 HP.

    Modified air filters and the Sachs sports clutch lighten the weight of the Porsche additionally. Shortening the distance from the steering wheel to the gearshift also shortens the shift time and this is due to the remodeling of the standard gear shift to CAE-Shifter.

    Kaege Porsche GT3 RS Engine

    Suspension

    This project seems to be pretty special, since it rides on in-house made BBS racing sports rims measuring 19-inch. They reduce the unsprung masses by 9 kg additionally, but lend also the desired racing look. The new wheels are matched Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 type tires with typical for Porsche N-code. An adapted aluminum made triple KW competition chassis with completely uniball suspended transverse control arms and track rods ensure the excellent road holding.

    The weight reduction proceeds with 15 kg due to the installation of a Liteblox lithium ions battery, and with 20 kg via the demounting the navi device and by modifying the impact protection.

    Sportier Interior

    Kaege Porsche GT3 RS Interior

    The interior changes feature retro-style checkered fabric upholstery for the light construction seats. Moreover, the center console, the rollover bar and some of the interior parts are painted in car color, while the steering wheel has been taken from the 4-liters GT3 and the trunk’s appearance has been changed.

    And last, but not least, for more comfortable and joyous journey the tuning experts have added a travel and helmet bag matching to the seat upholstery… just like Vilner started adding such goodies to their conversions years ago.

    Source: KAEGE Automobiles via Miranda Media 

  • World Premiere of Lexus LC 500h and European Debut of LF-FC Concept

    Lexus LC 500h Luxury Coupe Fron and Side ViewGeneva Motor Show is going to be a big time for Lexus and a great experience for all its fans visiting its boot, because there will happen the world premiere of the LC 500h luxury coupe, which is powered by new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System. In addition, the European visitors will also witness the debut of the innovative LF-FC fuel cell saloon concept, which we have seen already at the Tokyo Auto Show last October and later at NAIAS in January.

    The hybrid version of the new LC luxury coupe, called LC 500h, is equipped with a next generation hybrid powertrain or the so called Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System. It will provide higher performance values to its future customers, enhanced driving pleasure, and of course, greater efficiency.

    SEE ALSO: Lexus Demonstrated the LF-FC Concept At the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show 

    Differentiated by its unique styling appearance, its unique performance and craftsmanship involved in its making, position it as one of Lexus’s flagship models. By the way, it was also disclosed that the LC is built on a new Lexus architecture, which is the reason for the greater dynamic capabilities of the model.

    Lexus LF-FC Concept Side View

    The next big premiere, this time only for Europe, makes the LF-LC concept. The car was revealed back in 2012 when it marked the start of the current design direction for Lexus. Thanks to its outstanding visual appeal the concept car was awarded with two EyesOn Design awards for best production car and interior design at the 2016 NAIAS.

    Now the LF-FC is making its first European appearance in Geneva. The visionary new vehicle delivers a glimpse of Lexus’s design and technology direction for a future flagship saloon. Powered by a high-output fuel cell system the vehicle also features advanced, touchless controls and automated driving technologies.

    More information for both debuts to come a couple of days before the start of Geneva Motor Show.

    Source: Lexus 

  • Nissan Pulsar to Get New N-Connecta Grade… And More

    Nissan Pulsar Fron ViewNissan Pulsar has undergone substantial changes in the line-up, which include the addition of N-Connecta grade. The same grade will be also featured in the Juke and Qashqai, and it will replace the existing n-tec model. Better news is that the Pulsar ownership is even more accessible now for those living in the United Kingdom.

    For example, the price is lower for the new entry-level of the Visia DIG-T 115 with manual transmission, and is now just £13,995. But despite the lower price tag, the range is now also available with grade-specific optional extras for enhanced personalization.

    SEE ALSO: Nissan NP 300 Navara: Expectations and Reality

    The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine under the hood of this Nissan produces 190 hp (140 kW), matched to a five-speed manual driving the front-wheels. Nissan has also stiffened the suspension, improved the bodyshell and firmed up the power steering. As a result the Pulsar is way more agile and balanced than the previous generation.

    X-Trail: From Five- to Seven-Seater at NO Cost

    Nissan X-Trail Front View

    Furthermore, the adventurous X-Trail crossover can be upgrade from five to seven seats free of charge for both the 2WD and 4WD models. There are two variants that buyers can choose from: the dCi 130 diesel and the more recently added 1.6-litre DIG-T 163 petrol engines. Both units offer optimum balance of fuel economy with excellent refinement at all speeds. Excellent interior space and equipment levels round-out the pack.

    Nissan X-Trail is priced at £21,995.

    Source: Nissan

  • Chevy Team Launches A Spooky, Yet Fun Ad

    2016 Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze Ad Fans of horror movies will have the chance to relish an interesting and well-done horror advertisement with an interesting plot twist. Inspired by classic horror stories, Chevrolet draws customer’s attention to the 2016 Malibu and Cruze models in an rather interesting way that includes goosebumps and laughter.

    The 60-second video was directed by the well-known Michigan-born filmmarker, Sam Raimi. As you might know, his career was started with the supernatural horror film series Evil Dead that made him the perfect choice to direct a piece of horror for Chevrolet team.

    There are several cinematic techniques that Raimi incorporates: of course, these include the well-known intense music, the typical for horror movies dim lightning, shifting emphasis and the distinctive strange noises and laughter. And let’s not forget the curiosity of the protagonist that encourages her to go to rather unwelcoming places.

    2016 Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze Ad

    Furthermore, Chevy expects that the ad will reach about 2300 theatres and 14,000 screens during the six-month run of the video.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu: With Great Weight Comes Great Performance

    But let’s remind why 2016 Malibu and Chevy gained that popularity. Along with Pedestrian Alert, both vehicles come with standard equipment that includes Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert, improved Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking and Automatic Parking Assist.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Revealed in Details!

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Aston Martin Vulcan Owners Will Also Be Granted With Exclusive Race Tuition

    2016 Aston Martin Vulcan Aston Martin will grant the first owners of Vulcan with special gifts, as they travelled to Abu Dhabi last week to receive exclusive training from elite team of professionals, personally led by Aston Martin Racing work’s driver Darren Turner. How cool is that?

    As you know, Aston Martin Vulcan is product of the luxury British manufacturer’s incredible motorsport experience and comes to show the world how dangerous an erupting volcano can be. The track-only supercar also demonstrates the impeccable craftsmanship of designers, when it comes to exterior and interior styling.

    SEE ALSO: What Will Happen When Two Vulcans Erupt Together? [VIDEO]

    But this machine is not only beautiful, but incredibly powerful. As its name suggests, the Vulcan adopts the power of mother earth herself with its stunning 820hp (602kW) produced by an exclusively created 7.0-liter V12 power unit, ready to tackle down every track challenge that stands on its way.

    2016 Aston Martin Vulcan

    So, what are the additional goodies that customers get by going to Abu Dhabi? As said above, owners are granted with special tuition in the V12 Vantage S street-legal car and the Vantage GT4 track-only and after they are able to tame the beasts, they will have the chance on going out onto the well-known Formula 1 circuit in their own Vulcan. Driver’s abilities will be tested throughout the day and the night, so they can get that full and satisfactory experience in variety of atmospheric and track conditions.

    There are a total of 24 Aston Martin Vulcan units, especially built for all the 24 customers.

    Source: Aston Martin 

  • BMW to Produce Limited Series of i8 Protonic Red Edition

    BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition Side ViewBMW i8 has been already sold in over 5,400 units this year. The big interest demands variety of trims for the customers and for this reason, the company is entering a special Protonic Red Edition that will be limited for only a period of time. Having a clever hybrid drivetrain, the i8 produces 362 hp (266 kW) and covers 22 miles in electric only mode. It also takes BMW’s EfficientDynamics philosophy to new levels due to emissions as low as 59g/km and a combined consumption figure of 113mpg in the process.

    The torque of the powertrain is rated at 570 Newton meters (421 lb-ft) of torque. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is rated at 4.4 seconds and the top speed 155 mph.

    SEE ALSO: BMW M760Li xDrive Equipped with First of its Kind V12 M Performance Engine

    Unique for the Protonic Red Edition is that it gives a new visual perspective of the BMW i8 model. Although the paintwork is a Protonic Red finish but features Frozen Grey metallic accents. It is contrasted with BMW W-spoke 470 light-alloy wheels painted in Orbit Grey metallic with hubs painted in Aluminium matt. The alloys are fitted with mixed-size tyres. Inside, the interior of this special edition i8 features red double-stitching, a lot of carbon fibre and ceramic trims.

    BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition Front View

    The styling pack, the powerfully formed wheel arches, the wide track, the dihedral doors opening forwards and upwards, add intrigue to the BMW i8’s design. Being one of the first plug-in-hybrid sports cars, this BMW offers agile performance, near 50:50 weight distribution and excellent efficiency.

    For its attractiveness contributes the lightweight and aerodynamically optimized body, which also features passenger cell made from CFRP. The BMW i8 is powered by the eDrive drive system technology, which comprises from a highly turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and intelligent energy management. The high-voltage battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged from a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station.

    BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition will go officially on sale from September this year and will have a starting price of £112,535.

    Source: BMW 

  • BMW M760Li xDrive Equipped with First of its Kind V12 M Performance Engine

    BMW M760Li xDrive Front ViewBMW M760Li xDrive is the new flagship model for the BMW 7 Series range and we are definitely excited! The reasons are many but the most important one is that it utilizes the absolutely new M Performance TwinPower Turbo V12 engine. It shows exhilarating performance and mind-blowing acceleration. The model also features specific suspension and a rear bias for xDrive all-wheel drive system. Not to mention the one-off exterior and interior design due to the application of the M Performance elements.

    As a head of the range, the M760Li xDrive V12 is equipped with the very special V12 engine, which provides stunning performance and refinement. The unit makes its debut in a BMW model and it incorporates TwinPower Turbo technology for the first time.

    SEE ALSO: BMW M Division and MotoGP Unveil the Latest 2016 M2 Safety Car [w/video]

    This M Performance engine generates 600hp (441 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. This ensures spectacular performance from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph. The powerplant is combined with a sophisticated chassis which was specifically created for the M7. The power is transferred onto the road via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system which features rear-bias for more and better dynamic handling.

    Due to the addition of M Performance body enhancements, the car is immediately recognizable. Specifics include 20-inch alloys, an active quad exit exhaust system that is very soundy, and a luxurious cabin. By the way, the interior adds M Performance steering wheel and illuminated V12 logo and exclusive M pedals.

    V12 Excellence Design Package

    BMW M760Li xDrive Rear View

    This is an alternative variant for the model, which emphasizes the comfort-related attributes of the BMW M760Li xDrive V12 and shifts away from the M’s sport appearance. On the outside the pack adds Pure Excellence exterior, which features 20-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in W-spoke 646 design with mixed-size tyres and brake calipers in high-gloss Black.

    At the front, the car features chrome bar extending across the full width, Silver kidney grille bars with chrome fronts and surrounds likewise sport bright chrome, LED fog lamps. At the sides bright chrome finish adorns the window frames, the air breathers with door trim element and the V12 lettering on the C-pillars. The rear has a comfort-oriented exhaust system and feature two chromed, rectangular tailpipe embellishers, which are framed in rear apron by additional chrome surround.

    BMW M760Li xDrive Iterior

    Inside, the Pure Excellence pack benefits from Alcantara headliner, door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminium with illuminated V12 badge, decorative stitching in the lower section of the instrument panel, fine wood inlays for the seat belt outlet covers, armrest and rear roof grab handles and deep-pile floor mats for the rear compartment. In addition, there is a leather steering wheel, which includes wood elements. When the starts the engine the V12 emblem lights up in the centre of the instrument cluster. The speedometer here extends as far as 160mph.

    The latest BMW M760Li xDrive V12 is scheduled to go on sale by the end of the year. Pricing is to be announced near market launch.

    Source: BMW 

  • Ryan Millen in Toyota Rally RAV4 to Chase Multiple Championships This Year

    2016 Toyota Rally RAV4 rally car  Front ViewToyota RAV4 is going to be driven again by Ryan Millen, who piloted it last year to four out of five Western U.S. victories. The car will take a bigger stage this year, participating in rallies all over the U.S., chasing the Atlantic Rally Cup and the Pacific Rally Cup in NASA’s Rally Sport series. The team will probably enter the National Championship.

    This year, Millen and his navigator Fate will race in a RAV4 SE for the 2016 model year. The vehicle has new livery which emphasizes the partners of Toyota. Exactly this vehicle was unveiled today at the Chicago Auto Show.

    SEE ALSO: Toyota Announces Details about Future Races in 2016

    There are no changes made to the powertrain, so this means that the car is powered by the standard RAV4 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 176 horsepower (130 kW) and 233 Nm (172 lb-ft) of torque. The crossover was specifically built to compete in the 2WD-Open Class. This is the reason why it is fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

    2016 Toyota Rally RAV4 rally car Side View

    The modifications done here are in terms of safety, communications, and convenience and include a stout roll cage, driver/navigator communications system, air vents and helmet boxes. All of this can be viewed in the gallery below.

    Millen and Fate and the team will have their first NASA Rally Sport race this season on March 5. This will happen in Cheraw, South Carolina at the Sandblast Rally where over 60 cars and nearly 40 motorcycles have been already entered.

    Source: Toyota