Auto News – Page 242 – Automobiles Review

Chevrolet Meets 2016 With Special Performance Upgrade Packs!

Chevrolet Performance Packs Chevy Camaro 1LE performance package is here to meet and greet 2017 season. This upgrade pack builds off the popularity of the previous generation 1LE and offers even more handling and performance tweaks. Also, in response to customer recommendations, Chevrolet team will offer not one, but two upgrade packs for V6 and V8 models. Cool, right?

In fact, this is the first time Chevy offers 1LE packs for Camaro 1LT and 2LT coupes with 3.6-liter V6. With stiffer suspension tuning and standard Brembo brakes, the LT 1LE also offers and estimated 0.97G in cornering grip.

The new 1LE packages for Camaro 1SS include magnetic ride control, fresh FE4 suspension tuning and fresh segment-exclusive electronic limited slip differential. All this topped with Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, Recaro seats and Performance Data Recorder.

So, have some closer look to what the upgrades offer.

Camaro LT 1LE

Chevrolet Performance Packs

This one was created to be the most track-capable sporty coupe in its price range. Additions include 3.6-liter V6 with 335hp, paired to a six-speed manual gearbox; FE3 suspension components as dampers, rear cradle mounts, ball-jointed rear toe links and more; lightweight 20-inch forged aluminum wheels; Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers; standard track-cooling pack, Suede steering wheel, Camaro SS fuel system and more.

Camaro SS 1LE

Chevrolet Performance Packs

This one offers the new FE4 suspension with Magnetic Ride dampers, springs and stabilizer bars. Buyeres will be granted with Magnetic Ride Control; Segment-exclusive electronic limited-slip differential; special aluminum wheels; Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires; Brembo brakes with six-piston monoblock front red calipers; Dual mode exhaust system; Recaro front seats and more.

The packs will be available in late 2016 for 2017 Camaro SS and LT V6 coupes with manual gearbox systems. Additional details will be announced later this year.

Source: Chevrolet

February 10, 2016

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype to Stun the Geneva Motor Show with Exclusive Premiere

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype in its renewed form is going to make 2016 Geneva Motor Show debut, which also happens to be its world premiere. The company has just shared a teaser image of the upcoming car that shows its rear and innovative tail-lights. Honda has also disclosed that the prototype actually previews the exterior design of the all-new hatchback model, which is scheduled for a European launch in the beginning of 2017. The car will be produced in the United Kingdom and then exported globally, including the United States.

Another European debut is going to happen for the Clarity Fuel Cell, being world’s first production fuel cell saloon which features entire fuel cell powertrain under the bonnet. It has a range of up-to 700 km (435 miles), thus achieving best-in-class range. In addition, it includes unique packaging and one-off interior with room for five persons. All will be presented at the Geneva event.

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

In three days the NSX and the Precision Concept will be exhibited at the Chicago Auto Show, and then follows an appearance in Geneva. By the way, the first European customer deliveries for the Honda NSX will begin this year, meaning that we are soon to see this unique sports car on the streets. With its classic low and wide proportions, modern and alluring stance, aggressive front- and rear end, make the car inspired by the original NSX. The new hybrid NSX is driven by new mid-mounted DOHC V6 engine with twin turbochargers mated to a specially-developed nine-speed DCT.

Honda NSX

The last two debuts at the show are making the Jazz ‘Keenlight’ Concept and the CRF1000L Africa Twin. The first one is a design concept model of the famous Jazz, which highlights the customizing potential of the model. It features sleek design elements, special decals and a one-off colour named ‘Keenlight’. The last model announced for Geneva is the CRF1000L Africa Twin, which packs an innovative and powerful parallel twin-cylinder engine into a lightweight and agile chassis.

Geneva Motor Show starts on March 3rd.

Source: Honda

February 10, 2016

Chevy Proudly Presents 2017 Trax!

2017 Chevrolet Trax Encouraged by the early success and the incredible growth of the segment, Chevy introduced the 2017 Trax – refreshed and refined and more expressive version of one of America’s most popular SUVs.

The vehicle features restyled front end, premium interior and some wonderful visual updates. And let’s not forget the updated safety features and the new infotainment system. So, let’s check out what this sweetie can offer all the Chevrolet fans out there.

Exterior design

2017 Trax has that contemporary appearance with the stylish lines and components. For example, the grille and the headlamps are eye-catching and at the same time they remind for Malibu, Cruze and Volt models.

The front is completely redesigned and proudly demonstrates sleek headlamps that flow around the corner and go into the fenders. Good to know is that LT and Premier models offer halogen projector headlamps with LED signature lightning, as well as some neat chrome accents.

At the rear we see new dual taillamps and the same LED signature lightning. Also, Premier will be offered with 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Interior styling

2017 Chevrolet Trax

The cabin offers a modified instrument panel and countless premium components and enhancements. For example, Chevy’s signature dual-cockpit is now more expressive with the upper dashboard hood flowing uninterrupted across the panel. The redesigned instrumental cluster also features a new 7-inch diagonal MyLink color touch screen and Galvano chrome trim. Sweet, right?

Additional equipment

2017 Trax also includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto systems, 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot. In fact, with the 4G LTE connection, Trax allows passengers to connect up to seven devises at the same time.

Also part of the standard equipment is the Keyless Open and Start features.

In terms of safety, the vehicle is geared with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning systems.

Drivetrain system

2017 Chevrolet Trax

This time Chevy team relies on the Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder power unit, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is capable of producing a total of 138hp (102 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm.

Source: Chevrolet

February 10, 2016

Acura Reminds Everyone Why NSX and Precision Concept Are so Awesome

2016 Acura Precision Concept Acura Precision Concept comes to the Windy City to make its Chicago Auto Show debut, following the demonstration at the North American International Auto Show last month. The concept vehicle embodies the Acura DNA of Precision Crafted Performance – as we all know, Acura brand is notorious for paying incredible attention to small details, which, ultimately, results on delivering stunningly well-performing vehicles.

Embracing the idea of a modern and yet versatile components, Acura Precision Concept features restyled Diamond Pentagon grille, next-gen HMI interior technology, advanced facial recognition, large central screen, heads up display and touch pad navigation.

The Concept was crafted by Acura’s California Design Studio under the strict direction of Acura global creative director, Dave Marek, aided by Michelle Christensen, principal designer.

Also, the all-new 2017 Acura NSX will return to Chicago Show to remind everyone why is it so awesome, and also to demonstrate its new color: 130R White, paired with passionate red-dominated interior. How cool is that? Furthermore, the NSX will one more time challenge the conventional beliefs about supercars and cutting edge technologies. Just as the first-generation NSX broke the ice 15 years ago, the contemporary heir will try to do the same.

Designed and manufactured in America, the 2017 Acura NSX will be offered for $156,000 USD and about 205,700 USD, when geared with the additional features and technologies.

Source: Acura

February 9, 2016

Geneva Motor Show Audience to Witness the Unveiling of the Ferrari GTC4Lusso!

2016 Ferrari GTC4Lusso Ferrari GTC4Lusso debuts at the Geneva Motor Show! Designed for customers who want to drive Ferrari vehicles on any time and destination, and for those who satisfy themselves with nothing, but the best. So, let’s waste no more time and see why this sweetie is so special.

Vehicle’s name in fact is a reference to brand’s beautiful predecessors, as the 330 GTC, 330 GT and Enzo Ferrari’s favourite: 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso.

Exterior styling

GTC4Lusso expresses its sporty nature with the curve lines and lowered stance. The vehicle is muscular and aggressive, but as every other Ferrari model, this one also is a piece of pure beauty. The car comes with wide and broadened shoulders, visually appealing tail pipes and dynamically chiselled crease lines. Sweet.

Penned by Ferrari Design, the GTC4Lusso is a further refinement of the shooting brake coupé, reinterpreting the concept with an extremely streamlined, tapered shape that gives it an almost fastback-like silhouette.

2016 Ferrari GTC4Lusso

Interior design

The dual cockpit offers plenty of space and incorporates only high-quality components, incredible details and of course, only the latest and greatest of technologies. The innovative cockpit also strikes with the beautiful craftsmanship and the incredible selection of materials and fabrics.

In fact, this beauty is the first to offer new infotainment platform and big 10.25-inch HD screen with capacitive touch technology. Also, the steering wheel is more compact and more functional with the numerous buttons, placed all around it.

2016 Ferrari GTC4Lusso

Drivetrain system

TH GTC4Lusso is powered by a 12-cylinder power unit that delivers smooth and consistent power, making use of the massive 690cv at 8,000 rpm and the 697Nm of torque at 5,750 rpm extremely efficient and smooth for unforgettable driving experience.

In terms of dynamics, the GTC4Lusso offers exceptional versatility. With the rear-wheel steering and the four-wheel-drive systems, the car can efficiently and smoothly take you to any destination.

2016 Ferrari GTC4Lusso

Source: Ferrari

February 9, 2016

BMW Unveils the ALPINA B7 xDrive Monster!

2016 BMW ALPINA B7 xDRIVE BMW of North America announced the latest and greatest 2017 BMW ALPINA B7 xDrive, the third generation of ALPINA vehicles, based on the BMW 7 Series. This latest BMW member will combine the elegant and luxury feel with precise and advanced dynamics, technologies and overall incredible capabilities.

So, let’s see what this bad boy can offer to all the BMW fans and customers

Exterior design

Athletic and elegant, the new BMW ALPINA has a lot to show. Let’s start with the aerodynamic components that enhance the sporty character: the vehicle proudly demonstrates its restyled front and rear spoilers, while the iconic kidney grille is fitted with integrated air flap control system, which improves the whole cooling system.

2016 BMW ALPINA B7 xDRIVE

Furthermore, the 20-inch ALPINA CLASSIC wheels with twenty spokes and special air valves contribute to that powerful and beautiful stance, but if there are people who are still unsatisfied, BMW also offers as an optional feature 21-inch ALPINA CLASSIC forged wheels with visible wheel bolts. Cool.

The vehicle also can be painted in the exclusive ALPINA Blue metallic and ALPINA Green metallic finishes, but of course, other signature BMW finishes are also available for purchase.

Interior styling

BMW offers extended list of standard features that altogether ensure optimal comfort and functionality. The equipment now includes high-end Nappa leather, comfortable seats, leather-covered instrument panel, ceramic inserts and numerous more.

And the special ALPINA details and components further enhance the individuality and cozy ambience of the cabin. The sporty steering wheel with blue and green stitching and the Piano lacquer or the classic Myrtle Luxury wood will cover the interior trim, door sills and some more components.

2016 BMW ALPINA B7 xDRIVE

There is one more exclusive feature for this model. These are indeed the full-color digital instrument panel in LED technology. The technology offers two modes: Comfort and Sport. The first one offers classic look with blue background and red needles, while the Sport mode shows some more dynamic images, dominated by blue and green indicators.

Drivetrain system

The new BMW ALPINA will benefit from the new 4.4-liter 8-cylinder twin-turbo charging gasoline direct injection turbo unit that provides a total of 600hp (441kW) and 590 lb-ft of torque. Stunning, right? These stats result on finishing the 0 to 100km/h (62mph) sprint in just 3.6 seconds, which makes it with almost a second faster, compared to the predecessor models. The top speed of the machine is 347km/h (193mph).

Also, the vehicle features and an advanced suspension technology which offers incredible driving dynamics. With significantly increasing the dynamics, flexibility and responsiveness, the whole system ensures pleasurable and comfortable ride.

2016 BMW ALPINA B7 xDRIVE

New for the vehicle is the advanced and intelligent AWD system with exclusive ALPINA fine-tuning. The system smoothly and efficiently delivers power and torque between the front and rear axle.

And last, but not least, let us remind you that BMW also included the 8-speed Sports Automatic with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC. Revised and refined, the transmission system now offers enhanced smoothness and control. All the components are especially designed to cope with the high torque output and with the added Comfort and Efficient Dynamics functions, this transmission appears to be the perfect fit for the monstrous power unit.

Source: BMW

February 9, 2016

Carbon Motors Releases Creative Interior Solution for the Iconic Mercedes E500

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz E500 W124 Front View The latest project of the tuning experts at Carbon Motors is based on the Mercedes-Benz E500 W124, which was released in the distant 1990. The model is iconic for Mercedes because it was produced in close collaboration with Porsche and was actually hand-built by both brands. It features only four seats and the assembly of only one car took 18 days. Another interesting fact about the E500, is that it is driven by a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine that was derived from the 500 SL R129 roadster. The unit produces 322 hp (240 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque.

For its rough and clumsy looks combined with the powerful V8, the car was called by the press “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing”. Performance tests prove that since the E500 achieves 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 260 km/h.

Therefore such an emblematic car could only receive special attention, which in this particular case was focused on the interior.

Mercedes E500 and its Custom Interior

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz E500 W124 Interior

Nothing else but handcraft work was involved in the making of the cabin. The fully customized interior includes an abundance of leather and carbon fiber, which you can view in details in the opulent gallery below.

Two-tone leather upholstery in blue and grey is used for the seats, while blue Alcantara is the main choice for the headliner. Blue leather was also used for the pillars and the dashboard. To keep the contrast, the latter also includes grey decorative stitching.

Carbon Motors has its name for a reason and it is the love that the tuning company has for carbon fiber. We can see a lot of the lightweight material featured in the cabin. For instance, all of the interior trim panels and stripes have been coated in premium carbon fiber. The same approach has been used for the steering wheel’s panels and for the… Nokia phone, too.

Well, that’s an unexpectedly cool project, isn’t it?

Source: Carbon Motors

February 9, 2016

Futuristic Subaru XV Concept with World Premiere in Geneva

Subaru XV Concept Teaser Subaru XV Concept is going to be premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The news was just officially released by Japanese brand with a preview picture of the front of the new concept model. It is visible that it has a little to do with the production XV (the one featured in the news feed yesterday) and shows more futuristic take on the standard for the XV crossover design.

To make a promotion of the car, Subaru is also releasing a webspecial site, dedicated to the concept and everything happening at the Geneva Motor Show, which has been already opened and can be now visited. It features information regarding the Geneva Motor Show and allows everyone to watch “live” Subaru’s press conference.

The XV Concept will probably serve as a basis to a future next generation XV. Although we don’t see much from the design of the teaser image, we are quite happy to find the modern interpretation of the front. And hopefully, Subaru won’t change a thing in the production variant.

In addition, Subaru confirmed that the XV will also ride on the same platform used for the Impreza. There is nothing said on the engine, but the concept is likely to be a hybrid or to exploit some new sort of updated engine in terms of efficiency and fumes. For example, a downsized engine is a possible variant.

If we are lucky, we will have more information about the new XV Concept days ahead of the Geneva International Motor Show. Speaking of which, its 86th annual edition opens for public on March 3rd and continues until 13th. The Subaru XV Concept will be unveiled at a press conference on March 1, which you can view online.

Source: Subaru

February 9, 2016

O.CT Tuning Releases Wild Supercharged Kit for Lamborghini Huracan

O.CT Tuning Lamborghini Huracan O.CT800 Supercharged Front View O.CT Tuning specializes in the fields of hardware and software, hence this fact makes them the perfect customization company for Italian cars like the Lamborghini Huracan. With the release of their Intelligent Programming System (IPRO) they have made a big furor inside the tuning business. This particular system allows simple programming of command devices via OBD-II diagnostics interface, which only benefits the processes of modification especially to cars with a lot of horsepower.

In addition, the experts also use a special in-house made compressor technology, thanks to which the performance of the super cars car be uprated easily and substantially.

Lambo Huracan O.CT800

An example of all that was aforementioned is this unique Lamborghini Huracan, which is equipped with the supercharged O.CT kit, that allows it to produce 805 hp (592 kW) and 810 Nm (598 lb-ft) of torque. This uprating was achieved with several means, the main of which is the compressor conversion kit.

Crucial role also plays the exhaust system, which is 20 kg lighter than the standard one and also produces vigorous sound. The exhaust was matched to the new V10 compressor kit, this boosting additionally the driving performance.

2016 O.CT Tuning Lamborghini Huracan O.CT800 Supercharged Rear View

The result is visible through the performance figures that the Huracan achieves. Precisely, the 0-100 km/h sprint is covered in 2.5 seconds, while the 0-200 km/h – in just 8.3 seconds. What is more, the top speed has been raised to somewhere beyond 325 kmph (200 mph).

At last, the slightly changed exterior has to be mentioned too. It now features O.CT branded wrapping, but more importantly the car rides on new wheels, measuring 9×20 and 12.5×21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Source: O.CT Tuning via Miranda Media

February 9, 2016

Lexus RC F GT3 is Here to Kick Some Ass!

2016 Lexus RC F GT3 Lexus RC F GT3 will participate in the this year’s US-based IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship . This step marks brand’s confident step in developing and using the special purpose-built V8-powered sport vehicle.

In fact, the RC F GT3 will also be campaigned in the whole event by Michigan-based F Performance Racing, owned and managed by Trans-Am Series champion and motorsport veteran Paul Gentilozzi. The F Performance Racing effort will also assist the process of achieving FIA GT3 homologation, allowing the car to enter even wider variety of race events.

2016 Lexus RC F GT3

Also good news for Lexus team is that the development and tuning program will lead (or at least it is expected to do so) to RC F GT3 becoming available as a production race vehicle, where racers can purchase and use it in different race events around the world.

As you might remember, the RC F GT3 participated in the Germany-based VLN endurance series and Japanese Super GT championship last year as part of the developing project. Let us remind you that the team achieved incredible results which include and the class victory in the VLN series at the Nurburgring. Veteran racer Scott Pruett, who drove the Lexus-powered prototypes was also involved in the creation of both Lexus LFA and the IS F sedan. Cool, right?

2016 Lexus RC F GT3

Source: Lexus

February 8, 2016

2016 Subaru XV And a Fresh Fairytale of Stylish Facelift

2016 Subaru XV Facelift Subaru announced details for the revised XV compact crossover , now coming with even more stylish exterior, enhanced cabin quality and tons of additional gadgets. As you know, since the introduction back in 2012, the XV became one of Subaru’s most advanced and popular vehicles, thanks to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and the overall excellent off-road capabilities.

The recent updates include suspension fine-tuning, and quicker and more direct steering rack that contributes to smoother and more responsive vehicle control. But let’s waste no more time and check out some of the cool details.

The higher quality cabin and the fresh infotainment system

Some of the most notable changes include high-quality components, the new 7.0-inch touch screen and the advanced navigation system. Also, the changes include the adoption of fresh metallic and piano black trim and contrast stitching.

The 2016 XV also features and extra USB port which allows passengers to listen to music from one USB device, while charging another at the same time. Cool.

Enhanced efficiency capabilities

The vehicle continues to be offered with a choice of two horizontally-opposed, four-cylinder Boxer engines: the 2.0-liter petrol and the 2.0-liter diesel engines, paired to either six-speed manual or six speed CVT automatic gearbox.

The changes are simple and effective. Long story short, the drivetrain system is with 4 per cent more efficient, compared to its predecessor, thanks to some virtuoso engineering solutions and ideas. But this doesn’t mean that Subaru team lowered the performance stats. They remain high and challenging: the modified engines produce a total of 147hp (108kW) and 350Nm of torque and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 9.3 seconds.

2016 Subaru XV Facelift

Furthermore, Subaru introduced and the revised 150hp (110kW) 2.0-liter naturally-aspired petro unit. It now offers 2% better fuel efficiency and is mated to Subaru’s smooth-shifting Lineartronic transmission.

Appealing and beautiful

As part of the 2016 improvements, Subaru also revised some of the exterior features of the vehicle. The XV still proudly demonstrates the signature and well-known stand, but the front now features updated hawk-eye headlights and restyled front grille and bumper.

The rear also benefits from some slight changes as a discreet boot spoiler and LED taillamps. And let’s not forget the black and silver diamond cut aluminum alloy wheels that further enhance the refreshed exterior.

And last, but not least, there are two additional colors to compliment the facelift: Hyper Blue and Dark Blue Metallic.

2016 Subaru XV Facelift

Source: Subaru

February 8, 2016

Rolls-Royce Dedicates Special Edition Ghost to Eternal Love

Rolls-Royce Ghost Eternal Love Edition Exterior Called Eternal Love Edition, this Rolls-Royce Ghost comes to pay tribute to the white swan. The new and rather strange variant of the model was introduced to the Chinese market. And since it is Valentine’s Day in less than a week, it was the perfect time to show something more romantic and creative… even is it is a Rolls-Royce Ghost.

Why it takes inspiration to the White Swan? The reason is that in China these birds are viewed as “love birds” due to their unending love. Could it be more romantic than that? Basically this is the main design theme of the exterior and interior, which you can view in HD in the gallery below.

On the outside, this limited edition model carries English White and Silver Satin two-tone paint finish. There is also a coach-line that shows two swans making the form of a heart. The same symbolism is featured throughout the interior. The car rides on 20-inch silver alloys.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Eternal Love Edition Interior

Speaking of the interior, this Ghost includes Seashell leather upholstery and the same motif of heart-shaped swans on the leather seatbacks. In addition, the headliner is finished in Hotspur Red. And since not so many speak fluently Chinese, here’s a little hint: on the custom tread-plates is written “Love is Eternity”. One of the pictures also shows that the interior includes a bespoke clock on the Tudor Oak wood panel.

Just like any other Ghost, this one is driven by the 6.6-liter V12 biturbo engine, which produces 563 horsepower (414 kW) and 780 Nm (575 pound-feet) of torque. The unit is mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Eternal Love Edition is limited to sixteen examples and will be distributed in China only.