Category: Auto News

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

  • Renault Updates the Standard Specifications for Clio and CapturRange

    Renault Captur Front ViewRenault has really big news for those wanting to buy a Clio or a Captur model. The company has just announced free of charge updates to the specifications of the Clio and Captur range. To go straight into the details, the DAB radio is now standard on those models fitted with either the MediaNav or R-Link infotainment systems. This basically means that except fort he entry level trims, all other levels will come with DAB as standard. DAB radio will allow passengers to access more than enough radio stations.

    Furthermore, the MediaNav and R-Link also features valuable upgrades. Precisely, MediaNav gets Bluetooth streaming, TMC traffic information and SIRI “Eyes-Free” for compatible iPhones. On the other hand, the R-Link system gains clearer and more sensitive screen. This will allow users to control the device with multi-touch gestures like the ‘pinch to zoom’.

    SEE ALSO: Renault Launches a Limited Run of the Successful Captur Model

    What is more, the Clio Expression+ trim has now a brand new name: Clio ‘Play’. At the same time the Dynamique S Nav gets two new features: leather steering wheel and grey upholstery.

    Renault Clio

    There are a lot of options in the extra-equipment list of Clio and Captur, meaning that both can be still ordered with GT Line look pack for the Clio, coloured 16” and 17” alloy wheels and other additional goodies for the exterior and interior. Also available are accessory packs such as the carbon-fiber infused Styling Pack, the sporty Spoiler Pack, the Protection Pack with parking sensors and a Touring Pack with quick-release tow bar.

    Renault Clio is currently offered in five trim levels with a range of two petrol and one diesel engines. Its starting price begins at £11,145. The best-selling Renault Captur has four trim levels and a range of two petrol and two diesel engines. The pricing starts at £14,295.

    Source: Renault 

  • Was Lexus the Star at This Year’s SEMA Show?

    2016 Lexus RC F GT3 PerformanceAlthough this year’s SEMA show witnessed numerous incredible vehicle projects and concepts, Lexus’ current model range made a great impact on the whole event. And this time Lexus included the RC F GT3 race car that will compete next year in USA, along with GS F, RC F, IS and RC 200t models.

    And the GS F model was demonstrated with the special Gloss Burnt Orange Wrap and geared with a Tein suspension system and special damper kit. The special body color, along with the Advanced Racing GT gloss black wheels and the fitted Falken Azenis FK 453 tires really contribute to this vehicle’s unique presence. The improved vehicle also includes a special dual system exhaust, Brembo brakes and Sumero custom carbon fiber aero kit.

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

    And along with this beauty, the team paid attention and to the RC F model. The vehicle was demonstrated with Ultra Matte gunmetal blue 20-inch wheels and emphasized style with the Widebody GT Kit Pandem aero pack. The car also comes with KW suspension and FIA-approved Sparco race seats.

    The IS 200t was also on display at SEMA and proudly demonstrated a Seibon Carbon aero kit and stylish Voseen 20-inch gold wheels with ultra-low profile Nitto Invo tyres.

    2016 Lexus GS F

    SEMA audience also witnessed the restyled RC 200t by Guy S. DeAwis and 360 Motorworks. The body is covered with 3M Gloss Cosmic Blue, matched with stance brushed titanium-finished 20-inch wheels and especially lowered springs. The vehicle also is geared with AIMGAIN aero body kit and Tenabe Medalion Touring exhaust.

    Source: Lexus

  • GeigerCars.de and the 710HP Aero Dodge Viper GTS R710

    GeigerCars.de Dodge Viper GTS R710 Side ViewGeigerCars.de are tuning experts known for their quality work on American supercars. One of the most famous and iconic old style US muscle cars that they have been lately working on is the Dodge Viper GTS R710. Under the bonnet of this car sleeps the beastie naturally aspirated 8.4-litre V10 motor. And as a matter of fact, the reputation of the Viper was built exactly on that engine. As a standard, the unit produces 649 hp (478 kW) and 814 Nm (601 lb-ft) of torque.

    GeigerCars.de stepped on this basis and added some valuable changes to the appearance and the power output via a power-upgrade kit and carbon aero kit. Some extras to the suspension are also there.

    Power Increase

    GeigerCars.de Dodge Viper GTS R710 Engine

    Helping the engine breathe more deeply is the modified airbox and bespoke exhaust system, featuring tubular headers and sport catalysts. In addition, the ECU remap alters the fuel and ignition, thus using extra air. As a result, the engine pumps out 710 hp (522 kW) at 6,100rpm and 861 Nm (635 lb-ft) of torque at 5,500rpm.

    SEE ALSO: GeigerCars.de Created The Most Powerful Chevy Corvette Z06 Ever!

    Another spectacular effect was achieved. The Geiger Cars.de Viper GTS 710R catapults itself to 100km/h in just only 2.9 seconds. And by the way, it is so powerful that it can accelerate to a 341 km/h top speed.

    We should also mention that the performance tuning also adds new exhaust headers, sport catalysts, sport exhaust, besides the airbox and ECU remap.

    Aero Kit & Better Suspension

    GeigerCars.de Dodge Viper GTS R710 rear View

    The Viper is tied to the ground via its new KW Variant 2 coil-over suspension kit. It drops the ride height by 30 mm. In fact, the kit also features 16-step adjustable rebound control that optimizes the grip of the tires. Speaking of rubbers, the snake runs on 295/30ZR18 up front and 355/30ZR19 at the rear.

    At last, the in-house made carbon-fibre aerodynamic kit comprises of components that reduce the weight of the car. It features front spoiler lip with matching rear spoiler as well as apron insert with diffuser. Don’t you think that these lacquered carbon-fibre components look fantastic when highlighted against the contrasting body color!

    Source: GeigerCars.de 

  • Local Motors Came Up With Plan For Mass Production of 3D Vehicles

    Local Motors LM3D SwimLess than four months have passes since the first design for a 3D-printed car was revealed, when Local Motors demonstrates the LM3D Swim, the latest rapid vehicle iteration that leads to full homologated 3D-printed car, especially created to be safe, smart and flexible. The sales are scheduled for spring 2016.

    Local Motors, the brand that shocked the world with its live-printing of world’s first 3D-printed vehicle at SEMA last year now raises up to the challenge to deliver road-ready, fully homologated series of automobiles, using the direct digital manufacturing technology, of which 3D printing is part.

    Being unveiled at SEMA show in Las Vegas this year, LM3D Swim, which is personally designed by Kevin Lo, won the design prize with community votes and judging panel that includes and the former TonightShow host Jay Leno and SEMA Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak. The competition was hosted on Local Motor’s co-creation platform, Open IO with the single idea to demonstrate design concept for next-gen 3D-printed cars.

    SEE ALSO: A Big Review on the Gen Six Camaros Governing the SEMA Show

    Furthermore, the software developed by Siemens, including the Solid Edge allows the Local Motor engineering team to move as fast as possible from concept vehicle to synchronized and flexible technology. And SABIC, the world leader in thermoplastic material solutions, provided all that is needed in order to created the body of LM3D Swim.

    From now on, the incredible and advanced technology will be incorporated into all models in LM3D series. Local Motors even partnered with IBM in order to create interactions between microfactory, 3D-printed automobiles. All these technologies will result in improved safety and efficiency.

    We all hope that the safety features will be not just improved, but will be the center of further innovative technologies.

    Source: Local Motors 

  • Alpha-N Performance Boosts Not One But Two Ferraris: the 488 GTB and California T

    Alpha-N Performance Ferrari 488 GTB Front ViewWhen a great car like the Ferrari 488 or the California T is enhanced by people who really love their work, like for instance the experts at Alpha-N Performance, the results are fantastic. Take par example the 488 GTB and the California T presented here.

    The revised California T debuted last year at the Geneva Motor Show and this spring it was joined by the 488 GTB. Common between them is the twin-turbo V8 engine, which is a subject of our interest today. The fact that the cars are powered by turbocharged engine means that it is more likable to see them ‘involved’ in tunings. Just like those two here.

    SEE ALSO: Alpha-N Performance and the BMW M2 Project

    Due to its additional power, they not only have more confident stance, but are proudly showing-off their bigger power and torque.

    As a matter of fact, the specialists at Alpha-N Performance are one of the first tuners to take advantage of this. Therefore they were also among the first to produce an EVOX performance ECU upgrade for 488 GTB’s and California T’s V8 unit.

    The Results?

    Alpha-N Performance Ferrari California T

    Let’s stop the teasing and reveal the actual additional numbers added to the output of both cars. 488 GTB’s horsepower was increased from 670 to 790 hp (493 to 581 kW), while the torque grew from 760 to 860 Nm (561to 635 lb-ft). The equivalent conversion for the Ferrari California T boosts the power output from 560 to 680 hp (412 to 500 kW), with peak torque lifted from 755 to 873 Nm (557 to 644 lb-ft).

    So that’s pretty nice, isn’t it?

    Source: Alpha-N Performance

  • A Big Review on the Gen Six Camaros Governing the SEMA Show

    Camaro Performance Concept Side ViewIf we think about what we were missing the most at this year’s SEMA show, it was definitely Chevy’s vehicles. The good news is that the company was extremely good represented at the event with not one but four customized concepts, which demonstrate the personalization and performance possibilities that the brand is offering. Of course, this comes to highlight the 2016 Camaro entering the dealerships across the country.

    Precisely, the modified quartet features a Summit White Chevrolet Performance concept, a heritage inspired Camaro Hyper concept, the Camaro Black concept, and the innovative Camaro Krypton concept. The good news is that of you have liked one of them, you will have the chance to order some of the elements in accessory packages in early 2016. The accessories are viewable online via the Camaro Visualizer.

    Camaro Performance Concept

    This Chevy is definitely dedicated to those keen on performance. The reason for this is because it utilizes new components like the performance air intake, exhaust system and a red engine cover. Not to mention the suspension-lowering kit and a Brembo front brake upgrade kit with six-piston calipers.

    SEE ALSO: Chevrolet Introduces Six Gen Camaro Accessories and Performance Parts

    Dressed in beautiful Summit White exterior color, the Camaro Performance Concept is accented with “Chevrolet Performance” and stripe graphics. Also visible is the blacked-out panel between the taillamps and the huge 20-inch alloys.

    Chevy Camaro Performance Concept

    Other cool features here include darkened taillamps, blade-style rear spoiler, front fascia extension, SS grille with red insert and black front and rear bowtie emblems. They all can be ordered from the Chevy Accessories store.

    The interior of the model also features some modifications like the contrasting Jet Black leather and accented with Chevrolet Accessories components. Accents were added via the Red Hot door accent trim, while the Chevrolet Performance-logo finds itself on the console armrest cover and floor mats as well as pedal covers and Jet Black suede knee pads.

    Camaro Hyper Concept

    Camaro Hyper Concept Side View

    Camaro Hyper makes a radical statement just with its Hyper Blue Metallic exterior. Just like the previous Camaro concept, this one has a contrasting cabin governed by Ceramic White interior. Inspired by the long heritage of the most beloved American brand, the car features white rally stripes and “Camaro” fender badges, as well as the rear spoiler from the RS package and 20-inch polished forged wheels.

    SEE ALSO: 1970 Chevrolet Camaro RS is Supercharging SEMA with its Crate LT4 Engine

    Additional exterior and interior accessories are the front fascia extension painted in body color, the LT upper and lower grilles with Silver Ice Metallic inserts, the blue engine cover and the black illuminated front bowtie emblem. Inside, the cabin is adorned by Ceramic White knee pads and contrast-making black interior Spectrum door trim lighting. Camaro’s logo can be seen on the armrest cover and floor mats. Suspension lowering kit and new performance exhaust round out the package.

    Camaro Black Concept

    Camaro Black Concept Side View

    Number three in our list is the blacked-out Camaro SS painted in Mosaic Black Metallic exterior color. The special thing about it is that it includes several custom exterior treatments such as hood vents in the same as exterior color, black-outlined SS badges, black-tinted windows, special Black Edition logos on the fenders, steering wheel and console cover as well as black 20-inch alloys.

    Chevrolet Accessories are also present here. Namely, the Ground effects kit, the darkened taillamps and rear blade spoiler, the black bowtie emblems, black interior Spectrum door trim lighting, Chevrolet Performance-logo floor mats with light grey edging as well as the black suede knee pads. In terms of performance parts we should mention the exhaust and air intake kits, ant the brake upgrade kit and suspension- lowering kit.

    Camaro Krypton Concept

    Camaro Krypton Concept Side VIew

    Last but not least is the Krypton Concept. In fact, it’s my favorite exterior among four.  Its paint scheme was inspired by the noble gas Krypton, which has the ability to illuminate fluorescent lights. Fluorescent green or Krypton Green is a custom hue developed specifically for this Gen Six SEMA concept.

    But that is not all; the concept is also adorned by Chevy’s special treatment. It includes RS package that adds 20-inch wheels, high-intensity discharge headlamps trimmed in green, darkened taillamps, unique upper and lower grilles and a rear spoiler. Standing lower to the ground, via the addition of a sportier kit, this Camaro looks sportier than ever. And have you spotted the dual-mode exhaust with custom-painted exhaust tips? How cool is that?

    In other words, we definitely feel satisfied from this year’s SEMA show line-up. Wonder what they have in mind for next year.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • Evora 400: Is It the Most Appealing Lotus Yet? [VIDEO]

    2016 Lotus Evora 400By far, the most powerful Lotus in production, the Lotus Evora 400 comes as superior as you have never expected from it. This beast is not only beautiful, but it is also flexible, mean and aggressive. So, let’s check it out!

    2016 Lotus Evora 400

    This sweetie is geared with fresh and powerful supercharged and charge-gooled mid-mounted 3.5-liter V6 unit that produces a total of 400hp (298kW) at 7,000rpm, which makes significant difference, compared to the old model that offers 345hp (253 kW), while the torque is increased to a total of 410Nm between 3,500 and 6,500rpm. I told you. This car is not only strikingly beautiful, but also strikingly powerful.

    SEE ALSO: Lotus 3-Eleven: Is it That Interesting or Is It Just Trying to Be?

    Furthermore, Evora 400 is with 42 kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the redesigned and completely aluminum chassis and restyled and changed lightweight components. The latest Lotus machine is comes also with even more beautiful exterior design. The well-known elegant, but still aggressive lines are present, along with that steadily-confident expression.

    2016 Lotus Evora 400

    The vehicle is extremely capable and flexible, thanks to the fresh and revised springs, damper settings, Limited Slip Differential and a downforce figure of 32 kg at 242km/h (150mph). In fact, this is one of the fastest vehicles in class A to B and now it offers sharper and more focused driving experience. But at the end, you should see for yourself. This video captures vehicle’s character, aggression and passion.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUZH13X5nA

    So, do you like it?

     

  • Vilner and their Mind-Blowing Tesla Model S [Before & After]

    Vilner Tesla Model S Exterior It was about time that the extremely professional tuning specialists at Vilner got their hands on vehicles like the Model S. The electric vehicle is one of the most coveted cars on the planet and one that can not be seen in our everyday life. And so are Vilner tunings. So wasn’t it just perfect for Vilner to finally customize a Model S? The answer is absolutely positive! Just see the results in the before an after pictures to make sure of that.

    The work on the car includes smooth but valuable changes throughout the exterior and prominent ones inside. And by the way, they perfectly blend with Tesla’s classic lines, flowing forms and design scheme, making it look like a more expensive trim level.

    Carbon Infused Exterior

    Vilner Tesla Model S Grille

    Some of the key changes have been made onto the front of the Model S, thus making it look more in harmony with its rear end. Precisely, the atelier has substituted the plastic parts in black piano varnish up front with elements made entirely from carbon composite.

    SEE ALSO: Art Studio Vilner Officially Opens Doors in Beijing

    To add even more harmony, Vilner equipped the Tesla with brand new carbon rearview mirrors, while at the same time changing the stock wheels with 19-inch alloys, which round out the athletic visual stance of the Model S.

    Red Passion Inside

    Vilner Tesla Model S Interior

    For the cabin, the tuner decided to count on the contrast, thus using a color design scheme in black and red. To go into details, the bright ceiling was wrapped in black Alcantara, which also covers the columns. The contrast is made via the bare crossbar of the glass roof, which is dressed in red Alcantara.

    The passionate red hue was also a main choice for the sun visors, the visor over the instrument display and the bottom of the V on the steering wheel. But the most prominent use of red is seen on the seats and door panels. Decorative stitching on both is just a prerequisite.

    There is even a functional improvement here: the extension of the front armrest. Since the standard one is not the best design idea, Vilner decided to stretch its horizontal surface with 12 cm. At last, the final touches are the black Alcantara on the seats and the royal burgundy seat belts. The bag made by the company is a stylish compliment that has been created with the same materials used for the making of car’s new upholstery. And isn’t this the perfect way to round out any tuning project, don’t you think?

    Source: Vilner 

  • 2016 TITAN XD Is Nissan’s Choice for Land Speed Record Event

    2016 Nissan TITAN XDShortly after being named the “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), the 2016 TITAN XD, geared with Cummins 5.0-liter V8 Turbo Diesel is the ideal, most flexible and trustworthy land speed record racer. Dubbed “Project Triple Nickel” as an homage to the stock TITAN XD’s titanic 555 lb.-ft. of torque, the one-of-a-kind truck was unveiled today at the 2015 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

    2016 Nissan TITAN XD

    “Project Triple Nickel” is a special collaboration project between Cummins and Nissan North America. Both brands currently employ land speed class record holders and both at Bonneville, along with the East Coast Timing Association that holds events in Wilmington, Ohio. All these employees, completely on a volunteer basis will help and guide the ongoing event, all with truck competing in the D/DT class (with current record of 191mph/343km/h), along with FIA class A-III-9 (115 mph/207km/h as a record).

    SEE ALSO: Nissan GT-R NISMO N-Attack Supported by STILLEN Makes Record at Nürburgring [VIDEO]

    As you might know, Cummins has a long and compelling history in land-speed  that first started back in 1931 on Daytona Beach and continued to the salty flats of Bonneville and airstrips of Wilmington, Ohio. And since then, Cummins became a symbol of durability, endurance and will. In later years, the spirit of the race has also been proven at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with off-shore racing, DAKAR rallies and numerous competitive pulling events that demonstrate the incredible characteristics and appearance of the Cummins DNA.

    2016 Nissan TITAN XD

    2016 TITAN XD

    Source: Nissan 

  • 2015 Mazda MX-5 Will be the Special Vehicle at Race of Remembrance

    Mazda Race of Remembrance Car The second running of the Race of Remembrance will witness Mission Motorsport once again. The event will be honored with a special motorsport event at the Anglesey circuit in North Wales. His year’s race will embrace a battle between 45 teams and a track of 1000km around the well-known Welsh circuit. Being sponsored by Mazda UK, the event will take place in aid of Mission Motorsport: a charity campaign that uses motorsport events to provide respite, rehab and vocational support for people who are affected by military operations.

    There will be professional races, as well as amateur events and even races for wounded servicemen. The show starts at 4.00pm on Saturday with vehicles racing until 7.00pm. And at 10.45a, there will be a special motorsport convention that will take a back seat with the vehicles heading into the pits in preparation for service of remembrance lead by a military padre.

    SEE ALSO: SEMA-Bound Mazda MX-5 Concepts are Centered on Lightweight Design

    And at exactly 11.00am the Anglesey circuit will fall silent to remember and honor the fallen. An once the ceremony is finished, this whole event will continue from where it has started: race until the finish at 3:30mp.

    Mazda Race of Remembrance Car

    And as in the previous event, Mazda UK will proudly be associated with the Race of Remembrance. Mazd3 Safety vehicle will be vehicle to start and control the whole event with a poppy Art Car livery, especially designed by Mission Motorsport. There will also be a private team Roddisons Motorsport that will debut their self-build 2.0-liter all-new Mazda MX-5.

    Mazda Race of Remembrance Car

    With such an event that includes supercars, rock concert, Formula One demonstration, the Race of Remembrance will be much more than just racing.

    Source: Mazda 

  • This Toyota Sienna R-Tuned Concept Outpaces the Camaro SS?

    Toyota Sienna R-Tuned Concept Front ViewBelieve it or not, this Toyota Sienna R-Tuned Concept equipped with its stock engine and transmission can outpace the powerful Camaro SS. The minivan was specifically modified for the SEMA Show in order to attract the public with its almost unbelievable capabilities. But who needs to turn a Sienna minivan into a performance vehicle? The answer: Toyota Technical Center and the specialists at championship-winning performance shop DG-Spec.

    If you wonder about the reason for the creation of this strange project, well it was the challenge. The challenge to do the unexpected. It seems far easier to make an LFA supercar go fast around a racetrack, but no one expects to see a Sienna coming.

    SEE ALSO: Toyota Back to the Future Mirai Concept or Who Brought the Outdated Gullwings Back?  

    Both parties have modified the stock Sienna SE “Swagger Wagon” and made it look and perform bad-ass crazy! They have added brand new performance tires, wheels, brakes, double-adjustable shocks with racing springs, and a clutch-type limited-slip differential. These additional parts deliver radically enhanced performance of the vehicle.

    Toyota Sienna R-Tuned Concept and Drivers

    And can you believe that as a result, the concept, powered by its serial 3.5-liter V6 engine mated with a six-speed automatic, outpaces even the 6.2-liter V8 Camaro SS on the test track? A strong proof is that at the Streets of Willow Springs the concept turned a blistering 1:27 lap time, sailing past the 6.2-liter V8 Camaro by a full second around the 1.7-mile sports car course.
    What is more, the Sienna R-Tuned can not only be driven by a professional driver. Casual drivers also tested the car and they were truly surprised at how easy it is to drive. In fact, people felt more confident and more in control behind the steering wheel.

    If this seems intriguing to you, then you can see the Sienna R-Tuned concept at the SEMA show until tomorrow. Toyota’s booth is #24700 and it is located in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

    Source: Toyota

  • Nissan GT-R NISMO N-Attack Supported by STILLEN Makes Record at Nürburgring [VIDEO]

    Nissan GT-R NISMO N-Attack  Side ViewAs you might have heard #2015SEMA is happening in Las Vegas at the moment. The event will carry on until tomorrow, so if you happen to be there go and visit it. I promise you won’t be sorry. One of the reasons for going there, especially if you are car-fanatic, is the presence of the special Nissan GT-R NISMO N Attack Package. I have already spoken about it, but the surprise here is that this car is equipped with a variety of dedicated optional parts for the GT-R all made by STILLEN.

    The special pack comprises of unique and dedicated parts that were developed through the time attack project at Nürburgring in Germany. There, the Nissan GT-R NISMO recorded a time of 7 minutes 8.679 seconds, which is the fastest recorded time for a volume production vehicle. Everything was taped and you can watch the GT-R Time Attack making the record in the video below.

    SEE ALSO: Nissan GT-R NISMO N-Attack Package Debuts at SEMA Show 

    Nissan GT-R NISMO N-Attack  Wing

    So, basically, the NISMO N Attack Package was developed specifically to achieve maximum speed. Its aerodynamics is better due to the necessity for superior down-force. In addition, the suspension was improved even further so it can handle the punishing road surface full of undulations and turbulent fluctuations. The car also includes full bucket seats that are necessary for maintaining the best driving position.

    And if you have a GT-R already, then you should not wait any longer, but contact STILLEN. The company is official installer and certified sales agency of these parts. And let me tell you a secret: in order to receive the certification for NISMO N Attack Package, STILLEN was trained at the NISMO Omori Factory in Japan. There, its specialists were taught all the techniques required for special assembly processes, servicing and maintenance for each N Attack Package.

    Make sure to check out the videos below:

    httpv://youtu.be/t1wsRC0zE7g

    httpv://youtu.be/sNAT_c3CLHw

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Nissan