Auto News – Page 273 – Automobiles Review

Yamaha Sports Ride Concept

2015 Yamaha Sports Ride Concept Yamaha Motor participated to the 44th Tokyo Motor Show 2015 with the booth “Resonate. The Yamaha Motor Product Orhestra”. The well-known brand demonstrated numerous futuristic and stunning vehicles, including six premiere models. And visitors could also see Yamaha’s “growing world of personal mobility” depicted by the one-of-a-kind Yamaha products that include electrically power assisted bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, Learning Multi-Wheelers, Recreational Off-highway Vehicle and of course automobiles. Stunning automobiles. The creative “symphony” of distinctive and contemporary vehicles definitely had its chance to demonstrate what the Yamaha team is capable of. And there is one particular vehicle that caught our eye. The Sports Ride Concept.

With stunning design and futuristic lines, the unique Yamaha vehicle demonstrates an interesting engineering approach. This time the team decided to put the active feeling of riding a motorcycle into a vehicle with sporty visuals, character, appearance and performance. Just like the MOTIV that was displayed at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013, this sweetie employs the iStream process and is especially created to express the one-of-a-kind driver-machine relationship. But this time with a bit of motorcycle feel. How cool is that? Furthermore, everyone can see how the engineers devoted to the small and intricate components and high-quality details. It really looks like they were inspired by the importance of each individual component.

2015 Yamaha Sports Ride Concept

Source: Yamaha

October 29, 2015

Toyota Demonstrated Its Achievements at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show

2015 Toyota S-FR Concept The ever-seeking for perfection Toyota team recently renewed its passion and sense of beauty and technology with the numerous new stock and concept vehicles released. And when it comes to unique conceptual rides, Toyota is second to none. At the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the well-known manufacturer demonstrated some of its most notable vehicles. Among them was the S-FR sport concept and the next-gen Prius Hybrid: both machines demonstrate passion for beauty and versatility.

Other unique vehicle that made its global debut is the Kikai Concept, also known as the missing link between human and machine. This is also a vehicle that impresses with its advanced fuel cell technology, efficiency and driver-oriented technology.

2015 Toyota Kikai Concept

The Tokyo audience also saw the special Land Cruiser 70 Series that takes part in the well-known 20,000km ride around Australia that involved both engineers and other employees.

Definitely motivated to bring us more and more powerful, contemporary and even futuristic vehicles Toyota team stays true to its nature of one of the best and most reliable vehicle manufacturers in the world. And with the recent demonstrations, along with the Tokyo Motor Show the well-known team strengthened its positions even more.

Toyota FCV Plus Concept

2016 Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell

2016 Toyota Prius

But we all still wonder: are these sweeties really that functional, or are just they only a part of a sci-fi movie?

Source: Toyota

October 29, 2015

CivicX Imagines 2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype

2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype was revealed in the famous Civic CivicX.com forum. The pictures have been created by the digital artist Damian, who has been inspired after seeing the recently released spy shots of the car. What Damian has done is to peel off the camouflage wrapping of the next Type R. The result is spectacular and we couldn’t help but publish it straight away.As CivicX says, the spy photos were ‘deciphered’ and they depict Type R’s lines and styling elements as they are going to be in production form. In fact, the result is said to be extremely close to what the production car is going to look like.

Very intriguing seems to be the new front fenders, which let us think that they could be used to draw hot air from the engine. Or should they provide extra cooling for the rubbers? Spy shots of the car also suggest that it has 3-outlet exhaust. So, are we going to expect more loudly sound coming from it? Well, we should have to wait until the production release and then to press the +R button to get the real impression.And how about the output? Of course, everything has been kept in secret but we definitely expect to see more horsepower in comparison to Type R’s current one. Speaking of which, it comes out from a 4-cyllinder 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, producing 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm and torque of 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).2017 Honda Civic Type R hatchback is going to be based on the tenth generation Honda’s global platform. Its production is going to start at company’s UK plant in 2017.

October 29, 2015

James Bond SPECTRE: Vehicles Revealed

Jaguar Range Rover Vehicles Jaguar Land Rover finally announced the North American debut of the lineup of vehicles that will feature in the latest James Bond movie, SPECTRE. This is the 24th movie about the world’s most famous spy and we all love the series for two things: the beautiful women and the incredible vehicles in every Bond movie. So, let’s see what Jaguar land Rover has to offer.

Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR and Land Rover Defender will be showcased at the 2015 Jaguar Land Rover British Academy Britannia Award, October 30, 2015 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Academy Britannia Awards celebrates the achievements of the outstanding contribution to excellence and exclusivity, not only for the automobile world, but also for the entertainment industry. What impresses the Academy is excellence in film, directing and of course, the entertainment rate.

Furthermore, for November the Jaguar C-X75 will be on sight at the Los Angeles launch of “The Art of Performance Tour: Lights. Camera. Drive”. As we have told you, this is a seven-city cross-country tour that introduces the Jaguar XE model to the market and encourages customers to see the full 2016/2017 lineup that includes and the recently demonstrated Jaguar F-PACE, the brand’s first luxury SUV vehicle.

Both vehicles appear in the latest James Bond movie: the C-X75 will be demonstrated in one-of-a-kind James-Bond-styled car chase, along the Aston Martin DB10. On the other hand, the recently introduced Land Rover Defender and Range Rover Sport SVR will also take part in the high-pace action movie.

You also may know that Jaguar and Land Rover have been involved in numerous Bond movies. And recently, back in 2012, the special Defender 110 Double Cap Pick Up was tamed by field agent Eve Moneypenny in the opening sequence to SKYFALL.

The television premiere of the 2015 Jaguar Land Rover Awards is on Friday, November 6. The event will also be broadcasted in Europe, Latin America, Canada, South Africa and Asia.

Are you excited about the latest Bond movie? Which one of the whole series is your favorite?

Source: Jaguar Land Rover

October 29, 2015

Kia Goes Bad For SEMA with Forte Koup Mud Bogger

Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger Front View Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger is one of the six custom vehicles that the company is going to present at the SEMA Show this year. The ‘car’ looks like it is chasing adventures and this definitely intrigues us, because Kia said that each of the hand-built concepts showcases unique geographic regions found throughout the country.

This of course has its aim and it is to show the variety of car cultures that define America’s way of looking at automobiles. If you wonder which part of the US is representing the Forte Koup Mud Bogger, we should immediately tell you that it is the wild American South. But you probably have already figured this, since the image depicts the inexplicable joy of getting dirty on all fours.

And even with a single look at this unique Koup, we can surely say that it can tackle any extreme terrain. This is because of its huge four-inch body and suspension lift as well as the gigantic 28-inch off-road rubbers.

It is necessary to add that to accommodate the massive wheel and tire combination, Kia has widened the fenders and side skirts and added extra riveted fender flares. Another cool thing about this Bogger is that it features rather luxurious panoramic roof with a vinyl pushback top. This is how the sun can shine over the stripped-down interior where the carpet has been removed and the entire floor has been lined with Line-X protective coating.

How about the stock seats? They have all been replaced with two Sparco Evo II Red Race Seats and hand-built roll cage in powder coated white. To sum up, the Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger is definitely for those looking for off-road fun that will take them to a road less traveled.

Source: Kia

October 29, 2015

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Revealed at 44th Tokyo Motor Show

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle has been just unveiled at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show. Since Honda is the pioneer of hydrogen fuel cell technology, it was about time to make a step forward regarding this ‘eco’-matter. The next generation car previews best-in-class range comparable to fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The good news is that even though the model has just made its Japanese debut, it will be also distributed in selected European markets next year.

In short, the car incorporates company’s latest and most advanced technologies. As a matter of fact, this is world’s first production fuel cell powered sedan that houses entire fuel cell stack and drivetrain system instead of normal engine and transmission.

Furthermore, the Clarity Fuel Cell also has space for five persons, meaning that the size of the fuel cell stack and the power generation unit have been minimized via advanced technologies to the V6 engine’s size. The output of the car is also comparable to a V6 one, and it measures 177 hp (130 kW).

The high-pressure tank inside of the car stores hydrogen gas at 70 MPa. This in turn increases the mass of the hydrogen that can be stored and extending the range of the vehicle. When you have in mind that it is coupled with the efficient powertrain and vehicle’s energy consumption is reduced that you can also make the conclusion that the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves rather excellent vehicle range per full tank of over 700 km (435miles). And the best part is that it only takes three minutes to fill the tank.

Design of Clarity Fuel Cell

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Interior

Next to the 177 hp, this car also has stunning appearance. Clarity Fuel Cell’s exterior has strong aerodynamic profile, full-LED headlights up front and sharp, slender profile highlighted by the 18-inch alloys.

Inside, the hydrogen sedan combines its advanced atmosphere with refined atmosphere. The driver for instance enjoys advanced interface, which utilizes Honda’s design principles of instant recognition and intuitive control. As mentioned, the interior is simple and spacious, and includes premium materials that will make sure that the occupant’s experience is at its best.

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is going to be launched in limited number in European markets next year. The hydrogen car is scheduled to be commercially available in Japan from early 2016.

Fuel cell technical specifications:

Length (mm)	4,895
Width (mm)	1,875
Height (mm)	1,475
Occupants	5
Range per full tank (km)	Over 7001
Refuelling time	Approx. 3 minutes
Maximum fuel cell output (kW)	Over 100
Fuel stack output density (kW/L)	3.1
Maximum motor output (kW)	130
Maximum hydrogen tank pressure (MPa)	70
Energy storage method	Lithium-ion battery

Source: Honda

October 29, 2015

Performance & Distinctive Style: Greet the Latest Porsche Macan GTS

Porsche Macan GTS Front View Porsche Macan GTS in its latest form has just been revealed. The exclusive vehicle comes with increased performance, upgraded chassis and characteristic style. In short, the sports SUV has received re-engineered chassis, and an additional 20 hp for its engine. In addition, its brakes have been improved and they will definitely speak to those who are keen on dynamic driving. Some of the latest styling highlights feature GTS motifs. Here are the details.

Performance

Under the hood of this Porsche sleeps the 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V6 engine that we know from the Macan S and the Macan Turbo. It has been aided with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) seven-speed transmission and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) that sends distribution the power to all four wheels. As a result we have 360 hp and 500 Nm of torque coming out from a new sports exhaust system.

Therefore, Macan GTS is capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in only 5.2 seconds. If you want faster results, then you have to add the available Sport Chrono package, which will reduced this time to 5.0 seconds. The top speed is limited to 160 mph. This of course is balanced by fuel economy of up to 31.4 mpg/combined and CO2emissions of 212 g/km.

Chassis

The details here include tuned Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) that lowers the car by 15mm. New wheels are obligatory and they come in size of 20-inch and in the RS Spyder design in matt black.

Interior

Porsche Macan GTS Interior

The cabin is definitely luxurious. It features ‘GTS’ sport seats with Alcantara centre panels as well as additional Alcantara interior trim. Not to mention the floor mats and the multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles. Making a debut in the Macan model is the new Porsche Communication Management with a touch-screen monitor. The satellite navigation is optional as is the Connect Plus module.

Exterior

Porsche Macan GTS Rear View

The special looks of the Macan GTS are attributed to its exterior accents in black. They include high gloss above the waistline and in a lustrous matt finish in the lower areas of the body. The optional Sport Design styling package comes in GTS-specific coloring, while the LED headlights are offered for the first time on a Macan. They also have to be specified.

Porsche Macan GTS has a starting price of £55,188.

Source: Porsche

October 28, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Releases More Details for the Vision Tokyo Concept

2015 Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo Vision Tokyo is the latest and greatest experience, provided by Mercedes-Benz. This is machine with a monolithic structure, futuristic design and stunningly comfortable lounge ambience. Efficient, beautiful and versatile, this vehicle can even drive autonomously. But at the same time, the innovative five-seater continues the design concept of the Vision Enter-G-Force, AMG Vision Gran Turismo and G-Code.

The Vision Tokyo is a homage to the urban Generation Z, the cohort of people who were born after 1995. These are indeed the young men and women that feel the latest media technology is not only an extra to their life, but it is part of it. And this is why the Vision Tokyo Concept is not just a vehicle that is used to get passengers around, but it is also a digital computer that will be the perfect companion for young people. And with the provided Deep Machine Learning and Intelligent Predictive Engine, the journey whit this vehicle will be familiar and intriguing at the same time.

2015 Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo

As you can see, the Vision Tokyo Concept adopts different approach. The surface and lines are illuminated in blue, along with the 26-inch wheels and the side skirts. And instead of conventional windscreen, the Concept offers a continuous stretch of glass panelling. It is similar to the glazed cockpit of a powerboat. Furthermore, the area across the front of the vehicle can be used to display series of numerous functions. For example, if music is played, it will visualize a sound pattern. The rear window is set between red LED cubes and once again there is a special LED field that can be put into use: an indicator or as a part of analyser function.

The dimensions of the vehicle are similar to those of a mid-series vehicle. It offers space for up to five passengers and the interior is accessed via special upward-swinging door on the left-hand side.

And of course, in case the Vision Tokyo should be controlled manually, there is seat facing in the direction of travel and can be released from the centre of the couch at the front. The steering wheel has also that “stand by” function and appears and disappears when required.

2015 Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo

And let’s check out the drivetrain system. The Vision Tokyo comes with special fuel cell technology, based on the F-CELL PLUG-In HYBRID of the F 015 Luxury in Motion and blends the on-board generation of electricity with powerful, yet compact high-voltage battery. The electric hybrid syste can go to up to 980 kilometers. The battery alone can drive you for about 190 kilometers, which means the fuel cell is capable of going about 790 km. How cool is that?

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 28, 2015

Mazda Unveils Tokyo-Bound RX-VISION Concept

Mazda RX-VISION Concept Side View Mazda RX-VISION Concept is one of the main attractions at the Tokyo Motor Show. The car previews the future plans of the brand in terms of design end engine technology. Since Mazda is creating one of the most attractive cars nowadays, just looking at the pictures of this incredibly beautiful car, and you’ll know why we are really looking forward to the implementation of it’s design in the future.

SKYACTIV-R Rotary Engine

Believe it or not, the most exciting thing about this vehicle is not its shape and color, but its powertrain. The RX-VISION is powered by the next-generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine. In fact, Mazda sees new potential in the powerplant that is ‘synonymous with the brand’ as it states. In other words, the engine is built over an unconventional technology that is one of the most compelling symbols of the carmaker’s challenger spirit.

The front-engine unit is exquisitely proportioned, it drives the rear-wheels and as Mazda says, it ‘represents a “vision” of the future that could only come from Mazda’. You might ask what is so special about the rotary engines. They are unique because they generate power through the rotational motion of triangular rotors. For comparison, the conventional engines have reciprocating pistons.

Mazda RX-VISION Concept Interior

Mazda has already used rotary power in the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967 and then in Mazda RX-7, which was the most successful model produced between 1978 and 2002, and with 800 000 units sold.

Now, with the new rotary engine, called SKYACTIV-R, the carmaker expresses its determination and aim to delivering its customers convention-defying technology and an uncompromising SKYACTIV experience behind the wheel.

And if you happen to be in Tokyo, go see the RX-VISION Concept. Tokyo Motor Show opens for public visits from 30 October to 8 November.

Source: Mazda

October 28, 2015

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept & WRX STI S207 Debut in Tokyo

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept Front view Subaru has debuted today not one but two cars: the Impreza 5-Door Concept and the Japan-only WRX STI S207 limited edition. The little sad fact here is that the S207 is intended for Japanese public, as mentioned above. Follow my thoughts and you’ll know why.

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept

Let’s start with the concept vehicle. It is an example how the company is envisioning its next generation Impreza and the design of its future vehicles in general. First, the car is as functional as we can expect it to be. This of course does not hamper it from delivering the best possible aerodynamic performance while blending form with function.

The contemporary styling of the vehicle is further emphasized via the luminous silver exterior color. In addition, the design study also exhibits a wide and low stance, which is one of the innate qualities of the brand.

New is the hexagonal grille, while the concept’s front combination lamps exhibit a bold reinterpretation of company’s famous ‘hawk-eye’ headlights. The clean lines of the design of the car extend from the front wheel arch to the rear shoulders. The form of the front and rear lights express a powerful, modern look, with the sharp lines, thus enhancing the sporty silhouette of the concept.

Subaru WRX STI S207 Limited Edition

Subaru WRX STI S207 Limited Edition Front and Rear View

As I have said earlier it is really sad to know that the WRX STI S207 Limited Edition is going to be limited to the Japanese market. Just 400 units will be produced of it. It is built over the WRX STI sports saloon, but includes specially-tuned engine with a higher power output that has been rated now to 328 PS.

As you can expect, this vehicle is super-quick, and features the well-known for Subaru precise handling. Speaking of which, it has been modified through the adoption of a quicker steering ratio of 11.0:1, developing the involving and immediate character of the WRX STI. The front bumper design has been upgraded as well and the S207 also features larger rear spoiler. Unfortunately, Subaru has no plans to bring the special edition to United States or Europe.

Source: Subaru

October 28, 2015

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

2015 Lexus LF-FC Concept Lexus unveiled the special LF-FC Concept vehicle at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show and demonstrated its future plans for concept, technology and design. The vehicle comes with high output fuel cell system and special rear-wheel-drive system. All the innovative technologies incorporated in the LF-FC Concept do contribute for high torque distribution, along with dynamic handling and neat stability.

The LF-FC features and sweet styling theme, incorporating the Lexus “L-finesse” design philosophy. The styling package also includes and especially created grille with unique design and floating “L-shape” daytime running lights. The rear further catches the eye with redesigned taillights that adopt the same “L-shape” theme, while the dynamic 21-inch aluminum wheels with carbon-fiber elements fulfill the exotic looks of the car.

On the other hand, the interior is especially designed to offer a comfortable and yet futuristic environment. But along with the comfort, the cockpit is also functional and driver-focused. In fact, the cabin is designed in two sections, top and bottom. The front seats are especially designed to appear to be floating, while the rear ones offer ample head and knee space for relaxation.

2015 Lexus LF-FC Concept

And along with the beautiful interior design, the Concept comes with advanced interface that can be operated with simple hand gestures. There are small and sweet holographic images on the centre console indicates how the system understands the gestures and also offers reprogramming them.

2015 Lexus LF-FC Concept

Furthermore, the LF-FC machine also features advanced automatic driving technologies that include elevated traffic environment recognition, prediction and judgment function and numerous more.

Definitely, this concept went beyond the ordinary design and technology. Lexus team really tried its best to deliver us a vehicle that will demonstrate how the future will look like.

2015 Lexus LF-FC Concept

Source: Lexus

October 28, 2015

Nissan IDS Concept Shows a Glimpse of the Future!

2015 Nissan IDS Concept Today, at the Tokyo Motor Skow 2015, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled the special concept that embodies Nissan’s visions for the future: the zero emission, autonomous driving Nissan IDS Concept. After countless hours of improving the EV technology, the engineering team finally achieved its goal. The vehicle comes with advanced control and safety technologies, along with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. So, let’s check out this sweetie in details.

Nissan IDS Concept experience

Many view the future of autonomous drive to be a sort of driving from point A to point B without some extravagant and intricate maneuvers, but Nissan team doesn’t think so. This Concept will go for even higher goals: to mimic driver’s manners and offer a driving experience just like his own. So, is it possible?

Even with the latest tech devices, the Concept still offers and Manual Drive mode. It offers linear and smooth acceleration and excellent flexibility. But behind the scenes, the special vehicle continues to provide some assistance and it “learns” at the same time. The EV is ready to take the control over itself, when it is exposed to danger, for example, or when it has to communicate with the driver. Furthermore, the IDS will give any useful information for the traffic conditions and personal interest.

Interior

2015 Nissan IDS Concept

Even being a hatchback, the Nissan IDS Concept offers long wheelbase that provides comfortable seating space and offers even more space when the pilot mode is engaged. This is the special mode that makes the steering wheel to go inside the central console and being replaced by a big flat screen. Yep, it sounds like the future already. But being a hi-tech place, doesn’t ultimately mean it is not comfortable and pleasurable place. The cabin is comprised with mesh leather, all the seats rotate slightly inwards and you will feel as you are relaxing in the living room. How cool is that?

And when the driver selects the Manual Mode, the interior one more time transforms and all the seats face forward. The steering wheel appears along with all the additional driving controls, along with a special heads-up display.

Exterior

2015 Nissan IDS Concept

Even though it is a tough task to make people fully trust the technology itself, Nissan tried its best. Along with the innovative communication capabilities, the vehicle will make you confident and relaxed the moment you enter the vehicle. But what about the exterior? There are numerous lights and illuminated signals. The vehicle also demonstrates sweet and beautiful body line that is actually a LED that Nissan team named Intention Indicator. When there are pedestrians coming near the machine, the strip shines white, which means it is aware of them.

The height of the full carbon fiber body is 1,380mm, while the positioning the tires close to the corners maximazes the interior space. The vehicle is geared with large-diameter wheels for high performance, but still smooth drive.

The high-tech units

2015 Nissan IDS Concept

Nissan IDS Concept is geared with 60 kWh battery and thanks to the aerodynamics, low stance and reduced weight the car meets all requirements for long-distance runs. Nissan also incorporated Piloted Pack technology that can be operated with smart phone or tablet.

So, it looks like Nissan strikes one more time. Beautiful, contemporary and flexible. Definitely a vehicle from the future.