Auto News – Page 285 – Automobiles Review

MINI Announces Details for the 2016 Clubman

MINI USA announced details for the latest 2016 MINI Clubman. This is by far the most spacious and versatile MINI and it is the first MINI to enter the compact premium segment. This model is both longer and wider than its predecessors and offers premium quality components and exceptional craftsmanship.

And like every MINI vehicle, this sweetie will be offered with special bundle packages. This means that customers can decide for which features they will pay. And this has one more positive side: buyers won’t be forced to pay higher amount of money for equipment that they will not use. Smart, right?

The latest MINI Clubman will also feature a number of special upholsteries that have been crafted especially for this vehicle, including the smooth-grained Indigo blue-dyed leather with diamond stitching in the pattern of classic English Chesterfield sofas and rich Burgundy leather with the eco Dinamica trim. Classy and environmentally friendly. Now that’s a contemporary vehicle.

As you might know, the MINI Clubman will be powered by BMW’s three- and four-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology engines and with all the trims are geared with efficient six-speed manual gearbox as a standard feature. But if customers are still not satisfied, the Cooper S variant can be geared with optional 8-speed automatic or 8-speed sport automatic system with paddle shifters.

The standard equipment for the latest Clubman will also include MINI Connected infotainment system with 6.5-inch display, leather-wrapped three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, dual zone automatic climate control, keyless ignition, 12-color ambient interior lightning, 16-inch forged alloy wheels and carbon black leatherette upholstery.

On the other hand, the Cooper S will offer MINI Connected infotainment system with 6.5-inch display, 17-inch forged alloy wheels, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, MINI Driving models with Green, Mid and Sport settings, dual-zone automatic climate control and more.

The Clubman will go on sale in January 2016 across the US, but the most impatient customers can already preorder the Clubman.

Source: MINI

September 28, 2015

Renault Clio Iconic Comes With Passion and Elegance

Renault Clio Iconic Based on the Intens equipment level, the latest Clio Iconic model comes with additional features for personalization that include even roof and door mirror housing decals. This same idea has been carried over the cabin where it is visible and on the air vents, door trims and carpet mats to finish that beautiful and cozy affair.

Meanwhile, the Clio’s exterior design has been further enhanced with the addition of gloss black B-pillar and lower rear light trims, plus black diamond-effect 17-inch Drenalic alloy wheels and body-color side protective mouldings.

Renault Clio Iconic

On the other hand, the interior comes with additional features like heated and enveloping front seats, leather upholstery, aluminum door sill guards and satin-finish chrome inserts that contribute to the whole chic and elegant feel. Furthermore, the driver is granted with a special full-grain leather-trimmed steering wheel and Zamac gear level knob for the manual version. And the standard equipment also includes Medianav Evolution multimedia system and rear camera. Cool, right?

The Clio Iconic can also be ordered with petrol or diesel power. And there are a total of four body colors that customers can choose among Etoilé Black, Cassiopée Grey and Platine Grey.

Renault Clio Iconic

Furthermore, the vehicle offers these features as it comes to style: specific roof decals, body color door protection mouldings, black diamond-effect 17-inch Drenalic alloy wheels, specific door mirror housing, specific air vents and door trims, glossy black B-pillar and lower rear light trims and much more.

Source: Renault

September 28, 2015

Renault Launches a Limited Run of the Successful Captur Model

2015 Renault Captur Hypnotic Recently, Renault Captur gained some incredible popularity in France that resulted on 44,000 exceeded units. This number demonstrates that this sweet SUV has 31 percent better benefits from market, compared to 2014. And with this success in mind, Renault team has further extended model’s range in France with the addition of the limited edition Captur Hypnotic.

This baby comes elegant vision, redesigned cabin with mixture of leather and Alantara upholstery and with heated front seats, while the exterior catches the eye with the special Cappuccino Brown finish with two-tone color scheme. Sweet, right?

2015 Renault Captur Hypnotic

Based on the model’s Intens equipment level, the limited edition Captur Hypnotic comes with extended list of personalization, exterior and interior trim additions: 17-inch Cappuccino diamon-effect alloy wheels, exclusive Cappuccino Brown body color, Hypnotic badging, smoke grey leather, splendour-tinted chrome interior components, two-tone smoke grey and black dashboard and door panels and smoke grey centre armset.

And like the rest of the model’s lineup, the limited Hypnotic can be further reshaped to fit the personality of the owner. The standard version comes with a two-tone Ivory finish and Cappuccino Brown roof. But the vehicle can also be ordered with a Cappuccino Brown roof and Cendre Bige, Cassiope Grey or Etoile Black.

2015 Renault Captur Hypnotic

And when it comes to drivetrain options, the Captur Hypnotic is available with all the powerplants that are available for this model’s catalogue.

Source: Renault

September 28, 2015

WIMMER Rennsporttechnik and the Mighty Mercedes-AMG C63 S

WIMMER RST Mercedes-AMG C63 S Front View Mercedes-AMG C63 S is once again featured in our news today. The first time we have seen its horses boosted with 100 hp by PP-Performance. Now, the car in its touring variant has been customized by the experts at WIMMER Rennsporttechnik, who did not only uprated its horsepower but also added some tweaks here and there.

Software Optimization

If you have read the previous article, then you should also know that the Mercedes-AMG C63 S comes with stocks 510 HP (375 kW) and 700Nm (517 lb-ft) of maximum torque. WIMMER RST decided to do a software optimization and added some helpful equipment, thus achieving a total power of 640 HP (471 kW).

And this s far better (+130HP) than the additional 100HP that PP-Performance has added to their variant of the C63 S.

Additional Equipment

WIMMER RST Mercedes-AMG C63 S Rear and Side View

New sports exhaust system has been also added. Here, the sports cat and Y-pipe as well as the electronic valve command are optional. Besides full sportive sound, there is also a power uprating included. How cool is that!

New wheels are a prerequisite for the extra power. Hence, the tuners decided to equip this Mercedes with BBS type CH rims of the dimension of 19 inches. They were then matched with suitable sport tires. In addition, KW delivered brand new coilovers, ensuring speedily cornering and perfect road holding.

Source: WIMMER Rennsporttechnik

September 28, 2015

Porsche Exclusive Releases Limited 911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition [VIDEO]

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition is going to be built by Porsche Exclusive in only 25 units. The saddest news is that it will be distributed in North America only. The car was revealed at the annual gathering at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Rennsport Reunion Edition uses as a basis the 911 Carrera GTS which produces 430 hp (316 kW). And here are the differences from the standard model:

Exterior

This special edition 911 Carrera GTS features custom Fashion Grey exterior color. In addition, it is also characterized by decorative black and red decals, which cover the front hood, the roof, and the rear decklid. At the sides, driver’s and passenger’s doors are decorated with black and red decals and they also include company’s logotype.

The wheels measure 20-inch and are Sport Classic model painted in high-gloss black. The same finish has been applied to the lower exterior trim of the side mirrors as well as the satellite radio antenna. LED headlights in black including PDLS Plus round out the black accents on the exterior.

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition Front View Close look

Interior

The cabin of the 911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition looks as exclusive as it interior. It features carbon fiber dashboard trim above the glove compartment as well as the illuminated carbon door-sill guards. The interior package also adds SportDesign steering wheel, door panel trim, dashboard trim, floor mats, and the GTS logo on the headrests. They have been all stitched in Carmine Red. The same color can be also seen on the central tachometer and the seat belts.

Furthermore, the center compartment lid is embossed with the Rennsport Reunion V logo. Other special appointments are Fashion Grey painted vehicle key and a leather key pouch featuring Carmine Red accents as well as “911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition” lettering.

Drivetrain

The engine of this limited edition is mated with a manual transmission. There is also the option of an automatic one, of course. The 3.8 liter flat-six unit produces 430 hp (316 kW), making it possible for the Porsche to run from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and onto a top track speed of 190 mph.

If you are from those lucky 25 North Americans, then you should also know that along with everything mentioned so far, you will also get as a standard with this Porsche the following: 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats Plus, PASM Sport Suspension, a Bose Audio Package and Rear Park Assist. 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Rennsport Reunion Edition is currently on sale on a base price of $148,335 USD.

httpv://youtu.be/NtXgVRUQegc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Porsche

September 28, 2015

Mercedes-AMG GT S and C63 S With Extra 100HP by PP-Performance

PP-Performance Mercedes-AMG GT S and Mercedes-AMG C63 S Front and Side View PP-Performance and Fostla.de showed us an exquisitely tuned Audi safety car exactly three days ago. Now the tuners at PP-Performance have prepared something, which has impressed us very much again. This time they did not modify only one car, but under their customization were two Mercedes-AMG beauties. The first one is C63 S and the second – even better, the GT S model. There is nothing much done here, except for the breath-taking work on the engine.

By the way, the engine under the hood of both cars is Mercedes-Benz 4.0 liters V8 biturbo unit. And we must also remind you that this powertrain is actually AMG’s variant. However, the specialists at PP-Performance weren’t that happy with the output, so let’s see what they have managed to achieve.

Mercedes-AMG C63 S: Before and After

Mercedes-AMG C63 S Front and Side View

As a standard the Mercedes-AMG C63 S produces no less than 510HP (375 kW) of power, 700Nm (517 lb-ft) of maximum torque. They come out from the 3,982 cm³ sized C-class engine. The top speed has been production limited to 250 kmph (155mph), while the sprint form 0 to 100 km/h has been estimated 4.0 seconds.

After the chip tuning, PP-Performance managed giving this Mercedes more than 100HP in addition. Precisely, the car is now capable to put out on the road 613HP (451 kW) and 769 Nm (568 lb-ft) of torque. The Vmax was also changed and it is now 307 kmph (190 mph), while the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h is a little bit better, 3.59 seconds.

Mercedes-AMG GT S: Before and After

PP-Performance Mercedes-AMG GT S Front and Side View

The standard V8 unit in the GT S class produces the following serial values: 510 HP (375 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft). Its top speed is 310 kmph (192 mph), while the sprint form 0 to 100 km/h has been measured 3.8 seconds. After the chip tuning, the specialists achieved 610 HP (449 kW) of power with 765 Nm (565 lb-ft) of maximum torque, 324 kmph (201 mph) of Vmax and 3.40 seconds for the above-mentioned sprint.

And if you want even more, PP-Performance is offering another extra 33 HP with the help of new racing filter, catless kit and engine characteristics optimization.

Source: PP-Performance

September 28, 2015

SKODA Octavia RS 230 Comes With Even More Sporty Additions!

SKODA OCTAVIA RS 230 Shortly after demonstrating the special edition Octavia RS 230, SKODA releases the next star in the Octavia RS lineup: a powerful compact with all-wheel-drive system and RS diesel 2.0 TDI 184 hp (135 kW) engine in a combination with the six-speed DSG gearbox.

The third-gen SKODA Octavia RS was launched back in 2013 and became one of the most popular models with more than 58,000 units sold to date. The Octavia RS, available in hatch and estate, offers some sporty feel, but yet enhanced flexibility and it is expected to be one of the best models in the whole lineup after the release in 2000.

This vehicle is believed to be ideal for everyday drive and it is also expected that it can deal with almost all drive situations. And no wonder: the technology incorporated in the latest Octavia is impressive and functional. This sweetie now offers a dual-clutch transmission and AWD system that altogether with the powerplant deliver a total of 243 hp (135 kW) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 7.6 seconds. And with this impressive start the vehicle can chase the top speed of 220 km/h (126 kW)

SKODA OCTAVIA RS 230

The modern AWD system results in excellent handling and traction performance even on rough terrain. Furthermore, the SKODA Octavia RS 4×4 includes the best aspects of the FWD Octavia RS. The technological highlights feature sporty suspension and electronic differential lock XDS+ for improved steering and dynamics.

Furthermore, the latest Octavia family member comes with sweet sporty design: distinctive alloy wheels, bold engine noise and aggressive, yet elegant interior lines. And now SKODA team promises enhanced functionality and comfort for fair value for money.

So, what do you think about the latest Octavia model?

Source: SKODA

September 25, 2015

The Good Ol’ Porsche 917K Will Get Back On the Track!

1971 Porsche 917K Iconic Porsche race vehicles represent numerous victories at the 24-hour classic of Le Mans and Daytona. They also celebrate the memorable successes at 1,000 kilometer events on storied circuits such as the Nürburgring and Spa-Francorchamps. And in order to ensure that these vehicles can still get the audience’s attention, Porsche team now offers comprehensive service for the vintage models and the priority is to restore historic vehicles as true to the original as possible. And of course, to repair and maintain them.

1971 Porsche 917K

And now the new business service is focused on complete restoration of the well-known Porsche 917K. This legend was the victorious car at the 1,000-kilometre race at Spa in 1971. Furthermore, this car can be admired at the “Rennsport Reunion”, world’s largest event that features historic Porsche race cars. This vehicle was also successfully campaigned in the USA before it was put in storage at the museum in Zuffenhausen. In 2012, Porsche Motorsport North America was commissioned to restore the vehicle to its original 1971 condition and get it ready for the track. The task was finished as the repairing team used various resources, as the Porsche Museum archives, consultation with witnesses of that time and of course, consultation from experienced Porsche employees from the 1970’s.

1971 Porsche 917K

And in addition to the restorations and repairs, Porsche team also offers and detailed service for owners of special vintage models. And of course, the engineering team offers the highest possible guarantee for quality and functionality.

Authors also focus to take care of supplying parts, race tracks. And after the completion of the latest Porsche Experience Centre in Los Angeles, customers will also have the chance to store their vintage vehicles on site.

Source: Porsche

September 25, 2015

Kia cee’d Lineup Receives Some New Engines

Kia cee'd Kia’s Cee’d lineup has become the first range to be geared with bran’s latest and greatest engines that have an overall better efficiency with 25% and reduced CO2 emissions. There are a total of three turbocharged units: two petrol and one diesel powerplant. This is an upgrade that comes and with some nice visual changes. For example, the five-door cee’d, the two-door pro_cee’d and the cee’d Sportswagon will now come with restyled body styles.

The 1.0-litre ecoTurbo petrol engines

The latest three-cylinder direct-injection T-GDi units were announced at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. The engines are especially designed to reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These sweeties provide between 98 and 118 hp, depending on the version. And both units develop a total of 172 Nm of torque over a range from 1, 500 to 4,000 rpm which ensures increased and better driving flexibility. The end result is an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph) in less than 12.5 seconds and a top speed of 114 mph (205 km/h).

Kia cee'd

The key targets were better response, highly-efficient combustion and sweet torque levels across a wide portion of rev band. The ecoTurbo engines also work on lower temperatures and with cleaner emissions which allows them to operate more effectively. Now the main thermostat controls the flow of coolant to the cylinder, while the engine block thermostat shuts off coolant flow above 105 degrees to reduce friction and improve efficiency.

The 1.6-litre CRDi engine

All three cee’d body shapes are also available with a fresh 1.6-liter CRDi turbodiesel unit. This guy offers increased power, from 126 to 134 hp (92 to 98 kW) and greater torque of 280 Nm in manual version and 300 Nm with the new 7-DCT transmission. It looks like the greatest gains are achieved with the 7-DCT gearbox installed. And compared to the previous model, the emissions are lowered with almost 25% from 145 g/km to 109 with economy rates of 67.3 mpg.

Kia cee'd

This guy accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) for 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 205 km/h (114 mph) and for the automatic gearbox these stats are 9.8 seconds and 122 mph. In fact, the 7-speed DCT gearbox was created t deliver a maximum torque of 300 Nm and it is expected to be used in wide variety of models n the recent years. This system offers the smoothness and responsiveness of a manual gearbox if the driver decides to take control over it.

Furthermore, Kia vehicles, geared with the new engines will also offer extended warranty: 100,000 miles, including labour, subject to terms and conditions.

Source: Kia

September 25, 2015

KBR Motorsport and the Fierce BMW M3 Clubsport

KBR Motorsport BMW E92 M3 Clubsport Front View KBR Motorsport is a name we do not hear very often. This time the tuner is related with BMW and specifically with the M3 Clubsport model. The car was subject to a total transformation: starting with the interior, continuing to the external appearance and ending with the engine boost. As a result, KBR made an entirely sports car, full of thirst for motorsport experiences.

Weight Loss?

KBR Motorsport BMW E92 M3 Clubsport Interior

The interior of the 2013 M3 Coupe was entirely stripped down. And therefore the most logical thing to do was to remove all unnecessary parts like the seats, trim and cladding and sound insulation, which were all taken from both the cabin and the boot.

But to make things look pretty, KBR then painted the interior in body colour and bolted in a full white roll cage. The doors and rear trim panels are also new and are made from carbon-fibre. The removed seats were substituted with Recaro Profi SPG motorsport ones by 4-point Schroth race harnesses.

Visually, the M3 looks fairly close to the production variant. However, there are some additional elements like the carbon-fibre parts front splitter, mirrors and Clubsport rear wing.

Suspension, Brakes, Wheels & Tires

KBR Motorsport BMW E92 M3 Clubsport Rear View

KW delivered the Clubsport coil-over suspension system for this unique project. By the way, the suspension features adjustable top mounts. BBS Competition wheels were the next logical choice of the tuner. The alloys come in size of 9.5×19-inches and they were shod with 265/30ZR19 Pirelli Trofeo rubbers. Behind the wheels there is an uprated brake system, which uses Endless discs and brake pads.

Engine Boost

The consequence of the weight loss is the higher speed and better acceleration. But KBR also increased the output of the M3’s 4.0-litre V8 engine. They have done this via re-mapping the unit’s ECU. The result is 450 hp (331 kW) with 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque.

The transmission software was also updated, thus improving the shifting with the customized engine. They also installed a device, which enhances e-gas throttle response. A GT4-spec oil cooler system and additional reservoir were added, too.

The backpressure of the exhaust system was lowered due to the removal of the primary catalytic converters and the modified rear silencer. In addition, the exhaust uses an in-house developed X-Pipe. But there is more to come, although KBR Motorsport didn’t announce what they will add to the M3.

Source: KBR

September 25, 2015

Liberty Walk Dodge Challenger Hellcat Goes Green

Liberty Walk Dodge Challenger Hellcat might seem to you as a very common name if you follow our blog regularly. And it is common. We have seen a similar car a couple of months ago, which was the result of the joint work of Liberty Walk and SR Auto Group. Unlike the first white car, this example comes in toxic green exterior color and this and no other reason (like electric motor) makes the vehicle go green.

The pure raw American muscle car is basically another angry cat that has come out of SR Auto’s bag. The Canadian tuning specialists have given it a Liberty Walk wide body kit. And we must admit that it gives the Dodge menacing and fierce look.

Liberty Walk Dodge Challenger Hellcat Rear and Side view

Just like the white Hellcat, the widened body was supported by Airrex air suspension system, which lowers the height of the Challenger significantly. The lowered ride height and the wider body proportions just screamed that they need new wheels.

So, the expert heard that and decided to install a set of forged three-piece PUR LG05 wheels with a matte black diamond face and polished step lip. With a compressor in the trunk, the lines run through to all four corners to increase and decrease pressure. Oh, and have we mentioned that the wheels measure 20-inches?

But there is still one problem. We can not decide which car we like better: the white one or the green one? What’s your choice?

Source: SR Auto Group

September 25, 2015

Irmscher Releases Special Edition Opel Insignia is3 Called ‘Bandit’

Irmscher Opel Insignia is3 Bandit is a very special edition car. First, it is an example of the exquisite work of the tuners and secondly it has so much power that no one have ever seen in an Insignia model. In other words, the car features exterior tuning as well as a furious power package.

Exterior

The Bandit has a typical face, which is dominated with some changes added by Irmscher. For example the front features new apron with underride splitter. At the sides, the car is extended by side skirts, while the rear got new diffuser. At the back we also see discreet rear wing, which provides inspiration for street racing.

In general, the car’s exterior color was decided in the dark hues. But there are some accents all over car’s body that come in gold. The same color is used to highlight the wheels, which by the way come in 20-inch dimension both front and rear. The alloys are in Turbo Star Exclusive Design and are made by the tuner.

Optimized Performance

Irmscher Opel Insignia is3 Bandit Rear View

The first step in optimizing the performance was to change the chassis. This was necessary due to the significant increase of power. Speaking of which, the engine received comprehensive revision with updates in the turbocharger, cooling and the intake and exhaust.

As a result, the Insignia now produces 370 hp (279 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. Due to these changes, the acceleration time is now faster than ever. It takes 5.9 seconds for the Bandit to cover the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint.