Auto News – Page 293 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-AMG Team Shows First Details for 2016 C63 Coupe

2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe 2015 DTM season is about to reach its climax in September. And for the final events racers and brands have decided to show their hidden weapons. For example, Mercedes-AMG DTM Team are giving details for the upcoming 2016 campaign.

At this point, the most important thing that is going on in the Mercedes camp is the design adaptation to the 2016 Merdeces-AMG C 63 DTM. Now, the dynamic looking vehicle received some style changes and exterior tweaks, along with numerous drivetrain system upgrades. So, let’s see what is going on here.

The 2016 DTM vehicle car which will be deployed by the Mercedes-AMG DTM team follows the proven and successful strategy that ensured numerous successful races for the brand. For example, the AMG Mercedes C-Class with secured 85 victories in 159 races. Nice, huh?

2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe

Now the DTM vehicle offers completely restyled front splitter, wider and more muscular stance, thanks to the wide fenders and the large rear wing. The machine also comes with aerodynamic side panels and special 18-inch wheels with especially made tires.

And of course, as any other self-respected modern brand, Mercedes made the best out of the offerings of the modern world: along with the numerous carbon-fiber elements incorporated in the hood, doors, panels and wings, the vehicle offers and hi-tech gadgets and systems to along with the numerous carbon-fiber elements incorporated in the hood, doors, panels and wings, the vehicle offers and hi-tech gadgets and systems to along with the numerous carbon-fiber elements incorporated in the hood, doors, panels and wings, the vehicle offers and hi-tech gadgets and systems to improve the overall performance. And as we talk about performance, let us remind you what are the specs of the beast: the sports car comes with a minimum weight of 1,120 kg and it is geared with a 4.0-liter engine which delivers 490 hp (360 kW) at 7,500 rpm and has a torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft).

Machine’s tests will begin this winter and the Mercedes team hopes that it will continue the successful affair of its predecessors. We also hope so.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 4, 2015

Comparing the very best family touring and estate cars

Growing families that need a little more room than a standard hatchback or saloon will usually turn their attention to estate and touring cars. Along with a bigger boot, estate and touring car owners still benefit from impressive styling, great refinement and plenty of equipment.

In addition, running costs are much cheaper than bigger MPVs and crossovers. Simply by adding some roof bars on top, from Tesco or other retailers, the same functionality can be enjoyed.

But what are the very best family touring and estate cars currently available? Here’s a quick comparison.

BMW 5 Series Touring

Possibly the best estate car around, the BMW 5 Series Touring ticks all the right boxes. The build quality is second to none, so you won’t have to deal with many surprise breakdowns. At the same time, owners are treated to a powerful yet controlled drive behind the wheel.

Self-levelling rear suspension allows you to transport heavy loads with the greatest of ease, while the ample safety and security kit means passengers will always stay free from harm.

Ford Focus Estate

If the 5 Series Touring is too expensive, consider the Ford Focus Estate instead. Not only does this option handle just as well as the BMW, it also boasts a number of powerful yet economical engines.

Space and practicality are also best in class, while all versions come with air conditioning, a digital radio, and Bluetooth.

Audi A6 Avant

Going back to the executive market, the Audi A6 Avant provides stiff competition for the BMW 5 Series. Handling isn’t quite as sharp but the beautiful cabin is a thoroughly pleasant place to be.

You won’t need to spend much on additional extras either, as nearly every piece of equipment you could want is included as standard. Competitive running costs and strong engine performance only add to the Audi A6 Avant’s strong points.

Kia Cee’d Sportswagon

Budget-conscious buyers that don’t want to break the bank with a purchase should look no further than the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon. With lots of space, a high quality cabin, and an abundance of equipment, you can’t go far wrong.

It is probably a bit noisier than the Ford Focus Estate and won’t deliver an equally impressive drive, but if value for money is your key concern, pick the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon.

Verdict

Personal preference in terms of handling and equipment is the only way to separate top of the range estate cars like the BMW 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant. However, if your budget doesn’t stretch to these options, there are some commendable alternatives available.

The Ford Focus might not be as refined, but it can’t be beaten when it comes to space and practicality. And for the ultimate in cost-effective motoring, try the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon for size.

September 4, 2015

Prior-Design with Wide-Body Conversion for Mercedes-Benz GT S

Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz GT S PD800GT seems like a name of a sophisticated project, which craves for attention and praise. The simple fact that it is based on the Mercedes GT S makes it preliminary special. And by adding the PD800GT Wide-Body kit, Prior-Design specialists have made it even more attractive.

Some Serial Facts

Why we do care about the stock details. Because under the hood of the Mercedes GT S, sleeps the untamed beast called 4.0 liters V8 petrol engine. Equipped with bi-turbo charger, the horses it boasts are no less than 510 hp (375 kW) and 650 Newton meters (480 lb-ft). The top speed is measured at 310 kmph (192 mph).

Why PD800GT is Perfect for the GT S?

Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz GT S Front View

The Wide-Body aero kit adds some cool goodies to the exterior appearance of this Mercedes GT S. At the front we see add-on spoiler and two air intakes. Front widenings and cupwings are also present. The sides of the car are characterized by the brand new custom side skirts and add-on spoiler.

At the rear we have in-house made diffusor accompanied by rear trunk spoiler and rear widenings. But what we haven’t mentioned is that all parts are made by from quality Fiberglass-Duraflex mix. This material provides on of the best surface finishes and is also extremely flexible.

Now, tell us what do you think about this project?

Source: Prior-Design

September 3, 2015

2016 Audi A3 Hybrid Is the Game-Changer Element in Brand’s History [VIDEO]

2016 Audi A3 Hybrid The launch of Audi A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid this fall is maybe one of the most important moments in the history of Audi. With that said, Audi has lightened another important moment: when Bob Dylan plugged his electric guitar at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.

In the special 2:43-minute video on YouTube, Audi pays homage to that model when the rock icon Dylan changed the folk and rock music forever. And Audi of America sponsored the 2015 Newport Folk Festival that occured in July at Newport R.I.

The event and Audi’s participation is of course a large marketing campaign for the well-known car manufacturer. Audi now wants to introduce the American buying public to the brand’s first electrified vehicle offered in US.

As the video demonstrates, as Dylan plugged his guitar and started playing, some of the Newport crowd booed the game-changing idea. In fact, the festival founders interviewed for the video said that they recognized that technology as a force to be reckoned with.

2016 Audi A3 Hybrid

And as Colin Meloy said in the video, Newport suddenly changed its appearance and attitude forever. And all the rock and folk fans out there know what happened next. The electric shift led the whole music industry to a completely new level. The pop and rock music definitely got bolder and more interesting as almost all performers switched to electric guitar music.

And in fact, the video concludes with some shots of the Audi A3 e-tron. So, go ahead and watch it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT9sQwddcnQ

Source: Audi

September 3, 2015

DS 3 Dark Light Limited Edition Mixes Day and Night

DS 3 Dark Light Limited Edition is not a HIM-dedicated vehicle. If you are fan of the band, then you should know what I am talking about. For those who aren’t familiar, HIM are a very cool band from Finland, dedicatedly playing the so called “love metal” for more than 24 years. They became extremely popular in the US with their fifth album, called ‘Dark Light’, and are also best friends with the professional skateboarder Bam Margera. Being also an MTV Jackass star, he was the person who made the ‘Heartagram’ symbol popular, which by the way is originally HIM’s logo.

Enough off-topic. The here-presented limited edition of DS 3 will be produced in only 300 examples. It will be strictly distributed only in the UK.

Characteristic Design for the Exterior

DS 3 Dark Light Limited Edition Side View

If you are wondering why this DS 3 is called ‘Dark Light’, here’s the answer. The car is painted in Perla Nera Black metallic, but features one-off clear-backed metallic vinyl wrap along each side. The vinyl gives the feel that the black-as-the-night vehicle is slightly illuminated by the rising sunlight.

This particular limited edition DS 3 is based on the DStyle Nav trim level. This means that it features eMyWay satellite navigation as standard. It also adds signature DS LED Vision headlights, chrome door mirrors and ‘Dark Light’ badging on the front wings and tailgate. To make it even cooler, the designers made sure that it runs on 17-inch black diamond-cut Bellone alloys.

Interior

DS 3 Dark Light Limited Edition Rear and Side View

The cabin is beautifully styled with Black leather pack, ‘Dark Light’ dashboard badging, aluminum sports pedals and premium carpet mats. The interior is also adorned by sports seats and front arm rest as well as by convenience pack, which adds auto lights and wipers, electrically-folding door mirrors, auto-dimming rear view mirror.

Drivetrain

Under the hood of the DS 3 Dark Light is the efficient PureTech 110 S&S petrol engine. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission and features stop-start function useful for the urban environment.

DS 3 Dark Light is currently on sale with a starting price of £20,795 OTR.

Source: DS Automobiles

September 3, 2015

2015 Citroen Cactus M Concept Offers Adventures and Positive Emotions

2015 Citroen Cactus M Concept A special Citroën concept vehicle, inspired by Méhari, will be demonstrated at 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show. The car is named Cactus M Concept and tells a story of well-being, freedom and wild. So, are these stories just stories or the latest Citroën Concept can really relate to?

Exterior

So, let’s check what is going on here. First of all, the Cactus M has that interesting appearance and clearly expresses its family ties with the Citroën Aircross concept vehicle. As you can see, the wings are sculpted around the wheel arches which gives that massive and aggressive stance. And along the sides, the large plastic doors contribute to the overall light weight an also give that distinctive look. And what is also interesting is the cabin. It is completely open and passengers can access the seats by climbing over the sides, using the especially made steps. It sounds at least interesting. Going in your vehicle via stairs. Cool.

2015 Citroen Cactus M Concept

Interior

The cabin illustrates an interesting approach, using materials and components inspired by open-air activities. The whole style just reminds of numerous sorts of adventures, the cabin can also be hosed down thanks to the drainage outlets integrated in the foot wells. The seats, on the other hand, are inspired by the world of surfing. They are especially designed to resemble the wetsuits and are covered with a colorful neoprene waterproof fabric. It all looks like this vehicle is created for comfort and extreme experiences at the same time. Cool, isn’t it.

2015 Citroen Cactus M Concept

Flexibility

It also looks like the Citroën Cactus M Concept is created to go through all kinds of challenges and road conditions. On all types of terrain, the Grip Control function optimizes traction for assured and smooth drive. Furthermore, the cabin is created in such a way that it can be turned into a couchette and a roof that can be made into a tent. How cool is that? In fact, the roof is made of a special material that ensures anyone will remain dry in case it is raining cats and dogs outside. And of course, the Concept features numerous technologies and hi-tech gadgets which ensure pleasurable drive. Some of them include central Touch Drive interface and Easy Push gearbox system.

So, it all looks like the Cactus M concept is a modern vehicle, created with modern approach. It offers comfort and pleasure of driving and of course promises numerous pleasurable experiences.

Source: Citroen

September 3, 2015

Renault Alaskan Concept Previews Future Production One-Tonne Pick-up

Renault Alaskan Concept Front View Renault Alaskan Concept seems very similar to what we have seen in the past. Well, this feeling you have it’s a real thing, since it is almost similar to Renault Duster Oroch Pick-Up, which we have seen debuting at the 7th Buenos Aires International Motor Show in June. While Oroch is intended for the South American market, the ALASKAN Concept literally paves the way for a forthcoming global model.

Of course, we must admit that the Alaskan Concept looks much more sophisticated, doesn’t it? As we said, it comes to give a glimpse of the future Renault pick-up model, which is going to satisfy not only business needs, but will be also suitable for leisure and daily use.

The One-Tonne Show Truck Has Head-Turning Design

Renault Alaskan Concept Sidde View 1

Named beautifully ALASKAN, this concept pick-up has athletic appearance, robust styling and cutting-edge attitude. Featuring the characteristic Renault design, assertive dimensions and masculine stance, the truck is definitely a head-turner.

The company also revealed that the wheels it rides on measure 21-inch and this is why they perfectly fill the prominent wheel arches. At the front, we can’t miss the large, prominent logo and the impressive bonnet. By the way, it is emphasized by four sculptured ribs.

The door mirrors, brake calipers, the centers of the wheel rims and the front tow hook are visually strengthened by the blue and yellow detailing. And have you noticed the full-LED lighting signature? Furthermore, at the rear there are large LED Pure Vision lights with brushed and polished aluminium surrounds framed by C-shape direction indicators. The sophisticated rear-end styling is heightened by the central aluminium exhaust tail pipe.

Drivetrain

Under the hood of the ALASKAN Concept is Renault’s four-cylinder, twin turbo diesel engine. It features twin turbo technology and is longitudinally-mounted. In addition, it is also lighter than average equivalent engines. Although there are now specific figures disclosed, Renault promises that this engine will offer excellent acceleration, fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

Benefits, Benefits, Benefits…

Renault Alaskan Concept Rear VIew

The pick-up truck also benefits from strong chassis for excellent road holding, high ground clearance and distinctive driving comfort. At the back, the payload is more than one tonne, while the cabin can still accommodate five passengers onboard.

This concept is not only perfect for business needs but also for everyday utilization. It is ready for adventures and trips with its range of outdoor accessories like the load bed liners, covers, etc. At last, Renault technicians mounted a camera located inside the door mirror housings to permit the filming of passing landscapes. How cool is that?

Production One-Tonne Pick-up to Follow

Renault Alaskan Concept Side View 2

Renault says that the production variant will have a very similar design to the ALASKAN Concept. It will feature the same dimensions, but will come in versatile body types and will have many powertrain options. The new one-tonne pick-up will be revealed in the first half of 2016.

Source: Renault

September 3, 2015

2015 Citroen C4 Saloon Will Conquer the Chinese Roads

2015 Citroen C4 Saloon Citroën is ready to present the latest C4 saloon model to the Chinese public and will make it at the 2015 Chengdu Motor Show, held from 4 to 13 September. The model is set for launch at the end of this year and it is planned to replace the C-Quatre in the “three-box” C-segment. Furthermore, the new C4 saloon is a further asset in Citroën’s sales following the successful launch of the C3-XR SUV.

To be precise, Citroën team will unveil an interesting vehicle, especially restyled to fit the needs of the Chinese market. The vehicle is 4.55m long and is positioned in the core three-box saloon C-segment, placed between the C-C-Elysée and the C4 L. The launch of the model will ensure optimal coverage in the Chinese market and it is expected that it will gain vast popularity due to the popularity of the C-middle segment saloon models accounted for 60% of passenger car sales in 2014. In fact, the C-segment in general represents more than one out of two passenger vehicles sold.

2015 Citroen C4 Saloon

Beautiful, spacious and cozy, the C4 saloon has a lot to offer in terms of performance, technology and safety. The fresh vehicle now comes with a 130 hp (95 kW) 3-cylinder petrol engine, paired to either manual or automatic transmission. There are also numerous hi-tech technologies incorporated as a standard equipment: touch screen, hands free access and start and blind sport monitoring system.

So, it looks sweet, promises comfortable ride and has numerous interesting features. Now we wonder what would the Chinese customers say about it.

Source: Citroen

September 3, 2015

Volvo XC90 Scored Incredible Results at the 2015 Euro NCAP Tests

Volvo XC90 managed to reach the maximum of five stars and achieved top ratings in the 2015 Euro NCAP tests. The well-known brand with its latest XC90 model which comes with standard City Safety technology stood out as the first car from any manufacturer and any other mode to reach the full points in the Euro NCAP Autonomous Emergency Braking Car to Car rear-end tests (AEB City & AEB Interurban).

Furthermore, the XC90 model marked and one hundred per cent in the Safety Assist category and it is even the first model to achieve maximum score in the two Autonomous Emergency Braking tests AEB City & AEB Interurban. The latest Volvo model has gone through numerous complex tests and experiments to deliver that advanced level of pedestrian protection and functionality. Surely the Swedish carmaker continues its domination when it comes to safety and innovative ideas.

Furthermore, Volvo Car’s long held Vision 2020 the Swedish manufacturer now focuses on the idea to deliver vehicles in which no one will be killed or seriously injured by the year 2020. And with the latest XC90 and its astonishing marks and safety stats this idea does not look that far or that unrealistic. After all, we are dealing with the notorious Swedish desire for quality and perfection.

Source: Volvo

September 2, 2015

2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept is Here and it is Real!

2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept Bugatti fans and gamers now have one more reason to look forward to the 66th International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. Especially for this show, Bugatti team has transformed a what was just a mere idea to a mind-twisting reality. Now the brand will present its virtual concept Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo which was developed in cooperation with Polyphony Digital Inc. This whole project is a big tribute to the great racing tradition of the 1920s and 1930s and all the victories in Le Mans 24-hour races.

The designers and engineers have transferred the most important characteristics of Bugatti’s design into the virtual sports vehicle. As you can see, the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo has all these well-known Bugatti lines and recognizable symbols. For example, the vehicle comes with the famous horse shoe on the front grille. It is further flanked by the eight-eyed stylish headlights which were especially developed for the Gran Turismo model.

2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept

Another typical Bugatti element is the centre fin, which originated on the notorious Type 57 Atlantic from 1936. Now the designers come up with two versions: one on the front and rear wings and one running the length of the roof, where it makes an important contribution the vehicle’s dynamic stability.

In fact, there is one more interesting detail. This is the NACA roof air intaker which has not only stylish shape but also gives that critical contribution to the control of the aerodynamics. How cool is that? The vehicle also has a strong trailing edge which provides longitudinal-dynamic stability, and contributes to the overall performance.

Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo will be displayed from 17 to 27 September 2015 at the Bugatti exhibit in hall 3.0 of the IAA

2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept

Source: Bugatti

September 2, 2015

2016 Toyota Prius Debuts in Frankfurt and Why is it Important

2016 Toyota Prius First Teaser 2016 Toyota Prius will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This announcement just got published by Toyota officials next to a teaser image of the hybrid car. If it wasn’t for the new technology, which is also eco-friendly, I probably wouldn’t pay that much attention. But this is definitely news, since one of the most popular hybrid vehicles is going to get a thorough change. Or we at least expect to see one.

What Does Toyota Promise?

Of course, the new generation Prius will sport a striking look, supported by better driving dynamics (something lacking in the current generation). In addition, the fuel economy of the car will be even more impressive and will “challenge what you know about hybrids,” as Toyota says.

What’s New Frankfurt?

In Frankfurt we will also see the global debut of the second Toyota C-HR Concept hybrid crossover. So, this means that Toyota stand will be overtaken by eco-friendly vehicles and like-minded people. How cool is that!

When is the Market Debut of 2016 Prius?

Toyota said that we should expect the fourth-generation Prius in showrooms in the first quarter of next year.

How Hybrids Can Change the World?

That’s an interesting question, right? Let me start a little bit farther. Since the introduction of Prius in 1997, Toyota has sold more than eight million hybrid vehicles globally. The most recent one-million sales took just 10 months. And back in 1997 Toyota sold just 300 hybrids.

In other words, this means that these hybrid vehicles owners around the world have saved 22 million kilolitres of petrol, which is enough to fill 8,800 Olympic swimming pools. This also equates to around $26.4 billion dollars, which were saved. Even better, the environment has also benefited. The latest Toyota figures reveal that its hybrid vehicles have saved about 58 million tons of CO2 emissions!

I personally can’t wait to see the birth of 2016 Prius, because it makes a leap forward in changing the world!

Source: Toyota

September 2, 2015

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet Finally Revealed!

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet is finally revealed! At least in pictures. It will have an official premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show this September. Elegantly and sporty, the new cabrio is actually the first open-top variant of the S-Class since 1971 and the sixth generation of the S-Class family.

Next to its exclusive design and luxurious surfaces throughout the interior, the new S-Class also features cutting-edge technology like the comprehensive warmth and wind protection concept that features intelligent climate control for convertibles.

Engine Range

The V8 engine driving the S500 Cabrio produces 455 hp (335 kW) and peak torque of 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. The innovative 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission supports both a dynamic and a fuel-saving driving style.

If you happen to be at the show you will be also pleased to see the Mercedes‑AMG variant of the S63 4MATIC Cabriolet. It will mesmerize you with its 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine and no less than 585 horsepower (430 kW) and peak torque of 900 Nm (665 lb-ft).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet Two Variants

There is more to that, ant it is the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque split which is featured as a standard. And have I mentioned that the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h happens in 3.9 seconds. Well, that’s a pretty good number for a convertible, isn’t it?

The S-Class Cabriolet is also extremely rigid due to the utilization of some innovative solutions like the luggage compartment bulkhead made of aluminium and magnesium as well as the aluminium rear floor. What is more, behind the rear head restraints there is a standard-fit roll-over protection system that includes pyrotechnic initiation of the actuators. The roll bars themselves are moved into position by a gas generator.

Why Climate Comfort is Important?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet Red Interior

Mercedes-Benz has told us recently that has aims of building the most comfortable convertible in the world. So, this surely has to do with the climate comfort, too. First, the car includes an improved automatic wind protection system called AIRCAP. There is also AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, heated armrests and seat heating in the rear plus the intelligent climate control. They all contribute for the significantly enhanced comfort.

The climate is of course controlled entirely automatically. But what does this mean? First of all, the driver does not need to select a mode for closed or open top, and secondly they do not have to save a temperature setting for the specific driving conditions.

Well, we can’t wait to see it live in Frankfurt. How about you? And don’t forget to check out the huge gallery below!

httpv://youtu.be/EdDUMw7N3VI

httpv://youtu.be/9gbdi81AKGM