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Vauxhall Astra is here! First Official Pictures and Data Released

2015 Vauxhall Astra is unleashed! The company has finally released the first official photos of the car and detailed data revealing a lot ahead of its official premiere in Frankfurt this September. There are a lot of exiting facts about it. First, the new Astra is about 200kg lighter than outgoing model. Although it is smaller on the outside, Vauxhall says that it is bigger on the inside.

In addition, the engine range now features the 145PS 1.4-liter petrol unit. Another interesting fact is that this is the first Vauxhall ever to feature OnStar technology. There is also an IntelliLink R 4.0 that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Lightweight Design

This is actually the seventh generation of the Astra model which is scheduled for production later this year. Depending on the trim level, the new car sheds an average of 130kg and up to 200kg, when compared with its predecessor. Major role for this plays the new architecture of the car.

Every component of it was made of lightweight materials like the high- and ultra-high-strength low-weight steels. The compact subframes and the weight reductions to the front and rear axle also play crucial role.

Drivetrains

The powertrain portfolio of the model features petrol and diesel units with power output ranging from 100PS to 200PS. The star here is the new petrol 1.4-litre ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo unit, which not only generates more than 145 PS but also 250Nm, available between 1,800rpm and 4,000rpm.

The base level engine is the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo petrol with 105 PS, and the diesels are based on the 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ with output range from 110PS up to 160PS.

Exterior Design

The design of the 2015 Vauxhall Astra is based on the Monza Concept. The car actually looks better than ever with its athletic and imposing stance. At the front we see how the front IntelliLux LED Matrix Light headlamps flow into the radiator grille, but the most significant design cue can be seen on the sides where the divided C-pillar creates the impression of a floating roof.

As mentioned, the seventh generation Astra is smaller on the outside, but bigger inside. It has a total length of 4.37m making it 5cm shorter than its predecessor. The height is 1.46m, which is also 2.6cm lower.

Interior Design

Although the wheelbase has been reduced by 2cm, the amount of space inside was increased. This is due to the implementation of the newly-designed seats, which allow the rear passengers the experience of additional 35mm legroom.

The instrument panel features clean look and includes large colour touchscreen in the centre stack and a reduced amount of control switches and buttons.

At last, the OnStar is going to be featured for the first time in a Vauxhall, while the IntelliLink – in an Astra. The latter is an infotainment system which is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

June 2, 2015

Subaru Announces Details for 2016 Legacy and Outback Models

Subaru announced pricing for the 2016 Subaru Legacy and Outback models, that will both offer the special SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security technology. Both models come with the award-winning safety system, wonderful design, All-Wheel-Drive and refreshments for the interior. And both models will be on sale this summer. Who is also impatient like me?

Subaru’s one of most successful models, the midsize Legacy sedan will come with All-Wheel-Drive System as a standard feature. Furthermore, the AWD, blended with the Active Torque Vectoring system awards customers with confident and stable drive, despite of road and weather conditions. The 2016 Legacy will feature a 175-hp (128 kW), 2.5-Liter Boxer engine, that works in perfect harmony with the Lineartronic Continuously Varialble Transmission (CVT), which is, in fact, a standard feature. And the good news is that, the vehicle comes with incredible performance features, along with wonderful fuel economy. The EPA ratings are the best among with any other AWD midsize sedan. Impressive, isn’t it?

On the other hand, 2016 Subaru Outback model continues to gain influence among the midsize sedans and now, geared with AWD system, raised ground clearance, Active Torque Vectoring, Hill Descent COntrol and Hill Start Assist the Spacious, the latest Outback will be the ruler among midsize sedans.

The 2016 Outback 2.5i will come with 2.5-Liter Boxer engine, Lineartronic CVT with manual mode, that together produce no more than 25 MPG/city drive. Impressive, isn’t it? There is even a special Active Grille Shutter system, that further improves the fuel economy by a special wind resistance design. The vehicle comes with 256-horsepower (188 kW), 3.6-Liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine, that is especially designed for high-torque performance.

As you can see for yourself, both the Legacy and Outback models got some refinement for 2016. There is a special on/off mode, that will be included in all 2016 models, plus all the systems and refreshments for the upcoming models will provide even smoother and more natural feel and incredible pleasure of driving.

We will follow with interest what happens in Subaru camp, so stay with us for further information!

Source: Subaru

June 2, 2015

Ram Nation Comes With One More Noble Event

Today, on June 2, Ram vehicle owners will offer their help for the storm-damaged areas in Wimberley and San Marcos, Texas. They will deliver supplies and will help with the recovery from the destructive flood.

Tad Agoglia, the founder of so-called First Response Team of America will lead the Ram crew and will offer help and supplies for all, who need it. In fact, the First Response Team will also create a community web, so they can connect with people, who need help easily.

The noble campaign starts at San Marcos Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, where the Ram owners will get all the supplies they need and will proceed to the flooded areas. Something more. Last week, Ram Truck and FCA Foundation announced, that they are donating $ 100,000 to the First Responsive Team.

In fact, Ram brand is partner with the First Response Team of America since 2012. And for a period of three years Ram has helped numerous people in occasions of natural disasters and with the help of FCA has donated more than $300, 000.

Ram Nation is a organization of people, willing to help those in need. People at Ram Nation volunteer in numerous different actions like delivering supplies, equipment, clear debits, distribute food and fresh water and of course make donations.

It is so good to hear such news. It reminds us, that there are still many generous people, who are ready to help those in need.

Source: Ram

June 2, 2015

Aston Martin Team Created Seven Unique Vanquish Vehicles

The Q by Aston Martin is celebrating the fulfilment of a longstanding ambition for sporty vehicles enthusiast and businessman Markus Storck.

Dr. Matthew Bennett, General Manager of VIP sales and Q by Aston Martin personalization service delivered the first seven unique and beautiful Vanquish Coupes to the German collector at a special event, held at a luxury headquarters in Gaydon. Mr. Storck, who is a founder and head of German hi-tech bicycle brand Storck Bikes, commissioned the Q by Aston Martin crew to craft an unique set of Vanquish vehicles just for himself and six close friends and sports car fans.

With incredible features and exclusive exterior finish, that include numerous carbon fiber components and incredible details, the Aston Martin developed seven vehicles, that will be collector’s items in just a year time.

But aside the several layers of carbon-fiber body and the satin Jet Black paint finish, the Vanquish sports vehicles also include a special set of luxurious and custom-made components like diamond qulting, machined carbon Aston Martin wing badges, of course the special “One of Seven” logo and wide variety of gloss black additions.

It is incredible what passion and love to the detail can create. The seven cars are really special, not because of their excellent performance features, but because Aston Martin team demonstrated one more time what does the art of creating a beautiful vehicle looks like.

Source: Aston Martin

June 1, 2015

Porsche Classic Will Recreate Dashboard of Classic 911 Models

Porsche Classic starts the reproduction of the beautiful dashboards for vintage 911 vehicles from 1969 to 1975. The complex manufacturing process comes with a blend of high quality design standards and a spirit and romance of a vintage vehicle. The detailed texture, the feel and colors of the new old interior are crafted with the idea to be as close to the original as possible. In fact, it can be ordered directly from any Porsche dealer in the United States.

As you know, the classic vehicle’s interior and hardware are incredibly vulnerable to sun radiation and temperature, that can destroy or damage the beautiful interior. But don’t worry. Today’s developed technical tweaks and materials will last longer and the Porsche team ensures and promises incredible quality and feel, mixed with incredible endurance features.

As with the original models, the dashboard comes with loudspeaker cover, that can be installed by the original assembly procedure: by removing the windshield. This is why Porsche engineers recommend doing it with only authorized Porsche engineers.

Furthermore, to bring the optimal restoration of the classic vehicle, the company is creating a special and complex international network, that will connect about 100 authorized Porsche dealers. Porsche customers will be granted wit wide variety of Porsche Classic products and services.

Porsche team surely knows how to make its customers happy. What do you think?

Source: Porsche

June 1, 2015

Mitsuoka Motor Company is Ready to Launch its Roadster Model in UK

In June 2015 Mitsuoka Motor’s Roadster will make its European debut under the distribution of T W White & Sons and will be displayed on many of their showrooms across Surrey, South London and Kent.

Created to challenge the science of engineering and style, the Mitsuoka Roadster makes a revolution with its “modern classic” sport vehicle concept. it comes with a complicated sporty design and elegant lines, that combine the well-known vintage design with advanced levels of modern technology and comfort.

The special 2.0-Liter Coupe comes with two options of transmission: 6-speed manual or a six speed automatic Powershift transmission. In fact, the automatic system can be used with a special auto mode or with only using the paddle shift controls.

The Roadster comes with rear wheel drive system and incredible power to weight ratio, that further combines the latest technology trends and safety features to demonstrate elegance and performance. In addition, the vehicle comes and with the fastest power-retractable hard top. It takes only 12 seconds to open it up.

And as a brand with self-respect, Mitsuoka brings and incredible interior features: heated leather seats, climate control, safety and security features and anti-lock braking system. Additional technology gadgets are the Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control System and Supplementary Resistant System.

The roadster comes with two exterior color options: Metallic or Pearlescent.

Source: Mitsuoka

June 1, 2015

2015 Moving Motor Show Will Witness the Debut of Two New Peugeot Models

Peugeot team will use the Goodwood Moving Motor Show on June 25 to debut two models. There will be a special 308 model, that will make its world debut , while the special 309 R Hybrid will make its European debut. Let’s see what happens here.

Moving Motor Show’s visitor will have the opportunity to book drives up the Goodwood Hill Climb in Peugeot’s latest and greatest models: the 308 GT 205 THP hatchback, 308 GT Line PureTech 1.2-Liter and the 208 GTi by Peugeot Sport.

The 308 performance model will be the only car, that will be driven up the Hill, but the people at Moving Motor Show will be the first in the world to witness the other models and try them out right away. Furthermore, Peugeot will also celebrate the sport heritage at Goodwood this year with the featuring cars:

205 T16, that will celebrate 30th anniversary of Peugeot’s World Rally Championship Group B title;

208 WRX is the current FIA World Rallycross Championship challenger;

2998 DKR is the best 2015 Dakar Rally car, that comes with a special 3-liter, 340 hp (250 kW) V6 twin-turbo diesel engine.

In fact, the sixth annual Moving Motor Show is expected to attract incredible number of visitors. Something more, the event expands its audience since the first ever show and now it is expected, that the number of visitors will be a record. Something more. Over the years, the show has hosted tens of thousands of people, 500 different models of vehicles and have run about 6,000 miles of driving up the well-known 1.6 mile hill course.

Surely a wonderful event with wonderful vehicles to demonstrate! We will keep you in tune with the special show, as with numerous more, so for further information stay with us!

Source: Peugeot

June 1, 2015

More Powerful Mercedes S500 But More Efficient, is it Possible?

The well-known brand, seated above the Hoesbach city limits and near Aschaffenburg, VAETH automobile engine techniques company has taken another challenge, this time with a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, that is indeed an E 500 model. The VAETH team will upgrade the V8 engine, with a special tuning kit, named V50RS. The kit comes with individual engine electronics and fine tune tweaks, VAETH intercooler and VAETH axle back exhaust system. You wonder what the result is? The vehicle is now capable of 830 Nm of torque, that produces 550 hp (404kW) with a maximum speed of 300 km/h (185 mph). Impressive, isn’t it?

The exhaust system, made of stainless steel comes with two oval pipes, each with size of 115×85 mm. Furthermore, the upgrade has and additional option of adding a rear diffuser and sight carbon. The AIRMATIC sports chassis, which is included in the standard pack, helps reducing the time of damping sessions.

Let’s talk about the brakes. In fact, it is a matter of taste if you need the high-performance brake system. The Benz vehicle is geared with 390 mm brake discs on the front axle with a 6-position brake bodies with a heavy-duty brake pads set. Furthermore, the measure range of the wheels is from 8.5 to 11.0×20 inches. And there are optional rims stars in different colors. Sweet.

And for a finish, the vehicle comes with an especially equipped with a trunk spoiler lip of carbon-fiber material.

And of course, even the most unsatisfied customer can find more accessories like carbon-fiber made interior, Alcantara headlining , sporty steering wheel, aluminum pedal and numerous more tweaks and gadgets.

Source: VAETH

June 1, 2015

BMW Reveals Z4 Facelift and You Will Not Expect to See This

2016 BMW Z4 Facelift has just been revealed with an abundant set of pictures, which you can view in details in the gallery below. What was surprisingly stunning was that the Bavarian company did not release any press release with the images. And there was no reason for doing so.

And here is what we didn’t expect: the 2016 BMW Z4 does not include any changes but one – a new exterior paint scheme in its color range. Called Estoril Blue, this exterior color is very special, because (if you are a BMW fan you should know) it is offered for exclusive models only. Take for instance the M-Series.

In addition, the Estoril Blue is available for the Z4 for the very first time, which makes it a very strange fact. In my opinion, at least.

Everything else in the car is staying the same. That’s not something to worry about, because the Z4 Roadster offers the ultimate driving experience. It was designed to make every single drive an indulgence.

Its unique design features stunning hardtop and elongated hood that combined with the capability of the car, create unique open-top experience. In the range are featured powerful engine options, but the mightiest one is the four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo.

It displaces just 2.0 liters, but still has the power to generate 240 hp (176 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque at just 1250 rpm. The potent thrust kicks in right from the start and continues all the way up to 4800 rpm.

What is more, the sDrive rear-wheel drive system allows for a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, meaning that the car delivers power more precisely.

The Estoril Blue Z4 will be available to order from the next month and will be only an option for the Z4 equipped with the M Sport Package.

Source: BMW

June 1, 2015

This Three-Door Audi A3 is Sportier but More Comfortable than Ever

I love when great work is combined with exceptional photography. As I was starring at this picture I actually noticed that it is something I could talk about. As you can see this unique Audi A3 looks so athletic and have this masculine appearance. The reason for this is the work of the tuners at ap Sportfahrwerke.

The car is actually one of those who you can usually see rolling on the city streets of Europe, because of its small dimensions, efficiency and performance capability. This is one of the best marketed models Audi has produced up to date and in my opinion it will continue to do so.

The range of the A3 engines include the top 2.0 liter TFSI producing 300 hp (221 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque and sprinting from 0 to 100 in 4.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), the 1.4 TFSI ultra pumping out 140 hp (110 kW) and the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp (81 kW). The power units are available in all four body versions of the A3-line: the three door model, five door Sportback, Sedan and Cabriolet.

There is even an A3 Clubposrt Quattro Concept, powered by the 2.5 liter five-cylinder TFSI engine with the astonishing 525 hp (386 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph).

But what could the specialists at ap Sportfahrwerke do for this unstoppable car. Obviously they took its three-door variant and made it even sportier by bringing it closer to the ground. They have done this via in-house made suspension springs and coilovers.

The coilover kit takes care for an increased driving behavior, while the suspension kit delivers an adjustable lowering of up to 60 millimeter at the front axle and 55 millimeter at the rear axle. The result is that after these minimal changes, the A3 responds even more direct to steering movements. And despite the sporty lowering, the car attains its sufficient comfort.

Source: ap Sportfahrwerke

June 1, 2015

Skoda Improves Rapid Spaceback Range

Skoda announced some changes made in the Rapid Spaceback range. The goal was to create the best possible version of the car, which will also satisfy customer’s needs in terms of versatility of equipment. There are three trim levels, which will make sure that this aim is accomplished.

As mentioned, the changes are featured across the whole new range. With its exceptional style and practicality, Rapid Spaceback is now going to be offered in three trim levels: S, SE Tech and SE Sport.

The range of engines that Skoda is offering are 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TDI both delivering 90PS and available for the S trim. The 1.2 TSI versions is pumping out 90PS or 110 PS as well as the 1.4 TSI and 1.4 TDI with 125 PS and 90 PS, respectively, and the 1.6 TDI with 115 PS, for the SE Tech trim. At last the 1.2 TSI with 110 PS, 1.4 TSI with 125 PS and 1.4 TDI and 1.6 TDI producing 90 PS and 115 PS, respectively, in the SE Sport trim.

The good news is that all-turbocharged engines in the line-up can be mated to one of the best transmissions in Skoda’s history: the DSG. It will take care for the good outputs and the low CO2 emissions, which start from as little as 94g/km.

There are no words on the exact new features throughout the equipment, but we entirely believe Skoda, when it says that three trim grades include exceptionally abundant equipment levels.

Note: Pictures in the gallery below depict the 2014 model year range.

Source: Skoda

June 1, 2015

MM Industries is Selling the Avocet

Project Avoccet Side View Project Avocet returns! If this does not speak anything to you then we should explain that this is a sportscar programme which aims to deliver unique designs, performance and driving experience. And unfortunately (or not) it is to be marketed for sale internationally as a fully developed product. Behind the development of the supercar is MM Industries, which is a privately owned automotive enterprise.

Avocet is a very stylish car that is ultra-lightweight, have seats for only two persons and features exceptional chassis dynamics and awesome performance. During the development of Avocet, MMI has made the possibility of inclusding alternative powertrains and componentry, plus the possibilities of hybrid drive.

The design of the car incorporates an aluminium honeycomb chassis, centre tub, subframes and sub-assemblies. The standard equipment here combines a steeply inclined windscreen with a very attractive low-line wrap-around aero-screened ‘Spyder’ version.

In addition, under the hood, the Avocet is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre engine, producing 150 hp (110 kW), while the Mountune developed option features an uprated version of this unit, generating 225 hp (165 kW). The weight of the car is around 700 kilograms, so this promises extreme performance. Precisely, it needs 5 seconds to cover the 0-60 acceleration sprint.

Other cool custom features, which will also go on sale (in terms of design patent), are the removable roof and exclusive detachable travel luggage.

And obviously it is now the right time for the project to move on, so that it can stay alive and the new owner develop its fantastic potential. Fingers grossed!

Source: MM Industries

June 1, 2015

Category: Auto News