Auto News – Page 337 – Automobiles Review

Renault Shows Three Models at 2015 Goodwood Moving Motor Show

Visitors to the 2015 Goodwood Moving Motor Show have the chance to try out by themselves the latest Renault model models. And in addition, on 15 June, the brand debuts the latest Clio Renautsport 220 Trophy in UK. Renault will also use the opportunity, that the show gives and will give another chance for UK customers to sit behind the wheels of the Megane Renautsport 275 Trophy and Megane Coupe GT 220 models.

With its well-know reputation for building one of the best hatchback vehicles, Renault demonstrates determination to continue to do it. Now, following the latest upgrades and addition the Clio Renaultsport has a lot to show.

The Clio comes with 220 hp (161 kW) and redesigned dual-clutch transmission, along with some aesthetic tweaks, that altogether really make the car stand out as a better from other standard Clio models.

Other car, that Renault crew will show at the Moving Motor Show is the Megane Renaultsport 275 Trophy. What is interesting about this model is the power output, measured at 275 horsepower (202 kW) and the opportunity to test drive it up the famous Goodwood Hil.

Finally, Renault team will give the chance for customers to get their hands on the Megane Coupe GT 220. This car offers both something different than the standard Megane models, but at the same time don’t go for the full-throttle Renaultsport experience. It is a good thing, that Renault will offer the opportunity for everyone to try out the latest models and see if they fit his or her personality.

Source: Renault

May 15, 2015

Valentino and Aston Martin Release Vanquish Volante Special Edition

Valentino and Aston Martin have teamed up for a special project, which will support the “Cash & Rocket Tour”. Valentino will be the main sponsor of the event for the third consecutive year. The fourth edition has started yesterday and will continue until 19^th of May. If you hear for the first time about the “Cash & Rocket”, this is a fundraising event that supports three humanitarian organizations: Shine on Sierra Leone, OAfrica and Sumbandila, which help African children and their families.

Next to many fundraising items, among them is an extremely special Aston Martin Vanquish Volante. Valentino had the mission to create a special edition of this model, which had to be entirely customized.

What we see here is the Valentino Camouflage pattern and Maison’s iconic studs. There is a lot of carbon fiber inside and out, as well as special leather treatment for the interior of the open-top vehicle.

There aren’t any other details here, although Valentino has said that the car is “completely customized”. So we will have to satisfy with what’s before our eyes.

Presumably this also means that this Vanquish Volante sports the same standard 6.0-liter V12 engine, which produces 573 hp (421 kW) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The V12 under the hood drives the car from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 294 km/h (183 mph).

Left unmentioned is that the proceeds from this special edition, sold during an auction, will be entirely donated to the three organizations mentioned above.

Source: Valentino

May 15, 2015

Kahn Reveals the Defender Based Flying Huntsman Pick Up

Last month we told you about a very strange but at the same time captivating vehicle – Kahn’s Flying Huntsman Defender Pick Up. Now, we have the first official pictures of the car, after it has officially debuted at the Great British Land Rover Show. The coach-built pick up is actually only in prototype form, so this means that it has to be further updated.

Exterior

The most striking in it design is that its 90-inch wheelbase has been extended with 15 additional inches. What is more, the front end of the car appears to be longer. This is because it has been also lengthened by 400mm, while the width by 150mm.

At the front of this modified Defender 90 pick up we can also spot the front bumper replacement with new bumper lights, front wide wings with vents and bolt apertures, stainless steel sump guard, shadow chrome headlamps and X-Lander front grille.

The sides are adorned by the extended wheel arches, side vents with mesh stainless steel, side steps and 8″ x 18″ Defend 1945 Retro Wheels in Matt Black with gold stripe. At last, the back shows-off with rear wide wings and CTC semi-rigid wheel cover.

Interior

Inside, one steps in a kingdom of leather. The GTB Sports seats for example are in Artico, while literally everything else is upholstered in leather: starting from the roof headlining and ending with the sun visors.

Furthermore, the front is adorned by new Churchill clock, new rev counter facia and the exclusive three-spoke Kahn billet steering wheel. Below it are the vented machined aluminium foot pedals and rubber mud flaps.

Although there aren’t significant changes regarding the performance, the tuner says that it has completely overhauled the suspension and brakes. And with the introduction of a six-speed automatic gearbox and cubby box in leather, it has also succeeded to achieve better driving experience and improvements in performance.

Source: Kahn Design

May 15, 2015

Hennessey Venom GT is on Sale. It Can be Yours for $1.4 Million USD [VIDEO]

Hennessey Venom GT is one of the most famous cars. The coolest thing about it is that it can beat up the Bugatti Veyron with a blink of an eye. On Valentine’s Day 2014 this car set a new world speed record for 2-seater by achieving a top speed of 270.49 mph (435.31 km/h). The record was performed at the John F. Kennedy Space Center on the 3.2-mile Space Shuttle landing runway.

The Director of Miller Motorsports Park, Brian Smith, made the achievement because he was behind. What is left unmentioned is that the car can actually produce 1244 hp from its carbon 7.0-liter twin-turbo aluminum-block V-8 engine.

The aluminum body also helps for the record as well as the massive 345/30R-20 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires mated to forged monoblock aluminum wheels. Entirely hand built this vehicle also sports Penske double-adjustable coilovers, double A-arm suspension all around and Brembo 6-piston aluminum calipers clamping 15-inch carbon-ceramic rotors.

What makes the Venom GT so strong? The answer is the composite materials and aerospace-quality construction techniques used in its building. In addition, vehicle’s hybrid aluminum monocoque and tubular structure features chrome-moly steel roll-over hoops. This results in fantastic car weight of 2743 lb.

Now this future collectable is going on sale. The initial price is $1.4 million USD, which is absolutely worth it, given that it is faster than the Bugatti. If you are interested in buying it, you can order it now and expect it with a June delivery. And here’s a video of the world record:

httpv://youtu.be/gWAavCjVQvM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey

May 14, 2015

Seat Leon ST CUPRA 280 Sets Nürburgring Lap Record [VIDEO]

Seat is also making an appearance at GTI Wörthersee Treffen. As a matter of fact there it debuts the SEAT Leon ST CUPRA 280, which is a very special vehicle. The car has actually made a record-breaking time of 7:58.12 minutes at the Nürburgring. Seat is also displaying a total of five impressive variants from the Leon range at the meeting in Austria.

The record was made with a standard front-wheel-drive production estate with manual transmission, but equipped with Performance Pack. The person behind the wheel was company’s brand ambassador Jordi Gene, who praised the vehicle.

One of the best things about this car is that it benefits from a Limited Front Slip Differential and a six-speed manual gearbox. This ensures a secure grip on various types of roads. The Cupra is currently showed painted in Blanco Nevada and equipped with the “Black” Performance Pack.

Eye-catching are the entry sills at the front, rear side spoilers and the 19-inch alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. Running on those alloys the model is also fitted with Brembo high-performance braking system and body-colour side skirts.

This perfectly complements the sporty character of the engine, which pumps out 280 hp! The car can be also optionally equipped with Seat’s highly innovative assistance systems.

And don’t forget to check out the video below. You’ll see how Cupra is setting the new Nürburgring record.

httpv://youtu.be/97-xmcrW0xo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Seat

May 14, 2015

Skoda Reveals Fabia R5 Combi at Wörthersee

The GTI Meeting in Wörthersee is the place where brands have the chance to show their sporty side. We have already shown you a lot of Volkswagens and now it is time for Skoda, which is displaying five sports cars. Four of them are base don the Fabia mode and the fifth one is Octavia Combi RS 230. In addition, at the event visitors can also compete with mini racing cars in “SKODA’s Crazy Rally Ride”.

One of the most important cars in company’s lineup is the Fabia R5 Combi. It is powered by the 1.6-litre turbo engine that drives the four wheels and it is mated to a five-speed transmission. The car also features McPherson struts.

The exterior of the car is striking due to the green, white and black paint job, complemented by 18-inch alloys, new bumpers, flared mudguards and doorsills, and big huge rear spoiler.

The other Fabia based concept is the FUNstar, which was designed and constructed by apprentices and which includes a 1400-Watt sound system. In addition, the company is also displaying the Red & Grey Plus design package fitted on a Fabia, too. The pack adds red and grey stripes on the bonnet, roof and boot, complementing the red 17-inch alloys and wing mirror casings.

Next, the Octavia Combi RS 230 is the fastest estate car of all time, because it can reach a top speed of 247 km/h. It can also run from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.

A lot is currently happening at Wörthersee. We only wish that we could go there and witness it all!

Source: Skoda

May 14, 2015

David Brown Launches the Stunning Speedback GT in USA

Launched last year in March 2014, David Brown’s Automotive Speedback GT marked the start of the next era for GT modes. The Speedback has everything a customer would ever want: style, modern technology, reliability, wonderful performance and comfort. The special vehicle was designed, engineered and hand-crafted in UK and successfully launched in USA after unseen triumph in Europe with media reaction and sales.

Located at Quali Lodge in California, the event will be the right place to demonstrate the SPeedback GT and its capabilities to the American customers and media. Starting on 10th August, the Speedback will participate in the Rally n 11th and 12th of August before the main Quail event on 14th August, when it will be featured on a stand.

In fact, Brown has been working for many years on the Speedback GT. The car, that is hand-built in Covernry uses the well-known high quality British materials and craftsmanship. The Speedback offers incredible features, that include the hand-formed panels and the entirely hand-crafted interior. There is also a fold-down picnic seat.

The vehicle is geared with a 5.0-Liter V8 supercharged engine, that provides 510 hp (375 kW) and 461lb ft and speeds from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 279 km/h (155 mph)

Prices start at $795,000

Source: Speedback

May 14, 2015

2015 Audi TT Coupe TDI Ultra Wins One More Award!

Audi team demonstrated a different formula for building a sports car, that happened to be not just right, but good enough to bring numerous awards. The 2015 Audi TT TDI Ultra won the “Best Sportscar” award in the 2015 DieselCar Magazine Awards. The formula? High quality components, that only Audi team can bring with fewer stops at the filling station. The success belongs to the innovative minds, doesn’t it?

The Ultra version comes with aluminum and steel body and with the powerful 2.0-Liter TDI engine, that provides 184 hp (135 kW) and torque of 380 Nm at 1,750 – 3,250 rpm. The machine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.1 seconds and chases the top speed of 268 km/h (149 kW).

The inside of the TT Ultra welcomes you with a Audi Virtual Cockpit, a 12,3-inch TFT media screen, which, in fact, uses the latest NVidia Tegra 30 graphics processor do bring the clearest media graphics and visuals. In addition, the Virtual Cockpit is available as standard feature in every model. What is optional is the crysta-clear navigation mapping system and the Audi Connect 4G Internet connection.

The Audi TT Ultra is already available for purchase in UK with starting price from £29,810

Source: Audi

May 14, 2015

Alfa Romeo Celebrates 65th Anniversary of the Victory in Silverstone

65 years ago, back in 1950 four Alfetta 158 models created history at the Silverstone race in Northamptonshire. The drivers were Giuseppe “Nino” Farina, Luigi Fagioli, Juan Manuel Fangio and the UK driver Reg Parnell. This was the first race in Formula One season. An as we all know, F1 races are one of the most popular and most prestigious sport events.

Nino Farina did not only marked the fastest lap on the race, but he also won the race and created the possibility to continue for the rest of the championship. In the following challenges, Farina, Fagioli and Fangio won race after race. In fact, King George VI himself personally congratulated the three drivers for the incredible achievements.

Even today the Alfeta 158 remains as one of the most prestigious and well-known vehicles from the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo. This is a car, that isn’t famous with only its history, but with the fact, that made a global change in the world of motorsport.

It was developed in 1938 and had to wait for peace and prosperity before prove itself on the track. Originally the vehicle produced 195 hp (143 kW) and confidently evolved to 300 hp (220 kW) by the time for the Silverstone track: this is an impressive power, produced by the supercharged eight-cylinder 1,479cc inline engine.

The 158 model naturally evolved to the 159 model, which came with numerous improvements and upgrades for the 1951 season. It was capable of producing 450 hp (330 kW) and it was capable of winning yet another championship. This race also marked one more historical change in brand’s history. Alfa Romeo retired from racing and focused to series production and since then delivers one of the most technically advanced and beautiful vehicles.

Source: Alfa Romeo

May 14, 2015

Toyota and Mazda Teamed Up One More Time!

Toyota Motor Company and Mazda Motor Corporation entered an agreement to creat a mutually beneficial partnership. Booth brands will be leveraging resources to enhance each other’s production and boost technological development. Both Toyota and Mazda will go to the end result of offering even better and more appealing cars, that will meet all the needs of customers all around the world.

There will be also a joint committee, that will set up to elavuate each brand’s strengths. It will also encourage broad and meaningful collaboration in numerous fields, that even include environmental friendly and safety technologies.

In fact, this is not the first collaboration between Toyota and Mazda. Previously both brands included communication about the licensing of Toyota’s hybrid technology systems to Mzda and the production of vehicles for Toyota at Mazda’s plant in Mexico.

Toyota Motor Company and Mazda Motor Corporation noticed the considerable overlap between Mazda’s corporate plans of bringing pleasurable driving and Toyota’s desire to create better and better vehicles. This agreement between the two well-known brands will go beyond the traditional frame of partnership and will aim for fresh and incredible values for cars through the wide range of knowledge and professionalism, that both Mazda and Toyota can offer.

Source: Toyota Motor Company; Mazda Motor Corporation

May 14, 2015

Classic Jaguar Models Take Place at the 2015 Mille Miglia Event

Jaguar customers and fans will have the chance to see the 1,000-mile loop in Italy with some of the brand’s iconic models. There will be three C-types, three D-types, one XK120, one Xk140 and MK VII sallon. Held from May 14-17, 2015, the Mille Migia will offer challenges and tests for both vehicles and drivers. The event itself will begin and end in Brecia, but it will go through numerous Italian cities, including Rome.

The C-type models

The first C-type vehicle is already familiar with the Mille Miglia road, as it competed 62 years ago in the original race back in 1953 and it was driven by Mario Tadini and Franco Cortese. This is one of three models, that together form the Jaguar Heritage Trust and will be driven by Jaguar Vehicle Integrity Chief Engineer Mike Cross.

The second C-type wears the unique “KSF 182” registration number and it was the same vehicle, that Jimmy Stewart and Sir Jackie Steward were using during 1952 to 1955. Now it will be driven by the five-time winner of the le Mans 24-hour, three-time Daytona 24-hour winner and veteran Derek Bell. In fact, Bell is a guest of art collector and classic car enthusiast Adam Lindemann.

The last C-type is really a special one. It comes with registration number “PUG 676” and it took place in races in the post-World-War II era and now it will be driven by its owner, Royal Automobile Club Motoring Committee Chairman, Ben Cussons.

The D-type models

When we talk about Jaguar, the participation will not be complete without the one and only D-type. This year’s Mille Miglia will meet the “NVC 260”, that competed in not just one Mille Miglias competition back in the ’80s. But the car also took place in races back in 1956 and 1957 and now it will be driven by its owner, one of the world’s most respected experts, when it comes to classic cars, Simon Kidston.

Other D-type models, that will take place in the event are the “RSF 303” and the “393 RW”, that took place in numerous races in the ’50s. The Ecurie Ecosse D-type “RSF 303” was especially created for the 1957 le Mans race, but took part in Mille Miglia events in the same year and the next one. Now, it will be driven by Jaguar Design Director, Ian Callum.

The other model, the “393 RW” made 1956 a really special year for Jaguar by winning the 12-hour of Reims and finished in the sixth place and even setting the fastest lap at le Mans in the same year. This well-known machine and veteran will be driven by host of the hugely popular BBC One show, Saturday Kitchen and well-known chef, James Martin.

And there is good news for customers. They will be given the chance to drive C-type, D-type or E-type especially at Jaguar’s test facility at Fen end in West Midlands. Fans can choose between one-hour test drives, a half-day Le Mans race-themed special event or a full-day “Grace and Pace” programme.

The XK120 and XK140 models

Despite the fact Jaguar brand doesn’t offer test drive for the MK VII saloon, customers will still be given chance to see for themselves why this is one of the most remarkable cars of one entire era via jaguar’s social media platform. The legendary vehicle will be driven by adventurer Charley Boorman.

And with a bit of additional glamour, the 2015 Mille Miglia challenge will include also the TV presenter and current host of Channel 5’s The Classic Car Show Jodie Kidd, who will drive the stunning “Betsey”: the Jaguar “OOF 748”, just as he did in the 2014 trial. But this time she will be partnering with the classic car enthusiast David Gandy.

There is one more car, that will take part in 2015 Mille Miglia. This is the Jaguar XK140, which came in 1954 as a heir to the XK120. The car was owned by the successful British racer David Hobbs and back in 2006 it was completely restored by Trevor Groom and now, in 2015 it will be driven by Elliot Gleave.

Source: Jaguar

May 14, 2015

G-Power Releases the Ultimate BMW M6 Capable of 1001 Horses!

This is a G-Power tuned BMW of the 1001 nights or the so called G6M V10 Hurricane CS Ultimate. There is a hint: the number 1001 not only shows where this car will go, but also says something about the horsepower of the car. Yes, the vehicle will be driven by someone lucky in the United Arab Emirates and they will enjoy its 1001 horsepower output.

There is a story behind this project: the seed of the idea for this car was customer’s wish to drive the ultimate BMW sports vehicle. The only prerequisite was to be based on the high-revving V10 and its Formula 1 evocation. So as a basis the tuner has used the M6 E63 over which it applied some substantial modifications.

Exterior

The exterior of this vehicle has been modified via Hurricane wide body kit made of carbon fiber. It features extended wheel arches, large air intakes and front and rear aerodynamic addenda. At the back, we see ultra-lightweight titanium exhaust system with Racing Kats. It features two centrally positioned 120 mm diameter tailpipes, which also feature Formula 1 style soundtrack.

Engine

Behind this wide body kit is the idea of significant power upgrades. Precisely, the 5.0L V10 engine has been thoroughly improved and it now delivers 1001 hp (736 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. The top speed achieved is exhilarating and it is 372 km/h.

These fantastic numbers have been achieved through the application of G-POWER SK III supercharger system. The uprating process begins with improvement of the cold-air intake system with Ram Air effect ducting, enlargement of the charge air coolers and water and oil coolers. Afterwards the specialists have done an extensive testing of the revised engine control software applications.

Suspension, Wheels & Tires

In terms of suspension, this car gets a comprehensive upgrade that has been track tested and dubbed the G-Power “NÜRBURGRING SETUP”. In details, it comprises of a fully adjustable coil-over suspension, which lowers the centre of car’s gravity and delivers maximum stability at high speeds.

There are also four-wheel ceramic brakes which utilizes 400 mm vented brake discs. They sit behind the 21-inch Hurricane forged alloys mated with 255/25ZR21 and 295/30ZR21 Michelin tires.

Interior

Inside, the car has been wrapped in leather and Alcantara, and also features some carbon detailing. Here we see ‘Diamond-stitch’ decoration, leather floor mats, A-, B- and C-pillars and Alcantara headlining featuring decorative stitching.

The race-seats have carbon-fibre backs, the door trim panels bear the G6M Hurricane CS ultimate name, the centre console and parts of the dashboard are made from clear-coated carbon-fibre. Another highlight is the plaque integrated into the roof LED light bar, which carries the name of the owner and also proves that this car is one-off.

At last, the tuners specifically recalibrated the speedometer giving it the capability of reaching 400-km/h.