Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Take a Look at the Future Sandero RS by Renault [VIDEO]

    Renault Teases Sandero Sandero is usually associated with Dacia brand and rarely with Renault. However, the latter company is obviously expanding its market territory to the more exotic countries like these in South America. The proof for this is the attached video teaser, which has just been released by Renault and which comes to promote the new Sandero. Curious about it is that it is an RS version of the popular car.

    Yes, this means that it will be developed by Renaultsport and judging by the name it has, it will most probably be released in a Dacia-production variant, too. We can’t see a lot from the video, except for Renault’s logo and camouflage wrapping.

    Oh, and did you notice the front bumper that shows a totally new design approach. It also features front LED DRLs that adds some aggressiveness. This of course links to the thoughts that the car will have a sportier exterior in general.

    SEE ALSO: Dacia Sandero Gets Four Stars From Euro NCAP

    In terms of drivetrain – there is nothing official up to date. However, we should expect that this vehicle will be powered by Duster’s 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, which develops 143 horses (105 kW) or 148 hp (109 kW), depending on the fuel it uses. The first one is achieved with petrol fuel, while the second with ethanol.

    Renault Sandero RS is expected to be revealed very soon, so stay tuned for more detailed information. In the meanwhile, check out the video teaser:

    httpv://youtu.be/hkayAMoMaFk

    Source: Renault via YouTube

  • Lamborghini Huracans are Ready for the Track!

    Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America competitors finally got the high-anticipated Lamborghini Hurácan LP 620-2 Super Trofeo vehicles. The Italian monsters were already delivered on 20th April and teams had already the chance to test them on a 50-minute drive. Both Lamborghini Squada Corse and Super Trofeo made a special technical training session before the official races, that start on 1st of May.

    The Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo comes with the monstrous V10 direct-injection engine, that delivers a total of 620 horsepower (455 kW). The body and frame are further upgraded and redesigned, to ensure wonderful cooling and aerodynamic performance. Maybe the biggest change, made onto this Lambo model is the adoption of the rear-wheel drive and the especially made transmission.

    SEE ALSO: Lamborghini Unveiled the 2015 Superveloce

    Interesting fact is, that this racing season will mark the largest grids in Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America. We will witness the return of some drivers and we will see some yet unknown faces, that will tame the Lambo beasts.

    Competitors tested the Huricán on numerous tracks and at the end teams divided into two smaller teams: The first team will be racing with the Huricán itself, while the second team will be driving the well-known and trusthworthy 2013 Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo.

    The Gallardo comes with a V10 engine, that provides 570 hp (419 kW) and brings special high-tech units like paddle-shift, E-gear transmission, carbon-fiber aerodynamic pack, a special and adjustable rear wing and more.

    This will be an interesting race, because we will witness both brothers, the Huricán and the Gallardo, on the track.

    Stay with us for further information!

  • Monaco Grand Prix Preview

    The Monaco Grand Prix is always one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the sporting calendar and the 2015 weekend will get underway on the 22nd May. Unlike last year, Ferrari have produced a competitive car but it is still Mercedes who lead the way with Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg topping the grid on multiple occasions already this campaign.

    As well as the race, we take a look at Formula 1 as a whole and discuss the various issues that the sport has faced over the last year – and how sponsorship may play a key role in the future of motorsports.

    Mercedes have been on fire but Ferrari are not far behind

    Lewis Hamilton is currently leading the race for the World Championship and is looking to win back-to-back titles for Mercedes. The 30-year-old has been in exceptional form throughout the early part of the year, winning three of the first four races. The world champion is certainly the clear favourite to retain his title, although Ferrari will give the Mercedes driver a run for his money. Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen have both produced excellent drives this year and are expected to improve further in the near future.

    Formula 1 has gone through a difficult spell in the last 12 months

    The sport is struggling to attract new followers, mainly because of the less than competitive nature in the modern era. Sebastian Vettel won four championships in a row for Red Bull before Hamilton won last year – and the Brit looks well placed to secure the crown this year too. Meanwhile, Bernie Ecclestone has been involved in court cases and this has been another unwelcome distraction for Formula 1 fans.

    Furthermore, it was recently revealed that the German Grand Prix will not be held this year and therefore, the race calendar will include one less event this season. The sport is struggling to attract sponsors as, traditionally, alcohol and tobacco companies were heavily involved but their influence is limited nowadays.

    Verdict

    Ferrari are much improved and on current form, they could test the Mercedes pairing. However, Monaco is traditionally a difficult circuit to overtake on and it will be tricky for Raikkonen and Vettel to overtake either Rosberg or Hamilton. Qualifying will be crucial, but Lewis Hamilton will be confident that he can extend his lead at the top of the Drivers Championship with another victory.

  • MINI Demonstrates a Surfboard!

    2015 Mini SurfboardOn the first sight, there is nothing in common between the well-known MINI and Channel Islands brands. But, in fact, both brands decided to cooperate and create something never seen before. A surfboard. And not just an ordinary surfboard, but a board, that will also take its influence onto the MINI car.

    The board was crafted at the Channel Islands factory in Santa Barbara. To be precise, the collaboration work is between the Head of Exterior Design for MINI Christopher Weil and professional surfer Kalani Robb. In fact, Robb himself had the idea about a surfboard, influenced by MINI vehicles. He explains: “To create this feeling of agility and speed, we’ve developed a board with a little extra tail volume. The board’s wider outline and low rocker really make it fly.” That is how “THE MINI” was created. The professional surfer ensures us, that  “THE MINI” is ideal for summer surfing in France, Spain and Portugal.

    Mini Surfboard

    In fact, you can customize the unique surf in a way, that perfectly fits your MINI. The team at Channel Islands is ready to take your order and create the ideal custom surf just for you. How cool is that? And this is not all. You can customize the board even online-there is a special online platform to help you create your personal surf.

    Besides the MINI, tell me, how does your surf looks like?

    Source: MINI

  • Kia Shows the Custom 2016 K900

    2016 Kia K900 CustomKia‘s Ambassador and the Fit For a King Campaign created K900. It comes with Custom Pear Red Metallic and it was driven by LeBron James inside the Madison Square especially for the NBA All-Star Game in NY. The designer team lowered the overall height and added incredible 22-inch custom wheels, tires, special headliner, audio system and many more features. But let us see what is really going on here.

    Kia Motors and LeBron James teamed up to create the incredible K900 sedan, that includes all specifics, that personally LeBron James ordered. Mr. James himself says:“I’m excited to share this custom car with the winning bidder and even more proud that all of the proceeds are going to help my Foundation continue its amazing work.” LeBron James continues:“All of the proceeds raised will help us keep kids in school and give them an education that is extremely important for their futures.”

    The K900 was first unveiled at the 2015 NBA All-Star game at Madison Square. Later the vehicle made appearance in Cleveland in April. The different personal customization include Alcantara Suede interior, headliner, color-matched diamond contrast stitching, Llumar Ceramic window tint, custom built audio system. Definitely interesting customizations have been done, thanks to the cooperative power of Kia and Fit For a King team.

  • 2016 Toyota Mirai Will Take Place At NASCAR Series Race

    2016 Toyota MiraiToyota revealed the 2016 Toyota Mirai, which is, as you know a hydrogen-driven electric car. The vehicle will take place at the Toyota Owner 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Richmond International Raceday on April, 15. The green light, given to the Mirai means, that the 2016 model will lead the Sprint Cup Series to the green flag and will emit only water throughout the way.

    The vehicle itself is a four-door sedan, that uses a special engine system, which doesn’t use gasoline and emits nothing but water steam. The machine can travel up to 300 miles with full tank and usually is refueled in about 5 minutes.

    The 2016 Mirai was double tested, before approved to pace the Sprint Cup. Once by a special NASCAR team and the second time at a RIR session. In fact, Toyota is one of the brands, that continue to develop hybrid engines. You may remember the successful Toyota Camry Hybrid, that earned incredible positive feedback, when completed full NASCAR race back in 2009. Obviously the Toyota team is determined to continue the successful alternative fuel technology development.

    2016 Toyota Mirai NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Richmond

    Something more. Toyota is a brand, that has more than 2 million hybrid vehicles sold only in US. This makes the brand the biggest hybrid vehicle manufacturer worldwide. And the Toyota team is determined to continue to expand. And we all expect even better engines with even better performance stats.

    Source: Toyota

  • Mazda Announces MX-5 Specifications

    Mazda MX-5 Side and Front ViewMadza MX-5 is one of the most appreciated cars worldwide and its latest generation has just entered production. So, to make some noise around it, the company has released details around its specifications and UK-bounded pricing. In addition, the car is also scheduled to make debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed.

    The first thing that we have to mention about this Mazda, is that it has exceptional power to weight ratio. It is fitted with rear-wheel drive and has the ideal 50:50 weight distribution. Not to mention all the technology featured.

    The model line comes powered by five trim levels and two engines from the SKYACTIV-G petrol line. In addition, the new generation MX-5 is probably the most lightweight version since the first model ever popped out.

    In comparison to the last gen, this car is also shorter, lower and wider and has the lowest center of gravity and the tiniest overhangs. This is part of Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design and of course contributes for better aerodynamics.

    When it comes to Mazda MX-5, everybody is looking under the hood. This time, the engineers have placed one of two SKYACTIV technology-infused engines. They are efficient and powerful, and undoubtedly complement the sporty character off the car.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Mazda MX-5 is Almost Here! The Production Has Begun

    For instance, the SE-L specified models will come powered by a 2.0-litre engine, which produces no less than 160 hp (118 kW). The same model is also distinguished by 17-inch Gunmetal alloys, piano black mirrors for the doors, strut tower bar and limited slip differential.

    On the other hand, the Step up to Sport trims will be equipped with either the 1.5 or the 2.0-litre units. Special about them is the rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry which will allow access to the premium interior with heated leather seats and Bose Surround-Sound system.

    When equipped with the smaller unit, the Sport trim will be running on 16-inch Gunmetal alloys and will also have piano black door mirrors. If the same trim gets the other engine choice, then it will benefit from Sports suspension with Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential and strut tower bar. The wheels are in the dimension of 17-inches and the door mirrors this time are in body color.

    Despite the trim level, each MX-5 will be getting alloys, LEDs, steering wheel wrapped in leather, and a fabric hood. Other goodies include integrated navigation system and the optional Safety Pack. The latter will add High Beam Control and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 will be debuting at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the end of June. It will then be distributed around showrooms in UK and Europe. The starting price is £18,495.

    Source: Mazda

  • Audi Releases the Latest TT Coupe Model

    Audi TT Side ViewThe latest TT model, that Audi released, the TT 1.8 TFSI is really a vehicle with compact design, but with incredible performance and features. The TFSI comes with various engine choices, different tweaks and addons. This is really an athletic vehicle, that offers sporty experience and high-tech gadgets.

    The standard pack includes a turbocharged 1.8 TFSI Engine, that delivers torque of 250 Nm across the rev range of 1,250 to 5,000 rpm. The engine is further improved to bring faster response and better fuel efficiency. In addition, it has and lower emission rates. Cool, huh?

    The TT Coupe, geared with the standard engine and the standard 6-speed manual gearbox goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 and has almost the same acceleration rate, if you prefer the automatic gearbox – 7.0 seconds. The top speed is 241 km/h (133 mph). The Roadster, on the other hand, goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds.

    In addition to the different models, Audi offers and different engine types: TT 2.0 TDI Ultra, that delivers 184 hp (135 kW) and 380 Nm is one of the options. The second one is 2.0 TFSI, which is a supercharged petrol models, that delivers 230 hp (169 kW) and 370 Nm of torque. The third model has a 310 hp (228 kW) power output and goes from 0 to 100 km/h n 4.6 seconds.

    As you will notice, even the basic version comes with incredible equipment and brings sporty and dynamic performance. All the models are equipped with special sport seats, especially designed control panel and further-upgraded steering wheel. And of course, you get incredible amount of gadget and tweaks, that keep you connected to the social media, numerous drive systems and assist systems.

    Definitely an Audi, that every fan should know about.

    Source: Audi

  • Subaru Unveiled 2016 WRX and WRX TDI Models

    2016 Subaru WRXSubaru has announced the anticipated 2016 WRX and WRX STI models, that feature a special safety system. The 2016 models come with Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Other features include a wonderful exterior design, that is especially created to get the maximum of the overall performance of the vehicles. Both models are fresh and redesigned and we think they deserve our attention. Here is why.

    The WRX comes with a 268 hp (197 kW)  Segment Launcher. This crushing power is further boosted by the direct injection turbo BOXER powerplant and the All Wheel Drive system. All this power is operated by a 6-speed manual transmission, but customers, who are still not satisfied, Subaru offers an optional automatic transmission, that comes with the special manual mode.

    Definitely the most interesting part of the 2016 WRX models is the safety system. The special EyeSight technology is, in fact, the highest-rated crash prevention system, which is perfectly harmonized with the Adaptive Cruise Control and the Pre-Collision Braking systems. Interesting addition to the 2016 WRX models is the Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver to keep the vehicle in the lane, when driving on the highway.

    In addition, all the models, equipped with EyeSight technology are also equipped with special Steering Responsive Fog lights. They are especially crafted to deliver incredible illumination area, even in drastic turns.

    Both 2016 WRX models come with full pack of technology. The standard pack includes 6.2-inch multimedia screen, AM/FM radio, HD radio, Subaru STARLINK connectivity and numerous connectivity gadgets, that ensure, that you will be in touch with your personal data in every single moment.

    And for customers, who still want more, Subaru offers a Premium pack, that includes 8-way power driver’s seat, LED low-beam headlights, High-beam lights, automatic on/off switch.On the other hand, 2016 Subaru WRX STI is powered with the crushing 305-horsepower, 2.5-Liter turbo BOXER engine, that works perfectly with the 6-speed manual transmission. Additional tweaks could be further installed, like, for example, a low profile trunk spoiler and a large signature wing. All other standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, All-Weather Package, rear vision camera and of course the Subaru STARLINK Multimedia system.

    THe WRX STI Limited offers luxurious leather-trimmed upholstery, 8-way power driver system and of course all the incredible safety technologies. Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert are there only for you.

    subaru wrx sti detroit

    And when it comes to high performance, the 2016 WRC STI knows what it is and how its delivered.  The 2016 STI features a rally-inflyenced Multi Mode Drive Control Center, All-Wheel-Drive, Active Torque Vectoring. And to be sure, for the flawless performance, Subaru team included and Brembo Performance Brake system.

    The interior also deserved attention. The cabin welcomes you to a cozy and comfortable place. There is wonderful red and black leather clothing, high-quality details, and of course a functional and wonderfully looking front console. You will navigate the system via 4.3-inch LCD screen, and you will always be connected with all the numerous devices.

    Both 2016 WRX and WRX STI models are wonderful addition to the Subaru brand and bring fresh and dynamic additions. I wonder what you think about them. Tell me down in the comment section.

    Source: Subaru

     

  • Volkswagen Releases jeans up!

    Volkswagen jeans up! Side ViewVolkswagen has just introduced a very interesting version of the up! model, called jeans up! The new special edition of the small city car is actually expanding the options for the super-compact four-seater. The jeans up! shows it individual characteristics via some exterior and interior tweaks.

    First, the exterior of the car is dominated by athletic foil on the side panels. The car is distinguished from its siblings with the “jeans” lettering on the front doors. In addition, this mini VW also sports chrome-finished exterior mirrors and tinted rear and side windows that help in cases of strong sunlight. What rounds out the exterior details are the new 16-inch”black triangle” alloys and the fog lights surrounded by chrome.

    Inside, the car gets as standard equipment a multi-function display and a cruise control. What makes this up! version even more individual are the seats and pockets on the backs of the front seats which have received a “jeans” look. There is also lettering in the door sill trims, carpet floor mats with colored stitching all throughout the cabin.

    SEE ALSO: New Volkswagen Up! Model Goes Official

    In addition, chrome has been added to the air vents, radio panel and instrument cluster for shinier look. At last, the finishing touches inside are added by the steering wheel and gearshift-lever that were wrapped in dark split leather.

    In terms of engines, the jeans up! can be powered by any of the engines in the up! range, delivering an output  between 60 hp (44 kW) and 75 hp (55 kW). The trim level can be even added to the eco up! version, which is driven by a natural gas and has an output of 68 hp (50 kW) and very low fuel consumption.

    The jeans up! is very nice, especially when equipped with the natural gas engine. Makes it perfect for stylish urban driving. Would you buy one?

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Toyota Hilux Gets Tougher with Dezent

    Dezent Toyota Hilux TJ Front and Side ViewWhen details are scarce about a project this doesn’t mean that it does not deserves attention. This is the case with this Hilux, which has just received a minor update from the specialists at Dezent. Equipped with a four-wheel drive and almost invincible, this car is capable of conquering any terrain.

    In general, the Hilux is powered by a 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine, which produces 169 hp (124 kW). The unit is connected to a five-speed manual transmission as a standard, but it could also get an automatic one.

    Dezent decided to work with this giant and to make it more menacing. As we can see, the exterior of the car includes a paint scheme in shiny black color, and if we take a closer look, then we will notice that the new alloys are also in the same color.

    SEE ALSO: 2015 Toyota Hilux Invincible X Takes on the Toughest Terrains

    As a matter of fact, the DEZENT TJ alloys have been specifically developed for this Toyota. In addition, their robust looks are accentuated by polished highlights. Precisely, the six-spoke design of the wheels features a combination of a black base and polished areas on the raised spoke edges, the rim flange and the compact centre.

    It might look a little bit old-fashioned, but the spokes have been made a little wider. But think about it, doesn’t this convey a stable and striking look? In addition, they are also very practical, because they can carry up to 1017 kg.

    At last, I should also say something about the dimensions. The Hilux is fitted with 18-inch alloys at all four corners. This makes things even more exclusive, doesn’t it?

    Source: Dezent

  • Can this ABT Audi S6 Beat the RS6 with its 550 HP?

    ABT Audi S6 Front and Side ViewThe day begins very nice, not only because of the NSX information, but also because the specialists at ABT Sportsline just sent us a couple of photos and details on their latest project. This time they have worked on an Audi S6, thus giving it super-strengths and some minimal styling tweaks.

    The best thing about this tuning is the added “New Generation” performance package, which puts the S6 very near to the RS6. As a result, this car produces 550 hp (404 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb0ft), instead of 450 hp (331 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft). The maximum speed was also raised to 290 km/h. Nice, isn’t it? The good news here is that if you have an S7 you can get the same power package.

    Hundred additional horses also mean that the car needs new rubbers in 21-inches of size which were of course mated with super cool wheels. The other styling features are the new fender inserts, exposed carbon mirror caps and carbon-made rear spoiler.

    SEE ALSO: ABT Releases 400HP Volkswagen Golf R 

    Moreover, there is an electronic ABT Level Control for the air suspension. It will perfectly position the wheels in their arches, while the lowered CoG will also help the S6 corner much better.

    Although there aren’t any pictures of the interior, we believe ABT specialists when they say that it now includes entrance lights with their own start-stop button, floor and trunk mats with tuner’s logo and LED shifting lights in the steering wheel.

    Well, does it sound plausible now that the Audi S6 can beat the RS6?

    Source: ABT