Category: Auto News

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

  • “And the World Stood Still” for the Most Powerful Rolls-Royce

    Rolls Royce Wraith Side VIew

    The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars launches a film, named “And the World Stood Still”, that is accepted into the British Film Institute National Archive – the world’s biggest collection of film and TV. To celebrate this, Rolls-Royce created a Wraith that is inspired by the film. The film itself introduces the Wraith, which is the most powerful and technologically advanced vehicle ever created by Rolls-Royce.

    The shoot is taken in a secret place in Barcelona with special 100 SLR cameras that bring the so-called “Timeslice” sequence. The movie team shows incomparable knowledge and skills beyond measure in the cinematography art. There is even an additional behind the scenes film, specially released after countless fan requests.

    Actually, this isn’t the first Rolls-Royce movie. The brand takes role in film making for many decades. Some of their best works include Goldfinger (1964), The Yellow Rolls-Royce (1964), The Great Gatsby (1976) and many others. And now, with the “And the World Stood Still”, Rolls-Royce team is back to show us incredible artwork, unbelievable views of the car and overall movie experience never seen before.

    As it comes to the Wraith itself, it really is the most powerful Rolls-Royce up to date. The exterior is revised and the wheelbase are wider, the engine is a twin turbo V12, that delivers 624 hp (465 kW) and goes from 0 to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds). The lines and body of the Wraith has something similar to the 1930s film noir,that gives that really unique style and expression.

    The Wraith “Inspired by Film” Special Edition will debut at the 2015 New York Auto Show, and could be ordered worldwide right after the show.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Keeping Your Car’s Fluid Levels Topped Off

    BMW-N54-twin-turbo

    Maintaining the proper fluid levels in your car is an easy task. You may prefer that your local dealer or service center perform this for you but knowing how to do it yourself is a good thing too. For those that are in the DIY category, this guide can help you.

    We will discuss the following automotive systems involving fluid levels:

    • Engine coolant
    • Engine oil
    • Automatic transmission fluid
    • Window washer fluid
    • Brake fluid
    • Power Steering fluid

    Let’s look at them one by one.

    Engine Coolant – The engine coolant reservoir is a plastic container under the hood usually just to the side of the radiator. This is where overflow coolant goes when the fluid expands with heat. Pop the coolant lid open and, if its low, fill it about two-thirds of the way full with anti-freeze. Note: Engine coolant is generally diluted 50/50 (50 percent water, 50 percent coolant).

    Engine Oil – Checking your oil level is a simple procedure. With the hood open and propped, locate the dipstick. It sometimes has a brightly colored handle. Remove it and wipe it off. Reinsert it into hole, then slowly remove it again. Can you see the oil level down at the bottom of the stick? It should fall between the two hash marks. If it’s below the bottom level, you need to add oil -typically a quart. Be very careful not to overfill it, as this can cause over-pressure in the crankcase which may harm internal seals and gaskets.

    Automatic Transmission –Generally, the automatic transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running. See your owner’s manual for more information on this. The transmission dipstick is often located behind the oil dipstick but doesn’t stick up as high. Sometimes it will have the similar colorful markings as the oil dipstick. With the engine running, (be careful!) pull out the transmission dipstick. Wipe it off and reinsert it, then extract it again. It will have high and low marks similar to the oil dipstick. If it’s at the low mark, it’s time to add some transmission fluid.

    Window Washing Fluid – The receptacle is typically located in the engine compartment, underneath the windshield but it may be by the side also. It may look like the coolant overflow reservoir so take a good look with a flashlight if needed. If you’re unable to locate these fluid reservoirs, consult your owner’s manual. If the fluid is low, add more!

    Brake Fluid – Locate the brake fluid reservoir. It’s usually in the engine compartment by the fire wall or against one fender. If you can’t find it, consult the manual. Remove the lid and check the level. It should be at least two-thirds full. If not, fill to the “full” line with either DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, check your owner’s manual for recommendations on what level of brake fluid is best.

    Power Steering Fluid – The reservoirs for power steering fluid can be in a number of location under the hood. Look carefully and you will see it labelled. It will have a plastic measuring post under the cap that registers the fluid level. Be sure and add only approved power steering fluid if it is low.

    Maintaining proper fluid levels helps insure safe and trouble-free driving. It takes only a few minutes, and can often catch a problem before it becomes a crisis. Try and make it a habit to check them periodically.

  • Replacing the Original Carpet in Your Used Car

    You got a great deal on a used car but the carpeting has seen better days. If it is heavily stained and/or has holes in it, you’ve really got a couple choices. First, you can buy inexpensive floor mats and just cover the nasty areas with them. This is the quick and easy solution and can work in many situations. Second, you can go first class and install brand new pre-fitted carpeting. This is a great solution because it makes the car almost look new again inside.

    Sound expensive? Many people don’t know that you can easy buy preformed carpets for your car and you can install them yourself. Pre-formed carpets are designed to exactly match the originals in your car and they are generally available in the right color and fabric and will be custom molded with all factory pads attached. Pre-formed carpets are typically priced in the $150 to $250 range and are available either from your local dealer, local autoparts store or on-line.

    Considering doing it yourself? Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help guide you:

    1)      The new carpet will be shipped rolled up. Before you start, unroll it and let it lie on a flat surface for at least a few hours to let it lose its curl. Placing some books on it to make it lie flat usually helps.

    2)      Next, let’s get the front seats out. Unscrew the four nuts that secure the seats to the floor pan studs. You may also have to remove the seat belt anchor bolts. Disconnect any electrical connectors under each seat also.

    3)      They may be surprising heavy so grab a helper and lift the seats up and out.

    4)      If you have a console in between the two front seats, loosen it or remove it. You may need to consult a factory service manual to see how this is done. (You may also find a Youtube video illustrating the process.)

    5)      Remove the rear seat cushion. These usually come out without much trouble but may require some hardware to be loosened or removed first.

    6)      When everything is free, pull the old carpet out.

    7)      The next step is to transfer the original cutout openings to the new carpet. Using the old carpet as a template, trace the cutouts where the studs went through to the new carpet with chalk. Then cut the cutout openings with a boxcutter. Your new carpet is now ready to go.

    8)      Before the new carpet goes in, vacuum the floor pan and check for rust. Treat rusted areas with a good rust-inhibiting paint and let it dry good.

    9)      When everything is dry, fit the new carpet in and reverse the disassembly procedure.

    When finished, enjoy the look and feel of your brand new carpet and buy a set of good set of no-spill coffee mugs!

    Thanks to Instructions from Newark Chrysler

  • Kaege Reinterprets the Porsche Macan S [VIDEO]

    Kaege Porsche Macan S Front and Side ViewKaege is a tuning company, which is obviously keen on German-made models popular for their sports capabilities. Therefore, a diesel Porsche Macan S fell under the expertise of the tuners. The first to modify was not the exterior nor the interior, but the engine. The diesel unit of nearly three liters of size received power upgrades and now can show-off with 310 hp (228 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

    Next on their mind was the exhaust system, which received an active sound system. The result is an extreme sound of a V8 engine, which can be manually adjusted via cruise control lever. No less than a lowering module was then needed to complement the new sporting characteristics of the Macan. This was made possible via a DLC variant of KW with App control, which can be managed via on-board adapter jack.

    What is more, even SUV’s serial steel springs and electric shock absorbers can be lowered with the help of KW coilovers. Kaege can also supply the Macan with KW street comfort chassis and KW electronic shock absorber adjustment.

    At last, the tuners took care for the exterior, which received exquisite CH-R II BBS wheels fitted with Michelin-Pilot sports tires. As they call it, a “little optics packet” was then added and it comprises of front and rear shock absorbers. In the end, painted red brake calipers are what rounds out the enhancement package for this Macan.

    httpv://youtu.be/y0x8B1ETiLo

    Video Source: YouTube  

    Source: Miranda Media

  • Revolutionary Subaru WRX STI Rallycross Car Debuts in NY

    Subaru WRX STI Rallycross Car Side ViewSubaru is going to premiere its WRX STI rallycross car at the New York Auto Show tomorrow after a year of secret development. The rally team will compete with this car in the Red Bull Global and X Games Rallycross. Besides its sporting name, this vehicle is actually dubbed VT15x and is based on the popular STI. The technicians at Subaru joined forces for its development with Vermont SportsCar and have finished the racer in four long years. So the expectations on this car are very, very high.

    As the technicians even say, this VT15x is not only an evolution of Subaru’s STI, but a revolution in terms of technology and development. Carrying Bucky Lasek’s livery, the model is powered by the 2.0L Boxer engine which produces 580 hp (426 kW) and is mated to a six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox that drives all four wheels. Believe it or not, this car is capable of 0-60 mph acceleration time in just 2 seconds.

    Other spectacular features are the specific rallycross widebody and the racing wheels delivered by METHOD. When compared to the previous generation mode which was driven last year, this one is definitely better.

    First of all it has optimized weight. Then, its center of gravity is balanced, while the suspension geometry improved. Handling was also made better thanks to the advanced aerodynamics. And all changes meet the GRC and FIA Rallycross homologation standards.

    Subaru Rally Team USA will start competing in this year’s season on 31st of May in the Red Bull Global Rallycross that takes place in Florida, and then on 5th of June it will opt for the first place in the X Games in Texas.

    Source: Subaru 

  • Buick Avenir Concept Shows-Off with Bigger Vision Flexibility

    Buick Avenir Concept The crew at Buick doesn’t believe that LEDs are just lights, made to see the road ahead. They create masterpieces that mix crushing design concepts with incredible efficiency and flexibility. The Buick’s visual identity is always connected to the offbeat design of headlamps and tail-lamps. Something more: new technology of crafting the light-emoting diodes allows designers to bring the next level of light efficiency and new age of crushing visual designs.

    The lamps are a mixture of technical details and exquisite looks, which are revealed only to those, who dare to take a closer look. The headlamps and tail-lamps incorporate elements, that create a winged form and each “wing” contains the signature Buick logo and continues to the decorative trim and seating surface.

    The light-emoting diodes allow specialists to have more control over the behavior of the light itself and over the efficiency. For example, the winged accents in Avenir’s lamps confidently lighten the vision, regardless if it is a day or night. The turn signals illuminate in such grace and manner that bring the impression of waves upon a shoreline.

    As you might know, Buick is a luxurious brand, which offers extraordinary designs, one-of-a-kind interiors and countless additional technologies. The team welcomes new clients with a portfolio of the award-winning models in America and even in China.

    Source: Buick 

  • Mercedes-Benz Announced AMG C63 and C63 Sedan for the US Market

    Mercedes-AMG C63 Side ViewMercedes-Benz USA announced that the 2015 Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S sedans are coming fresh to customers very soon. These additions to the C-class bring unmatched design, one-of-a-kind craftsmanship and of course a full pack of technology units. In fact, the C63 is known for the best-selling AMG in the world.

    The launch on the US marked is planned for April this year. Let us remind you, that the engine is a modern redesigned M177 V8 bi-turbo with capability of 469 hp ( 364 kW) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque for the C63 and 503 hp (369 kW) with 700 Nm (516 lf-ft) of torque for the C63 S.

    Standard packs include the hand-built AMG V8 powerplant, Burmester Surround Sound system, Collisions Prevention Assist Plus, ATTENTION ASSIST monitor, Power memory seats, AMG dynamic exhaust. Don’t forget the Adaptive suspension with three different driving modes, the 18″ alloy wheels for the C63 and 19″ for the C63 S. In fact, these are only some of the extras that the new models come with.

    Some of additional options include Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Carbon Fiber trim, 19″ forged Alloy Wheels, that are available in black and silver. The C63 may also come with an AMG Performance Steering Wheel and AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System, available only for the C63 S.

    To sum up, you get numerous additions with the standard pack and countless more to choose from the Optional packages. Making choices is a hard thing, isn’t it? Especially when prices start at $63,900 USD.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Honda Releases Bullet-Fast Concept Called S660

    Honda S660 Concept Edition Front and Side View On April 2, 2015, Honda will begin sales of the fresh and ready to go two-seater S660. At the same day the limited S660 Concept Edition will also be released. By “limited” Honda means only 660 vehicles, that will be sold only in Japan. The S660 is definitely a beauty that deserves our attention. Here are some more details.

    The two-seater is with a weight balance, which only Honda can create. You will deal with a mid-ship engine with a rear wheel drive, perfectly seated to create a low center of gravity that includes the 45-55 front-rear weight balance. All these fine tunings bring overall pleasure of driving, great turning capability and as always, highest levels of comfort.

    The Honda team created a vehicle, which provides pleasure and comfort for anyone, who dares to try it. The S660 comes with newly designed turbo charger only to bring the right engine response. Only for this model, drivers will have the chance to try the 6-speed transmission that adopts ratio settings, finely tuned to bring the maximum extent of the engine. Furthermore, the S660 is also available with a 7-speed shifter that changes the mode to “sport”, so the drivers can get that extra acceleration response.

    The exterior is based on the “energetic bullet” design. This means, that the body is low and wide in order it can hold the ground on any of the four car corners. And of course, when we talk about bullets, we know that it means speed. The car design brings highest levels of dynamic and performance.

    For the interior, Honda team went for intuitive and spacious concept, specifically created for sports driving. The high levels of quality and visuals do match the high levels of performance and overall quality.

    The S660 is a proud member of the Honda family that contains all of the brand’s characteristics, beauty and power. You should definitely check it out!

    Source: Honda

  • 2016 Terrain SUV by GMC Comes Our Way

    GMC Terrain SLT Side and Front ViewWith a modern front-end design, 2016 Terrain and Terrain Denali were introduced days before their public appearance at New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The lineup comes with updates and tweaks that include revised fascias, power dome hood and daytime lamps. In addition, the SLE and SLT models come with Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Safety first, right?

    The number of additions for the 2016 Terrain lineup is about fifteen. Here are some of them: redesigned chrome grills for SLE and Denali, revised power dome hood, 18-inch aluminum wheel design and 19-inch aluminum wheel design for the Denali model. There is even Intellink connectivity with a three month trial. Interior comes with two packs: you can choose between the Frost Triscoat and Crimson Red Tintcoat colors.

    What catches the eye is the cool and bold design and an incredible attention to detail. The interior, geared with the GM-exclusive MultiFlex rear seat, offers big space for cargo that comes up to 63.9 cubic feet with folded back seats.

    The Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected powerplant delivers Epa-estimated 32 mpg with the FWD models. The direct-injected 3.6Liter V6 engine is capable of producing the best-in-class 301 hp (225kW) and 272 lb-ft of torque (369 Nm), combined with towing capacity of 1, 588kg (3, 500 pounds).

    The Denali model comes with incredible exterior and interior changes, one-of-a-kind wheels and other design modifications. The exclusive Dual-flow damper provides smoother driving feel and improved handling.

    So what are you waiting for? Don’t miss your chance to get along with the Terrain at NYIAS!

    Source: GMC

  • McLaren Reveals 570S Coupe One Day Ahead of Debut

    McLaren 570S Coupe Front and Side ViewGreat News! McLaren has actually revealed the 570S Coupe a day before the start of the New York Auto Show. The first in the trilogy Sports Series family is typical for the brand due to its design cues and aggressive sports characteristics. At its heart this is a pure sports car. It has a layout optimized for the driver and shows spectacular performance.

    It is no secret (given the name) that this McLaren will be capable of 570PS (562bhp). What’s not known however is the fact that it can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in only 3.2 seconds, while the 200 km/h (124 mph) is covered in 9.5 seconds. The top speed stands at 328 km/h (204mph).

    The other important fact about the 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine is that it includes 30 percent of bespoke components, specific to the model. Next to the 570PS at 7400 rpm, the car can also achieve 600Nm (443 lb-ft) of optimum torque at 5000-6000 rpm. This power is distributed to the rear wheels via seven-speed SSG transmission.

    Furthermore, this coupe is actually the first one to carry a specific body-style, which will be then applied to the other vehicles in the Sports Series. Its great power characteristics are due to the bespoke aerodynamic package added to its bodywork.

    The aero kit adds aero blades below the front bumper, huge bright LEDs in the headlights and in the blade rear lamps, sculpted bonnet, new design for the doors, aluminium rear fenders and a signature concave rear window. Also notice the twin exhausts exit below the rear bumper.

    What we can’t see however is the brand new suspension system that utilizes adaptive dampers with front and rear anti-roll bars. Behind the Pirelli Zero Corsa tyres on the new alloys there are carbon ceramic brakes.

    The minimized weight of the car due to the aero components and the carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis not only results in great performance, but also contributes towards fuel efficiency of 25.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 258g/km.

    The cabin of every 570S features standard leather wrapped sports seats, dashboard and steering wheel, more stowage space and wide range of technology tweaks like the full infotainment system.

    Additional details will be confirmed tomorrow after McLaren 570S debuts at the New York Auto Show.

    McLaren 570S Technical Data:

    PERFORMANCE

    0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) 3.2 seconds
    0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) 9.5 seconds
    Top speed 328 km/h (204 mph)
    Power-to-weight 434PS per tonne

    ENGINE & POWERTRAIN

    Engine Configuration V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc
    Power 570PS (562 bhp) @ 7,400 rpm
    Torque 600Nm (443 lb ft) @ 5,000-6,500 rpm
    Transmission 7 Speed SSG
    CO2 258 g/km
    Economy 25.5 mpg 9.22 l/100 km (EU combined)

    DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT

    Dry weight 1,313 kg (2,895 lb) with lightweight options
    Weight distribution 42 / 58
    Length 4,530mm
    Width 2,095mm
    Height 1,202mm

    Source: McLaren 

  • Acura to Display ILX Endurance Racer in New York

    Acura ILX NASA Endurance Racer Side and Front ViewNorth American International Auto show was the first to display the gorgeous 2016 Acura NSX Supercar, powered by a twin-turbocharged 75-degree DOHC V6 engine and a three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system. Now, there is another event in which the ultra-performance vehicle will take part and it is (of course) this one in New York. Next to it, at the Acura stand will shine the TLX GT that has just won this year’s Pirelli World Challenge, as well as the new ILX endurance race car.

    Well, the last model is actually the big debut for the brand in NY. It has been never shown before and was developed for a severe competition. For this purpose, the ILX is equipped with modified engine, and also features new chassis and suspension. Even the interior was changed and wrapped in stock-like bodywork.

    The endurance racer was developed with the only purpose: Victory in the 25 Hours of Thunder Hill race. There it will run for the first place competing Porsche, BMW, and other strong brands, so we wish it luck and hope for a positive outcome.

    Next to the first appearance of the ILX, and the production NSX twin-turbo hybrid supercar, Acura will also display two SUVs: the RDX and MDX, and three sedans: the ILX sport one and the updated luxury RLX, and the best-selling TLX.

    Characteristics of the ILX racer include:

    Racing Series NASA Endurance Series
    Class ES
    Major powertrain modifications HPD engine mountsHPD lightened flywheel and racing clutchForged pistons and connecting rodsRacing camsLow restriction intake & exhaust systems

    Blueprinted fuel injectors

    Major chassis modifications HPD camber plates and rear anti-roll barRacing suspension kitRacing tires and wheels
    Exterior modifications Custom front splitter and rear spoilerSupplemental LED lighting systemLow-profile door mirrors
    Interior modifications Custom safety cageRacing seats and harnessesRacing steering wheel with quick disconnectRacing gauge packageLightweight battery

    Fuel cell

    Air jacks

    Source: Acura

  • Shelby Confirms GT350 Mustang with Over 520HP [VIDEO]

    Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Front and Side ViewFord Shelby GT350 Mustang is literally one of the most wanted cars in the world that also played a very important part in the Need for Speed game and movie. The new model year vehicle was said to be powered by Ford’s 5.2-liter V8 petrol unit, producing 500 horsepower (368 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb-ft) of peak torque. However, we have more recent news on that confirming that the emblematic pony car will be capable of even more.At yesterday’s Texas World Speedway, Jim Owens, who is Shelby’s boss brand manager, announced in front of selected public (in the form of Q&A) that the GT350 Mustang will generate even more than 520 hp! In addition to this, he also confirmed that the car will have a “redline” of 8250 rpm and will be above 100 hp per liter.The next thing announced was that the vehicle will be available later this year. Owens actually clarified that the GT350 Mustang will be available in the fourth quarter. So here is a little bit of speculation of the possibility of calling the car a 2016 model year.The expected marketing, meaning the events that are to show the muscle car for real, is going to happen at Sebring, Leguna Seca, Road America, Watkins Glen, and more. This will actually be something as a preparation for the future GT350S Mustang race car, which was also confirmed by Owens.If you want to know more details on what Shelby is up to, you can hear the full Q&A here:httpv://youtu.be/-YxbZocOALk