Auto News – Page 363 – Automobiles Review

Jaguar XF Revealed via Strenuous High-Wire Journey [VIDEOS]

2016 Jaguar XF has been officially unveiled via a dramatic three minute, 787ft ‘high wire’ journey. This has happened in London, and specifically at the famous Canary Wharf over the Royal Dock. The person behind the steering wheel was Jim Dowdell, who is a veteran stuntman famous for his Bond, Bourne and Indiana Jones movies. There is a video below, where you will find out how this has been achieved and whether it was successful or not.

The new XF will also make a North American debut at the New York Auto Show. Basically, the car is an expression of refinement and luxury emphasized via its outstanding interior and athletic coupe-like design. In fact, the XF is based on Jaguar’s aluminum-intensive architecture, thus having exceptional proportions. The car is 7mm (0.3in) shorter and 3mm (0.1in) lower, while the wheelbase in 51mm (2in) longer.

Under the hood we have one of the two 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engines. The first one produces the combination 340 hp (250 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), while the second one: 380 hp (280 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). Both engines are coupled with the eight-speed automatic transmission.

And regarding the excellent steering feel and response, Jaguar has ensured that there is a system that takes care for that. It is called Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system. Other technology features that need to be mentioned are the Adaptive Dynamics, the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) that delivers rear-drive handling and the All-Surface Progress Control system that helps in adverse conditions.

Speaking of luxury, the cabin is filled with the finest materials and the latest technology features like the new Jaguar InControl Touch Pro premium infotainment system1 and a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster. The company will also offer abundance of available features like the additional advanced driver assistance systems, featuring the full-LED headlights and Laser Heads-Up Display.

httpv://youtu.be/WfSxPkgWSIU

httpv://youtu.be/ttjkWzYAG1c

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

March 25, 2015

LM2 Streamliner Supercar with Premiere in New York

LM2 Streamliner is the name of a very interesting project that the visitors of the New York Auto Show will be capable of seeing. It is a supercar project by an American company called Lyons Motor Car. We have to tell you immediately that this car will challenge our perception of horsepower because it can actually produce 1700 hp (1250 kW). These horses come from a DOHC V8 engine that has been 4 cam twin turbocharged and features twin intercoolers, and has been connected to AWD 7 speed sequential gearbox.

And if you wonder about the 0-60 mph acceleration time, it is as impressive as the output. The company guarantees 2.2 seconds coverage, or even better, and below 8 seconds quarter mile time.

For these numbers is also contributing the body of the Streamliner, since it is made of pure carbon fiber. The chassis is full length carbon and features billet stainless steel subframes. Even the Brembo brake rotors are made from the same lightweight material.

Other highlights that must be mentioned here are the Bosh ESP and ABS systems package, the titanium and billet aluminum suspension, the Sport Mode for lower ride height, and the stainless steel, inconel and titanium exhaust system. Full LEDs are also inevitable with their 1200 watt HID driving lamps.

Inside, one will find 16 inch touch screen control center computer that will offer access to the navigation and the premium infotainment system. There are no words on the pricing yet, but we expect that it will be revealed during the auto show.

The big question that is circulating in my mind is: Should Bugatti fear?

Source: Lyons Motor Car via Facebook

March 25, 2015

Redefined 2016 Infiniti QX50 with Premiere in New York

2015 Infinit QX50 Front and Side View Just like many other exclusive and luxury companies Infiniti will also have its stand at this year’s New York Auto Show. The big news regarding its participation in the event is that this is where the debut of the 2016 QX50 will happen. The vehicle is a very special one since it has played a significant role in company’s history being one of the first personal crossovers. Nowadays this segment is growing rapidly and every company is trying to release its own successful version.

There will be a wide range of updates in the new QX50. Starting with the wheelbase, it will feature a three inches increase that will eventually ensure the occupants have more rear legroom and interior space. In addition, Infiniti also told us that the crossover will sport new front and rear fascias and have a higher ride stance.

The wheels and side sills will be also new and actually we do expect to see a very big change in the car. Although these are the official details, we also want to see another unit underneath the hood of QX50. The current model is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that has the potency of generating 325 hp (239 kW) and 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque. The 7-speed automatic is a standard, while the all-wheel drive system is left optional. Maybe we will see AWD as a standard in New York?

QX30 Concept is the other vehicle in Infiniti’s lineup which will make a North American. The car is a preview of a future compact crossover expected to be seen in dealerships in early 2016.

Note: The image above displays 2015 Infiniti QX50.

Source: Infiniti

March 25, 2015

Mercedes-AMG Collaborate with MV Agusta for the DTM Race Car

Mercedes-AMG und MV Agusta has cooperated for this year’s DTM season. The result is this special C63 Coupe race car with one-off MV Agusta livery. In addition, it was also announced that the person behind the steering wheel and taming the racetrack will be Maximilian Götz, who also makes his debut at the DTM.

As you can see the logo of the Italian motorcycle brand “sits” on the top of the hood and the roof of the Mercedes‑AMG DTM car. The vehicle itself has been covered with many and versatile stickers and was decided in white and matt grey exterior colors underneath.

Just like MV Augusta’s logo adorns the AMG C63 DTM car, Mercedes-AMG logo will be the main glance catcher on the livery of MV Agusta F3 and F4 RC machines. The last two will enter the World Superbike and World Supersport championships and will carry German’s brand signature for the first time.

What’s common between the two brands? Well, first thing we should mention is their passion to always deliver the best. And secondly, the North Italian manufacturer is the Mercedes-Benz of the motorcycle world. It has achieved great popularity due to the advanced technology it uses and the high performance of its machines. Therefore this is a logical step for both companies to continue writing a racing history together.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 25, 2015

Limited Edition Range Rover Sport HST Debuts in New York

2016 Range Rover Sport HST Limited Edition European Version Showed Next to the new Outlander the visitors at the New York Auto Show will also see the premiere of the Range Rover Sport HST Limited Edition, some additional models from the Sport line-up and the opportunity to test the Hands-Free Gesture Tailgate and see how Automatic Access Height works. More importantly is what the HST derivative will do for the range of vehicles. In details, it will bring enhancements not only in terms of interior and exterior styling but also in terms of performance.

The secret here is that the 380 hp (279 kW) 3.0-liter supercharged V6 unit under the hood of the masterful vehicle, has been supercharged and is now capable of producing 550 hp (404 kW). This additional output will be supported by new chassis settings, changes to the suspension and updated upgraded brakes.

As a limited edition, this vehicle must have unique exterior and interior. To mention some of the highlights included, let’s start with the black theme that is expressed via the darkened front and rear lamps, the Santorini Black contrast roof and spoiler. The same theme is applied onto the 21-inch wheels via their dark satin grey finish contrasted by brakes’ red calipers.

Both on the outside and inside of this Range Rover one will find the special HST badging. Speaking of the interior, it is fitted with TFT instrument panel, Noble-plated paddle shift levers on the steering wheel, ‘Sports’ pedals and aluminum accents. The seats have been wrapped with Oxford Leather of the highest quality, and they are complemented by the Ebony colored dashboard, doors, and center console.

It seems that New York Auto Show will be extremely exciting, doesn’t it!

Source: Land Rover

March 24, 2015

Vorsteiner’s Yellow Continental GT is Simply Gorgeous

Vorsteiner Bentley Continental GT BR10RS Front and Side View The tuners at the Texas based Progressive Autosports company helped the Californians from Vorsteiner achieve this exquisite project involving the high speed Bentley Continental. I basically love the second tuner because its projects are simple but at the same time express the maximum of car’s advantages. The same has happened with this Monaco Yellow Continental GT with stock’s W12 unit.

Speaking of the engine, the 6.0-liter twin-turbo V8 has this great capability to produce rigorous amount of power: 575 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) and push the car to its 320 km/h top speed limit. So this fact made both tuners pretty sure they didn’t want any engine boost.

This means that the current project comprises only of styling tweaks, but I assure you that they are worth it. As the name of the car shows, it is equipped with new BR10-RS aero kit made of carbon fiber components. It includes front bumper, side skirts and rear bumper crafted out from Vorsteiner’s specifically in-house made PrePreg lightweight material.

In addition, in the making of this aero package the designers had thought of keeping it in harmony with the factory design so that the new components can transition seamlessly, but at the same time emphasize the additional aggressiveness they give the car. At last, let’s take a look at these eye-catching futuristic wheels delivered by Velano. For the perfect on road presence of the car they were fitted with low-profile tyres.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 24, 2015

Mitsubishi Teasing 2016 Outlander Again

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Facelift Ten days ago Mitsubishi announced that it will introduce its Outlander facelift at the New York International Auto Show on 2nd of April. Now the brand has given us more hints of what this future SUV would look like and they are definitely exciting. First, there are two new teaser images that you can see below, which show a darkened view to the front and rear of the vehicle.

Next, the Japanese company has also disclosed that the 2016 Outlander will be the first model in the range to apply company’s new design philosophy and innovations. The refinements made throughout it measure more than 100 engineering and design improvements. Some of them feature powerful and dynamic appearance and this is quite visible from the teasers.

Mitsubishi also said that the refined crossover utility vehicle will be capable of delivering better road performance.

Mitsubishi has also made sure that the occupants inside the car hear less outer noise, and experience better ride via the advancements achieved in the new ride, handling and throttle response. Inside, they will also enjoy interior that features more vivid and functional space.

In other words the new Outlander promises to bring some buzz around Mitsubishi. It is matter of time to know whether this happens or not, but the highlights put on style, refinement and driving experience shows that things are moving in that direction.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 24, 2015

Long Live Chevy Small-Block V8! [VIDEO]

Chevy Small-Block V8 Fully Restored As the name suggest correctly, Hagerty Classic Cars is a source where one can find a lot of classic vehicles, stories involving such and people who appreciate and love to drive them. One can hardly escape from Cupid’s arrows, when it comes to old-fashioned vehicles, and especially in the case they are muscle ones.

We found this video on the YouTube channel of Hagerty and we were impressed by the very interesting story it tells. The short film involves a Chevy, and specifically its small-block V8 engine. And did you know that this particular unit has played a significant role in the automotive industry, and specifically the one in the U.S.

To provide you with some background, the production of the original powerplant began back in 1954 and soon after its release it was known as “Turbo-Fire V8” motor. It was the power source of the Corvette and the Bel Air. Over the years its original 265 cu displacement grew and somehow became GM’s corporate standard. Its production continued until 1990, when it was eventually superseded by GM’s LT and LS V8s.

All in all, this engine has powered tens of millions of passenger cars, trucks, race machines and even boats. For this reason I think that calling it an icon wouldn’t be a hyperbolization. The video below is a celebration of its 60 years anniversary and shows how this icon can be literally disassembled, cleared from the dirt and fully restored in the end.

httpv://youtu.be/W5saoYQIlh8

Source: Hagerty Classic Cars via YouTube

March 24, 2015

Take Closer Look at Saleen’s Powerful Mustang [VIDEO]

Saleen S302 Black Label Mustang Front and Side View If you have followed us yesterday then you definitely know that the most powerful production Mustang has debuted in LA this weekend. Those who are responsible for this are the specialists at Saleen. The car is super sophisticated, does not look like the other pony cars and has this outstanding output of 730 hp. And this all comes under the name of S302 Black Label.

Under the hood of this beast-machine we find the 5.0L motor enhanced with twin-screw supercharger, which is the reason of the aforementioned output. The torque is measured at 813 Nm (600 lb-ft) on 91-octane gas.

To sum up, Saleen has basically changed the perception for this Ford model. The muscle car has one of the most aerodynamically efficient profiles, new suspension and luxurious and spacious interior.

Fast fact: Edmunds says that the current Mustang is with 10% more expensive than the previous generation. In addition, the overall sales are up 62% when regarding the same period. This means that there will be a great interest in what the company has presented and they are “riding the trend”, if we can say so.

Of course, the Black Label Mustang will be produced in limited numbers, meaning a special serial badge that identifies its exceptionality. The exact starting price of each car has been estimated at $73,214 USD, while the car itself can be acquired in Ford dealers around the United States.

At last, below you find a 3 minutes long video, which will give you a hint of how this special vehicle was built. Oh, and don’t miss the extensive gallery below it.

httpv://vimeo.com/122972157

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Saleen

March 24, 2015

Saleen Unveils Mustang Black Label with Unexpected 730HP [VIDEO]

Saleen’s Black Label Mustang was announced in the end of September and as we recall, it had to produce 640 horsepower. However, the much praised Ford Mustang was endowed with even more power and now reaches 730 hp. This is quite a pleasant surprise, isn’t it? Moreover, this pony car is one of the best developed by the specialists so far.

We don’t have any official pictures but the video below shows that the 302 Black Label has been changed significantly from the outside too. First, the car has a brand new finely tuned aerodynamic body. It also seems somewhat longer and the reason for this is that it has been lengthened an inch and a half in the front and two inches in the rear.

As a result the muscle vehicle has increased airfoil, thus maximizing the downforce too. At the back we see the traditional Saleen rear wing, which also contributes for the balance of the downforce, created by the front air splitter. Of course, this version of the Mustang is also lighter than its standard siblings because of the use of carbon fiber body components.

The exterior paint finish is called California Sunset and it is a mix between golden yellow and setting sun hues and also changes with the light.

Inside, we trust Saleen that we will see a combination of luxury and styling enhancements. This is implemented via black leather and suede seats that were additionally highlighted with contrasting chevrons. The gauge cluster is there to make a significant design contrast in the interior, while the leather wrapped steering wheel and the unique badging with the specific serial number of the vehicle round out the interior modifications.

The main surprise in this car however is the output, since it was originally announced with minus 80 hp. The updated engine is the 5.0L Coyote one which has been fitted with Saleen twin turbo supercharger. This combination results in 730 horsepower (537 kW) and 813 Nm (600 lb-ft) of optimum torque. How does this feel, Dodge Challenger Hellcat?

Further optimizations have been done regarding the handling, comprising of chassis with independent suspension on all four corners, S4 springs, shocks, swaybars and bushings. At last, the 20-inch five spoke alloys were fitted with huge tires and multi-piston brakes.

All in all, this muscle vehicle has changed the perception of the American pony car and it might be suggesting a more exotic and contemporary expression of the old classic. 2015 Saleen 302 Black Label Mustang can be acquired at a starting price of $73,214 USD.

httpv://youtu.be/Q17KZlDwHI8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Saleen

March 23, 2015

Honda fans Celebrate Civic Type R at Nürburgring [VIDEO]

Honda Civic Type R Side and Rear View One of my most favorite debuts at this year’s Geneva Motor Show was the last generation Honda Civic Type R. In order to celebrate its release, the Japanese company decided to invite fans to the Nürburgring circuit. This is where the Type R has set a lap record for a front-wheel drive hot hatch. This is also where the red badged Civic drivers are offered the chance to attend the historic ADAC Zurich 24-hour sports car race in their Type Rs.

The even will happen between 15 and 17 May and will feature (for the first time ever) the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) race. It will be held on both Nordschleife and Grand Prix circuits that measure 25 kilometers, combined. The most important individuals in the team will be Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro, who will aim at no less than victory.

What is more, the one-off event will offer Type R fans the opportunity to purchase a three-day package, including VIP entrance with paddock access, camping accommodation in a special souvenir tent, food and beverages, and most importantly the chance to meet the drivers in person and visit the pit lane by taking their Civic on a lap around the circuit. This of course will happen before the start of the 24 hour race.

httpv://youtu.be/a9G7N0_M9Rc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 23, 2015

Take a look at this outrageous Dodge Ram Black & Red [VIDEO]

2014 Avorza Dodge Ram 3500 Black & Red Edition by Alex Vega We have seen this vehicle circulating in the internet for a while, but it has been trading lately so we decided to show it to you once more. And it is definitely worth it because we have rarely seen projects like this and with so beautifully shot video which you can enjoy below (I am sure it will be a big pleasure).

As you can see this is a Dodge Ram 3500 and it has been dubbed Black & Red Edition. It is a product created by Alex Vega – The Auto Firm. This powerfully customized pick up seems to be carrying a bunch of additional styling enhancements that also hint towards boost in performance.

Unfortunately, the Ram comes with styling modifications only, meaning that it retains the power of its standard 6.7 liter inline-six Cummins diesel engine. In details, it produces 350 horsepower (260 kW) and 880 Nm (650 lb-ft), which is also impressive. This output is transferred onto the road via a six speed automatic that drives the all four wheels.

Although there is no information on the styling tweaks we can clearly see that the pick-up truck sports black metallic paint finish that has been accentuated by a lot red accents. Take a look for example at the red Ram badge at both ends, the band in the same color circulating around the massive two-tone wheels and the side signs.

It is also visible that the head lights received red highlights while the taillights have been blackened out. Low profile Pirellis are a must as is the fully-adjustable air suspension. We don’t know whether the interior of this vehicle has been changed or not, so we leave this part of the tuning at the depths of your imagination. Any suggestions?

httpv://youtu.be/5YKKop912H8

Video Source: YouTube

Soure: Alex Vega

March 23, 2015

Category: Auto News