Auto News – Page 364 – Automobiles Review

Ford Introduces Ranger Facelift with 90 Seconds Video

2015 Ford Ranger Facelift has been revealed via 90 secinds film on company’s official YouTube channel. Basically, everything that one needs to know is on display in this video. The sad news is that this pick up will be distributed only in Asia Pacific, South Africa, Europe, and Latin America, so North American fans won’t have the advantage of owning it. It is definitely an advantage to have the Ranger facelift and there are several reasons for that.

First, Ford calls this pick up tough and smart because it combines robust capability, craftsmanship and advanced technology. It has a brand new front end that is stylish and more modern-looking, and it also features an updated interior with smart, functional and practical equipment. The bold looking exterior of this Ranger is due to the more muscular-like hood that seamlessly flows into a strong new trapezoidal grille. In its sides are positioned the new projector headlamps.

Secondly, the updates throughout the exterior are continued inside. For instance, horizontal lines run across the width of the cab and frame the central eight-inch touchscreen. The dual-TFT instrument cluster will deliver important data about the vehicle, entertainment, navigation and climate control.

Next, the capability of the vehicle is not only due to its dimensions, but also due to the robust electronically controlled transfer case which allows a shift between 4×4 to 4×2 mode, and the opposite. This happens effortlessly via knob on the center console.

Furthermore, advanced technology is also featured in abundance here. We have the SYNC 2 in-car connectivity system, the eight-inch touchscreen, the 240-volt power socket and many more. Driver assist features such as Lane Keeping Alert and Lane Keeping Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Alert as well as Front and Rear Park Assist will additionally help the person behind the steering wheel.

At last but not least, the Ranger can show-off with impressive power, payload and towing capacity. There are four engines to choose from and all are mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.

At the top of the range sits the 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel unit. Its efficiency has been improved by 18 percent, while the horsepower remains at its best: 200 kW (147 kW). Thee torque is rated at 470 Nm (347 lb-ft).

The next two powerplants are the 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel and the 2.2-liter petrol engine, that generate 160 hp (118 kW) and 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque. The last engine is the 2.5-liter Duratec petrol one generating 166 hp (122 kW) and 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque.

httpv://youtu.be/9bohS8d_jkE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

March 23, 2015

What’s Inside Ford GT?

Ford GT Interior Ford’s carbon fiber GT super car potent of more than 600 horsepower was introduced in the beginning of the year. What we don’t know about it is that its interior has been based on the innovative technologies, clarity of intent in the process of making as well as the aim to be connected to the driver at all times. And this also counts for the car in general, doesn’t it?

We all know that one of the most important requirements is the car to have a great-looking and comfortable interior, since this is the part of the vehicle where occupants and driver spent their time. Nevertheless, the most difficult thing in making the best “inside experience” is that the design must satisfy different customer tastes.

For this reason, Ford specialists have collected valuable data from clients in order to create the best interior. And this happens to be the one of 2016 Ford GT. The process of designing the cabin of the two-door car began with the identification of all components that had to be included.

Then, the second step was to apply the existing DNA principles and innovative design solutions so that it can push the interior design even forward. In particular, there are three guiding principles involved in its creation.

The first one is “clarity of intent” which puts emphasis on the functional aspects of the interior. The next one is “innovation” that comes to break some boundaries and change many perceptions. And the last one is “connection”, based on the aim to include technology which makes an intuitive connection between car and driver.

More importantly, Ford actually managed to implement these fundamentals in new Ford GT’s interior. The result is that the company managed to include technology that is concentrated and organized with essential functions are within a reach.

In addition, the car is lightweight not only because of its carbon infused outer shell but also because the instrument panel includes a two-tier step design with floating wing. This helps in the utilization of the negative space inside and at the same time accentuates over the edge detailing. The effect: more spaciousness inside.

At last, the new interior design is an example of efficiency that can be perceived. In other words, the cabin is filled with soft materials and hard technology that has been harmonized and deliver this feeling of comfort and soft touch.

We definitely expect to see this new approach in other cars like the Ford Mustang for instance. Although the new pony car does not need any changes, this innovative design method might help in the evolution of company’s cars in general.

Source: Ford

March 23, 2015

Lotus Introduces the Extreme Exige S Club Racer Coupe

Lotus Exige S Club Racer Front and Side View It is obviously Lotus time these couple of days, since the Elise Anniversary Special Edition was previewed yesterday and Exige S Club Racer is new the next in the row. As the name suggests this Exige S will be implying the Club Racer principles, thus delivering even more dynamic and exhilarating performance. It will be offered in a coupe variant only.

The current model is build above the lightweight aluminium chassis-tub and also features aerodynamic composite bodywork. These facts will help its engine, the 3.5-litre supercharged V6, accelerate the track focused car from 0 to 62mph (0-100km/h) in no more than 4.0 seconds. The top speed is also astounding and it is 274 km/h (170 mph).

In particular, the club racer is 15kg lighter than the Exige S, measuring a total of 1161kg. Helping for this achievement are the lightweight battery and centre console that has been painted in body colour. Adding to this are the lighter doors and sports seats in leather/Alcantara accentuated by contrasting stitching.

In addition, the car will also have three driving settings: ‘Drive‘, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’. They will help the driver easily maintain control over the vehicle. What is more, the last two settings will help in the improvement of the throttle responsiveness.

Exige S Club Racer will be offered in four distinctive colors: Metallic White, Exige Orange, Metallic Yellow and Matt Black. The latter shade is also the one adorning components like the front splitter and rear wing, wing mirrors and rear transom, and more. There are also Club Racer decals above the side indicator as well as on the dashboard and seats.

The car is currently on sale and has a starting price of £56,900.

Source: Lotus

March 21, 2015

Vorsteiner Celebrates 10 Years with Yas Marina Blue GTRS4 Project

Vorsteiner BMW Yas Marina Blue GTRS4 Anniversary Edition Front View Does this BMW look familiar to you? Yes, because it was introduced two weeks ago as a special Vorsteiner project based on the F82 M4. It turns out that this Yas Marina Blue is actually a GTRS4 Anniversary Edition that celebrates tuning company’s 10 years presence on the automotive scene. The intriguing wide body custom kit beautifies the car in such terms that it literally makes in one-off.

The first thing to mention here is the unique exterior paint finish which as you can guess is Yas Marina Blue. It is perfectly contrasted by the wheels in Sakhir Orange that measure 20 inches and are fitted with 275 and 345 width tires at the front and back, respectively.

The most important work done on this BMW however, involves the GTRS4 package that comprises of transformative elements that give it entirely new presence. Every component is made of carbon fiber, starting with the front bumper that comes with integrated front splitter.

Next, the front fenders have been replaced with 2 inch wider ones at each side. They include ventilation and are accompanied by the carbon aero side blades. At the rear we have even bigger fenders that add 3.5 inches to each side.

Continuing with the rear, we see a new rear diffuser with integrated elements as well as 90mm quad exhaust tip finishers. The tuning of the exterior is rounded out by the chrome trunk badging. Embroidered colored floor and trunk mat set are the only change in the interior, but this is pretty much enough given the expressive outer look of the car.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 21, 2015

Cadillac CT6’s 3.0L Twin Turbo Unit to Develop 400HP [VIDEOS]

Cadillac CT6 3.0L Twin Turbo Engine The information we know about 2016 Cadillac CT6 so far was that its debut is due in the last months of the year. In addition, it was said that car will incorporate the “prestige sedan” technology that is promised to deliver better driving dynamics. The most recent news on this model is that its debut will hurry and will happen in ten days in New York and that it will be powered by one of Cadillac’s new generation V-6 engines, and precisely the one that sits at the top of the range.

It is the 3.0L Twin Turbo gasoline unit that uses the latest technology. This means that we should also expect balance in terms of fuel economy and performance. Precisely, the CT6 will have a maximum output of 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 543 Nm (400 lb-ft of torque). This becomes even more impressive because the V-6 DOHC develops 133 horsepower (99 kW) per liter.

The big question here is how Cadillac is going to enhance the fuel economy given this high output. The answer is that the engine will deploy a combination of turbocharging with cylinder deactivation and stop/start technologies. No tests were conducted so far, but the company expects 6 percent improvement of the efficiency.

The other significant element helping in the achievement of this goal is the Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission that will be linked to the Twin Turbo engine. What is more, the low-inertia turbochargers in the powertrain will enable the car to achieve the peak torque from 2,500 rpm to 5,000 rpm.

After the debut of Cadillac CT6 in New York, we should expect its production to start in the fourth quarter of this year in company’s plant in Detroit.

httpv://youtu.be/oP7kR7O7M-M

httpv://youtu.be/9HQfVUtWzuk

httpv://youtu.be/J9avoaZixWs

httpv://youtu.be/kd4dtG0gbss

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Cadillac

March 21, 2015

Have a Glimpse at the Next Gen Lexus RX [VIDEO]

2016 Lexus RX Teaser The original Lexus RX was launched seventeen years ago and this was also the time when it redefined the automotive industry with its luxury characteristics for a mid-size utility vehicle. Now it is somehow normal to a priori perceive SUVs as luxury cars. The good news is that the RX model has continued its presence during the years and its next generation version of the 2016 model year is near debut. Lexus announced that the vehicle will be revealed at the auto show in New York on 1^st of April.

Next to the announcement, the company also released a teaser image and a video to promote the future premiere. The short film is pretty expressive and gives a glimpse of the “full volume” luxury that the new RX will incarnate. This is very promising and imbues us with the thrills to expect the best.

In addition, below you will find a lightened version of the picture above so you can see more details. Judging from it, it looks like the fourth generation RX has been entirely redesigned. It appears to be sleeker and closer to the ground, and in fact – to have this sedan-like stance.

At the rear we see completely different taillights from the outgoing model as well as more prominent wheel arches. At last, the slim stance creates a flow-like impression that is further emphasized by the lower roofline, thin door handles and angular design.

httpv://youtu.be/aspGI20uwrI

2016 Lexus RX Lightened Teaser Image

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lexus

March 21, 2015

How Would You Rate this Defender Paul Smith Special Edition?

Land Rover Defender Paul Smith Special Edition Side and Front View The English fashion designer, Sir Paul Smith, has joined Land Rover for a special one-off project involving the legendary Defender. The vehicle has this unique stance due to the hand-finished artwork that was specifically created by company’s Special Vehicle Operations division. As you can see, this Defender is pretty much odd. However, it has been inspired by Britain and its countryside and by those vehicles used by the Armed Forces. The design is undoubtedly playful and includes details that could not be seen anywhere else.

The individualized car is excessively colorful. The designer has chosen exactly 27 different colors for the exterior. To me, this looks like a Lego made vehicle and I am not sure whether the parts fitted here were the original ones. Of course, this is just an opinion that can not measure the talent of the famous designer. Or could it?

We see the same approach throughout the interior, but in addition there are some very strange design highlights. The good thing is that the Defender has kept its feeling of luxury. The reason for this is the utilization of the finest fabrics and leathers for the seats.

Moreover, the minimum amount of black leather found inside is contrasted via blue stitching, while the odd details are hidden in place one can never expect. Take for instance the photograph of set of keys that was printed inside the glove compartment, or the hand-painted bee on the roof.

One detail I really like is the Paul Smith clock which replaces the standard one. The other thing is that this is a Defender model. And that’s it … In other words the car has kept its traditional elements that made it iconic. Such are the wing mirrors, door handles and wheels that are given here a satin finish. And this is probably the most refined element of this car.

Source: Land Rover

March 21, 2015

Seven Concepts for Easter Jeep Safari Revealed

Jeep Chief Side View The 49th annual Easter Jeep Safari is starting on 28th of March and lasting until 5th of April in Moab, Utah. We told you almost ten days ago that this is where seven Jeep vehicles will have their official premiere. The company has just revealed the cars online and we are happy to share this information with you. The “lucky seven” is an example how anyone can individualize their Jeep with Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts.

Another interesting fact is that the concepts are made by a small team of dedicated engineers and designers. Their task was to customize the vehicles. The first one in the Easter Jeep Safari concepts range is the Jeep Chief that is inspired by the Cherokees from the 70s. It is also Wrangler-based and has some styling characteristics that link to the west coast surfer lifestyle.

From the outside it carries an Ocean Blue dress and white French Bread roof. In addition, its razor grille was redesigned and next to it we see new halogen headlamps. This car also features something really surprising and at the same time exciting: removable sides for an open-air experience.

Inside, the interior is Hawaiian themed and includes “Surfer” pink, blue and white flowered cloth. Moreover, the seats are wrapped in leather, while the center console and door handles are adorned by surf stickers. The Chief is driven by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 unit, which is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.

Jeep Staff Car pays tribute to the iconic military service vehicles. We have here a Wrangler based concept that delivers open-air experience and has this minimalist appearance. Literally everything echoes the original military Jeep cars starting from the basic steel wheels up to the stretched canvas roof. The exterior color chosen for this concept is called Sandstorm and it can also be seen on the wheels, frame and axles.

What’s interesting here is that this concept has no B-pillar or doors.

Other eye-catchers are the round headlamps, the J8 front and rear bumpers, the blackout lamp with guards mounted on the fender and the vintage military gas can. Inside, we see only a low-backed bench seats, integrated roll cage and a painted steel floor, while the power comes from the same engine mentioned above.

Next is the Wrangler Africa that comes in Desert Tan. It also features steel front bumper with winch, power dome vented hood and other tweaks delivered by Mopar. The power unit here is different: the 2.8-liter diesel engine linked to an automatic transmission.

Then comes the Grand Cherokee Overlander that is perfect for camping and it also has this nature inspired exterior color called Sage Green. The additional features included here are new front winch, the SRT taillamps and hood, the off-road rock rails tow hooks and the larger wheel flares. The engine here is also different: the 3.0-liter diesel V-6 engine and it is mated to the eight-speed Torqueflight transmission. The most interesting thing about this concept is that it has hard-shell rooftop tent for two persons.

The next concept is dubbed Renegade Desert Hawk and this is probably the newest vehicle in the range, since it has been the last one featured in Jeep’s lineup. The model features new body decal with very special graphics as well as off-road rock rails trailer hitch receiver and a roof rack. Its interior was also improved with Mopar Katzkin seat covers, while its power comes from the 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with MultiAir2 linked to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Desert Tan exterior paint is also the color beautifying the Jeep Cherokee Canyon Trail. In contrast to it, there is this Satin Black hood with a decal depicting Hell’s Revenge graphics. Katzkin seat covers are present here as well, but there are other highlights too: the body color bezel accents, the contrasting stitching, the all-weather floor mats and many more.

It is visible that this concept has received a very off-road look, but this stance must be supported by adequate performance. It is delivered by the same transmission and engine that drives the Desert Hawk. Here we should also mention the Jeep Active Drive Lock that has a low range and a locking rear differential.

At last, but not least is the mighty Wrangler Red Rock Responder. This concept has only one goal – to drive through world’s toughest terrains and respond to emergencies. It is equipped with off-road features including spare parts and tools, thus it can help any other vehicle. Besides the expressive color, this Jeep is fitted with new body decal and 10th Anniversary hood with hydraulic hood props. Not to mention the LED headlamps and foglamps, LED A-pillar and off-road lamps.

And if you think that the interior will suffer then you are wrong, because the concept has been fitted with embroidered black and red Katzkin leather seats, red accent bezels, new grab handles and floor mats. The four wheels of the car are driven by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 coupled with an automatic transmission.

Source: Jeep

March 20, 2015

Larte Range Rover Sport Winner Turns Blue

Do you remember the Larte Range Rover Sport Winner? If you do, then you will also remember that it was painted in white and featured some contrasting black accents. However, the tuner told us that the vehicle has miraculously turned blue. Of course, we aren’t talking of some kind of mystery here, but about the fact that the specialists will release a brand new version of the tuned model at the Top Marques Monaco on 16^th of April.

As you can guess, it will be a blue variation of the winning car. In addition, it will be also fitted with some silver highlights. To be more precise, the bodywork will be entirely painted in the blue color, while the other hue will adorn the roof.

What is more, the tuner will also give the Monaco debuting Range Rover a brand new power package. With its help the serial V8 output of 339 hp (250 kW) will be lifted up to 400 hp (294 kW).

Furthermore, the vehicle will be also equipped with the already known WINNER body kit. It gives the SUV an aggressive front end and dynamic on-road presence. This is additionally emphasized by the new front apron and the one-off grill that carries three frames in form of inverted trapezoids. At last, at the rear the kit adds new four-flow exhaust system that has black-chrome-plated tailpipes.

And do you know what the best thing is? If you are going to visit the event in Monaco you will actually get the chance to drive this blue Winner.

Source: Larte Design

March 20, 2015

Kahn Releases CWT Pick Up based on Land Rover Defender

Chelsea Truck Company and Kahn Design have released a very stunning project that some of the female car enthusiasts might even find ugly. However, this car is for the guys. It is rough, aggressive and has this military stance. To go into details, the vehicle here is based on the latest edition of the Land Rover Defender. The tuners also call it Defender 2.4 TDCI 90 Pick Up Chelsea Wide Track.

The military heritage of the vehicle is expressed via the Keswick Green exterior paint finish. On the other hand we have this huge contrast that the wheels make. Precisely, they are the 1939 Defend Retro Dish wheels that come in exuberant orange. Their stance is further strengthened via the massive 275/55/20 tyres.

The muscularity of this vehicle is due to some substantial changes made in its outer structure. For example, the front and rear arches were widened, the bolt apertures were additionally exposed, and the front bumper has been entirely replaced.

But that is not everything the specialists have achieved. The grille is X-Lander’s, there are new stainless steel hood and fender vent mesh, while the front bumper has been replaced and now features integrated lights and shadow chrome headlights. And just take a look of the custom CTC wheel cover and the unique side steps. Rounding out the exterior tuning are the toughened mud flaps and a twin cross-hair exhaust system.

Stepping inside, the interior keeps the masculinity from the exterior, but with added sense of luxury and style. In particular, the seats have been substituted with Sports GTB ones wrapped in quilted and perforated leather.

The same upholstery can be seen on the instrument binnacle and door cards. Alcantara has been the choice for the detailing. Kahn also delivered machined aluminium billet steering wheel vented foot pedals as well as Churchill Time Clock. At last, the front and rear floor mats are making this project complete.

Source: Kahn Design

March 20, 2015

Lotus Celebrates Elise with Anniversary Special Edition

Lotus Elise Anniversary Special Edition Front Side Left View It is exactly 20 years since Lotus unveiled the first ever Elise sports car in Frankfurt, Germany, back in the 1995. This means 20 years of benchmark performance and handling and marks also the introduction of the advanced (for these years) bonded aluminium chassis. Many improvements were made since then and it seems that they were the right ones because the iconic car is still one of the best in its class, if not the best.

To celebrate this, Lotus is releasing the Elise Anniversary Special Edition. It is equipped with lightweight components, which save around 10kg from its weight. Precisely, the car now measures 914kg. Another advantage from the reduced body mass is the improved fuel consumption that has been estimated at 5.9 litres per 100 km (47.6 mpg), while the CO2 emissions are of 173 g/km.

Under the hood, there is the 1.8-litre supercharged engine that helps the car accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds on the way to a top speed of 145 mph (237 km/h).

The special edition is based on the Elise S Club Racer, but adds equipment that (note!) further help the car reduce weight. For example, the matt black forged wheels are lightweight as is the body colored lightweight centre console and the Alcantara/leather sports seats.

The new model can be ordered in four classic colors: Blue, Green, Yellow and Silver. In contrast, matt black has been chosen for the rear diffuser, wing mirrors, roll hoop cover and rear transom. At last, marking that this car is very special are the Elise 20th Anniversary decals found on the dashboard, seats and above the side indicator.

Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary is currently on sale and has a starting price of £39,900.

Source: Lotus

March 20, 2015

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Breaks Silence [VIDEO]

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Architecture Teaser The silence is finally broken! We urge you to hear the throat of the next generation Camaro in the video below. The sixth edition of the most popular muscle car will be absolutely unique, right? What you don’t know is that the new Chevy model has been entirely reworked. In fact almost 70 percent of its architecture components are one-off. This means that Camaro Six will be a true performance master from the inside out judging from the sound it produces.

In addition, Chevrolet told us some very special details about the car. First, we must expect an “all-new car”, starting from the front with the redesigned grille and ending with the rear spoiler. In fact, there are exactly two elements that are taken from the fifth gen Camaro and these are the bowtie emblem on the taillamp panel and the SS badge.

Next, the car will be based on the Alpha architecture developed by General Motors. If this does not speak anything to you, then it is probably good to know that the Alpha will offer engaging driving dynamics, refined experience and the needed balanced stiffness. As mentioned, this architecture includes components that are new in the amount of up to 70 percent.

Even the size of the muscle icon is changed. Chevrolet says that the exterior and interior dimensions are new to the Gen 6, as well as the front and rear suspension and some of the components in the Small Block 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine. Mentioning the powertrain, 20 percent of it will be tailored to fit the Camaro’s new dimensions, including the tubular “tri-Y”-style exhaust manifolds.

Another instance is the front structure that is now lighter, while the profile is widened in order to deliver more stable driving experience. In addition, inside we will meet an interior that we have never seen before.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro will be unveiled on 16^th of May at event in Detroit’s Belle Isle park. There are a lot of teasers to be unleashed until then, so stay tuned for more information and don’t forget to watch (and hear) the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/oPsj-8Xke3M

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

March 20, 2015

Category: Auto News