Auto News – Page 369 – Automobiles Review

DMC Adds GT Package to McLaren MP4 12C Velocita SE

The tuners at DMC are famous for their luxury projects based on supersports cars. Their focus is mainly on Lambos, but from time to time they like to do some work on McLarens. And if you remember the MP4 12C “Velocita” Special Edition project, then now you should be excited since the specialists have developed an additional GT package for the automobile.

As DMC says, this car expresses tuning at its finest. The reason for this is the included materials like the lightweight carbon of the body kit, the titanium exhaust system and the Italian leather inside.

Starting with the front, the additional bumper has received a new “GT package” lip, and the grill has been changed for more fierce design. There have been also added aggressive F1 carnards and side skirts, which further enhance the appearance of the car.

At the back we see the most striking elements. First, the rear diffuser has received revised tunnel set-up, while the rear spoiler has been substituted with light weight one. Just take a look at the rear wing and then proceed to the roof where you’ll see the GT scoop. It has been put there not only for aesthetic purpose but also because it can direct the air flow to the rear wing, so basically these two work together.

ECU changes have been applied to the engine, too. It now produces 660 hp (485 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft), which is pretty impressive given the fact that the standard model could only do 592 hp (435 kW) and 599 Nm (442 lb-ft).

What’s left to review is the new interior of this McLaren and although we haven’t received any pictures of it we are pretty sure it is impressive. According to DMC all leather panels can be substituted with a red tone, depending on customer’s wish. The cabin can be further enhanced with various materials such as carbon or wood, leather or Alcantara. What’s your choice?

Source: DMC

March 6, 2015

Vorsteiner Widens BMW M4 and Calls it Yas Marina Blue GTRS4

We haven’t said anything about Vorsteiner for a while, because all we have received recently was beautiful BMWs with new alloys. This time the tuner has taken things a little bit further with the “widened” BMW F82 M4 GTRS4 Yas Marina Blue Project. As you can see from the pictures the accent is again on the wheels, since they come in the contrasting Sakhir Orange. But, what’s left unnoticed at first glance is the widebody program, called GTRS4.

In details, all conversion parts are made of full lightweight carbon composite. It is exciting that the specialists made the front fenders have a total span of 4 inches. At the rear, the quarter panels sit 7 inches wider in comparison to the standard car.

We can’t skip the new carbon front and rear bumpers as well as the side blades. Given that every new element is made of carbon fiber, we suspect that the car has less weight and drives faster. However, no details in this respect have been announced.

Using our imagination and knowing that the standard M4 is powered by the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder engine, we can say that this car will be capable of producing around (or more) 431horsepower (317 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft). Expectations for the 0-100 km/h sprint exceed the production 4.3 seconds.

Going back to the alloys, the car has been equipped with specially designed three-piece forged wheels that come in the size of 20×10.5 and 20×13.5 inches at the front and rear, respectively. They were shod with 275 and 345 width tires.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 6, 2015

Lamborghini Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce: Lighter and More Powerful [VIDEO]

Yes, it is an Aventador, it is a SuperVeloce and it is a pure Lambo. Our expectations proved right since this is the model we predicted that it’s going to debut in Geneva. Lamborghini says that the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce is an expression of the purest essence of company’s super sports car. And this is why: first of all the vehicle is powered by the enhanced 6.5 liter V12 unit, which is capable of producing 750 horsepower (552 kW) at 8.400rpm. And since the car has reduced by 50 kg weight compared to its siblings, this means a power-to-weight-ratio of 2,03 kg/hp.

But the most impressive thing about these “simple” numbers (Bugatti beware) is that the Superveloce accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.8 seconds! The top speed is more than 350 km/h (more than 217 mph). Variable Valve Timing and Variable Intake System have been improved in order to deliver better torque. Hence, the result is a maximum torque of 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm.

Inside, the car has received some updates too. The focus here is again on weight reduction, which is visible via the new sports bucket seats and the door panels made of carbon. Due to weight saving issues this model excludes an infotainment system, carpets and some other parts. How about the instrument cluster? As you can see it is entirely new and features TFT screen with RPM shifting- and a G-force indicator.

New is also the Lamborghini‘s pushrod suspension system that was introduced to this model and the electromechanical Dynamic Steering (LDS), as well as the lightweight forged rims in matt black. They come in the size of 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear and are fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 will be exclusively launched in Rosso Bia exterior color complemented by a black Alcantara-infused interior. The company will offer five other colors which are further to be announced.

There are far too many details since almost everything in this car was optimized. However, what is really captivating is that the company has created its fastest and most reactive car. And for those interested in buying one, well you have to spare around 327,190 Euros on the standard model. At last, we must mention that the car will have a market debut this spring.

httpv://youtu.be/z8MGbheEe9c

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lamborghini

March 5, 2015

Mystery Solved: Porsche Revealed the 911 GT3 RS in Geneva [VIDEO]

Remember when we told you about a mysterious Porsche model which is going to debut in Geneva? Well, the mystery is solved, since we have already at hand the911 GT3 RS car. The company itself announced this car as the “definitive track car for everyday use” and forgot to mention that you should be a millionaire or very wealthy to afford this. The price exceeds 200K of US dollars.

Drive system, aerodynamics and design were optimized and the proof of this is the lap time around the 14 mile Nürburgring Nordschleife of 7 min 20 seconds. The reason for this breathtaking performance is the 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine which produces 500 hp (368 kW) and 460 Nm of torque. The power is transmitted onto the road via the very special PDK transmission.

And if you wonder about the acceleration time: the street legal model can sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds and to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 10.9 seconds.

There is a total of 10 kg saved from the weight of the model and this is due to the implementation of magnesium for the roof and carbon fibre for the engine and luggage compartment lids. Combined with RS-specific aerodynamic components like the front spoiler lip and the large rear wing, it is no surprise that this Porsche is so powerful.

Other standard features that will delight the lucky owners are the bi-Xenon headlights, sports exhaust and dynamic engine mounts. There is a choice of 20- or 21-inch forged alloys that are complemented by the PASM and PTV, or Porsche Active Suspension Management and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, respectively.

Alcantara interior was fitted for the sake of luxury, but what makes more impression are the sports seats that are based on the carbonfibre ‘bucket’ seats of the 918 Spyder. Club Sport Package comes as a standard in contrast to the Sport Chrono Package. While the first adds a roll cage, the second will optionally include several technology tweaks.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS is currently available to order with first cars arriving in showrooms in May.

httpv://youtu.be/sQjPECvmBRM

httpv://youtu.be/n1qtyIy22qs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Porsche

March 5, 2015

Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO]

After five long years the new Honda Civic Type R is here! The hatch was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show two days ago, thus giving all fans (me as well) the pleasure of viewing one of the most anticipated cars. And the question is simple: Is the wait worth it? I’m going to talk about this in a minute after previewing what’s new in the Type R.

First and foremost, the red ‘H’ badged car will be driven by the 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, which finds its world-first application here. In fact, in Type R’s 22 years of history this is the most extreme and high-performing engine used.

Regarding the details, the maximum power that this unit can produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and the optimum torque is 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. And if you are a Honda fan than you’ll definitely know that these numbers are higher than any previous ones. Although I did expect more from the performance of this car, it is still satisfactory for a front-wheel driven hatch.

The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).

In terms of styling we see the typical Civic Type R form, but there are some details that need to be mentioned and I find very intriguing. First, the car was subject to substantial aerodynamic analysis and testing. As a result the development of the car continued via computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing, and later with extensive prototype testing on the road and on track.

Rear diffuser and rear wing have been both redesigned as well as the wide front splitter and deep side skirts. Heat is managed via the enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper, while the airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels.

Speaking of wheels, the car rides on lightweight 19-inch alloys fitted with 235/35R19 tyres that were specially made for the Type R. Brembo brake package is what takes car for the stopping power of the car. At the front there are four-piston calipers with 350 mm drilled discs.

Besides the Championship White exterior color, this Civic will be also offered in the pearlescent Crystal Black, metallic Polished Metal and Brilliant Sporty Blue as well as in Milano Red.

In terms of interior, we have nothing much different than the previous generation model. And this is where I am little disappointed, because I have obviously expected more. Take for instance the gear lever knob which is made from machined aluminium alloy. The black sports seats and the red double stitching are also present.

Nevertheless two innovative things about this Honda immediately grab the attention. The first one is the ‘+R’button and the second is the GT Pack. The ‘+R’ button increases the response of the chassis and drivetrain systems. As a result the driver will get better driving experience. But before we test the car we can’t say if this is true.

Also exclusive to the Type R is the GT Pack which gives those needed individual enhancements. Here are included front red highlights and rear splitters, rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors, and many more.

httpv://youtu.be/J76kVLYJXWA

httpv://youtu.be/QSt02xpRe9Y

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 5, 2015

Lexus LF-SA Concept is Tiny but Revolutionary [VIDEO]

So far, we uploaded only teasers of the Lexus LF-SA Concept and now it is the time to present this cute tiny car in its full glory. It is a vehicle which focuses on company’s ideas for future design and implementations of technology. The exterior color exudes adventurous spirit, and it is namely the Stellar Silver. This is a clear reference that the design is space-related and fortunately not only on the outside but also on the inside.

The exterior proportions of the car are impressive, since it isn’t typical for a carmaker to create such a tiny car (excluding Smart). Precisely, the length of the concept is 3,400mm, width is 1,700mm and height is 1,430mm. This signals for an urban-related design and somehow gives us hopes for production.

At the front we see the latest version of company’s spindle grille, angular pattern and a design which influences the front wings and side bodywork of the car. The new grille also incorporates L-shaped lamp clusters in a flying buttress design. My most favorite element of the design of this car is the form of the wheels. They aren’t conventional and if you want to know what I am talking about you should definitely view the gallery below.

In terms of interior, Lexus has provided a very spacious cabin. Inside, one witnesses a sweeping dashboard in a 2+2 cabin layout. This clearly gives priority to the driver. What is interesting here is that driver’s seat is fixed, while the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable allowing more flexibility.

At last, the infotainment system comprises of a digital display in the instrument cluster and a wide-angle head-up display. This car is pretty revolutionary, isn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/IiiBuNNhvx4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lexus

March 5, 2015

The Amazing Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept Lands in Geneva [VIDEO]

Last week we have promised to give you more information about a very special vehicle called the Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept. This unique project is made by Kahn and it is based on the Land Rover Defender. Three examples of the six-wheeler were revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. And what we basically see is the redesigned front grille and bumper as well as a square sectioned wide arch body kit.

As we have reported previously, the limited edition car has additional 400mm extension to the bonnet, while there is 1000mm (and not 800mm as we stated) extension to the rear cabin. In addition, the width has been increased by 150 mm. The same happened to the windscreen rake.

Under the hood of the Huntsman sleeps the powerful 6.2-litre GM LS3 V8 engine which is coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox and delivers up to 430 horsepower (317 kW). Braking and suspension have been also upgraded and what rounds out the changes in terms of engineering is the quad crosshair exhaust system.

Furthermore, Huntsman Concept can be transformed into B4 and B6 armored variants. There are also several potential engine options like the V8 Ford Coyote and V8 Ford XS, intended for those wanting more power and torque.

The CEO and Creative Director of Kahn Group said that it is a pity vehicle like the Defender to retire. For this reason his aims were focused on creating a concept which is fashionable, iconic and revolutionary. And he did.

httpv://youtu.be/cgOfK_Li5WA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kahn Design

March 5, 2015

Look at Morgan Aero 8! It’s Unique! [VIDEO]

Morgan Aero 8 – I’ve been waiting for you for a long! This manifestation of beauty, luxury and immortal design has just been revealed at the Geneva Auto Show. The car is that impressive because it is lightweight and at the same time powerful enough to take down some of the most exclusive cars in the industry. The British company says that this is the most refined Aero product it has made up to date. For this are responsible some significant visual and mechanical changes.

The 5th generation Aero cabriolet is powered by a 4.8 litre V8 BMW engine, which is quite different of what we have expected. Nevertheless, the unit has the capability of generating 367 hp (270 kW). The powerplant is mated to a six speed transmission, manual or automatic, depending on the preference of the driver.

In terms of styling, this is a typical Morgan. The design of the Aero Eight has been inspired (as usual) by the cars from the sixties. Just like them it features slim and elongated profile with a cabin focused bodywork.

Furthermore, the rear opening clam shell boot serves to tension and hide the double-lined mohair hood. Aero 8 is also offered with an optional hardtop for those keener on coupes. Inside, those lucky two will enjoy a brand new dashboard and wooden surrounds. To complement this, Morgan has also added textured box-woven carpets and fine leather trim. The optional interior equipment features touch screen media systems, low slung carbon seats and bespoke detailing packs.

Let us see why the driver will benefit from more responsive driving and better handing. First of all, the aluminium chassis has been improved via torsional stiffness. Next, the front end was remade. There are also brand new suspension and anti-roll bars as well as BMW limited slip differential. In terms of safety, this car benefits from features such as ABS or power steering, cruise control and airbags.

2015 Morgan Aero 8 will enter production in the end of the year. There will be limited numbers of it, but they will offer infinite combinations of personalization. It would be nice owning one, wouldn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/qZvkdmzxvNo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Morgan

March 4, 2015

GTA Spano Showing Its “Graphene” Construction in Geneva

Instead of writing about my most favorite car (Civic Type R) and its world premiere in Geneva, I decided to focus on something more unconventional. In the end I’ll definitely review the “red badged beast”, but it is now more important to bring the attention on a model which is made in Spain. And presuming that I am not talking about the Seat, you have probably already figured it out – it is the GTA Spano.

In 2015 GTA Spano seems to be the first supersports car which has incorporated in its structure a revolutionary material such as the graphene. But this is not new information. As Spania GTA says this car is an entirely new model, and although we can’t see as many differences on the outside as we have imagined, the company states that the changes have been internal and include literally all components.

Precisely, the new carbon monocoque chasis features innovative elements like the titanium and graphene. They were chosen not only because of their rigidity but also because of their lightweight characteristics. As a matter of fact, the chassis and even the leather have incorporated graphene during their manufacturing.

Speaking of innovations, at the heart of this supercar lies the V10 twin Turbo 7,990 cm3 engine. It produces 925 hp (680 kW) and 1220 Nm (900 lb-ft) of torque. The powerful unit is coupled with a sequential seven-speed gearbox which is carbon synchronized.

This new power system accelerates the GTA Spano from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds on a way to a top speed of 370 km/h. And this is pretty impressive. The Spanish company will produce only 99 examples of this beauty so if you are keen on buying one you’d better hurry. What’s left in question is our desire to know more about this special graphene material.

Source: GTA Motor

March 4, 2015

Bentley Shows Intriguing Concept in Geneva: Meet the EXP 10 Speed 6

We have seen a very interesting concept at the Geneva Motor Show displayed by Bentley – the EXP 10 Speed 6. This car envisions company’s future design and performance capabilities with the needed level of luxury typical for Bentley. The two seater sportscar has obviously inherited the credentials of company’s racing success through the years.

In other words, this concept should be Bentley’s epitome of its vision for the future. The contemporary automotive design is complemented by highly skilled British handcrafting and of course by the most luxurious of materials and highest in performance technology. And if you take a closer look at the car it seems like it is a “baby” Continental GT, isn’t it?

Speaking of Continental, the model just received new styling enhancements and improved technology features. Precisely, the GT version now includes new exterior design features such as front bumper, smaller radiator shell, while the fenders have been made more pronounced.

Furthermore, there are three additional exterior colors available, while for the interior Bentley ensured that there are new seat patterns, steering wheel, gear paddles and more. Onboard WiFi is really delightful, but what’s more intriguing is the improvement to the W12 engine.

The unit can now show-off with power and torque increase, from 567 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) to 582 hp (434 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). What about the eco-friendliness and economy of the car. Well, Bentley isn’t saying much, except for their word that they have been also improved.

Next, Flying Spur features improvements in terms of luxury, while the Mulsanne Speed aims to deliver the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience. There is nothing new around this model but still, its characteristics and capabilities are impressive. It is powered by the 6¾-litre twin-turbo V8 engine which accelerates it from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, on to a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h).

Source: Bentley

March 4, 2015

Aston Martin DBX Concept: Strange Mix Of Luxury and All-Electric AWD

The next vehicle on the spot comes from my personally favorite brand Aston Martin. It is called DBX Concept and was again revealed in the Swiss city. It has the styling characteristics of its siblings but somehow it reminds me of a muscle car mixed with a Peugeot RCZ. It is obvious that the concept was created with the aim to bring some new insights to the luxury GT segment, like the sense of more practicality.

The brand even says that it focuses on family and eco-friendliness, which is true since the car runs on pure electricity. In addition, the design is harmonious and evokes powerful stance with hints to the future development of the brand. In other words, the all-wheel drive DBX Concept effortlessly incorporates the traditional Aston Martin beauty with the new engineering applied in it.

Exterior-wise, the body of the car is made of machined billet aluminum and has visible milling lines. The paint finish, Black Pearl Chromium, further strengthens the presence of the model, incorporating micro-fine layer of chrome. This helped the designers deliver a truly unique exterior paint, that can’t be obtained via usual techniques.

The concept is suitable for four people and it features huge space available for the luggage. Inside, we see the purity of luxury applied via the cutting edge style and advanced technology. Precisely, the standard materials used inside include Nubuck leather, sandwiched accent layer, gold ‘pin striping’ element on the edging and more.

But this car, in my opinion, challenges the conventional thinking in other terms. First, DBX Concept needs no engine compartment. Why? Because it uses electric motors that are powered by lithium sulphur cells.

Other technology advancements that need to be mentioned are the drive-by-wire electric steering and the driver and passenger head-up displays. Not to mention the toughened glass with an auto-dimming ‘smart glass’ inter-layer.

Active LEDs light the way of this concept, while carbon ceramic brakes with a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) take care for the perfect stop. There are no conventional rearview mirrors here because they have been substituted with rear view cameras.

Despite that I really like this car, this question still bothers me: Could it be capable of catching up with the performance of a real, gasoline-driven, Aston Martin? There are no details regarding the power output of the model, or any performance figures. This “little” fact gives me the feeling that we won’t see the DBX in production anytime soon.

Source: Aston Martin

March 4, 2015

Have you seen the Nissan Sway Concept?

Geneva Motor Show started yesterday and this is where many new cars and concepts were revealed. A very special instance is the Nissan Sway Concept whish redefines the design language used for the small cars. It is so beautiful that literally takes the breath away. One thing I personally don’t like is how the doors open. Follow my thoughts and you’ll understand why. The new bold design is edgy and fresh. The interior is innovative with a lot of technology features.

Following the steps of the Qashqai and Juke, this new Nissan model is destined to bring more success to the brand. This means that the compact hatchback offers a first glimpse of how the future generation compact cars would look like. Especially those distributed in Europe.

Some of the most striking elements of the exterior are the V-motion grille, boomerang lamps and kicked-up C-pillar. At the back, the lights are also boomerang and are accompanied by the trapezoidal exhaust pipes.

The rear doors do not open normally and this is what really bothers me. Instead, both front and rear doors seem to taken inspiration from some Rolls-Royce models forgetting they are just Nissan’s. The new design language incorporated in the interior also includes floating roof, which is simply a panoramic glass roof. This is advantageous because those sitting inside will have the sense of space.

“Bluish dawn grey” is the name of the exterior paint color. It seems like this hue have some hints of blue visible under light. This is harmonized via the contrasting orange color. Inside, the color combination is the same. However the blue is darker, while the ivory and orange hues are used for the stitching.

What really captivate me in the interior are the basics of the design. For instance, there are just two instruments facing the driver, while the other functions can be viewed on a huge trapezoidal tablet. In other words, with this concept Nissan has once again brought some innovative ideas to the automotive world. The next logical question is who is to mimic this car first?

Sway Dimensions (mm)
Length	4,010
Width	1,780
Height	1,385
Wheelbase	2,570

Source: Nissan

March 4, 2015

Category: Auto News