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2016 Skoda Superb is Fully Revealed!

The new Skoda Superb is here! The world premiere of the car happened today at the Forum Karlín in Prague. The the new car displayed a revolutionized design, generous dimensions, innovative safety assistance systems, a focus on the environment and comfort. As a matter of fact the company claims that this is the best Skoda model ever produced. This is the third-generation Superb, which keeps the powerful characteristics of its predecessor, but also incorporates brand new design language inspired by the VisionC show car.

To go intro details, one of the major changes was in the wheelbase that has been increased by 80 mm. At the same time the front vehicle overhang is 61 mm shorter than before. The front features striking grille and distinctive headlights, the sides appear dynamic and elegant and are “supported” by large wheels.

At the back, the car features new two-part, broad and narrow taillights that incorporate LED technology. At the same time, crystalline elements provide the taillights with additional luminosity.

Inside, the cabin has been entirely redesigned with highlight on horizontal lines. This gives the already spacious interior an even more generous feel. Clear shapes, precise workmanship and the use of high-quality materials are all featured.

Furthermore, the new Superb is brand’s first model offering adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) with Driving Mode Select. Auxiliary heating, heated seats, wireless heated windscreen and heated washer jets as well as rain/light sensor are some of the standard features.

The new Superb comes with the latest generation of Park Assist, which will help drivers automatically drive in and out of parking spaces. The car also features a rear-view camera for the first time, while the traditional handbrake is replaced by an electric parking brake as a standard.

There is a total of four infotainment systems based new for the Superb, but more importantly the engines offered in the range now deliver up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption. Superb GreenLine for instance needs only 3.7 l per 100 km (76.4mpg) and emits 95 g CO2 per km.

The direct-injection turbocharged engines are based on MQB technology. The range features five TSI petrol and three TDI common-rail diesel units. All powertrains have Stop-Start technology and brake energy recovery as standard. The petrol engines have a power output of between 92 kW (125 hp) and 206 kW (280 hp), while the diesel ones – between 88 kW (120 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp).

Safety is ensured by the standard Electronic Stability Control with Multi-Collision Brake, Front Assist with Emergency Brake, electronic Tyre Pressure Monitor, seven airbags, and five three-point automatic seat belts with fastening alerts as well as safety headrests. There is also the option of Speedlimiter.

Source: Skoda

February 18, 2015

2016 HR-V is the Roomiest Honda in the Range

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V delivers a one-off styling, sophisticated driving dynamics and a fuel-efficient performance. It is part of the upgraded range of Honda vehicles which adopts the ground-breaking technological approach of the brand. Portraying a distinctive poise and perfectly sculptured lines, the SUV becomes a synonym for automotive greatness!

Regarding its power, the HR-V will be available in the UK with front-wheel drive only and a choice of fuel-efficient 1.5 liter i-VTEC petrol engine that delivers 130 PS and 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engines producing 120 PS. Customers can configure both variants with either a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission with paddle-shift available on some versions. Both power units are Euro 6 compliant and are part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series.

Outwardly, the new HR-V demonstrates sufficient sporty tone. Its body shape, horizontal-oriented front and rear bumpers, rear window line, revamped headlamps and unified front grille create a sharper and more angular stance. What is more, the design makes the car appear more purposeful. Furthermore, there is a fuel tank integrated under the front seats. It enables the use of the 60:40 split Magic Seats that have several configurations.

Focusing on practicality, Honda provides more than just enough space for travelers. They can take advantage of a class-leading space with leg-, shoulder- and headroom in the front and rear. There is astounding space offered by the boot as well. Its capacity amounts at 453 litres with the rear seats in use, and 1026 litres to the window line with the rear seats folded away. Soft-touch surfaces and a piano-black feature panel put emphasis on the car’s sophisticated presence too. Finally, Honda HR-V is equipped with a 7-inch Honda Connect touchscreen that comes as standard on the Sport and Executive models. A 5-inch touchscreen is available for the entry level variants. There is an Android 4.0.4 operating system run by the OS.

The car is set to arrive in the UK in the summer of 2015.

Source: Honda

February 18, 2015

The New Evora 400 is the Most Powerful Lotus Ever

Lotus has officially taken the wraps off of its 2015 Evora 400. Described as the “fastest and most powerful production Lotus ever,” the vehicle amalgamates excellent performance with the historic Lotus benchmark handling.

Power is provided by a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 bhp (406 PS / 298 kW) with a maximum torque of 410 Nm (302 lb-ft). It can be mated to a revised six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-wise, the Lotus Evora 400 can cover the 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). As impressive as it is, the model managed to complete the Hethel test track six seconds faster than the previous model.

As we can see, Lotus Evora 400 has a very recognizable style in terms of the exterior. The aggressive styling is underlined by a new front bumper with larger air intakes, distinctive LED daytime running lights, ventilated rear bumper, sporty-looking diffuser, modified mirrors and a prominent three-element rear wing. 19- / 20-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport adorn the silhouette of the new Lotus as well. Moreover, it weighs 22 kg (48 lbs) less than its predecessor thanks to its reworked aluminum chassis. Other features include retuned suspension, beefed-up brakes and a standard Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on units equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Inside there have been some very notable changes. The cabin features a new dashboard, redesigned center console, a renewed instrument cluster, new front seats and a forged magnesium steering wheel with a red position stripe.

2015 Lotus Evora 400 will enter production this summer with first European deliveries commencing in August. North America will welcome the car as a 2016 model this autumn.

Source: Lotus

February 18, 2015

Rolls-Royce Designs the Impossible!

Sir Henry Royce has said: “When it does not exist, design it”. And this is what Rolls-Royce has been doing since the very beginning. In an open letter, Rolls-Royce Chairman Peter Schwarzenbauer and Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes confirmed that the company is in a process of developing an all-new ground-breaking model. The vehicle is said to demonstrate an “exceptional presence, elegance and purpose.”

Even before the official announcement, Rolls-Royce fans have set their expectations so high that they could touch the sky and go back again. With the confirmation now, things might just escalate even more! Knowing the brand, the new vehicle will definitely be something that will shake the world with its innovative equipment and unrivalled splendor. Effortless, exclusive and dazzling, the “high-bodied car” is going to continue the legacy of the brand.

The automaker refused to share when the model will be launched but they listed that it is going to be:
• A car that offers the luxury of a Rolls-Royce in a vehicle that can cross any terrain
• A car that meets our customers’ highly mobile, contemporary lifestyle expectations
• A Rolls-Royce that is as much about the pioneering, adventurous spirit of Charles Rolls as it is about Sir Henry Royce’s dedication to engineering and innovation
• A car that appropriately reflects Rolls-Royce’s brand promise of effortless luxury
• A high-bodied car, with an all-new aluminium architecture
• A unique new motor car worthy of carrying the Spirit of Ecstasy into the future

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 18, 2015

Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Special Edition Limited to 100 Cars Only

Defined as the “most potent and uncompromising Vantage to date,” the track-inspired Aston Martin Vantage GT3 special edition is notably re-engineered and restyled. Bolder, more aggressive and sophisticated, the car arrives with high demands that hopefully the automotive world can cope with!

In terms of power, under the hood resides a 6.0-liter V12 engine which can generate about 600 PS (441 kW / 591 bhp) and a peak torque of 625 Nm (460 lb-ft). This unit is matched to a seven-speed automated manual transmission that is supposed to enable the car to speed up from 0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds before reaching an approximate top speed of 297 km/h (185 mph).

The newly – born beast is thoroughly equipped. It impresses with cutting edge motorsport-inspired components such as: carbon fiber wide body kit with reworked bumpers, modified side skirts and extended fenders. There is also a range of aerodynamic features including a prominent rear wing, pronounced front splitter and a nicely-shaped rear diffuser.

In order to go even further with the goodies, Aston Martin packs the new Vantage GT3 with a carbon fiber hood, a black mesh grille and ceramic coated tailpipes. The car moves on 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

Inside the cabin, the car has been comprehensively reworked too, thus implementing the sporty styling of the exterior. The interior benefits from highlights like: carbon fiber center stack with touch-sensitive controls, carbon fiber sports seats, Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, leather door pull straps and, last but not the least, an infotainment system with GPS navigation.

2015 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 special edition is limited to 100 units and will make its debut on 3 March during the 85th Geneva International Motor Show.

Source: Aston Martin

February 18, 2015

2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Takes S-Class to a New Level

High – end automotive luxury, class – leading presence, greatness in every detail are characteristics associated with Mercedes-Maybach. Set to make its first appearance at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month, the new generously – sized Maybach Pullman does not lack any of these top – of – the – range virtues. The launch of this model coincides with the 50th anniversary of the best-known Pullman saloon – the Mercedes-Benz 600.

Power for the new Pullman is delivered by a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 engine which is capable of boosting 530 PS (390 kW) and a maximum torque of 830 Nm (612 lb-ft). Mercedes refused to release performance details but from what we could gather, the car is more about comfort than speed. For this reason we keep our expectations close to the ground.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman takes the S-Class to another, more advanced level. The extraordinary features and divine craftsmanship define the car as the “ultimate in exclusivity and luxury.” Being a driver – focused limousine, this model is 1053 mm longer and 100 mm taller than the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. What is more, it also features a 4418 mm long wheelbase. This enables the rear seat passengers enjoy more than enough legroom.

In a typical limousine style, there is an exaggerated dose of a gorgeously fancy feel all around the interior. The rear passenger compartment includes two executive seats which can recline up to 43.5 degrees. They have individually adjustable cushions, calf supports and backrests. On top of this, rear seat passengers are enabled to see the outside temperature as well as the time and the car’s speed thanks to the roof-mounted instruments. A person really couldn’t ask for more!

Furthermore, Maybach Pullman also comes nicely fitted with eye-catching premium leather upholstery, curtains for ultimate privacy at the back and stylish wood trim. Finally, Mercedes equips the limo with a full-length center console, a Burmester 3D surround sound system and a rear entertainment system which has an 18.5-inch display.

The new Mercedes-Maybach Pullman goes on sale at the beginning of 2016 with a starting price of around €500,000 and $570,000 for un-armored models.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 18, 2015

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S Shows its Versatile Character in Berlin

Minutes ago Mercedes-Benz has released several interesting pictures of the AMG GT S take in Berlin. We really fell in love with them and this is why we had to share it. The Mercedes-AMG GT S has a very versatile character, says the company. Why? Simply because it can speed through chicanes on the Nürburgring or splash through puddles on the graffitied streets of Berlin (just like in this photoshoot). In both cases it performs flawlessly.

The photos are splendid and show vehicle’s extreme posture and charming looks. It suggests powerful presence and full of speed driving experience. The good news is that we don’t have to wait much longer than a couple of months, because the GT S and GT S Edition 1 variants are going to make their European market launch.

Both cars are driven by the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine which produces more than enough power. We are speaking of 510 hp (375 kW) at 6,250 rpm and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 4,750 rpm.

And if you wonder about the acceleration time, then we won’t keep it secret. These horses enable the GT S to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The top speed here is of 193 mph. Despite this amount of force, the car is returning exceptional fuel consumption of 9.3-9.6 l per 100km, while the CO2 emissions have been rated at 216-224 g/km.

GT S comes with huge 20 inch rear wheels, behind which we see red brake calipers clamping enlarged discs and there is also electronically-controlled rear differential. What also needs to be mentioned is theAMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with three different modes. Enjoy the colorful pictures of this solarbeam Mercedes-AMG GT S.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 17, 2015

Kia’s Mysterious Concept is Called Sportspace and Looks Like a new Charger

Kia’s mysterious concept is dubbed Sportspace and although we thought it will be more like the Optima model, it actually has nothing to do with it. As a matter of fact, to me it looks more like a “Shooting Brake” version of the Dodge Charger Hellcat. The new concept has been designed by Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt, Germany, and will have its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in two weeks.

It is visible that the car was created for long distance driving, and at the same time for fast and efficient traveling. We haven’t seen the interior in person, but Kia suggests that the car will offer maximum comfort and minimal stress.

Sportspace Concept features one-of-a-kind body shape, which isn’t typical for the brand. The car is dedicated to those who seek stylish and exciting transportation for four, which is also spacious and functional. At the same time, the concept does not sacrifice on performance, sustainability and economy.

The car can be recognized as a Kia model due to its signature ‘tiger nose’ grille, finely judged proportions and simple, clean surfaces. The car also has a bold and dynamic shape with wide road presence. The high level of interior comfort and substantial practical load space are two characteristics that must be highlighted.

At last, we should remind you that it is rumored for a future production version based on this concept. It is expected to be shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Kia will also offer several engine choices including a plug-in hybrid option.

Source: Kia

February 17, 2015

Hyundai Exclusively Reveals the new Tucson

2016 Hyundai Tucson has just been exclusively revealed. The new C-Segment SUV will be unveiled in March during the Geneva Auto Saloon, showing off its bold and athletic exterior, refined interior and generous cabin space. What is more, the new car is already equipped with so much standard convenience, connectivity and safety features that it would be simply impossible for its rivals in the segment to compete with it. The vehicle e will be also offered with wide choice of engine, which has a power output ranging from 115 hp to 184 hp.

The bold and athletic exterior creates unique SUV appearance. This presence is achieved through refined, flowing surfaces, bold proportions, sharp lines and the new generation hexagonal grille. It connects with the LED headlamps to create a distinctive face.

In addition, the front bumper includes a wing-shaped appearance, which incorporates the LED daytime running lights. At the back of the vehicle, the rear has clean design with horizontal lines that flow from the rear wheel arches and accentuated by slim tail lights.

The interior has been refined and now offers a combination of elegance and intelligent ergonomics.

The cabin is adorned by the soft-touch, high-quality materials. The centre console is underlined by its horizontal orientation, while the optional ‘Wine Red’ leather brings further exclusivity to the cabin.

Comfortable and airy inside, the new Tucson delivers a 513 litres of luggage capacity with all the seats up. Convenience and connectivity features include heated and ventilated front seats, with longer seating cushions for enhanced support and comfort, smart powered tailgate and Smart Parking Assist System (SPAS) with parallel and bay parking function. The new-generation navigation system is offered as a standard and features TomTom LIVE services.

In terms of active and passive safety, the new Tucson is probably one of the best equipped vehicles in its segment. Its features include an Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Traffic Cross Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Speed Limit Information Function and Active Bonnet System.

Speaking of powertrains, the Tucson will be offered with two gasoline engines and three diesel options. The first two are the 135 PS 1.6-litre GDI and the 176 PS 1.6-litre T-GDI. The diesels are the 115 PS 1.7-litre, 136 PS 2.0-litre standard power and the 184 PS 2.0-litre high power.

2016 Hyundai Tucson will be made in Europe and will go on sale in Europe during the second half of this year.

2016 Hyundai Tucson in details:

Length	4.475
Width	1.850
Height	1.645
Wheelbase	2.670
Overhang (front)	910
Overhang (rear)	895

Gasoline	Power output	Transmission available
1.6-litre GDI	135 PS	6MT
1.6-litre T-GDI	176 PS	6MT / 7DCT
Diesel
1.7-litre	115 PS	6MT
2.0-litre standard power	136 PS	6MT / 6AT
2.0-litre high power	184 PS	6MT / 6AT

Source: Hyundai

February 17, 2015

Bentley Continental GT Family Gets Styling and Performance Upgrades

Wide range of design upgrades and features is ready for the Continental GT family. In addition, the Continental GT W12 model now has an increased power output, improving its performance and efficiency. Besides this, it was also announced that the Flying Spur will offer even more bespoke luxury experience, focusing on powertrain development, on-board technology and interior comfort. Of course, the new models will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show and wll go on sale this summer. Nevertheless, we managed to get some pictures before the big reveal, which you can see below.

First, the Bentley Continental GT will come with refreshed new exterior. The front bumper combines with a smaller radiator shell new fenders. They include new vent, complete with a graceful metallic “B” adornment. Additionally, bright chrome fender badges for the V8 S and W12 models now match those applied to the GT Speed.

The back of the car received new more sculpted boot lid, with a pronounced aerodynamic profile to the trailing edge. The rear bumper has been reshaped and widened. V8 S and GT Speed models get new rear diffuser design. New wheels of 20” and 21” designs have been added to the range.Three new exterior colours are available: Marlin – a rich metallic blue, Camel – a soft golden tone, and Jetstream -a light, bright metallic blue.

The luxury cabin of the Continental family has been further improved. Contemporary straight-fluting pattern now adorns the four seats. In addition, Mulliner Driving Specification gets tightened, “small-diamond” quilting pattern. The center console features refreshed look and the new interior is now illuminated by LEDs. Two new leather colours, Shortbread and Camel, join the Continental range for the new model year.

Under the hood of the Continental GT W12 the new customers will find three changes to the mighty 6.0-litre twin turbo W12 powertrain. Firstly, the engine receives a power and torque increase. They have grown from 575 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) to 590 hp (434 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). Secondly, this update is accompanied by improvements to fuel economy of up to 5%. And at last, this leads to lower CO2 emissions of 329 g/km.

The Flying Spur has also been updated via the 20” six-tri-spoke or seven-twin-spoke wheels, refined interior style and usability, new paint colours in the hues of Marlin, Camel and Jetstream for the exterior, as well as the addition of Shortbread and Camel for the interior. The W12 engine gains more power resulting in 625 hp (460 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft), but it is more efficient and with greater grand touring capability thanks to the variable displacement system.

Source: Bentley

February 17, 2015

Fifth Generation Mitsubishi L200 is Debuting in Geneva

The last time we have seen the Mitsubishi L200 debuting was 9 years ago. For this amount of time, the company managed to sell 1.3 million units. Now, it is time for the automotive industry to meet the new 5th generation of the L200. It will have its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The new vehicle has been developed as a ‘Sport Utility Truck’ and it now promises to reach new heights of reliability, toughness, interior comfort and maneuverability.

Mitsubishi unveiled many details among which is the engine: 2.4 litre MIVEC turbo-charged diesel unit that generates 180 hp (133 kW) or 154 hp (113 kW) and respective 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) or 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). The unit is connected to a six-speed manual transmission and cam show impressive CO2 figures starting as low as 169 g/km.

In terms of exterior characteristics, the L200 is aerodynamic, musclular and elegant. Inside, the interior has been made quieter, due to the noise-reducing measures taken. In addition, Mitsubishi has developed the MIVEC unit with decreased noisiness.

Other benefits are the extended rear suspension leafs and the increased roominess and competitive bed length. What is more, the reliability and toughness of the new L200 has been enhanced by refining and reinforcing the body structure and 7% higher torsional rigidity of chassis frame to endure the gruelling conditions.

Improved pro-active safety is the next advantage of the upcoming model. It is due to the addition of Super Select 4WD II (SS4-II) which delivers better cornering stability, Active Stability and Traction Control with Trailer Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist systems, Lane Departure Warning and HID headlamps. The passive safety has been enhanced by seven airbags.

Other new features include rear doors, keyless operation system with engine stop/start switch, Cruise Control, dual temperature automatic air conditioning, steering column-mounted paddle shifters, “reach & rake” adjustment of the steering wheel, rear view camera and Digital Audio Broadcasting radio system.

2016 Mitsubishi L200 will be launched in Europe during this summer in two body styles – Club Cab and Double Cab.

Source: Mitsubishi

February 17, 2015

2015 Toyota Hilux Invincible X Takes on the Toughest Terrains

Driving during the coldest season of the year has never been more pleasing than now thanks to the new top-of-the-range Hilux Invincible X! Undoubtedly, severe weather conditions require better equipment and ask for special measures to be taken into consideration. With Toyota’s super-tough pick-up things become easier.

Available in Double Cab version, 2015 Toyota Hilux Invincible X is powered by a 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine which delivers 169 bhp. The power unit is mated to either five-speed manual or automatic transmission. Thanks to the permanent four-wheel drive and an auto-disconnecting differential, the Hilux Invincible X can conquer the toughest possible terrains. What is more, this newcomer is said to be “tough enough to take on the worst of Britain’s rain, snow and ice.”

On the visual side, the Invincible X benefits from 17-inch alloy wheels in four different designs. Customers can choose from: the standard Invincible rim and a new Rica five-spoke in all-black or two-tone black/machined or black/graphite finish. Part of the package are chrome tubular side bars too, offered with or without step grips, depending on the buyer’s preferences. Yet, customers can opt for a rear hi-over bar, or they can select the Style Pack variant. The latter includes a front guard, silver-coloured under-run, aluminium-finish scuff plates, chrome door handles and chrome surrounds for the bonnet air intake and rear lamp clusters.

Inside the cabin there are four colour-versions for the leather seat upholstery: the standard Invincible black, or custom two-tone black with contrasting seatback and cushion inserts in grey, saddle tan or deep red. Equipment features include: sports front seats, climate control, cruise control, dusk-sensing headlights, curtain airbags plus a whole lot of goodies and gadgets like a rear privacy glass, headlamp cleaners, a rear-view camera and the Toyota Touch 2 touchscreen-controlled multimedia system, plus Bluetooth.

Orders can now be placed and Toyota is demanding £23,842 ($36,658/€32,089) for the manual model and £24,842 ($38,192/€33,435) for the automatic variant.

Source: Toyota

February 17, 2015

Category: Auto News