Auto News – Page 384 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-AMG GT Outruns Your Dream Car [VIDEO]

Shots are fired and a new rivalry between two automotive giants seems to be on the verge of exploding! In a recently introduced video, the new Mercedes-AMG GT overtakes Porsche 911, thus breaking children’s visions of a dream car.

The TV commercial, which is titled “Mercedes-AMG GT ‘Dreamcar,’” carries a certain tone of subtlety because the German car demonstrates its supremacy and powerful stance by mocking the Porsche. In the ad we can see a young boy who is having a dream about the Porsche 911 which appears as a blurred silhouette. Not too long after this, there approaches the GT with an obvious determination and motivation. Driving too closely behind the other car, the Mercedes is somewhat metaphorically poking the Porsche while reminding it of the GT’s supreme power. And then with a fuming energy it disappears.

Just as a reminder, the car in yellow is powered by a handbuilt AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine which produces 462 PS (339 kW) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. Such figures are enough to enable the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, reaching a tops speed of 193 mph. Lastly, the power unit is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with electronically controlled limited slip differential.

Nevertheless, the question is: is the new AMG GT really built to outrun an automotive king like the 911?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=745ApnhDp4s

Video Source: Mercedes-AMG via Youtube

February 3, 2015

2016 Mazda CX-3 with European Premiere in Geneva [VIDEO]

2016 Mazda CX-3 is the fifth-generation model, which next to the MX-5. CX-5 and Mazda2 will go into overdrive at the Geneva Motor Show in early March. The Japanese company will launch the new CX-3 in six months. Mazda says that the new crossover is perfect for European drivers because it is compact and ideal for city driving. The vehicle will be offered in AWD or FWD format and of course will incorporate carmaker’s sleek KODO design language.

In addition, it will also offer unmatched combination of performance and fuel efficiency due to the utilization of the SKYACTIV Technology. Furthermore, the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 that was firstly revealed in September, features inspiring new exterior design as well as more SKYACTIV engines. Its lightweight design refers to the roots of the original model that was launched over 25 years.

The next car on display in Geneva is the Mazda2, which raises the bar for the B segment with wide range of equipment. For instance, it will feature a head-up display that will make driver’s on-road behavior easier. The new supermini has already won the 2014-15 Japan Car of the Year award and Europe’s Golden Steering Wheel.

Mazda CX-5 and Mazda6 are the next two highlights in Mazda’s lineup for Geneva. They feature redesigned faces and interiors, as well as new active safety systems like Adaptive LED Headlights.

Mazda6 is offered with AWD and a head-up display, while the CX-5 adds the powerful SKYACTIV-G 2.5 to its petrol engine line-up. All five models which will be showcased will be equipped with the optional MZD Connect. This is company’s safe and easy-to-use smartphone connectivity system.

2016 Mazda CX-3 will go on sale in Europe in early summer, while the MX-5 will hit the market in the autumn.

httpv://youtu.be/mplNwpeFESA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mazda

February 3, 2015

Renault Officially Reveals Kadjar C-Segment Crossover

2016 Renault Kadjar is here! After extensive ad campaign, the new C-segment crossover has been fully revealed. This is Captur’s big brother which is set to deliver excellent fuel efficiency and emissions. The car will be distributed in Europe and in many African and Mediterranean Basin countries, followed by China. Kadjar stands out through its athletic exterior styling and both sporty and refined interior.

The vehicle will be offered on either four- or two-wheel-drive, and will encourage adventure while at the same time delivering easy manoeuvrability in town thanks to its compact footprint. Precisely, it is 4.45 metres long and 1.84 metres wide.

Thanks to its Flame Red launch colour, the Renault Kadjar brings a breath of fresh air as well as sense of seduction and inspires passion. The car shares the DNA of the Captur concept car, along with hints of the DeZir concept car. Captur emphasizes the ‘Explore’ part of Renault’s design strategy.

The front of the car is muscular and expresses strength. The chrome strip continues across the head lights and improves the visual impression of width. The athletic silhouette is continued with the wings, while the sensuous fluidity of its lines is accentuated by the finish of the doors which are flush with the sills. At the rear, the bodywork integrates the bumper. The large 690mm wheels and rims of up to 19-inches exude vehicle’s sporty nature.

Inside, the interior mirrors the refinement of the exterior lines. The instrument panel falls naturally in the driver’s line, while the horizontal lines of the dashboard design highlight the width of the cabin. Double rows of visible stitching for the seats, door handles and instrument panel cowling additionally contribute for the charming presence of Renault Kadjar’s interior.

The crossover also boasts an array of driving aids that are useful for everyday motoring, including ‘hands-free’ parking and a reversing camera for easy parking in town. It also delivers low fuel consumption thanks to its Stop and Start system that enables fuel to be saved and reduces pollution in built-up areas.

The dashboard of Kadjar comes with a seven-inch capacitive colour touchscreen TFT display. In addition it is available with the Renault R-Link 2 multimedia system that features voice recognition to control the navigation, telephone, apps and radio.

2016 Renault Kadjar will be officially premiered at the 85th Geneva Motor Show on 5^th of March. It will go on sale in the summer in both Europe and a high number of countries in Africa and the Mediterranean Basin region.

Source: Renault

February 3, 2015

The All-new Hyundai Tucson is Sportier and Stronger [VIDEO]

Just today Hyundai revealed the first sketch of the upcoming all-new Tuscon which is going to replace the currently running Hyundai ix35.

Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, pointed out: “Our new compact SUV will be a big step forward for the Hyundai brand globally. The All-New Tucson has a bold and athletic presence and a proud stance. Its design is characterised by flowing surfaces, bold proportions, sharp lines and – most important – our brand signature hexagonal grille.”

The new SUV is said to have a sportier look than the ix35 and for now it somehow manages to justify this statement. The stronger appearance of the Hyundai Tuscon is further underlined by the straight and stable silhouette and “sleek character line.” In order to craft out a more powerful stance, Hyundai Motor equips the vehicle with a chrome-framed hexagonal grille that is connected to the headlamp clusters.

There is an extra dose of significance imported in the name. When the current ix35 went on sale back in 2009 in the UK, the initial Tuscan name was disregarded. Now the reintroduction of the same title signifies the global importance of the model.

This compact SUV will debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, on 3rd March.

If you want to see how the sketch comes to life, click on the link bellow.

Source: Hyundai

February 3, 2015

Kia Picanto Facelift to be Unveiled at Geneva Motor Show

Kia is going to debut a facelifted version of the Picanto model at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The car will feature updated exterior and interior design with new customization options, cruise control and touchscreen infotainment as well as refined 1.0-litre petrol engine. The stylish A-segment city hatchback will be offered in both three- and five-door variant. In terms of exterior design, the upgrades are seen at the front. The new Picanto features redesigned front bumper and ‘tiger-nose’ grille. To match the new front appearance, the rear received new bumper two. The customers will get the chance to choose a new 14-inch alloy wheel design, and the inclusion of an optional sport pack.

The interior updates corise of new chrome accents surrounding the instrument binnacle and dashboard air vents, as well as brand new cloth upholstery pattern. In addition, more modern fascia now surrounds the Picanto’s audio system.

The optional features list includes latest generation of Kia’s audio-video navigation system with a large 7.0-inch display screen, cruise control and speed limiter system. There are also available three interior colour packs. The Red Pack includes black artificial leather and red cloth seats and high-gloss red and black door panel inserts.

The second one, Yellow Pack, features black artificial leather and cloth seat upholstery with yellow stitching, bright yellow dashboard and steering wheel trim. The third one is called premium Brown Pack and it offers classy brown artificial leather seats, brown door trim and high-gloss piano black dashboard trim. Footwell illumination comes as a standard with each of the three colour packs.

The braking performance was also improved, delivering reduced stopping distance. The brakes at the front are now larger – 252 mm, in comparison to the previous 241 mm brakes. They are available as an option and allow the car to stop from 100 km/h in just 37 metres. This is an improvement of 2 metres. The modifications regarding the 1.0-litre Multi-Point Injection engine, ensuring the car meets strict Euro 6 emissions standards.

2015 Kia Picanto Facelift will go on sale in Europe by the end of March, after making an official debut in Geneva.

Source: Kia

February 3, 2015

Mercedes-Benz C 350 e Needs Only 2.1L Of Fuel per 100KM

The plug-in hybrid Mercedes-Benz C 350 e is here and ready to conquer your heart. The vehicle that combines great levels of efficiency and comfort is now on sale in Europe and will be available in dealerships next month. It will be offered in Saloon and its Estate trims, delivering certified consumption figures of just 2.1 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres and a range of up to 31 kilometres in all-electric mode. Both trim levels are equipped with air suspension and a pre-entry climate control system as standard.

C 350 e is powered by combustion engine combined with an electric drive system and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 6.38 kWh. The latter can be charged from an external power source, which takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes at a wallbox.

The four-cylinder petrol engine has a displacement of just less than two litres. Despite this, it is capable of producing 211 horsepower (155 kW) and maximum torque of 350 newton metres (258 lb-ft). The electric motor has an output of up to 60 kW and delivers torque of 340 newton metres (251 lb-ft).

This means a total system output of 279 hp (205 kW) as well as system torque of 600 newton metres (443 lb-ft). These “numbers” of power are transmitted on the road via standard-fit 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission.

The Saloon can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Estate covers this for 6.2 seconds. The top speed of the first is of 250 km/h and of the second – 246 km/h. Both trims have certified fuel consumption of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 48 grams per kilometre (49 grams per kilometre for the Estate).

This Mercedes models are equipped with AVANTGARDE exterior line, which includes sports radiator grille and centrally positioned star. The other alternative is the EXCLUSIVE exterior equipment line with a classic radiator grille and three-pointed star on the bonnet.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C 350 e has a starting price of 50,961 Euros.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 3, 2015

Tesla Enters Dual Motor Model S All Wheel Drive in Porduction [VIDEO]

Tesla announced that the Model S is getting a Dual Motor All Wheel Drive version, which has already entered production. Unlike conventional AWD vehicles that sacrifice fuel efficiency for increased traction, the Dual Motor Model S AWD delivers superior control and in the same time it improves both range and acceleration. In addition, Tesla’s advanced electric powertrain is an evolution in automobile engineering.

In comparison to gasoline internal combustion engine which has hundreds of moving parts, the electric motors of the company have only one moving piece, which is the rotor. If you wonder about the result: firstly, the acceleration of the car is instantaneous, secondly – it is silent and smooth. In fact, the car needs only 3.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

Speaking about innovations, the Dual Motor Model S is unconditional improvement on conventional all wheel drive systems. The first motor is positioned in the front and the second one – in the rear. The car digitally and independently controls torque to the front and rear wheels, resulting in unparalleled traction control in all conditions.

Why efficiency is not sacrificed? If you take a conventional all wheel drive car, it utilizes complex mechanical linkages to distribute power from a single engine to all four wheels. This of course results in less efficiency and more fuel use in favor of all weather traction. In contrast, the Model S motor is lighter, smaller and more efficient, delivering both improved range and faster acceleration.

Dual Motor all wheel drive will be distributed as an option on 85 kWh battery equipped cars, while the Model S Performance model will come as a standard with it. The EPA estimated range of the latter is up to 270 miles.

Source: Tesla

February 3, 2015

The New Fiat Doblo Inherits Old Ugly Proportions

As it turns out, Fiat is really stubborn and is doing its best to fit its Fiat Doblo into the successful side of the automotive world. Interestingly enough, this giant piece of ugliness on four wheels has scored some excellent results as one of the previous models was sold in more than one million units. Which is not bad at all for a such twisted variant of a family automobile.

The new model Doblo has two petrol engines (1.4 liter 95 HP and 1.4 T-JET 120 HP) and three turbo diesels (1.6 MultiJet 90 HP with Dualogic robotised gearbox, 1.6 MultiJet 105 HP and 2.0 MultiJet 135 HP) which will be available at launch. For even bigger diversity, there is a 1.4 T-JET Natural Power bi-fuel (petrol/natural gas) engine which produces 120 HP. Fuel efficiency is estimated at 4.9 km/liter while combined CO2 emissions are 134 grams per kilometer.

With a distinguishable bodylook, 2015 Fiat Doblo aims to attract more people who want to get a comfortable family car with enough space. If they are looking for convenience only, well they have arrived at the right place, because good-looking is not on the menu. Trying to bring some freshness to the car, the manufacturer equips with sporting new bumpers and a streamline bonnet. There are revised front and rear light clusters as well. New Doblo customers can choose from 11 body colors, including the brand-new Colosseo Grey.

Inside, the Pop version is defined by grey fabric and dashboard, while the passenger compartment of the new Doblo Easy arrives in either red or grey. The Lounge trim level offers two combinations: grey dashboard and fabric or beige dashboard and fabric. Other new features are the ergonomic steering wheel and the instrument panel.

Source: Fiat

February 2, 2015

Volkswagen Golf R Revealed in a Sportier Outfit

Volkswagen Golf R

Volkswagen Golf R-Line trim is now on sale and can be ordered for the price starting at £24,190. The new specification features sportier cosmetic changes and a choice of two fuel – efficient engines.

Trying to create something that bridges convenience and sportiness, in the pack of goodies the automaker includes a sportier radiator grille, air intake as well as new fog light and bumper design. What is more, the new silhouette of the Volkswagen Golf R is highlighted by larger side skirts and 17-inch ‘Singapore’ alloy wheels. At the rear there’s an impressive R-line bumper and diffuser. The additionally added sporty-flavor can be purchased for an extra £995.

Not betraying the sporty character of the Golf R model, the interior gets stainless steel pedals and front door sills, black lead grey inlays and door trims. There are also Sports Race design front seats with R-Line logo, black rooflining, leather gear knob and gear lever gaiter and, finally, R-Line leather multifunction sports steering wheel.

The choice of two engines offers one petrol and one diesel version. Firstly, the petrol variant is represented by Volkswagen’s 1.4-litre TSI engine with Active Cylinder Technology. It has the option to deactivate two of the four cylinders for additional economy and returns up to 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox but there is an optional seven-speed DSG. The maximum power output is that of 150 PS between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. With such figures, the new Volkswagen Golf R can accelerate from a standing position to 62 mph in 8.2 seconds, while the top speed is 134 mph.

Secondly, the diesel alternative is the well-known 2.0-litre TDI that generates 150 PS and can return up to 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions vary from 106 to 119 g/km. There is a six-speed manual gearbox as standard while a six-speed DSG is available as well.

The starting price for the Golf hatchback range is £17,175 (RRP OTR) for the entry-level 1.2-litre TSI petrol model.

Volkswagen Golf R front Volkswagen Golf R back

Source: Volkswagen

February 2, 2015

Toyota Returns to FIA World Rally Championship with Yaris WRC Car [VIDEO]

Toyota is returning to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2017 with a Yaris WRC car. It was developed and built by the Toyota Motorsport (TMG) technical centre in Cologne, Germany. Over the next two years the team will make tests of the car, which will prepare it for a full return to the racing series. This announcement was made by company’s President, Akio Toyoda, at a news conference in Tokyo. The Yaris WRC also made its public debut there.

The car is driven by a 1.6-litre turbo-charged, direct-injection engine, which generates over 300 hp (221 kW). In addition, advanced simulation, testing and production techniques have shaped the Yaris chassis.

Furthermore, the development of the car will be expanded and the dedicated team of specialists assigned to engineer and operate the car will be increased. Several young drivers already tested the car. This resulted in the selection of Eric Camilli, 27, who has been chosen to be the first member of a junior driver development scheme.

Camilli will cooperate in this program with Stéphane Sarrazin, 2014 Tour de Corse winner, as well as with Sebastian Lindholm. The experience which will be gained from the test program will help Toyota prepare the car for the 2017 season. This is when updated technical regulations are expected to be introduced.

Toyota Yaris WRC is expected to make a competitive debut in 2017. This is more than 17 years since the company’s last world championship rally. Back in 1999, the company marked the end of over 25 years of continuous rally activity with 43 wins achieved.

Toyota Yaris WRC Technical Specifications:

Chassis:

Type	Steel body shell
Brakes	300mm discs on gravel, 355mm on tarmac
Wheels	Wheels 7 x 15″ gravel, 8 x 18″ tarmac
Tyres	Michelin
Dimensions	Length: 3910mm
	Width: 1820mm

Powertrain:

Engine capacity	1.6 litres
Type	In-line four-cylinder
Direct injection	Up to 200bar
Fuel	Petrol
Turbo pressure	2.5 bar absolute (maximum)
Air restrictor	33mm
Power	Around 300hp (at 6,000rpm)
Torque	420Nm
Max revs	8,500rpm
Transmission	Six-speed sequential
Clutch	ZF Sachs

httpv://youtu.be/QY8A4m0g5aw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota Motorsport

February 2, 2015

Nissan Previews 2016 Maxima in Super Bowl Ad [VIDEO]

Cheeky Nissan has managed to trick us in terms of the new Maxima. When we got our first look at the concept version of the next-generation Nissan, the automaker refused to confirm that this was actually it! While now the truth came out. In a 2015 Super Bowl commercial, the manufacturer teased us with a glimpse of the vehicle in question.

Nissan is staying tight-lipped and still hasn’t revealed any specific information about its 2016 Nissan Maxima but judging from the touching and full-of-emotion “With Dad” ad, which came out during last night’s Super Bowl, the new sedan implements the latest language design. From what we can see, the exterior of the vehicle is an amalgamation of a healthy dose of audacity and ambitiousness which perfectly match the stylish look of the Maxima.

From a mechanical standpoint, the car is supposed to be fitted with a V6 3.5-liter engine that is capable of producing at least 260 HP (194 kW). Yet, nothing has been officially confirmed so far, so we will have to wait little bit longer until that happens.

As if trying to compensate the lack of information, Nissan introduced its seductive and aggressively-looking GT-R LM Nismo in the short video too. The racer will take part in the LMP1 class at Le Mans.

Have a look at the commercial and share your opinion regarding the highly-anticipated Nissan Maxima.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd1qCi5nSKw

Source: Nissan via Youtube

February 2, 2015

Speedhunters Maximum Attack FR-S on Display at Chicago Auto Show [VIDEO]

2015 Speedhunters Scion FR-S Maximum Attack is the name of the winning vehicle of Scion’s 10th annual Tuner Challenge. The good news is for all visitors of this year’s Chicago Auto Show, because the car will be on display there. From its participation in the Scion Tuner Challenge, Speedhunters were given 90-days and $15,000 to transform a stock Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0. They designed the “Maximum Attack” Scion FR-S with 1970s look that incorporates the racing heritage, taking on the number 86 and an IMSA style look.

The visual standout on their design is overfenders as part of a special edition kit designed by Kei Miura. The car itself is equipped with Cosworth Stage 2.0 supercharger and also features RS*R Black-i coilovers as well as a Wilwood big brake kit with 6-pistons front/4-pistons rear. It runs on custom Rotiform BLQ wheels which are in size 17×9 inches at the front and 17×11 inches at the rear.

At the show, Scion will also feature its full lineup of exciting youth-oriented vehicles. On display will be the FR-S 1.0 and tC 9.0 Release Series vehicles. In addition, Scion tC Release Series 9.0 arrives in dealerships this month.

This is a limited edition two-tone version of the popular sports coupe that was designed in conjunction with Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. The vehicle has one-of-a-kind black and magma exterior, and also features an aero kit designed by Cartel Customs, a center exhaust, a Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the “Cartel Logo” and orange front seat belts.

httpv://youtu.be/1expMUIsuGU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Scion

February 2, 2015

Category: Auto News