Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Opel ADAM Gets new Swing Top Roof and Greater Efficiency

    The new “mini” in Opel’s range, called ADAM, now gets even more individual than before. The company has added new technologies and features that have extended the ADAM family. For instance, there is this Swing Top canvas roof that now comes as a standard in the “Swingtop” trim. The customers will also enjoy the optional Glam Extreme Package ‘Hashtag’ and the Easytronic 3.0. The latter is the newest automated transmission developed by Opel.

    Pure open-air pleasure can now be achieved thanks to the new Swing top. This trim level of the model will be based on the ADAM JAM configuration. The roof retracts to the C-pillar at the touch of a button for only five seconds and it can be closed up to speeds of 140 km/h.

    The materials used include a central neoprene layer, which make the Swing Top robust and durable. And don’t worry about the noise. The entire roof module is acoustically tuned for good insulation inside the cabin.

    Next, the newly developed Easytronic 3.0 completes ADAM’s transmission range. This automated gearbox benefits from enhanced efficiency and shortened response times. When Easytronic is combined with the 87 hp (64 kW) 1.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, it reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers for the combined cycle (when compared to a five-speed manual).

    The CO2 reduction is equivalent to 10 grams per kilometer. In other words ADAM 1.4 ecoFLEX with Start/Stop needs only 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers and emits just 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

    At last, Opel has also extended the color palette for the bodywork colors with ‘Forget about Grey’ and ‘Greenfellas’ shades. This means that customers can choose from a total of 19 different bodywork colors.

    Opel ADAM Swingtop has a starting price of 14,990 euro.

    Source: Opel

  • Range Rover Evoque NW8 Pays Tribute to Famous Abbey Road

    Montreal International Auto Show will see the birth of a special edition which is “Inspired by Britain” – the Range Rover Evoque NW8. Car’s distinctive NW8 badging reflects the postcode in North West London, UK. This place is at the heart of the city’s creative scene for more than 50 years and is also home to world famous Abbey Road. This Range Rover is based on the Dynamic trim level and is the third of three special editions, complementing the existing SW1 Monochrome and SW1 Colour.

    The bold combination of colours makes this model extremely individual. The body of this jewel is painted in Fuji White, while the roof is in the contrasting Firenze Red. The red colour is used also for mirror caps as well as for the Range Rover lettering on the bonnet and tailgate.

    Take a look at the darkened headlights and foglamps, clear rear lights and the Santorini Black wing vents! Then add the grille and the 20-inch alloys are finished in Narvik Black – they all emphasize Evoque’s confident stance.

    Inside, the vehicle is as individualized as outside. Here one ca chose between Taurus leather Ebony seats with Pimento perforated inserts or Ebony seats with perforated Ebony inserts. Other highlights feature embroidered headrests and an Anodised Red rotary Driver Selector with matching CommandShiftTMgearshift paddles. In case of manual models, there is a white gearlever insert with red graphics.

    A distinctive motif, which is inspired by the iconic Abbey Road zebra crossing, sets this model apart from the others. It can be seen on the treadplates, seat tags and key fob. 2015 Range Rover Evoque NW8 will be produced in only 1000 examples and will be available only to specific markets, such as U.S. and Canada.

    Source: Land Rover

  • New Volkswagen Up! Model Goes Official

    Orders for the new street-wise Volkswagen up! models started today ahead of the first scheduled deliveries in March. The Street up! and Club up! mini cars arrive with fuel-efficient characteristics, convenient form and satisfying equipment.

    Both cars take their power from the up!’s most powerful 1.0-litre petrol engine which produces 75 PS at 6,200 rpm. The three-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. It returns 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle and emits 108 g/km of CO2. Lastly, the two compact automobiles produce a maximum torque of 95 Nm (70 lbs ft) between 3,000 and 4,300 rpm.

    Volkswagen Street up! benefits from 16-inch Upsilon alloy wheels, standard Pure White, Black Pearl or Reflex Silver paint, 65 per cent tinted glass from the B-pillar back, “Street” badging, decals on side, bonnet, boot and roof, wing mirrors that come in silver (except for the Reflex Silver models on which they are in black). Additionally, there are body colored bumpers with chrome moulding on the front fog lights, leather steering wheel with up! lettering, up! scuff plates with yellow stripe, black roof lining, carpet mats and original “Street” cloth upholstery.

    On the other hand, the new Volkswagen Club up! model boosts its sophistication with 16-inch Triangle alloy wheels, unique Blueberry metallic or Black Pearl paint, as well as 65 per cent tinted glass from the B-pillar back, “Club” badging and decals on side panels in silver. Moreover, there are wing mirrors in silver too, up! scuff plates, black roof lining, carpet mats and unique “Club” Tartan Tonic cloth upholstery.

    The price for the Street up! and Club up! 3-door models is that of £11,995, while the 5-door versions will cost £12,370.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • BMW 2 Series Convertible: Extra Style with M Performance Parts

    BMW has launched more exclusive M Performance Parts for the 2 Series Convertible which aim to not only elevate the sporty feel when driving the car but to also increase its value. So, if you have got your eyes on this model, you can now enhance its look by choosing it to be more aggressive than that of the stock version.

    First of all, M Performance Power Kit improves the engine output of the BMW 220d Convertible with additional 14 HP (11 kW). As a result, we have power boosted from 190 HP (140 kW) to 204 HP (151 kW), while cutting the car’s 0 – 60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time by 0.3 seconds. Even though the power output is bigger, the combined fuel consumption has not been increased. Thus, it stands at 4.7–4.4 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 124–116 g/km.

    In relation to the body-look of the BMW 2 Series Convertible, thanks to the M Performance Parts, it receives an extra flair of dynamism. The model can be fitted with new side skirts and side decals with M Performance lettering, new diffusor, carbon exterior mirror caps and a reworked front grille with black trim surround. The car can be ordered with a set of 19-inch alloy wheels in 405 M and 624 M styling.

    There are some improvements inside too. The BMW M Performance Accessories range for the interior includes: selector lever trim or gearshift lever in manual cars with Alcantara gaiter, center console trim, center armrest and interior trim strips in carbon and, lastly, Alcantara steering wheel with or without an integrated Race Display.

    Source: BMW

  • Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7 with a Devilish Smile

    If a car could eat you alive, this one would be the first one to do it. Along with your clothes and shoes. Bones would not be a problem at all. Bestowed with a rigid, vicious and ruthless look, the redesigned Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7 transforms into the black sheep in the family. Touched by Prior-Design, this fuming creation from Hell is ready to bully people and conquer new territories while stepping on and smashing other people’s automobile toys as if they were made from butter.

    The exterior of the car can literally leave you dumbfounded. Even the edgiest words would not be good enough to describe the superiority which the Prior-Design Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7 possesses. Due to the monstrously effective Prior-Design PDR700 front bumper which includes front add-on Lip spoiler and cupwings (1,990 €), the face of the Corvette Stingray C7 conveys more assertiveness and sophistication than ever before.

    The black-heart creature corrupts and seduces with outrageous maliciousness. Provided by the tuner as well, the rear diffuser (1,690 €) along with the rear widenings (790 €) bring possibly the greatest aerodynamic effect which further adds to the strongly shaped lines of the vehicle. Other components of the complete PDR700 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit package include: PDR700 Side Skirts (1,190 €), PDR700 Front Fenders (1,390 €). On top of this, there are Prior-Design wheels in 20 inches and different colors. Exclusive Custom Interior, Prior-Design exhaust system and an exclusively developed suspension kit are available upon request.

    All of the products are made from high-quality fiberglass-duraflex material.

    Source: Prior-Design

  • 2015 SsangYong Tivoli is a Car That Targets Younger Buyers

    Modern and kind of attractive, the new compact SUV by SsangYong debuted in Korea. 2015 SsangYong Tivoli offers convenience, space, increased safety, practicality and eye-pleasing design. It is perfect for those who are looking for a vehicle with class-leading functions as well as nicely outlined shape.

    There are two choices of powertrains: 1.6 litre petrol or diesel engines. The newly developed e-XGi160 petrol engine delivers 124 bhp and 157 Nm of torque. In terms of fuel, the economy figures are 12.0 kmpl for the automatic version and 12.3 for the manual one. Moreover, the engine offers excellent performance around city areas as well as on the highway. Thanks to its NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics as well as the variable induction system, the fuel efficiency is notably optimized. An AISIN 6-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

    Being under development for the past three years, the SsangYong Tivoli exhibits more dynamic but contemporary silhouette which conveys strength and purposefulness. The front bumper manages to support the overall dynamism and power in presence. The profile of the SUV also communicates this idea of a strong but youthful look completed at the rear. This is definitely a combination that will attract younger buyers!

    The interior is fresh and welcoming with trim available in three colors: black, beige and red. The main purpose of the design of the cabin is to provide drivers with easier connectivity, access and usability of their IT devices. For a sporty feel, the car features a flat-bottomed steering wheel.

    Prices for the 2015 Tivoli in Korea are said to begin at 16.3 million KRW.

    Source: SsangYong 

  • When Performance Comes in Blue: 2016 Lexus GS F

    One of the most-anticipated cars by Lexus this year has been presented at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. The high performance vehicle is dubbed Lexus GS F. It really represents a pioneer in the F-line since it is the first to be based on the larger mid-sized GS luxury sedan.

    Trying to slightly get away from its comfort zone, Lexus aimed at producing a car that is rather performance-oriented with a luxury flavor. As a result, this time the automaker left behind the days when Lexus sedans had that deprived of edginess look and were quite plain, comfort-based and even boring. Thanks to the naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, the 2016 Lexus GS F turns into a vehicle which is all about power and breaking the rules. The power output is that of 467 HP (348 kW) while the maximum torque is 527Nm (389lb-ft).

    The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with manual-shifting capabilities and three modes: Normal, Sport S and Sport S+. Found in the RC F model, the Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) is used here as well, offering three operating modes: Standard, Slalom and Track. There is also a refined and specially designed suspension system which complements the boosted output. Benefiting from 19-inch alloy wheels with larger tires (255/35-19 front, and 275/35-19 rear) as well as from an upgraded braking system, the new GS F just demonstrated a bit more aggressive character.

    Some of the features that additionally underline the acute nature of the Lexus GS F are: the enlarged Lexus’ trademark ‘spindle’ grille, with a mesh pattern and large gaping air vents, refined side skirts, a carbon fiber boot lid spoiler and headlights with L-shaped daytime running lamps. Inside, the cabin arrives with front sport seats, two-tone leather and Alcantara upholstery as well as carbon trims and a sports steering wheel.

    Source: Lexus

  • Is 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor the Ultimate Performance Truck? [VIDEO]

    Ford says that its 2017 F-150 Raptor is the toughest, smartest, most capable off-roader, which is in addition more efficient than ever. It is the toughest, because it features a purpose-built frame, which is the “backbone of the truck”. More importantly, it features more high-strength steel than the outgoing Raptor. Furthermore, vehicle’s exterior is built via high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that saves more than 500 pounds of weight. Speaking of exterior, the appearance of the Raptor is inspired by Ford’s performance heritage in off-road racing.

    Another difference is that the 2017 Raptor is 6 inches wider than the standard F-150. This of course improves stability. The vehicle also boasts the first-ever dual exhaust and runs on gigantic 17-inch wheels fitted with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires.

    The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine is what drives the Raptor. It produces 411 horsepower (302 kW) and 588 Nm (434 lb.-ft.) of torque and it is mated to a 10-speed transmission for improved efficiency.

    Of course, the truck features four-wheel-drive and torque-on-demand transfer case. The latter manages power distribution between the front and rear wheels and combines the best attributes of clutch-driven, on-demand all-wheel drive.

    The new Terrain Management System actually optimizes driving dynamics to environmental conditions. There are also calibration changes to Raptor’s powertrain, driveline, traction control, ABS and AdvanceTrac stability control for optimal performance.

    Furthermore, the off-road capability of the vehicle is made better thanks to the Torsen front differential. It increases grip for the front end of the truck and allows it to pull itself over obstacles and up steep grades.

    Next thing to note is the standard FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology. It damps and stiffens suspension travel over rough terrain and helps prevent the truck from bottoming out.

    Stepping inside the Raptor, the passengers enjoy comfortable interior. The added content for the new model year includes interior upgrades, three color material levels, and paddle shifters to manually shift the 10-speed transmission.

    2017 Ford F-150 Raptor will go on sale in the fall of 2016.

    httpv://youtu.be/fIeXBqvF_bg

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Ford 

  • 2016 Ford GT: a Carbon Fiber Supercar that Delivers More Than 600 HP [VIDEO]

    No, this is not a Ferrari but Ford’s new GT lightweight carbon-fiber supercar, which is created with the aim to deliver new standards in the supercar segment. It is powered by the most potent EcoBoost production engine ever, delivering more than 600 horsepower. The new GT supercar has rear-wheel drive and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell. The latter is built via an extensive utilization of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum. This enables excellent acceleration and handling with improved efficiency.

    GT can also show-off with advanced active aerodynamics like the deployable rear spoiler. There are also a host of material and technology innovations such as the SYNC 3 connectivity system, which will assist the driver during its journey.

    As mentioned, the powertrain here is the next-generation twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. It features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics, and shows remarkable efficiency.

    In addition, the GT supercar features new port/direct dual fuel-injection setup which improves engine response; there is also a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain. The EcoBoost V6 will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle for instantaneous gear changes and outstanding driver control.

    Aerodynamic efficiency is one of the key characteristics of the vehicle. It actively reduces drag while aiding downforce and stability. Literally, each surface on the GT is crafted to manage airflow. There are also fully active aerodynamic components that enhance braking, handling and stability.

    All of this is backed up with contemporary and functional shape, 20-inch multispoke wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and carbon-ceramic brake discs at all four corners. Inside, one finds two-seat cockpit accessed through upward-swinging doors. The cabin features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbon fiber passenger cell.

    Have you noticed the F1-style steering wheel which integrates all necessary driver controls? There is also a fully digital and configurable instrument cluster providing the driver-focused data.

    2016 Ford GT will go into production next year and will hit the road in select global markets. It will to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford GT race cars placing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.

    httpv://youtu.be/W8K3DpqWtpg

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Ford

  • 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE Stands for Highest Fuel Economy

    Ram Truck has good news for its environmentally minded customers. It will add new and more fuel-efficient model to its half-ton truck lineup – the 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE. This vehicle will deliver the best fuel efficiency among all its competitors. And this is why Ram has called this model “HFE”, meaning “Highest Fuel Economy”. The truck already got an EPA-certified 29 mpg highway fuel economy rating, while the city and combined mpgs are 21 and 24, respectively.

    Furthermore, the “fuel economy king” is also equipped with one-of-a-kind trim package. It also features 6-ft. 4-in. bed as well as huge 20-inch wheels. The truck will be also available with a body-colored fascia adopted from the Ram Express model, thus giving it sporty exterior appearance.

    Not to mention the class-exclusive wheel-to-wheel side steps and a tri-fold tonneau cover, which will offer better functionality, best-in-class aerodynamics and better fuel efficiency. There will be a special HFE badge which will proudly show truck’s MPG claims.

    TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system are all standard here. The active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension also contribute towards vehicles outstanding fuel efficiency.

    1500 EcoDiesel HFE will be offered with several trims destined to combine capability with sophistication. Precisely, they are called Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Laramie Limited, and they feature full-leather seating, real wood interior components and modish design.

    2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE will go on sale in the first quarter of this year.

    Source: Ram Truck Brand

  • 2016 Lincoln MKX Offers More Power and Better Agility

    2016 Lincoln MKX has debuted at the North American International Auto Show. The vehicle has grown from a concept to a production form and it will satisfy the senses of the public in North America as well as China, Middle East, Mexico and South Korea. All in all, it will offer more technology, engine choices and personalization options as well as unprecedented luxury. Moreover, the new MKX is equipped with the first high-end Revel audio system in a vehicle. It also can be equipped with 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, while the range of designer’s themes consists of two Lincoln Black Label limited-editions.

    At the top of the engine list sits the optional 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged Ti-VCT EcoBoost V6 unit. It produces more than enough: 330 horsepower (243 kW) and more than 501 Nm (370 lb.-ft.) of torque.

    MKX will come as a standard with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 300 horsepower (220 kW) and 379 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.

    Both engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with push-button shift and SelectShift. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is optional.

    Lincoln Drive Control is a suite of ride-enhancing technologies, which are destined to optimize performance. They have three modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort, each of which will assist the driver. As a standard the car also comes with electric power-assisted steering and is the first Lincoln to offer adaptive steering.

    There is also a wide range of aids and technologies as an option: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping system, blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert and a height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate as well as the 360-degree camera and the enhanced park assist.

    Another interesting characteristic in this Lincoln, which is also available for the first time, is the enhanced driver visibility. The available LED headlamps include a feature that adapts when accelerating from 0 to 35 mph by adding width to the low-beam pattern through the use of additional LED reflector elements.

    As you can see, the exterior design of the vehicle is modern and well-balanced. The interior creates a cocoon-like environment. There is a push-button gearshift which creates a dramatic open suspension bridge that flows from the instrument panel to the center console, providing two tiers of open space.

    The two new Black Label themes will be offered with four designer themes, two of which are all-new. The first one is inspired by the fashion, lifestyle and art scene of 1920s Paris. The second one interprets excitement, passion and pageantry of high-stakes thoroughbred horse racing.

    2016 Lincoln MKX will go on sale first in the United States this fall. Then it will be followed by other markets including China, Canada, the Middle East, Mexico and South Korea.

    Source: Lincoln 

  • Honda Launches FCV Concept at NAIAS

    2016 Honda FCV Concept has been revealed at NAIAS. The vehicle is planned to be produced specifically in the United States and Japan and its market debut is scheduled for March 2016. Honda‘s environmental plan includes the production of several advanced powertrain vehicles, including a new battery-electric model and plug-in hybrid model by 2018. What is more, the Japanese company also envisions further application of its two- and three-motor hybrid systems in the near future. This will offer Honda users in the US very low carbon transportation. In addition, Honda plans to introduce new VTEC Turbo engines that will debut later this year.

    FCV Concept is company’s next-gen fuel-cell vehicle. The fuel-cell car has spacious cabin and offers seating for five-persons. Its driving range is estimated to be more than 300 miles, while the refueling time is approximately 3 minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa.

    The car has a fuel cell stack, which is mounted under the hood. Compared to the outgoing Honda FCX Clarity, it is 33 percent smaller with a 60 percent increase in power density. As you can see, the FCV Concept features a low, wide aerodynamic body and clean character lines.

    Inside, the designers have successfully achieved harmony between man and machine. They have also taken advantage of the powertrain packaging efficiencies, thus delivering greater passenger space and room for five.

    What is more, Honda has announced that it will provide FirstElement Fuel with $13.8 million in financial assistance and will build additional hydrogen refueling stations throughout the state of California. In addition, by 2018 the company will introduce two next-generation advanced powertrain vehicles which will use the new Honda Earth Dreams Technology powertrains: new Honda plug-in hybrid model (PHEV) and new Honda battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

    The new 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo engine will be introduced by the end of the year. It will be part of the extension of the Earth Dreams Technology powertrain lineup and hence it will deliver fuel efficiency at a very high level.

    Source: Honda