Auto News – Page 412 – Automobiles Review

Lexus Most Powerful V8 Engine Dedubts in the New RC F

The new 2015 Lexus RC F is going to debut with the most powerful V8 Lexus engine that has ever been produced for a road-going car. The 4,969cc 32-valve unit is a progression that derives from the engine fitted in the older IS F model. Only this time, it arrives with some comprehensive changes which will be able to propel the car to another level in terms of performance, quality and drivability.

There is a maximum power increased by 12 per cent. As a result, with the additional 54bhp (40kW) the new Lexus RC F will be able to boost 525 bhp (505 kW) at 7,300rpm. The peak torque output rises to 530Nm, available from 4,800 to 5,600rpm, developing a maximum speed of 168mph. 2015 RC F will be able to sprint from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and a 400m sprint from standstill will take 12.5 seconds.

This exquisite V8 engine can switch to the well-known more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle when operating at cruising speeds, reverting to the Otto cycle for higher performance driving. In order to increase valve lift, the innovative engine takes advantage of the Lexus’s VVT-iE electric motor-driven intelligent variable valve timing, with a new intake camshaft profile.

Furthermore, due to the presence of new cylinder heads with improved porting and a high-flow, high-tumble ratio, performance can benefit from higher pressure D-4S dual-injection, a wider throttle diameter and better breathing. The exhaust system is comprised of large-diameter front pipes which keep back pressure to minimum and provide high power output. Because of the merged areas of the pipes larger, there is a clearer engine sound.

Last but not least, the new Lexus RC F is fitted with an Active Sound Control system that delivers better exhaust, intake and mechanical sounds into the cabin.

2015 RC F is available to order now with a starting price of £59,995. The first deliveries will be in February.

Source: Lexus

November 28, 2014

BMW M4 F82 by AC Schnitzer on Display in Essen

It is BMW, it is from the M series and it is tuned by AC Schnitzer. What more can actually one wish for! The tuning experts have given this M4 further kick of energy. The car will be premièred at this year’s Essen Motor Show. The performance upgrade upscaled the power from the stock 413 hp (304 kW) to 510 hp (375 kW) and this is visible via the new engine styling. A sports catalyst is currently in preparation. It will minimize the thermal load on the turbocharger and exhaust manifold together with the back pressure. The mighty energy combustion is also noticeable via the exhaust.

In fact, AC Schnitzer’s twin silencer with sound pipe includes two “Racing Evo Carbon” tailpipe trims in right/left combination. There is also the option of two “Sport” tailpipe trims on each side.

New suspension is also without question. The new spring kit lowers the M4 by around 25-30 mm at the front and 10-15 mm at the rear. There is also the option of a racing suspension adjustable in compression and rebound, including lowering of 30-40 mm at the front and around 30 mm at the rear.

All of this can be improved further via additions from the aerodynamic package. They include company’s carbon front spoiler elements, carbon rear diffuser, carbon mirror covers, rear roof spoiler, carbon rear wing and AC Schnitzer rear skirt protective film.

Inside, the pretty sporty style continues to gather “wows” via the new aluminium pedal set and foot rests, AC Schnitzer keyholder, gear knob with digital gear display, illuminated leather gear knob or aluminium “Black Line“ gear knob and handbrake handle, aluminium cover for the iDrive controller and velours floor mats. What rounds out the tuning is the wheel package in BiColor black. They come in 21 inches size.

Source: AC Schnitzer

November 28, 2014

AC Schnitzer Tune It Safe Police BMW X4 20i [VIDEO]

TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative, by the Association of German Automobile Tuners e.V. (VDAT), celebrates its 10^thbirthday this year. In order to mark this event, there will be a “Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer” that will be presented at the Essen Motor Show from 29^th of November to 7^th of December, 2014. This is the fourth time when AC Schnitzer has been involved in equipping a campaign vehicle for the TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative.

The TUNE IT! SAFE! variant BMW X4 20i by AC Schnitzer will receive a performance improvement from 184 to 245 HP. The vehicle catapults from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds while on longer pursuits it takes only 17.5 seconds to boost its speed from 80 to 180 km/h. The top speed limitation is that of 212 km/h but it still does not prevent the BMW X4 to demonstrate some remarkable performance.

The Police BMW will be equipped with AC Schnitzer front spoiler elements, rear diffuser (both for vehicles with M-Technik pack) and AC Schnitzer carbon mirror covers. With its suspension spring kit the vehicle is lowered by around 30 mm (front) and 25 mm (rear).

Furthermore, there is also an AC Schnitzer silencer with 2 chromed “Sport“ tailpipe trims each side in right/left combination which are integrated into the rear diffuser. In order to warn other drivers and pedestrians of the approaching police car, it uses the special police “RTK 7” signaling system and flashing lights from Hella. The stylish interior of the X4 is enhanced by aluminium pedal set, aluminium foot rest, keyholder and velours floor mats.

Finally, the AC Schnitzer Type V forged alloy wheels in Anthracite, along with Ventus S1evo tires in 265/30 R 22 from Hankook, answer for the on-road stability and safety of the police BMW X4 20i.

Cool, isn’it it? For now, though, it is just a concept.

Enjoy watching the first video of the Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie9KuCTS2Nc&feature=youtu.be

Source: AC Schnitzer
Video Source: AC Schnitzer via Youtube

November 28, 2014

Audi RS6-R Impresses with 730 HP and 920 Nm

What do you think of when you read 730 HP (537 kW)? You probably imagine a massive truck or a super-sports-car. The last thing, perhaps, that comes to your mind is, well, a simple family or business-suitable car. On a side note, of course, when I say “simple” I do not really mean “simple” because a 730 HP monster can hardly be called just “simple”.

Yet, the powerful model in question is named 320 kph ABT RS6-R and is another surprise by ABT Sportsline which will be depicted at the Essen Motor Show 2014. The car is based on Audi RS6, but this time it provides even more comfort, practicality, usefulness, and luxury. This ABT creation will be limited to only 25 cars around the world.

In order to refine this model, the tuner provides it with a kit that is comprised of the ABT Engine Control unit, a specially developed software and a specially adjusted stainless steel exhaust system – including a Y-pipe and sport-type catalytic converter. There are also Dunlop high-performance tires which finalize the dynamic set-up of the RS6-R. The upgraded Audi benefits from 22-inch ABT DR alloy wheels.

Inside, ABT adorns the car with an embroidery and letterings that are simultaneously discreet and tasteful. There are also carbon-shift paddles and LED-shifting lights on the steering wheel.

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 4.0 TFSI, 3.993 cc capacity, V8
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 730 HP/537 kW (standard: 560 HP/412 kW) / 920 Nm (standard: 700 Nm)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT front lip incl. front blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT air inlet covers incl. front flics (red carbon fiber)
ABT front grille insert with RS6-R logo
ABT side skirt attachments incl. side blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT rear skirt attachment on side (2 parts) and middle (both red carbon fiber)
ABT rear spoiler (carbon fiber)
ABT mirror covers (carbon fiber)
ABT fender inserts

ABT WHEELS DR in 10 x 22 inches ET52
Available also as complete set of wheels with Dunlop sports tires in 295/25 ZR22

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT stainless steel exhaust system incl. Y-Pipe with sport-type catalytic converter and
black ABT tail pipes

ABT SUSPENSION
ABT height adjustable spring kit

ABT INTERIOR
ABT sports steering wheel with LED shifting lights and carbon shift paddles
ABT floor mats
ABT embroidery at the head rests
ABT RS6-R lettering
ABT applications (red carbon fiber)

Source: ABT Sportsline

November 28, 2014

2015 Subaru Impreza Earns 2014 Safety Awards from IIHS

It is a big day for Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, because the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded 2015 Subaru Impreza with the highest standard of safety, 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) alongside the highest possible rating of “Superior” for front crash prevention.

The 2015 Subaru Impreza gets its power from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine which produces 148 HP (109 kW) of power at 6200 rpm and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque at 4200 rpm. It is available as 4-door and 5-door models.

Thanks to the Subaru’s upgraded EyeSight driver assist technology The 2015 Impreza gained 6 of 6 points for front crash prevention. As it seems, safety really comes first for the automaker because this is not the only safety award that the company has received so far. There are seven other models that have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS – four with TOP SAFETY PICK+ and three with TOP SAFETY PICK.

EyeSight debuted in Japan in 2008 and is defined as a pioneer since it is the first system ever that uses only stereo camera technology to detect other vehicles, pedestrians etc. It features pre-collision braking control and all-speed range adaptive cruise control tracking function. New EyeSight includes fully revamped stereo cameras which increase viewing angle and range by 40%. As a result, the preventative safety and driver load-reduction features are significantly improved.

In order to win TOP SAFETY PICK, a certain car must have “Good” ratings in all four tests of high-speed front and side crash tests, a rollover test, and evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. What is more, “Good” or “Acceptable” performance in a small overlap front test introduced in 2012 is also an important requirement.

Source: Subaru

November 28, 2014

ABT Sportsline Presents the New Audi TT

Undoubtedly, the Audi TT has a unique outline and an iconic styling. Now at the German Essen Motor Show 2014, which really gives an opportunity to tuning companies to show their bests, ABT Sportsline will reveal a brand-new edition of Audi TT.

In terms of power, the car to be shown at the show is equipped with ABT Power uprating based on the 2.0 TFSI. It turns the previous 230 HP (169 kW) into screaming 310 HP (228 kW) and 440 Nm of torque (initially: 370 Nm).

The tuner injects the car with additional dose of masculinity and turns it into a model that is able to dazzle and amaze across the streets. The new front skirt makes the look of the Audi TT even edgier, more sophisticated and agile. The tuned car comes with one-of-a-kind mirror caps and black 20’’ DR alloy wheels with sporty Continental tires which underline the side of the car. In order to satisfy clients and their expectations even more, ABT Sportsline offers alternative designs, finishes and sizes.

Yet, the kicker of the set, the cherry on top of the cake, the part which stands out the most is the ABT Sportsline-refined rear. The tuning company used a fixed wing, which transforms the serial version’s elegantly-looking retractable spoiler and round back into something more racy and sporty. In a way, Audi TT underwent a transition which resembles that of a teenager growing up and becoming an adult. Finally, there is a rear skirt insert with two extra side attachments and an impressive four-pipe rear muffler which further highlight the sportiness of the coupe.

Source: ABT Sportsline

November 28, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Shows First Teaser of GLE AMG Sports Range

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is scheduled to debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January next year. Two teaser images were just revealed next to the news for the expansion of the range of the AMG Sport lineup. One of the cars depict on the image is the C450 AMG Sport and the other is probably the future GLE Coupe AMG Sport. AMG Sport’s will offer enhanced performance and technical refinements and will fill the gap between the AMG Sports package for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and the classic AMG models.

In addition, the lineup will feature updated engines, standard all-wheel drive and special chassis components and brake systems. The GLE Coupe is actually the old M-Class, which is expected to change the name after the future release of the facelift model.

This means that we can expect similar engine range: a 329 hp (242 kW) twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter petrol V6 or the 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 which produces more than 570 hp (419 kW).

There is no other information on the previewed cars, but if we look very closely we will see that the SUV has a coupe-like roofline. In other words it definitely looks like the Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe that we saw debuting at the Beijing Motor Show.

The Concept Coupe is powered by V6 engine with a displacement of 2996 cc. Its output has been rated at 333 hp (245 kW) at 5500 rpm and torque at 480 Nm (353 lb-ft) at 1400- 4000 rpm. The unit is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up. If our suggestion is right then we will see exactly these figures in Detroit.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 27, 2014

2015 Opel ADAM S Goes On Sale in Europe

2015 Opel ADAM family is ready to go on sale from early next year, being available at dealerships and for purchase. ADAM S sits at the top of the family, offering great performance, easy handling, precise steering and the exceptional brakes. There are also numerous individualization possibilities for bodywork, roof and interior that highlight the sporty characteristics of the car. The heart of the ADAM S is the 1.4-liter Turbo engine.

It produces 150 horsepower (110kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque between 2,750 und 4,500 rpm. The engine is coupled with a crisp six-speed transmission with sporty gear ratios. It is then effortless for this Opel model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.5 seconds.

The new engine uses only 5.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle. The dual cam phasing allows for continuously variable valve timing. In addition, the turbocharger integrated within the exhaust manifold reduces weight and delivers compact packaging.

Other weight-saving features include a cast iron block with a hollow frame structure, hollow-cast camshafts and a plastic intake manifold. Performance tuned chassis is the next key characteristic off the model.

The steering performance is so sharp that it enhances driving characteristics dramatically. Furthermore, tailored performance brakes deliver outstanding braking characteristics and a defined pressure point. For the optional 18-inch “Typhoon” alloys there are red brake calipers prepared.

The front lip spoiler, side sill moldings and an extended rear bumperare key elements for the differentiation of the model from others in the family. The chrome-plated tail pipe completes the sporty look. Sport pedals and optional Recaro sport seats are what rounds-out the individual take on the car.

2015 Opel ADAM S has a starting price of 18,690 Euro.

Source: Opel

November 27, 2014

Ford’s Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility Vehicles Repeat Top Performance Results

2015 Ford EcoBoost Police Interceptor sedan has effortlessly repeated its top performance in Michigan State Police and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department testing. This means that it still keeps the title “the quickest-accelerating pursuit vehicle”. The Interceptor bested all V8-equipped competitors’ sedans in testing by both authorities, while Ford Police Interceptor utility with EcoBoost out-accelerated the competition’s all-new V8-equipped utility and all V6-powered sedans.

Ford announced that this is great news, because the car still has the best acceleration, quickly closing the distance between an officer and a target vehicle. This is key to safely avoiding high-speed pursuits.

The results of Michigan State Police testing the 2015 model year AWD car reportet a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.85 seconds, compared to 6.31 seconds for a competing 5.7-liter V8 AWD sedan. All-wheel drive is standard on Ford Police Interceptor sedan and optional on the competing model.

The vehicle also topped a competing 6.0-liter V8-equipped sedan, which clocked a 0-60 mph time of 6.17 seconds. In addition, Police Interceptor sedan turned a 14.19-second 0-100 mph time, while a competing 5.7-liter sedan posted 15.63 seconds and a rival 6.0-liter sedan took 14.69 seconds.

How about the results of the utility vehicles? Ford Police Interceptor utility, which also comes with a standard all-wheel drive hits 60 mph in 6.55 seconds and 100 mph in 16.13 seconds. A competing all-new utility vehicle powered by a 5.3-liter V8 posted a 0-60 mph time of 7.31 seconds and a 0-100 mph time of 18.99 seconds.

The other results from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are even more dominant for Ford Police Interceptor. Ford Police Interceptor sedan showed a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. On the other hand, the EcoBoost-equipped utility vehicle not only out-accelerated its competition, but was quicker at 0-60 mph than all base model V6-powered sedans.

Source: Ford

November 27, 2014

BMW xDrive Technology Featured in the New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

BMW continues to progress and develop in the field of drive technology. With its intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive, first used in the BMW X3 and the X5 in 2004, the manufacturer adds a high degree of functionality, improved cornering dynamics and tries to achieve minimum fuel consumption and low emission levels.

Now, the most recent example of model-specific alignment of the four-wheel drive system is served by the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. The most cardinal difference when it comes to previous variants and the last ones is that, for the first time, BMW xDrive is used on a front-wheel drive concept with transversely installed engines.

With the BMW 225i xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 6,5–6,4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 152-148 g/km) and the BMW 220d xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 4,8-4,6 l/100km with CO2 emissions of 127-122 g/km), the intelligent four-wheel drive system is now available for top-notch power units. Both BMW vehicles are equipped with BMW xDrive as standard in combination with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

What the xDrive system does is utilizing an energy-efficient operating strategy which enables the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer to be driven only via the front wheels. And since, in this case, BMW is really about compactness, convenience and practicality, in order to make use of additional saving potentials, the manufacturer has given the multiple-disk clutch a spring-loaded Efficient valve. It decreases the oil level in the clutch and reduces friction losses (oil splash losses).

Furthermore, thanks to the Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC), which analysis, collects and provides an information about the running condition, any possible wheel slip, for instance, is detected at an early stage. Additionally, the xDrive manages and directs excess force to the front wheels in case the rear of the vehicle turns outwards. This ensures an ultimate four-wheel performance which is possible even before the occurance of any swerves. In consequence, xDrive featured in the BMW 220d Active Tourer and BMW 225i Active Tourer provides with better traction, more safety in different road conditions and enhances the vehicle stability, cornering dynamics and ride comfort.

Source: BMW

November 27, 2014

BMW 3-Series Plug-in Hybrid Prototype Unveiled

During the Group Innovation Days 2014, BMW has revealed its extremely good-looking 3-Series plug-in hybrid saloon. At this stage it is only a prototype which, I believe, will not stay just as a prototype but will undergo an official production in the future.

The plug-in 3-Series is equipped with an advanced plug-in hybrid technology already seen in the BMW’s i8 sports car, starting with an X5 eDrive in concept form. There is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine which works in combination with an electric motor. According to BMW, it will be able to provide the prototype with the same level of performances as a six-cylinder 3-Series.

The combined output of the system is 245 HP (180 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) transmitted to the wheels via an upgraded eight-speed Steptronic transmission. In terms of the fuel consumption, it is estimated at only 2 liters / 100 km (140 mpg UK or 117 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 50 g/km. The electric-only driving mode with a fully charged battery is considered to be about 22 miles (35 km), hitting a top speed of 74.5 mph (120 km/h).

The BMW 3-Series plug-in hybrid prototype is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack. It is installed underneath the load compartment which is able to be charged from a normal household socket. Pretty convenient, isn’t it? What is more, the car features a Driving Experience Control switch placed on the center console. It offers the driver an option of COMFORT, SPORT or ECO PRO mode. Consequently, each mode changes the settings of the suspension, gearbox and the hybrid operating strategy.

What do you think though? Will we see the BMW plug-in 3-Series in the market any time soon?

Source: BMW

November 27, 2014

First All-New Ford Mondeo Hybrid Models in Europe

Ford is doing two things: it celebrates its 21^st birthday and distributes the fifth generation all-new Ford Mondeo in Europe, which becomes the first hybrid electric car built and sold by Ford there. The Mondeo Hybrid combines advanced Ford technology, better efficiency, reduced emissions, genuine style, elegant design and excellent driving performance which guarantees remarkable experience on the road.

The hybrid arrives with a large range of powertrains. The variety of engines includes: the 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 2.0-litre EcoBoost along with the award-winning l 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Another option is the high-powered 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine which generates 210 PS and 450 Nm of peak torque. An ECOnetic Technology model will be available too and will be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine with class-leading diesel CO2 emissions of 94 g/km and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel models with 150 PS or 180 PS.

Finally, the new Mondeo Hybrid combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery in order to provide better fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

Furthermore, the car comes with significantly more safety and luxury features. In Europe, the car will be offered in five-door, wagon and four-door versions with the option of all-wheel-drive. The car premiers with integral link rear suspension as well as Ford’s innovative inflatable rear seatbelts, massage function-equipped multi-contour seats with Active Motion and Ford’s first adaptive LED headlights in Europe which help raise the overall quality statistics.

The all-new Ford Mondeo Hybrid is available in the UK from December a four-door saloon from only £24,995 – the same as its 2.0-litre diesel Mondeo Titanium Powershift five-door equivalent.

Source: Ford

November 27, 2014

Category: Auto News