Auto News – Page 414 – Automobiles Review

Market Launch of the Updated Sports Tourer from 29 November

Since its reveal, the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class Sports Tourer has been scoring some really remarkable results. Customers would be pleased to find out that the upgraded Sports Tourer is going to be delivered very soon. The first units of the vehicle are starting on 29 November. This best-selling model has received a major facelift, including exterior and interior changes. The car also undergoes design alterations and equipment lines like the Electric Art line (exclusive for the B-Class Electric Drive) and AMG Line.

The family car arrives with a rich choice in terms of possible engines: four economical diesel models with consumption statistics varying from 3.6 to 5.0 l/100 km, four efficient petrol engines at between 5.4 and 6.6 l/100 km, as well as the B 200 Natural Gas Drive (3.3 to 6.0 kg/100 km) and B-Class Electric Drive (0 g CO₂/km) and an optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The starting price for the B 180 is 27,102.25 Euros and the B-Class Electric Drive costs 39,151 Euros. Among other features there are the advanced assistance systems COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS and ATTENTION ASSIST.

As it seems the B-Class segment gains quite some recognition with satisfied high customers’ demands. In 2014 the Mercedes-Benz B-Class won the J.D. Power satisfaction survey in its specific range and, with a figure of 82.4 percent, got the highest satisfaction rating in the customer satisfaction survey. Moreover, in Europe’s biggest comparative test based on practical in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class was selected as the company car of the year in the “Small and Compact Vans” category. Finally, the DEKRA used-vehicle report 2014 defined the B-Class as the vehicle with the smallest number of defects in the “Vans” category and later on it won the prestigious title “Vehicle of the Year”.

Well done B-Class!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 26, 2014

KW Coilovers for the New Audi A3 Notchback Sedan [VIDEO]

The market and automobile innovative leader KW has been succeeding in providing Audi with the best upgrades possible. Now the tuner’s most recent target is Audi A3. The positive launch of the four-door sedan is taking a level up and climbs one step up in its segment thanks to the new KW coilover suspension kits.

There are three different coilover variants, each of which offers thrilling handling and driving dynamics. The Variant 1 KW coilover kit equips the new Audi A3 notchback sedan with extra rebound damping adjustment and adds a significant value on a variable lowering. With Variant 2 and Variant 3 (the latter comes with separate rebound and compression adjustment), customers are enabled to adapt the damper setup even more depending on their preferences. Thus, the KW coilover suspension Variant 2 allows the driver to meet his or her individual driving demand by changing the handling and ride comfort with 16 exact clicks with the integrated rebound damping adjustment. Variant 3, on the other hand, allows via the separately adjustable compression damping with twelve clicks to take influence on rolling motions of the body, without having the need to alter the rebound damping.

What makes the new KW suspension kit so special and very desirable is the fact that the rebound and compression damping can be adjusted separately from each other. All three versions of the coilovers are made from stainless steel. With them, there is available a continuous lowering of up to 60 mm. As a result, at the front axle, the German TÜV-tested adjustment range for the gorgeous Audi A3 sedan is between 30 and 60 mm and at the rear axle between 30 to 55 mm.

If you want to see the complete KW technology, check the link bellow.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pNojyUJjZs

Source: KW
Video Source: KW via Youtube

November 26, 2014

STI Releases Subaru “Forester tS” Exclusively in Japan

Today Subaru Tecnica International Inc unveiled the limited-edition Forester tS SUV which is going on sale on November 25. The car will be built in a limited series of 300 units specifically for the Japanese market. The new Subaru Forester tS arrives with a rugged design, responsive handling, high-class quality feel and improved driving performance.

The Subaru Forester tS is powered by the most powerful version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged Boxer engine available in Japan. It is able to boost 276 HP (205 kW) and a peak torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). The power unit is mated to a Lineatronic CVT automatic that sends power to all four wheels. The starting price is that of 4,350,000 yen ($36,800).

On the outside the car is defined by a black grille with cherry red pin stripe and STI logo, STI front and rear bumpers, black roof spoiler, fog light bezel in metallic silver, black door mirror cases, black side window trim and sill cladding, cherry red pin stripe on the red bumper, as well as tS logos on the front fenders. The car benefits from 19-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels with Brembo 17-inch ventilated disc brakes, STI-tuned suspension lowered by 15mm, dedicated ECU and TCU (transmission control unit), as well as a recalibrated VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) system.

The interior of the 2015 Forester tS is equipped with luminescent speedometer (up to 260 km/h) with STI logo, exclusively-made multi-function display, leather lapped steering wheel (quality-feel leather with “STI” ornament and red stitching), STI-designed push button ignition (red) with STI logo again, STI-designed leather lapped gear knob, unique seats in black leather with black punching, accentuated with red stitching and red elements, carbon-toned instrument panel, AC controls comprising silver dials and piano black-toned switches with red bezel, Black interior (trims on pillars, roof, and window sills) and, finally, an exceptional side sill plate with STI logo.

Source: Subaru

November 25, 2014

Infiniti “Synaptiq”: A Futuristic Interaction Between Human and Machine Charactersitics

Infiniti has designed a racer of the future which, in my personal point of view, looks like a race car which can compete with a Batmobile. The name is Infiniti ‘Synaptiq’.

This unique model was made for this year’s Los Angeles Motor Show Design Challenge with the initial goal to answer to the theme of “Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact With Us In 2029?” In the process, this jaw-dropping car managed to scoop the “People’s Choice” award almost without any difficulty.

Infiniti’s candidate received the most online votes from visitors to the LA Auto Show Design Challenge’s Facebook^® page. It, respectively, resulted in ensuring the manufacturer the first-ever People’s Choice Award in the program’s 11-year history.

In relation to this, John Sahs, interior design manager at Infiniti, and leader of the Syntaptiq team explains that; “Our designers loved participating in the LA Auto Show Design Challenge, conceptualizing how Infiniti drivers could interact with their vehicle in the coming decades. It’s extremely gratifying for the public to also dream a bit with us and identify with such ideas that may seem a bit futuristic, but may just not be that far away from reality.”

The futuristic Infiniti ‘Synaptiq’ incorporates the idea of implementing 3D hologram and wearable technologies ( SYNAPTIQ S.U.I.T.,or in other words, Symbiotic User Interface Technology) into everyday driving experience, thus merging human and machine characteristics on a new interface which controls the vehicle. Furthermore, in order to turn driving into more interactive activity, Infiniti Design team of professionals sculptured a fictional vehicle triathlon, named the A.R.C. Race which includes air, rally and circuit competitions.

Source: Infiniti

November 25, 2014

SsangYong Announces the Name of its Newest B-Segment Crossover

South Korea-based automobile manufacturer SsangYong Motor Company has finally revealed the name of the company’s all new B-segment crossover – Tivoli. This is the automaker’s first new car in four years now. The time seems to be just right for its debut for the SUV market is really craving some fresh meat.

The new sport-utility vehicle has been under development for the past three years and was only seen in concept presentation at recent international auto shows, presented with the mysteriously-sounding project name X100. Interestingly enough, the name of the car derives from Tivoli, an Italian town near Rome which is known for its style, cultural heritage and gorgeous location.

The 2015 SsangYong Tivoli, with a 1.6-liter gasoline-powered engine, is going to be part of Ssangyong’s popular Korando C model lineup which is equipped with a 2-liter diesel engine. Surprises do not stop here because Ssangyong Motor Company also plans to launch a diesel-powered Tivoli model next year.

Nevertheless in relation to the up-coming Tivoli, the name of the car is not all that has been unveiled. Along with it, SsangYong has also released the latest images of the car’s exterior and interior. On the one hand, as we can see, the exterior shapes a dynamic, urban SUV with a modernized and rhythmical silhouette. On the other hand, the interior features very stylish living space, with an elegant and contemporary appeal. The overall conception of the car seeks to enable the driver and passengers take advantage of easy and simple connectivity to their IT devices. Finally, it brings a sense of practicality, spaciousness and comfort.

The Tivoli is going on sale in Korea in January and globally during the second quarter of 2015.

2015-SsangYong-Tivoli-03

Source: SsangYong

November 25, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: The Fifth Member of the Successful Compact Models Family

Mercedes-Benz is really pumping up its powers for after the unmistakably dynamic and sporty CLA 45 AMG there is now another iconic model which carries almost the same name: Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake. Can you spot the differences?

The new CLA Shooting Brake arrives with an extensive range of engines: there are two diesel and three petrol units available. All engines are able to amaze with their dynamic and lively performance, low noise levels and low emissions. The CLA 200 CDI unit bursts out 136 HP (100 kW) and it is really efficient. The model has a top speed of 215 km/h and a combined consumption figure of only 3.9 l/100 km, with emissions of 101 g CO₂/km. CLA220 CDI generates 177 HP (130 kW) at 3600-3800 rpm. It has combined CO₂ emissions of 112 g.

The petrol engines are: CLA 180 which boosts 122 HP (90 kW) at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 200 with 156 HP (115 kW) at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 250 that produces 211 HP (155 kW) at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm; CLA 250 4MATIC developing 211 HP (155 kW) at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm.

The car moves on sporty-looking 45.7 cm (18-inch) AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in black with an orange rim flange.

This sexy fifth iteration of Mercedes-Benz demonstrates distinctive profile, sensual purity and high unity of valuable charactersitics. It features a tapering roofline, four doors, frameless side windows, long bonnet and of course, the powerdomes on the bonnet which are an absolute hallmark of Mercedes coupé models. The position of the light modules and LED behind the headlamp lenses definitely highlights the indicative “eyebrow” effect for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

On the inside, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake features twin-tube instrument cluster that has two large round dials. Each of them come with a small round dial set inside it. Something that highlights the interior is the new generation 3-spoke steering wheel in different variants, including a multi-function sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and red or black top-stitching.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 25, 2014

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake to Debut in 2015

After the successful launch of A 45 AMG, CLA 45 AMG and GLA 45 AMG models, the fourth high-power compact model named Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG has been finally revealed. It arrives with a specific avant-garde design, individuality, thrilling driving performance and a trendsetting style.

The new CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is fitted with a striking engineering package which helps it produce impressive dynamic performance. This is perhaps the most powerful series-production AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine around the globe which produces 181 HP (133 kW) and 450 Nm of peak torque at 2250-5000 rpm. The car speeds up from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel consumption is of just 6.9 liters for every 100 kilometers (NEDC combined) which sets mind-blowing standards of efficiency achieved by Mercedes-AMG. Some other technical features include the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, absolutely sophisticated AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, significantly powerful braking system and a purpose-developed chassis.

The sporty and highly progressive appearance of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is outlined by an original roof line that very subtly slopes down towards the rear. There is also a low-set cabin, long bonnet, dynamically designed tail end, and a certain everyday practicality. The five-door newcomer impersonates the form of a sports car with five seats and large tailgate which offers plenty of space and convenience for the driver and passengers. The vehicle benefits from different light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19-inch format with size 235/35 R 19 tires which are available as another option to the usual 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, sized 8 x 18 inches with 235/40 R 18 tires.

The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG is all about distinctive dynamism. The Performance seats and steering wheel are wrapped in leather/DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting contours. Besides the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake, the CLA 45 AMG Coupé is available in OrangeArt Edition guise as well.

The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is going to make its premiere in March 2015 at the Geneva International Motor Show. The market launch is planned to begin in March 2015.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 25, 2014

HOT: Nissan Releases GT-R 45th Anniversary Limited Edition

This is HOT news! Nissan has announced the release of a limited edition GTR 45th Anniversary model. There will be only 45 units produced and sadly – they will be distributed only in Japan. This special GT-R will go on sale in early February throughout the country, when also will happen the release of the 2015 model year GT-R. Nissan GT-R was introduced to the world in 2007. Since then, the car has been dubbed as one of world’s foremost high performance super sports cars. Now, the GT-R’s legacy continues as the ultimate Grand Tourer – Racer (GT-R) gets a 45^th anniversary limited edition.

Of course, it will offer the emblematic comfortable ride and refinement; exclusive finish and exceptional performance. This “multi performance” character of the car allows the driver to enjoy the full depths of the GT-R’s capabilities.

The limited edition is based on the GT-R from the 2015 model year. The ride quality has been specially tuned to exhibit better refined feel than its predecessors. As mentioned, 45th Anniversary will come with a special paint color called “Silica Brass”. This is the same shade of the Skyline GT-R M-Spec which was announced the “a GT-R that satisfies the mature driver” when it was released in 2001.

The limited GT-R will be only offered with the Premium Edition trim level, which features an exclusive emblem on the lower part of the interior center cluster and an exclusive model plate number in the engine compartment.

Source: Nissan

November 25, 2014

Suzuki Exhibits C segment Sedan ALIVIO in China

Suzuki’s presence at the 12th Guangzhou International Motor Show in China was celebrated with the introduction of a C segment sedan called ALIVIO. Its Chinese name is “Qi Yue”. The car is set to debut on the market scene from December this year, and it is specifically intended for Asian’s country. ALIVIO is a production model based on the concept carrying the same name. The latter was exhibited at the 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition this April. Suzuki revealed that the car was specifically developed for China in order to meet the expectations and needs of customers.

Both cars are C segment sedans, which feature “Sporty & Noble” exterior design, roomy and comfortable cabin, and great driving performance with excellent fuel efficiency. “Sporty & Noble” is a design language which adopts smooth curved surface and sharp character lines.

In addition, the car delivers top-level interior space among C segment sedans. For this contributes the overall length of 4,545 mm, width of 1,730 mm and height of 1,475mm.

There is only one engine for the Qi Yue and it is the 1.6L G-INNOTEC petrol unit, which comes with increased output and better fuel efficiency. The powerplant can be either coupled with a five-speed manual or the lightweight and compact six-speed automatic transmission.

Suzuki has also exhibited in China the SX4 and Swift range, Alto model, Kizashi lineup, Jimny, and Grand Vitara models.

Source: Suzuki

November 25, 2014

Urban Look Project: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz GLA

Carlsson is famous for tuning only Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. This time they show us their take on the GLA. What they have done is simply adorable: the GLA got stronger through performance upgrades; it also received new aerodynamic components, sports exhaust and alloy wheels. The designers call this project “Urban Look” for short. The vehicle initially is equipped with the AMG Sports package. To further emphasize the dynamic qualities of the car, Carlsson has added new front spoiler and grille.

We also see Carlsson’s badge in place of the three-pointed star. The rear skirt has cutouts for the trademark Carlsson four chromed oval tailpipes. These emerge from a stainless steel sports silencer designed to lower backpressure and produce a throatier soundtrack.

To offer versatility, the company has created for this project a total of three alloy wheel designs in different finishes. The first one is the Carlsson 1/10 style in 18 to 20 inches sizes, with diamond, graphite or Titanium Edition finishes. The second is the 1/16 RS design in 19 and 20-inches. It is shod with 255/40ZR19 and 255/35ZR20 tyres respectively. And at last, the highly polished 1/11 Ultra Light 21-inch forged wheel, mated with 265/30ZR21 tyres.

Speaking of performance upgrades, the tuners have taken into account the petrol and diesel engines in the GLA range. Staring with the output of the GLA200, it was increased to 187 horsepower (138 kW) with a peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). Next, the Carlsson GLA250 produces 253 hp (186 kW) with torque peaking at 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

Inside, Carlsson has used the finest leather and Alcantara for the seats and soft surfaces. The door, dashboard and centre console inserts can get either a wood or carbon-fibre finish. The cabin also got polished aluminium scuff plates with an illuminated Carlsson logo for driver and aluminium door lock pins, pedal set and footrest.

The last detail here is the four-piece floor mat set from soft black velour. Additionally, an exclusive, illuminated floor mats set made of soft velour is also available.

Source: Carlsson

November 25, 2014

McLaren Teases “Black Swan” Sports Series Again [VIDEO]

McLaren-Sports-Series-THUMB The black swan is a symbol of a moment that completely changes the way we look at the world. The new McLaren Sports Series which is debuting on the world stage in 2015 is the next black swan moment for the brand. We have already seen the first teaser image and the video, and now McLaren has introduced the second photo (you can see it below), showing part of the butterfly door. The car is expected to be named McLaren P13 Sports Series.

P13 will be positioned below the 650S, and its lineup will probably comprise of coupe and a spider version. It will feature a carbon fiber composite chassis. How about the engine here? There are rumors saying that the new Sport Series will be powered by a modified 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine.

It will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All this will allow P13 to cover the 0-100 km/h in approximately 4 seconds, while top speed is expected to be 333 km/h or even lower.

Although it somewhat resembles a Ferrari, the car definitely looks like a contemporary McLaren. You can see the thin LED headlights as well as ten-spoke alloy wheels. Wing mirrors are also there and they are mounted to the doors, and this is what is similar between the P13 and P1, and different between the first and the 650S model.

This car is being developed and released into production before the Acura NSX makes an official appearance. This means that the McLaren will definitely offer a better car Acura. McLaren Sports Series is also set to take on the admirers of the Audi R8 or the Porsche 911 GT3. The two-seater is currently undergoing testing.

httpv://youtu.be/0ff_kV1wqYE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: McLaren via Facebook

November 25, 2014

Australia Finally Gets the 2014 Lexus RC 350

Announced in June, 2014 Lexus RC 350 is now tuning heads in Australia. The car has just been launched, being the most emotive vehicle produced since the LFA supercar. Ahead of its 25^th anniversary Lexus has designed the coupe to engage with a younger audience. The brand undertook major design changes in order to create a new direction with its styling and drive experience. In fact, the RC 350 is not an adapted sedan, but it has been created as a coupe from the ground up.

First we have to take in account its involving chassis as well as the high output drivetrain. The styling package and high level of standard equipment contribute towards car’s unique presence and strong charm.

Just like other Lexus vehicles, the RC 350 follows company’s ‘Y’ strategy across its three model offerings. This means that it will be introduced in Luxury trim and then followed by F Sport and Sports Luxury.

F Sport boasts Lexus Dynamic Handling system. It incorporates Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Dynamic Rear Steering. On the other hand, the Sports Luxury adds to this Adaptive Variable Suspension, its own 19-inch alloys, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio, Shimamoku ornamentation, power front seats with driver memory and semi-aniline leather accented trim.

As a standard, all trims will get the Blind Spot Monitor, which can detect vehicles within a range up to 60 metres. In addition, Lexus will also introduce a unique paint application technique together with two custom colours: Infrared and Cobalt Mica.

RC range is driven by the 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 318 horsepower (234 kW) and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). The unit is coupled with an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission, and the power is put to the ground via the rear wheels.

Source: Lexus

November 25, 2014

Category: Auto News