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Mazda Motorsports Releases Global MX-5 Cup Racecar

Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the best selling roadsters around the globe. In addition, this is the most road-raced car in the world and its fourth generation has been just released. At the SEMA show the Japanese company announced that the new 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be raced in a new Global Cup series in North America, Europe and Asia. The racings will culminate at the end of 2016 with a Global Shootout at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey in California.

Unfortunately Mazda did released only pictures of the Mazda Global MX-5 Cup racecar. There are no final specifications released, equipment details or technical partners for the car. The only thing confirmed by Mazda is that the cup racecar will be equipped with a 2.0 liter SKYACTIV-G four cylinder engine.

In fact, the car is currently in development. From this winter Mazda Motorsports will select the optimum tires, suspension and powertrain and safety modifications. The final specifications will be announced in 2015. Then will be also the time when Mazda will be ready to accept orders.

Full details of the Global MX-5 Cup, including which countries will be involved and when the races will take place, is soon to be announced. 2016 Mazda MX-5 was revealed officially in the beginning of September with events held simultaneously in Japan, USA and Spain. The car will enter the global markets in 2015.

Source: Mazda

November 6, 2014

2015 Honda Fit impresses at the 2014 SEMA Show

Honda-Fit-Tjin_651

We have known for months that Honda would present six customized 2015 Honda Fit vehicles at the 2014 SEMA Show but no one expected such a Honda storm at this event. Honda has not only demonstrated the promised six vehicles but has also taken the show by storm with the demonstrated cars. The company has nine personalized versions of the Fit in the Honda booth and won the dreamed “Hottest Sport Compact” SEMA award in no time after the vehicle presentation. The Honda booth is dominated by the Fit, customized by Tjin Edition, which was voted as the Fan Favorite in the 2015 Fit Performance Project, which enabled fans to track the build processes of several teams through an interactive Honda Tumblr site.

“The 2015 Fit is a worthy addition to Honda’s strong heritage of developing tuned sport compact vehicles, and it wears the mantle of “Hottest Sport Compact” well,” said Jeff Conrad, SVP & General Manager of Honda Division, American Honda Motor Co, Inc. “Fun to drive, versatile and a great value, the new Fit does so many things right, and it’s great to see it becoming a popular platform for owner personalization.”

During the past six months Honda fans were able to monitor the progress of the six build teams that customized the all-new 2015 Honda Fit through an ambitious project vehicle program and interactive Tumblr experience, known as 2015 Fit Performance Project. The six build teams – Tjin Edition, voted Fan Favorite; Bisimoto Engineering; Kontrabrands; MAD Industries; Spoon Sports USA; and the award-winning Kenny Vinces – customized the cars in public.

If you happen to visit Honda’s booth at the 2014 SEMA Show you will also see a Fit B-spec race car prepared for competition by Honda Performance Development (HPD), which is Honda’s North American racing company and then a Fit loaded with available dealer-installed Honda Genuine Accessories; and an additional Fit personalized by prominent tuner, Bisimoto, on behalf of Norm Reeves Honda in response to fan feedback prompted through the 2015 Fit Performance Project.

Honda has been on the US market for more than 30 years, producing vehicles in 16 major manufacturing facilities in North America. The brand also has about 1,000 independent dealers in the United States. As to the 2014 SEMA Show – it takes place November 4 – November 7, 2014 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Source: Honda

November 5, 2014

Custom Lexus NX 200t F SPORT also Starring at SEMA

More news from Lexus! The ban is obviously making a furore at SEMA show, because it has just released additional information on two other models that are currently under the spotlight at the event. We are speaking about the NX 200t F SPORT made by 360 Elite Motorworks and the Instabuilt RC F by VIP Auto Salon. The NX model of choice is of course the 200t Sport, which is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

In addition, the car features unique tweaks such as the Artisan Spirits aerodynamic kit. It includes front lip, front bumper LED attachment, rocker panels, rear diffuser and trunk spoiler. As you can see, the paint isn’t the production one. In the case of this NX, the Foreign Auto Body studio has created a specific paint scheme called Molten Pearl.

21 inch HRE P104 forged monoblok wheels in gloss black fitted with Toyo Proxes T1R Sport tires as well as the new front and rear fender flares is what rounds-out this exclusive SEMA-built project.

Next, the Instabuilt RC F by VIP Auto Salon adds Lexon Exclusive Japan kit, which comprises of a front and lip spoiler, and side Steps. Here the paint is also untraditional and is called Oracle 970RA Seafoam. This RC F runs on 20 inch Vossen VPS 3101 forged monoblock wheels coupled with Nitto Invo low profile tyres.

Behind the spokes of the wheels there is a Brembo GT brake system, featuring front: 6-piston 405 x 34mm (16”) 2-piece discs and rear 345 x 28mm (13.6”) 2-piece disc upgrade. The coilovers are delivered by RSR Sports-I, while the exhaust system with integration system & N1 Evolution-X as well as the power intake – by Apex.

Inside, this Lexus gets Sabelt SPS bucket seat, custom steering wheel with Alacantara grips, carbon fiber and Seafoam accents, unique paneling with Seafoam accents as well as Madico CH50 window film installed by STM.

Source: Lexus

November 5, 2014

Vorsteiner Presents the All-new Flow Forged V-FF 104 Wheels

Celebrating its 10^th anniversary with a debuting BMW GTRS4 vehicle at the Sema Show 2014, Vorsteiner also unveils a great variety of new additions to its lightweight wheel series. Not wasting any time and just a few days after unwrapping its V-FF 101, V-FF 102 and V-FF 103 Flow Forged Wheels, now to our attention are presented the new V-FF 104s in three notable finishes.

Typically for all forged wheels produced by Vorsteiner, V-FF 104 is yet another expression of strength, minimal weight and stylish look. According to Vorsteiner experts; “Bespoke design can’t be only attractive, it must serve a purpose. While design is one of the reasons why most enthusiasts prefer certain wheels, here at Vorsteiner we believe it’s the most important.” For this reason, the team of professionals create convenient, classy, attractive and purpose-based wheels that will ensure longevity and resistance which will outlast some of the most challenging weather conditions.

This time Vorsteiner has aimed to improve the overall driving experience. Better steering response and vehicle traction are now possible due to the reduced unsprung weight as the suspension compresses and decompresses. Another key factor which enhances the acceleration and deceleration is achieved by decreasing rational mass. In consequence, there is bigger fuel economy and better performance.

Each Flow Forged Vorsteiner wheel is about 25 percent lighter than conventionally casted aftermarket wheels, yet they are much stronger. In relation to the design, the all-new flow forged wheels are limited to 20-inch sizes with widths that vary from 8.5-inches to 11-inches. The V-FF 104 pack is available in Carbon Graphite, Mystic Black and Mercury Silver.

Source: Vorsteiner

November 5, 2014

Audi TT Roadster to be Manufactured at Audi Hungaria

Audi TT Roadster is the fourth Audi model after the A3 sedan, A3 Cabriolet and Audi TT Coupe which will go into series production at the new automobile factory in Győr. Audi CEO Rupert Stadler pointed out that Győr plays a significant role in the development of Audi’s global production network. The automobile production in the Hungarian city has been operating since June 2013 and it adds up to the already existing engine production there.

The compact two-seater Audi establishes an innovative benchmark in the sense that it comes with original design, improved powertrain, better suspension and useful technologies. For instance, the new Audi comes with a virtual cockpit which underscores the design of the car. This digital display combination replaces physical instruments and gathers all the relevant information in the driver’s field of vision. The TT Roadster has already been praised for this original display and operating system with the Car Connectivity Award and, also, the prize for Interior Innovation of the Year in the Automotive Interiors Expo Awards. In addition, TT Roadsters are powered by either a 2 liter TDI delivering 184 HP, 280.3 lb-ft (379 Nm) or 2.0 TFSI rated which produces 230 HP. The car has a combined fuel consumption of just 4.3 to 7.5 liters/100 km (54.7 US mpg) which reaches CO2 emissions from 114 to 174 gr per km.

Audi Hungaria was the first branch planted outside of Germany about 21 years ago. Its commencing marked the company’s further development in a worldwide aspect and helped for the development of Audi’s international influence and presence. So far the successful background and results prove that this decision could not have turned out any better.

Source: Audi

November 5, 2014

2015 Ford Mustang RTR is Fast and Furious with 725 Horsepower

Since they were shown in the summer just as “teasing” sketches, we’ve been waiting for the SEMA show impatiently. Of course we are talking that passionately about a custom muscle car based on the Mustang of 2015. The tuner releasing the project is called RTR which for only five years (since its birth) has rapidly become one of the most popular automotive brand names worldwide.

In August, the customization has released info that they are to built a 2015 Ford Mustang based RTR Spec 1 and Spec 2 packages. Now the details about them are revealed officially. Both packs feature the following modifications, which concern only the external appearance of the car: Spec 1 and Spec 2 chin spoiler, rear spoiler, rear diffuser with side splitters, rocker splitters, upper grill with integrated lighting as well as lower grill.

Of course, there is also a performance upgrades that come on the top of the appearance modifications of the Spec 2 package. Here are the new adjustable amperes and sway bars as well as lowering springs.

Magnaflow ensured that there is enough sound in the air around the car by delivering the exhaust system. RTR added also optional supercharger and cold air intake system. The engine was tweaked and the result is super exciting: 725 horsepower (533 kW) generated from 5.0-liter V-8 engine with a supercharger attached.

2015 Ford Mustang RTR will go on sale in January next year through only select Ford dealerships around the globe.

Source: RTR

November 5, 2014

Volvo Cars Unveils the New V60 Cross Country

Take a deep breath of relief, Volvo fans. The long-awaited Cross Country is finally here and it comes with quite some attitude indeed! The third true Cross Country vehicle will be unveiled at the 2014 Los Angeles Motor Show this month.

Interestingly enough, the Cross Country brand has a prolonged legacy that dates back to 1997 when the V70 Cross Country was first introduced. Ever since, Volvo’s primary idea circles around its intention to bring to life vehicles with absolute all-road capability and peculiar styling.

It could be said that the new V60 crossover implements a combination of the features of the smaller V40 Cross Country and the regular V60’s characteristics. It certainly makes an impression. Mixing Volvo’s heritage and love of nature and adventure, the V60 Cross Country takes the best of both worlds and conveys it with sufficient class. The vehicle is sporty, comfortable enough and gives a driving experience to remember. It perfectly fits the lifestyles of people who are adventurous, active, dynamic, exploratory and are not afraid of diving into an experience of wildness, dirt and muddy waters.

The individualist style includes increased ground clearance, skid plates front and rear, side scuff plates and fender extenders. The capable sporty nature of the V60 Cross Country demonstrates a dominating, beefy presence that strikes everyone’s attention.

The first V60 Cross Country cars in the US and Canada will get Volvo’s impressive five-cylinder petrol engine with All-Wheel Drive coupled to an automatic transmission delivering a highly around 23 mpg and 250 hp (186 kW). Drive-E four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines will serve as the base for the Front-Wheel Drive version. They will be available in the V60 Cross Country in early 2015 worldwide. The proven five-cylinder D4 powertrain will be used for the All-Wheel Drive model.

Source: Volvo

November 5, 2014

Lexus Shows Two Custom 2015 RC F Studs at SEMA

News from SEMA again. This time we will review what is happening with Lexus at the show. They have just released two super sports and super luxury models at the event. Both are based on the RC F model: the Rocket Bunny Lexus RC F SPORT and the Lexus RC F by Gordon Ting & Beyond Marketing. The first on is designed by TRA-Kyoto and boasts devilish red paint and some unique tweaks.

It sits on Enkei custom 6666 wheels, again designed by TRA-Kyoto, and wrapped in Toyo Tires 888. They measure 265/30-19 at the front and 325/30-19 at the rear. Brembo Performance Brakes are also at hand and they feature 6 piston front monoblock calipers with 2 piece 380 x 32mm type III discs and upgraded brake pads. At the rear, the caliper is 4 piston mono block with 2 piece 345 x 28mm type III discs and upgraded brake pads.

As one can see from the stickers all around the shell of the car, a bunch of tunign companied has been involved. For instance, KW supplied the suspension coilovers, while GReddy delivered the Prototype Supreme SP exhaust system. There is also a V3 + HLS 4 lift system and added Motul performance engine oil.

The second RC-F project is result of the work of Gordon Ting And Beyond Marketing. There are a lot of carbon fiber elements such as the front lip and splitter as well as the side diffusers. New wheels ensure that the ride will be breath-taking. Precisely, the car has been fitted with Yokohama Advan AVS F50 wheels fitted with tyres from the same company that measure 255/30-20 at the front and 285/30-20 at the rear.

Here, the tunes did not miss to substitute the production brakes with Brembo Performance Brakes. The front 6 piston monoblock calipers come with 2-piece 405 x 34mm type III discs and upgraded pads, while the rear 2-piece 345 x 28mm type III discs – with OEM Lexus RC F calipers.

Unlike the aforementioned project, this one is fitted with coilovers by EDFC Active Pro, GReddy supplied the exhaust again as well as the high performance intake kit. Not forgetting to mention the custom front and rear tower bar and lower reinforcement braces, as well as the Nitrous Express 100-shot wet Nitrous System.

Source: Lexus

November 5, 2014

The All-new Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 in Japan

As it looks like Mazda2 is simply in the limelight! JAPAN’S reigning car of the year has received another award. This time the car scooped the Good Design Award’s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’s Award), which was sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion. Good Design Award is Japan’s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design which was established in 1957.

The all-new Mazda2, powered by SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter engine, is created to boast confidence, inspire and, finally, deliver a whole new driving experience that will change even more positively the usually perceived notions about the carmaker. Supplied with all the new technological aspects and crafted with original ideas, the vehicle establishes another understanding about the new generation subcompact class of cars.

The applied KODO design has been used in a sense that combines sumptuous luxury with substantial high-tech safety and comfort. It simply gives a new feel of liveliness and definite presence both of which complement the compact size of the Demio. Furthermore, the interior is designed with such detail-orientated mechanism used by Mazda designers to set a new global leading standard for the segment. The choice of colors, compositions, rearrangements, forms and textures brings a sense of springing quality and excellence.

In its commendation, the Japan Institute of Design Promotion stated that; “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body […] Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all five senses.”

Source: Mazda

November 5, 2014

Mercedes Vito Upgraded by Hartmann Tuning

The German tuner Hartmann, which specializes in individual van-rebuilding, does its magic on Mercedes-Benz Vito. As it seems, Hartmann has a soft spot for Mercedes for after working on a Sprinter model earlier this year, now the company has decided to upgrade the Mercedes Vito and make it appear in a top shape.

Originally, this model is a 119 CDi Tourer which puts out 190 HP (140 kW) and has a nominal stock of 440 Nm (324 lb-ft). Now the new Mercedes-Benz Vito of Hartmann Tuning receives a power bump and produces 224 HP and also develops an impressive maximum torque of 505 Nm. This is due to an additional control device with easy plug-and-play-functionality.

The truly remarkable, sporty and luxurious style is revalued on the inside too. The driver’s cabin is improved with chic piano lacquer surfaces, custom floor mats and aluminum door sills with the logo of Hartmann Tuning.

The improvements do not stop here though. A huge part in the highlights of the Mercedes-Benz Vito plays VANSPORTS styling line. In order to match the additional charms of the van, there is a robust ABC manufactured VANSPORTS-VP-Spirit-Aerodynamik body kit. It is comprised of new front and rear spoilers, side skirts, widened wheel houses filled with racy “Navik 1”-wheels and 8.5 x 20 and 245 / 40 tires. The sporty style and dynamic design is indeed excellently accentuated. Last but not least, the VANSPORTS suspension lowers the Vito down and brings it closer to the road by 30 mm.

With the new customizations the van is tuned to another level. The refreshed face, enhanced interior and boosted power form a vehicle that will definitely make a lasting statement.

Source: Hartmann Tuning

November 5, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Makes Plans for the Future with Vision G-Code Concept [VIDEO]

Mercedes-Benz Vision G-Code Concept is a vehicle study from Asia an intended for Asia. The car was revealed at the opening of the new Product Engineering Centre in Beijing. The Sports Utility Coupé (SUC) is so strange and versatile that it probably aims to show the evolutionary design possibilities for Mercedes‑Benz. The car is fitted with dynamically flowing greenhouse and has sporty proportions, extensive assistance and camera systems as well as the variable plug-in hybrid drive system.

The G-Code, which is a 2+2 seater, features wide range of technical innovations. It measures about 4.10 metres in length and has counter-opening doors. Its muscular appearance is strengthened by the 21-inch aluminium wheels with delicate carbon-fibre spokes.

And if you think that this SUC features a conventional louvred grille, then you are wrong. The central trademark star and the two chrome louvres in the radiator are surrounded by a continuous display. The engine is cooled via air deflection though the apertures in the side and at the bottom of the front.

The innovative grille is complemented by two full-LEDs. If they are switched on, they extend from the depth of the headlamp and focus the light in line with the driving and traffic situation. Furthermore, two cameras replace the classic rear-view mirrors and retract flush into the A-pillars after the G-Code is parked. An LED light strip across the entire rear is used by the turn indicators, tail lights, and brake lights.

Inside there is space for four. When the counter-opening doors open, the G-Code offers unrestricted access for everyone. The steering wheel rests in the instrument panel, unfolds like a butterfly. The wide multi-information-screen display spans almost the entire width of the instrument panel offering an ease of access of the multimedia functions.

Driver assistance systems haven’t been spared here: 360-degree monitoring of the surroundings via 3D cameras, radar, infra-red scanner and GPS data, are all here. The interior of the G-Code is decided in striking contrast between dark and light areas.

The black components such as the dirt-resistant floor covering or the carbon-fibre seat structure are supposed to visualise stability, durability or utility. On the other hand, the white interior components (soft leather upholstery on seats and armrests) exude comfort and wellness.

More importantly, the power of this Mercedes comes two individually controlled units. The first one is positioned at the front and it is a turbocharged combustion engine, which runs on hydrogen and solely drives the front wheels. The second is the electric motor which drives the rear axle and transmits its power selectively to the two wheels via a dual multi-disc clutch.

In addition to the classic energy intake, here power is supplied via the high-tech “multi-voltaic silver” paint finish. It acts like a giant solar cell and is also electrostatically charged by the relative wind or by the natural wind. But this is not all: the special “power on the move” suspension aids in the generation of electricity.

httpv://youtu.be/6BrFD8KQ750

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 5, 2014

2015 Chevrolet COPO Camaro Racer Revealed at SEMA

The famous COPO Camaro model has shown its 2015 form at this year’s SEMA Show. In fact, this is the fourth edition of the limited-production race car, of which only 69 will be built. The vehicle will participate in the 2015 racing season where it will amaze the viewers with its Abalone White exterior with gray and orange accents as well as the new COPO graphics. What makes the mode even more attractive is that each of the 69 units has been built by hand. The car will be powered by a 350 “LSX” V-8 engine with a 2.9L Whipple supercharger.

Furthermore, as a true racer, the COPO is fitted with NHRA-approved roll cage and other safety equipment features. Racing chassis and suspension components are a necessity as well as the unique solid rear axle system which has replaced Camaro’s independent rear axle.

COPO crate engines and parts have been specifically made by Chevrolet Performance for this production race car. Many of the specialty parts allow racers to construct their own race cars using the proven components of the genuine COPO Camaros.

In the engine range there are three six different powerplants, which are perfect for the 2015MY version of the racer: the naturally aspirated COPO 427 and COPO 396, the supercharged COPO 350 (2.9L SC), the naturally aspired COPO 350 and the supercharged COPO 327 (4.0L SC) and COPO 327 (2.9L SC).

Soruce: Chevrolet

November 5, 2014

Category: Auto News