Auto News – Page 430 – Automobiles Review

Volkswagen Up! Becomes Sportier in Germany

Two years ago Volkswagen introduced a super mini car called with the strange name up! It became a big hit around the globe and it is common view on the city streets, thanks to its fuel-efficient characteristics, great price and convenient dimensions. Now, the company is announcing a derivative of the model, which features unique styling inside and out, and it is called street up! special edition.

It was created with the intent to appeal to the sports-minded customers. As you can see VW’s street up! has catchy black exterior with contrasting mirror caps and special white and yellow stripes on the hood, roof, doors and side panels. There is also a “Street” lettering on the doors.

Despite the fact that the car is based on the up! 5 door version, it features a sport-tuned suspension, chrome fog light surrounds and runs on 16-inch alloy wheels. Other design cues feature chrome mirror caps and fog lights frames.

The same sporty treatment can be seen also inside, where there the upholstery features yellow contrast stitching. “Black Style” design package is adds black headliner and darkened side windows. At last, the “Up!” lettering can be seen on the seats and door sills. The car also features air conditioning, an RCD 215 radio and a unique gear knob.

Volkswagen Street Up can be powered by any of the engines available in the Up lineup. The pricing of the car begins at €13,575 and it is available only in Germany.

Source: Volkswagen

October 30, 2014

Hennessey Jaguar F-Type R Coupe: Sometimes Power Means More Power

It might be inspired by the legendary E-Type sports car, but equipped with a 5.0-liter supercharged V8, the 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe is just as powerful and furious as the 707 HP 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat for instance.

With the upgrade offered by the Texas tuner Hennessey Perormance, this Jaguar’s already frenzied power is boosted to something that will fire you up in the space. Compared to the standard V-8 powered Jag, The HPE600 receives a supercharger pulley upgrade, custom-made software, intercooler cooling upgrades as well as the initial dyno tuning, serial plates and Hennessey badging. On top of this, the tuner also includes a 3-year, 36,000 mile limited warranty on all modifications.

The standard 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe is powered by supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 engine producing the impressive 550-hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. What is more, the car can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds. And then comes the improved, wild, sensational, mind-blowing (I can continue with the adjectives on and on but will stop here) Hennessey HPE600 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe! It yields 623 horsepower and rocks out 568 lb-ft Torque at 4,300 rpm. Impressed already? Wait until you see what’s next! This beast is capable of a 0 to 60 mph sprint of just 3.5 seconds and a 1/4 mile of 11.4 seconds with a terminal speed of 126 mph. Did it manage to make your jaw drop?

Here is a full list of what the HPE600 upgrade includes:

• Custom software upgrade tuning
• Supercharger pulley upgrade
• Intercooler cooling upgrade
• Professional installation
• Dyno tuning & road testing
• Serial-numbered dash plaque
• Serial-numbered engine plaque
• Hennessey exterior badging
• 3 Year / 36,000 mile limited warranty

Power:
• 623 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
• 568 lb-ft Torque @ 4,300 rpm

Performance:
• 0-60 mph: 3.5 sec.
• 1/4 mile: 11.4 @ 126 mph

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4v3pq1jnLtY

Source: Hennessey Performance

October 30, 2014

2015 GT-R NISMO and 370Z NISMO Safety Car on Display at Sema Show

In the upcoming Sema Show Nissan will have its own booth where it will return with its new 2015 Nissan GT-R Nismo. The NISMO Lounge will be situated in Booth #46045 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – Lower South Hall where on display there will be the new 2015 GT-R NISMO supercar and 370Z NISMO Safety Car. The show will continue from 4^th of November 4 to 7^th of November. Apart from showcasing all of the best parts of Nissan go-fast division, the brand will also introduce some of the people standing behind it.

Presenting a special “NISMO Lounge,” the Nissan booth will focus on its production vehicles, performance parts and aftermarket accessories all of which are marked by the NISMO brand. As I mentioned before, attenders will be able to see the new 600-horsepower 2015 GT-R NISMO and another representative of the Nismo family, precisely, Nissan 370Z NISMO safety vehicle.

The show will become even more globally acknowledged because it will be granted with the attendance and the attention of Nissan staff from all around the world. In essence, it will include members from accessories, product planning, and marketing departments. Among the Global executives who are going to attend are Hiroshi Tamura, Chief Product Specialist, GT-R, Z and NISMO; and Darren Cox, global head of Brand, Marketing & Sales, NISMO.

Those who are unable to go to the SEMA show can catch up on the latest information and updates via the hashtag #NISMOLife on Facebook and Twitter as well.

Source: Nissan

October 30, 2014

2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 Stands Out Form the Crowd

Thanks to its visual credentials, 2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 can effortlessly stand out from the crowd. Its vibrant magma orange and black exterior as well as the aero kit designed by Cartel Customs makes it more than appealing. This limited-edition car is a result of the joint work of Scion and Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. Form it will be produced only 2,000 units, which makes it pretty unique.

The bold exterior of the two-tone version of the sports coupe is intended for drivers who are looking for a show car they can drive every day. Other details that will be featured only here are the center exhaust and the blacked out Scion badge, which bring the final aggressive detail to the front face.

The orange theme is continued inside and can be seen in the form of stitching on the steering wheel and seats. There is also an orange paint on the dashboard components, door panels and shifter surround. Last to mention in the interior are the Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the “Cartel Logo” and orange front seat belts.

tC Release Series 9.0 will be running on black finish alloy wheels with matching center cap. The other contrasting black elements are the gloss black finish side mirrors and door handles. Scion have added also special Release Series badge mirror cover, Toyota Racing Development lowering springs, high-profile rear spoiler as well as Cartel logo floor and cargo mats.

This exceptional limited edition vehicle will be equipped with either six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology. It has a starting price of $23,190 USD and is expected to arrive in dealerships in January next year.

Source: Scion

October 30, 2014

Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains Win the Dewar Trophy

Should Mercedes-Benz be proud? Hell yeah! Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), Brixworth, was awarded the prestigious Dewar Trophy which is noted as the most respectable and honorable award in British engineering sector. The award is highly exceptional and of significant importance for The Royal Automobile Club’s Dewar Trophy is only given in a moment when according to the Club’s experts there are some exclusive candidates who have remarkable achievements in the automotive industry.

The trophy was received by Andy Cowell, Managing Director, Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains, on behalf of the Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains’ team. He pointed out that; “To have received this prestigious award for the second time is a fitting tribute to the commitment to excellence within our organisation. Our work in the constantly evolving arena of Hybrid technology has allowed us to explore an exciting new breed of automotive innovations relevant not only to our performance on the racetrack, but also to the everyday motorist.”

Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains received the award for producing the best, most profitable, beneficial and efficient powertrains within the new Formula One technical regulations. The Mercedes-Benz PU106A Hybrid power unit has been the most assertive and dominant one this season, gaining the brand a huge success after winning 13 out of 16 races. Wow.

The primary goal for Mercedes-Benz this year was to increase the engine efficient capacity to work from about 29% for the previous normally aspirated 2.4 liter V8 to more than 40% with the new 1.6 liter V6 Hybrid turbo. As it seems, Mercedes really accomplished its aim and once again proved itself to be one of the bests.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 30, 2014

Jeep Wows Brazil with 2015 Renegade

2015 Jeep Renegade has been introduced in March but it is not late for the vehicle to make its first official appearance in Latin America. The equivalent of the show in Geneva is Sao Paulo and it is where the magic happens. In fact, at this show debut such vehicles that we can’t see anywhere else in the world. Take for example the Nissan Kicks concept or the new Troller T4.

But continuing with the main topic, the Renegade stands out with its perfect proportions, which is ideal for the region’s narrow roads. The car offers great off-road capability, open-air freedom and convenience. More importantly, it is equipped with a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission that contributes to outstanding on-road and off-road driving dynamics.

In Brazil, the nine-speed automatic is coupled with the 2.0-liter Multijet II diesel engine flex fuel, while the 1.8-liter E.TorQ engine comes linked to the five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. As a matter of fact, the Renegade will be the first compact SUV equipped with a diesel engine to be sold in Brazil.

In addition, it will also be the first Brazilian-made car that will have the ParkAssist function. 2015 Jeep Renegade perfectly matches the spirit of adventure and can-do attitude of the country and is expected to attract thousands of new customers to the brand. The sales are expected to start during the second quarter of 2015.

Source: Jeep

October 30, 2014

2015 R8 Competition is the Most Potent Production Audi

2015 Audi R8 Competition which is one of the most powerful and fastest production cars is set to debut at the upcoming 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. And this is what we needed today to pump some excitement in our blood. This aggressive car will be only an exclusively available in the United States and will go to no more than 60 lucky customers. The strictly limited edition R8 Competition redefines the iconic R8 with 570 hp (420 kW) peak performance and racing-inspired, lightweight matte carbon elements.

In fact, this power rating makes the newcomer the closest road car to R8 LMS ultra race car. The R8 Competition is powered by the 5.2L V10 engine which is coupled to seven-speed S tronic transmission. The car also features a sport exhaust system with black high-gloss tailpipes.

This is a perfect combination, which will accelerate the car from standstill to 60 mph in mere 3.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 199 mph. Note that these numbers make the R8 Competition the fastest R8 ever offered.

Audi has thought about the exterior and gave it striking matte carbon exterior elements consisting of a fixed rear spoiler, engine bay, mirror housings, flics, side blades, front spoiler and rear diffusor. Of course, thanks to the utilization of the lightweight material, the weight of the car is lowered which results in greater downforce.

Gloss black wheels with 305 cross-section rear tires and ceramic brakes with anodized red brake calipers make a stunning contrast to the matte carbon fiber elements. The interior of the car is also adorned by carbon carbon fiber. The material can be seen on the center console and illuminated “R8 competition” door sill inlays.

Since a total of 60 units will be produced, customers can begin ordering 2015 Audi R8 Competition as of early November. The deliveries are expected to beginning in 2015. We definitely dig this unique vehicle and the fact that it has brought some of the most important characteristics of the R8 to a new level. What are your thoughts on this?

Source: Audi

October 29, 2014

Astounding Frozen Experience: Bentley Continental GT3-R to Perform on Ice

Power on Ice driving event organized by The Bentley Motors brings the driving performance of Bentley to a totally new level. Lasting for four days, this is one of a kind opportunity to owners, enthusiasts, fans and aspiring Bentley drivers which gives them a chance to experience and test the qualities of the brand in one of the most severe natural driving conditions – on an icy surface.

Returning to the cold north of Finland for the Power on Ice 2015 show, this year Bentley will push to the limits no other than the monstrous Continental GT3-R. It is time for the car to heat up its engine and make its breath-freezing debut on the frozen ground!

Yet, this is neither just an event not a simple ordinary occasion to observe car performances. It is art. And it is cool. Figuratively and literally speaking. The full comprehension of the beauty of this art called ice-driving is only achieved through substantial years of experience. For this reason, every single ice track is created by Juha Kankkunen in a manner that carries individual characteristics and significances that are distinguished from one another. This way, the four-time World Rally Champion and ultimate Bentley Boy Kankkunen carves tracks into the thick frozen ground by using a professional equipment. The result is that of pure uniqueness which is able to impress and engage even returning customers.

All of this is a Bentley experience that blends in adventure, excitement and performance-focused magnificence. The driving challenge is overcome without any difficulty by a range of Continental GTs. The all-wheel drive systems constantly adapt the levels of power to the front rear wheels and despite the imperfect icy ground, there is an optimal grip that is delivered. Inside the GT3-R features heated seats and luxurious hand-crafted trimmed leather interior for ultimate comfort.

Hosted in a typical Bentley stylish mannerism and attitude, the home of the event is the boutique hotel of Chalet Ruka Peak.

Source: Bentley

October 29, 2014

Nissan Kicks Concept is What We Have Not Expected

Nissan Kicks Concept is what we haven’t expected. Not in terms of a vehicle, because it was teased and we have been anticipating it, but because of the strange choice of name. The so called Kicks Concept will be premiered at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show this week next o the March Rio 2016 Edition. Nissan says that its design is reflecting the design inspiration from Brazilian streets and that it was designed for its people.

The Japanese brand saw a big gap between vehicles on Brazilian roads, which were mainly silver, black and white in color, and they weren’t reflecting the exuberant nature of the country and its people. Kicks Concept comes to bridge that gap.

This is made possible via the utilization of two contrast shades: grey tones that are example of the urban settings in Sao Paulo, and the bright sunset orange that is uniquely Brazilian. Nissan also says that they are seriously taking into consideration offering the crossover in other countries. And it will be a cheaper alternative to the Juke.

The Kicks concept was runs on large 19-inch alloy wheels. It has the typical crossover characteristics such as aggressive bumpers, raised driving position and roof rails. The V-shaped front grille is also present.

This small SUV measures 4300mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1600mm in height, and is built over a 2620mm wheelbase. Nissan also revealed a couple of videos which reveal little bit more about the car. Take a look:

Source: Nissan

October 29, 2014

2016 Next-Generation Chevrolet Volt Debuting in 2015

General Motors let slip some very interesting details on the next-generation 2016 Chevrolet Volt in a recent press release. The next-generation Chevrolet Volt which is to make its premiere in 2015 is said to feature an all-new Voltec extended range electric vehicle (EREV) propulsion system which will achieve maximum productivity and efficiency. Moreover, the Voltec system will also offer better EV range and fuel economy for complete driving convenience. The Voltec system includes: new battery, drive unit, range-extending engine and power electronics.

The improved battery system will be able to store more energy, precisely, the storage capacity will be increased by 20 percent on a volume basis with fewer cells (the number of which is reduced from 288 to 192). In fact, the new Volt battery back is slightly smaller and lighter (with a mass decreased by virtually 30 pounds or 13 kg). Theoretically, with the 20 percent storage volume increase, its capacity would be about 20 kWh.

Similar to the battery system, the drive unit is upgraded in a way that is directed towards better performance and efficiency. There is a two-motor drive unit which generates roughly from 5 to 12 percent more efficiency and is 100 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the system which is currently operating. What is more, the two motors which work together deliver 20 percent improvement in electric acceleration and boosts the performance even more.

Finally, the old engine is replaced with an all-new, high-efficiency 1.5L 4-cylinder engine which runs on regular unleaded fuel. The new Voltec range extender has a variable displacement oil pump, direct injection fuel system, cooled exhaust gas recirculation and high-compression ratio of 12.5:1.

Source: Chevrolet

October 29, 2014

Gold Body Kit Micra is called Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition in Brazil

Nissan will roll out the March Rio 2016 Edition during the upcoming Sao Paulo Motor Show later this week. The car celebrates the 2016 Olympics, since the Japanese company is one of the main sponsors of the games. Although we definitely find charming this golden version of the Micra, Nissan said that there are no plans to put the car into production.

Yes, you have read it right; Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition is a Micra with a Gold Body Kit. The car features white and gold exterior paint scheme as well as golden accents on the lower section of the bumpers, side skirts, mirrors, roof spoiler and alloy wheels. The back shows how the black painted roof is continued by a very nice boot lid spoiler.

The vehicle gets the engine of the locally produced March, which is the 16V 1.6-liter FlexFuel unit that works on either gasoline or ethanol. The powerplant generates 111 horsepower (83 kW), which is simply enough for the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint to be covered in 9.5 seconds.

It is here where athletes like Usain Bolt would be impressed, but if we compare the little car with a performance one, then we shouldn’t be impressed at all. The top speed of the model is positioned at 119 mph (191 km/h).

Despite the performance figures, we definitely fin this Nissan vehicle very appealing. So we have to thank to the newly established Nissan Design America Rio studio, where it was developed.

Source: Nissan

October 29, 2014

Dacia Duster Oroch Revealed in Sao Paulo

Dacia has unveiled the Duster Oroch concept at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil on the 28^th of October. The show car is designed by Renault design center for Latin America (RDAL) situated in Sao Paulo which is part of Renault’s five design centers around the world.

Being labeled a concept car, the Duster Oroch features all the necessary qualities of a true SUV. Moreover, the Duster five-seat pickup truck receives an assertive styling makeover which is inspired by the world of kitesurfing.The sporty exterior of the SUV is conveyed by the satin-finish white color and is additionally underlined by the visible orange contours. The distinct personality of the truck is further initialized and strengthened by the new brand-identity set on the front end.

The rest of the enhancements include panoramic glass sunroof which creates a feeling of more spacious cabin; skid plates, two rear-mounted cameras with full outdoor coverage, 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/60 tyres and broad side protective outline.

The interior of the Duster Oroch does not lack the impressiveness of its exterior. Inside the dashboard is characterized with a multimedia screen that shows in real time the images taken by the two cameras of the vehicle which are operated by a rotary control on the center console. The combination of dark charcoal and brighter fluorescent orange accents bring final very stylish touches which complete the design of the truck.

Sao Paulo Auto Show, which is the biggest motor show in South America, will continue from 30^th October to 9^th November at the Anhembi exhibition center.

Source: Dacia

October 29, 2014

Category: Auto News