Auto News – Page 435 – Automobiles Review

Toca Marketing Group Tunes Genesis to New Performance Benchmark

Hyundai seems to be well prepared for the upcoming 2014 Sema Show for it teases ahead of the show with a modified 2015 Hyundai Genesis sedan. Referred to as the “Steel Phoenix” and constructed by Chicago-based tuning company Toca Marketing Group, the new Genesis characterizes with aesthetic improvements and performance upgrades that are said to crash the “barriers of innovation in the pursuit of perfection.” Toca has worked hard to design a car that does not run behind German super sedans with its sharp style and luxury

Here, the 2015 Hyundai Genesis sedan’s 5.0-liter V-8 is boosted to 600 HP (447 kW) by a custom-designed Garett twin-turbo system base. It gains its finish look with a full ARK Performance catback exhaust system. There is also an AirRex digital air suspension system which allows the car to lower down closer to the ground on ultra-high performance Toyo rubber. Power is sent to the pavement via Toyo tires that are wrapped around custom 21-inch COR 3-piece wheels. Furthermore, the stopping power is supplied by Neo Motorsport that incorporates 8-piston brake calipers up front and 6-piston units in the rear.

Inside, the Steel Phoenix is ‘touched’ as well. Thanks to the exclusive treatment provided by Toca, the interior of the car can make one’s jaw drop. For real. It features custom black leather seats that are contrasted by white stitching, carbon-fiber trim panels and an audio system that is updated with Rockford Fosgate sound components. What is more, the vehicle is given a new finish – a custom blend of BASF R-M products which bring to the paintwork a steel, metallic appearance.

Toca has taken care of the exterior appearance as well. The new all-metal wide body-design is further accentuated with matte and gloss black elements. The achieved effect is that of certain uniqueness and a sort of exclusive attractiveness.

Source: Hyundai

October 22, 2014

Lancia Ypsilon ELLE is Part of Artissima 2014

Lancia Ypsilon ELLE is partnering with the “Artissima” International Contemporary Art Event, which will take place in Turin from 7th to 9^th of November. The exhibition incorporates 194 galleries, in which in display will be artists from 34 different countries, 9 of which are new additions with respect to the Fair’s last edition. For the “Artissima 2014”, Lancia is providing the organizers with a fleet of cars for an exclusive ‘VIP Courtesy Car’ service.

An example of the new Ypsilon ELLE will also be present. The car was recently unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and marks the collaborations between the company and Elle magazine. Precisely, the new “ELLE” edition is made with new paints, materials and exclusive finishes. It sits atop of the model range and also represents Lancia’s design philosophy.

The company has entered three new colors created to the range. This is an example of the refined lines and the distinctive personality of the Ypsilon. In particular, this car can be covered with a Glam Powder Pink paint, which was created by Centro Stile Lancia exclusively for the model. The second one is the Glacè White and the third is a two-tone combination, in which Glam Powder Pink is sharply contrasts the Vulcano Black roof.

This is further strengthened by the dark chrome finishes on the grille, fog light frame and handles and body-coloured mirrors. Ypsilon ELLE runs on 15″ diamond-finish or 16″ Powder Pink diamond-finish alloy wheels, and it stands on the pillars are the “ELLE” logo in dark chrome and the exclusive Houndstooth graphics.

The same glamorous touch can be also seen applied inside the car. A specific has been used for the seats with cushion and backrest in black Alcantara with electro-welded ELLE graphics and Powder Pink leather bands with black stitching. The same leather can be also seen on the door panels, the dashboard fascia and the mat edges.

In addition, black leather with Powder Pink stitching covers the steering wheel and gear knob. The front Alcantara headrests were adorned by the ELLE logo and the Glam Powder Pink key cover also features this logo.

Source: Lancia

October 22, 2014

Hyundai Delivers First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles to UK Customers

The first Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicles have arrived for the first time in the UK which continues Hyundai’s global opening of the world’s pioneering series of hydrogen-powered car.

Having been researching and developing around this Eco-sector since 1998, now by supplying customers in the UK with these zero-emission vehicles, the car manufacturer is definitely cleaning the road of progress for the clean technology.

The new Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicles are part of London’s Hydrogen Network Expansion (LHNE) project which strives to establish a valuable hydrogen-fueled transport system for the first time across London and the South East. The Fuel Cell vehicles will be just another asset which will be added to the set of hydrogen-powered vans. The latter are already in use as part of the same project.

Since Hyundai always seeks to achieve more and more, the manufacturer is part of other collaborative enterprises and schemas such as supplying HyTEC, which along with HyFIVE is funded by the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU); participating in the UKH2 Mobility project that has had a pivotal part in advising government. And last but not least, there is a project which is backed by Innovate, and Hydrogen for Innovative Vehicles (HyFIVE).

The new eco car produces zero harmful tailpipe emissions, thus, the only thing that comes out of the tailpipe is water. Moreover, Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell can travel more than 350 miles in real driving conditions before refueling which makes it really convenient enough, don’t you think? This resembles the refueling of vehicles that run on petrol or diesel.

The cars arrive just a few days after Business Minsiter Matthew Hancock declares that £11 million of UK government and industry funding will support the hydrogen transport. After all, this will help the growth of the refueling infrastructure, right? Additionally, the provided financial support will result in an expanded nationwide hydrogen refueling station network which, on the other hand, will resonate in increased interest in the fuel cell vehicles and their use.

UK customers are already able to order the innovative Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicles.

Source: Hyundai

October 22, 2014

Rare 1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback to be Auctioned at Silverstone

1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback is an extremely rare car. In fact, it is one of the three right-hand drive automatic examples ever produced. The model is going to be part of Silverstone Auctions’ final sale of the year that will take place at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show on the 15th and 16th of November. The car is estimated to cost the future owner between £800,000 and £900,000.

It carries the chassis number ‘BC9D’ and was ordered on the 31st March 1954 by Mr. Alan G Clark. He has done so much about it that he has even bought it a new automatic gearbox as well as several special features. Some of these include electric window lifts, flat petrol tank, Smiths ventilation and heating system and two RD 8187 Foglamps that substitute the standard centre lamp.

The car is a D Series, which means that it is equipped with a larger 4.9-litre engine. It also features lightweight, aluminium coachwork which was being handcrafted by H. J. Mulliner & Co. This Bentley will be sold with an extensive history file for major works undertaken, and as you can see its current owner has maintained it to the highest standard. Some of the refinements include full respray in Shell Grey and mid-blue hide interior and dark blue Wilton carpets.

Silverstone Auctions are making history since 2011 with the aim to sale classic cars, modern supercars, all types of competition cars, contemporary and historic motorcycles as well as automotive memorabilia. The company holds the exclusive automotive auction rights for Silverstone circuit. It not only hosts sales but also stand-alone events such as the Silverstone Classic Festival.

Source: Silverstone Auctions

October 22, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S65 Luxury Sedan Updated by Voltage-Design

The German tuner Voltage-Design has, once again, demonstrated a highly creative approach in the area of car-tuning and car-refitting. By offering astonishing individual exterior and interior designs and power improvements, the tuner has managed to establish itself among the top ones.

Now they have come up with some amazing work which is implemented and presented in their “S65 Project”. Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG has been an improved with a brand new twin-turbo V12 6.0-liter engine. The standard configuration of this power update produces 680 HP (500 kW) and a maximum torque of 1,100 Nm for Vmax of 300 kmph (190 mph). These figures will allow the new S65 AMG to sprint form 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds enabling it to depict outstanding performance and remarkable dynamism. In case this sounds way too fast for you, then you should wait until next year when a less powerful V12 engine will be revealed. The original price is that of 3,899 Euro.

Yet, if you opt for the more expensive version which costs 7,899 Euro, you will get 720 HP (529 kW) with 1,159 Nm of maximum torque and 320 kmph (200 mph) Vmax. The whole package is under the name VD Stage TWO. Nevertheless, the two variants come with the initial Vmax decontrol, racing air filter and new down-pipes.

For the fact that good is just not good enough the upgraded powerful S65 sedan has also gained a new braking system installed by Voltage-Design with 420/40 mm discs at the front and 370/32 mm discs on the rear axle. The weight savings of this kit is of 30 kg (66 lbs) compared to the standard brakes. As a finishing touch, Voltage-Design has equipped the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG with 21-inch front and rear alloy wheels.

Source: Voltage-Design

October 21, 2014

Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicle Shortlisted for New Car Honour

As it seems, Toyota has established the everyday use of hybrid cars thanks to its Prius models and has started integrating such principles to cars like the Auris and Yaris. Now the automotive manufacturer is climbing up the steps of development and is progressing with their FCV or, in other words, Fuel Cell Vehicle.

There is a slight difference when you compare the FCV to Toyota’s regular hybrids. Unlike the latter, the fuel cell vehicle does not have a combustion engine. Instead, it is packed with a fuel cell ‘stack’ which represents a chemical reaction where hydrogen is mixed with oxygen to produce electricity and water.

The hydrogen-powered car is has been shortlisted for the WhatCar? magazine and it is nominated for Reader Award for the most eagerly anticipated new model of 2015. What Car’s Reader Award is quite different from the other honours in terms of its annual presentation. The winner is determined by the vote of its readers and website visitors. Respectively, the result will be announced at the magazine’s car of the year
awards presentation which is going to be held on the 7^th of January next year.
Earlier this month Toyota’s fuel cell vehicle was shown with its production-ready design at the Paris motor show. During the next year, the car will be introduced in Europe, North America and Japan.

UK sales will start in summer 2015. Even though it is hard to say if this really could be the car of the future, one thing is known for sure. Toyota’s fuel cell vehicle will be a fascinating contribution to the market!

Source: Toyota

October 21, 2014

Nissan Prices 2015 Pathfinder

2015 Nissan Pathfinder is ready to go on sale from today across the United States. The emblematic SUV was entirely redesigned two years ago, and now for the 2015 model year it comes to offer great levels of versatility, unmatched for its class fuel efficiency as well as the comfort for seven passengers. The vehicle will be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions, which will be powered by the 260 horsepower (191 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engime.

Precisely, the Pathfinder gets a number of improvements including a Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) added to SL and Platinum grades. In addition, the standard Xtronic transmission gets enhanced D-Step Shift logic and Hill Descent Control was added to four-wheel drive models.

There are three optional packages offered. The first one is the revised SL Tech Package which includes Around View Monitor and tow hitch and harness. Next comes the revised SL Premium Package that adds the same monitoring system and Nissan’s Navigation system. At last, the Family Entertainment Package adds dual headrest 7.0-inch DVD Family Entertainment System.

In the new model year, the SV trim is getting new fog lights, auto dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink Universal Transceiver and heated side rearview mirrors. On the other hand, the SL trim level adds 120V power outlet. The Platinum trim level comes as a standard with a Dual Panorama Moonroof.

Nissan is offering for the 2015 Pathfinder nine exterior colors in total, six of which are new. Those to be introduced include: Java Metallic, Midnight Jade, Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black, Glacier White and Pearl White.

Furthermore, the Pathfinder comes running on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, with unique 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offered with the Platinum model. The interior of the model features a comfortable seating for seven, along with an innovative EZ Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE.

A wide range of optional features are also offered, including Nissan Advanced Drive-Assist Display, leather-appointed seating, Around View Monitor and 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The optional 8.0-inch touch-screen monitor is mounted in the middle of the instrument panel. It displays important information and the control of the Nissan Navigation System.

Also optional are the Heated and Cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Traffic and NavWeather. The list of optional features continues with the Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, RearView Monitor, Remote Engine Start, Tri-Zone Entertainment System, Dual Panorama Moonroof and Easy Fill Tire Alert.

2015 Nissan Pathfinder will be available in four optional packages: SL Tech Package, SL Premium Package, Family Entertainment Package and Trailer Tow Package.

2015 Nissan Pathfinder US Pricing:

Pathfinder S 2WD	$29,510 USD
Pathfinder SV 2WD	$32,810 USD
Pathfinder SL 2WD	$36,060 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 2WD	$41,410 USD
Pathfinder S 4WD	$31,200 USD
Pathfinder SV 4WD	$34,500 USD
Pathfinder SL 4WD	$37,750 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 4WD	$43,100 USD

Source: Nissan

October 21, 2014

ABBES Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Designed by ABBES Design, the independent model Chevrolet Corvette outshines the stock version in all aspects. The new Stingray is a breathtaking amalgamation of excellent engineering work and purpose-driven design. The transaxle construction and lightweight aluminum V8 sitting which is behind the front axle, the high performance transmission along with the differential unit in the back of the vehicle all deliver a perfectly balanced weight distribution and optimal performance, thus, bringing Chevrolet to the next level.

Being one of the best and most experienced designers, ABBES creates a body kit that does not alter the characteristic look of the initial car. Instead, it gently blends in with the lines and curves of the Corvette that are already there. In consequence, ABBES succeeds in implementing a full capacity of perfectness and synchrony between the new and the old.

From day one the new Chevrolet Corvette has established itself as a pioneer in terms of the used industry first advanced features and materials. Now with the refinements by ABBES, the car’s 6.2 L motor is able to get that little extra pressure thanks to the compressor with a brilliant power distribution. On top of this, with the advanced cooling system the intake air will get cooled down in a way that will achieve the optimum combustion temperatures.

In addition to this, the ABBES professionals have developed a high performance braking system that has eight piston calipers on the front axle and four piston calipers on the rear axle. As a result, this amplification provides a better handling of the increased power.

Another improvement is seen in the two piece rotors. They are made from high density aluminum and are used in order to help in the process of saving weight. The ferrodo high performance brake pads ensure a constant controllable braking power in every temperature as well as stability.

Finally, the new ABBES coil over suspension serves to provide an easy and optimum road handling. The innovative coilovers can be adjusted in height, hardness and preloaded springs.

Source: Chevrolet

October 21, 2014

2016 Acura ILX Gets Teased Ahead of Los Angeles Reveal

2016 Acura ILX is getting readied for an official reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month. With this entry Acura is aiming to bring higher standard in the entry-premium sedan segment. The expansion in the general appeal of the car includes a comprehensive update that features a strong new powertrain, more forceful and muscular sporty exterior styling as well as entirely upgraded interior design.

Just like in the TLX model, Acura will give the upcoming 2016 ILX sharper performance focus and at the same time – greater comfort, convenience and safety. The brand didn’t reveal much more details, except for the teaser image of the rear of the car you see. The official unveiling of the ILX will happen on 20th of November at the event.

Judging by the released image it looks like the brand is getting more aggressive about moving the ILX away from its Civic roots. In fact, it also seems like it wants to turn the new model in to Acura’s future luxury car.

What we can expect in terms of power is that the new ILX will draw more of its powertrain. We don’t know whether it will be a new one or just a boosted old one. As a reminder, the previous generation ILX is driven by a 2.0 liter i-VTEC.

This unit produces 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque, and is coupled with a five-speed automatic gearbox (5AT). When equipped with the Technology Package or Premium Package, the car gets the more potent 2.4 liter i-VTEC engine that generates 201 horsepower (148 kW), and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

More details are expected to be revealed ahead of the debut, so stay tuned!

Source: Acura

October 21, 2014

Land Rover Celebrates Production of First New Discovery Sport Compact SUV

Last month (September 2, 2014) Land Rover revealed their new Discovery Sport compact SUV which is going on sale in early 2015 along with the existing seven-seat Land Rover LR4 in the US. The latter is sold as the Discovery in over 170 markets around the world. Now the first production Discovery Sport has set off Land Rover’s production line in Halewood, UK. The SUV will make its way to Virgin Galactic’s headquarters in order to be used by the team there while they still proceed with the preparations for the launch of the most versatile and capable premium compact SUV worldwide.

Discovery Sport is the first model of the new Discovery Family. With its bold design it sets the tone for a different and innovative generation of Land Rover. Its roomy cabin allows space for seven passengers, thus in a 5+2 configuration. It is quite larger than the previous 5-seat premium SUV models.

Nevertheless, what is interesting about the new Discovery Sport SUV is that it successfully manages to combine the two most significant characteristics of SUVs in this range – the SUV not only has a good visual conception but it also offers spatial comfort which makes it an ideal family vehicle.

As Murray Dietsch, Director of Land Rover, has stated during a ceremony at the Land Rover Halewood plant; “The new car embodies Land Rover’s spirit of Above and Beyond, so it’s fitting that it will be used by a similarly pioneering company in Virgin Galactic.” The vehicle, then, was received by Stephen Attenborough, Commercial Director of Virgin Galactic, with whom Land Rover created a partnership earlier this year.

The 2015 Discovery Sport will definitely demonstrate a highly refined performance quality, safety and efficiency. The vehicle will debut in U.S. at the Los Angeles Auto Show the up-coming November.

Source: Land Rover

October 21, 2014

Porsche Unveils Martini Lineup Including 911, Macan, Panamera and Cayenne

Porsche has revealed on its official Facebook page its glamorous Martini lineup of vehicles. It includes a yellow 911, green Macan, white Panamera and blue Cayenne. In fact, the iconic Martini Racing stripes have been caught by a photographer on the streets of Sochi, Russia. The result is a stunning picture gallery which you can view below. With it Porsche is celebrating a famous past but also a legendary return.

There is nothing much said about the vehicles, except for their fuel efficiency and CO2 emission figures. Precisely, the 911 models need around 8.2 – 12.4l/100km of gasoline, while they emit 191 – 289g/km of CO2. These numbers for the Panamera are as follows: 6.4 – 10.7l/100km and CO2 emission of 169 – 249g/km. The Macan needs 6.1 – 9.2l to cover 100km, while it emits 159 – 216 g/km of CO2.

The big question is why these sports cars and luxury crossovers were at the site of this resort. And perhaps we will have to wait some more time to understand. The latest edition with the Martini livery revealed before this lineup is the 2014 Porsche 911 S Martini Racing Edition.

It will be produced in only 80 examples and will feature as a standard the Sport Chrono package and a sport steering wheel. Other standard extras include Porsche Communication Management (PCM), black leather-wrapped electric sport seats, tachometer with black gauge and a Bose premium audio system.

In particular, the car is offered in two colors: white and black, which both feature Martini’s traditional blue-red color scheme on the roof, rear wing, boot lid and sides. Special features here include stainless steel door sill panels with “911 Carrera S – Martini Racing Edition” illuminated lettering, Aerokit Cup front apron and fixed rear spoiler.

This Porsche is driven by the 3.8 liter flat-six engine which produces 400 horsepower (294 kW) at 7,400RPM and 440 Nm (326 lb-ft) at 5,600RPM. It is no surprise then that the car needs only 4.1 seconds to cover the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h on its way to a top speed of 302 km/h (187 mph).

Source: Porsche via Facebook

October 21, 2014

Ford Reveals Two F-Series SEMA-bound Trucks

Two Ford F-Series trucks are getting readied for the forthcoming SEMA Show. The company has collaborated with SEMA builders in order to produce the radical F-150 trucks. The MY2015 F-150 is the lightest truck ever created by ford and precisely has “lost” 700 pounds. At the same time it is also the toughest and most capable F-150 ever created. In addition, the trucks will be competing for the “Hottest Truck” award at the Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow in Las Vegas. Another interesting fact is that the Ford F-Series has won this award in four consecutive year.

There will be two custom versions of the 2015 truck displayed. The fist one is the Deegan 38 and the other – Vaughn Gittin Jr. street truck. Deegan 38 is a project which is a result of the joint work of Ford Racing’s Brian Deegan and the F-150. Under the hood of this beast is the 3.5-liter, twin-turbo EcoBoost engine.

Other industry leaders involved in this project are the Addictive Desert Designs, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, FOX Racing Shox, KC Hilites, Mastercraft Safety, Rockford Fosgate, Full-Race Motorsports, Leading Edge Tuning, ProEFI and SCT Performance. They have joined forces in order to deliver extreme motorsport experience to all enthusiasts with the ultimate example of this truck.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. street truck can show-off with 12 inches of King shock-controlled travel via a Kibbetech custom suspension. This second truck is a purpose-built F-150 under the guidance of Formula DRIFT superstar Vaughn Gittin Jr.

He has taken advantage of the weight savings and serious torque offered by the engine. The vehicle has aggressive stance and features Air Lift Performance air ride. Also disclosed around this project is that the seats of the truck will be Recaro.

Source: Ford

October 21, 2014

Category: Auto News