Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Honda Shows 2015 F1 Power Unit [VIDEO]

    Honda-F1-Power-Unit-THUMBHonda has just released first details and looks of the forthcoming power unit, which is now under development for the 2015 FIA1 Formula One (F1) World Championship. In fact, the company has released a film during the 2014 FIA Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, previewing the F1 power unit under development. The video features the sound of the engine revving and you can view it below.

    In it you will see a lot of graphics, which give a hint towards Honda’s past, and then point forward to the future.  In the simulated lap is where you will hear the sound of the engine. What is concerning is that the rev seems to be unchanged and even less than the current engines.

    At the R&D facility in Sakura in Japan, is where Honda is developing the 2015 F1 power unit. There it is conducting simulations as well as full-fledged bench tests of the engine while connecting the turbocharger and energy recovery systems.

    At the same time, the racing operation base in Milton Keynes in the United Kingdom, has become fully operational. And the whole team is concentrating on this development, getting ready for the forthcoming start of F1 participation in 6 months.

    Judging from previous years, we do expect to see a small direct-injection V6 engine which will be working together with two electric motors. One will be working with a KERS recovery system, while the other will power the turbocharger. There are no official details so far, but we definitely expect to see a figure of more than 600 horsepower. Enjoy the video!

    httpv://youtu.be/dMk5Jtd3yS4

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda 

  • Oxigin Concave Wheels BMW 5 and 7 Series

    The most recent wheel rim design “18 Concave” by the specialists from Oxigin Leichtmetallräder in Swabian Unterensingen perfectly suits the large models of BMW. The design is more than good enough and has a sort of explicit and specific style that contributes to the attractiveness of the BMW cars.

    The white BMW 5 series runs on Oxigin 18 which is in finish black full polish with undercut. Nevertheless, there is an option to choose between this one and black, graphite polish, as well as in eight colour polish versions, five neon shades and a variety of foil refinements. For the latest generation of the BMW 5 series F10 and F11, the tyres that are used are in size 9×20 and 10.5×20 in combination with the tyres sized 245/35ZR20 and 285/30ZR20. Additionally, the concave outline of the Oxygin 18 Concave are most noticeable in the white station wagon.  As depicted on the vehicle bellow, it is 45 mm at the front and as much as 67 mm at the rear axle.

    The wheels on the current BMW 7 are even bigger. For instance, the black F02 limousine runs on Oxigin 18 Concave which fits the vehicle perfectly. The combinations of the wheels and tyres are measured at 10×22 inch with 255/30R22 in the front and 11.5×22 inch with 295/25R22 in the rear. The front axle of this BMW uses 15 millimetres thick spacer discs as well.

    Finally, the number of sizes is different and varies too. It goes from 7.5×17 to 11.5×22 inches. The starting price is that of 149 Euro incl. VAT.

  • Hamann Offers new Styling for BMW M4 F82

    The news about Hamann BMW M4 F82 came so exclusively that it only came in images. In the gallery below you are about to see the latest project of the tuner, which looks incredibly well. The pictures clearly show that there have been added some styling parts for the coupe. Unfortunately, Hamann hasn’t revealed yet any details about the package, which visibly includes a lot of carbon fiber elements.

    To be more precise, from this material are made the front lip spoiler, rear diffuser, side skirts, new hood and an adjustable rear wing. The rims are also very special, come in contrasting shade and are multispoke. They have been coupled with low-profile tyres. Nothing has been said about an engine upgrade or chassis’s modification, despite the fact that Hamann is a specialist for engine tuning.

    As a matter of fact, there is little need to tweak the powerplant of the M4, which is the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder. It produces 431 horsepower (317 kW) at 5,500RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of maximum torque at 1,850RPM. The unit is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox and helps the BMW cover the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint in only 4.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

    Acceleration time becomes even better, when the car is fitted with the optional seven-speed ///M DCT. Precisely, it is 4.1 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. In addition to this, the M4 is able to cover 100 km with just 8.8 liters of fuel in the combined cycle with the manual transmission and 8.3 liter with the DCT. The official details about Hamann BMW M4 F82 are expected to be soon revealed, so we have to wait little more to get the idea of what the interior of this customized M4 will look like.

    Source: Hamann

  • Fiat Releases Exclusive 500X Opening Edition

    Fiat-500X-Opening-Edition-THUMBFiat 500X Opening Edition is a limited edition and top of the range model which will be produced in only 2000 examples. It will be offered in two exteriors: the first one is more “urban” in Art Grey, the other in tri-coat red. The car will be sold in Europe and will also be available in three versions: two 4×2 options with the 140 hp (103 kW) 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II or the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet II engines, and one 4×4 with the 140 hp (103 kW) 2.0 MultiJet II engine.

    The model with the 4×2 drive system includes the pastel Art Grey livery, and also adds an exclusive selection of equipment such as automatic climate control and 18″ alloy rims. As a standard here is featured the “Safety Pack” which comprises of a wide range of active safety systems such as anti-collision, a lane change assistance system to get around blind spots, a lane departure warning system, a rear camera for reversing.

    There are also a Comfort Pack that ensures maximum on-board plus the Keyless Entry & Keyless Go system, tinted rear windows and the Opening Edition badge. The second version is covered with the exclusive tri-coat Amore Red. It features the 4×4 drive system with a 140 hp 2.0 MultiJet II engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

    As a standard, the model features wealth of exclusive content, ranging from the navigation pack to the two-tone red and black leather interiors, visibility pack with rain and dusk sensors, electrically folding door mirrors, an electrochromic rear view mirror, steering wheel gear controls and the Opening Edition badge.

    Fiat 500X will be available in dealerships in early 2015. The Opening Edition has a starting price of 21,900 Euro.

    Source: Fiat

     

  • 2015 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Sedan Go on Sale

    2015-Honda-Civic-Si-Sedan-THUMB2015 Civic Si Sedan and Coupe offer the deeply desired combination of sporty style and performance with high-tech features, quality and value. The models are currently on sale at the dealerships across the United States. Both the coupe and the sedan have been substantially upgraded for the new model year. This means that they now deliver even more powers, retuned suspension, and also feature interior refinements and new driver assistive features.

    Both variants of the Civic Si are powered by the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 205 horsepower (150 kW) and 235 Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque on tap. The unit is coupled with a slick shifting close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and sport-tuned suspension. Inside, the cabin is adorned by a sport-themed premium interior and includes high tech features such as the standard seve-inch touchscreen Display Audio, Honda LaneWatch and review camera.

    Just a few days ago Honda has announced the market launch of another of its vehicles – the CR-Z, which is not only at a great value but also offers satisfying efficiency. The latter is due to the powertrain which is the 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) electric motor.

    The powerplant is mated to either a short-throw six-speed manual transmission or sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters. The combined peak horsepower of the engine and motor is 130 horsepower (95 kW) while the maximum torque is rated at 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) or 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) on CVT models.

     

    TRIM MSRP1 EPA Fuel Economy Ratings4
    (city/highway/combined)
    Civic Si Coupe 6MT $22,890 22/31/25
    Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Summer Tires $23,090 22/31/25
    Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Navi $24,390 22/31/25
    Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Summer Tires & Navi $24,590 22/31/25
    Civic Si Sedan 6MT $23,090 22/31/25
    Civic Si Sedan 6MT w/ Summer Tires $23,290 22/31/25
    Civic Si Sedan 6MT w/ Navi $24,590 22/31/25

    Source: Honda 

  • Mopar Teases SEMA-bound Vehicles Ahead of Official Reveal

    Mopar-Modified-SEMA-Vehicles-Teaser-THUMBSEMA Show is to happen very soon and many companies are showing first glimpses of what we are to expect from them. Mopar too has released sketches of its modified Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Fiat vehicles, which are to be premiered at the event in Las Vegas. To be more precise, Mopar will display several innovative show vehicles, about which it didn’t say anything but only showed images.

    At the Convention center the brand is filling a big space measuring 15,345-square-foot, where will be exhibited improvements of the large segment of Fiat portfolio. Precisely, the vehicles on the stand include Poison Dodge Dart R/T Concept, Viper ACR Concept, Challenger T/A Concept, Fiat Abarth Scorpion, Chrysler 200S Mopar Concept, Dodge Charger Mopar Concept, Fiat 500L Custom, Jeep Renegade Trailhawk Frostbite, Renegade Limited Rip Tide, Ram ProMaster, and Ram 2500 Outdoorsman.

    Specifically, the greatest interest is expected to be provoked by the Poison Dart R/T Concept, Challenger T/A Concept, Fiat Abarth Scorpion, and the Viper ACR Concept. These concepts also hint towards future production variants.

    And if you want more details on the vehicles that are to be exhibited at SEMA, well you have to wait a little longer just before the show, when Mopar will probably reveal most of the cars online. If this does not happen, then the event is to start on 4th of November. Stay tuned!

    Source: Mopar

  • 2015 Nissan Armada: Features and Pricing

     

    Obviously, Nissan has a mission to come up with a number of ways in order to delight and surprise customers as much as possible. Now with their enhanced Nissan Armada, the multinational automobile manufacturer creates a vehicle that is more than just well-equipped.

    The upcoming 2015 Nissan Armada full-size SUV receives a full-size pack of incorporated improvements which supply the car with all necessary features. The car provides bigger comfort, better on-road reliability, and excellent class.

    With its modified interior trim styling, standard power lumbar that is attached to the driver’s seat, the innovative 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs, and smooth and glossy attractiveness on the outside, the car looks more than just desirable. The exterior colors are varied. The new Nissan Armada can be purchased in Arctic Metallic Blue, Pearl Black, and on top of this, Pearl White which is available as a premium.

    Variety is all around the car for 2015 Armada is available in three versions again: Armada SV, Armada SL and Armada Platinum. Each of them can be found with 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive. It is really up to you to choose. Nissan Armada is powered by refined 5.6-liter Endurance V8 engine that produces up to 317 HP (236 kW) and claims 0-60 mph times of about seven seconds due to the five-speed automatic transmission.

    The usual features of the SUV are comprised of Nissan Intelligent Key®, premium Bose® audio system that has 11 speakers, DVD Family Entertaining System, moonroof, power-folding 60/40-split 3rd row seat and rear leveling air suspension, and finally, Nissan Navigation system with NavTraffic and NavWeather information.

    The passing ability of the Armada is impressive. It has enough seats and space for eight passengers and it tows up to 9,000 pounds.

    The starting price for the 2015 Nissan Armada is $38,060 USD.

  • TEASER: New Audi Concept Car to Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show

    Audi-show-car-THUMBThe new era of Audi’s automotive design is just around the corner. The company has released the first teaser of a feature car, prepared for an official reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The event is starting on 19th of November. The new concept vehicle marks a new beginning in Audi Design both in terms of exterior and interior.

    What’s more, this is the first show car from Marc Lichte. He was appointed Head of Audi Design in February, who has promised to communicate the technical competence and uncompromising product quality of the German car maker.

    Unfortunately, the released image doesn’t say much about the model. It is darkened and shows only the contours of the car. However, we are almost sure that such a concept vehicle will probably go into production if the public acclaim is good. Such instances in the history of Audi are the TT Coupe, R8 model and the Q7.

    We also have another guess that the car will also preview the new A9 model. Lichte said that the new models will be immediately recognizable as Audi’s. This means that they will retain the emblematic signature single frame grille. If this car is a concept version of the A9, this means that it will be the top of the range model, sitting above the existing A8.

    Source: Audi 

  • AMS Nissan GT-R Alpha Omega: Breaking Records Once Again

    As if it hasn’t been enough spectacular already, AMS Nissan GT-R Alpha Omega once again proves to be one of the best sports cars in the world. Pushing the limits of the car at Royal Purple Raceway (RPR.), Baysite, TX, the Nissan team sets the vehicle for a record breaking run.
    Previously, Nissan GT-R holds the grandiose 7-second record with a terminal speed of 299.33 km/h (186 mph). What seems to be an unbeatable score, until this year, actually turns out to be rather… beatable, for the AMS Nissan GT-R Alpha Omega becomes the first Nissan GT-R that manages to break the 7-second barrier in drag racing.

    Despite the bad weather conditions at the time, dropping temperatures, increasing frustration, and timing equipment malfunctions, the accomplished results are still outstanding. The GT-R Alpha Omega, then, achieves ¼ mile in the mind-blowing 7.70 seconds, thus beating the previous record of Nissan GT-R set in just 7.984 seconds.

    In addition to this, the Nissan holds some other excellent performing statistics and records, such as: setting 0-60 mph in 1.53 seconds; 0-100 mph in 2.79 seconds; 100-150 mph: 2.15 seconds, and finallyt 0-300 kph (186 mph) in only 7.56 seconds.

    Follow the link bellow to get a glimpse of the remarkable performance.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlEwkxuqaRI

  • Novitec Torado based on Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

     

    Dynamic, aggressive, outrageous, the new NOVITEC TORADO Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster really flashes in front of the eyes with a spectacular extravaganza in terms of quality, bodylook and functioning! The rich number of refinements and customizations delivered by the business division of NOVITEC GROUP, NOVITEC TORADO, turns the new drop-top car into more than just a mighty sports car. The striking power of the two-seater beast, the amazing style and its aerodynamic efficiency, when combined all together, complement the high-class performance, thus shaping one hell of a car. Who wouldn’t like to try their luck and boost a little bit, or more, the adrenaline with this beauty!?

    NOVITEC TORADO Aventador is made of carbon-fiber body components that can be found with a glossy or matt finish, as well as in a version for painting in vehicle or another contrasting and distinguishable color. The interior parts are made from the finest leather and Alcantara in any possible color. The custom-made staggered high-tech forged wheels of the car have diameter of 20 and 21 inches. The roadster version of the Lamborghini outshines its predecessor that is powered by 12-cylinder engine. Moreover, the new NOVITEC TORADO boosts up to 728 HP (535 kW) and has a high-quality exhaust system with excellent performance. The latter offers an optional active electronic sound management just at the push of a single button in the cockpit, thus, making the sound of the engine more impressive than ever. The reached peak torque is that of 709 Nm.

    Yet, one of the most cardinal changes and upgrades by NOVITEC TORADO tunning are in the face of the new model. The front part is altered with a modified trunk lid that comprises of integrated air ducts and, again, modified air extractors before the windshield. The bumper on the front is modernized and replaced with a two-piece NOVITEC TORADO front spoiler on the left and right. There are also upgraded air intakes and a central blade. All of those refinements result in an absolute optimization of the handling stability at high speeds by reducing the negative lift of the front axle.

    The NOVITEC TORADO high-performance exhaust system is available without engine tuning and it comes in either a stainless-steel model or a version that is made from lighter INCONEL used in Formula 1 racing.

    Source: NOVITEC

  • Dual Motor Model S and Autopilot

     

    The new Tesla Dual Motor Model S has a motor on each axle and it comes with a battery of either 60 kWh or 85 kWh. The torque is controlled independently and digitally to the front and rear wheels which results in a stable performance, making Dual Motor Model S a vehicle that is most reliable when it comes to road handling and road holding.

    With the increased efficiency and pure implementation that the new Tesla’s Dual Motor propulsion system demonstrates, it is able to overshadow gasoline cars in the same class. A vivid example for this is the Model S 85D which has proven to be better than gasoline-powered cars in terms of performing. It not only delivers 100 percent of peak torque but also perform from 0 to 60 mph in the impressive 3.2 seconds.

    The combination of the P85 rear motor and the brand new front drive unit of Tesla produces probably the fastest four-door car ever that can accelerate in the blink of an eye… Almost. Such results can only be accomplished by an electric car. And what is the best part about P85D? It perfectly matches the McLaren F1 and, even more so, it does not ask for a professional driver. The glory of this outstanding performance can be achieved pretty much by anyone that steps a foot inside the car.

    Dual Motor Model S launches with a variety of new safety features and other product updates such as improvements for a quieter cabin, seat comfort enhancements, charge-port door that self-closes and opens electrically, enlarged vanity mirror, bigger visor size and many more.

    Finally, the Autopilot system is very much like the one used by pilots in order to ensure better comfort and increased safety in clear conditions. Nevertheless, the full range of improved and new features such as digital control of motors, brakes, its ability to steer in order to stay within a lane, changing lanes with a tap of a turn signal, steering to avoid collisions from the front, sides, or from leaving the road as well as many others will be available in a few months.

    Source: Tesla

  • G-Power Introduces the Mighty BMW M6 F06 Gran Coupe

    G-Power-BMW-M6-F06-Gran-Coupe-THUMBG-Power BMW M6 F06 Gran Coupe is the latest addition in the garage of the tuners. The biggest change they have made is via their G-Power Bi-Tronik, which is increasing the power output of the M6 Gran Coupe to the staggering 740 hp (544 kW) and 975 Nm (720 lb-ft) of torque. This means a power enhancement of 150 hp and 210 Nm of torque. G-Power uses individual solution for the engine thanks to which the amount of fuel and the ignition timing were modified.

    Precisely, these modifications were made by a micro-processor that is patched in before the standard BMW ECU. In addition, ASA supercharger was used for the supercharger systems and the exhaust system has been substantially reworked and now feature cover catalysts replacement pipes and a Titanium exhaust system. The deep and throaty sound is what also complements the addition of this exhaust.

    The increase on power also results in faster acceleration time. The figure from stand still to 200 km/h is now just 10,5 seconds and the top speed is more than 300 km/h. In terms of suspension, first to notice are the 21 inch G-Power Hurricane RR forged wheels, wrapped with Michelin tyres in the dimensions 255/30 ZR 21 and 295/25 ZR 21 for the front and rear, respectively. The handling is further improved via the continuously height-adjustable coil-over suspension GM6-RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

    Furthermore, there has been also added a new G-Power Braking System with six brake pistons and 420 mm brake disc diameter for the front axle. Additionally, the ceramic braking system reduces the unsprung mass by 50% percent, compared to a system with steel brake discs.

    The interior of this BMW was also reworked entirely and now features exclusive accessories. Take as an example the ergonomically formed sports steering wheel or instruments in G-Power design, the noble carbon-leather fitments. The tuners have covered the plastic surfaces of the standard production M6 cockpit with leather or Alcantara. The visual highlights inside are the illuminated G-Power logos spread throughout the interior.

    The new interior is rounded out by the addition of an exclusive multimedia entertainment system which includes audio system, electric powered iPads in the rear of the front seats, a lowerable main monitor from the headlining and an Apple iMac.

    Source: G-Power