Auto News – Page 441 – Automobiles Review

Volvo’s New Drive-E Powertrain Concept Delivers more than 450 Horsepower

Volvo’s Drive-E Powertrain Concept is delivering unique mix of performance and efficiency. Precisely, this unit is a triple boost 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine which is potent to produce no less than 450 hp. More interestingly, the 450 hp (331 kW) High Performance Drive-E is based on a set of technologies not usually found in a four cylinder engine. The powerplant utilizes two parallel turbochargers that draw force from electrically powered turbo-compressor.

The compressed air from this unit is used to spool up the two parallel turbochargers. Furthermore, the fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure. This power density, along with the triple boost installation and unique fuel system, enables a very dynamic drivability.

The engine has already attracted the attention and involvement of Volvo Cars suppliers AVL, Denso and Volvo Polestar Racing at an early stage. They have allowed the theories and technologies that they are using for racing to be infused in the development process.

This combination of technologies will end up in a unique engine with its high power yet quick response. What is more, its compact size enhances weight distribution between the front and rear axle and lowers the center of gravity. This had a major effect on the handling of the car using the engine.

In addition, the compact powertrains deliver more space and have less weight, thus entirely modifying the structure of the car. The freed space and saved kilograms can be used for electrification and even additional emissions reduction.

Source: Volvo

October 8, 2014

Chrysler issues voluntary recall

The US branch of Chrysler Group has issued a voluntary recall for an estimated 22,115 small cargo vans that need a software upgrade for a program that controls certain airbags.

The recall is the result of an investigation that discovered that specific vehicle configurations may adversely affect sensors that control side-curtain and/or thorax airbags, causing inadvertent deployment. The problem is that under certain circumstances there might be exclusion of rear-audio and climate-control components adjacent to the sensors. The resulting gaps can generate a resonance, exaggerated by loaded roof racks and rough-road inputs, which may disrupt normal sensor operation. Fortunately, according to Chrysler, no one has been injured so far and no accidents have been reported.

Unfortunately the only solution is to undergo a software upgrade but the good news is that the availability of the new software is on its way. Chrysler says that in the US there are about 18,245 2013-2015 Ram C/V Tradesman vehicles that are affected and then 3,870 in Canada. Owners, most of whom are fleet customers, will be contacted by Chrysler Group and advised when they may schedule service, the cost of which will be borne by the Company. You can also call Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for more information.

Source: Chrysler

October 7, 2014

DD Customs BMW X6 M Facelift

DD Customs has presented their latest project based on BMW X6 M Facelift. The Sports Activity Coupe looks incredibly good, especially with the complete aerodynamics package by DD Customs and huge 22” alloy wheels.

2013 BMW X6 M is powered by the impressive 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 – 555HP (408 kW) at 6,000RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,500RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed M-Sport automatic gearbox with paddleshifters on the steering wheel. The power is put on the road through the world’s most intelligent AWD system – xDrive. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds; 0-200 km/h – 16.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The staggering performance is delivered by a number of new technologies – M TwinPower Turbo Technology with exhaust gas manifold connecting both rows of cylinders, Twin-Scroll twin-trubo technology, High Precision injection and double VANOS.

The Tycoon wide body modified by DD Customs delivers epic look. There are extended mudguards and big aprons, front and rear. The DD Customs-X6 appears like a professional bodybuilder posing on the stage. The strongly contoured Tycoon motor cowl and the front spoiler and outer mirror housing by Hamann Motorsport are made of super light carbon fibre fabric.

There is also a modified rear diffuser, entrance strips, door handles, roof railing and even the aerial fin on the roof with exposed carbon.

The tire/wheel set includes 10.5J x 22” front and 12J x 22” Hamann Anniversary Evo Black Line wheel rims fitted with Continental Sport Contact 5P rubbers – 295/30 R22 and 335/25 R22.

The interior boasts a number of carbon fiber elements, new upholstery for the head rests, a set of aluminium pedals as well as new entrance lighting.

Source: DD Customs

October 7, 2014

Roush Reveals Custom 2015 Ford Mustang RS Lineup

Roush Performance is famous for its customization projects involving muscle cars. Under the lights toady is Roush’s latest freshly redesigned Ford Mustang. The aggressive 2015 RS lineup will be built on the Mustang’s V6 platform. The first Stage will feature the new turbo-charged Ford 2.3L Eco-Boost motor, while the second – the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8. All of the modified Mustangs will get the R7, or the seventh generation aero-body package.

To go further into details, the R7 kit comprises of an entirely remodeled fascia with integrated aero-pockets, a five-blade upper grille, high-flow lower grille with driving lamps, and a front chin splitter. Along with the aggressive new look, the Stage 1 and Stage 2 get the new ROUSH quad-tip performance exhaust system.

There are also available suspension setups that deliver handling boost as well as new Quicksilver 20-inch Roush wheels. They were wrapped in the Roush/Cooper RS3-S ultra high-performance tires.

Inside, the vehicle was also modified. The cabin now includes Roush embroidered floor mats and a serialized dash badge. There is an optional gauge cluster and leather seating upgrades. There will be also offered several exterior and interior options, including side quarter window scoops, body side scoop, hood scoop and more.

The Mustangs will first be available in manual coupes. Later, the convertible chassis and automatic transmissions will follow. 2015 Roush Ford Mustang Lineup is expected to be available at dealerships in mid October.

Source: Roush

October 7, 2014

SEMA-bound Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition to be Named by Fans

2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will make a firs world appearance at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas thus November. As part of National Name Your Car Day, the musclecar builder is inviting fans to name the vehicle, which will be revealed also at the event. What is more, this Chevy won’t remain one-off model, but instead – will go into production very soon. The car wears an exclusive Emerald Green Metallic exterior color, but is also endowed with other unique exterior features.

This special-edition Camaro SS will be offered in both coupe and convertible variants. They will be equipped with the 2SS trim. Chevrolet will also add the RS Appearance Package, which comprises of high-intensity discharge headlamps, light-emitting diode (LED) taillamps, RS-specific front upper grille, body-color roof moldings and body-color antenna.

Furthermore, this emerald beauty will be rolling on the streets on Chrome Dusk 21-inch accessory wheels. Other goodies featured here include body-color SS hood extractor and ZL1 rear spoiler, body-color accessory ground effects package as well as Cyber Gray rally stripes.

Inside, both variants will include a black interior with Graphite Silver door panel and instrument panel inserts. The convertibles will get a black top. Of course, the company has prepared optional equipment, which includes a sunroof, dual-mode exhaust, navigation radio and Chevrolet Performance short-throw shifter.

Under the hood of the unnamed warrior will hide the 6.2L V-8 engine. It produces 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) in models with the standard six-speed manual transmission, and 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) for models equipped with the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2015.

Source: Chevrolet

October 7, 2014

Fiat 500 Couture Special Editions Exhibited in Paris

Paris saw a really nice debut this year in the face of the Italian style icon – the Fiat 500 Couture. Under this name hide three distinctive vehicles: 500 Ron Arad Edition with a specific design like a garment “sewn” onto the car; the 500 Comics and 500 Camouflage showcars. The trio is inspired by the world of fashion and created to add to the pop and trendy nature in the 500′s DNA. The premiere took place during the Paris Fashion Week at the MotorVillage Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées.

500 Ron Arad Edition is a result of the joint work of the Italian brand and the internationally celebrated designer Ron Arad. To be more precise, the silhouette of the historic 1957 Fiat 500, or more famous as ‘Cinquino’, is drawn on the sides of the car using the Italian craftsmanship.

The car is equipped with great features such as a glass sunroof, chrome-plated accents, black interiors, superb black Poltrona Frau leather seats with ivory trim, 7″ TFT instrument panel, Blue&Me, leather steering wheel with radio controls, automatic climate control system, fog lights, 16 inch alloy rims, black metallic paintwork and white mirror caps with the silhouette of the legendary 500 drawn on the side panels.

The next two models, 500 Comics and 500 Camouflage showcars pay homage to the pop nature of the iconic Fiat 500. The first one has a two-tone livery, pastel ochre yellow and metallic black, embellished by craftsmanship resulting in “stitching” that traces out the stylish lines. The second model is inspired by 500′s DNA and features grey/green camouflage pattern, highlighted by the fluorescent yellow mirror covers.

Only 2015 Fiat 500 Ron Arad will eventually go on sale in Europe, starting from November this year. The car will be delivered to the new owner’s home together with an 1:18 scale model.

Source: Fiat

October 7, 2014

Chevrolet Fights Breast Cancer for Fourth Consecutive Year

Chevrolet and General Motors are uniting to battle breast cancer for fourth consecutive year. Both companies are hoping to gather more than last year’s $1.1 million proceeds this October. Te money will be raised for the American Cancer Society (ACS) through Chevrolet’s nationwide grassroots support for the society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks and other activities.

There will be several events, which will include nationwide employee and dealership-sponsored fund-raising walks as well as the especially themed pink Chevrolet SS. The vehicle will be the official pace car, making caution laps at three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekends. There also will be test-drive donations at Chevrolet dealers throughout this month.

The gathered proceeds will go for ACS’s ongoing research, wellness and breast cancer awareness education. They will also support breast cancer patients and their families. In fact, since Chevrolet has been involved in this campaign, it has helped the society raise more than $3 million.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in America. Its early detection and treatment are life-saving. Getting involved in a walk or making a donation is something anyone can do to make a difference.

Chevrolet-sponsored activities in October in support of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer:

Chevrolet test drives: Chevrolet will donate $10 for every customer who test drives a Chevrolet at a dealership this month
Team Chevy motorsports: Chevrolet is donating $250 for each caution lap that the pink Chevrolet SS Pace Car leads in three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends
Chevrolet and GM employee walks: During October, General Motors facilities, plants and warehouses across the country will participate in fund-raising walks. Learn more about the Detroit walk by visiting the event page and contribute directly.
Chevrolet dealership walks: Hundreds of dealerships are sponsoring teams in community walks. Apparel sales: Cruisin’ Sports is contributing 10 percent of its sales from items supporting Making Strides to the ACS.

October 7, 2014

Enhanced 2015 Kia Rio Hatch with World Premiere in Paris

2015 Kia Rio is getting enhanced and it just made its official debut at the Paris Motor Show. The car now features a number of improvements, including a slight visual makeover both inside and outside. The Rio design team in Korea has updated car’s ‘tiger-nose grille’, thus giving it a newly-designed front bumper and fog lights. The enhanced Rio will be offered exclusively in Europe with a choice of up to four efficient engines. Their power output will range from 75 hp to 109 hp.

The units will drive the front wheels via five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. In addition, every engine in the range can be equipped with the optional second-generation fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology. The ISG features an automatic start-stop function, advanced alternator control and an upgraded starter motor.

Kia is also offering three new alloy wheel designs that will be available in 15-, 16- and 17-inch dimension. What is more, the refreshed Rio’s profile is rounded up by the new rear bumper. Two new exterior paint finishes, called Urban Blue and Digital Yellow will be also added.

Inside, the updated Rio is brightened by the addition of chrome accents around the four dashboard air-vents. There is also a newly-designed centre-stack around the audio system. The range-topping EX models have a new cloth trim as standard, while the Kia is also offering as an option grey faux leather upholstery.

Other available features for this car include DAB digital radio and the AVN (audio-video navigation) system with a 7.0-inch display screen, improved processing speed and faster route calculation. 2015 Kia Rio hatchback is expected to go on sale in Europe in 2015.

Source: Kia

October 7, 2014

Chevrolet announces 2015 Trax pricing

The US automaker Chevrolet has announced the pricing of the upcoming 2015 Chevrolet Trax – the small-sized vehicle will start at USD 20,995.

The 2015 Trax tries to combine SUV style, space and versatility with the maneuverability of a compact car. The Trax offers various comfort features that include a MyLink infotainment system with a seven-inch touch screen, a rear view camera, remote keyless entry and a 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat and fold-down front passenger seat offering more than 48 cubic feet of cargo space. If you are not satisfied with this, a USD 1,500 option, which is available on all trim levels, provides you with all-wheel drive, which makes the Trax the most affordable AWD model in Chevrolet’s portfolio. An OnStar 4G LTE system with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot completes the picture. The Trax is also the first car in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free connectivity for compatible iPhone users. The car is powered by a standard 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that provides EPA fuel efficiency of 26 US MPG (9.0 l/100km) in a city and 34 US MPG (6.9 l/100 km) on a highway.

The Trax is Chevrolet’s seventh small vehicle launch in four years. During that time, the brand’s share of the small-, compact- and mini-car segments has more than tripled. “Trax is positioned to be a strong competitor in the emerging small-SUV market, which is expected to grow more than 80 percent in the next few years,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet director of car marketing.

In the USA the new car will be available in January 2015 in three trim levels – LS, LT and LTZ. The vehicle is already available in 66 markets around the world; sales have reached 155,000 vehicles.

Source: Chevrolet

October 6, 2014

Toyota Releases HiLux Black Edition

Toyota HiLux Black Edition is the new an edgy vehicle added to the famous four-wheel-drive HiLux family of vehicles. The special edition model has a name that says it all. The HiLux Black is adorned by a range of exterior and interior features, which are presented in black in order to enhance its toughness and appeal. To go into details, this version is includes a combination of brooding black side steps, sports bar and leather-accented interior trim including the six-way adjustable power-operated driver’s seat.

What is more, even the newly designed 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels are painted black. As you can see, this vehicle also includes prominent new front and rear bumpers that give the HiLux Black a lower stance. This muscular look is accentuated by the black extensions below the fog light surrounds.

In addition, the new large black lower front grille features a stylish red stripe along the bottom edge, which makes the HiLux more aggressive. LED daylight running lamps are also present. Toyota‘s global partner TRD was also involved in the creation of this special edition. TDR provided only the cosmetic enhancements such as its familiar logo on the wheel caps and the front bumper extension.

The model is powered by Toyota’s torquey 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which is coupled with either a five-speed manual gearbox or five-speed automatic transmission. The extensive feature list includes a reversing camera and a satellite navigation system with SUNA™ Live Traffic updates, which all are displayed in the 6.1-inch display audio screen.

The Japanese company is offering in this case the exterior color choices on black and white, called Eclipse Black and Glacier White. In 4×4 guise, Toyota HiLux Black Edition will have fewer than 1,000 units produced. It is based on the SR5 4×4 Double Cab pickup and has the maximum five-star safety rating.

Source: Toyota

October 6, 2014

ST Suspensions Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

The CLA-Class is highly appreciated model among Mercedes-Benz customers, especially in the USA. Over 25 % of all Mercedes-Benz CLA have been sold in North America. That’s why ST Suspensions, manufactured by KW offers ST X and ST XTA coilovers for the models in the range.

The CLA-class can be lowered up to 60 mm giving it unique stance and significantly improved handling. The ST XTA also offers the possibility to adjust the damper setup to a more sporty or comfortable feel and the user can also adjust the camber via the aluminium Unibal top mounts at the front axle.

The coilover kits can be fitted on all models in the range of CLA-Class including the most powerful 45 AMG version. It comes with the world’s most powerful 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine – 360HP (265 kW) at 6,000RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The engine is mated to an AMG SPEED SHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with three driving programs, double-declutching function and Race Start.

The engine delivers 180HP / liter displacement, which is the highest ratio on the market.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is priced from $47,450 in the USA.

Source: KW

October 6, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG and AMG GT – Price €76,100 and €115,430

Mercedes-Benz has announced the pricing of the all-new AMG GT as well as C 63 AMG models.

“For us, the sales start of the Mercedes-AMG GT and C 63 is the start of a new era which is also highlighted by the new nomenclature. In this way we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than before as a dynamic sports car brand,” commented Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“When sales start, both models will already be available as particularly dynamic S-models. I am quite certain of this: the driving dynamics, agility and sportiness will thrill our AMG customers. With these twohigh-performance models we are further reinforcing our brand claim of “Driving Performance”., he added.

2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT at a glance:

	Mercedes-AMG GT S	Mercedes-AMG GT
Displacement	3982 cc	3982 cc
Output	375 kW (510 hp) at 6250 rpm (6000-6500 rpm*)	340 kW (462 hp) at 6000 rpm
Max. torque	650 Nm at 1750-4750 rpm (1750-5000 rpm*)	600 Nm at 1600-5000 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	9.4 l/100 km	9.3 l/100 km
CO₂ emissions	219 g/km	216 g/km
Efficiency class	G	G
Kerb weight (according to EC)	1570 kg / 1645 kg*	1540 kg / 1615 kg*
Power-to-weight ratio	3.08 / 3.22* kg/hp	3.33 / 3.49* kg/hp
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	3.8 s	4.0 s
Top speed	310 km/h****	304 km/h****

* In conjunction with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package; ** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage); *** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); **** Electronically limited.

The Edition 1 adds a number of nice upgrades including

Aerodynamic package in black
Carbon-fibre roof
Night package
10-spoke light-alloy wheels

Interior:

Black nappa leather interior with red contrasting topstitching
Performance seats with integral belt guide in black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre with red contrasting topstitching
Interior Black Diamond package

Performance steering wheelThe market launch will commence with the Mercedes-AMG GT S in Europe in the first quarter of 2015, with the GT and other markets to follow.

Prices*:

Mercedes-AMG GT S	€134,351.00
Mercedes-AMG GT S “Edition 1”	€148,512.00
Mercedes-AMG GT	€115.430.00

*Prices for Germany including 19% VAT.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG at a glance:

	Mercedes-AMG C 63 S	Mercedes-AMG C 63
Displacement	3982 cc	3982 cc
Output	375 kW (510 hp) at 5500-6250 rpm	350 kW (476 hp)at 5500-6250 rpm
Max. Torque	700 Nm at 1750-4500 rpm	650 Nm at 1750-4500 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	8.4-8.2 l/100 km (8.6-8.4 l/100 km)	8.2 l/100 km (8.4 l/100 km)
CO₂ emissions	195-192 g/km(200-196 g/km)	192 g/km(196 g/km)
Efficiency class	E (E)	E(E)
Kerb weight (according to EC)	1655 kg* / 1730 kg*(1725 kg / 1800 kg**)	1640 kg* / 1715 kg*(1710 kg / 1785 kg**)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.0 (4.1) s	4.1 (4.2) s
Top speed	250 km/h***	250 km/h***

Figures in brackets for Estate * Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage); ** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); *** Electronically limited

“Edition 1”

forged wheels
Night package
Spoiler lip
Red highlights
Side sports stripes

Interior:

Performance seats
Red designo seat belts
Performance steering wheel
Trim in red pepper carbon fibre
Black floor mats

The market launch of the C 63 and C 63 S Saloon models will commence in February 2015, with the Estate models following in April.
Prices*:

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S	€84,371.00
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S “Edition 1”	€96,152.00
Mercedes-AMG C 63	€76,100.50
Mercedes-AMG C 63 “Edition 1”	€90,321.00
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Estate	€86,037.00
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Estate “Edition 1”	€97,818.00
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate	€77,766.50
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate “Edition 1”	€91,987.00

*Prices for Germany including 19% VAT

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 6, 2014

Category: Auto News