Auto News – Page 454 – Automobiles Review

2015 Subaru BRZ Special Edition

Subaru is introducing a special edition BRZ which comes with several upgrades.New for 2015 are the fin shark antena on top of the car, some improved interior elements as well as reworked suspension system to enhance the driving feel, compared to the last year. The 2015 Subaru BRZ comes in 3 trim levels: Premium, limited, and the “series blue limited edition” of which only a thousand will be made.

This 2015 Subaru comes with a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, that gets up to 200 (147 kW) horsepower and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque, conjugated with a six speed manual transmission that will get you up to 30 mpg on the highway. Depending on which trim level you choose your 2015 Subaru BRZ,it comes with a number of exterior enhancements, stepping up from the premium to the limited BRZ will get you a rear deck lid spoiler. And going from the premium to the series blue, gets you awesome STI designed wheels. You can also notice an aero kit installed on the car, including the front side, the rear diffuser and the skirts that run along the side of the car

The 2015 Subaru BRZ has really been designed with the enthusiast in mind.

There is a large center mounted tachometer and also the six speed manual transmission easily within the arm’s reach. A carbon fiber trim on the dahs board with blue stitching that goes all around the interior which is exclusive to the BRZ models

One thing that I find disappointing with the BRZ is the lack of steering wheel mounted controls. However you do get a navigation and Bluetooth connectivity standard with every BRZ . Along with that when you step from the premium to the limited edition, you get heated leather seating surfaces, heated mirrors as well as key less ignition and key less entry.

Available to order, the 2015 Subaru BRZ special edition (AU-spec) will reach its customers in November.

Source: Subaru

September 12, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz B-Class – Price £22,575

Mercedes-Benz UK is now offering the all-new 2015 B-Class. The pricing starts from £22,575 for the entry level model. The best-selling model from Mercedes-Benz has undergone a major facelift including exterior and interior upgrades as well as an attractive, redefined design and equipment improvements.

“As the first member of a completely new generation of compact class, for us the B-Class paved the way for great success in this vehicle segment. The pioneer is now in better shape than ever,” commented Ola Källenius, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales.

“The B-Class is the perfect (family) car for anyone who attaches importance to practicality, comfort and safety, but at the same time doesn’t want to miss out on sportiness or driving dynamics.”, he added.

The exterior boasts a new front bumper, wide radiator trim with two ventilation inserts and new DRL (daytime running lights) in the headlamps. The rear bumper is also modified and comes with n additional chrome trim strip. LED High Performance headlamps create a more striking look, both day and night (not available for the B-Class Electric Drive).

The interior comes with premium quality materials, a more exclusive, up-to-date feel and improved individualisation. Mercedes-Benz has enhanced a number of high-quality details in the B-Class such as the large, free-standing head unit display, which is now larger, with a diagonal of up to 8”. There is a choice of 12 colours for the ambient lighting, allowing different moods to be created. KEYLESS-GO is also a new optional feature.

The engine range includes four diesel and two petrol models – B180 CDI, B180 CDI, B200 CDI and B220CDI 4MATIC for the diesel side and B180, B200 for the petrol range.

Model	B 180 CDI*	B 180 CDI ECO	B 200 CDI/**	B 220 CDI/4MATIC*
Number of cylinders/arrangement	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line
Displacement (cc)	1461	1461	2143	2143
Rated output (hp at rpm)	109 at 4000	109 at 4000	136 at 3200-4000 [3400-4400]	177 at 3600-3800
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	260 at 1750-2500	260 at 1750-2500	300 at 1400-3000	350 at 1400-3400
Combined fuel consumption from (mpg)	68.9 (70.6)	78.5	65.6 (70.6) [56.5]	68.9 [56.5]
Combined CO₂ emissions from (g/km)	108 (104)	94	111 (104) [130]	107 [130]
Efficiency class	A (A+)	A+	A (A+) [B]	A+ [B]
Acceleration 0-62 mph (s)	11.6 (11.9)	11.6	9.9 (9.8) [9.8]	8.3[8.3]
Top speed (mph)	117 (117)	117	130 (130) [128]	139 [136]

*Figures for model with 7G-DCT in round brackets, ** standard with 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission,
***figures for 4MATIC version in square brackets

All petrol models at a glance:

Model	B 180	B 200**
Number of cylinders/arrangement	4 in-line	4 in-line
Displacement (cc)	1595	1595
Rated output (hp at rpm)	122 at 5000	156 at 5300
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	200 at 1250-4000	250 at 1250-4000
Combined fuel consumption from (l/100 km)	50.44 (52.3)	50.44 (52.3)
Combined CO₂ emissions from (g/km)	129 (125)	130 (125)
Efficiency class	B (B)	B (B)
Acceleration 0-62 mph (s)	9.3 (9.2)	8.6 (8.4)
Top speed (mph)	124 (124)	136 (136)

All models with alternative drive systems at a glance:

Model	B-Class Electric Drive
Number of cylinders/arrangement	–
Displacement (cc)	–
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm)	132/180
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	340
Fuel consumption, combined, from	16.6 kWh/100 km
Combined CO₂ emissions from (g/km)	0
Efficiency class	A+
Acceleration 0-62 mph (s)	7.9
Top speed mph	99

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 12, 2014

Vauxhall’s New Large Diesel Engine

A new Vauxhall master piece power train will be unveiled in the “Insignia” and “Zafria Tourer” series at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, which will be live from 4-th to the 19th of October.

A brilliant 2.0 litre diesel engine that is great to drive in long distance travel. Very smooth and quiet, you soon start forget it is even a diesel one. Impressive torque of 400Nm (295 lb-ft) is available from 1,750 to 2,500rpm, and maximum power of 170PS is accessed at just 3,750rpm with 14 per cent more torque while reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.The new engine’s power is 85PS/ litre. Available next year, the new 2.0 CDTi is the first in a new large range of diesel engines developed by a global team of engineers. Vauxhall’s never ending focus on “sound engineering” results engine noise reduction by 5 decibels as well in minimizing noise, vibration and harshness.

Vauxhall’s newly developed “BlueInjection Selective Catalytic Reduction” system allows the engine to run as smooth as a petrol one. This 2.0-litre CDTi unit is the latest step in Vauxhall’s power train engineering , following the establishment of the all-new 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines and a 1.0-litre three cylinder petrol power train.

The all-new 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine will debut at next month’s 2014 Paris Motor Show.

Source: Vauxhall

September 11, 2014

Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition

Aston Martin has just unveiled the 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Black and Carbon White Edition. The special models are available both as a Coupe and in Volante specification.

The duo of special edition Vanquishes remain mechanically identical to the standard car. The 2015 Aston Martin Carbon White and Carbon Black Editions come up with the exact same engines: A 6.0-litre V12 which now rounds up produces 576 PS (423 kW) and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. With a brand new 8-speed transmission, the 2015 Vanquish hits from 0 to 96 km/h (0 to 60 mp/h) in 3.6 seconds. That is 0.5 seconds faster than the current car model and makes the Vanquish the fastest accelerating series production Aston Martin ever. For the first time Aston Marin can surpass 320 km/h (200 mph).

A nice new package of dark-theme exterior details along with graphite painted diamond-turned alloy wheels together with black headlamp bezels, side window surrounds and textured tailpipe finishers, clear rear lamps with black surrounds.

New interior changes include Herringbone carbon fiber trim, black accents and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with black anodized speaker grilles; machined carbon sill plaques, black magnesium paddle-shifts or carbon fibre gearshift surround; satin chrome rotaries; a leather (or Alcantara) steering wheel with contrasting on-centre stitch feature; seat and door inserts in technical Plissè Alcantara and unique seat trim patterns.

Pricing of the Vanquish edition is approximately about $99,900

Source: Aston Martin

September 11, 2014

SsangYong XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure to Debut in Paris

SsangYong XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure Concepts will make a world debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October. The vehicles preview what the production soon-to-be-launched X100 model will look like. Both are based on brand’s development philosophy of ‘Robust, Specialty and Premium’ and design theme of ‘Nature born – 3 Motion’. To go even further into details, the XIV stands for eXciting user-Interface Vehicle. It is part of SsangYong’s B-segment SUV series, which was shown for the first time at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt and with the most recent – the XLV, shown in Geneva this March.

There are almost no details provided by the brand around those two. What SsangYong has disclosed is the SUVs will measure 4,195 mm in length and will feature a 2,600 mm wheelbase. In addition, the XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure will be powered by either a 1.6 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engines that meet Euro 6 emission standards.

As one can see from the teaser images below, the two new concepts will offer more style, practicality and convenience for the user. Although the teaser images are pretty dark, we can get some impression for the exterior of the models. The muscular stance is evident as well as the wraparound front and rear lights, and the slim grille.

Both concepts differ in terms of alloys, with the XIV-Air having more concept-like ones. The same model features a large air intake positioned on the lower front bumper. It also sports silverfish exterior paint scheme. On the other hand, the XIV-Adventure, finished in green, has rugged and off-road appearance. It is visible that it features a roof rack and a storage compartment attached to the bootlid.

SsangYong X100 is scheduled to go on sale next year.

Source: SsangYong

September 11, 2014

Toyota Introduces Innovative Urban Utility Concept [VIDEO]

Toyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle was developed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The concept car will make a first public presence at World Maker Faire in New York City on 20th and 21st of September. This revolutionary vehicle includes a new open architecture and is built with innovative materials that redefine urban utility. For instance the designers have included the ability to roll back the roof, fold down the tailgate into a ramp and customize the interior on a versatile rail system.

The model was inspired by a growing innovative spirit in urban areas. Just take as an example the vehicle elements, which showcase the lifestyle and needs of an entrepreneurial city driver. Both exterior and interior are made in such way that they are intended for urban utilization.

Car’s exterior dimensions can perfectly handle bumper-to-bumper traffic, potholes and tight corners. Furthermore, this Toyota U2 concept has an extremely durable underbody and tool-like exterior. In addition, the side panels are completely customizable.

There are other distinctive design highlights such as the circular door handles and a slightly chunky proportion. The rear has a box-like design, which of course hints towards vehicle’s storage capabilities.

Other exclusive features regarding the exterior that needs to be mentioned are the roof panels that retract open, the rear glass that can slide into the tailgate, the tailgate that folds down into a ramp and the protective and replaceable ridges on tailgate.

Inside, the concept is as customizable as the outside. At the center of the design philosophy stood the outdoor activities, which involve gear and equipment. As a result, this made the Toyota U2 concept a flexible, functional gadget that owners can model according to their needs.

For instance, the retractable utility bar can be used as a holding a desk or grocery bag hooks. The side windows flip up for easy access from roadside. Other key interior highlights include a versatile utility rail system configurable which can hold everything from baskets to bike stands and the ability to fold and remove the front passenger seat. Toyota also created a fold-up rear seating, unique shifter design with intuitive switch for parking, drive and reverse mode.

Toyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle has the size of a compact car. However, it also incorporates the functionality of a compact truck and the spaciousness of a cargo van. It also delivers good fuel economy, maneuverability in city environments as well as easy loading and unloading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfKeLto3v60

Video Source: YouTube
Source: Toyota

September 11, 2014

DMC “Extrem” Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The Mercedes G-Class, formerly know as the G-Wagen is a traditional tough off-roader. It hasn’t changed much since its release back in 1979. The company sets for a new beginning with the launch of Mercedes Benz G500/G65 AMG program.

A redesigned vented front hood had to be added because of the new monstrous new engine with its doubled performance from 385 hp (285 kW) to the unbelievable 700 hp (515 kW). There are, for now 2 different engines. One is a 5.5 litre bi turbo petrol V.8 which can reach from 0 to 62 mp/h (100 km/h) in less than 5 seconds. And there is the second engine which is a 3.0 litre V.6 diesel which accelerates from 0 to 62 mp/h (100 km/h) in 9 seconds.

Round headlamps and turning indicators are placed right on top of the headlamps. The body panels appear strong. DMC comes with a variety of alloy wheels. Sizes range from 23” to 25”. Dimensions are 305/30/23 but can be re-adjusted.

At the off-road is where the G-class exceeds any other. It has massive ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles; there is also a low-range mode and three way lockable differential to help stabilize the car when driving on slippery surface.

The G-class is spacious and convenient for carrying a lot of luggage. The trunk is huge and it’s square shape only adds practicality and even more space. Moreover, the backseats can be fold down which opens up additional space.

The cabin has been polished up so it can have efficient luxury to appeal to its new target markets: Asia and Middle East. It can be acquired with lots of modern equipment. All the safety features are included that can be found on all modern cars. Rear seat entertainment digital screens and radio. Three average size adults can fit on the rear sits with ease with comfortable headroom. Central locking engages once the vehicle accelerates. The interior can be tailor made with Carbon Fiber materials or with extremely rare Ostrich and Stingray leathers.

What I don’t like about the tailgate, is that its pain to open in tight spaces with the spare wheel on the back it makes it really heavy. Getting inside the car is proving to be a challenge. You have to make a big leap to get yourself in and it does not get easier , the running board is sticking out which allows a lot of dirt and mud to be brought inside the car, not to mention the need of strong thumbs to operate the integrated handles. Considering how big the G-class is, the knee room does not allow a lot of space and stretching is really hard to do.

The car is not exactly responsive. This is because of the low gearing of the steering. It tricks you into thinking it is a sports car because of the way it accelerates. It’s dangerous to make sudden emergency maneuver because then you get the feeling you are more like a tractor rather then a racing car. Another downfall is that on high degree corners, the G-class leans and becomes unstable.

Source: Mercedes-benz

September 11, 2014

Reckless Driving in the City [video]

Is there better way to disturb a quiet peaceful morning in the city than driving irrationally your BMW M3 E92? The following video shows us a reckless driving “talent” cruising around in the city limits, arrogantly ignoring all laws about safety driving. Avoiding every one and everything by luck, he demonstrates how NOT to drive inside the city. The reckless driver’s license plate can be clearly seen in the video, therefore, adequate actions are supposed to be taken by the authorities to track him down and start a driving license deprivation procedure.

This BMW M3 E92 specs are: Equipped with V.8 cylinder petrol engine with indirect fuel injection system, along with a manual transmission gearbox of 6 speeds. Top speed is exactly 250 km/h (155 Mph), accelerating form 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.8 s. Maximum output is 420HP (414 bhp) (309 kW) at 8,300 rpm with a maximum torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 3,900 rpm.

This reminds us of the infamous, amazingly skilled street drifter Giorgi Tevzadze, who lost his life not long ago in a tragic accident while being the passenger in a drift race.

Although entertaining and fun, street racing is undoubtedly too dangerous for both the street drifters and for the rest of the drivers, even more the innocent pedestrians. This kind of racing must be conducted only on the race track. There, the adrenaline junkies can freely drive to the limits, with only the difference that they are threatening their own lifes alone, and maybe crashing a nice car.

Drifting on public roads is illegal!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9vaZy5MNCY

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

September 11, 2014

2016 Mazda MX-5 to be Presented at the Paris Motor Show

2016 Mazda MX-5 MKIV roadster is to be the star of Mazda’s Paris Motor Show exhibit, where it will make its official European premiere. The event will happen between 4th and 19th of October, where Mazda will also display the Mazda3, Mazda6 and the Mazda CX-5 models. The new MX-5 was revealed just a few days ago and showed its stunning cutting-edge technology and timeless charm. The MKIV Mazda MX-5 is expected to give another boost to the successful Japanese brand.

The latest edition of the best-selling two-seater roadster is the sportiest one ever created by the company. It fully embodies the striking rendition of Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion design theme, thus exuding exuberance and expressing car’s agility.

The new model also expresses the exciting experience that awaits every driver behind the wheel. In keeping with the tradition, the cabin is snug yet comfortable, and it also includes modern convenient technologies. Just to name two: MZD Connect smartphone connectivity system and i-ACTIVSENSE. What is more, the 2016 MX-5 also sports Mazda’s innovative line-up of active safety technology.

Under the bonnet of this jewel lies high-compression SKYACTIV-G petrol engine that drives the rear wheels. In addition, the specially-developed SKYACTIV-Chassis delivers the most advanced Jinba Ittai driver-and-car-as-one experience yet.

Of course, the latest MX-5 retains the same charm, reliability, affordability and lightweight fun of the original model, which was launched exactly 25 years ago. This is the most compact model of any previous generations and it is more than 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. More details on the 2016 Mazda MX-5 are expected to be announced during its official premiere.

Source: Mazda

September 11, 2014

Suzuki Introduces Dualjet Technology to Swift Model

Suzuki Swift will deliver improved fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions. The reason for this is the addition of new engine for the popular Swift model. The 1.2-litre petrol unit is planned to be introduced next year. This engine incorporates Suzuki’s latest technology that uses twin fuel injectors in order to deliver better fuel economy. This new technology is called Dualjet and it has resulted in Swift achieving 65.7 mpg on the EC combined fuel consumption cycle.

Precisely, this is an improvement of 9.2 mpg or 16 percent over the current petrol engine. The other benefit of Dualjet technology is the reduced CO2 emissions, which are now rated at 99g/km. In addition, the Dualjet technology positions the fuel injectors very close to the engine inlet valves. This allows for a finer fuel atomisation or mixture, which in turn provides more effective transfer into the cylinder.

Furthermore, internal modifications to the unit feature the utilization of a new type of inlet port and combustion chamber with other mechanical parts. This minimizes frictional losses and facilitate smoother running.

Other changes have been made to the piston crowns have. They have been modified with a slight bowl shape to deliver higher air turbulence inside the cylinder. In addition, the pistons have cooling oil jets to help reduce internal temperatures.

The future Swift will also benefit from a new type of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. It will be utilized in order to help avoid abnormal combustion or ‘knocking’. These modifications have resulted in a higher compression ratio of 12.0:1 versus 11.0:1 for the current engine.

The new 1.2-litre petrol unit produces a maximum of 90 hp (66 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. When compared to the previous petrol unit, which delivers 94 hp (69 kW) and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 4,800 rpm, this accounts for subtle changes, but in improved fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

Other modifications feature slight alterations to gear ratios for greater flexibility on the road, and the addition of Engine Auto Stop Start (EASS). The Dualjet technology will initially be available as an optional engine choice on the Swift SZ4 two wheel drive models. Pricing will be confirmed closer to introduction.

Source: Suzuki

September 11, 2014

Evanta Shows First Official Barchetta Sketch Ahead of its Premiere

Evanta Barchetta is a joint project which will make its official world premiere at the Goodwood revival motor show, which will happen this weekend. The car has been manufactured by Evanta, and it has currently revealed the one and only official image of the Barchetta so far. The Evanta Barchetta is a 2-seater open top speedster, which has a design obviously inspired by the cars made in 1950s. Just take a look at its sleek and sweeping curves. Its low profile shows its Anglo-Italian parentage.Each vehicle of the Evanta Barchetta will be designed and built in Britain. It will be hand-crafted using traditional coach building methods, which include a composite kevlar body on a tubular frame. There will also be an alternative model available, which will come in an aluminium body.The Barchetta will be powered by its potent 6.2L engine, producing 450 hp (330 kW). Given the fact that this vehicle features a light frame, the engine contributes towards car’s exceptional agility. The unit will be mated to either an automatic or manual gearbox.The good new is that although the Bachetta will be built in Britain, the company will produce both left- and right-hand drive variants. Production will be strictly limited imited to 99 composite bodied vehicles and 49 aluminium bodied vehicles.The price of the Evanta Barchetta is yet to be confirmed. It is expected to be around £125,000 for the composite and £165,000 for the aluminium variant. Following the release of the Barchetta, the Evanta has announced plans to launch a GT concept car in the spring of next year.

September 11, 2014

Mercedes-AMG GT: A Perfect Combination of Sportiness, Style and Everyday Life

The more you look at this car, the more you like it. Mercedes-AMG GT combines the pure sport race feeling with the everyday feeling of a car. Full LED headlights and 18 rear lights give the car a mean look. The turning signal is showing its direction by a running signal in the direction its turned on. I like the single blade that cuts into the middle of the grill and the awesome AMG badge. We also have the A-Wing concept on the spoiler and in the front. Glossy black comes with the color of the GT as well as for the GTS. The car looks amazing in every available color.

With a brand new V.8 bi-turbo engine developed specifically for the GT is being placed very low in the car. To reduce the height it has been put a turbocharger. This helps to achieve a very low car and a low hood and at the same time to have big engine. A spoiler on the rear that moves up and down if you push a button inside the cabin or the car moves fast enough. The GT traditionally goes with a 19-inch alloy wheels both in the front and at the rear with 255/35 R 19 and 295/35 R 19 tyres. While the GTS is provided with 19-inch in the front side with 265/35 R 19 tyres and 20-inch in the rear with 295/30 R 20 tyres. As an available option, you can order high-performance carbon ceramic brakes.

Numerous, usual safety assistance system are equipped such as: Collision prevention assist plus, adaptive break and attention assist. There are additional extras available, some of which include: Adaptive Highbeam Assist, PRE-SAFE® system, PARKTRONIC, Reversing camera, Lane Tracking package including Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist (included in COMAND Online).

Looked from the side, the AMG looks a little bit like the SLS. However it has a longer hood and its trunk is a lot smaller.

In the interior we notice a sophisticated instrument cluster with a 360 km/h (223 mph) speedometer with a black “nappa” leather coated steering wheel. The AMG emblem is embedded in the center of the big V shaped armrest with 8 buttons on it (which reminds us of the V.8). An exciting new feature is a glass roof opens up above. The cabin feels a little tight along with the long hood, reminding of the SLS model. Four air vans are positioned before the armrest which gives the interior a unique sporty look. The seats are sporty themed as well, but in the same time they are extremely comfortable. Also the new GT comes with a bonus sound system

GTS has 375 kW (510 hp) at at 6250 rpm with a max. torque of 650 Nm (479 lb.-ft.) at 1750-4750 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 9.4 l/100 km (30 mpg UK) with 219 g CO2 emissions per km, This amazing ride accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 s with the breathtaking top speed of 310 km/h (192 mph).

On the other side, we have the GT model. This one is a little bit slower. Although slower it doesn’t mean it is less important than the GTS. The Mercedes- AMG GT rounds up 340 kW (462 hp)at 6000 rpm with max. torque of 600 Nm (442 kW) at 1600-5000 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 9.3 l/100 km (30 mpg) UK. This model releases up to 216 g/km of CO2 emissions. As far as for the acceleration, it reaches 0-100 km/p (62 mph) in 4.0 s with top speed of 304 km/h (188 mph).

Pricing will be available around the 6^th of October, even though it will hit the market in Spring 2015. Additional details will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.

Source: Mercedes

September 10, 2014

Category: Auto News