Category: Auto News

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

Ford Announces Pricing For Latest Focus Range [VIDEO]

The latest Ford Focus is going on sale in UK dealerships from November. The car will be packed with wide rage of standard and optional technology features such as featured automated parallel parking, Active City Stop low-speed collision avoidance, Traffic Sign Recognition to monitor and record road signs and Blind Spot Information System. What is more, the new Focus is the first Ford to offer Perpendicular Parking.

This is an additional hands-free parking technology, which assists drivers reverse into spaces alongside other vehicles. In addition, the Active Park Assist utilizes ultrasonic sensors to find parking spaces and steer the vehicle while the driver controls the accelerator and brake. The designers have added new sensors to the rear that enable the Perpendicular Parking to operate in the same way.

The sensors also enable technologies such as Cross Traffic Alert and Park-Out Assist. The first one warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may be about to pass behind them. On the other hand, the second one assists drivers as they exit a parallel parking space.

Ford’s second generation connectivity interface, SYNC2 is also featured in the car. It comprises of a high-resolution, eight-inch colour touch screen and voice control. SYNC 2’s navigation system also offers a split-screen display.

MyKey aid for novice drivers is also a new feature in the Focus, which lets owners programme a key which restricts the top speed, reduces the maximum volume of the audio system, and can disable it altogether if the driver and passengers are not using safety belts.

The powertrain options in the new Ford Focus feature the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.5-litre diesel engine and the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine. The latter produces 182 hp (134 kW) and 270 Nm (200 lb-ft) of torque.

2014 Ford Focus has a starting price of £13,995, The Focus range consists of six-series line-up, including Studio (£13,995), Style (£16,795), Zetec (£18,295), Zetec S (£20,045), Titanium (£19,795) and Titanium X (£21,795).

httpv://youtu.be/pQo7mQoWJRw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

September 2, 2014
DMC McLaren MP4 12C Velocita Wind Edition

DMC has unveiled their latest project based on McLaren MP4-12C. The name of the project is Velocita – Wind Edition and comes with styling and performance upgrades as well. The pictures in the gallery has been taken at the beautiful french riviera. Enjoy!

Otherwise the tuned MP4-12C boasts a complete aerodynamics package made from carbon fiber, a complete titanium sports exhaust system and exclusive Italian Leather on the interior.

The exterior has received a new front lip spoiler, center sword and aggressive F1 canards. There are also new side skirts, a new rear diffuser with a revised tunnel set-up and 2 fins. The standard rear spoiler as been replaced with a light weight base. The most fierce feature of the car however, may be the rear wing. Together with the aero scoop on the car’s roof, it creates an aura of perfection.

The 3.8 liter twin-turbo V8 is boosted to 660HP (489 kW) and 678Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. The result is thanks to the new exhaust system and an ECU re-map. This is an increase of 35HP and 78Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h in less than 3.0 seconds and a top speed of over 340 km/h (211 mph).

The interior will be designed according to each client’s individual requirements. There are no limits when it comes to customising the driver cabin with Carbon, Wood, Leather or Alcantara.

Source: DMC

September 1, 2014
Misha Designs Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG [preview]

Misha Designs has unveiled their latest project based on the exciting Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The sports car is coming only with style improvements giving it unique presence. The engine is the well-known naturally aspirated 6.2 liter AMG V8.

The tuning specialists have developed an aerodynamics package consisting of a modified front bumper, a new front hood as well as a pair of new side skirts. At the rear, we can see also a different bumper and a new diffuser. There are two types of rear spoilers – a discreet lip and a big wing. Other highlights include improved side vents, carbon fiber A-pillars and a revised front grille. Some of the components like front bumper lip, diffuser, wing blade and side skirts are also available in carbon fiber.

Misha Designs is going to offer the full package from the beginning of this month. All parts are also available separately.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is powered by a 6.2 liter naturally-aspirated V8 with extreme 571HP (420 kW) at 6,800RPM and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque at 4,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of impressive 317 km/h (197 mph). The curb weight of the vehicle is 1,695 kg (3,737 lbs).

Source: Misha Designs

September 1, 2014
2015 BMW M4 Convertible – Officially Unveiled

The newly announced 2015 BMW M4 Convertible at the Javits Center in New York offers those who seek more outdoors, fresh air and sunshine a new exciting experience.

The BMW M4 Convertible shares the elegant lines of its open-top 4-Series siblings. Its design language allows it to skilfully blend a distinctive and graceful silhouette boasting finely balanced proportions when the roof is open with an exceptionally dynamic coupe line, shown off B-pillars, with the hardtop closed. At the same time, the M4 Convertible’s styling cues – including a signature power dome for the bonnet, eye-catching exterior mirrors in twinstalk style and flared front and rear wheel arches bulging over forged light alloy wheels with mixed tyres in 18-inch (optional 19-inch) format – all identify it clearly as a member of the BMW M3/M4 model family.

Powering the BMW M4 Convertible is the newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving character already familiar from the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe. The power unit generates maximum output of 431hp (317 kW) from its 3.0-litre displacement and serves up peak torque of 550 Newton metres (406 lb-ft) across a wide rev band. 2015 BMW M4 Convertible accelerates 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds (with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission) – but also offers sufficient reserves of power to cruise along in relaxed but rapid style with the roof down.

The arrival of the new BMW M4 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 8.7 -9.1l/100 km 31–32.5 UK; CO2 emissions combined: 213–203 g/km) sees BMW M GmbH making another alluring addition to its legendary high-performance sports car line-up. The new M4 Convertible replicates the performance figures of the new BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 8.3-8.8 l/100 km 32.1–34.0 UK; CO2 emissions combined: 194-204 g/km) and the new BMW M4 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 8.3-8.8 l/100 km, 32.1–34.0 UK; CO2 emissions combined: 194-204 g/km), but emphasises its stylish and distinctive appearance through its individual character and places the fascination of sporty and dynamic open-top driving at centre stage. The new model finds BMW M GmbH drawing inspiration from a long tradition: BMW’s high-performance sports car for track and road is entering its fifth generation in open-top form with this new chapter in its history headed “M4 Convertible”.

Like the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe, the BMW M4 Convertible also displays a strict adherence to the intelligent lightweight construction principle. For example, the bonnet and front side panels are made from aluminium, as are many components of the high-performance chassis. Added to which, ultra-lightweight and – thanks to its hugely impressive rigidity – also extremely durable carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is employed in many areas of the new M4 Convertible. This makes for a significant weight saving and a reduction in rotating masses. The CFRP precision strut in the engine compartment, meanwhile, weighs only 1.5 kilograms yet offers rigidity superior to that of a comparable aluminium component. It therefore plays a key part in the car’s excellent steering response and precision.

The three-section folding metal roof of the BMW M4 Convertible has full interior lining and represents a compelling proposition with its excellent soundproofing and winter-proof construction. The roof opens at the touch of a button in under 20 seconds – while travelling at up to 18 km/h (11 mph), if required.

Complementing its already extensive standard specification, the new BMW M4 Convertible can also be ordered with a wealth of attractive options to further enhance its aesthetic appeal, dynamic prowess and comfort levels. And for that distinctive personal touch, the exclusive BMW Individual range of equipment offers the prospect of a unique driving experience. Special colours and materials can be fine-tuned to the driver’s wishes.

While those power numbers certainly sound impressive, the M4 convertible’s potential downfall is its weight. The addition of the power droptop pushes the car up to a hefty 4,055 pounds, though that’s still some 90 pounds lighter than the previous-generation E93 M3 convertible. BMW has earned the benefit of the doubt, with decades of experience making even big crossovers with physics-defying abilities.

The M4 Convertible is on sale in the United States this summer and pricing is going to be announced closer to launch.

Source: BMW

September 1, 2014
Dodge Challenger A/T Untamed Concept: Muscle Car or an Off-Roader?

Dodge Challenger A/T Untamed Concept combines two worlds: the one of the iconic American muscle car and the one of the off-road universe. This Challenger is sleek enough for the city nightlife and rough enough for the off-road landscape. It visual appearance looks extreme and because of this it catches the attention immediately. It looks “more muscle” than ever. Joey Ruiter, who is responsible for this incredible work, pushed the performance, power and capabilities of the iconic Dodge from the street to the dirt.He has customized almost everything – from body armor to racing seats, this ride is “ready for some serious use”. Precisely, the car has received new front long travel arms, rear trailing arm with links and body armor with rock sliders. The designer has also added new fender flares, front skid plate, integrated lower light bar and of course the distinctive A/T logo badge.But if you think that the customization stopped here, you might take into consideration the following body modifications, which include wheel well trimming, inner fender wall construction, exhaust tuck and reposition, off-road tool storage and spare tire truck mount.As one can see the muscle car form the outside has some graphic twin striping. Furthermore, being a true off-roader with some serious amount of power under the hood (just thinks about the Hellcat engine), the car needed more safety equipment. Unfortunately this project is only in a concept form, but we are impatient to see it become a reality very soon!

September 1, 2014
Buick Launches 2015 Envision in China

2015 Buick Envision is comapny’s entrance into China’s SUV segment. The model just made its world premiere at Chengdu Motor Show and it will be offered later in four variants: AWD Elite, AWD Luxury, AWD Versatile Flagship and AWD Versatile Sporty Flagship. The model has been built upon the Buick Envision concept vehicle and carries the same contemporary design. It is stylish and sporty and features new intelligent drag-reducing grille, wing-style front and rear lights with LED lamps inside, curved flank lines, 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, an aluminum alloy luggage rack and a wing-shaped spoiler.

The dimensions of the model measures 4,667 mm in length, 1,839 mm in width and 1,696 mm in height. It rides on a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These numbers only mean a roomy interior. Furthermore, the split rear seats fold flat thus providing up to 1,550 liters of space. There are also 24 storage compartments.

The Envision will be offered in five exterior colors: Snowy White, Glacier Silver, Pearl Black, Topaz Brown and Sky Purple. Inside, the vehicle features Buick‘s 360-degree integrated interior design. The occupants will find inside driver-friendly center console, Burgundy or Swallowtail Black interior, black piano accents and dual stitching.

This SUV is powered by the 2.0T direct injection turbocharged engine, which produces 260 horsepower (191 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 353 Nm (260 lb-ft) of peak torque at 5,300 rpm. The capable unit takes the Envision from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. The engine is coupled with a six-speed DSS intelligent transmission. What is more, the model comes with the engine start/stop system as standard and supports fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km.

2015 Buick Envision features intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which includes two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches in the rear axle. They automatically distribute torque from the front to rear wheels and between the rear wheels as needed. The result is more responsive, flexible and efficient driving.

Vehicle’s chassis comprises of MacPherson strut front suspension, an optimized and fully independent four-link rear suspension, and a full front subframe. In addition, the FlexRide system delivers four selectable driving modes: Normal, Tour, Sport and Off-Road.

Next, the Envision is also equipped with wide range of technology features. For instance it comes with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, Collision Mitigation Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and intelligent headlights.

Not to mention the anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, a traction control system and Hill Start Assist. All of these features come as a standard, while as an option are the Hill Descent Control, OnStar and Automatic Parking Assist system.

The designers of the car have also included a specifically made for it human-computer interactive platform. This system connects the vehicle with people and their smartphones and includes eight-inch high-definition touchscreen, multifunctional buttons on the steering wheel, a touchpad and voice control.

Other features that need to be mentioned are the standard large panoramic sunroof, front power seats with heating, cooling and ventilation functions and a heated sport steering wheel.

Source: Buick

September 1, 2014
Rolls-Royce debuts the Ghost Series II in China

The acclaimed British automaker Rolls-Royce has taken advantage of the ongoing 2014 Chengdu Motor Show and has unveiled the highly anticipated Ghost Series II to the vast Chinese market. Customers, living in China and the neighboring countries, can now make use of the latest industry technologies from Rolls-Royce and other companies and join the rank of leading businessmen and entrepreneurs who drive this premium-class vehicle.

During the unveiling of the Ghost Series II at Century City New International Convention & Exhibition Center (CCNICEC), Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Regional Director for Mainland China Henrik Wilhemsmeyer said, “The Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is the ultimate entrepreneur’s business tool. Following the worldwide success of its predecessor, I am confident that this re-designed and updated Rolls-Royce will continue to attract increasing numbers of new customers to the marque, in particular business entrepreneurs seeking an oasis of calm in a frenetic business world.”

The Ghost Series II brings to China the same looks and technologies so you can expect to find re-sculpted LED headlights encircled by daytime running lights that lend Ghost Series II a more dynamic visual signature and blend perfectly with revised surface treatments to the front of the car. A tapered ‘wake channel’ on the bonnet, emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy, evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail or wake of a fast luxury yacht and hints at the car’s dynamism. Subtle re-sculpting of Ghost’s bumpers creates a stronger stance and a sense of extra width and height, whilst the contemporary aesthetic is further enhanced with the addition of chrome inserts to the front air intakes, which now feed more air cooling to the front brakes. In addition, the famous waft line has been re-designed on Ghost Series II to lean further forwards emphasizing the car’s effortless dynamism.

“As a design statement, Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II continues to transcend time,” comments Giles Taylor, Director of Design for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “This is ensured by the deft treatment of features such as the new headlights, the new wake channel on the bonnet and surfacing that lend the car a more dynamic, purposeful stance and hint at the cutting edge technology inside. I am very pleased with the overall sense of design harmony.”

The Ghost Series II delivers on the inside too – the vehicle combines luxury, technology and connectivity that include on-board Wi-Fi for available connections to the rest of the world so that you can do your business anywhere while Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) ensures that the car automatically adapts to its surroundings augmenting the drive experience. Updates to navigation systems and the car/user interface ensures accessing Ghost’s features remains an effortless experience, whilst optional Bespoke Audio – the most exhaustively engineered and finest audio system in automotive history – brings new levels of aural satisfaction to passengers.

There’s no information on the engine range and the pricing of the new vehicle but we are sure the car will have more than enough power under the hood. As to pricing there’s no way its price is going to be low but Rolls-Royce is Rolls-Royce after all.

Source: Rolls-Royce

September 1, 2014
2015 Volkswagen Lamando with Première in China [VIDEO]

2015 Volkswagen Lamando is another car that the western world will see only in pictures. The model has just made its debut in China at the Chengdu Auto Show. The good news however, is that the Lamando is the Chinese version of the popular sporty Volkswagen CC. The model was previously known in the country as Volkswagen NMC. It is built on the MQB platform, which is the same platform utilized for the Golf VII.

The car will be manufactured in China by the Shanghai-Volkswagen joint venture. In fact, there are rumors going that the model will be also produced in Mexico, but Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed anything yet. Although the Lamando is dubbed as a “four-door coupe” it definitely looks like a sedan to us. Another proof for that is its boot volume which is of 500 liters (17.6 cu-ft).

The car will be driven by either of these to engines: 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI four-cylinder petrol units. Both will be coupled with a seven-speed DSG transmission. 2015 Volkswagen Lamando will be launched on the Chinese marked in November this year. The pricing will begin at around 180.000 yuan which is approximately 29.000 USD. The Chinese name of the car is Ling Du (凌渡).

httpv://youtu.be/iHfrrSJx82E

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Volkswagen via carnewschina

September 1, 2014
Chris Ingram’s Peugeot 208 R2

Chris Ingram’s Peugeot 208 R2 carries a very distinctive appearance. Distinctive Union flag livery adorns the car, which is Peugeot UK’s 208 rally entry. Chris Ingram and his 208 embarked on the European Rally Championship round in Barum, in the Czech Republic this weekend. The 20-year-old is fulfilling his dream of a career in top-flight rallying and his progress thus far has been impressive. In fact, the official Peugeot UK driver is currently ranked the number #1 under 21 year old Rally driver in the world!

Peugeot 208 R2 Rally Car is constructed to ERC competition specification ‘R2’ and designed to be an affordable competitive start in professional rallying. It is produced by Peugeot Sport and features styled design derived from the popular road-going 208. In addition, it also features short overhangs and a flowing transition between the bonnet and windscreen pillars.

In comparison to the 207, the 208 is 40 kg lighter and at the same time includes longer wheelbase, which improves stability with a lower centre of gravity. This also boosts car’s road-holding capabilities. Despite the reduction in weight, safety is hasn’t been sacrificed. 208 R2 boasts a strengthened shell with a multi-point welded roll cage.

Furthermore, this Peugeot is powered by a competition version of the 1.6-litre VTi road car engine, which is naturally-aspirated and generates 185 hp (136 kW). This modern power-unit comes equipped with variable valve timing (VVT). The company is also offering gravel and asphalt versions of the 208 R2. They are made available in kit form, including a fully-built engine.

Source: Peugeot

September 1, 2014
2015 Nissan Rogue Goes On Sale in the US

2015 Nissan Rogue is currently going on sale in the United States. The second-generation Rogue enters its second model year, thus receiving a number of improvements for 2015. Some of them include the Eco mode is added to the Xtronic transmission, heated cloth seats featured in the SV Premium Package, and a new Arctic Blue Metallic exterior paint scheme. 2015 Nissan Rogue is offered in three trim levels: S, SV and SL.

Its bold and sharp lines lend the sporty and confident appearance to the vehicle. Other exterior highlights include halogen headlights with signature LED daytime running lights, muscular front fenders and hood, body color outside mirrors with standard integrated turn signals and rear spoiler. As an option Nissan is offering LED headlights with auto levelizer, fog lights, privacy glass, roof rails, heated outside mirrors, power panoramic moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

The interior of the model offers luxurious experience and more than enough space for the occupants. Inside, there is available 7-passenger seating with the optional stadium-style and flat-fold 3rd row 50/50-split bench seat. Rogue is also equipped with advanced Divide-N-Hide Cargo System providing 18 adjustable variations between the cargo and occupant areas.

Furthermore, the standard interior features include “Zero Gravity” front seats, 5.0-inch center meter Advanced Driver Assist Display, RearView Monitor, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant, optional Quick Comfort heated front seats, leather-appointed seats, heated cloth front seats and Bose audio system with nine speakers.

The available technology features comprise of NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 7.0-inch color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition, NavTraffic and NavWeather, SiriusXM Travel Link, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Forward Collision Warning (FCW).

2015 Nissan Rogue is powered by the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with an Xtronic transmission with Sport and Eco Mode switches. The unit produces 170 horsepower (125 kW). The SUV is available with an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel drive.

Other technologies that are featured in the 2015 Rogue include Active Trace Control, Active Engine Braking and Active Ride Control, 4-wheel independent suspension, Electric Power-assisted Steering and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System.

2015 Nissan Rogue Pricing:

Rogue S FWD $22,790 USD

Rogue SV FWD $24,490 USD

Rogue SL FWD $28,280 USD

Rogue S AWD $24,140 USD

Rogue SV AWD $25,840 USD

Rogue SL AWD $29,630 USD

Source: Nissan

September 1, 2014
2015 Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Pak [video]

Mopar has unveiled the specially prepared 2015 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak. The race car will be exhibited this weekend at the Lucas Oil Raceway during the NHRA event. The modified vehicle has received a number of upgrades including mainly performance upgrades.

The engine is a 7.0 liter (426 cubic inches) HEMI V8 completely rebuilt. It comes with an aluminum block, steel liners and custom calibration. The engine is mated to a Chrysler-based 727 automatic transmission. There is a race-style shifter with integral line lock. The torque is sent to the rear wheels via an aluminum driveshaft.

The interior comes with a few Mopar upgrades like custom gauges, 2 bucket seats, safety nets and harness as well as a roll cage. The vehicle is equipped with 15” racing wheels fitted with 28×4.5” front and 30×9” rear. The braking system is prepared by Precision Performance – rotors, calipers and master cylinder.

The front suspension features adjustable compression and rebound. At the rear sits a four-link setup with a Panhard bar, rear solid axle with 9” aluminum third member, rear shocks with adjustable compression and rebound, and an anti-sway bar.

Stay tuned for official data and pricing!

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

Source: Mopar

August 29, 2014
Porsche 997 GT3 RS vs 991 GT3 ft. Sabine Schmitz [video]

Here is an awesome video featuring Sabine Schmitz and her private Porsche 997 GT3 RS going against the new 991 GT3. The “Queen of the Nürburgring” seems very curious to check how fast is the updated sports car.

Still, she has some “trump-cards” in her sleeve like a KW competition suspension and an uprated braking system. However, this doesn’t help during the drag race between two sport cars.

The new 991 GT3 simply obliterates its predecessor, which is powered by a 3.8 liter naturally-aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine – 450HP (331 kW) at 7,900RPM and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque at 6,750RPM. The engine is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 310 km/h (192 mph). The curb weight is 1,445 kg (3,186 lbs).

The 991 GT3 has an updated 3.8 liter boxer engine with 474HP (349 kW) and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed PDK automatic transmission sending the power to the rear wheels. Although the car is 60 kg heavier than Sabine’s car, it does ¼ mile in 11.2 seconds.

“Compared to my car is a rocket!”, she commented.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeOZL9oGaLg

Source: RSRNurburg via Youtube

August 29, 2014

Rogue S FWD	$22,790 USD
Rogue SV FWD	$24,490 USD
Rogue SL FWD	$28,280 USD
Rogue S AWD	$24,140 USD
Rogue SV AWD	$25,840 USD
Rogue SL AWD	$29,630 USD