Auto News – Page 463 – Automobiles Review

Infiniti ESQ is Twin of Nissan Juke for the Chinese Market

Infiniti ESQ is going to be officially shown at the 2014 Chengdu Auto Show in China which will take place on 29th of August. There will be revealed the details specifications of the model. And as you can see, although it is branded as Infiniti, it definitely looks like Nissan’s Juke Nismo but with a different grille and some other distinctive styiling cues. The Nismo twin is driven by a 1.6-liter MR16DDT DIG-T direct injection turbo petrol engine.

The unit produces 197 horsepower (145 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, and drives the four-wheels. Yes, this is the same powertrain which drives the Juke Nismo. The SUV’s engine comes coupled with a continuously variable transmission with manual shifting.

The main difference between both cars is inside. It seems that the ESQ looks more posh than the Nismo. This was achieved via the replacement of suede and Alcantara in the Nissan with leather and cross-stitching in the Infiniti.

The car is scheduled to go on sale throughout the Asian market, specifically in China, starting this October. The expected initial price in US dollars is around $33,000 USD, which is nearly $10,000 USD more than price of the Juke Nismo of the 2014 model year.

Source: Infiniti

August 27, 2014

2015 Suzuki Vitara at the Paris Motor Show

Suzuki Motor Corporation is going to exhibit the all-new 2015 Vitara at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The new model marks the return of the famous badge first used by Suzuki more than 25 years ago, on a small SUV.

The production model is based on the iV-4 Concept, which was presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. 2015 Suzuki Vitara is expected to hit the UK market – next spring. It will be available with optional ALLGRIP intelligent four wheel drive. The small SUV will be powered by an array of ultra-efficient petrol and diesel engines offering low CO₂ emissions and outstanding fuel economy.

The all-new Vitara will have a striking road presence with distinctive design. There will be also an option of personalising the car with various color and trim customisation. Further details of these, as well as final specifications will be available closer to public launch.

Stay tuned!

The Suzuki press conference is scheduled on Thursday 2^nd October 2014 at 2:00pm. A number of models will be available at stand 511, in hall 1.0.

Source: Suzuki

August 27, 2014

Brabus Business Lounge Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Brabus has unveiled their latest project based on the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with long wheelbase and high roof. The huge VAN has received an attractive exterior upgrade as well as an exclusive multimedia equipment

The exterior boasts a new front bumper with integrated LED DRLs and a set of 8.0J x 18” Monoblock wheels fitted with high-performance Continental tires of size 255/55 R18. Other highlights include two Brabus exhaust pipes with hallmark design for sportier appearance.

The interior is simply fantastic – fine leather passenger compartment with four business seats in a face-to-face arrangement and an additional third row of seats. The innovative communications concept of the vehicle integrates the passengers’ notebook or tablet computers into the media center of the vehicle independent of the technical platform.

In addition, all four seats offer welcome amenities such as lumbar support, massage function, heating, ventilation, and are power-adjustable with three-position memory function.

The third row of seats faces forward and consists of two individual seats with folding backrest. For times when more space for luggage or other items is needed, the seats can be removed.

The genuine-wood floor is designed as a veneer without tongue and groove. There is also a new air conditioning system designed by German OEM Eberspächer. It has a heating output of 10 kW and a cooling output of 13 kW.

There are 5” displays fitted at each seat in the cabin, eliminating the need for conventional switches in the passenger compartment. There is also an enormous 42” Full HD LCD screen integrated into the bulkhead behind the driver’s cab. For passengers seated in the two rear-facing seats there is a 10” display integrated into the center console between these two seats.

The sound is reproduced with superb brilliance by a Dolby surround sound system with an output of 1,200 watts and loudspeakers tailored specifically to the van’s interior.

Source: Brabus

August 27, 2014

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Goes on Sale in Europe

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO debuted in May at the ZDAYZ event, where it showed the updates it received for the new model year. The 370Z incorporates a range of design and engineering improvements and in fact it is the sportiest 370Z produced up to date. The car embodies the essence of performance motoring, and part of this is due to the added design changes and new aero package.

The new model includes an entirely redesigned front bumper, which features a larger air intake, additional air inlets ahead of the wheel arch and new LED daytime running lights. Other updates include black headlamp bezels, special red NISMO trim at the base of the bumper, redesigned side sill and door mirror and special NISMO badging. 370Z NISMO runs on 19-inch Rays alloy wheels finished in black and silver.

At the back of this Nissan, there is a new bumper and spoiler design. Furthermore, the 370Z NISMO’s aero package includes a smaller rear spoiler that works in team with the new front bumper. It achieves more downforce when driving at speed.

Inside, the car is adorned by racing-inspired interior featuring new Recaro seats. They are significantly improved in order to deliver more support and comfort, and are based on the acclaimed Recaro Sportster. In fact, the seats have been specifically designed for the 370Z NISMO and feature a host of detail changes. The seats are trimmed in red and black leather and Alcantara and match the steering wheel.

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO is powered by 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine that delivers 344 horsepower (253 kW). The unit is matched to a six-speed manual gearbox. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the car is rated at just 5.2 seconds. NISMO’s dual exhaust system delivers the perfect sporting soundtrack.

Nissan has also made several design and engineering improvements to the rest of the 370Z range. Some of them include the 18-inch Gun Metallic wheels, new Spinal seats with shell construction, revised suspension set-up and rear spring and damper rates, a new inner wheel arch and new carpets.

2015 Nissan 370Z is powered by the 3.7-litre V6 engine, which produces 328 hp (241 kW) and drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. The 370Z also offers Syncro Rev Control which is a fully synchronised down/up shift rev control system.

The pricing for both models will be announced closer to the launch later this year. They will go on sale in Europe in September.

Source: Nissan

August 27, 2014

Top 10 – 1/2 mile Trap Speed [video]

Dragtimesinfo has published a Top 10 video with the fastest cars on ½ mile (804.66 meters). As you can see from the list below, the Nissan GT-R R35 is occupying all places from 1^st to 8^th. There is no doubt that the R35 is the current king of drag racing.

10^th place: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 7.0L Custom Turbo – 1,200HP – 271.69 km/h (168.8 mph)
9^th place: Audi RS6 C6 Sportmile R1K – 1,100HP – 276.49 km/h (171.8 mph)
8^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 AMS Alpha 12 – 1,200HP – 289.15 km/h (179.6 mph)
7^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 DT 1500R – 1,600HP – 305.34 km/h (189.7 mph)
6^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.3 Gosha Turbo Tech ZEUS – 1,600HP – 306.38 km/h (190.4 mph)
5^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 AMS Alpha 12+ / Turbo Drive – 1,500HP – 319.96 km/h (198.8 mph)
4^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 Altechno SS – 1,400HP – 331.79 km/h (206.2 mph)
3^rd place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 Boostlogic Godzilla – 1,450HP – 333.95 km/h (207.5 mph)
2^nd place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 Altechno A1 – 1,500HP – 334.57 km/h (207.9 mph)
1^st place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 AMS Alpha 16 – 1,600HP – 340.58 km/h (211.6 mph)

Enjoy!

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

Source: Dragtimesinfo

August 27, 2014

2015 Skoda Fabia Interior Revealed

2015 Skoda Fabia not only has incredibly good looks but it is also more practical than ever before. The new model offers just enough space for five occupants and their luggage. The boot is the largest within the small car segment. In addition, the 2015 Fabia also offers 17 ‘Simply Clever’ features, nine of which are entirely new. To go further into details, the interior passenger space of the car is slightly longer and larger than this of the previous model year. In addition, the headroom for the driver and passengers was increased.

Despite the fact that the new Fabia is 8 mm shorter than its predecessor, the length of the interior has grown by 8 mm to 1,674 mm. Elbow room is also 21 mm longer (1,401 mm) at the front and 2 mm longer (1,386 mm) at the rear.

Next, the boot is the largest within the car’s segment. Precisely, the luggage compartment has the capacity of 330 litres. When one compares this to the previous model, this makes 15 litres more. When the rear seats of the car are folded down, the loading capacity increases to up to 1,150 litres. The rear is spacious with width of 1,098 mm. The loading area is 960 mm wide, which is 2 cm wider than the previous generation.

Nine entirely new ‘Simply Clever’ features are available with 2015 Skoda Fabia. These include MirrorLink technology, which allows smartphone apps to be displayed on the screen of the infotainment system, an ice scraper in the fuel filler cap, a high-vis vest in the driver’s door, a rubbish bin for the side door, 0.5-litre bottle and a 1.0-litre bottle glove compartment in the rear doors.

Other ‘Simply Clever’ features are well known, including the standard parking ticket holder on the inside of the left-hand A-pillar and the two optional bag hooks in the boot. There are also two storage nets available for the boot to keep the area tidy. Another interesting ‘clever’ feature is the corner light function of the fog lamps.

Source: Skoda

August 27, 2014

Renaultsport R.S. 01 – 500HP and 600Nm

Renaultsport has unveiled the R.S. 01 racecar coming with a LMP1-eligible carbon fiber monocoque. The R.S. 01 complies with LMP1 regulations and has been developed in collaboration with Dallara.

The futuristic body will be made from composites and will include a front lower splitter channeling the air flow into extractors installed behind the front wheels. These extractors are running along the doors and change their shape turning into intercooler scoops aiding cooling. At the back there’s a massive wing and diffuser as well as LED taillights and a twin exhaust arrangement.

The R.S. 01 rolls 18” Braid wheels wrapped in specially developed Michelin tires while the stopping power comes from 380mm carbon discs with 6-piston calipers.

Other features worth mentioning include a steel roll cage and a double wishbone + pushrods suspension together with two-way Öhlins adjustable dampers. In terms of dimensions, the Renault R.S. 01 is 4710mm long, 2000mm wide and 1166mm tall, with a 2744mm wheelbase and 1675mm front & 1624mm rear tracks.

The engine is a 3.8 liter V6 from Nissan GT-R – over 500HP (373 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed Sadev sequential gearbox.

Full specs – below!

CHASSIS
Type	Dallara carbon monocoque and steel roll cage
Safety	Monocoque, roll cage and crashboxes compliant with FIA LMP1 2014 standards, collapsible steering column, Sabelt seat FIA 8862/2009 standard
Bodywork	Composites
Aerodynamic features	Front blade and splitter, stepped flat bottom, rear diffuser and rear wing
ENGINE
Type	Nismo V6 – 24 valves – 3,799 cm3
Layout	Longitudinal central rear
Feed	Injection – 2 turbochargers
Max power	> 500 hp
Max torque	> 600 N.m
Max engine speed	6,800 rpm
Electronic management	Pectel SQ6M with traction control
Data acquisition	Cosworth ICD Pro
TRANSMISSION
Type	Rear wheel drive
Gearbox	Sadev sequential, 7 speed+ reverse
Control	XAP semi-automatic with steering-wheel paddles
Differential	Limited slip
Clutch	ZF Race Engineering, long service life with anti-stall function
RUNNING GEAR AND SUSPENSION
Suspension	Double wishbone + pushrods
Dampers	Öhlins 2-way adjustable
Brakes	PFC Brakes 380 mm carbon discs, 6-piston calipers, Bosch ABS system
Steering	Hydraulic power steering
WHEELS
Wheels	Braid wheels, central mounting
Tyres	Michelin 30/68 R18 (front) and 31/71 R18 (rear)
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES
Length	4,710 mm
Width	2,000 mm
Height	1,116 mm
Wheelbase	2,744 mm
Front/rear track	1,675 / 1,624 mm
Fuel tank	150 litres
Weight	< 1,100 kg

Source: Renaultsport

August 27, 2014

2015 Ford F-150: Toughest and Most Aerodynamic

The designers of the new 2015 Ford F-150 made a challenging goal when they decided to reimagine the iconic pickup. They had to create an aerodynamic and efficient design that at the same time did not compromise the tough looks of the Ford truck. And we must say that the team definitely succeeded. Just take a look at F-150’s structured look features such as squared-off edges, shapes and surfaces. The vehicle expresses confidence, capability and work readiness. What is more, these elements are made in such way that they allow the truck to slip through the air more efficiently.

What balances strength and efficiency is the incorporation of sharp edges into the overall design. They not only convey toughness, but also enable airflow to hug the surfaces at the front portion of the truck. In fact, thee rear corners are designed to minimize turbulence and swirling air that can cause drag and reduce efficiency.

In addition, the vertical grille includes angled outer portions, which lead to the headlamps and bumper corners. The latter are swept back to smoothly direct airflow down the sides, reducing drag. The design of the hood allows the air to smoothly flow to the windshield and roof.

The tests lead in the wind tunnel enabled designers to see the benefits of the aerodynamic efficiencies. First, the flush-mounted windshield eliminates the need for molding that would disrupt smooth airflow. Next, the tailgate top act as a spoiler, reducing turbulence behind the truck.

The cargo box is narrower than the cab, however – the box volume was not reduced. This improves airflow, while a trim piece prevents air from getting trapped between cab and box. The rear corners with the taillamps are angled so the air breaks off cleanly and reduces turbulence behind the truck. At last, the duct under the headlamp channels air through to the wheel housing and reduces the wake generated from the wheel.

Source: Ford

August 27, 2014

Volvo releases truck that runs on natural gas

2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_thumb 2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_651

The Swedish auto maker Volvo has enhanced its truck range in Europe with the addition of a new version of the Volvo FE that runs entirely on compressed natural gas (CNG). The so-called Volvo FE CNG has been designed for activities that involve short driving cycles with repeated stops such as trash collection or local distribution. In addition to that the new Volvo FE CNG offers exceptional environmental cleanliness as natural gas has very low levels of harmful particles. If produced from biofuels, natural gas can have carbon dioxide emissions that are up to 70 per cent lower than those of a diesel-powered truck.

“With the Volvo FE CNG we can now offer companies that drive predominantly in urban environments a truck with a far lower environmental impact. Many cities the world over are looking for alternatives to diesel-powered trucks. In the field of refuse handling, for example, renewable fuels are often a requirement for securing a contract,” says Christina Eriksson, Business Manager Alternative Drivelines at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG is powered by an all-new 9-liter Euro-6 engine featuring spark plug technology that produces 320 horsepower (235 kW) and 1356 Nm (1000 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to its six-speed fully-automatic transmission, the truck retains the same excellent driveability and productivity as the conventional Volvo FE. The automatic transmission also gives faster driveline response.

“Spark plug technology is particularly suitable for driving cycles where the truck covers short distances with a lot of start-stop traffic,” explains Christina Eriksson.

“Methane gas is the fuel that will become a sustainable alternative to diesel in the long-term. Right now the focus is on working together with the various public authorities and private corporations to draw up the relevant rules and create the right conditions for positive development,” says Lars Mårtensson, Environmental Director at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG will become commercially available this month with series production commencing in early 2015. No word on pricing as of now.

Source: Volvo

August 26, 2014

Ram Launches 2015 Heavy Duty Models [VIDEO]

Ram Truck Brand is currently starting the production of the 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD vehicles. The news here is that the Ram 3500 models will offer increased torque ratings of 865 lb.-ft. (1172 Nm) and an increased payload of 7,390 pounds. They also will capable of maintaining maximum tow rating of 30,000 pounds. The company has worked closely with Cummins to make turbo boost calibration to the 6.7-liter engine. The result is an additional 20 Nm (15 lb.-ft.) of torque.

As mentioned Ram Heavy Duty are equipped with 6.4-liter HEMI V-8. The 16-valve engine produces 410 horsepower (306 kW) at 5,600 rpm and a peak torque rating of 429 lb.-ft.(582 Nm), at 4,000 rpm.

The second engine option is the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, which is standard equipment for the Ram 2500 and 3500 (SRW). The engine generates 383 horsepower (282 kW) at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The unit is coupled to a 66RFE six-speed automatic transmission.

The 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 is offered as an option in three versions. The first one is matched with six-speed manual transmission and delivers 350 horsepower (257 kW) at 2,800 rpm and 660 lb.-ft. (864 Nm) of torque at 1,400 rpm. The second option couples the Cummins to the 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission and this makes it produce 370 horsepower (272 kW) at 2,800 rpm with 800 lb.-ft. (1084 Nm) of torque at 1,600 rpm.

At the top of the range stands the 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel I-6 for Ram 3500 which is paired with the Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. Next to the 385 horsepower (283 kW) at 2,800 rpm and torque of 865 lb.-ft. (1172 Nm) at 1,700 rpm.

httpv://youtu.be/g7aKBiv7IP4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ram Truck Brand

August 26, 2014

The 10 Most Stolen Cars in the US – 2013 [video]

The first two places of the 10 most stolen cars in the US during 2013 are occupied by Honda models – Accord and Civic. Insurancenewsnet report that totally 53,995 Accords and 45,001 Civics have been stolen last year.

Unsurprisingly, the next two places (3^rd and 4^th) are occupied by Pickup trucks – Chevrolet and Ford. On 5^th place is Toyota Camry and on 6^th – Dodge Pickup. The 7^th place is taken by Dodge Caravan, while the 8^th is for Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. On the last two places are Toyota Corolla and Nissan Altima, respectively. Check out the full list – below!

As you can see, the expensive Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi cars are not in the wish list of thieves. So, if you want to find the your vehicle wherever you parked it – buy a BMW… or Mercedes-Benz.

p.s. The list was completed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and the data was supplied by law enforcement to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GL-mzgL6SnE

Top 10 stolen vehicles in America

1.	Honda Accord	(53,995)
2.	Honda Civic	(45,001)
3.	Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size)	(27,809)
4.	Ford Pickup (Full Size)	(26,494)
5.	Toyota Camry	(14,420)
6.	Dodge Pickup (Full Size)	(11,347)
7.	Dodge Caravan	(10,911)
8.	Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee	(9,272)
9.	Toyota Corolla	(9,010)
10.	Nissan Altima	(8,892)

August 26, 2014

Hartmann Tuning Work on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Hartmann Tuning Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 319 CDI has been enhanced with tuner’s VANSPORTS styling-programm. The result is that the customization specialists have turned it into unique service vehicle. This red and racey looking Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has received new spoilers at the front and the rear, sideskirts and lowering springs. There are also painted mirror caps and tinted tail lights which contribute even more to this van’s outstanding appearance.

Being a fast service vehicle, the tuners decided to equip it with right sport wheels. As a consequence, the Sprinter received black glossy finished VEST-3-rims in the size of 9 x 20 inches. The wheels are part of the large VANSPORTS wheel-program and are coupled with Pirelli P-Zeo Nero tyres in the dimensions of 265/45 R20).

The optimal deceleration of the Mercedes vehicle is ensured by the high performance braking system with its six-pistons brake calipers and perforated discs. After the work on the exterior, the specialists at Hartmann Tuning continued with the modifications throughout the interior.

They added some attractive VANSPORTS accessories such as leather steering wheel, leather shift levers, pedal covers, genuine carbon decoration and chrome door sill plates. There were also included Singler leather seats in both first and second row. The special rail system on the soil guarantees variable seating arrangements. At last to be mentioned are the folding table and the installed Sortimo van racking system.

Source: Hartmann Tuning

August 26, 2014

Category: Auto News