Auto News – Page 465 – Automobiles Review

Hennessey Venom F5 – Top Speed 467 km/h [290 mph]

Building a 290mph-car is not a great success, but creating a road-legal one is an act of heroism. Hennessey has already topped 270 mph (435 km/h) with the Lotus Exige-based Venom GT back in February, this year. Now, he announced the Venom F5 (named after the most powerful tornado on the Fujita scale) which will eventually do over 290 mph (466.71 km/h).

John Hennessey commented for Top Gear: “I think something in the 290 mph range will be possible”, when he referred to the upcoming model. It will come with improved aerodynamics and updated technologies. The 7.0 liter twin-turbo V8 will be boosted to over 1,400HP (1,044 kW), so the car will be more powerful than Koenigsegg One:1. The Venom F5 is expected to weigh less than 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs), so the power-to-weight ratio will be 1.07 HP / kg. 0-300 km/h in less than 13.5 seconds.

The engine will be connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. There will be also a GPS-based traction control system offering calibration for specific race tracks. This is a unique feature which will help the driver to improve its racing times drastically.

The hyper-car will be limited to just 30 units, each priced at $1,200,000 before taxes, which is not bad at all compared to Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport.

Source: Top Gear

August 25, 2014

Volvo Introduces Sensus Connect Technology

Volvo Sensus Connect is company’s connected car platform which will be introduced in North America in all 2015.5 Volvo models. It will be combined with the Volvo On Call telematics solution, and the Volvo On Call smartphone app. With this step Volvo becomes the first manufacturer to offer such a system as standard equipment across the entire model range. Sensus Connect was developed in order to deliver customers the access of infotainment.

The new Volvo models will come equipped with cloud- and app-based services. Included are elements such as 3G connectivity service powered by AT&T, Wi-Fi hotspot and tethering capabilities, Internet, phone, and text message access, in-car infotainment apps, 24/7 call center support with in-car roadside assistance, etc.

Volvo equipped with Sensus Connect includes full-function steering wheel controls and select voice control options for additional safety. There is also included digital dash and seven inch center stack display.

On vehicles which are featuring in-car navigation the system is upgraded with 3D graphics and lifetime map upgrades. In addition, with the Volvo On Call button, customers can reach 24/7 roadside assistance and SOS emergency service access as well as stolen vehicle tracking.

Furthermore, with every 2015.5 Volvo model the company offers a free smartphone app: Volvo On Call app. It will provide customers with an immediate status overview of their Volvo. The app can locate the car, can provide the status of its windows and door locks, details on recent trips, vehicle’s fuel level and average fuel mileage, ad etc.

There are also several functions of the vehicle which can be managed vie the application. Such are the remote engine start to heat or cool the car before arriving, honking the horn and flashing the lights, requesting roadside assistance, and even sending locations directly to the in-car navigation system.

Source: Volvo

August 25, 2014

Audi TT-RS vs Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and BMW M6 F13 Coupe [video]

A powerful Audi TT RS Mk.2 Revo Technik Stage 3 is the new star in Unlimited 500+ drag racing series. The compact sports car is powered by a 2.5 liter turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine originally delivering 360HP (265 kW) and 465Nm (343 lb-ft). The Revo Technik Stage 3 version is boosted to 530HP (390 kW), which appears to be enough to beat extremely powerful vehicles.

In the first start, the TT RS Revo Technik won versus a Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 V&S / IPS Motorsports with 850HP (625 kW). The Audi crossed the finish line (1 km distance) in 19.255 seconds with 266 km/h, while the Chevy needed 20.961 seconds with 271 km/h. The ¼ mile times are 10.465 seconds with 216 km/h and 12.155 seconds with 211 km/h, respectively.

In the second start, the less powerful Audi was versus BMW M6 F13 Coupe PP-Performance Stage 2+ with 720HP (529 kW). The Audi won again – 19.263 seconds with 265 km/h (1 km) and 10.442 seconds with 213 km/h (1/4 mile), while the BMW finished in 21.397 seconds with 266 km/h (1 km) and 12.404 seconds with 206 km/h (1/4 mile).

It very interesting, that the tuned TT-RS has almost the same power output as the recently unveiled Audi A3 Clubposrt Quattro Concept powered by the same engine, but with 525HP (386 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHJVmp-bZus

Source: Dragtimesinfo

August 25, 2014

Subaru Launches 2015 WRX STI in Japan

2015 Subaru WRX STI has already made its market debut in Europe. Now it is time for the model to go on sale in Japan. The car embodies the WRX series product concept “Pure Power in Your Control” at the highest level. In fact, the WRX STI is the flagship model of the series and every component of it has been upgraded. As a standard this Subaru is equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-liter Boxer engine and multimode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) system.

“Pure Power in Your Control” concept aims to embody the “absolute speed” and “driving excitement” for sports sedans and also to emphasize the potential of the turbo Boxer engine. The car also has lighter and more rigid body, integrating extensive chassis reinforcements.

Furthermore, symmetrical AWD-based chassis and body performance has been improved and uses optimally the Horizontally-Opposed turbo engine. Through precise tuning, the engine generates 308 horsepower (227 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 422 Nm (311 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The unit is coupled with reinforced six-speed manual transmission with short throw shifting.

In terms of safety, this Subaru includes Symmetrical AWD, lighter and more rigid body and an enhanced chassis incorporating the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system. Next to the collision-absorbing structure used for the hood and bulkhead, the same material has been applied to the engine compartment side for increased pedestrian protection.

The Japanese specifications for the WRX STI include 18-inch alloy wheels which were designed to be more rigid and lighter. In addition, LED lighting is employed for the headlights, tail and brake lights and high-mounted brake light. “STI” letters are embossed on the exterior parts such as a front grille and front fenders. The two exterior paint finishes available here are the WR Blue Pearl and Crystal White Pearl.

Inside, the driver’s seat is designed to be like a cockpit. 2015 WRX STI also gets a D-shaped steering wheel, decorative carbon trim panels and metal trim accents arranged around the interior. Red accents on seats, shift lever and center of instrument panel are exclusive features for the WRX STI. The interior is solid black from roof to floor and of course is made via quality materials that are soft to the touch.

Source: Subaru

August 25, 2014

Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 – 0-300 km/h [video]

Usually, the real life performance data of the cars and officially stated by the manufacturers are slightly different. In many cases, the official numbers are very optimistic, but in several months we notice other case. For example, the new BMW M3 and M4 are announced with 431HP (317 kW), but on dyno run, the engine developed whopping 480HP (353 kW).

Still, there is no official dynorun for our new favorite supercar – 2014 Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4, but here are some real life performance data:

0-100 km/h — 3.3 seconds

0-200 km/h — 9.6 seconds

0-300 km/h — 22 seconds

1/4 mile — 11.0 seconds

1 km — 20.0 seconds

Officially, the Huracan LP610-4 is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 – 610HP (448 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

As we can see, the 0-100 km/h time is pretty accurate, but the car appears to be a lot faster to 200 km/h than stated. Of course, this can only make happy petrol heads and potential Huracan owners.

Enjoy!

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

Source: Dragtimesinfo

August 25, 2014

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 – US Pricing Announced

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is finally going on sale. This model is the most powerful and technologically advanced car in General Motors’ history. Z06 is offered in coupe and convertible form in three trims: 1LZ, 2LZ and 3LZ. The new Z06 features stronger aluminum frame, an aero package delivering more downforce and supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine. The unit is rated at 650 horsepower (485 kW) and 650 lb-ft of torque (881 Nm).

Advanced technologies are also introduced on the Corvette Stingray, such as direct injection and Active Fuel Management. Combined with the fuel-efficient multi-speed transmissions, aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, these features make the new Z06 surprisingly efficient.

Additional technologies enhancing performance and driving experience include the third-generation Magnetic Selective Ride Control, Performance Traction Management, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Furthermore, Z06 offers three increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce. The first one is the standard Z06 which includes a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and an aggressive rear spoiler.

The second one is the available carbon-fiber aero package which is offered in either carbon flash paint or a visible carbon-fiber finish. This pack comprises a carbon-fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill. At last, the available Z07 package adds larger winglets to the front splitter. There are also adjustable sections on the rear spoiler for track use.

The new Corvette will also feature for the first time the innovative Performance Data Recorder (PDR). This technology enables users to record high-definition video, with telemetry overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track.

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 has a starting price of $78,995, while the convertible model will start at $83,995.

Source: Chevrolet

August 25, 2014

Top Car Porsche Macan – Wide Body Kit

Top Car has unveiled their latest project based on the recently announced Porsche Macan. The sporty crossover comes with a number of upgrades including a full wide aerodynamics package and a lot of interior modifications.

The name of the project is – Porsche Macan Ursa and it features a modified front bumper and fenders as well as a new rear bumper, an aggressive diffusor and two spoilers. All components are manufactured from carbon fiber.

The interior boasts a new striking blue upholstery and of course a lot of carbon fiber elements on the door panels, center console, dashboard and steering wheel. There are also several Top Car logos and “Ursa” signs on the carbon fiber door-sills.

As a reminder, Porsche Macan Turbo is powered by a twin-turbocharge 3.6 liter V6 – 400HP (294 kW). 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (4.6 seconds with Sport Chrono package) and a top speed of 266 km/h (165 mph). The fuel consumption is 9.2 liters / 100 km (30.7 mpg UK or 25.6 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 216 g/km.

The specially prepared Porsche Macan Ursa will be exhibited at the 2014 Moscow Motor Show, next week.

Source: Top Car

August 25, 2014

Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe now offers supercharged performance

Honda-CR-Z_thumb Honda-CR-Z_651

Honda has announced that its CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe can now have supercharged performance thanks to a new dealer-installed Honda Performance Development (HPD) supercharger kit that includes a wide number of improvements and enhancements. In case you do not know, HPD is Honda’s North American racing company and it develops various full lines of street performance accessories for the CR-Z, first revealed at the 2013 SEMA Show.

“The CR-Z was the first hybrid to prove that efficiency doesn’t have to come at the cost of sportiness and fun,” said Art St. Cyr, president of Honda Performance Development. “With HPD street performance accessories, including the new supercharger kit, the CR-Z will surprise everyone again with even higher levels of performance directly inspired by our on-track racing efforts.”

The new HPD supercharger kit is available for the 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models with manual transmissions. It boosts total powertrain output to 197 horsepower (145 kW) versus 130 horsepower (96 kW) in the stock 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models with manual transmissions thanks to the included HPD air-to-air intercooler, high-flow fuel injectors, an ECU calibrated to meet CARB AT-PZEV regulations with 91 octane fuel and the HPD air filter system.

The new HPD supercharger kit is available at Honda dealers where it costs USD 5,495 but this price does not include the installation. The installation of this upgrade will not void your Honda warranty and owners of 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models will get to keep the customer’s 5-year/60,000 miles (100,000 km) Honda limited powertrain warranty if the supercharger kit is installed by a Honda dealer. The HPD supercharger kit is available exclusively for CR-Z manual transmission models and HPD has developed an optional limited slip differential and HPD sport clutch for those customers looking for an even higher level of performance.

HPD also offers street performance accessories that improve track handling. They include HPD sport dampers, coil springs with reduced ride height, 300mm diameter disc brakes and HPD 18-inch wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. The CR-Z is completed by a graphics package including front lip and tail spoilers, rear diffuser and HPD badge.

Source: Honda

August 22, 2014

Toyota Previews Second FT-1 Sports Car Concept [VIDEO]

Toyota showed recently a second interior styling and exterior colour for an upscale interpretation of the breath-taking FT-1 sports car concept. It was developed by Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The vehicle, which features graphite exterior paint and light-coloured leather accents, was on display for the first time at the Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival gala held on California’s Monterey Peninsula.

When the original FT-1 concept ignited enthusiasts with its January debut at the North American International Auto Show, it carried bold red exterior color scheme. This second version impresses with sophisticated graphite.

In terms of interior, the first car was dominated by bold, masculine black that kept the driver focused on the road. There were also red painted edges and raw metals which provided intriguing accents.

In contrast, the second FT-1 Concept includes natural leather accents on the seat which are supple with an all-natural grain. In addition, the painted edges that are red in the first concept are now subtly blended brown in the second.

The Calty creative designer, of the interior, Sellene Lee, drew inspiration for the FT-1 interior from the modern, high-tech performance materials used for today’s superhero costumes. In order to achieve the FT-1’s advanced-looking and detailed interior, Lee and her team compared leather accent thickness, grain size and texture to find the perfect combination.

For instance, the chosen raised metal mesh delivers ventilation for the seats and at the same time gives more textural, bold effect that beautifully matches with the metal accents. A dimensional embossed pattern on the instrument panel brings in a 3-D, technical look.

Another exclusive news regarding the FT-1 is that this September it will be available for download for the Gran Turismo 6 (GT6). Just like the red version of the car, the graphite FT-1 concept will also roar onto the GT 6 racetrack as a downloadable vehicle for a limited time.

What is more, for the celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Gran Turismo series, Calty has also designed an ultra-high-performance race version of the FT-1 that inside the game is called “Toyota FT-1 Vision GT”. You can take a look how it came to life by watching the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/uuXFyCHp59w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

August 22, 2014

ABT Volkswagen Golf R – 400HP and 480Nm

ABT is now offering a staggering performance package for the ultra-hot hatchback – 2014 Volkswagen Golf R. The tuned vehicle is able to reach 300 km/h (186 mph).

“To top our previous uprating to 370 hp, we have not only optimised the ABT Engine Control software but also installed a sport-type catalytic converter,“ says CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt.

Both the ABT Power and the new, strong ABT Power S kit are based upon the specially developed “New Generation” ABT control unit, which guarantees maximum power and utmost dependability. This has been proven on our own dynamometer and on public roads.

The Golf R also has received a complete aerodynamics package including modified front grille, a pair of headlights covers, new mirror caps, a pair of modified side skirts and last, but not least a tail-gate add-on spoiler.

There are also different wheels in ER-C, DR and CR designs ranging from 18” to 20”. The stance is further improved by a height adjustable suspension kit, which can lower the front from 10 to 40mm and the rear from 20 to 45mm.

ABT Golf VII R – data and facts

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

Engine: 2.0 TSI, 1984 cc capacity – Serieal 300HP (221 kW) and 380Nm (281 lb-ft)
Performance Tuning: ABT POWER S New Generation
Performance: 400HP (294 kW) and 480 Nm (356 lb-ft)

Engine: 2.0 TSI, 1984 cc capacity
Performance Tuning: ABT POWER New Generation
Performance: 370HP (272 kW) and 460Nm (341 lb-ft)

ABT AERODYNAMICS

ABT front grille
ABT headlight covers
ABT mirror covers
ABT side skirts
ABT tail gate add-on

ABT WHEELS in design ER-C, DR and CR in 8.5 x 18in, 8.5 x 19in and 9.0 x 20in

Available also as complete set with sports tires in 225/40 R18, 225/35 R19 and 235/30 R20

ABT SUSPENSION

ABT height adjustable suspension kit (lowering: front 10-40mm, rear 20-45mm)

ABT INTERIOR

ABT floor mats
ABT integrated entrance light

Source: ABT

August 22, 2014

Matthew McConaughey and the Lincoln MKC [VIDEO]

2015 Lincoln MKC now has its own TV and digital ad campaigns, in which we will see the Award-winner Matthew McConaughey [Dallas Buyers Club]. Lincoln Motor Company and the actor have signed a multi-year collaboration contract. McConaughey will act as a storyteller in series of upcoming TV and digital campaigns. The first one features the 2015 MKC small premium utility.

The actor revealed that he is a longtime admirer of Lincoln, being an iconic, American brand. He has already driven the MKC around Texas and thinks Lincoln have done good job. But the most important thing for the actor is the authenticity. He said, “It was clear from the start they appreciated me as an individual first and foremost, and I would be able to be myself in this collaboration.”

The director of the ads will be Nicolas Winding Refn [“Drive”]. He has already created a storyline for McConaughey around the MKC. In the spots, the actor invites viewers to experience the vehicle through unscripted moments in the commercial.

In 2012 Lincoln started re-launching the brand and committed to introducing four all-new products in four years. Following the MKZ midsize sedan is the MKC. This SUV is a pure example of brands high standards of quality, luxury, compelling design and personal service. And as Matthew says, “Sometimes you’ve got to go back to actually move forward”. The Lincoln MKC was built to help customers live in their moment.

httpv://youtu.be/Ii6Sj2hAfSs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lincoln

August 22, 2014

SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE – Pricing and Specs Announced

The specifications of the new SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE have just been announced. This is the latest addition to the Leon line-up following the-soon-introduced SEAT Leon CUPRA 280 with Sub8 Performance Pack and SC White-Line. The vehicle has a permanent four-wheel-drive which contributes to its off-roader looks. Thanks to its four-wheel-drive and extra ground clearance, the Leon X-PERIENCE is the perfect vehicle in any road conditions. The visual all-road stance of the car is further strengthened by the protection mouldings on the door sills and wheel arches, plus the aluminium look touches for the rear bumper and lower front spoiler. The integrated fog lamps and twin chrome tailpipes as well as the air intakes at the front signal back to the Leon ST model.

Leon X-PERIENCE features all-road suspension with extra ground clearance. In addition, the 4Drive all-wheel-drive system with intelligent EDS dynamic control accurately distributes weight between all four wheels. It also optimizes traction, handling and stability. There’s also an extended electronic differential lock (XDS).

The car comes in two trim levels, SE and SE Technology. The SE features 17-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, black roof rails and dark tinted rear windows. Rear parking sensors and twin exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, SEAT included dual zone climate control, leather steering wheel with orange stitching and X-PERIENCE logo, as well as cloth upholstered front sports seats with simil leather bolsters. At last, what deserves also to be mentioned is the featured Hill Hold Control and a chrome loading sill for more protection.

SE Technology brings a wealth of extras: SEAT Media System Plus with 5.8-inch colour touchscreen, DAB and satellite navigation, plus auto headlights, wipers and dimming rear view mirror. On the outside, the model gets LED headlights and taillights, electrically folding door mirrors and 18-inch ‘X-PERIENCE’ machined alloy wheels. Inside, the interior is wrapped in Alcantara upholstery and simil leather bolsters.

Furthermore, the Spanish company is also offering optional LUX pack for the Leon X-PERIENCE. The upgrade adds black leather upholstery with simil leather bolsters, heated front seats, headlight washers and heated washer nozzles, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and chrome roof rails.

SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE will be available to order in the UK starting 1st of September. It will be launched in showrooms in December. The pricing starts at £24,385.