Category: Auto News

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

  • 2015 Buick Verano Adds 4G LTE And Built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot

    2015-Buick-Verano-Turbo-THUMB2015 Buick Verano has great thoughtful design, including meticulous attention to detail inside and out. It delivers wide range of equipment features such as a standard rearview camera, heated steering wheel and soft-touch interior surfaces. The model is available in four trim levels: the basic 1SD, Verano Convenience 1SG, Verano Leather 1SL and Verano Turbo 1ST. Now Buick is enhancing Verano’s connectivity with OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

    Furthermore, a new exterior color will adorn the range. It is the Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic. There is a new appearance package available for all models except the Turbo. It includes a rear spoiler and a silver/bright chrome grille.

    Standard safety features for the model range are the side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert crash-avoidance technologies, while the forward collision alert and lane departure warning come as an option.

    This Buick model can be driven by either of two four-cylinder engines: the standard Ecotec 2.4L and the available Ecotec 2.0L turbo. The latter produces 250 horsepower (187 kW) and 260 lb-ft of torque (353 Nm). However, it is still capable of great fuel efficiency: it achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 city and 30 highway.

    The standard Ecotec 2.4L with direct-injection is delivering 180 horsepower (134 kW) and 171 lb-ft of torque (232 Nm). The fuel efficiency is 32 mpg (highway). Both engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control.

    Verano’s IntelliLink system has been standard on all models. The system is designed to accommodate new features and enhancements and be highly customizable. It includes seven-inch-diagonal screen which can be also used as standard rearview camera system. There is an optional navigation system.

    What is new to the connectivity features in the new Verano is OnStar with 4G LTE and the standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. 4G LTE is the most current and fastest mobile data network. With OnStar, it also offers stronger, broader coverage than smartphones on the same network.

    OnStar Directions and Connections include all of OnStar’s advisor-based safety and security features: Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Assistance, as well as Turn-by-Turn navigation. On the other hand the OnStar Basic Plan includes RemoteLink Key Fob Services, OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics and Dealer Maintenance Notification.

    Source: Buick

  • Toyota Upgrades 2015 Aygo Range

    2015-Toyota-Aygo-x-cite-THUMB2015 Toyota Aygo x-cite is just one of the special edition models which come to upgrade the current Aygo range, Next to it, the company is also introducing the x, x-play, x-pression, and x-clusiv grades. The new models offer wide range of customization opportunities with up to 10 interchangeable exterior and cabin features. One of the highlights is the addition of the Toyota x-touch multimedia system and x-nav navigation option. 2015 Aygo is also the first in its class to offer a rear-view camera and it can be specified with Smart Entry and push button start.

    The car will be launched in three and five-door bodystyles as well as five color options: White Flash, Silver Splash, Electro Grey, Deep Blue Buzz and Red Pop. In addition, the x-cite will be offered only in Orange Twist and the x-clusiv in Bold Black.

    Toyota developed an x-tra premium pack for the x-cite and x-clusiv models. It includes leather seat upholstery and Smart Entry and Start. For x-play and x-pression grades, the INstyle option provides leather seats with accents in a range of four different colours. As an option there are being offered automatic air conditioning, dusk-sensing headlights and Smart Entry and push-button start. In addition, the OUTshine pack adds extra chrome touches to the front, front and rear parking sensors, a boot liner, aluminium scuff plates, rubber floor mats and mud flaps.

    The customization packs offered for the range are the OUTstand pack, which adds front X, A-pillar x-tension and rear bumper insert, in a choice of three colours; OUTburst pack with front bumper decal, side sills and rear diffuser decal in red or chrome; INspire pack for the interior with surrounds for the air vents and gear shift to match any exterior colour; Intense pack with body colour-matched instrument panel, centre console and gear surround.

    2015 Toyota Aygo is going on sale on 1st of July.

    Key equipment features:

    Aygo x Aygo x-play adds Aygo x-pression adds
    14-inch wheels 15-inch wheels 15-inch silver alloy wheels
    Projector headlights with LED tracer light Piano black front X finish Piano black rear bumper insert
    LED daytime running lights Body colour matched doorhandles and mirrors Piano black x-tension on A-pillars
    2-speaker audio with Aux and USB connections Leather steering wheel and gear shift trim Front fog lights
    Power front windows 4-speaker audio Part-leather sports-style seats
    Wireless door locks Bluetooth Chrome internal door handle finish
    Isofix child seat anchors Audio and phone control switches on steering wheel Body colour-matched instrument panel
    ABS and Vehicle Stability ControlHill-start Assist Control Air conditioning with clean air filter Glossy black centre console and gear shift and air vent surrounds
    Driver, front passenger and curtain airbags Tachometer x-touch multimedia system with MirrorLink
    Seat belt warning system Driver’s seat height adjustment DAB
    Tyre pressure monitor 50:50 split-folding rear seats Rear-view camera
    Aygo x-cite Aygo x-clusiv
    Orange Twist exterior paint finish Bold Black exterior paint finish
    15-inch gloss black alloys with orange centre cap 15-inch machined finish alloys with large black centre cap and chrome surround
    Gloss black doorhandles and mirrors Super chrome front X and A-pillar x-tension
    Piano black rear bumper insert Super chrome rear bumper insert
    Piano black A-pillar x-tension Front fog lights
    Front fog lights Chrome internal doorhandle finish
    Chrome internal doorhandle finish Piano black instrument panel and centre console
    Gloss black instrument panel and centre console
    with Orange Twist air vent surrounds
    x-touch multimedia system with MirrorLink
    x-touch multimedia system with MirrorLink DAB
    DAB Rear-view camera
    Rear-view camera Dusk-sensing headlights

    Source: Toyota

  • 2014 BMW 2-Series M235i – Review [video]

    Apex tv has published an awesome video review of the all-new 2014 BMW 2-Series M235i. The performance coupe is really capable and boasts impressive handling, acceleration and overall driving pleasure.

    It is powered by the well-known 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine – 326HP (240 kW) and 450Nm (322 lb-ft) 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine is connected to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The fuel consumption is decent 7.6 liters / 100 km on combined cycle, which means that the new 2-Series M235i can be used as an everyday car as well as a track toy.

    2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe is 4,432 mm long; 1,774 mm wide; 1,418 mm high and has a 2,690 mm wheelbase. The boot space is 390 litres, which is 20 litres more than 1-Series Coupe. The BMW 2-Series Coupe also boasts more efficient aerodynamics than both the BMW 1-Series and its predecessor, as reflected in a Cd of 0.29. The curb weight is 1,470 kg.

    The pricing in the US starts at $44,025, while the EU price tag is €36,764 which is a lot more.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDycn49flco

    Source: apex.tv via Youtube

  • No Car Without Entertainment

    For much of the history of the automobile, in-car entertainment has involved sticking your head out of the window like a dog. Sure, we had radios in the past, but they were usually either broken or stolen. Up until 2010, Lexus were still putting tape players in their cars, and while CD’s have had a good run, they’re pretty much done now. Thankfully the short-lived in-car vinyl record player is unlikely to make a comeback, despite the rebirth of the home format amongst audiophiles. (more…)

  • TopCar Porsche 911 Turbo Stinger GTR

    TopCar has unveiled their latest project – Stinger GTR based on the latest Porsche 911 Turbo. The tuned sports car will make its official debut at the 2014 Moscow Auto Show. TopCar has already presented the Vantage GTR based on Porsche Cayenne and Stingray GTR – tuning program for Porsche Panamera and now it is turn to the 911.

    The tuning package will fit to all Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S models. The tuning kit includes a number of carbon Kevlar elements including new front and rear bumpers, extended fenders and a new aerodynamic side skirts. Last, but not least are the revised doors and a new rear wing.

    2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S is powered by a 3.8 liter flat-six turbocharged engine with 560HP (412 kW) at 6500RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a DCT 7-speed gearbox.

    0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 318 km/h (198 mph). However, during a test – Christian Gebhardt managed to do 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.0 seconds and a top speed of 333 km/h (207 mph).

    2014 911 Turbo S is available on the market with pricing starting from €195,256.

    Source: TopCar

  • Carlsson 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212

    Carlsson has unveiled their latest project based on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 Facelift. The premium saloon has received a number of upgrades including styling and performance mods.

    The exterior boasts a new front spoiler, a pair of revised side skirts and a new rear bumper with an RS-type diffuser. There is also a new rear spoiler and different sets of alloy wheels fitted with proper tires. The new diffuser houses a sports exhaust system with deep voice and nice tail pipes (105 x 70mm ovals).

    The range of Carlsson alloy wheels include 1/10 design available in Graphite Edition – 19” and 20”, and in the Brilliant or Titanium Edition in 18”, 19” and 20”. The 1/16 RS wheel design comes as the Diamond or Titanium Edition in 18”, 19” and 20” diameters, with the Brilliant Edition available in 18” and 19”.

    The stance is further improved by a set of new lowering springs (-30 mm). There is also an adjustable coil-over suspension which lowers the front by 15 to 35 mm and the rear by 20 mm. The models with Airmatic suspension can be outfitted with a C-Tronic Air-4 module that reduces the ride height by approximately 30 mm.

    The interior of the tuned E-Class comes with a premium leather and Alcantara upholstery as well as wood, carbon fiber or aluminum trim elements. There are also illuminated sill plates, alloy pedals, branded floor mats and alloy door-lock pins.

    There are several performance packages including CK40, CK50 and the diesel range.

    The CK40 boosts the E400 to 385HP (283 kW) and 550Nm (405 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 38HP and 70Nm. The CK50 is for E500 and includes a sports air filter and an optimized ECU. The result is 523HP (385 kW) and 730Nm (538 lb-ft) – an increase of 115HP and 130Nm.

    The diesel range including E200 CDI boosted to 220HP (165 kW), the E250 CDI – 239HP (176 kW) and the E350 CDI Bluetec – 310HP (228 kW).

    Source: Carlsson

  • 2015 ATS Sport 380 – Price €48,850

    ATS (Automobili Turismo Sport) has presented their new model – 2015 Sport 380. The special track toy is an updated version of the Sport 1000, which was introduced back in 2012. The new model boasts a number of upgrades including more than 100 modifications.

    2015 ATS Sport 380 comes with a new stainless steel chassis and a FIA-compliant rollbar created by Cromo Molibdenum reducing the weight by 45 kg (99 lbs). The body is more aerodynamically efficient, which means better acceleration and more traction at high speeds.

    Other special features include a Quaife LSD (limited-slip differential), Avon tires fitted on racing ultra-lightweight alloys, Tillett sport seats made from carbon fiber and an adjustable pedal box with CNC-machined pedals.

    The suspension features Ohlins dampers and Tarox 6-piston front and rear calipers with vented discs. There is also a Sparco removable steering wheel, 6-point harness, a stainless steel fuel tank, alloy water radiator with air control system and remote oil cooler.

    Last, but not least is the full stainless steel exhaust system.

    The engine is a 1.3 liter – 185HP (138 kW) at 11,000RPM connected to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. There is also a 1.4 liter model and a 1.6 liter with 255HP (190 kW). 0-100 km/h in less than 3.0 seconds.

    2015 ATS Sport 380 is priced from €48,850.

    Source: ATS

  • 2015 BMW X6 ///M-Sport

    After the introducing of the all-new 2015 BMW X6, the German manufacturer is adding to the range the ///M-Sport version coming with some nice extras, which every BMW fan will appreciate.

    2015 BMW X6 ///M-Sport is offered across all the engine range and includes a complete aerodynamics package – a new front bumper, a pair of revised side skirts and a rear diffuser housing the new exhaust tailpipes. There is also a new matte aluminum grille and body colored wheel arches. Last, but not least is the shadow line trim and the set of 19” lightweight alloy wheels fitted with proper tires.

    The interior boasts a Leather and Alcantara sport seats, a sport steering wheel and aluminum trim elements. Other highlights include an anthracite roof, an alloy footrest and M-branded door sill plates.

    The Adaptive ///M-sport suspension gives unique feeling and improved handling. It also lowers the ride height, stiffens the shocks and gives the new X6 a better stance, if needed.

    2015 BMW X6 is powered by a a 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder diesel with 258HP (190 kW) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque, a three-turbocharged 3.0 liter six-cylinder diesel – 381HP (280 kW) and 740 Nm (545 lb-ft) and a powerful 4.4 liter TwinPower Turbo V8 – 450HP (330 kW) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). In the US, a 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder petrol engine with 300HP (223 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft) will be offered.

    Source: BMW

  • Brabus Smart ForTwo Fan Edition

    Smart has unveiled a special ForTwo Brabus Fan Editoin, which will be exhibited in Cascais, Portugal between July 17th to 19th. The convertible small car boasts a unique styling created by the fans.

    Several weeks ago, the manufacturer asked its fans to build and vote their favorite ForTwo Edition and now after the contest has ended, the final configuration will be revealed.

    The exterior boasts glossy deep blue body paint combined with a white safety cell. There are also Brabus matte grey alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires and some dark elements. The interior boasts complete white leather upholstery with embroidered headrests and diamond quilting on the seat’s side supports.

    A totally 13,863 fans expressed their vote during the contest and one of them will win a five-day trip for two people at the Smart Times 14 event. Smart is expected to introduce the all-new ForTwo in Berlin, Germany this month.

    Originally, Brabus Smart ForTwo Cabrio is powered by a 1.0 liter three-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 120HP (88 kW) at 6,000RPM and 160Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM. 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h (112 mph), which is quite much for such a small car (curb weight of around 800 kg).

  • Manhart MH2 Clubsport Based On BMW M235i Coupe

    Manhart-BMW-M235i-Coupe-MH2-Clubsport-TUMBManhart BMW M235i Coupe MH2 Clubsport does not produce 326 horsepower as its production M235i Coupe sibling. And in fact it has nothing to do with it. This of course is because the specialists at Manhart did their work very well. Let’s review what they have done to create this impressive tuning. The brand new production BMW M235i Coupe is driven by 326 hp (240 kW) six-cylinder turbo, which delivers 450 Nm (333 lb-ft). Via a performance boost using an additional process control system, the MH2 is now dragged by almost 430 horsepower (316 kW) and a maximum torque of 592 Nm (437 lb-ft).

    Parallel to this, Manhart also added bigger charging air intercooler for better cooling and a special sport exhaust system with downpipe and 200-cell sports catalyzers. In addition, the specialists removed the factory-fitted Vmax block, thus helping the vehicle move beyond the 300 kph.

    Moreover, Manhart Performance also installed axle back exhaust with two round 90-millimeter stainless steel tailpipes and reinforced sports clutch. The perfectly aligned chassis relies on the 3-fold adjustable Club sport coilover kit including support bearings and its own alignment for the MH2 Clubsport.

    MH2 Clubsport rides on Concave One rims of the size 8.5×19 inches fitted with 225/35ZR19 tires at the front and 9.5×19 inches with 255/30ZR19 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires at the rear. For optimum braking power, the designers added serial system on the front axle with the 6-piston fixed calipers with disks of size 350×34 mm and Pagid sports brake pads and steel flex lines. There are also Pagid brake pads and steel flex lines on the rear axle.

    Inside, one can see that there is no rear bench. At the front, there is a colored Recaro Pole Position full-shell seat with the 4-point suspender belts. The driver’s space is decorated with a special handbrake handle, a gear lever knob and an aluminum pedal lining from the BMW Performance program.

    An additional display was installed in the center console in place of the left ventilation nozzle. It shows all important engine parameters such as charging air pressure, oil pressure, intake temperature and oil temperature.

    Manhart also relies strongly on the sportiness of the external shell of MH2 Clubsport. Here the tuners added parts which improve the aerodynamics: front spoiler, rear diffuser and the rear spoiler made of carbon. The carbon mirror covers perfectly contrast the yellow special wrap.

    Source: Manhart

  • Kahn Land Rover Discovery 3.0 TDV6 RS-X

    Kahn-Land-Rover-Discovery-TDV6-RS300-THUMBKahn Land Rover Discovery 3.0 TDV6 RS-X is the newest addition to luxury tuning company’s impressive list of restyled vehicles. This Discovery is truly unique, due to its extra styling package. And this is what sets it apart from the production versions of this vehicle. First of all, the tuners added shiny RS grille with 3-D mesh. LED daytime running lights were integrated into the front wheel arches.

    Furthermore, each of the front and rear fenders wears integrated RS air dams. The front fender also adds enamel wing shields. At the rear “sits” the A.Kahn Desing rear tailgate logo, while the dark privacy-tinted glass helps to distinguish this Land Rover as a creation of the tuning company. At last, to round out the exterior styling, the enhancers added a set of 10 x 22″ RS-X wheels in satin black with white stripe and original centre caps.

    Going inside, one can see a many luxury amenities and custom-tailored options. All seven seats were wrapped in soft red leather with a quilted and perforated design. This makes a contrast to the main color scheme of the SUV.

    In addition, each of the four door arm rests wear a new stitching design. Drivers benefit from a new set of machined and vented aluminum foot pedals, new time clock fascia with Swarovski diamond bezel, and new speedometer and tachometer gauges. New floor mats were added as a final touch, while stainless steel door entry sills great the passengers.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • DMC Ferrari 458 Italia MCC Edition

    DMC has unveiled their latest project based on Ferrari 458 Italia Monte Carlo. The sports car has received a carbon fiber package and the project is named DMC 458 MCC Edition.

    The aerodynamics package includes a new front fascia, a carbon fiber front lip and a side located bumper diffusers. Every bit and piece that can be exposed has been turned into carbon fiber. As the tuning company promises, current 458 owners will love the product. If they don’t want the extreme look of DMC 458 Estremo and the DMC 458 Elegante is too aftermarket, the 458 MCC Edition will be the perfect choice.

    DMC Ferrari 458 MCC Edition is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.5 liter V8 engine, which develops 570HP (419 kW) at 9,000RPM and 540Nm (399 lb-ft) at 6,000RPM. We are actually wondering whether the car will deliver better acceleration time due to the aerodynamic and consequently weight enhancements. The standard accelerations time for the 458 Italia from 0 to 100 km/h is 3.4 seconds, and the top speed is 325 km/h (202 mph).

    Although the 458 Italia is one of the best looking cars of all times, the tuning package from DMC is really spectacular and can be considered by a lot of owners.

    Source: DMC