Category: Auto News

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

  • 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Supercharged With HEMI Hellcat Engine

    2015-Dodge-Challenger-SRT-Hellcat-THUMB2015 Dodge Challenger SRT debuted a month ago showing-off its new style, performance enhancements and muscular presence. Now Dodge is announcing that the new Challenger will get supercharged with the 600-plus horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 HEMI Hellcat engine. Thanks to it, the car will deliver unrivaled performance. In addition 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat will feature race-inspired interior and new technologies that will satisfy all driving enthusiast.

    2015 Challenger SRT and Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine are re-designed and totally re-engineered. The new V-8 engine can be mated with an upgraded six-speed manual transmission or the innovative TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. The latter is the first such gearbox ever offered in the Dodge Challenger SRT.

    In addition to the 600 hp-capable HEMI V-8, Challenger SRT models also get a power boost with upgrades to the 392 HEMI V-8. In this case the horsepower is rated at 485 (357 kW), while the peak torque at 644 Nm (475 lb.-ft). This powerplant can be also coupled with the aforementioned TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission or can get the six-speed manual one.

    The Challenger equipped with the Hellcat engine comes standard with two key fobs – red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full horsepower and torque potential of the muscle car. On the other hand the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output.

    Another exclusive feature in the cars are the SRT’s “77” eight-spoke 20 x 9-inch forged-aluminum “Hyper Black” wheels. They come standard coupled with the Goodyear RSA2 All-Season 245/45ZR20 tyres at the front and rear or with the available Goodyear F1 Supercar Three-Season tires. Available on the Challenger SRT Hellcat are 20 x 9.5-inch, lightweight forged-aluminum wheels with a Brass Monkey/dark bronze finish.

    In terms of exterior the new Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat also includes dual air extractors, hood in standard body color or in available Satin Black finish, Air Catcher inlet port, quad projector headlamps, more aggressive brow “chops” the upper portion of the lamp design, integrated projector fog lamps pushed to the lower corners, new duck-bill fascia splitter, and larger front splitter.

    At the sides one can see signature muscular proportions and large thruster rear-quarter panels. What differentiate the Challenger SRT Hellcat from the rest of the Challenger lineup are its “SUPERCHARGED” fender badges.

    At the rear, the tail lamps include new signature LED graphic. A redesigned rear valance makes the SRT models look more planted on the ground. At last, unique taller rear spoiler on the SRT Hellcat features a raised SRT logo.

    2015 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 will be available in 11 exterior colors: B5 Blue Pearl Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Pearl Coat, Ivory White Tri-Coat Pearl, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat Pearl, Pitch Black Clear Coat, Redline Tri-Coat Pearl, Sublime Metallic Pearl Coat and TorRed Clear Coat. The twin, full-body stripes are available in Black Satin Gloss and Silver High Gloss.

    The interior of the cars is performance orientated and is inspired by the interior of the 1971 Challenger.The instrument panel features a stamped aluminum bezel and 7-inch driver-selectable driver information display (DID) screen centered in the gauge cluster. The dashboard’s center stack houses the new standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

    Inside, one can also see a redesigned SRT-branded heated steering wheel with available paddle shifters. The refreshed seats include improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. At the front the seats are heated and ventilated as a standard.

    At last, the seats can be covered in Nappa leather or Alcantara and will include SRT logos as a standard. The available Laguna premium leather is colored either sepia or black and features embossed SRT logos. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT will have a production start in the third quarter of 2014.

    Source: Dodge

  • Manhart MH4 550 Based on BMW M4

    Manhart Racing will soon reveal official information and pictures for their latest project based on the all-new BMW 4-Series M4. The German tuning company is going to offer styling and performance upgrades for the sports coupe. Performance package will be available for F80 and F82.

    Manhart MH4 550 will get a new body kit including a redesigned front hood, front spoiler lip and kidneys. There are also wider side skirts, rear diffuser and boot lid spoiler. All parts are made from exclusively from carbon fiber. The package gives the M4 a powerful stance and impressive overall look. Finally, the new rear spoiler features  two black stripes on the sides that create a nice visual impact.

    Performance upgrades include big brake system, improved suspension and bigger light-alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

    The 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol will be boosted to 550HP (404 kW) thanks to a new sports exhaust system, cold air intake system and an ECU re-map.

    Stay tuned for full information, pictures and pricing about all tuning elements.

    Source: Manhart

  • BMW X7 [render]

    TheophilusChin has published two interesting render images of the upcoming BMW X7. The flagship looks pretty much as an enlarged X5 F15 and the rear reminds its direct rival – Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. It is expected to hit the market sometime in 2017 or 2018, but nothing is for sure.

    BMW strongly reject to release any information about the possible model. It will probably come with a new engine range also including a hybrid version. Of course, fully-electric model is not excluded from the plans.

    BMW X7 will be manufactured at the company’s Spartanburg (SC) plant, where the most expensive car brand in the world will invest over $1,000,000,000.

    Until then, we expect to see how the new X5 eDrive will perform in the real world. It features a TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor with 95HP (70 kW). The expected range is up to 30 km (19 miles) only on electricity with speeds of up to 120km/h (75 mph). The fuel consumption will be around 3.8 liters / 100 km (61.8 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of less than 90 g/km.

  • Lexus IS 25 Aniversario Special Edition at Madrid Auto Show

    After the teaser phot from last week, Lexus has finally unveiled the IS 25 Aniversario at the 2014 Madrid Auto Show in Spain. The model is created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the model. It will be produced in limited series of just 25 units which will be sold exclusively in Spain.2014 Lexus IS 25 Aniversario comes with a complete aggressive body kit including a carbon fiber front hood, roof and a new spoiler. It is developed by Toyota Racing Development (TRD), which also fitted the special model with quad exhaust system. Other highlights include  19” F-Sport wheels fitted with Bridgestone Potenza tires – 225/35 R19 front and 255/30 R19 rear.The performance saloon also features Brembo big brake system – vented discs and 6-piston calipers.The interior boasts a red start TRD button, perforated leather upholstery with F-SPORT white inserts as well as an individually numbered plaque.2014 Lexus IS 25 Aniversario is powered by a V6 engine or a hybrid powertrain. The manufacturer will also offer a similar kit as an upgrade package for existing IS. The price will be exactly €10,000.

  • Seat Ibiza Cupster Concept

    Seat is going to exhibit the impressive Ibiza Cupster Concept at the 2014 Wörthersee Motor Show, later this month. The model marks the 30th anniversary of the Ibiza. It looks really astonishing and boasts some new technologies.

    2014 Seat Ibiza Cupster Concept has a raked and short windscreen combined with wraparound side windows and Cupra badging at the front. Other highlights include a trunk-mounted spoiler and a centrally-positioned large exhaust pipe. The engine is a 1.4 liter TSI turbocharged petrol with 180HP (132 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque.

    Seat will also bring the Nurburgring King – Leon Cupra 280, which has a 2.0 liter TFSI engine with 280HP (206 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. It is able to return 44.1 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 155 g/km.

    The model also features a DSG double clutch gearbox and an optional Performance Pack that includes Brembo high-performance brakes, specially designed 19” alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

    More details about the Ibiza Cupster Concept will be released close to its premiere. Stay tuned!

    Source: Seat

  • 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost and GT – US Price

    Ford has recently announced the pricing of 2015 Mustang, which starts at just $24,425 for the entry level model. However, the manufacturer didn’t release any official information about the pricing of the other models. Still, a leak in internet hints that the 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost will be priced from $25,995, while the GT model starts at $32,925. The top-of-range Mustang GT 50 Year Edition will cost you $46,995.

    The Mustang EcoBoost is powered by a 2.3 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 305HP (227 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft). Standard equipment includes LED fog lights, a body-color rear spoiler, 6-way power front seats, aluminum interior trim and active noise cancellation technology.

    The Mustang GT adds a ventilated front hood, a dual exhaust system and 18” alloy wheels. There is also a big brake system, electronic line-lock (burnout system) and a 5.0 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 420HP (313 kW) and 528Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque.

    The 50 Year Limited Edition model features GT Performance package – 6-piston Brembo front brakes and 19” alloy wheels fitted with high-performance Y-speed-rated Pirelli P-Zero summer tires.

  • BMW M6 Coupe Individual for Marco Wittmann

    BMW M has published several images of an Individual BMW M6 Coupe (F13). The model is specially designed for the DTM driver – Marco Wittmann. It boasts unique exterior and some nice interior upgrades.Outside, the individual M6 comes in a Fire Orange paint scheme with high-gloss black accents on the grille, mirrors and window trim. The interior boasts black Merino leather seats and Kyalami Orange contrast stitching. Other highlights include a steering wheel upholstered in Alcantara, carbon fiber elements and of course Fire Orange accents. The one-off model looks really nice and packs all needed stuff to satisfy even a demanding customer as a DTM race pilot. There is no doubt, that Mr. Wittmann will be pleased with his new ride.BMW M6 F13 Coupe is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 (S63B44TU) – 560HP (412 kW) at 6,600RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque available at just 1,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds , 0-200 km/h in 12.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited or 300 km/h (186 mph) with ///M Drivers package. The engine is connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. ¼ mile in 11.7 to 11.9 seconds.

  • 2014 Nissan Pulsar C-Segment Vehicle Revealed [VIDEO]

    2014 Nissan Pulsar has been exclusively revealed yesterday. Car’s design has been inspired by this of the Qashqai, X-Trail and Note. The new Pulsar combines bold design, technical innovations and interior space, thus delivering new dimension to the C-segment. The model is packed with a range of accessible and practical technologies, efficient and powerful drivetrains and offers large cabin space as well as energetic and athletic styling.

    Nissan‘s advanced Safety Shield has been added to the Pulsar. It comprises of a suite of systems and technologies that deliver a ‘safety net’ for drivers. Among theses systems are Forward Emergency Braking, Moving Object Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Warning.

    The second-generation NissanConnect system is also featured in the equipment of the car. This system comes with a full smartphone integration, Google Send-to-Car and access to a wide variety of useful and informative apps. On the other hand, the LED headlamps produce a crisp, white light and have the added advantage of using 50 per cent less power than conventional bulbs.

    Furthermore, Pulsar also delivers the perfect combination of performance and efficiency. The 1.2-litre DIG-T petrol unit generates an output of 115 hp (85 kW), while the 1.5-litre dCi generates 110 hp (80 kW) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. There is also an even more powerful 190 hp (140 kW) 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit.

    These engines not only offer exceptional performance but are also low on emissions and have CO2 outputs below 95 g/km. As an option, the 2014 Pulsar can bee equipped with the advanced XTronic automatic transmission.

    Inside, the passengers will enjoy enough space and ambient atmosphere. The confident and premium approach is continued inside. The designers have used high quality materials to realize their clear design vision, but also have integrated in the Pulsar’s unusually high equipment levels.

    httpv://youtu.be/yLCQlNcDo_4

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    httpv://youtu.be/uoMOCRgiz3A

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Nissan

  • Facelifted 2015 Chevrolet Aveo Debuts In China

    chevrolet-aveo-facelift-china-THUMB2015 Chevrolet Aveo is being currently introduced to China’s market in a hatchback and sedan body styles. The car is known in North America as Sonic model. The refreshed version of the car has an entirely new front end and rear clip, and in fact these enhancements slightly remind us of 2015 Chevrolet Cruze. The latter has been also unveiled in China a month ago. The car will be offered in four- and five-door configuration. The hatch will go on sale next month and will be followed shortly by its sedan sibling.

    Other enhancements here include the new taillights, which will be specifically designed for the sedan. There is also a new rear bumper with a faux diffuser, as well as brand new eight-spoke alloy wheels. We forgot to mention the new rear lights as well.

    The front also includes the two-tier style grille. The trunk has been sculpted in the same manner as the new Cruze. Body-colored side mirrors with integrated turn signals will be probably coming as option. In terms of power, the Chinese Aveo retains the same 1.4-liter DVVT engine coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox. The powerplant delivers up to 97 horsepower (71 kW).

    Details and pricing of 2015 Chevrolet Aveo is expected to be announced close to launch.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Cosworth Releases Video Teaser Of Upgraded Subaru BRZ

    cosworth-subaru-brz-THUMBcosworth-subaru-brz-651Cosworth Subaru BRZ is going to be equipped with tuning company latest enhancement package called Cosworth Power Package – FA20. What was revealed about it is that it will include the FA20 engine platform as well as the video below. Company’s ability to engineer and manufacture complete engine systems for our customers is a key capability. What we have also understood is that this will be a complete performance upgrade kit, which has been designed and validated as a system to provide guaranteed levels of power and reliability.

    FA-20 name probably refers to Subaru BRZ’s 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder Boxer petrol engine. It delivers 200 hp (147 kW) and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft). In addition, it also boasts a low centre of gravity and rear-wheel drive for engaging driving thrills.

    Furthermore, from the teaser video we can conclude that in the upgraded version of the BRZ we will probably see an upgraded exhaust system, large rear wing and body stripes both in blue. There is a chance of included supercharger or turbocharger which will enhance horsepower. In the video we also see the Toyota GT86, which means that the FA20 will work flawlessly for this model as well.

    Cosworth is a UK based tuning company, which develops performance upgrades for automotive and sport. It offers high performance technologies to a diverse range of industries using its capabilities in mechanical and electronic engineering and precision manufacturing.

    httpv://youtu.be/_AaxE0yb5d4

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Cosworth

  • 2014 Nissan e-NV200 – Price and Specs

    Nissan has announced the pricing of the revolutionary e-NV200 – the 100% electric van that will change the LCV market forever. The model combines the exceptional all-round capability and versatility.

    It will hit the market in July in both panel van and five-seat combi form, and in two distinct trim levels, the groundbreaking newcomer offers exceptional running cost savings over a conventional diesel van, making it an unbeatable proposition for businesses large and small.

    The all-electric e-NV200 van Acenta is priced from just £16,562, while the combi is priced at £22,859. Meanwhile, those choosing the Flex option, with monthly battery rental starting from £61 per month will see their initial outlay (incorporating PiVG/PiCG) on the same Acenta level van and combi fall to just £13,393 and £17,855 respectively.

    e-NV200 drivers can expect to benefit from up to £2,500 of fuel savings with the vehicle costing 2 pence per mile, while maintenance costs will be reduced by £575 based on servicing, parts and wear and tear.

    Standard equipment includes luggage slide hook (slide type) & parcel tray, full metal partition with window, 2 speaker CD/FM audio system with MP3/iPod compatibility, rear view camera, steel spare wheel, cable Mode3 32A T2, electric door mirrors, 15” steel wheels, ABS/VDC, iKEY, front power windows, 2 side sliding doors, french back doors with panel and x2 speakers.

    Full Pricing

    FLEX (BUY – LEASE)** BUY – BUY
    GRADE OTR w/ GRANT OTR w/o GRANT OTR w/ GRANT OTR w/o GRANT
    VAN ACENTA £13,393 £17,605 £16,562.20 £21,775
    ACENTA RAPID £14,259.40 £18,745 £17,428.60 £22,915
    ACENTA RAPID PLUS £14,681.20 £19,300 £17,850.40 £23,470
    TEKNA RAPID £15,733.80 £20,685 £18,903.00 £24,855
    TEKNA RAPID PLUS £16,155.60 £21,240 £19,324.80 £25,410
    COMBI 5 SEATS ACENTA £17,855 £22,855 £22,859 £27,859
    ACENTA RAPID PLUS £19,349 £24,350 £24,353 £29,353
    TEKNA RAPID £20,639 £25,640 £25,643 £30,643
    TEKNA RAPID PLUS £21,305 £26,305 £26,309 £31,309
    OTR for VAN excludes VAT, includes First reg. fee of £55
    OTR for COMBI includes VAT, includes First reg fee of £55
    Incentive for VAN (PiVG) is 20% up to a maximum of £8,000
    Incentive for COMBI (PiCG) is 20% up to a maximum of £5,000
    * Above figures are based on prices as of May 2014 and calculated for a utilisation period of 4 years and 9,375 miles per year.
    **Subject to monthly battery rental starting at £61 per month

    Battery Lease Grid

    Mileage/year
    Contract term < 6,000 9,000 12,000 15,000
    36 months+ £61.00 £63.00 £75.00 £88.00
    24 months £70.00 £72.00 £84.00 £97.00
    12 months £79.00 £81.00 £93.00 £106.00

    Equipment summary (Van)

    Acenta:

    • Luggage slide hook (slide type) & parcel tray
    • Full metal partition with window
    • 2 speaker CD/FM audio system with MP3/iPod compatibility
    • Rear view camera
    • Steel spare wheel
    • Cable Mode3 32A T2
    • Electric door mirrors
    • 15” steel wheels
    • ABS/VDC
    • iKEY
    • Front power windows
    • 2 side sliding doors
    • French back doors with panel
    • x2 speakers

    Acenta Rapid (additional features over Acenta)

    • Rapid charging

    Acenta Rapid Plus (additional features over Acenta Rapid)

    • Fast Charging (6.6kW on-board)

    Tekna Rapid (additional features over Acenta Rapid Plus)

    • Carwings
    • Cruise control
    • Safety pack
    • Full airbag pack
    • Multifunctional steering wheel
    • Luggage floor protector (standard)
    • x4 speakers
    • 15” alloy wheels
    • Coloured bumpers

    Available Options Across Grades (excl VAT)

    OPTIONS PRICES
    (EXCL. VAT)
    (1) Safety Pack £360
    − Front fog lamps
    − Passenger airbag
    (2) Cold pack £130
    − Heated front seats
    − Heated steering wheel
    − Heated door mirrors
    − Electric door mirrors
    (3) Fast (6.6kW) charging £555
    (4) Glazed French rear doors £150
    (5) NissanConnect navigation system £500
    (6) Air conditioning £450
    (7) Full mesh partition £130

    Equipment summary (5-seat combi)

    Acenta:

    • Luggage floor trim
    • x2 speakers
    • Cruise control
    • Driver adjustable speed limiter
    • CD/FM audio system with MP3/iPod compatibility
    • Rear view camera
    • Air conditioning
    • Steel spare wheel
    • Cable Mode3 32A T2
    • Electric doors mirrors
    • Coloured bumpers
    • 15” steel wheels
    • ABS/VDC
    • i-KEY
    • Front power windows
    • TPMS (Tire pressure monitoring system)
    • 2 side sliding doors
    • Back door with Tailgate
    • 2nd row bench (Folding + ISOFIX)
    • Green tinted glass (2nd row)
    • Rear window defroster with wiper
    • Full Airbag pack (Side + curtain + passenger airbags)

    Acenta Rapid Plus (additional features over Acenta)

    • Rapid charging
    • Fast Charging (6.6kW on-board)

    Tekna Rapid (additional features over Acenta Rapid Plus)

    • Carwings
    • Cruise control
    • Safety pack
    • French back doors with panel
    • Multifunctional steering wheel
    • Luggage floor protector (standard)
    • x4 speakers
    • 15” alloy wheels

    Tekna Rapid Plus (additional features over Tekna Rapid)

    • Fast Charging (6.6kW on-board)

    Available Options Across Grades (excl VAT)

    OPTIONS PRICES
    (EXCL. VAT)
    (1) Cold pack £130
    − Heated front seats
    − Heated steering wheel
    − Heated door mirrors
    − Electric door mirrors
    (2) Rapid charging £1,270
    (ACENTA only)
    (3) Fast (6.6kW) charging £555
    (4) Sliding 2nd row windows £90
    (5) NissanConnect navigation system £500
    (6) Air conditioning £450
    (7) Front fog lamps £140

    Source: Nissan

  • 2015 Ford Mustang – US Pricing Announced

    2015-ford-mustang-THUMB2015 Ford Mustang is already available to order at Ford dealerships across North America. The car is equipped with a wide range of standard features like the entirely independent suspension and the start push-button. There is a choice of three powerful engines and a 50 Years Appearance Package. 2015 Ford Mustang equipped with 3.7-liter V6 engine delivers more than 300 horsepower (220 kW) and 365 Nm (270 lb.-ft.) of torque.

    On the other hand, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine generates up to 305 horsepower (224 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the upgraded 5.0-liter V8 unit produces more than 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 528 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. Each of engines can be coupled with either an upgraded six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

    Wide range of standard features will be included in 2015 Mustang. For instance, the fully independent front and rear suspension will ensure improved driving dynamics and ride quality. Eight airbags including front, knee and side-impact deliver protection for driver and front passenger, while the rear view camera system aids difficult driving conditions.

    Other standard features are the individual tire pressure monitor readouts for each wheel, high-intensity discharge headlamps with signature lighting, illuminated, locking glove box, leather-wrapped steering wheel with manual tilt and telescope adjustment, intelligent access, enabling the driver to enter without touching the key fob, push-button start and SYNC connectivity system with next-generation AppLink to control smartphone apps with simple voice commands as well as 4.2-inch color display and two USB ports.

    The list of available technologies and accessories is long and includes eight-inch, high-resolution touch-screen display and navigation, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert upgraded with Doppler-effect radar, Adaptive cruise control and collision warning, Track Apps, Selectable drive modes, electronic line lock and a launch control system that manages engine speed and brakes.

    In addition, the Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition will be available for the Mustang EcoBoost Premium and Mustang GT Premium models. The 50 Years appearance package includes a chrome-accented grille, round 50 Years rear badge, 19×8.5-inch alloy wheels mated to 255/40R19 all-season tires, anniversary floor mats and unique seat and door-trim stitching.

    The starting price of 2015 Ford Mustang fastback is only $24,425 USD. It will be available in North America this fall.

    Source: Ford