Category: Auto News

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

  • Buick Enters LaCrosse Ultra Luxury Interior Package

    2014-Buick-LaCrosse-THUMB2014 Buick LaCrosse Ultra Luxury Interior Package has been added to enhance the interior credentials of the LaCrosse range. The unique package adorns the cabin of the vehicle with the outstanding combination of sangria and ebony colors. In fact, this color palette is typical across the luxury cars of higher ranges. This color combination is intense and at the same time calming. In addition, premium materials were used in the making of the new interior.

    2014 Ultra Luxury Interior includes front and rear seats upholstered in soft semi-aniline leather. The latter is in the color of deep sangria. In addition, the same material extends to console and door armrests, complemented by ebony-colored accents like the sueded headliner and door pillars.

    Furthermore, the luxury interior also features authentic Shadow Tamo Ash wood trim on the doors, dash, and center console. In fact, the deeply grained Tamo Ash offers movement and contrast through its dark veins. Another interesting fact around it is that it varies widely in appearance, which consequently makes every Ultra Luxury Interior unique.

    The package is available on the 2014 LaCrosse Leather (1SL), Premium (1SP) and Premium ll (1SR) models. They are equipped with the 3.6L V-6 engine, that produces 304 horsepower (224 kW). The fuel efficiency is estimated at 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models and 17/26 mpg for all-wheel drive models.

    Source: Buick

  • Fostla.de Wrapps-Up Porsche 991 GT3

    2014-Fostla.de-Porsche-991-GT3-THUMBFostla.de Porsche 991 GT3 delivers new sporty exterior appearance. It was achieved by the full wrapping performed by the tuning specialists at the German company Fostla.de. The foil application is said to have many advantages over the standard painting. First of all, it exudes craftsmanship, secondly – it improves the individual appearance of the car, and at last – it conserves the its value. In particular, this Porsche 991 GT3 has been dressed in glossing white foil, and then its front has been covered with double layer wrapping.

    The professionals at Fostla.de say that only after that began the scrupulously precise work in detail. A bilious green design foiling goes around the lower corner of the car body. It can’t be seen however at the rear area.

    In addition, the upper edge of the air inlet at the front forms the borderline to the white body area. It manifests itself on the body sides by three black stripes. Behind the doors, the borderline clearly mounts up to the rear wings.

    What is more, the bilious green longitudinal stripes have been added to the front bonnet, roof and rear motor bonnet. At the sides, each green line is limited by black stripes. The outer mirrors and the rear wing diffusors have been also wrapped in green. At last, what rounds out this project is the upper front window corner, which has been decorated by a wedge with Porsche logo.

    Source: Miranda Media

  • 2014 BMW M6 GranCoupe F06 Individual

    BMW is going to offer an Individual program for the M6 GranCoupe F06. The one-off model comes with some impressive styling upgrades for the exterior and the interior.

    Outside, the Individual M6 GranCoupe boasts a Frozen Red paint scheme with dark chrome accents and gold-painted brake calipers which reside behind attractive alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

    The interior features Opal White Merino leather seats with black leather-wrapped dashboard and Sakhir Orange stitching. The model has also been equipped with piano black trim, Frozen Red accents and embossed headrests. Last but not least, there are the special floor mats and BMW Individual sill plates.

    BMW M6 GranCoupe F06 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.

    Source: BMW

  • Mugen 2014 Honda City

    Honda has unveiled Mugen 2014 City in the Philippines. The manufacturer has introduced a Mugen version of the previous generation City and now it is turn to the current model. It will hit the market in the third quarter of this year. The latest City is as long and as wide as the previous one, but there should be more headroom now and more legroom because of a 50 mm longer wheelbase. In other words – 4400×1695×1495 mm in dimensions and a 2600 mm wheelbase.

    Mugen 2014 Honda City comes with a number of cosmetic tweaks which will be followed later on by upgrades to the engine, suspension, brake system and the interior. This particular vehicle has new front and rear bumpers as well as a pair of bigger side skirts and a black front grille. There are also Mugen decals and stripes, carbon finish for the side mirrors, a lip rear spoiler along with bespoke 17” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    The Honda City Mugen is based on the range-topping VX version and comes with a four-cylinder 1.5 liter naturally aspirated engine with 120HP (88 kW) and 145Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. The power is put on the road through a standard 5-speed manual gearbox or an optional CVT (continuously variable transmission). The car is available only with FWD (front-wheel driver).

  • Volkswagen Jetta CC [render]

    TheophilusChinhas published two render pictures of Volkswagen Jetta CC based on the recently introduced the new midsize coupe – NMC Concept. The changes are not significant, but the Jetta CC definitely looks better.

    NMC Concept was exhibited a few days ago at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. The Jetta CC comes with different front bumper, rear diffuser and taillights, while the smaller wheels will be more suitable for production model. They will also improve the comfort. Although a Jetta CC is rumored, Volkswagen didn’t release any official information about this model. According to recent report, the NMC Concept previews a production model set ride on the next-generation Jetta platform. It will utilize the MQB platform and is expected to see the be introduced sometime in 2016.

    Volkswagen US has recently unveiled the 2015 Jetta Facelift, which is expected to make official debut  at the 2014 New York Auto Show. The new Jetta Sedan has some styling changes for the exterior and the interior. The engine range is also updated as well as the optional equipment.

    2015 Volkswagen Jetta Facelift US still rides on the PQ35 platform (Golf V), but the engine line-up now features a four-cylinder 2.0 liter TDI with 150HP (112 kW), which 10HP more. It will return 32 mpg US in city, 45 mpg US on the highway and 37 mpg US on combined cycle.

  • Renault Megane RS Trophy with Akrapovic Exhaust

    Renault has published a teaser image of a more hardcore Megane RS Trophy, which is expected to make official debut on June 16th. The hot hatchback was the fastest front-wheel drive car at the Nurburgring for a long time, but the current leader is the extremely powerful Seat Leon Cupra 280.

    The Spanish legend managed to complete a lap around the Green Hell in  7 minutes and 58.4 seconds. So, the game is officially on and Renault will release a special edition of the Megane RS Trophy, which will be able to lap the Ring in less than 8 minutes.

    Renaultsport 265 Trophy is powered by a turbocharged 2.0 litre petrol engine with staggering 265HP (195 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque available between at 3,000RPM. The hot hatch achieves impressive power-to-weight ratio of 191HP / tonne. It will be fitted with a custom Akrapovic exhaust system featuring a carbon fiber cover. Of course, we expect improved engine management, so the uprated Megane RS will have more than 280HP.

    Besides of the insane engine, Renaultsport 265 Trophy comes with a huge 19” gloss black Speedline alloys with red rim fitted with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres. The car boasts “Trophy” red decals on the F1-style front blade and doors, and LED daytime running lights.

    Source: Renault

  • 2015 Toyota GT86 Is Here!

    2015-Toyota-GT86-THUMB2015 Toyota GT86 is here and it is showing-off its perfectly enhanced aerodynamics for the new model year. It will offer even better handling and stability due to the optimization of suspension’s rigidity and shock absorbers. In addition, the changes are also evident in the interior, which now features new instrument panel finish. An entirely new element is the shark-fin type antenna that comes to enhance the aerodynamics and deliver a bolder look.

    The GT86 was officially introduced in 2012 and made a big furor. Wisely enough, Toyota is continuing the development of the car. The foundation of the upgrade is the more rigid fixation of the front suspension and the rear shock absorbers.

    The rework of shock absorbers provide more stable damping and improved friction control, thus delivering smoother and communicative handling. Body-roll is reduced and the steering feel is sharper than before.

    Another exclusive change is featured on the inside of the GT86. It is the new carbon-fibre motif on the dashboard insert. This not only gives more contemporary appearance of the car, but also hints to future utilization of the popular material.

    On the outside, another introduction was made. It is the shark-fin antenna, which has been adopted in order to enhance the looks and aerodynamics of the car. The 2015 model year update also features a new pearl-white and silver paint finishes.

    2015 Toyota GT86 will be available in dealerships only throughout Europe staring this summer.

    Source: Toyota

  • SGA Aerodynamics Customizes Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

    SGA-Aerodynamics-Mercedes-Benz-SLS-AMG-THUMBSGA Aerodynamics Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a wide-body gull-wing beast that immediately catches the attention. The car is based on the famous Black Series but now is taken further with the added body kit and other enhancements. The visual appearance of the car was completely redesigned and intensified with wider jaws, air inlets and outlets as well as carbon flaps.

    At the front the tuners have added a double-layer spoiler which is deeply draw down and framed in carbon-fiber flaps. In addition, as one can see, the engine hood is also entirely new and is equipped with the typical air outlet.

    On the sides, SGA Aerodynamics gave this Mercedes-Benz broader side skirts with air inlets and framed them in massive mudguards. The front mudguards carry extensive applications of carbon fiber, while the fuel tank cover is modeled into the rear enlargements.

    At the rear, there is a protruding rear valance with lateral gills on the rear. A large double-layer – diffusor is also present. It was made of carbon fiber and keeps the original Black Series exhaust pipe ends. At last, an adjustable carbon rear wing rounds-out the new look of this SLS AMG.

    The car is finished in diamond-white paint, which perfectly highlights the carbon fiber components. This Black Series runs on special MAE forged rims, called “forged rotor“. Through its turbine optics, the three-part wheel has a directional running pattern and stands out for its chromium-plated beddings. The size of the wheels at the front is 10.5 x 20 and the tires are of size 265/30. At the rear we see even bigger wheels of the dimensions of 12 x 21 inches fitted with 325/25 tires.

    Source: SGA Aerodynamics

  • Acura and Honda at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

    Acura and Honda is going to take place at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb starting on June 29th. There will be seven classes including electric vehicle class, exhibition class, time attack class, open class, middleweight class and ATV class. Last but not least is the unlimited class.

    Honda didn’t release any specific information, but they plan to enter in the competition with Fit EV, Fit B-Spec racer, S3700, a first-generation Acura NSX, CBR600RR and a TRX450. In the unlimited class, Romain Dumas will compete with a Honda-powered Norma.

    “Pikes Peak presents us with a unique opportunity to showcase Honda’s diverse product lineup and to energize Honda fans around the world, as we work to further strengthen Honda’s presence in racing at all levels.” St. Cyr went on to say “Our associates will be working hard between now and race day to prepare this diverse field of race vehicles and showcase the Honda Racing Spirit”, commented Honda Performance Development President Art St. Cyr.

    As a further extension of Honda’s sponsorship effort, Honda Power Equipment will be supporting race operations, with Honda generators providing electricity and light to the pits and staging area. Honda Power Sports will also be providing Honda ATV / UTV products to support the sanctioning body during race week.

  • 2014 Kia Picanto Quantum Becomes Part Of “Originals” Range

    Kia-Picanto-Quantum-THUMB2014 Kia Picanto Quantum is an addition to brand’s popular city-car range. Ii is also part of Kia’s ‘Originals’ range, which is a line-up of vehicles that delivers unique personalities. The Quantum is available in 3-door guise and is finished in Titanium Silver metallic paintwork. It features premium black cloth interior upholstery. The power of the car comes from the 1.25-litre petrol engine which can be coupled with either a manual or automatic transmission.

    Quantum delivers up to 84 hp (62 kW) at 6,000rpm and 120 Nm (89 kW) torque at 4,000rpm. Other standard equipment includes 15-inch five-round-spoke alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, a smart key entry system with engine start/stop button, electric sliding and tilting sunroof. Further highlights here feature the adjustable and heated door mirrors with LED indicator lights, front foglights, a six-speaker audio system, body-coloured side sill mouldings and automatic headlight control.

    Picanto Quantum also adds as a standard the ‘Urban Pack’. The latter comprises of reversing sensors, LED ambient interior lighting, a premium Supervision instrument cluster and an illuminated driver’s side vanity mirror. UV solar windscreen glass minimizes the glare and UV light in the cabin. Privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate further add to the coziness of the interior.

    The figures in the case of the Quantum model equipped with the manual transmission are estimated at 62.8 mpg fuel consumption, while the CO2 emissions are rated at 106 g/km. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 11 seconds on its way to a top speed of 106 mph.

    The four-speed Quantum automatic has fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 50.4 mpg and 130g/km respectively. The performance figures are 0-100 km/h in 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 101 mph. 2014 Kia Picanto Quantum is currently available in showrooms.

    Source: Kia

  • ABT Celebrates 40 Years Of Golf With Custom Golf I GTI

    ABT-Volkswagen-Golf-I-GTI-THUMBABT Volkswagen Golf I GTI comes to commemorate the 40th anniversary of one of the most iconic cars in history – the Golf. The original first generation of the angular Volkswagen Golf Mk1 was presented in 1974 and was successor of the Beetle. The car was intended by the brand as a modern front-wheel-drive, hatchback replacement for the ageing Beetle. In fact, the Mk1 was Germany’s best selling car right from the start.

    In fact, the tuners at ABT customized this VW back in 1982 and now they are bring it in the present to celebrate the unique history of the car. This particualr model was fitted with a 7’’ widebody and suspension-kit. In addition, the power was also enhanced with almost 50 per cent. Precisely, the serial GTI develops 163hp (120kW), while the custom – 220hp (162kW).

    The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h was estimated at 6.8 seconds. Responsible for that kick is the KKK exhaust gas turbocharger. The latter was at that time only available from Volkswagen for the very expensive Audi Quattros.

    Furthermore, Golf I’s engine was made stable with a number of high-end components like autothermal pistons and a special crankshaft. And then there was the roaring “turbo exhaust system” and the ABT “super suspension”. Alloy wheels in a very classy design were added and fitted with wide-base tires in the dimension of 205/60R13. The interior was also changed. White-leather sport-type steering wheel and various additional instruments are present.

    Source: ABT

  • Castrol Footkhana – Neymar Jr. vs Ken Block

    Ken Block and Neymar Junior joined forces to create the unique footage called “Footkhana“. This is a duel between football (soccer) player and Gymkhana professional drifter. Of course, each one of them has a “weapon” to use – Ken Block has a Ford Fiesta HFGV with 650HP and Neymar got… a ball and his multi-million feet.

    The 2014 World Cup in Brazil is very soon, so the clip is specially created to promote it. Castrol asked Ken Block and well-known soccer player Neymar to star in this spectacular footage.  Both Neymar and Ken Block have a very good footwork and show off their talents but eventually the special game ends up with a 3-3 tie.

    As a reminder, Neymar da Silva Santos Junior is born on February 5th in 1992). He is commonly known as Neymar and plays for Spanish club FC Barcelona in La Liga. He is currently one of the best football players in the world and the reported transfer fee was €57 million. Neymar’s playing position is Forward/Winger and as you will see in the video, he tackles the ball extremely well.

    On the other hand, Ken Block is a professional rally driver with the Hoonigan Racing Division. He is born on November 21st in 1967 and he is one of the co-founders and recently appointed Chief Brand Officer of DC Shoes. ock has also competed in many action sports events includin snowboarding, skateboarding and motocross.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdBXpORSGu0#t=106