Category: Auto News

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

  • 2014 Subaru Impreza – Price £17,495

    Subaru UK has revealed full details and pricing for the 2014 Impreza, which is expected to hit the market on 1st of May.

    2014 Subari Impreza will come with only one engine – a new 1.6 liter 114HP (84 kW) at 5,600RPM and 150Nm (111 lb-ft) of torque. The pricing starts from £17,495 for the 5-speed manual gearbox and £18,995 for models fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic transmission. The Impreza will be the only car in the C-segment to offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard on every model. The dynamics is pretty poor – 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds and a top speed of 183 km/h (114 mph).

    Standard equipment include automatic on/off headlamps and rain-sensing windscreen wipers, front fog lamps, power-folding heated door mirrors with LED turn signals, windscreen wiper de-icer system, 16” alloy wheels, tyre repair kit and daytime running lights. There is also a dual-zone air-conditioning, rear passenger heating and ventilation ducts, six-way manually-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, two 12V power outlets, USB and aux-in jacks, and a reversing camera.

    Optional equipment features leather upholstery and a Pioneer satellite navigation system. Three exterior colours will be available: Satin White, Ice Silver and Quartz Blue.

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

    Body and chassis

    Five-door, five-seater hatchback, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Longitudinally-mounted gasoline ‘flat-four’ Boxer engine driving the front and rear wheels (AWD) via a five-speed manual or six-speed Lineartronic CVT transmission.

    Engines

    1.6-litre / 114ps Petrol

    Name Boxer Petrol
    Type DOHC, horizontally opposed ‘flat four’ with dual AVCS
    Capacity 1.6-litres, 1,600cc
    Bore and stroke 78.8 x 82.0mm
    Compression ratio 10.5:1
    Max power 114ps (84kW) @ 5,600 rpm
    Max torque 150Nm (111 lb ft) @ 4,000 rpm
    Valves 16 (4-per-cylinder)
    Fuel system Multi-point injection
    Construction Aluminium cylinder block and aluminium heads
    Emissions class Euro Stage 6

    Transmissions

    Manual 5-speed
    Automatic CVT

    Gear ratios

    1.6i MT 1.6i CVT
    1 3.454 —-
    2 1.888 —-
    3 1.296 —-
    4 0.972 —-
    5 0.738 —-
    Reverse 3.333 3.667
    Final Drive 1 4.444 3.900
    Drive range —- 3.581 – 0.570

    Drivetrains

    1.6i MT Symmetrical AWD with centre differential coupled to viscous LSD
    1.6i CVT Symmetrical AWD with active torque split system

    Suspension and damping

    Front Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar
    Rear Fully independent by subframe-mounted double wishbones, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar

    Steering

    Type Electric power-assisted, rack-and-pinion
    Turning circle 10.6 metres

    Brakes

    Front 277mm ventilated disc
    Rear 274mm solid disc
    ABS Four-channel anti-lock system with EBD
    BAS Boosts braking power to maximum during emergency stops
    EBS Emergency Brake Assist

    Wheels and tyres

    Standard Alloy 16-inch x 6.5J    205/55 R16 tyres
    Spare (standard) Tyre mobility kit

    Dimensions (mm)

    Overall length 4,415 Overall width** 1,740
    Overall height* 1,465 Wheelbase 2,645
    Front track 1,510 Rear track 1,515
    Ground clearance 145

    *with roof rails
    **excluding door mirrors

    Capacities (all models)

    Fuel tank 55.0 litres
    Luggage (VDA) 380 litres behind rear seats (with tyre repair kit)
    1,270 litres behind front seats (to roof)

    Weights (kg)

    1.6i MT 1.6i CVT
    Kerb weight 1,315 1,350
    Towing (max) kg* 1,500 1,200

    Performance

    1.6i MT 1.6i CVT
    Top speed / mph 114 111
    0-to-62 mph / sec 12.3 12.6

    Fuel economy (mpg)

    1.6i MT 1.6i CVT
    Combined cycle 44.1 46.3
    Urban cycle 34.4 37.2
    Extra-urban cycle 53.3 54.3
    CO2 g/km 147 140

    Source: Subaru

  • 2014 Honda Civic Tourer BTCC

    Honda Yuasa Racing has published some photos on Facebook with the new 2014 Civic Tourer, which will race in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). The race car will make its official debut on the 29th March.2014 Honda Civic Tourer BTCC is currently being tested and carefully tuned. It will be driven by Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal. Joining the Tourer variant will be the Civic hatchback part of the Eurotech Racing team.The race car is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300HP (221 kW). This is the first estate car since 1994 season and it will be the only vehicle of this type in this year’s lineup.

  • Callaway Chevrolet Camaro Z28 – US Price $94,995

    Callaway has released full details about their upgrade package for the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28. The package includes mainly performance upgrades and some styling modifications.

    The 7.0 liter supercharged V8 is boosted to 660HP (486 kW) and 840Nm (620 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 150HP and 190Nm. The engine is connected to 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.5 seconds with terminal speed of 199 km/h (124 mph).

    Callaway also improved the aerodynamics package, which is carefully tested in a wind tunnel.

    Other highlights include Brembo carbon ceramic brake system and Pirelli performance tires. There are also race-spec dampers and a high-flow intake and a low-restriction exhaust. Last, but not least are the dash plaque, key fob, underhood build plaque, exterior badging and embroidered floor mats along with an optional car cover.

    Production will be limited to 10 units with pricing starting from $94,955. Each of them comes with a three-year / 36,000-mile limited warranty.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Audi TT RS Plus By OK-Chiptuning

    OK-Chiptuning-Audi-TT-RS-Plus-THUBOK-Chiptuning is a company which is popular for the software optimization of engine control units that it performs on exclusive car models. The latest power boosting of the tuners was done on a 2013 Audi TT RS Plus and resulted in maximum output and more powerful torque characteristics with fuel economy effects.

    This white Audi’s engine is coupled with a 7 speed S-tronic transmission, and originally delivers more than 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque. The chip tuning began firstly by the installation of a Wagner Evo 2 charge air cooler, and then proceeded to the correspondent ECU software and S-tronic (DQ500) optimization.

    After this was perfectly implemented, the specialists at OK-Chiptuning added a brand new DK-Turbotecnic Dortmund exhaust system with valve control which begins at the turbocharger. As a result, the Audi got 453 horsepower (333 kW) and 659 Nm (486 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

    The transformation of the TT RS Plus did not stop here but continued with the driving dynamics. Precisely, an H&R club sport chassis has been combined with a stabilizer kit of the same origins and adjustable coupling bars. Then, adjustable aluminum strut bearings have been added.

    This amount of horsepower had to be respectfully transmitted onto the road via OZ rims type Ultraleggera HTL in size 9×19 ET42 coupled with Toyo Proxes tyrse in the dimension of 255/35-19. At last, the carbon rear wings as well as the front and rear apron were black coated.

    Source: OK-Chiptuning

  • Citroen DS3 Dark Rose Limited Edition To Be Launched By Alfred Hitchcock

    Citroen-DS3-Dark-Rose-Limited-Edition-THUMBCitroen DS3 Dark Rose Limited Edition is a very special vehicle. The reason for this hides not only in its outstanding design characteristics, but also in the fact that it will be launched by the master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock.

    The Dark Rose will be produced in only 350 units and will be available in both on the DS3 and DS3 Cabrio. The customized model will sport two-tone Perla Nera black and Shark grey body paint finish, while having a contrasting fuchsia pink roof and wing mirror housings. The cabrio version will get a black canvas roof.

    A lot of individual touches are also featured: gradated pink effect on the front and rear wings, side mouldings with DS graphics featuring a Dark Rose logo, and a fuchsia “3” in the DS3 emblem on the tailgate.

    Inside, one can see the same uniqueness of the design. For example, the steering wheel and door sills are graced with a Dark Rose logo, the central console includes a pink-surrounded DS logo, and the Nappa leather headrests feature fuchsia overstitching.

    And on the top of this, Alfred Hitchcock will make the DS3 Dark Rose limited edition advertising film, which we are already impatient to see. In fact, this is the second time Citroen called on the director to be a “face” of the brand. Back in 2011 he launched the DS3 Série Noire campaign.

    The new film will represent the opening sequence of the famous Alfred Hitchcock Presents TV show that ran from 1955 to 1965 in the USA. In it, the legend will talk and sing about the “vie en rose” inspired by the DS3 Dark Rose limited edition.

    Citroen DS3 Dark Rose Limited Edition has a starting price of €20,250.

    Source: Citroen

  • Production 2015 Acura TLX To Debut In New York

    2015-acura-tlx-prototype-THUMB2015 Acura TLX Prototype along with TLX GT Race Car made a first appearance at NAIAS in January. Now the brand is ready to showcase the production version of Acura TLX performance-luxury sedan with a debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show which will be held in April.

    The car was designed to deliver higher levels of luxury refinement and sports-sedan athleticism and of course will also offer exceptional performance thanks to the next-generation Acura powertrain and dynamic-handling technologies. Precisely, the brand will offer two engine options for the TLX.

    The first one is the 2.4-liter 16-valve, direct-injected i-VTEC 4-cylinder unit which will be matched to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with torque converter. The second engine is the 3.5-liter 24-valve direct-injected i-VTEC V-6 one, coupled with a new nine-speed automatic transmission.

    Two-wheel-drive models will be available for either of the powertrains and will use the new Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) technology with independent left and right rear-wheel toe angle control. In addition, exclusively for the second engine option, Acura will offer the TLX SH-AWD that employs Super-Handling All Wheel Drive system. The latter is 25-percent lighter and has new torque-vectoring control logic.

    Furthermore, the 2015 TLX was designed to be as much quieter as possible due to the implementation of major improvements in noise reduction. These include enhancements to body stiffness, body sealing and sound insulation, and the application of electronic Active Noise Control.

    In terms of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, TLX will get Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Blind Spot Indicator (BSI).

    More details will be announced after the official premiere of 2015 Acura TLX Prototype.

    Source: Acura

  • Bentley Offers First Glimpse Of New Production SUV [TEASER]

    Bentley-SUV-THUMBThe first picture of the future production Bentley SUV has been just released. The image doesn’t show much except for the front end of the car, showcasing brand’s traditional design. The new SUV is currently being prepared for production and is scheduled to hit roads in 2016.

    Bentley also disclosed that this vehicle will be the most luxurious and powerful SUV to be found on the market. It will embody brand’s hallmarks of luxury, performance, quality and craftsmanship.

    As far as we can tell from the teaser picture, the SUV’s front will slightly differ from the 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept that debuted in Geneva two years ago. EXP 9 F got flowing surfaces, muscularity and robustness, bold and dynamic exterior.

    Both the concept and the production SUV have the same iconic for the brand matrix grille. However the there is a difference in the headlamps – the new SUV obviously got those of Continental.

    We are also wondering whether we are to see the same engine used for the EXP 9 F Concept, namely Bentley’s 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 one, which was coupled with an eight-speed transmission. The powertrain develops 600 hp (441 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. More details to be announced soon. Stay tuned!

    Source: Bentley

  • Posaidon Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG – 445HP and 535Nm

    Posaidon has given some additional punch to the most powerful production turbocharged engine, which powers the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. As you know, it boasts an impressive 180HP / liter displacement, which is currently best in the world.

    However, the tuning company – Posaidon boosts the 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to 385HP (283 kW) and 485Nm (357 lb-ft) in Stage I. The Stage II offers 405HP (298 kW) and 490Nm (361 lb-ft), while the Stage III offers whopping 445HP (327 kW) and 535Nm (394 lb-ft) of torque, which means the sensational 222.5HP / liter.

    Posaidon will also offer a complete sports exhaust system made of high grade stainless steel. It will be optionally available with or without valve control and including TÜV licensing.

    The tuning company plans to offer performance packages for other AMG models as well.

    Source: Posaidon

  • Ingo Noak Volkswagen Golf VII 1.4 TSI

    Ingo Noak Tuning company has unveiled their latest project based on Volkswagen Golf VII 1.4 TSI. The ordinary hatchback is turned in a really hot one. Ingo Noak Golf VII comes with styling and performance upgrades as well.

    The 1.4 liter four-cylinder TSI is boosted to 181HP(133 kW) and 315Nm (232 lb-ft) – ac increase of 41HP and 65Nm. The result is thanks to an ECU remap.

    The styling upgrades include a modified front bumper, a pair of new side skirts and a new rear apron housing a dual centrally-mounted unit.  There is also a set of 9J x 20” alloy wheels fitted with 235/30 R20 tires. For improved stance and handling, Ingo has fitted the tuned Golf with KW Inox Line Variant 1 coilover suspension.

    Source: Ingo Noak

  • BMW M5 F10 Competition Package [video]

    BMW has published a promotional video clip on Youtube with the 2014 M5 Competition Package. The sports saloon is finished in nice matte blue paint and comes with some nice styling and of course performance upgrades.

    The Competition Package boosts the 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 to 575HP (423 kW) – an increase of 15HP. It also makes the response sharper and the acceleration is slightly better. 0-100 km/h is improved with 0.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h with 0.2 seconds. Other highlights include ///M carbon ceramic brake system and revised suspension and damping.

    The ride is lowered by 10mm for improved handling and stance. Last, but not least is the hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering, a sport exhaust system, 20” M alloy wheels fitted with performance tires and dark chrome tailpipes.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__KRHgxDe_0

    Source: BMW

  • 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe – Full Details

    Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new 2015 S 63 AMG Coupe. The super-luxurious sports coupe comes with all S-Class extras, extremely powerful engine and sensational exterior and interior styling.

    The exterior boasts an aggressive body kit including restyled front and rear bumpers, bigger vents, modified side skirts and a quad exhaust arrangement with chromed tailpipes housed by a gloss black diffuser. Other highlights include a set of 8.5J x 19” at the front and 9.5J x 19” at the rear titanium grey multi-spoke AMG forged light alloy wheels fitted with 255/45 R19 and 285/40 R19 tires, respectively.

    The engine is the well-known 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 – 585HP (430 kW) and 900Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque – a 41 HP and 100Nm more than the previous CL 63 AMG. The S63 AMG Coupe is also 65 kg (143 lbs) lighter compared to its predecessor and offers a power-to-weight ratio of 3.41 kg/HP. 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The 4MATIC cuts the acceleration time to 3.9 seconds. As usual, the engine is coupled to a seven-speed sports gearbox with three modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual).

    The interior screams: “luxury, quality and sporty exclusivity”. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty, exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sports seats with electrical adjustment, memory function and seat heating offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine nappa leather in AMG V8 design with piping and AMG badges on all four seat backrests together with the embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front centre console create an exquisite atmosphere on board. There is a new three-spoke AMG sports steering wheel, an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, new aluminium shift paddles and high-resolution TFT colour display as an AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials.

    Other exclusive features include AIRMATIC air suspension and MAGIC BODY CONTROL as well as carbon ceramic composite brakes and 20” ten-spoke AMG Performance Studio wheels.

    There will be an Edition 1 version with Swarovski crystals in the LED headlights, AMG sport seats wrapped in Exclusive Nappa leather, bespoke floor mats, illuminated AMG lettering on the door sill panels, Night View Assist Plus, a high-gloss black wood trim and other upgrades.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2014 Porsche Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS

    Porsche has unveiled two new top-of-range models – Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS.

    Both are powered by a 3.4 liter flat-six with 330HP (243 kW) for the Boxster GTS and 340HP (250 kW) for the Cayman GTS. The torque is 370Nm (273 lb-ft) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft), respectively. The Chrono package comes as standard on both models. 2014 Porsche Boxster GTS accelerates 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds  and the Cayman GTS needs just 4.6 seconds with corresponding top speed of 281 km/h (175 mph) and 285 km/h (177 mph).

    Other standard extras include Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), a set of 20” alloy wheels from the 911 Carrera S fitted with 235/35 front and 265/35 rear tires. There are also darkened bi-xenon headlights along updated front and rear bumpers. The interior boasts leather sport seats with Alcantara trim.

    2014 Posrche Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS are expected to hit the market in May, this year with pricing starting from €69,949 and €73,575, respectively.

    Source: Porsche