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2014 Geneva Motor Show: 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe

Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the all-new 2015 S-Class Coupe to audience at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show.

The CL-Class replacement boasts generous dimensions and a lot of interior space. It is 5,027mm long, 1,899m wide and 1,411mm tall, with a 2,495mm wheelbase. The elegant two-door coupe is one of the best looking vehicles that Mercedes-Benz has ever created. The model was previewed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and now it is practically production ready. 2015 S-Class Coupe is expected to hit the market in the second half of this year.

Initially only an S500 Coupe model will be available. It will be powered by a 4.7 liter V8 bi-turbo engine with 455HP (335 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft).

Some of the highlights include the recently announced MAGIC BODY CONTROL with curve tilting function and the optional headlights with 47 Swarovski crystals.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 5, 2014

2014 Geneva Motor Show: Opel Astra OPC Extreme

Opel is currently exhibiting the most powerful Astra called OPC Extreme at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The twin brother of Vauxhall Astra VXR Extreme comes with the same extremely powerful engine and an aggressive body kit.

The 2.0 liter turbocharged gasoline engine produces 300HP (225 kW). It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to an LSD (limited-slip differential) at the front wheels. 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. There is also a Brembo 6-piston brake system with 370mm front discs sitting behind the 19” alloy wheels fitted with specially developed 245/35 tires.

Other highlights include a lot of carbon fiber parts including front hood, front diffuser, bumper and spoiler as well as a carbon fiber roof. The result is -100kg (220 lbs) compared to the normal OPC.

The interior comes with a roll-bar, Recaro bucket seats, with six-point safety belts from Schroth and a carbon-fibre-reinforced, suede-covered steering wheel with fine yellow decorative stitching.

Source: Opel

March 5, 2014

Lexus To Reveal The New NX Crossover

Remember when last year Lexus revealed the LF-NX Compact Crossover at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show? Now, the company is surprising us with the great news that the car will go in production and will carry the name Lexus NX.

The NX Crossover will make a 2014 Beijing Motor Show debut in April, and will also make an entry to the growing segment of premium mid-size crossovers. It will be positioned below the RX in the Lexus product range. We are wondering whether there will be any differences between the concept and the production car.

LF-NX Compact Crossover Concept is the embodiment of city-compact premium crossovers. It is only 182.7 inches long and has a wheelbase of 106.3-inch. Its exterior is bold and offers more distinctive and sculpted styling, by offering a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille.

The aggressive appearance is further reinforced by vehicle’s wide front track, three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL). LF-NX concept is equipped with a full hybrid powertrain, and we are probably to see it also in the production version. Precisely, the full hybrid drive system includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine and a powerful electric motor.

Source: Lexus

March 5, 2014

Geneva World Premiere: Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer

At the 84th Geneva Motor Show the tuning specialists at AC Schnitzer are presenting their take on the Range Rover Sport 3.0L SD V6 Diesel. They have added to the vehicle an extensive range of technical and aesthetic enhancements.

The Range Rover got a complete facelift. In fact, the tuners have expanded the limits of the Range Rover Sport via a special performance kit that upgraded the production 215 kW / 292 hp / 600 Nm to a stunning 250 kW / 340 hp / 720 Nm.

And there are no worries in terms emissions. Despite the additional power, the CO2 gases stay the same. This means that the CO2 emissions per horsepower have fallen and this is due to the “Efficient Performance by AC Schnitzer”.

Furthermore, the exhaust gas flow of the Range Rover Sport is improved by the fitting of the AC Schnitzer twin silencer of stainless steel, with two “Sports Trim” tailpipes or with four “Sport“ tailpipes, which both come in right/left combination.

The height of the car has been lowered by up 30 or 35 mm via a lowering module. Then, aerodynamic elements were added. Example – the AC Schnitzer front and rear skirts with integrated rear diffuser.

Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer runs on Type VIII forged racing rims in size of 10.0J x 22 inch, or 10.5J x 23 inch, matched with the corresponding tyres in the dimensions of 275/40 R 22 or 305/30 R 23. At last, inside hasn’t been done much. One can find only AC Schnitzer key-holder and velour footmats.

Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer Characteristics:

Basic car: Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L SD V6 Diesel
Engine: AC Schnitzer performance upgrade for 3.0L SD V6 Diesel with 215 kW/292 HP to 250 kW/340 HP
AC Schnitzer engine optics
Exhaust: AC Schnitzer twin silencer, with two “Sports Trim” tailtrims in right / left combination or with “Sport” tailtrims in right / left combination
Suspension: AC Schnitzer suspension lowering module, lowering adjustable: 30 or 35 mm
Aerodynamics: AC Schnitzer front skirt, AC Schnitzer rear skirt with integrated diffuser
Interior: AC Schnitzer key holder
AC Schnitzer floor mats, velours
Wheel/Tyre Sets: Type VIII Racing Forged Wheels
- front 10,0J x 22″ offset 36,5 with tyres 275/40 R 22
- rear 10,0J x 22″ offset 36,5 with tyres 275/40 R 22
- front 10,5J x 23″ offset 34 with tyres 305/30 R 23
- rear 10,5J x 23″ offset 34 with tyres 305/30 R 23

Source: AC Schnitzer

March 5, 2014

At Last: Mazda HAZUMI Concept Officially Unveiled!

Mazda has finally unveiled its next-generation subcompact concept model, called Mazda HAZUMI. The official premiere of the car happened at the Geneva Motor Show, and so far we have seen many (unofficially) leaked images of it.

Mazda HAZUMI embodies the four key pillars of Mazda’s vehicle engineering; SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, KODO—Soul of Motion design, Mazda Proactive Safety, and next-generation car connectivity system MZD Connect.

In the new HAZUMI the essence of KODO has been captured in a compact body. The concept car is fitted with the newly developed 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine which delivers great fuel economy without making a compromise on performance. The unit was also shown at the show.

Furthermore, the car offers enhanced safety. Precisely, the car has raised driving position and better field of view, and is equipped with i-ACTIVSENSE safety features. All in all, the HAZUMI Concept points directly towards brand’s next generation B-segment car.

Mazda HAZUMI Concept main characteristics:

Body style	5-door hatchback
Seating capacity	4
Length x width x height (mm)	4,070 x 1,730 x 1,450
Wheelbase (mm)	2,585
Engine	SKYACTIV-D 1.5
Transmission	SKYACTIV-Drive (six-speed automatic)
Key auxiliary systems	i-stop (idle-stop system)i-ELOOP (brake energy regeneration system)
Tyres	215/45 R18
Wheel Size	18 x 8.0J

Source: Mazda

March 5, 2014

Hyundai Previews New Sonata [TEASER]

Hyundai has just released a shadowy teaser image showing the new Sonata. The car is going to be launch very soon in Korea later this year, where it will make its world debut. United States will see the car during the New York International Auto Show in April.

The upcoming mid-size sedan is going to have a rear-drive as brand’s Genesis, which was on display in Detroit. Of course, Hyundai retains it emblematic design language and continues to impress with the “fluidic sculpture”, which is visible even in this render.

The new Sonata will feature softer lines, aggressive hexagonal grille with a chrome surround and horizontal slats and redesigned headlights. The brand uses the term “Inner Force” to describe car’s design, which directs to the fact that the redesigned sedan is reborn with an evolved aesthetic force that stems from purpose and sophistication.

Inside, the interior was refined too. High quality materials were utilized in order to deliver the ultimate luxury. The new Sonata will be also equipped with the intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI) with a high-mounted infotainment screen.

In terms of safety, the car sports more high-strength steel and more structural reinforcements, seven airbags, and redesigned chassis for better protection. Unfortunately, Hyundai hasn’t released any information about the powertrains of the new Sonata or whether there will be ay updates.

Source: Hyundai

March 5, 2014

Ferrari California T – A Turbo Convertible [video]

Ferrari has officially unveiled the facelifted California T at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The stylish convertible comes not only with some nice styling upgrades, but an all-new turbocharged engine. We suspected that the “T” in model signature is going to mean something like that, but nothing was for sure until now.

The exterior boasts a complete makeover including elements from the super-expensive FF and F12 Berlinetta. The folding hard top can open or close in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h (35 mph).

The interior features leather Frau sport seats and a redesigned center console as well as a new 6.5” touchscreen display featuring an updated infotainment system. Upon request, the customer can order an extremely powerful 1,280 WATT JBL Professional sound system with 12 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier.

The all-new engine is a 3.8 liter turbocharged V8 – 560HP (412 kW) and 755Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 316 km/h (196 mph). The California T Facelift boasts 15% improved fuel consumption and 20% less CO2 emissions.

Other highlights include uprated suspension featuring new springs and dampers, along with a better F1-Trac traction control system and reworked carbon ceramic brakes.

2014 Ferrari Caliofrnia T marks returning to turbocharging era since the F40, which was phased out back in 1992.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNZKmLMbTk0

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httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ_Eidlemo4

Source: Ferrari

March 4, 2014

Jaguar XE Is Brand’s New Premium Sports Sedan

Jaguar XE is the production name of brand’s new premium Sports Sedan which will be equipped with the ‘Ingenium’ engine family and will sport an advanced aluminium construction. The engine family comprises of premium, lightweight, low-friction, low emission four-cylinder petrol and diesel units and the first the Ingenium range will be utilized in the mid-sized Jaguar XE.

The car will be unveiled later this year, and for now we have to satisfy our curiosity with the image of the front of the XE, which Jaguar released alongside the news. In addition, the models will also be the first product from the new advanced aluminium architecture. The latter was shown in the C-X17 concept car.

XE’s global production will start in 2015. The car will bring about more lightness and stiffness for unbeatable handling, performance, refinement and efficiency. Or to say it differently, in this car, the engine and aluminium chassis complement each other perfectly.

Engine’s design will be suited for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. In addition, they will be both efficient and powerful. Jaguar promises to offer a top speeds for the XE of over 300km/h (186mph), and emissions lower than 100g of CO2 per km.

Jaguar XE is positioned alongside the XF and XJ saloons in the range. XE technical and range details will be unveiled later this year.

Source: Jaguar

March 4, 2014

McLaren 650S Spider Joins 650S Coupe In Geneva World Debut

The open top McLaren 650S Spider is currently sharing a world premiere with the 650S Coupe at the Geneva Motor Show. The brand has also released images and full information for the convertible version of its latest model.

650S Spider offers the same performance, handling and driver enjoyment as its coupe sibling, but adds a two-piece retractable hard top. At the event, the car is shown in Tarocco Orange, which is a new paint finish added to the McLaren colour collection.

The convertible is mechanically identical to the 650S Coupe and is fitted with the McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 engine. It generates 650 hp (478 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb ft). Therefore the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is (no surprise) 3.0 seconds – absolutely identical to the Coupe veriosn, while the 0-200 km/h (124 mph) sprint is reached in 8.6 seconds, only additional 0.2 seconds in comparison wit the coupe.

Maximum speed is 329 km/h mph (204 mph) and the fuel consumption and emissions are the same as with the coupe – 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100km) on the EU combined cycle and 275 g/km of CO2.

At the heart of the McLaren 650S is the carbon fibre MonoCell chassis that needs no additional strengthening or reinforcing. It lends the 650S Spider identical handling and ride, and virtually identical straight-line performance figures. The overall weight of the “cabrio” is 1,370 kg (dry). This makes 40 kg over the Coupe added from the Retractable Hard Top and roof mechanism.

The two-piece Retractable Hard Top automatically raises or lowers in less than 17 seconds. In addition, this Spider uses a heated glass rear window, operating independently of the roof. With the roof down, the rear window acts as a wind deflector, reducing cabin buffeting.

An interesting highlight regarding the 650S models is that their interior is not stripped-off, which is typical for the motorsport cars. Instead, the 650S Coupé and 650 Spider models are fitted with a high level of luxury equipment as standard.

For instance, carbon ceramic brakes sit behind unique ‘650’ lightweight alloy wheels. The latter are fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Other standard equipment features include IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in Europe (or SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control. The entire cabin is fully trimmed in Alcantara.

McLaren 650S Spider Technical Specifications:

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
Engine PS / rpm	650 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	678 / 6000	Height (mm)	1203
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1370 / 3020
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell with Aluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Carbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 / Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

McLaren 650S Spider Performance Data:

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight (with lightweight options)	485 PS (478 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.42 g/km per PS

Speed	Maximum speed	329 km/h (204 mph)

Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.0 s
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	8.6 s
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	26.5 s
	0-400 m / ¼ mile	10.6 @ 222 km/h (138 mph)

Braking	Braking	100-0 km/h 30.7 m (101 ft)
		200-0 km/h 124 m (407 ft)
		300-0 km/h 273 m (896 ft)

Source: McLaren

March 4, 2014

Lexus Shows RC F GT3 Concept In Geneva

Racing fans around the world will be excited to know that Lexus is introducing the RC F GT3 Concept in Geneva. The motorsport car is based on the recently revealed RC F performance coupe, which also makes a global debut at the show.

RC F GT3 was specifically developed to meet Group GT3 international racing standards. This means that it weighs 2,755.8 lbs. and comes with a modified version of the V8 engine (found in the coupe). The unit delivers maximum output that exceeds 540 horsepower (397 kW).

Lexus also stated that it will supply GT3-compliant vehicles to racing teams in the beginning of 2015. The model is scheduled to undergo testing this year. In other words, in 2015 we will probably see the GT3 concepts racing at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race in Germany and the Super Taikyu Endurance and Super GT series in Japan.

Lexus RC F GT3 Concept Specifications:

Length	4,705 mm/ 185.2 in
Width	2,000 mm/78.7 in
Height	1,270 mm/50 in
Weight	1,250 kg/2,755.8 lbs
Wheelbase	2,730 mm/107.5 in
Engine	V8 gasoline engine
Horsepower	540+ hp (397 kW)

Source: Lexus

March 4, 2014

2014 Seat Leon Cupra 280 DSG – Nurburgring Record – 7 minutes and 58 seconds

The new 2014 Seat Leon Cupra 280 DSG managed to smash the Nurburgring lap record for a FWD (front wheel drive) car. The hot hatchback managed to do a lap in under 8 minutes, which makes it the first FWD production model below that barrier.

The current record was held by Renault Megane RS Trophy, which stopped the clock at 8 minutes and 8 seconds, but the new Cupra 280 needed just 7 minutes and 58.4 seconds.

2014 Seat Leon Cupra 280 is powered by 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.

Other highlights include 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.

There is also a mechanical front axle differential lock, a progressive steering system, DCC dynamic chassis control and two-stage deactivation of the electronic stability control (ESC).

Source: Seat

March 4, 2014

Volkswagen T-ROC Previews Possible Future SUV Design Treatment

Volkswagen T-ROC Concept makes its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle showcases a new possible SUV range design with progressive design, front section with the LED headlights and two removable roof halves.

In fact, the T-ROC is a Golf-format concept car, which is positioned a step down from the Tiguan model. The new design treatment is in terms of exterior and interior style. The two-door SUV features an all-wheel drive, but still offers the “summery airiness of a convertible”.

Precisely, the middle section of the roof comprises of two halves. They can be taken off easily and then put in the boot. Other features here include front and rear cameras. The concept model is driven by 184 hp (135 kW) turbo-diesel direct injection engine, and also offers three different driving modes: Street, Off-road and Snow.

The powertrain is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), thanks to which the SUV returns 4.9 l/100 km of fuel consumption. The maximum torque is estimated at 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). Other exclusive features include 4Motion drive train, ABS, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.

The design of the body of the vehicle is on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB), and also features lightweight construction. The result is a weight of just 1,420 kg. Visually striking elements in this concept include relatively short overhangs and the multi-part 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 245/45 tyres.

Source: Volkswagen

March 4, 2014

Category: Auto News