Auto News – Page 556 – Automobiles Review

Debut For Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype

Another exclusive premiere in Geneva is making the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype. The vehicle previews a new production model scheduled to be introduced in early 2015. The car takes full advantage of the ultra-rigid construction typical for the 4C and also is built with an extensive use of carbon fiber.

This lightweight material can be found on the rollover bars, spoilers and windscreen frame. In addition to this, what also save weight are the canvas soft top and the replacement of the glass rear screen with a continuation of the SMC bodywork.

Moreover, carbon fibre dominates throughout the cabin. Precisely, the monocoque of the 4C Spider Prototype is constructed entirely from this material and is clearly visible in the centre console, door sills and rear bulkhead.

New in here is also the dual-stage central exhaust system with titanium and carbon tailpipes by Akrapovic. A key feature of this exhaust is an electrically-operated valve system that improves performance and enhances the exhaust note at the push of a wirelessly-linked button.

The car is driven by Alfa Romeo’s four-cylinder, all-aluminium, 1750 Turbo Petrol engine. The unit is coupled with six-speed, dual dry-clutch Alfa TCT transmission, and drives the rear wheels. From 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) the model accelerates for 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is in excess of 155 mph.

Carbon fibre clamshell headlights have been fitted to this vehicle. Also exclusive are the alloy wheels, milled from solid aluminium blocks and fitted with bespoke Pirelli tyres. Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype is finished in three-layer gloss white, which additionally highlights car’s beautifully sculpted shape and masterfully resolved surfaces.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 4, 2014

Compact Toyota Aygo Revealed In Geneva

Toyota Aygo was just revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, showcasing a distinctive and characterful design. In these terms, the car was also dubbed J-Playful in reference to Japan’s hip youth culture.

Aygo is compact, nimble and reliable, and of course has low running costs, which are due to the three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine. The car sports relatively small dimensions; it has an overall length of 3,455mm, height of 1,460mm, and widened front and rear tracks.

The most striking design element is Aygo’s distinctive frontal X-graphic, which spreads outwards across the surface of the bodywork, and takes in all the vehicle’s main external features, including upper and lower grilles, headlamps, foglamps, and even mirrors and side glazing.

In profile, the roof has been lowered and the front header moved forwards. The result is that cabin’s centre of gravity also moves. The roof has a new pagoda-style profile and an integral rear spoiler. At the he rear end the tailgate and lower bumper form break lines in the vehicle’s solid surface. The lamp clusters are set within the hexagonal tailgate, and the upper bumper section widens into pronounced wheel arches.

Inside one can see the trapezoidal centre console, new design for the air vents, door trims and gear shift surround. The console supports a wide dashboard with a matt, anti-glare finish; it features a meter made of up concentric rings and central multi-information display.

The wheelbase remains unchanged for the 2014 Aygo and is 2,340 mm. Despite this fact, the cabin is longer by 9mm, and features wider armrests to enhance the comfort. There’s more room for luggage – additional 29 litres.

Toyota decided to make the model easily customizable. Optional features include X-shaped front grille, rear bumper insert, enhanced front bumper and alloy wheels, different design for the instrument panel, centre console, air vents, shift knob and gear lever surround. In addition, the brand is offering a choice of exterior and interior styling packs. 2014 Aygo will be fitted with x-touch multimedia system, operated using a fully integrated seven-inch touchscreen. This system is the first to come with a rear view camera as standard.

Furthermore, the car is driven by the three-cylinder 1.0-litre engine, which produces 68 hp (51kW) at 6,000rpm and 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) at 4,300rpm. The combined cycle fuel consumption here is estimated at 68.8mpg, while the CO2 emissions to 95g/km.

The engine will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission or optional new x-shift-automated manual transmission that can be used in fully automatic mode, or with manual gear selection using paddle shifts or the shift lever itself.

2014 Toyota Aygo Technical Specifications:

ENGINE	New AYGO	New AYGO (with x-shift)
Type	1.0 VVT-i	1.0 VVT-i
Fuel Type	Petrol	Petrol
Valve mechanism	4-valve DOHC	4-valve DOHC
Displacement (cc)	998	998
Bore x Stroke (mm)	71 x 84	71 x 84
Compression ratio	11.5:1	11.5:1
Max. power (bhp) kW @ rpm	(68) 51 @ 6,000	(68) 51 @ 6,000
Max. torque (Nm/rpm)	95 @ 4,300	95 @ 4,300
BRAKES
Front discs (mm)	247 x 20	247 x 20
Rear drums (mm)	200	200
SUSPENSION
Front	MacPherson strut	MacPherson strut
Rear	Torsion beam	Torsion beam
TRANSMISSION
Type	M/T	MMT (x-shift)
PERFORMANCE
Max. speed (mph)	99	99
0-62 mph (sec)	14.2	15.5
FUEL CONSUMPTION (subject to final homologation)
Combined (mpg)	68.9	67.3
Fuel tank capacity (l)	35	35
CO2 EMISSIONS (subject to final homologation)
Combined (g/km)	95	97
VEHICLE WEIGHT
Curb weight (kg)	840 – 890	855 – 910
Gross vehicle weight (kg)	1,240	1,240
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Length (mm)	3,455	3,455
Width (mm)	1,615	1,615
Height (mm)	1,460	1,460
Front overhang (mm)	675	675
Rear overhang (mm)	440	440
Wheelbase (mm)	2,340	2,340
Drag coefficient (Cd)	0.29	0.29
Wheel Size (in)	14 or 15	14 or 15
Tyre size	165/65R14 or 165/60R15	165/65R14 or 165/60R15
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Interior length*	1,630*	1,630*
Interior width*	1,250 (3-door) 1,300 (5-door)	1,250 (3-door) 1,300 (5-door)
Interior height	1,205 (normal) 1,155 (canvas top)	1,205 (normal) 1,155 (canvas top)
Couple distance	806	806
Luggage space (l)	168	168

Source: Toyota

March 4, 2014

Porsche 918 Spyder – Nurburgring Lap Record – 6 minutes and 57 seconds

2014 Porsche 918 Spyder managed to set a new record at Nurburgring for a vehicle with global road homologation. It managed to close a lap at the famous Germany circuit in less than minutes.

The 918 Spyder has achieved exactly 6 minutes and 57 seconds. What is more, the new Porsche blends maximum driving dynamics with minimal fuel consumption. The record, which was previously held for four years, was broken during the first attempt in the test drive programme on the morning of 4^th September.

All three drivers – Former European Rally Champion Walter Rohrl, Porsche test driver Timo Kluck and Porsche factory race driver Marc Lieb – were quicker than the existing record with each lap, driving the two 918 Spyder models used. Each driver posted lap times of less than seven minutes on numerous occasions. Ultimately, it was Marc Lieb who posted the absolute best time of 6.57 minutes, driving at an average speed of over 179.5 km/h(111 mph), as measured by Wige Solutions.

Porsche 918 Spyder is powered by a 4.6 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 608HP (447 kW) and 530Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. There are also two electric motors with 156HP (115 kW) and 129HP (95 kW) at each axle (front and rear). The maximum combined output is 887HP (661 kW) and over 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph).

Source: Porsche

March 4, 2014

Honda Unveils Civic Type R Concept [VIDEO]

Valentine’s Day saw the first teaser image of the brand new Honda Civic Type R Concept. Now the world can see the rest of it – the car is currently being exhibited at the Geneva Salon and shows the styling direction for the anticipated new production Type R. The latter is set to debut in Europe during 2015.

The concept model has been described as a ‘racing car for the road’. It has a sleek and aerodynamic profile, which reflects a car designed for performance whilst keeping the look of a road car and the distinctive character of Type R.

The exterior styling of the model shows also the performance credentials of the Type R Concept. The elements contributing for this are the shape and angle of the stand-out rear spoiler, enlarged upper and lower front grilles, air outlets on the bonnet, widened front and rear fenders and 20-inch tyres.

Performance details haven’t been announced officially so far. However, Honda stated that the new Type R will be the first model in Europe to be equipped with VTEC TURBO engines from the Earth Dreams Technology range. The two-litre, direct injection, four-cylinder turbo is expected to deliver class-leading output of at least 280 hp (205 kW).

At the show, the brand also showcases the powertrain layout of the next generation 2015 NSX and its next generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Concept.

httpv://youtu.be/QQyiXqVlA8A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 4, 2014

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Makes Debut In Geneva

Today is the beginning of the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show, where the luxury brand Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled its brand new Ghost Series II. The car is fitted with the latest technologies and has a subtle re-design which keeps the popularity of Ghost’s iconic presence.

First of all, at the front the new model sports re-sculpted LED headlights encircled by daytime running lights. This gives the car more dynamic visual appearance. In addition, the new headlights blend perfectly with revised surface treatments to the front of the car.

The bumpers of the Ghost II were also slightly changed and now they exude stronger stance and a sense of extra width and height. A contemporary treatment is visible through the addition of chrome inserts to the front air intakes. The latter now feed more air cooling to the front brakes. The waft line has been also re-designed.

The interior of the model delivers modern combination of luxury, technology and connectivity. II Series onboard technology features on-board Wi-Fi, Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT), which ensures the car automatically adapts to its surroundings, updated navigation system and car/user interface, an optional Bespoke Audio.

In short, the new series of the Ghost model will be the perfect choice for the successful entrepreneurs, offering a space from which to run their successful enterprises on the move.

Source: Rolls-Royce

March 4, 2014

Volkswagen Multivan Alltrack Concept in Geneva

Volkswagen Multivan Alltrack Concept is currently exhibited at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show. The Multivan Alltrack is an outstanding example of this, as it really is superbly equipped for any task and every route.

The Multivan Alltrack comes with an all-wheel drive system so found in the Passat Variant Alltrack. The exterior features a Moonstone Mother of Pearl Effect color and a set of 19” high-gloss alloy wheels and matte silver underbody protection. The interior boasts a Poltrona Frau natural leather upholstery and a dark brown wood boat floor. There is also an 8” touchscreen display for the infotainment system and a Dynaudio Surround Sound system.

The engine is a 2.0 liter BiTDI with 180HP (132 kW) and 420Nm (311 lb-ft) of torque. The power is put on the road through an Alltrack all-wheel-drive system working with a multi-plate Haldex coupling installed on the rear axle. The Multivan Alltrack Concept has a 21-degree approach angle and a 15” departure angle.

The Concept looks almost production-ready, so it probably hit the market sometime in 2015.

Source: Volkswagen

March 4, 2014

Porsche 919 Hybrid V4 2.0 liter Turbo Engine

Porsche 919 is officially unveiled in Geneva, which means that the manufacturer is actually returning in Le Mans competition. The LMP1 car packs all latest technologies as well as extremely powerful and economical drivetrain and super lightweight chassis.

The drivetrain consists of a newly developed single-turbo V4 2.0-liter direct-injection gasoline engine working with a front axle-mounted electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. The V4 engine revs up to 9,000RPM and sends the power to the rear wheels, while the electric motor provides momentum for the front ones, which means a temporary AWD.

There are also two energy recovery systems – a brake energy recovery and a thermal energy recovery system incorporated in the exhaust system. This means an 8 MJ (megajoule) / lap energy recovery boost function. Actually, this is the maximum allowed under current LMP1 regulations.

According to the race regulations, the Porsche 919 Hybrid must not exceed a length of 4,650 mm and a height of 1,050 mm, and vehicle width must be between 1,800 and 1,900 mm. The car’s aerodynamics have been fine-tuned in over 2,000 hours of wind tunnel testing since February 2012. Aerodynamics make an important contribution to the overall efficiency of the race car and reduce air drag while supplying the increased cooling air needed for the hybrid drive and the downforce needed for high cornering speeds. The aerodynamic design of the Porsche 919 Hybrid can be modified for different course characteristics.

Source: Porsche

March 4, 2014

Audi TT Quattro Sport Concept – 420HP and 450Nm

Audi is currently presenting the spectacular and very powerful TT Quattro Sport Concept coming with uprated 2.0 liter TFSI engine and impressive exterior.

The engine delivers 420HP (309 kW) at 6,700RPM and 450Nm (331 lb-ft) of torque at 2,400RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. Its weight is just 150 kg and produces 210HP / liter specific power, which is more than the 2001 Le Mans-winner Audi R18. The power is put on the road through an S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox and Quattro all-wheel drive system. The curb weight of Audi TT Quattro Sport Concept is just 1,344 kg (2,963 lbs), which explains its epic performance.

The exterior boasts some new interesting details like a diamond-pattern front grille flanked by matrix LED headlights and massive air intakes providing engine cooling. Other features include a CFRP splitter along with extended wheel arches and a diffuser also manufactured from carbon fiber reinforced plastic. There are also new 20” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires. Last, but not least is the big rear wing increasing the downforce.

The interior matches to the exterior. There are no speakers or armrest, while in the cargo area there is space for two racing helmets. There are also two bucket seats with black four-point seatbelts along with a 12.3” TFT fully digital display.

For now, the TT Quattro Sport remains only a concept car, but it will be great, if Audi decides to start series production.

Source: Audi

March 4, 2014

Mansory Rolls-Royce Wraith – 740HP and 1,000Nm

Mansory will bring another super powerful and super luxurious vehicles at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show, besides the Bugatti Veyron Vivere. The tuned Rolls-Royce Wraith comes with a number of modifications including a sensational performance package.

The exterior of Mansory Wraith boasts a two-tone paint finish featuring chrome and petrol blue colors. There is also a complete aerodynamics kit including modified front wings, a new front fascia with LED DRLs, a pair of new side skirts, rear apron as well as rear spoiler and roof spoiler. All parts are manufactured from carbon fiber.

Other highlights include a set of 22” ultra-light forged alloy wheels fitted with 265/35 Vredestein tires. The interior boasts two-colour leather upholstery, some carbon fiber elements and multi-coat piano lacquer providing more individuality.

The power is coming from a tuned 6.6 liter twin-turbo V12 – 740HP (544 kW) at 5,000RPM and 1,000Nm (737 lb-ft) at just 1,500RPM of torque – an increase of 108HP and 200Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

Source: Mansory

March 3, 2014

Mansory Bugatti Veyron Vivere

Mansory has unveiled their latest project – Bugatti Veyron Vivere. The super-expensive hyper car will be exhibited at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, this week. The tuning company has already released Veyron Vincero (three years ago) and now it is turn to a new one.

The updated version of Veyron comes with a new front fascia with different wings, a redesigned front hood and a new apron. There are also a pair of V-shaped LED DRLs and new side skirts together with bigger air outlets on the flanks. Other highlights include a unique rear diffuser and two rear air intakes. All parts are made exclusively from carbon fiber for maximum lightweight and strength.

Last, but not least are the new carbon fiber alloy wheels fitted with production ultra-performance tires.

Source: Mansory

March 3, 2014

AC Schnitzer BMW X5 F15

AC Schnitzeris going to exhibit their latest project based on the all-new 2014 BMW X5 (the F15 model). The fully customized SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) comes with styling and performance upgrades as well.

The exterior boasts a new front skirt and a new rear apron covered with protective film. There are also different alloy wheels in sizes from 20” to 22” fitted with low-profile performance tires. Other highlights include different tailpipes and a sports suspension lowering kit bringing the ride closer to the ground with 30mm at the front and 20mm at the rear.

The interior features a set of bespoke floor mats, an aluminum pedal set and a custom key holder.

The tuning company offers six performance packages. For example the mighty X5 xDriveM50d is boosted to 430HP (316 kW) – an increase of 59HP and the X5 xDrive50i comes with whopping 525HP (386 kW) – an increase of 75HP.

Source: AC Schnitzer

March 3, 2014

Opel Adam S – 150HP and 220Nm

Opel is going to showcase the range-topping Adam S at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in few days. The German manufacturer will also exhibit Adam Rocks as well as the super-efficient three-cylinder Adam powered by 1.0 liter ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo gasoline engine.

The Adam S is powered by a 1.4 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 150HP (110 kW) and 220Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. This means 0-100 km/h in less than 8.0 seconds and a to pspeed of 220 km/h (137 mph). The engine is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the front wheels. Compared to the naturally-aspirated engine, the turbo unit offers 50% more HP and 70% more torque.

Other highlights include a set of 18” alloy wheels fitted with 225/35 R18 tires. Behind them, there is braking system including OPC S brakes with 16” front and 15” rear discs equipped with red brake calipers. There is a complete aerodynamics package together with an aggressive exhaust. Last, but not least are the LED DRLs and taillights.

The interior boasts leather Recaro performance seats, IntelliLink infotainment system, electronic climate control and a black privacy glass. The leather package consists of a red leather-trimmed steering wheel, gearshift and handbrake as well as distinctive red and white flashes on the instrument and door panels.

Source: Opel

March 3, 2014

Category: Auto News