Category: Auto News

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

  • Lexus RC F-Sport at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show

    Lexus will exhibit the 2015 RC 350 F-Sport at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March. The stylish coupe has already been presented at the Tokyo Motor Show, last year and now the hot RC F-Sport will be showcased to the audience.

    It comes with an aggressive aerodynamics package and some upgrades for the interior to emphasize the sporty look of the coupe. It is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 – 318HP (237 kW), which will send the power to the rear wheels through an 8-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission with paddles on the steering wheel.

    Stay tuned for more information and pictures from the upcoming 2014 Geneva Motor Show, which will start on March 4th.

    Source: Lexus

  • 2014 Lamborghini Huracan – 700 units are ordered

    Lamborghini has received 700 orders for the all-new 2014 Huracan LP 610-4. The successor of Gallardo appears to be very appreciated by the customers of Lamborghini.

    The model has an excellent start having in mind that the Gallardo is the best-selling Lamborghini, ever. The model is currently on a “month-long private preview tour worldwide for VIP clients”. It will be officially unveiled to audience at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show on March 4th.

    The Huracan is powered by a 5.2 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine – 610HP (449 kW) at 8,250RPM and 560Nm (415 lb-ft) at 6,500RPM. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch LDF transmission sending the power to a fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, 0-193 km/h in 9.9 seconds.

    There are three driving modes – STRADA, SPORT and CORSA. Optionally, you can get the “Lamborghini Dynamic Steering” variable steering ration system and magneto-rheologic suspension damper control.

    The weight of the sports car is just 1,422 kg (3,140 lbs), so the power to weight ratio is 2.33kg/hp.

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Volvo S60 V8 Supercar – 650HP and 660Nm

    Volvo Polestar Racing has unveiled the S60 Racecar which will take place in V8 Supercars Championship.

    It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0 liter V8 – 650HP (478 kW) and 660Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque. The redline is at 7,500RPM and runs on E85 fuel. The curb weight is just 1,410 kg (3,108 lbs) thanks to a number of carbon fiber elements as well as completely stripped interior. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 298 km/h (185 mph). The power is put on the road through a 6-speed sequential transaxle gearbox with a built-in spool differential on the rear wheels.

    Some of the highlights include a double wishbone front and independent rear suspension, 395mm front and 355mm rear ventilated discs with 6- and 4-piston AP Racing calipers. It rolls 18” forged alloy wheels wrapped in Dunlop performance tires. Last, but not least is the super-expensive Öhlins TTX suspension (dampers and springs).

    Volvo S60 V8 Supercar technical information

    Vehicle Volvo S60
    Engine Modified Volvo B8444S (see below)
    Transmission Control Albins ST6 6 speed sequential Transaxle with integrated spool differential
    Front suspension Double wishbone suspension, adjustable damper and cockpit adjustable front anti-roll bar
    Rear suspension Control independent rear suspension, adjustable damper; cockpit adjustable anti-roll bar
    Front brakes AP Racing 6 piston caliper, 395mm ventilated discs
    Rear brakes AP Racing 4 piston caliper, 355mm ventilated discs
    Wheels Control Rimstock 18” x 11” forged aluminium
    Tyres Dunlop control tyre
    Weight 1410KG (includes driver)
    Top speed 298+ km/h
    0-100km/h 3.2 seconds
    Steering Custom rack and pinion power assisted steering
    Shocks Ohlins TTX Dampers
    Electronics MoTec ECU and Data Logging System

    Engine technical information

    Block Modified Volvo B8444S, 60 degree aluminium cylinder block
    Heads Modified Volvo B8444S, aluminium
    Bore x Stroke 95.5 x 87.1
    Capacity 4989cc
    Compression 10:1
    Power 650bhp (estimated)
    Max revs 7500rpm
    Induction Naturally aspirated, eight throttle bodies
    Fuel E85
    Liners Cast in steel liners
    Valve train Double overhead camshafts, direct acting tappets, chain drive
    Ignition Volvo B8444S coil on plug
    Injection Port injection, one injector per cylinder, injection pressure: 5.5 bar

    2014 V8 Supercars Championship

    February 15 sydney.com V8 Supercars Test Day Sydney Motorsport Park
    Feb 27-Mar 2 Clipsal 500 Adelaide Adelaide
    Mar 13-16 2014 Formula 1 Australian GP Albert Park
    March 28-30 Tasmania 400 Symmons Plains Raceway
    April 4-6 Winton 400 Winton Motor Raceway
    April 24-27 ITM 500 Auckland Pukekohe Park Raceway
    May 16-18 Perth 400 Barbagallo Raceway
    June 20-22 Skycity Triple Crown Darwin 500 Hidden Valley Raceway
    July 4-6 Townsville 500 Reid Park
    Aug 1-3 Coates Hire Ipswich 400 Queensland Raceway
    Aug 22-24 Sydney Motorsport Park 400 Sydney Motorsport Park
    Sept 12-14 Wilson Security Sandown 500 Sandown Raceway
    Oct 9-12 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 Mount Panorama
    Oct 24-26 Armor All Gold Coast 600 Surfers Paradise
    Nov 14-16 Phillip Island 400 Phillip Island Circuit
    Dec 5-7 Sydney 500 Sydney Olympic Park

    Source: Volvo

  • Ferrari California T Unveiled Ahead Of Geneva Debut

    Ferrari-California-T-THUMBFerrari California was introduced 64 years ago – in 1950. Now the exclusive Italian brand is releasing another successor of the model – the Ferrari California T, which exudes elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity.

    California T boasts a refined cabin and retractable hard top (RHT). But the most striking and a brand new feature here is the engine, which is 8-cylinder turbo one. As a matter of fact, Ferrari’s engineers have designed an entirely new power unit, which produces not only excessive power, but also – the most exhilarating soundtrack any turbo has ever yielded.

    Precisely, the engine features direct-injection, and is mounted very low in the chassis in a mid-front position. It delivers 560 hp (411 kW) at 7500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 755 Nm (557 lb-ft). These numbers speak only of exhilarating acceleration over the 0 to 100 km/h sprint, which the car covers in only 3.6 seconds.

    Furthermore, the typical Ferrari engine sound was achieved through the utilization of special manufacturing techniques for essential components, such as the flat-plane crankshaft and the three-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing. The result is a powerful, engaging sound during both the intake and exhaust phases, becoming even more potent as engine speed increases.

    The sports dynamics are inherent to California T, due to the reduced steering wheel activity and improved steering response. There have been added new springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers. When combined with body motion accelerometers, they reduce roll and pitch for more precise handling. California T is also equipped with F1-Trac traction control system as well as CCM3 carbon-ceramic braking system.

    Of course, as a true Italian sports car, the model was given considerable attention in terms of design. The goal was to ensure that the California T has a new, individual personality. The shape of the California T’s flanks was inspired by the 250 Testa Rossa’s pontoon-fender styling; the front wing line of the model stretches back towards the rear, thus bringing an aerodynamic sleekness and movement to the sides. The rear on the other hand benefits from a new triple-fence diffuser. The model is currently being offered in two colors Rosso California and Blu California.

    The cabin of the model was designed to be as ergonomic as possible. It sports a luxurious Frau semi-aniline leather trim, human-machine interface which encompasses Ferrari’s steering wheel with integrated controls, Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE) positioned between the two air vents in the centre of the dash. California T also boasts new infotainment system with 6.5” screen featuring both touch-screen and conventional controls.

    Ferrari California T is going to have an official premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

    Source: Ferrari

  • Arden Enhances Jaguar XJ 358

    arden-jaguar-xj-358-THUMbbAlthough the Jaguar XJ 358 is not a brand new car it is undoubtedly worth it when something exciting happens around it. Such “thing” is the tuning enhancing that the specialists at Arden have given it.

    Jaguar XJ 358 was produced between 2007 and 2009 and was the facelifted version of the X350. Compared to its predecessor, Jaguar gave the car a revised front grille that was positioned low, new front bumper assembly, a changed Jaguar Logo, revised front lights and door mirrors. The interior was only slightly changed, and included resculptured front seats.

    Arden has given this emblem in the automotive history a front conversion. It comprises of stainless steel grille for the front bumper, two front bumper lips and two air inlets with daytime lights. What is specifically exciting about these parts is that they were made out of premium fiber glass carbon compound and were additionally tested and optimized in the wind tunnel.

    Thanks to these simple improvements, the designers have managed to transform the classic lines and elegant appearance of the XJ 358 into a timeless limousine representing style and class like no other model.

    What is left to be said is that Arden’s front spoiler that has a larger air inlets and integrated LED daytime lights, not only contributes for XJ’s impressive “face”, but also additionally improves road safety.

    Source: Arden

  • McLaren Surprises With The Debut Of 650S In Geneva

    McLaren 650S LogoMcLaren Automotive has just announced exciting news about the 84th International Geneva Motor Show, where it will debut the latest addition to its range of groundbreaking supercars – the McLaren 650S.

    The brand also unveiled the first teaser image of the model, which was designed and developed to offer the ultimate in luxury, engagement and excitement, as well as dramatic and beautiful styling.

    We suppose that the name of the model also shows its horsepower. In addition, McLaren gave a hint that the car will be probably some how similar to the 12C and the P1, precisely – it will be positioned between the two on McLaren Automotive’s supercar grid.

    More details around the McLaren 650S will be announced ahead of car’s global reveal which will take place on 4th of March in Geneva.

    Source: McLaren

  • Kia Sportage MY2014 Update Debuts At Geneva

    2014-Kia-Sportage-shadow2014-Kia-Sportage-mediumWith the Geneva Motor Show drawing nearer, we get all kinds of news: interesting, prolific, and downright mind blowing. This is neither of these, but we’ll deliver nevertheless. It’s the slightly updated Kia Sportage range for this year.

    Here’s the deal: the MY2014 gets a new premium sound system, FlexSteer (Kia’s selectable steering feedback) as standard, a heated steering wheel, and trailer stability control. In terms of refinement, the interior is, apparently, less noisy thanks to an even more stream defying windshield. Bush-mounted subframes and new transmission mounting brackets bring about further improvements to the overall ride quality.

    We guess beauty is in the details since there’s nothing else to be said about the update. Surprisingly enough, the Spotage is Kia’s best-selling model in Europe. Back in 2013 there were a total of 89,553 models sold. That’s a year-on-year increase of 10.5 percent. Clever moves like that are sure to keep that trend going.

    Source: Kia

  • 2014 Audi S1 and S1 Sportback – EU Price €29,950 and €30,800

    Audi has officially unveiled the 2014 S1 Quattro and S1 Sportback Quattro. Both hot hatchbacks will make their official debuts at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, next month.

    The top-of-range A1 comes with an aggressive body kit including modified front and rear bumpers, bigger side sills as well as a rear wing and a quad sport exhaust system. The exterior looks pretty amazing and it suits the performance just perfectly.

    The S1 Quattro is powered by the well-known 2.0 liter TFSI from Golf GTI Performance – 231HP (170 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. The power is sent to the road through Quattro all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds for the small S1 and the Sportback is 0.1 seconds slower, because of the extra weight.

    Other highlights include a set of 17” alloy wheels fitted with 215/40 R17 tires. There is also an option for bigger 18” wheels with 225/35 R18. There are also xenon plus headlights combined with LED taillights, enormous 310mm front disc brakes with red calipers and S1 logo.

    The interior boasts black theme combined with dark gray scales for the instruments, stainless steel pedals  and standard sport seats. There is an option for S-sport seats featuring built-in head restraints.

    The 2014 Audi S1 and S1 Sportback will hit the market in June with pricing starting from €29,950 and €30,800, respectively.

    Source: Audi

  • Lumma Design Range Rover CLR R Carbon Package

    2014-Lumma-Design-Range-Rover-CLR-R-Carbon-shadow2014-Lumma-Design-Range-Rover-CLR-R-Carbon-mediumLumma Design rolled out their CLR R makeover kit for the new Range Rover last year. Today, you can build on that update with another update: Lumma Design’s comprehensive carbon fiber package. There’s also a power increase aspect to this new project.

    Let’s not forget, however, that the original CLR R package already offers a re-styled carbon fiber hood with (more than really needed) air scoops. It’s also responsible for the new bumpers, the flaring wheel arches and lower door sills.

    The new stuff includes the front grille, door handles, mirror covers, rear spoiler lip, rear and side trim strips and an anti-glare panel for the bonnet – all with a gloriously exposed carbon fiber look. There is also a stainless steel exhaust system on offer. It adds four tailpipes that give the Rangie a deep, sonorous voice and lower the overall backpressure. Bulky 12.0J x 22-inch Lumma Exclusive alloy wheels complement the overall exterior appeal.

    If the converted Range Rover happens to be a diesel, why not ad the Lumma D-Box? It’s a performance upgrade feature that amps up the power from 340 hp to about 370 hp. It also adds 100 Nm of torque to a total of 800.

    Climb aboard and you find yourself amidst a garden of plush: Alcantara seats with diamond-quilt patterns, Alcantara/leather dashboard, door panels and center console. Don’t be surprised to find a few carbon fiber inserts here and there as well. The flat-bottomed sports steering wheel too wears an Alcantara finish on the grippy parts. Finishing off the remodelled cabin are smaller but no less important details such as the aluminium pedal set with non-slip rubber feet, stainless-steel door sill scuff plates with illuminated Lumma logo, and Lumma Design carpet mats.

    Source: Lumma Design

  • 2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe Individual

    BMW has announced details about their Individual program for the recently unveiled 4-Series Gran Coupe.

    The exterior boasts Moonstone Metallic paint, a set of new 19” light alloy wheels with an attractive V-spoke design fitted with low-profile tires. The interior comes with a leather-wrapped dashboard and Ash Grain White wood trim. There are also Merino leather seats with contrast stitching.

    The engine range includes a 420i, a 428i and 435i as well as 418d and 420d. There is also an xDrive variant for 428i. The power output varies from 143HP to 184HP for the diesels and from 184HP to 306HP for the petrol models.

    Source: BMWBlog

  • 2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo To Debut At Boca Raton Concours

    2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo is least to say exclusive. It is the most powerful HPE Stingray ever and even more – it will be built in only 24 examples. This limited edition Chevrolet will be unveiled on 21st of February at the Boca Raton Concours in south Florida.

    This Stingray is powered by a twin turbo system that utilizes a pair of precision ball bearing 62-mm turbochargers. The HPE system has been handcrafted and uses mandrel-bent stainless steel tubing, dual turbo wastegates, and twin blow-off valves on the intercooler’s TIG-welded aluminum plenum.

    To be more precise, due to the tuning this Chevy is capable of generating 707 hp (520 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 895 Nm (661 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is coupled with either a 7-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

    The result of all this power is stunning. In details, when the car is equipped with 20-inch drag radial tires, it reaches 100 km/h from standstill in just 2.9 seconds, securing its way to the top speed of 210 mph.

    More control for the additional power has been ensured by the HPE CarbonAero package which comprises of a carbon-fiber front spoiler, side sills and rear lip spoiler. They provide additional overall downforce.

    The visual stance of the vehicle is rounded off by the 10-spoke Hennessey H10 forged monoblock wheels coupled with factory Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Due to the lightweight of these wheels, the car becomes over19 lb lighter. This results in the minimization of both rotational mass and unsprung weight.

    2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo Specifications:

    Power

    • 708 hp (520 kW) @ 6,300 rpm

    HPE700 Twin Turbo Upgrade Includes

    • Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers
    • Fuel System Upgrade
    • Stainless Steel Inlet Piping
    • Dual Wastegates
    • Air-to-Air Intercooler
    • Dual Air Induction Filters
    • Stainless Steel Turbo Downpipes
    • Stainless Steel Exhaust System
    • Professional Installation
    • HPE Engine Management Calibration
    • Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
    • Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
    • Hennessey Exterior Badging
    • Hennessey Premium Floormats
    • Hennessey Carbon Fiber Door Sills
    • 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

    Optional Upgrades

    • Hennessey CarbonAero Rear Lip Spoiler, Side Sills & Front Lip Spoiler
    • Hennessey H10 Monoblock Wheel Upgrade
    • Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
    • Brembo Carbon Ceramic Brake Upgrade
    • Penske Adjustable Suspension Upgrade
    • Custom Interior Leather Upgrades
    • Carbon Fiber Interior Upgrades

    httpv://youtu.be/azkQg_w5L20

    httpv://youtu.be/CXzPyrb9d2M

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Hennessey

  • Volvo To Unveil The Third Concept Car In The Trilogy In Geneva

    Volvo-Concept-Coupe-tHUMB2014 Geneva Internetional Motor Show will be very special event for the most popular Swedish automaker – Volvo Car Group. At the show the manufacturer will reveal the third and final vehicle in the current series of concept cars.

    The new concept model will be unveiled on 4th of March, and will join the already presented Concept Coupe and Concept XC Coupe on Volvo’s stand. The same design approach has been applied on the new vehicle like the previous two. This means that the new concept car has been built on Volvo’s brand new chassis, titled Scalable Product Architecture (SPA).

    In addition, what also has been revealed is that the concept will be powered by its new Drive-E Powertrain. Unfortunately no other information has been officially disclosed by the brand, and even more – it didn’t even release a teaser image of the future car.

    So the only thing left is to wait less than a month in order to see what kind of vision Volvo designers have for the future. And more precisely, those who are lucky enough to visit the show will get the full idea of Volvo’s future, having the chance to see the trilogy of concept cars all together.

    Source: Volvo