Auto News – Page 578 – Automobiles Review

VANSPORTS by Hartmann Present the Mercedes-Benz Citan MetroStream

VANSPORTS-Mercedes-Benz-Citan-shadow Well, here’s something different. VANSPORTS – which are, apparently, a derivative of Hartmann Tuning – have turned a normal Mercedes-Benz Citan into a hotshot delivery van. It’s a bit like a senior citizen wearing trainers and a side-ways baseball cap.

So, most of the modifications are courtesy to this “MetroStream design programme”. It consists of a redesigned front grille, new front bumper with sporty vents on it on it and a splitter, a rear diffuser, and side skirts even. Behind the curtains, a sport suspension kit lowers the Citan by with 25 mm. Best of all, though, is that VANSPORTS offer performance upgrades as well. Nothing too serious. Just some chip tuning, that’s all. The biggest Citan engine (the 111 CDI) can gain around 18 hp and 30 newton meters in torque. That’s 127 hp and 270 Nm of torque in total power. Cough in even more and you’ll get the VANSPORTS electronic accelerator pedal kit which supposedly improves engine feedback and response

VANSPORTS, as the name suggests, deals with vans, and transporters, and commercial vehicles, and such: Opel’s Nissans, Renaults, you name it. We think that’s kind of neat. Otherwise, what would delivery companies that want to step up their game do?

Someone’s at the door. Must be that thing we ordered from that other place 15 minutes ago.

Source: VANSPORTS

January 16, 2014

Mopar Modifies 2015 Chrysler 200

2015 Chrysler 200 made an official debut at Detroit Auto Show this week alongside its Mopar-modified version, which now is under our focus. More than 45 Mopar parts and accessories will be available for this Chrysler model in order to improve its production characteristics and make it even more exceptional and unique to every owner.

2015 Mopar Chrysler 200 which was on display at the show featured unique exterior enhancements. At a first glance what impresses the most is its one-of-a-kind exterior paint color, which makes the car look shiny and stands out. This was achieved thanks to the application of Lunar White Pearl Tri-coat color. In addition, to complement the striking exterior paint finish, the designers equipped the car with satin carbon 19-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The Chrysler 200 which was exhibited is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 unit that generates 295 horsepower (217 kW) and 355 Nm (262 lb.-ft.) of torque. Mopar also took car of the interior by tuning it with premium white leather. The latter wraps the seats, which were additionally accented with bronze stitching. Bronze accents also emphasize the bezels and the steering wheel, while Mopar floor mats round-out the perfect harmonic atmosphere in the coupe.

To be more precise, the Mopar products available for the exterior of this Chrysler’s model include Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System, wheels and wheel locks, locking fuel cap, Graphics Package, bicycle hitch receiver, Mopar wheel center caps, Emblem Kits, vehicle covers, production turn signal mirrors, engine block heater, 2.4-liter and master shield.

The interior enhancement parts, designed by Mopar for the car are: ambient lighting, Autonet Wi-Fi, Roadside Safety Kit, Emergency Kit/Tire repair, collapsible tote, cargo trunk net, molded cargo tray, door sill guards, In-Vehicle wireless charging, premium floor mats, slush floor mats and rear backup camera/mirror.

Source: Chrysler

January 16, 2014

2015 Subaru WRX STI – Highlights [video]

Subaru has published an interesting video showing some of the highlights of the all-new 2015 WRX STI. The model is exhibited at the 2014 NAIAS in Detroit and can be examined by the public there.

2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter turbocharged boxer engine – 309HP (227 kW) at 6,000RPM and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) at 4,000RPM, while the non-STI model has 272HP (200 kW) and 349Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque from a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbo boxer. No performance data available, but the WRX needs around 5.0 seconds for 0-100 km/h and the STI even less.

Both engines are available only with upgraded 6-speed manual sending the power to the symmetrical all-wheel drive system featuring a driver-controlled multi-mode center mechanical differential.

2015 WRX STI comes with 18” alloy wheels fitted with 245/40 R18 performance tires. There is also a performance braking system as well as an inverted-strut front suspension. The new WRX STI is available only as a sedan and it is scheduled to hit the market in Spring.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H84X2ANdqDw

Source: Subaru

January 16, 2014

Nissan Unveils Sentra NISMO Concept

Nissan’s NISMO lineup of vehicles has been extended due to the addition of the Sentra NISMO Concept, which offers increased performance and design tuner elements, when compared to the bas Sentra model.

The concept is inspired by racing cars and therefore its exterior and interior features speak about this. Of course the enhanced aerodynamics are at hand, as well as the NISMO-tuned suspension, steering and transmission and the engaging motorsports-style cockpit.

Adding to this, Nissan Sentra NISMO Concept is equipped with 1.8-liter direct injection turbocharged powetrain which produces more than 240 horsepower (176 kW) and 240 lb-ft (325 Nm) of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential.

Enhanced exterior elements feature the deep front fascia with lower LED lights and wide lower grille, LED daytime running rights and upper grille, wide lower front spoiler, oversized fender flares and integrated side sills, deep-skirted rear fascia and large dual exhaust tips. What rounds-out the look is the custom made rear spoiler and center rear fog lamp.

The red accents which are signature for the NISMO models are featured in areas where aerodynamics have been highlighted. Such are the lower spoiler, side mirrors and side sills. At the front and rear are positioned the NISMO badges with signature matching red “O”.

The concept is decided in Bright Pearl White exterior paint, while the aerodynamic side door mirror covers, front splitter and rear diffuser are finished in a genuine carbon fiber diagonal pattern. The Black Chrome-finished mesh grille is surrounded by Dark Chrome.

The independent strut front and torsion beam rear suspension have been modified and were completed with custom performance shocks and springs. The car runs on 19-inch RAYS aluminum-alloy wheels matched with 225/35R19 Michelin Super Sport performance tires and red-painted 370Z brake calipers.

The interior of the car includes a variety of upgrades which are also racing-inspired. For instance such are the Recaro “Sportster” front seats with custom black leather and Alcantara appointments, rear seats with perforated black Alcantara, Alcantara wrapped pillars and headliner and the unique steering wheel.

The latter is wrapped in red leather and Alcantara and features matching shift knob and shifter lever boot surround. The instrument cluster has gotten a satin carbon fiber finish, while on all chrome accents is applied Dark Chrome finish.

Source: Nissan

January 16, 2014

2015 Chrysler 200 Convertible [render]

Theophiluschin has published two render pictures of Chrysler 200 Convertible. The model reminds to Opel Cascada, but still it has a lot of different. The Chrysler 200 Convertible will be a direct rival to Audi A3 Convertible, Opel Cascada and possible BMW 2-Series Convertible. Still, the 200 open-top is expected to be a lot cheaper than those above.

2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan was presented at the 2014 NAIAS. It is a 2.4 liter Tigershark four-cylinder – 184HP (137 kW) and 234Nm (173 lb-ft) of torque or a powerful 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 – 295HP (220 kW) and 355Nm (262 lb-ft). Regardless of the choice, the engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system. The 200 Convertible will probably has the same drivetrain variants.

2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan is priced at just $21,700 for the entry-level model and it will hit the market in Spring.

January 16, 2014

The Distinguished Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Design Concept

Infiniti-Q50-Eau-Rouge-Concept-Detroit-2014-shadow NAIAS attendees have the benefit of a full view of the fancy named Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Concept*. It’s a design concept so it’s all about the looks and drama.

It’s only 20 millimetres wider and a bit lower than your average Q50, yet Infiniti are adamant that the only elements retained from the original are the front doors and the roof pillars. In other words, every other body panel has been replaced. Just to be sure that the Eau Rouge really does stand out from the commons, Infinity have went for a customized red coating and dark-chrome framing. The latter applies to the double-arch front grille, the glasshouse surrounds, the door handles and the deck lid accents.

Inside, there’s a “high-grip” steering wheel flanked by two paddle-shifters. The red accent makes its way into the interior as carbon fiber inserts on the doors, and the center console, while, again, dark-chrome replaces all that which used to be silver-chrome.

If they were ever to build the Rouge, Infiniti envision a forced induction 500+ bhp power plant nestled in the engine bay:

“Through our various alliance partners we have access to a range of engines featuring this performance capability which, with a fair amount of engineering effort, can be developed to exhibit Infiniti character…” comments Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company Limited.

There’s also a projected torque value of 600 lb-ft. That’s quite a lot, could the real-life Eau Rouge end up baring a diesel heart?

*Eau Rouge is actually the name of a very specific corner at the Belgian Spa-Francorchamps race circuit.

Source: Infiniti

January 16, 2014

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe Offers Sportier Look

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe was brand’s highlight at the North American International Show in Detroit. The luxury coupe is designed with a new lightweight and stiffer structure, and will be offered as a rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive variant.

ATS Coupe carries the same wheelbase its predecessor, but has unique roof, doors, rear fenders and trunk lid. Also specific for the MY2015 model are the front fascia and front fenders that contribute towards vehicle’s wider track.

More aggressive stance of the car is given also by the improved short overhangs and sheet metal that wrap tautly around the tires. The car rides on 18-inch wheels which come as a standard on all trim levels.

Other design features regarding the exterior, are the optional LED headlamps with Adaptive Forward Lighting. Performance and Premium trims feature illuminating outside door handles, while all models come as a standard with LED taillamps and rear-center stop lamp. ATS Coupe also includes also capless fueling.

Inside, the luxury car features a driver-focused cabin with handcrafted cut-and-sewn upholstered interior combinations, decorative stitching and materials such as leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and wood. There are also a lot of optional interior features such as:

OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot
Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity with natural voice recognition
Text-to-voice
USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Reconfigurable 5.7-inch, three-window instrument panel cluster display
Full-color reconfigurable head-up display

As a standard the ATS Coupe is fitted with Bose premium audio system with Active Noise Cancelation technology. Option here on Standard and Luxury trims are the 12-speaker surround sound upgrade and the navigation system. However, they come as a standard in Performance and Premium collections.

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will be offered with the choice of two engines: the standard 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and the available 3.6L V-6. The first can generate 272 horsepower (203 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm), while the second – 321 horsepower (239 kW) and 275 lb-ft of torque (373 Nm).

Both powertrains are equipped with direct injection and dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing, which results in enhanced power and efficiency, and reduced emissions. Each powertrain is coupled with Hydra-Matic 6L45 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control. The six-speed manual one is featured as an option in the 2.0L Turbo engine equipped cars.

The elements that contribute to vehicle’s balanced performance and responsive characteristics are the following:

50/50 weight balance and low center of gravity
Five-link independent rear suspension featuring lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
Underbody aerodynamic shields
Premium, belt-driven electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
Brembo front brakes
Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels
Available all-wheel drive

2015 ATS Coupe can be also fitted optionally with driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension, that feartures Magnetic Ride Control, a mechanical limited-slip differential, high-capacity engine cooling system and 18-inch summer-performance tires.

In terms of safety technologies, this Cadillac model features two cameras, eight ultrasonic sensors and six radar signals to help prevent crashes. The crash-avoidance systems, such as automatic braking, can pre-fill and automatically apply braking in response to potential hazards, while the Fr ont and Rear Automatic Braking, relies on radar, camera and ultrasonic technology to help prevent front and rear low-speed collisions.

The brand also offers Driver Awareness and Driver Assist Packages. The first one consists of the following features: Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist, Intellibeam high-beam control, Front and rear park assist, Rear-vision camera with dynamic guidelines.

The Driver Assist package builds upon the previous package and adds also: Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Collision Preparation, motorized safety belts, Electronic Park Brake, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Enhanced Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, full-color head-up display.

As a standard, the cars include safety features such as eight air bags, safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with full-function traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS, patented rotor coating protection and auto-dry functionality. 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will be available in dealerships this summer.

Source: Cadillac

January 16, 2014

Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept Closer To Reality At Detroit

Volkswagen-Beetle-Dune-Concept-shadow A sketch just a week ago, reality toady: the Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept reveals itself to the world in Detroit at the 2014 North American Auto Show. It’s also closer to production than ever. So get your sunscreen and prepare for the amazing sandboarding session you’ve always dreamed of.

Why do we think the Dune is close to production? Well, it’s pretty much a Beetle. A beefed up one but, nevertheless, a Beetle. It sits 50 mm higher from the ground than the standard counterparts, It has four aggressively flaring wheel arches that widen the body by 24 mm on each side (that’s a total width of 1,856 mm. Consequently, both of the Dune’s tracks get a 29 mm advantage over the standard ones. A track width, then, of 1,607 mm at the front and 1,573 mm at the rear. It sits on four 19-inch wheels wearing 255/45 tires. Main point: even more ruggedness!

There are some visual gimmicks that no concept goes without, but they are very minimal. Things like the front bumper honeycomb air intakes, LED turn indicators. Then there’s the back which hosts two spoilers that have been specially designed to accommodate a pair of skis… for sand, apparently.

A very real part of the car, however, is its turbocharged 210 hp engine, which we suspect may have been lifted from a Golf GTI and mated to a six-speed DSG gearbox. Here are some actual figures: 0 to 62 mph gets done in 7.5 seconds; a top speed of 141 mph is “feasible”; and a fuel economy of 23 mpg (city) or 29 mpg (highway). An interesting engineering choice, though, is the FWD setup. It’s called the Dune, people, how do you tackle the sandy stretches?

Also, inside things have been left production-friendly. The only Dune-specific interior bit is the additional passenger grab handle in place of the glove-box. You’ll have a hard time noticing it anyway, since there’s a 7.7-inch touchscreen display dominating the center console.

Source: Volkswagen

January 15, 2014

OK-Chiptuning Porsche 911 GT2

OK-Tuning has presented their performance package for the mighty Porsche 911 (997) GT2. The sports car comes with a lot of performance upgrades as well as engine boost.

Some of the performance parts are new carbon-ceramic brake system, a roll cage and an Akrapovic racing exhaust system including manifolds and sport catalysts. Last, but not least OK-Tuning fitted the tuned GT2 with modified GT2 RS intercoolers.

The interior boasts carbon and Alcantara trim, racing bucket seats and fire extinguisher.

The twin-turbo 3.6 liter twin-turbo flat-six is boosted to 680HP (500 kW) and 880Nm (652 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 150HP and 200Nm over the standard model. 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, 100-200 km/h takes 5.1 seconds and 100-300 km/h in 18 seconds.

Other highlights include OZ Ultraleggera HLT wheels fitted with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires and new LED taillights.

Pricing for OK Remapping starts from €3,500.

Source: OK-Chiptuning

January 15, 2014

2014 Qoros 3 Hatchback [video]

Qoros has unveiled the 3 Hatchback model ahead of its official public debut scheduled for March at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. There are two pictures and a video of the second model in the range.

The design and engineering of the compact (C-segment) Qoros 3 Hatch draws heavily on the brand’s first model, the Qoros 3 Sedan. While it is similarly inspired by contemporary European automotive styling themes, it displays a subtle, youthful evolution of the distinctive signature Qoros design cues to inject greater sportiness to the car’s appearance.

“The new Qoros 3 Hatch will appeal to the modern metropolitan always-connected customer who needs a little extra versatility provided by the hatchback body style”, commented Vice Chairman of Qoros, Volker Steinwascher.

“It offers those with active outdoor lifestyles or young families extra practicality, combined with added coolness thanks to its more spirited, sporty look”, he added.

As well as rear lamp clusters and tailgate specific to the hatchback, the Qoros 3 Hatch features subtle visual changes at the front that differentiate it from the Sedan – notably to the front grille, front bumper and front fog lights. These create a bolder ‘face’ and a more compact, dynamic, sporty appearance that will appeal to a new, more lifestyle-oriented group of customers.

The interior boasts key ergonomic features, refinement, understated quality and equipment are shared with its sedan compatriot, although new upholstery colour combinations and materials will provide a fresh, new ambience.

Actually Qoros 3 Hatch looks pretty and and with a 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine offered in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged versions, it will deliver nice driving pleasure. The engines can be mated to either 6-speed manual or an automatic dual-clutch gearbox.

Both Qoros 3 Sedan and 3 Hatch will be assembled in plant located in Changshu, China.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhEGQ3CaZ2o

Source: Qoros

January 15, 2014

2015 Subaru WRX STI Starts With Limited Launch Edition

Subaru-WRX-STI-Launch-Edition-shadow As promised, the 2015 Subaru WRX STI is now official at the Detroit Auto Show. In what can be described as a celebratory spirit, the Japanese company has decided to sell 1000 units of it in limited form called the Launch Edition. It’s more recognizable feature is the only available paint job called WR Blue Pearl. Gold-painted 18-inch BBS alloy wheels finish the legendary look.

In true STI nature, the power comes from a 2.5-liter flat six – the whole 315 hp package that is. This, along with an STI Short-Throw Shifter 6-speed manual, should bring a genuine sproting feel to the driving experience. It’s the whole package really. You get a rather stiff chassis, Active Torque Vectoring, Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive…gasps for air… Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), and SI-DRIVE powertrain control system. Don’t forget the Brembo disc brakes and the Super Sport ABS that overseers them. Wheel size: 245/40 R18 all around. Inside, you should be expecting Alcantara, a bit of leather, black on blue color prevalence and STI logos sewn here and there. The steering wheel is new and is as flat-bottomed as it can be.

The Launch Edition is pretty well equipped with luxuries that will appeal normal people as well (as opposed to gear heads who drink brake fluid for breakfast). Consider the Keyless entry system, LED low-beam headlights, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated wing mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, HD radio system with great USB connectivity, a 4.3-inch LCD screen with loads of information on it.

Source: Subaru

January 15, 2014

2015 Acura TLX Prototype And TLX GT Race Car Debut At NAIAS

2015 Acura TLX Prototype along with TLX GT Race Car was exclusively introduced at the North American International Auto Show. The prototype was developed around the theme “Red Carpet Athlete” and it actually shows how a car can deliver a blend of luxury refinement and sports-sedan athleticism, with exhilarating performance. In fact, TLX joins the ILX and RLX as the third vehicle in brand’s sedan lineup.

The exterior of the TLX Prototype was decided in Acura‘s Athletic Red Pearl paint. It expresses the sporting character of the car, which is additionally emphasized through its low and wide stance, shortened front and rear overhangs, dynamically sculpted fender arches, and purposeful character lines.

The vehicle also sports Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights which add advanced and bright-eyed appearance while producing superior down-the-road illumination. In addition, the car runs on custom-made five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels fitted 265/35ZR20 low-profile tires. On the other hand, the sculpted hood with its sharply creased bilateral ridgelines hints at the performance capabilities of new Acura powertrain.

Another exclusive feature is the tailor-made side mirrors, which have a row of LED lights fused into their base. In terms of dimension, the TLX Prototype is 3.8 inches than the current TL, but still has the same 109.3 inch wheelbase. Despite the more compact exterior, TLX has spacious interior with an open and airy greenhouse, commanding sight lines, ample cargo capacity and seating for five persons.

TLX will be offered as a two-wheel or an all-wheel drive variant; with two high-performance, highly fuel-efficient new engines; two new advanced transmissions; and the next generation Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) dynamic performance and handling technologies.

In details, the powertrains are the new 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder with direct-injection and Acura’s i-VTEC® valvetrain. The first unit is coupled with new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter.

For even greater power and performance, there is available the 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 that also employs direct injection and VTEC variable valve control and cam timing along with fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology. The unit is matched with a new 9-speed automatic transmission with closely spaced gear ratios and a wide overall ratio range. Both powertrains utilize Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) technology with independent left and right rear wheel toe control.

Furthermore, the TLX will include an Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) to allow for further personalization and a sportier driving experience. The system features four driving modes – ECON (Economy), Normal, Sport, and a new Sport+. Depending on the mode, it adjusts the Electric Power Steering (EPS), throttle response, SH-AWD and P-AWS control logic, transmission shift mapping, Active Noise Control settings and HVAC control in accordance with the preferences of the driver.

The prototype also uses the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and will be available with Acura’s most advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like 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).

Under the lights of the Show in Detroit also was the entirely new 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car. With its reveal Acura Motorsport announced its plans to move up to the GT category of the growing and highly competitive Pirelli World Challenge Championship.

There it will compete next to the Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458. The racer was developed from the production Acura TLX by HPD.

To be more precise, the TLX GT Race Car will include HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition, and will be powered by a direct-injected twin-turbocharged V6 engine. In addition, it was announced that the vehicle will use brand’s Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

Source: Acura

January 15, 2014

Category: Auto News