Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

  • Ferrari 458 Speciale at Fiorano Circuit [video]

    Ferrari 458 Speciale was tested by Raffaele De Simone at the Fiorano race circuit. The test driver had the opportunity to enjoy the most powerful Ferrari V8 engine. He explained some the highlights, while driving at decent speeds.

    The 458 Speciale is powered by an upgraded 4.5 liter naturally aspirated V8 engine – 605HP (445 kW) and 540Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 35HP over the normal version. The engine is mated to an improved dual-clutch transmission. 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and a top speed of over 330 km/h (205 mph). A lap around Fiorano in 1 minute and 23.5 seconds.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-GxPnoBR64

    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale
    Ferrari 458 Speciale

    Source: Ferrari via Youtube

  • Regula Tuning’s R8 V10 Spyder Is All Show and No Go

    Regula-Tuning-Audi-R8-v10-Spyder-shadowRegula-Tuning-Audi-R8-v10-Spyder-medium

    We are sorry, but has the world ran out of wheels? This is the third time in the last five days that we encounter the flamboyant Oxigin-Oxrock 8,5 x 20s along with the accompanying spinning covers. At the very least, this time they don’t seem to ruin the overall vista of the car in question. No, everything else does.

    What you see here is the newest (post-facelift) Audi R8 V10 Spyder that’s been tricked out by Regula Tuning. This is not their first time when they’ve butchered an R8. Don’t get us wrong, it doesn’t look that bad. Over the top and vulgar with those scarlet red accents for sure, but still kind of cool-looking. The biggest problem we have with it, however, is the pretence that it is something that it is clearly not. Besides the carbon-fiber bodykit (consisting of a front and rear apron and side skirts) and the wheels, there don’t seem to be any other features that differentiate it from the stock R8. You still get the same 525 hp Lambo-sourced V10 and the standard suspension setup.

    Nobody’s trying to dispute the Audi’s original performance here, but one has to be able to walk the talk, right? If you look like a Nürbergring thoroughbred on track days, you need to be able to leave your opponents trailing behind, not just intimidate them with a virtually non-existent ground clearance and paper-thin tires. Out on the streets, on the other hand, you’ll need to do countless recalculations of your route on the satnav since you obviously won’t be able to clear the speed hump that’s spanning before you.

    Amazingly, though, the most striking thing about the Regula R8 is the price – $9,400. Worth it?

    Regula Tuning Audi R8 V10 Spyder
    Regula Tuning Audi R8 V10 Spyder
    Regula Tuning Audi R8 V10 Spyder

    Source: Regula Tuning

  • 2014 Lexus CT 200h Goes On Sale In January

    2014-Lexus-CT-200h-THUMB2014 Lexus CT 200h compact luxury hybrid is ready to go on sale and to offer its customers revised exterior and updated features. What is more, the 2014 CT 200h will be also equipped with a lot of additional standard and updated features.

    The customers will appreciate to see that the car will return an estimated fuel economy of 43 MPG city and 40 MPG highway (42 MPG combined). For the next model year, the CT gets a fresh, sporty look with a revised front fascia.

    The latter includes Lexus spindle grille, new front bumper, LED daytime running lights and updated fog lamp surrounds. In addition, the car will run on brand new five-spoke 17-inch wheels and will also sport new rear bumpers, LED rear license plate lighting, larger rear spoiler (3 cm), aero-stabilizing fins, shark fin antenna and scratch-resistant clear coat.

    In the interior the designers at Lexus have included a thinner Display Audio (DA)/Navigation screen which features the next generation multimedia system. What is more, the occupants of the car will enjoy to be surrounded by standard six-speaker and premium 10-speaker audio systems which now have improved design.

    As a standard there has been included also redesigned leather shift knob and sliding sun visors, while the DA and navigation get Bluetooth 3.0 and dual USB. Another redesigned feature in the interior is the steering wheel. The metallic interior ornamentation enhances the luxurious cabin.

    Not only the standard equipment has been improved here but also the trim choices via the addition of Parchment NuLuxe and perforated Flaxen leather. 2014 CT also receives a new exterior color called Redline, which includes a highly scratch resistant self-restoring coat.

    2014 CT 200h F SPORT will also be revised and will ride on newly designed 17-inch 5-twin spoke alloy wheels with two-tone graphite and machine finish. Other enhancements include front bumper with F SPORT mesh grille, black contrast roof, new rear spoiler with two large air ducts, and mesh fog lamp inserts, black surround, F SPORT exterior badging and two new unique exterior colors: Ultra White and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica.

    CT 200h will be powered by a 1.8-liter in-line four-cylinder gas engine which works together with a 650 Volt motor/generator. Both deliver a combined output of 134 horsepower (99 kW). The powertrain is mated to an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT).

    2014 Lexus CT 200h has a starting price of $32,050 USD and will go on sale in late January or early February.

    2014 Lexus CT200h
    2014 Lexus CT200h

    Source: Lexus

  • 2014 BTCC Honda Civic Tourer Debuts In March

    2014-BTCC-Honda-Civic-Tourer-THUMB2014 BTCC Honda Civic Tourer will participate in the 2014 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) with the same championship-winning team and driver line-up of Honda Yuasa Racing. The all new Civic Tourer race car will make its track debut in March and will be driven by Matt Neal and Gordon ‘Flash’ Shedden.

    The Tourer will undoubtedly deliver uncompromised racing because it includes the weight, wheelbase, layout and suspension of Honda’s hatchback, but at the same time length of the car is extended due to the larger tailgate.

    The engineers have worked hard over the past few months to develop the 2014 BTCC Civic Tourer. The versatility and practicality of the Tourer is complemented by its dynamic performance.

    The testing of the 2014 BTCC Honda Civic Tourer will begin in January. Then the sportscar will make its race debut at Brands Hatch for the first round of the 2014 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship on 29th and 30th of March.

    Source: Honda

  • 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible

    2014-Chevrolet-Corvette-Stingray-Premiere-Edition-Convertible-THUMB2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible comes to bring some glamour for the Christmas Holidays. The car is based on the current model, and will be built in limited examples which will be exactly 550.

    All top-of-the-line 3LT models will have the sumptuous Lime Rock Green exterior which will be complemented on the inside with a Brownstone suede interior. The vehicle also includes suede-wrapped interior trim, carbon fiber accents, variable tuned performance exhaust system, Z51 Performance Package and Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

    2014 Premiere Edition will bring about its exclusivity onto the road via its unique five-spoke wheels with “Stingray”-logo center caps. In addition, in the interior will be included the “Stingray”-logo interior sill plates and a five-piece set of Corvette-branded luggage from Thule. These components were delivered by the Corvette Accessories catalog.

    Being produced in only 550 examples, the model becomes a collectible car and therefore it will have a unique VIN sequence and unique dash plaques commemorating the limited-edition status.

    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible will have a starting price of $77,450 USD and will arrive in dealerships in early 2014.

    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible
    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition Convertible

    Source: Chevrolet

  • AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 2.8i Coupe Police Concept [VIDEO]

    AC-Schnitzer-ACS4-BMW-4-Coupe-shadowAC-Schnitzer-ACS4-BMW-4-Coupe-medium

    VDAT (from German: Verban Der Automobil Tuner) stands for the “Association of German Vehicle Tuners”, and the Essen Motor Show is where all of the members have a get together and show off their ambitious, and sometimes even mad, projects. Annually, however, they take the opportunity to work together on a concept vehicle as part of a campaign called “Tune it! Safe!” What that mutual effort aims to show, is that one can still make insanely cool and fast vehicles and be responsible all the while. So nothing like the R8 from yesterday then. For the fourth consequent year, the subject vehicle was a police car (a BMW 428i Coupé, to be precise). Baddies, beware!

    It would appear that most of the credit for this year’s concept goes to AC Schnitzer. In fact, it is called the ACS4 2.8i Coupé which really means that most of the work was done by them. What they did was to add a little more oomph to the standard 2.8i engine, fiddle with the suspension, install some spoilers, and throw in a couple of accessories for the inside. The only other companies mentioned are the ones that provided the Foliatec (responsible for the police décor) and Hella (RTK 7 signalling system). Hankook, on the other hand, are said to be the chief sponsors behind the project. That’s why the AC Schnitzer Type VIII Lighweight Forged Wheels get to wear two pairs of Hankook Ventus S1evo tires in sizes 245/30 R21

    With the AC Shnizer performance upgrade, the BMW now boasts a power value of 294 hp (up a sensible notch from 245 hp). As a result, the top speed is now limited to 155 mph; and 0 to 62 is done in 5,7 seconds. The based-in-Aachen guys claim that now the CO2 value per HP sees an improvement over the standard setup.

    Because the torque is also up to 420 Nm, the ACS4 needs something to tame the additional grunt and put it to use. This is where the AC Schnitzer racing suspension comes in place. It ha has adjustable bump and rebound settings and lowers the whole of the car with around 25 mm. Hopefully, the officers of the law will still be able to clear a speed hump withouth wasting the AC Schnitzer front splitter. There’s also a spoiler at the roof and at the back.

    Inside aluminum seems to be the predominant theme – “Black Line” (still aluminum) handbrake handle and gear knob plus aluminum pedals and foot rest. There’s also a new key holder and velour floor mats – fascinating.

    So, there you have it. Responsible. sensible, cool and safe in just about every sense of the word.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7zrsNWSvr0&feature=youtu.be

    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe
    AC Schnitzer ACS4 BMW 4 Coupe

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • TEASER: BMW Bullshark by Vilner [VIDEO]

    The best project of the Bulgarian luxury tuning company Vilner has just been teased via an exclusive video which you can watch below. This time the creative tuners have decided to entirely transform BMW 6 Series (E63).

    Since we are familiar with their craftsmanship and talent, and have seen the unique transformation of Bentley Continental GT, we are undoubtedly expecting to see one of the most exquisite tunings ever made. In this project Vilner was inspired by one of the greatest predators on our planet – the shark.

    Even more, it has offered its unique vision for this BMW, which now proudly carries the name Bullshark. From the video we can draw the conclusion that the magic hands of the team have given the E63 new aggressive headlights, new side fenders that look like branchia and a completely new front fascia that definitely puts an impression on one’s mind as if they are being watched by a shark.

    It is also noticeable that the side rearview mirrors have received a carbon fiber treatment, while regarding the back of the car, the Bullshark got taillights that have unusual form for the original model. So we are wondering whether we are to see an entire facelift of the rear.

    Nothing around the interior has been shown in the footage. However, knowing the capabilities of Vilner, we are sure that we are to be revealed a real embodiment of  perfection.

    httpv://youtu.be/kofBj8H31h0

    Video Source: YouTube

  • Hamann Range Rover Mystere Gets Wide-Body Upgrade

    Hamann Range Rover Mystere pushes the limits of individualism. The tuners have definitely showed their best with this project making unique and literally an embodiment of perfection.

    To reveal the details, the front spoiler includes integrated LED daytime running lights, while the bonnet is made of true carbon fibre. For the side skirts, Hamann has used four-part Widebody kit which adds the additional 80 mm to car’s width.

    Next, the front wings are hand-crafted from special carbon GFK composite. What also contribute for the extended width of this Range Rover are not only the side skirts, but also the door fixtures and the panels for the rear wheel wings.

    At the rear, there has been added a rear spoiler with integrated end pipes milled from a solid block. The handling was optimized via electronic lowering module. The latter brings the car 40 mm closer to the pavement.

    Hamann Range Rover Mystere runs on 23 inch forged rims with either the three-part “Edition Race” with a polished rim flange and Titan bolts or the single unit variant “Unique Forged”. On all four wheels were mounted Continental tyres in size of 305/30/23.

    Of course, the same approach that evokes luxury and individuality is continued in the interior. Tuning company’s logo is visible on the door sill trims and the velour floor mats. In addition, the upholstery used inside features materials such as leather and Alcantara. Otherr materials found throughout the cabin include double-clear-coat finishes, stainless steel, aluminium and carbon fiber.

    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere
    Hamann Range Rover Mystere

    Source: Hamann

  • 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Receives SE Trim Level

    The four-passenger 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV received new SE trim which offers faster charging, as well as heated front seats and seatbacks. The innovative hatchback got an improved 120-volt, which reduces charging time to 14 hours from empty.

    He more common model with 240-volt Level Two charger however remains unchanged, requiring up to seven hours from empty. 2013 i-MiEV SE model is also equipped with all the features included in the base ES model as well as some upgrades such as 15-inch alloy wheels, premium seat fabric, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, 360-watt audio system, silver cluster accents and dual-vanity mirrors.

    As an option Mitsubishi is offering a Navigation Package that comprises of a 40-GB hard-disc drive navigation system on a seven-inch touch-screen display with rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity.

    2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV SE standard equipment:

    • AC synchronous motor (66 horsepower, 145 ft. lbs. of torque)
    • Six airbags – dual front, dual side-impact curtain and front-seat mounted side-impact airbags
    • Four wheel anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution
    • Active Stability Control and Traction Control Logic (comprised of stability control which stabilizes the vehicle when it detects skidding and traction control to control wheels from spinning when detecting loss of traction over slippery surfaces)
    • Brake Assist and Brake Override Systems
    • Anti-theft immobilizer and anti-theft security alarm system
    • MacPherson strut front suspension, three-link de Dion rear suspension
    • Power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry
    • 50/50 split folding rear seats
    • Heated front seats and six-way adjustable driver’s seat
    • Air conditioning and micron air filtration
    • Battery warmer
    • MiEV Remote for timer charging, remote climate control (pre-cooling and pre-heating during charging)
    • Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System for pedestrians

    2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV SE has a starting price of $35,498.

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • BMW X6 M Design Edition Gets Launched

    BMW-X6-M-Design-Edition-THUMBBMW X6 M Design Edition was officially introduced in September and now the exclusive model is ready for a full launch. The X6 M is a limited edition masterpiece and the fact that it will be produced in only 100 examples makes it even more exclusive.

    BMW X6 M Design Edition has the perfect athletic stance because it sports visually striking elements both inside and out. From the outside, the outstanding model sits on 21-inch M Performance light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design and carbon elements. The low-profile tyres further add to the aggressive look of the car.

    The vehicle ca be finished in Alpine White, Sapphire Black or Melbourne Red metallic, which all come together to create an elegantly sporty blend of colours. There are also included carbon fiber rear spoiler and a new rear diffuser. M Performance stripes are available upon request.

    The interior of the BMW X6 M Design Edition comes with full Merino leather. There is also included a bicolour instrument panel in Black/Mugello Red with Mugello Red contrast stitching. Another exclusive feature for the model is the BMW Individual interior trim in Piano Black with an edition-specific badge.

    BMW X6 M Design Edition
    BMW X6 M Design Edition
    BMW X6 M Design Edition
    BMW X6 M Design Edition
    BMW X6 M Design Edition

    Source: BMW

  • Kahn Range Rover Vogue RS600 & 600LE Revealed Prior Official Debut

    Exterior-KD-THUMBA. Kahn Design’s latest additions to its garage of exclusive vehicles now include transformed Range Rover Vogue RS600 & 600LE editions. The models were designed specifically for those seeking more performance and at the same time count on the stylish visual characteristics of their vehicle.

    The Kahn RS600 edition Range Rover Vogue was even teased in November via several renders and some scarce information. Before the vehicle makes its official debut, the tuning team has unveiled some additional images of the RS600 as well as of a new luxury edition counterpart, the 600LE model.

    Both editions are scheduled for an official launch in December, when they will show the meaning of performance-oriented design. For instance, the RS600 will include a 16-piece wide wheel arch kit. The latter was created via high quality composites and precisely it comprises of front and rear arches, vents and a lower chin spoiler with sump guard detailing.

    Other enhancements include new and more aggressive front grille, new front and rear bumper, and other refined and luxurious details throughout the exterior and interior. Just two days are parting us from December and we are definitely eager to see more of these impressive projects.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • Jaguar Land Rover Is Using a New Data Sharing System for Car Development

    After Jaguar Land Rover was sold in 2008 to Tata Motor, the luxury car manufacturer has focused on revitalizing its business systems to make them more efficient. With this in mind, Jaguar is now planning to use a new data-sharing system to help streamline car development. Over the past couple of years, Jaguar has had to migrate over from the systems used by Ford to one that will be compatible with its new direction.

    Technology Used in Today’s Auto Design

    One of the reasons why it’s important for auto designers to share data easily is due to the complexity of today’s in-car IT systems. Software is now a major part of auto engineering, particularly as new cars are connected to the internet. New models that you see on Carsales often have their own IP address, serving as mobile wireless hotspots. Safety systems also use electronic and computerized elements, and as we move closer to fully autonomous cars it’s important to be able to easily write and share code as part of the design process. For example, a new Range Rover has over 100 million lines of code written into it, which is more than a jumbo jet. Passengers now rely on computerized safety systems and infotainment to access the internet and react to the world as they drive.

    Applications Used in Car Engineering

    There are a number of computer applications or programs used to design new cars. This includes computer-aided design, computer aided manufacturing, and computer aided engineering systems. In many cases, data is stored separately in each of these applications and then accessed as needed. Although they are semi-integrated, allowing information to pass from one application to the next, this one will take integration a step further. Jaguar’s new system will share data to provide a single system providing all the necessary data. The data will reside within each application, but APIs will be provided which allow other applications to access the data when needed.

    The integration will be based on OSCL, or open services for lifecycle collaboration. This provides the set of APIs used to exchange data between different applications. Jaguar Land Rover is also working with Dassault Systems and IBM in order to use their system engineering tactics in the design of luxury automobiles. This will help streamline the flow of information used in designing new cars, so that computer aided engineering processes are automated and shared. This helps engineers see how the products are performing, to make them perform better and verify all information.

    Jaguar’s system is expected to be implemented over the course of the next three years. As technology grows and improves, more manufacturers could use data-sharing devices like this one to help make it easier to keep track of all of the data involved in auto engineering.