Auto News – Page 617 – Automobiles Review

Hyundai JP Edition Genesis Coupe To Be Unveiled At SEMA

Hyundai is linking up again with the tuner John Pangilinan to create an exquisite custom-developed JP Edition Genesis Coupe in a striking Atlantis Blue exterior color. The designer is already known for selecting retina-bending color themes for his Hyundai SEMA concepts. The eye-catching coupe concept is going to make its debut at the 2013 SEMA show in Las Vegas which will take place between 5th and 8th of November.

Ragarding the concept vehicle, there has been made modifications on the powertrain in order that the car achieves most cost-effective power gains. The transformations included are an AEM cold air intake, ARK Performance exhaust, turbo downpipe, and friction-reducing Lucas Oil.

In addition, the perfect ride height and body-to-wheel balance is ensured by the installation of KW Variant 3 coil-overs, Whiteline sway bars, and an ARK Performance strut bar. This special Genesis Coupe will run on 19-inch MORR VS52 concave mono-forged wheels in mystic black, coupled with Toyo Proxes T1R 275/30 ZR19 tyres for the front and 315/25 ZR19 tyres for the rear.

The perfection of this tuning is further strengthened by the addition of Brembo Gran Turismo brake kit with oversized 15-inch calipers. Furthermore, the exterior is emphasized by an ultra-wide custom metal fender flares from TS Designs, designed by Jon Sibal.

The unique exterior color is achieved via a brilliant BASF Atlantic Blue Metallic paint applied by Auto Explosion, and complemented by custom graphics from S&A Design. For aero management, an APR carbon-fiber splitter and Seibon carbon-fiber side and rear lip kits have been fitted. But this is not all, custom headlights with V-LEDS have been also added and they were delivered by the Retrofit Source and Retrofit House.

The interior of this JP Edition is also exclusive. Pangilinan chose RECARO Cross Sportster seats with a custom Katzkin suede and smooth leather treatment. And in order to hold the driver and passenger in place, the designer have chose Takata Drift III harnesses fixed to a custom harness bar complete with a mounted GoPro Hero 3 video camera.

At last, Pangilinan also made the entertainment electronics a top priority. He had selected for this concept the following components: Alpine Electronics System built by BP Auto Sound, Alpine INE-W927HD head unit, Alpine SPR-60C component 2-way speaker system, two Alpine SWR-T10 10” thin subwoofers, Alpine MRX-M55 mono power amp, Alpine MRX-F35 4/3/2 channel power amp, Scosche Electronics, Accumat HyperFlex sound deadening, EFX Elite Series braided multi-core interconnects, EFX speaker wire, amp power kit and ground distribution block, Kinetik power supply and battery, V-LEDS lighting.

Source: Hyundai

October 15, 2013

Range Rover Hybrid Completes 2013 Silk Trail Expedition [VIDEO]

Three Range Rover Diesel Hybrid prototypes have completed their journey from Solihull, UK, to Mumbai, India. They have traversed 13 countries for over 53 days in order to be the first to finish the hybrid expedition named 2013 Silk Trail. This was one of the boldest driving adventures ever pursued by Land Rover.

The first reason for this was that along the route there were numerous hostile conditions such as asphalt roads riddled with vast and deep potholes, dusty desert trails in 43°C heat and miles of mud and gravel tracks and cattle trails. In addition, they had to cross many rivers; the drivers had to survive thin air of extremely high altitudes and the dense and erratic traffic of Chinese and Indian roads.

As a matter of fact, the 2013 Silk Trail Expedition is the last validation test for the Range Rover Hybrid before it goes in production. The exact route the machines had to undergo is the following: Solihull, UK, France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China (including Tibet), Nepal and India.

What is more, the expedition followed the legendary Silk Road trading routes that first connected Asia with Europe more than 2,500 years ago. Even some of the overnight halts were made in tents at many of the same staging posts visited all those years ago by Silk Road merchants, missionaries and mercenaries.

Another highlight for this expedition is that the Hybrids pioneered a mountainous route never previously completed by a vehicle from outside China – the Xinjiang-Tibet highway. What is specific about it is that it is positioned at heights of over 5,300 metres above sea level.

This means that the Land Rover team had to spend seven consecutive days at altitudes between 11,000 and 17,648 feet (3,350 and 5,379 metres). In fact, at such heights, the levels of oxygen in the air are reduced from the 21 percent found at sea-level to as little as 10 percent and this makes the movement for humans and internal combustion engines more difficult.

Despite these conditions, the Range Rover convoy continued to make good progress, because it benifited from the electric motor’s instant torque at 0 rpm. Other rough conditions were the muddy roads that they were literally impassable to other types of vehicle.

Another advantage as a result of this expedition is that the Land Rover development engineers closely monitored the data loggers fitted to each car. In this way they have sent back more than 300 gigabytes of detailed technical records to their engineering team at Gaydon in the UK.

httpv://youtu.be/Etj2V5qwMlo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Land Rover

October 15, 2013

2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SE Named Off-Road Truck Of Texas

2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition was revealed in the beginning of April this year and only several months later it is receiving one of its numerous-to-come-awards. This special edition Ford was named by Texas Auto Writers Association as the “Off-Road Truck of Texas.”

From Thursday through Saturday, TAWA members put trucks through rigorous testing at Knibbe Ranch near San Antonio, where they have pushed the Raptor to the limit on one of the most rugged off-road courses in Texas. Of course, the Raptor showed that it was the most capable off-road pickup in America, as well as America’s favorite.

The vehicle was introduced back in 2009. Since then the F-150 SVT Raptor continues to find new fans and achieve sales success, ad more importantly an evidence for this is that it has an increased sale rate of up 14 percent only for this year.

The Special Edition –of the model was the latest variant of the truck which has exclusive interior and exterior upgrades which additionally differentiate its appearance. One of the highlights featured in the Raptor are its functional design cues and segment-exclusive suspension technology.

In addition, the Raptor SE is seven inches wider than a base F-150. The length was added in order to make room for the additional suspension components that enable its off-road capabilities. To be more precise, what gives the vehicle 11.2 inches of front suspension and 12.1 inches at the rear are the internal triple-bypass shocks by FOX Racing Shox.

Moreover, an electronic locking rear differential and Torsen limited-slip front differential provide excellent capability for rock crawling and other low-speed off-road activities. Industry-exclusive beadlock-capable wheels come as an option, however they help increase grip in low-traction conditions, along with high-intensity discharge headlamps for improved visibility. SYNC with MyFord Touch is another available feature which delivers more connectivity.

SVT Raptor is powered by the 6.2-liter V8 engine which is capable of generating 411 horsepower (325 kW) and 588 Nm (434 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is coupled with an electronic six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission with tow/haul mode.

Source: Ford

October 15, 2013

Vorsteiner McLaren MP4-VX In Miami

Vorsteiner McLaren MP4-VX is an extreme and breath-taking tuning which we have already seen. However, the tuning brand has surprised us with the release of brand new photosession for the sporty McLaren that was exclusively taken in of world’s famous cities – Miami.

Of course, you will find the outspoken images below the post and enjoy seeing this supersports car being captured in front of the U.S. city. Just as a reminder, Vorsteiner have equipped the MP4 with a new front bumper with integrated spoiler, which enhances the aerodynamics of the front end.

The pieces were created to keep functionality without the compromise quality, aesthetics, or performance. In fact, the styling of these components takes the MP4-12C a step closer to race car. There are also two available options being offered: the Carbon Fiber Aero Front Spoiler Replacement and the PDC Sensor Opening.

Side sill extension blades were also added that were made of Autoclaved Pre-Preg Carbon Fiber structure in order to give them better stiffness, aerospace strength and durability. Additionally as an available feature there are the 2×2 Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg with 4 Stage UV Inhibiting Clear Lacquer Coating.

At last, the rear bumper of the vehicle comes with newly designed diffuser. This element was engineered to stabilize the additional down force provided by the front and side elements. Other available options here are the PDC Sensor Opening, European License Plate Bracket Holder, Rear Diffuser with Dual Tunnels Replacement.

Source: Vorsteiner

October 14, 2013

Toyota Sharpens 2014 Prado Range

Toyota LandCruiser Prado which was unveiled more than a month ago is retaining its best-seller status ahead thanks to its advanced model upgrade as well as being one of the most popular large SUVs around the globe.

The refreshed Prado will be sold exclusively as a five-door wagon due to customers’ preference for this body style. Other exclusively preferable features in this Toyota model are its off-road and towing capabilities.

The new Prado also benefits from expanded driver guidance and technical support features. The facelifted model has a bolder exterior, a more refined interior, added safety and even sharper handling.

Other exterior highlights include new structural elements from its unique design heritage, an evolution of the classic Prado grille and a vertical, two-step construction which additionally undelines vehicle’s rugged appearance.

The interior of the model adds a comprehensive range of features, new switchgear and instrumentation with enhanced trim and ornamentation, improved second and third row seat designs with new fabrics, and new interior color schemes. 2014 Toyota LandCruiser Prado will be powered by either a 4.0-litre petrol or a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine.

Source: Toyota

October 14, 2013

Kahn Makes New Ivory Black Interior For 2013 Range Rover Vogue

The tuning specialists at A. Kahn Design are famous with the fact that they create interiors for the vehicles which are exquisite, captivating, and luxurious, and in addition are made with precision and craftsmanship.

Another example for this is the luxurious executive interior package which the designers have prepared for the 2013 Range Rover Vogue. It is decided in sumptuous and generous ivory and black stripe, which creates immediately an ambience that invites the driver to step inside and escape the every-day-life, thus experiencing an original sense of style and comfort.

The front and the back seats as well as the steering wheel have been wrapped in black and ivory leather. The stitching was decided in white color so that it makes the perfect contrast with the black part of the interior, but at the same time – when applied on the ivory – soothes the senses and creates additional comfort.

Every thought around the coupe is focused primarily on the occupant’s experience with the advantage of supreme ergonomic comfort. Of course, this new inner side of the Range Rover perfectly matches its aggressive and masculine outer side.

Source: A. Kahn Design

October 14, 2013

2014 Cadillac ELR Sales to Begin in January

Cadillac has announced that the sales of the 2014 Cadillac ELR electrified luxury coupe will start in January next year. The new model will be offer provocative design and extended range electric vehicle technology.

The latter is capable of providing of total range in excess of 300 miles. In addition, the brand has specially trained and certified the dealerships in order to sell and service the 2014 ELR. Even more, customers of the ELR can take advantage of their own ELR Concierge Representative, who is trained to deliver information on battery care, home charging, service scheduling, news and updates.

2014 ELR comes standard with Cadillac Shield, which includes Remote Vehicle Diagnostics, a Premium Care Maintenance program and 24/7 roadside assistance. Other standard technologies in the model are the Cadillac CUE with Navigation that comes with eightinch touch screen, light-emitting diode, or LED, front and rear exterior lighting, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, the Safety Alert Seat and the exclusive Regen on Demand feature that allows the driver to temporarily regenerate energy from the vehicle’s momentum via steering-wheel paddles.

Furthermore, this Cadillac’s interior delivers only luxury and features handcrafted leather complemented by authentic wood grain and chrome trim. What propels the vehicle is a combination of pure electric drive and an efficient 1.4L gasoline-powered electric generator.

Along the centerline of the vehicle, between the front and rear wheels, is positioned the T-shaped 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This allows optimal weight distribution. What is more, the pack supplies energy to an advanced electric drive unit to propel the vehicle.

The ELR also offers unique driving features such as four driving modes: Tour, Sport, Mountain and Hold mode. 2014 Cadillac ELR has a starting price of $75 995.

Source: Cadillac

October 14, 2013

2014 Hyundai i10 – The New Generation

Hyundai has announced the new 2014 i10 city car, which will hit the UK market on 30 January 2014, with prices starting at just £8,345.

The New Generation i10 features a more expressive design both inside and out, while generous levels of comfort, quality and safety equipment enhance the car’s appeal even further.

Some of the options include automatic climate control, heated leather steering wheel and cruise control provide additional comfort, while safety features include the standard-fitment of Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and six airbags.

The New Generation i10 will be available with two refined and efficient petrol engines. The 1.0-litre, three-cylinder powertrain has an output of 66HP and 94Nm. 0-100 km/h in 14.9 seconds and a top speed of 154 km/h (96 mph). The four-cylinder 1.2-litre engine delivers 87HP at 6,000rpm and 120Nm at 4,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph)\.

The S trim level comes specified with the 1.0-litre powertrain, cloth interior trim in black with beige inserts, 14 inch steel wheels, central locking, electric front windows, CD tuner + USB, Daytime Running Lights, ISOfix and tilt adjust steering wheel as standard. The S Air with the addition of air-conditioning will be available from £8,995.00.

The mid-trim SE, customers will benefit from remote central locking, electric rear windows, electric heated door mirrors, body colour door handles and mirrors, driver’s seat height adjustment and black B pillar. The SE is available in 1.0-litre manual, 1.0-litre Blue Drive with ISG (4 seat), 1.2-litre manual and the 1.2-litre automatic variants. Blue accent cloth interior trim is standard with vibrant orange accent cloth trim available as a no-cost option. Prices begin at £9,295.

The range-topping Premium trim sets new standards for equipment in the A- segment. 14” alloys, Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, steering wheel controls, LED daytime running lights, front fog lamps, rear speakers, drivers safety window, door mirror indicators, Emergency Stop Signal are all available as standard, ensuring customers receive the very best value for money for Hyundai’s popular city car. The interior and exterior design and perceived quality is further enhanced with the addition of side body mouldings, leather steering wheel and gear stick and chrome effect interior door handle and parking brake. The Blue accent cloth interior comes as standard. Vibrant orange interior is available as a no-cost option and the woven pattered cloth interior in red with black leather-like side panels comes as a cost-option on the 1.2-litre Premium. Prices start from £9,995 OTR.

Check out the price list below!

New Generation i10
	Fuel Type	CO₂ Emissions g/km	Insurance Group (1-50)	VED Band	Recommended On The Road Price £
S
S 1.0 Manual 66PS	P	108	TBC	B	£8,345.00
S Air 1.0 Manual 66 PS	P	108	TBC	B	£8,995.00
SE
SE 1.0 Manual 66PS	P	108	TBC	B	£9,295.00
SE Blue Drive 1.0 Manual (4 seat)	P	98	TBC	A	£9,595.00
SE 1.2 Manual 87PS	P	114	TBC	C	£9,795.00
SE 1.2 Automatic 87PS	P	142	TBC	F	£10,495.00
Premium
Premium 1.0 Manual 66PS	P	108	TBC	B	£9,995.00
Premium 1.2 Manual 87PS	P	114	TBC	C	£10,495.00

Source: Hyundai

October 14, 2013

2014 Toyota Harrier

2014 Toyota Harrier will be sold exclusively in Japan. Essentially, it is a Lexus RX with slightly modified body.

The exterior comes with significantly modified front fascia compared to the RX, darkened headlamps, an Avalon-like large air intake as well as what appears to be a glossy transparent plastic grille. At the back there are stylish slender taillights and a roof-mounted spoiler.

The drivetrain includes a 3.5 liter V6 petrol and two electric motors and a Ni-MH battery. The combined power is 295HP (220 kW), which is more than enough. 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). It is derived from the RX 450h.

Stay tuned for more details and pricing!

Source: Toyota

October 14, 2013

Kia Forte Cabrio [render]

X-Tomi Design has published a render picture of a cabrio version of the 2014 Kia Forte (also known as Cerato or K3). The manufacturer is currently selling the second-gen Forte as a five-door hatchback, four-door sedan and as a two-door coupe.

So a convertible model is a very good idea, which can attract more customers. The segment for affordable cabriolets isn’t overly crowded, that’s why a low-priced Forte Cabrio could be a hit in this department.

The Forte Cabrio is based on the 2-door coupe and it has a nice attractive exterior. Obviously, there isn’t much space at the rear seats, but the model will certainly draw some attention in the entry-level convertible segment.

October 14, 2013

2014 BMW 4-Series Convertible – US Price $49,675

BMW has officially unveiled the 2014 4-Series Convertible, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. 2014 BMW 4-Series Convertible is scheduled to hit the US market in the beginning of the next year with starting price of $49,675 for the 428i and $55,825 for the 435i.

There will be three trim levels in the US – Sport, Luxury and M Sport, while the European version will also get Modern.

The 4-Series Convertible will again feature a three-piece retractable hardtop with new features and functionality. There is a sound-absorbing headliner which reduces wind noise by up to 2 dB in comparison to what the previous 3-Series Convertible had. The top can be removed by a single push of a button in just 20 seconds with speeds of up to 18 km/h (11 mph).

Other nice innovation are the three-temperature neck warmers which will allow you to drive the car with the top down even at lower temperatures without getting too cold.

The engine range includes a 428i – powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 240HP (179 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 435i comes with the well-known 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 300HP (224 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

These engines will be connected exclusively to an 8-speed automatic gearbox providing Normal and Sport transmission modes, while the 428i model can be optionally configured with an xDrive all-wheel drive arrangement.

The European version will also get a 420d with a 2.0 liter turbodiesel with 184HP (135 kW) and 380Nm (281 lb-ft). The Euro-spec 4-Series comes as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission but can be optionally mated to the aforementioned 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The interior of the BMW Series 4 Convertible presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure, elegance and exclusivity. All of the controls are arranged ergonomically around the driver to provide optimum access to all functions. The doors are designed so that all the lines converge towards the rear, and bright color combinations featuring a two-tone effect for the door and side panels, in combination with the hardtop cover, contribute to the “boat deck” look

Source: BMW

October 11, 2013

2016 Nissan GT-R [render]

Topspeed has published several renderings of the upcoming 2016 Nissan GT-R. One of the best sports cars in the world is going to get an entire new look.

The exterior borrows some elements from the recent concepts. The artists created a sleeking looking coupe that has features from the previous GT-R as well as Nissan’s future models. The result is probably very far from the real car, but it shows a stylish model with boomerang headlights and a familiar grille. There are also aggressive side skirts and ventilated front fenders. At the rear, there is a big wing and also boomerang-shaped taillights.

Nothing is mentioned about the performance, but the model is more likely to get slightly tuned version of the 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 with over 600HP. Rumors have also suggested it could have cylinder deactivation technology and an engine start/stop system improving fuel efficiency drastically.

Source:Topspeed

October 11, 2013

Category: Auto News