Category: Auto News

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

2014 Honda CR-Z Goes On Sale

2014 Honda CR-Z will go on sale today, offering its customers sleek styling, numerous standard features and sporty handling, while at the same time maintaining outstanding fuel efficiency. The MY2014 CR-Z has undergone general update and now has more powerful battery pack, increased power and styling improvements.

This Honda model has also earned a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In addition, the CR-Z remains the only hybrid vehicle offered with a sporty manual transmission.

The car utilizes brand’s highly efficient, compact Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, which takes car for vehicle’s excellent fuel efficiency. As a standard, models come equipped with six-speed manual transmission. Optionally, there is also offered the available CVT.

Additional standard features on every new 2014 CR-Z include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Bluetooth Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control.

To be more precise, the hybrid powertrain uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC) engine with “intelligent” Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC). The latter receives more power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system’s DC brushless electric motor.

The15-kW electric motor is powered by a 144-volt Lithium-Ion battery pack. Combined peak output is 130 horsepower (95 kW) at 6000 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. There are three selectable modes: Econ, Normal and Sport. Each one of them delivers the desired by the driver balance of economy and performance. The standard Plus Sport System delivers enhanced acceleration when the driver presses the “S+” button on the steering wheel.

The refreshed exterior design of the CR-Z includes “one-motion” exterior wedge shape, that forms a broader forward stance, power windows and door locks, remote entry, and an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror. The up-level CR-Z EX model adds LED daytime running lights (DRL), High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with Auto-On/Off, and fog lights.

Front MacPherson strut and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension, along with electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering (EPS), were also tuned. CR-Z models are equipped with 16-inch aluminum wheels and 195/55R-16 tires, or can optionally receive larger 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/45R-17 tires.

Going inside, the CR-Z interior offers modern instrument panel which includes gauges that illuminate with a three-dimensional color theme for a multi-layered appearance. There are also present, premium sport-oriented seats and a console behind the front seats which optimizes the cargo space.

The standard electronic features include a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and speed-sensitive volume control, a CD/MP3 text readout and a USB3 auxiliary input jack for connection to a portable audio player, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, automatic climate control, cruise control and a rearview camera.

The optional equipment comprises of 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with seven speakers including subwoofer, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with 6.5-inch screen and rearview camera display, FM traffic and voice recognition, Pandora Interface, Bluetooth streaming audio and an SMS text messaging function.

At last, Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure helps protect occupants in a frontal collision. The other safety technologies feature dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system (ABS); a tire pressure monitoring system; and design features to the front of the vehicle intended to mitigate potential injuries to a pedestrian in a collision.

2014 Honda CR-Z Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1 (city/highway/combined)

CR-Z 6-speed manual	$19,995	31/38/34
CR-Z CVT	$20,645	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual	$21,840	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT	$22,490	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual with Navi	$23,340	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT with Navi	$23,990	36/39/37

Source: Honda

October 8, 2013

Hyundai Prepares Legato Concept Genesis Coupe For SEMA

For the upcoming SEMA Show, Hyundai and the specialists at ARK Performance have joined forces and have prepared for the attendees a special concept vehicle called Legato Concept. The car is based on the Genesis Coupe model and will be shown at the event on 5th till 8th of November in Las Vegas.

As a matter of fact, “Legato”, which is an Italian musical term, means “tied together.” This very word conveys the integration of exotic design, tuned performance and luxury coupe interior ambience, which we on the other hand can see embodied in the car.

The exterior of the Legato Concept is inspired by the production Genesis Coupe, however – slightly expanded and in the form of a c concept. In addition, the car has undergone complete ARK Legato body treatment which incorporates front and rear bumpers, side skirts, deck lid and wide-body cues, for a truly unique and integrated exotic performance look. What is more, the racing silver exterior color optimizes the surface visibility of the concept’s nuanced design.

There was also done a performance tuning under the hood of this Hyundai. The production-based Hyundai 3.8-liter Lambda V6 engine is updated to 4.0-liters for 400 horsepower (295 kW) and 425 lb.-ft. (575 Nm) of maximum torque. To be more precise, inside the block, a Brian Crower (BC) 4.0 Stroker Kit with JE Pistons and BC 4340 crankshaft, connecting rods, and ARK oil cooler ensure maximum output with superior durability.

Furthermore, the ARK intake system and headers improve engine’s breathing at high rpm, while a lightweight pulley kit minimizes parasitic power losses from ancillary equipment. ARK dual-mass flywheel and carbon clutch kit deliver efficient power transferred to the road.

The Legato Concept also includes ARK DT-P coil-over suspension system coupled with lightweight Rays Engineering G25 wheels and Nitto NT05 tires. This of course ensures excellent dynamic grip. ARK’s carbon brake pads add fade resistance and stopping power.

Inside, the car is entirely transformed. The interior is a complete luxury performance concept that features Takata Drift Pro LE seats, AiM Sports Strada GT steering wheel, and digital gauge cluster, while the Rockford Fosgate premium sound system provides backup entertainment.

Source: Hyundai

October 8, 2013
Mike Newman with Porsche 911 – Land Speed Record for Blind Driver

Mike Newman is a former bank manager, who set a new land speed record for a blind driver. Mike is 52 years old and currently lives in Manchester, UK. He was born with glaucoma and lost his sight aged 8, but that didn’t stop him at all.Mike Newman has reached the impressive speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground in Leicestershire with a Porsche 911. Of course, he received radio assistance with the necessary directions that had to be followed in order to claim the record and more important to keep himself safe.After the successful attempt, Mr. Newman commented: “I’ve done my best. It was hard. Concentration levels are so high. Trying to keep the car straight, trying to do everything when you cannot see is hard work. When I was in sixth gear, I knew I was going quick enough!”The previous land speed record belonged to Metin Senturk, who is a Turkish pop singer. He drove a Ferrari F430 and achieved a top speed of 293 km/h (182 mph).

October 7, 2013
Dodge ft. Ron Burgundy – The 2014 Durango [videos]

Dodge has published several promotional video clips featuring Ron Burgundy. He will promote the all-new 2014 Durango.

The 2014 Dodge Durango, the ultimate “No Compromise SUV,” will start arriving in dealer showrooms at the end of the third quarter with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $29,795, excluding destination, making it the best-equipped seven-seat SUV priced less than $30,000.

Durango also maintains the same starting price as the 2013 model, while delivering more than $3,500 in added content.

Every 2014 Dodge Durango features a standard 8-speed automatic transmission, projector headlamps, projector fog lamps, floating split crosshair grille, signature LED racetrack taillights, bright chrome or body-color accents, 18” or 20” aluminum wheels, Bluetooth, 5” or 8.4” touch screen, rotary shifter with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, 7-inch customizable gauge cluster, Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start, seven airbags, seven passenger seating and much more.

2014 Dodge Durango is powered by a 3.6 liter V6 – 290HP (213 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque or a 5.7 liter V8 HEMI – 360HP (265 kW) and 528 Nm (390 lb-ft).

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzfVT6j_1dY

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC_Up3zrKjE

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

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OE8CefgHyzY

Source: Dodge

October 7, 2013
2015 Cadillac Escalade [leak images]

Carscoops has published several leak images of the upcoming 2015 Cadillac Escalade. The big SUV comes with minor styling changes and a new more efficient EcoTec3 engine.The exterior boasts a big front grille, LED-infused headlights, a lot of chrome elements, vertical taillights and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. The interior will have better materials including premium leather upholstery, wood trim and a CUE infotainment system. The 2015 Escalade will also offer a flat-fold 3^rd row seats.It will be powered by a 6.2 liter EcoTec3 V8 engine – 420HP (313 kW) and 610Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. It can be paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission and an optional all-wheel drive system.

October 7, 2013
Mercedes-Benz A 250 Sport 4Matic and CLA 250 Sport

Mercedes-Benz has announced three new models: the A 250 Sport 4MATIC, CLA 250 Sport and CLA 250 Sport 4Matic. The first is priced from €39,954, while the second is €42,304. If you want the CLA 250 Sport 4Matic, you will have to search deeply in your pockets for €44,506.

“Engineered by AMG” is the catchword shared by the three sporty compact models, the A 250 Sport 4MATIC, CLA 250 Sport and CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC, which can be ordered from 7 October. The same day is also the sales start date for the entry-level diesel, the CLA 180 CDI (priced at € 31,178). At the same time the traffic information provided by COMAND Online will become even more precise thanks to Live Traffic Information, and the Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone 5 can be ordered for the A-Class, B-Class and CLA.

The Sport models are fitted with exclusive, black-painted 18” AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish, are shod with size 235/40 R 18 tyres all-round and have red-painted brake callipers. In addition, red detailing on the AMG front and rear aprons further underlines the dynamic positioning of these models. The highlighting effect is carried through into the interior, with designo seat belts in red and floor mats with “Sport” lettering.

The engine in 250 models is a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 211HP (155 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 7, 2013
Retro Styling For MR Car Design Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen Beetle will always be one of the most emblematic vehicles of the automotive industry. When this car in its current form gets transformed by the luxury tuning specialists such as MR Car Design, the result is sumptuous.

To be more precise, the here presented Beetle has been equipped by MR Car Design with a fully electronic G-Ride air suspension, which was added on the front and rear axle and was sportively trimmed. In addition, the height in front or rear can be adjusted by remote control or fully automatically.

In order for the vehicle to have a perfect on-road presence, the tuning professionals have installed on it 8×19” wheels which were perfectly coupled with 225/35-19 tires. Regarding the poweroutput of the car, MR Car Design has performed carefully a 2.0 TDI chip tuning software optimization.

The result is that the Volkswagen now is capable of generating up to 210 PS (154 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the tuners have also added cat exhaust systems, G-Ride air suspension and coilovers, sport rims and foil wrapping.

Source: Miranda Media

October 7, 2013
Chevrolet Supports Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

For third consecutive year, Chevrolet and General Motors employees, dealers and customers unite in the fight against breast cancer. They join forces together with the American Cancer Society, and provide support of the Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks and other activities.

Last year, thanks to Chevrolet’s support, the American Cancer Society raised $1,211,463 in contributions through the Making Strides walks. The money helped in funding researches, wellness programs, and breast cancer awareness education and support.

The brand supports Making Strides events nationally with dealership-sponsored fundraising walks, test drive promotions, service rebate promotions and recognition at select NASCAR Sprint Cup Races, including a branded pink pace car and caution lap donations.

More importantly, everyone can join Chevrolet in this charity undertake just by taking a test drive. The latter will cost them $10 contribution. Drivers must be over 21 and have a valid driver’s license.

Furthermore, Chevrolet Certified Service matching rebate promotion on select services also stimulates customers to contribute to the American Cancer Society from 1st of October till 30th of November.

The brand will also donate $200 for every lap run under caution during select NASCAR Sprint Cup and IZOD IndyCar Series races throughout October. In addition, a special themed pink Chevrolet Camaro SS will pace several NASCAR Sprint Cup series races.

Source: Chevrolet

October 7, 2013
2014 Lexus IS C Brings Together Two Worlds
The two worlds of coupe and convertible are only 20 seconds away when speaking about the new 2014 Lexus IS C models. This is the time needed for the three-panel aluminum roof to lower once the driver has pushed the switch. The hardtop disappears beneath a locking panel.

For the MY 2014, two IS C models will be available: IS 250C is powered by a 204 hp (150 kW) 2.5-liter V6 engine and the IS 350C which is powered by the more potent 306 hp (225 kW) 3.5-liter V6. Both engines are mated as a standard with a six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The quiet ride is secured by an acoustic glass windshield, along with special seals on the roof, door and window panels. The back window is made from reinforced glass. When the hard-top is up, then there is a space for two golf bags in the trunk. When the top is down, the space reduces up to one golf bag.

In addition, ere is available a F SPORT package that comprises of sport-tuned suspension, F SPORT 18-inch wheels, exclusive interior trim and aerodynamic body features give the IS C models a decidedly sporty stance, with enhanced agility to match. What is more, the F SPORT Performance Accessories available for the IS C models feature 19-inch forged alloy wheels, suspension and brake upgrades, air intake, exhaust systems and more.

This Lexus model was constructed mainly of lightweight aluminum including the retractable hardtop. The latter includes an automatic front lock assembly which delivers the interior supreme security. When the top is stowed, a lock assembly engages to keep the panel in a fixed, stable position.

As an option, the car can be equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA). The driver will hear a warning, and a warning light will illuminate in the instrument panel, when there is a vehicle in the immediate vicinity.

As a standard, the IS C is equipped with Lexus Premium Audio System, which features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, eight speakers, integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver, Bluetooth hands free phone capability with automatic phonebook download, Bluetooth music streaming, and USB/iPod connectivity

The four seat interior of the 2014 Lexus IS C offers high level of luxury as standard. For example, there are leather-trimmed 10-way power-adjustable front seats which come with power lumbar support. Optionally, there are heated and ventilated front seats, and the heating range includes the shoulder areas.

Available connectivity and infotainment features include hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system, Lexus Enform, with Destination Assist, eDestination, and App Suite, and Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Package. On the other hand, the IS C’s Lexus Enformwith Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles.

Another option here is the Pre-Collision System (PCS) which is packaged with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that utilizes millimeter-wave radar in order to measure and help maintain a pre-set following distance from a vehicle traveling ahead.

2014 Lexus IS C Specifications:

F SPORT package:
- Sport-tuned suspension
- F SPORT 18-inch wheels with dark superchrome finish
- Upper and lower grille insert
- F SPORT steering wheel and F SPORT heated and ventilated front seats
- Front lip spoiler
- Aluminum sport pedals
- Silver metallic interior trim
- Aluminum scuff plates
- F SPORT badging.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance:
- The IS 250C’s 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm.
- The IS 350C’s 3.5-liter V6 offers 306 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.
- The 3.5-liter V6 augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency.
- A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes:
- The body structure has excellent rigidity and strength, achieved by effective structural changes and additions to the rocker area, A and B pillar under structure, side collision crossmember, and upper and rear-floor crossmembers; underfloor braces were added in the front and rear.
- High-rigidity damping materials and asphalt sheets were added to help minimize vibration effects.
- The IS convertible features standard 10-spoke 17-inch wheels with a clean liquid-graphite finish and optional split five-spoke or five-spoke 18-inch wheels with a liquid-graphite finish and all-season tires.
- Standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM) interfaces with the electronic throttle control system and governs all of the vehicle’s dynamic handling systems – the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) – employing them collectively and seamlessly to make corrections while helping provide higher dynamic capability.
Safety and Security Features:
- Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front seats, while the rear seats adopt emergency locking retractor seatbelts.
- The Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes dual-front airbags, front-seat-mounted side curtain and torso side airbags, and knee airbags for both the driver and the front passenger.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience:
- Two convenient fold-forward lock-release levers on both sides of the front seats make operation easier from any seat. In addition, the passenger seat features a power slide button on the top of the seatback to ease rear seat ingress/egress.
- An available automatic one-touch, easy-entry power-seat mechanism provides even easier egress and ingress through quick-acting, front-seat fold-and-slide activation.
- The doors feature three open-stopping positions (rather than the normal two) to add convenience in various parking situations.
- The standard SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start/stop allows the driver to keep the access key fob in a pocket or purse.
- Standard Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) helps prevent the vehicle from moving backward when the driver’s foot moves from the brake pedal to the accelerator.
Luxury Options:
- Lexus’ available Hard-Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system has a seven-inch VGA touch-screen, back-up camera, Voice Command casual-language voice recognition system, Bluetooth automatic phonebook download and music streaming HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging.
- Available in conjunction with the optional navigation system is a 12-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio system that features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback, nine amplifier channels providing 270 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD).
- Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) are available.
- The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer.
Source: Lexus
October 7, 2013
Hyundai Santa Fe Zombie Survival Machine BY Anson Kuo

With the upcoming New York Comic-Con, Zombies become a question of interest. For this reason Hyundai has joined forces in battling zombies with Anson Kuo in creating the Hyundai Santa Fe Zombie Survival Machine. Aimed at effective undead annihilation, the fan-built vehicle is going to be shown at the event on 10th of October.

With the help of the Walking Dead Chop Shop configurator application, the fans around the world have designed thousands of custom zombie survival machines utilizing as a basis the Hyundai Veloster Turbo, Santa Fe or Elantra.

Out of more than 82,500 fan submissions, one of the designs was picked as winning – and this was Anson Kuo’s Santa Fe. His vehicle was constructed by Galpin Auto Sports (GAS). The urban camouflaged Zombie Survival Machine includes knife blades, an automatic crossbow, razor-wired windows, three machine guns, a samurai sword, aluminum armor and a muffler silencer.

His goal was to create a stealthy vehicle with abundant cargo space for supplies and passengers, but also such machine which optimizes the survivability against the undead. The primary weapons of this special Santa Fe are the knives as they ensure a perfect protection.

Earlier this year in July, again at Comic-Con but this time in San Diego, Hyundai unveiled a customized Veloster Zombie Survival Machine designed by Robert Kirkman and fabricated by GAS. At the event, the attendees will be able to take pictures with the car as well as check out the interior and all of the features.

Source: Hyundai

October 7, 2013
D2Forged Gives Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG New Look

One of the most impressive vehicles in the current automotive industry is undeniably the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. With its perfect forms, accentuated lines, unique shape and potent power, the car is surely a true production masterpiece.

Originally it is powered by the 6.3-liter V8 engine which produces 518 horsepower (380 kW) nearly 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Thanks to it this Mercedes-Benz is capable of covering the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.3 seconds.

The tuners at D2Forged wheels have decided to take the vehicle to a completely different level, but for this task they needed the help from the specialists at New York’s Martino Auto Concepts. Thanks to their assistance, they have equipped the SL63 AMG with brand new set of CV2 Deep Concave Wheels.

To be more precise, they are in 20” dimensions – 20×9.5″ at the front and 20×11″ at the rear. The design of the wheels include Matte Black Center, Outer Lip and Inner Barrel Finish.

The result is breath-taking, because the modification literally put the car on a completely different planet in terms of looks and stance. In addition, the vehicle has received a full on body colormatched paint job for the reflectors, fender grills, hood vents, front grille, door handles and fog lamp bezels.

At last, the whole blacked out theme was rounded off and additionally accentuated by Lamborghini Rosso Vic Pearl finish for the brake calipers. They definitely stand out at first glance. All in all, the end result is an all mighty great D2Forged Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG that looks more than stunning.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

October 4, 2013
Kahn Range Rover Evoque Black Label Edition Redefines Luxury

Kahn Range Rover Evoque Black Label Edition offers performance-oriented design, individual Santorini Black Metallic paintwork and exceptional interior trim. The vehicle of course is another masterpiece created by the exceptional design specialists at A. Kahn Design.

This Range Rover model is following tuning company’s lightweight design philosophy and hence includes front grille with 3D mesh, front bumper centre section graphic in matt black, front bumper mesh in matt black and silver, LED daytime running lights for front bumper, side sill trim in gloss black, side vent inserts in copper, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, painted floating roof and brake calipers finished in Vesuvius orange. These new additions to the vehicle ensure a great deal of motoring supremacy and unsurpassed visual stance.

In addition, the vehicle was equipped with a privacy glass and Kahn cross hair exhaust system that utter the rigorous sound of the engine. Black Label Edition Evoque’s character and on road presence is further strengthen by the matt pearl Kahn RS250 Wheel in 9.5” x 22” format.

Going inside of this modified Land Rover model, one sees versatile enhancements. The new interior includes front and rear seats in quilted and perforated leather, transmission tunnel in Alcantara with contrast stitching, diamond gear selector, four door armrests quilted and perforated.

In addition, throughout the cabin are also present dashboard quilted and perforated, vented foot pedals in machined aluminium, centre glove box re-upholstered in quilted and perforated leather, dashboard stitching and high quality duty carpet floor mats. These improvements not only deliver a comfortable atmosphere but also achieve great sense of convenience and luxury.

Source: A. Kahn Design

October 4, 2013