Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept Gets Fully Unveiled

    2013-Toyota-Yaris-Hybrid-R-Concept-THUMB2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept is finally revealed after being teased several times. The brand’s best selling Yaris has been turned into a dynamic track or road car thanks to applied high-performance engineering and advanced hybrid technology, which was inspired by TS030 hybrid Le Mans race car.

    The new model will make its world premiere next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it will show a future development of hybrid technology which aims to achieve maximum performance and enhanced driving pleasure.

    This Toyota’s hybrid powertrain combines a highly tuned 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and two powerful electric motors. Together they are capable of delivering a total output of 313kW (420hp). In addition, the direct-injection turbo has been adapted to racing conditions, provides 224kW (300hp) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque to drive the front wheels.

    At the rear, each wheel of the vehicle is powered by a 45kW (60hp) electric motor. This results in an intelligent electric four-wheel drive capability. The motors produce electricity during braking and then aid the petrol engine during acceleration.

    Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has several modes which are controlled via a button on the steering wheel. First, the “Road” mode is suitable for everyday driving, while the “Track” mode is better for competition. The latter model makes full use of available performance, with the rear electric motors able to reach a combined maximum power peak of 90 kW (120 hp) for up to five seconds.

    There is also a third 45kW electric motor, which is positioned between the engine and the six-gear sequential transmission. It can work as an advanced traction-control system. In addition, the twin rear electric motors can improve the handling characteristics during cornering.

    The hybrid system operates in conjunction with the 1.6-litre turbo engine. Depending on the state of charge of the battery, the new Concept can be driven in full electric mode for short distances.

    2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has new design cues. For instance it adopts the new headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details, which make the perfect contrast with the white body colour.

    Furthermore, the front bumper now includes two large air intakes and blue LED daytime running lights. In addition, the flared fenders house 18-inch TRD wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres. There are also visible grooved and perforated brake discs which are gripped by six-piston callipers in the front and four-piston callipers in the rear.

    Going to the rear, the car has a spoiler which is mounted on the roof and the bumper with a big diffuser that includes an exhaust pipe framed by two air extractors. The exterior color scheme is continued in the interior. The dual-tone Recaro bucket seats feature black leather side bolsters and blue Alcantara®. The shift lever of the sequential gearbox is set up to quickly change down gears by pushing the lever forwards, and to change up by pulling it back. The car is fitted a set of sport pedals from the 86 sports coupe.

    2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Key TMG Global Race Engine Specifications:

    • Engine: 1595cm3
    • Fuel system: direct injection (up to 200 bar)
    • Air system: turbo garett GTR2560R (max boost pressure: 2.5 bar)
    • Air restrictor: 33mm
    • Max power: more than 224kW (300hp) at 6000rpm
    • Max torque: 420Nm
    • Max RPM: 7500rpm

    Source: Toyota

  • Volkswagen Golf R Celebrates World Premiere In Frankfurt

    2014 Volkswagen Golf R is the most powerful Golf in the range and now it is ready to celebrate its world premiere at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The emblematic Volkswagen model has distinctive design cues which emphasize its sporty character.

    The Golf R was especially developed to deliver dynamic performance. It is powered by a newly configured 296 horsepower (198 kW) TSI engine. This makes it with 30 horsepower more powerful; however it is 18 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous engine.

    The maximum torque here was enhanced by 22 pound feet to 380 Nm (280 lb-ft.). Thanks to its sporty characteristics the new model is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

    In order to achieve these outputs, the engine went through a motorsports development. The power of the engine is transmitted to the road via a manual gearbox or a dual-clutch DSG® automatic transmission.

    In addition, the new 4MOTION® all-wheel drive system is what will deliver optimal traction in any conditions of the track. Standard vehicle specifications include the variable-ratio “progressive” steering, Bi-Xenon headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres.

    Furthermore, the car also includes revised styling which additionally emphasizes its sporty character. The design elements which are responsible for this are the distinctive air intakes, specially designed bumpers and side sills, and the dual-branch exhaust system with four chrome tailpipes.

    Volkswagen Golf R will be launched on the market by the end of the year.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Audi Sport quattro concept Combines Stunning Looks With 700 Horsepower

    Audi-Sport-quattro-concept-THUMBAudi Sport quattro concept comes to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Sport Quattro and it will be revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model continues grand quattro tradition delivering stunning exterior and 700 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain.

    The visual stance of the new Audi model is very powerful. Its foursquare appearance can be attributed to the length of 4,602 millimetres, a width of 1,964 millimetres and a height of just 1,386 millimetres. The wheelbase is of 2,784 millimetres.

    Audi Sport quattro concept runs purposefully on 21-inch centre-locking wheels with a five twin-spoke design and this additionally enhances the aggressiveness of the car. In order to pay homage to the quattro models of the early 1980s, the new concept includes angular, flat C-pillars and the rectangular double headlights. The latter feature the groundbreaking Matrix LED technology which is to be used in the Audi A8 model.

    Going to the front of the car, it is characterized by the hexagonal single-frame grille with new grille insert. The grille’s lower section is virtually vertical, while the low grille highlights the width of the car.

    On the other hand, at the rear one can see a combination of a flat greenhouse and broad shoulders. There is also visible a spoiler at the lower edge of the rear window, which emphasizes car’s width.

    Another distinctive element at the rear is the CFRP diffuser. In addition, the lower section houses two large tailpipes. The tail lights are mounted on a black CFRP facing and have a rectangular form. Moreover, the luggage compartment has a capacity of 300 litres (10.59 cubic ft).

    To go further, the interior of the car continues the purposeful exterior design theme. This Audi includes spacious cabin with the steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and head-up display all in the direct field of view.

    More importantly, the cabin of the car is lightweight. This is visible through the support structure of the interior is a carbon shell that also can be utilized as a storage compartment in the side doors.

    The attention to detail here is visible through the choice of materials and the workmanship. The multifunction sports steering wheel is an example for this. It is utilized to switch between a numbers of virtual 3D displays.

    Another highlight is the new air conditioning control unit. It is integrated directly into the air vents. Thanks to its innovativeness, the temperature, intensity and air flow can be controlled via one and the same element.

    More importantly, this Audi Sport quattro concept is equipped with plug-in hybrid drive. This means that it can deliver breathtaking performance from a mighty system output of 700 hp (515 kW) and system torque of 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft).

    The power is transmitted on the road via a modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission which includes a sport differential on the rear axle. The car delivers up to 113 mpg, equating to CO2 output of 59 grams per kilometre.

    First, the combustion engine is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 one. It solely generates 560 hp (412 kW) and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor is located between the 4.0 TFSI unit and the transmission, it is a disc-shaped electric motor which produces 150 hp (110 kW) and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft). It draws its energy from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery in the rear with a capacity of 14.1 kWh.

    The charging here happens via an Audi wall box that utilizes intelligent charge management. Audi Sport quattro concept cover up to 31 miles on electric power alone. The interplay between the two drives is managed via intelligent management system.

    In the new concept are available three driving modes. The EV mode is for purely electric driving; the Hybrid mode is for maximum efficiency; and Sport mode is for maximum performance. When the both units work together, the Audi Sport quattro concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h only in 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed is 189mph.

    At last, the front suspension includes five control arms per wheel, while the rear suspension follows the Audi track-controlled trapezoidal link principle. Tautly tuned springs and dampers puts Audi Sport quattro concept to the road.

    Source: Audi

  • Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept Revealed

    Ford-Mondeo-Vignale-Concept-THUMBFord Mondeo Vignale Concept is new exclusive product which features bold design elements, high quality craftsmanship, exclusive specification and advanced technologies. The model is based on the Mondeo and is especially made for the European market.

    The vehicle is in the form of a four-door saloon and includes 20 inch Vignale alloy wheels with in-depth detailing and high-quality finish, “Vignale” badging, chrome door handles and mirror caps, mesh grille, unique front bumper and fog lamp design, and exclusive “Nocciola” dark brown coachwork.

    The interior of the new Ford concept model is exquisite and continues the exclusiveness of the exterior. To be more precise, inside one can see quilted trim, chrome lower mouldings, leather armrests, and exclusive seating with “Vignale” detailing and high-quality, soft-touch leather which can also be seen on the steering wheel, instrument panel, centre console, door top-rolls and centre arm-rest.

    Other interior details which are exclusive are the embossed scuff plates and luxury floor-mats. The in-car connectivity is ensured by the Ford SYNC MyFord Touch system. Going back to the exterior, one sees new adaptive LED headlamps which improve the visibility and vision.

    Ford will unveil additional details on the Vignale Concept in the coming months. The vehicle will be introduced to the marked in early 2015 and will be extended to more models.

    Source: Ford

  • TechArt Porsche Panamera GrandGT

    TechArt has revealed their latest project based on Porsche Panamera Turbo Facelift. The name of the project is GrandGT and it includes styling and performance modifications.

    The TECHART Aerodynamic Kit for the new Porsche Panamera models fulfils requirements for three core elements: stability, aerodynamics and design. The exterior package, made from a lightweight fibre composite of carbon and polyurethane RIM, is distinguished by product features that are predominantly for use in motor sports where they can express their high levels of load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability with a low tare weight.

    Other highlights are modified headlights, carbon fiber hood with additional vents, bigger side skirts, wheel arch extensions, roof spoiler, rear apron with air vents and a diffuser.

    The tuning company has installed a custom stainless steel quad exhaust setup optionally available with integrated valve control. There are different sizes of wheels ranging from 20” to 22” fitted with proper performance tires.

    The interior boasts dual 7” displays, a three-spoke steering wheel, leather upholstery, fold-away tables and carbon fiber inserts.

    Porsche Panamera Turbo Facelift is powered by a 4.8 liter twin-turbo V8 with 520HP (388 kW) at 6,000RPM and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) at 2,250 RPM. TechArt offers an ECU re-map boosting the engine to 580HP (432 kW).

    TECHART TECHTRONIC Engine Management:
    •    significant increase of performance and driving dynamics
    •    activation by pushing the Sport button at the centre console
    •    quick and easy installation, trouble-free deinstallation at any time
    •    intelligent electronic power management
    •    highest material quality and fulfilment of OEM specifications
    •    does not affect vehicle diagnostics or servicing
    •    does not affect electronic engine protection features

    Source: Techart

  • 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 S – 528HP and 680Nm

    Bentley has announced a more powerful version of Continental GT V8. The “S” model comes with additional power and styling updates. Available as both a coupe and convertible, the new GT V8 S bring added excitement to the Continental range with lowered and retuned sports suspension, sharper steering and dramatic “S” signature styling cues.

    The Continental GT V8 S is powered by a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 528HP (389 kW) at 6,000RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,700RPM. The engine is connected to a close-ratio ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 308km/h (191 mph). Furthermore, the model has class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions, or its ability to cover more than 805km (500 miles) between fill-ups.  The GT V8 S coupe returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 26.8 mpg – 10.6 liters / 100 km and CO2 emissions of 246 g/km.

    Other higlights include a lowered ride height (by 10mm), 33% stiffened rear springs, updated dampers, modified ability control system and a stiffer rear sway bar to provide a more active handling experience.

    The exterior boasts new front and rear bumpers and a set of 20” alloy wheels.

    The GT V8 S models are available in the full palette of 17 paint colours, of which seven vibrant hues are specifically recommended by Bentley Design to match the sporting character of the new model

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

    Continental GT V8 S Continental GT V8 S Convertible
    Engine
    Type 4-litre twin-turbocharged direct injection V8 with cylinder deactivation
    Max Power 521 bhp / 528 PS / 389 KW @ 6,000 rpm
    Max Torque 680 Nm / 502 lb.ft @ 1700 rpm
    Transmission
    Type ZF 8-speed automatic with Quickshift, Block Shifting and paddleshift
    Driveline Continuous all-wheel drive (40:60 rear bias)
    Ratios 1st : 4.71; 2nd: 3.14; 3rd: 2.1; 4th: 1.67; 5th: 1.29; 6th: 1.00; 7th: 0.839; 8th: 0.667
    Final Drive 2.85
    Brakes
    Front 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
    Rear 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm, Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
    Wheels and Tyres
    Wheels New unique 20″ x9.5J wheel in two finishes, 1x other 20″ and 4x 21″ designs in two finishes
    Tyres 275/40 ZR20, optional 275/35 ZR21
    Steering
    Type Rack & pinion, power assisted, speed-sensitive ZF servotronic
    Turns lock-to-lock 2.6 turns
    Turning circle 11.3 m
    Suspension
    Front Four link double wishbones, computer controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
    Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
    Damping Continuous Damping Control, tuned for dynamic performance
    Dimensions
    Wheelbase 2746 mm / 108.1 in
    Overall length 4806 mm / 189.2 in
    Width (across body) 1944 mm / 76.5 in
    Width (inc. mirrors) 2227 mm / 87.7 in
    Overall height 1394 mm / 54.9 in 2227 mm / 87.7 in
    Fuel tank 90 litres / 20 gallons / 24 US gallons
    Boot volume 358 litres / 12.6 cu ft 260 / 9.18 cu ft
    Kerb weight (EU) 2295 kg / 5060 lb 2470 kg / 5445 lb
    Gross vehicle weight 2750 kg / 6063 lb 2900 kg / 6393 lb
    Performance
    Top speed 192 mph / 309 km/h 191 mph / 308 km/h
    0-60 mph 4.3 secs 4.5 secs
    0-100 mph 10.3 secs 10.6 secs
    0-100 km/h 4.5 secs 4.7 secs
    0-160 km/h 10.3 secs 10.6 secs
    Fuel Consumption (EU cycle)*
    Urban 18.4 mpg / 15.4 litres/100 km 17.9 mpg / 15.8 litres/100 km
    Extra Urban 36.7 mpg / 7.7 litres/100 km 35.3 mpg / 8 litres/100 km
    Combined 26.8 mpg / 10.6 litres/100 km 25.9 mpg / 10.9 litres/100 km
    CO2 emissions 246 g/km 254 g/km
    Fuel Consumption (EPA cycle)**
    City (US mpg) 15 14
    Highway (US mpg) 24 24
    Combined (US mpg) 18 17
    Emissions Controls EU 5 and US LEV II

    * Fuel consumption figures are provisional and subject to Type Approval.
    ** Fuel consumption figures are provisional and subject to EPA certification.

    Source: Bentley

  • 2014 Land Rover Discovery Gets Upgraded

    2014-Land-Rover-Discovery-THUMB2014 Land Rover Discovery has been updated and received new look, badging, fuel stretching technology, enhanced audio systems and wide range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features. However, the vehicle keeps the core attributes of the emblematic model which makes the vehicle even more appealing.

    First, 2014 Discovery now has a new front fascia next to the various exterior changes. For instance, a new front grille, front bumper, headlamp design, daytime running lights with a distinctive LED signature, plus two new alloy wheel designs, additionally improve this Land Rover’s visual characteristics.

    To make the vehicle even more special and individual, the brand has prepared for its customers an optional “Black Design Pack” that includes 20-inch black alloy wheels and many other benefits.

    Next, the refined exterior of the vehicle incorporates a change of the identity. For the first time, the name “Discovery” replaces “Land Rover” on the bonnet and the number 4 will be removed from the tailgate leaving just the word “Discovery”.

    In addition, the engine badging will be moved from the tailgate to the each of the front doors, and will appear as “SDV6”. Speaking about the engine, it has received some optimizations, which result in improvement in terms of fuel efficiency.

    2014 Land Rover Discovery will be equipped with the 256 hp (188 kW) 3.0 SDV6, which now emits less CO2 emissions. They have been reduced from 230g/km to 213g/km. Additionally, the and fuel consumption was also improved to 35.3mpg. The unit will be mated to and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

    At last, the range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features include the following: Wade Sensing, Blind Spot Monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing, Reverse Traffic Detection and T-junction Cameras.

    The model will be also offered with the optional Meridian premium audio. On the other hand the standard system features 8 speakers and 380 Watts of power, while the Meridian Surround system generates an impressive 825 Watts output and includes 17 speakers.

    Technical Specifications of 2014 Land Rover Discovery

    2014 Land Rover Discovery (UK) 3.0L V6 Diesel (UK/Euro)
    Engine type 3.0L SDV6 Diesel
    Power PS/rpm 256PS@4000
    Torque Nm/rpm 600@2000
    0-60mph secs 8.8
    Max speed mph (km/h) 112 (180)
    CO2 g/km 213
    Combined mpg (L/100k) 35.3 (8.0)
    Kerb weight kg 2570

    Source: Land Rover

  • Abarth 595 50th Anniversary Edition

    Abarth has announced the 595 50th Anniversary Edition, which will be exhibited at the
    2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. It celebrates the original 595 that was introduced at the Turin Motor Show in 1963.

    2013 Abarth 595 50th Anniversary Edition comes with a retro-inspired exterior with matte white paint, handmade graphics and historic Abarth logos. The model has also been equipped with xenon headlights, a sunroof and 17” alloy wheels.

    The interior features there’s two-tone sports seats, red trim and alloy pedals. There are also a flat-bottomed steering wheel, metallic accents and red contrast stitching.

    The 1.4 liter T-Jet engine is boosted to 180HP (132kW). Other performance upgrades include Brembo brake system, stiffened shock absorbers and a sports exhaust system

    The 595 50th Anniversary Edition is limited to just 299 units and the manufacturer will begin accepting orders on September 15th.

    Source: Abarth

  • Caterham Seven 165 Prototype With Frankfurt Unveil

    caterham-seven-THUMBCaterham Seven Prototype Concept is going to be unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show. A month ago, the British manufacturer has revealed more details about the variant of the iconic Seven. The vehicle will be named Caterham Seven 165 and it will be capable of producing 80 hp (59 kW) thanks to its 660cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged Suzuki K6A engine.

    The latter was enhanced by the Caterham -Technology & Innovation (CTI) group of engineering. Furthermore, the number five at the end of the car’s name shows that the vehicle also complies with the EU5 emissions standards.

    Although the Suzuki powerplant is compact in nature, CTI has refined it and hence it now delivers enhanced performance including a torque output of 107 Nm (79 lb-ft). The engine was also well balanced against amplified fuel economy and reduced vehicle emissions.

    Earlier this year Caterham has launched the fastest, most powerful production Seven. Now, with the Seven 165, the brand aims to deliver a car which sits at the opposite end of the scale, both in terms of engine size and price. However, both vehicles will have one thing in common which is the same level of pure driving fun.

    The production of the Caterham Seven 165 will start in January nest year. The car will have a price tag of circa €25 000.

    Source: Caterham

  • Porsche 918 Spyder Celebrates World Debut In Frankfurt

    Porsche 918 Spyder is ready to make its international world debut at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show on 10th of September. The super sports car is equipped with plug-in hybrid drive which makes it a technology pioneer. This means that the 918 Spyder combines the dynamic performance of a sports car with the fuel consumption of a compact one.

    In addition, at the show, Porsche will also celebrate the anniversary of the 911 model with a limited edition car that is based on the Porsche 911 Carrera S. It will include traditional 911 features with state-of-the-art technology.

    A third model will be also revealed in Frankfurt – the new 911 Turbo. What is more, a new generation of the Panamera Gran Turismo will highlight the unique Porsche range, which is going to be presented next to the Panamera S E-Hybrid.

    Porsche 918 Spyder is a high-performance hybrid and is also a continuation of the traditional DNA of the brand. It was designed with the aim to be a high-performance hybrid, and therefore it offers 887 hp (652 kW) output.

    The vehicle is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in only 2.8 seconds, but manages to offer an average standard fuel consumption of between 94 mpg and 85 mpg. Furthermore, the 918 Spyder also includes an electric motor-based drive that additionally maximizes its dynamic performance.

    Source: Porsche

  • Porsche 997 GT3 With New Outfit By Cam Shaft

    Cam-Shaft-Porsche-997-GT3-THUMBThe German tuning company Cam Shaft is famous for its full-scale or partial car wrapping, coating protection foilings and car styling themes as well as sportive car foiling. Now the specialists are revealing their latest project. They have given the Porsche 997 GT3 a completely new appearance.

    First, they wrapped the car full-scale in pearly white foil. Then an individually customized Martini racing design was at hand. The latter starts in the front under a headlight, goes upwards at the car door over the top and descends on the other side downwards. What is important to mention is that Cam Shaft made the foil wrapping of the car to enter the visible door edges.

    Furthermore, the tuning of this Porsche did not end with the exterior improvement. There was made an in-house PP performance engine optimization which lead to the improvement of the performance of the power output of the engine. To be more precise, it was raised from 415 hp (305 kW) up to 435 hp (320 kW).

    In addition, there were also added 3 KW coilovers in order to make better the driving dynamics of the car. At last, the professionals added original GT3 rims in matt black powder-coated which were delivered by AG-Felgenveredlung Krefeld.

    Source: Miranda Media

  • 2014 BMW i8 [video teaser]

    BMW has published a teaser video clip of the upcoming i8 supercar. The manufacturer has recently revealed the i3 and now it is turn to i8. BMW i8 Concept was introduced back in 2011 and we didn’t expect it to reach production, but the manufacturer obviously has something different in mind.

    The 2014 i8 will be the second supercar of BMW since the M1, which was built in 1978 with the cooperation of Lamborghini.

    2014 BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5 liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine – 231HP (170 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) powering the rear wheels and an electric motor – 131HP (96 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) on the front axle. The total output is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

    As you know, BMW are not obsessed with horsepower, but the balance is extremely important. The i8 weighs just 1,490 kg (3,285 lbs), so it is expected to be superfast not only in straight line, but on the racetrack, too. Furthermore, the supercar is expected to return 113 mpg UK – 2.5 liters / 100 km and a zero-emission range of 35 km (22 miles) with top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph).

    Stay tuned!
    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5kX6UFOCWY

    Source: BMW