Category: Auto News

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

  • Mitsubishi Outlander Winter and Summer Edition

    Mitsubishi has announced two special edition Outlanders. The Summer and Winter editions are prepared with the cooperation of H360 Group. The 5-passenger 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Summer Edition and the 7-passenger 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Winter Edition each have been customized to become the ideal ride for a particular season, complete with integrated sports equipment and cutting-edge technology designed to offer as much fun as possible.

    The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Summer Edition comes fully equipped with some of the latest and greatest sporting gear and goods on the market. It boats a burnt orange exterior with graphite accents and 20” Vossen CV3 wheels that are wrapped in Nitto NT420S tires. There are also Trek mountain bikes that are mounted on a Thule roof rack.

    The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Winter Edition is outfitted with a comprehensive selection of gear needed for a day on the slopes. It comes with a white exterior with brushed aluminum accents and 20” Niche Targa alloy wheels fitted with proper tires. There are also an assortment of Volcom snowboarding gear and a coffee maker.

    To document any extreme moves on the slopes, an iPhone 5 camera lens has been placed in the armrest and an HD camera is located on the dashboard. There’s also a custom Recaro children’s booster seat in back, for any little snowboarders-in-training.

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 1st Anniversary Edition

    Mercedes-Benz is going to offer ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 1st Anniversary Edition specially for Japan. Production will be limited to 100 units and pricing starts at ¥8,600,000 (around €66,000).

    The special edition ML boasts an AMG styling package that includes aggressive front and rear bumpers, a pair of revised side skirts and a set of 20” alloy wheels. There are also stainless steel running boards and privacy glass. The color range includes Obsidian Black or Diamond White metallic.

    The interior comes with AMG sports seats, an AMG steering wheel and brushed aluminum trim elements. There are also special floor mats and new pedals.

    The ML350 BlueTEC is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 258HP (190 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft). It is connected to a 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission and a 4MATIC AWD system.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2014 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew – US Price $33,145

    Ford has introduced the new 2014 F-150 STX SuperCrew. The manufacturer is now offering entry-level and value-oriented truck to the customers. The new STX SuperCrew is capable, roomy, stylish and comes with a lot of new options.

    Positioned between the work-ready XL and popular XLT models, STX offers upgraded exterior and interior features beyond what’s usually available for entry-level crew cab pickups:

    • Body-color front bumper fascia, grille surrounds, and front and rear step bumpers
    • Power Equipment Group, which includes power door locks, integrated keyhead transmitter remotes, power one-touch up/down windows and sideview mirrors, Illuminated Entry System and perimeter alarm
    • 17-inch machined aluminum wheels
    • Audio input jack
    • Cruise control
    • Customer information display
    • MyKey® , a programmable feature that allows fleet owners and parents to limit top speed and audio volume, and set speed-alert chimes to encourage safer driving
    • Outside temperature display
    • Front-row 40/20/40 premium cloth bench seat
    • Driver manual lumbar adjust
    • Air conditioning
    • AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™
    • Tilt steering wheel
    • AM/FM stereo with single CD player

    The engine range includes a 3.7 liter V6 engine – 302HP (225 kW) and 376Nm (278 lb-ft) of torque. There is also an optional 5.0 liter V8 with 360HP (268 kW) and 514 Nm (380 lb-ft) of torque.

    MSRP for STX SuperCrew starts at $33,145 for the 4×2 version with 3.7-liter V6 and $37,570 for the 4×4 with 5.0-liter V8. Current available discounts reduce the final price of the STX Sport Package, and F-150 Equipment Group 201A featuring the Trailer Tow Package, SYNC® voice-activated controls and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, to $980. Destination charges are $1,095.

    The new STX Sport Package adds:

    • 20″ machined aluminum painted wheels with P275/55R20 tires
    • Black billet grille with body-color surround
    • Black tubular running boards
    • Black and Gray Piston cloth front seats (40/console/40 on SuperCab and SuperCrew, 40/20/40 on Regular Cab)
    • Color-coordinated carpet
    • Unique box decals

    Source: Ford

  • 2014 Dacia Duster To Debut At Frankfurt Motor Show

    2014-Dacia-Duster-THUMB2014 Dacia Duster will make its debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The vehicle has been upgraded for European left hand drive markets, but it keeps its design characteristics that made its success.

    The new Duster will sport more emphatic 4×4 design cues. The front end for example has been refined and now includes redesigned grille. The latter is adorned by two chrome-plated strips and houses a new air intake and double-optic headlights with daytime running lights.

    These upgrades additionally highlight the vehicle’s on-road muscular appearance and “go-anywhere” character. The overall result is that the new Dacia model has even stronger character while retaining its initial DNA.

    On the other hand the SUV character of the car is strengthened by the new roof bars with slatted supports. Moreover, the 2014 Duster runs on new 16-inch “Dark Metal” alloy wheels which are coupled with Mud and Snow tyres.

    Another new design element is visible at the back of the car and it is the new rear-lights. Their design is made to echo the styling cues of the front end, notably though the utilization of chrome. In addition, the chrome-plated tail pipe and the brand-new badging round out the entire exterior.

    Source: Dacia

  • World Premieres Of Volkswagen e-Golf And e-up! In Frankfurt

    volkswagen-e-golf-e-up-THUMBVolkswagen will make a double world premiere at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, introducing two new and extremely efficient electric vehicles: Volkswagen e-up! and Volkswagen e-Golf. Both cars are zero-emissions and will offer everyday practicality, the comfortability of four doors, and attractively equipment.

    The standard features they are going to be equipped with are automatic climate control with parking heater and ventilation, radio-navigation system, windscreen heating, LED daytime running lights and LED headlights.

    The two new cars also set records in terms of energy efficiency. Volkswagen e-up! consumes only 11.7 kWh of electricity per 100 km. On the other hand, the e-Golf consumes 12.7 kWh per 100 km. Both vehicles are intuitive to operate and very practical. They were manufactured with the same high-volume production systems as their counterparts with combustion engines.

    Volkswagen e-Golf has an 85 kW (115 hp) electric motor, which generates a maximum drive torque of 270 Nm (200 lb-ft). Therefore it is effortless for the front-wheel drive vehicle to reach 100 km/h from standstill in 10.4 seconds on its way to an electronically limited Vmax of 140 km/h.

    On the other hand, the Volkswagen e-up!, which will also make a debut, is driven by an electric motor that delivers 60 kW (82 hp) and generates 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque. The front-wheel-drive e-up! finishes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.4 seconds. The top speed here is 130 km/h.

    Furthermore, regarding the driving ranges, the e-up! can drive 160 km on one battery charge (18.7 kWh), while the e-Golf with its larger battery (24.2 kWh) has a range of 190 km. In addition, in both model is included two very efficient driving modes: Eco, Eco+ and four just regenerative braking modes: D1, D2, D3 and B.

    The new Volkswagen models also ensure fast charging by using CCS charging stations. They utilize direct current and the result is shorten time to charge the battery. For instance, 80 percent of the capacity of the battery is charged for less than 30 minutes.

    The new zero-emission Volkswagen vehicles aim to deliver to the electric car segment innovative technology, everyday practicality and a dynamic driving experience.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Pricing Announced For 2014 Toyota Corolla

    2014-Toyota-Corolla-THUMB2014 Toyota Corolla was exclusively revealed in the beginning of June showing its dramatically elevated design and great efficiency. Now, Toyota is revealing the pricing of its emblematic model which will be available at an attainable price.

    The new Corolla will be available in four trim levels: L, LE, S, and LE Eco. The L grade will be equipped with a new 6-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic one. This trim level will include a wide range of standard features: LED lowbeam headlamps with LED daytime running lights, Standard Bluetooth connectivity, driver and front passenger Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats, and eight airbags.

    Next, the Corolla LE offers a list of convenient standard features on the top of the L grade: Backup monitor, Climate control, Cruise control, Keyless entry, Entune Audio which includes 6.1” touchscreen and enhanced fuel economy delivered by the new CVTi-S transmission.

    The sporty Corolla S not only offers more athletic visual stance, but it is also equipped with the following: aggressive lower front grille with a piano black finish and chrome surround, unique suspension tuning for the 17-inch wheel package, paddle shifters (with CVTi-S) to actuate sequential 7-speeds, sport cluster gauge with TFT meter, ornate piano black instrument panel, supportive sport seats and leather steering wheel cover.

    At last, the Corolla LE Eco trim level will deliver to its customer improved fuel economy, because it is equipped with 140hp Valvematic engine. The model also has improved aerodynamics, and unique CVTi-S tuning.

    Furthermore, Toyota has added two new models to the LE, S, and LE Eco grades: Plus and Premium. The first one adds alloy wheels plus selected features as standard equipment, while the Premium model adds alloy wheels and Softex seats also as a standard.

    • LE Plus: 16” alloy wheels and integrated fog lights
    • LE Premium: 16” alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, and Softex seats
    • S Plus: 17” alloy wheels and rear disc brakes
    • S Premium: 17” alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, and Softex seats
    • LE Eco Plus: 16” alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, chrome beltline, Eco driving mode
    • LE Eco Premium: 16” alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, chrome beltline, Eco driving mode, and Softex seats

    2014 Toyota Corolla Complete Model Pricing

    Grade Transmission MY14 MSRP MY13 MSRP Change
    L 6MT $16,800 $16,230 $570
    L 4AT $17,400 $17,060 $340
    LE CVTi-S $18,300 $18,180 $120
    LE Plus CVTi-S $18,700 -­ NA
    LE Premium CVTi-S $19,400 -­ NA
    S CVTi-S $19,000 $19,060 -$60
    S Plus CVTi-S $19,700 -­ NA
    S Premium CVTi-S $20,400 -­ NA
    S Plus 6MT $21,300* $18,230 $3,070
    ECO CVTi-S $18,700 -­ NA
    ECO Plus CVTi-S $19,400 -­ NA
    ECO Plus CVTi-S $20,100 -­ NA

    2014 Toyota Corolla Option Pricing

    Package Contents MSRP Model Applicability
    Moonroof Power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade $850 LE Plus, LE Premium, S Plus*, S Premium*, LE Eco Plus, LE Eco Premium
    Drivers Convenience Package Smart Key System on front doors and trunk with Push Button Start, remote keyless entry system with lock, panic, trunk-release, and liftgate functions

    Entune Premium Audio – includes the Entune Multimedia Bundle with navigation and app suite, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, 6 speakers, auxiliary audio jack, USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity and control, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology and 6.1 in high resolution touch-screen display with HD radio with traffic and weather, SiriusXM Radio with 90-day All-Access trial, Gracenotes

    $1510 LE Plus, LE Premium, S Plus*, S Premium*, LE Eco Plus, LE Eco Premium

    Source: Toyota

  • Ford S-MAX Concept Offers Sharp Design And Advanced Technologies

    Ford-S-MAX-Concept-THUMBFord S-MAX Concept is a new sport activity vehicle which has just been revealed. It is a refined version of the popular current S-MAX and it takes its characteristics to new levels delivering sharper design, many advanced technologies and high-end craftsmanship.

    The new concept is created according to the latest Ford global design philosophy and includes a high mounted grille, swept-back headlamps and a one-of-a-kind new lower fascia. The profile of the vehicle features a front bonnet which sweeps effortlessly into the sharply raked front screen, which in turn flows into the dynamic arc of the roof.

    In addition, the stance of the car is further emphasized by its sculptured muscular shoulders, and distinctive headlamps which include Organic LEDs. They are the latest development in lighting and offer better flexibility, fast response and colour range.

    Inside the vehicle is offered a versatile interior which can be used from four to seven people. In fact, the interior expresses new design and delivers more convenience, connectivity and flexibility.

    The front cabin includes dynamic shapes and forms which are fully visible through the high-set instrument panel in the centre console, while the innovative interior roof design optimizes the feeling of spaciousness. Throughout the interior are utilized high quality materials such as ultra-soft leather wrap for the instrument panel, and leather and carbon fibre detailing for the sculptured seats.

    Other highlights here are in terms of the technology included. Ford SYNC system sits at the heart of the vehicle’s advanced connectivity features. It uses MyFord Touch which delivers wireless internet access and is supported by a tablet docking station. Next, the SYNC AppLink enables the driver to voice-control smart phone applications.

    Communication and sensor systems on the other hand provide the Ford S-MAX Concept with detailed information about the driving environment. For instance, here are available the Ford’s advanced car-to-car communications technology, Ford Intelligent Protection System with Pre-Collision Assist, advanced version of Active Park Assist and Cross Traffic Alert. In the interior are also offered a range of smart solutions such as Thin Seat Technology and Dual-View Display.

    Under the hood of this model is positioned the all-new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with turbocharging, twin-independent variable camshaft timing. It also features advanced technologies which enhance the power and fuel economy of the car.

    Source: Ford

  • 2014 Cadillac CTS at Nurburgring

    2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport was tested at the world’s most-demanding test track – Germany’s Nurburgring – and recorded lap times to enhance the nameplate’s reputation as a driver’s car.

    The performance saloon set a lap time of 8:14.10, almost six seconds faster than the first generation CTS-V recorded 10 years ago with a larger V8 engine.

    The 3.6 twin-turbo V6 produces 420HP (313 kW) and 583Nm (430 lb-ft) of torque in the CTS Vsport. It is connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

    Nurburgring validation certified that all CTS suspension packages are capable of handling the extreme conditions and unlimited speeds of Autobahn driving. CTS development included Autobahn and track calibrations of the steering system, shock absorbers, chassis controls and powertrain cooling.

    “The Nurburgring’s extreme conditions allow us to push cars to the limits of stability, steering, braking, ride and handling. The new CTS models had a lot to live up to considering the nameplate’s history of outstanding performance, and we were not disappointed” commented Dave Leone, CTS executive chief engineer, Performance Luxury Vehicles.

    The 2014 CTS standard model will start at $46,025, including $925 destination. Three collections of option packages – Luxury, Performance and Premium – will be offered with either the 2.0T turbocharged four cylinder or 3.6L naturally aspirated V6 engine in either RWD or AWD. The CTS Vsport model starts at $59,995, including $925 destination.

    Source: Cadillac

  • Nissan Juke 15RX Personalized Package

    Nissan introduced a customized Juke model, “15RX Personalized Package,” to offer motorists the joy and excitement of customizing a vehicle.

    The special edition Juke, which is set to go on sale in Japan is available exclusively in Passion Red or Night Veil Purple.

    The exterior boasts a lot of sport stripes, different mirror caps and 17” aluminum wheels with a dark finish. The exterior is coming with a new two-tone upholstery in black and red or black and grey.

    The engine range remains the same and the naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter petrol engine with 114HP (84 kW) and 150Nm (110 lb-ft) of torque will be priced from ¥1,943,550 (around €15,000).

    Source: Nissan

  • Irmscher Opel Insignia at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

    Irmscher has introduced their styling package for the facelift version of the new Opel Insignia. The tuned car will be exhibited at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

    The tuning package includes a new front spoiler, modified front grille and a pair of extended side skirts. Other upgrades include a rear diffuser, a four tailpipe stainless steel sports exhaust system, different spoilers and a set of 8.5J x 20” alloy wheels with a two-tone finish fitted with low-profile performance tires.

    The performance will be boosted by different tuning packages including ECU re-maps, sports exhaust systems and optimized intakes. The suspension is further stiffened for better handling results.

    Source: Irmscher

  • Vilner Revives Mitsubishi Pajero

    Vilner-Mitsubishi-Pajero-THUMBArt Studio Vilner has given a new and more luxurious life to the old and plain Mitsubishi Pajero. The professionals have broken the myth that this Mitsubishi can not look luxurious.

    The story of this project began when a few months ago a client who lived in Denmark and who was delighted by the tuning company’s projects came to the designer’s studio with a big plea: to breathe a new life to the sentimental for him Mitsubishi Pajero. And not just any life, but one which is luxurious and impressive.

    In fact, the project was worth several times the value of the car. The working process began with the complete disassembling of the automobile. Then it was cleaned of rust, diligently restored down to the tiniest detail, and then repainted.

    Next, the tuners isolated the entire coupe with vibration and noise insulation for maximum comfort, and then they began with the interior. The client have chosen color scheme in brown and black, and due to the fact that that everything originally was in grey, there was a need to remake every single detail in the interior – from the floor mats to the door seals.

    All of the dashboard plastic elements were repainted in high-gloss black, and the others were covered with Alcantara. Details and engraved plaques were built in and they were made of real Walnut veneer, which was then treated with satin varnish for more natural feel.

    Another highlight here is the decision to suture the veneer to other materials. Moreover, this Mitsubishi was also equipped with built in a high-quality audio system, which is controlled via an Audison processor for finer adjustment of the sound.

    At last, in order to enhance the feeling of luxury, Vilner created an individual travel bag made of the same leather as the interior and carrying company’s logo.

  • Peugeot 308 R Concept To Debut In Frankfurt

    peugeot-308-r-concept-THUMBPeugeot 308 R Concept is ultra sporty vehicle which was refined to the extreme. Its bodywork has received a two-tone treatment – the combination of red and black, with a clean line of separation.

    The new concept of the French brand is powered by the engine of the new RCZ R, and it is capable of generating 270 hp (199 kW). In addition, the low posture of the car, its wide track, its toned bodywork show that its sports vocation.

    The sportiness is fully-expressed first through the colors used. The front is plain red and has a fluorescent base for flamboyance. The contrast is made at the rear where a textured blue-black at is visible. The oblique cut line is inspired by the Onyx Supercar Concept.

    Furthermore, the doors, front wings, the body sides and sills, bonnet and bumpers are made of carbon fibre. The front face has exudes aggressiveness and includes three air intakes in the lower section. They stretch across the entire lower front panel, which covers a track widened by 30 mm. To be more precise, the central intake comprises of thin horizontal bars framed with a bluish Dark Chrome bead, while the side intakes are covered with a carbon mesh.

    The radiator grille is finished with a bluish Dark Chrome bead surround. In addition, Full LED headlamps are positioned within the lower front panel. They further enhance the attitude and stance of this concept. The exterior mirrors are also made of carbonfibre and include the direction indicator with LEDs.

    In profile, the concept is lowered by 26 mm which is highlighted by the body sills that have a matt black trim finish. This Peugeot was fitted with 19” bespoke wheels. At the rear, 308 R Concept shows its rear lights, with the three claws outlined by LEDs. Two symmetrical exhaust tailpipes protrude through black lacquered trims, which frame the air vents.

    Going inside the car, the controls are clear and simple, and the steering is communicative. The instrument panel is located in such way that it can be viewed over the steering wheel. At last, a large 9.7” touch screen brings the vehicle environment controls together.

    Under the hood of the Peugeot 308 R Concept is hidden the 1.6-litre THP 270 engine, which develops its maximum power at 6000rpm and generates 330 Nm (245 lb-ft) of torque available from 1900 to 5500rpm. The power is transferred to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and exploits its potential through the front axle via a Torsen™ differential.

    The braking system of the vehicle comprises of Alcon discs in impressive dimensions: 380 mm in diameter and 32 mm thick at the front, 330 mm and 22 mm at the rear. They are fitted on an aluminium hub, and equipped with four-piston calipers. This astonishing braking power passes to the ground through 235/35 R19 tyres.

    Peugeot 308 R Concept will make its official world debut at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

    Source: Peugeot