Category: Auto News

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

  • First Image Of Infiniti Q30 Concept Revealed

    infiniti-q30-concept-THUMBAfter revealing a sketch of the new Infiniti Q30 Concept, the brand now reveals the first image of the car. The world premiere of the concept will happen at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

    The Infiniti Q30 Concept will be a preview of the contemporary design vision for a compact Infiniti vehicle. The aim is to attract as many customers from the new generation as possible. In fact, the Q30 Concept is a full embodiment of company’s vision to deliver head-turning design, innovative materials with precise fit and finish, exquisite craftsmanship.

    As one can see, the shape of the new concept can’t be categorized. It is neither a coupe, nor a hatch or a crossover. It seems like it is a mix of those three body styles. It is designed for those who seek an alternative to traditional premium compact cars and are open to the new.

    The combination of the three body styles means that the concept will merge the dynamic design and sportiness of a coupe, the roominess of a hatch and the higher stance of a crossover. Infiniti Q30 Concept clearly signals that the brand has a new strategy to extend the into new premium segments.

    Source: Infiniti

  • M&D Exclusive Cardesign Transforms Mercedes-Benz E500 Coupe

    M&D-Exclusive-Cardesign-Mercedes-Benz-E500-THUMBM&D Exclusive Carstyling has presented to us a complete conversion done on the Mercedes-Benz E500 Coupe. The Mercedes is powered by the classical 5.5 litre V8 engine.

    The main highlight of this conversion is the multi-part PD850 Black Edition wide body construction kit. In addition to the front of the coupe were also added front bumper bar, engine hood attachment, a set of completely new fenders and a front spoiler lip painted in red.

    The connection between the front and the rear was made by the curved side skirts. On the other hand, the rear was broadened with the help of new side panel extensions and new rear fender skirt with integrated diffuser.What is more, a trunk cover spoiler delivers compacting pressure on the rear axle.

    The engine under the hood – the V8 one with a cubic capacity of 5,461 ccm, generates 387 horsepower (285 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. However, this wasn’t enough neither for the designers nor for the customers. Hence, there was made a performance boost up to 401 horsepower (295 kW) via a software optimization. The torque was also enhanced and it is now 560 Nm (413 lb-ft).

    To make the tuning even more exquisite, the M&D manufactured especially for this car a sports exhaust system from stainless steel. Its ends were fitted with a set of original SL65 AMG end-pipes. Additionally, the cover of the engine compartment was fitted with bicoloured painting in red and black to match the colour concept.

    M&D Exclusive Cardesign Mercedes-Benz E500 Coupe runs on light alloy wheels in the format 9×20 inches and 10.5×20 inches for the front and the rear, which were then fitted with 235/30R20 and 285/25R20 Falken FK452 tyres. Next, performance springs delivered by H&R Company contributed for the lowering of the chassis. Moreeover, two individualised brake callipers painted in red are visible behind the rims.

    The tuning did not stop here however. M&D thus constructed an AMG facelift airbag steering wheel with shift paddles and an AMG gear selector lever and painted all decorative wooden parts in deep black. A complete LED surroundings illumination was also added.

    Source: M&D Exclusive Cardesign

  • 2013 Skoda Rapid StylePLUS

    Skoda has announced the “StylePLUS” version of Rapid model. It comes with several styling upgrades for the exterior and interior.

    The special edition model is based on the Ambition trim level and boasts some glossy black finish touches on the boot lid rear spoiler, mirror covers, the bars on the front bumper and doors. The 2013 Rapid StylePLUS rolls two-tone black and silver 17” Ray alloy wheels. There are several colours available for the exterior: Denim Blue, Corrida Red, Sprint Yellow and Candy White. It can be also ordered with xenon headlights and front fog lights with cornering function.

    The interior features stainless steel pedals, new seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a piano lacquer finish matching the piano black dashboard inserts. The handbrake and gear knob are also covered in leather, while the standard radio/CD player can be replaced with an optional Amundsen+ SAT NAV system with DAB radio support.

    The engine range includes a 1.2 liter MPI with 75HP (55 kW), a 1.2 liter TSI with 86HP (63 kW) or 105HP (77 kW), a 1.4 liter TSI with 122HP (90 kW). The diesels are a 1.6 liter TDI with 90HP (66 kW) and 105HP (77 kW).

    Source: Skoda

  • BBM Motorsport Introduces BMW E91 330d

    BBM-Motorsport-BMW-E91-330d-THUMBBBM-Motorsport-BMW-E91-330d-651The German based tuning specialists at BBM Motorsport are introducing their latest work done on the BMW E91 330d. The main highlight here is that this BMW’s power output was increased from 231 horsepower (170 kW) to a 274 horsepower (201 kW) and the maximum torque from 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) to 659 Newton meters (488 lb-ft).

    This power enhancement was achieved via the utilization of BBM chip tuning system. The latter was developed on the basis of the company’s own Dynojet 224xLC performance test platform.

    What is more, a mojor share of the power boost can also be attributed to the software optimization as well as the complete Supersprint exhaust system. This BMW station wagon was given a KW Street Comfort coilover kit for to facilitate a spinal disk-friendly drive. The vehicle was equipped with a combination of the 8×19 and 9×19 inches BBS CH-R rims and the 225/35 and 225/30 tyres.

    And in order to catch more attention, the vehicle was entirely wrapped with matt red foil highlighted in matt black with the help of SFT Carwrap. To make it even more attractive, the BMW emblems and the side markers were tinted in dark shade. The same theme is continued in the interior where the strips were adapted to the look like the matt red exterior wrapping.

    Other highlights here are delivered by FM-Coding and include the following: side markers and daytime running lights, a digital speed display system and a comfort eject function. The latter automatically ejects the car key as soon as the “Engine off“ button is pressed.

    A video giving an example of the sound of the BBM Motorsport BMW E91 330d can be previewed below:

    httpv://youtu.be/8CcE6b44MhE

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: BBM Motorsport

  • 2013 Opel Insignia OPC – 325HP and 435Nm

    Opel Insignia OPC facelift will be introduced at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The performance touring car boasts all-wheel drive system, new refreshed look and modified chassis. The manufacturer will also exhibit the recently introduced Insignia Country Tourer.

    “The Insignia OPC dazzles with new radiance. With great attention to detail, our engineers have given it some decisive fine-tuning. This is evident in its design and in its even better driving performance. This puts the OPC squarely in the first league of mid-size series production sports cars.”, commented Michael Ableson, Vice President GME Engineering.

    The power is coming from a 2.8 liter V6 turbocharged petrol with 325HP (239 kW) and 435Nm (321 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is put on the road through 6-speed manual gearbox and AWD system featuring Haldex coupling and an electronic limited slip differential. 0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Opel mentions the unrestricted Insignia is capable of hitting a maximum speed of 270 km/h (168 mph).

    The cabin welcomes OPC drivers with pure motorsport ambience. Recaro performance seats, also optionally available in leather with a memory function, the OPC gearshift knob and a completely new main instrument panel and center console exude premium flair. Beyond basic information, drivers can see specific details like oil pressure and temperature, battery voltage, throttle position, brake power and the g-force resulting from lateral acceleration on the optional, 8” instrument readout display.

    Source: Opel

  • 2014 Peugeot 5008 Facelift

    Peugeot is going to exhibit the facelift version of the 5008 model at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, next month.

    When was first introduced in the segment, the 5008 shook up the range of products available with a vehicle which, while observing the essentials expected, brought previously unheard-of qualities. Its fluid and elegant style and its dynamic qualities make it a unique product in the segment.

    Within a compact size, the Peugeot 5008 carries its passengers in a high level of practicality, comfort and safety. From an elevated position, defined by a high console, the driver has a clear view of all the surroundings. The road speed is also indicated on the Head-up display. The 5008 is practical to use and stimulating to drive.

    Functional, the rear compartment allows flexibility in the use of space: five individually retractable seats, flat floor, folding front passenger seat with table position… The seven seat version offers a high level of accommodation for the two additional passengers, in a space in which it is comfortable to travel.

    The new 5008 has a top-of-the-range style which is perceived instantly as indicated by the light signature of the new technological headlamps.
    Engine line-up includes four petrol and four diesel engines available with manual, automatic or ETG transmissions. The petrol range starts with a 1.6 liter VTi with 120HP (89 kW) and finishes with a 1.6 liter THP with 163HP (121 kW), while the diesels kick off at 115HP (85 kW) from the 1.6 liter e-HDi FAP and top-of-range 2.0 liter HDi FAP with 163HP (121 kW).

    Due to the expertise of the marque’s engineers, the handling of the 5008 is worthy of comparison with other Peugeot Hatchback cars. On board, the passengers enjoy an entirely new experience, combining driving and comfort – this combination being one of the main characteristics of the Peugeot 5008.

    Diesel range

    • 1.6-litre e-HDi FAP 115bhp, ETG6 (Efficient Tronic Gearbox) piloted gearbox, 4.2 l/100km (67.2mpg) and CO2 at 109g/km
    • 1.6-litre HDi FAP 115bhp, 6-speed manual gearbox, 4.7 l/100km (60.1mpg) and CO2 at 124g/km
    • 2.0-litre HDi FAP 150bhp, 6-speed manual gearbox, 5.3 l/100km (53.2mpg) and CO2 at 138g/km
    • 2.0-litre HDi FAP 163bhp, 6-speed automatic gearbox, 6.3 l/100km (44.8mpg) and CO2 at 164g/km

    Petrol range

    • 1.6-litre VTi 120bhp, 5-speed manual gearbox, 6.9 l/100km (40.9mpg) and CO2 159g/km
    • 1.6-litre THP 155bhp, 6-speed manual gearbox, 6.9 l/100km (40.9mpg) and CO2 159g/km
    • 1.6-litre THP 155bhp, 6-speed automatic gearbox, 7.6 l/100km (37.1mpg) and CO2 175g/km
    • 1.6-litre THP 163bhp, 6-speed automatic gearbox, 8.3 l/100km (33.6mpg) and CO2 191g/km

    Source: Peugeot

  • Totally Transformed: New Ad For 2014 Kia Soul

    2014 Kia Soul was revealed last week and it was also disclosed that the vehicle is going to make its official European debut next month at Frankfurt Motor Show. Now it is time for Kia to present the advertising campaign of the new model.

    The brand has already released an official video, which to be honest is my favorite commercial so far. In it the famous brightly clothed hamsters are appearing again. After their debut in 2009 they have become nearly pop icons, and I must confirm that thanks to this video their popularity will become even bigger.

    Five years later, the hamsters have slimmed down and slicked their hair back, and come to introduce the latest version of 2014 Kia Soul. The ad carries the name “Totally Transformed” and it features Lady Gaga’s newest hit “Applause”.

    In “Totally Transformed”, the hamsters have followed suit by getting fit and developing a new fashion sense that reflects the sophistication of the newly refined Soul.

    The redesigned Soul is more refined and functional than ever. It offers more room, more available premium features and materials, improved driving dynamics and an instantly recognizable fresh appearance.

    The vehicle’s design was inspired by 2012 Kia Track’ster concept, but it adds more freshness and attitude. It retains the outgoing model’s upright stance, squared shoulders, wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights and confidence-inspiring SUV ride height. 2014 Soul rides on a new chassis that is stiffer, longer and wider.

    In addition, the enhanced torque and significant suspension upgrades make the new Soul an agile companion in city environments. The interior of the model is made via higher quality materials and now has more driver-focused design. It offers a wide range of standard comfort and convenience features, including Bluetooth wireless technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

    Source: Kia

  • Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition

    Kahn-Range-Rover-Vogue-THUMBKahn-Range-Rover-Vogue-01Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition is definitely a reminder of what luxury means. And of course we can not expect anything else from the designers at A. Kahn Design. They again have proven their craftsmanship and attention to the detail.

    The tuned Range Rover has suitably presidential in appearance thanks to its exterior santorini Black Metallic paint finish. What is more, this look is additionally enhanced by the unique brake calipers in liquid gold.

    More highlights to mention with regard to the exterior are the fender accents in satin black, front and rear bumper accents in satin black and door accents in satin black. But this is not everything! This athletic vehicle rides on 9.5×22 RS600 wheels, which further add to the luxurious stance of the car.

    Additionally, the panoramic glass sunroof allows the driver to bask in the rays of the sun. He or she will also enjoy the cabin which has been wrapped in perforated leather interior – in this case it is again in black in order to match the exquisite exterior.

    Source: A.Kahn Design

  • 2014 Lexus GX 460 Gets Updated

    2014-Lexus-GX-460-THUMB2014 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Utility Vehicle (LUV) has been redesigned and now is going to be offered in two grades which are going to include even more equipment. What is more, the new updated design of the model features a new interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille with standard LED headlamps and daytime running lights. As an option there are also LED fog lamps available.

    In terms of interior, the luxurious and spacious GX has received a new touch-screen display audio with an eight-inch screen, backup monitor, HD Radio™, Bluetooth® audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio.

    The comfort of the cabin is additionally enhanced via the new linear espresso wood/abyss black trim, while the mahogany wood trim will be available only for the Premium Package and Luxury model. In addition, the 2014 GX 460 also offers an available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

    To go further into details, the Premium Package of the new Lexus model will include Navigation system with backup monitor, perforated leather trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, Intuitive Parking Assist and Three Zone Climate control.

    On the other hand the 2014 GX Luxury is equipped with Adaptable Air Suspension, Navigation, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Intuitive Parking Assist, and 18-inch split six-spoke wheels with liquid graphite finish.

    Under the hood of the vehicle hides a 4.6-liter V8 engine which is matched to a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). It generates an output of 301 horsepower (221 KW) at 5,500 rpm. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

    In terms of safety, the GX has standard 10 airbags and on the Luxury model available Advanced Pre Collision with Driver Monitor. Furthermore, the standard full-time four-wheel drive utilizes an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing limited slip center differential which can be electronically locked. This makes possible the low range for off-road driving.

    2014 Lexus GX 460 will be available in dealerships in September and it will have a starting price of US $49,085.

    Source: Lexus

  • Pricing Announced For 2014 Subaru BRZ

    2014-Subaru-BRZ-THUMBSubaru has announced the price tag for the 2014 BRZ. The BRZ lineup still puts the main focus on a contemporary sports car design, which includes low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering.

    In addition, the brand also created the rear-wheel drive BRZ using an all-new naturally aspirated 200 horsepower (147 kW) horizontally opposed (BOXER) engine design. Although it is extremely sporty, the vehicle also has the capacity to deliver enough comfort and practicality. For instance, it delivers an estimated 34 mpg highway fuel economy when the car is equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission.

    Other ratings are concerning the fuel economy are of 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, and 25 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

    The very low-slung coupe body allows a roof height of just 50.6 inches, combined with a swept-back roofline, bulging front fenders, short overhangs and pronounced rear haunches. This undoubtedly gives the new BRZ an athletic stance.

    Vehicle’s high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, hexagonal lower grille and six-star ornament are other exterior highlights that contribute to the sporty stance of the car. The BRZ Limited edition model adds a body-color trunk spoiler, standard fog light and Alcantara trimmed interior and Keyless Access.

    The car will be offered in Premium or Limited trim levels, which will performance features like sport-tuned suspension with front strut brace and TORSEN limited-slip differential. To be more precise, the BRZ Limited will deliver to its driver better comfort and amenities.

    The exterior of the Limited model is characterized by fog lights and a body-color trunk spoiler. The interior on the other hand includes seat upholstered with Alcantara inserts and leather bolsters. Aha® infotainment smartphone integration included with the standard navigation system is what is new in the 2014 MY Subaru.

    The BRZ Limited has a dual-zone automatic climate control as a standard, while the Premium model is equipped with manual HVAC system. The latter also includes a standard All-Weather Package with dual-mode heated front seats and heated side mirrors. In the Limited, there are also dual visor vanity mirrors which are illuminated, and front door courtesy lights illuminate when the doors are opened.

    2014 Subaru BRZ
    Model/Trim Transmission MSRP MSRP + destination and delivery
    BRZ Premium 6MT $25,595 $26,390
    BRZ Limited 6MT $27,595 $28,390
    BRZ Limited 6AT $28,695 $29,490

    Source: Subaru

  • Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 vs Corvette Z06, Panamera, GT-R and Gallardo

    Dragtimesinfo has published a video with Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with 667HP going against Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Supercharged with 750HP, Nissan GT-R Mk.2 Ecutek Stage 2 with 660HP, Porsche Panamera Turbo S Stage 1 with 700HP and Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 SL UGR Race Version with 2005HP.

    The first start was versus the Z06, which lost the race. The Mustang GT500 stopped the clock on 30.867 seconds with 267 km/h on 1 mile.

    The second race was against the GT-R, which won the race with 29.728 seconds and 288 km/h on mile, while the GT500 set 30.321 seconds and 266 km/h.

    The third start versus the Panamera was also doomed, because the Porsche had almost a second lead over the Shelby. The Panamera Turbo S Stage 1 crossed the finish line in 29.711 seconds with 273 km/h, while the Mustang needed 30.607 seconds.

    On the last start, the Mustang GT500 set personal absolute speed and et records on 1 mile – 30.225 seconds with 270 km/h, but the winner was the super powerful Gallardo UGR crossing the finish line in 24.422 seconds with 358 km/h.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLTBn66hB6Q

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • 2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion – 4.5 l / 100km

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion

    Volkswagen will exhibit Caddy BlueMotion at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The super-efficient model boasts an incredibly low average fuel consumption of just 4.5 liters / 100 km.

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion is powered by a 1.6 liter TDI with 102HP (75 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is equipped with Start/Stop system, low rolling resistance tires, regenerative braking system, ride height lowered by 27 mm and an optimized ECU. The driving range of the Caddy BlueMotion, which has a fuel tank capacity of 60 litres, is over 1,300 km.

    The new Caddy BlueMotion with a short wheelbase is available in four equipment versions: as a panel van and kombi as well as in the passenger versions Startline and Trendline.

    On its exterior, the Caddy BlueMotion can be made out by a badge at the  rear, its lower ride height, special full wheel covers and painted side guard strips. The Caddy BM is also distinguished by equipment features such as standard hill hold assist, cruise control system, exclusive seat upholstery and air nozzles in high-gloss black (passenger version).

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion is priced from €17,720.

    Source: Volkswagen