Auto News – Page 641 – Automobiles Review

B&B Audi SQ5 TDI – 400HP and 800Nm

B&B Automobiltechnik has introduced their latest project based on the powerful Audi SQ5 TDI. The tuning company described the vehicle as a “steam hammer”.

The exterior boasts an aerodynamic body kit including new front bumper, extended wheel arches to fit the enormous wheels and a revised rear fascia. Other highlights include a sports exhaust system, sport springs reducing the ride height by 30mm and a set of B10 22” wheels fitted with 265/30 R22 Michelin tyres.

There are three performance packages for the twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 TDI.

The 1K Comfort package boosts the engine to 340HP (250 kW) and 720Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 27HP and 70Nm. The result is thanks to an ECU re-map.

The 1K Sport package Level 1 boasts 365HP (268 kW) and 750Nm (553 lb-ft). The engine characteristic

maps were optimized in this case, the charging air pressure slightly boosted and the electronics adapted.

The The 1K Sport package Level 2 has 400HP (294 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 87HP and 150Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 275 km/h (170 mph). Not bad for a crossover

Source: B&B

August 20, 2013

Lexus Teases New Concept Vehicle Ahead Of Frankfurt Premiere

Lexus has just announced that it is going to stage the world premiere of a new concept vehicle at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Next to this announcement, the brand also published the first teaser image of the forthcoming car.

The picture focuses on part of the front of the concept, revealing how its headlights will look like. The details around the vehicle are scarce so far and we will probably have to wait until September, when more will be unveiled.

Furthermore, next to the new concept there will be displayed full hybrid GS 300h saloon, which will be presented for the first time in Europe. This car will be introduced in the markets by the end of the year.

In fact, Lexus GS 300h offers low emissions and high fuel efficiency with refined and comfortable performance. It has a rear-wheel drive and is equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The unit develops 223 hp (164kW).

Source: Lexus

August 20, 2013

Mazda3 Sedan With Public Premiere In Frankfurt

Mazda3 Sedan will be the main highlight on Mazda’s stand at Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model is equipped with generous standard features and it also includes brand’s new connectivity technologies, which aim to bring about an array of free mobile online content into the vehicle.

In addition, the new Mazda3 will be equipped with SKYACTIV technology and of course will be built according to brand’s award-winning KODO design language. The effect of the latter is a bold and powerful exterior as well as aerodynamic design.

The interior of this Mazda model offers safety and ergonomic comfort. In addition, it also includes optimized Human-Machine Interface (HMI) which features Active Driving Display, Mazda’s new head-up display and a new design of rotary commander.

The vehicle also has enlarged wheelbase estimated at 2,700mm which is the longest in the C-segment. The model line-up will include two bodystyles – hatchback and fastback. What is more, both bodystyles are 40mm wider and 15mm lower than the current model.

Furthermore, the new model is lighter with kerb weights starting from 1,190 kg. This of course contributes towards impressive fuel economy and emissions figures. The model will be offered with a choice of three naturally-aspirated petrol engines and one turbocharged diesel. They all will be equipped with i-stop, Mazda’s idle-stop system, as standard.

To be more precise, the 100 hp (74 kW) SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers up to 55.4 mpg (combined cycle) and emits only 119 g/km of CO2. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre will be available in standard (120 hp/88 kW) and high power (165 hp/121 kW) versions. The fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions are 55.4 mpg and 119g/km respectively.

At last, the 150 hp (110 kW) SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre clean diesel unit will provide excellent fuel economy and responsive dynamics, while at the same time significantly reducing nitrogen oxide (NOX) and soot emissions. In addition, it is also capable of generating 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque at 1,800rpm, and has a fuel economy and CO2 emissions up to 72.4 mpg and 104 g/km.

Source: Mazda

August 20, 2013

Dodge Unveils Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept

Ram Truck Brand introduced for the first time the Rumble Bee ten years ago. The model was inspired by the Super Bee muscle car which was famous back in 1960. Now, Dodge is unveiling the new HEMI-powered Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept with the aim to celebrate the 10-year anniversary and the heritage of Ram’s unique truck designs.

Rumble Bee concept is based on the 2013 Ram 1500 R/T. It is lightweight, two-door machiene with 2WD configuration. Its exterior color is “Drone Yellow” and this time is in unique matte finish.

This color flows over the entire truck including the bumpers, flares and the Mopar ground effects kit. Gloss black stripe can be seen on both sides of the truck and it fades into honeycomb. The stripe glides front to rear, around the top of the bed and over the Mopar tonneau cover.

The vehicle runs on 24-inch, Vellano VRH custom wheels, while the 2-inch drop which is delivered by King Suspension improves the handing performance and appearance with the help of a reservoir shock at each wheel. The grille, hood vents, badging, fuel door and the dual exhaust tailpipes are coated in gloss black.

The same design theme continues throughout the interior. It includes black and Drone Yellow leather sport mesh seats with two-tone yellow/light-grey stitching. There is also visible “Rumble Bee” lettering and Ram logos on the chairs, floor mats and door bolsters.

The highlight in the interior is the center-piece which is an actual amber-encased bee mounted into the 8-speed rotary shifter knob. When it lights up it exposes a honeycomb pattern background. Two buttons below the knob manage the Mopar cat-back dual-exhaust system.

Under the hood of this concept is the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. It is capable of generating 395 horsepower (290 kW) and 551 Nm (407 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is coupled with a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the HEMI enigne is fitted with a custom gloss yellow and black engine cover with honeycomb graphic pattern.

Source: Dodge

August 20, 2013

Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept Finally Revealed

The first image of the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept has been revealed. The vehicle will make its debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, where the Japanese brand will display the possible future hybrid development ideas it has in mind. They aim to deliver greater performance and driver rewards.

With this model, Toyota has the goal of bringing together its past achievements and future plans for hybrid technology. The concept is based on the three-door Yaris and is equipped with 1.6-litre GRE (Global Race Engine), combined with two electric motors, which in addition give the car intelligent all-wheel drive capability.

Furthermore, as earlier announced, the Hybrid-R will utilize the technology featured in Toyota’s TS030 Hybrid race car. Thanks to it, the energy which is recovered under braking is stored in a super capacitor. The effect is optimum driving pleasure.

The brand will also showcase at the event its Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) technology ahead of its launch in 2015. The goal is to achieve maximum energy and minimum emissions due to the use of hydrogen as an ultra-clean energy source.

In addition, at the show, Toyota will celebrate 16 years of hybrid technology. Back in 1997 the brand introduced to the automotive market the first Prius. Since then, there has been more than 5.5 million hybrids sold. What is more, by the end of 2015 Toyota will also introduce 16 new or revised hybrid models.

Source: Toyota

August 20, 2013

Laraki Motors Epitome Concept – Price $2,000,000

Laraki Motors has unveiled their sensational Epitome Concept Hyper Car at 2013 Pebble Beach. The spectacular vehicle is actually going to enter in limited production of just 9 units.It is built around the chassis of a Chevrolet Corvette C6. The Epitome features a carbon fiber body panels, so the curb weight is just 1,270 kg (2,800 lbs). The engine is a Chevrolet V8 7.0 liter boosted to whopping 1,200HP (894 kW) with two turbochargers. The power is achieved on regular pump gas, while there is another tank, which can accommodate 110-octane fuel and by pressing a button the car will automatically remap the ECU and will be able to run on both types of fuel. In this case, the output rises to 1,750HP (1,305 kW)The pricing for that monster is $2,000,000.

August 19, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG – Price £119,565

Mercedes-Benz UK has announced the pricing of the all-new super powerful S 63 AMG. The performance saloon is coming in the UK in November priced from £119,565 OTR. Considering the amount of power, the luxury and all extras, the price is not very high. The most powerful high-performance saloon in the luxury segment aims to set new standards in driving dynamics, performance, refinement and technology.

The engine is a hand built 5.5 liter V8 bi-turbo with 585HP (430) at 5,500 RPM and 900Nm (667) at 2,2500 RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 4Matic Long Wheelbase accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, which means that the almost two-ton luxurious saloon is as fast as Porsche 997 GT3 RS. The S 63 AMG returns 27 mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of 237 g/km.

The standard equipment includes a set of 19” AMG 10-spoke alloy wheels, high-performance Composite Brakes fitted as standard along with unique AMG sports suspension based on the all new Magic Body Control. Backing up the performance is the AMG sports exhaust system, providing a suitably thunderous soundtrack. AMG body styling including all-new front and rear bumpers, aiding cooling and adding greater visual drama are joined by AMG specific side sill panels with silver chrome inserts.

The impressive line-up of standard equipment which includes the Driving Assistance Package, Front Seat Comfort Package, Panoramic sunroof, Keyless Go Package, the mighty Burmester Surround Sound System with Six-Disc changer, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Ambient Lighting is all over and above the standard equipment offered on the outgoing model representing more than £8,400 of added value for the customer.

The S 63 AMG is available in the long wheelbase version of the S-Class offering passengers the ultimate in luxury and legroom. An AMG sports steering wheel and superbly supportive AMG sports seats, which are electronically adjustable and heated, are fitted as standard. The front centre armrest has the AMG emblem embossed on it while an AMG-specific IWC-design analogue clock features on the dash. The rear features AMG heated sports seats as well as an AMG start-up screen/instrument cluster.

The Drivers Package (£2,760) derestricts the top speed to 300 km/h (186 mph) and secures the customer a place on an AMG ‘Power and Passion’ event so they can learn how to handle their car on the racetrack. Carbon Fibre can also further enhance the look of the car with the addition of the AMG Exterior Carbon Package (£5,000) while the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system can be added for £7,090.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 19, 2013

Fiat Partners With Conde Nast For Fiat 500c GQ Edition

In February this year Fiat revealed its new limited edition model called Fiat 500c GQ Edition. Now, several months later, the Italian brand is introducing the convertible version of the model. On fact, the vehicle came to reality due to the partnership between Fiat and Condé Nast.

Both brands delivered via this model innovative and strategic custom solutions designed to engage the customers. The 500c GQ Edition is athletic yet stylish enough. The car embodies world-class performance and Italian design.

The exterior of the car has a more pronounced front fascia with larger air intakes. They serve in terms of optimizing the airflow to the 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine. In addition, performance-styled side sills deliver Cinquecento’s iconic silhouette and sporty appearance.

This Fiat runs on 16-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels with a featured sculptural design. They are finished in Hyper Nero (black) with a Rosso (red) center cap and accenting inner backbone.

Moreover, the downforce needed for the dynamic handling is delivered by a cloth-top mounted spoiler which extends the roofline. Below, the rear-fascia diffuser integrates the dual exhaust system. What is more, there are also to be mentioned the Gloss Nero headlamp, taillamp and parking lamp bezels as well as the distinctive “GQ 500” badge located on the B-pillar.

The interior of the Fiat 500c GQ Edition features performance appointments, premium materials and unique color treatments. What is immediately visible is the thick-rim three-spoke steering wheel which is wrapped in Nero leather and includes a contrasting Steam inner leather ring.

Furthermore, a large concentric instrument cluster with 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer is visible behind the steering wheel. It includes also a Nero leather-wrapped cluster brow finished with Tungsten accent stitching.

At the center one can find Nero shift knob sewn together with Tungsten accent thread. GQ Edition-specific satin chrome interior accents deliver more sophistication. Next, the seats are sporty and include special design. Nero leather is wrapped to the contoured seat bolsters, while Alcantara inserts and a Steam leatherette center stripe on the seat cushion deliver added texture and contrast.

More importantly, the new Fiat 500c GQ Edition is powered by the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine. It develops 160 horsepower (118 kW) and up to 230 Nm (170 lb.-ft.). The acceleration time of the model for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated below 7 seconds. The unit is coupled to a performance five-speed manual transmission.

Fiat 500c GQ Edition will be offered in Nero Puro (straight black), Argento (silver), Granito Lucente (granite crystal) and Bianco (white) exterior colors. The model will be available in dealerships in the beginning of 2014.

Source: Fiat

August 19, 2013

Nissan GT-R NISMO GT500 To Compete In 2014 Super GT GT500 Class

Nissan Motor Company is going to compete in the GT500 class of SUPER GT Race in Japan with its 2014 rules’ compliant machine the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT500. Two other brands have also revealed their new vehicles, created especially for the race. Honda will be on the track with the Honda NSX Concept-GT, while Lexus will enter the championship with Lexus GT LF-CC Prototype.

From 2014 the vehicles which are in the GT500 class of SUPER GT will be developed based on the same new technical regulations, except for engine-related regulations, as the DTM – the German Touring Car Championship. This of course, ensures that the battle among SUPER GT machinery will be intensified.

The development of Nissan GT-R NISMO GT500 started at the end of July and was also unveiled this weekend at a demonstration run at Round 5 of the SUPER GT series at Suzuka Circuit. Additional details around the car will be announced at a later date.

Source: Nissan

August 19, 2013

Spyker Unveils B6 Venator Spyder Concept

Spyker has revealed at Pebble Beach its new exotic sports car – Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept. Five months ago the brand has unveiled the B6 Venator Coupe Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The hand built automobile aims to deliver unique alternative in the High Luxury Sports sector, as well as a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity. B6 Venator Spyder Concept exudes vintage cues of the brand’s aviation past and also features highly detailed design and bespoke material.

The company’s motto, which is in Latin – “Nulla tenaci invia est via” and means: “For the tenacious no road is impassable”, can be seen on the exterior on the fairings. In fact, the name “Venator” in Latin stands for “Hunter”. This name also comes to pay tribute to Spyker’s “Hunter” fighter aircraft of the early 20th century.

To go further into details, cars exterior highlights include the following: the trademark radiator grille’s mesh which is V-shaped and refers to brand’s models of the previous century, headlights, equipped with LED light rails, 3D LED rear lights which resemble burners of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.

In addition, the brake light has been sculpted into the rear panel design. The concept runs on the elegant 19” TurbofanTM wheels which are in mirror polish finish.

Going to the interior, it includes surroundings crafted from the finest materials such as leather sourced from the Litano range and produced by the Royal Hulshof Dutch Tanneries in Lichtenvoorde, red cover on the ignition switch, dashboard which lights up when the car starts.

Spyker has put its attention on the lightweight design; hence the body of this model is all carbon fibre. The chassis on the other hand is all aluminium platform. Under the hood of this convertible lies the powerful V6 engine. It is capable of generating more than 375 hp (275 kW). Engine’s mount position is rear-mid and the drivetrain type is RWD. The unit is matched with six-speed automatic transmission.

Furthermore, the overall length of the car is 4347 mm, the width is 1882 mm, while the wheelbase is 2500 mm. Car’s kerb weight is estimated under 1400 kg. The production of Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept will begin in late 2014 and its starting pice will be approximately US $150,000.

Source: Spyker

August 19, 2013

Ford Kuga Titanium X Sport Makes Debut

Ford Kuga Titanium X Sport series are making a debut. The highly specified vehicle comes to enhance Kuga’s current line-up. It includes a convenience pack which comprises of power fold door mirrors and Active Park Assist.

In addition, there is also featured hands-free power tailgate, which has gained big popularity among customers. Thanks to it, they benefit from the kick activated tailgate opening. The luxurious and refined range topping Titanium X Sport is also fuel-efficient, high-tech and has excellent capabilities.

What is more, those who will enjoy driving the Titanium X Sport will also get great sports styling, that includes body coloured front rear and side skirts, body coloured wheel arches, large rear spoiler, high gloss rear diffuser, front silver skid plate, high gloss black bumper detailing.

Furthermore, to be even more attractive, Ford has given this model unique 19-in alloy wheels, chrome roof rails and dark rear windows with privacy glass. Inside, one can find popular technology options such as Sony DAB Navigation system, Rear View Camera, Active Park Assist and power folding door mirrors.

Ford Kuga Titanium X Sport series has a starting price of US$44,298 (£28,345) and will be available to order from 19th of August.

Source: Ford

August 19, 2013

Subaru BRZ tS Limited Edition

Subaru has announced the BRZ tS, which hits the market today through the dealerships in Japan.

The inherent handling performance of the Subaru BRZ has been further enhanced by using expertise developed in motorsports while achieving the “strength and nimbleness” driving committed by STI. The “SUBARU BRZ tS” offers a driver “oneness with vehicle” and “agile handling pleasure”.

The upgrades include 18” silver STI-designed wheels, Brembo brake kit, front add-on spoiler, STI rear suspension link with pillow ball bush, along with reworked coil springs and shock absorbers.

The interior boasts aluminum side sills, Alcantara applications and new front seats.

The engine is the well-known 2.0 liter boxer with 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm of torque.

2013 Subaru BRZ tS is limited to just 500 units and all of them must be preordered before March 9, 2014.

SUBARU BRZ tS GT PACKAGE

-Mechanism-
225/40ZR18 (92Y) tires (Michelin Pilot Super Sport)
STI designed 18” x 7 1/2J aluminum wheels (silver)
brembo front 17” opposed 4-pot ventilated disc brake with “STI” logo
brembo rear 17” opposed 2-pot ventilated disc brake with “STI” logo
STI designed rear suspension link with pillow ball bush (trailing link front, lateral link front inside & rear inside)
STI tuned strut and STI coil springs for front suspension
STI tuned damper and STI coil springs for rear suspension
STI designed flexible tower bar, front
STI designed flexible draw stiffener, front
STI designed large-diameter driveshaft
Exclusively-tuned VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Exclusively-tuned filter for Sound Creator®*2

-Exterior-
STI designed front under spoiler
STI designed front fender garnish with “STI” logo
Exclusively-made “STI” ornament (front & rear), “tS” ornament (rear)

-Interior-
Exclusively-made front seat with “STI” logo and red stitch
[Alcantara®*3 (gray punching) / leather (gray), “STI” logo, gray stitch, front seat heater, SRS side airbag]
Exclusively-made leather lapped steering wheel (with “STI” ornament and red stitch)
STI designed leather shift knob (manual transmission) / select lever (automatic transmission) with “STI” logo
Exclusively-made speedometer with “STI” logo
Exclusively-made speedometer visor [Alcantara® (black), black stitch]
Carbon tone instrument panel
STI designed push engine switch with “STI” logo (red)
Exclusively-made aluminum side sill plate with “tS” logo
STI designed leather access key cover (red)

-Equipments for GT PACKAGE-
STI designed 18: x 7 1/2J aluminum wheels (black)
STI designed dry carbon rear spoiler (2 angle adjustable)
Recaro designed front bucket seat
[Alcantara® (gray punching) / leather (gray), “STI” logo, gray stitch, SRS side airbag]

*2: Sound Creator® is the registered trademark of MAHLE Filter Systems Japan Corporation.
*3: Alcantara® is the registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A

Source: Subaru

August 19, 2013

Category: Auto News