Auto News – Page 654 – Automobiles Review

Exclusive: Honda Teases Brand New MPV

Exclusively Honda has just released a sketch which teases the brand-new Honda MPV. The official global premiere of the vehicle is to happen at the upcoming 21st Indonesia International Motor Show. The event will take place between 19th and 29th of September in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The new Honda MPV was created specifically for the Asian market. In addition this model will be the first brand’s product in Indonesia which is to be featured in the entry level MPV segment.

What has been revealed so far is that the new MPV is going to be based on brand’s model Brio and is to offer seven seats in a 3-row configuration. Of course, as it is visible from the sketch, the model will also feature an innovative design. Being a MPV it is to offer a spacious cabin, and Honda’s popular advanced safety.

More importantly, the Honda MPV will be powered by a 1.5L gasoline engine, which will provide not only great levels of fuel efficiency but also sporty performance.

This model will also be locally produced in Indonesia as the first product of the new Second Plant in Karawang which will start working in the beginning of 2014. Honda India probably will also show the MPV at the 2014 Auto Expo in February.

Source: Honda

July 19, 2013

Range Rover Sport RS300 Cosworth By Kahn Design

Kahn Range Rover Sport RS300 Cosworth comes to show exceptional quality and exquisite high-tech engineering next to a great level of glamour and luxury. This unique Range Rover is painted in the stunning Imperial blue color thus contributing to even more powerful stance of the vehicle.

The outstanding design language of A. Kahn Design is fully expressed in this project. The Range Rover Sport 3.0 SDV6 RS300 Cosworth imposes elegant curves and firm body elements as well as dynamic proportions.

In order to implement the lightweight design philosophy, the tuners have equipped the vehicle with a six piece wide arch body styling package. The latter comprises of a RS front grille with 3D mesh, extended front lower lip spoiler, lower bumper bar section in body colour, pair of bullet side vent inserts, front wheel arch LED light strips, lower front bumper lip extension.

In addition, the package also includes the Kahn branding visible on the bonnet and tailgate. This Range Rover Sport runs on RS black and blue stripe alloy wheels which are in sizes 9.5 x 22 and 10 x 22 at the front and rear respectively. Furthermore, what makes the car even more exclusive in terms of appearance are the Kahn enamel wing shields, painted floating roof and the privacy tinted glass.

Thanks to Cosworth, the engine of this emblematic model is enhanced via an engine upgrade. It consists of an arrangement of alterations to the ECU programming, ensuring a boost in power from 245 hp (180 kW) to 290 hp (213 kW). Of course, this results in a more intense driving experience and far greater performance of the car.

Inside the car has been also transformed in order to keep up with the astonishing new exterior look. Various comprehensive improvements to the interior have been made. For instance the front and rear seats with armrests were wrapped in quilted and perforated black leather. There are also present vented foot pedals in machined aluminum, leather binnacle (instrument surround) quilted, diamond quilted centre glove box and a colored rev counter and time clock.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 19, 2013

Ford F-150 Crimefighter Bat Truck Customized By Galpin Auto Sports

Since Comic-Con has just started we have already seen some unique vehicles made for this event. An example from yesterday is the Kia Sorento Justice League Car. Now it is time for more aggressive vehicle to take our attention – the Ford F-150 Crime Fighter Bat Truck.

This magnificently tuned Ford pays tribute to the original Batmobile. The reason for its existence is the work of the specialists at Galpin Auto Sports, who have built it after the design of Jared Barris.

As a matter of fact, Jared is a grandson of George Barris, who designed and built the iconic first Batmobile back in 1965. George used parts found at a hardware store and the body of a Ford Futura Concept Car.

The result was stunning and made Barris a legend among custom car designers. The original Batmobile was auctioned in January this year for the amount of $4.2 million.

Now Jared Barris is debuting his own version of the Batmobile which is built on the emblematic Ford F-150 and pays tribute to his grandfather’s Batmobile. He envisioned the new version of the superhero’s vehicle as a Bat Truck and has given it the name “The Crimefighter”.

The Ford was customized by Galpin Auto Sports with a tuxedo black paint job and Ferrari red accents, thanks to which the resemblance with the original Batmobile is stunning. In addition, the bed of the Crimefighter has even been adorned with fins. The vehicle is powered by a Ford 5.0-liter V8 engine.

Source: Galpin Auto Sports

July 19, 2013

Soy Body Sealer Featured In The 2014 Jeep Cherokee

It has been announced that the 2014 Jeep Cherokee will include a revolutionary body sealer. The latter will deliver a tranquil driving experience and at the same will contribute towards enhanced weight-reduction, cost-savings and sustainability.

To be more specific, special applicators inject unique acoustic foam into strategic locations of the Jeep’s body structure. The injected foam blocks additional and unwanted noise which gets inside the cabin.

Additionally, because of the density of the foam it is much lighter than the traditionally utilized acoustic material. The result is weight savings of up to 1.5 lbs. per vehicle, which also effects in an enhanced fuel economy and better handling.

Another good benefit of the newly use material is that it also minimizes the impact on the environment. It was developed with and supplied by Dow Automotive Systems, BETAFOAM™ Renue. In fact, the foam comprises of a soy-based product instead of the usually used petroleum.

Again, because of the lower density of the material, the vehicle requires less of it, and this eventually results in achievement of the desired performance and to reduced cost. Furthermore, the new foam bolsters 10 locations of the Cherokee’s body structure.

They feature the A- and B-pillars and rear wheelwells. Due to its lower viscosity, it also is easier for the engineers to operate with and affords greater logistical flexibility for the plant.

Source: Jeep

July 19, 2013

2013 Nissan GT-R vs 2013 Audi RS6 Avant [video]

Here is another interesting test that proves Nissan GT-R R35 is the best car on the market. It is going against the powerful Audi RS6 Avant.

The GT-R is powered by a VR38DETT engine – – a 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 550HP (400 kW) at 6400 RPM and 632Nm (466 lb-ft) of torque at 3200RPM. 0-100 km/h in 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph). The curb weight is 1740kg. It has power-to-weight ratio of 311HP per ton.

The RS6 has a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 560HP (412 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 304 km/h (189 mph). The curb weight is 2010kg. It has power-to-weight ratio of 275HP per ton.

Both cars cost roughly the same, but as you may suggest the GT-R is way more faster, while the RS 6 is way more comfortable.

Which is better? Check out in the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuTZSekmu3w

Source: Autocar

July 18, 2013

2014 Mazda3 Coupe [render]

Immediately after the revealing of the all-new 2014 Mazda3 Sedan, Theophiluschin started to work on a coupe version implementing the firm’s KODO design language. Obviously, he did very good and the render pictures look just amazing.

Still, there are no rumors for planning such a model from Mazda, but it will be a good rival to Honda Civic Coupe, Hyundai Elantra Coupe and Kia Forte Koup. All manufacturers expand their model range to be highly competitive on the market, so this is a very good idea, which Mazda should have in mind.

Both, the Sedan and the Hatchback look very good, but the Coupe outmatches them easily with its aggressive design and sleek appearance.

July 18, 2013

2013 Ford Transit Connect – 4.0 liters / 100 km

Ford has announced the all-new 2013 Transit Connect offering best-in-class fuel efficiency – 70.6 mpg (4 liters / 100 km).

The engine is a 1.6 liter Duratorq TDCi with 95HP. IT enables dramatic reductions in operating costs by reducing fuel costs by as much as £1,600 compared with key class rivals over a typical four-year ownership period. The engine range also includes the highly fuel-efficient 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine – twice winner of the International Engine of the Year – delivering class-leading petrol fuel economy of 50.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 129g/km.

Transit Connect’s reduced fuel bills are supported by further improvements in routine servicing and maintenance costs with extended service intervals of up to 20,000 miles or 12 months.

The stylish all-new Transit Connect has been engineered to set new standards for load-carrying ability, cost of ownership and dependability within its class.

Available in short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions, Transit Connect offers a spacious and practical load area with total volumes of 2.9m³ and 3.6m³ (SAE – with full bulkhead fitted) and a maximum payload of up to 1,000kg. Ford will offer Van, Double-Cab-in-Van and Kombi derivatives. Deliveries of the all-new Transit Connect van are scheduled to start towards the end of 2013.

Fuel cost saving over an 80,000-mile, 4-year lifecycle (fuel cost £1.40/litre):

Model	Combined fuel consumption (mpg)	Total fuel cost (£)	Cost difference (£)
Ford Transit Connect ECOnetic 1.6 TDCi 95PS	70.6	7200
VW Caddy 1.6TDi 75kW BlueMotion Technology	57.6	8833	+ 1633
Peugeot Partner 1.6 e-HDi 90 Stop & Start	57.6	8833	+ 1633
Citroen Berlingo 1.6 e-HDi 90 Airdream	58.8	8653	+ 1453
Renault Kangoo Energy dCi 90	65.7	7744	+ 544

Previous model 220 BASE 1.8 TDCi 75PS 5-speed manual compared with new model 220 BASE 1.6 TDCi 75PS 5-speed manual. Set by independent RV provider, CAP

Source: Ford

July 18, 2013

Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE and DBR 1-2 Race Car – Price £500,000

Aston Martin is going to sell a V8 Vantage GTE and DBR 1-2 Race Cars for £250,000 (around €290,000) each.

The Vantage GTE took place at Le Mans in 2012 with Allan Simonsen, Cristoffer Nygaard and Kristian Poulsen behind the steering wheel. The DBR 1-2 competed in the LMP1 class between 2009 and 2011. Both cars feature Gulf livery and are designed to be used for display purposes. Unfortunately, that means the engine and gearbox have been removed to make transportation easier.

These cars never fail to generate high levels of interest, even amongst non-motorsport followers.

Source: Aston Martin

July 18, 2013

Announced Pricing For The Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited Edition

Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited Edition was revealed to the world in May this year. Now the famous German brand is announcing the pricing of this special edition version of the iconic Beetle.

One of the reasons that make this Volkswagen unique is that only 3500 of it will be built globally. Secondly, the car is inspired by the GSR “Yellow Black Racer” which was famous in the 70s. This means that the new model will also include a yellow-and-black exterior.

To be more precise, the body and R-Line® bumpers are finished in yellow, while the hood is mainly black. The trunklid, roof, and the exterior mirror caps are also black.

In addition, the vehicle has yellow/black stripes with “GSR” lettering above the side skirts and a large rear spoiler. What completes the look of this GSR are the 19-inch “Tornado” aluminum-alloy wheels matched with 235/40 tires. They also feature black-painted brake calipers.

The interior of the Beetle is unique as the exterior and it is finished again in the same color scheme, visible in the sport seats and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. In fact, the black-trimmed leather seating surfaces and high-grip leather-wrapped steering wheel have contrasting yellow stitching.

Moreover, one can see inside the car a R-Line dash pad, a GSR shift lever, a leather-wrapped handbrake lever, and black floormats with contrasting yellow embroidery. A badge on the steering wheel is marked with the special-edition number which highlights the uniqueness of the car.

What is more, under the hood of this car is the EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI® engine. It is capable of generating 210 horsepower (155 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the limited edition car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 6.6 seconds and to reach a top track speed of 130 mph.

The unit is mated as a standard to a six-speed manual transmission. However, as an option Volkswagen offers a choice of a dual-clutch DSG six-speed automatic transmission.

The GSR is based on the R-Line with Sunroof and Sound with Navigation model, therefore it will offer to its customers wide range of technology features including the following: Fender® Premium Audio System, panoramic sunroof, RNS 315® navigation system, keyless access with push-button start, Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs, LED license-plate lighting, heatable front seats, Bluetooth® connectivity, a Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod® cable, three-color ambient lighting, aluminum-alloy-look pedals, clock with a stopwatch function and a boost gauge.

Beetle GSR Limited Edition will have a starting price of US $29 995 for the models equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, while the price tag for the version with the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic is US $31 095.

Source: Volkswagen

July 18, 2013

Aston Martin To Debut Three Models At Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Aston Martin is going to make a premiere of its three new models at this years Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, which is going to take place between 14th and 18th of August in California. The models that are going to have their premiere are the new Vanquish Volante , the V12 Vantage S and the CC100 Speedster Concept.

This year the iconic British brand is making centennial celebrations around the world. The Vanquish Volante will make its global debut at Pebble Beach, while the V12 Vantage S and CC100 Speedster Concept are making their first appearances in the United States.

First, the Vanquish Volante draws its power by the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine. The latter is matched with a Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic gearbox. The car is able of producing 565 hp (415 kW) at 6,750 rpm and has a peak torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm.

Next, the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S is powered by an AM28 6.0-litre V12 engine. It generates 573 hp (421 kW) and 620 Nm (459 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm. It covers the aacceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph). The engine is mated to a Sportshift™III AMT (automated manual transmission) which powers the rear wheels.

At last, in the CC100 Speedster Concept new materials were used for the build of its body and interior. For instance, carbon fibre can be seen prominently in the design of the new concept.

In addition, the CC100 utilizes the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated V12 gasoline engine which is connected to a six-speed hydraulically actuated automated sequential manual transmission. The new concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in little more than 4 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph.

Source: Aston Martin

July 18, 2013

Fiat Catches A Wave On Vans US Open Of Surfing [VIDEO]

Fiat is going to display its entire product portfolio including the all-electric Fiat 500e at the Huntington Beach, California. The Italian brand will team up with Vans US Open of Surfing there.

The event will take place between 20th and 28th of July, where Fiat will celebrate the recent launch of the all-new, all-electric Fiat 500e in California. In addition it will also display the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio and the new Fiat 500L and 500L Trekking models.

A special edition model will be also displayed. Its name is Fiat 500c “Beach Cruiser”. And for those who are to visit the event, there will be Fiat brand giveaways such as Wayfarer sunglasses, sunscreen, t-shirts and other FIAT-branded items.

With the participation at this event, fiat is again encouraging people to be in charge of their lives, live confidently and celebrate the smallest of things with great excitement. This philosophy is visible throughout brand’s car range, including the iconic Fiat 500 or Cinquecento.

The latter is one of the smallest cars that have been ever offered on the market. It is Italian at heart and rooted in a rich heritage, Fiat 500 is synonymous with modern, simple design blending form and function.

As a matter of fact, the new Fiat 500 and 500c models are reminiscent of the original Cinquecento, and have been launched in 2007. In total, more than 1,000,000 Fiat 500 vehicles have been sold in more than 100 countries around the world.

Now the Fiat brand portfolio in North America expands even further with the launch of the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio, the fully-electric Fiat 500e and the Fiat 500L. The 500L is a five-passenger model which ads style and efficiency into the growing B-segment.

httpv://youtu.be/7WDupghLSfk

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Fiat

July 18, 2013

Kia Reveals Unique Justice League Car At Comic-Con

Comic-Con has just started, taking place in San Diego. There was revealed the artistic Justice League-inspired Kia Sorento, which is the eighth and final custom vehicle built as a result of the partnership of Kia and DC Entertainment.

The car has a stunning design which was penned by legendary comic book artist and DC Entertainment Co-Publisher Jim Lee. The car is part of the campaign “We Can Be Heroes” which aims to raise awareness fight the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa. Up to date there has been raised over $2.3 million and helped over 5 million men, women and children there.

As part of this campaign Kia and DCE created a collection of all eight Justice League-inspired Kia, which will be shown at the Comic-Con at the Interactive Zone at Petco Park. Furthermore, the newly revealed Justice League car will be part of a special online charity auction on eBay which benefits the “We Can Be Heroes” campaign.

As a matter of fact, the seven-seat Sorento marks the final chapter in a 10-month, eight-vehicle partnership between DC Entertainment and Kia based on the iconic characters of Justice League: Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

Each one of them has been featured with a special car, designed by Lee. This final car catches the entire Justice League. Jim Lee’s artwork has been hand-painted via custom air-brushing by the world-famous West Coast Customs.

Like all of the Justice League-inspired vehicles this customized Kia Sorento mixes the automotive and pop-culture worlds. In addition, it also allows Kia to extend its philanthropic efforts.

Source: Kia

July 18, 2013

Category: Auto News