Auto News – Page 671 – Automobiles Review

Athletic: Vorsteiner BMW F13 M6 Gran Coupe

Vorsteiner BMW F13 M6 Gran Coupe comes to offer the BMW enthusiasts more athletic stance and modern styling thanks to the new released tuning program. It highlights the lines of the M6 beast and makes it stand even more out.

The specialists at Vorsteiner have started the modification with add-on spoiler, which has a subtle but effective design. It directs the airflow and adds down force. In addition, it also gives the car a lower stance and improves its performance capabilities.

Furthermore, the add-on side skirts give this BMW lower and more aggressive appearance. They keep the vehicle balanced and create additional down force. What additionally helps the performance is the new rear diffuser attached to the rear bumper.

This element includes four extended aero fins and an upper splitter. The function of the rear diffuser is to reduce the turbulence and enhance the airflow from under the vehicle. At the same time the top splitter creates down force.

What rounds off the aero kit is the boot lid spoiler, which is created with the aim to deliver additional rear down force, while improving the style of the M6. All of the mentioned components are made of pre-preg carbon fiber.

At last, the overall appearance of the Vorsteiner BMW F13 M6 Gran Coupe is finished by the set of 21 inch VSE-003 forged aluminum wheels with five twin spoke design. They retain the factory tire pressure monitoring system in order to minimize unsprung weight for improved vehicle handling and performance.

Source: Vorsteiner

June 18, 2013

2014 Audi A3 Sedan – UK Price £24,275

Audi UK has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 A3 Sedan. The entry-level model 1.4TFSI CoD Sport comes at £24,275 and the top-of-range 1.8TFSI S-Line is priced at £28,105. The diesel variant is only one – 2.0TDI Sport for £24,275.

Sport and S line versions sit low on their respective 17” and 18” alloy wheels thanks to sports suspension, but both can also be specified at no extra cost with more comfort-oriented standard suspension.

They also share features including sports seats, the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system, dual-zone climate control, the MMI radio incorporating an 11 mm-thick powered folding screen and DAB digital radio, preparation for SD card navigation, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, a Driver Information System and the Bluetooth mobile phone interface.

Interior highlights of the S-line specification include part-leather-upholstery embossed with the S line logo and an S line sports steering wheel with perforated leather grips and shift paddles where S tronic is fitted.

Outside, 18” alloy wheels, S line body styling and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps set the top model apart.

Full-LED headlights will also be available later in 2013 as an alternative to the xenon units in S line models and the halogen units in Sport versions.

The Audi A3 Saloon – UK OTR Pricing – First Phase

Model	Engine	Trim	PS	Trans	OTR
A3 Saloon	1.4TFSI CoD	Sport	140	S tronic	£24,305
A3 Saloon	1.4TFSI CoD	S line	140	S tronic	£26,455
A3 Saloon	1.8TFSI	Sport	180	S tronic	£25,955
A3 Saloon	1.8TFSI	S line	180	S tronic	£28,105
A3 Saloon	2.0TDI	Sport	150	manual	£24,275
A3 Saloon	2.0TDI	S line	150	manual	£26,425

Source: Audi

June 18, 2013

CHRYSLER in a Nutshell

Chrysler is owned by the Italian automaker, Fiat, but it wasn’t always so. Chrysler has a rich history, like so many other carmakers that began in the early twentieth century. Today it is still considered one of the Big Three automakers in the U.S., next to Ford and General Motors and it’s going strong.

Before it became the Chrysler Corporation it was the Maxwell Motor Company. That company existed from 1904 until 1925. They made affordable cars and began having financial difficulties when they couldn’t sell very many cars during the 1920 recession. Walter Chrysler, who was a troubleshooter and apparently knew a lot about the car business, decided to help the Maxwell Company out. He came in and tinkered with it and then took a controlling interest in the company and ultimately, absorbed all of Maxwell’s assets and stamped his name on the product. From 1925 on, the company was known as the Chrysler Corporation.

In 1928, Chrysler created the Plymouth and DeSoto brands of cars and also bought the Dodge brand. 1928 was a pretty good year for Chrysler. Walter Chrysler was not only a troubleshooter, but he was an innovator, also. His cars were the first to use an air filter and an oil filter. The Chrysler brand also had full pressure lubrication and had high compression engines. In order to decrease engine vibration, Chrysler implemented the use of rubber motor mounts. Another specialty feature that Chrysler thought of and put into use was the rigid rimmed wheel. This kept flat tires from flying off the wheel. Safety and efficiency seemed to be their underlying drive and the Chrysler Corporation was willing to spend time and money on research and development of these and many other standard features.

These things are all taken for granted today, but in Walter Chrysler’s time, no other carmaker was doing it. No one bothered to be innovative or to make their cars safer for the driver and passengers and nearby pedestrians.

Chrysler is generally known for their luxury cars and their reputation is well deserved. Their luxury brands are indeed, luxurious. In the 1940s they were big and opulent. In the 1950s and 60s you could see a Chrysler coming from blocks away. And in the 1970s, the early seventies, they seemed to get even bigger and more opulent. The oil crisis in the early seventies changed all that. Chrysler developed smaller, more fuel-efficient cars but still kept their luxury brands available. They are still available today and they are beautiful and good sized. They’re powerful and comfortable. They are efficient and luxurious. Yes, Chrysler has maintained a wonderful line of cars; and they’re still thinking of safety and efficiency and they still have a lot of style. There are now thousands of Chrysler dealerships like Arrigo Palm Beach that can offer you the luxury of a Chrysler.

June 18, 2013

2014 BMW 4-Series Coupe – US Price $41,425

BMW has officially announced the all-new 2014 4-Series Coupe.

The “4” in its title headlines this new product line for the Coupe and emphasizes not only its stand-out design, but that any way you look at it, the new 4 Series Coupe represents something more than its BMW 3 Series cousins.

The 4-Series Coupe is visibly larger in width and wheelbase than the outgoing BMW 3-Series Coupe (E92), and its stretched silhouette sits considerably lower to the road. This, together with its BMW-typical short overhangs, long hood and set-back passenger compartment with flowing roofline, give the BMW 4 Series Coupe a visual balance. The car’s striking front end – with its characteristic BMW design features, such as the double- kidney grille, four round headlights and a large air intake in the front apron – is keen to display its family ties with the BMW 3 Series. New elements of the BMW 4 Series Coupe are the Air Breathers, which are positioned rearwards of the front wheel arches to reduce drag. The Coupe’s muscular wheel arches and wide track give an aggressive stance, with its prominent horizontal lines.

Overall, the 4-Series is 26mm longer, 43mm wider and 16 lower than the E92. The model also rides on a 50mm longer wheelbase and weighs 45 kg (99 lb) less.

The engine range includes a 428i – a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 245HP (180 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). There is also a 435i – a 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 300HP (224 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seocnds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The styling packages include:

A Sport package with gloss black accents, a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels
A Luxury package with chrome accents, leather seats and high-gloss wood trim
An M Sport package with an aerodynamic body kit, shadow line trim and 18-inch M-style wheels. There’s also a sports suspension, high-performance brakes and M-spec interior.

The 428i will be priced from $41,425, while the 435i will retail for $46,925.

Source: BMW

June 17, 2013

Loder1899 Jaguar XF V6 Diesel S

Loder1899 has presented their latest project based on the Jaguar XF V6 Diesel S model.

The luxurious saloon powered by a 3.0 liter V6 diesel now comes with more power. The engine produces 310HP (231 kW) and 680Nm (501 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 35HP and 80Nm. 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds quicker than the standard version. However, the fuel consumption is not harmed.

The exterior comes with a set of new 21” black alloy wheels fitted with wide low-profile tires. There is also a new front apron, a carbon fiber diffuser and a boot lid spoiler. The tuning company painted in black some of the elements – front grille, hood vents, headlights and taillights.

Last, but not least, Loder1899 offers an optional sport exhaust system for €4,600.

Source: Loder1899

June 17, 2013

SchwabenFolia Chevrolet Camaro SS – Better Styling and More Power

SchwabenFolia has announced their latest project based on the aggressive Chevrolet Camaro SS. The tuned sports car boasts meaner appearance thanks to a dark grey matte metallic exterior finish.

The car has been reworked by German wrapping specialist SchwabenFolia who installed some nice upgrades like blades, vents and scoops. There is also a set of new BBS alloy wheels painted in black fitted with ultra-low profile tires.

The 6.2 liter V8 received a full supercharger kit (SLP TVS2300 supercharger), however performance figures aren’t released, but the expected power is something around 525HP (386 kW).

Source: SchwabenFolia

June 17, 2013

2014 Lexus IS With Included Advanced Technology Pack

2014 Lexus IS is now going to be equipped with even more advanced safety features and driving aids thanks to the introduction of an additional option pack. The latter will be exclusively offered for the flagship Premier versions of the new IS 250 and full hybrid IS 300h.

To be more precise, it consists of the following four enhancements: Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Assist (LDA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB). The first system – the PCS system utilizes a millimetre-wave radar sensor which works over a 20-degree scanning radius in order to find obstacles in the vehicle’s path, even when cornering.

In addition, the PCS uses several sensors, a pre-collision computer monitors vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate inputs. This helps in the earlier determination of an impending collision.

For instance, if there is a high risk of a collision, this system alerts the driver immediately with a buzzer and warning on the multimedia display. Simultaneously it activates the Pre-Crash Seatbelt pretensioners, and when the driver begins to brake, it additionally provides Pre-Crash Brake Assist. And in the cases when the driver does not brake, then the Pre-Crash Brake automatically applies the brakes to reduce the impact speed.

The other feature is the Adaptive Cruise Control which works in two modes: constant speed control and vehicle-to-vehicle distance control. The first mode operates at speeds above 31mph (50km/h), and it is as a conventional cruise control system.

The second mode has the ability to differentiate between vehicles directly ahead, and those in a lane in the vicinity. It utilizes the PCS millimetre-wave radar sensor at a constant speed, as well as decelerator, follow-up and accelerator controls. They work in terms of slowing the Lexus, matching its speed in front and, and once the road ahead is clear – accelerating back to the previously selected cruising speed.

The Lane Departure Alert system on the other hand monitors road markings via a camera mounted on the rear-view mirror. The camera can detect if the 2014 IS is deviating from its lane without the turn signals being used. Then it signals by sounding a buzzer and showing a warning on the instrument display.

At last, the Automatic High Beam function for the headlamps enhances the night-time visibility by automatically switching to low beam when the system’s camera detects the lights of an oncoming vehicle or one travelling ahead.

Source: Lexus

June 17, 2013

2014 Opel Insignia To Debut At Frankfurt Motor Show

2014 Opel Insignia will celebrate its world debut at the 65th Frankfurt Motor Show in mid September. The exclusive model will offer its customers even more attractive interior and exterior styling.

Furthermore, the car will include new and more powerful ultra-efficient direct injection engines – namely the two new-generation Turbo gasoline units and the 99 g Turbo diesel. They will expand the engine choices that are currently being offered. As a matter of fact, both variants (the 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp) consume just 3.7 liters of fuel per 100 km in the combined cycle. This makes the new 2014 Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI is the most fuel efficient diesel car in its class.

In addition, chassis improvements now contribute towards better agility and comfort. The new infotainment system on the other hand integrates many smartphone functions into the car and can be operated via a touchpad in the center console.

Three criteria were on the spotlight during the improvement of the cockpit. It had to be clear, simple and to deliver intuitive operation. In addition, the goals were to offer the occupants comfort and safety. The center console is now refined and it includes a range of new technologies and functions.

As stated already, the new infotainment generation in the Insignia can be now manipulated via eight-inch touchpad. Through it the driver accesses all functions and sub-menus. In addition, the infotainment system can be controlled via clearly laid-out steering wheel controls as well as voice commands.

What is more, the new Opel Insignia now includes refreshments in terms of powertrain and chassis. For instance, the enhancements to the chassis include modifications on the dampers, stabilizers and steering, resulting in decreased noise and higher comfort.

On the other hand, the engine choice has been expanded via the introduction of three propulsion alternatives: gasoline, diesel and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). In particular, the new Insignia 2.0 CDTI generates 88 kW (120 hp) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque or 103 kW (140 hp) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque (depending on the model), and in addition it emits only 99 g/km of CO2.

Next, the top of the range diesel unit is the 143 kW (195 hp) 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI one. The high-performance diesel with sequential, two stage turbo chargers generates torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). It also delivers direct responsiveness and great propulsion power across a broad rpm range.

Moreover, the gasoline engines offered for this Opel model are the two turbo direct injection units: the 2.0 SIDI Turbo with 184 kW (250 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) maximum torque as well as the 1.6 SIDI Turbo from the newest engine generation with 125 kW (170 hp) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft).

The most economical unit in the range however is the 103 kW (140 hp) 1.4 LPG one. It generates maximum torque of 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) and has a fuel consumption of 7.6 l/100 km and low CO2 emissions of 124 g/km.

To go further into details, the exterior design of this Opel now includes low-and-wide front graphic to visually pronounce its wide stance. The high-gloss chrome grille is wider and lower and the brand bar that cradles the Opel logo is leaner and features winglets that link the eye to the re-designed headlamps.

The latter come with bi-xenon lamps including the safety lighting system AFL+. In addition, they are made in high gloss black with embedded chrome accents. The up-level headlamps feature a wing signature daytime running light with energy-saving LEDs.

Moreover, the lower front fascia inserts are designed to appear slim and wide. This further emphasizes the upper grille size. The fog lamps on the other hand are combined with wide black inserts and chrome accents.

Observed from side, the new Insignia features new unique tailgates and integrated spoiler design. The roofline reaches the spoiler trailing edge thus highlighting the classic coupe silhouette.

At the rear the new Insignia includes wider and lower proportions. Here, the high-gloss chrome brand bar is positioned lower on the tailgate and features Opel’s logo. It extends into the tail lamps to include the slim-look reverse functions.

2014 Opel Insignia will be offered as a four-door, five-door and Sports Tourer variant; prices begin at 24,325 euros with first orders starting from 21st of June.

Source: Opel

June 17, 2013

2014 Alfa Romeo MiTo Facelift

Alfa Romeo has unveiled the 2014 MiTo Facelift. With its revamped technological image, the car will maintain its consolidated image as a sporty compact capable of winning over motorists who demand care for details, Italian style and technical excellence for total safety driving style.

The exterior features Giulietta-inspired chrome grille, new headlight surrounds and restyled 15” wheels on Impression variants. The 2014 MiTo is available in ten colors including a new Anthracite Grey.

The interior boasts a revised dashboard trim and three new upholstery combinations. The model can also be equipped with a new Uconnect infotainment system that has a five-inch display and Bluetooth/iPod/USB/AUX connectivity.

The engine range will include a new 0.9 liter Turbo TwinAir engine with 105HP (72 kW) and 145Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 11.4 seconds and a top speed of 184 km/h (114 mph). The fuel consumption is great – 4.2 L / 100 km – 67.2 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

The 2014 Alfa Romeo MiTo is expected to hit the market soon with pricing starting from €14,800.

Source: Alfa Romeo

June 17, 2013

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake by Spencer Hart

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake by Spencer Hart has just been born out of the collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and luxury menswear brand Spencer Hart. The vehicle shows elegance, style and glamour, and in addition brings together the design philosophies from the worlds of fashion and automotive engineering.

CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake by Spencer Hart has been styled by Nick Hart – the Creative Director of the famous menswear brand. This special edition car appears in a specially created colour ‘Nick Hart Midnight Blue’, which stuns with its extremely stylish cues.

In addition, for the project has been chosen subtle, dark, understated finishes for interior. CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake by Spencer Hart includes special dark Chocolate Brown Italian leather seats with contrasting Midnight Blue stitching. Of course, Spencer Hart’s logo is embroidered into each headrest. The unique design is further enhanced by Nick Hart’s signature, creating a subtle feature on the centre console.

The world debut of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake took place at the “Night of the Stars” at the Formula 1 German Grand Prix in July 2012. This unique high-performance vehicle from AMG was the new embodiment of an innovative vehicle concept. In essence it represents an unprecedented embodiment of a sports car with five seats and a large tailgate.

The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake by Spencer Hart is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 557HP (410 kW) at 5,500RPM and 720Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. It needs only 4.2 seconds to cover the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. This car showcases that with creativity and imagination one can create something unique and special.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 17, 2013

INDEN Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Borrasca

In Spanish Borasca means storm and thunderstorm, and this was the name given by INDEN Design to their latest projcet. They have transformed the iconic Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster model.

The designers confirm that it was tough to modify something that already has an inherent perfection. Fot this reason a good number of minor but highly effective „touches“ has been done on the sophisticated outer shell of this Mercedes-Benz.

First of all, in order to imrpve the aerodynamics of the vehicke, INDEN Design integrated a new bumper bar at the front in addition to the individual front spoiler lip. The latter was made entirely of high-grade carbon fiber tissue as well as the new engine hood.

When obsereved from the side, the SLS Borrasca stands out with its new mud guard with inserts of carbon fibers and black fins. Additionally, there were also added completely new side skirts with rear air shaft. At the rear the specialists have applied carbon fiber in the new rear apron which features a diffuser.

Furthermore, there is also visible a new stainless steel sports exhaust system with flap control. However, it is modified to have the original AMG end-pipes. In terms of power, the SLS AMG Roadster now generates 635 hp (467 kW).

The power is realized on the road via a set of classical light alloy rims with ten arched double spokes. In combination with a lowering of circa 15 mm, the wheel set fills the wheel houses of the SLS perfectly well in the format 10.5×21 and 11.5×21 inches for the front and rear respectively. The wheels are matched with Continental tires in the formats 265/30/21 and 295/25/21.

Source: INDEN Design

June 17, 2013

Toyota GT 86 TRD Griffon Project at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

Toyota has presented the GT 86 TRD Griffon Project, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The car is modified specially for track driving. It comes with a TRD mechanical differential instead of the stock Torsen unit, while the final drive ratio has been shortened to 4.8:1.

Other modifications include new oil cooler, coilover suspension and TRD monoblock calipers with race-spec brake pads.

The car has gone through a massive weight reduction. Overall, 277 kg (500 lbs) has been shaved of the vehicles weight. This means a curb weight of the GT 86 TRD Griffon Project – 1,034 kg (2,279 lbs).

The exterior features carbon fiber doors, hood, roof, rear wing and boot lid, while the rear diffuser, front wing and bumpers are made from CFRP. The stock glass windows have been replaced by lighter polycarbonate units. The GT 86 now sits on 18” alloys wrapped around in Yokohama Advan performance tires.

The interior comes with a bucket seat, MOMO steering and other TRD upgrades like gauges, push start switch and gearshift knob.

Check out the full specs and equipment below!

Base vehicle	TOYOTA 86
Vehicle Type	ZN6
Vehicle dimensions (Mm)	Height Overall width 1,800 × 1,235 4,334 × length
Weight of vehicle	1,034 kg or more
Wheelbase	2,570 mm
Minimum ground clearance	No low road, per pole test car based minimum ground clearance
Tread [before]	–
Tread [after]	–
Tire size [before]	250/640R18
Tire size [after]	250/640R18
Displacement	1,998 cc
Drive system	[Rear-wheel-drive system] 2WD
Transmission	6-speed MT
Maximum output target value [] (KW [ps] / rpm)	147 [200] / 7,000
Maximum torque value [target] (N · m [kgf · m] / rpm)	205 [20.9] / 6,400 ~ 6,700
Exterior	Original design front bumper made of GFRP
	Hood made of CFRP
	Original design front fenders GFRP (wider)
	Doors made of CFRP
	Side mirror for racing
	Roof made of CFRP original design
	Trunk hood made of CFRP
	Original design rear bumper made of GFRP
	Original design rear diffuser made of GFRP
	Rear wing made of CFRP
	Triangle window polycarbonate
	Polycarbonate side windows
	Quarter polycarbonate window
	Polycarbonate rear window

Interior	TRD bucket seat
	MOMO steering
	TRD shift knob
	TRD Push Start Switch
	TAKATA seat belt
	TRD oil temperature gauge
	TRD oil pressure gauge
	Water temperature gauge TRD
Functional component	Exhaust muffler original manufactured / titanium (out center)
	EX manifold / Original stainless manifold
	Clutch cover / TRD
	Clutch disc / TRD metal disk
	TRD mechanical LSD
	Final gear into 4.8
	Differential oil cooler improved cooling
	Diff carrier bush mount reinforced rubber hardness
	KW shock
	KW Spring
	TRD stabilizer
	Into pillow ball upper mount
	Front lower arm from strengthening
	Front lower arm bush Fr reinforced rubber hardness
	Front lower arm bush into Pirro reinforced rubber hardness Rr
	Reinforcement from the rear suspension member
	Rear upper arm bush Fr reinforced rubber hardness
	Lateral link arm from strengthening
	Lateral link arm bushings rubber hardness enhancement
	Trailing link enhancement products
	Fr trailing link bushing rubber hardness enhancement
	Rr trailing link bushing rubber hardness enhancement
	Adjustable Toe Control Rod
	Toe Control Rod Bush reinforced rubber hardness
	Suspension Mount Bush Fr members into Ridjiddo
	Suspension Mount Bush Rr members into Ridjiddo
	TRD Monobloc caliper kit & Original set of brake pads (Brembo)
	RAYS TE37SL 18inch 9.5J +45 wheel

Source: Toyota

June 15, 2013

Category: Auto News