Auto News – Page 706 – Automobiles Review

Suzuki Teases Authentics Concept Ahead Of Shanghai

Suzuki Authentics Concept Sedan has just been teased. The model will make its global premiere at the 15th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition on 20th of April.

Authentics is a concept that will probably enter the C-segment sedan class. The latter has the largest volume in the Chinese automobile market. What also has been revealed is that this Suzuki emphasizes “Sporty x Elegant” thanks to a long wheelbase and an unconstrained form.

It has an overall height which has been kept low. In addition, its strong character gives a wind-cutting image of the car along with a rich and fine curved surface.

The brand will also make another premiere – the new GW250S on-road motorcycle. The model will be produced by company’s joint venture in China and will be available on the markets in Japan and Europe.

Source: Suzuki

April 1, 2013

DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900 SV Spezial Version

DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900 SV Spezial Version is the continuation of the already famous project of the German tuners and in fact it is the Stage 2 of the performance upgrades they have prepared for this supercar.

This time they have achieved a higher level because of their new SV kit. It continues where the Stage 1 package ends, building upon an already sound base. DMC has tuned the Lamborghini in terms of appearance, efficiency and technology.

In addition, important information here is that the SV kit will be strictly limited to only 10 sets worldwide. What is more – it can not be bought. Only several chosen people will be able to get the DMC SV.

The conditions are that the owner must have DMC’s regular Molto Veloce Kit, and apply to get access to one of the 10 kits dubbed as the LP900 SV.

Source: DMC

April 1, 2013

2013 Shelby Raptor – 6.2 liter Supercharged V8

Shelby has announced the new 2013 Raptor, which is based on Ford F-150 SVT Raptor. The big truck comes with more power and some other nice performance and styling parts.

“As a native Texan, Carroll Shelby loved powerful trucks,” said John Luft, president of Shelby American. “Carroll connected his love for trucks with his passion for performance on several projects, with the first one over 30 years ago. The latest Shelby truck was created to conquer any terrain with serious velocity.”

The power is coming from a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 with 575HP (429 kW). The result is thanks to a new 2.9 liter supercharged and a new Borla sports exhaust system. The power is put on the road through 6-speed automatic gearbox delivering all that power to AWD system.

“Aerodynamically speaking, the Raptor was engineered for maximum performance,” said Gary Patterson, vice president of operations. “We spent our efforts improving the power, cooling and handling systems because every Shelby is built to excel under even the most extreme conditions.”

Some of the highlights include a set of 35” Goodrich All-Terrain tires fitted on optional custom rims.

The “Off-Road” mode calibrates the transmission, stability and traction control systems to operate in harmony under high-speed off-road situations. In addition, any of the three Shelby graphics packages will help set it apart from every other rig on the road.

There are also some modifications for the interior – boost and fuel pressure gauges, and dash plaque.

The price of this package is $17,995 over the standard F-150 SVT Raptor.

Source: Shelby

March 29, 2013

Hyundai Luxury Sports Coupe HND-9

Hyundai has announced the HND-9 Concept – brand’s Luxury Sports Coupe.

“HND-9 will give customers a glimpse of Hyundai’s future luxury sports coupe models. Representing an evolution of Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design philosophy, the rear-wheel drive sports coupe concept balances high performance with a sophisticated image.”, commented Suk-Geun Oh, head of Hyundai’s Design Center in Namyang, Korea.

The HND-9 is the ninth concept model developed by the Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Center in Namyang and is based on a modern reinterpretation of an elegant, classic premium sports coupe, with sophisticated details in every design element of the car to reinforce a premium look.

It is powered by a 3.3 liter GDi turbocharged petrol with 370HP (272 kW). The engine is connected to an 8-speed gearbox.

The Concept boasts butterfly doors, sculptural rear combination lamps, and dual tailpipes placed on both sides, to give the car a sleek, futuristic look.

There are also 22” alloy wheels – mixed with carbon materials – contribute to attractive styling.

The interior features seats made of sporty yet luxurious mesh fabric, and project different colours when viewed from different angles.

The driver-oriented, high-tech interface is modelled on an aeroplane cockpit, offering both improved functionality and aesthetics, optimised for dynamic driving.

Source: Hyundai

March 29, 2013

2014 Mitsubishi Mirage Delivers Outstanding Efficiency

2014 Mitsubishi Mirage five-door subcompact was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show. The model is going to be available in brand’s dealerships later this autumn. It is expected to be one of the most fuel-efficient cars currently on the market.

2014 Mirage includes number of standard features such as seven air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), 4 speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with USB/iPod® input, 60/40 split folding rear seat, Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL), Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist (HSA) (CVT-equipped models).

This Mitsubishi model has an estimated 40 mpg combined fuel economy. To be more precise it is 37 mpg city and 44 mpg highway. In addition, the vehicle includes four-wheel Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Some advanced technologies are also included such as power windows with driver’s side auto-up/down, RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) safety cell body/chassis technology, Automatic Climate Control, Electric Power Steering (EPS) and a new rear spoiler.

Some of the optional features are Navigation with Rearview Camera, Parking Assist and LED Interior Illumination Packages.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 29, 2013

New York Auto Show: 2014 Toyota Highlander

Another debut at New York Motor Show is for 2014 Toyota Highlander which is the third generation mid-size SUV. Its new exterior design is refined and strengthened and in addition is complemented by more spacious interior with an array of comfort, convenience and technology features.

The new Highlander shows-off progressive silhouette, enhanced aerodynamics and sculptured side-door panels. This contributes to a more sophisticated and dynamic appearance. The exterior is now wider and includes a trapezoidal grille, wrap-around headlamps, bold fenders and a newly styled rear liftgate.

The front A-pillars of this Toyota model were repositioned which results in improved visibility. At the same time the size of the rear quarter glass has been enhanced in order to deliver a wider view for driver and occupants.

The interior on the other hand includes refined and more functionality features with premium materials and fittings, including a soft-touch instrument panel and easier access to the third row. The cargo space behind the third-row seats has also been increased.

Toyota’s new mid-size SUV will be equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine with a variable intake manifold and dual variable valve timing with intelligence. The latter controls phasing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to maximize torque and fuel efficiency.

In addition, the new six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission contributes towards an optimized fuel efficiency. Some of the technologies which deliver more dynamic driving experience are the Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, enhancements in suspension performance, and optimized electric power steering. Car’s handling has been also enhanced through the tuning of the springs and shock absorbers.

Next, Highlander’s Dynamic Torque Control AWD system utilizes information sent from various sensors (speed, steering angle and speed, throttle angle and yaw rate) to automatically govern the transmission of torque to the rear wheels.

2014 Toyota Highlander Powertrain:

Engine: 3.5-litre V6 with dual VVT-i
Transmission: Six-speed ECT-i
Drive system: Front and All-Wheel-Drive

2014 Toyota Highlander Exterior Dimensions:

Overall length: 4850 mm
Overall width: 1925 mm
Overall height: 1730 mm
Wheelbase: 2790 mm

Source: Toyota

March 29, 2013

2014 Subaru XV Crosstek Hybrid Revealed In New York

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid is brand’s first-ever production hybrid vehicle which was just unveiled at the New York International Auto Show. The new model is based on the popular XV Crosstrek Crossover and will arrive in Subaru dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2013. The vehicle aims to be the most fuel-efficient and lowest-emissions AWD hybrid crossover in America.

XV Crosstrek Hybrid benefits of a hybrid powertrain that contributes to higher fuel efficiency. Other key components here are the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and chassis. For instnace, the 8.7 inches of ground clearance is higher than for some dedicated SUVs, while providing a low step-in height.

In fact, Subaru re-engineered the chassis in order to compensate the additional weight of the battery system, and has improved the handling, steering and ride. Furthermore, there is added extra sound insulation, a start/stop feature, revised HVAC, new gauge cluster and keyless start.

To be more precise, this hybrid model combines a 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine with a 13.4-hp electric motor which is integrated into the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A 100v, 13.5kw nickel-metal hydride battery is positioned under the rear floor area. The unit utilizaes and integrated starter/generator for the automatic start/stop feature.

The weight of this hybrid system is circa 209 lbs. and places the electric motor just behind the transmission and in front of continuously variable transfer clutch. The same system uses the electric motor for initial vehicle acceleration and afterwards it starts the gasoline engine. Of course, the electric motor can also help in terms of acceleration, while working in parallel with the gasoline engine. It also operates in low-speed situations.

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid builds upon the utility and versatility of the gas model. However it offers improved handling responses and quieter driving performance. The Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD sends power to the four wheels all the time and adjusts the torque distribution in response to acceleration, cornering and road conditions.

Some of the efficiency technologies included here are the Auto Start/Stop system that shuts down the gasoline engine when the vehicle is stopped; the brake regeneration – that operates when the car is coasting or the driver has applied the brake.

Moreover, the Active Grille Shutter system reduces air resistance. Several improvements that reduce noise include thicker floor sections, under-floor covers and additional sound insulation.

To signify its uniqueness, the model carries “HYBRID” badges at the front edges of the front doors and on the tailgate. In addition, the Plasma Green Pearl exterior color links to vehicle’s environmental character.

When one is inside the crossover, one sees clean blue theme with silver trim that underlines the advanced hybrid engineering. The instrument cluster, exclusive to this model, utilizes gradations of the blue color scheme to provide a sense of depth.

What is more, here is also featured the Color Multi-Function Display that shows the hybrid system’s energy flow. It utilizes switching screens, and it displays driving operation information with entertainment content.

Source: Subaru

March 29, 2013

2013 Vauxhall VXR8 Tourer – 431HP

Vauxhall has announced the new 2013 VXR8 Tourer, which is the fastest Estate car in the UK. The drifting machine is equipped with powerful V8 engine, big wheels, spoilers and other nice performance parts.

The engine is 6.2 liter V8 with 431HP (317 kW). It is connected to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The power is put on the road through an LSD (limited-slip differential) at the rear wheels.

The exterior boasts an aggressive front bumper with black accents and LED daytime running lights. There are also ventilated front fenders, big sports exhaust system and a set of 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile performance tires.

The interior boasts full leather trim as standard and front occupants are cocooned in special HSV Performance Seats with 8-way adjustability. Aux-in/USB inputs; iPod support and Bluetooth with phonebook display and touch-screen dialling.

The boot has capacity of 895 liters with rear seats up and up to 2,000 liters with rear seats folded down.

The Vauxhall VXR8 Tourer comes with a lifetime warranty and priced at £49,500

Source: Vauxhall

March 28, 2013

Kia CUB Concept Offers Innovations and Style

Kia CUB Concept is going to be unveiled at the 9th Seoul International Motor Show today in Korea. The model was designed at company’s headquarters studio in Seoul and is less than four metres long, has rearward-opening rear doors and an ‘access-all-areas’ interior.

First of all, the exterior styling of the CUB shows sleek and small design, but at the same time exudes the cheerful face and a daring character of the concept. The CUB’s nose has a broad wrap-around ‘mouth’ and there is a ‘dip’ in the top of the windshield – a motif that can be also seen on Optima, Sportage and cee’d models.

In addition, the grille incorporates a turbocharger air intake, which is highlighted in body colour. Furthermore, the headlamps include two-point LED lights. The concept runs on 19-inch alloy wheels and the front doors have aerodynamic ‘turning-vanes’. LED tail-lights are to be seen at the rear of the car as well.

Some interesting innovations featured here are for instance the minimum-drag wing mirrors and the automatic touch-type door handles. A two-colour paint finish with sporty stripe hints at the CUB’s high-performance potential, while the car’s broad track gives it an imposing stance.

In terms of interior, the model offers comfortability and warm ambience. Through the extended utilization of black leather, Kia managed to offer luxurious feel to the occupants. In addition, the sporty character of the model is further emphasized by the yellow colour accents around the seats, door armrests and steering wheel.

At the instrument cluster, the centre-stack design is minimalist with an air vent controlled by touch sensor. For extra safety, the steering wheel rim is capable of monitoring the driver’s biorhythms.

Here is also featured DIS (Driving Information System) controller connected to a gesture camera. With well-defined motions, drivers can set up each menu on the centre display.

More importantly the concepts engine is Kia’s 1.6-litre GDi (Gasoline Direct injection). The same unit is used in the Kia pro_cee’d GT and cee’d GT. Fitted with a twin-scroll turbocharger and strengthened internal components, the new engine generates 204 hp (150 kW) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft). The unit is mated to a a six-speed manual transmission. This enables the CUB to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 143mph.

Source: Kia

March 28, 2013

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage Adds To The We Can Be Heroes Campaign

The collaboration between Kia Motors America and DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine is further taking strength through the reveal of the unique Kia Sportage Wonder Woman. The model is by the superhero’s Wonder Woman, her power and the big sense of equality.

The model was unveiled today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. The vehicle is a continuation of a ten-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

The Batmobile has already been revealed and we are expecting the other six vehicles with great anticipation. The final car will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one. The Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve means to raise the awareness for DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign. The latter is an effort to bring help and hope to people affected by the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa.

The Wonder Woman-inspired Kia Sportage includes sleek and stylish visual attributes thanks to an aero kit. The red and blue exterior color scheme, accented with stars resembles Wonder Woman’s outfit. On the other hand the gold trim wrapped around the vehicle represents her weapon of choice – “The Lasso of Truth”.

Heroine’s eagle chest-plate emblem can be seen onto the production grille and is flanked by blue headlight beams. The windshield of Sportage features a banner that portrays Wonder Woman’s tiara, and the chrome side panels on the vehicle are graphical interpretations of her invisible jet. The exclusive car runs on five-spoke wheel design which perfectly links the stars on the exterior of the vehicle.

In terms of interior, one can see red upholstery and dash pieces combined with blue LED lighting. The custom seats were embroidered with heroine’s logo, while the cargo area of the vehicle is adorned with stars and an eagle and features a see-through panel, which displays Wonder Woman’s tiara, bracelets and glowing Lasso of Truth.

Source: Kia

March 28, 2013

2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid With Debut In New York

After the debut of the latest generation Nissan Pathfinder last year, now the Japanese brand is ready to enter the Hybrid version of the iconic model. 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid debuted today at a press conference at the New York International Auto Show.

Pathfinder Hybrid is the first of several upcoming Nissan hybrid models. It is expected to go on sale in late summer. To go further into details, this Nissan includes a supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine combined with a 15 kW electric motor and advanced Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch hybrid control system.

The system is rated at 250 horsepower (184 kW) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) of torque. In addition, the utilization of Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor / two clutch parallel system) efficiently manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine.

It is placed between the gasoline engine and the next-gen Xtronic CVT®, the motor also functions as a generator, conveying deceleration force from the CVT to the battery. One clutch is installed between the gasoline engine and the electric motor, the other within the CVT.

Of course being a hybrid, this Pathfinder is expected to deliver exceptional fuel economy, which is estimated at 26 mpg Combined. In fact, this is an increase of 24 percent over the standard model. Moreover, the estimated City fuel economy is 25 mpg, while Highway mileage is 27 mpg.

Next, the space-saving Li-ion battery is positioned under the 3rd row seat. A regenerative braking system operates in such way that it recharges the battery by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy that would be otherwise lost in braking.

In terms of exterior appearance, the Hybrid includes efficient LED taillights and Nissan PUREDRIVE® Hybrid badges At last, a special hybrid information screens are added to the instrument panel’s Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.

Source: Nissan

March 28, 2013

2014 Dodge Durango

Dodge has revealed the new 2014 Durango facelift at the 2013 New York Auto Show. The dynamic crossover comes with a lot of updates including exterior re-styling and interior extras.

Outside, the 2014 Durango boasts a new front and rear bumpers, LED headlights trim and LED rear lights. Besides these, the facelift Durango comes with new front and rear fascias.

The interior features are a new digital instrument cluster, a round transmission knob, three-spoke steering wheel and restyled upper and lower center consoles. The infotainment system now has bigger display.

Nothing is mentioned about the engine range, but probably, there will be a 3.6 liter V6 and a 5.7 HEMI V8. Both can be mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox giving not only better acceleration, but superb fuel consumption.

Stay tuned!

Source: Dodge

March 28, 2013

Category: Auto News