Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

  • Kahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara Chelsea Truck Company CJ300 Expedition Vehicle

    Kahn-Jeep-THUMBKahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara Chelsea Truck Company CJ300 Expedition Vehicle is the long name of the latest tuning that the specialists from A.Kahn Design have prepared for us. Being another exquisite Jeep it stands out with its unique expedition yellow color.

    Here, the designers have used immaculate materials and outstanding build technology. In particular, the aerodynamically efficient exterior package comprises of brake calipers in black, door mirrors in body colour, fuel filler cap in smoked black and horizontal LED daytime running lights.

    Here are included also the rear light sections in body colour, rear lights and side repeaters (smoked), side wing blades in carbon, vented foot pedals in machined aluminum, Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover, mud flaps, xenon crosshair headlamps, door entry sill plates in stainless steel and Kahn branding.

    Jeep’s new front grille for instance gives the vehicle the classic A. Kahn Design mind-set whilst maintaining the classic wrangler signature style. Furthermore, openings within the grille and lower valance combat unwanted road debris by ensuring optimum airflow to the radiator, intercooler and front brakes.

    A pure craftsmanship can be seen inside the vehicle, where there is ‘bespoke touch’ and quilted and perforated front and rear seats (heated) in black leather in yellow stitching, speedo and rev counter in black and floor mats.

    The one-of-a-kind Jeep runs on Kahn RS wheels, which fit perfectly on it, conveying the essence of the vehicle’s identity. Created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology, the Kahn RS wheels are available in 9 x 20 in smoked black fit all original centre caps.

    Source: A.Kahn Design

  • Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept Revealed in Sydney

    Lexus-LF-LC-Blue-Concept-THUMBThe new Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept has just been revealed by the brand conveying pure sports style and exceptional performance. The sports coupe concept was presented to the general public for the first time at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

    Car’s lustrous Opal Blue finish is inspired by the natural base color of the Australian gemstone. In fact the LF-LC combines advanced technologies and materials with an organic design that points to styling cues that will influence future Lexus sports models.

    To go further into details, the concept pioneers in the utilization of lightweight carbon fibre and the next generation of Lexus’s industry-leading full hybrid powertrain. The “marriage” between carbon fibre and aluminium alloy materials used in the construction results in light body mass.

    Another advantage is that these details provide great platform for the next generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Dubbed Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, it features a new, high-energy battery pack designed to generate greater power from a unit that is smaller than those used in Lexus’s current full hybrid model range.

    The full petrol-electric system is able to produce a maximum 500 hp (372kW) and this means that this is more power than any other Lexus hybrid. Another conclusion we can make is that this LF-LC Blue demonstrates what the future may hold for sports cars.

    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept
    Lexus LF-LC Blue Concept

    Source: Lexus

  • Hyundai Accent SR Concept at the Australian International Motor Show

    Hyundai has revealed the Accent SR Concept at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show (AIMS). The manufacturer will actually put the vehicle in production and the car will look just about the same. It is expected sometimes next year.

    The Concept is powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder unit with 140HP (103 kW) and 167Nm (123 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox giving more sporty feeling and better fuel consumption.

    The Accent SR Concept also has Projector beam headlamps with LED positioning lamps, Larger rear spoiler, Rear park assist, Part leather/leatherette upholstery with red cloth inserts,Automatic climate control, Dark metallic paint finish interior trim highlights, 5″ touch screen radio with MP3 CD player, AM/FM Radio, Bluetooth, digital iPod, AUX & USB inputs, media ripping and album art display and a set of 16″ sports alloy wheels with machined face.

    Source: Hyundai

  • Subaru BRZ by Possum Bourne Motorsport

    Subaru and Possum Bourne Motorsport (PBMS) teamed up to create a special track-ready BRZ. The sports car features all goodies that you need, if you are going at the race track. This includes a rollcage, Recaro seats, 6-point seatbelts, carbon fiber lightweight elements and some other improvements.

    However, this is only the entry level kit, but there are two more. The mid-range kit adds Recaro winged-HANS seats, a full brake package including AP front and rear discs and calipers and an STI handbrake. The mid-range package also features some suspension improments and a set of 8J x 18” Enkei Enkei lightweight wheels fitted with Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo R motorsport tires.

    If this is not enough, you can always get the top-of-the-line package adding a full performance parts kit with engine and gearbox upgrades. What is more, the PBMS offers a custom paintjob and can completely strip the car to lower its weight.

    “We’re delighted to display the PBMS BRZ motorsport project car. This car will take the BRZ thrill to a whole new level for those that want some serious trackwork.”, commented Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior.

    “There’s a massive level of interest among motorsport fans, so we’re keen to tap into that market. From day one we have always imagined the BRZ would appeal to the ‘weekend warriors’ – people who enjoy club level motorsport activities. PBMS has developed packages that will appeal to these enthusiasts. It is a company that has developed an international reputation for excellence in engineering and fastidiousness in attention to detail.”, he added.

    Possum Bourne Motorsport Subaru BRZ
    Possum Bourne Motorsport Subaru BRZ
    Possum Bourne Motorsport Subaru BRZ
    Possum Bourne Motorsport Subaru BRZ

    Source: Subaru

  • Tata Safari Storme launch – A new variant in the old league

    Tata Motors, the manufacturer that has been known for its reliability and robust vehicles from several decades, has come up with a new version of its popular SUV – Tata Safari Storme. The first generation model in Safari series was launched more than a decade ago and since then it has been in huge demand.

    The auto maker showcased its upcoming model in January 2012 at the New Delhi Auto Expo and since then the Tata Safari Storme launch has become a much anticipated event for Indian car enthusiasts. As per company officials, the new model will be launched on October 17, which will help it strengthen its position in the SUV segment of the Indian auto industry.

    The unrivalled power, strong body and ultra-modern features are together expected to make the vehicle an incommensurable model in its class. Boasting of some great features, the new Safari Strome will stand apart from its peers and is expected to become the most sought after SUV in the country. Tata Safari Storme features refined interiors, which provide an elegant look to its cabin. Equipped with enhanced quality of attributes, the vehicle is expected to mark new standards of comfort and luxury.

    Though the car has been popular in its older version as well, to compete in the current SUV segment a whole makeover was requisite. The new model’s exterior seems somewhere inspired by the Land Rover Evoque. It boasts of scintillating features, such as new headlamps, robust honeycomb front grille and chrome plated twin exhaust vents. A power bulge on the bonnet of the vehicle adds to its overall appearance.

    Tata Motors has revealed everything about the features and launch of the vehicle but no information has been provided regarding the Tata Safari Storme price. In spite of that, the industry experts are estimating the price to lie somewhere around Rs. 9 lacs. On analysing the competition and the price, it seems like the vehicle is going to mark a sales lead and will provide a tough competition to other cars in the segment, such as Mahindra Scorpio. Moreover, the latest buzz of the automobile industry, Mahindra XUV500, is also going to be loggerheads with the new Tata Safari Storme.

    By considering the Tata Safari Storme reviews, it is expected that the vehicle will take a strong hold in the segment and will be a favourite among those who love off-roading and adventure trails. The SUV will infuse a new confidence in the brand’s value and will be effective in augmenting the overall sales of the manufacturer.

  • Tata Motors to entice Indian SUV enthusiasts with the Tata Safari Storme launch on October 17, 2012

    Tata Motor’s, the country’s largest automobile maker, is working towards the media build up of a new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) dedicated at the domestic market. The Indian car enthusiast will witness the 2012 Tata Safari Storme launch on October 17, 2012 and the upcoming SUV is believed to become the company’s new flagship model in the segment. The Indian Utility Vehicle (UV) maker wrapped off covers from the new Safari Storme at the New Delhi Auto Expo held in January 2012, which became an instant hit among the media and prospective buyers alike.

    The yet to be launched Tata Safari Storme features some coming of age interior and exterior attributes and appears completely different from the current generation of the same vehicle. At the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo, Safari Storme flaunted its Land Rover Evoque inspired exterior design and received instant admiration from the critiques. The upcoming Safari Storme will come trimmed with some stunning features like futuristic new headlamps, huge honeycomb front grille, chrome plated twin exhaust vents and a macho power bulge on its bonnet. The new vehicle from the stables of Tata Motors underlines the company’s enhanced focus on designing along with delivering a top-quality product to the domestic SUV aficionados.

    Tata Motors’ Safari SUV has been in the Indian market for many years now and needed a huge makeover. The Safari brand has always been quoted as a pricey offering in the domestic market, which steered the Indian buyers towards the lesser priced options like Mahindra Scorpio. The upcoming Tata Safari Storme Price is anticipated to fall around the Rs. 10 lacs price tag, which could be called a little aggressive considering the brand’s history. The thoughtful pricing could enable the yet-to-be launched SUV to get involved in a direct tussle against the current Indian favourite, Mahindra XUV500.

    At present, not much information is available regarding the Tata Safari Storme reviews in the market. However, considering the Tata Aria inspired chassis and suspension system of the Safari Storme, it can be said with confidence that the new Tata SUV will conquer any demanding terrain without breaking into sweat. Accordingly, most of the Indian buyers will be closely following the proceedings related to the upcoming Tata Safari Storme.

  • Mahindra geared up for its SsangYong Rexton launch on October 17, 2012 on Indian turf

    SsangYong Motor Company, the South Korean subdivision of the Indian automotive firm Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Limited, is all set for the 2012 SsangYong Rexton launch in the country on October 17, 2012. The latest product coming from the stables of Mahindra and SsangYong is a premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and the domestic market will witness a phased launch, starting from Mumbai and later in New Delhi and Bangalore among other Indian cities.

    The soon-to-be launched SsangYong Rexton features will be of top draw quality as the powerful SUV is already marketed in many global automobile markets. The current version is the third generation of the company’s family of Rexton SUVs, of which first and second models were a big hit worldwide. The Indian model of Rexton is believed to be fully capable towards delivering superior on-road and off-road power-torque performance, besides winning many admirers due to its modern and sharp exterior attributes. The SsangYong Rexton will come assimilated with a 2.7 litre diesel motor under its hood, that could churn out a peak power around 165 Nm and an impressive torque of 340 Nm. Further, the company has stated that the new SUV will offer better fuel efficiency, strong performance and world class comfort features.

    The upcoming SsangYong Rexton price is anticipated to fall around Rs. 20 lacs, which will put the SUV in a direct tussle against the likes of Ford Endeavour, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Toyota Fortuner and Hyundai Santa Fe in the Indian passenger car market. The pricing of Rexton will make it the most expensive offering from M&M and the new product will become the company’s flagship product in the premium SUV segment of the country. M&M, the country’s largest Utility Vehicle (UV) maker, took over SsangYong Motor Company in March 2011, with a 70 per cent controlling stake.

    The 2012 SsangYong Rexton reviews have sparked a debate in the media and the rumour-mill is abuzz with the SUV’s modest pricing against its world class features. The Rexton looks like a massive beast, besides ticking all the boxes in safety and security aspects. Currently, the Indian scene is dominated by the Toyota Fortuner and Mahindra-SsangYong will have to devise an exceptional strategy if it is aspiring to counter the competition in the market with the upcoming SUV. The launch of the SsangYong Rexton falls just before the Indian festival season and the company will be looking to record decent sales till November 2012 Diwali period.

  • 2013 Scion iQ EV – Performance and Efficiency

    Scion has announced the new 2013 iQ EV, which is essentially a rebadged Toyota iQ with an electric motor. However, the iQ EV is a battery- electric four-seater city commuter car designed for car-sharing programs, in urban and campus environments.

    “Toyota believes battery-electric vehicles have the potential to play a role in future mobility strategies,” commented Chris Hostetter, TMS group vice president of strategic planning.

    “Up to now, cost and convenience issues have limited BEV’s appeal with a broad consumer market. Toyota developed the iQ EV specifically as a city commuter, for use in an urban environment, where driving distances are likely to be short, charging opportunities numerous, and its compact proportions beneficial.”, he added.

    The 2013 Scion iQ EV is available in only Silver or nice Red finishes. The interior features black and white color scheme with metallic accents and ice-blue trim. There are also a leather steering wheel and nice upholstery for the seats, which are by the way heated. The small car also comes with an infotainment system with GPS SAT NAV.

    The Scion iQ EV is powered by an electric motor with 64HP (47 kW) and 163Nm (120 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 13.4 seconds and a top speed of 125 km/h (78 mph). The car can go up to 80 km (50 miles) on a single charge, which takes three hours plugged in 240V outlet. The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery is mounted below the floor.

    The iQ EV is equipped with 11 SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags including knee, side, seat cushion, front and rear curtain, and a rear window curtain airbag. The front passenger seat is equipped with an occupant detection system.

    2013 iQ EV is manufactured at Toyota’s Takaoka Plant in Toyota City. Production began in September 2012.

    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV
    2013 Scion iQ EV


    Source: Scion

  • SR Auto Range Rover Made Sharper with Vossen CV3

    SR-Auto-Range-Rover-THUMBThis SR Auto Range Rover looks too good, doesn’t it? The leading motive here is “simplicity”. This helped the tuners from SR Auto to focus on selecting a strong wheel design. And they surely did it!

    They have addopted one of their favorite designs from Vossen Wheels thus giving this Range Rover a classically modern twist. The simplicity of the five spokes is matched with an aggressive concave profile. In addition the matte graphite finish strikes make a direct contrast with the burning red Brembo calipers.

    Furthermore this unique SUV comes with a V8 diesel engine fitted to an eight-speed transmission. Its 4.4 litre LR-TDV8 develops 313 hp (230 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. The performance is more than satisfying – the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is in just 7.5 seconds, and top speed is 130mph.

    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3
    SR Auto Range Rover Vossen CV3

    Source: SR Auto

  • Porsche 9ff GT3 RS vs 911 Turbo Protomotive 1200 vs Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ [video]

    Dragtimesinfo continues to publish extraordinary videos in their Youtube channel. This time, the battle is between Porsche 911 GT3 RS 9ff, Porsche 911 Turbo Protomotive VRT1200 and Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+.

    The three highly tuned cars are going against each other on the highway starting from around 60 km/h.

    Porsche 911 GT3 RS 9ff and Porsche 911 Turbo Protomotive VRT1200 made a lot of starts, but every time the result is the same. The GT3 RS 9ff doesn’t stand a chance, despite it has 1100HP and runs on VP C-16 Race fuel and on Michelin Sport Cup tires. The 911 Turbo Protomotive just blows the competition away. IT has 1150HP and also runs on VP C-16 Race fuel.

    The second part are starts between the 911 Turbo Protomotive VRT1200 and Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ with around 1500HP running on Race fuel VP Import 120 and on Toyo Proxes R888 full slicks.

    This time, the 911 Turbo Protomotive VRT1200 is way behind the GT-R. It just can’t cope with the difference of more than 300HP in terms of power.

    The GT-R runs 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, 100-200 km/h in 3.3 seconds and 200-300 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, while the Porsche is way slower from 200-300 km/h – 8.3 seconds.

    Enjoy the video!
    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNKzKtWuf1g

    Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

  • Ford Focus ST Range at 2012 SEMA

    semabojixdesignfocusst-THUMBFord is going to present five Focus ST concept cars, which are going to be showcased at 2012 SEMA Show later this month. Each of them is extremely exciting tuning with great characteristics needed to be reviewed little more in details.

    The first concept is the 2013 Ford Focus ST Built by Tanner Foust Racing. This ST is equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost mated to a Six-Speed Manual Transmission. The car is “cool”, because it is built by the world record holder and X-Games Gold medalist Tanner Foust.

    His aim was to build a competent weekend track/canyon warrior, comfortable enough to endure a Southern California commute. This means that this model includes improved performance thanks to the increased air intake. The fully adjustable front and rear suspension adds flexibility for top performance regardless of the track. Custom body kit additions complete the aggressive, yet approachable look.

    semabojixdesignfocusst

    Next comes the 2013 Ford Focus ST built by Bojix Design which is again with the same engine and transmission as the previous. The car brings the European design cues to American soil, with its sleek, chic, tasteful and impactful look. Painted in iconic orange and equipped with expressive body kit bits, big brakes and coil-overs make the car oe-of-a-kind.

    semacosworthmjfocusst2

    The third interpretation is the 2013 Ford Focus ST built by M&J Enterprises. Again the engine and transmission are the same. Here the power is improved by 30 percent, while the torque by almost 20 percent.

    Here the special combination between Ford Racing engine and suspension modifications combined with Cosworth specified wheels and tires, bring the 330 horsepower (423 kW) to the pavement. The Tangerine Scream finish and subtle graphics signal an appreciative nod to an authentic motorsports heritage.

    semagalpinfocusst

    2013 Ford Focus ST built by Galpin Auto Sports is the fourth tuning. It has a rally car DNA, because the vehicle dynamics have been brought to another level with coil-over springs, big brakes, methanol injection and a rally-ready body kit.

    An eye-catching paint scheme and upgraded interior finishes the expressive design. The result is a fun to drive, great looking rally car equally at home slinging mud or cruising the boulevard.

    semafocussteeda

    At last but not least comes the 2013 Ford Focus ST built by Steeda Autosports. As the previous one it is equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost matched to Six-Speed Manual Transmission. Here Steeda takes the challenge to offer increased performance, improved handling, aggressive looks and performance feel. Steeda G-Trac suspension modifications, Brembo brakes and a 19-inch custom wheel and tire package takes power to the tarmac.

    Source: Ford

  • ABT 2013 Audi AS3 – A Beautiful Rear Also Can Endear

    ABT Sportsline has announced the AS3, which is currently the benchmark for sportiness and dynamism. The project is based on the latest A3 and comes with complete aerodynamics kit, sets of big wheels and some performance updates.

    The aerodynamics package includes a tailgate-mounted spoiler, a rear diffuser insert and a sports exhaust system. The car is closer to the ground thanks to a set of lowering springs and rolls sets of 18- or 19-inch CR and DR series alloy wheels fitted with proper tires.

    The 1.4 liter TFSI engine can be boosted up to 170HP (125 kW) and the powerful 2.0 liter TFSI is able to develop whopping 280HP (206 kW). The economical two-liter TDI can be uprated to 180HP (132 kW) and 210HP (154 kW).

    “We have dealt with Audi cars for many decades now. We developed the AS3 by utilising all our experience and know-how. Our customers can always depend upon getting a fully harmonised car.“, commented Hans-Jürgen Abt.

    ABT 2013 Audi AS3
    ABT 2013 Audi AS3

    Source: ABT