Car Makes – Page 196 – Automobiles Review

Nissan Pathfinder is ready for 2017 model year. And so believes NHTSA

Fresh, confident and functional, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder managed to earn the highest rate of 5 starts overall vehicle safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program. As you might remember, since 2011, requirements are higher and more stringent, but luckily for all Nissan lovers out there, Pathfinder managed to tackle down all the challenges.

The revised Pathfinder lineup is actually a key element to a whole Nissan program, named “The Year of the Truck”, including the Pathfinder, TITAN half-ton and the recently expanded TITAN XD lineup, all along with the Armada full-size SUV.

So, what is so special with the 2017 Pathfinder?

The revised sweetie offers advanced systems as the Forward Emergency Braking and Intelligent Cruise Control. Nissan team are kind enough to add Moving Object Detection, available with Around View Monitor. Optionally buyers can specify the Pathfinder with Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Additional features include a choice between 2WD and 4WD configuration, Nissan Advanced Air Bag System with dual-stage front supplemental air bags, supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, roof-mounted curtain airbags for reducing injuries from side impacts and rollover, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), child safety rear door locks and Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control system.

Source: Nissan

August 10, 2016

Chevy adds more spice: here are some more details for the 2017 Camaro machines! [w/video]

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2017 ZL1, the most powerful Camaro produced so far, along with the track-ready 1LE come to show some outstanding performance both on the road and on the track. So, it is expected that, when the vehicles go on sale later this year, they will deliver incredible features for relatively good price: about $69,135 USD for the convertibles. Of course, this price includes destination charge, but excludes taxes, titles and some more dealer fees. Also, there are additional upgrade packs for the Camaro V-6 LT coupe and the V-8 1SS coupe between $4,500 to $6,500 USD. These upgrade packs include some tweaked suspension system, electronic limited-slip differential and Magnetic Ride dampers. Sweet!

2017 Chevrolet Camaro models

And to shorten the long story, we present the official and systematic features and goodies that buyers will be granted with:

ZL1:

0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
Quarter-mile in 11.4 seconds at 127 mph
1.02 g max cornering
60-0 mph braking in 107 feet (32 meters)
220-pound (100 kg) weight reduction
650-horsepower (485 kW) via supercharged LT4 6.2L V8 engine

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

1LE:

0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds with Camaro LT 1LE
0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds with Camaro SS 1LE
0.97 g max cornering with Camaro LT 1LE
1.02 g max cornering with Camaro SS 1LE
60-0 mph braking in 112 feet (34 meters) with Camaro LT 1LE
60-0 mph braking in 107 feet (32 meters) with Camaro SS 1LE
230-pound (104 kg) weight reduction (SS 1LE to previous model)

Source: Chevrolet

August 9, 2016

3DDesign and Carbonfiber Dynamics teams took a closer look to a lucky M5 model. Check out the result!

2016 3DDesign BMW M5 Carbonfiber Dynamics, Europe’s largest distributor of exclusive carbon parts proudly shows its latest creation: the BMW F10 M5. What is so special about this sweetie is that it showcases the highest stage of evolution in the world of carbon-fiber technology. Sounds coo to me.

So, what do we got here? A pack with front lip, side sills, diffuser and spoiler all created exclusively by 3DDesign in Japan. As you know, 3DDesign is well known among BMW circles as one of the most capable and famous tuning brands. The designers put perfection and precision as their main goals and did not disappoint: especially in collaboration with Carbonfiber Dynamics.

2016 3DDesign BMW M5

Geared with 21-inch exclusive rims by Vossen and with a special and ugly Fire Orange finish, the M5 will not remain unseen on the streets. Also, it surprises with the incredibly powerful power unit: with some additional modifications, the driver will be dealing with a 830hp (610kW) and some fearsome road capabilities.

And the best part? Well, the whole upgrade pack is available not only with M5 lineup, but also with M4 and M6! How cool is that?

2016 3DDesign BMW M5

Honestly, we do like it. Not only for the enhanced power and drivetrain capabilities, but also because of the impeccable styling: we like the aggressive BMW lines and we do relish those lines blended with the ideas of some mastermind designers. So, what do you think? Write down in the comment section below!

Source: 3DDesign

August 9, 2016

Rock’n’Roll to the bone: witness the restoration of Elvis’ favourite BMW vehicle!

1955 Elvis' BMW 507 BMW Group Classic proudly presents the completely restored and refreshed roadster of the King of Rock’n’Roll, Elvis!

As any vehicle enthusiast would tell you, this is one of the most spectacular classic-car discoveries of recent years. The BMW 507, personally driven by Elvis Presley has somehow vanished for almost 50 years and until recently it was believed that it was lost forever. Luckily, the automobile was discovered and BMW Group Classic team decided to have a look here and there. And the result? Well, everyone can have a look at the unique car on 21 August this year at the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California. And trust us, there is much to be seen!

Turning a myth into reality

1955 Elvis' BMW 507

At the time of discovery, the 507 suffered from severe wounds. And although all original body parts and components were present and untouched, the roadster had lost its power unit and transmission system. Being far from elegant and shiny, the forgotten vehicle was first seen with rust-eaten floor assembly, worn and broken seats, some strange “replacement parts” of unknown origin and missing instrument panel. But the oldie-goldie was dealing with BMW engineers and they did not disappoint. The roadster was delivered back to Munich under the slogan of “Return to Sender”. Along with the BMW team, some more in-house experts and external specialists joined forces to carry out the long-forgotten mythical beauty of the BMW 507.

The history of Elvis and 507

Elvis Presley had mainly used the BMW 507 to drive between his home in Bad Nauheim and the US Army Base in Friedberg. Of course, there were numerous female fans that had the unique chance to take a ride with the King and as we would expect from a rock star, the paintjob was frequently daubed with messages of love. Cool.

In March 1960, Elvis ended his military service in Germany and as it seems, he must have had enough of driving open-top cars. He traded the red roadster with a Chrysler vehicle. The new owner sold the car for incredibly low price to a radio moderator named Tommy Charles. So, Mr. Charles changed the power unit with a Chevy one in order to participate in the local street races. The problem was that the new power unit was too big for vehicle’s capacities and Tommy was forced to remove or change some of the original components with modified ones. Eventually, he had had some wins and fails and in later years was forced to sell the roadster in 1963.

There were two more ownership changes and at the end the vehicle was owned by Jack Castor, a space engineer. What he did is to undergo a careful restoration and even contacted some other engineers and vehicle enthusiasts. And guess what? Things started to happen! Eventually BMW Group Classic contacted Castor and told him the link between the vehicle and Elvis. And some time later BMW team succeeded in persuading Jack Castor to sell the vehicle for more improvements and restoration.

1955 Elvis' BMW 507

And we already know the rest: in 2014 the BMW 507 was shipped to Germany along with numerous parts, collected by Castor, where it undergo some incredible restoration process. Of course, the engineering team managed to gear the 507 with original parts and they even kept large number of original components.

So, take a close look at the beauty and remember a single thing: this machine was restored in a way that would amaze even the King of Rock’n’Roll!

$1955 Elvis\\\' BMW 507$

Source: BMW

August 9, 2016

This Huracan Final Edition sets new standards among bespoke rivals

VOS Performance offers high-end tuning for the iconic Lamborghini Huracan

In 2015 we witnessed the birth of VOS Performance’s bespoke conversion for the Lamborghini Huracán, which captured our hearts entirely. What made this tuning so special is that the creators have based their ideas on the motto “Think outside the box”. As a result, the experts at VOS considered a rather “holistic approach” to the customization, thus offering for the Huracán an extravagant individuality combined with exclusive craftsmanship.

Now, the creative minds at VOS Performance have put out a brand new version of the standard Lamborghini Huracán called “Final Edition”. Here, the approach they took in the transformation is to blend aesthetics and engineering.

At the front, the new carbon-fiber spoiler lip has been subtly changed but still it is a totally functional component that blends in with the lines of the car. In contrast, the large carbon-fiber rear lower diffuser and the two different designs for the carbon-fiber rear wing offer a sporty and aggressive take on the standard back end.

VOS Performance Lamborghini Huracan Final Edition rear view

By the way, the factory rear spoiler has been locked down, thus superseding its function providing positive downforce required for unerring high-speed stability in a straight line and in fast sweepers. Next to the aerodynamic optimization VOS Performance has prepared for the Lambo a high-performance sports spring set, which lowers its ride height by 35mm.

Leaving the exterior aside, Huracan’s interior is stylishly adorned with carbon fiber elements on the door panels, centre console, air vents and paddle shifters. In other words, VOS Performance Lamborghini Huracán Final Edition is a project finished in its totality. Tuners did not make any sacrifices on the interior, and this is why we dig this project very much.

Source: VOS Performance

August 9, 2016

LARTE Design reveals more details about the new mystical Black Crystal project

LARTE Design Mercedes-Benz GLS Black Crystal rear view second teaser

This image shows the blackout variant of what we have previewed as the latest Black Crystal in LARTE Design’s family. Although we have been left with the impression that the new vehicle will be white, it seems that there is a variant in the opposite color. Whether LARTE will keep both color versions stay unclear.

What we know so far is that the project, which will be exhibited at the MIAS event in Moscow, is based on the new Mercedes GLS. The Russian studio says that its new project is a marvelous new tuning car, which features a brand new tuning kit.

Precisely, the latter comprises of a front and rear bumpers with carbon fibre inserts. Since we have only received the image of the rear, what we can spot is that it looks very massive, sporty and aggressive due to the addition of the huge air diffuser, four extraordinary exhaust pipes and a lot of carbon fiber elements.

Keeping it a secret, the front is said to have a brand new bumper with masculine lines and a new radiator grill sporting the LARTE horseshow logo. At the sides, there will be new side pads which are reminiscent of tuner’s variant of the amazing Mercedes GL Black Crystal. Carbon shielded air intakes will adorn the fenders.

Besides the GLS Crystal, LARTE Design will basically exhibit its entire portfolio, including the business road-jet Mercedes V-Class Black Crystal and the “electrifying” Tesla Model S Elizabeta. There are rumors that the V-Class will appear with a brand-new front and rear bumpers made of composite materials and decorated with carbon fiber elements, so we are excited to see the change, too.

Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) opens gates on 24th of August and closes on 4th of September. LARTE Design’s booth is located in hall 3 (pav.13, booth B106).

Source: LARTE Design

August 9, 2016

dÄHLer is taking the BMW X4 M40i to unknown levels of performance and aerodynamics

dÄHLer BMW X4 M40i equipped with tuner’s “competition line” offers unmatched horsepower

The tuning company dÄHLer strikes again with an exclusive project, which this time is based on the X4 M40i powered by the N55-engine. The significant customization pushes further the innate capabilities of the SUV. Equipped with what the tuner is calling “dÄHLer competition line”, this X4 M40i is more powerful and dynamic as it has ever been.

In short, the modifications included here feature performance increase to 424 HP, new coil-over suspension system and performance braking unit, stainless steel exhaust system as well as new wheels and tires combination. The experts also worked on optimizing the aerodynamics and the appearance of the X4.

Starting with the main feature here, the performance step-up, it is available in three different levels. The first one fires up the in-line six-cylinder M TwinPowerTurbo with 2.979 cubic capacity to 395 HP (294 kW) and 772 Nm (570 ft-lb) of torque. The next level brings everything to 414 HP (309 kW) and 786 Nm (580 ft-lb) of maximum torque. At its best, the optimization (Level 3) brings the horses up to 424 HP (316 kW) and the impressive 800 Nm (590 ft-lb).

To be even more specific, the last numbers are more than enough to push the BMW X4 M40i from 0 to 100 in only 4.5 seconds. The top speed has been set to 270 km/h. The best part: the emissions remain unchanged from the original series.

dÄHLer BMW X4 M40i rear view

The added performance means that there is a great need for better handling. So, the tuner added new coil-over suspension system, which increases the agility of the X4. In addition, the sporty-tight suspension system lowers the X4 enough to make it look more aggressive. dÄHLer has also given this BMW 8-piston high performance braking system with brake discs sized 400 millimeter.

In terms of visuals, the appearance of the X4 M40i is updated with better aerodynamics due to the addition of new and more efficient front spoiler lip. The rear is enhanced with a new rear wing (optional) as well as stainless steel exhaust system.

At last but not least of importance is tuner’s variant of wheel and tire combination. In other words this BMW X4 M40i runs on 20- or 21-inch (depending on the choice of the customer) dÄHLer CDC1 wheels fitted with respectfully big tires.

Diligence and expertise is all you need to make your car truly stand out.

Source: Dähler via Miranda Media

August 9, 2016

BRABUS and MINI: a rather pleasurable combination

2017 BRABUS Sport Package mini fortwo BRABUS strikes back with two new sporty packs for the fortwo coupe and cabrio SMART models. Available for moderately low price, the BRABUS Sport Package grants customers with numerous customization features and some neat exclusive tweaks. So, without further due, let’s see what is going on here!

The packs are available with both manual and twinamic transmission on passion, prime and proxy trim levels. Sweet! And in order to bring some more sporty features, BRABUS team has done some neat body and chassis improvements to deliver us a lowering with 10 millimeters, compared to a standard fortwo, some sweet suspension updates that include BRABUS-tuned damping system and some weight reductions.

2017 BRABUS Sport Package mini fortwo

Also, the BRABUS Sport Package contributes to some neat looks with stragged fitment Monoblock IX wheels in matte grey paint, wrapped by Yokohama summer performance tires.\

Buyers will also be granted with sweet wheel center caps, matte grey rear diffuser and front spoiler and rear apron in body color scheme. Sweet.

2017 BRABUS Sport Package mini fortwo

Furthermore, in terms of interior, the BRABUS-influenced vehicles proudly show a 3-spoke multifunction sporty steering wheel and of course, tons of BRABUS logos all around the cabin. The interior is further refined with brushed stainless steel sport pedals with rubber studs.

Available for the 2017 smart fortwo coupes and cabrio models, the sales start this fall.

Source: BRABUS

August 8, 2016

Vitesse and Audessus offer some neat improvements for Rolls-Royce vehicles

2016 Rolls-Royce Bengala Automotive and Vitesse Audessus Project One of the most popular premium design house, Bengala Automotive and the US-based Vitesse AuDessus have launched a special carbon-fiber program for contemporary Rolls-Royce vehicles. Sweet.

What is so special about this project is that there will be only few lucky units from the Phantom, Wraith, Dawn and Ghost lineups that will benefit from the lightweight body procedures. In fact, the vehicles will be geared with special carbon matrix, similar to the Forged Carbon Fiber, created by Lamborghini and Callaway. As you may know, this kind of fabric allows some neat aesthetics, combined with numerous aerodynamic and performance improvements. Cool, right?

2016 Rolls-Royce Bengala Automotive and Vitesse Audessus Project

What will also be included is the forged carbon fiber wheels. They are lighter and denser than titanium and do come with vast advantage over their metal alloy brothers. These forged wheels are also quicker to manufacture and it is even possible to make a full and functional set in minutes!

Also, along with the forged carbon fiber components and the Viesse AuDessus’s commitment, every body panel will be offered with bare carbon replacements in the weave, tint and finish in harmony with each individual client’s preferences.

2016 Rolls-Royce Bengala Automotive and Vitesse Audessus Project

Usually, the time needed is about 3-4 weeks and 4-6 weeks for the wheels, all depending on the personal specifications and requirements. So, if you are lucky enough to get your Rolls-Royce piped, please share a selfie with us!

Source: Vitesse/AuDessus

August 8, 2016

Carbon Motors magically transforms the interior of the iconic Range Rover

Carbon Motors Range Rover Onyx Concept has the most exquisite interior so far

Carbon Motors are one of our favorite tuners to write about. Not only because they create exclusive one-off projects, but also because they are so diligent in their work, that we can not but only support them with all means. Their latest project involves a Range Rover, which has been already updated on the outside with a unique body kit, delivered by the UK specialists at ONYX.

By the way, the Range Rover, introduced in the 1970s, was named at the Musée du Louvre in Paris “an exemplary work of industrial design” and we can not argue with that. The vehicle has proven quickly that it is literally the ultimate machine for on-road aristocracy.

Returning to the current topic, the here presented project is actually a masterful work of art when it comes to its interior. The designers and tuners at Carbon Motors made the cabin look contemporary, but still manage to keep the classiness of its shapes and forms.

Carbon Motors Range Rover Onyx Concept interior

Initially, they have made a custom design sketch (the last picture in the gallery), showing an entirely transformed look of the cabin. As a result, the interior is now a combination of special and expensive materials applied with a lot of craftsmanship.

To get into details, the seats are covered with bi-color leather in teak brown and black, contrasted by decorative brown stitching. In addition, the headliner and pillars come in black Alcantara and feature the same decorative stitching. To underlining the strong character of the Range Rover, Carbon Motors decided to coat all trim elements inside with carbon fiber and varnish with scratch resistant cover. Note that even the cup holder has been carbon-fiber coated.

Source: Carbon Motors

August 8, 2016

Chelsea Truck Company and Kahn Design impress with Defender London Motor Show Edition

The iconic Defender gets exclusive stylish upgrades

Billing Land Rover Fest happened a week ago at Northampton’s Billing Aquadrome, and there were many interesting cars to view. A real jewel among them is the featured Land Rover Defender, which was on display at Kahn’s stand. In the project took also part the specialists at Chelsea Truck Company, thus making it stand out even more. So, the showcased iconic Defender 90 includes vast range of stylish interior and exterior updates. Here are the details.

Exterior

Kahn Land Rover Defender London Motor Show Edition CTC rear view

On the outside the extinct vehicle is painted in Santorini Black. At the front, it features Kahn’s special front bumper with Tron lighting, Satin Black sump guard fitted alongside the X Lander front grille. And have you spotted the mesh hood vents?

On the opposite side the rear is governed by the very special edition of the Chelsea Truck Company’s spare wheel cover. Both the front and rear include Satin Black wide wings with body colored arches, integrated vents and exposed bolt apertures. The twin cross-hair exhaust system and hard-wearing mud flaps serve to improve the aesthetics of the Defender.

Continuing with the sides of the vehicle, we see a set of 20-inch Mondial wheels in Volcanic Black fitted with 275/55/20 tires. Behind the wheels there are burnt Orange Metallic brake calipers.

Interior

Kahn Land Rover Defender London Motor Show Edition CTC interior

Luxurious Hield fabric is what covers the cabin of the vehicle. The material covers the front GTB and rear folding seats, making the Defender one-off and a true collector’s item. In addition, the centre glove box has been hand trimmed as are the passenger dashboard, top handles, door panels, instrument binnacle and the front door cards. The rev counter has been specifically designed to make the model not only unique but also more appealing.

The other interior upgrades featured here include a Churchill time clock, billet and leather steering wheel, 4 speed auto gear box and vented machined aluminium foot pedals, upgraded satellite navigation system and a reverse camera.

Kahn Land Rover Defender London Motor Show Edition CTC is limited to one unit only, making it a collectible. It is currently on sale for £79,995.

Source: Kahn Design

August 8, 2016

Eibach competes WRC with the release of 350 HP Ford Focus RS

Eibach Ford Focus RS impresses with cool tuning pack and a lot of horsepower

Eibach has achieved something that even the WRC team hasn’t. We are talking about their latest project, involving the Focus RS. Its 2.3 litre Eco-Boost four-cylinder engine is now capable of 350 HP (257 kW), as the number plate on the vehicle highlights. In other words, this hot compact car has even more horses than the equivalent WRC rally car.

After the team at Eibach ensured that the horsepower is enough, it then focused on the cornering capability of this Ford, thus enhancing further its performance. Precisely, the tuners fitted Pro-Kit Performance Springs, bringing the Focus RS 20 millimetres closer to the ground. Next to the improved optics, the springs also reduce diving when braking as well as the rolling tendency of the body when cornering is happening.

The next step is the installation of the in-house made aluminum Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers, ensuring there is more stable tracking as well as a masterful appearance. Eibach Anti-Roll-Kit rounds out the suspension package, while the Performance Stabilizer Bars reduce rolling and pitching during cornering.

Eibach Ford Focus RS rear view

HJS specialists are also involved in this exclusive project as they offered tuning catalytic converter. It is the perfect addition to any type of sport exhaust system, providing 35 % reduction in exhaust backpressure. OZ and Michelin are also included in the project, offering Pilot Super Sport and the Cup version in the size 235/35 ZR19 on the wheel design 19-inch Leggera HLTs.

At last, but not least of importance, this road vehicle with 350 HP has received rally livery and as you can see the design is very cool! It is actually the official M-Sport design. Those of you, who already got impressed and are intending to visit the Essen Motor Show (26 November – 4 December) this year, can go see there the car live.

Source: Eibach

August 8, 2016

Category: Car Makes

So, what is so special with the 2017 Pathfinder?

Turning a myth into reality

The history of Elvis and 507

VOS Performance offers high-end tuning for the iconic Lamborghini Huracan

dÄHLer BMW X4 M40i equipped with tuner’s “competition line” offers unmatched horsepower

Carbon Motors Range Rover Onyx Concept has the most exquisite interior so far

The iconic Defender gets exclusive stylish upgrades

Exterior

Interior

Eibach Ford Focus RS impresses with cool tuning pack and a lot of horsepower