Car Makes – Page 197 – Automobiles Review

Which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads? Ford answers in exclusive video series [part two]

Europe's Greatest Driving Roads by ford Ford and BP/Castrol have answered which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads via special video series. We have followed them until number 4 (check out in the link below), and now it is time to reveal the last two tracks that the car journalist Steve Sutcliffe has picked for you. Traveling across Europe can be very exciting, especially when you are on four wheels and well prepared. Since the summer has already started, this is one good way to spend it traveling around Europe, and we promise that it not only would be worth it, but it will leave you with unforgettable memories.

“Europe’s Greatest Driving Roads”, is a video project, which explores six of the most exclusive pathways that could be found on the Old Continent. If you wonder how the routes were chosen, the answer is – with a ranking by the thrill factor they offer, the road surface, the accessibility and hospitality, the scenery as well as the food and drink after the drive. The lucky one to pick up those six tracks is the well-known car journalist Steve Sutcliffe, who has actually covered nearly 10,000 miles in 12 months to identify the most breath-taking drives! A dream job, isn’t it?

In short, the list features five countries: Romania, France, Germany, Spain (with two routes) and the United Kingdom. And the performance cars included in the videos are delivered by Ford, including the Mustang GT, Focus RS and Fiesta ST. What we have seen so far are the first route in Spain, the one in Romania as well as those in the UK and France. Here are the last two you need to know about.

GERMANY, B500, Black Forest Highway

httpv://youtu.be/BFDiQJ0Bmts

The B500 is 40 km long and it is positioned in the middle of the enchanting Black Forest. Sutcliffe says that these are some of the most challenging kilometers he has ever driven. However, he also proudly confirms that they are worth the effort. In this video, he drives the Ford Focus ST TDCI Estate. You will fall in love with every corner of this great driving road!

MALLORCA, MA10, Mountain Road

httpv://youtu.be/0P2k9lRsWOw

Here, Steve says that it’s not just the road but the history, which makes Mallorca’s MA10 extremely intriguing. The road is fun to ride on, especially if you are in Focus ST like Sutcliffe. It features tunnels, passes across lakes and over rocky bridges. But in the middle of the MA10 sits a 13^th century Sanctuary de Lluc monastery, which defines this amazing piece of road.

These roads are for people who love cars and love driving, but also want to make an amazing road trip. So, what are you waiting for?

Source: Ford via YouTube

July 29, 2016

Lamborghini showcases a special model, created for a special event. Check it out!

2016 Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Limited Edition Automobili Lamborgini reveals the Aventador Miura Homage, a special model that pays tribute to the Miura, the model that is forerunner of all the V12 Lambo vehicles for its 50th anniversary. Limited to only 50 vehicles, the lineup has a lot to demonstrate.

Created in Lamborghini’s Ad Personam studio, Aventado Miura Homage shows numerous features that were present on the original Miura model. For example, the exterior color that covers the lower body and sill in a contrasting tone. In fact, the original Miura was offered with many color schemes and trim levels. Of course, still available are the well-known Rosso Arancio Miura (solid color); Verde Scandal (solid); and Blu Tahiti (metallic).

2016 Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Limited Edition

The vehicle demonstrates neat 20/21-inch Dione rims with matt silver or gold, while the metallic Miura badge on the side and black Lamborghini logo, along with the limited edition plate shape the confident attitude of the Aventador Miura Homage.

2016 Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Limited Edition

And just like the exterior, the interior can be specified with two color schemes: Nero Ade or Terra Emilia leather with tone-on-tone stitching. There are numerous carbon fiber components, along with neat Miura 50th logo and of course, Lamborghini badgings.

In terms of performance, the V12 6.5-liter power unit is capable of producing a total of 700hp (447kW) of power and 690Nm of torque at 5,500rpm. Needless to say that Lamborghini vehicles offer great amount of power and neat performance rates, this sweetie is no exception: the 0-100km/h run finishes in mere 2.9 seconds and chases a top speed of 350km/h.

2016 Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Limited Edition

Aventador Miura Homage will be demonstrated at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and of course, this vehicle will be the main one for Automobili lamborghini’s celebration of Miura’s 50th anniversary.

Source: Automobili Lamborghini

July 29, 2016

Friends of MX-5 race event is about to start. Here’s what you must know!

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

This year’s September will witness how five grassroots racers will line up on the grid at the well-known Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with full race-enhanced Mazda MX-5 Cup vehicles. The occasion? A special Global Mazda MX-5 Cup race. Cool.

As many of you know, this weekend witnessed an intense knock-out competition at the ParcMotor Circuit, Barcelona where 20 racers were reduced to ten and then further knocked out to just five. These drivers are indeed Moritz Kranz (Germany), Kamil Franczak (Poland), Erik Blixt (Sweden), Oliver Allwood (UK) and Gabriele Gardel (Switzerland).

Recruited from Europe via Mazda’s Friends of MX-5 engagement program and came together at weekend’s training camp to face-off through one hell of a knock-out race. Of course, there were numerous judges and professionals who voted for competitors and rated their race capabilities, reactions, driving dynamics and more. And as it appears, there were a total of five determined men who made it through the examinations.

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

As you might know, launched in April this year, Friends of MX-5 program tries to engage MX-5 owners all around the globe and since the beginning of the project, there were thousands of Mazda fans and enthusiasts that have exchanged tons of experience and wonderful emotions.

Furthermore, competitors at the assessment weekend will have the chance to try out the fresh 2016 Mazda MX-5 Global Cup Car: this is a heavily revised vehicle with more than 200 sporty components added in order not only to meet professionals’ requirements, but also to dominate the track entirely.

Some of the notable tweaks include adjustable Dynamic Coilover suspension, GEMS engine management, race-tuned factory Brembo brakes, FIA approved roll cage, BFGoodrich tires and more.

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

All these five new Friends of MX-5 racers will line up in a packed field at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca against previous MX-5 Cup winners and all together will run for a chase of victory. Trying to break through to the front lines in a skill-demanding track, racers will surely make incredible event and we are most excited to know what would happen!

Stick with us for further information!

Source: Mazda

July 28, 2016

Here is why 1935 Datsun Type 14 is of remarkable historical importance

1935 Datsun Type 14 front view

1935 Datsun Type 14 might actually look like other cars from the 30s but it isn’t. It is way more than that! The Type 14 is an unusual machine, with potent 15 PS for its time and a remarkable history. If it wasn’t born back then, then we wouldn’t have Nissan nowadays.

We must admit that Datsun is kind of strange name, but its origin has an interesting history. The company Kwaishinsha created the DAT (where “DAT-sun” came from) was founded in 1911 by Mr. Hashimoto. He had a dream to make cars that were suited for the Japanese market and to export them. 1914 marked the birth of his first small 2-cylinder 10-horsepower car. For it, he borrowed the initial letters of the surnames of his three investors: K. Den, R. Aoyama, and M. Takeuchi, and respectively the name “DAT” appeared on the automotive scene.

Almost two decades later Kwaishinsha combined forces with Jitsuyo Jidosha Co., thus forming the Dat Jidosha Seizo Co. Its main purpose during those years was to produce military vehicles. However, in 1931 the brand “opened a new door”, developing a new passenger car with 500cc engine capacity and 10 horsepower. It embodied the DAT spirit, but was more compact than the original. Hence it required new name: DATSON, or the “Son of DAT”. However, Japanese people are very superstitious and because in their language “son” means “loss”, they decided to changed it to “SUN”…for brighter way to put things out. The car went eventually on sale a year later.

1935 Datsun Type 14

In 1934 is the ecstatic moment in history when the Jidosha-Seizo Co. became Nissan Motor Co., simultaneously starting a full-scale production. The first car of the new company that came off the line was the Datsun Type 14. It was powered by a brand new 15 HP with 722cc capacity. In addition, it had something that previous generations didn’t: the rabbit mascot created by the designer Ryuichi Tomiya.

Type 14 never made it outside the Japanese market, but there was the option of shipping it to the owner, if he could afford it. This is the case of the here presented example of the 1935 Type 14, which was transported to Britain by the car manufacturing magnate Sir Herbert Austin, the creator and owner of Austin Motor Company. He wanted to inspect every detail for possible patent violation because the car looked similar to the Austin 7 Ruby. No action was ever taken by him, but what was left was a never registered car put into storage.

The good new is that this historically significant vehicle is now part of UK’s National Motor Museum collection. So, if you are in the vicinity, go witness history!

Source: Datsun via Nissan

July 28, 2016

Ford Performance team showcases F-150 Raptor’s flexibility [w/video]

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor Stories about our favorite F-150 Raptor continue! Today we continue with vehicle’s special systems that allow it to tackle down any challenge in any road condition and situation. F-150 Raptor features a total of five terrain modes to fit in every kind of demanding road (or off-road track). So, here’s what you can do with tweaking a bit the buttons in the cabin:

Normal mode

As name suggests, this one is the preferred one for everyday on-road duties and is ideal for a comfortable and convenient drive.

Sport mode

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor This one shows vehicle’s adrenaline-rush capabilities. You can select this mode for some enhanced on-road driving: what this mode does is to increase the throttle response and to provide some sporty-oriented steering feel. Of course, quicker speed shifting is also present with the Sport mode.

Weather mode

This one is divided in two sub-modes.

Snow/Wet
If there is some snowy or wet weather issue, this one will make the most out of the situation. Without compromising performance rates or convenience, this one can tackle down numerous snowy or wet tracks, thanks to the engaging of the 4 Auto system. Also, an additional special system makes all the needed calculations and engages just enough amount of throttle, wheel torque and power to deal with any road challenge.

Mud/Sand
In order to deal with muddy or sand-slippery roads, this setting will do the job. The electronic locking differential adopts to the loose and soft ground, while the AdvanceTrac setting aids Raptor to keep its foots on the ground. The mode automatically sets the steering to comfort in order to make it easier to navigate along tight trails and over obstacles.

Baja

Baja is a special mode. It is especially created and exclusively fine-tuned to deliver some high-speed desert runs. Baja mode engages F-150’s 4 High setting and programs the AdvanceTrac to the least intrusive setting. At the same time the throttle map is set for more linear power and tweaks the engine response in a sort of hardcore off-road behavior. Gearbox delivers quick shifts and holds gears longer: this helps the vehicle to stay in its power band.

Rock Crawl

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor

Last, but not least, this one is especially created for intense off-road driving and rock climbing at low speed. When engaged, this mode sets vehicle’s settings to 4 Low and at the same time the electronic locking differential is engaged, while the AdvanceTrac is set to least intrucive mode for optimum rock-climbing capability. Also, the front camera allows driver to see what’s ahead of the truck and can be kept on at speeds up to 15mph.

Definitely a capable machine, Raptor continues Ford Performance’s tradition to deliver customers highest performance rates and adequate response to road’s demands.

https://youtu.be/EAsR42Oa84s

Source: Ford Performance

Video Source: Youtube

Channel Source: Ford Performance

July 28, 2016

BORLA Gears Camaro SS with exclusive exhaust system. It is worth reviewing! [w/video]

2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS with BORLA Exhaust System BORLA Performance Industries team proudly announces the launch of a fresh exhaust system, exclusively designed and engineered for the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS, geared with 6.2-liter LT1 V8 power unit.

BORLA R&D department is, in fact, in the process of developing numerous Camaro systems and the last creation was just revealed. Just like brand’s other products, the exhaust system comes with 2.75-inch diameter and is fine-tuned to fit perfectly the LT1 engine.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS with BORLA Exhaust System

The product highlights include this very same 2.75-inch diameter exhaust, made of stainless steel, high-quality engineering with special warranty, patented ATAK and S-Type muffler technology, different mid-pipe and resonator options, long-tube header and large 3-inch header-back exhaust system.

Furthermore, the ATAK and S-Type rear-section mufflers can be further specified with or without Dual Mode-type valve technology. Also, Camaro SS owners can add BORLA performance mid-pipe to the rear-section mufflers in order to improve airflow and aid the overall performance rates without increasing noise levels.

2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS with BORLA Exhaust System

In fact, whatever the combinations are, BORLA team created and engineered precisely all of the parts and systems to work in full harmony with Camaro SS models. And the best part is that the team manages to boost the performance without any annoying drone, which is associated with aftermarket exhaust additions. Sweet.

https://youtu.be/1o0HzNx8JqM

Source: BORLA Performance Industries

Video Source: YouTube

Video Channel Source: BORLA Performance Industries

July 27, 2016

KW Automotive modernizes the iconic Honda S2000

KW Honda S2000 side view

It is the Honda S2000, which is responsible fro bringing such excitement in enthusiasts as no other car in the industry. Well, many might argue about that, but the Japanese roadster is one of the icons out there which thrills the spirits as it has just came off the production line. Because of its key assets, it is still valued as one of the best cars out there. Not to mention its continuous use for races, drags and etc.

This Honda was built from 1999 to 2009 and it was mainly famous (and still is) for its stiff chassis and short shift paths. What is more, it had the ability to rev up to 9000 RPM from its 241 hp or 247 hp strong VTEC two-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine.

But what would happen if we dare to customize the innate capabilities of the S2000. If done correctly, it could further strengthen the core qualities of the car, right? Let’s see what the team of Christian Scmidt has done to improve its driving dynamics.

KW Honda S2000 rear view

He and his mates at KW Automotive and ST Coilovers, decided to add various types of coil-over, which perfectly fit the all S2000’s, including the local versions Type S, GT, Club Racer and the facelift. There are actually two coilover kits available: the ST X and ST XTA. Both lower the ride height of the car by 55 mm, but the latter comes with adjustable top mounts and high-performance dampers.

Making the ride of the Honda S2000 sportier or more comfortable, the ST suspensions coilover kits take every curve more direct and holds firmly to the road. This also means that bumps and typical transverse joints for bridges are damped easily by the kit.

KW is also offering the option of adding ST wheel spacers for more performance-infused attitude. The ST DZX wheel spacers come with multi hole circle bores, and they enable to widen the track per wheel in 2.5 mm-steps from 5 to 25 mm. On the other hand, the ST AZX wheel spacers, offer a wider track of 25 to 35 mm, which can be reached in 5 mm steps.

Well, whoever’s driving the car on the images seems pretty satisfied by the applied changes, doesn’t he?

Source: KW Automotive

July 27, 2016

AEB system: is it that popular and important as they want us to see it?

2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe New car sales researches revealed what majority of people prefer when it comes to buying a new vehicle. Analyzed by independent researchers, results show that buyers mainly prefer cars with more safety features, but for some reason not everyone is into the Autonomous Emergency Braking. Interesting.

However, good thing is to know that people are heading towards safety, instead of some overall useless hi-tech tweaks, right? However, results show some mixed opinions as it comes to standard safety equipment. Although the first vehicles in the rank have great safety suites, also in the top 3 is the Vauxhall Corsa: a neat vehicle, but with twice as less safety stuff, compared with the leader in the list: the C-Class.

However, one of the most handy and reliable systems, the Autonomous Emergency Braking is available with all of the list with most popular cars. Some brands include it as a part of the standard equipment, others prefer to gear it optionally – with client’s personal preferences.

So, what are people into? Here’s the full list:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class
AEB is named Collision Prevention Assist Plus and is part of the standard equipment.

Volkswagen Golf
The good ol’ Golf lineup incorporates the system to almost all of its models as a part of the standard equipment. Fun thing is that VW does not offer AEB as an extra.

Nissan Qashqai
This one also incorporates the AEB system to almost all vehicles in the lineup, but also offers it as an additional feature.

Ford Focus
Coming by the name of Active City Stop, the system is fitted to surprisingly low number of vehicle models, but the good news is that Ford team offers it as a standalone feature for reasonable pricing.

Vauxhall Astra
The trustworthy Astra also appears to sort of not like the AEB: the vehicles, equipped with this system are as low as 34% of the whole range. Good thing is that AEB is optionally available.

MINI
The system also comes as optional extra and is simply named Driving Assistant.

VW Polo
Named City Emergency Braking, the AEB is available only as a part of the optional “ACC” pack.

Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta also does not incorporate the system as part of the standard pack and offers it as a standalone purchase.

Vauxhall Mokka
Although popular and reliable, the whole lineup does not feature AEB even as a standard feature.

Vauxhall Corsa
Just like the Mokka, Corsa lineup tends to not like the AEB: it is not available even as optional feature.

Source: Thatcham

July 26, 2016

How to make your Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG stand out even more with a single step

OXIGIN offers simple way to boost the appearance of the GLE

Mercedes-Benz GLE has been revealed last summer and it immediately became the rival of the popular BMW X6. Sharing even almost the same exterior, both large SUVs are now becoming strong part of the automotive market. Nearly five meters long and having over two-tons of weight, the GLE Coupé makes a strong visual impact with its sleek and fastback proportions. For this reason, people are looking for ways to enhance their cars, and if you have to think of the simplest one, it is of course – changing the wheels.

The alloy wheel specialists at OXIGIN, have the perfect offer: they have created various good-looking wheel designs to fill out the big arches of the massive GLE. On the images you will see in the gallery the AMG vaiant of the SUV, has been equipped with 10.5 and 11.5×21-inch sized wheels in classic five-spoke OXIGIN 18 Concave design. They also sport Black Full Polish finish and are shod with appropriate tires sized 275/45ZR21 and 315/40ZR21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Oxigin Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG wheel

By the way, OXIGIN 18 Concave can be specified in other dimensions ranging from 7.5×17-inch, through 18, 19, 20 and 21-inch, and culminating in the massive 10.0 and 11.5×22-inch sizes. In addition, to make the GLE even brighter, the specialists are offering various variants of finish options besides the Black Full Polish. These include Black and Graphite Full Polish, Extra Colour finishes, Colour Polish, Neon and Bicolour finishes.

Among the wide range of alloys and besides everything, the driver of this GLE AMG will enjoy the V6 petrol engine with a direct injection, which delivers 367 HP (270 kW) at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) at 1400-4000 rpm. It is mated to a DYNAMIC SELECT transmission, which has a SPORT+ mode offering exceptional driving qualities and bringing high levels of adrenaline.

Source: OXIGIN

July 26, 2016

Got an old Volvo XC60? Here’s three ways of improving its suspension

BILSTEIN Volvo XC60 side view

Volvo began the production of the XC60 eight years ago. Ever since that starting point, the SUV still remains highly popular for the strength, durability and comfortability it offers. Bu the way, exactly this model has been awarded several times for being the “best-selling premium SUV in Europe”, including in 2015.

In June, Polestar Performance has offered an optimization for the new generation of Volvo XC60. It also made an improvement to other five key areas: throttle response, gearshift hold, agility, speed and overall more aggressive on-road behavior.

Besides these good news for the future XC60 customers, many owners of older model variants, which have a lot of miles on the clock, requiring shock absorbers to be replaced in many cases. Often people want to upgrade to a sportier handling feel, too. For these two reasons, BILSTEIN have developed different spare parts and upgrade options for the Volvo XC60. This includes substitution of conventional parts and improvement of the standard parts.

Precisely, there are three suspension kits B4, B6 and B12. The first one is gas-pressure shock absorber, which makes sure that there is maximum safety through high performance reserves, constant damping under any load, high traction and precise handling.

The B6 damper on the other hand is the one offering better quality and providing optimum performance and comfort through added damping and an extremely long service life. At last, the B12 complete suspension system offers the perfect combination of sporty dynamics, impressive design and highly durable performance. But there’s a reason behind this: it has been developed during driving tests in cooperation with springs manufacturer Eibach.

Source: BILSTEIN

July 25, 2016

Subaru is proud to earn our trust: here’s more info!

Subaru of America, named Most Trusted Brand and Best Overall Brandy by Kelley Blue Book, decided to celebrate with a launch of a “Proud to Earn Your Trust” television spot that captures brand’s most iconic “Love” ads. This means that the spots review some emotional moments in the earning trust of customers. Sweet.

The spots, created by Carmichael Lynch on behalf of Subaru of America will air throughout July, August and September across cable television, network late night programming and of course, social media websites: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more.

What the videos feature is call backs from the most memorable and iconic campaign ads through the years. From the very first days with the “Welcoming Party” through the “Subaru Heaven” to the “Baby Driver”, “Honeymoon” and “Back Seat” that are all directed by Jake Scott.

And as it comes to us, we must say that recently Subaru team impressed us. And not only with a new model or two, but as a whole: it seems as the whole brand has decided to deliver only high quality products and components.

So, tell me, what do you think about Subaru and the campaign ad. Write down your opinion in the comment section below!

Source: Subaru

July 22, 2016

Volkswagen Golf or Scirocco? Ingo Noak can’t decide so it tunes both

Ingo Noak Tuning releases wide body kits for both the Scirocco and Golf models

Ingo Noak Tuning isn’t a car company which we hear about very often. Maybe this is the reason why the tuners have surprised us with two tunings on different Volkswagen models. Obviously, the experts couldn’t decide, which one they prefer: the imposing Scirocco, or the athletic Golf. We can’t make this choice either, so we appreciate the efforts done here.

Basically, the specialists from Northern Germany have created high standard custom body kits for the duo. What the couple shares in common is the Ingo Noak Tuning’s wide body conversions, which has been made of high quality ABS plastic in combination with glass-fibre parts.

Some of the highlights of the wide body kit include in-house made wheel arch flares with racecar-style fixing screws, carbon spoiler lip and Cup side skirts. There is also something that the tuner calls R bodykit, which includes extended wheel arches that house the 20-inch diameter wheels. By the way the latter are pushed right to the edges by the new spacers, thus delivering low, wide and purposeful stance.

Ingo Noak Volkswagen Golf front and side view

At the back of the car we see new carbon-look underbody diffusers and massive 100mm outlets of the North Exhaust stainless steel exhaust system. Although both models come riding on 20-inches, the Golf sits Advance Wheels AV2.0 alloys wrapped in 265/25R20 Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tyres, while the Scirocco’s big arches are filled by Keskin KT14 wheels with red painted centers and polished flanges, and are shod with the same as Golf’s tyres.

At last, both models have received ST coilover suspension, which drops the ride height further.

These wide body Wolfsburgers are high class, aren’t they?

Source: Ingo Noak Tuning

July 21, 2016

Category: Car Makes

GERMANY, B500, Black Forest Highway

MALLORCA, MA10, Mountain Road

Normal mode

Sport mode

Weather mode

Baja

Rock Crawl

So, what are people into? Here’s the full list:

OXIGIN offers simple way to boost the appearance of the GLE

Ingo Noak Tuning releases wide body kits for both the Scirocco and Golf models