Car Makes – Page 200 – Automobiles Review

The latest Tiguan will rely on heavy personalization: from engines to floor mats and pedal caps

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan We have yet another Tiguan. But this time Volkswagen team has decided to heavily rely on personalization and additional tweakable features. Available in a total of five trim levels, the latest addition in the lineup will definitely try to please every single customer. But is it going to succeed?

The Tiguan shows sharp body language with neat lines and confident expression. Just like all Tiguans, in fact. Muscular in its stance, the vehicle demonstrates sharp-edged and straight-lined front fascia, direct side lines, and muscular and minimalistic rear styling. Some of the optional features include protective strip for the tailgate, high quality sill trims to protect the bodywork, and front and rear mud flaps. Sweet.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

The inside will definitely fit all family people out there and people who have already seen enough of the automobile world. The class-leading appearance is still here, but this time with some additional goodies. Optionally, buyers can gear the new Tiguan with different floor mats, pedal cap set and.. some more practically useless tweaks. Good thing is that the SUV remains well-equipped with numerous safety features and technologies.

Also, in terms of load capacity, VW team offers flexible boot liner to prevent items from sliding, luggage net, upper partition grille and metal barrier for families with pets. And as we talk about families, we should also mention that Tiguan can also be specified with roof load bards, bicycle holder, ski and snowboard holder and more.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

Of course, we also get anti-theft system, engine immobiliser as standard features, but for all of those who seek even greater protection, engineering team offers optionally CobraTrak Plus vehicle tracking system.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

So, how do you find the flexibility of the new Tiguan? We like it! Write your opinion down in the comment section!

Source: Volkswagen

July 8, 2016

Acura NSX GT3 Racecar is hot and sweaty on the racetrack

Acura reveals first official images of NSX GT3 Racecar

The first official images of the Acura NSX GT3 racecar have been revealed, showing the car sexy and sweaty on the racetrack. The twin-turbocharged NSX GT3 was shot with its exposed carbon fiber bodywork at GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, MI. This happens at the time of continuous development at circuits throughout the United States. Acura is actually preparing to campaign the vehicle in North America in 2017 and at the same time it is slated for homologation as an FIA GT3 class racecar this fall.

But we believe that this time the task Acura has undertaken is way easier, since the racer is built over the very solid basis of the production NSX. As they both share many similarities, the most major one is the 3.5-liter, 75-degree, twin turbocharged DOHC V-6 engine. In both cars are used the same design specifications, including the block, heads, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons and dry sump lubrication system. However, the GT3 comes equipped with 6-speed, sequential-shift racing gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels.

To go further into details, the Acura NSX GT3 racecar has been given custom bodywork and aero components, namely large deck wing spoiler and underbody diffuser. We spot enlarged hood vents, which serve to cool down the (probably) uprated engine.

Acura NSX GT3 Racecar side view

By the way, the NSX GT3 has abundant legacy of Acura sports car racing campaigns and championships. These include the 1991, 1992 and 1993 IMSA Camel Lights as well as the 2009 American LeMans championships. Acura is currently campaigning a couple of TLX GT cars with Real Time Racing in the Pirelli World Challenge.

The first development stages of the NSX GT3 racecar were conducted on race circuits in Europe and Japan. Besides the additional development testing, the racer is under final homologation to FIA GT3 global racing specifications. Acura NSX GT3 will be produced by company’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, which is also responsible for the birth of the production NSX. More details to follow soon.

Source: Acura

July 8, 2016

Skoda Kodiaq is here. First images and details reveled!

Skoda Kodiaq SUV breaks cover under military disguise

Skoda Kodiaq has been finally revealed as the company stars its major advertising campaign. Being 4.7m long, the SUV has the largest boot capacity within its class. In addition, it will be offered with the option of a third row of seats. Skoda fans must be excited right now and what they need to know is that the new model will go on sale in the beginning of next year.

Of course, the company did not disclose the entire specification list, but instead put a strong emphasis on the key advantages of Kodiaq. Here is what we know so far.

It seems that Skoda’s way to be future oriented is to include more technology and connectivity features. So, it promises that the Kodiaq will sport a variety of infotainment and online connectivity treats. Precisely, the SUV will be given Volkswagen’s second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix, which offers numerous functions and interfaces, and what Skoda calls “capacitive touchscreens”.

Columbus and Amundsen systems are featured as an option and they come with a WiFi hotspot as well as LTE module for faster mobile services. In addition, the Skoda online services run via the Skoda Connect App, which is also helpful in cases of checking, configuring and finding the car from afar via a smartphone. The SmartLink platform, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLinkTM and SmartGate are all there.

Skoda Kodiaq SUV rear view

The Kodiaq also comes equipped with a wide range of driving assistance system like the Area View cameras, the Tow Assist system and Front Assist, Parking Distance Control and more. But besides the technology and assistance systems, Skoda says that probably the most important asset of Kodiaq is the design, which is “full of character and emotion”. Furthermore, the SUV can be specified as five- or seven-seater, offering a capacity of up to 2,065 litres or the largest boot within its class.

In terms of engines and chassis, the new model in Skoda’s line-up can be specified with two TDIs and three TSIs. At the top of the range stands the 2.0-litre TSI petrol with its 180 hp (132 kW). The transmission options available are the six-speed manual gearbox, DSG transmission, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. One can also go for an off-road ride with the four-wheel drive specification just at the touch of a button specifying the preferred Driving Mode.

Detailed information and more images are going to be unveiled soon as Skoda is starting a major Kodiaq campaign. Stay tuned!

Source: Skoda

July 8, 2016

Mercedes G500 becomes a stylish icon handcrafted by Carbon Motors

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 front view

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 got thorough interior, exterior and engine upgrades

Carbon Motors is probably one of our favorite tuning companies and the reasons for this are many, but mostly because of the exceptional and worthy projects they make. This time under the spotlight is the iconic Mercedes G-Class, which has received substantial interior intervention, and some minor but noticeable exterior updates.

To start with some facts from the history, you might be unfamiliar with the fact that the G in the name of this model comes from the German word Geländewagen, which means “cross-country vehicle”… or simply an off-roader. It was firstly introduced back in 1970s as a military vehicle after an order from the Shah of Iran. Eventually the 4×4 model became a production one, becoming an extremely cherished machine by the automotive enthusiasts all over the planet. Reasonably, some regard it as a fashion icon, too.

But getting back on topic, the less interesting part, the exterior, has received suspension and engine upgrades, which were done with the help of the experts at MD Commerce. On the inside is where the magic has happened. When one steps in, he or she will be amazed by the thorough sophisticated modification.

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 rear view

The experts at the Bulgarian tuning studio Carbon Motors dared to substitute all plastic elements of the G-class W463. Literally everything was handcrafted – from head to toes. What you can see in details on the images featured in the gallery is that the entire door covers, dashboard, central console were upholstered in black leather. For a little bit of contrast, hand stitching was added too. They have even further emphasized the interior through the black Alcantara upholstery for the pillars and headliner.

Turning on the engine, especially the one of the G-Class, might be deemed as noisy. For this reason, Carbon Motors fitted the 4×4 off-roader with noise and vibro-isolation. At last, for a more pleasurable ride, they have installed 500 watt hi-fi sound system.

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 interior

Hope this G-Class excites you as much as it excites us.

Source: Carbon Motors

July 7, 2016

Yaris Orange Edition: necessary or unneeded summer toy?

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition Yaris, one of Toyota’s most popular models received a summer refresh. The Orange Edition will be recognized by the new orange (you don’t say!) metallic body finish and some noticeable and other not so noticeable tweaks made on the outside and the inside of the vehicle.

The bright exterior coloring completely matches the black details that include door mirror casings, rear pillar and side sills. In fact, the sills also feature a sweet chrome flash. The honeycomb-shaped grille is also covered in black matte, just like the sweet 16-inch machined-face alloys.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

The interior also received some tweaks. For example, the whole cabin is dominated by the so-called black-on-black theme: there are black headlining and instrument panel, fresh black and grey cloth upholstery and matching piano black finishes for the air vents, central console and gear knob. And the most important thing in a vehicle’s cabin, the mats welcome you with contrasting orange stitching. Sweet.

You may notice that the whole facelift is based on the Yaris Icon lineup, but with some slight changes and exclusive additions. Orange Edition buyers will be granted with Cruise Control System, Automatic Air Conditioning (hybrid model only), LED rear lights and rear spoiler. Of course, Toyota lovers won’t be deprived by Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, rearview camera, projector headlights, LED daytime lights and front fog lights.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

And the drivetrain system? The “Orange” can be ordered with three engines: a 1.33 VVT-i petrol with six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel power unit with manual transmission and a 1.5-liter VVT-i petrol hybrid unit.

Toyota Yaris Orange Edition can already be ordered, but deliveries can be expected in August of this year. Prices start from $20,450 USD.

Source: Toyota

July 7, 2016

Renault proudly presents the new RS 200 EDC sporty beast. Check it out!

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC Renault team unveiled a fresh new Clio with tons of neat features! Incorporating the best of the R.S. lineup, along with adding some new tweaks, the Clio R.S. 200 EDC seems to be an honorable candidate to the R.S. family lineup!

Jumping right into the drivetrain specs, we like what we see: a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol power unit with a choice of two output levels (200hp or 220hp for the Trophy model), paired to a six-speed EDC dual-clutch with steering wheel paddle shifters.

What is also special about the new R.S. machine is that it can be specified with three different types of chassis, giving buyers the opportunity to customize their personal vehicle. The choices are indeed a variant with 17-inch wheels, one with 18-inch wheels, and a special Cup chassis variant with 18-inch wheels with some track fine-tunes.

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC

Also a neat feature is that the Trophy version can be specified with exclusive exhaust, which is based on the Clio R.S.16 Concept car. The system is especially developed in collaboration with industry specialist Akrapovič and what it does is to enhance engine’s acceleration and contribute to that distinctive roar.

Also exclusive for this particular vehicle is the addition of a Launch Control System, R.S. Drive System with three driving modes, R.S. Monitor application and hydraulic compression bump.

Styling

We see a distinctive vehicle with confident stance. The front end is visually widened with new bumpers and incorporates new LED multi-faced lightning system. The sides of the vehicle are defined by 18-inch wheels and notable sills, while the rear proudly shows a new spoiler, diffuser and neat twin exhaust tailpipes.

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC

Also, there is an optional GT Line pack that adds Dark Metal air scoops in the front bumper, lateral sills and 16- or 17-inch wheels. There is also an exclusive exhaust with chrome tailpipe and Dark Metal rear bumper panel.

The new Clio will be available for order from September and customer deliveries will begin from the autumn of this year.

Source: Renault

July 7, 2016

How to make your old E-Class look like a Nissan GT-R? Piecha Design answers!

Piecha Design releases GT-R aerodynamic set for the Mercedes-AMG E-Class W212

We are announcing Piecha Design for tuner of the month, because of its unstoppable projects that keep coming to us. More importantly they are all great and rather unusual, and we are more than happy to share them with you! After making a modern variant of the iconic SL Roadster (link below), the designers are ready to introduce something rather special and a little bit strange. They have released a GT-R set (yes, like the Nissan GT-R) for the Mercedes AMG E-Class W212.

You won’t see the latter in dealerships nowadays, because it was produced from 2009 until 2013. Although there has been some time since it went off production, the car still looks contemporary with its four angular eyes and prolonged posture.

What really impressed us here was the name of the kit the tuning studio added: PIECHA GT-R aerodynamic set. We immediately rushed to read more about what it features. So, here are the details, which you might find intriguing too.

Piecha Design Mercedes-AMG E-Class W212 rear

First, the kit is available for limos and T-models. It underlines the dynamic stance of the E-Class with the following in-house made parts: front flics and trims for the AMG side skirts, four-spot skirt LEDs, GT-R inspired rear diffusor (the star here) with its aluminium grid and GT sport-type exhaust (which also comes with various deflectors). The latter includes four oval QUADRO tailpipes sized 118 x 85 mm.

Packed with these goodies the Mercedes runs on 20-inch MP5-LXM alloys. The racing posture of the car is further supported by the new suspension parts. To be more specific, it is the digital electronic Airmatic module, which lowers the ride height by up to 50mm. Controlled by the CANBUS steering-wheel control panel, each axle can be eight-level-adjusted. The necessary details will be displayed on its screen.

Last, but not least, the E-class GT-R has been also given the PIECHA Power-Converter, but the tuner decided to keep the enhanced numbers a secret.

So, which one’s next Piecha? Maybe the SLS AMG?

Source: Piecha Design

July 7, 2016

Jaguar revives nine mythical vintage vehicles! Check them out!

2016 Jaguar XKSS Jaguar Classic announced that the Jaguar XKSS will make its global debut in November this year in California, North America. We believe that this will happen at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

This ultra-exclusive lineup consists only 9 units that are hand-crafted by Jaguar Classic experts and all of them were produced in the same way and with the exact same specifications as the original vehicles from 1957. Cool.

2016 Jaguar XKSS

As you might know, XKSS is believed to be world’s first supercar. Jaguar team has created this model as a road-legal version of the Le-Mans winner D-type and all of the units that were built in ’57 were to be exported to the US, but after a disaster, many of the vehicles were severely damaged and lost to the Browns Lane fire. And 59 years later, Jaguar team decided to revive the nine lost XKSS sports cars specially for established collectors and customers.

The vehicles have been created to be fully compliant with FIA homologation for historic motorsport purposes and all of the “missing” units are created to period-exact dimensions and specification that ensure a 100% authenticity and highest standards in terms of quality and craftsmanship.

1957 Jaguar XKSS

So, what do you think of the reincarnation of the world’s first supercar? Write down in the comment section!

Source: Jaguar

July 6, 2016

Have you ever heard of hypercars? Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing have already revealed one!

2018 Aston Martin Red Bull Racing AM-RB 001 Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing revealed a stunning vehicle: a so-called hypercar, the AM-RB 001. The collaboration process between the British luxury brand and the F1 team combined the skills and passion of two world-leading manufacturers to deliver us a machine that we have not seen before.

Geared with a lightweight carbon fiber structure, the AM-RB 001 demonstrates a sort of radical aerodynamic solutions, incredible levels of downforce and definitely a pure racing styling. We see some notable Aston Martin shapes and curves, but this is definitely a vehicle far more distinctive that anything the British manufacturer has presented so far.

2018 Aston Martin Red Bull Racing AM-RB 001

AM-RB 001 will be built by David King and his fellow teammates at Gaydon, in Aston Martin’s facility, where their original hypercar, the One-77 was built. We still don’t know much about machine’s performance, but what we know is that the engineers have brought us a vehicle with mid-mounted and high-revving V12 power unit with the capability of achieving a 1:1 power-to-engine-ratio and 1bhp per kilo of weight. Sounds good, right?

Also, in order to cope with extreme aerodynamic loading at high speeds and to deliver the on-road flexibility and comfort at the same time, AM-RB 001’s suspension will come with some special technology and will adopt the principles honed by Newey over his 3-decade career. We expect something similar to be incorporated in the transmission.

2018 Aston Martin Red Bull Racing AM-RB 001

What is also expected from the alliance is that there will be between 99 and 150 road-legal units produced at total and only 25 track-only prototypes. First deliveries are scheduled for 2018.

Stick with us for further information!

Source: Aston Martin

July 6, 2016

Cadillac further enhances the CTS & ATS lineups with Carbon Black pack

Carbon Black sport package added after 2017 CTS & ATS facelifts were introduced

After announcing the changes made to the 2017 CTS and ATS lineups, Cadillac is now introducing the Carbon Black sport package, which was created specifically for them. The Carbon Black kit gives a more athletic appearance to the models, but it also does more than just this: for the first time, the company has included the Black Chrome grille for the V-Series models. The same applies to the RECARO front seats for Cadillac ATS Sedan and Coupe.

What is more, there are more exterior colors to choose from, including the following: Black Raven, Phantom Gray Metallic, Red Obsession Tintcoat and Crystal White Tricoat. Only the ATS-V and CTS-V models can show-off with an additional hue that others in the range don’t have, namely – the Velocity Red. On the inside, all can be specified with Jet Black or Light Platinum design themes.

Let’s check out the details.

Cadillac ATS Coupe front view

The Carbon Black pack is suitable only for the Cadillac ATS Sedan and Coupe in their Luxury and Premium Luxury trim levels. On the outside the added appearance for these (besides the aforementioned grille) is due to the extra black finish side window moldings, and body-colored door handles, alloys in After Midnight dark finish, the V-Series spoiler, as well as the rear fascia appliqué. The RECARO front seats aren’t the only benefit for the cabin as it also gets low-gloss carbon fiber on treatment for specific parts featured on the dash.

The package is available for the Cadillac CTS Luxury and V-Sport Premium Luxury Sedan, too. Adding the special grille as well as the After Midnight wheels and V-Series spoiler, it seems that they do not differentiate much with the first models mentioned. However, the main distinction is on the inside. Here the models aren’t specified with the RECARO seats, but instead come with upgraded performance seats. However, the RECARO ones are in the options list. The low-gloss carbon fiber interior trim is standard.

Cadillac CTS & ATS Interior

As for the ATS-V Sedan and Coupe, what they can show us in addition to everything mentioned is the Carbon Fiber package. It includes a more aggressive front splitter, hood vent trim, rear diffuser, composite rocker extension panels and a taller, body-colored rear spoiler. On the inside, the low-gloss carbon is fitted all around, and the sueded steering wheel and shifter as well as the RECARO V-Series front seats come as a standard.

At the top of all stands the Cadillac CTS-V Super Sedan. It also received the extended exterior carbon fiber treatment. However, its rear spoiler isn’t body-colored, but entirely made of exposed carbon fiber. Surprisingly, the RECARO V seats here are an option. Instead, the CTS-V Super Sedan gets the well known V-Series performance front seats. Everything else on the inside is similar to the ATS-V Sedan and Coupe.

Cadillac is going to start the production of the 2017 model year later this summer. However, authorized dealerships are now open for orders.

Source: Cadillac

July 6, 2016

Isuzu AT35 hits dealers on 25th of July! What should we expect?

Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, considered to be brand’s most off-road capable machine created so far, goes on sale on 25 July. Engineered to excel in harsh road and weather situations, the vehicle will almost impeccably meet all demands and requirements of farmers and rural workers all around the globe.

And how it would not do so: with titanic 35-inch wheels and tyres, 290mm ground clearance and rut-busting approach, the AT35 pushes the off-road segment conventional beliefs to their limits. Coming in single, extended and double-cab body styles, and a total of five trim levels, D-Max also offers flexibility and tons of customizations that can fit any buyer and driver. A sort of a let down is that every specification level is offered with one and the same power unit: a 2.5-liter twin-turbo diesel. This is definitely a powerful and flexible engine, but I believe that any customer would be happy to know that there are some customizable tweaks that could be done onto the drivetrain as well.

YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT AT35? CLICK HERE!

Isuzu fans will be pleased to know that the AT35 is a result of a partnership between Isuzu and Arctic Trucks, the leading expert in creating vehicles that can tackle the unforgiving terrain of northern Scandinavia and Russia. Also, every single unit will be offered with tons of standard features, extended list of accessories and more customizable components. Sweet!

Source: Isuzu

July 5, 2016

Toyota improves the 86 sports car based on victories at Nürburgring

Toyota 86 is made better through racing experience

So, this is the new old face of the popular 86 sports car. Toyota has just announced that it has made significant changes to the model, by applying the feedback from extensive racetrack experience. And this includes the data obtained from class victories at the famous 24 Hours of Nürburgring. To say it otherwise, the 86 facelift is the result of a lot of racing enjoinment for the testers, which is eventually going to bring about some pleasure to the regular owner, too.

Improved driving characteristics include better engine breathing that unleashes more power and torque, updated handling via revamped suspension and rigidity, advanced aerodynamics, steering stability and driver’s connectedness to the vehicle.

The revisions made to the engine components (including the intake and exhaust manifolds) actually result in a very pleasant uprate of power by 3.4 per cent. It is now 207 hp (152 kW) and 212Nm (156 lb-ft). By the way, the maximum torque of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine can be generated over a 200rpm wider range of engine speeds, precisely – from 6400 to 6800rpm. In addition, the torque curve is also better at low rpms.

2016 Toyota 86 Facelift underneath

Aerodynamics wise, they were actually a priority for the freshened exterior. They not only contribute to enhanced road holding, but also to better turning performance. To go into details, the 86 has a lower front, which features nose fins, foglamp bezel fins and small canards. Wing-like projections beneath the wider front grille and the LED headlamps, round out the transformation up front.

“We race. We learn. You win” is the motto of the 86 facelift development.

When speaking of better performance, one always thinks of wheels and tyres. In this case, Toyota 86 rides on brand new 17-inch alloys with twisted spokes, machine-cut highlights and gun-metal paint. Moving to the rear, it now comes with an wing-type spoiler, widened bumper with trapezoidal shape and combination of LED taillights.

2016 Toyota 86 Facelift interior

Toyota wouldn’t go without touching the interior a little bit. On the inside, the 86 is equipped with sportier steering wheel with 362mm diameter. This detail is actually hinting to the fact that it is the smallest ever used in a Toyota. Moreover, it has a cross-sectional shape, which contributes for an optimal grip, maneuverability and comfort.

On the revised tachometer can be viewed the 7,000rpm at the very top; and other driver aids include 4.2-inch thin-film transistor display showing important information, G-force meter and power and torque curves. At last, for those looking for a little bit of luxury in their sports car, Toyota is offering the optional black Grand Luxe high-quality suede-like material for the instrument panel and door trim.

The revamped Toyota 86 is going to go on sale by the end of the year.

Source: Toyota

July 5, 2016

Category: Car Makes

Acura reveals first official images of NSX GT3 Racecar

Skoda Kodiaq SUV breaks cover under military disguise

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 got thorough interior, exterior and engine upgrades

Styling

Piecha Design releases GT-R aerodynamic set for the Mercedes-AMG E-Class W212

Carbon Black sport package added after 2017 CTS & ATS facelifts were introduced

Toyota 86 is made better through racing experience