Car Makes – Page 201 – Automobiles Review

Nissan Note Black Edition: comprehensive in style, poor in quality

2016 Nissan Note Black Edition Okay, this one caught our eye! The exterior is definitely a good one. It looks modern, sharp, and enhances the confident look of the new Black Edition. And with the Dynamic Styling Pack installed we got not only sweet body lines and curves, but also sporty body-colored new bumpers, side skirts and black bezel headlights. Of course, the new performance-focused black spoiler finishes the story of elegance and power.

2016 Nissan Note Black Edition

You may wonder why I rushed with the exterior features in this article. I decided to start with the good sides of the car. The thing is that the body styling is the only thing that we liked about the revised Nissan Note Black Edition. Yes, we get sweet 16-inch wheels, new door handles and mirror covers, new finishes and additional components, but the car still feels mediocre in its quality and engineering. Even cheap.

The interior of the Note Black Edition has also undergone some changes. The central console is finished in glossy black, completely matching the black gear shift knob. At the same time, the black headliner contributes a bit to the contemporary look. But that is all. We see a functional cabin, but it definitely feels like it is made out of low-quality plastic. For sure this is not a premium wanna-be vehicle, but we think that the design team could have done a better job with making us feel the well-known premium Nissan ambience.

2016 Nissan Note Black Edition

Black Edition models also come with two optional engines: you can get yours with either a 1.5-liter dCi 90 manual or the 1.2-liter 80 manual.

2016 Nissan Note Black Edition

So, you got our point of view. What about yours?

Source: Nissan

July 5, 2016

Jeep team decides to tweak some of the models. Details here!

Grand Cherokee SRT Night Jeep officially announced plans and changes for the whole Grand Cherokee SUV lineup. Also, in order to celebrate Grand Cherokee’s 75th birthday, Jeep team revealed more details for the 75th Anniversary Limited Edition vehicle. As you know, the car was first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show back in March.

At the same time, the SRT line of Grand Cherokees has also undergone some slight changes. So, let’s check out what Jeep has to offer.

The revised Grand Cherokee lineup

As we all know, this is Jeep’s premium SUV model line that shows the brand’s traditional approach in terms of power and capability, blended with some modern-age technologies, innovations and craftsmanship.

Of course, the latest model features some neat additions as Start/Stop function and electric steering that together greatly reduce the fuel consumption. In fact, the new electric steering system also offers selectable driving modes and does not draw additional power from the drivetrain. Sweet.

The exterior is definitely beautiful. We see a vehicle with a striking design, muscular stance and bold appearance. And the new Velvet Red, Redline and Ivory Tri-Coat finishes further contribute to Grand Cherokee’s neat styling.

Of course, the inside has also a lot to show. There is a new gear lever, new central console with additional buttons, warning lights and a large touch screen.

Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary

We have told you a lot about the 75th Anniversary Editions, but we have not told you about the latest changes. And here they are. The celebration model is based on the MY16 platform and shares the same engine system: a 3.0-liter V6 MultiJet power unit, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Also present is the Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system.

And yes, buyers will be granted with 75th Anniversary badging, neat 20-inch bronze-colored alloys, restyled front face, additional LED fog lamps, Safety Technology Pack with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and crash mitigation, and some exclusive exterior colors: Recon Green, Bright White, Brilliant Black and Granite.

Grand Cherokee SRT Night

Coming in even smaller numbers, the 30 Grand Cherokee SRT Night units will be available for purchase at the end of July.

Considered to be the fastest and most powerful Jeep created so far, the Grand Cherokee SRT shows restyled upper and lower grille mounts, B and C pillars and side windows surrounds all covered in Matte Black. Of course, we got Black Vapor 20-inch wheels in Satin Black, that also show the Brembo brake calipers.

In terms of interior styling, we see Black Laguna leather-dominated interior with black accent stitching, leather covered door armrest, and central console with some stylish black chrome components. Of course, there are numerous SRT badges that go along with Brilliant Black and Brilliant White.

In terms of performance, the SRT Night offers the titanic 468hp and 624Nm of torque via a 6.4-liter V8 power unit. All these numbers mean that the vehicle goes from 0 to 100km/h in less than 5 seconds and chases a top speed of 288km/h (160km/h).

Source: Jeep

July 4, 2016

Jeep and Garage Italia Customs honour Montreux Jazz Festival with special lineup of vehicles!

Since 1967, the Montreux Jazz Festival has witnessed numerous celebrities performing and since its early years the fest became one of the most anticipated events in the world. And in order to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Festival, Jeep, in collaboration with Garage Italia Customs (GIC) reveal the Jeep Cherokee Jazz, Jeep Renegade Vinyl and Jeep Grand Cherokee Score show cars.

Jeep Cherokee Jazz

Inspired by the musical instrument guitar, Garage Italia Customs used wrap-paint, a special technique that results with recreating the classic wood veneer of a guitar. Generally, the process consists two major steps: first, the vehicle is encased in a wood-texture film, then it is painted with great skill and passion. As you will see for yourself, the result is stunning: we see veiled body with black color that elegantly changes to brown. Sweet.

With a drivetrain that is based on the Limited Edition model and which offers 200hp via a 2.2-liter Multijet II diesel unit.

Jeep Renegade Vinyl

The vinyl, a symbol of a generation and emblem of fine music was the inspiration for this one. The design team recreated the same surface on the body with wonderful 3D-effect double-wrap. Garage Italia Customs applied a series of concentric circles on the body and then completed the visuals with electric-blue wrapping.

The interior is also inspired by the legacy of the vinyl: the Alcantara fabric has undergone some exclusive customization and also reproduces the design of the vinyl even on the seats! Cool!

Renegade Vinyl is based on the Trailhawk and comes with a 2.0-liter 170hp Multijet II turbo diesel unit, mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Score

The unique tribute lineup is completed with Jeep’s flagship model. The sides of the vehicle represent musical scores and are enhanced by brasss-colored notes. Of course, the same concept dominates the cabin: there is Foglizzo leather upholstery with pentagram on the backrest.

This one is based on the 75th Anniversary model and features a 3.0-liter Multijet II 250hp unit, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The three unique cars also show one more thing: that the two brands have made a step forwards in the collaboration between Jeep and Garage Italia Customs, and we do hope to see some more special cars in the near future.

Source: Jeep

July 4, 2016

Hyundai reveals more details for the upcoming IONIQ lineup. Check ’em out!

2017 Hyundai IONIQ Hyundai Motor has finally announced more details for the IONIQ, world’s first vehicle with three electric engines. With sales that start in October, the special car comes with the special IIONIQ Hybrid SE 1.6 GDI power unit, 15-inch alloys, DAB with bluetooth, Cruise Control and Rear Parking Sensors with Rear View Camera. Of course, Hyundai team geared and tons of safety gadgets: Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System and Individual Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

2017 Hyundai IONIQ

Available in three trim levels, IONIQ will also provide tons of utility and comfort features as large LCD touch screens, keyless entry, heated seats, heated steering wheel, Bi-Xenon headlamps, satellite navigation with TomTom Live services and more. Coming with six different exterior colors that are Phantom Black, Polar White, Platinum Silver, Iron Grey, Demitasse Brown, Marina Blue and Phoenix Orange, the electified machine also promises 80 per cent charge capability in 30 minutes from a 50kW CCS Combo Rapid public charger. Cool, right?

IONIQ Hybrid will be available across all Hyundai dealers from October, 13, while IONIQ Electric will be available in almost 30 dealers with full network rollout next year. Of course, manufacturer offers and industry’s leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty pack with additional high voltage battery cover of 8 miles or 125,000 miles: whichever comes first.

2017 Hyundai IONIQ

Source: Hyundai

July 4, 2016

The ultimate performance machine BMW M2 gets styling and performance upgrade

Alpha-N Performance proudly presents an updated variant of the M2

What is better than an M2? An updated variant of an M2, of course! The responsible for today’s update of the ultimate car are the tuners at Alpha-N Performance, which have made the model more attractive and potent, and way faster.

The M2 upgrade programme begins with a choice of three boot-lid mounted spoilers. A particular highlight here is the newly designed and fully adjustable carbon rear wing, which has been additionally complemented by a matching splitter for the front spoiler.

But this is not everything. There are two other alternative designs for the rear wing: the one is an M4 GTS look-a-like and the other is a Racing-Style M235i Motorsport wing. To spill it all out, Alpha-N-Performance said that it is currently producing other carbon-fibre styling components for the M2 and that they will be offered shortly.

Alpha-N Performance BMW M2 F87 rear wing

New wheels from OZ Racing were also added and they support the enhanced performance of the car. They come in 19-inch size, and are coupled with 245/35ZR19 and 265/35ZR19 tyres at the front and rear respectively. The handling of this BMW is further improved with the addition of fully adjustable Road & Track coilover suspension.

Speaking of the performance upgrades, the standard turbocharged straight six-cylinder engine of the M2, which sends 370 hp to the rear wheels, has been given an EVOX performance programme. The results can be classified in three stages: the first one raises the power of the engine from 370 hp to 400 hp, and the torque from 465 Nm to 580 Nm.

Stage number two is raising the numbers to 415 hp and 600Nm, while the last stage – to 430 hp, with peak torque of 620 Nm. If one goes for the third option, then he or she would also get a deletion of the electronic top speed limiter, as well as a racing downpipe without catalysts. The throaty exhaust note can be achieved via the free-flow silencer with throttle control.

Interior changes are scarce, but they complement the performance attitude of the M2 perfectly. The options for the cabin are an Awron dashboard digital display and a replacement of the standard seats with sports or race ones.

Source: ALPHA-N Performance

July 4, 2016

Renault makes significant changes to the Captur range

Renault Introduces Captur Iconic Nav and adds more goodies to other trim lines

Renault’s probably best product so far, the Captur, is getting some additional goodies and upgrades from today on. The potential customers of the best looking model in the brand’s range, will have the option of buying a brand new special edition, as well as go for more exterior and interior styling options for the other trims.

The name of the new special edition of the Captur is Iconic Nav. If you wonder why we are featuring the gallery of the Wave Limited Edition, it is because Renault have sent us the same images, and basically we are speaking about the same car. However, the special edition won’t have a limited run in contrast to the… limited edition. So, here are the details.

The Iconic Nav has exclusive Arctic White pearlescent paint scheme contrasted by the Diamond Black color. The two-tone body color is further accentuated with blue roof and door mirror decals. Painted lower front and rear bumpers and 17-inch ‘Explore’ alloys with black inserts and blue Renault diamond centre cap, round out the exterior changes. By the way, the new wheels are complemented by the Mud and Snow tyres.

On the inside, the crossover is adorned by leather upholstery for the seats (at the front they are heated), which is contrasted by light blue stitching. The same detailing can be seen on the leather steering wheel. A new light blue tinted chrome interior touch pack comes in perfect harmony with the exterior theme, while the aluminium pedals and the matt black detailing give the sense of a sports-vehicle.

The special edition also gets brand’s Grip Xtend advanced traction control system, R-Link Evolution touchscreen infotainment and satellite navigation. The “electrochrome” rear view mirror is the last detail of the equipment.

Besides the changes in the range, Renault is making some modifications to the other trim levels. Precisely, there is an all-new powertrain offered from the Dynamique Nav level and above. Namely, the 1.2-litre TCe 120 unit with a six-speed manual. Speaking of this trim, the Dynamique Nav and Dynamique S Nav versions are getting new exterior color option: Flame Red metallic paint body colour with a Diamond Black roof. On the inside, this exterior theme is complemented by a red interior touch pack.

By the way, Captur is not a vehicle you should underestimate. Despite it’s unpopularity in the United States, the model was the best-selling compact crossover in Europe in 2015. Since its global launch in 2013, Renault has sold over 596,268 Capturs.

Source: Renault

July 4, 2016

Dodge sold out all of the Viper Final Editions. In a matter of minutes

2017 Viper Snakeskin Edition ACR

Dodge Viper goes fast. We all know that. But what did we not know is how fast it goes. You may wonder what I mean? Well, after first going on sale on Friday, June 24, the 206 special edition 2017 Dodge 25th Anniversary is sold out. Totally.

The leader of the selling spree was the 1:28 Edition ACR. There were a total of 28 units that were sold in about 40 minutes. Vooodoo II Edition ACRs were sold in 2 hours. All 31 vehicles. Snakeskin Edition GTC and the GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR with 25 and 100 units respectively found their owners in two days. And the 22 Dodge Dealer Edition ACRs? There were 5 days needed for this one.

At the same time, the new ACR version of the Snakeskin Edition will include a total of 31 vehicles that are exclusively created to continue the celebration of the 25th anniversary celebrations. Orders will be available in mid-July.

So, let’s take a look to the vehicles one more time.

2017 Viper Snakeskin Edition ACR

This one features (you don’t say!) the new Snakeskin Green exterior color scheme and a custom snakeskin-pattern SRT stripe. Also part of the standard equipment is the ACR Package, the Extreme Aero Package, carbon ceramic brakes, ACR interior with serialized instrument panel and exclusive Snakeskin badging and custom car cover with matching exterior paint and custom name on driver’s door.

Viper 1:28 Edition ACR

This vehicle pays tribute to the current production car that brоke the current lap time record with a time of 1:28.65. This was achieved with Randy Pobst behind the wheel in a 2016 Dodge Viper ACR at the historic Laguna Seca Raceway in Moterey, California, back in October, 2015.

The vehicle itself comes with black exterior and red rear wing with ACR stripes. It is geared with Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, special 1:28 sill decal, ACR interior with red stitching, serialized instrument panel and exclusive badges.

Viper VoooDoo II Edition ACR

VoooDoo II edition ACR offers black exterior color scheme with graphite metallic ACR driver’s stripe with red tracer outline, Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, VoooDoo II exterior sill decals, ACR interior with silver accents, serialized instrument panel, custom badges and this very same car cover with matching color. Cool.

Viper Snakeskin Edition GTC

With exterior color scheme inspired by the original 2010 Snakeskin ACR, this vehicle also shows snakeskin SRT stripe, Advanced Aerodynamics Package, GT black interior, serialized instrument panel, Snakeskin badges and a custom car cover.

Viper GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR

Paying tribute to the iconic 1998 Viper GTS-R GT2 Championship Edition vehicle, the GTS-R comes with Pearl White exterior coloring, Blue Pearl GTS stripes, Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, Exterior Carbon Package, distinctive red Stryker badge decal, GTS-R exterior sill decals, USA flag B-Pillar Decals, ACR interior with red components, Header Red seat belts, seriliazed instrument panel, badges and car cover.

And last, but not least, the Dealer Edition features Viper White exterior painting, Competition Blue center stripe, Adrenaline Red driver stripe, Carbon Ceramic brakes, Extreme Aero Pack, ACR Interior with red accents, custom car cover and exclusive badges.

Source: Dodge

July 1, 2016

Chevy team reveals the 2017 NASCAR XINFINITY race car. Check it out!

2017 Chevrolet NASCAR XINFINITY Series Camaro SS As the Camaro marks its 50th anniversary, Chevy team announced the sixth-generation of Camaro SS that will serve as the main vehicle in NASCAR XFINITY Series in the upcoming season.

The heavily revised race vehicle was first shown at Daytona International Speedway ahead of Subway Firecracker 250 event, presented by Coca-Cola. The official race debut is scheduled for February at the 2017 season’s NASCAR XFINITY Series kickoff race at Daytona.

2017 Chevrolet NASCAR XINFINITY Series Camaro SS

2017 NASCAR XFINITY Series Camaro SS has undergone some comprehensive experiments and tests, both in laboratory and on the racetrack which results on refined shapes, fine lines and overall sleek design. We see a clean body with detailing reduced to the minimum: there are straightforward lines, some curves and of course, we see the confident and race-ready stance.

And what about the NASCAR XFINITY Series? This event showcases some of world’s most gifted drivers and is a place that captures their glorious moments and ignites legacies. Chevy drivers, for example, have captured five NASCAR XFINITY Series and since the brand started participating in the race in 1982, teams have won a total of 408 victories : this is the brand with most titles won in the NASCAR history so far.

2017 Chevrolet NASCAR XINFINITY Series Camaro SS

So, how do you like the vehicle?

Source: Chevrolet

July 1, 2016

Happy 50th anniversary to Honda Accord! Brand’s most successful model shares some stories with us

1976 Honda Accord Back in June 1976, America witnessed the unveiling of the first generation of Honda Accord, an agile and efficient three-door hatch that has started a sort of a cult. And 40 years and 9 generations later, the Accord lineup is still one of the most popular and beloved vehicles in America. Back in the day, Honda was known for manufacturing mainly motorcycles and sweet Civics, and when the first Accord vehicle was introduced, the automaker made its first big step towards the US automobile industry.

1976 Honda Accord

Accord was also the first Honda model to be manufactured in America. In fact, Honda is the first Japanese manufacturer to do so. Accord is also the first US-made vehicle from a Japanese automaker that was exported overseas with first shipment made back in 1987.

We all know what happened next: from its humble roots as a sweet hatchback with small wheelbase to today’s subcompact Honda Accord Hybrid: a legacy of leadership in the world of automobiles. In fact, Accord lineup is one of the few that can proudly show-off with the ongoing success of three consecutive years (2013-2015) as the best-selling vehicle in America. Cool.

1976 Honda Accord

A key element to the lineup and brand itself is the ability to adapt to the upcoming changes and needs of customers. Even the youngest of drivers have their requirements met. One of the most important features that has won the hearts of many is the advanced safety suite. Since the early days, Accord has delivered outstanding safety features and luckily, this trend seems to continue.

1976 Honda Accord

And one more curious thing. The name Accord comes from Honda’s desire to achieve harmonious tones between people and machines. So, does the name resemble brand’s achievements? What do you think?

Source: Honda

July 1, 2016

Blackout is the newest trend for BMW X3

200 examples to be produced only

BMW is celebrating this year its centenary and for this reason we are witnessing the birth of models, which are limited in production, and special in appearance and specifications. The Bavarian company has just announced the next model in the list of Celebration Editions. It is based on the X3 and it is all-black. As it might sound (and look) very cool, there is a very sad fact. Unfortunately, the SUV will only be seen on the streets of Japan.

What’s so special about this BMW X3 Blackout Edition then? As the name suggests (surprisingly) it is all-black, and this effect has been achieved with the Sapphire Black paint scheme. Even the kidney grille and the 18-inch alloys are black. The crossover is based on the xDrive20d but has been fitted with an M Sport package adding all of its benefits.

As you might expect, the interior is all-black too. Stating the fact that it is a special edition, it has been wrapped in black Nevada leather. Very cool treats are also the Ansorajitto headliner, the updated audio system (that comes along with nine speakers) as well as the special badging all over.

BMW X3 Blackout Edition rear view

Last but not least, the Blackout X3 is driven by the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It generates 184 horsepower (135 kW) and 379 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, thus making the X3 capable of sprinting from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds. The top speed limiter wasn’t removed, so you might not expect to go beyond the 210 km/h (130 mph).

For all of you living in Japan, you can buy the BMW X3 Blackout Edition for ¥6,980,000, which is around $67,850USD. The model will have a limited run of 200 units.

Source: BMW Japan

July 1, 2016

Renault’s first one-tone pick-up is here: Meet the ALASKAN

Renault ALASKAN is based on the Concept vehicle revealed last year

Remember the ALASKAN Concept, which Renault revealed back in September 2015? It previewed the future production version of the first one-tone pick-up of the French brand. Well, the vehicle has been finally revealed and it looks pretty much the same as the concept.

As the wraps are taken off Alaskan, we see that Renault has actually kept its promise to create a one-tonne pick-up with a completely fresh approach. The proof for this is most probably the front end, which includes a stunning look and imposing stance. The rugged appearance is due to the broad grille with horizontal laths, while the skid plate speak of off-road capabilities.

The powerful and ingenious engine, that offers fantastic fuel economy, is the 2.3-litre dCi unit. It is available with either 160 or 190 horsepower. The other two choices are the 160-hp 2.5-liter gasoline-fueled four-cylinder and the 2.5-liter diesel. Transmission wise, each of the powerplants can be linked to a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic. Additional traction is ensured by the rear differential, while the cutting edge five-link rear suspension delivers more precise handling.

Renault ALASKAN interior

But the ALASKAN is not only about off-road driving and loading capabilities. It also offers enjoyable riding to its future occupants via the heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, as well as the seven-inch navigation system. One of the coolest driving aids is the 360-degree camera, which would help those who feel insecure in maneuvering.

Renault will offer the one-tone pick-up as a single- and a double cab configuration, as well as with a short- and long-bed. Alaskan will first go on sale in South America. Other markets are to be confirmed soon.

Source: Renault

July 1, 2016

Mean, confident and flexible: 2016 Audi Q2 reveals brand’s badass side

2016 Audi Q2 Neat design meets advanced technology: new Audi Q2 will join the powerful Q range and will try to prove itself worthy. How? With a relatively low price tag and all that defines Audi as a manufacturer: superior quality, neat style, tons of technologies and some refreshments. And without further due, let’s see whether this sweetie will deserve its place among its brothers, or will it just stand there and be pretentious about it!

Exterior styling

2016 Audi Q2

This is a muscular-looking SUV with straight lines and sharp edges. The front shows a serious face and depicts the sense of massiveness thanks to the large grille, straight headlamp lines and overall wide shoulders. At the same time the eye-catching low roof contributes to the sporty nature of the vehicle and enhances this aggressive and badass appearance.

The sides show a pretty straightforward styling: the same straight and sharp lines are present, the large wheels enhance the aggressive styling and the small windows do resemble the mean spirit of the vehicle.

And the back? Well, we are a bit disappointed. It is not ugly, but does not depict the aggressive Audi character, as we have expected. Generic lines, shapeless backlights and empty space is what we encountered. Our souls were left empty as well . Sad, isn’t it?

Drivetrain: customization at its best

Q2 comes with a choice of two four-cylinder power units: a 1.6 TDI with 115hp power output and the Cylinder-on-Demand 1.4 TFSI with 150hp. There are two more engines, a three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI and a four-cylinder 2.0 TDI that will be available later this year.

Furthermore, buyers can choose from a six-speed manual or the special S Tronic Dual Clutch gearbox with seven speeds. There is also a semi-independent suspension, progressive steering as a standard and adaptive dampers. How cool is that?

Additional Equipment

2016 Audi Q2

Of course, buyers will be granted with Audi’s virtual cockpit and a sweet heads-up display, along with tons of driver assistance systems. There is Audi Pre-Sense System with Pedestrian Recognition as part of the standard equipment. Also present are the Stop&Go funciton, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane-Departure Warning System, Audi Side Assist and Lane-Keep Assist. Sweet.

Additional customization and features

2016 Audi Q2

Individual as the driver, Q2 can be tweaked in many ways: there are several equipment packages, numerous exterior colors to choose from, and of course – interior trims, seat upholstery variants and more. By more I mean optional LED lightning package and special 19-inch alloys that can replace the 16-inch standard wheels.

It looks like this time Audi team decided to rely on direct in-your-face styling and appearance, along with heavily customizable systems and additions. We think this strategy will gain some more popularity for the whole brand. But tell me, what do you think?