Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • 6,506 potential customers get the chance to own the EcoBoost-powered Ford GT

    Ford GT front viewRevealed more than a year ago, the new Ford GT has caught the interest of many people around the world. The evidence is that more than 200,000 fans have visited the official virtual configurator and have built the Ford GT of their dreams. From this number of people, around 10,800 showed interest online in buying the new EcoBoost-powered carbon-infused supercar. The result is the following: Ford received 6,506 fully completed applications from people around the world in one month during the first application window.

    An intriguing fact, is six days before the window closed, the number of applicants spiked which 32 per cent. Since only 500 hundred of these 6,506 “wanna-have-Ford-GT”s will be actually chosen to purchase the car, hundreds of registrants submitted videos with their applications with the hope to increase their chances.

    SEE ALSO: Ford’s Latest GT Supercar Is Named Official Vehicle of CES 2016

    Some of the creative videos feature children, lighting effects, racing footage, revving engines, garage tours and life stories. And all of them made with a single purpose – to explain why they should own the new Ford GT.

    Ford GT side view

    What happens now? Ford is actually reviewing the applications and will start notifying potential owners in the next 90 days. After the car is finally purchased, it is expected to start arriving in customers’ garages by the end of this year.

    Ford GT is a lightweight carbon-fiber supercar powered by the most potent EcoBoost production engine ever. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 generates more than 600 horsepower and features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics and remarkable efficiency. The EcoBoost V6 will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle.

    The new GT supercar has rear-wheel drive and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell made of carbon fiber and aluminum. In addition, the aerodynamic efficiency is one of the key characteristics of the vehicle. All of this is backed up by the 20-inch multispoke wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and carbon-ceramic brake discs.

    Source: Ford 

  • 2016 Jaguar XF wins Best Executive Car. Here is why

    2016 Jaguar XFJaguar XF has been in top charts of numerous researches and since it was launched, it took home many awards, some of which are “Best Executive Car” from DieselCar magazine, “Executive Car of the Year” and “Sme Best Director’s Company Car”. Sweet.

    Also, along with awards and recognitions, the XF was also ranked second overall in the publication’s newly launched list of the top 50 best cars currently on sale.

    So, what makes this vehicle so special?

    First of all, its lightweight aluminum construction and the all-aluminum Ingenium engine makes difference. The powertrain is a 2.0-liter diesel beast with a total output of either 163hp (121kW), 180hp (134kW) and the top of the range 3.0-liter V6 diesel with the titanic 700Nm of torque.

    2016 Jaguar XF

    In fact, the Ingenium engine is the first diesel unit to include a variable valve timing technology. A cam phaser on the exhaust side allows the catalyst to reach operating temperature faster and also reduces emissions more efficiently. Sweet.

    Also, XF’s class-leading fuel consumption efficiency makes this premium saloon one of the cleanest vehicles available for order at the moment.

    SEE ALSO: World’s First Super Car, 1957 Jaguar XKSS, to be Rebuilt

    Beautiful, stylish and elegant, this vehicle proved itself worthy. And provided the heavily refined drivetrain system, there is no wonder why so many organizations and critics give the new XF so high overall scores and awards.

    Source: Jaguar 

  • Toyota team refines the 2016 Prius+. Here are some details

    2016 Toyota Prius+Toyota makes some changes to the Prius+. They aim to improve the overall quality of driving and deliver even more refined driving experience. The ground-braking C-segment MVP has undergone some serious revisions and improvements to its continuously variable gearbox and the acceleration. So, let’s check out more!

    As you might know, Toyota’s engineers have been able to maintain acceleration performance while reducing engine revs by about 1,000rpm by using more electric power to support the 1.8-liter VVT-i Atkinson cycle petrol power unit. The result is more relaxed and smoother ride, reinforced by quiet, responsive and intuitive hybrid technology. Sweet.

    The cabin has also undergone some changes and improvements and now is quieter and a bit wider with the insulation and absorption measures made on the door frames, lower section of the side and rear doors and more.

    SEE ALSO: 2007 Tundra with a run of 1million miles: even Toyota engineers are amazed!

    Using a compact lithium-ion hybrid batter, placed under the front seats, the Prius+ is able to provide enough space for up to seven. Also, as we talk about interior features,  the design team also included the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system. Also new to the standard equipment is the Toyota Touch 2 with Go pack that enriches the map and connectivity database.

    Also, the range of exterior paint finishes is expanded by the new Phantom Blue.

    Source: Toyota 

  • PEUGEOT promotes confidence with new ad campaign. Check it out! [w/video]

    2015 PEUGEOT 308A fresh new combined TV/Radio/ Press/Outdoor and Social media campaign has been created by PEUGEOT UK in order to promote the confidence of its customers. Fully justified with tons of product attributes, the campaign will go on under a core “Built In” messaging  and will encourage customers to take a closer look, as PEUGEOT has the confidence in its product that makes them worthy of scrutiny.

    The campaign also promotes the award-winning PEUGEOT 308 in GT Line specification. Launched back in 2015, this vehicle caught the eye of customers and critics with its highly efficient drivetrain system, elegant design and cozy and functional design.

    The central piece of this campaign is a TV ad that challenges potential buyers to consider the 308 and PEUGEOT brand in general for a rather useful one. Filmed in Scotland, the advert has been produced by experienced UK team.

    SEE ALSO: Peugeot Releases A Limited Run of the 208 Model

    The overall vision for this campaign is to challenge prospective buyers on how should they choose their new vehicle. By highlighting key product attributes, PEUGEOT team insist on that beauty is in the details. With stunning driving footage and new photography PEUGEOT shows elegance, beauty and most importantly, confidence.

    There are two versions: a 30-secon one plus an extended 60-second video with greater details. And here they are:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc7PKtad2Fw

    Source: PEUGEOT

  • Playboy’s 2016 Playmate of the year wins 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

    2017 Fiat 124 Spider & Eugena Washington front view2017 Fiat 124 Spider is the new jewel, which will be a cohort of Playboy’s 2016 Playmate of the Year, Eugena Washington. The accomplished model and actress from Palmdale, California won the title and along with it, the seductive beauty queen also received $100,000 USD in prize money as well as two-year lease on the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider. Washington is currently featured on the cover and included within a 10-page pictorial inside Playboy’s June 2016 issue.

    The latest 124 Spider has been revealed in November 2015. The aim behind it is to bring its classic Italian styling and performance to a new generation. In addition, it delivers the ultimate Italian roadster experience.

     SEE ALSO: 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth: What to Expect? 

    Driven by the trustworthy 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo 4-cylinder engine, the car is capable of producing 160hp (117kW) of power and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is connected to either a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic one, which drive the rear-wheels. Other contributors for the driving pleasure are the special suspension with double-wishbone layout in front and multi-link in the rear.

    2017 Fiat 124 Spider and Eugena Washington up close

    The car is offered with two trim levels: Classica and Lusso, each of which comes with a choice of six exterior colors: Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic), Grigio Moda (Dark Gray Metallic) and Bronzo Magnetico (Bronze Metallic). The Lusso trim is also available with the special Bianco Perla (Crystak White Pearl).

    The interior, which the newest Playmate will enjoy, is created with that well-known Italian spirit, It is both cozy and functional. Being a driver or a passenger, she will take a pleasurable within all the premium soft-touch materials, ergonomics, the easily operated steering wheel and the smooth feel of the pedals.

    Congratulations Eugena Washington, you’ve just got yourself a brand new jewel to take care of!

    Source: Fiat 

  • Volkswagen & Beats Electronics proudly present Polo Beats with 300-watt sound capability

    Volkswagen Polo Beats Special Edition front viewVolkswagen has just announced the market release of the Polo Beats Special Edition. Developed within the collaboration with the audio specialist Beats Electronics, this small car is actually capable of fantastic sounds. The fresh styling cues are also a benefit. Here are the details.

    The Sound System

    The unique sound system comprises of 300-watt, eight-channel amplifier featuring a digital signal processor (DSP).  The latter delivers high-performance audio processing of the seven high-end loudspeakers. The speaker’s location is the following: two tweeters in the A-pillars, two woofers in the front doors, two broadband speakers in the back with a subwoofer integrated into the spare wheel well.

    The Fresh Looks

    Some of the exterior styling cues, which are standard for all Polos are also fitted here. These include the 16-inch ‘Knight’ alloy wheels. Differentiations are the darkened rear light clusters and 65 % tinted rear windows; the ‘High Gloss Black’ radiator grille and the ‘Flash Red’ graphics, ‘Pure White’ or ‘Black’ door mirrors with integrated indicators. To shw the significance of the model, there is unique ‘Beats’ badge on the B-pillar.

    SEE ALSO: OXIGIN Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI Clubsport is a piece of art

    In terms of the interior, the Polo Beats is equipped with ‘Cortina Silver’ trim on the centre console and air vent surrounds; leatherette door panels and chrome trim; carpet mats with red stitching, and ‘Beats’ sill protectors on the doors. The seats are  sporty and they feature Alcantara side bolsters and a special ‘Beats’ cloth centre section, while the seatbelts add to their design thin vertical red stripes.

    Volkswagen Polo Beats Special Edition rear view

    The EngineRange

    Polo Beats Edition will be offered with three- or five-door configuration. Customers can also choose among three petrol units and one diesel engine (specifications are included in the table below).

    Volkswagen Polo Beats is available to order now with a starting price of £13,910.

    Volkswagen Polo Beats Pricing
    Engine Transmission No. of doors Power CO₂ (g/km) OTR Price
    1.0 BMT Five-speed manual Three-door 60 106* £13,910.00
    1.0 BMT Five-speed manual Five-door 60 106* £14,540.00
    1.0 BMT Five-speed manual Three-door 75 108* £14,435.00
    1.0 BMT Five-speed manual Five-door 75 108* £15,065.00
    1.2 TSI BMT Five-speed manual Three-door 90 107* £15,055.00
    1.2 TSI BMT Five-speed manual Five-door 90 107* £15,685.00
    1.2 TSI BMT Seven-speed auto DSG Three-door 90 109* £16,430.00
    1.2 TSI BMT Seven-speed auto DSG Five-door 90 109* £17,060.00
    1.4 TDI BMT Five-speed manual Three-door 75 93* £16,120.00
    1.4 TDI BMT Five-speed manual Five-door 75 93* £16,750.00

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Lotus commemorates 50 years since Hethel opening with Evora 400 Hethel Edition

    Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition front viewTo mark the 50 years since the foundation of the famous factory in Hethel, Lotus is releasing a limited Hethel Edition model based on the Evora 400. The car will be offered within three exclusive exterior colors and three trim options, respectively. Precisely, the colors to choose from are Essex Blue, Motorsport Black, and Racing Green. When it comes to the interior, one can opt for either black or red leather or Alcantara interior trim, which is in dependency of the bodywork color.

    Furthermore, every Hethel Edition 400 comes with lightweight silver forged aluminium wheels, behind which are positioned contrasting brake callipers. Car’s look is rounded out by bespoke graphics. A commemorative build plate will show the significance of the car.

    SEE ALSO: Evora 410: What Makes it Better Than the Predecessor?

    In terms of performance, this limited edition car combines the strength of the high performance Lotus and its unique chassis. At just 1,395kg, the model is an example of efficient engineering. As a matter of fact, the weight is an achievement of Lotus’ Lightweight Laboratory concept.

    Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition rear view

    Being 42 kg lighter than its predecessor, the limited edition Evora 400 accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds) and delivers a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). Of course, here helps the supercharged and charge-cooled, mid-mounted, 3.5-litre V6 engine, which generates 400 hp (294 kW) and 410 Nm (303 lb-ft) of torque.

    Just like its siblings, the car has been hand-built; passenger space was improved, thus providing more legroom and wider rear seats. In addition, the added changes to the Evora 400 have increased the size of the door aperture, making it easier to enter the car.

    Being the first in a series of special editions, Hethel Edition Evora 400 is marking the important milestone in the company’s history. What is more, the car also demonstrates how customers can personalize their vehicle through the Lotus Exclusive programme.

    Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition interior

    Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Technical Specification:

    PERFORMANCE MANUAL AUTOMATIC
    • Max power
    400 hp at 7000 rpm (406 PS) (298 kW)
    • Max torque
    302 lbft at 3500 rpm (410 Nm)
    • 0-60 mph
    4.1 seconds 4.1 seconds
    • 0-100 km/h
    4.2 seconds 4.2 seconds
    • Max speed
    186 mph (300 km/h) 174 mph (280 km/h)
    Fuel Consumption mpg (l/100 km)
    • Urban
    20.8 [13.6] 20.0 [14.1]
    • CO2 emissions
    225 g/km 225 g/km
    • Unladen weight
    1395 kg 1407 kg
    • Aerodynamic downforce at 150mph
    32 kg 32 kg

     

    Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Pricing:

    • UK (Pound Sterling)
    £75,500
    • Germany (Euros)
    €100,500
    • France (Euros)
    €101,350
    • Italy (Euros)
    €105,400

    Source: Lotus

  • 2007 Tundra with a run of 1million miles: even Toyota engineers are amazed!

    Toyota customer Victor Sheppard was so happy with his Toyota Tundra that after he successfully drove 1 million miles, the still uses this vehicle as his main one. So, when Toyota team saw the already veteran truck, they asked: What is a Toyota Tundra with more than a million miles worth?

    The million-mile Tundra is a 2007 model and was one of the first that was assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas in San Antonio. Since the purchase of the vehicle, Sheppard has been the one and only owner and user and has been driving about 125,000 miles a year. He was driving long-haul trims from his home to North Dakota, Wyoming and Virginia for his job. The most exciting thing (and most pleasurable to hear by Toyota engineers) is that truck is still geared with its original engine, gearbox and even paint job.

    But this is not the first time Sheppard’s truck has been made famous. Back in September 2012 it was on display at the Texas State Fair in Dallas and also has been regularly exposed on Facebook page for leBlanc Toyota. The dealership also posted its odometer, when it hit 999,999 miles.

    SEE ALSO: Car buying made easier: top tips and tricks when looking for used automobile

    And maybe the most interesting thing is that Toyota engineers are interested in how the drivetrain system has held up. Something more, Toyota’s chief truck engineer from Toyota Technical Center, Mike Sweers, and his fellow team want to have that better look under the hood and see how the truck holds up for so many miles and rigorous use.

    As for Sheppard, his one-million truck is already replaced by a brand-new 2016 Tundra. The funniest thing is that this is also his 16th Tundra!

    Sourece: Toyota 

  • 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco completely revealed! Here’s all you need to know!

    2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco Hyundai Motor America announced even more details for the all-new 2017 Elantra Eco, coming with efficient turbocharged powertrain, advanced safety features and cutting-edge technology gadgets. Assembled in Montgomery at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, the Elantra Eco will be available for order later this month.

    2017 Hyundai Elantra and its offerings

    For the 2017 vehicle model year, Hyundai offers a total of three trim levels: SE, Eco and Limited. And the good news is that there will be a fourth trim level that would be announced later this year.

    Geared with the efficient 1.4-liter Kappa turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder power unit that produces a total of 128hp (95kW) and 156 lb-ft of torque at 1,400-3,700rpm, the vehicle is ready for some action. And provided that this unit is paired to a seven-speed EcoShift dual-clutch gearbox that provides enhanced dynamics and efficiency, we are pretty sure that this vehicle will be both efficient and agile.

    2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

    In terms of design concept, the Elantra Eco shares some well-known features with the rest of the Elantra lineup: the overall aerodynamic design, the signature hexagon grille and more. What makes difference, though, is the “Eco” badging, the distinctive 15-inch alloys and vertical LED daytime running lights.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai i10, i20 and i30 GO! are Dedicated to UEFA EURO 2016

    The inside has also undergone some changes: the cockpit is entirely driver-oriented and provides some premium and luxury feel. There is a large 7.0-inch Display Audio touch screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto systems, push-button start, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control and leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel.

    2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

    Also, there is a special Ultimate package upgrade for the Limited trim that brings Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection system, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist system and High Beam Assist.

    Prices for the new 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco start from $17,150 USD.

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Chevrolet team gears the 2017 Camaro ZL1 with the almighty Hydra-Matic transmission

    2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1With faster gear shifts than a dual-clutch gearbox and wider gear ratio, the already available Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission sets new benchmark and new performance standards, when equipped on the 2017 Camaro ZL1.

    Probably the first to-be-geared with the Hydra-Matic system, the Camaro ZL1 will benefit from greater overall performance, wider 7.39 overall gear ratio spread, smaller steps between gears and enhanced fuel consumption efficiency.

    Furthermore, Chevy has already proved that the new ZL1 with 10-speed transmission is faster than Porsche PDK dual-clutch system. Also, the 1-2 upshift is 36 per cent quicker than the PDK, while 2-3 and 3-4 are respectively 27 and 26 percent faster. Cool.

    2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

    Also, Chevy team has made some additional changes under the name of Creative packaging in order to optimize and harmonize the whole drivetrain system in order to fit the special transmission system. Camaro now comes with all-new proprietary electronic control system and performance calibrations. Also, there are some precise fine-tunes made onto different drivetrain system components.

    SEE ALSO: New High Desert package makes Chevrolet Silverado more capable and attractive

    Further goodies include a reduction in spin losses, thanks to the two non-applied clutches, new ultra-low viscosity gearbox fluid to reduce friction across the full temperature operating range and internal thermal bypass that allows the transmission to warm up faster for optimal performance rates.

    2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

    So, what do you think about the pumped up Camaro? Was it worth the investment? Write down in the comment section below.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • Car buying made easier: top tips and tricks when looking for used automobile

    Used car sales in UK The sale of used car is one of the most important topics when you can not afford buying brand new vehicle. There are always a lot of options like visiting Ilusso Hypercars and you always look for the best advice when it comes to making the big decision. Important information is at hand when it comes to the safety and risks in used car buying, which is sometimes tricky.

    Before the Search Starts

    However, there are several milestones that can make your life easier. And this is even before the real searching starts. The list begins with the decision which the brand you are most fond of is. We recommend that you constrain the options up to three. Then you should continue with the selection of the engine and the model range you prefer.

    For example if you are a sportier person and like to hear the roar of the car, then you should go for a petrol drivetrain. But if you count on less fuel consumption and quieter engine, your choice should be a diesel unit. Why not a hybrid? There are a lot of hybrids in the used automobiles market, and probably one of them is your future car. After finishing these two steps comes the tricky part: choosing several particular cars on the market. If you it online, you will need to ship the car home

    Examining a Particular Vehicle

    When it comes to examining a particular vehicle, you should be very careful. First, you should look whether there has been an overspray that conceals the original paint. What is the risk behind this? Overspray almost always indicates that there has been crash damage in the past. The other important thing to look for is an evidence of welds in the sills or bonnet struts. Tires are also important, especially when you don’t want to buy new ones. Here you should check out the DOT (production date).

    Used car sales in UK

    Why Test Driving is Important?

    Test driving the car is of course obligatory and here are the things you should be careful of. Brakes check happens easily: when you brake hard if there are any signs of steering wheel shaking, this means that the brake discs are twisted or broken. Checking the mileage and warning lamps on the dashboard is also mandatory. Don’t forget to try the capability of the air conditioning, too. Manually verify if all buttons on the dash are working correctly, as well as the hand brake, steering wheel and all else you can think of. The most important part however, is to check whether everything is legal, if there are all necessary documents and if they are correct. Now you can start negotiate about the pricing.

    Best Among the Rest

    To make your life easier we will give you several examples which are the top three used car sales in UK according to the brand and model of the vehicle. Official data states that Ford Fiesta has made it to the first place as UK’s fastest selling used car for last year (MY2015). Basically, this means that if you are a car seller, then you would sell the Fiesta for just 29 days. The second place is reserved for the favorited Vauxhall Insignia, while third is the hybrid Toyota Prius. The average days to sell those are also 29. Diesel remains the most popular engine choice in the UK, while Ford is the most popular fastest selling marque.

    As a matter of fact, buying a used car should not be a problem if you come to the task with common sense and courage. Good luck!

  • New High Desert package makes Chevrolet Silverado more capable and attractive

    Chevrolet Silverado High Desert package front and side viewChevrolet Silverado High Desert package has been specifically introduced for those who are looking for more from the Silverado. It is available on LT, LTZ, and High Country trim levels and will arrive in dealers this fall. Actually, the model is based on a concept variant, which was on display at 2014 SEMA Show. Yes, this means that it brings unique content and great capability.

    In short, the High Desert pack adds improved exterior styling, new lockable cargo system and Magnetic Ride Control suspension for the High Country grade. To go in details, interesting here is the new flexible and lockable storage system in the cargo bed, which locks the cargo away safely.

    The system is mounted over the roll-formed steel bed and adds dual side storage bins and a three-piece hard tonneau cover. For all Silverado models, the tailgate locks with the keyfob. This allows users to secure their cargo with the push of a button.

    SEE ALSO: Power unleashed: 2017 Corvette Grand Sport is available for order! 

    Furthermore the High Desert package also offers a variety of wheels depending on the trim level. Precisely, the LT trim features 20-inch wheels with all-season tires. On the other hand, the 22-inch wheels and all-terrain tires go with the LTZ and High Country levels.

    Chevrolet Silverado High Desert package cargo

    What is more, the top-of-the-range grade, the High Desert, will also get the Magnetic Ride Control suspension. The latter offers more precise body motion control, because of its sensors, which “read” the road every millisecond. When change is detected, they trigger the damping changes in as little as five milliseconds in electronically controlled shock absorbers.

    At last but not least, the new Silverado equipped with the High Desert pack will be driven with the EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 engine (LTZ and High Country trims). The unit is connected to Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission and is rated at 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 623 Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it the most powerful engine in a light-duty truck currently in the market.

    Source: Chevrolet