Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard Grants You with Maximum Ballistic Protection

    Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard front viewMercedes-Maybach S-Class cars a probably the most luxurious ones currently offered on the market. Since the people utilizing them as a transportation method are among the minimal percent that requires maximum protection, Mercedes has made their choice of ultra-luxurious and expensive vehicle much easier. Low and behold the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard! This “car” is more a military machine, because it features special protection and is certified with the highest ballistic protection level VR10… for civilian vehicles. To translate this into a more understandable language, this means that the S600 Guard can withstand hardened steel core bullets fired from an assault rifle.

    What is more, part of the protection concept is that it is very hard to distinguish the armored version of the Maybach from its series-produced counterpart. The vehicle also has an ERV 2010 rating, which stands for Explosive Resistant Vehicles.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Maybach S-Class: Soon a Fact in the U.S.

    The key advantages of the armoring done here include the following: excellent strength and stability due to the reinforced base structure, as well as the high level of comfort due to the integration and intelligent overlapping of all protective elements.

    Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard Side View

    Protective components made of special steel are integrated into the cavities between the body structure and the outer skin. In addition, the intelligent overlapping systems at particularly critical points, such as material transitions deliver comprehensive ballistic protection. The windows are a fixed and made of appropriate materials and thicknesses. They have been too coated with polycarbonate on the inside for splinter protection. Protection against explosive devices is ensured via the underbody armoring, which covers the underbody under the occupant compartment. 

    The other benefits of the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard include that it can be ordered as an eight-cylinder (long-wheelbase S500) and as a twelve-cylinder (long-wheelbase S600). The “car” is huge with its 5453 mm length and a wheelbase of 3365 mm. In addition, other changes are minor and include for instance the repositioning of the rear seats further back, which adds to the sense of privacy. The standard equipment already features executive seats on both left and right, and innovative voice amplification.

    Congrats to those purchasing!

    Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard Rear Seats

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • Maserati Levante Finally Unveiled Ahead of Geneva Premiere

    Maserati Levante Front View Maserati Levante is company’s first SUV, which will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Model’s exterior pictures have been finally revealed after it has been talked about the vehicle for so much time now. With its release the SUV is going to complete Maserati’s existing range of saloon and sports cars, namely the Quattroporte, Ghibli, GranTurismo and GranCabrio.

    The exterior design of Levante includes the characteristic for the brand styling features, lending it distinctive Italian character. For instance, the aggressive front features tapered headlights separated into two elements. The upper headlight unit is connected to the radiator grille.

    SEE ALSO: Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 to Compete in 2016 GT4 Championships 

    The sides, there are three iconic air vents on the front wings, the typical for Maserati trapezoidal C-pillar carrying the “Saetta” logo and huge frameless door windows. Proceeding to the rear, it is dominated by tapered back window and streamlined shape. They have the characteristic shape for a high-performance sports car.

    Maserati Levante Rear View

    Maserati did reveal some technical details too. For instance, Levante’s chassis has been designed to combine an excellent on-road performance, unmatched handling (even on very low-grip surfaces) and an outstanding off-road performance and ride. The company also says that the SUV will be equipped with a high level of content as standard like a sophisticated electronic suspension with controlled damping and air springs “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmission.

    Specifics have been scarce when it comes to power units, but we managed to get the information that Levante will be driven by both petrol and diesel engines, which will be Euro6-compliant. There has been nothing said about the interior, nor any pictures shown. However, we do expect this to happen a few days ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned.

    Maserati Levante is going to be built at the Mirafiori plant in Turin. It will be officially launched onto the market this spring (only in Europe). Global market premier is to follow later this year.

    Source: Maserati 

  • Renault to Reveal Megane Sport Tourer GT at the Geneva Motor Show

    Renault Megane Sport Tourer GT  Side and Rear View Renault will be present at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show too and it will exhibit for the first time the GT variant of the new Megane Sport Tourer. The model is based on the Megane and therefore it is both elegant and sporty from the outside. On the other hand, it features intuitive and modular interior, which also includes a choice of boot arrangements. The model famous for having segment’s longest maximum load length.

    The exterior of the Megane Sport Tourer GT is a charming mix of dynamic forms and style. The latter is further strengthened by the addition of a chrome trim around the side windows and C-pillar. When looked from above we can see that the roof line is enhanced by matte-finish anodized aluminium roof bars that come in Dark Metal shade.

    SEE ALSO: Renault Showcases 2017 Alpine Vision And Announces Plans For the Future

    For the purposeful and dynamic look contribute car’s low stance and wide track. They also increase the feeling of solidity on the road, while the C-shaped lighting signature at the front grants the perfect road-lightening.

    Renault Megane Sport Tourer GT Front View

    It is visible that the Megane Sport Tourer GT has the typical Renault Sport DNA. In other words this means that it features the specific front bumper, the one-off honeycomb mesh of the radiator grilles and the wide lower air that is flanked by two air-scoops. The back of the model is fitted with a chromed exhaust tail pipe and a sculpted diffuser.

    Another benefit of the debuting car is the 4CONTROL technology, which it will be equipped with. It has been specifically tailored for the Megane Sport Tourer, and gives it with precise, dynamic handling on twisty roads.

    Renault Megane Sport Tourer is going to be revealed on March, 1st, at Hall 4 of the Geneva Motor Show.

    Source: Renault 

  • Nissan Reveals the Appealing Midnight Edition Pack for 2016 Maxima

    2016 Nissan Maxima SR Midnight Edition Package Nissan announced the addition of special Midnight Edition Package for 2016 Maxima sedan. The pack offers collection of aggressive, yet stylish features as well as a choice between five colors: Super Black, Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Coulis Red and Deep Blue Pearl that are further combined with Charcoal leather-appointer interior.

    So, what else does the pack include? Along with the Charcoal premium leather-appointed interior with Alcantara seat inserts there is black rear sport spoiler, black rear bumper diffuser and exclusive and  distinctive 19-inch black aluminum-alloy wheels. How cool is that?

    2016 Nissan Maxima SR Midnight Edition Package

    In fact, we have told you a lot about 2016 Maxima. Let us remind you that this award-winning vehicle caught our eye with its beautiful exterior design that combines a low profile with wide stance, aggressive front end, signature V-Motion grille and incredible floating roof appearance. The vehicle also features high-quality interior components that altogether create cozy and comfortable atmosphere. And with the addition of goodies as NissanConnectSM navigation system, 11-speaker Bose premium audio system, NissanConnect Services with SiriusXM, this sweetie surely deserves its critic’s and audience’s recognition.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Nissan Maxima is Here! We all Wonder if It Offers the Maximum [VIDEO]

    Under the hood the Maxima hides a 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 monster, capable of producing a total of 300hp (220kW) and thanks to the aid of the performance-oriented Xtronic gearbox, this vehicle has enhanced performance features, as well as 15% better fuel economy, compared to predecessor models.

    2016 Nissan Maxima SR Midnight Edition Package

    And now with this additional enhance pack with starting price of $1,195 USD, this sweetie becomes even more appealing. So, how do you find the additional goodies?

    Source: Nissan

  • Audi Showcases 2016 A4 Avant

    2016 Audi A4 AvantThe all-new Audi A4 Avant, the highly functional sedan that won What Car? Magazine’s 2016 Car of the Year prize continues to prove itself worthy with its incredible features, flexibility and utility features. So, let’s check it out!

    Audi A4 Avant and its class-leading luggage capacity

    2016 Audi A4 Avant

    This sweetie integrates the wonderful 505 liters of luggage capacity (1,510 when seats are folded) and affords even more head and shoulder room for front seat passengers. Also, the numerous aerodynamic and aeroacoustic feature further contribute to the cozy and spacey ambience.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Audi RS Q3 Comes With Style And Power

    Along with the luggage space, the cabin also offers futuristic and incredible system and technologies with the optional 19-speaker 755-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system, Audi Entertainment mobile, Audi phone box and MMI Navigation Plus system with large 8.3-inch monitor.

    2016 Audi A4 Avant

    Drivetrain system

    The vehicle can be geared with two versions of the 2.0-liter TDI power unit, which are indeed the 150hp (110kW) and the 190hp (139kW) model that provide up to 70.6mpg with CO2 outputs of 104g/km. Also featured as an optional equipment is the V6 TDI unit that produces a total of 218hp which is indeed the engine that won the prestigious What Car? Magazine’s award.

    Furthermore, all models are available with special suspension system that is entirely comfort-focused and there is also an optional dynamic steering system which varies its ratio according to speed  and steering angle.

    Source: Audi

     

  • 2016 Peugeot 2008: Is it That Compact and That Functional?

    2016 Peugeot 2008Peugeot 2008, the compact and beautiful SUV comes with neat proportions and excellent performance features. And with the sporty touch of red and black, blended with the elegant, yet aggressive lines, this sweetie has a lot to demonstrate. Let’s check it out!

    Exterior design

    The strong personality of the vehicle is achieved by the robust vertical front grille and the integrated headlights with a distinctive “feline look”, while the sides proudly show sharp lines and curves that continue to the back of the vehicle, which is massive, dynamic and attractive. Furthermore, the rear bumper forms part of the solid black protective trim and preserves the bodywork with the additionally geared scuff plates and wheel arch extensions.

    Also, the 2008 GT Line shows its new and shiny 17-inch alloys with gloss black/anthracite finish. Also, the gloss black elements replace the standard chrome effect and is applied to the front grille, surrounds, fog light covers, mirrors and roof bars.

    Interior design

    The dynamic approach is also continued inside. The interior welcomes you to a cozy and futuristic place with stainless steel components, aluminum pedals and red-stitching edged floor mats. Also, the heads-up display is now widened and offers even more functions, compared to predecessor models.

    The compact sports steering wheel offers precise steering and contributes to even quicker driver reaction, while the head up instrument panel allows driver to access information without taking his eyes off the road. Sweet.

    2016 Peugeot 2008

    Also, there is a special Grip Control function that optimizes traction, according to the terrain via its four modes. Furthermore, this system works hand-in-hand with the 16cm ground clearance and in perfect harmony with All Season Goodyear Vector tires and ensures incredible versatility and flexibility on and off-road.

    SEE ALSO: Peugeot Breaks Efficiency Record With the 208 BlueHDi Model

    Additional equipment

    The countless on-board technologies and systems are further enhanced not only to deliver excellent final result, but also are easier to use now. For example, the Mirror Screenfeature via MirrorLink and Apple Carplay can now display numerous applications at the same time. Other cool gadget is the Active City Brake. It makes it possible to avoid accidents via a short range sensor that detects other vehicles and obstacles and automatically triggers the emergency brake if it detects danger ahead.

    2016 Peugeot 2008

    Also as a standard feature comes and the Park Assist technology. Once it is activated, the system guides the driver and the car via special steering management system.

    Drivetrain system

    The latest Peugeot family member benefits from the new generation PureTech 3-cylinder petrol units that ensure high levels of efficiency and enhanced performance stats.

    These versatile engines can be combined with a choice of three gearbox system: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. So, what are the power unit choices?

    1.2L PureTech 82hp (60kW), paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, producing 57.6 MPG, with CO2 at 114g/km.

    1.2L PureTech 82 (60kW), paired to a 5-speed electronically-controlled gearbox, producing  64.2 MPG, with CO2 at 102g/km.

    1.2L PureTech 110hp (80kW) S&S, paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, producing 60.1 MPG, with CO2 at 103g/km.

    1.2L PureTech 110hp (80kW) S&S, paired to a 6-speed automatic (EAT6), producing 58.9 MPG, CO2 at 110g/km.

    1.2L PureTech 130hp(95kW) S&S, 6-speed manual, producing 58.9 MPG, with CO2 at 110g/km.

    2016 Peugeot 2008

    Source: Peugeot 

  • Prior-Design with Yet Another Breath-Taking Ferrari 458 Italia Transformation

    Prior-Design Ferrari F458 Italia Front ViewPrior-Design has just sent us their latest project and we are extremely impatient to show it to you. The car is no other but specialist’s favorite 458 Italia, which this time comes in Ferrari’s most famous color.  The changes here are basic and they do not include engine update as we have seen in other PD projects including this model, however the car looks fantastic and to be assured of this you need to check out the gallery below.

    PD458 Aerodynamic-Kit

    First and foremost, the main change is the addition of the famous PD458 aerodynamic-kit. The pack itself is unique and lends the sports car even purposeful appearance. At the front the experts added wide body bumper and add-on lip spoiler, which substantially widens car’s front, hence – stance. There is also unique PD458 bonnet.

    SEE ALSO: Prior-Design Ferrari 458 Italia “WOWs” at Top Marques Monaco

    Going to the sides, they are adorned by side skirts and add-on side spoiler, while the rear is governed by the following elements from the aero pack: rear bumper, in-house made diffuser, trunk spoiler, vents inserts, cup wings and widebody rear widenings. Not to mention the vented engine covers.

    Wheels & Suspension

    Prior-Design Ferrari F458 Italia Rear View

    The last change includes suspension and alloy wheels. This Rosso red Ferrari 458 Italia has been updated with H&R Suspension system and it rides on huge 21-inch VOSSEN VPS-306 forged wheels. The alloys have been matched with CONTINENTAL tires of the appropriate dimensions.

    Although the power output hasn’t been changed, the 458 Italia can proudly show-off with a mid-mounted 4.5 litre flat-plane crank V8 engine, which produces 570 hp (420 kW).

    Tell us what you think!

    Source: Prior-Design 

  • Ford Fusion Sport is Resistible to… Damaging Potholes [w/video]

    Ford Fusion V6 Sport Front ViewThe newest 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport is now resistible to damaging potholes due to the addition of computer-controlled shock absorbers. Potholes might be sometimes unavoidable. However, the engineers at Ford have figured out a way to make them less harmful with the development of an advanced computer-controlled shock absorber system for the Fusion V6 Sport.

    It has been estimated that the system significantly reduces the damaging done when driving down a pothole-riddled road. An interesting fact is that such kind of damages cost drivers in the U.S. approximately $3 billion a year and drivers report paying around $300 for the repair.

    SEE ALSO: Ford Showcases XLT Sport Appearance Package for Explorer Model 

    So this system is Ford’s way to make it in terms of long terms finances and driving comfort. By the way, Fusion V6 Sport is the first Ford car equipped as a standard with a computer-controlled shock absorber system. The other name of it is continuously controlled damping.

    How does everything work? The pothole mitigation technology works by detecting potholes and ‘catching’ the car’s wheel before it has a chance to drop all the way into the pothole. The onboard computers analyze multiple signals collected from 12 high-resolution sensors. They then adjust the dampers every two milliseconds so that the vehicle can respond to any given road situation.

    If there is an edge of a pothole detected, then the computer adjusts the dampers fast to their stiffest settings. In such way the wheel doesn’t fall as far into the pothole. Even better, the rear suspension can respond even faster, because the signal from the front wheels have been already generated and provides a pre-warning.

    Everything that we have mentioned has been already tested and recorded over a promotional video, which you can view below. Ford says that the results are worth it and that Fusion Sport will offer even smoother ride. 2017 Ford Fusion Sport, powered by the 325 hp 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine, equipped with continuously controlled damping and pothole mitigation technology will be available at Ford dealerships this summer.

    httpv://youtu.be/NXgsrBhb7qA

    Video Source; YouTube

    Source: Ford 

  • Vauxhall to Show Impressive Lineup in Geneva

    Vauxhall Mokka X Front ViewVauxhall announced yesterday that it is going to unveil its GT Concept in Geneva. As we all know it will portray a vision for a future sports car. However, there will be also two other premieres at the event. The first one is for Mokka X and the other is for the Astra range (including the new Sports Tourer). At the show will be also presented several five-door hatchback models and a new BiTurbo engine.

    The Mokka X: A different Kind of SUV

    Just mentioning that the GT Concept is going to make its official premiere, we go directly to the other two vehicles. First, the Mokka X was already revealed in the beginning of the month. It will be available in dealerships late this year and in Geneva it will showcase refreshed interior and exterior design as well as a new powertrain and featuring OnStar and Apple CarPlay.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Vauxhall GT Concept’s Interior Showcased Before Global Debut

    Mokka X has many advantages like its compact size (4.28m long), sporty looks and elevated seating position. Model’s bold look is due to the application of the wing-shaped horizontal front grille and the double-wing signature of the LED daytime running lights. At the rear we see that there is another double wing signature highlighted in the tail lamps (LEDs are option here). Exterior paint colors like the ‘Amber Orange’ and ‘Lava Red’ are also available. The interior of the SUV is defined by a dashboard inspired by the new Astra.

    Mokka range is powered by the 1.6-litre ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine, and the new gen 1.4-litre Direct Injection Turbo (152PS) petrol unit mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The unit also features adaptive all-wheel drive and start/stop function thanks to which the SUV achieves 42.8mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 154g/km.

    The Refreshed AstraRange

    Vauxhall Astra Side View

    The newest Astra Sports Tourer will also be on display at Geneva Motor Show. In addition, the model will also go on sale in March. The Sports Tourer is based on new lightweight vehicle architecture and has brand new design, powertrains and technology.

    Speaking of range’s highlights, they include 1.0-litre three-cylinder Turbo Start/Stop ecoFLEX, and a diesel offering including the 1.6-litre ‘Whisper Diesel’ (110PS) Start/Stop ecoFLEX model.

    In addition, the five-door hatch range will be also on display at the show. It is powered by a new 1.6-litre BiTurbo CDTi turbocharged diesel engine that features start/stop and six-speed manual transmission, and achieves 67.3mpg combined and 112g/km. Performance is not compromised with a top speed of 137mph and 0-60mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds.

    Vauxhall/Opel press conference for Geneva Motor Show is scheduled for 1st March at 11:00 CET.

    Source: Vauxhall 

  • Volvo Has Proudly Showcased the Stylish And Functional 2016 V90

    2016 Volvo V90The long-anticipated Volvo V90 was finally revealed in Stockholm, Sweden. The beautiful and flexible vehicle is the latest luxurious car in brand’s benchmark 90-series, along with the award-winning XC90 SUV and the recently-launched S90 luxury sedan.

    Based on Volvo’s trustworthy heritage that was created 60 years with the Volvo Duett, the latest Volvo V90 makes one more step forward with its incredible visuals, aesthetics and overall distinctive exterior and of course with its incredible functionality and practical nature that the brand is famous for.

    In fact, this is the third vehicle that was unveiled in Volvo’s top-of-the-line 90-series, all of which are built on brand’s special and intricate fully modular Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) technology that showed entire new worlds for exploration and upgrades.

    2016 Volvo V90

    What is also special about the V90 is the cutting-edge Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive technology that is considered to be one of the most advanced of our time. It can detect large animals and run-off road mitigation. Other fresh features are the class-leading connectivity technologies as Apple CarPlay.

    SEE ALSO: Polestar Introduces Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Models

    As you might know, Volvo Cars has worked tirelessly on the driving dynamics and the overall vehicle performance to deliver us incredibly smooth and pleasurable ride.

    2016 Volvo V90

    For the United States, the new Volvo V90 will arrive in 2017.

    Source: Volvo 

  • 2016 Vauxhall GT Concept’s Interior Showcased Before Global Debut

    2016 Vauxhall GT ConceptVauxhall revealed GT Concept’s interior with the idea to showcase the innovative technologies and futuristic design of the cabin. And ahead of vehicle’s global debut at 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the team made a glimpse of what is to be the Human Machine Interface. This is a special system that allows sports cars to be completely operated by voice only and a central touch pad. Sounds cool, but is it really practical?

    The self-learning system can also recognize driver’s habits and movements and adapts according his or her needs. This results on a special “dialogue” between man and machine that can not only drive you home, but also can choose the right music, route and even temperature, according to what the machine’s impressions are.

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    And in case the driver does not want to use the voice command, he or she can just reach the touch pad in front of her and start a sort of “manual” driving.

    SEE ALSO: Vauxhall Releases More Details For the 2016 Mokka X

    And for the drivers who would use the GT Concept for business, there are a special instrument facilities that are dedicated to that idea: the intuitive graphic displays consumption, when the driver is under time pressure and if there is a tricky situation that requires additional skills, the HMI optimizes the accelerator, transmission and engine control in such way that the right instrument displays the g-force values of the longitudinal acceleration.

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    The entire instrument panel is made of brushed aluminum, while the round camera monitors are embedded in the outer aluminum air jets with polished GT emblem, while the shining red seatbelt reactors resemble the distinctive design of the red front tires. Sweet.

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Vorsteiner Releases Aero Program for Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

    Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Front ViewVorsteiner has finally released their latest project and first for the 2016 year. It is based on the strong and beautiful Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, which was recently updated by Mercedes in terms of visuals, but also in terms of power and torque. As a matter of fact, the latest Mercedes E63 AMG has a lot to offer with its 557 hp (410 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) in both the Limo and the T-model. What is more, the factory S version, enhanced with the AMG Performance Package,  pumps out above 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft).

    The additional 26 horsepower are due to changes to the engine-management system as well as increased peak injection and boost pressure. In other words, this is the most horsepower that the E63 has ever gotten! The top speed of the E63 AMG was also uplifted and is now up to 186 mph (300 km/h) in comparison to the standard 155 mph (250 km/h). The acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved at 3.6 seconds.

    SEE ALSO: Vorsteiner Novara Huracan Promises to Bring the New Era of Tuning 

    Stepping over the already enhanced horsepower, the tuners at Vorsteiner have created a special VBR E63 AMG Aero Program. Basis for the making of this car was the perfection and function inspired art. And we can say that these key goals were ultimately achieved throughout. The carbon fiber aftermarket customization accentuates car’s performance oriented nature and it also maintains the style and luxury of the E-Class.

    The VBR Aero Kit

    Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG  Wheels and Front Spoiler

    The kit comprises of a front aero spoiler and a rear aero diffuser. The first one was created to underline the front of the E63 AMG, making it even more sleek and classy. In addition, the spoiler was also designed to deliver performance and airflow dedicated aesthetic update.

    Next, the VBR rear aero diffuser accentuates the back of the E63 AMG. The new carbon diffuser not only improves the downforce, but also produces better airflow and contributes for more aggressive note at the tail side of the vehicle.

    Vorsteiner V-FF 102 Alloys

    At last, rounding out this tuning are the in-house made V-FF 102 Flow Forged wheels, which measure 20×9 and 20×10 inches at the front and rear, respectively. By the way, the alloys feature Brushed finish that even further emphasize the exclusive exterior. They give the Mercedes a perfect and sleek finishing touch.

    Source: Vorsteiner