Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Mazda Unveiled the MX-5 Cup Sports Vehicle

    2016 Global Mazda MX-5 CupMazda MX-5 Miata, one of our recent favorite vehicles, happened to be one of the most road-raced production vehicles in the world. And this is hardly doubtful. The sweetie follows one simple rule: maximum performance for affordable price. And the latest Global Mazda MX-5 Cup also will follow that simple, yet highly recommended rule: it will be offered with starting price of $53,000. Customers can already order one, but the delivers are scheduled for the end of 2015.

    2016 Global Mazda MX-5 Cup

    And the production of the MX-5 Cup vehicles starts with a street vehicles that receive motorsport specs and mods for race track. And this restyled machine will instantly become an entry-level professional series and will be part of the Mazda Road to 24, which is a special program that offers racers to achieve higher results on the track and have a chance to rise through the ranks.

    SEE ALSO: Mazda Japan Debuts MX-5 RS Roadster

    In fact, the MX-5 Cup series championship earns $200,000 scholarship to move to a higher level series. Furthermore, the 2016 Global MX-5 will culminate with a global final event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California with entrants from all around the globe.

    2016 Global Mazda MX-5 Cup

    The MX-5 Cup race vehicle has been developed by Mazda Motorsports and Long Road Racing inStatesville. In fact, Long Road Racing will also build a special and exclusive left-hand drive MX-5 Cup vehicle while the Mazda team will announce some of the most important and strategic partners at some later date.

    Source: Mazda

     

  • Mazda Japan Debuts MX-5 RS Roadster

    Mazda MX-5 RS Front an Side ViewMazda MX-5 RS Roadster edition has just been introduced to the Japanese market. The car is all about driving fun and the ‘RS’ designation comes as a proof. The ‘RS’ in the name of this MX-5 also comes with additional interior and exterior equipment as well as advanced safety and technology features.

    Exterior & Ride Quality

    The current model on the picture above and in the gallery below is painted in white, and features some exclusive updates that make it different from other MX-5s. However, the most important thing about this special edition is the driving dynamics it offers. It seems that Mazda has taken really good care about this, since the equipment is so good.

    SEE ALSO: Mazda Sports Car Concept Teased Ahead of Tokyo Premiere

    Take for instance the standard Bilstein dampers and the front suspension tower bar. In addition, the wheels are complemented with large-diameter brakes for superior driving experiences. And have I mentioned about the front strut tower bar and the sound enhancer for the engine?

    Interior & Sound

    Mazda MX-5 RS Interior

    The most striking feature about the cabin is its wrapped in black Alcantara and Nappa leather seats, which was additionally contrasted by red stitching. This of course is until you sit in these special RECARO seats, which in addition have heating function.

    For the perfect music entertainment of the occupants, Mazda added BOSE sound system, which includes nine speakers, CD/DVD player and digital TV tuner.

    Additional Technology

    Additional standard technology equipment is also not absent. On the contrary, it is in abundance here: Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), High Beam Control (HBC), Lane departure warning system (LDWS), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) all come into help when necessary.

    Unfortunately, as much as we like the MX-5 RS, it will be distributed in Japan only.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Opel Teases Astra TCR With Couple of Sketches

    Opel Astra TCR Front View Sketch Opel Astra TCR has just been teased with couple of sketches, which give nothing else but additional glimpse of the future customer racing sports car. The new vehicle is going to make an official debut in Belgium in two weeks, on October 15. Opel is promising that this will be one of their best models ever and will offer to its customers outstanding racing characteristics.

    In addition, the company also stated that the development of the new Astra TCR is going according to plan. The hugely successful Touring Car Racing Series, and in particular this car, is developed by Opel Motorsportin conjunction with long-standing technology partner Kissling.

    SEE ALSO: Opel Astra TCR Reveals Some Minor Details

    The vehicle you see on the sketches will be powered by a two-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 330 hp (243 kW). The company also revealed that it will include some technical highlights, but decided to keep the details in secret.

    Opel Astra TCR Rear View Sketch

    In two weeks, when it will be revealed, Astra TCR will aim to continue the long tradition of customer racing. All in all, the car is a combination of high performance and spectacular technology.

    And if you are keen to enter the TCR Series, then you should know the following: the 2015 season will offer you the perfect playing field if you are a professional customer team. In addition, with the TCR car you can also race in national and continental championships along with the global TCR International Series. Furthermore, a TCR class will be introduced for the ADAC 24h race on the legendary Nürburgring. This means that the possibilities for the Opel Astra TCR will be additionally increased.

    Are you excited?

    Source: Opel

  • See How This GMC Yukon Denali Runs the 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds! [VIDEO]

    2015 GMC Yukon Denali with HPE6502015 GMC Yukon Denali or the latest variant of the vehicle, which was recently released on the market, is powered by a potent 6.2-liter powerplant. The engine delivers crushing power of 420 hp (313 kW) and 623 Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque. This of course isn’t enough for many compact cars to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. And it isn’t for the Yukon Denali.

    And this is where the tuners from Hennessey Performance stepped in. Known for their expertise in supercharging, they managed to give this GMC more power and more qualities, which will bring it closer to the 4.5 s.

    SEE ALSO: Hennessey Performance Creates 1000HP Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 [VIDEO]

    After the modifications were done, Hennessey Performance specialists tested the vehicle and the good news is that everything was captured on video, which you can see below. There is a second footage, which previews John Hennessey test driving and discussing the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali XL with HPE650 Supercharged upgrade. And here it is with all of its features:

    Hennessey HPE650 Supercharged Upgrade

    The upgrade is available only for Yukon models equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine.  It raises the power to 650 hp (448 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 892 Nm (658 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. This is exactly an extra of 230 hp and 269 Nm, and was achieved with the addition of 2.9 liter supercharger, high flow intercooling and stainless steel catback exhaust system.

    Hennessey has also prepared a serial-numbered dash plaque and engine plaque, and exterior badging as well as Hennessey embroidered headrests signifying the origin of the vehicle. Now, don’t miss the videos!

    httpv://youtu.be/b1qCYz6aEB8

    httpv://youtu.be/gjBiVEzr7dg

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Hennessey Performance 

  • Refreshed Volkswagen Touran is Available in Showrooms

    Volkswagen Touran Front View2015 Volkswagen Touran has new design, more room for its passengers as well as more assistance systems and safety features to show-off with. The better news however is that everyone who has been eagerly waiting for it to debut on market can go directly to the nearby showrooms and purchase the new Touran.

    The refreshed family MPV has better design, less weight and sportier attitude. All of this has been combined with various intelligent detailed solutions. The interior has too been completely redesigned. The cargo volume is of up to 1,980 litres, and this fact allows the seats to be folded down flat to merge with the luggage floor.

    Technology Features & Assistance Systems

    Another very cool feature in the new Touran is the second generation of the Modular Infotainment System (MIB II). MIB II offers maximum connectivity and includes the “App Connect” Car-Net feature. Other tweaks included here are MirrorLinkTM, Android Auto (Google) and CarPlay (Apple). They will make easier the integration of all different kinds of smartphone apps directly into the infotainment system. This system is also beneficial because two smartphones can now be linked to it simultaneously.

    SEE ALSO: HPerformance and HPA Motorsports Create One-Off Volkswagen Golf R32

    Volkswagen Touran Interior

    Furthermore, Volkswagen added an electronic voice amplification system, which at first glance might seem a little bit pretentious. But it is actually very cool and will make the things for the driver a little bit more comfortable. In details, this system allows the driver and front passenger to be clearly heard via the hands-free telephone unit and the speakers. They are connected to MPV’s infotainment system, so when they talk to passengers in the second and third rows, there will be no screaming and shouting.

    The innovative Automatic Post-Collision Braking system and PreCrash proactive occupant protection system are also featured in the newest Touran. And the great news is that they come as a standard. There are of course other optional assistance systems like the ACC Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist with the City Emergency Braking function, Traffic Jam Assist, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert and the Trailer Assist trailer manoeuvring assistant.

    Engines

    Volkswagen Touran Side View

    Although Volkswagen did not say anything about the CO2 emissions of the completely new TSI and TDI engines in the Touran, they stated that there are two petrols and two diesels prepared for the MPV. Their outputs are 81 kW / 110 PS and 110 kW / 150 PS, respectively.

    2015 Volkswagen Touran is currently available in dealerships and can be purchased at a starting price of €23,350.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Hyundai Solus Genesis Will Debut at Hyundai’s SEMA Event

    Hyundai Solus GenesisThe long-term partnership between Hyundai Motor America and ARK Performance has delivered us the latest details over the sport-inspired Solus Genesis Coupe which will be a special blend of performance and exclusivity and it will be unveiled at the Hyundai’s SEMA press conference on 3 November.

    For this project ARK included performance and luxury features that will together create a premium coupe machine that will have the chance to compete with top rivals from all around the globe. Based on the success of the AR 500 Genesis Sedan this vehicle will demonstrate far more aggressive and massive look, while the interior will be completely redesigned with new dashboard and special sporty steering wheel.  And of course, as every contemporary vehicle, this beast will include numerous carbon-fiber elements.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Hyundai Sonata Is Almost Here!

    The whole Solus Genesis Coupe project is sponsored by Quaker State and Hyundai Assurance Car Care Express. In fact, Hyundai team recommends Quaker State even for its factory fill motor oil. How cool is that?

    Furthermore, the vehicle will be geared with Hyundai’s 3.8-liter “Lambda” V6 unit that now comes with Rotrex supercharger and further enhanced components. This system delivers a total of 500 hp (367 kW) to the rear wheels via a special 6-speed manual gearbox. And ARK Legato’s trunk spoiler and the carbon fiber front splitter further contribute to vehicle’s aggressive stance.

    Source: ARK Performance 

  • Packed With Abundant Equipment 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Readily Goes on Sale

    2016 Mitsubishi Lancer GT Front ViewMitsubishi Lancer in its new variant is ready to go on sale. It will satisfy its feature owners with brand new design and a lot more standard features. With its updated styling, the car not only looks amazing, but also shows performance and driving characteristics that many cars of its class could be proud of.

    Of course, the latest 2016 Lancer is built upon the strong legacy of its predecessors. They have all challenged the meaning of design, technology and performance, featured in a compact car.

    Four Trim Levels: ES, SE, SEL & GT

    Except for the changes in the design, the new Mitsubishi vehicle features more standard equipment then ever. In fact, at the ES trim level, there are goodies like the FUSE Hands-free Link System, automatic air condition climate control, fog lights, alloy wheels and new LED daytime running lights.

    SEE ALSO: Mitsubishi ASX Lineup Comes With Numerous Refreshments

    Furthermore, the SE trim level comes with all-wheel control, heated front seats, rearview camera and display audio with HD radio. And if you wonder about the SEL trim level, which appears for the first time in a Lancer, it adds leather seats, rain sensing wipers with auto on/off headlights, auto-dimming mirror and much more.

    2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Rear View

    At last, the most adored GT trim level offers unsurpassed driving-fun. Thanks to its sport-tuned suspension, larger disc brakes and 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, it will surely do that. The sunroof and rear spoiler add extra exclusiveness to this trim. This particular car will be available with a 5-speed manual or with the optional generation CVT8. Also optional here are the Sportronic Steering wheel paddle shifters.

    Other Extras

    2016 Lancer will come at no cost equipped with new seat fabrics as well as with newly designed center console with built-in USB port. Mitsubishi is also offering two new colors for the model: Diamond White Pearl and Alloy Silver.

    2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Interior

    Fast fact: Mitsubishi Lancer is a car named an IIHS “Top Safety Pick” for seven years running in 2015. This is due to the comprehensive list of safety features and technologies found in each model. An example is the advanced Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety body construction system.

    Pricing

    2016 Mitsubishi Lancer has a starting price of $17,595 USD.

    Source: Mitsubishi 

  • Toyota Crown Received a Well-Deserved Facelift!

    2015 Toyota Crown FaceliftToyota Crown model has underwent considerable change in style just to get that that fresh air that it desperately needed recently. In fact, since its debut in mid 1950’s, the vehicle has been one of the most popular models in the Japanese market. And despite its consistent attitude, this machine has managed to keep its positive sides always on high level.  And now the Athlete and Royal series will receive numerous changes and improvements just like the Majesta lineup. So, let’s see what is going on here.

    Crown Athlete

    This sweetie has its front grille, along with its whole expression refreshed, as the grille’s outline extends to the bottom of the front bumper. Furthermore, the bumper is further extended and now contributes to that sweet low and wide stance. And in addition to the Bi-Beam LED headlights, the Athlete features and surface-emitting LED clearance lamps with daytime running function.

    SEE ALSO: Christmas Gifts for Toyota RAV4 are Already Planned!

    On the other hand, the interior uses agate laminate decorative paneling that expresses clarity and depth like it is a kind of a masterpiece. How cool is that?

    Crown Royal

    This sweetie comes with a front bumper and grille that together create a strong sense of depth and make the front of the vehicle looking incredibly beautiful and sophisticated. In fact, the grille has been further lowered and contributes to a really low level of gravity.

    2015 Toyota Crown Facelift

    And the interior comes with lattice patterned panes with special wood-grain finish. Furthermore, it combines fresh new colors with brown details that together bring a sense of luxury and sophistication.

    Fresh powerplant system

    A 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo unit  is included. It is a special engine that delivers incredible acceleration and overall performance. It is a twin-scroll turbocharger with integrated water-cooled exhaust manifold. This solution results on maximum torque levels and responsive and smooth acceleration via Toyota’s 8 Super ECT and Driving Response and Acceleration Management System.

    2015 Toyota Crown Facelift

    And along with the bold design and sweet drivetrain system, both vehicle come and with numerous more safety and utility systems. Just like ITS Connect System, Right-turn Collision Caution, Red Light Caution , Signal Change Advisory, Communicating Radar Cruise Control, Emergency Vehicle Notification.

    Source: Toyota

  • Honda Will Unveil Its Latest Vehicles at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show

    HondaHonda team has announced an extended list of concept and production vehicles, along with motorcycles that will be demonstrated at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show, held from 28 October to 8 November 2015.

    Furthermore, the brand focuses on giving solutions and improving the everyday life of Honda users. And using the slogan “The Power of Dreams”, the crew proudly demonstrates its latest and greatest releases. So, let’s check out what will people at the show witness.

    Honda FCV

    This is Honda’s first production model with a fuel-cell powered system.  This powertrain layout enables a full cabin features, but maybe the most important is that the FCV offers a cruising range of more than 700 km. The specifications can also act as a mobile powerplant thanks to the external power feeding inventer. This all means that it will produce electric energy to the communities in case of an emergency.

    New models for Japan

    SEE ALSO: Honda Project 2&4 Will Debut at 2015 FIAA

    With the intertia, gained from the strong summer season, the Civic Type R will finally make its Japanese debut at the show. Honda will also display the latest S660 open-top sports mini-vehicle. It is exclusively sold in Japan and it is especially crafted to deliver the same pleasure and excitement as the fully-fledged sport vehicles. But with a compact and efficient package. How cool is that?

    Modern concepts

    Honda

    Furthermore, Honda will demonstrate some concept vehicles that include the Honda Project 2&4, geared with RC213V. As you might remember, this vehicle debuted at 2015 FIAA  earlier in September. Especially created to deliver outstanding driving experience, the Honda Project 2&4 is created to deliver the flexibility of a motorcycle and the utility of a car.

    SEE ALSO: Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO]

    The other concept vehicles that will be displayed at the show are Honda’s WANDER STAND and WANDER WALKER. Both of the machines are designed to deliver optimum mobility and flexibility among pedestrians.

  • Would the Bold Tesla Model X be the Last Premium Tesla Vehicle?

    2015 Tesla Model XAfter three years of research and hard work, Tesla released its latest vehicle –  the Model X. On Tuesday, Tesla CEO Elon Musk took the stage at the company’s California manufacturing plant and personally unveiled the latest Tesla model.One of the most noticeable changes in the latest Model X vehicle is definitely the size. The vehicle is larger than its predecessor Model S and comes with three full rows of seats and completely restyled doors, the so-called “Falcon wing doors” that open vertically. And along with the “falcon-ish” elements, Tesla also geared the vehicle with all-wheel drive and numerous handy gadgets and tweaks.

    It’s important to show that any type of car can go electric. We did it with the sports car, the sedan, and, now, we’re going to show it with an SUV.

    First of all, the front doors can open automatically, while the windshield is big. Really big. Furthermore, the Model X offers a special front console that has numerous features one of which is to charge almost any kind of mobile phone. The back seats automatically lean forward to open space to the third row and there is also space under them for additional cargo. Handy, right?

    SEE ALSO: Tesla S Model Received Some Additional Significance by MANSORY Team

    But let’s go back to the falcon stuff. The doors I mean. What is also special, along with the horizontal movement is that they save up space while the vehicle is at some parking space. It is a matter of inches to open them. Cool, right?But along with the vehicle and its interesting additions, there is one more curious thing to say. Tesla Model X might well be one of the last premium models that the brand will produce. It is already scheduled that the next Tesla vehicle will focus the mass market with price of about $35,000.2015 Tesla Model XSo, what do you think of the vehicle? I personally believed that with the “falcon wings” this machine could fly, alas I am sort of disappointed.

     

  • Contrast is Everywhere. Including Vorsteiner BMW M3 E92

    Vorsteiner BMW M3 E92 Front ViewVorsteiner decided to make some magic to the BMW M3 E92 model. The particular car they have worked with comes in the classic Alpine White exterior color, so they had the opportunity to create a stunning contrast with a few additional details and parts. And it seems that although each of these elements individually stands out, when brought together they create a result that is just right as if it was always meant to be.

    Vorsteiner Body Kit

    ‘Contrast’ could be a synonym to Vorsteiner’s body kit for the white M3. The opposite colors contribute for even more aggressive look of the vehicle. Precisely, it comprises of an in-house made boot lid as well as GTS7 front bumper and GTS-V rear diffuser. In this way, the sporty appearance is ensured as is the better aerodynamics.

    SEE ALSO: Vorsteiner BMW M4 Gets EVO Aero Kit 

    Vorsteiner BMW M3 E92 Front and Side View

    Vorsteiner is also famous for its one-off design for the wheels it produces. Of course, they also come in black (Mystic Black to be more precise) and measure 19×9.5 and 19×10.5 inches. Under the name VFF-103, they play their role wrapped in 275/30/19 and 295/30/19 tires. It seems that opposites really do attract.

    Power and Torque

    Unfortunately, as much as we like this E92, Vorsteiner did not enhance the power of the mighty V8 under its hood. But if you take a deep thought then you would definitely wonder why is the uprating necessary? It isn’t of course, because the high-revving 4.0 litre V8 engine produces 420 hp (309 kW) at 8300 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 3900 rpm! This helps the car accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Without the limiter, E92 M3 can easily go beyond the 300 km/h (186 mph).

    Source: Vorsteiner 

  • HPerformance and HPA Motorsports Create One-Off Volkswagen Golf R32

    HPerformance Volkswagen Golf R32 Front and Side ViewHPerformance Volkswagen Golf R32 looks amazing on pictures, doesn’t it! But let me tell you a secret: it behaves even better on the road! You might ask why and let me tell you that the reason for this lies not in the additional CO2 (sorry VW), but in the precise and crafty work of the customization specialists at HPerformance and HPA Motorsports.

    It seems that the Golf has it all: looks that correspond to its sporty nature, enhanced power output and torque, new rims and rubbers to run on, and throaty exhaust system. This is in summary. But let’s review everything in details. I promise it is worth it.

    SEE ALSO: HPerformance Imagines Audi TT RS Clubsport in a Very Nice Way

    Updates for the Engine

    HPerformance Volkswagen Golf R32 Rear View

    HPerformance used own software to optimize the engine. However, to make the end result even better, it had to work in combination with the HPA EFR550 turbo kit. Reinforced piston and conrod and reduced compression also come into play. In addition, water chilled intake manifold was also installed. The air charge compression is variable by means of an electronically adjustable boost controller, thanks to which the new power range might be even surpassed. And it is 550 hp (404 kW) and 730 Nm (539 lb-ft) of torque.

    Other Changes for this VW Golf

    HPerformance Volkswagen Golf R32  Front and Side View

    The new exhaust system has 90 mm end pipes and valve command. It was also made in-house, and its purpose is to deliver throaty sound. HRE FF01 rims in 8.5 x 19 inches at all four corners fitted with corresponding tiring are connecting the car and the road. KW variant 2 coilovers and H&R stabilizers on front and rear axle take care for the better suspension characteristics of the Golf. And have I mentioned that the front wings have been enlarged?

    If you like the work of HPerformance, then you should also know that they do not work for free. For instance, the total price for this kind of modification will cost you around 35,000 Euro.

    Source: HPerformance via Miranda Media