Car Makes – Page 297 – Automobiles Review

Which are the Sweet Spots and Pain Points of the Car Buying Journey?

Beneits and Advantages of Car Buying Experience

A comprehensive research project led by Auto Trader has given some insights of the pros and cons of the car buying journey. More than 1,000 car buyers took part in this study over the last two years. The conclusion made from the gathered data is very interesting and it will help you if you are soon to buy a car.

Pain Points

Two are the principal pain points for those who buy from a dealer. Precisely, these are the deal negotiations and salesperson pressure. Nonetheless, the study also found out that the consumers’ perceptions of the industry are often worse than reality. In fact, the data shows that 43% feared salesperson pressure and 33% worried about negotiation on areas like pricing, finance and part-exchange in advance of their visit.

Only 21% confirmed the bad experience with salesperson pressure, while 17% did not enjoy negotiating with showroom staff.

The other main concern is finding the right dealer. The research showed that 23% of respondents found this hard, in comparison to the 22% who worried about this in advance.

How to Improve the Car Buying Experience?

Beneits and Advantages of Car Buying Experience Second Image

The survey also revealed buyers opinion on how the car buying experience could be improved. 32% of the respondents wanted the freedom to browse (with no pressure from the salesperson), other 32% needed better information about the real cost of the car, while 31% showed the importance of ‘one stop shop’ to find everything online. 29% of those featured in the study needed clearer information about the pricing of the vehicles, while 28% wanted better information on the best car deals and finance.

Conclusion

As a result, this study found out that buyer’s satisfaction is most clearly shaped by the offline experience. But this is only at those retailers, which tend to do a great job. Three quarters of buyers were satisfied with the whole buying process and had positive face-to-face interactions. However, there are 57% who need more persuasion when it comes to buying from the same dealer. They said they would be more inclined to go back to the same shop if the process had been better.

Source: Auto Trader

August 7, 2015

LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 is Dressed to Impress

2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4

LIGHTWEIGHT tuner has set its eyes on BMW X4. Thanks to the professional team, the crossover-SUV is “dressed to impress”. The car has gained optimized and more exciting look and can now demonstrate stronger driving dynamics.

The performance improvements are done with the help of an extra control unit that guarantees 365 HP (268 kW) with a peak torque of 690 Nm. Another way is through field boost which delivers even more horses, precisely 375 HP (276 kW). Torque rates are increased to 700 Nm. Finally there is a Vmax-increase up to 280 km/h.

When we observe the tweaked BMW X4 from the outside, it looks more powerful than ever. The dark frozen gray finish makes the car look sleek, stylish and ready to rock n’ roll. In order to ensure optimal protection of this Bavarian beast, the tuning company has wrapped the car in ceramic two-component solid filling. It is applied on the discs too. The exterior is complimented by LIGHTWEIGHT-carbon fiber mirror covers, spoiler and rear apron insert. Black gloss or carbon fiber front spoiler is also part of the highlights on the outside. There is a Hartge-Classic 2-wheelset in 9.5×21. It comes with Michelin PilotSuperSport in 245/35-21 at the FA and in 10.5×21 with 265/30-21 at the RA. The wheelset is protected with four component permanent sealing. 30 mm lowering is available too thanks to the in-house suspension with Bilstein-parts.

2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 Interior

Interiorly, LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 consists of black alcantara. A LIGHTWEIGHT-logo adorn the velour floor mats while the center console stands out with double contrast stitching. There are aluminum pedals and LIGHTWEIGHT-auxiliary display contributing to the good-looking interior of the vehicle.

The car is priced at 88 000 Euro.

Source: miranda-media.de

August 6, 2015

Surprisingly Similar: What Happens When We Compare 2016 Miata to a 2015 Boxster?

2016 Mazda Miata vs 2015 Porsche Boxster 2016 Mazda Miata and 2015 Porsche Boxster are two vehicles, which are famous for its origin, heredity, immense performance capability and compact dimension. But what happens when we compare both and how different is the Miata from the Boxster? Mazda has just released an Infographic displaying a parallel between the cars and you can view it below. It gives a good comprehension of how the one is different from the other.

Of course, even without the image, the first thing that pops-up in mind is the pricing. There is huge price difference between those two. The Miata is actually more than 50% of the cost of the Porsche. However, the Mazda is also as capable as the Boxster and it covers more than 90% of its performance.

In addition, both cars have a very similar 0 to 60 time, quarter mile times and braking distances. But while the new Miata has a smaller 2.0L 4-cylinder engine than the Boxster’s 2.7L flat six, it only trails the Boxster by 0.3 seconds in a race from 0-60. Even more, Miata beats the Boxster in terms of fuel economy.

Another advantage of the Mazda is the power to weight ratio. It is almost unbelievable that it is considerably higher than the Boxster (14.9:1 vs 10.9:1). Thanks to it, the Miata runs the quarter mile in 14.6 seconds, which is only 0.6 seconds slower than the Boxster.

Surely, Porsche’s braking performance is superior. Boxster’s braking distance is evaluated from 70 to 0 (158 feet vs 145 feet). However, Miata’s curb weight is nearly 500lbs lower. This keeps the brake distance within 10% of the Porsche’s performance.

Well, Porsche is always a Porsche and when we buy one, we are always counting on the prestigious name and all that comes along with it. But we have to admit that Mazda has done something amazing with the 2016 Miata. In other words, the specialists have created a car that is very similar and even comparable to a much more expensive car like the Boxster. How cool is that?

Don’t forget to take a detailed look at the Infographic below. It gives a lot of insights for the similarities between both two models.

2016 Mazda Miata vs 2015 Porsche Boxster Infographic

Source: Mazda

August 6, 2015

Meet the new Chevy Colorado’s Midnight and Trail Boss editions

2016 Chevrolet Colorado Midnight and Z71 Trail Boss

Chevrolet is introducing its dazzling 2016 Chevrolet Colorado’s Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss. Both of the vehicles make a visual statement to remember and stand out with their bold appearances. The designs are a combination between bespoke cues and the well-known Colorado’s DNA. Colorado Midnight edition and the Z71 Trail Boss also arrive with leading efficiency rates and capabilities.

Firstly, let’s look more closely at the 2016 Colorado Midnight Edition. It is powered by 2.5L and 3.6L engines. However, it is stated to be available with a brand-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine as well which leaves customers with even more choices. This model inherits some characteristics from its predecessor, 2015 Chevy Silverado Midnight Edition – precisely the feel of saturated blackness. The Colorado underlines its aggressive look thanks to the blacked-out design theme which incorporates black grille, black bowtie emblem and black 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Secondly, 2016 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss arrives with aggressively looking tires and off-road-inspired improvements on the outside. Similarly to the 2016 Midnight Edition, this one will get its power from 2.5L and 3.6L engines, plus the 2.8L Duramax diesel. Exteriorly, the off-road truck impresses with all-new sport bar with LED trail lighting, bowtie grille emblem in black and 17-inch aluminum wheels with black finish. They are complimented by Goodyear Wrangler DuraTec^® 265/65R17 all-terrain tires. On the inside drivers can enjoy a set of all-weather floor mats for more practicality.

2016 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss

Prices are yet to be announced.

Source: Chevrolet

August 5, 2015

SUV Vehicles Continue to Be the Focus for Audi

Audi proudly posted an 8.3-percent sales increase in the US for June, which marks brand’s 54th consecutive monthly sales records. And there is even one more remarkable fact: Audi SUV sales rose with 24.1 per cent over a year ago. This tendency reflects Audi’s popularity and now the brand is ready to offer some even better technologies and vehicles.

Furthermore, each SUV in US lineup saw gains in June and during the first half of the year. Throughout June, sales of the Audi Q7 rose with one percent, compared to a year earlier. All this with with 14.1% month-on-month surge in June. In fact, the latest Q7 vehicle is set to go on sale early in 2016 and is expected to be even more popular that its predecessors. Other models also have increased their sales. For example Q5 went with 8.6 higher, while Q3 has already sold more than 6,200 units in the US market.

Furthermore, Audi plans to create a Q1 subcompact crossover vehicle, starting next year, but for now it is not expected to be offered in US. There will be also an electric-powered sporty SUV, expected for 2018 and a special Q8 SUV in 2019. Definitely Audi team is working hard to satisfy its customers.

Audi’s plans for increased numbers of SUVs continues to hit right in the target of rising demand for the vehicle type and especially among the premium customers.

At the end, we can say, that this is what you get, when you work with passion and desire. Definitely Audi vehicles are one of the best in the respective classes. But this doesn’t stop the brand’s team to continue to improve the vehicles, create new, incorporate ideas and make people satisfied with their choice of vehicle. And while we wait for the 2018 and 2019 offerings, we will continue to enjoy some sweet already in market Audi cars.

Source: Audi

August 5, 2015

The Truth About Trucks And The Truth About Ford F-150

2015 Ford F-150, as we told you numerous times, is America’s toughest, smartest and safest Ford F-150 ever created. And now the latest family member earned Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick for its SuperCrew models. Furthermore, the vehicle is the only one full-size, light-duty truck to earn government’s highest 5-star rating for the driver and passenger for crash tests and cab configurations. Here we talk about Super Crew, SuperCab and Regular Cab.

The high stats of the latest F-150 are possible, because of the 700-pound weight losses and the high-strength steel in the frame, military-grade aluminum alloy in the body and of course, the work of the experienced engineers and craftsmen.

In fact, there is a team of veterans and experienced researchers, who worked to optimize the vehicle weight, but also to maintain that high level of durability, capability and flexibility. This team managed to create 31 safety-related innovations, which, some of them are restyled structures, revised material connections and numerous supercomputer simulation tests. Furthermore, the team also crafted the vehicle in such a way, that it offers and simplified, but yet efficient repairs. That’s how you build a super-versatile truck.

In fact, Ford brand made its all tests and researches in real-world accidents and not in some sort of stunts and imaginary action-movie situations. That’s also one of the ideas, that the crew had in order to create a really safe truck.

2015-ford-f-150-truth2

Source: Ford

August 4, 2015

HPE800 Empowered Chevy Z06 Corvette Handles the 0-175 mph Testing [VIDEO]

2015 Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06 equipped with Hennessey Performance HPE800 upgrade has been just tested from 0 to 175 mph at Houston’s Ellington Airport. To make the staggering performance available for the eyes of others, including you, Hennessey also released a video, which displays how the Chevy made things happen. The video is extremely beautiful and this is why I sincerely urge you to watch it!

The not-of-this-earth performance of the Corvette C7 Z06 has been assisted by the HPE800 upgrade. Thanks to it, the engine of the C7 produces the mind-blowing 800 hp (558 kW) at 6,500 rpm.

If you do have a 2015 Chevy Corvette C7 Z06 and after this video are interested in upgrading it, then you should also know what the HPE800 includes. The upgrade comes as a standard with Hennessey lower pulley, high flow cylinder heads, better valve springs and lifters, cold air induction system, custom HPE camshaft and all necessary gaskets and fluids.

If this isn’t enough and you want more features for the exterior of your Chevy, then you can opt for the available carbon fiber door sill plates and in-house made H10 monoblock wheels.

Now check out this amazing video:

httpv://youtu.be/93i2IhwUJUM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey Performance

August 3, 2015

Opel Astra TCR Reveals Some Minor Details

Astra TCR Side

Opel expands its racing lineup The latest sports vehicle is based on the new Astra, which will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) this September and it will develop the vehicle in accordance with the regulation of the TCR series for national and international racing events.

The TCR series, first demonstrated in 2015, is based on a special three-pillar concept, that further includes national and continental race events along with the global TCR International Series. In fact, both have identical technical regulations. That is why a TCR vehicle can be used worldwide without changing anything on the drivesystem. In fact, the car will compete with the well-known 2.0-liter turbo-charged powerplant units with a total output of 330 hp (242 kW) and torque of 410 Nm. Isn’t it sweet?

Astra TCR Side Rear

Opel Group CMO Tina Müleer says, that the touring racing has always been important part of Opel. The idea behind the latest TCR series is in a special relation with the idea of customer racing. Tina also says that the brand wants to give ambitious teams platform for sports at reasonable costs. How reasonable will be these costs is yet to be proved.

Astra TCR is currently being developed, so at this phase all that Opel has to offer are the two sketches. In fact, even with the paintings, the vehicle looks nice and confident. Hopefully it will remain as this and in reality. Technical specification will be announced later this year.

Source: Opel

July 31, 2015

2015 Mercedes A-class Comes With Upgrades by PEC

2015 PEC Tuning Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Mercedes CLA 45 AMG comes with a bit of extravagance and confidence for these, who still do not find the A-class that interesting. Even after the facelift. Now the 45 AMG will set off to a journey of power and aggressiveness, which means, it goes for slightly different approach, when it comes to Mercedes vehicles. The facelift and the upgrades will be further boosted with the PEC Tuning Module program.

2015 PEC Tuning Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

The 45 AMG lineup will come with more powerful powertrain, that now provides 410 hp (302 kW) and 530 Nm instead of 360 hp (264 kW) and 450 Nm. But with increasing the power AMG engineers also increased and the top speed. Now it is raised from 250 to 280 km/h (from 138 mph to 155 mph). Surely elegance and style set the stage for power and performance. Let’s be honest here. Mercedes brand tried its best (or did it really?) to make out the best of the latest A-class model. But things started getting better after PEC decided to “have a look here and there”.

And with the legendary “Made in Germany” label, and the well-known quality, the PEC Tuning Module customers should know that they will always be safe in vehicle like this. It will surely be pleasure to drive such a vehicle. After all it is a classy brand with touches by one of the best engineers in tuning business. So, how does it look to you? Do you think the sweet A-class should have such upgrades and were they really necessary?

Source: PEC Tuning

July 31, 2015

RFK Volkswagen Golf Mk 5 in Pure Gold?

RFK Volkswagen Golf Mk 5 R32 Front View RFK Volkswagen Golf Mk 5 is dressed in bright color that mimics pure gold. The project has been conducted by the tuning specialists at RFK Tuning, who are based in Germany. The car did not receive only a shiny exterior but there are also some other modifications that need to be addressed, like the new suspension, contrasting wheels and engine tuning. Let’s see why this Volkswagen looks so charming and which were the exact steps of achieving this effect.

Step 1: Striking Color

The exterior color of the Golf grabs the attention immediately. It isn’t made of real gold of course, but it is actually achieved via Matt Chrome Yellow foil wrapping. And this is the secret of the one-off car.

The other captivating element of the exterior here are the wheels. They come in 19-inch size and are painted in bright candy red, perfectly contrasting the exterior shell. In house made, the Elegance Wheels, include gold decorative screws. This gives the impression that these one-piece wheels are actually multi-piece.

The extensive care for the “shoes” of this Volkswagen Golf continues with the addition of 225/35ZR19 Pirelli P Zero Nero tires at all four corners. They were manufactured with offsets of ET45 and ET35 on the front and rear axles, respectively, and also clear the R32 brakes without spacers.

Step 2: Suspension & Handling

The next step in this tuning was to select the most appropriate coil-over suspension kit for the R32. ST Suspensions, KW’s subsidiary, stepped in by delivering a set of ST X adjustable coilovers. They lower the ride height with a few centimeters, thus giving the Golf significant visual and handling benefits.

Step 3: Engine Remapping

Although the colour is the most striking feature of this six-cylinder Volkswagen Golf, it also has a striking new numbers of its engine. The stock 3.2 litre V6 unit produces 250 hp (184 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. BHP Motorsport ensured that there is a proper software remapping for the Golf and managed to increase its output to 270 hp (198 kW) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft). The engine also has a sharper throttle response.

To sum up, although this project is a little bit pompous, it has its advantages, especially when it comes to engine uprating and tuner’s craftsmanship. As a matter of fact, we do like it very much, but wonder what you have to say about it?

Source: RFK Tuning

July 31, 2015

Flying Huntsman 6X6 Concept Debuts Today!

Kahn Flying Huntsman 6X6 Concept is hot exactly like the summer days right now. It has its exclusive premiere today and we are extremely happy to be among the first to introduce it to you! The vehicle looks gorgeous, and guess what, it runs on six wheels! If you want to view this beauty and be around its presence, you will have the opportunity to do that at the Billing Land Rover show. It begins today at the Billing Aquadrome in Northampton and ends on Sunday the 2nd of August.

Exterior

Of course, to add two more wheels means that the Defender had to be transformed in a clever way. In other words, extension and widening were very useful for this task. Precisely, the bonnet was extended by 400mm, while the rear cabin by 800mm. The width of the concept has been also enlarged by 150mm.

The Volcanic Rock Satin Defender also got some tweaks for its exterior. Take a look at the new front bumper, X-Lander grille and the exuberance of Kahn badging. The addition of a third axle at the back, and two front-wheels and four back-wheels is what make the Flying Huntsman truly stand out. All six got 9″ x 20″ Volcanic Black Mondial wheel coupled with Cooper LTZ 275/55/20 tires.

Engine

Besides the heavy-duty chassis, upgraded suspension and braking as well as the hi-lo ratio drive system and locking differentials, the six-wheeled Defender hides something very special under its hood. And it is the GM LS3 V8 engine, producing a total of 430 horsepower (316kW). The unit works perfectly in collaboration with a GM six-speed automatic gearbox. There is more to that: it channels waste through an upgraded stainless steel exhaust system.

Interior

At last but not least, we should speak about the interior. It looks so cool, that I am regretting that I haven’t seen this combination on other Kahn projects. For instance, there are Red Leather Sports seats with 100% wool Abraham Moon Skye Almandine inserts. Not to mention the quilted and perforated centre glove box or the Churchill time clock fascia insert. Finally, you have probably noticed already the single spoke steering wheel, ideally complementing the great new look of the cabin.

Go see it if you are in Northampton this weekend! It’s worth it!

Source: Kahn Design

July 31, 2015

Lamborghini Huracan Verona Receives Some Neat Tweaks

Vorsteiner proudly announced the long anticipated launch of the Verona lightweight carbon fiber aerodynamic program for the Lamborghini Huracan. This beauty is about to get some significant changes. Let’s see what is going on here.

The final touches will bring some fresh front spoiler and side skirts. The front spoiler will not only make the vehicle look even more beautiful, but it will also bring some aerodynamic improvements. For example, the downforce will be improved and will not affect ground clearance. The front spoiler is further shaped to go along the lines of the bumper, which helps directing more air into the openings of the front radiators. The more the cooling the better the performance. Right?

The performance-focused vehicle will also receive side blade extensions, that will bring that aggressive look, but it will also keep the elegant and stylish angular body lines. Furthermore, the upgrade will improve the downforce and the air flow behind the front wheels.

So, what do we have at the end? Beautiful vehicle with stylish, yet confident lines and some nice upgrades, that include not only visual changes and tweaks, but also improve the overall performance. And no wonder. Vehicle like Lamborghini Huracan Verona deserves only the best tweaks by only experienced craftsmen.