Car Makes – Page 312 – Automobiles Review

2016 Peugeot 308 GTi Unleashed! To Debut at Goodwood [Detailed Review]

2016 Peugeot 308 GTi has been finally revealed prior to its official premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The best news about it is that it will be available in the new model year in two variants, with 250hp and 270hp 1.6-litre THP S&S petrol engines. Both have been developed by PEUGEOT SPORT. The 308 GTi models can also show-off with capable chassis and Torsen limited-slip differential, which has been fitted only in the 270hp model.

The exterior stands out with two-tone paint scheme and clean lines, and of course the application of company’s modern design language. On the inside, Peugeot has applied i-Cockpit cabin with sports characteristics and a lot of cool detailing.

The powerplant is also the most efficient in its sector and has CO2 emissions of 139g/km. The fuel efficiency has been rated at 47.1mpg.

Exterior

PEUGEOT SPORT decided to make the 308 GTi a car infused with motor sports characteristics. Boasting exclusive styling front and rear, the cars are 11 millimetres closer to the ground when compared to the previous generation. At the front the engineers decided to install full LED headlamps, at the both sides of the black radiator grille with a horizontal chequered pattern and gloss-black finishing.

We also notice the same approach on the air intake, which has been surrounded by sequential LED indicators and a red detail strip. Chrome has been used on Ultimate Red cars. Below the bumper, there are two aero front spoilers.

The sides of the cars have been redesigned significantly and now feature aggressive door sills. On the other hand, at the rear there is a gloss-black section housing the twin exhaust pipes.

The ‘Coupe Franche’ exterior color finish is an exclusive two-tone design that has been specifically created for the GTi 270 version. It features ‘Ultimate Red’ colour contrasted with Nera Black. The 308 GTi is also available in the new Ultimate Red, Pearlescent White, Magnetic Blue, Nera Black, Cumulus Grey as well as the non-metallic Hurricane Grey.

Wheels & Tires

GTi 250 runs on ‘Diamant’ alloys shod with 225/40 R18 92W Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tires. The GTi 270 version is fitted with 19-inch ‘Carbone’ light-weight alloy wheels coupled with a little bit larger tires, Michelin Super Sport 235/35 R19 91Y tires. Behind them we see solid red four-piston calipers and PEUGEOT SPORT signature.

Interior

Inside, the 2016 Peugeot 308 GTi is in perfect harmony with the performance-oriented exterior. The black upholstery has been contrasted via red stitching. It can be also seen on the door panels, gear lever and floor mats. The door sill have been finished in aluminium and carry the GTi and PEUGEOT SPORT logo. Aluminium has been also used on the pedals, foot rest and gear knob.

GTi 270 is has been specifically fitted with ‘bucket’ seats by PEUGEOT SPORT. They feature Alcantara upholstery and are also contrasted via red stitching. The steering wheel is compact, wrapped in full-grain leather and carrying the GTi logo at the bottom and a red centring mark at the top.

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit has been also applied. It features centrally-mounted, driver-facing touch-screen with great functionality, Redline theme and user-friendly approach. As an option, Peugeot has also developed a special Driver Sport Pack. Thanks to it, with just a press on the Sport button on the centre console, the display changes from white to red. It also shows additional information on the central read-out like power and torque.

Drivetrain & Braking Technology

Under the hood of the new 2016 Peugeot 308 GTi is the specifically developed by PEUGEOT SPORT 1.6-litre THP S&S engine. It comes in two variants, with outputs of 250hp (182kW) and 270hp (200kW). Both engines develop high torque of 330Nm (244 lb-ft) at just 1,900rpm and feature manual six-speed manual transmission. Both are also completely Euro 6-compliant and feature standard Stop&Start technology. This results in fantastic efficiency of 47.1mpg and CO2 emissions of just 139g/km.

The 308 GTi with 270hp can reach 62mph (100 km/h) in just 6.0 seconds, compared to 6.2 seconds for the 308 GTi 250. The top speed in both is electronically limited to 155mph.

When it comes to braking, the GTi 270 version features race-developed 380mm ventilated carbon discs in the front and the rear discs with a diameter of 268mm. Exclusive to the GTi 270 version is a the new Torsen limited-slip differential that has been incorporated into the transmission to enhance cornering traction.

Pricing

Both 2016 Peugeot 308 GTis have a starting price of £26,555 and they will be available to order soon, after they make a debut at this year’s Goodwood Moving Motor Show and Festival of Speed, over 25th – 28th June.

Source: Peugeot

June 18, 2015

Smart Fortwo and Forfour with Extended Twinamic Range

Smart fortwo side view Following its brothers,the Smart Fortwo wtih 90 hp (66 kW) and the 71hp (52kW) Forfour now also come with a special fully automatic tiwnamic dual clutch transmission. What this means is now both models come with incredible gamma of engines and transmission systems: a total of nine engine/gearbox combinations. Furthermore, the redesigned models will be on the market at the end of July this year.

And along with the technical tweaks, the Smarts received and detailed modification to the interior: the equipment now comes with exclusive black-gray color gamma.

Smart Fortwo new engine

As you may know, the benefits of twinamic transmission system are numerous. First of all, the shifts now are smoother and easier to perform and do not interrupt the tractive power. Unlike the micro car segment, the dual clutch gearbox system bring everything good from automatic and manual systems: the convenience of the automatic gearbox in city traffic and the sporty performance in highway sprints. Furthermore, there is an optional Sports package, that brings even better performance with the special shift paddles on the steering wheel.

And here are some more details about the tweaked Smart cuties:

fortwo 66 kW	forfour 52 kW
Number of cylinders/arrangement	3/R	3/R
Displacement (cc)	898	999
Rated output (kW/hp)	66/90	52/71
at rpm	6200	6000
Rated torque (Nm)	135	91
at rpm	2500	2850
Combined consumption from (l/100 km)	4.1	4.2
Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km)	96	96
Efficiency class	B	B
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s)	11.3	16.9
Maximum speed (km/h)	155	151
Price (in euros)	from 13,065	from 12,980

Source: Smart

June 17, 2015

2016 Buick Cascada Will Demonstrate Some Bold Style and Safety Features

2016 Buick Cascada convertible will be offered early the next year with numerous add-ons, that altogether bring a refined and stylish appearance, wonderful performance and versatility and of course, exceptional pleasure of driving.

What is different, is that the whole body construction now allows the top, the folding mechanism and the roll bar will be stowed below car’s “belt line” and under the hard cover, which will bring a smooth and stylish profile. This configuration also brings some more cargo space: 22.4-inch by 12.6-inch (320 mm by 570 mm) pass-through from the trunk to the passenger compartment. We all love the extra cargo volume, dont’we? Furthermore, when the 50/50-spit rear seat is folded, some long items, for example a snowboard, can be easily stowed inside. Handy.

And there are more examples of engineer wonders. For example, the roll bar system enables the rear-seat cargo pass-through and when it is deployed, the roll bars extend with about 14 inches to match the height of the windshield.

In fact, the whole reinforced body of the Cascada supports the roll bar system and brings some comfortable and pleasurable drive. Some more of the included elements are:

A-pillars featuring press-hardened steel in the inner structures and reinforced with high-strength, hot-rolled and cold-bent tubes within the pillars
Reinforced rocker panels with increased cross section
Underbody reinforcements including X-braces, V-braces and additional brackets
A reinforced “torsion box” bulkhead behind the rear seats that incorporates the pop-up roll bars

Source: Buick

June 17, 2015

Holden Colorado Z71 Comes With a Promise to Be the Top Model For The Colorado Lineup

Holden Colorado Z71 is almost here. This model is expected to be the top of the Colorado lineup and it will be on sale at the beginning of July. we all know, that Holden has done some wonderful job lately and released some really successful models, so we we expect, that the Z71 will be a really interesting vehicle. So, let’s check out what awaits us in July.

Exterior

Holden Colorado Z71 is based on the MY16 Colorado LTZ 4×4 Crew-Cab vehicle and adds an impressive list of features and additions, that make it a really special vehicle. For example, the capacity is expanded to the incredible 3.5 tons, and the special 18-inch Arsenal Grey alloy wheels make sure, that the vehicle will deal with every type of terrain, thanks to the special “shift on the fly” 4WD drive system.

Interior

The inside of the Colorado Z71 comes with leather appointed seats, rear camera, acoustic pack and the special Holden Mylink infotainment system with 7-inch color touch screen. In fact, Holden’s Executive Director, Peter Keley promises, that the vehicle will ensure great comfort and incredible performance. And we tend to believe him. For now.

And here we offer you the content, that ensure Colorado Z71 will stay on the top of Colorado lineup :

18-inch Arsenal Grey Metallic alloy wheels (x5)
Sail plane with Z71 graphic (body coloured)
Leather appointed seats (heated front)
Styled nudge bar
Headlamps with dark chrome mask
Gloss black mirror scalps and B-Pillars
Gloss black tailgate handle
Black door handles Black rear step trim
Z71 decal on tailgate
Black body side door mouldings
Black hood with Z71 graphic
Streamline Soft tonneau – (hard tonneau optional)
Roof rails

Holden Colorado Z71 - Rear Angle

Source: Holden

June 17, 2015

Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell and California Drivers Make a Lunar Visit

Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell has made an achievement which is worth reviewing. The car is so fuel efficient that its California-based drivers have accumulated enough emissions-free miles to reach the lunar surface and return. Well, there were emissions, but they comprise of clean water vapor only.

The trip to the moon and back isn’t actually the same every time. If you ask why, this is because it varies with each lunar orbit. Of course, there is an average round-trip distance which is estimated at 477,800 miles.

Since the introduction of Tucson Fuel Cells in June last year, Hyundai has sold more than 70 examples to the customer from the United States. The car has been also the first mass-produced fuel cell on the market.

A Moon Rock Souvenir from Lunar Visit. Hypothetically.

Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell with Moon Rock Present

But let me tell you more about the “Moon-thing”. If such small fleet of only 70 hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles can achieve this mileage and in only few short months, this also signifies that the zero-emissions vehicles have huge potential. We can then only imagine what the future filled with emission-less hydrogen vehicles holds for us.

Precisely, the owners of the Tucson Fuel Sell needed only 240 days to go to the moon. More to that is that they needed 120 days for the return.

But how the precise miles can be estimated so accurately, one might ask. This is because Hyundai service engineers receive periodic mileage updates from Tucson Fuel Cell vehicles in Southern California. Therefore a calculation of the cumulative mileage is possible.

Benefits of Driving a Fuel Cell Vehicle

Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell is an example of a car, which has a lot of advantages over conventional or even other alternative fuel-powered vehicles. Firstly, the hydrogen fuel is capable of covering a range of 265 miles between fill-ups. Secondly, its driving range and vehicle performance are just slightly affected by weather condition, regardless hot or cold.

Third, they are about the same size as the typical gasoline vehicles. At last, fuel cell vehicles are completely production scalable, meaning that they can range from very small to very large vehicles: from sweet minis to trucks.

Oh, and the best thing of all is that they are absolutely environmentally friendly. And eventually the planet can benefit either. Who’s voting for more of these? I’m the first one on the list.

Source: Hyundai

June 17, 2015

2016 Seat Ibiza with Premiere at the Moving Motor Show

2016 Seat Ibiza has been updated with an extensive package of innovative technologies, new engines and more safety systems and equipment. It is going to make its UK debut at the Goodwood Moving Motor Show accompanied by a lot of other top models from Seat. The event will take place between 25^th and 28^th of June.

After its Barcelona premiere, the next step for the Ibiza is to be fully unleashed in the United Kingdom. The sporty new supermini will be joined by the ST CUPRA 280, Leon X-PERIENCE and Mii by MANGO city car.

The new engines in the range of Ibiza boast cutting-edge technology. There are precisely three-cylinder petrol and diesel units, which will offer improved performance and efficiency, better dynamics and innovative seamless connectivity capabilities.

After the Moving Motor Show, Seat Ibiza will be present at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. There it will be on display along with several CUPRA models, the X-PERIENCE and Mii by MANGO. But its most spectacular sibling will be the track-focused 330PS Leon Cup Racer. The latter will also compete in the famous Hill course in Endurance specification.

What is more, competing in the ‘First Glance’ category will be the remarkable Leon ST CUPRA 280. For an optimum performance it will be equipped with a Sub8 Performance Pack.

There will be also an opportunity for the visitors of the show to drive the new 2016 Seat Ibiza. It will be on disposal for test-driving on Thursday June 25.

Source: Seat

June 17, 2015

How Luxurious 2016 Lincoln MKX Can Actually Get?

2016 Lincoln MKX will not only come with some wonderful performance features, but also will demonstrate how the master craftsmanship will define the overall quality of the vehicle. In fact, customers of the Lincoln MKX cite overall quality as #1 purchase reason for the well-known crossover.

There is a study, made by the Luxury Institute and Epsilon, suggesting, that 74% of the wealthy customers believe, that the highest quality is the most important thing in a vehicle, along with the superior craftsmanship. And listening to the customers, Lincoln brand will release the 2016 MKX model with even better crafting quality and even higher level of quality of the components. We all wander if it really can get better. But let’s see what will the vehicle offer to customers.

2016 Lincoln MKX Interior

There will be a sort of “hidden” improvements to the latest MKX, which will make the vehicle a really special one: for example, there will be a special foam added to the wrapped console side panels, which will ensure a soft area, where the legs rest. The same foam will be added in the door armsets and the steering wheel. Furthermore, there will be scuff material in the door and tailgate will be changed with stainless steel, which will not only bring some safety to the overall safe vehicle, but will also bring that beautiful and distinctive look of the automobile.

In addition, the 2016 MKX model will offer and a special Bridge of Weir Deepsoft Leather, especially created for the Lincoln seating surfaces. The leather material has gone through a complex 16-hour softening process, which is much longer than other leathers.

The center console has also deserved some attention: now it will improve functionality, but it will also be crafted with even better components by even better craftsmanship masters. And to increase the crafting appearance, the gooseneck hinge arms are now hidden.

Furthermore, Lincoln engineers has made a computer-aided design stations and had made some experiments in virtual lab to ensure the high quality of the components and their appearance in the vehicle. The team has also eliminated the sharp edges, cut lines and some sort of visible imperfect spots and has added wonderful wooden and metal materials to the latest MKX model.

Source: Lincoln

June 17, 2015

2015 Shelby Super Snake with 750HP is What We Have Been Waiting For!

2015 Shelby Super Snake has returned and it is more vigorous than ever! Based on the 2015 Ford Mustang GT, the legendary Snake is now 750HP strong. The other enhancements included are to the handling, braking and cooling of the famous pony car. What is more, it will be the first Super Snake to be offered with an automatic transmission.

The perfect basis for this new project is the latest Mustang from the 2015 model year, which rides on sophisticated new independent rear suspension, and is powered by a potent V8 engine connected to a slick shifting six speed transmission. Another interesting fact for the new model is that it was designed for the first time for international markets.

Performance

Shelby American has tuned and modified key aspects the iconic muscle car by giving it better handling and more power. On top of the standard V8, Shelby has added performance suspension components and a throaty Borla exhaust at no additional cost.

Available features include a more powerful supercharger, as well as a better performing intercooler and heat exchanger system. They have been all designed to generate more than 750 horsepower on pump gas.

In addition, it will be the first Super Snake available with an automatic transmission. The standard option is Mustang GT’s six-speed manual.

This power is transmitted onto the new 20-inch WELD Racing Super Snake wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, behind which we see seat-belt-tightening-six-piston Wilwood brakes.

Exterior & Interior

In terms of aesthetics, the car carries the signature Super Snake striping. It also features carbon fiber hood with a forced-air scoop plus and a wide range of other aerodynamic enhancements like the larger rear spoiler for example.

On the other hand, the interior includes special badging, upgraded badged upholstery, floor mats and a very cool three-gauge dash pod.

Pricing

2015 Shelby Super Snake will be produced in only 300 units. Each car will have a starting price of $49,995 USD and this does not include the base Ford Mustang GT.

Source: Shelby American

June 17, 2015

Toyota Prado Gets High-Torque Diesel Engine

Toyota LandCruiser Prado is now more powerful than ever due to the addition of the 2.8-litre Global Diesel (GD) four-cylinder engine. The unit was specifically developed from the ground up to contribute towards the massive gains to the performance of the vehicle. In addition, the engine is also quieter and more efficient, reliable and robust in its operation.

Power & Torque

The 2.8-litre GD produces up to 177 hp (130kW) at 3400rpm in comparison to the 173 hp (127kW) from the current 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine. This is a significant gain of 2.4%, given that the capacity of around 200cc is smaller.

LandCruiser’s new engine delivers also more torque of up to 450Nm (332 lb-ft). This does not make sacrifice in terms of fuel efficiency. Mated to the six-speed automatic transmission, this gain of 40Nm or more than 9.7 % in comparison to the engine previously used. The peak torque for the five-speed self-shifter or the six-speed manual gearbox stands at 420Nm (310 lb-ft). Despite the transmission, those torques are available from low engine speeds through to 2400rpm.

Fuel Economy & CO2 Emissions

How about the fuel efficiency of the new GD unit? The official combined cycle have been made better with more than 10%, when the car is equipped with the manual gearbox. They have been rated at just 7.9 litres per 100km.

When it comes to the consumption of the vehicle equipped with the automatic transmission, it shows an improvement of 5.9%. During urban driving, improvements range from 10.6% for the auto to more than 13% for the manual while the highway figures are as low as 7 litres per 100km.

2.8-litre Global Diesel (GD) Engine

The 2.8-litre Global Diesel engine has a displacement of 2755cm3. Its common-rail fuel-injection system is electronically controlled and fitted with piezo injectors supporting higher outputs and improved fuel efficiency.

The unit stands under the designation 1GD-FTV and it also shows extreme levels of combustion efficiency due to the adoption of a water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system, a swirl control valve on the intake manifold and a new piston shape. Low consumption of energy is ensured via weight reduction. This also contributes towards the better fuel economy.

Also helping for this is the low engine friction, because of the adoption of a low-friction timing chain instead of a timing belt. The other benefit here is the minimized mechanical noise during idling. Furthermore, the exhaust manifold has been designed to optimize the retention capacity of the catalytic converter. This prevents the noise that is so characteristic for turbo engines.

All the aforementioned measures and more that we haven’t talked about have resulted in lower emissions and compliance with Euro 5 emissions standards. These changes mean not only a more powerful performance but also enhanced driving pleasure for the Prado owners.

Source: Toyota

June 17, 2015

MANSORY Uprates Porsche Cayenne Turbo S to 620HP via Simple Plug & Play

MANSORY Porsche Cayenne Turbo S looks devilish in this red and black dual-tone outfit. It is a true instance of luxury and class, isn’t it? This is not only because of its undisputable visual characteristics, but also because its ability to produce 550 hp (405 lb-ft) and 750 Nm (554 lb-ft) of torque. Wait … there is a hint here. These horses are only if the car is with the stock output. If this is so, then the model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 283 km/h.

Vigorous Power

However, the Cayenne here has been fitted with power enhancements, which give it even more force that the production one. Even MANSORY call the new horsepower capability of the Porsche “vigorous”. The reason for this is that the experts have developed and integrated an additional engine control unit.

This additional element can be actually fitted to both Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S supercharged engines. The result is impressive and it is an extra of 50 horsepower.

MANSORY Powerbox

Via simple Plug & Play process a special Powerbox is fitted. And this is where the magic happens. The V8 under the hood of the Cayenne Turbo, which initially has the 520 hp (382 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 750 Nm (554 lb-ft) between 2.250-4.000 rpm, is now capable of pumping out 570 hp (419kW) at 6.000 rpm and 830Nm (613 lb-ft) between the same as the standard rpm range.

Of course, these enhancements also result in better acceleration time. The Cayenne Turbo needs only 4.1 seconds to cover the 0-100km/h sprint. In comparison, the standard time is 4.5 seconds.

After the power enhancements, the MANSORY Cayenne Turbo S is now capable of 620 hp (456 kW) at 6.000 rpm and 870 Nm (642 lb-ft) between 2.500-4.000 rpm. Due to this performance optimization, the time needed for the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h is mere 3.8 seconds.

Source: MANSORY

June 17, 2015

2015 Vauxhall Astra Comes More Flexible and Even More Adaptive!

2015 Vauxhall Astra is ready for the showrooms in October. The model, built at Vauxhall‘s manufacturing plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, has a lot of features to demonstrate, including beautiful design, numerous technology units and different trims.

The 2015 Astra lineup also includes a 1.0-Liter three-cylinder Turbo Start/Stop ecoFLEX engine, paired to an Easytronic five-speed automatic transmission and a class leading emissions, measured at 96g/km. The range also includes the 1.6-Liter, available with the SRI trim, that provides 200 hp (147kW) and the special 1.6-liter Start/Stop ecoFlex “Whisper Diesel” with 110 hp (80 kW), that achieves 91.1mpg and class-leading CO2 emissions of 82g/km

And here we show you what the different trims have to offer:

Design

2015 Vauxhall Astra Back

This pack brings the 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime headlights, six airbags, R4.0 InterLink audio system, 7-inch multimedia touch screen, Cruise Control system and steering wheel controls

Tech Line (over Design)

The trim offers the special Navi 900 satellite navigation system and 8-inch touch screen monitor as well a leather steering wheel and adjustable armset.

Energy (over Design)

The Energy pack brings the special 17-inch 10 spoke alloy wheels and heated front seats and heated steering wheel

SRi (over Design)

2015 Vauxhall Astra Interior

The pack has a lots of features to offer: 17-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels, Driving Assistance Pack with included front camera, OnStar, Sight&Light Pack, Sports seats set, leather steering wheel and front foglamps.

SRi Nav (applied over SRi pack)

This pack completes the SRi set with 900 satellite navigation system and adds a special 8-inch touch screen and voice recognition function

Elite (over Design)

the pack offers 17-inch multi spoke alloy wheels, leather ergonomic seats with extendable cushions, electrical lumbar, heated rear seats, OnStar, Sight&Light Pack

Electronic climate control, front foglamps and electrically foldable mirrors

Elite Nav (over Elite)

The last pack brings a Navi 900 satellite navigation system and 8-inch touch screen. Voice recognition function is also included

As you can see, the 2016 Astra model surely has a lot to offer. And now with the numerous trims and packs the vehicle can get really flexible and adaptive to any character and road.

What do you think of the latest Astra model?

Source: Vauxhall

June 17, 2015

Honda Will Show Numerous Surprises at 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed

2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed will be a special event for the UK audience. Why? Because they will see the full 2015 Honda lineup. With wonderful and fresh models Honda team is ready to amaze the audience at the show.

Definitely this time on display will be the latest Civic and CR-V models, that arrived in dealership in March. Furthermore, Civic Type R will be available in July, while the Jazz and the latest HR-V will be on sale in August. And Honda’s supercar, the NSX will also be on the show with a promise to arrive in UK at the end of next year.

And as always, the Goodwood festival will offer visitors the chance to get behind the wheel of the latest Civic and CR-V and take a ride up the famous hill.

Furthermore, Honda will be running a competition to get behind the wheel of the long-awaited Civic Type R. The model was recently launched and it offers 300 hp (220 kW) with a front-wheel-drive. So, it will be an interesting year for Honda at Goodwood festival.

As you know, the Goodwood Festival of Speed will run from Thursday 25th June to Sunday 28th of June. So, we will bring you even more news from the show and the attending brands. Stay with us!