Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Infiniti QX50 and QX30 Concept Make North American Premiere [VIDEO]

    Infiniti QX50 Front and Side ViewIt was announced last week that Infiniti will debut at the automobiles event in New York the redesigned QX50. Next to it, the visitors of the show will see the QX30 Concept. We’ve seen the last one debuting at the Geneva Motor Show in March, so we will focus on the QX50 crossover. The first thing to mention about it is the wheelbase. It was extended and this results in increased proportions of the exterior dimensions and interior spaciousness. In fact, room in the cabin has grown with eight cubic feet.

    In addition, the exterior also received new appearance. Infiniti obviously decided to bring forward its new design language (we’ve seen it already applied on the Q50 and Q70) thus giving the crossover new LEDs in the form of daytime running and fog lights.

    The side sills have new design as well. This where we also see the LED side mirror turn signals and the new 19-inch alloys. The rear fascia was also changed.

    Powering this beautiful vehicle is the standard 3.7-liter V6 engine which produces 325 horsepower (239 kW). It is coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission that can drive either the front or all wheels.

    The luxurious interior is wrapped in Ivory leather and it will definitely take care for occupants’ optimal comfort. As mentioned the cabin delivers more room now and this is due to the longer wheelbase. To be more precise, it was extended by 3.2 inches. The most of the gain is the additional 4.3 inches of legroom for the rear passengers. Next to the increased interior volume, the QX50 can now proudly stand out with 2.7 cubic feet of added cargo space.

    2016 Infiniti QX50 is scheduled to go on sale this fall, while the QX30 Concept will enter production later this year and will have a market launch in 2016.

    httpv://youtu.be/m2P-jlovH6I

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Infiniti 

  • Kia Debuts Novo Concept Displaying new Design Direction

    Kia Novo Concept Front and Side ViewIf you think that this Kia was unveiled at the show in New York, you would be wrong. The car is actually making a premiere at the Seoul Motor Show, displaying its coupe proportions and minimalist interior. I actually wish that it was on display in NY instead of the Optima, which has nothing surprisingly new in it. By the way, do expect a review on the Optima in the upcoming hours.

    The concept carries the name “Novo”, inspired by the Latin word “novatus”, literally meaning “innovation”. This signifies that the car comes to show us something fresh and new. Let’s see about that.

    As we can tell from the pictures, the exterior design is typical for Kia. The car is built on company’s C-segment global platform that was specifically adapted for this. The sporty stance pf the car is strengthened via the low front overhangs, the longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline.

    Kia’s trade mark, the “tiger nose”, was made wider and more deeply embedded. On its both sides we see slim laser headlamps. Large front wheel arches, consistent shoulder, low triangular exhausts at the back and crisp lines at the rear are features that characterize this car.

    Inside, the concept is spacious and focuses on the driver via the long and wide dashboard. A very cool feature is the instrument binnacle that displays important information via a three-dimensional hologram display. There is also a touch pad with fingerprint scanner as well as a wide touchscreen in the centre of the dash.

    At last, let’s talks about the engine. It is the 1.6-litre T-GDI unit and it is linked to the new seven-speed DCT that transmits the power to the front wheels. What we have as an effect? Great sports performance combined with stunning fuel economy. Or at least Kia says so, since there are no production plans for the Novo Concept. However, this car is definitely an example of the future development directions of the company.

    Source: Kia 

  • Tenth-Gen Civic Previewed via Concept Version at NYIAS

    Honda Civic Concept Side ViewHonda Civic Concept is so hot that it could only be revealed at the New York Auto Show. The company is actually preparing to launch the redesigned versions of the Civic range this fall. The tenth-generation cars will keep the great performance characteristics and fantastic design. In the lineup, Honda will feature a sedan, coupe and Si model. Oh, and of course, my two favourites: the hatchback and Type R.

    The cars will be built on a longer wheelbase. As we can see from the pictures of the concept it is obvious that it stands also lower to the ground and has this wider stance. Precisely, the hood is longer, while the front overhang and rear deck are shorter.

    The aggressive look of the car is further strengthened by the prominent fender arches and the new wheel-to-body relationship. At the front we see new LEDs on the both sides of the “Flying H” grille. The latter is supported by deeply sculpted lower air intakes.

    The next big thing about the new Civic is that it will be powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series. The unit includes direct injection and is linked to either a six-speed manual transmission or an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). In this way more efficiency is guaranteed, right?

    In terms of safety, the Civic concept and all its future siblings will be equipped with Honda Sensing suite. It is filled with advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like the Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control and Honda LaneWatch.

    All in all, this concept tells me that the new Civic range will have even more to expect, and I am pretty excited about it. How about you?

    Source: Honda 

  • Subaru Unveils Unexpectedly STI Performance Concept

    Subaru STI Peroformance Concept From the BackTo be honest, Subaru’s STI Peroformance Concept is what I didn’t expect to see at the New York Auto Show. Next to the WRX STI Rallycross Car, this vehicle is a main star at company’s stand. The concept is a preview of STI’s (meaning Subaru Tecnica International) car performance characteristics. This also signifies for a bunch of tweaks hidden in this car.

    For instance, Subaru said that it has changed the body, chassis and air intake and exhaust systems. Even the BRZ Super GT based engine was improved. In other words the STI Performance Concept is a pure example of the engineering prowess and tuning magic of the STI team.

    Another thing that this car comes to tell us is that it is the first step of company’s plans to expand STI in America. As a matter of fact, STI-engineered parts have already replaced Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) aftermarket parts in the U.S. There is also the promise to see other STI tuned vehicles in the U.S.

    United States will obviously do what’s trendy in Japan, since the complete cars with the extensive tuning and performance parts are now on sale in Japan. Precisely, the modified models are the WRX STI, Forester and BRZ. To make this even more visible, Subaru has added “S model” nomenclature for the WRX STI and “tS” on BRZ and Forester.

    Unfortunately, there are no additional details released, so everything is up to our imagination.

    Source: Subaru

  • MINI Shines Bright with All-Chrome Exterior

    Mini Chrome Line Exterior Deluxe Concept It’s small, sporty, with British attitude and has stunning appearance. It couldn’t be else but a MINI, right? Well, this deluxe edition is very special, since it is all-chrome. Although some might find it not that cool, it seems to me that this is a strike at the perfect score. The appearance of this car is irresistible and it is an immediate eye-catcher. This is because chrome was not only applied to the headlamps or rear light, and even the radiator grille surrounds, but also it has been used to cover the entire body.

    The three-door car has unique visual stance and there is no second though on that. But how about the interior? It offers a go-kart feeling via the position of the central instrument in the cockpit. There are also several design features which are typical for the MINI. But there will be also the option of adding chrome elements throughout the cockpit as well. Nice, isn’t it?

    However, there is this logical question about the working process. Since the reflection characteristics of the chrome material are very high, then it is obvious that the manufacturing process should be changed as well.

    This MINI will be built in company’s plant in Oxford, UK, where everything will be taken under control. For instance, the hall lights will be automatically dimmed for the perfect and effortless assembly of the car. Even the conveyor belt’s speed will be slowed so that workers can check their clothing and hair. I would actually like to see this on a video. Or maybe for real. Why not? Or wait a minute, is all this an April’s fool joke?

    Source: MINI 

  • New York Salutes Four Beetle Concepts

    Four Beetle Concepts Shown in NYNot one but four Beetle concept cars are debuting at the New York Auto Show today. The iconic Volkswagen is represented via two unique coupe variants and two cabrio versions. Precisely the first two are called Concept R-Line and Pink Edition, while the open top versions are Cabriolet Denim and Wave.

    As the name suggest, blue has been chosen for the Denim convertible concept. In fact, the In ‘Stonewashed Blue Metallic’ has been combined with a soft top that also comes in the same hue but it is significantly darker. This reminds me of the most popular trousers in the world (jeans) given that even the fabric of which the top is made recalls jeans’ texture.

    Another interesting historical fact is that back in 1970 the world saw the debut of the first ‘Jeans Bug’ that carried the same denim theme. There were two other versions of the model that followed in 1980s and 1990s.

    In contrast, the Wave concept comes painted in ‘Habanero Orange Metallic’. This specific color expresses the American spirit on the East and West coast beaches in North America. The spirit can be also felt when one steps inside the car, where fabric patterns from the 50s and 60s served for an inspiration for the design of the centre seat panels. In addition, the car also sports a genuine wood dashpad which comes in a surfboard style.

    Ladies beware! There are no excuses for not owning a Beetle anymore, because Volkswagen has also released the Beetle Pink Edition in ‘Fuschine Metallic’ paint scheme. It is very stylish and sweet. And despite the expectations that the interior will have the same color, it has elements in black, chrome and aluminium.

    At last, the R-Line concept is what comes to defend the sportive attitude of the Beetle. It is driven by a 2.0-litre TSI engine which boasts 220 hp (162 kW). This one is painted in a color called ‘Oryx White Pearl Effect’, but has more to that to impress with. Take for instance the independent bumpers and the black wrap-around body paneling. Black was also the choice for the diffuser and a large rear spoiler. The sportiness is continued inside via the sport bucket seats and leather-carbon look highlights.

    In this range of concepts Volkswagen has literally offered a color for the most capricious taste. The question is: which one suits you the best?

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Chevrolet Premieres Malibu Generation Nine

    Chevrolet Malibu Side View2016 Chevrolet Malibu is the main highlight at General Motors’ stand at the New York Auto Show. The new model is entirely redesigned and can show-off with a host of exclusive features like the new connectivity and safety systems. Not to mention the enhanced efficiency due to the new hybrid powertrain. The eco-friendly technology was taken directly from the Volt model and then adapted to the needs of the larger car. Precisely, the estimated combined fuel economy is more than 45 mpg. To compare this number, the standard 1.5L turbo unit is rated at 37 mpg highway.

    Other very important aspect that contributes to the great efficiency is that the car is nearly 300 pounds (136 kg) lighter than before. It is also longer with four inches (101 mm) and these two facts result in more space for the occupants.

    To go further into details, Volt’s 1.8L four-cylinder engine is combined with two-motor drive unit. The total output is 182 horsepower (136 kW). The unit is also equipped with Chevy’s Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery (EGHR) which works by utilizing the exhaust heat to warm the engine and cabin. The electric power comes from the 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can drive the Malibu alone up to 55 miles per hour (88 km/h). Regenerative braking system is also present.

    As a standard, the Malibu comes with the brand new Ecotec 1.5L turbo unit, rated at 37 mpg on the highway. It produces 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (250 Nm). If one looks for a higher-output, then Chevy has prepared for them the 2.0L turbocharged engine, which generates 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm), and has fuel efficiency rating of 22 mpg and 32 mpg in the city and on the highway, respectively.

    There are a lot of technology features in the new Malibu regarding infotainment and safety that can usually be found in GMC models. The most interesting on is the Test Drive feature which comes as a standard and supports safe driving. It does this by muting the audio if any of the occupants haven’t put their seatbelt on.

    The ninth generation Malibu is going to be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT and Premier and will also have a Hybrid version. More on the model and the specific trims is to be announced close to production. And can you believe that the first ever variant of the Malibu has been produced back in 1964?

    Source: Chevrolet     

  • ‘i’ in Scion iA Stands for ‘Incredible’ and ‘Inexpensive’

    2016 Scion iA Side ViewАs you know, Scion expands its lineup with the wonderful and affordable 2016 iM and the striking, also on an incredible price, 2016 iA model. The iA sedan comes with a versatile Pre-collision safety system and a multi-media panel with a 7-inch display. Both brothers, the iM and iA models are here to show everyone, that a vehicle can be affordable and trustworthy at the same time.

    The basic components and tweaks, that make the iA sedan so interesting are the high-strength body, a high-compression 1.5 liter engine, that brings a total of 106 hp (77kW), a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox and a fuel efficiency with ratings at 33 city MPG.

    The 2016 Scion models show well-known visuals, which include the sharp-looking headlights and the hexagon-shaped grille. The sport look is further shaped by the black bumper treatment, chrome surround and tailpipe. Other improvements include the extra-light transmission system and a low friction with a shortened stroke. In fact, the automatic gearbox system brings more direct shift and even higher efficiency of fuel consumption.

    The front and back suspension units are finely tuned to deliver a well-calculated mix of comfortable driving and a sporty handling. The steering system also had its attention: with the precise hands of the team, you get a light feel, but a fast response, when it comes to steering. All this comes, as expected, with an incredible safety system. You get great amount of airbags and the Low-speed Pre-collision system. A trustworthy saving-life system that hopefully no one will ever use.

    The interior comes with premium chrome details, comfortable panel and superior seats. You will enjoy the 7-inch display, the touch screen and the audio system with a total of 6 speakers. We promise. And if you look options for further customization, you have found the right vehicle.

    The Scion team offers a wide range of accessories, packs and paint job, so there isn’t something, that you will miss in the Scion iA sedan.

    Source: Scion

  • 2016 Cadillac CT6 Revealed at the New York Auto Show [VIDEO]

    After we have seen the advanced 3.0L Twin Turbo engine of the Cadillac CT6 it is time to see the car and the best way to do this is to visit the New York International Auto Show, where it makes its debut today. The advanced sedan is filled with a range of new technologies which aim to deliver dynamic performance, better fuel economy and the best agility in this class of luxury vehicles.

    First to mention is CT6’s new body structure, which is actually an aluminum-intensive architecture that is made of 11 different materials. The goal of the engineers was to achieve more strength. The bold visual stance of the model is due to the long hood and sleek upper body. The “face” of CT6 shows a new grille surrounded by vertical LED blades accompanied by Indirect Fire LED headlamps.

    Driving the rear-wheels of the sedan will be several engines. The new among them is the 3.0L Twin Turbo unit, which produces 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 400 lb-ft of torque (543 Nm). This is actually the most powerful V6 in the segment rated at 133 horsepower (99 kW) per liter. This powertrain shows great efficiency due to the eight-speed automatic transmission. The same transmission is linked to the 2.0L I-4 turbocharged unit.

    Active Rear Steer, Magnetic Ride Control and Auto Vehicle Hold are just three of the driver-assistance technologies that make this Cadillac special. The interior on the other hand is an example of balance between luxury and spaciousness, combining various materials like expensive leathers and exotic woods, and carbon fiber. The technologies featured inside include the Quadzone climate and Bose Panaray audio system and many others.

    Cadillac will begin the production of 2016 CT6 by the end of this year and will be distributed throughout North America, Europe, Korea, Japan, Israel and the Middle East. No words no pricing yet, but we do not expect it to be very low. What do you think?

    2016 Cadillac CT6 Specifications:

    Model: 2016 Cadillac CT6
    Body style / driveline: RWD or AWD, 5-passenger large luxury performance sedan
    Manufacturing location: Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly, Hamtramck, Mich.
    Engines: 2.0L I-4 turbo DOHC DI – 265 hp / 198 kW (est.)
    3.6L V-6 DOHC DI – 335 hp / 250 kW (est.)
    3.0L V-6 twin-turbo DOHC DI – 400 hp / 298 kW (est.)
    Transmissions: Hydra-Matic 8L45 eight-speed automatic (2.0L turbo and 3.6L)
    Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic (3.0L twin-turbo)
    Brakes: four-wheel disc with FNC rotors; four-channel ABS
    Wheels: 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch
    Wheelbase (in/mm): 122.4 / 3106
    Length (in/mm): 204 / 5184
    Width (in/mm): 74 / 1879
    Height (in/mm): 57.9 / 1472
    Curb weight (lb/kg): less than 3700 / 170

    httpv://youtu.be/Gu368D_4t0s

    Video Source: YouTube 

    Source: Cadillac

  • High Class Scion iM Without the High-Class Price

    Scion iM Side View

    The completely redesigned 2016 Scion iM hatchback is here with an offer to the young drivers – you will get the iM and you will still be able to afford rent, loans, hiking with friends. The model is especially designed to be affordable and yet to bring you the joy of driving a high-class high-performance vehicle. So affordable, that the prices start at 20 000 USD. You still believe it is an April’s Fool Joke? No, it is not.

    The iM comes with a striking design – just look at the lower grille, the sharp-looking headlights and the side bezels. Also, the model comes in many color variations: choose between the Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and many more. This all is combined with the incredible performance and fuel-efficiency. As expected, the iM has a revised chassis, double-wishbone suspension and the standard 17″ alloy wheels just to bring you a smooth driving experience on any road.

    The incredible balance between performance and fuel efficiency comes from the well designed 137 hp (100 kW) 1.8Liter 4-cylinder engine that uses the Valvematic technology to bring you dynamic and responsive machine that can take you to every corner of the world for the lowest fuel consumption. The vehicle comes with a 6-speed specially designed transmission system, or you can try the optional automatic gearbox, that is well made just for the 1.8 powerplant.

    The inside is lovely designed to bring you a high quality material and a luxurious feel. The cabin comes with stylish easy-to-use control buttons that bring even greater boost to the hi-class feel of the iM.  The whole Scion iM pack includes Navigation upgrade kit, well-designed body graphic, interior light kit and many more.

    So, get ready to get a high-class super vehicle without the high-class price!

    httpv://youtu.be/51VQMRbDghU

    Video Source: YouTube 

    Source: Scion

  • “And the World Stood Still” for the Most Powerful Rolls-Royce

    Rolls Royce Wraith Side VIew

    The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars launches a film, named “And the World Stood Still”, that is accepted into the British Film Institute National Archive – the world’s biggest collection of film and TV. To celebrate this, Rolls-Royce created a Wraith that is inspired by the film. The film itself introduces the Wraith, which is the most powerful and technologically advanced vehicle ever created by Rolls-Royce.

    The shoot is taken in a secret place in Barcelona with special 100 SLR cameras that bring the so-called “Timeslice” sequence. The movie team shows incomparable knowledge and skills beyond measure in the cinematography art. There is even an additional behind the scenes film, specially released after countless fan requests.

    Actually, this isn’t the first Rolls-Royce movie. The brand takes role in film making for many decades. Some of their best works include Goldfinger (1964), The Yellow Rolls-Royce (1964), The Great Gatsby (1976) and many others. And now, with the “And the World Stood Still”, Rolls-Royce team is back to show us incredible artwork, unbelievable views of the car and overall movie experience never seen before.

    As it comes to the Wraith itself, it really is the most powerful Rolls-Royce up to date. The exterior is revised and the wheelbase are wider, the engine is a twin turbo V12, that delivers 624 hp (465 kW) and goes from 0 to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds). The lines and body of the Wraith has something similar to the 1930s film noir,that gives that really unique style and expression.

    The Wraith “Inspired by Film” Special Edition will debut at the 2015 New York Auto Show, and could be ordered worldwide right after the show.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Kaege Reinterprets the Porsche Macan S [VIDEO]

    Kaege Porsche Macan S Front and Side ViewKaege is a tuning company, which is obviously keen on German-made models popular for their sports capabilities. Therefore, a diesel Porsche Macan S fell under the expertise of the tuners. The first to modify was not the exterior nor the interior, but the engine. The diesel unit of nearly three liters of size received power upgrades and now can show-off with 310 hp (228 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

    Next on their mind was the exhaust system, which received an active sound system. The result is an extreme sound of a V8 engine, which can be manually adjusted via cruise control lever. No less than a lowering module was then needed to complement the new sporting characteristics of the Macan. This was made possible via a DLC variant of KW with App control, which can be managed via on-board adapter jack.

    What is more, even SUV’s serial steel springs and electric shock absorbers can be lowered with the help of KW coilovers. Kaege can also supply the Macan with KW street comfort chassis and KW electronic shock absorber adjustment.

    At last, the tuners took care for the exterior, which received exquisite CH-R II BBS wheels fitted with Michelin-Pilot sports tires. As they call it, a “little optics packet” was then added and it comprises of front and rear shock absorbers. In the end, painted red brake calipers are what rounds out the enhancement package for this Macan.

    httpv://youtu.be/y0x8B1ETiLo

    Video Source: YouTube  

    Source: Miranda Media