Car Makes – Page 363 – Automobiles Review

First Image of Infiniti QX30 Concept is Released!

To our pleasant surprise, Infiniti decided to reveal the first image of the QX30 Concept! Set to make its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show, the crossover concept seems to show a strong indication of commitment, style and strength.

Very often this brand has tried to push the boundaries between what is possible and what is impossible and so far it hasn’t disappointed us. On the contrary. The final results have always turned out to be exclusively acceptable. Now the Infiniti QX30 Concept is born with a remarkably sleek design which combines the lines of a coupe with subtle features of a crossover. Looking ready for action and still kind of smooth, it encapsulates a dynamic spirit which promises to deliver uncompromising capabilities.

Designed to make travelers feel safe, comfortable and at ease, this concept vehicle adopts a theme of “stylish protection.” This becomes apparent from nose to tail. The SUV-like look is characterized by pronounced aluminium-trimmed front bumper and an intriguingly-sculptured rear with a tough skid plate that has nuanced graphics.

The QX30 Concept’s sophisticated exterior proportions “are composed of bold sections, deep upward cuts, and intersecting contours to create Infiniti’s hallmark “dual wave” effect. The aerodynamic design accentuates its athletic silhouette, showcasing its confident capability. Carbon fibre in the lower cladding and roof-bar supports adds to the car’s lightweight performance character.” Finally, 21-inch wheels and larger profile tires contribute to the stable stance of the crossover too.

For now, the automaker hasn’t shared any information regarding the performance specifics of the soon-to-debut QX30 but stay tuned to find out more very soon!

Source: Infiniti

February 19, 2015

2015 Peugeot 208 Prepares for Geneva with a Cool Facelift

Three years after its launch, the Peugeot 208 receives a comprehensive update which gives it an additional dose of charisma to compete with others. Now the model is revealed with a more assertive styling, refreshed exterior range of colors and a number of options to personalize the car even more. Thanks to the new equipment driving in urban areas becomes much easier and more pleasant.

Under the hood, the facelifted Peugeot benefits from improved naturally aspirated 1.0-liter and 1.2-liter PureTech engines. They produce 68 HP and 82 HP respectively. Set to substitute the previous 1.6-liter naturally aspirated unit, there is a turbocharged version that generates 110 HP. This one is mated to either five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. But the choice of power units does not stop here. Furthermore, there is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with Euro 6 compliance. It can be had with 165 HP and 205 HP outputs. The diesel range remains the same – 1.6-liter engine with 75 HP, 100 HP and 120 HP variants. Every version of the new 208 has CO2 which stand below 95g/km.

More assertive and distinctive, the style of the 2015 Peugeot 208 impresses with new front bumper, wider grille and deeper chrome finisher that is now fully integrated. For more striking appearance, the body of the vehicle is fitted with redesigned two-tone headlamps, with black and chrome masks and a hi-tech LED light signature. At the rear we can see reworked LED light clusters incorporating Peugeot’s 3D ‘claws’ motif. Other tweaks include exclusive 16 and 17-inch wheel options.

Inside the changes which have been made aimed to improve convenience. The steering wheel is trimmed in full-grain leather from Active trim, while the soft-touch moulded dashboard strip has gained graining on higher specification models. Connectivity and technological extras are said to be better than ever. There is a 7-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB and mobile applications via Peugeot Connect Apps and new MirrorScreen system. The last one enables transfering the screen of a smartphone to the vehicle’s screen. Pretty cool, isn’t it?

Source: Peugeot

February 19, 2015

2015 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack is Rougher than Before

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack was revealed ahead of its official public debut during the Geneva Motor Show in March. Based on the eight – generation Passat, the new version inherits a similar theme. This high riding estate is planned to appear in Australian showrooms later this year with a price close to that of the first – generation model – $47,790.

As it might be expected, there is a range of engines available for the updated automobile. The selection of units offers a 150 HP 1.4 TSI, a 220 HP 2.0 TSI and three 2.0 TDIs engines which are able to boost 150 HP, 190 HP and 240 HP. Top-of-the-line petrol and diesel engines receive a standard XDS+ electronic differential system which is capable of providing selective braking to the front wheels in order to improve stability during cornering.

So in terms of design highlights, 2015 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack arrives with a 27.5 mm increase in the ride height and exhibits a rougher stance. Perhaps the most notable change is the revised front bumper. It is underlined by a silver plastic scuff plate as well as a black plastic valance panel and mounted fog lamps. With such additions, the car adopts an extra flair of ruggedness especially when driving on bumpy roads.

Other alterations on the Volkswagen Alltrack include badges on the grille and front frenders, silver and black mirror housings integrated on the doors, roof rails and wheelarches which receive plastic body cladding. There are also sills with silver plastic scuff plate extensions and a reworked rear bumper. The latter comes with a black plastic valance panel which has trapezoidal shaped chromed tailpipes. Standard 17-inch wheels are available but customers can opt for 18- and 19-inch rims.

The new Passat Alltrack offers four driving modes: eco, normal, sport and individual. Trying to surprise buyers, Volkswagen has added an off-road mode to all models.

Source: Volkswagen

February 19, 2015

2015 Suzuki Vitara Priced at £21,299. Is it Worth it?

Suzuki Vitara is back and this time it brings smaller proportions, new appearance and a magnified feeling of good driving dynamics. Ever since its introduction back in 1988, the series has been acknowledged as one of the most compact and convenient SUVs with an eye-catching design and satisfying on- and off-road capabilities.

The new five-door crossover comes with a choice of engines. One of the units is the 1.6-liter petrol engine which generates 120 PS at 6,000rpm with a peak torque of 156 Nm at 4,400rpm. This one can be had with Suzuki’s ALLGRIP four-wheel drive system. The other variant is the 1.6-liter diesel which is capable of delivering 120 PS as well but this time at 3,750rpm, while the maximum torque is that of 320 Nm at 1,750rpm.

CO2 emissions are impressively low due to the use of high tensile steel and additional weight saving measures in the body. What is more, there is an Engine Auto Stop Start system which shuts down the engine when the vehicle does not move. Precisely, the CO2 figures for the petrol engine of the Vitara with two wheel drive / manual transmission are 123g/km and 127g/km for the petrol engine with two-wheel drive / six-speed automatic transmission. Outstandingly low are the CO2 emissions for the DDiS engine – 106g/km with two-wheel drive / six-speed manual transmission and 111g/km with four-wheel drive / six-speed manual transmission.

Equipment? The standard features for the base SZ4 include seven airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control with speed limiter, auto air conditioning, front and rear electric windows and projector headlamps. SZ-T trim adds 17-inch silver painted alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, Smartphone link audio and navigation system. Finally, the SZ5 gains LED headlights as well, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, suede seat fabric, keyless entry with start button, Adaptive Cruise Control, Radar Brake Support and Panoramic sunroof.

2015 Suzuki Vitara goes on sale in April with starting price varying from £13,999 to £21,299.

Source: Suzuki

February 19, 2015

Mansory Unleashes 838 HP Lamborghini Huracan

The tuners at Mansory have surprised us with a very special project. As they say, they have refined the Huracán to the highest level. Shortly before the official debut of the car in Geneva, the specialists gave us the first glimpse of the refining program for the Lambo model. The pictures clearly show that the vehicle has been widened and now has more purposeful stance.

The bodywork program differs significantly from the standard series vehicle. There are design elements such as the exclusive daytime driving lights and carbon wing mirrors. The new front, rear bumper and side skirts have all been shaped and cured under high pressure and high temperatures in an autoclave using high-tech carbon materials.

This method provides better acceleration, stopping distances and fuel consumption. Furthermore, in combination with the diffuser, the wing profile design delivers more downforce on the rear axle.

Moreover, Mansory has also implemented a power program for this Lamborghini. The upgrades include a high-performance exhaust manifold and muffler, a single Turbo, a new fuel pressure control, new intake manifold fuel injectors and optimised electronic engine and transmission management.

The result is impressive: the total output is now 838 hp (625 kW) at 8,200 rpm compared to the production 602 hp (449 kW) at 8,250 rpm.

The torque has become also bigger, growing from 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 6,500 to 780 Nm (576 lb-ft) at 5,300 rpm. The maximum speed has been also modified and it is now 330 km/h. This power kit allows the Huracán to sprint from zero to 100 in just 2.9 seconds.

Distinctive alloy wheels are the next thing to be said about this project. The front wheel tire size combination 9×20 inches and 245/30ZR20, while the rear – 12,5×21 inches and 325/25ZR21.

The interior is adorned by new leather seats and dashboard. For the perfect design they have been finished with contrasting stitching. Newly designed airbag sports steering wheel, pedals made of aluminium and carbon fiber elements complete this tuning project.

Source: Mansory

February 19, 2015

Porsche Exclusive Shows an Impulsive Macan Turbo

Then next car in Porsche Exclusive’s range of vehicles is the Macan Turbo. It is so charming that we immediately fell in love with it. The first reason for this is its intense colour, called Impulse Red Metallic. In addition, company’s sub-department has treated the Macan with various cosmetic tweaks. There is literally no official information released by the company, nevertheless pictures are speaking for themselves.

The same hue, Impulse Red Metallic, which adorns the body of the car, can be seen also throughout the interior on the dials and seatbelts. Other benefits inside are the dark brown leather upholstery and carbon fiber accents visible on the dashboard.

We can see that the crossover rides on huge rubbers. They come in the dimension of 21-inches and are finished in black high gloss. The Sport Classic alloy wheels are accompanied by the yellow brake calipers. On the exterior we also see blackened bi-xenon headlights, SportDesign exterior mirrors and glossy black side skirts, roof rails and rear diffuser.

Porsche Macan Turbo is driven by a twin-turbocharged 3.6 liter V6 engine. It produces 400 horsepower (294 kW) and can accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. And if the car is equipped with Sport Chrono package, then this time decreases with 0.2 seconds. The tops speed is limited at 266 km/h (165 mph).

Despite this impressive performance, the Macan Turbo is still capable of showing good enough fuel consumption which ranges from 8.9 to 9.2 liters per 100 km (30.7 mpg UK or 25.6 mpg US) as well as CO2 emissions of 208-216 g/km.

Source: Porsche Exclusive

February 19, 2015

Dacia Releases Anniversary Limited-Editions for Every Model

Dacia released an anniversary limited-edition range in Europe. It has been ten years since the Logan was first introduced. To celebrate this glorious moment the company is releasig special anniversary limited-edition versions of every model in its range. The only exception is the Dokker Van. These vehicles will be well-equipped and will come in an exclusive and distinctive Cosmos Blue finish. As an option, Dacia will offer them with new multimedia and navigation package – the MEDIA NAV Evolution.

The blue color is usually associated with the brand. For this reason the Cosmos Blue livery is amongst the available paint options. Subtle touches of the same hue are found inside, accompanied with Sombre Blue touches on the upholstery.

There are also tasteful grey top-stitching, blue-hued seat belts and special blue-edged floor mats. The other special exterior features are the Dark Metal alloy wheels and door mirror housings.

Based on the models’ corresponding Lauréate equipment levels, the cars have generously-equipped. This includes standard climate control for comfort, cruise control with speed limiter, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and Dacia MEDIA NAV Evolution multimedia system.

MEDIA NAV Evolution navigation is a system of new generation. It features large touch screen display and comes with versatile functions like the addition of smartphone, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, Traffic Message Channel information and hazard alerts.

Dacia’s new limited edition range will be available with wide range of engine choices from the current Dacia range. The Duster will be offered in both two- and four-wheel-drive configurations. The celebration of the 10th anniversary will take place at the Geneva International Motor where Dacia will exhibit its special limited-edition models.

Source: Dacia

February 19, 2015

Geneva to See the Birth of Limited Production McLaren P1 GTR

McLaren P1 GTR will premiere alongside the recently announced McLaren 675LT at the Geneva Motor Show on 3^rd of March. The car will be dressed in a special livery inspired by iconic McLaren F1 GTR, chassis #06R, making it a very special limited edition. The new design of the supercar pays tribute to the historic yellow and green #06R F1 GTR which was one of the five F1 GTRs that dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans 20 years ago.

There will be only minor modifications to the Design Concept presented just six months ago. The limited edition model will be available to those who will participate in the P1 GTR Driver Programme. The latter will start at the Circuit de Catalunya in Spain later this year.

Some of the enhancements after extensive tests and continuous development optimize aerodynamic performance and cooling. For instance, the front track is 80mm wider than the road-going P1 and sits 50mm closer to the ground. In addition, it features more aggressive front splitter, 19-inch motorsport alloy wheels and slick Pirelli tyres.

The lightweight windscreen of the road car has been retained; in contrast to the side windows are which are made of polycarbonate. On driver’s side there is a sliding ‘ticket window. On the roof the glass has been replaced by carbon fibre panels, thus delivering weight savings of 50kg.

There are some significant modifications to the IPAS powertrain made. The heart that beats in this McLaren is the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with an enhanced lightweight electric motor. Combined, these powerplants generate 1,000 hp (735 kW), from which 800 hp is produced by the petrol engine and 200 hp by the electric motor.

It is also important to mention that the McLaren P1 GTR joins the road-going McLaren P1 in the Ultimate Series. The company has established a three tier naming structure of Sports Series, Super Series and Ultimate Series.

The Sports Series will make its world debut at the New York International Auto Show in April. The Super Series that comprise of 650S, 625C and 675LT will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.

Source: McLaren

February 18, 2015

Volkswagen is Debuting Technically Updated Sharan in Geneva

Volkswagen has announced that it will debut the new generation of its most popular MPV at the Geneva Motor Show. We are talking about the Sharan model, which is said to be equipped with even more technical highlights. In addition, the company has prepared for it new TSI and TDI engines, which are up to 15 per cent more fuel efficient. First of all, the 2016 Volkswagen Sharan will include wide range of infotainment systems.

For the 15 per cent improvement are responsible the redesigned petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI) engines. Two of them generate 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 220 hp (162 kW). There are three diesel engines to be offered, producing 115 hp (85 kW), 150 hp (110 kW) and 184 hp (135 kW). Except for the 85 kW TDI, all engines can be connected to the six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which now also enables the fuel-saving coasting function.

Furthermore, Sharan utilizes the second generation of the modular infotainment platform, which delivers maximum level of connectivity. As a matter of fact, the Sharan is one of the first Volkswagen vehicles to be equipped with App Connect, and due to the help of MirrorLinkTM, Android Auto and Car Play, wide variety of apps can be fed into the new infotainment systems.

The interior has also been updated and now features new accents and materials, while the instrument cluster is made even better. The rear of the Sharan has concise light signature thanks to LED technology.

As a standard the vehicle will get Automatic Post-Collision Braking. This system automatically initiates braking after a collision if the driver is no longer able to intervene. Additionally, there are also numerous optional assistance systems, which include the ambient traffic monitoring Front Assist with integrated City Emergency Braking, Lane Assist lane-keeping assistant, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the new Park Assist and Blind Spot Monitor.

2016 Volkswagen Sharan will have a market launch this summer.

Source: Volkswagen

February 18, 2015

Nissan Releases Salomon Inspired Navara Limited Edition

Nissan Navara is getting a very special limited edition inspired by Salomon. It will be distributed strictly in the UK and is based on the popular Tekna trim. However, it features distinctive interior and exterior styling that expresses the character of the leading mountain sports brand. The Salomon version of the popular pick-up will be limited to just 500 units. Looking to the list of additional equipment and styling cues which make the vehicle unique, we must firstly mention the exterior.

The added styling enhancements include chrome front bar and door handles plus chrome fog-light surrounds. They are what differentiate the Salomon from the rest of the range.

This is continued via the unique Salomon branding on the front, side and rear of the vehicle, which is offered in Metallic Black, Twilight Grey, Starburst Silver or Alabaster White. Inside, the interior of this limited Navara is complemented by Salomon entry guards, a metal plaque and Salomon floor mats.

Other premium features on this vehicle are the optional automatic transmission, Nissan Connect Premium with HDD satellite navigation as well as 9GB Nissan Music Box, DVD playback and a rear parking camera.

Limited Edition Nissan Navara Salomon is driven by a 2.5-litre 190 hp turbodiesel engine, which has more than enough power to tow items up to 2,600kg. This makes it one of the most versatile and rugged pick-ups currently available on the market.

Source: Nissan

February 18, 2015

2016 Skoda Superb is Fully Revealed!

The new Skoda Superb is here! The world premiere of the car happened today at the Forum Karlín in Prague. The the new car displayed a revolutionized design, generous dimensions, innovative safety assistance systems, a focus on the environment and comfort. As a matter of fact the company claims that this is the best Skoda model ever produced. This is the third-generation Superb, which keeps the powerful characteristics of its predecessor, but also incorporates brand new design language inspired by the VisionC show car.

To go intro details, one of the major changes was in the wheelbase that has been increased by 80 mm. At the same time the front vehicle overhang is 61 mm shorter than before. The front features striking grille and distinctive headlights, the sides appear dynamic and elegant and are “supported” by large wheels.

At the back, the car features new two-part, broad and narrow taillights that incorporate LED technology. At the same time, crystalline elements provide the taillights with additional luminosity.

Inside, the cabin has been entirely redesigned with highlight on horizontal lines. This gives the already spacious interior an even more generous feel. Clear shapes, precise workmanship and the use of high-quality materials are all featured.

Furthermore, the new Superb is brand’s first model offering adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) with Driving Mode Select. Auxiliary heating, heated seats, wireless heated windscreen and heated washer jets as well as rain/light sensor are some of the standard features.

The new Superb comes with the latest generation of Park Assist, which will help drivers automatically drive in and out of parking spaces. The car also features a rear-view camera for the first time, while the traditional handbrake is replaced by an electric parking brake as a standard.

There is a total of four infotainment systems based new for the Superb, but more importantly the engines offered in the range now deliver up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption. Superb GreenLine for instance needs only 3.7 l per 100 km (76.4mpg) and emits 95 g CO2 per km.

The direct-injection turbocharged engines are based on MQB technology. The range features five TSI petrol and three TDI common-rail diesel units. All powertrains have Stop-Start technology and brake energy recovery as standard. The petrol engines have a power output of between 92 kW (125 hp) and 206 kW (280 hp), while the diesel ones – between 88 kW (120 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp).

Safety is ensured by the standard Electronic Stability Control with Multi-Collision Brake, Front Assist with Emergency Brake, electronic Tyre Pressure Monitor, seven airbags, and five three-point automatic seat belts with fastening alerts as well as safety headrests. There is also the option of Speedlimiter.

Source: Skoda

February 18, 2015

2016 HR-V is the Roomiest Honda in the Range

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V delivers a one-off styling, sophisticated driving dynamics and a fuel-efficient performance. It is part of the upgraded range of Honda vehicles which adopts the ground-breaking technological approach of the brand. Portraying a distinctive poise and perfectly sculptured lines, the SUV becomes a synonym for automotive greatness!

Regarding its power, the HR-V will be available in the UK with front-wheel drive only and a choice of fuel-efficient 1.5 liter i-VTEC petrol engine that delivers 130 PS and 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engines producing 120 PS. Customers can configure both variants with either a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission with paddle-shift available on some versions. Both power units are Euro 6 compliant and are part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series.

Outwardly, the new HR-V demonstrates sufficient sporty tone. Its body shape, horizontal-oriented front and rear bumpers, rear window line, revamped headlamps and unified front grille create a sharper and more angular stance. What is more, the design makes the car appear more purposeful. Furthermore, there is a fuel tank integrated under the front seats. It enables the use of the 60:40 split Magic Seats that have several configurations.

Focusing on practicality, Honda provides more than just enough space for travelers. They can take advantage of a class-leading space with leg-, shoulder- and headroom in the front and rear. There is astounding space offered by the boot as well. Its capacity amounts at 453 litres with the rear seats in use, and 1026 litres to the window line with the rear seats folded away. Soft-touch surfaces and a piano-black feature panel put emphasis on the car’s sophisticated presence too. Finally, Honda HR-V is equipped with a 7-inch Honda Connect touchscreen that comes as standard on the Sport and Executive models. A 5-inch touchscreen is available for the entry level variants. There is an Android 4.0.4 operating system run by the OS.

The car is set to arrive in the UK in the summer of 2015.

Source: Honda

February 18, 2015

Category: Car Makes