Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Fresh Faced 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed! [VIDEOS]

    Chevrolet has just unveiled the contemporized 2016 Equinox. The updated version of the popular compact SUV includes new styling, new wheel designs and more optional safety features. Inside, there is larger color touchscreen radio and a standard rear-vision camera. The model will be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT and LTZ. As you can see from the pictures, the SUV has a new distinctive front fascia and chrome-accented dual-port grille design. This is because Chevrolet released the pictures of the LTZ trim only, which got these specifics. The same will be applied to the LT trim.

    Furthermore, projector-beam headlamps are now standard on all models, while new daytime running lamps come only for the LT and LTZ, with reflector-style lamps on L and LS, and light-emitting diode (LED) lamps on LT and LTZ. The last trim will also get new fog lamps.

    At the rear, we see restyled dual-element tail-lamps, revised license plate appliqué and lower rear fascia on all models. The new aluminum wheels range from 17- to 18-inches. Among many safety features are the optional Available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The seven-inch-diagonal Color Touch radio and rear-vision camera are now standard in the L and LS trims.

    2016 Equinox has room for five passengers and is offered with an all-wheel drive offered on LS, LT and LTZ models. It features roomy interior with GM-exclusive MultiFlex sliding rear seat.

    More importantly, the car is powered by a standard Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected engine. It delivers exceptional EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway (FWD models).The direct-injected 3.6L V-6 comes as an option of the LT and LTZ models, and produces 301 horsepower (225 kW) and 369 Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the V-6 engine also enables a trailering capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).

    LT and LTZ trims will also get as a standard the new MyLink technology, while OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi hotpot is offered on all trim levels. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is scheduled to go on sale this fall.

    httpv://youtu.be/PiFIrcr9SjI

    httpv://youtu.be/07RZfQehkqo

    httpv://youtu.be/S4zVkYTo_yY

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Chevrolet

  • B&B Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is Capable of up to 450 HP/580 Nm

    Mercedes CLA 45 AMG has received a B&B three-stage performance upgrade program. The result is substantial power increase from the standard 360 hp (265 kW) to 450 hp (331 kW) and a peak torque boost from 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) to 580 Nm (428 lb-ft). The first update for the CLA 45 AMG starts with a Stage 1 ECU remapping and includes revised fuel, ignition and turbo boost curves. In this stage the power and torque are raised to 400 hp (294 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft).

    Stage 2 steps on the first one, adds air intake system with improved ram effect, and the B&B exhaust downpipe for reduced exhaust back-pressure and exhaust gas temperature. The ECU mapping is optimized, thus making this Mercedes capable of 425 hp (313 kW) and 540 Nm (399 lb-ft) of torque.

    The ultimate conversion stage is the third one. It is centered on a bespoke turbocharger, enhanced cold air intake system and exhaust downpipe from Stage. There is also a bespoke ECU mapping which suits the new hardware. As a result we get 450 hp (331 kW) with 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque.

    In this tuned CLA 45 AMG jointed Racing Motor’s “World’s Fastest Sedan”, it would probably beat the Dodge. The stopwatch would witnesses a 0-100 km/h sprint in spectacular 3.8 seconds (instead of standard 4.6 seconds). The 0-200 km/h time is reduced from 17.1 to 14.3 seconds.

    B&B also removed the 250 km/h top speed limiter. Thus, Stage 3 allows 296 km/h, and together with the improved sprinting ability, gives the luxury supercar performance without compromising.

    B&B also added a high-efficiency oil cooling system, which uses the factory temperature thermostat and keeps engine’s life by giving lubricant from overheating in hard driving conditions. In addition, B&B exhaust downpipe sits between the turbocharger and exhaust system. It helps reduce backpressure and exhaust gas temperature, thus making it easing thermal stress on the engine, releasing an additional 15 kW/20 hp with no other modifications.

    The cars stance and handling are lowered via the use of B&B sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by 30 and 25 mm at the front and rear respectively. On the other hand, the coil-over suspension kit for the CLA 45 AMG, allows the cars ride height and damper bounce and rebound to be set independently for road or track driving.

    At last B&B needed something to balance the increased performance. They added a six-piston high performance brake system and B&B 8.5Jx20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/30ZR20 tyres.

    Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

  • Nissan Invents LEAF EV that Glows in the Dark [VIDEO]

    Nissan has just released a very interesting video showing the first car to have to glow-in-the-dark paint scheme. By doing this, the company writes history, being the first manufacturer to partner with similarly innovative inventor, Hamish Scott, to create paint that uses UV energy absorbed during daylight to glow at night. And of course the model to apply this new “color”-approach is the all-electric LEAF.

    Hamish Scott is creator of STARPATH. This is a spray-applied coating that absorbs UV energy during the day. When the night falls, the absorbed energy glows for between eight and 10 hours.

    The Japanese company not only offers glowing car paint, but also glow-in-the-dark car wraps, both made up of entirely organic materials. Precisely, the Scott used very rare natural earth product called Strontium Aluminate. It is solid, odorless and chemically and biologically inert.

    Another very interesting fact about this paint is that if it is made commercially available, it would last for 25 years. Nissan LEAF owners have reported significant savings and are using the saved money for example for solar panels for their homes. This in turn decreases the household carbon footprint and means owners are also effectively charging their vehicle for free.

    According to a recent research, 89% of LEAF owners charge their cars at home overnight. And here is the deal: solar panels do not store energy or provide it outside of daylight, but any leftover power which is generated during the day is fed back into the national grid. Homeowners then can get a Government payment for it, which simply means that the overnight charge is already paid for.

    One of these lucky LEAF owners is Ian Finch. He has combined the savings offered by running an all-electric vehicle with solar panels to power his home. Here is a fascinating interview with him on LEAF charging using solar energy:

    httpv://youtu.be/xM9XRn1amqQ

    httpv://youtu.be/nKj2sEpg1xg

    Source: Nissan 

  • 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Revealed

    Ford has just officially revealed the 2016 Police Interceptor Utility ahead of its Chicago debut tomorrow. The vehicle is to hit the streets with a fresh look and wide variety of features this summer. More importantly its building and the one of the Police Interceptor Sedan happened at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant. From there they will be shipped to markets across the world.

    To create the latest and most innovative law enforcement vehicles, the company listened to experts such as the Police Advisory Board. The group supplied Ford with customer feedback and served as a pilot group for products, programs and services.

    As a result we have the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility which has new front and rear design, new headlamps, a new instrument panel and an enhanced electrical system that distributes electrical loads more efficiently.

    As an option, there is the choice of Surveillance Mode technology, which warns the driver when someone approaches the back of the vehicle. If this happens, driver’s window automatically raises and all doors lock.

    According to the feedback, Ford also added the liftgate release switch, which is accessible to occupants in the front. It allows the rear liftgate mechanism to remain unlocked for 45 seconds before timing out, permitting officers to access the cargo area. The new police vehicle will also benefit from a rear camera with washer and a four-inch screen in the center stack as a standard.

    The power for the mighty automobile comes from the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 304 horsepower (224 kW) and 39 Nm (279 lb.-ft.) of torque. The optional powerplant is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that generates 365 horsepower (268 kW) and 474 Nm (350 lb.-ft.) of torque. The Police Interceptor Utility comes as a standard with an all-wheel drive, which is designed to deliver low-speed traction, high-speed handling and stability.

    Each unit is coupled with a standard six-speed transmission that features a Pursuit Mode. The transmission automatically switches from normal, fuel-saving operation to Pursuit Mode when it detects aggressive driving situations.

    Furthermore, the new Police Interceptor is also equipped with custom brakes, which were designed to withstand excessive use. It runs on steady 18-inch steel wheels which have high venting characteristics to help cool the brakes. Larger-diameter springs are used in the suspension. Interior and exterior dimensions remain the same for the new model year. 

    Source: Ford 

  • Nissan Adds “n-tec” Spec to the Note Range

    Nissan’s Note N-TEC is loaded with goodies. This is the new trim level for the Note model, which is engineered for active people and/or for modern families. It is also visible that the exterior has been updated, while what remains unseen are the additional Safety Shield technologies and Rear View Camera. The Acenta Premium variant now features New NissanConnect with DAB radio as standard.

    The n-tec was introduced on X-Trail, Qashqai and Pulsar. Now it is time for the Note to benefit from the grade. The new Note n-tec is positioned between the range-topping Tekna and mid-grade Acenta Premium. It adds wide variety of features and technology, safety and design upgrades with almost no difference in pricing.

    The model is equipped with improved styling package which includes new 16-inch alloy wheels, satin silver door handles and wing mirror covers. Nissan is offering a choice of eight exterior paint schemes, with Ink Blue finish being exclusive to n-tec.

    Other styling features include black bezel headlamps, aerodynamic front bumper, carbon-look rear bumper, unique blue stitch on the leather steering wheel and rear privacy glass. The Note n-tec is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 80 horsepower and connected to a six-speed manual transmission. This unit emits 109g/km of CO2 and has a combined fuel consumption figure of 60.1mpg.

    Moving inside, this note is equipped with NissanConnect featuring 5.8” touchscreen satellite navigation, DAB radio, Rear View Camera, and Safety Shield suite of technologies including Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection and Lane Departure Warning.

    2015 Nissan Note n-tec has a starting price of £15,365 OTR.

    Source: Nissan 

  • Mazda Shows the Back of MX-5 Miata Concept Ahead of Chicago Debut

    The first-generation MX-5 Miata was introduced in 1989 during the auto saloon in Chicago. Mazda presented there the qualities of the car, which are still incorporated in the current model: it is a fun-to-drive vehicle, which is lightweight, has an open-roof, and it is sports-oriented. Since then more than 949,000 MX-5s were sold and hundreds of awards won.

    This year at the same show, Mazda will reveal a 2016 MX-5 accessories design concept. It will give some hints of what the future Miata would look like. In addition, the car will be also equipped with equipment which is intended to appeal to those looking to personalize their vehicle.

    For the first time the company will also show three MX-5 merchandise design concepts from Mazda’s upcoming Heritage Collection. These are apparel collections inspired by key themes of the past, present and future of the brand.

    We will definitely have to wait until Friday for the full reveal of the car. However, we can get some impression from the teaser image that Mazda gas released. The photo displays the back of the 2016 MX-5 Miata which features exclusive accessories.

    At the rear we see new lip spoiler and diffuser-style lower valance. We sincerely hope that it is made of carbon fiber! There is also the typical for the vehicle design, so there is nothing surprisingly different about it.

    Except for the debuts, Mazda will be also hosting a number of activities throughout the show. For instance, the visitors of the show will be treated to live ESPN Radio broadcasts with “Carmen and Jurko” and “Waddle and Silvy”.

    There will be also free autograph signings with NHL legend Jeremy Roenick, former Chicago Bulls star Stacey King and former “Rookie of the Year” and All-Star Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood. For those interested in test drives: the latest Mazda vehicles will be held outside of the convention center ready for a ride.

    Source: Mazda 

  • AEZ Cliff Dark Alloy Wheels Highlight Cars Like Porsche

    The renowned German wheel manufacturer AEZ has introduced its newest alloy wheels, named Cliff dark. The striking and very attractive design of the product is an undoubted recipe for additional eye-catching characteristics of every automotomobile that can benefit from the alloys. Exclusivity and craftsmanship are combined so that the final outcome is something that brings unquestioned style and even perfection.

    Available in different dimensions, varying from 16 to 21 inches, this sophisticated and dynamic look simply matches many models. Cars such as Mini Coupe, elegant premium vehicles like Audi A6/A7 or SUVs like BMW X3, X5 or X6 can now underline their characters thanks to the AEZ Cliff dark alloys. With „a compelling newly interpreted cross-spoke design“ which suggests greateness, the Cliff dark makes the sporty presence of a certain car sportier, the elegent more elegent and the exceptional more exceptional. There are five pairs of double spokes available in front-polished silver and in a classy high gloss version.

    A proof of the assertive design of the alloys and their unmached quality is the Porsche Macan that is fitted with the AEZ Cliff dark. The shaped contrasts and interplays between light and dark lend the AEZ Cliff dark Porsche Macan an extra dose of intensity and delicacy. Looking dashing and powerful, the Porsche is ready to impress onlookers.

    AEZ Cliff/AEZ Cliff dark:

    Dimensions (4-hole mounting):           7×16, 7×17

    Dimensions (5-hole mounting):           7×16, 7×17, 8×17, 8×18, 8×19, 8.5×19, 9.5×19, 9×20,10×21, 11.5×21-nches

    Finish:                                                          High Gloss / black, front polished

    Construction:                                              cast, single-piece

    General Operating Permit (GOP):         yes

    Load:                                                             up to 1025 kg

    TPMS:                                                           fit for TPMS-FIT, 100% compatible with ALCAR T-  ProSensor

    Specials:                                                       prepared for TPMS and snow-chains

    Guarantee:                                                   3 years

    Source: AEZ

  • McLaren 675LT Official Image Leaked

    After two teaser videos of the most – anticipated car produced by McLaren right now (the first video showing spinning wheels accompanied with relaxing classical music and the second one revealing the blasting sound of the vehicle), now there is a leaked image of this upcoming beast.

    Being a reference to the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Long Tail, the new McLaren 675LT is said to inherit the spirit of its legendary predecessor. Featuring a sufficiently transformed rear end, the 675LT promises to be an unmatched beast on the track. This car packs a twin turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine that produces symbolic figures of power. The vicious output of 666 HP (96 kW) fits the devilish nature of the model. When we talk about the vehicle, we are also looking at optimized aerodynamics in comparison to the on-going 650S Coupe. Precisely, there is a 40% increase in downforce and torque.

    Furthermore, by the looks of the car, it has received a titanium exhaust system with two circular pipes placed below a reworked airbrake. Other goodies which can also be noticed are the vented rear fenders, revised diffuser, new alloy wheels adorned by orange brake calipers and altered side vents.

    The official premiere of the McLaren 675LT will take place next month during the Geneva Motor Show.

    Source: Autogespot

  • Kia K900 King James Edition Slowly Metamorphosing Into Finality

    As it seems the collaborative work between Kia and LeBron James is going pretty well since the most – recently released teaser image promises us to see something really special. Unfortunately, the picture does not say a lot and all we can see is just a body panel. It is precisely the front wing that is teased, featuring a “King James Edition” emblem.

    Little else is known about the Kia K900 King James Edition but it has been confirmed that the K900 will be priced at $54,500 and will be powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The power unit will be capable of generating 420 bhp (313 kW) and 509 Nm (376 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

    Since LeBron has been involved in almost all of the phases of the creation of this car, the color of the exterior and the color combinations on the inside are expected to be selected by him as well. The saturated redness adorned with the black badge, which can be seen from the picture, might be further complimented by black rims and other inserts. Why not?

    There isn’t any official information when the wraps will be finally taken off from the Kia King James Edition but there is a hint that the model’s premiere will occur during the same time as the NBA All Star game later this week. Hopefully the quiet first steps towards the introduction of the new Kia will metamorphose into a presentation of a product that won’t disappoint those who have been waiting for so long to finally see it.

    Source: LeBron James via Facebook

  • New Honda Civic Type R Images Reveal Genuine Aggression

    Carmakers love playing games with customers who are expecting the new automotive hit. From the release of teaser images and videos to sharing a sentence or two about a certain upcoming vehicle, the teasing just never stops. Now the situation is quite similar with the new Civic Type R. What Honda is doing could be described as an attempt to revive the interest of those who are eagerly waiting to find out more about the car. The company gives just a little but the evoked flow and amount of attention can’t be measured really.

    Trying to stay as coy as possible, Honda transforms the presentation of the 2015 Honda Civic Type R into a progressive process and every time we hear something, it adds to the information which we have already received. One thing is for sure, the jigsaw will soon be finished.

    While still staying very secretive about the output of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, Honda confirmed that the new model will come with a top speed of 270km/h (167 mph).

    Judging from the pictures, it looks like Honda has tried to build something that will scratch the senses of every driver. The aggressive front bumper is shaped in a way that allows it “to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, cutting drag and enhancing high-speed stability.” Additionally, the newly-designed model will be fitted with a front splitter, ventilated front fenders and aerodynamic side skirts. There is going to be a prominent rear wing and underbody panels that transmit air to a sporty – looking rear diffuser.

    In order to help the driver deal with the Type R’s monstrous power, the car has a specially – developed high performance Brembo brake package with four-piston calipers and 350 mm drilled discs. Finally, the appearance of the Honda Civic is completed by eye-catching 19-inch alloys which fill the wheel arches and accommodate the larger brakes.

    Source: Honda

  • 2015 Chevrolet Colorado GearOn with Nifty Accessories [VIDEO]

    Chevrolet has taken the wraps off its 2015 Colorado special edition truck which arrives with GearOn accessory system. The vehicle is going to make its debut this week during the 2015 Chicago Auto Show.

    The new Chevy Colorado GearOn showcases a huge variety of nifty components which have the goal to increase the truck’s agility. What is more, the most recent improvements and additions on the truck ensure enough space so that it can accommodate outdoorsy items such as skis, bikes and kayaks. The mobile, energetic and dynamic style will appeal to the so-called lifestyle customers who are always on the move and ready to dive into new driving experiences.

    What distinguishes the Colorado GearOn from other trucks is the GearOn bars, divider packages and the cargo tie-down rings along with other additional features which can be purchased at an extra cost. What is more, the vehicle benefits from glossy black 18-inch alloy wheels, off-road assist steps, Lower tailgate and EZ Lift. There is also a body-colored grille as well as front and rear black Chevrolet bow-tie emblems. Finally, remote start, rear window defogger and front fog lamps are also included in the package of goodies.

    According to Chevrolet, the new Colorado special edition truck will be offered on LT trim models in extended or crew cab configurations, with the long or short cargo bed and a 4WD setup. The starting price is that of $31,250 with deliveries beginning this spring.

    Chevrolet Colorado GearOn special edition will premiere on February 13 at the Chicago Auto Show.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMvdMhzNgko

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Borgward Returns and Is going to Compete with Brands Like Porsche [VIDEO]

    After 50 years, the German brand Borgward is returning. It might not be as famous as BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and other German automakers but this brand produced some really spectacular models in the past. Established in 1919 by Carl F.W. Borgward, the company went bankrupt in 1961. The return of this forgotten automotive king will be marked by the release of something new during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show which is going to take place the beginning of March.

    It is still unclear though what exactly Borgward has in store but expectations are growing. Releasing just a teaser video for now, the automaker shows a sports coupe in profile which kind of looks like it has inherited the spirit of the 50’s.

    As mentioned before, the not – so – popular manufacturer now was writing an automotive history back in the day. The styles of the cars produced between 1919 and 1961 was considered to be ground – breaking and innovative. The progressive design incorporated class, specific presence and sophistication which labelled every vehicle as something marvellous. “As one of Germany’s largest and most successful car manufacturers of its time, Borgward created some of the most iconic cars of the early 20th century as well as a large range of commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, fire engines, boats, electric cars, sports cars and even helicopters.”

    Perhaps the most notable model introduced by this German company was Borgward Isabella. The released clip offers a glimpce of the car as well as few more vehicles and some vintage racing images. But what do you think? Do Borgward cars stand a chance now?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Rrzt3tTWc0

    Source: Borgward