Car Makes – Page 385 – Automobiles Review

Golf R Touch Cockpit Concept Solves Future Challenges

It is a known fact that the two creates creation in the world, the car and the computer, are merging together, thus forming a final automobile product which is expected to be more communicative, reliable, safer, advanced, interesting and even entertaining. Having the goal to create such successful merging between technology and an automobile, Volkswagen is releasing its innovative Volkswagen Golf R Touch. Its aim is to offer not only groundbreaking systems but systems which are, in fact, easy to use and really useful.

The Volkswagen Golf R Touch concept vehicle, displayed for the first time at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas (CES), demonstrates what practical implementation of technology means. The car’s future concept focuses on a gesture-controlled automotive environment which, of course, isn’t something new but Volkswagen manages to push it one level up. With the mounting of cameras inside the cabin, drivers are enabled to set commands with just hand gestures. In other words, one does not actually need to touch the displays. At all. Respectively, the company points out that this system is “intended to reduce driver distractions while attaining maximum personalization and intuitive operation in the car.”

There are three different displays: 12.8-inch high-resolution infotainment system touchscreen; a Control Center (8.0-inch with touch feedback) and a 12.3-inch Active Information Display. As it is stated, both the looks of the displays and the interior color can be customized to the driver’s preferences — same as when customizing your tablet or smartphone.

Something else that was revealed at CES was the ultimate networking capacity of the Golf R Touch in the form of Connected Golf. This is e-Golf with online-based functionality which will be fittted with the newest generation (MIB II) infotainment system. It will also take advantage of a huge number of apps, smartphones and tablets thanks to its advanced interface management system.

Others progressive extras of the e-Golf include: e-Golf Intelligent Charge and e-Golf Perfect Parking system.

Source: Volkswagen

January 6, 2015

2016 Chevrolet Volt: Sneak Peek

It is finally here, people! Instead of waiting for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week when the 2016 Chevrolet Volt is going to be revealed, General Motors chose to depict its new electric hybrid earlier at CES.

For now all that we have is a visual glimpse of the new model, without any official specifics. Nevertheless, the automaker has promised that the 2016 Chevy Volt will be equipped with an improved steering system and refined acceleration. Moreover, it is said that the noise and vibration levels have been reduced significantly.

Additionally, the electric hybrid will be fitted with a bigger battery pack that has been the result of the collaborative work with LG Chem. The battery can store about 20 percent more despite the fact that it is 13 kg lighter.

In relation to the exterior, what we can clearly see from the image is the reworked nose of the car. The front fascia is characterized by upper and lower grills which are accompanied by updated LED daytime running lights and well-shaped headlights.

Detailed information is yet to be announced so stay tuned for more!

Source: Chevrolet via Twitter

January 5, 2015

BMW 550i – More “Steam” Than M5 Series

The tendency of car-wrapping instead of coloring has been progressing for quite some time now and has been significantly conquering every part of the world. More or less. In relation to this, Fostla at Seelze near Hanover, Germany, is considered to be some sort of a master when it comes to car-wrapping and for this reason, it has been preferred by many customers.

Such example is the BMW 550i F10 which has received not only full wrapping in urban-Taupe-mat-metallic or also gray-olive-mat-metallic but has also gained some substantial power improvements. After the alterations and thanks to the professionally applied foil by the company, the BMW exhibits highly aggressive look. The windows, the front and rear lamps are tinted, while the mounted on the front bumper lip and the rear diffusor are covered in sleek-black. Inside, there is a leather sports steering wheel coated with soft cushioning. It is just one of the features that exemplifies the distinctive custom-made design by Fostla.

In terms of power, the engine of the Bavarian car underwent a PP-Performance refitting which included stage-2 motor electronics modification, downpipes and Vmax unlocking, thus costing 4,299 €. In consequence, there is a power output boosted from 408 HP (300 kW) to 570 PS (419 kW) and a peak torque improved from 600 to 800 Nm. When we compare it to the M5 F10, which brings along 560 HP (412 kW) and the “modest” 680 Nm, we see that the 550i is more powerful.

Additionally, the BMW 550i F10 benefits from wheel-set that consists of Yido Performance YP1 Talia 20 inches in 9×20 ET35 at the front and 10×20 ET35 at the rear axle. This rim set can be purchased for 2,000 €, including a certificate. Finally, Michelin Pilot Sports tires in 245/35ZR20 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear axle are considered to be a high-class wheel-tire-combination.

Source: Miranda-Media

January 5, 2015

Volkswagen Polo Lounge Special Edition in Germany

A new special edition Volkswagen Polo Lounge has been added to the line-up for the German market.

The new Lounge special edition is equipped with a choice of four petrol and three TDI diesel engines. The starting price for the initial 1.0-liter 5-speed model is that of 15,200 EUR (18,140 USD), while the top-of-the-range 90 HP (66 kW) TDI version with DGS gearbox is priced at 20,375 EUR (24,300 USD).

What really distinguishes the special edition from its siblings is the visually improved exterior and interior. The full pack of enhancements includes dark red rear lights, a set of silver 15-inches ‘Novara’ alloy wheels, gloss black front grille, ‘Lounge’ badges and dark-tinted windows in the rear.

Inside the cabin, the vehicle is fitted with ‘Deep Inox’ center console patterns, cruise control system, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate system known as ‘Climatronic’, auto-dimming rear view mirror, infotainment system with six speakers and ‘coming home’ headlight function. The 2014 Volkswagen Polo Lounge special edition is further outlined by ‘Lounge’ floor mats, ‘Tartan’ upholstery and leather-trimmed steering wheel, hand-brake and gearknob.

The Polo Lounge represents one of the Volkswagen’s new Club and Lounge new special edition vehicles which were introduced this month by Volkswagen’s new Marketing Manager Robbie Williams.

Source: polodriver

January 5, 2015

2015 Mazda CX-5 Arrives with Upgrades

2015 Mazda CX-5 is ready to impress customers with some significant interior and exterior enhancements. The line-up is available in three grades: SE-L, SE-L Lux and Sport Nav. The range includes three 2.0 liter petrol two-wheel drive variants equipped with six-speed manual transmissions, and thirteen 2.2 liter diesel versions – six of which are available with all-wheel drive. They are equipped with a choice of six speed manual or automatic transmissions. The compact SUV delivers uncompromising fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions while still demonstrating excellent performance and driving dynamics.

The conventional stock equipment of every model in the CX-5 range has been improved thanks to the new manual front passenger seat height adjustment, an electronic parking brake, a coming/leaving home headlamp function, and the company’s Multimedia Commander that has separate volume dial for safe, intuitive interactivity and infotainment control.

Internet connectivity is made easier now due to the new 7-inch, full-color and center console touch-screen that incorporates DAB radio, two ports for USB connectivity and MZD Connect.

The range-topping Sport Nav models take advantage of new exterior features which are comprised of 19-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels, LED headlamps including LED daytime running lights, and LED foglamps. There is also a new Integrated Navigation system that offers refined accuracy, advanced search features and three years of free map updating.

Moreover, the already existing Lane Departure Warning system on Mazda CX-5 is built on by Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) with Driver Attention Alert (DAA), thus providing steering wheel vibration and assisted steering if the driver rides off from the middle of the selected lane. Finally, improved Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert systems (BSMw/RCTA) are also available.

Source: Mazda

January 5, 2015

Infiniti Reveals Q60 Concept

Infiniti takes the wraps off its Q60 Concept ahead of the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. What we are presented with is definitely a stunning coupe which shines with genuine sportiness and style. The combination between edgy exterior contours, well-crafted handmade interior and excellent performance characteristics results in “a no-compromise fusion of looks and speed.”

Even though Infiniti Q60 Concept fumes with significant freshness and newness, it somehow points back to the bespoke Infiniti Q80 Inspiration that was revealed in October at the Paris Motor Show. The resemblance is evident in the finest details and craftsmanship of the exterior, especially when we examine the sides of the car. The curved and somewhat sweeping lines underline the sporty personalities of both vehicles.

On the outside, the acute lines of the concept are further complimented by low roofline as well as custom 21-inch wheels. The black spokes in a combination of mattes and chromes are inspired by jet turbine blades. They stretch to the edge of the wheel and put emphasis on the style of the coupe. Inside, the Q60 Concept benefits from elegant high-quality leather seats which are inherited from the full-size Q80 Inspiration. The hand-stitched leather and carbon fiber accents speak for ultimate workmanship which defines the distinctive design of the Q60.

Infiniti Q60 Concept can be seen when Infiniti holds its 2015 NAIAS press conference at 8:10am on Tuesday, January 13^th.

Source: Infiniti

January 5, 2015

2015 MG GTS Unveiled

MG has finally taken the wraps off its GTS crossover which is planned to go on sale in China next year. This is the first ever production SUV which for now we can see only in a series of images.

2015 MG GTS will come with a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo engine that is able to develop 217 bhp (162 kW) and 349 Nm (258 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The power output will be transmitted to the wheels through a dual-clutch six-speed transmission that works along with an all-wheel drive on-demand system. The crossover will be capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 8 seconds.

Later on, the vehicle is said to receive the newly developed GDI engines by MG. The range starts out with a 3-cylinder 1.0-liter power unit. Furthermore, there are going to be larger 1.4- and 1.5-liter petrol motors which will be able to produce about 165 kW and 250 Nm of peak torque.

The stylish new five-seater is scheduled to reach the Chinese showrooms in May, 2015 and it is essentially the production version of the CS concept which was revealed last year at the 2013 Shangai Motor Show. More information is yet to be announced.

Source: MG

December 30, 2014

Matthew McConaughey Behind the Wheel of 2015 Lincoln MKZ [VIDEOS]

Matthew McConaughey is undoubtedly one of the most talented actors nowadays. He has received the Academy Award for his exceptional role in “Dallas Buyers Club” and with his latest movie “Interstellar” he is about to get a second one. The Lincoln Motor Company teamed up with McConaughey for the 2015 Lincoln MKC “Live in Your Moment” campaign. Fueled by its success and SUV’s sales growth, the automaker has teamed up again with the actor to promote the MKZ and MKZ Hybrid.

The new ad campaign will comprise of two new videos, which will begin airing during New Year’s Day college football bowl games. The videos have been filmed in a style and tone of the “Live in Your Moment” ads. The new campaign brings the attention to the Lincoln’s best-selling premium midsize sedan.

The director of the spots is Nicolas Winding Refn. They were filmed over two days in Los Angeles. He and representatives from Lincoln and ad agency Hudson Rouge collaborated to create these ads, which will air in the United States and Canada.

The advertising videos are called “Diner” and “Balance” and you can watch them below. The first one begins with McConaughey being in a small neighborhood restaurant in Silver Lake. The ad emphasizes the car’s sleek exterior, open interior, push-button start, MyLincoln Touch driver connectivity system and available retractable panoramic roof.

The second ad, Matthew finds himself in Griffith Park in front of the L.A. skyline while pondering the MKZ Hybrid’s balance of beautiful design and fuel efficiency. The spot highlights the idea that luxury car buyers need not compromise on style to be environmentally responsible.

Source: Lincoln

December 30, 2014

German Police to Get Volkswagen Passat GTE Plug-in-Hybrid

2015 Volkswagen Passat GTE Plug-in-Hybrid debuted in Paris this September, making its European debut. The car is one of the most innovative in its class and as a matter of fact it is the first Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive system. This means that it produces zero-emission. The recent news about this vehicle is that it will support the German police force. It will be use for by the police officers on the Heligoland islands.

GTE is powered by a combination of a turbocharged direct injection gasoline engine with an electric motor. The latter is supplied with energy from an externally chargeable lithium-ion battery, which helps the car cover a distance of up to 31 miles in all-electric mode.

The petrol unit develops a power of 156 hp (115 kW), while the electric motor produces 85 kW. In “GTE” model the Passat delivers a maximum system output of 218 hp (160 kW). The maximum torque of the entire system is 400 Nm (295 lb-ft).

The powerplant is equipped with a front-wheel drive and a six-gear dual clutch gearbox.Tthe German police can accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 8.0 seconds on its way to a top speed is 136 mph.

The average fuel consumption of the car is only 2.0 l/100 km (141 mpg). This responds to CO2 emissions of less than 45 g/km. The combination of gasoline engine and electric drive gives the Passat at least theoretically, a range of up to 1,000 kilometers.

2015 Volkswagen Passat GTE is scheduled to be launched in the second half of next year in saloon and an estate version.

Source: Focus.de

December 30, 2014

Audi Exclusive Shows Customized RS6 Avant

New images of the bespoke Audi RS6 Avant have been released by Audi Exclusive, showing a notable customization. Judging by what is presented to us in the photos, the super-wagon has received a number of cool and refreshing touches which make it look quite sinister.

Power is provided by the familiar twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine which is able to boost 560 PS (412 kW) and a peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). The power unit is mated to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system. The car is able to speed up from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds before scoring a top speed of up to 305 km/h (189 mph).

The nature of the RS6 Avant is highlighted by matte gray exterior with carbon fiber on the mirror caps and grilles. Moreover, the model benefits from sleek black alloy wheels. The encompassing sense of sportiness is continued and preserved in the interior too. The cabin consists of stylish black leather seats and carbon fiber trim. There is also salient yellow stitching which can be seen on the dashboard, center console, door panels and seats of the car.

Source: Audi via Facebook

December 30, 2014

Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion Goes on Sale

2015 Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion is currently on sale in the United Kingdom with deliveries expected in March. This is the first-ever petrol version of the Polo BlueMotion. The greenest petrol engine in the range I the 1.0-litre BlueMotion TSI unit. It emits only 94 g/km of CO2 and has a fuel economy rating of 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle. The three-cylinder gasoline powerplant is connected to a five-speed manual gearbox.

It is capable of producing 95 horsepower (70 kW) between 5,000 and 5,500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 118 Nm (160 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm. Usually great efficiency levels come at the expense of performance. This has nothing to do with the Polo BlueMotion, because it can reach a 100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 119 mph.

Volkswagen‘s BlueMotion models are based on the S trim level and add even more equipment including a styling pack. The latter features uniquely shaped front and rear bumpers, radiator grille, side skirts and rear roof spoiler, body coloured door handles, body coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators, front fog lights and static cornering function and unique BlueMotion badging.

There is also an additional kit which adds 15-inch ‘Buenos Aires’ alloys with low rolling resistance tyres, aero body kit, multifunction leather steering wheel, alarm with remote central locking, air conditioning, a front centre armrest, Composition Media and infotainment system, cruise control and Volkswagen’s Driver Alert System.

If one has chosen this version of the Polo, then he or she will also get a Think Blue, Trainer which will give them hint and tips on how to drive in a more economical way.

There is also one more engine option which can power the car. This is the three-cylinder diesel 1.4-litre TDI BlueMotion unit which generates 75 horsepower (55 kW) and returns 91.1 mpg. It can also show-off with emissions of just 82 g/km of CO2.

As a standard, all Polo models come with a colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB, AUX-in connections and height-adjustable driver’s seat.

Engine derivative	Gearbox	Body	Combined mpg	CO2 (g/km)	Price, (£)
1.0-litre TSI 95 hp	5-speed man	3-door	68.9	94	14,730.00
1.0-litre TSI 95 hp	5-speed man	5-door	68.9	94	15,360.00
1.4-litre TDI 75 hp	5-speed man	3-door	91.1	82	15,795.00
1.4-litre TDI 75 hp	5-speed man	5-door	91.1	82	16,425.00

Source: Volkswagen

December 30, 2014

2015 Mazda Carol Introduced in Japan

Mazda has revealed the 2015 Mazda Carol in Japan but I personally wish it actually hadn’t done it. The car depicts straightforward and plain design which does not really please the eye. There is a sort of rigidness that makes the Carol look like a figure beaten out of a stone.

In terms of power, Mazda Carol is equipped with a 660cc engine that generates 49 PS (36 kW) and 58 Nm (42 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Yet, there is a VVT variant which produces 52 PS (38 kW) and 63 Nm (46 lb-ft) of torque. The lack of power though seems to be compromised by its efficiency rates for the entry-level vehicle returns 27.2 km/L (3.6 L/100km / 63.9 mpg US / 76.8 mpg UK), while the VVT variant returns 37.0km / L (2.7 L/100km / 87 mpg US / 104.5 mpg UK).

There isn’t much to add about the features available for the car. The entry-level version arrives with air conditioning, keyless entry and a 2-speaker audio system. Still though, trying to break this automotive boredom of the vehicle, Mazda has equipped the higher-end models with power windows, a tilt steering wheel and heated front seats as well.

The starting price for the Mazda Carol is ¥847,800 ($7,026 / €5,763 / £4,529) and it is going on sale on January 30^th.

Source: Mazda

December 30, 2014

Category: Car Makes