Car Makes – Page 397 – Automobiles Review

Audi Takes to the Race Track with the Sportiest Piloted Driving Car Worldwide

Audi impressed the world with the sportiest piloted driving car which it has developed. After the amazing performance by the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept at the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) season finale which took place in Hockenheim, the ground-breaking technology platform is now demonstrating what it really stands for on the challenging circuit of the Ascari Race Resort – at racing speed, without a driver!

Due to its 560 hp and a top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph), the piloted driving concept car signifies Vorsprung durch Technik. On the track in Hockenheim, the RS 7 piloted driving concept reached a maximum 240 km/h (149.1 mph), while its top speed in Ascari is 205 km/h (127.4 mph). The Ascari circuit displays even greater challenges for the technology of the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept because of its ascents, descents, tight chicanes and banked bends.

This race track provides the Audi engineers a chance to get a glimpse of their production development. Precisely, it offers insights into the development of automatic avoidance functions in critical driving situations.

The Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car represents a technology platform which shows the technical advancements of Audi. The large, five-door coupe’s electro-mechanical power steering, the brakes, the throttle valve and the eight-speed tiptronic that distributes the power to the mechanical quattro drive system are controlled automatically.

The technology platform uses specially corrected GPS signals for orientation on the track. Control of the vehicle at the handling limits is another outstanding feature of the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car.

Source: Audi

December 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Takes the Wraps off the SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s Edition

Well, well, the German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has every reason to celebrate after the past remarkable Formula 1 season, which was really marked by the drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg and their impressive performance which dominated in almost every race. In order to praise its achievements, the Stuttgart-based automaker has decided to unveil a SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s edition. It will be limited to 19 units only.

Still though, Mercedes has not announced officially if the SL63 World Championship Collector’s Edition has gained performance improvements. Nevertheless, the regular SL63 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 which produces 529 HP and 590 lb-ft of torque. It will be able to sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while reaching a top speed of 186 mph.

After the wraps have been taken off the SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s Edition, we are introduced to a car which is offered in black with gold accents or in white with silver touches. Interestingly enough, both Hamilton and Rosberg assisted in the development of the special SL63. The black car is said to be designed by Hamilton who took care of the gold elements.

Hamilton’s edition features the Silverstone Grand Prix track on the floor mats, key fob, and dashboard, while Rosberg’s car has the Hockenheim layout, special badge, key fob and floor carpets.

More is yet to come.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid Wins Environmental Certificate

The Mercedes-Benz Plug-in hybrids are said to be able to give customers a unique experience while driving around the city in all-electric mode or cruising on a long journey somewhere else and taking advantage of the combustion engine’s range. The significant environmental computability of The Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid makes the car a representation of a balanced pleasure of driving and a high-quality performance. Now, this high environmental compatibility has been confirmed by the inspectors and specialists at the TÜV Süd technical inspection authority. As a result, Mercedes-Benz S 500 becomes the first Mercedes-Benz plug-in Hybrid which has received the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062.

The Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a V6 biturbo petrol engine and an electric motor. It offers a system output of 333 hp (245 kW), while the motor – 116 hp (85 kW). When you sum this up, it makes 442 hp (325 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque in total. Yet, despite this powerful performance, the hybrid can move and travel over 20-miles on purely electrical power.

All three hybrid S-Class vehicles have environmental certificates which state the cars’ environmental performance from development through to recycling, across the entire lifecycle. Furthermore, the performance is certified to internationally recognized standards by independent experts. Regarding CO₂ emissions, the certificate of the S 500 Plug-in Hybrid points out:

“Over the entire lifecycle, comprising manufacture, use over 300,000 kilometers [186,411 miles] and recycling, clear advantages result compared with the S 500. External charging with the European electricity mix can cut CO₂ emissions by some 43 percent (35 tonnes). Through the use of renewably generated hydroelectricity a 56 percent reduction (46 tonnes) is possible.”

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2014

Mansory Releases Power and Styling Packages for Rolls-Royce Ghost II

Mansory Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II features an exclusive bodywork and interior programme, which makes the British luxury saloon even more magnificent. Increase in performance, as well as a sportier chassis set up, can also be attributed to this tuning. More importantly, the set up can be adjusted at the touch of a button. What is new here? Take a look at the front aprons, which now feature larger air inlets and optional LED day running lights.

Next, the impression is reinforced by the carbon wings that are made of a single and include different side skirts. Carbon fiber is utilized for the creation of the light bonnet, while at the back, there is a newly apron with integrated diffuser insert and stainless steel pipes of the Mansory sports exhaust unit.

If you look closely, then you will see the subtle rear spoiler lip. A boost to the engine was also performed here. The result is around 652 horsepower (479 kW) and torque of 1050 Nm (775 lb-ft) at 1500 rpm. These were enhanced from the production figures of 570 hp (420 kW) and 750 Nm (554 lb-ft).

This increase in power was achieved thanks to the new exhaust unit and a performance optimising control unit. The end effect is a blistering performance for this Rolls-Royce and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds and a top speed of up to 280 km/h.

This power is put on the road via new 22 inch gold alloys mated with Vredestein tyres in size 265/35/22 at the front and 295/30/22 at the rear. In addition, vehicle’s centre of gravity has been lowered by around 50 mm.

Source: Mansory

November 28, 2014

Pagani Reveals One-Off Zonda 760RSJX

Pagani Zonda is not only still alive but it obviously prospers in China. In particularly – in Hong Kong. The absolutely one-off 760RSJX model has just been revealed through the facebook site or the photographer Ron Alder W Photography. Previously dubbed as Pagani 760X, this new and extreme sportscar was specifically made for a customer living in the megapolice. The car is based on the 760 series, which means that it is powered by the mighty V12 7.3-liter engine.

The output of the unit is estimated at 760 horsepower (559 kW) and 1,000Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an XTRAC 7-speed sequential transmission. Acceleration is staggering: 3.3 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed is of 370 km/h (230 mph).

This car is unique due to the one-of-a-kind paint finish it has called “pastel green”. Of course, the same design and color theme is applied inside where there have been implemented an extensive use of carbon fiber. The same hue is used for the brake calipers.

We have mentioned carbon fiber but we forgot to mention (if you haven’t seen it yet) that it has been also used in large amount through out the exterior. Just take a look at the front end, the reat and the spoiler above the rear diffuser.

Source: Pagani via Ron Alder W Photography Official Facebook Page

November 28, 2014

2015 Ford Ranger Shows Glimpse of its new Face [VIDEO]

Ford Asia Pacific has just release a sneak peek of the 2015 Ford Ranger. At the official facebook page of the car there were also revealed a couple of additional images. Ford promises that this car will deliver smarter drive, will also challenge conventions and will achieve more. This is the entire information released so far, so there are still a lot of question marks. The showed facelifted pickup is the T6 trim level and won’t be distributed in this form in the United States. There it is more common as 2015 Everest, and to be more precise – it is based on it.However, they share many similarities. The new Ranger definitely looks more rugged and we also hope to see pretty much well modified interior. The pickup is characterized by grille with three floating slats. They are reminiscent of those on the previous F-150.Before the official details on the powerplant range we can only guess. The previous generation version is powered by 2.2 liter turbodiesel engine, which produces 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 375 Nm (277 lb-ft). There is also the option of the 3.2 liter TDiC unit producing 200 horsepower (147 kW and 470 Nm (346 lb-ft) of torque. Both units can be linked to either a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission.Ford Ranger is a nameplate that has been used on three distinct model lines of pickup trucks sold by Ford. Originally, the name was used by the short-lived Edsel Ranger, and then later referred to a version of the Ford F-Series sold in North America between 1965 and 1981.Ford repurposed the name “Ranger” in 1982 for the 1983 model year for a compact pickup truck sold in North America and later parts of South America. Since 1998, Ford has offered a separate model of Ranger sold internationally.httpv://youtu.be/uuwM7t21gsUVideo Source: YouTube

November 28, 2014

LARTE Desing’s Winner Project on Range Rover Sport

The relatively new tuning company called Larte Design is read to show us its next project dubbed the Winner. It is based on the Range Rover Sport and just like AC Schnitzer’s M4 it will be premièred at the Essen Motor Show. The tuners have given this SUV a very aggressive and dynamic face. Just take a look at the unique front guard, which is a real factor when it comes to individuality. It is characterized by three trapezoid frames. Additionally, if you take a closer look than you will find out that there are fine blue demarcation lines there. These blue styling elements can be found at other places and undoubtedly lend this design package more artistic expression.

The various polygons, air inlets and light-steps make the bumper appear very tough. The central part there stands out from the white sides in black, due to its large air grids. The latter visually break up the front’s monolithic appearance, thus contributing for more dynamism and sportiness.

We can’t go further without mentioning the LED daytime running lights, which were delivered by Nolden. From the front, the eye wanders along the black “sport band”, which extends the roof and connects it with the rear.

Furthermore, fine, horizontal lines in a contrasting dark shade lend the rear more muscular appearance. The small spoiler fins and fine air inlets loosen up the design. This tuning becomes dynamic via the boomerang-shaped grids on the sides, stretching into the wings.

There is also a black lower part, characterized by irregular polygons, which is the home of the four-pass Remus exhaust system. The system features black-chrome-plated tail. At last, there is the central LED brake light, which is something like a hallmark of large Larte Desing’s SUVs. Oh, we have missed the glossy black alloy wheels.

Source: Larte Design

November 28, 2014

Lexus Most Powerful V8 Engine Dedubts in the New RC F

The new 2015 Lexus RC F is going to debut with the most powerful V8 Lexus engine that has ever been produced for a road-going car. The 4,969cc 32-valve unit is a progression that derives from the engine fitted in the older IS F model. Only this time, it arrives with some comprehensive changes which will be able to propel the car to another level in terms of performance, quality and drivability.

There is a maximum power increased by 12 per cent. As a result, with the additional 54bhp (40kW) the new Lexus RC F will be able to boost 525 bhp (505 kW) at 7,300rpm. The peak torque output rises to 530Nm, available from 4,800 to 5,600rpm, developing a maximum speed of 168mph. 2015 RC F will be able to sprint from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and a 400m sprint from standstill will take 12.5 seconds.

This exquisite V8 engine can switch to the well-known more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle when operating at cruising speeds, reverting to the Otto cycle for higher performance driving. In order to increase valve lift, the innovative engine takes advantage of the Lexus’s VVT-iE electric motor-driven intelligent variable valve timing, with a new intake camshaft profile.

Furthermore, due to the presence of new cylinder heads with improved porting and a high-flow, high-tumble ratio, performance can benefit from higher pressure D-4S dual-injection, a wider throttle diameter and better breathing. The exhaust system is comprised of large-diameter front pipes which keep back pressure to minimum and provide high power output. Because of the merged areas of the pipes larger, there is a clearer engine sound.

Last but not least, the new Lexus RC F is fitted with an Active Sound Control system that delivers better exhaust, intake and mechanical sounds into the cabin.

2015 RC F is available to order now with a starting price of £59,995. The first deliveries will be in February.

Source: Lexus

November 28, 2014

BMW M4 F82 by AC Schnitzer on Display in Essen

It is BMW, it is from the M series and it is tuned by AC Schnitzer. What more can actually one wish for! The tuning experts have given this M4 further kick of energy. The car will be premièred at this year’s Essen Motor Show. The performance upgrade upscaled the power from the stock 413 hp (304 kW) to 510 hp (375 kW) and this is visible via the new engine styling. A sports catalyst is currently in preparation. It will minimize the thermal load on the turbocharger and exhaust manifold together with the back pressure. The mighty energy combustion is also noticeable via the exhaust.

In fact, AC Schnitzer’s twin silencer with sound pipe includes two “Racing Evo Carbon” tailpipe trims in right/left combination. There is also the option of two “Sport” tailpipe trims on each side.

New suspension is also without question. The new spring kit lowers the M4 by around 25-30 mm at the front and 10-15 mm at the rear. There is also the option of a racing suspension adjustable in compression and rebound, including lowering of 30-40 mm at the front and around 30 mm at the rear.

All of this can be improved further via additions from the aerodynamic package. They include company’s carbon front spoiler elements, carbon rear diffuser, carbon mirror covers, rear roof spoiler, carbon rear wing and AC Schnitzer rear skirt protective film.

Inside, the pretty sporty style continues to gather “wows” via the new aluminium pedal set and foot rests, AC Schnitzer keyholder, gear knob with digital gear display, illuminated leather gear knob or aluminium “Black Line“ gear knob and handbrake handle, aluminium cover for the iDrive controller and velours floor mats. What rounds out the tuning is the wheel package in BiColor black. They come in 21 inches size.

Source: AC Schnitzer

November 28, 2014

AC Schnitzer Tune It Safe Police BMW X4 20i [VIDEO]

TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative, by the Association of German Automobile Tuners e.V. (VDAT), celebrates its 10^thbirthday this year. In order to mark this event, there will be a “Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer” that will be presented at the Essen Motor Show from 29^th of November to 7^th of December, 2014. This is the fourth time when AC Schnitzer has been involved in equipping a campaign vehicle for the TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative.

The TUNE IT! SAFE! variant BMW X4 20i by AC Schnitzer will receive a performance improvement from 184 to 245 HP. The vehicle catapults from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds while on longer pursuits it takes only 17.5 seconds to boost its speed from 80 to 180 km/h. The top speed limitation is that of 212 km/h but it still does not prevent the BMW X4 to demonstrate some remarkable performance.

The Police BMW will be equipped with AC Schnitzer front spoiler elements, rear diffuser (both for vehicles with M-Technik pack) and AC Schnitzer carbon mirror covers. With its suspension spring kit the vehicle is lowered by around 30 mm (front) and 25 mm (rear).

Furthermore, there is also an AC Schnitzer silencer with 2 chromed “Sport“ tailpipe trims each side in right/left combination which are integrated into the rear diffuser. In order to warn other drivers and pedestrians of the approaching police car, it uses the special police “RTK 7” signaling system and flashing lights from Hella. The stylish interior of the X4 is enhanced by aluminium pedal set, aluminium foot rest, keyholder and velours floor mats.

Finally, the AC Schnitzer Type V forged alloy wheels in Anthracite, along with Ventus S1evo tires in 265/30 R 22 from Hankook, answer for the on-road stability and safety of the police BMW X4 20i.

Cool, isn’it it? For now, though, it is just a concept.

Enjoy watching the first video of the Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie9KuCTS2Nc&feature=youtu.be

Source: AC Schnitzer
Video Source: AC Schnitzer via Youtube

November 28, 2014

Audi RS6-R Impresses with 730 HP and 920 Nm

What do you think of when you read 730 HP (537 kW)? You probably imagine a massive truck or a super-sports-car. The last thing, perhaps, that comes to your mind is, well, a simple family or business-suitable car. On a side note, of course, when I say “simple” I do not really mean “simple” because a 730 HP monster can hardly be called just “simple”.

Yet, the powerful model in question is named 320 kph ABT RS6-R and is another surprise by ABT Sportsline which will be depicted at the Essen Motor Show 2014. The car is based on Audi RS6, but this time it provides even more comfort, practicality, usefulness, and luxury. This ABT creation will be limited to only 25 cars around the world.

In order to refine this model, the tuner provides it with a kit that is comprised of the ABT Engine Control unit, a specially developed software and a specially adjusted stainless steel exhaust system – including a Y-pipe and sport-type catalytic converter. There are also Dunlop high-performance tires which finalize the dynamic set-up of the RS6-R. The upgraded Audi benefits from 22-inch ABT DR alloy wheels.

Inside, ABT adorns the car with an embroidery and letterings that are simultaneously discreet and tasteful. There are also carbon-shift paddles and LED-shifting lights on the steering wheel.

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 4.0 TFSI, 3.993 cc capacity, V8
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 730 HP/537 kW (standard: 560 HP/412 kW) / 920 Nm (standard: 700 Nm)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT front lip incl. front blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT air inlet covers incl. front flics (red carbon fiber)
ABT front grille insert with RS6-R logo
ABT side skirt attachments incl. side blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT rear skirt attachment on side (2 parts) and middle (both red carbon fiber)
ABT rear spoiler (carbon fiber)
ABT mirror covers (carbon fiber)
ABT fender inserts

ABT WHEELS DR in 10 x 22 inches ET52
Available also as complete set of wheels with Dunlop sports tires in 295/25 ZR22

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT stainless steel exhaust system incl. Y-Pipe with sport-type catalytic converter and
black ABT tail pipes

ABT SUSPENSION
ABT height adjustable spring kit

ABT INTERIOR
ABT sports steering wheel with LED shifting lights and carbon shift paddles
ABT floor mats
ABT embroidery at the head rests
ABT RS6-R lettering
ABT applications (red carbon fiber)

Source: ABT Sportsline

November 28, 2014

2015 Subaru Impreza Earns 2014 Safety Awards from IIHS

It is a big day for Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, because the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded 2015 Subaru Impreza with the highest standard of safety, 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) alongside the highest possible rating of “Superior” for front crash prevention.

The 2015 Subaru Impreza gets its power from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine which produces 148 HP (109 kW) of power at 6200 rpm and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque at 4200 rpm. It is available as 4-door and 5-door models.

Thanks to the Subaru’s upgraded EyeSight driver assist technology The 2015 Impreza gained 6 of 6 points for front crash prevention. As it seems, safety really comes first for the automaker because this is not the only safety award that the company has received so far. There are seven other models that have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS – four with TOP SAFETY PICK+ and three with TOP SAFETY PICK.

EyeSight debuted in Japan in 2008 and is defined as a pioneer since it is the first system ever that uses only stereo camera technology to detect other vehicles, pedestrians etc. It features pre-collision braking control and all-speed range adaptive cruise control tracking function. New EyeSight includes fully revamped stereo cameras which increase viewing angle and range by 40%. As a result, the preventative safety and driver load-reduction features are significantly improved.

In order to win TOP SAFETY PICK, a certain car must have “Good” ratings in all four tests of high-speed front and side crash tests, a rollover test, and evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. What is more, “Good” or “Acceptable” performance in a small overlap front test introduced in 2012 is also an important requirement.

Source: Subaru

November 28, 2014

Category: Car Makes