Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: The Fifth Member of the Successful Compact Models Family

    Mercedes-Benz is really pumping up its powers for after the unmistakably dynamic and sporty CLA 45 AMG there is now another iconic model which carries almost the same name: Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake. Can you spot the differences?

    The new CLA Shooting Brake arrives with an extensive range of engines: there are two diesel and three petrol units available. All engines are able to amaze with their dynamic and lively performance, low noise levels and low emissions. The CLA 200 CDI unit bursts out 136 HP (100 kW) and it is really efficient. The model has a top speed of 215 km/h and a combined consumption figure of only 3.9 l/100 km, with emissions of 101 g CO2/km. CLA220 CDI generates 177 HP (130 kW) at 3600-3800 rpm.  It has combined CO2 emissions of 112 g.

    The petrol engines are: CLA 180 which boosts 122 HP (90 kW) at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 200 with 156 HP (115 kW) at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 250 that produces 211 HP (155 kW)  at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm; CLA 250 4MATIC developing 211 HP (155 kW) at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm.

    The car moves on sporty-looking 45.7 cm (18-inch) AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in black with an orange rim flange.

    This sexy fifth iteration of Mercedes-Benz demonstrates distinctive profile, sensual purity and high unity of valuable charactersitics. It features a tapering roofline, four doors, frameless side windows, long bonnet and of course, the powerdomes on the bonnet which are an absolute hallmark of Mercedes coupé models. The position of the light modules and LED behind the headlamp lenses definitely highlights the indicative “eyebrow” effect for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

    On the inside, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake features twin-tube instrument cluster that has two large round dials. Each of them come with a small round dial set inside it. Something that highlights the interior is the new generation 3-spoke steering wheel in different variants, including a multi-function sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and red or black top-stitching.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake to Debut in 2015

    After the successful launch of A 45 AMG, CLA 45 AMG and GLA 45 AMG models, the fourth high-power compact model named Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG has been finally revealed. It arrives with a specific avant-garde design, individuality, thrilling driving performance and a trendsetting style.

    The new CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is fitted with a striking engineering package which helps it produce impressive dynamic performance. This is perhaps the most powerful series-production AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine around the globe which produces 181 HP (133 kW) and 450 Nm of peak torque at 2250-5000 rpm. The car speeds up from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel consumption is of just 6.9 liters for every 100 kilometers (NEDC combined) which sets mind-blowing standards of efficiency achieved by Mercedes-AMG. Some other technical features include the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, absolutely sophisticated AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, significantly powerful braking system and a purpose-developed chassis.

    The sporty and highly progressive appearance of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is outlined by an original roof line that very subtly slopes down towards the rear. There is also a low-set cabin, long bonnet, dynamically designed tail end, and a certain everyday practicality. The five-door newcomer impersonates the form of a sports car with five seats and large tailgate which offers plenty of space and convenience for the driver and passengers. The vehicle benefits from different light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19-inch format with size 235/35 R 19 tires which are available as another option to the usual 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, sized 8 x 18 inches with 235/40 R 18 tires.

    The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG is all about distinctive dynamism. The Performance seats and steering wheel are wrapped in leather/DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting contours. Besides the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake, the CLA 45 AMG Coupé is available in OrangeArt Edition guise as well.

    The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is going to make its premiere in March 2015 at the Geneva International Motor Show. The market launch is planned to begin in March 2015.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • HOT: Nissan Releases GT-R 45th Anniversary Limited Edition

    Nissan-GT-R-45-THUMBThis is HOT news! Nissan has announced the release of a limited edition GTR 45th Anniversary model.  There will be only 45 units produced and sadly – they will be distributed only in Japan. This special GT-R will go on sale in early February throughout the country, when also will happen the release of the 2015 model year GT-R. Nissan GT-R was introduced to the world in 2007. Since then, the car has been dubbed as one of world’s foremost high performance super sports cars. Now, the GT-R’s legacy continues as the ultimate Grand Tourer – Racer (GT-R) gets a 45th anniversary limited edition.

    Of course, it will offer the emblematic comfortable ride and refinement; exclusive finish and exceptional performance. This “multi performance” character of the car allows the driver to enjoy the full depths of the GT-R’s capabilities.

    The limited edition is based on the GT-R from the 2015 model year. The ride quality has been specially tuned to exhibit better refined feel than its predecessors. As mentioned, 45th Anniversary will come with a special paint color called “Silica Brass”. This is the same shade of the Skyline GT-R M-Spec which was announced the “a GT-R that satisfies the mature driver” when it was released in 2001.

    The limited GT-R will be only offered with the Premium Edition trim level, which features an exclusive emblem on the lower part of the interior center cluster and an exclusive model plate number in the engine compartment.

    Source: Nissan

  • Suzuki Exhibits C segment Sedan ALIVIO in China

    Suzuki-Alivio-THUMBSuzuki’s presence at the 12th Guangzhou International Motor Show in China was celebrated with the introduction of a C segment sedan called ALIVIO. Its Chinese name is “Qi Yue”. The car is set to debut on the market scene from December this year, and it is specifically intended for Asian’s country. ALIVIO is a production model based on the concept carrying the same name. The latter was exhibited at the 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition this April. Suzuki revealed that the car was specifically developed for China in order to meet the expectations and needs of customers.

    Both cars are C segment sedans, which feature “Sporty & Noble” exterior design, roomy and comfortable cabin, and great driving performance with excellent fuel efficiency. “Sporty & Noble” is a design language which adopts smooth curved surface and sharp character lines.

    In addition, the car delivers top-level interior space among C segment sedans. For this contributes the overall length of 4,545 mm, width of 1,730 mm and height of 1,475mm.

    There is only one engine for the Qi Yue and it is the 1.6L G-INNOTEC petrol unit, which comes with increased output and better fuel efficiency. The powerplant can be either coupled with a five-speed manual or the lightweight and compact six-speed automatic transmission.

    Suzuki has also exhibited in China the SX4 and Swift range, Alto model, Kizashi lineup, Jimny, and Grand Vitara models.

    Source: Suzuki

  • Urban Look Project: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz GLA

    Carlsson-Mercedes-Benz-GLA-THUMBCarlsson is famous for tuning only Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. This time they show us their take on the GLA. What they have done is simply adorable: the GLA got stronger through performance upgrades; it also received new aerodynamic components, sports exhaust and alloy wheels. The designers call this project “Urban Look” for short. The vehicle initially is equipped with the AMG Sports package. To further emphasize the dynamic qualities of the car, Carlsson has added new front spoiler and grille.

    We also see Carlsson’s badge in place of the three-pointed star. The rear skirt has cutouts for the trademark Carlsson four chromed oval tailpipes. These emerge from a stainless steel sports silencer designed to lower backpressure and produce a throatier soundtrack.

    To offer versatility, the company has created for this project a total of three alloy wheel designs in different finishes. The first one is the Carlsson 1/10 style in 18 to 20 inches sizes, with diamond, graphite or Titanium Edition finishes. The second is the 1/16 RS design in 19 and 20-inches. It is shod with 255/40ZR19 and 255/35ZR20 tyres respectively. And at last, the highly polished 1/11 Ultra Light 21-inch forged wheel, mated with 265/30ZR21 tyres.

    Speaking of performance upgrades, the tuners have taken into account the petrol and diesel engines in the GLA range. Staring with the output of the GLA200, it was increased to 187 horsepower (138 kW) with a peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). Next, the Carlsson GLA250 produces 253 hp (186 kW) with torque peaking at 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

    Inside, Carlsson has used the finest leather and Alcantara for the seats and soft surfaces. The door, dashboard and centre console inserts can get either a wood or carbon-fibre finish. The cabin also got polished aluminium scuff plates with an illuminated Carlsson logo for driver and aluminium door lock pins, pedal set and footrest.

    The last detail here is the four-piece floor mat set from soft black velour. Additionally, an exclusive, illuminated floor mats set made of soft velour is also available.

    Source: Carlsson

  • McLaren Teases “Black Swan” Sports Series Again [VIDEO]

    McLaren-Sports-Series-THUMBThe black swan is a symbol of a moment that completely changes the way we look at the world. The new McLaren Sports Series which is debuting on the world stage in 2015 is the next black swan moment for the brand. We have already seen the first teaser image and the video, and now McLaren has introduced the second photo (you can see it below), showing part of the butterfly door. The car is expected to be named McLaren P13 Sports Series.

    P13 will be positioned below the 650S, and its lineup will probably comprise of coupe and a spider version. It will feature a carbon fiber composite chassis. How about the engine here? There are rumors saying that the new Sport Series will be powered by a modified 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine.

    It will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All this will allow P13 to cover the 0-100 km/h in approximately 4 seconds, while top speed is expected to be 333 km/h or even lower.

    Although it somewhat resembles a Ferrari, the car definitely looks like a contemporary McLaren. You can see the thin LED headlights as well as ten-spoke alloy wheels. Wing mirrors are also there and they are mounted to the doors, and this is what is similar between the P13 and P1, and different between the first and the 650S model.

    This car is being developed and released into production before the Acura NSX makes an official appearance. This means that the McLaren will definitely offer a better car Acura. McLaren Sports Series is also set to take on the admirers of the Audi R8 or the Porsche 911 GT3. The two-seater is currently undergoing testing.

    httpv://youtu.be/0ff_kV1wqYE

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: McLaren via Facebook

  • Australia Finally Gets the 2014 Lexus RC 350

    2014-lexus-rc-coupe-THUMBAnnounced in June, 2014 Lexus RC 350 is now tuning heads in Australia. The car has just been launched, being the most emotive vehicle produced since the LFA supercar. Ahead of its 25th anniversary Lexus has designed the coupe to engage with a younger audience. The brand undertook major design changes in order to create a new direction with its styling and drive experience. In fact, the RC 350 is not an adapted sedan, but it has been created as a coupe from the ground up.

    First we have to take in account its involving chassis as well as the high output drivetrain. The styling package and high level of standard equipment contribute towards car’s unique presence and strong charm.

    Just like other Lexus vehicles, the RC 350 follows company’s ‘Y’ strategy across its three model offerings. This means that it will be introduced in Luxury trim and then followed by F Sport and Sports Luxury.

    F Sport boasts Lexus Dynamic Handling system. It incorporates Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Dynamic Rear Steering. On the other hand, the Sports Luxury adds to this Adaptive Variable Suspension, its own 19-inch alloys, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio, Shimamoku ornamentation, power front seats with driver memory and semi-aniline leather accented trim.

    As a standard, all trims will get the Blind Spot Monitor, which can detect vehicles within a range up to 60 metres. In addition, Lexus will also introduce a unique paint application technique together with two custom colours: Infrared and Cobalt Mica.

    RC range is driven by the 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 318 horsepower (234 kW) and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft).  The unit is coupled with an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission, and the power is put to the ground via the rear wheels.

    Source: Lexus 

  • MTM Audi S8 Talladega has 760 Horsepower to Show-Off With

    MTM-Audi-S8-Talladega-THUMBMTM Audi S8 Talladega is probably one of the last tunings we are to see from MTM in 2014. And for this reason it is powerful, imposing, and have these extremely aggressive and sporty looks. But when one hears it, he or she definitely gets it why we like this custom Audi so much. They eight cylinders have been boosted and now delivers 760 hp (559 kW) at 5950 rpm and maximum torque of 945 Nm (697 lb-ft) between 1700 and 5500 rpm. The torque is stable over the entire range and this huge outpouring of power is being applied to the road through all four wheels.

    The power unit is based on the RS6’s eight cylinder engine. In order to achieve more power, MTM tuners have touched the turbochargers, exhaust system and water cooling. The team also intervened in the gearbox software to set the shifting points at 7000 rpm.

    Speaking in numbers, these modifications result in a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration of 3.48 seconds, passing the 200 km/h mark in 10.51 seconds and reaching its top speed at 325 km/h Carbon and ceramic brakes on the front and rear axles is what stops the Talladega.

    MTM’s 240 hp of additional power comes with M-Cantronic and V-Cantronic including turbocharger, MTM 4-pipe stainless steel exhaust system after the turbocharger with flaps in two pipes, and an in-house manufactured F-Cantronic II used to lower the air-sprung chassis.

    There is also a set of 21′ Bimoto wheels, which were shod with 295/30 Michelin Pilot Super Sports. They perfectly complement the MTM aerodynamics kit that includes high carbon fiber content. Inside, we see a premium quality interior package that makes the atmosphere cozier.

    On 24th of March 1986, Audi unleashed an Audi 5000 CS Turbo on the Talladega Speedway in Alabama in pursuit of a record. The US model, (Europeans know it as Audi 200 Turbo), was driven by a 2.2 litre, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine with five valves per cylinder and power output of 650 hp (678 kW). The Audi averaged a speed of 332 km/h around the oval track and it made it through the longest straight at a top speed of 350 km/h.

    Source: MTM

  • Chevrolet Sail 3 is Intended for China Only

    Chevrolet Sail 3Chevrolet Sail 3, as well as Camaro RS Limited Edition and Corvette Stingray Coupe have just made their China debut. In addition, Buick is showcasing a customized Regal GS and Excelle XT. In total there are 32 GM vehicles on display in Shanghai. The third generation Sail is Chevy’s entry-level family car. The model was introduced 15 years ago, and since then it has been a driving force in this car segment. As a matter of fact, there have been nearly 1.4 million Sails sold across China. The car will go on sale nationwide by the end of this year.

    Sail 3 is built on Shanghai GM’s small car architecture and has fully adopted Chevrolet’s new design language. The exterior is relatively small, exuding youthful and dynamic feel. Sail 3 is 51 mm longer and 45 mm wider than its predecessor.

    The wheelbase has been extended by 35 mm. This of course indicates for a roomier cabin. The trunk space is 366 liters and there are also many user-friendly storage compartments.

    The front fascia includes wider dual-port grille, which is also sportier than in previous models. There are also visible the eagle eye-shaped headlights. At the back, the dual-C-element taillights provide unique touch to the rear.

    The interior of the third generation Sail features a dual-cockpit design. It also includes innovative flowing instrument panel, dual-mode sunroof and sculpted seats.

    The car is driven by a 1.5L DVVT or a 1.3L VVT engine. Each can be coupled with either manual or mechanical automatic transmission with start-stop function. The fuel consumption is rated as low as 5.3 L/100 km. As a result, Sail 3 has been listed in the National Energy-Saving and Eco-Friendly Vehicle Catalogue ahead of its market launch.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • Nissan Reveals 2015 Juke Range US Pricing

    2015-nissan-juke-THUMB2015 Nissan Juke not only features a revised exterior but also can be customized with the special Juke Color Studio and thus made really unique. Its market debut, after it made North American premiere in L.A., is already a fact and below we have listed the detailed pricing. This jewel has kept its dimensions and aggressive stance as previous years, but offers a refreshed appearance due to its new projector beam headlights and LED front Signature Accent Lamps.

    Not forgetting the grille, which incorporates the new Nissan V-Motion look, as well as the robust trim beneath the bumper. The side rearview mirrors now feature integrated LED turn signal repeaters as a standard, while the redesigned back of the car includes more aggressiveform with LED accented boomerang taillights.

    In addition, there is also wide range of new standard features included in the 2015 Juke. Some of them include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, RearView Monitor and NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch color display, USB connection port for iPod interface, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth®and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

    Furthermore, there are three new exterior colors offered in the new model year:  Super Black, Solar Yellow and Cosmic Blue. These three were added to the already available six exterior colors.

    The engine standard on JUKE S, SV, SL and NISMO trims is the second-generation 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine. It produces 188 horsepower (138 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque.

    2015 Nissan JUKE US Pricing:

    Model/Transmission
    JUKE S Xtronic FWD $20,250 USD
    JUKE SV Xtronic FWD $22,300 USD
    JUKE SL Xtronic FWD $25,240 USD
    JUKE NISMO MT FWD $24,830 USD
    JUKE NISMO RS MT FWD $28,020 USD
    JUKE S Xtronic AWD $22,100 USD
    JUKE SV Xtronic AWD $24,150 USD
    JUKE SL Xtronic AWD $26,940 USD
    JUKE NISMO Xtronic AWD $27,230 USD
    JUKE NISMO RS Xtronic AWD $30,020 USD

    Source: Nissan

  • Updated 2015 Lexus RC F Delivers Performance For All

    Lexus-RC-F-THUMB2015 Lexus RC F made its global premiere at NAIAS event in the beginning of the year. Now the coupe is ready for launch before the end of the year in the United Kingdom with customer deliveries from January 2015. This is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced. The car features contemporary styling combined with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. In the UK this Lexus will be launched in two versions RC F and the RC F Carbon.

    If you have ever wondered what’s the meaning of the “F” designation in car’s name, well it denotes Fuji Speedway, the Japanese track where Lexus carries out much of its high-speed product testing. The key ingredient for this performance is the 5.0-litre V8 engine. It produces 471 hp (346 kW) and 530 Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque.

    The unit is coupled with a significantly upgraded eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission that gives the driver a choice of five operating modes, from fuel-efficient Eco to full-blooded Sport S+. 2015 RC F covers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 4.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 168 mph.

    The RC F also received a revision in terms of Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system due to the addition of the new Sport and Expert settings. They allow the driver safely exploit the car’s full performance capabilities.

    In addition, the coupe has been engineered to offer exceptional grip, agility and high-speed stability with chassis, brakes, steering and suspension. Precisely, the handling features active rear wing and Torque Vectoring Differential.

    Many of the body elements are made of carbon fiber for improved lightweight. We should also note the clever instrumentation that automatically changes display with different driving modes and a stirring engine note, project into the cabin through an Active Sound Control system.

    Throughout the United Kingdom, 2015 Lexus RC F will be offered in two versions: RC F with a starting price of £59,995, and the RC F Carbon – with a price tag beginning at £67,995.

    Source: Lexus 

  • 2015 Nissan Murano Goes on Sale

    2015-Nissan-Murano-THUMB2015 Nissan Murano which was revealed in April at the New York Auto Show and was also on display in L.A., will make its market debut across the United States at 5th of December. The new third-generation crossover has new futuristic design and concept car-like like styling, premium interior and advanced, purposeful technology. The model is offered in four trim variants: S, SV, SL and Platinum. They are all offered with a choice of front- or Intuitive all-wheel drive.

    Nissan is offering only three option packages for the Murano: Navigation Package (S), Premium Package (SV) and Tech Package (SL, Premium). No matter the trim, every Murano is equipped with the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine coupled with an advanced Xtronic transmission.

    The engine is rated at 260 horsepower (191 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque. In terms of exterior, the future customers will enjoy the V-motion front end, LED boomerang lights and the unique “floating” roof.

    Inside, they will be engaging in social lounge feel through features such as the refined instrument panel, low center console, advanced Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating. The atmosphere is airy and is created by the large windows and oversized Power Panoramic Moonroof.

    Technology convenience is ensured by the NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 8-inch color display with multi-touch control, Around View Monitor and the eight-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support as well as other features.

    2015 Nissan Murano US Pricing:

    Murano S FWD $29,560 USD
    Murano SV FWD $32,620 USD
    Murano SL FWD $36,950 USD
    Murano Platinum FWD $39,000 USD
    Murano S AWD $31,160 USD
    Murano SV AWD $34,220 USD
    Murano SL AWD $38,550 USD
    Murano Platinum AWD $40,600 USD

    Source: Nissan