Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Shown on Track for the First Time [VIDEO]

    Lamborghini-Huracan-GT3-THUMBLamborghini Huracán GT3 was shown on the track for the first time in Vallelunga (Rome). The evidence for this is the video below, which was officially released by Lamborghini. The Huracán GT3 made the testing on the ”Piero Taruffi” circuit under the supervision of Giorgio Sanna. The drivers were the two official Lamborghini Squadra Corse test drivers Adrian Zaugg and Fabio Babini. With joint forces the team set up the new race car for the first time.

    The Huracán GT3 is an example of the next step for Lamborghini towards development and production of a race car for one of the most prestigious international categories. In fact, the GT3 model will be company’s first in-house racing project.

    There not much revealed by Lamborghini, but the rumors say that the car will be powered by the 5.2-liter V10 engine, which is expected to produce up to 600 horsepower (441 kW). According to the GT3 configurations, cars must meet certain power to weight ratios and they must produce outputs between 500 and 600 horsepower. The weight is should be between 1200 and 1300 kg.

    After the tests, Sanna confirmed his satisfaction with the Huracán GT3. Although they had much work to still do with the car, he found its performance and reliability feedback is encouraging. Sanna will be competing next season in the 2015 Blancpain Endurance Series. The racings are scheduled at five venues in Europe such as the Spa 24 Hours.

    httpv://youtu.be/bF28ssh-gP4

    Source: YouTube 

    Source: Lamborghini

     

  • Suzuki Updates the SX4 S-Cross Range

    Suzuki-SX4-S-Cross-Range-Update-THUMBSuzuki SX4 S-Cross range has received a major update. The company has removed the SZ4 model, but added the 1.6 SZ-T CVT and 1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP models to the range. Every S-Cross comes fitted with wide range of equipment as a standard. Precisely, the new no-cost options include seven airbags for optimum protection, ESP and Tyre Pressure Monitoring as well as Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

    Furthermore, the updated Suzuki also runs on new alloy wheels. Other standard features in the equipment include the cruise control with speed limiter, air conditioning, heated door mirrors, black protective skid plates and black wheel arch extensions.

    Next, the SZ-T is the model which adds satellite navigation with DAB digital radio and rides on polished 17-inch alloy wheels. It also features Dual Zone automatic air conditioning, front fog lamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, silver roof rails and silver skid plates, rear parking camera and rear parking proximity sensors.

    In fact, research showed that 70% of customers who has purchased SX4 S-Cross chose SZ-T or SZ5 versions. The added SZ-T model to the range is now to include the petrol powered CVT, while the ALLGRIP models will offer wider choice of higher specification versions.

    Updated Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range:

    Model CO2 emissions
    1.6 SZ3 Manual 127 g/km
    1.6 SZ-T Manual 127 g/km
    1.6 SZ-T CVT 125g/km
    1.6 SZ5 Manual 127 g/km
    1.6 SZ5 CVT 125 g/km
    1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual 135g/km
    1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual 135 g/km
    1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP CVT 130 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ3 Manual 110 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ4 Manual 110 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ-T Manual 110 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ5 Manual 110 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual 114 g/km
    1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual 114 g/km

    Source: Suzuki

  • Volvo’s New Drive-E Powertrain Concept Delivers more than 450 Horsepower

    Volvo-Drive-E-Powertrain-Concept-THUMBVolvo’s Drive-E Powertrain Concept is delivering unique mix of performance and efficiency. Precisely, this unit is a triple boost 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine which is potent to produce no less than 450 hp. More interestingly, the 450 hp (331 kW) High Performance Drive-E is based on a set of technologies not usually found in a four cylinder engine. The powerplant utilizes two parallel turbochargers that draw force from electrically powered turbo-compressor.

    The compressed air from this unit is used to spool up the two parallel turbochargers. Furthermore, the fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure. This power density, along with the triple boost installation and unique fuel system, enables a very dynamic drivability.

    The engine has already attracted the attention and involvement of Volvo Cars suppliers AVL, Denso and Volvo Polestar Racing at an early stage. They have allowed the theories and technologies that they are using for racing to be infused in the development process.

    This combination of technologies will end up in a unique engine with its high power yet quick response. What is more, its compact size enhances weight distribution between the front and rear axle and lowers the center of gravity. This had a major effect on the handling of the car using the engine.

    In addition, the compact powertrains deliver more space and have less weight, thus entirely modifying the structure of the car. The freed space and saved kilograms can be used for electrification and even additional emissions reduction.

    Source: Volvo 

  • Chrysler issues voluntary recall

    2015-Ram-CV-Tradesman_thumb2015-Ram-CV-Tradesman_651

    The US branch of Chrysler Group has issued a voluntary recall for an estimated 22,115 small cargo vans that need a software upgrade for a program that controls certain airbags.

    The recall is the result of an investigation that discovered that specific vehicle configurations may adversely affect sensors that control side-curtain and/or thorax airbags, causing inadvertent deployment. The problem is that under certain circumstances there might be exclusion of rear-audio and climate-control components adjacent to the sensors. The resulting gaps can generate a resonance, exaggerated by loaded roof racks and rough-road inputs, which may disrupt normal sensor operation. Fortunately, according to Chrysler, no one has been injured so far and no accidents have been reported.

    Unfortunately the only solution is to undergo a software upgrade but the good news is that the availability of the new software is on its way. Chrysler says that in the US there are about 18,245 2013-2015 Ram C/V Tradesman vehicles that are affected and then 3,870 in Canada. Owners, most of whom are fleet customers, will be contacted by Chrysler Group and advised when they may schedule service, the cost of which will be borne by the Company. You can also call Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for more information.

    Source: Chrysler

  • DD Customs BMW X6 M Facelift

    DD Customs has presented their latest project based on BMW X6 M Facelift. The Sports Activity Coupe looks incredibly good, especially with the complete aerodynamics package by DD Customs and huge 22” alloy wheels.

    2013 BMW X6 M is powered by the impressive 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 – 555HP (408 kW) at 6,000RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,500RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed M-Sport automatic gearbox with paddleshifters on the steering wheel. The power is put on the road through the world’s most intelligent AWD system – xDrive. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds; 0-200 km/h – 16.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The staggering performance is delivered by a number of new technologies – M TwinPower Turbo Technology with exhaust gas manifold connecting both rows of cylinders, Twin-Scroll twin-trubo technology, High Precision injection and double VANOS.

    The Tycoon wide body modified by DD Customs delivers epic look. There are extended mudguards and big aprons, front and rear. The DD Customs-X6 appears like a professional bodybuilder posing on the stage. The strongly contoured Tycoon motor cowl and the front spoiler and outer mirror housing by Hamann Motorsport are made of super light carbon fibre fabric.

    There is also a modified rear diffuser, entrance strips, door handles, roof railing and even the aerial fin on the roof with exposed carbon.

    The tire/wheel set includes 10.5J x 22” front and 12J x 22” Hamann Anniversary Evo Black Line wheel rims fitted with Continental Sport Contact 5P rubbers – 295/30 R22 and 335/25 R22.

    The interior boasts a number of carbon fiber elements, new upholstery for the head rests, a set of aluminium pedals as well as new entrance lighting.

    Source: DD Customs

  • Roush Reveals Custom 2015 Ford Mustang RS Lineup

    2015-Roush-Ford-Mustang-Lineup-THUMBRoush Performance is famous for its customization projects involving muscle cars. Under the lights toady is Roush’s latest freshly redesigned Ford Mustang. The aggressive 2015 RS lineup will be built on the Mustang’s V6 platform. The first Stage will feature the new turbo-charged Ford 2.3L Eco-Boost motor, while the second – the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8. All of the modified Mustangs will get the R7, or the seventh generation aero-body package.

    To go further into details, the R7 kit comprises of an entirely remodeled fascia with integrated aero-pockets, a five-blade upper grille, high-flow lower grille with driving lamps, and a front chin splitter. Along with the aggressive new look, the Stage 1 and Stage 2 get the new ROUSH quad-tip performance exhaust system.

    There are also available suspension setups that deliver handling boost as well as new Quicksilver 20-inch Roush wheels. They were wrapped in the Roush/Cooper RS3-S ultra high-performance tires.

    Inside, the vehicle was also modified. The cabin now includes Roush embroidered floor mats and a serialized dash badge. There is an optional gauge cluster and leather seating upgrades. There will be also offered several exterior and interior options, including side quarter window scoops, body side scoop, hood scoop and more.

    The Mustangs will first be available in manual coupes. Later, the convertible chassis and automatic transmissions will follow. 2015 Roush Ford Mustang Lineup is expected to be available at dealerships in mid October.

    Source: Roush 

  • SEMA-bound Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition to be Named by Fans

    2015-Chevrolet-Camaro-SS-Special-Edition-THUMB2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will make a firs world appearance at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas thus November. As part of National Name Your Car Day, the musclecar builder is inviting fans to name the vehicle, which will be revealed also at the event. What is more, this Chevy won’t remain one-off model, but instead – will go into production very soon. The car wears an exclusive Emerald Green Metallic exterior color, but is also endowed with other unique exterior features.

    This special-edition Camaro SS will be offered in both coupe and convertible variants. They will be equipped with the 2SS trim. Chevrolet will also add the RS Appearance Package, which comprises of high-intensity discharge headlamps, light-emitting diode (LED) taillamps, RS-specific front upper grille, body-color roof moldings and body-color antenna.

    Furthermore, this emerald beauty will be rolling on the streets on Chrome Dusk 21-inch accessory wheels. Other goodies featured here include body-color SS hood extractor and ZL1 rear spoiler, body-color accessory ground effects package as well as Cyber Gray rally stripes.

    Inside, both variants will include a black interior with Graphite Silver door panel and instrument panel inserts. The convertibles will get a black top. Of course, the company has prepared optional equipment, which includes a sunroof, dual-mode exhaust, navigation radio and Chevrolet Performance short-throw shifter.

    Under the hood of the unnamed warrior will hide the 6.2L V-8 engine. It produces 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) in models with the standard six-speed manual transmission, and 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) for models equipped with the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

    2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2015.

    Source: Chevrolet 

  • Chevrolet Fights Breast Cancer for Fourth Consecutive Year

    Chevrolet and General Motors are uniting to battle breast cancer for fourth consecutive year. Both companies are hoping to gather more than last year’s $1.1 million proceeds this October. Te money will be raised for the American Cancer Society (ACS) through Chevrolet’s nationwide grassroots support for the society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks and other activities.

    There will be several events, which will include nationwide employee and dealership-sponsored fund-raising walks as well as the especially themed pink Chevrolet SS. The vehicle will be the official pace car, making caution laps at three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekends. There also will be test-drive donations at Chevrolet dealers throughout this month.

    The gathered proceeds will go for ACS’s ongoing research, wellness and breast cancer awareness education. They will also support breast cancer patients and their families. In fact, since Chevrolet has been involved in this campaign, it has helped the society raise more than $3 million.

    Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in America. Its early detection and treatment are life-saving. Getting involved in a walk or making a donation is something anyone can do to make a difference.

    Chevrolet-sponsored activities in October in support of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer:

    • Chevrolet test drives: Chevrolet will donate $10 for every customer who test drives a Chevrolet at a dealership this month
    • Team Chevy motorsports: Chevrolet is donating $250 for each caution lap that the pink Chevrolet SS Pace Car leads in three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends
    • Chevrolet and GM employee walks: During October, General Motors facilities, plants and warehouses across the country will participate in fund-raising walks. Learn more about the Detroit walk by visiting the event page and contribute directly.
    • Chevrolet dealership walks: Hundreds of dealerships are sponsoring teams in community walks. Apparel sales: Cruisin’ Sports is contributing 10 percent of its sales from items supporting Making Strides to the ACS.
  • Enhanced 2015 Kia Rio Hatch with World Premiere in Paris

    2015-Kia-Rio-Facelift-THUMB2015 Kia Rio is getting enhanced and it just made its official debut at the Paris Motor Show. The car now features a number of improvements, including a slight visual makeover both inside and outside. The Rio design team in Korea has updated car’s ‘tiger-nose grille’, thus giving it a newly-designed front bumper and fog lights. The enhanced Rio will be offered exclusively in Europe with a choice of up to four efficient engines. Their power output will range from 75 hp to 109 hp.

    The units will drive the front wheels via five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. In addition, every engine in the range can be equipped with the optional second-generation fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology. The ISG features an automatic start-stop function, advanced alternator control and an upgraded starter motor.

    Kia is also offering three new alloy wheel designs that will be available in 15-, 16- and 17-inch dimension. What is more, the refreshed Rio’s profile is rounded up by the new rear bumper. Two new exterior paint finishes, called Urban Blue and Digital Yellow will be also added.

    Inside, the updated Rio is brightened by the addition of chrome accents around the four dashboard air-vents. There is also a newly-designed centre-stack around the audio system. The range-topping EX models have a new cloth trim as standard, while the Kia is also offering as an option grey faux leather upholstery.

    Other available features for this car include DAB digital radio and the AVN (audio-video navigation) system with a 7.0-inch display screen, improved processing speed and faster route calculation. 2015 Kia Rio hatchback is expected to go on sale in Europe in 2015.

    Source: Kia

  • Chevrolet announces 2015 Trax pricing

    2015-Chevrolet-Trax-front_thumb2015-Chevrolet-Trax-front_651

    The US automaker Chevrolet has announced the pricing of the upcoming 2015 Chevrolet Trax – the small-sized vehicle will start at USD 20,995.

    The 2015 Trax tries to combine SUV style, space and versatility with the maneuverability of a compact car. The Trax offers various comfort features that include a MyLink infotainment system with a seven-inch touch screen, a rear view camera, remote keyless entry and a 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat and fold-down front passenger seat offering more than 48 cubic feet of cargo space. If you are not satisfied with this, a USD 1,500 option, which is available on all trim levels, provides you with all-wheel drive, which makes the Trax the most affordable AWD model in Chevrolet’s portfolio. An OnStar 4G LTE system with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot completes the picture. The Trax is also the first car in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free connectivity for compatible iPhone users. The car is powered by a standard 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that provides EPA fuel efficiency of 26 US MPG (9.0 l/100km) in a city and 34 US MPG (6.9 l/100 km) on a highway.

    2015-Chevrolet-Trax-rear_651

    The Trax is Chevrolet’s seventh small vehicle launch in four years. During that time, the brand’s share of the small-, compact- and mini-car segments has more than tripled. “Trax is positioned to be a strong competitor in the emerging small-SUV market, which is expected to grow more than 80 percent in the next few years,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet director of car marketing.

    In the USA the new car will be available in January 2015 in three trim levels – LS, LT and LTZ. The vehicle is already available in 66 markets around the world; sales have reached 155,000 vehicles.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Toyota Releases HiLux Black Edition

    Toyota-HiLux-Black-Edition-THUMBToyota HiLux Black Edition is the new an edgy vehicle added to the famous four-wheel-drive HiLux family of vehicles. The special edition model has a name that says it all. The HiLux Black is adorned by a range of exterior and interior features, which are presented in black in order to enhance its toughness and appeal. To go into details, this version is includes a combination of brooding black side steps, sports bar and leather-accented interior trim including the six-way adjustable power-operated driver’s seat.

    What is more, even the newly designed 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels are painted black. As you can see, this vehicle also includes prominent new front and rear bumpers that give the HiLux Black a lower stance. This muscular look is accentuated by the black extensions below the fog light surrounds.

    In addition, the new large black lower front grille features a stylish red stripe along the bottom edge, which makes the HiLux more aggressive. LED daylight running lamps are also present. Toyota‘s global partner TRD was also involved in the creation of this special edition. TDR provided only the cosmetic enhancements such as its familiar logo on the wheel caps and the front bumper extension.

    The model is powered by Toyota’s torquey 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which is coupled with either a five-speed manual gearbox or five-speed automatic transmission. The extensive feature list includes a reversing camera and a satellite navigation system with SUNA™ Live Traffic updates, which all are displayed in the 6.1-inch display audio screen.

    The Japanese company is offering in this case the exterior color choices on black and white, called Eclipse Black and Glacier White. In 4×4 guise, Toyota HiLux Black Edition will have fewer than 1,000 units produced. It is based on the SR5 4×4 Double Cab pickup and has the maximum five-star safety rating.

    Source: Toyota

     

  • ST Suspensions Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

    The CLA-Class is highly appreciated model among Mercedes-Benz customers, especially in the USA. Over 25 % of all Mercedes-Benz CLA have been sold in North America. That’s why ST Suspensions, manufactured by KW offers ST X and ST XTA coilovers for the models in the range.

    The CLA-class can be lowered up to 60 mm giving it unique stance and significantly improved handling. The ST XTA also offers the possibility to adjust the damper setup to a more sporty or comfortable feel and the user can also adjust the camber via the aluminium Unibal top mounts at the front axle.

    The coilover kits can be fitted on all models in the range of CLA-Class including the most powerful 45 AMG version. It comes with the world’s most powerful 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine – 360HP (265 kW) at 6,000RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM.  0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The engine is mated to an AMG SPEED SHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with three driving programs, double-declutching function and Race Start.

    The engine delivers 180HP / liter displacement, which is the highest ratio on the market.

    The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is priced from $47,450 in the USA.

    Source: KW