Car Makes – Page 428 – Automobiles Review

KW Clubsport Coilover Kits for BMW M4 and M3 Models

If you are one of those adrenaline rush drivers who want to improve and get hit the maximum potential their BMW M4 Coupé and M3 sedan both on the streets and the track, there is nothing better than the KW Clubsport coil overs. They have been designed at the Nürburgring Nordschleife and they allow different adjustments and compression. There are a lot of options to adjust the coilovers and additional upgrades such as increased engine power, modified type of the brakes and semi-click tyres. When driving fast the steering precision and comfort are going to be improved by the increased rebound force and the availability of rebound adjustment on the upper end of the piston rod.

All of the adjustments can be achieve with a low number of clicks, starting from the damping force in KW V3 and Clubsport 2-way whith 12 clicks and ending with the high-speed adjustment, with only 14 steps. However, there are no top mounts available for Variant 3 coilovers. A sporty, extreme driving is best achieved from Clubsport designs and technology, which suit perfectly the BMW M4 and M3.

Providing excellent safety, control and high-end technology, you can easily hit the track or the road with your BMW M4 or M3, with the option of comfortably choosing ride settings of sporty or comfortable. The KW adjustable lowering springs can be lowered to about 5 to 25 mm.

Source: BMW

September 29, 2014

2015 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid

The 2015 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid continue into the new year with some updates and changes. The Toyota Prius shape is well established after 12 years and its instantly recognizable. The five-door hatchback has a vertical tale and a smooth front with minimum. Its size allows four to five people to fit in along with their luggage.

The cabin looks incredible. The two-level dashboard layout now looks dated-through the interior design appearing futuristic, compared to its launch in 2009. With interior surfaces clad entirely in hard plastics, of various textures and patterns. The first thing to catch you eye is a console that sweeps down from the top dashboard. There are additional features that include:

Heated seats
Bluetooth Connectivity
SiriusXM Radio
Digital Audio Output
Steering wheel controls and automatic climate control
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
Navigation system and Cruise control

Toyota made sure they made this car as safe as possible with curtain head airbags, side airbags, brake assist, traction, anti-lock brakes and stability control passenger airbags etc. While its striking visually, in practice the storage space under it is largely invisible and hard to reach. Four adults will fit comfortably, with some efforts put in, five adults can also fit in and the EPA defines the Prius as a mid-size car based on interior volume. The 2015 Toyota Prius power train remains unchanged, with total output of 134 hp(99 kW) from the 1.8-liter four cylinder engine and a pair of electric motor generators. They provide electric torque to supplement torque from the engine, recharge the battery during regenerative braking or engine overrun and can power the car solely on electricity at speeds up to 30 mph (48 km/h).

Toyota has more experienced building hybrids than any other maker, and its blending of regenerative braking with the conventional friction brakes is outstanding. But if you need more than leisurely performance, 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) is just under 10 sec you will quickly hear the engine revering up to high speeds.

Source: Toyota

September 29, 2014

2015 Honda Civic Type R Concept Previews the Next-Gen Hatch

2015 Honda Civic Type R is debuting at the Paris Motor Show and we can’t hide that we are eagerly anticipating it. Just a couple of days ahead of the official premiere, Honda has released additional further details of the iconic Type R. The Japanese company is promising that this version of the model will be the most extreme and high-performing Type R in the 22 year history of the red ‘H’ badge.

Straight to the details, the Civic Type R will be powered by a 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine. This powertrain comes from Honda’s next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series. It generates more than 280 horsepower (205 kW), thus delivering unmatched performance when compared to the previous generations. The engine of this Civic model will be coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.

In addition, the model will be fully complying with strict Euro 6 emissions regulations. The new unit benefits from a turbocharger, which boosts low-end power delivery. With the addition of the VTEC technology, this Type R promises to deliver a sensational driving experience.

Another debut in the 2015 Type R will make the new ‘+R’ button, which is located to the side of the steering wheel. The ‘+R’ mode will deliver the most exhilarating driving experience. In this mode, the engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Additionally, the steering becomes more responsive, and when it is combined with the new four-point Adaptive Damper System, it offers the ultimate handling experience.

The second instance for company’s innovative approach is car’s ‘steer axis’. The new Type R’s front suspension system includes this additional mechanical system, which features two supporting ‘kingpins’ that work to decrease torque steer. This in turn allows the driver to fully exploit the Type R‘s driveability.

Honda also revealed that the Type R will be equipped with new four-point Adaptive Damper System. It has been specifically developed for the new Type R. The system automatically adjusts front and rear suspension damping force stiffness in a split second, in order to suit driving conditions.

2015 Honda Civic Type R has been designed and engineered for European drivers, and will be arriving in dealerships in 2015.

Source: Honda

September 29, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Passat GTE is a Plug-in Hybrid Debuting in Paris

Volkswagen Passat GTE is to make European première at the Paris Motor Show this week. This is one of the most innovative cars in its class, being equipped with progressive drive, assistance and infotainment systems. The special thing about the GTE is that it is the first Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive system, thus delivering zero-emission. The long-distance vehicle will be offered as a saloon or estate.

To go into details, the GTE uses a combination of a turbocharged direct injection petrol engine (TSI) with an electric motor, which is supplied with energy from an externally chargeable lithium-ion battery. This battery can ensure that the Passat GTE covers a distance of up to 31 miles in all-electric mode and with zero emissions.

A contrast to the aforementioned “E-Mode”, there is also a “GTE” mode. In this mode, the Passat delivers a maximum system output of 218 hp (160 kW). Furthermore, the 1.4-litre TSI engine develops a power of 156 hp (115 kW), while the electric motor produces 85 kW. The maximum torque of the entire system is 400 Nm (295 lb-ft).

Passat GTE comes as a standard equipped with a front-wheel drive and a six-gear dual clutch gearbox especially developed for the hybrid drive. It accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 8.0 seconds. The top speed is 136 mph; in “E-Mode” – 80 mph. When this plug-in hybrid Volkswagen goes in production, it will include a total of nine drive versions, covering a power range from 125 hp (92 kW) to 280 hp (206 kW).

What is more, this GTE Passat will also get as standard equipment many features such as LED headlights, Driver Alert System, Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, Front Assist including City Emergency Braking function, rain sensor and ParkPilot. The car can be recognized by a specific chrome radiator grille unit with additional blue line. The front bumper was also redesigned, and now features distinctive cross panels in the lower air inlet and C-shaped LED daytime running lights. From the side one can see 17-inch “Astana” alloy wheels.

Inside, some the interior features include “Composition Media” infotainment system, innovative Active Info Display with specific displays, blue ambient lighting, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with blue decorative stitching, GTE specific gear knob with blue stitching and seats covered in “Sevilla” cloth with a blue basic structure. Moreover, the interior was improved by the “Waves” design, which is an aluminium look, and “Piano Black” (high-gloss black) as well as a GTE logo in front of the gear shift gate.

The new Passat GTE will feature high resolution 6.5-inch display of the standard “Composition Media” infotainment system. As an option, the German company is offering “Discover Media” that also comprises of a 6.5-inch display, and “Discover Pro” radio-navigation systems with an 8.0-inch display.

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

Source: Volkswagen

September 29, 2014

Vorsteiner Introduces BMW F82 M4 GTS Edition

Vorsteiner BMW F82 M4 GTS Edition is another example that for decades the iconic BMW M-Series is the driving force of automotive fascination – both in terms of design and performance. The specialists at Vorsteiner decided to do an expansion program which will fit both the M3 and M4. Under their expertise were the latest generation F80 M3 and F82 M4. And as you can judge by the pictures below – the result is stunning.

The experts in lightweight construction and strength optimization have specifically developed parts that keep their principles: forward thinking, evolution of automobiles, and value of personal diversity. In particular, the new F8x carbon fiber rear diffuser is a particularly complex feature of ingenuity. The reason for this lies in the fact that it is very difficult to manufacture such slender fins, rarely seen in a single monocoque construction carbon diffuser.

In fact, all of the aerodynamic components were engineered and designed with the help of 3D alias software in conjunction with the blue light laser scanning technology and 5 axis CNC milling machines for rapid prototyping.

The chassis for the F8x M3 and M4 chassis includes matte black Sport Challenge Forged VSC-101 Monoblock Wheels that come in size 20×10 inches at the front, and 20×11 inches at the rear. The alloys come coupled with Michelin Pilot Super Sports in the dimensions of 275/30/20 and 295/30/20 at the front and rear respectively.

This Vorsteiner GTS Edition also got carbon add-on front spoiler, custom livery foil kit, embroidered velour floor mats for the interior as well as exclusive stainless dual walled exhaust tips in brushed or diamond black finish.

Source: Vorsteiner

September 29, 2014

McLaren 625C Intended Only for the Asian Market

McLaren 625C is company’s first regionally tailored model which aims to conquer the Asian market. The new car promises the greatest of refinement of any McLaren model up to date. This of course will come in combination with the enhanced driving dynamics. The 625C model is being launched in response to demand from customers in the Asian region. The vehicle shares the same visuals as the 650S, but has somewhat more focus on day-to-day usability and comfort.

The ProActive Chassis Control and the suspension hardware have been refined, thus delivering optimized driving dynamics and ride quality. The name of the 625C refers to the power output – the 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powerplant, which produces 625 hp (460 kW), while the ‘C’, stands for ‘Club’. In fact, the McLaren 625C has several technical benefits when compared to the 650S.

First, enhancements have been made to driveability and efficiency with engine torque of 610Nm (450 lb-ft). Second, the acceleration time from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) is only just 3.1 seconds, while to 200 km/h (124 mph) – 8.8 seconds (for the Coupé). The maximum speed mirrors that of the 650S, which is 333 km/h (207mph) (329 km/h (204 mph) for Spider). The CO2 emissions have been rated at 275 g/km.

The refined ride is ensured by the updated dampers and revised mechanical balance. In addition, the less stiff spring rate at the rear ensures a sharp response with no loss in ride comfort through the ProActive Chassis Control system in ‘Normal’ mode. There is also no compromise regarding handling or performance in ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ modes.

McLaren 625C in Coupe and Spider bodystyles are currently being launched in Hong Kong.

McLaren 625C Coupe Technical Specification:

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
EnginePS / rpm	625 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	610 / 3000-7000	Height (mm)	1199
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1336 / 2945
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell withAluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Cast Iron Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 370mm/R 350mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero™235/35 R19/Pirelli P Zero™305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

Performance Data:

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight – with lightweight options	480PS (473 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.45 g/km per PS

Speed	Maximum speed	333 km/h (207 mph)

Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.1 s
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	8.8 s
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	26.7 s
	0-400m / ¼ mile	10.6s @136 mph

McLaren 625C Spider Technical Specification:

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
EnginePS / rpm	625 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	610 / 3000-7000	Height (mm)	1199
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1376 / 3034
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell withAluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Cast Iron Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 370mm/R 350mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero™235/35 R19/Pirelli P Zero™305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

Performance Data:

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight – with lightweight options	466 PS (459 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.44 g/km per PS

Speed	Maximum speed	329 km/h (204 mph)

Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.1 s
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	9.0 s
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	27.7 s
	0-400m / ¼ mile	10.8s @134 mph

Source: McLaren

September 29, 2014

HOT: Vilner Reveals BMW Stormtrooper

One year ahead of the premiere of Star Wars 7, the new Stormtrooper is here. The next George Lucas movie will be released in theaters next year, but the Bulgarian studio Vilner has already warmed-up the premiere with its latest project – the Stormtrooper. When you see it you will immediately understand why it carries that name. With its sparkling white color and with power hidden in its forms, the car is reminiscent of the Imperial Army troops of Darth Vader. Unlike the numerous army of Lord Vader, BMW Stormtrooper by Vilner is unique and one-of-a-kind.

Stormtrooper by Vilner is the second big project of the design studio. Nearly a year ago, the team revealed the BMW Bullshark – E63 coupe. The Stormtrooper is the convertible version of Bullshark. Both machines are subject to the same design idea, but they are very different.

This time we have a real E64 M6, while the Bullshark relies on the mechanics of the E63 645i. The front and rear bonnets, bumpers, rear fenders, and all accessories for them are also different. Only the front fenders make an exception – they are all handmade and are single units.

Typical for studio Vilner, the color combination is again non-traditional. This time the tuning specialists rely on white and brown. An emphasis is made thanks to the addition of 20 inch black wheels. The designers have further beautified them with white stripe, so that they can remind us of the ion engines of the X-Wing fighters.

The coupe is covered with three-layer white pearl paint, while the hood is decided in brown. Just like the interior. There, Vilner has used antique nappa leather and brown Alcantara. The dashboard is warped, so that it can get a tinted brown carbon. Highlights on it are the mileage-meters which are in the same color. The seat belts and iDrive controller system are in sparkling white, as well as the back of the front seats.

The decorative elements of the exterior are decided in brown mat. It covers the kidney in the pre-radiator grille, the lips under the front bumper, the doorsteps and “gills” in the front fenders. The latter are functional openings which are involved in the aerodynamics of the car. Below the doorsteps an additional spoiler is added. Just like the Bullshark, the Stormtrooper uses BMW emblems as side indicators.

The headlights are built-in LED lights and have a black base, with the beds of the lighting “bulbs” painted white. The rear taillights also rely on LEDs and send us directly into fight scenes with Star Wars’ light-sabers. Vilner judged that the 500 hp (368 kW) of the V10 engine are completely enough and did not make any changes to the engine compartment.

September 26, 2014

Ferrari debuts 458 Speciale A spider

Ferrari has announced the upcoming debut of the 458 Speciale A spider at the upcoming Paris Motor Show (4-19 October 2014). The new car will be a celebration of the dazzling success of the various versions of the 458, a model that has collected an array of international motoring media awards and track victories, including category wins in classic endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring.

The Ferrari 458 Speciale A spider will be limited and only 499 cars will be built. The value of the vehicle is enhanced by the fact that the car includes the most powerful naturally-aspirated road-going V8 engine ever built by Ferrari with displacement of 4.5 liters. It delivers a massive 605 cv (135 cv/l specific power output) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque at 6000 rpm at the cost of just 275g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. This allows the car to reach 0-100 km (0-62 mph) in just 3.0 seconds and cover a Fiorano lap in 1’23”5. These results are also achieved thanks to the front and rear active aerodynamics, the rigid chassis that incorporates 10 aluminum alloys and Side Slip Angle Control (SSC) which guarantees unparalleled sporty driving in all conditions.

The new car will arrive in triple-layer yellow livery with a Blu Nart and Bianco Avus central stripe as well as five-spoke forged wheels in Grigio Corsa. As of now there’s no information on how much a single Ferrari 458 Speciale A will cost.

Source: Ferrari

September 26, 2014

Chevrolet presents 2015 Colorado Sport Concept

The US automaker Chevrolet has taken the opportunity to present the new 2015 Colorado Sport Concept at the on-going State Fair of Texas. Equipped with a few mountain bikes and gear enough for a weekend in the woods, the new 2015 Colorado Sport Concept clearly shows what it has been designed for.

“It’s not just mountain bikes, but just about any passion you can name, from kayaking, fishing, dirt bikes and more,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “It’s a truck for those who need the versatility of a pickup to support their work and lifestyle interests, but don’t need a full-size truck to do it.”

The new 2015 Colorado is a flexible vehicle as it comes in various versions including extended- and crew-cab models. The vehicle is powered by a few engines, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit that delivers 200 HP (147 KW) or a 3.6-liter V6 powerhouse. Chevrolet is proud with its 2015 Colorado engines as the third choice of a 2.5-liter V6 engine is the most fuel efficient in the segment with its 27 US MPG (8.7 liters per 100 km) highway fuel consumption. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is the most powerful in the same class with its 305 HP (224 kW).

In order to capture customer attention the new Colorado bets on accessories and comfort. The vehicle’s interior has been designed to meet the needs and expectations of modern mid-size truck customers. The cabin has been made extra quiet and it also offers features and functions common for automobiles and crossovers including Chevy MyLink with a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and segment-first applications of Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert. The back of the vehicle provides features that ease users such as an easy lift-and-lower tailgate and rear bumper assist steps for easier cargo loading – a feature not found in competitors’ vehicles. The vehicle also offers the innovative and adjustable GearOn^TM Accessory System that allows customers to stow larger items such as bikes and kayaks above the bed, leaving room for smaller gear, such as coolers and tents, inside the bed. The GearOn^TM System is at the heart of the Colorado Sport concept’s package of lifestyle and personalization accessories. The list of additional accessories includes assist steps, splash guards, tiered storage, a bike rack, a cargo divider, cargo rings, wheel lip moldings and more. The cost of added accessories can be factored into financing for the Colorado, and all vehicle accessories are covered by the new-vehicle warranty.

The new 2015 Colorado starts at USD 20,995 for a four-door extended cab model with a 200 HP (147 kW) 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Chevrolet supports Colorado owners with two years or 24,000 miles/38,000 km (whichever comes first) of scheduled maintenance.

Source: Chevrolet

September 26, 2014

Next Generation Renault Espace with Premiere in Paris

This year’s Paris Motor Show is just around the corner and automotive brands are competing in showing us teasers, pictures and scarce information of what we are to see there. Such is the case with Renault, which will be taking the wraps off the new 2015 Espace model. The company has currently revealed three pictures of the soon-to-be-revealed crossover and gave us some details around it.

As we can see the large, elegant and innovative crossover has a strong design and seductive appeal. It is based largely upon the concept car that was revealed one year ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show. 2015 Renault Espace keeps the 30-year long tradition of the product live alive, by offering a brightly-lit, comfortable and modular interior.

Espace will also charm the public in Paris with its fluid lines and occupant-friendly cabin and floating centre console. Renault said that it will offer the model in five- and seven-seat version. Both variants will feature ingenious interior modularity and huge attention to detail with regard to new car’s design.

The premiere of Espace will happen at company’s press conference at 11.00am on Thursday, October 2nd, on the Renault stand at the Paris Motor Show. However, we will all be able to see the event and be “virtually” there. The internet public will be able to access the on-line unveiling at www.crossover.renault.com.

Source: Renault

September 26, 2014

Mercedes-Benz IMSA S 63L 4M

Mercedes’ flagship limousine as given a more eccentric and aggressive appearance, along with tremendous power, making it even more elegant and sportier than before. The car’s front side now looks purer and IMSA’s aero package adds a dual front lip spoiler to the already AMG front. An automotive crbon fibre is integraded into all aerodynamic parts, making it seem extremely light, yet resistant material.Customers can get their vehicle with alloy wheels, which have genuine elegant look. In the S-class the come as 9.0J and 10.5J x 21-inch, 255/35R21 tyres at front side and 295/30R21 tyres at rear side. IMSA’s known finishing touched is the special aluminum coating.

Renewed ECU upgrades for the ignition, valve timing and boost pressures are introduced. All of these upgrades contribute to the 720 hp (536 kW) power and 1080 Nm (796 lb-ft) of torque output the car reaches.

IMSA is the best there is when it comes at combining technology and style.That customized luxurious limousine comes with a special interior design. Everyone’s taste and personality can be satisfied by IMSA, with limitless possibilities of colors and materials.

Additional features are the included carbon body parts: Front-lip for front bumper, upper lip for front lip along with Airintake front bumper left and Airintake front bumper right. New left and right sideskirts plus a rear-diffusor. An IMSA Exhaust tail-pipes placed on the left and right, covered in titanium-grey color. A nice aluminum Grill for Rear-diffusor is mounted as well.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 26, 2014

Ford Celebrates 5-millionth Ford F-Series Super Duty

Ford will celebrate the production of the 5-millionth Ford F-Series Super Duty next month. In the range of 15 years, Ford F-Series Super Duty pickup trucks as well as from F-250 to F-550 chassis cabs have been constructed in the assembly line at Kentucky Truck Plant. The latest 2015 Ford F-250 Super Duty King Ranch FX4 offers maximum horsepower and torque and gets the work done. In addition, its powertrain be as efficient as possible, thus operating at low costs.

The original 1999 Super Duty got the gasoline Triton 6.8-liter V10 engine, which produced 275 horsepower (202 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the 7.3-liter diesel engine produced 235 horsepower (173 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb.-ft.) of torque.

Today, Super Duty’s 6.2-liter gasoline V8 unit generates additional 110 horsepower to the figure of the 1999 V10, making a total of 385 horsepower (283 kW) and 549 Nm (405 lb.-ft.) of torque. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel supplies 440 horsepower (324 kW) and 1165 Nm (860 lb.-ft.) of torque. Despite the higher outputs, these engines are more fuel-efficient than the 1999 powertrains.

Both contemporary engines generate power through the efficient TorqShift six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission. In contrast, the transmission in the 1999 Super Duty trucks was a four-speed automatic and six-speed manual, with the latter one available only with the diesel. TorqShift transmission delivers live drive power takeoff, or PTO, to power auxiliary equipment such as snowplows, aerial lifts, tow truck lifts, cement mixers and dump trucks.

In addition, the Super Duty trucks are also famous for their capability. 1999 F-350 Super Duty pickup had a maximum tow capacity of 14,600 pounds. 2015 F-450 Super Duty pickup leads the way with a tow rating of 31,200 pounds. With its new tow rating, the 2015 F-450 has 40,400 pounds towing capacity.

Source: Ford

September 26, 2014

Category: Car Makes