Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Volvo V40 Cross Country Gets All-Wheel Drive

    Volvo-V40-Cross-Country-THUMBVolvo has announced that its V40 Cross Country will get an added capability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The Drive-E powertrain with a 245 hppetrol turbo T5 engine is currently being introduced for the V40 Cross Country. This combination of the Drive-E T5 unit with AWD will make the driving experience for customers more adventurous and they will get all the control they need in any road condition.

    The powertrain of the vehicle also delivers 245 hp (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the Swedish company is also adding the eight-speed automatic gearbox with optional paddles on the steering wheel for manual gear shifting.

    Furthermore, the model also shows impressive CO2 reductions. Since last year’s introduction of Volvo’s ground-breaking four-cylinder Drive-E engines, they have been praised for their unique ability to combine power and efficiency with a small footprint.

    The new powertrain has decreased emissions, rated at 149 g/km, when one compares it to the previous generation model. This figure is unmatched for instance by the Audi Q3 TFSI Quattro (179 g/km), the BMW X1 xDrive20i xLine auto (170 g/km) and the Mercedes-Benz B-class (SUV) 220 Sport 4MATIC DCT (156 g/km).

    Besides the engine upgrade, V40 Cross Country has also received various enhancements. New additions are the 19” Damara alloy wheel with grey diamond-cut rims. They not only offer extra comfort and off-road capability, but also less noise and added rim protection. There are also new exterior colour, called Power Blue, updated on-board infotainment and navigation system, Sensus Connect.

    Source: Volvo 

  • High-Strength Steel Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology Concept to Debut at SEMA

    2014-Chevrolet-Silverado-Toughnology-Concept-THUMB2014 Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology is a SEMA-bound concept which is built with high-strength steel that makes it lighter, stronger and more efficient than the conventional carbon steel vehicles. In addition, this concept also displays Silverado’s connectivity technologies such as the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The high-strength steel is pressed while still in molten form. In fact, it can be 30 percent lighter than the carbon steel that has the same strength. In addition, it also delivers great weight savings at a lower cost than aluminum. This also contributes towards better fuel efficiency and capability.

    Silverado 1500 which is powered by the EcotTec3 5.3L V-8 engine has an EPA fuel economy rated at 23 mpg on the highway. What is more, it offers a maximum trailering capacity of 11,200 pounds. As an option, Chevrolet is also offering the 6.2L V-8 engine equipped model as well as the new eight-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to them the Silverado’s trailering capacity increases to 12,000 pounds.

    For the construction of Silverado Toughnology the engineers have used nearly 67 % of the durable material. Precisely, it is utilized in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails and strategic sections on the interior structure. Furthermore, the ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody, which helps improve performance in crashes.

    The floor is made of roll-formed steel, which is also a lightweight material but more durable than the conventional stamped steel. Silverado also strategically uses aluminum in places such as the hood, thus saving 17 pounds over a conventional stamped steel hood.

    To go into details, this particular vehicle, called Toughnology concept has a stripped-down appearance. The paint job resembles the look of raw, unpainted steel and is accented with steel molecule graphics. The black painted hood is the only visible metal exterior component that isn’t steel.

    There are also additional black and chrome exterior accents and Chevrolet Accessory 22-inch wheels coupled with off-road tires. The special content includes Chevrolet Accessories grille insert, tubular assist steps, soft, folding tonneau cover, washable carpet bedliner, fender flares and tinted headlamp lenses.

    Other upgrades in terms of performance feature enhanced performance exhaust system and performance brakes. Under the hood there is a performance air intake system on its 5.3L engine which generates 355 horsepower (261 kW) and 519 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque.

    The interior of the Silverado Toughnology is the same as this of the LTZ trim. It features heated, leather-appointed bucket seats, rear-seat entertainment system, the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless phone-charging mat.

    Source: Chevrolet  

  • 2015 Toyota Tundra Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition

    2015-Toyota-Tundra-Bass-Pro-Shops-Off-Road-Edition-t2015-Toyota-Tundra-Bass-Pro-Shops-Off-Road-Edition-651

    By marking the partnership between by Toyota and Bass Pro Shops, Toyota introduced the new 2015 Toyota Tundra Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition at the 2014 State Fair of Texas. The Thundra range presents one of the highest US fulkl-size pick up truck parts content.

    The car is available in a wide range of colors, exclusively in silver with a 4×4 Crewmax SR5 arrangement, providing comfort and extra cargo space for various of outer equipment. The vehicle is capable of handling rough terrain while providing a comfortable drive at the same time. 2015 Toyota Tundra Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine reaching 381 hp (284 kW) with a six- speed automatic transmission. The car comes with a top-safety equipment as well, namley the “Toyota’s Star Safety System”, along wit unique braking technology, also This Toyota allows the comfort for drivers to fit in an ATV or a boat on their way for their destination with ease. Additionally, adding roughly around $1,000, customers can get their 2015 Toyota Tundra Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition with special outdoor gear including: ca,ping, fishing and hunting gear.The vehicle is hitting the market  in October 2014 in the United States. The 2015 Toyota has a price at $43,975.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Subaru Impreza gets new looks and technologies

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    One of the best selling auto brands in the past few months – Subaru – has presented the new 2015 Impreza. The new car comes with a number of improvements that touch all vehicle categories but the most new features can be found in the looks and the technologies used inside the car.

    Available as 4-door and 5-door models the new 2015 Impreza now comes with revised front styling with a new front bumper, grille and headlights that give it a closer kinship to the all-new 2015 Legacy. A new exterior mirror enhances aerodynamics, as does a low-profile trunk spoiler on 4-door models. The sedans also feature LEDs (light emitting diodes) for the center high mounted stoplight. Rides have also been made quieter thanks to the usage of additional sound deadening materials and thicker side glass windows with improved sealing. All models now have a standard Rear Vision Camera while the base 2.0i model has standard cruise control and a touch-screen infotainment system. Certain versions of the 2015 Impreza now feature integrated turn signals in the exterior mirrors and more. A major new feature of the 2015 Impreza is that it now joins the Legacy, Outback and Forester lines in offering the brand’s innovative EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning.

    On the inside the new 2015 Impreza has a new standard 6.2 infotainment system that is operated via a 6.2-inch multi-function touch screen display and single-touch gesture control. The system includes an AM/FM stereo and HD Radio, a Radio Data Broadcast system, a single-disc in-dash CD player, Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration with Aha Infotainment, Pandora and iHeart Radio, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, an iPod control capability and an iTunes Tagging capability, a USB port and an aux. input jack, and four speakers. The Impreza 2.0i Premium features the same system, but with six speakers.

    The 2015 Subaru Impreza is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine that delivers 148 HP (109 kW) of power at 6200 rpm and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine features a long-stroke configuration with 84 mm bore and 90 mm stroke for better low and mid-range torque. The camshafts are chain driven, reducing long-term servicing costs. Dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing optimizes torque performance and emissions. The BOXER engine can be connected to a 5-speed manual or the second generation, lighter and more compact version of the Lineartronic CVT that is now also offered in all 2015 Subaru models except the BRZ sports car. All Impreza models (5-speed and CVT) feature Incline Start Assist, which helps prevent the vehicle from rolling back when moving away from a stop on an incline. In addition to that all Imprezas with the CVT, except the base 2.0i, feature a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to control the transmission. In the base 2.0 models with the CVT, a driver-selectable Low shift mode can provide additional engine braking when traveling down a grade, to enhance vehicle control.

    Thanks to the new engine and the transmissions the new 2015 Impreza offers improved fuel economy of 28 US MPG city (8.4 liters per 100 km), 37 US MPG highway (6.4 liters per 100 km) and 31 US MPG combined (7.6 liters per 100 km) which is great mileage for an all-wheel drive car.

    The new car should be at a Subaru dealer near you in November 2014. Pricing is unknown.

    Source: Subaru

  • SPOFEC Rolls-Royce Ghost

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    There are a lot of brands in NOVITEC GROUP. Which are some of the most developed motor cars. The German SPOFEC GmbH now shows a new design range of customized Rolls-Royce vehicles that satisfy even the the most sophisticated taste for technology and style of its clients. The name “SPOFEC” is an abbreviation of the name of the hood decoration, the “Spirit of Ecstasy”.

    Carbon-ceramic braking system with vented discs measuring 405 x 30 and 395 x 38 millimeters provide high performance and optimize the stopping power, along with renewed suspension system. New masterpiece SPOFEC engeneered 6.6-liter 12 cylinder engine reaches 521 kW ( 709 hp) and maximum torque of 978 Nm (721 lb-ft). Peak torque increases from 780 Nm to 958 Nm.( 575 lb-ft to 706 lb-ft). The V-SPEC engine with an ex-factory power output of 442 kW (601 hp) can also be installed a SPOFEC N-TRONIC performance kit.  All new design compenents are designed with carbon fiber.The amazing 12-cylinder engine delivers increased performance and breathtaking power delivery, along with the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

    The luxury sedan now has an even more distinctive face, thanks to the SPOFEC front bumper. Its refined shape helps reducing negative lift on the axles at higher speeds.

    What better addition to the exterior than Tailor-made SPOFEC alloy wheels, which are available for various Rolls-Royce models. Wheels’ sizes are 9Jx22 at the front and 10.5Jx22 on the rear axle making full use of the available space below the wheel arches. SPOFEC’s components offer ceritfied safety. An unique outer look is shown by the black paint finish with polish surfaces.

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    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • MINI Cooper D 5-Door Hatchback

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    Before the new many first-ever five-door hatchback makes an official world debut at the Paris Motor Show 2014, the company decided to unveil their pricing strategy for the UK, the new model will start at £14,350 ($23,545), the company’s second-biggest market worldwide. Compared to the 3-door, the car with two extra doors is just £600 more expensive. A more than reasonable increase, considering the advantages you get. If you put the two cars side by side, you will notice the new model has a longer wheelbase and a bigger trunk. Those extra 72-mm in between the wheels, translate into more room in the back, critical for rear seat passengers.

    As for the technical specs, the exact same configurations are available. The range starting with the MINI one which is also the cheapest one, priced at at £14,350 ($23,545), with that kind of money you get a 12-liter 3-cylinder turbo-charged engine making 102 hp (76 kW) and a maxing torque of 133 lb-ft (180 Nm), more than enough for a car that weighs just over 1.2 tons. The MINI one D comes with a similar 12 liter 3-cylinder diesel engine making 95 hp (70 kW), and maximum torque power of 163 lb-ft (220 Nm) and better fuel consumption. But it’s more expensive, starting at £15,480 ($25,414). The Cooper comes with a new generation of 1.5 liter 3-cylinder engines. Depending on your choice, you can get a petrol or a diesel one. The petrol engines makes 136 hp (101 kW), 162 lb ft (219 Nm) of torque, while the Cooper D makes 116 hp (86 kW) , 200 lb-ft (271 Nm) of torque feed. Prices for the petrol model start at £15,900 ($26,096). While the more frugal choice is more expensive, starting at £17,050 ($27,974).

    The top tier models are the Cooper S and the Cooper SD. The SD will be using a new engine that will be making its first appearance on the MINI, its 2-liter 4-cylinder  turbocharged diesel making 170 hp (126 kW) , 266 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque.

    Source: MINI

  • Volkswagen Golf Gets Alltrack Specification

    Volkswagen-Golf-Alltrack-THUMBVolkswagen Golf Alltrack is the little sibling of Passat Alltrack. When the company debuted the latter, it closed the gap between the on-road and off-road worlds. As expected, the Golf Alltrack will make its European world premiere at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris next week. Some of the technical and visual highlights of the Golf Alltrack include a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, wheel arch mouldings and protective flared side sills as well as new bumpers.

    This four-wheel drive Golf will feature an engine range comprising of one brand-new 1.8 litre TSI 180 hp (132 kW) petrol engine and three diesel engines: the 1.6-litre TDI with 110 hp (81 kW), plus two 2.0-litre TDI engines with 150 hp (110 kW) and 184 hp (135 kW). The highest output units will transfer their power to the all-wheel drive system via a standard six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG).

    The permanent all-wheel drive 4MOTION is equipped with the latest generation Haldex coupling. It activates even before slip occurs and prevents almost all losses in traction thanks to a proactive control. In addition to the Haldex coupling which serves as a longitudinal lock, the new Volkswagen model features four-wheel EDS system. It operates as an electronic differential lock that is integrated in the ESC electronic stability control system.

    At the front and rear axles, the Golf Alltrack is also equipped with XDS. It enhances steering response by braking the wheels on the inside of a bend during fast driving. The off-road driving credentials of the car is additionally strengthened by the 20 mm higher ground clearance, “Offroad” driving profile and 4MOTION four-wheel drive system.

    Next, Volkswagen is offering a 1.8-litre TSI direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 180 hp from 4,500 rpm. It develops an impressive torque of 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) from a 1,350 rpm up to 4,500 rpm. This unit comes as a standard coupled with a six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG). The top speed is positioned at 135 mph, and the acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph is rated at 7.8 seconds. This contrasts to the economical fuel consumption figure of 41.5 mpg that equates to 158 g/km of CO2. 

    The entry-level engine to the Golf Alltrack range is the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp, which consumes just 60.1 mpg and emits only 124 g/km of CO2). The engine has a maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) available between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. This 1.6 TDI accelerates the Golf Alltrack to 62 mph in 12.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 116 mph.

    The second diesel engine in the range is the 2.0 TDI with 150 hp, which has a combined fuel consumption of just 57.6 mpg and CO2 of 127 g/km. It generates 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) available from a low 1,750 rpm up to 3,000 rpm. Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI has a top speed of 128 mph and accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in 8.9 seconds.

    At the top of the engine range sits the diesel 2.0 TDI unit with 184 hp.  Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI sets is the most powerful Golf ever in an Estate body. The maximum torque here is 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) available from 1,750 rpm up to 3,250 rpm. The engine also offers extremely sporty driving performance: 7.8 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 62 mph and 136 mph top speed. The Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI consumes just 55.4 mpg and emits only 134 g/km of CO2.

    Some of the exterior highlights of the model include black wheel arch mouldings, side sills painted in matt “Reflex Silver”, 17-inch “Valley” alloys which were designed specifically for the Volkswagen Alltrack models, door mirror caps painted in glossy “Reflex Silver”, an “Alltrack” badge on the wings, a chrome trim strip in matt color beneath the side windows and the “Silver” anodised roof rail.

    The front end of the new Golf Alltrack features a low-profile radiator grille crossbar in the upper front area that sports an aluminium look, chrome “Alltrack” badge, lower cooling air intake in the redesigned bumper, distinctive crossbar in “Reflex Silver” and underbody protection in “Reflex Silver” completes the lower section of the front end. At the back of the car we can see dark-red rear lights and redesigned bumper. 

    Inside, car’s interior styling includes leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shift lever, custom seat covers with the “Alltrack” badge on the backs of the front seats, accents in “Dark Magnesium” on the centre console and “Tracks” on the dashboard and interior door trim as well as ambient lights in the door trim. Other standard features included here are the automatic climate control (“Climatronic”), LED reading lights for the front and rear seats, lights in the front footwell areas, “Composition Touch” infotainment system, Driver Alert System and cruise control system.

    Available features include a chrome trim strip with “4MOTION” lettering on the centre console compartment lid, stainless steel door sill plates with “Alltrack” lettering and chrome accents for various switches and buttons.

    Volkswagen Golf Alltrack will go on sale in the summer of 2015.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • HPerformance Volkswagen Golf IV with 650hp in R32

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    HPerformance has spent years optimizing and applying its tunnings on Porsche and Volkswagen vehicles.Having gained a lot of experience in working with the RS, R and S models, its specialist have satisfied ever customer’s desire, no matter how bold or extraordinary it was.

    Recently the Hperformance team chose Golf IV R32 modified the crankshaft and the vehicle’s 3.2 liter engine capacity, reducing it turned it into 3.0 liters R32, or in other words, the R30. Although this led to lowered turning torque, rotation speed was increased a lot. The Precision-PT6235 turbocharger is the characteristic trademark inside the vehicle. That engine is equipped by Hperformance with radius rods so that they can prevent fraction of the genuine connecting rod.

    The brake system has been completely redone. The brake discs on the front axle have a diameter of 356×32 mm and on the rear axle is 304x28mm. A shock absorber Bilstein-(B) 16 is also installed, combined with H&R stabilizers. The engine compartment has a catch tank and a fuel pump so that access of fuel is ensured. Specifically develop by HPerformance; related piping system and boost inter-cooler are separate elements, which means that serial products are not included.

    The trunk is equipped with a carbon tube, fire extinguisher and unique upholstery are special Hperformance design. A electronic “Boost-controller” which is responsible for the cars output of 500-650 hp (372-484 kW), with a modification prince of 20.000 euros. Interior seats are manufactured by “Recaro” and are named “Pole position”.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • 2015 Saleen 302 Ford Mustang to Pump Out 640 Horsepower

    2015-saleen-302-mustang-THUMB2015 Saleen 302 Ford Mustang was shown for the first time with a single picture in the beginning of July. The response of course was resounding. Saleen team is now stating that they are working hard to bring the next vehicle in the lineup to life. Since this is the firs new Mustang model for almost 10 years, the company is expecting an exciting time for the Mustang community when the S302 premieres.

    As the official unveiling approaches, the customizing specialists have released the features and specifications for the 2015 Saleen 302 Mustang (the full list is featured in the gallery below). Next to the features and specifications data, the company has also released another image of the car, showing a profile view. It definitely gives an enhanced perspective on what we are to expect.

    But the most important question here probably is how much horsepower will this enhanced Ford Mustang produce. The standard production V8 engine is rated at 435 horsepower (320 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb-ft).  Saleen expects to make better these factory numbers and add 15 hp and 10 Nm, making a total of 450 hp (331 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb-ft) in naturally aspirated form.

    With the advantage of a supercharger, the pony car will pump out the numbers to 640 hp (471 kW) and 765 Nm (565 lb-ft). Either of the engines will be coupled with a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

    This Ford S302 will be offered in a convertible or a coupe form, and will come in three trim levels – White Label, Yellow Label and Black Label. The first one features the naturally aspirated engine, while the other two trims benefit from the supercharged unit.

    The White and Yellow trim also add upgrades like a new exhaust system and limited-slip differential, as well as improved suspension, heat extractor hood and rear wing. On the other hand, the Black gets center induction hood, side skirts, a new rear fascia integrated with the exhaust system. It also added more suspension upgrades, illuminated sill places, leather and Alcantara seats.

    Source: Saleen 

  • Cadillac CT6 is Brand-New and will Debut in Late 2015

    cadillac-c6-teaser-THUMBCadillac CT6 is a brand new model which will be positioned at the top of its range. Cadillac’s new and high technology “prestige sedan” will express an approach emphasizing a dynamic driving experience and advanced technology. The car will be launched in the last part of 2015, expanding company’s range. This actually means that it won’t replace any current product. CT6 will be positioned above today’s CTS and XTS product lines and is expected to join the elite group of top-class large luxury cars.

    The vehicle is currently in development. It is an RWD-oriented sedan, which utilizes advanced, lightweight materials and new body construction techniques to enhance fuel economy, driving dynamics and safety.

    In fact, this Cadillac is expected to be the lightest and most agile car in the class of large luxury sedans. It was also revealed that the model will feature some technology advancements that we have seen in the dynamic ATS and CTS product lines. Precisely, CT6 will employ a mixed material which combines the best and most efficient components optimized for each area of this new car.

    The model carries a name which is derived from CTS. The name also indicates a coming shift to a simplified naming convention for future Cadillac models. This means that familiar lettering like “CT” would be used for car models, with the number indicating the relative size and position of the cars in the hierarchy of company’s models.

    Cadillac CT6 will be built in Detroit at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. Its production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of next year.

    Source: Cadillac

  • Vilner Teases an Exceptional Project Dubbed BMW Stormtrooper

    Are you a fan of Star Wars movie series just like us? Well if the answer is positive than you will definitely greatly enjoy the latest project of the tuning specialists at Art Studio Vilner. And we are sure that this car will also appeal to those who aren’t familiar with the film saga. The customizing specialists have just sent us three exceptional photos of their BMW Stormtrooper. They have also disclosed that the official full reveal of the vehicle is soon to happen. Of course, the readers of automobilesreview.com will be privileged to be the first to see it.

    In fact, this is the second big project that the design atelier has embarked on. The Stormtrooper, as it has been dubbed by Vilner, is a cabrio version of the last year’s BMW Bullshark. After the transformation, the ex BMW M6 (Е64) Convertible looks like the stormtroopers – the white “soldiers” in the army of Dart Vader.

    Just like the BMW Bullshark, the machine was entirely restyled and refined by the designers and craftsmen of the Bulgarian studio. The result is that the team at Vilner has made some noticeable corrections to the donor car, which has also lot of differences with Bullshark.

    Source: Vilner 

  • 2015 Fiat 500e reaches US West Coast

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    The new all-electric 2015 Fiat 500e has become available on the US West Coast, Fiat has officially announced. The really new interesting fact is that now the 2015 Fiat 500e is available in the US state of Oregon, while before the electric car was sold only in California.

    “Bringing the Fiat 500e to Oregon gives more customers in this environmentally minded state the opportunity to enjoy the Italian style and engaging driving dynamics of the Fiat 500, but with zero tailpipe emissions,” said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC.

    “The Fiat 500e is attractive and fun. It remains a model that will, with a short test drive, convert people who hadn’t even thought about electric cars into EV enthusiasts,” said Bengt Halvorson, Drive Revolution Event Co-chair.

    The 2015 Fiat 500e features a redesigned center console, with a new cup holder design and an additional, conveniently located USB port that is fully functional and integrated with the radio. Two paint colors have been added for 2015 for a total of seven available exterior paint colors, including new Luce Blu (light blue with a pearl finish) and Celeste (light blue).

    The new car is now available in both Oregon and California for USD 199 per month for 36 months and USD 999 at signing. This past summer the vehicle was named the “Top Electric Vehicle” for a second consecutive year at the Northwest Automotive Press Association’s Drive Revolution, which is an annual alternative-fuel vehicle event in Portland.

    Source: Fiat