Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • 2015 Dacia Duster Gets Styling Upgrades

    2015-Dacia-Duster-THUMBThe latest edition of the Dacia Duster has been enhanced and now benefits from a package of styling and trim upgrades. The range of 2015 Duster vehicles include two- and four-wheel-drive models that are based on three trim levels and two engines. The entry-level is called Access and it is driven by the 105 hp 1.6-litre 16-valve petrol engine. The mid-range trim is dubbed as Ambiance while the top-grade – Lauréate. Both they have a 107 hp (109 hp on 4×4 versions) 1.5-litre dCi 110 turbodiesel power unit.

    The new Dacia model gets a stylish chrome front grille made up of two layers of four small intakes surrounding brand’s logo. There are also ‘Duster’ branded roof bars, which are chromed on Lauréate models. At the back of the vehicle, a black tailgate trim with ‘Duster’ branding sits above the number plate. In addition, there are five new metallic colours offered for the model: Mercury, Khaki, Pearl Black, Slate Grey and Cinnamon.

    The Lauréate trims run on new Tyrol 16-inch alloy wheels and also features body-coloured door handles and dark metal door mirror casings. There is new upholstery and seats for every model. Access versions are finished in Hassium cloth, Ambiance in Osmium cloth and Lauréate in Rhodium cloth with ‘Duster’ lettering.In contrast with the top of the range trim, the highlights on Access model are 16-inch Eiger steel wheels, remote locking, a Thatcham-approved engine immobiliser, electric front windows, anti-lock brakes with Emergency Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control, a Tyre Pressure Monitor, four airbags, an ECO driving mode and gearshift indicator and a four-speed heating and ventilation system.

    Duster Access features standard body-coloured bumpers, black door handles and Duster-branded roof bars and bumpers. Glacier White is the sole colour, while the 4×4 version has a centre differential lock with 2WD, Auto and Lock modes. The next Ambiance version gets Matterhorn 16-inch steel wheels, satin chrome door handles, a chrome gearlever insert and instrument surrounds, a radio/CD player with AUX and USB sockets and Bluetooth, front foglights, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and a 60:40 split rear seat.

    Lauréate modelss add manual air conditioning, electric mirrors and rear windows, cruise control with a speed limiter, a seven-function trip computer, a glovebox light, a passenger vanity mirror and body coloured door handles, satin chrome Duster-branded roof bars, scuff plates and side sills. There are also standard piano black interior door handles, door and steering wheel inserts and centre console surround, a leather-covered steering wheel and map pockets in the front seat backs.

    2015 Dacia Duster Technical Details

    Model Power
    (hp @ rpm)
    Torque
    (Nm @ rpm)
    0-62mph
    (sec)
    Top speed
    (mph)
    Access 1.6 16V 105 4×2 105 @ 5750 148 @ 3750 11.5 104
    Access 1.6 16V 105 4×4 105 @ 5750 148 @ 3750 12.8 99
    Ambiance dCi 110 4×2 107 @ 4000 240 @ 1750 11.8 106
    Ambiance dCi 110 4×4 109 @ 4000 240 @ 1750 12.5 104
    Lauréate dCi 110 4×2 107 @ 4000 240 @ 1750 11.8 106
    Lauréate dCi 110 4×4 109 @ 4000 240 @ 1750 12.5 104
    Model MPG CO2 (g/km) BIK
    (band %)
    VED
    (band)
    Insurance
    group
    Access 1.6 16V 105 4×2 39.8 165 26% G 6E
    Access 1.6 16V 105 4×4 35.3 185 30% I 5E
    Ambiance dCi 110 4×2 56.5 130 22% D 10A
    Ambiance dCi 110 4×4 53.3 135 23% E 10A
    Lauréate dCi 110 4×2 56.5 130 22% D 11A
    Lauréate dCi 110 4×4 53.3 135 23% E 10A

    Source: Dacia

     

  • LUMMA Tuning Mercedes-Benz SLK R170

    LUMMA-Tuning-Mercedes-Benz-SLK-R170-tLUMMA-Tuning-Mercedes-Benz-SLK-R170-651Since the release of the series 170 , mercedez-benz introduced a brand new roadster model in 1996, the SLK ( sporty light and short). One of the spectacular technical features of the model is the Afaria folding roof which folds in just 25 seconds. This is the first Mercedez car delivered without a spare tire, instead tire fit is included. The SLK continues its path of success with a new look along with technological advances. The ESP(electronic stability program) along with 6 gear transmission.

    A lot of years have passed since then, yet the SLK R170 still looks like a modern car. LUMMA Tuning experts as well as i-move gmbh recently designed a new wide body kit which is known as ”Black Move“.Chassis is  “Bilstein” coilover suspension system.

    Equipped with an all new front spoiler bumper (aluminum grill inclusive) it gives the SLK R170 a fresh renewed look. The ride has a new motorsport look with its new tail bumper with integrated diffuser. The wide position of the small roadster is support by new front fenders which lead the aircurrent aside.The “Black Move” body kit also consists of: Tail apron bumper with diffuser (aluminum grill inclusive),Real wheel arch widenings  and side skirts.

    The exaust is “Angular LUMMA Tuning” tailpipe trims.A more economical alternative, the tail damper can be connected with the tailpipe. If you are one of those extreme motorsports enthusiasts, you can also get the parts in extremely lightweight carbon construction.

    Moreover, the LUMMA Tunning “Black Move” vehicle is equipped with light alloy set of wheels in 8,5 by 20 and 10 byt 20 inches. The tyre dimension is 235/30R20 as well as 285/25R20. A bilstein coilover ensures perfect positioning and cooperation between the wheel and tire combinations.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • MG3 Personalisation Design concept Unveiled at Superbrands London

    MG3-Personalisation-Design-Concept-THUMBMG3 Personalisation Design Concept was unveiled at Superbrands London as part of London Design Week. The car was created by MG Designer Louise Thorburn, who is a recent graduate with an honours degree in Textile Design. In fact, she is the latest addition to the MG Design team after completing two internships, one at MG and one at iconic shoe designer, Jimmy Choo, before returning to MG as Colour and Materials designer.

    The latest collection of MG3 personalisation graphics is dubbed Autumn Additions Collection. It will join the existing range of more than a million options that are now available in the MG3 range. Another interesting fact is that MG3 personalisation options have already achieved great success. Since the supermini has been launched last year, over 40 per cent of orders have included at least one specified design addition.

    Three new designs have been launched yesterday and they have been added to the online configurator of the company.  The MG3 has been launched in September last year, benefiting from great interior and boot space, superb leading chassis and driving dynamics and high levels of equipment on all specifications as standard.

    At Superbrands this year there are over 280 companies from 29 countries. They will be grouped into four ‘trends’: Raw, featuring exposed textures and revealed processes; Bold and Beautiful, exuding big colours and arresting visuals, Frame, with geometric and arrestingly simple design; and Refraction – optical effects and Pop Art stylings.

    The eight edition of the Superbrands event is currently running till 21st of September in central London. There the visitors will be able to see the very best in global contemporary design, witness more than 300 events and exhibitions.

    Source: MG

     

  • “Project: Top Secret!”, Special Exhibition at the Porsche Museum

    Porsche-Museum-Exhibition-tPorsche-Museum-Exhibition-651At the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, 16 genuine vehicles, will be demonstrated, the majority of which have never been shown to the public. The showcase is going to be presented from September 17, 2014 through January 11, 2015. The range of car models which are about to be presented are concept cars, experimental vehicles and unique record-breaking models.

    The large teams of engineers working at the Porsche Development Center in Weissach make sure that Porsche is always ahead of its competition. Porsche has a great arsenal of ideas and concept cars and the company often utilizes its plans in total secrecy, because, as we know excellent ideas are always copied by others. That’s why msot of the new concept cars never even leave the development center. But now at the special exhibition you can observe some of this great car concept designs, for the first time.

    With some car models, which date back to 1980, including the Porsche 959 aerodynamic prototype, the 928 Cabriolet and the Roadster Type 984 have never been shown before. You can also enjoy the prototype of the Porsche 965 high-performance sports car, powered by a water-cooled V-8 engine.

    You have the unique opportunity to view the “rolling chasis” of the 918 Spyder super sports car which is a technological advance in to the future. The “Project: Top Secret!” special exhibition features hybrid technology as well. One car model reveals Porsche’s most astonishing testing model range, a protype in camouflage Porshce Panamera. The Porsche 989 “family sports car” is also going to be presented at the exhibition. This model never went out of the experimental stage.
    Porsche-Museum-Exhibition-651-(2)Porsche-Museum-Exhibition-651-(3)

    Source: Porsche

  • Slayer- and Riley Hawk-Inspired Scions Teased Ahead of SEMA Reveal

    Scion-x-Slayer-Mobile-Amp-tC-THUMBSpecialty Equipment Manufacturers Association Show is approaching and some automobile companies have already released some visuals to teas the public. We are speaking here about Scion, which has released two sketches giving a sneak peek at a Riley Hawk- and Slayer-Inspired vehicles. Obviously the new customized SEMA-bound vehicles will be entirely inspired by metal, music and some serious skateboarding.  At the event, Scion will debut the Scion x Slayer Mobile Amp tC for heavy metal band Slayer and the Scion x Riley Hawk Skate Tour xB for pro skateboarder Riley Hawk.

    The metal band Slayer has a look, sound and approach all its own. This style is carried into the tC sports coupe’s exterior look and band-inspired details. Inside, the vehicle has been transformed into a multimedia machine with amps, towers of speakers, a custom mixer and a 32-inch monitor for media playback. The build process is lead by Mike Vu of MV DESIGNZ.

    The other car pays tribute to Hawk’s skateboarding career. His xB ride features high-end sound system, space for skateboards and classic orange and yellow striped paint job. Details like bubble windows, interior wood grain paneling, an 8-track player and requisite shag carpet make it a rolling, retro hangout spot. Scott Kanemura of KMA Productions is leading the built of this project.

    At the show, there are also three other vehicles, which will be joining the aforementioned duo. The trio will consist of FR-S sport coupes designed by partners as part of the 10th annual Scion Tuner Challenge. For those willing to see the Slayer tC and Skate Tour xB, there will be opportunities to do this at Scion events later in this year.

    Source: Scion 

  • Volkswagen GRC Beetle Debuts at Global Rallycross Series

    Andretti Rallycross Volkswagen Global Rallycross Beetle, or simply the GRC Beetle is currently under preparation for the seventh and eighth rounds of the 2014 Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship. The team at Andretti Rallycross will be racing at the Port of Los Angeles this weekend. In addition, it will also debut the exciting Global Rallycross Beetle that will also take part in tea’s 2015 Championship chase. This two-race event is a new challenge, being the only double header weekend in the 2014 season.

    The driver under the number No. 77 7UP Volkswagen will be Scott Speed. He is hoping of taking advantage of twice the number of championship points being on offer. Currently, after six rounds, he is third in points behind Nelson Piquet Jr. and Ken Block.

    In the driver championship Tanner Foust is in a close battle with Sverre Isachsen and Bucky Lasek for seventh position. He will be behind the wheel of the No. 34 Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen, which is now pushing for podium finishes in the last four races of the season and will also debut team’s new car.

    His Beetle is driven by Volkswagen‘s 1.6-liter four-cylinder TSI turbocharged and intercooled engine, which generates 544 horsepower (440 kW) and makes the Volkswagen very competitive. The Rockstar Energy Drink Beetle boasts unique appearance and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Citroen Divine DS Brand’s Future Presented At The Paris Motor Show

    Citroen-Divine-DS-tCitroen-Divine-DS-651

    The attention at the Paris motor show is prone to be turned at the DS Brand’s spectacular launch. Citroen is very serious about the DS brand being a stand-alone unit. The Divine DS represent a vision of the future for the DS brand. A compact four-door vehicle the Divine DS stands out due to its sensual looking exterior, but msotly due to the striking interior. The cabin design features a bold, high-tech layout with spectacular contrast, which introduces the hyper typish tehcnique, allowing customers to choose an interior trim that reflects their personality.

    While the german auto makers are engaged in battle to see how can make the best sports car out of a family hatchback, french care maker Citroen is having another goal at the perfect luxuty experience. The all-new DS Divine is making its debut at the Paris motor show. This is the first european car model launched since the PSA decided to turn citron and DS into separate car brands with different identities. You can deffinitely tell the Divine DS is in a totally different league from the likes of the the DS 3

    The Divine DS power comes from one of the most impressive engines PSA owns. The same one 1.6 litter turbo used by the Peugeot RCZ delivering up to 270 PS at 6,000 rpm, 243 lb feed from 1900 rpm. The DS’s 1.6 Liter THP turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine, developing 270 hp and a maximum torque of 330 Nm, 243 lb-ft between 1,900 and 5,500 rpm provides you with one pretty fast ride.

    Even though, it clearly borrows its headlights style, key highlights of the design, like the interior or the tailights take on the appearance of a multi-faceted service made up of small interlocking triangles. Another interesting feature is the laser technology used on the headlights. Inspired by the facelift DS3, the light signature at the front, maintains the principal of independent lead modules and features “Swarowski” crystal fabric at the base of each unit. The headlights combine sequental indicators with laser technology. They include two high-powered laser diodes per module, which are 50% more powerful than conventional LED lights. Equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels which have floating spokes.

    The interiror also boasts a new headliner design, inspired by three branches with jewel enctusted dashboard. The cabin features three interchangable interior ambiences, each with its own unique style that can be changed in just 15 minutes. These three different ambiences are called “mâle”, French for male, “Parisien chic”, were designed with the help of famous names, including embroidery and crystals from “Swarowski”

    The car is 4.21 meters long, 1.98 meters wide and 1.35 meters high, this makes it about the same length as the C4 hatchback, but a lot wider. Its proportions and well rounded rear quarters look like the Alfa Romeo Brera, it may look like the french car manufacturer is copying an Italian design but this nothing like that.

    The Paris Motor Show is going to be opened to the public on Saturday, 4 October 2014.

    Source: Citroen 

  • Peugeot Quartz Concept – Ultra-Athletic Crossover

    Peugeot has presented the interesting Quartz Hybrid Crossover Concept. The vehicle is expected to make its official public debut at the Paris Motor Show, next month. Peugeot Quartz Concept is designed to present the future imagination of the French manufacturer for the SUV models.

    Quartz boasts a set of enormous 23” alloy wheels as well as a huge body – 4.5 meters in length and 2.06 meters in width. It features composite structure and bonded body panels to save weight. Since the model doesn’t have B-pillars, it will be fitted with scissor doors, which will boost the concept’s presence.

    The engine is a 1.6 liter THP turbocharged petrol with 270HP (198 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) powering the rear wheels, while the front are powered by an electric motor – 115HP (85 kW) charged by a battery pack positioned into the floor of the vehicle. At the back there’s another 115HP (85 kW)electric motor for propulsion and battery charging.

    The Quartz offers an all-electric range of 50 km (31 miles). There is also a Road mode as well as Race mode unleashing the maximum power of the vehicle.

    The interior of the vehicle boasts i-Cockpit design with a small steering wheel with built-in controls for shifting gears as well as changing driving modes. There are four bucket seats for occupants and retractable harness.

    The Peugeot Quartz concept will be exhibited from 4th October at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

    Source: Peugeot

  • 2015 Volvo XC90 R-Design – Innovative and Sporty

    After the revealing of the all-new 2015 Volvo XC90, the manufacturer has presented the sporty version – R-Design. The trim level is available across all engine range and will be available to order from October, this year. The first deliveries are expected to start sometime during May, 2015.

    The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including modified front and rear bumpers, extended wheel arches, different exhaust set up, big alloy wheels and matt silver side mirrors. Other highlights include silver roof rails and some tweaks for the interior like new sport seats (front), sporty multi-functioning steering wheel with paddle-shifter and last, but not least – a new pedal set.

    There is also a new touchscreen – 12.3” fully graphical driver display. The driver display also features a unique R-Design theme. The heart of the all-new in-car control is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of Internet and cloud based products and services.

    “In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasise each of their distinctive individual personalities,” said Alain Visser, Vice President Sales Operations withing Marketing, Sales and Customer Service.

    The top-of-range model boasts a 2.0 liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder power unit as well as an electric motor at the front wheels. The combined output is impressive – 400HP (298 kW).

    Stay tuned for pricing and more specs.

    Source: Volvo

  • Ford Adds Surveillance Mode Technology to Police Interceptor Vehicles

    Ford is introducing to its 2014 Police Interceptor utility vehicles the surveillance mode technology. The award-winning mode was created with the goal to warn law enforcement officers of unexpected approaches from behind the vehicle. This exclusive feature will help protect law enforcement officers and military personnel around the globe. For this technology Ford has worked closely with InterMotive – a company based in Auburn, California, known for providing innovative vehicle control systems for various applications, including law enforcement.

    To go further into details, the surveillance mode technology utilizes the existing rearview camera and radar to detect a person approaching the vehicle from behind. Then, it automatically sounds a chime, rolls up the driver’s side window, lock all doors and flashes exterior lighting. The system can be also activated by the officer. In these cases it provides added situational awareness and a first line of defense from potential assailants.

    This technology is perfect for use, while officers write reports, monitor their in-car computer or radar and perform other tasks sitting in their vehicles. They will undoubtedly feel secure, because surveillance mode gives them an extra set of eyes to help protect against potential assailants.

    Another interesting fact around this technology is that it has earned the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executive’s Award. The award was presented at NOBLE’s 38th Annual Conference and Exhibition.

    Source: Ford 

  • BMW F32 435i And F06 Gran Coupé Dinan Performance & Springs

    Dinan-Performance-Tune-Bmw-F32-435i-tDinan-Performance-Tune-Bmw-F32-435i-651

    Dinan continues to design and supply us with even more outstanding car upgrades that provide extra speed, handling and high performance on the road.

    This time we have upgrades for the F32/F33/F36 435i, F30 335i, and F10 535i! We would not be able to cover the updates for all of the models, but here are several upgrades for their respective car models:

    For the F32 435i we have a Performance Spring Set, with which you can have by up to 50% increase in spring stiffness as well as Lowering the vehicle 1″ in both the front and the rear.

    Dinan’s Performance Spring set for the F32 435i now guarantees greater control over the body roll. Dinan lowers the BMW 435i by 1-inch in both the front and rear for more aggressive styling and improved suspension geometry. There is also reduced rear suspension compression under acceleration, giving your car a more controlled feel. Now, for high speed driving situation that require trust in your car’s abilities, Dinan offers a improved performance springs, which will also provide a sensible improvement in grip. Now there is excellent steering response to the driver which can be felt in both lower and higher speeds.

    Additional ride quality and handling kits are optional to choose from. For this kit includes especially tuned, progressive rate bump stops that maximize suspension travel on the lowered car for improved handling capabilities and ride quality.

    For the F06 M6 Gran Coupé you can have the “Coil-Over Suspension Kit”

    When running at higher speeds, the car has to be always at its best.  The Dinan Coil-Over Suspension insures that. With a lowered aggressive stance providing improved handling, high performance and comfort with amazing visual looks.Components are designed from 6061-T6 aluminum for appearance and corrosion protection.There are a lot of benefits in upgrading with Dinan’s performance coil-over suspension system, some of which include substantial reduction in body roll, spring rates are 15% stiffer for both front and rear, as well as designed to fit into the stock mounts for quiet operation.

    Dinan-Performance-Tune-BMW-F32-435i-651-(4)

    Moreover, up to 1.125″ of lowering is possible depending on tire clearance although .625″ drop is recommended to maintain ride quality. More improvements add:  threaded collars allow easy and precise front & rear vehicle height adjustments.  Dinan-spec progressive bump stops improve ride quality at lowered ride heights, components are machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and black anodized for a sporty appearance as well as corrosion protection and last but not least, Included suspension packers allow adjustment of bump-stop clearance to fine-tune handling and comfort.

    Dinantronics Performance Tuner for F30 335i & F10 535i (N55) (RWD & xDrive):

    Manufacture date after June 2013 (Electronic Wastegate). Before July 2013 already supported. Retail Price: D440-1602-ST1,Stage 1: $1999.00 with install time: 1.5 hrs

    BMW Factory Ratings: 300 HP (223 kW), 300 lb-ft torque (406 Nm), with Dinantronics Tuner (stage 1): 360 hp (228 kW), 392 lb-ft torque (531 Nm).

    Dinantronics Performance Tuner for F32/F33/F36 435i (N55) (RWD & xDrive), Retail Price: D440-1606-ST1, stage 1 $1999.00 with an install Time of 1.5 hrs. BMW Factory Ratings: 300 hp (223 kW), 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) torque but with Dinantronics Tuner (Stage 1): 360 hp (228 kW), 392 lb-ft (531 Nm) torque.

    Dinan-Performance-Tune-BMW-F32-435i-651(2) Dinan-Performance-Tune-BMW-F32-435i-651-(3) Dinan-Performance-Tune-BMW-F32-435i-651-(5)

    Source: Dinan

  • Ford Introduces 2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX

    2015-Ford-C-MAX-THUMBFord has revealed the updated for the 2015 model year C-MAX family range yesterday consisting of the duo C-MAX and Grand C-MAX. Both vehicle feature sleek exterior design, beautifully crafted interior with improved stowage ideas, and major fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions improvements. C-MAX is a five-seater, while the Grand C-MAX – seven-seater, and they come to offer superior comfort and refinement. The models will introduce advanced technology including Ford’s SYNC 2 voice-activated connectivity system.

    The C-MAX range uses Ford’s innovative twin sliding doors and “walk-through” seat design for greater convenience, space and flexibility, remain available. The family of vehicles is available in new exterior colours Red Rush and a stylish brown-grey color called Caribou. The front end of the car was restyled and features dynamic styling, featuring company’s distinctive inverted trapezoidal grille.

    Additionally, the sleeker, more chiselled front headlamps and more rectangular, elongated fog-lamps add to the bolder front end. At the back, we can see smoother and more sophisticated one-piece appearance. A compact tail lamp design rounds out the contemporary look. Both cars will be equipped with LED Daytime Running Lights, Bi-Xenon HID headlamps and Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System.

    Inside, the 2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX feature refined interiors. There is more intuitive layout and fewer controls and switches. The new black satin trim and chrome detailing contributes to a cleaner, modern look. There are also other higher quality trims across the entire range, a heated steering wheel, door-sill scuff plates and load-net fitting points behind both the first and second row seats.

    In terms of safety, the new Ford C-MAX family is equipped with advanced technologies such as the Ford’s Active Park Assist and Park-Out Assist. Ford has also improved its Active City Stop collision avoidance system, which utilizes sensors at the front of the vehicle. In the case of moving objects C-MAX will utilize Active Braking. Also new to the range is the Adaptive Cruise Control technology. It enables drivers to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even when that vehicle is travelling more slowly than the cruise speed. 

    2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX family powertrain line-up comprises of the new 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, delivering 120 hp (88 kW), the 100 hp (74 kW) and 125 hp (92 kW) versions of the multi-award winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. More importantly, Ford will feature for the first time as a standard its Auto-Start-Stop technology on EcoBoost petrol and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engines, in order to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions.

    2015 Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX will go on sale in the beginning of 2015.

    Source: Ford