Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Shelby Auctions Serial #1 Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT

    Shelby Auctions Serial #1 Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT Shelby American has announced that it will auction serial number one of the Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT. This will happen at this year’s Barrett-Jackson Reno-Tahoe auction, which will take place between 31st of July and 2nd of August in Reno, Nevada. The vehicle is an emblematic convertible muscle car that comes in black livery accented with red stripes. In particular, the sale of the car will happen on 1st of August in front of international audience. The car was made in 2008 and by Shelby, Barrett-Jackson and Ford, and the production of the vehicles was limited up to 100 units. They were badged and carry specific serial numbers, showing their uniqueness.

    As a matter of fact, the convertible was the first prototype for the Barrett-Jackson series Ford Shelby GT. It hides under its hood 4.6 liter Mustang GT engine, which in addition was refined. As a result it produces 319 hp (235 kW) with 447 Nm (330 lb-ft) of torque.

    The musclecar also includes an upgraded suspension. In other words this means that it features special springs, dampers, sway bars and 3.55 to 1 gear ratio rear end. Furthermore, the vehicle also features a Hurst shifter, hood scoop, hood pins, side scoops and special badging.

    A billet grill with Mustang pony, light bars on the convertibles and a Shaker 1000 stereo system are also there. Another interesting fact about the car that makes it even rarer is that it is the first of only ten convertibles equipped with manual transmission.

    Source: Shelby American

  • 2014 Skoda Octavia Scout [video]

    Skoda has unveiled more details about the 2014 Octavia Scout, which was exhibited at the  2014 Geneva Motor Show. The rugged Octavia Combi boasts a distinctive design as well as additional interior space and powerful engine range.

    2014 Skoda Octavia Scout is scheduled to hit the market – next month. It boasts a black plastic moulding for the front and the rear bumpers as well as the side skirts. The lower front panel has a silver off-road attachment, while the radiator grille has the distinctive Scout badge. Aluminium-like roof railings are available as an option and the Rough-Road package with additional underbody protection is a standard feature.

    The new Octavia Scout boasts a 171 mm ground clearance, which is 31 mm higher than the standard Octavia. The model comes with a set of 17” alloy wheels with 220/50 R17 tyres.

    The interior can be ordered in either a classic black or a black&brown color combination.The luggage compartment measures 610 liters with rear seats up and impressive 1,740 liters with rear seats folded down.

    The engine range includes a 2.0 liter TDI – 184HP (135 kW) in combination with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG) and an all-wheel drive. There is also a 2.0 liter TDI with 150HP (110 kW) and a 1.8 liter TSI – 180HP (132 kW), which is fitted with a 6-speed automatic DSG gearbox and consumes just 6.9 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km on combined cycle.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67qiBnSStPM

    Source: Skoda

  • Vorsteiner Shows Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG V-FF 101

    Vorsteiner-Mercedes-Benz-C63-AMG-V-FF-101-THUMBVorsteiner Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is impressive. Not only because of its superb 6.2-liter eight-cylinder V8 engine, but also because it sits on astounding new wheels an has some aero tweaks. But first, the engine produces 507 horsepower (420 kW) and 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the car effortlessly from 0 to 100 within 3.9 seconds. The car has an electronically-limited maximum speed of 250 mph.

    Vorsteiner’s program for this Mercedes Benz C63 AMG includes front add-on spoiler and vent louver covers. Of course, they were made of nothing else but carbon fiber. The same material was also utilized for the front hood grill, front fender grill cover and side skirt panels. The boot lid replacement with integrated spoiler wing as well as the rear vented diffuser is also carbon.

    The new side skirts with integrated vents for the rear brakes improve the cooling and the overall aerodynamics of the car. At the rear Vorsteiner not only added the aforementioned elements, but also there is also a quad sport exhaust system housed by a new redesigned diffuser.

    At last, Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG runs on the one-piece V-FF 101 Flow Forged wheels in Matte Black Finish. They come in size of 19×8.5 at the front and 19×10 at the rear, and are wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sports in 235/35/19 and 265/30/19 sizes.

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Lexus offers turbo or hybrid power in new 2015 NX crossover

    2015-Lexus-NX-200t_t

    Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of the acclaimed Japanese car maker Toyota, has presented the NX compact luxury utility crossover that has a rather tough task ahead of it – to capture market share for the company in the growing market segment of such vehicles.

    So far Lexus has presented two NX models only. The NX 200t comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine while the NX 300h is a hybrid model that brings the number of Lexus hybrid offerings to six, the most among luxury brands. As expected from the famous luxury car maker both models come with tons of new and advanced technology and a number of tech innovations that you will get to enjoy while driving a new Lexus NX vehicle.

    It is really hard to count all tech improvements that you will find in the new Lexus NX line but we will try to list them here anyway. To do so we will start with the company’s first ever turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. It comes with turbocharged ports and direct injection technology as well as an advanced valve control system that allows the engine to switch between Atkinson cycle and Otto cycle operation for more flexibility and improved fuel efficiency. Turbo lag has been minimized as well thanks to the implementation of a four-into-two exhaust manifold system that reduces pumping losses and eliminates exhaust gas interference. Thus the 2.0-liter gasoline engine produces 235 hp at 5600 rpm with 258 lb.-ft. of torque from 1650 – 4000 rpm. A balance shaft also enhances smoothness but there’s more to the engine – the integrated D-4S fuel injection system provides the optimal mixture of fuel and air to realize highly efficient rapid combustion at all times. In addition to that Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-iW) optimizes torque throughout the engine speed range.

    The NX 200t comes with Lexus’ proven all-weather drive (AWD) technology and Dynamic Torque Control for maximum fraction and cornering stability. This system constantly controls torque transfer between the front and the rear wheels by using sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, yaw rate and throttle angle. Depending on how you drive, the system uses front-wheel drive during normal cruising. When needed, though, it can automatically engage AWD through an electromagnetically controlled coupling that directs up to 50 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels. Dynamic Torque Control on the other hand helps the driver bring back the vehicle to the intended drive line.

    2015-Lexus-NX-300h-651

    Turning to the NX 300h we will see that the new luxury crossover comes with hybrid power and a finely-tuned 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter gasoline engine. This engine comes with some new technology inside so expect to find a water-to-oil cooler for the electric drive motor and a revised front drive reduction ratio that improves both fuel economy and hill climbing. The 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter engine is connected to the new P314 transmission that provides a kick-down function for greater acceleration performance and sequential shift for maximum power to be delivered on demand and increased engine braking when decelerating. Speaking of this the NX 300h comes with Lexus’ electronically controlled braking system, known as ECB-R in order to provide cooperative control of stopping power and regenerative braking while saving on vehicle weight.

    Every hybrid car comes with batteries and the Lexus NX 300h is not an exception. The luxury crossover has two batteries with each one weighing 44 lbs. They are located on each side of the rear seat, improving space efficiency and also center of gravity for enhanced car control.

    Although both models are different in many departments they also share quite a few common features. Thus they all come with an all-new sequential six-speed automatic transmission for achieving an ideal level of boost pressure for performance and fuel economy. The G-force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) system provides more spirited driving and automatically selects the optimum gear and downshift pattern in response to G force.

    The Lexus NX line will also treat you with MacPherson strut front suspension with high-rigidity components and low-friction moving parts. Low power consumption LEDs for front and rear lights boost the car energy efficiency while high-grade daytime running lamps (DRLs) create distinctive L-shaped light. Lexus also offers an entirely new color for the NX line – Eminent White that creates a metallic-like finish as well as five choices for interior trim, folding rear seats, power liftgate, premium audio technology and more.

    Right now it is not clear when you will be able to see the new Lexus NX line at a dealer near you but likely the new crossover will debut by the end of the year. No word on pricing either.

    Source: Lexus

  • Vauxhall Reveals Fourth-Generation Corsa

    2015-Vauxhall-Corsa-THUMB2015 Vauxhall Corsa is the fourth-generation of the famous model which has been just revealed. The company has also announced that the new Corsa will reach production later this year. It will offer enhanced driveability, efficiency, comfort and practicality, and will be perfect for urban driving due to its compact exterior dimensions and clever use of cabin space. Although the fourth-gen model is almost identical in length to the current model, it retains its space utilization for occupants. Many changes have been made, and in fact nearly every other element of its design and engineering has been changed.

    Precisely, every single body panel is new. The profile of the car has been overlaid with Brit Mark Adams’ sculptural design. It includes elements such as the ‘blade’ running across the lower door-sections. Inside, the new design can be seen on the instrument panel and dashboard.

    New engine is the 1.0-litre three-cylinder ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo. It will be available with either 90 hp (66 kW) or 115 hp (85 kW) outputs, each of which achieves 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque from 1,800rpm.

    A new version of Vauxhall’s 1.4 turbo engine will also be included in the engine range. It generates 100 hp (74 kW) and 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque. Two naturally-aspirated petrol engines: 1.2- and a 1.4-litre, have been revised and adapted for the new Corsa. Additionally, also improved is the 1.3 CDTi diesel engine. Each of the engines can be coupled with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

    In addition, the new Corsa features entirely redesigned chassis that rolling refinement, ride quality, precise handling and stability. As a matter of fact, the new chassis has no carry-over components from the current model and features new suspension components.

    The vehicle has 5 mm lower centre of gravity. This aids stability and roll characteristics. More taut and precise handling is ensured by the stiffer front sub-frame and new front suspension geometry that features new knuckle joints.

    Speed-sensitive electric power steering has been added and improvements have also been made to damper characteristics. The rear suspension has also been retuned. Furthermore, the new chassis is complemented by a wide range of driver safety systems that include: Hill Start Assist, Automatic Park Assist and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

    Stepping inside, one sees that almost every element of the interior has been redesigned. The newly-designed instrument panel is themed around horizontal lines. 2015 Corsa will be also available with IntelliLink that operates through a 7-inch colour touchscreen.

    Moreover, as a standard the car will include heated front seats, steering wheel and windscreen. It will also add soft-tone ambient lighting and a full-size panoramic roof. A wide range of new safety systems are also present. These include Side Blindspot Alert, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, bi-xenon lights and a rear-view camera.

    2015 Vauxhall Corsa’s additional details and full pricing will be disclosed later this year.

    Source: Vauxhall

  • 2015 Cadillac ATS Sedan – Officially Unveiled

    2015 Cadillac ATS Sedan - Front Angle

    Cadillac has officially unveiled the 2015 ATS Sedan coming with an acclaimed balance of performance and refinement, wrapped in a progressive expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science design philosophy.

    The exterior of 2015 ATS Sedan features a new front fascia with a revised grille. There are also two new colors in the range including Crystal White Tricoat and Dark Adriatic Blue Metallic. Other highlights include 17” alloy wheels fitted as standard and optional set of 18” rims.

    Bold lighting elements are a Cadillac signature feature and the ATS advances the tradition with available high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, light-emitting diode (LED) vertical light signature elements and Adaptive Forward Lighting. The Standard model features projector-beam halogen headlamps, while the HID headlamps and front vertical LED light signatures are included on all collections above the Standard model on Coupe, and on the Performance and Premium Collections for Sedan. Illuminated outside door handles on Performance and Premium Collections lend technologically advanced style and function. All models feature LED technology for the taillamps and rear-center stop lamp.

    The interior updates are minor, but some of the new features are revised upholstery and trim combinations as well as additional safety and convenience improvements. The car also gains Siri Eyes Free compatibility, Text Message Alerts function and a Teen Driver function. The options list includes Cadillac DockSpot which is an inductive charger which can recharge compatible smartphones.

    The engine range includes a 2.5 liter four-cylinder – 202HP (151 kW) and 259Nm (191 lb-ft) of torque; a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 272HP (203 kW) and 400Nm (203 kW) and a 3.6 liter V6 – 321HP (239 kW) and 373Nm (275 lb-ft).

    Source: Cadillac

  • Novitec Rosso Ferrari 458 Speciale – 636HP and 572Nm

    Novitec Rosso has revealed their latest tuning program for the powerful Ferrari 458 Speciale. The tuning company has already unveiled their version of 458 Italia and now it is turn to the most powerful version of the Italian supercar. The tuning package includes styling and performance upgrades as well as optimized aerodynamics.

    The exterior boasts a complete body kit including a new spoiler and splitter for the front bumper, modified rocker panels and carbon-fiber moldings with gill-shaped profile for the rear side windows.  There is also a new rear wing and a carbon fiber diffusor as well as new moldings for the exterior mirrors and the door triangles. All components are manufactured from carbon fiber, which guarantees high durability and low weight. Special air deflectors for the left and right air inlets on the rear side components were developed as part of the innovative aerodynamic-enhancement concept. To complete the striking exterior look, NOVITEC also offers additional carbon-fiber applications such as vent grilles or the fog lamp surround, roof skin and the hood also made of carbon fiber.

    Other highlights include as black tail lights, black turn signals and black auxiliary LED brake light. A set of enormous 21” Novitec Rosso NF4 forged rims are specially developed and fitted to the tuned 458 Speciale. They are fitted with high-performance Pirelli PZero tires of sizes 255/30 ZR 21 and 325/25 ZR 21.

    One of the most powerful naturally-aspirated engines in the world – the 4.5 liter V8 powering the 458 Speciale is boosted to spectacular 636HP (458 kW) at 9,250RPM and 572Nm (422 lb-ft) of torque at 5,550RPM. No words about acceleration 0-100 km/h, but it is under 3.0 seconds. The top speed is over 330 km/h (205 mph).

    Another nice feature is the hydraulic suspension system for the 458 Speciale. The front of the car can be raised by 40 mm at the push of a button in the cockpit to be able to drive over a curb or navigate a parking garage ramp. The front reverts to its original position at a second push of the button or automatically upon reaching a speed of 80 km/h. In addition, Novitec Rosso sport springs lower the ride height of the Spider by some 30 mm. Novitec Rosso sport stabilizer bars can deliver even more direct handling.

    Finally, the sports exhaust system consisting of two high-performance exhaust manifolds, sports catalysts and a rear muffler, not only deliver sensational sound, but a lot additional power. The system features two matte black-coated tailpipes with a diameter of 100 mm. The sports exhaust will be also available as a stand-alone option with a version with electronic sound management.

    Source: Novitec

  • Mitsubishi Adds SWB Barbarian To Shogun Line-Up

    Mitsubishi-Shogun-SWB-Barbarian-THUMB2014 Mitsubishi Shogun SWB Barbarian is the latest addition to the Shogun line-up. The SWB in the name of the car stands for short wheel base. The Barbarian edition is an example of the progressive evolution of company’s classic off-roading design philosophy. In addition, the vehicle combines four-wheel drive go-anywhere ability with bold and muscular styling. The Shogun has unique styling cues and it is instantly recognizable by its aggressive front grille. The latter incorporates a short front overhang, upright windscreen, strong high flanks, flared wheel-arches and rear-mounted spare wheel.

    SWB Barbarian sits above the Shogun Warrior and includes additional features. It runs on 20” gloss black / silver dual colour Le Mans alloy wheels, and can be ordered in one of the following four exterior colors: the metallic Eiger Grey and Cool Silver, the pearlescent Black Pearl and the solid Frost White.

    Inside, the new derivative includes L200 Barbarian style leather interior with carbon inserts, DAB digital radio, colour coded spare wheel cover and alloy pedal kit.

    The only engine on offer is the 3.2-litre diesel one. It produces 197 horsepower (147 kW) and 441 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. It can be coupled with a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.
    Performance:

    Engine type In line4 cylinder 16-valve DOHC common rail diesel engine, turbocharger with intercooler In line4 cylinder 16-valve DOHC common rail diesel engine, turbocharger with intercooler
    Fuel system Electronic common rail direct injection (DI-DC) Electronic common rail direct injection (DI-DC)
    Fuel type Diesel Diesel
    Displacement cc 3200 3200
    Bore/stroke mm 98.5 x 105 98.5 x 105
    Compression ratio 16.0 : 1 16.0 : 1
    Max. output kw (bhp) at rpm 147 (197) / 3800 147 (197) / 3800
    Max. torque Nm (lb.ft) at rpm 441 (325) 2000 441 (325) 2000
    Acceleration 0-62 mph secs 10.4 9.7
    Maximum speed mph (kph) 111 (180) 111 (180)
    Alternator V/A 12 – 130 12 – 130
    Battery (12v) type 80D26L 80D26L

    Emissions And Economy:

    Co2 emissions g/km 216 207
    Vehicle excise duty band K K
    Vehicle excise duty – 1st year fee £635 £635
    Emission compliance Oxidation catalytic converter + closed flow D.P.F Oxidation catalytic converter + closed flow D.P.F
    BIK tax band 2014/15 tax year 35% 35%
    Economy – urban lts/100km (mpg) 10.0(28.2) 9.5(29.7)
    Economy – extra urban lts/100km (mpg) 7.2(39.2) 6.9(40.9)
    Economy – combined lts/100km (mpg) 8.2(34.4) 7.8(36.2)

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo

    Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new Marco Polo Special Edition of the V-Class. It is a compact camper van that “sets new standards in perceived quality, stylish living and comfortable practicality”. It combines maximum practicality with design appeal and stylishness.

    The interior boasts unrivalled feel-good ambience, outstanding comfort and high quality of appointments reminiscent of an exclusive lounge. There are fabric or leather seats, yacht wood floor and porcelain-like surfaces. The model also features piano black trim elements, some metallic accents and LED interior lighting. Other features include a sink, a refrigerator and a kitchen with two gas burners. There is also a cupboard, a closet and adjustable folding tables.

    The best interior improvement are the two electrically adjustable rear seats, which can be transformed into a bed at a single push of a button. There is also a second bed described as a  high-quality foam mattress. It is situated in the pop-up roof compartment.

    The engine range includes 200 CDI model with 2.0 liter diesel – 136HP (100 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque. There is also a 220 CDI model – 2.0 liter diesel with 163HP (120 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. The top-of-range model produces 190HP (140 kW) and 440Nm (324 lb-ft).

    The Marco Polo Special Edition is expected to hit the market on 29th July. No words about pricing, yet.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Honda Launches 2014 Civic Black Edition

    2014-Honda-Civic-Black-Edition-THUMB2014 Honda Civic Black Edition has been launched only for the customers of United Kingdom. The new Civic model will be offered with either the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel or 1.8 i-VTEC petrol engines. Its styling combines a number of gloss black elements which lend the car dynamic and at the same time bold look. At the front and sides, we see black front and side skirts, while at the rear – there is a rear bumper garnish. These elements work together, thus contributing for a more aggressive profile.

    Furthermore, the car also features an aluminium badge with the Black Edition logo and gloss black roof spoiler which additionally highlights car’s dynamic shape. Even more – the bold look is rounded out by harmoniously integrated covers for the side mirrors, gloss black fuel lid cover and black alloy wheels.

    If the five-door hatchback is equipped with the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine, then it will deliver 120 hp (88 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). On the other hand, driven by the 1.8 i-VTEC powertrain, the power of the new Honda model is rated at 142 hp (104 kW) and 174 Nm (128 lb-ft).

    Of course, the diesel engine is more economically viable than the petrol one. It returns 78.5 mpg with CO2 emissions estimated at 94g/km. On the other hand, the petrol engine returns 46.3 mpg and has higher emissions at 145g/km.

    Source: Honda

  • Hummer H2 By Vilner Is Perfect For The Summer

    Hummer H2 By Vilner - Front AngleHummer H2 has been restyled by the luxury tuning specialists at Vilner. They have given almost full treatment to the entire interior, ranging from the seats, to the dashboard, steering wheel and doors, as well as the ceiling. As a consequence, the dull grey interior color gave way to the contrast combination of black and yellow leathers, including nappa, shagreen and Alcantara. As you can see, the decoration inside is achieved by contrasting yellow stitching and embroidery in the same color.

    The main theme of this Hummer H2 is the Chinese dragon, which is not considered evil in the Asian mythology. In fact, the Chinese dragon is a good creature that carries luck and wealth. According to ancient myths, the dragon is a symbol of man’s Jan nature, and thus it becomes a symbol of power, and it is even part of the emblem of the Chinese Han Dynasty.

    Outside the dragon in the H2 is created with black foil, while inside – on the ceiling, doors, seats, glove box, it was made via fine embroidery in yellow. In addition, the chrome grille on the hood features black leather handles also finished in yellow contrasting stitching.

    Furthermore, the seat belts are in yellow body color, the mileages are also yellow and their lightning is changed with LED diodes. Even the door pockets are wrapped in leather. At last, the giant Hummer H2 by Vilner rides on 26 inch wheels, which also adds to its attractiveness as a summer ride.

    Hummer H2 By Vilner - Interior

  • Skoda Celebrates 40 Years At Rally Bohemia With Two Special Fabia Super 2000s

    Two Skoda Fabia Super 2000 in 1974 race livery are getting prepared for the Rally Bohemia. This is where the company will celebrate its 40 years presence at the Rally Bohemia. The two vehicles that will race on the track are to carry the same livery as sported by the historic Skoda 180 RS and Skoda 200 RS rally cars. The cars will be driven by Jan Kopecký and Sepp Wiegand. Rally Bohemia will take place this weekend in the region around the city of Mladá Boleslav.

    In fact, it is exactly the 40th birthday of the historic Skoda 180 RS and 200 RS. The two spectacular rally cars raced for the first time in June 1974. Their debut came at the Rally Skoda; ad exactly 40 years later, the current Fabia Super 2000s will feature the same livery as theirs.

    180 RS and 200 RS are considered to be the founders of company’s successful RS history. Since 2000, the manufacturer has resurrected this tradition with RS versions for end user models.The RS stands for ‘Rally Sport’ and the fastest and most powerful production Octavia is Octavia RS.

    Rally Bohemia has not only a historic significance for Skoda, but also it is important to it in terms of the brand’s future motorsport activities. For the first time, the European Championship leader Esapekka Lappi will test the new 1.6-litre turbo engine for the new Fabia R5 under race conditions. R5 will be equipped with the aforementioned engine in accordance with FIA regulations. This is the car will be used for competition in the R5 category at international rallies as of 2015.

    Rally Bohemia will happen this weekend. There will be twelve special stages over an entire distance of exactly 150.66 kilometres. In fact, the Rally Bohemia is part of the International Czech Championship and Skoda is the main sponsor of the event.

    Source: Skoda