Car Makes – Page 473 – Automobiles Review

2014 Renault Megane Hatch – Crash Test [video]

Euro NCAP has published a video with several crash tests with the new 2014 Renault Megane Hatch. As usual, the front impact takes place at 64 km/h (40 mph), and 40 % of the width of the car strike a deformable barrier. In the side impact, a mobile deformable barrier impacts the driver’s door at 50 km/h (31 mph). In the pole test, the vehicle is propelled sideways at 29 km/h (18 mph) into a rigid pole.

Euro NCAP has a new system, so the 2014 Megane Hatch get only three stars out of five in terms of overall safety.

The passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact. Renault showed that a similiar level of protection would be provided to occupants of different sizes and to those sat in different positions. In the side barrier test, the Megane Hatch scored maximum points with good protection of all body areas. In the more severe side pole impact, dummy readings of chest compression indicated marginal protection for that part of the body. The protection provided by the seat and head restraint against whiplash injuries was also marginal for the front seats and was rated as poor for the rear seats, based on a geometric assessment.

The front bumper provides good protection to pedestrians’s legs in all areas tested and scored maximum points. However, the protection offered by the front edge of the bonnet was predominantly poor. On the surface of the bonnet, protection offered to the head of a struck pedestrian was predominantly adequate but was poor along the bottom of the windscreen and on the stiff windscreen pillars.

Electronic stability control is standard equipment. A seatbelt reminder system is standard for the front and rear seats. The system for the front seats met Euro NCAP’s requirements. A driver-set speed limitation device is also standard equipment and met Euro NCAP’s requirements for systems of this type.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SotLkx0gz7A

Source: Euro NCAP

July 2, 2014

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat [video]

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is the most powerful muscle car leaving the factory. It will hit the market later this year and will demolish the rivalry. In fact, the 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat is a bit more powerful than Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4. Still, it is a “normal” everyday car, but with a huge racing potential.

2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 – 707HP (527 kW) and 880Nm (650 lb-ft) of torque. The company previously stated that the coupe will have over 600HP (447 kW), so we expected a bit over, not another 107HP. It is interesting that for the first time in Chrysler Group history, the all-new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine comes standard with two key fobs – red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full power and torque of the car, while the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output of just 500HP (368 kW).

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has been redesigned and totally re-engineered to be the most true-to-form muscle coupe on the market. It comes with some performance-enhancing technologies for the exterior and interior. There is also a new TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-new interior inspired by the classic 1971 Challenger.

The 2015 Dodge Challenger and Challenger SRTs are built at the Brampton, Ontario, Assembly Plant and will start arriving in Dodge dealerships in the third quarter of 2014.

Stay tuned for full specs and pricing!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fhnO95drbA

Source: Dodge

July 2, 2014

2016 Chevrolet Camaro To Get Four-Cylinder Engine

2016 Chevrolet Camaro will probably get some changes when compared to the current generation car. However, they won’t include design modifications, but rather some engine tweaks. There has been rumored that the new Chevy will be equipped as an option with four cylinder engine. These assumptions are based on the reports that the car will be lighter by several hundred pounds. Furthermore, the new 2016 Camaro will also grow on size, meaning that it won’t use anymore the short-wheelbase version of Alpha from the Cadillac ATS. It will be rather built on the long-wheelbase CTS.

In other words this will make the new Camaro 2.3 inches longer than the current generation. The overall length of the car is expected to be around 114.6 inches, and this means that it will be 7.5 inches longer than the 2015 Ford Mustang, but still shorter than the current Dodge Challenger.

The smaller, entry-level engine fitted to the coupe, is expected to be like the one used in the Cadillac ATS and CTS – the 2.0-liter turbocharged powertrain. This unit produces 272 horsepower (200 kW) and 400 Nm (295 pound-feet) of torque. Actually, most probably the car will be equipped with modified 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which we have seen in the new Mustang. This unit is capable of more than 305 hp (2205 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque.

Of course, there has been nothing said about discontinuation of the current 3.6-liter V-6 and 6.2-liter V-8 units. 2016 Chevrolet Camaro will make an official world debut in the beginning of 2015. It is expected to go on sale later that year.

July 1, 2014

Audi Launches 2014 RS6 Avant Plus?

2014 Audi RS6 Avant was unveiled back in December 2012. The standard engine of the car is downsized twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 TFSI which produces a peak output of 560 hp (412 kW) between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, and a constant 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. With this unit the car needs only 3.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. We have just understood from our colleagues at GTSpirit that Audi is planning to introduce to the market more powerful version of the 2014 Audi RS6 Avant.

According to them, a dealer based in the UK has leaked the official details about the updated model. The uprated RS6 Avant Plus will be powered by the same engine, however it will be boosted to deliver up to 600 hp (441 kW), which means a 40 hp.

Next to the engine modifications, the car will also get improvements in terms of agility and handling. Probably this will be achieved via weight-savings. Another exciting fact that has also leaked is that the new RS6 Avant Plus will be a full production model.

Of course, some cosmetic treatments are also expected to happen. For instance: badging and interior enhancements. Given that the information on the 2014 RS6 Avant Plus has already leaked, we think that the official details from Audi will be disclosed shortly.

Source: www.gtspirit.com

July 1, 2014

Citroen Reveals DS 3 DSign Noire By Benefit [VIDEO]

Citroen DS 3 DSign Noire by Benefit is a special edition vehicle which was designed in partnership with Benefit Cosmetics UK. It is the latest model from the collaboration of both brands and is currently available in Citroen’s dealerships. To celebrate the latest DS 3 the French automaker and the cosmetic company has teamed up for a ‘Fast and Fabulous’ race. Both cars and make-up were put through their paces by a team of Racers and Beauty Bloggers at the famous Silverstone circuit. The result of the race you can watch in the video below.

DS 3 DSign Noire by Benefit is powered by 1.2-litre VTi 82 manual powertrain. And in the midst of the city it features an exclusive design which makes it really stand out from the crowd. It runs on edgy 17” black “Bellone” alloy wheels that perfectly coordinate with the Perla Nera Black metallic bodywork. What makes it really unique is the eye-catching grey fishnet graphic roof design.

Futhermore, the black bodywork of the car is accentuated with Benefit Orange door mirrors and wheel centre caps. A ‘Gabbi’s head’ Benefit logo is featured in grey on the ‘shark fin’ B pillars as well as a rear Benefit badge.

Inside, it has sports seats plus finishing touches inspired by Benefit’s make-up products; for instance – the grey ‘Gabbi’s head’ logo on the gloss black dash board. Mistral ‘Akinen’ Alcantara and Mistral Cloth sports seats and bespoke black velour floor mats, finished with Benefit Orange piping and a Benefit logo, complete the interior.

Technology featured here includes LED Signature 3D effect rear tail lights, LED DRL’s with chrome front fog lights and grille, air conditioning and Connecting Box Bluetooth system with USB socket, HiFi System Audio Upgrade that adds a dashboard mounted acoustic speaker and integrated subwoofer in the boot.

Source: Citroen

July 1, 2014

2015 Toyota Yaris – Price and Specs

The new 2014 Toyota Yaris is now available to order with pricing starting from £10,995 for the entry level Active 3-door 1.0 VVT-I 5-speed manual model and goes up to £17,695 for the Excel 5-door 1.5 VVT-i Hybrid with CVT gearbox. The line-up offers more choice, more equipment options and a wealth of advanced features for on-board comfort, communications, safety and style.

There are four trim levels including Active and Icon as well as Sport and Excel. The Hybrid drivetrain can be specified in Icon and Excel versions. Each grade has its own character, differentiated by details such as the interior trim and materials and treatment of various interior and exterior elements, including the lower grille, wheels, seats, centre console and instrument panel.

The high equipment levels come with a leather steering wheel, air conditioning and the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system fitted as standard from Icon grade. Climate control air conditioning is standard for all Hybrid models and for Yaris Excel.

Ten exterior colours are available, including new Island Blue metallic and, exclusively for Hybrid models, Avantgarde Bronze.

Among the options list, you will find Toyota’s Skyview panoramic roof, LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and rear lamps, rear privacy glass and the Toyota touch 2 with Go multimedia system with navigation. Sport models can further be specified with vibrant Piri Piri red interior trim, including door panels, front seat upholstery inserts and soft-touch instrument panel.

UK grades and key features

ACTIVE	ICON adds	SPORT adds	EXCEL adds (to Icon)
Power front windows	15in alloy wheels	16in machined alloy wheels	16in silver alloy wheels
6-speaker audio system with USB and Aux-in	Projector headlights	LED daytime running lights	LED daytime running lights
7 airbags	Body colour-matched electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors and door handles	Rear LED lights	Rear LED lights
Tyre pressure monitor	Toyota Touch 2	DAB radio	DAB radio
Vehicle Stability Control and traction control	Rear-view camera	Rear privacy glass	Part-leather seats
	Air conditioning(climate control on Hybrid)	Rear spoiler	Cruise control
	Front fog lamps	Rear disc brakes	Rain-sensing wipers
	Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming	Option Packs: Protection, Style	Dusk-sensing headlights
	Leather steering wheel with audio and phone switches	Optional red Piri Piri interior trim	Climate control
	Option Packs: Protection, Style, Design		Option Packs: Protection, Appearance, Smart

UK Prices

The new 2014 Toyota Yaris is available to order now, with customer deliveries from August. On-the-road prices start at £10,995.

GRADE	BODY	ENGINE	TRANSMISSION	OTR PRICE
Active	3dr	1.0 VVT-i	5MT	£10,995
Active	5dr	1.0 VVT-i	5MT	£11,595
Icon	3dr	1.0 VVT-i	5MT	£12,745
Icon	5dr	1.0 VVT-i	5MT	£13,345
Icon	3dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£13,495
Icon	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£14.095
Icon	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	Multidrive S	£15,095
Icon	5dr	1.4 D-4D	6MT	£15,595
Icon	5dr	1.5 VVT-i Hybrid	CVT	£16,195
Sport	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£14,995
Sport	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	Multidrive S	£15,955
Excel	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£15,695
Excel	5dr	1.33 Dual VVT-i	Multidrive S	£16,695
Excel	5dr	1.5 VVT-i Hybrid	CVT	£17,695

Option prices

Design Pack	£350
Style Pack	£500
Protection Pack	£700
Smart Pack	£450
Appearance Pack	£750
Go navigation system	£650
Skyview roof	£550

Source: Toyota

July 1, 2014

KW 2014 Seat Leon Cupra – Adaptive DDC Coilovers

KW Automotive is now offering DDC plug&play coilovers specially developed for cars with electronic suspension damping. The KW plug&play kits work in perfect harmony with the OEM control.

The adaptive KW DDC suspension systems are compatible with a variety of cars with electronic damping control and the tuning specialists now offer a set for the ex- King of the Ring – 2014 Seat Leon Cupra 280.

The adaptive DCC suspension control (Dynamic Chassis Control) is an integral part of the standard equipment on selected “sports” Seat models such as the Leon Cupra and can be chosen as an option on the rest of the range.

“When installing the KW DDC coilovers, the original struts simply have to be replaced by the KW stainless steel coilovers”, commented KW Product Manager Johannes Wacker.

“Afterwards, each damper only has to be connected with the Seat on-board electronics via the compatible KW plug-in connection. It’s really easy!”, he added.

The KW DDC plug&play coilover kit uses dirt-resistant KW trapezoid thread on the stainless steel struts and on the rear axle height adjusters, meaning the Seat Leon can be varied in ground clearance by the millimeter. The German TÜV tested adjustment range allows a continuous lowering of 35 to 65 mm on both axles.

Source: KW

July 1, 2014

2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec – Road and Track Test

Autocar has published a full test drive of the new 2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec. The sports car has been driven on both public roads and a race track. Behind the steering wheel was the famous automotive journalist – Steve Sutcliffe. He determined whether this extra-special Godzilla is worth the additional cash. Speaking about “additional” cash, the price of GT-R Nismo is whopping £125,000.

2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo is powered by the well-known 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 – 600HP (441 kW) at 6,800RPM and 654Nm (481 kW) at 3,200RPM. The curb weight is 1,720 kg (3,792 lbs), so the power-to-weight ratio is 2.87 kg / hp. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and a top speed 311 km/h (193 mph). The engine is connected to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sending the power to a 4WD (four-wheel drive system).

The Nismo also comes with advanced aerodynamics generating additional 100kg of downforce at 300km/h (186mph) for exceptional road-behavior. The additional power and improved aerodynamics, the GT-R Nismo is able to complete a lap around Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 8.6 seconds. It holds the volume production car lap record, which the gold standard of high performance achievement.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imyb5jJicDI

Source: Autocar

July 1, 2014

ABT Sportsline Online Configurator

“None of our peers is able to provide such quality,” commented CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt about the new high-performance software, which completes the re-designed ABT Website. It now offers an online configurator featuring all tuning parts and showing the possible design of the modified vehicle.

The new ABT configurator includes all models by Audi, VW, Skoda and Seat. It boasts rotating and in 360° 3D. The user can change the basic car click by click and see what impact a new spoiler, a lower suspension setting or new wheels will have. There are also different options for the interior, paint finishes and other nice features. Of course, all pricing is included and is calculated as an overall cost.

“Every selectable component comes with a price tag. The costs of the TÜV entry, assembly or painting are also given,“ explained Hans-Jürgen Abt.

There are almost unlimited opportunities in modifying the chosen vehicle. There are so many parts to combine that you can be confused in a while. There are also all performance packages provided by the tuning company, which can be fitted to the selected model.

Undoubtedly, the new configurator by Abt will catch the attention of the users and they will pay a lot attention to it.

Source: Abt

July 1, 2014

Subaru WRX STI – Isle of Man – “Flat Out: The Full Lap” [videos]

Subaru has published two nice video clips of the new lap record at the Isle of Man TT Road Course. The 2015 WRX STI managed to stop the clock at 19 minutes and 26 seconds. It was driven by the British rally champion Mark Higgins.

Higgins finished the 60.82 km (37.8 miles) course with an average speed of 187.44 km/h (116.47 mph). The slashed over 30 seconds from the previous record of 19 minutes and 56.7 seconds with a 2010 WRX STI. The 2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine – 305HP (227 kW) and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel drive system.

“It was quite a lap we did today and I am really happy to have another record in the bank. The chassis on this new car is so much better it really allowed me to pick up time in each sector in the more technical parts of the course. I lost time on the second part of the track, overshooting my braking point at Sign Post corner. I actually hand-braked the turn in the end, so I feel we can definitely do better.”, said Higgins.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7gmbQ8KxM4

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNqNOC–7Pg

Source: Subaru

July 1, 2014

Avon ZZ5 Tyres – Best-in-Class in Wet Conditions

Avon has presented their ultra-high performance tyre – ZZ5, which is best-in-class in wet conditions. It has achieved an A grade for wet grip across all sizes in the range. The compound of the ZZ5 has been reformulated and now features a high-dispersion silica tread which provides exceptional wet grip, as well as better braking and rolling resistance, all without affecting wear levels.

Avon ZZ5 is designed and developed firmly with the driving enthusiast in mind. The tire was tested extensively on the roads and racetracks across Europe. It also benefits from Avon’s cutting-edge Optinoise technology, ensuring a quieter and smoother ride, while the tyre’s innovative mould shape provides crisp, predictable handling.

“Since the ZZ5 was launched, it has received rave reviews from customers. I’m excited to see us take this flagship UHP product a further step forward, with an A grade for wet grip across its entire fitment size range, providing the optimum in safety at a value for money price.”, commented Avon Tyres UK Sales Director, Jason Clarke.

The Avon ZZ5 is now available in sizes ranging from 17” to 19” rims and width from 205 to 275. Pricing is available upon request and orders can be made directly online or by the phone.

Source: Avon

July 1, 2014

The Third Best Cool Car Under $18000 – 2014 Kia Soul

The new urban hatchback 2014 Kia Soul was ranked by Kelley Blue Book’s (KBB). They ranked 10 of the coolest cars which cost under $18,000 in 2014. The editors put the new Soul at third place at the annual contest of the most stylish and new tech-savvy cars. Kia Soul offers a remarkable and funky design and has wide spectrum of available functions at the value of almost $14,700.

Compared with the previous model, the 2014 Soul is longer and wider and rides on a new more solid chassis. Some of the highlights include significant suspension upgrades and increased torque. These improvements make the 2014 Soul a snappy and movable companion in hard urban environments. It has a wide variety of technology gadgets like Sirius XM radio, Bluetooth and Pandora pre-loaded system into the head unit.

“The second generation Soul retains its iconic design but adds modern cues and premium features to enhance our brand’s value proposition,” commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, KMA.

“Clearly, these refinements have done nothing to diminish the Soul’s cool factor. In fact, the Soul’s funky persona, roomy cabin and increased cargo space have made it a runaway hit with consumers, and demand continues to climb”, he added.

“The Kia Soul you see here may look familiar, but it’s been totally redesigned for 2014,” commented Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB.

“Along with a new look, the second-gen Soul offers a higher level of refinement and even more cool features. Practicality has always been a Soul strong point, and remains a key part of the appeal”, he added.

The new 2014 Soul is now available on the market. There are three trim levels : Base, Plus and Exclaim. The editors of KBB informed that the 2014 Soul increase best-ever monthly sales result with more than 15,000 units sold in May.

Source: Kia

June 30, 2014

Category: Car Makes