Car Makes – Page 515 – Automobiles Review

BMW X5 eDrive Concept at 2014 New York Auto Show

BMW is going to exhibit a new version of X5 eDrive Concept at the 2014 New York Auto Show. The super-efficient SAV (sports activity vehicle) boasts an impressive fuel consumption and will actually go in production as an xDrive40e model.

BMW X5 eDrive Concept was unveiled in September, last year at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its more refined version will be showed in New York this month. The specs remain the same – a four-cylinder 2.0 liter BMW TwinPower Turbo engine with 245 HP (180 kW) and 540Nm (400 lb-ft) of torque working together with an electric motor that generates 95 HP (70 kW). The combined power is 272HP (200 kW) and the fuel consumption is just 3.8 liters / 100 km – 61.9 mpg US or 74.3 mpg UK.

The plug-in hybrid X5 has comes with minor upgrades including new roof rails and 21” alloy wheels fitted with low-resistance tires. There are three driving modes: intelligent hybrid, pure electric and a “save battery” mode. In pure-electric mode, the range of around 32 km (20 miles) at speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph).

The electric motor draws its power from a lithium-ion battery that can be charged from any domestic socket. The electrification of the powertrain under the umbrella of BMW eDrive enables BMW to unlock huge potential for reducing the fuel consumption and emissions of large models.

Source: BMW

April 4, 2014

Citroen DS5 LS-R Concept – 300HP and 400Nm

Citroen is going to exhibit the DS5 LS-R Concept at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. This will be the most powerful car in brand’s line-up. It comes with uprated four-cylinder engine and some nice goodies like big wheels, improved suspension and brakes. The DS5 LS-R concept car emphasises the dynamic character of the production version, highlighting the model’s athletic lines.

The 1.6 liter turbocharged engine now has 300HP (224 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Nothing is mentioned about the performance, but it will accelerate 0-100 km/h in around 6 seconds and the top speed is going to be 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The engine is connected to a sequential gearbox featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Other highlights include lowered ride height by 1 5 mm and reworked suspension, brake system and chassis in order to handle the additional power. The exterior boasts a number of carbon fiber elements. There is also a nice Carmine Red paint finish and carbon-colored 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires.

The interior features full leather and Alcantara upholstery, performance front seats, a lot of carbon fiber and Carmine Red inserts. The dashboard, seats, central armrest and upper door panels have received pearl top-stitching in Carmine Red.

The unveiling of DS 5LS R follows on from the DS3 Cabrio Racing and DS4 Racing concepts, as Citroën continues to push boundaries in performance, design and innovation.

The Beijing Motor Show takes place at the China International Exhibition Centre from April 20^th to 29^th.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2A-pqxBKhTs

Source: Citroen

April 4, 2014

2014 BMW M4 Convertible – Just Amazing

BMW has officially unveiled the all-new 2014 M4 Convertible, which is expected to make public debut at the 2014 New York Auto Show. The stylish coupe-cabriolet is powered by the same BMW M TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-six as its siblings. It also comes with exceptional exterior and interior and some nice innovative technologies.

The exterior boasts twin headlight arrangement with optional LED technology, distinctive twin-bar kidney grille with black painted bars, BMW M double-spoke wheels and the ///M logo all over the car. BMW M design features on display is the characteristic power dome on the hood and striking mirrors, with their suggested twin-stalk mounts, optimize the aerodynamics of the new BMW M4 Convertible.

The interior boasts a lot of sporty elements like M door sill finishers, an M driver’s footrest, M gearshift lever, M-design circular instruments with white graphics, M leather steering wheel with chrome trim, color contrast stitching and electroplated-look shift paddles (if the M-DCT gearbox is specified). There are also sport front seats taking visual inspiration from the bucket seats fitted in racing cars. The M logo, chrome trim and color contrast stitching are central elements of the cabin’s racing ambience.

The most important – a 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder engine with 430HP (317 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds with 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission and 4.4 seconds with the standard six-speed manual. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

Other highlights include Active M Differential, M compound brakes and an M-tuned electromechanical steering system.

Options include an Adaptive M suspension (with COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes) and M carbon ceramic brakes with gold-painted calipers.

2014 BMW M4 Convertible is expected to hit the market this summer.

Source: BMW

April 4, 2014

Ram Truck Introduces 2014 Heavy Duty Black Edition

2014 Ram Heavy Duty Black was revealed at the Atlanta International Auto Show. There it showed a combination of brute force and style. The new Ram is equipped with a choice of powertrains, both gas and diesel, and also offers a long list of features such as Cargo-view Camera, RamBox, manual transmission, link coil rear suspension as well as air suspension.

Featuring a Black package, the new Ram vehicle is characterized by its all-black exterior. Precisely, it features 20-inch black aluminum wheels, fog lamps and black grille surround with black horizontal inserts. Black front and rear bumpers and head badges on the grille and tailgate round out the appearance of the truck.

Ram removed all body-side badging, but offers the option of keeping them if the vehicle is ordered with a Cummins engine. For those trucks, only the diesel designation remains. A new powertrain has been added which is the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 gas engine. The latter delivers up to 410 horsepower (301 kW) and 581 Nm (429 lb.-ft.) of torque. Other engine options include the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 and the renowned 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6, generating 385 horsepower (283 kW) and 1152 Nm (850 lb.-ft.) of torque.

Furthermore, the Ram Heavy Duty Black package also boasts premium bi-functional halogen projector headlamps with black bezels, 15 amber LEDs for park/turn/position lamp and three amber LEDs for the side marker. The taillamps also offer black finishes and comprise of 15 red LEDs with three red LEDs for the side markers.

In the Black package are also included Parkview and Parksense technologies. 2014 Ram Heavy Duty Black is available in Ram 2500 and 3500 SRW, Crew Cab and Mega Cab, Big Horn/Lone Star and Laramie models with the choice of two- or four-wheel-drive. The pricing starts at $42,140 USD.

Source: Ram Truck

April 4, 2014

Lexus Teases NX Compact SUV Ahead Of Beijing Premiere

Lexus NX Compact SUV was announced to be introduced at the 2014 Beijing International Autoshow back in March. Back then we didn’t see any teaser of the car. However, Lexus corrected this today with the reveal of the first picture of its next vehicle that will enhance its luxury rage of cars. The model will be based on the LF-NX concept that debuted last year. In addition, the brand is promising that the NX will bring about striking design, advanced technologies and will carry the signature spindle grille in an SUV form.

The official premiere will happen at Lexus press-conference on 20th of Apri in the W3 Hall at the China International Exhibition Centre in Beijing. The new SUV will be positioned below the RX in the Lexus product range.

In 2013 we saw the debut of LF-NX Compact Crossover and it looked amazing. So we are currently wondering whether its production version will look much more different. The concept is only 182.7 inches long and has a wheelbase of 106.3-inch.

Its bold exterior boasted distinctive and sculpted styling, and featured the redesigned spindle grille of the brand. The aggressive design of the vehicle was additionally strengthened via the wide front track, three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Another fact that makes us wonder is whether the NX SUV will carry the same full hybrid powertrain as its concept sibling. In particular, the drive system includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine and a powerful electric motor.

Source: Lexus

April 4, 2014

Kia To Debut Multi-Purpose Vehicle In New York

Kia’s new midsize multi-purpose vehicle has just been teased with a first image. The picture above actually shows a lot of what we can expect to see at the 2014 New York International Auto Show in April, when the car will make an official debut. With this vehicle Kia aims to challenge the segment and offer a new interpretation of an eight-passenger car that will also appeal to the adventure seekers.

Except for this information, the brand didn’t disclose much more information. Making conclusions when looking at the teaser, we see that the vehicle really looks like a crossover. It has a large front grille and big headlights, typical for Kia’s range.

We are also wondering, whether this new multi-purpose vehicle will has something to do with Kia KV7 Concept that we have seen debuting at the Detroit Auto Show back in 2011. The KV7 got gullwing opening rear doors, swivel seating, minimalist dash and wood panel floor.

It is also rumored that the new car will be powered by Kia’s 2.2-liter diesel engine. We have to wait for some more time to get the clearer image. The brand promises to release more information in the weeks ahead, so stay tuned!

Source: Kia

April 4, 2014

Audi RS6 AS by HPerformance

HPerformance Audi RS6 AS is a car we must review. First of all, because it includes all of the benefits of the emblematic RS6; and secondly, because it has some enhancement features which makes it unique. Oh, we forgot to mention that its powertrain got also improved and now delivers even more power. All in all, the tuners at HPerformance, who are actually based in Germany, did great work.

In particular, this third generation Audi RS6 got transformed firstly in terms of weight. Its overall mass was reduced with around 200 lb. This of course contributes towards improved fuel consumption and enhanced acceleration capabilities.

Next, the tuners added HPerformance 70 mm double pipe exhaust system which includes two controllable exhaust valves. This exhaust can be operated pneumatically via an overpressure or via electric ways using MMI. The end effect is the great sound that comes out of the pipes.

Speaking about performance, the RS6 has under its hood an enhanced version of the standard 4.0 liters V8 biturbo 4×4 engine. After the boost via control device programming, the unit delivers 700 hp (515 kW) and 860 Nm (632 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to an eight speed automatic transmission. At last, this Audi has been equipped with a prototype of a carbon suction system.

Source: HPerformance

April 4, 2014

2014 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 Enters GT4 Challenge Series

2014 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is going to take part in brand’s GT4 Challenge series. The model is part of the latest three entries, headed into their first round at Watkins Glen. Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America is a seven-event, multi-round series. In it the vehicles compete on some of the finest road courses in the country. The racing event is owned and operated by TRG-AMR North America, and begins on 18th of May, while ending on 23rd of Novemer at Sebring International Raceway.

This weekend, Joel Segal tested the Vantage GT4 at the Thermal Club. The driver was so impressed by the car that he even purchased it with the aim to enter the racing competition with it. Aspiring competitors will drive the evocative Aston Martin GT4 Vantage cars they have acquired.

The vehicle is equipped with a 4.7-liter 400 plus horsepower (295 kW) V8 engine, coupled to a six-speed paddle-shifted gearbox. It also features adjustable suspension with track-tuned springs, shocks and antiroll bars, and Pirelli P-Zero tyres. In order to make it appropriate for competition, the designers at Aston Martin made it circa 650 pounds lighter than its road-legal sibling.

In addition, the GT4 also comes with an aerodynamic package, stripped cockpit and FIA-approved roll cage. The price of the model is approximately $200,000, depending on options the drivers chose.

2014 Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America Schedule:

May 16-18 Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, N.Y.
June 6-8 Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.
July 25-27 Circuit Mont-Tremblant, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Aug. 29-31 Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, Calif.
Sept. 12-14 Monticello Motor Club, Monticello, N.Y.
Oct. 10-12 Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis.
Nov. 21-23 Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Fla.

Source: Aston Martin

April 3, 2014

Mopar ’14 Dodge Challenger Sold Out

2014 Mopar Dodge Challenger Limited Edition has just been made available in the dealerships across the United States and has already been sold out. It took only one day for the new muscle car to vanish out from the market, with the total number of 100 examples sold. This makes the Mopar ’14 Challenger the rarest limited-production Dodge offered up to date.

This clearly demonstrates that Mopar-modified vehicles are preferred by customers who want to show out their individuality. This latest model in the line-up is based on the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker. Mopar’s personalizations offer two exterior color options and three Mopar Blue stripe options.

The car is equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, features unique Satin Black Shaker hood scoop, runs on 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps and has unique Black Vapor grille surround, a black fuel-filler door, a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler with Gloss Black “Mopar Design” badge and “Mopar” quarter-glass decals.

Inside, the model has been upgraded with premium leather seats including the Mopar Blue accent thread and Mopar Omega M logos embroidered on the seat backs. Also throughout the interior can be seen serialized instrument panel plaque, “Mopar” branded key fobs, a custom-crafted personalized owner’s kit and much more.

Furthermore customers can benefit from the following available features offered exclusively by Mopar: short-throw shifter, cat-back exhaust, performance suspension, lowering springs, Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS), performance badges, hood pin kit, car cover, door-sill guards, sequential taillight kit, premium floor mats or slush mats, chrome exhaust tip, fuel-filler door, wheel locks, interior trim bezel kit and Mopar Shaker hood.

Source: Dodge

April 3, 2014

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Celebrates 60th Anniversary

2014 Alfa Romeo Giulietta debuted back in September last year at the auto show in Frankfurt, Germany, but little did we know back then that this year the model is actually celebrating its 60th anniversary. 19th of April 1954 was an iconic date in Alfa Romeo’s history because at the 36th Turin Motor Show the legendary Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint was revealed to the eyes of world for the first time. By the end of the exhibition more than 700 orders had been taken.

In order to celebrate this success and the special anniversary, the company is entering on the market the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB Progression that is capable of generating 120 horsepower (88 kW). This special edition can be painted with a Special Lunar Pearl finish, which is the new color included in company’s range.

The range of Alfa Romeo Giulietta models has been extensively revised for this year and now feature more technology, including standard Uconnect touch-screen infotainment systems, new engines, redesigned seats and seat’s fabrics and leather upholsteries, new colors and improved standard specifications.

At the top of the range stands the Giulietta equipped with the new 2.0 liter JTDM 2 engine. The latter develops 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, and is equipped with the second-generation MultiJet injection system. This system enhances unit’s combustion in all operating conditions, thus delivering better fuel economy.

Source: Alfa-Romeo

April 3, 2014

2015 Acura RDX Goes On Sale In The US

2015 Acura RDX Crossover is currently going on sale across the United States. The SUV has been a sales hit, making its 22nd consecutive monthly sales record in February 2014. The model is equipped with 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission as a standard. The unit delivers an estimated 273 horsepower (201 kW). The vehicle can be optionally equipped with an all-wheel drive system.

RDX’s has been aerodynamically enhanced and includes Amplitude Reactive Dampers and motion adaptive electric power steering system. On the other hand, the interior has been crafted with wide range of interior materials and has been carefully insulated.

Standard features on the 2015 RDX include the following: leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, a power moonroof, 360-watt audio system, Pandora interface, Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, Active Noise Control system and a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera.

Those who are willing to get even more from their RDX can opt for the Technology Package, which brings about AcuraLink Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather, a GPS-linked solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system, Acura/ELS Surround®Premium Sound System, a power-actuated rear tailgate, projector beam headlights with Bi-Xenon HID bulbs and front fog lights.

Furthermore, a comprehensive array of technology features is also provided. They enhance the overall safety of the SUV. For instance, as a standard are featured the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control and a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Other key safety technologies include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, six airbags, active head restraints and front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system.

2015 Acura RDX Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP**	EPA***
RDX	$34,895	20/28/23
RDX with Technology Package	$38,595	20/28/23
RDX with AWD	$36,295	19/27/22
RDX with AWD and Technology Package	$39,995	19/27/22

Source: Acura

April 3, 2014

Mercedes SL 65 AMG Black Series vs Ferrari 458 Italia [video]

Dragtimesinfo has published an interesting drag race video with Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG R230 Black Series (stock) going against Ferrari 458 Italia (stock) and a tuned Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG Gorilla Racing with 700HP.

The SL 65 is powered by a 6.0 liter V12 Bi-Turbo with 670HP (493 kW) at 5,400RPM and 1,000Nm (740 lb-ft) of torque at 2,200RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.9 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.6 seconds with 202 km/h (126 mph).

Ferrari 458 Italia has a 4.5 liter naturally aspirated V8 – 570HP (419 kW) at 9,000RPM and 540Nm (399 lb-ft) at 6,000RPM. This means the incredible 127 HP/liter. The curb weight is 1,380kg, so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/hp. 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

The first start was between the 458 Italia and the SL 65 AMG. It was really intense and both cars were neck in neck during the whole 1 mile run. Still, the 458 Italia managed to win the race with 29.267 seconds with 283.7 km/h, while the SL 65 AMG needed 29.630 seconds with 295 km/h terminal speed. The ¼ mile times are 11.854 seconds and 12.074 seconds, respectively.

The second start is between the SL 65 AMG and the ML 63 AMG Gorilla Racing. Of course, the Roadster humiliated the big SUV. The SL 65 AMG crossed the finish line in 28.996 seconds with 298 km/h (which is more than enough to beat the Ferrari) and the ML 63 AMG in 30.142 seconds with 269 km/h.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFDKeH2PkzU

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

April 3, 2014

Category: Car Makes