Car Makes – Page 529 – Automobiles Review

Hyundai Reveals Sonata’s First Interior Rendering

Yesterday Hyundai Motor Company showed us a shadowy teaser image of its brand new Sonata model. Today, the South Korea’s largest automaker is unveiling the first interior rendering of the car. The latter is scheduled to make an official debut in its home market in the end of March. Interestingly enough, Hyundai began receiving pre-orders for the midsize sedan since the first teaser was released (this means yesterday).

The debut of the model in the United States will be in April during the New York International Auto Show in April. This new Hyundai model is going to have a rear-drive, exude brand’s emblematic design language and therefore – impress with its “fluidic sculpture”.

As visible from yesterday’s render, the new Sonata will sport softer lines, aggressive hexagonal grille with a chrome surround and redesigned headlights. Speaking about today’s image, it is seeable that the interior if refined too. We can notice that it will be a two-tone interior.

Hyundai stated that high quality materials were used for ensuring occupants ultimate luxury experience. The car will be also equipped with the intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI) with a high-mounted infotainment screen, which is present in the current rendering.

More information about the model to be disclosed very soon. Stay tuned!

Source: Hyundai

March 6, 2014

2015 Jeep Renegade Introduced In Geneva

2015 Jeep Renegade is an expansion to brand’s lineup, representing a small SUV and retaining the adventurous lifestyle of Jeep. In short, the new model offers unique combination of great off-road capability, open-air freedom and convenience, nine-speed automatic transmission, on-road and off-road driving dynamics, fuel-efficient engines, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology.

The new model offers two of the most advanced and intelligent 4×4 systems in its class: Jeep Active Drive – a full-time 4×4 system, and Jeep Active Drive Low – a class-exclusive full-time 4×4 system with 20:1 crawl ratio. Both systems include brand’s Selec-Terrain system that offers five modes Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud and Rock.

The most off-road capability is secured by the Renegade Trailhawk 4×4 trim level, due to the following features: Standard Jeep Active Drive Low (20:1 crawl ratio), Selec-Terrain system with exclusive Rock mode, increased ride height 20 mm (0.8 inches), skid plates, and red front and rear tow hooks, 17-inch all-terrain tires, Hill-descent Control, up to 1,500 kg (3,300-lb.) towing capability with MultiJet II diesel engine and 907 kg (2,000-lb.) towing capability with 2.4-liter Tigershark engine, and more.

Inside, 2015 Renegade is precisely crafted to the tiniest detail, and includes innovative and high-quality color and material appointments, innovative technologies and clever storage features. The major surfaces such as the sculpted soft-touch instrument panel is intersected with bold functional elements like the passenger grab handle.

Furthermore, the new vehicle also offers open-air freedom with two available My Sky open-air roof systems. The honeycomb fiberglass polyurethane roof panels are lightweight and stow neatly in the rear cargo area.

The Jeep has an entirely independent suspension capable of up to 205 mm (8.1 inches) of wheel articulation and 220 mm (8.7 inches) of ground clearance (Trailhawk). Extensive use of advanced steels, composites and advanced computer-impact simulations enable the model to deliver great torsional stiffness.

What is more, Renegade is the first Jeep to be equipped with Koni’s frequency selective damping (FSD) front and rear strut system, which enables it to deliver road-holding and handling characteristics.

More importantly, the brand is offering here up to 16 powertrain combinations. Precisely, the engine options include: four MultiAir gasoline engine offerings, two MultiJet II diesel engine offerings, efficient and flex-fuel capable E.torQ engine, emissions and fuel-saving Stop&Start technology, nine-speed automatic transmission, two manual and one dual-dry clutch transmission (DDCT).

Segment-exclusive technologies are fitted withing the Renegde. These include the Uconnect Access, Uconnect touchscreen radio systems with 5.0-inch or 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, single or dual-turner, radio data system capability (RDS), digital audio broadcast (DAB), HD Radio, digital media broadcasting (DMB), SiriusXM Radio, SiriusXM Travel Link, SiriusXM Travel Link, USB port and auxiliary audio jack input; as well as large full-color instrument cluster display.

Exactly 70 advanced safety and security features were added in this car – as a standard or as an optional feature. Some of these include Forward Collision Warning-Plus and LaneSense Departure Warning-Plus, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and seven standard air bags.

2015 Jeep Renegade is currently making a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Jeep

March 5, 2014

2014 Geneva Motor Show: Nissan BladeGlider Concept

Nissan brought the BladeGlider Concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The interesting vehicle has been already presented at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show and now it is unveiled to the European audience.

The Nissan BladeGlider features a radical front narrow track layout, where the front is significantly narrower than the rear, creating a swept-wing profile when seen from directly above. It boasts sports car performance handling, braking and weight distribution.

The chassis is manufactured from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) ensuring maximum stiffness and lightweight.

The interior is designed for three passengers and the seats are in a triangular configuration with the driver centre-forward. There are special light and comfortable coverings with yellow fluorescent lines. The steering-wheel boasts futuristic design, while the instrumentation technology completes the glider-like outline. When the door is opened, the driver’s seat automatically slides allowing easier access to passenger seats.

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2014

Onyx Range Rover Sport San Marino – Sportier Than Ever

Onyx Range Rover Sport San Marino has it all: sports-stance, -drivability and –style. The reason or this is that the tuning enhancers at Onyx Concept have equipped the model with new upgrades to its exterior design. The result is obvious – more sporty and powerful look.

The V8 5.0-litre supercharged engine under the bonnet of this Range Rover has been reworked with full carbon and polycarbonate exterior styling package. A lot of carbon fiber has been used here in order to optimize the weight as well as to create an eye-catching visual effect with the pillars, mirrors, aero fins, diffusers and front air dams.

Onyx also has focused here in increasing the aero efficiency under the new power gained through stringent wind tunnel testing on every component. The exterior also sports front, rear, sides and bonnet that have all been upgraded. Moreover, the vehicle has a wider track and 25-mm lower ride height which defines how the upgrades help provide 12% more stable cornering.

Going inside the vehicle, we can see luxury treatment all-around. Range Rover Sport San Marino is wrapped in Nappa leather, in fact – one of the best in the world which have only been used for the most luxurious marques.

Source: ONYX

March 5, 2014

2014 Geneva Motor Show: Nissan GT-R Nismo

Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec has made its official European debut at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show. The super-powerful sports car comes with enhanced engine and aerodynamics.

The 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 now delivers 600HP (441 kW). Advanced aerodynamics generating additional 100kg of downforce at 300km/h (186mph) for exceptional road-holding.

2014 GT-R Nismo boasts uncompromising engineering and motorsports-inspired technologies to achieve new levels of power, speed and handling.

“With a 7:08.679 lap time, we can authoritatively say that the Nissan GT-R Nismo holds the volume production car lap record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, which is the gold standard of high performance achievement.”, said Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.

Engine

Under the hood, the 3.8-liter V6 engine benefits from the know-how that Nismo has gained from participating in such events as the world-renowned Nürburgring 24 hour race. Engine power has risen and is now rated at 600PS (441kw) and 481 lb ft (652 Nm) of torque.
New high-flow, large capacity turbochargers, which are used for GT3 racing, improve breathing, while optimized individual ignition timing control for each cylinder and upgraded fuel pump improve combustion.

Chassis

The springs and custom-developed Bilstein DampTronic dampers in the front and rear suspension are specially tuned to deliver exceptional grip levels and progressive handling response at the limit. Three suspension modes can be selected: Comfort, Normal and R, for circuit applications.
Exclusive Nismo tires – developed by Dunlop – exhibit outstanding grip and handling characteristics. Front: 255/40 ZRF20; rear 285/35 ZRF20.
Specially-developed links fitted to the front double wishbone suspension increase castor trail to optimize wheel position during high-G cornering and improve straight-line and cornering stability. Additionally, large high-rigidity bolts are used to increase stiffness of the wheel-hub attachment area.
To minimize body-roll during cornering and changes of direction, the Nissan GT-R Nismo features a 17.3 mm hollow rear anti-roll bar which raises roll stiffness while reducing weight.

Body construction

Increased rigidity in the bodyshell is achieved using adhesive bonding in addition to spot welding leading to precise suspension response under extreme load, the Nismo “factory tuned” enhancement.

2. Exterior design – Exclusive styling with improved aerodynamics

Using the latest Computational Fluid Dynamic simulation techniques to analyze airflow, Nismo has developed an aero package that improves road-holding, minimizes the negative impact of drag, while giving the car a menacing and muscular appearance.
Together, the front bumper, engine undercover strake and carbon rear spoiler increase downforce, lowering the center of gravity and generating an additional 100kg*1 (at 300km/h) compared to the freshly updated 2014 Nissan GT-R model. The car’s aerodynamic characteristics are tuned to ensure the downforce is equally spread front to rear at all speeds for progressive handling characteristics. A widened front bumper configuration and elongated yet tapered rear bumper design keep the drag to Cd 0.26, same with that of 2014 Nissan GT-R.
The Nissan GT-R Nismo will be available in four body colors: Brilliant White Pearl, Meteor Flake Pearl Black and Ultimate Metallic Silver. And unique to the GT-R Nismo model, a Dark Matte Grey^*3accentuates the car’s imposing exterior muscularity.
The GT-R Nismo’s black 6-spoke wheels are inspired by Nissan’s GT-R race car which races in the GT500 class in SUPER GT.

3. Interior

The Nissan GT-R Nismo cockpit inspires driver confidence through both its craftsmanship and optimized driving position.
Ergonomically sculpted carbon-fiber-backed reclining RECARO seats comfortably, yet firmly, support the driver and front-seat passenger.
Nismo racers influenced the design of the steering wheel which is dressed in Alcantara®, with three spokes, red center mark and red stitching to give the best combination of grip, feedback and comfort.
The combi meter has carbon-like finish, and tachometer features a red design. The meter hood is also dressed with Alcantara®.
Interior trim features include discreet red stitching on the seats, center console, door trim and steering wheel.

Source: Nissan

Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec has made its official European debut at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show. The super-powerful sports car comes with enhanced engine and aerodynamics.

The 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 now delivers 600HP (441 kW). Advanced aerodynamics generating additional 100kg of downforce at 300km/h (186mph) for exceptional road-holding.

2014 GT-R Nismo boasts uncompromising engineering and motorsports-inspired technologies to achieve new levels of power, speed and handling.

“With a 7:08.679 lap time, we can authoritatively say that the Nissan GT-R Nismo holds the volume production car lap record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, which is the gold standard of high performance achievement.”, said Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.

Check the full details below!

Engine

Under the hood, the 3.8-liter V6 engine benefits from the know-how that Nismo has gained from participating in such events as the world-renowned Nürburgring 24 hour race. Engine power has risen and is now rated at 600PS (441kw) and 481 lb ft (652 Nm) of torque.
New high-flow, large capacity turbochargers, which are used for GT3 racing, improve breathing, while optimized individual ignition timing control for each cylinder and upgraded fuel pump improve combustion.

Chassis

The springs and custom-developed Bilstein DampTronic dampers in the front and rear suspension are specially tuned to deliver exceptional grip levels and progressive handling response at the limit. Three suspension modes can be selected: Comfort, Normal and R, for circuit applications.
Exclusive Nismo tires – developed by Dunlop – exhibit outstanding grip and handling characteristics. Front: 255/40 ZRF20; rear 285/35 ZRF20.
Specially-developed links fitted to the front double wishbone suspension increase castor trail to optimize wheel position during high-G cornering and improve straight-line and cornering stability. Additionally, large high-rigidity bolts are used to increase stiffness of the wheel-hub attachment area.
To minimize body-roll during cornering and changes of direction, the Nissan GT-R Nismo features a 17.3 mm hollow rear anti-roll bar which raises roll stiffness while reducing weight.

Body construction

Increased rigidity in the bodyshell is achieved using adhesive bonding in addition to spot welding leading to precise suspension response under extreme load, the Nismo “factory tuned” enhancement.

2. Exterior design – Exclusive styling with improved aerodynamics

Using the latest Computational Fluid Dynamic simulation techniques to analyze airflow, Nismo has developed an aero package that improves road-holding, minimizes the negative impact of drag, while giving the car a menacing and muscular appearance.
Together, the front bumper, engine undercover strake and carbon rear spoiler increase downforce, lowering the center of gravity and generating an additional 100kg*1 (at 300km/h) compared to the freshly updated 2014 Nissan GT-R model. The car’s aerodynamic characteristics are tuned to ensure the downforce is equally spread front to rear at all speeds for progressive handling characteristics. A widened front bumper configuration and elongated yet tapered rear bumper design keep the drag to Cd 0.26, same with that of 2014 Nissan GT-R.
The Nissan GT-R Nismo will be available in four body colors: Brilliant White Pearl, Meteor Flake Pearl Black and Ultimate Metallic Silver. And unique to the GT-R Nismo model, a Dark Matte Grey^*3accentuates the car’s imposing exterior muscularity.
The GT-R Nismo’s black 6-spoke wheels are inspired by Nissan’s GT-R race car which races in the GT500 class in SUPER GT.

3. Interior

The Nissan GT-R Nismo cockpit inspires driver confidence through both its craftsmanship and optimized driving position.
Ergonomically sculpted carbon-fiber-backed reclining RECARO seats comfortably, yet firmly, support the driver and front-seat passenger.
Nismo racers influenced the design of the steering wheel which is dressed in Alcantara®, with three spokes, red center mark and red stitching to give the best combination of grip, feedback and comfort.
The combi meter has carbon-like finish, and tachometer features a red design. The meter hood is also dressed with Alcantara®.
Interior trim features include discreet red stitching on the seats, center console, door trim and steering wheel.

March 5, 2014

2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS – 218HP and 280Nm

Nissan has unveiled the Juke Nismo RS at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The updated model comes with minor styling upgrades, but there are a lot of performance goodies. The suspension is improved as well as the power, brakes and exhaust system.

First, the 1.6 liter DIG-T engine is boosted to 218HP (160 kW) and 280Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 18HP and 30Nm. For perfect traction, even the 2WD models can be ordered with a mechanical Limited Slip Differential on the driven front wheels.

An LSD is not required in four-wheel drive versions which have Torque Vectoring, Nissan’s Xtronic transmission and 250Nm of torque. Xtronic transmission models now feature standard fit steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts to control the eight-speed manual mode.

The performance gains are matched by an improved soundtrack with a retuned exhaust system providing a sportier engine note thanks to a large diameter muffler.

The suspension boasts strategic body strengthening to increase torsional stiffness. The brakes now includes 320mm front discs, while the rear discs are now ventilated. Revised spring and damper settings complete the chassis changes.

Some of the styling upgrades include red brake callipers and discreet ‘RS’ badging on the front and rear. There is also RS logo in the rev counter while a distinctive suede wrap covers the instrument binnacle. The final finishing touch inside is an unusual water print finish on the shift knob/paddle shifters and the central cluster.

The options list include special Recaro sports “bucket” seats, Xenon headlamps, Nissan’s Around View Monitor and Safety Shield which includes Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Moving Object Detection giving visual and audible warnings to avoid potential collisions.

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2014

2014 Geneva Motor Show: 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe

Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the all-new 2015 S-Class Coupe to audience at the 84^th Geneva Motor Show.

The CL-Class replacement boasts generous dimensions and a lot of interior space. It is 5,027mm long, 1,899m wide and 1,411mm tall, with a 2,495mm wheelbase. The elegant two-door coupe is one of the best looking vehicles that Mercedes-Benz has ever created. The model was previewed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and now it is practically production ready. 2015 S-Class Coupe is expected to hit the market in the second half of this year.

Initially only an S500 Coupe model will be available. It will be powered by a 4.7 liter V8 bi-turbo engine with 455HP (335 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft).

Some of the highlights include the recently announced MAGIC BODY CONTROL with curve tilting function and the optional headlights with 47 Swarovski crystals.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 5, 2014

2014 Geneva Motor Show: Opel Astra OPC Extreme

Opel is currently exhibiting the most powerful Astra called OPC Extreme at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The twin brother of Vauxhall Astra VXR Extreme comes with the same extremely powerful engine and an aggressive body kit.

The 2.0 liter turbocharged gasoline engine produces 300HP (225 kW). It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to an LSD (limited-slip differential) at the front wheels. 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. There is also a Brembo 6-piston brake system with 370mm front discs sitting behind the 19” alloy wheels fitted with specially developed 245/35 tires.

Other highlights include a lot of carbon fiber parts including front hood, front diffuser, bumper and spoiler as well as a carbon fiber roof. The result is -100kg (220 lbs) compared to the normal OPC.

The interior comes with a roll-bar, Recaro bucket seats, with six-point safety belts from Schroth and a carbon-fibre-reinforced, suede-covered steering wheel with fine yellow decorative stitching.

Source: Opel

March 5, 2014

Lexus To Reveal The New NX Crossover

Remember when last year Lexus revealed the LF-NX Compact Crossover at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show? Now, the company is surprising us with the great news that the car will go in production and will carry the name Lexus NX.

The NX Crossover will make a 2014 Beijing Motor Show debut in April, and will also make an entry to the growing segment of premium mid-size crossovers. It will be positioned below the RX in the Lexus product range. We are wondering whether there will be any differences between the concept and the production car.

LF-NX Compact Crossover Concept is the embodiment of city-compact premium crossovers. It is only 182.7 inches long and has a wheelbase of 106.3-inch. Its exterior is bold and offers more distinctive and sculpted styling, by offering a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille.

The aggressive appearance is further reinforced by vehicle’s wide front track, three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL). LF-NX concept is equipped with a full hybrid powertrain, and we are probably to see it also in the production version. Precisely, the full hybrid drive system includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine and a powerful electric motor.

Source: Lexus

March 5, 2014

Geneva World Premiere: Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer

At the 84th Geneva Motor Show the tuning specialists at AC Schnitzer are presenting their take on the Range Rover Sport 3.0L SD V6 Diesel. They have added to the vehicle an extensive range of technical and aesthetic enhancements.

The Range Rover got a complete facelift. In fact, the tuners have expanded the limits of the Range Rover Sport via a special performance kit that upgraded the production 215 kW / 292 hp / 600 Nm to a stunning 250 kW / 340 hp / 720 Nm.

And there are no worries in terms emissions. Despite the additional power, the CO2 gases stay the same. This means that the CO2 emissions per horsepower have fallen and this is due to the “Efficient Performance by AC Schnitzer”.

Furthermore, the exhaust gas flow of the Range Rover Sport is improved by the fitting of the AC Schnitzer twin silencer of stainless steel, with two “Sports Trim” tailpipes or with four “Sport“ tailpipes, which both come in right/left combination.

The height of the car has been lowered by up 30 or 35 mm via a lowering module. Then, aerodynamic elements were added. Example – the AC Schnitzer front and rear skirts with integrated rear diffuser.

Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer runs on Type VIII forged racing rims in size of 10.0J x 22 inch, or 10.5J x 23 inch, matched with the corresponding tyres in the dimensions of 275/40 R 22 or 305/30 R 23. At last, inside hasn’t been done much. One can find only AC Schnitzer key-holder and velour footmats.

Range Rover Sport by AC Schnitzer Characteristics:

Basic car: Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L SD V6 Diesel
Engine: AC Schnitzer performance upgrade for 3.0L SD V6 Diesel with 215 kW/292 HP to 250 kW/340 HP
AC Schnitzer engine optics
Exhaust: AC Schnitzer twin silencer, with two “Sports Trim” tailtrims in right / left combination or with “Sport” tailtrims in right / left combination
Suspension: AC Schnitzer suspension lowering module, lowering adjustable: 30 or 35 mm
Aerodynamics: AC Schnitzer front skirt, AC Schnitzer rear skirt with integrated diffuser
Interior: AC Schnitzer key holder
AC Schnitzer floor mats, velours
Wheel/Tyre Sets: Type VIII Racing Forged Wheels
- front 10,0J x 22″ offset 36,5 with tyres 275/40 R 22
- rear 10,0J x 22″ offset 36,5 with tyres 275/40 R 22
- front 10,5J x 23″ offset 34 with tyres 305/30 R 23
- rear 10,5J x 23″ offset 34 with tyres 305/30 R 23

Source: AC Schnitzer

March 5, 2014

At Last: Mazda HAZUMI Concept Officially Unveiled!

Mazda has finally unveiled its next-generation subcompact concept model, called Mazda HAZUMI. The official premiere of the car happened at the Geneva Motor Show, and so far we have seen many (unofficially) leaked images of it.

Mazda HAZUMI embodies the four key pillars of Mazda’s vehicle engineering; SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, KODO—Soul of Motion design, Mazda Proactive Safety, and next-generation car connectivity system MZD Connect.

In the new HAZUMI the essence of KODO has been captured in a compact body. The concept car is fitted with the newly developed 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine which delivers great fuel economy without making a compromise on performance. The unit was also shown at the show.

Furthermore, the car offers enhanced safety. Precisely, the car has raised driving position and better field of view, and is equipped with i-ACTIVSENSE safety features. All in all, the HAZUMI Concept points directly towards brand’s next generation B-segment car.

Mazda HAZUMI Concept main characteristics:

Body style	5-door hatchback
Seating capacity	4
Length x width x height (mm)	4,070 x 1,730 x 1,450
Wheelbase (mm)	2,585
Engine	SKYACTIV-D 1.5
Transmission	SKYACTIV-Drive (six-speed automatic)
Key auxiliary systems	i-stop (idle-stop system)i-ELOOP (brake energy regeneration system)
Tyres	215/45 R18
Wheel Size	18 x 8.0J

Source: Mazda

March 5, 2014

Hyundai Previews New Sonata [TEASER]

Hyundai has just released a shadowy teaser image showing the new Sonata. The car is going to be launch very soon in Korea later this year, where it will make its world debut. United States will see the car during the New York International Auto Show in April.

The upcoming mid-size sedan is going to have a rear-drive as brand’s Genesis, which was on display in Detroit. Of course, Hyundai retains it emblematic design language and continues to impress with the “fluidic sculpture”, which is visible even in this render.

The new Sonata will feature softer lines, aggressive hexagonal grille with a chrome surround and horizontal slats and redesigned headlights. The brand uses the term “Inner Force” to describe car’s design, which directs to the fact that the redesigned sedan is reborn with an evolved aesthetic force that stems from purpose and sophistication.

Inside, the interior was refined too. High quality materials were utilized in order to deliver the ultimate luxury. The new Sonata will be also equipped with the intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI) with a high-mounted infotainment screen.

In terms of safety, the car sports more high-strength steel and more structural reinforcements, seven airbags, and redesigned chassis for better protection. Unfortunately, Hyundai hasn’t released any information about the powertrains of the new Sonata or whether there will be ay updates.

Source: Hyundai

March 5, 2014

Category: Car Makes