Car Makes – Page 537 – Automobiles Review

Mazda Upgrades CX-5 Model Line For 2014

2014 Mazda CX-5 SUV is getting some upgrades for the new model year. The updated model will feature the innovative fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology, and a wide range of interior and exterior refinements.

There are two new exterior paint finishes being offered for MY2014 – the Blue Reflex Mica and Deep Crystal Blue Mica. The revised exterior will also include an updated suspension with re-tuned dampers, bushes and stabilizers. This will contribute towards the improvement of driving dynamics by delivering increased ride comfort and reduced noise, vibration and harshness.

In terms of engines, there is a choice of 165 hp petrol one or 150/175 hp diesel ones. They can be mated to six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. 2014 CX-5 is offered in three trim levels -SE-L, SE-L Lux and Sport, with or without Nav. It also features 2-wheel drive (2WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

Precisely, when the CX-5 is fitted with the 175 hp powertrain, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds; its fuel economy is rated at 61.4 mpg, while the emissions – at 119g/km. When the car is equipped with a manual transmission it features new clutch restart system.

This system allows engine restart by depressing the clutch, without the need to push the engine start/stop button. On the other hand, the automatic transmission models are equipped with straight-shift gate.

SE-L Lux and Sport trims come with additional standard features: memory function for the powered driver’s seat and a 6-way powered passenger seat as standard. The interior is wrapped in Black leather all-around as a standard, while there is also available Light Stone leather.

Source: Mazda

February 17, 2014

McLaren 650S Leaks Out [IMAGES]

McLaren 650S - Front The images and details of the upcoming McLaren 650S has leaked out ahead of the official reveal of the model which will happen in the beginning of March in Geneva. Last week the brand has released a teaser of the car and very scarce details around it.

It was said that the 650S will be positioned between 12C and P1. The name of the car hints at its power – 650S delivers 650 hp (478 kW) from its twin-turbo V8 3.8-liter engine – the same that powers the 12C and P1.

McLaren 650S will also sport a black interior featuring yellow stitching, a lot of carbon fiber and soft-surfaces. In addition to this, it was also unveiled that the 650S will be equipped with enhanced suspension, aerodynamics, brakes, transmission and tires in order to match its specific characteristics.

In summary, when one takes a look at the photos of the model definitely sees a combination of P1 and 12C. In fact, it seem like the 650S have “stolen” the front fascia from P1, while the back – from the 12C.

McLaren 650S - Side Angle

McLaren 650S - Rear Angle

McLaren 650S - Front Angle

McLaren 650S - Rear Angle View

McLaren 650S - Side

McLaren 650S - Interior

February 17, 2014

2014 BMW X5 – ///M Performance Parts

BMW US will present the new range of ///M Performance parts for the 2014 X5 Sports Activity Vehicle. The 3^rd generation of BMW X5 was presented in the end of last year and at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, the manufacturer will offer full complement of ///M Performance Parts for it.

BMW M Performance Parts are accessories now available for a wide variety of current models that enable the enthusiast to tailor their BMW to their individual tastes with a sporty, track-inspired character.

The exterior boasts carbon fiber mirror caps, front splitter, rear diffuser and rear aero flaps. A rear spoiler, high-gloss black kidney grilles and M Performance rocker panel decals are also available. Double-spoke 21” wheels with performance tires complete the aggressive look.

The interior also comes with a lot of carbon fiber parts and an Alcantara steering wheel as well as a set of stainless steel pedals.

BMW also offers ///M Performance Power Kit for the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six in the X5 xDrive35i – additional 20HP (15 kW) and 43Nm (32 lb-ft) of torque. The kit also provides sharper throttle calibration for a more direct connection with the accelerator pedal. The available M Performance Exhaust, available with chrome exhaust tips, provides the perfect complement to the increased power.

Last, but not least is the enhanced stopping power provided by the ///M Performance Brake Kit including 6-piston calipers with 19” brake discs taken from the previous generation X5M.

Source: BMW

February 14, 2014

Audi To Build 50 Camouflaged Jon Olsson Editions [VIDEO]

Two weeks ago we have introduced to you an exclusive vehicle, which is driven by one of the world’s top free-ride skiers. And if you have already guessed it, we are speaking about Jon Olsson and his incredibly charming Audi RS6 Avant.

Obviously, after the reveal of the vehicle there was a demand by customers to make the car limited edition production model, and so did Audi do. However, not in the form of RS6 Avant, but in Audi A4 Avant Quattro’s form.

The full name of the car is Jon Olsson Audi A4 Avant Quattro Camo Edition and of course it will come camouflaged as its sibling. The vehicle will be produced in only 50 examples and will be equipped with A4 Avant’s 2.0 TDi engine. The latter generates produces 177 horsepower (130 kW).

To go further into details, Jon Olsson Camo Edition will include cruise control, trip computer, multifunction sports steering wheel, Radio Concert, Audi sound system, Bluetooth, sport seats, Xenon plus lights. Other highlights in this limited edition are the 18 inch alloy wheel, S Line exterior package, 19 inch aluminium wheel tires, roofbox, load frames, stripe, hitch and sports suspension.

httpv://youtu.be/OIs9Nf9yNhA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jon Olsson

February 14, 2014

Zenvo ST1 To Make Debut In Geneva

Six years ago a new supercar was introduced to the market, namely the Zenvo ST1. The Danish manufacturer aimed back then to make one of the most exclusive and powerful cars globally and it did!

The car was equipped with turbocharged 7.0 liter V8 engine which produced 1104 hp (810kW) and 1055 lb-ft (1430 Nm) of maximum torque. These figures speak of only exhilarating performance. The acceleration time here for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is 3.0 seconds, while the top speed is 375 km/h.

Furthermore, the car was “eco-friendly” because it used both regular gasoline and E85 bio-ethanol fuel. But were these details enough for the super-high price tag of $1.8 million dollars? A point of defense here is that the supercar was hand-built and in addition was produced in super limited run of only 15 examples.

Unfortunately, since the introduction of the model we haven’t heard much from Zenvo. Until now. The brand came out of the dark and disclosed that the ST1 hypercar will be making its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show. We are not sure however, will the car at the show have any enhancements or any differences to the initial model. Obviously, we have to wait few more weeks to make it clear.

February 14, 2014

2014 Renault Twingo Revealed!

2014-Renault-Twingo-THUMB The firs generation Renault Twingo was introduced two decades ago. Now the brand has taken a fresh look at its urban car, which has a design inspired by the legacy left by the original Twingo and the Renault 5. As a result, we have a new, innovative and agile car.

The 2014 model will be offered in a choice of four striking colours, rear-mounted engine and extra cabin space. Positioning the engine at the rear is an advantage for a small city car since it considerably enhances the maneuverability. In addition, the position of the engine also frees up extra cabin space.

Just like the Twin’Z and Twin’Run concept cars, 2014 Twingo exudes personality. First to mention is the choice of four exterior paint colours, namely light blue, white, yellow and red. The other characteristics of the model are heavily inspired by the Renault 5, including the rear screen and its prominent shoulders.

The front end includes Renault’s new trademark styling, big head lights, topped by the direction indicators and LED daytime running lights. At the rear, we have rear lights which are a natural prolongation of the tailgate. Other styling cues include a sleek profile, concealed rear door handles, available features such as door mirrors, side protective mouldings and decals.

At the Geneva Auto Show Renault will show the vehicle to the general public for the first time and also will reveal 2014 Twingo’s interior.

Source: Renault

February 14, 2014

Rare McLaren MP4-12C High Sport For Sale

2012-McLaren-MP4-12C-High-Sport-shadow McLaren Newport Beach is the only authorised McLaren dealer in the Orange County and Sand Diego county, and today they have good news for you, the above-average customer. It’s in the form of a Pearl White 2012 McLaren MP4-12C High Sport that has only done 4,713 miles.

High Sport means that there are only a few of these on the streets (note the “Chassis 4” (out of 10) plates). It also means that you get cool stuff on it which you won’t find on standard editions MP4s. Stuff like an even more downforce-friendly carbon fiber front bumper, a composite underbody again with more downforce generative properties, carbon fiber rear wheel vents, front wheel arch louvers, carbon vented rear deck and engine cover vents, carbon ceramic brakes, carbon mirror caps and an F1 style badge.

That’s a lot of niceties but you do pay a lot of money for them. $399,888 to be precise. The original MSRP stood at $458,256 so that’s quite the discount (for a car that has barely seen the light of day). Apparently, everything has been kept up to standard since day one by an authorized McLaren dealer. You also can opt for McLaren’s Qualified Extended Warranty.

The MP4-12, although a tiny bit outdated nowadays, is still a serious player. It holds a 3.8-liter Twin Turbo V8. This one being an HS, it most probably has a boost of 75 hp over the standard 592 value. Quite the catch then!

Source: McLaren Newport Beach

February 13, 2014

Lexus RC F-Sport at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show

Lexus will exhibit the 2015 RC 350 F-Sport at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March. The stylish coupe has already been presented at the Tokyo Motor Show, last year and now the hot RC F-Sport will be showcased to the audience.

It comes with an aggressive aerodynamics package and some upgrades for the interior to emphasize the sporty look of the coupe. It is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 – 318HP (237 kW), which will send the power to the rear wheels through an 8-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission with paddles on the steering wheel.

Stay tuned for more information and pictures from the upcoming 2014 Geneva Motor Show, which will start on March 4^th.

Source: Lexus

February 13, 2014

2014 Lamborghini Huracan – 700 units are ordered

Lamborghini has received 700 orders for the all-new 2014 Huracan LP 610-4. The successor of Gallardo appears to be very appreciated by the customers of Lamborghini.

The model has an excellent start having in mind that the Gallardo is the best-selling Lamborghini, ever. The model is currently on a “month-long private preview tour worldwide for VIP clients”. It will be officially unveiled to audience at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show on March 4^th.

The Huracan is powered by a 5.2 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine – 610HP (449 kW) at 8,250RPM and 560Nm (415 lb-ft) at 6,500RPM. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch LDF transmission sending the power to a fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, 0-193 km/h in 9.9 seconds.

There are three driving modes – STRADA, SPORT and CORSA. Optionally, you can get the “Lamborghini Dynamic Steering” variable steering ration system and magneto-rheologic suspension damper control.

The weight of the sports car is just 1,422 kg (3,140 lbs), so the power to weight ratio is 2.33kg/hp.

Source: Lamborghini

February 13, 2014

Volvo S60 V8 Supercar – 650HP and 660Nm

Volvo Polestar Racing has unveiled the S60 Racecar which will take place in V8 Supercars Championship.

It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0 liter V8 – 650HP (478 kW) and 660Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque. The redline is at 7,500RPM and runs on E85 fuel. The curb weight is just 1,410 kg (3,108 lbs) thanks to a number of carbon fiber elements as well as completely stripped interior. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 298 km/h (185 mph). The power is put on the road through a 6-speed sequential transaxle gearbox with a built-in spool differential on the rear wheels.

Some of the highlights include a double wishbone front and independent rear suspension, 395mm front and 355mm rear ventilated discs with 6- and 4-piston AP Racing calipers. It rolls 18” forged alloy wheels wrapped in Dunlop performance tires. Last, but not least is the super-expensive Öhlins TTX suspension (dampers and springs).

Volvo S60 V8 Supercar technical information

Vehicle	Volvo S60
Engine	Modified Volvo B8444S (see below)
Transmission	Control Albins ST6 6 speed sequential Transaxle with integrated spool differential
Front suspension	Double wishbone suspension, adjustable damper and cockpit adjustable front anti-roll bar
Rear suspension	Control independent rear suspension, adjustable damper; cockpit adjustable anti-roll bar
Front brakes	AP Racing 6 piston caliper, 395mm ventilated discs
Rear brakes	AP Racing 4 piston caliper, 355mm ventilated discs
Wheels	Control Rimstock 18” x 11” forged aluminium
Tyres	Dunlop control tyre
Weight	1410KG (includes driver)
Top speed	298+ km/h
0-100km/h	3.2 seconds
Steering	Custom rack and pinion power assisted steering
Shocks	Ohlins TTX Dampers
Electronics	MoTec ECU and Data Logging System

Engine technical information

Block	Modified Volvo B8444S, 60 degree aluminium cylinder block
Heads	Modified Volvo B8444S, aluminium
Bore x Stroke	95.5 x 87.1
Capacity	4989cc
Compression	10:1
Power	650bhp (estimated)
Max revs	7500rpm
Induction	Naturally aspirated, eight throttle bodies
Fuel	E85
Liners	Cast in steel liners
Valve train	Double overhead camshafts, direct acting tappets, chain drive
Ignition	Volvo B8444S coil on plug
Injection	Port injection, one injector per cylinder, injection pressure: 5.5 bar

2014 V8 Supercars Championship

February 15	sydney.com V8 Supercars Test Day	Sydney Motorsport Park
Feb 27-Mar 2	Clipsal 500 Adelaide	Adelaide
Mar 13-16	2014 Formula 1 Australian GP	Albert Park
March 28-30	Tasmania 400	Symmons Plains Raceway
April 4-6	Winton 400	Winton Motor Raceway
April 24-27	ITM 500 Auckland	Pukekohe Park Raceway
May 16-18	Perth 400	Barbagallo Raceway
June 20-22	Skycity Triple Crown Darwin 500	Hidden Valley Raceway
July 4-6	Townsville 500	Reid Park
Aug 1-3	Coates Hire Ipswich 400	Queensland Raceway
Aug 22-24	Sydney Motorsport Park 400	Sydney Motorsport Park
Sept 12-14	Wilson Security Sandown 500	Sandown Raceway
Oct 9-12	Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000	Mount Panorama
Oct 24-26	Armor All Gold Coast 600	Surfers Paradise
Nov 14-16	Phillip Island 400	Phillip Island Circuit
Dec 5-7	Sydney 500	Sydney Olympic Park

Source: Volvo

February 13, 2014

Ferrari California T Unveiled Ahead Of Geneva Debut

Ferrari California was introduced 64 years ago – in 1950. Now the exclusive Italian brand is releasing another successor of the model – the Ferrari California T, which exudes elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity.

California T boasts a refined cabin and retractable hard top (RHT). But the most striking and a brand new feature here is the engine, which is 8-cylinder turbo one. As a matter of fact, Ferrari’s engineers have designed an entirely new power unit, which produces not only excessive power, but also – the most exhilarating soundtrack any turbo has ever yielded.

Precisely, the engine features direct-injection, and is mounted very low in the chassis in a mid-front position. It delivers 560 hp (411 kW) at 7500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 755 Nm (557 lb-ft). These numbers speak only of exhilarating acceleration over the 0 to 100 km/h sprint, which the car covers in only 3.6 seconds.

Furthermore, the typical Ferrari engine sound was achieved through the utilization of special manufacturing techniques for essential components, such as the flat-plane crankshaft and the three-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing. The result is a powerful, engaging sound during both the intake and exhaust phases, becoming even more potent as engine speed increases.

The sports dynamics are inherent to California T, due to the reduced steering wheel activity and improved steering response. There have been added new springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers. When combined with body motion accelerometers, they reduce roll and pitch for more precise handling. California T is also equipped with F1-Trac traction control system as well as CCM3 carbon-ceramic braking system.

Of course, as a true Italian sports car, the model was given considerable attention in terms of design. The goal was to ensure that the California T has a new, individual personality. The shape of the California T’s flanks was inspired by the 250 Testa Rossa’s pontoon-fender styling; the front wing line of the model stretches back towards the rear, thus bringing an aerodynamic sleekness and movement to the sides. The rear on the other hand benefits from a new triple-fence diffuser. The model is currently being offered in two colors Rosso California and Blu California.

The cabin of the model was designed to be as ergonomic as possible. It sports a luxurious Frau semi-aniline leather trim, human-machine interface which encompasses Ferrari’s steering wheel with integrated controls, Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE) positioned between the two air vents in the centre of the dash. California T also boasts new infotainment system with 6.5” screen featuring both touch-screen and conventional controls.

Ferrari California T is going to have an official premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

Source: Ferrari

February 13, 2014

Arden Enhances Jaguar XJ 358

bAlthough the Jaguar XJ 358 is not a brand new car it is undoubtedly worth it when something exciting happens around it. Such “thing” is the tuning enhancing that the specialists at Arden have given it.

Jaguar XJ 358 was produced between 2007 and 2009 and was the facelifted version of the X350. Compared to its predecessor, Jaguar gave the car a revised front grille that was positioned low, new front bumper assembly, a changed Jaguar Logo, revised front lights and door mirrors. The interior was only slightly changed, and included resculptured front seats.

Arden has given this emblem in the automotive history a front conversion. It comprises of stainless steel grille for the front bumper, two front bumper lips and two air inlets with daytime lights. What is specifically exciting about these parts is that they were made out of premium fiber glass carbon compound and were additionally tested and optimized in the wind tunnel.

Thanks to these simple improvements, the designers have managed to transform the classic lines and elegant appearance of the XJ 358 into a timeless limousine representing style and class like no other model.

What is left to be said is that Arden’s front spoiler that has a larger air inlets and integrated LED daytime lights, not only contributes for XJ’s impressive “face”, but also additionally improves road safety.

Source: Arden

February 13, 2014

Category: Car Makes