Car Makes – Page 564 – Automobiles Review

Alcraft Motor Company Range Rover Study

The designers and engineers at Alcraft Motor Company have launched a design study of the iconic British vehicle Range Rover. They have worked together with the students from London’s Royal College of Art with the aim to create the ultimate vehicle.

The final outcome originates from Alcraft’s RCA project. The car has been developed further by Alcraft design consultant Matthew Humphries, who was chief designer at Morgan Cars. In addition to Matthew Humphries, Alcraft also works with Christopher Macgowan OBE.

The Range Rover study is just one of other projects which the company sets to explore. The following transformation can be done on the Range Rover flagship and the Sport and Evoque models, Land Rover Discovery and Jaguar XF Sportbrake.

In the case of the Alcraft Range Rover the company has simplified its lines and detailing, yet given it a more limousine-like presence. The new design has definitely accentuated the vehicle’s off-road capability and heritage, however evoking more luxurious stance.

The same approach has been implied throughout the interior of the car where a lot of additional textures have been used. Precisely, Alcraft interiors are improved by the utilization of traditional materials like wood and leather, or contemporary finishes like carbon and chrome. In other words, the designers have created a project which expresses the ultimate luxury.

Source: Alcraft Motor Company

December 5, 2013

2014 Yaris And Yaris Hybrid Get Upgraded Equipment

2014 Toyota Yaris and Yaris Hybrid have been upgraded for the new model year and include features that customers value most. First of all the new Yaris will have four trim levels: Active, Icon, Icon Plus and Trend. The Active and Icon replace the previous T2 and TR grades, while Icon Plus and Trend gain additional equipment.

To be more precise, the Icon Plus now will sport Selena 10-spoke, 15-inch alloy wheels, LED rear light clusters and front fog lights. Those who will chose the Glacier Pearl paint finish will also get a bright chrome tailgate trim.

Other equipment in terms of safety and comfortability features the following: automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, power windows front and rear, automatic climate control and higher-set centre console design.

Key features across 2014 Toyota Yaris range:

ACTIVE	ICON adds	ICON PLUS adds	TREND adds
Six-speaker audio system	15-inch alloy wheels	Selena 15-inch alloy wheels	16-inch machined-face alloy wheels
Aux-in and USB connection	Body-coloured, electric, heated door mirrors	Front fog lights	Exterior chrome trim details
Audio controls on steering wheel	Body-coloured doorhandles	Rain-sensing wipers	Chrome-finished door mirrors
Electric front windows	Toyota Touch multimedia system	Dusk-sensing headlamps	Rear privacy glass
Height-adjustable driver’s seat	Rear-view camera	LED rear lights	Matt black C-pillar decal
Seven airbags	Tachometer	Automatic dual zone climate control	Chrome side sills
Vehicle Stability Control and traction control	Air conditioning	Electric rear windows	Leather handbrake and steering wheel trim with yellow contrast stitching
	Leather gearshift and steering wheel trim	Raised centre console	Trend interior trim with white dashboard inserts
	Bluetooth	Cruise control with speed limiter
		Air conditioned glovebox with interior light

Of course, in addition to the standard features Toyota will offer its customers a wide variety of available equipment. Option packs have been added for the Icon Plus and Trend models. First, a Smart Pack makes features keyless entry and push-button start, while the Appearance Pack adds a matt black C-pillar decal, and dark-tinted rear privacy glass and a fixed panoramic roof.

The third pack is called Protection Pack which provides front and rear parking sensors, floor mats, mud flaps, black side mouldings and boot liner and a rear bumper protection plate. On the other hand, the Style Pack includes LED daytime running lights, aluminium scuff plates and chrome trim on the tailgate and exhaust pipe.

The second model, 2014 Yaris Hybrid adopts a new grade structure. Here again the Active and Icon Plus grades replace the previous T3 and T4, while the Trend takes on the role of flagship in place of the T Spirit.

The standard features here include C-pillar decal to create the floating roof look, rear spoiler, 16-inch Trend alloys and part-leather seat upholstery, auto headlights and wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, power windows all-round and keyless entry with push-button start.

Key features across 2014 Toyota Yaris Hybrid range:

ACTIVE	ICON PLUS adds	TREND adds
LED daytime running lights	15-inch alloy wheels	16-inch Trend alloys
Automatic climate control	LED rear combination lights	C-pillar decal
Electric front windows	Front fog lamps	Part-leather seat upholstery
Six-speaker audio system	Cruise control	Rear spoiler
Aux-in and USB connection	Toyota Touch multimedia system	Keyless entry and push-button start
Height-adjustable driver’s seat	Bluetooth	Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Seven airbags	Rear-view camera	Electric rear windows
Vehicle Stability Control and traction control	Rear privacy glass	Dusk-sensing headlights
	Electric, heated, body-coloured door mirrors	Rain-sensing wipers
	Leather steering wheel and gear selector trim
	Chrome tailgate trim

Source: Toyota

December 5, 2013

Chevrolet To Introduce 2015 Corvette Z06 In A Month

2015-Chevrolet-Corvette-Z06-teaser-shadow

Exciting news from Detroit city. The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is coming soon. Very soon. It’s supposed to be the “most track-capable Corvette ever” In other words, its sole purpose is to put to shame all relevant rivals.

“Chevrolet is America’s favorite performance car brand, and for 2014 we are going to offer enthusiasts more choices than ever before,” said Alan Batey, senior vice president, Global Chevrolet. “No other manufacturer will be able to match the breath of performance cars from Chevrolet.”

Apparently, Chevrolet as a whole is doing mighty fine on the market. This year the current Corvette has outsold its closest competitor (which is apparently the Porsche 911). The demand for the new Stingray, they say, outstrips the supply.

The Camaro is also ahead of the Ford Mustang with a 4,093-unit lead in total sales. In the second quarter of 2014, the Camaro Z/28 will hit the dealrships and it too is supposed to be “the most track-capable” of its kind. Recently, the Z/28 logged a 7:37.40 lap on the Nurburgring… on a rainy day. Crikey!

The 2015 Corvette Z06, on the other hand, will debut in about a month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit – home turf.

That, and the fact that the Z06 sales will start at the end of next year, is all we know for now. Better start saving up.

Source: Chevrolet

December 5, 2013

Update: Vorsteiner BMW M5 F10 Photo Shoot

Vorsteiner-BMW-M5-F10-shadow Vorsteiner-BMW-M5-F10-medium Not exactly breaking news, but a photo shoot of Vorsteiner’s BMW F10 M5. We don’t really need an excuse to relish in some eye-candy goodness, do we?

It’s an delicate thing this, mainly because Vorsteiner haven’t gone destroying it with a ridiculous body kit. In fact, this might just be the most reserved tuning effort of them all. All the while, it would seem that Vorsteiner went through an awful lot of fuss just so that they can leave their mark on the BMW M5. Consider this – the three main components that distinguish their BMW from all the rest are the carbon front splitter, rear diffuser, and lip spoiler on the trunk lid. Yet, they modeled them on a 3D printer (these days even bacon seems to be modeled by a 3D printer before it arrives on our plates); and, before actually bolting the pieces on the M5, Vorsteiner tested their aerodynamic properties in a wind tunnel.

Last but not least, they gave the M5 a set of 21-inch VS-190 Forged Monoblock Wheels leaving just about a hair of space between the tires and the wheel arches.

Generally improved or would you rather have it marooned?

Source: Vorsteiner

December 5, 2013

Supersized Brabus 850 6.0 Biturbo Mercedes E 63 AMG Station Wagon

Brabus-850-6-0-Biturbo-Mercedes-Benz-E63-AMG-shadow

Brabus seem to have a somewhat peculiar understanding of what an estate is. See, we look at the Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG Station Wagon and go, “Oh, look at that loading space! I can finally move that cupboard/drawer/sofa/farm animal that I’ve been wanting to get rid of for years. This being an AMG car, I could probably do it really, really quick as well.” Brabus, on the other hand, have a look at it and go. “Has it got an engine? Yes? Wonderful, we’ve got work to do!” And by “work” they mean, dismantling the Merc’s “puny” 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 and substitute all the major components with their own. The result is currently on a stand at the 2013 Essen Motor Show: The Brabus 850 6.0 Bitrubo Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG Wagon.

As the name suggests, we are talking about a 6-liter 850 hp engine. What Brabus have done to achieve such power is increase the cylinder bore to 99 mm and install new forged pistons. A custom crankshaft with a stroke of 96 instead of 90.5 mm plus eight custom piston rods were also on the list. On top of that (no pun intended), the two cylinder heads have been optimized for improved mixture flow.

The whole air-intake system has also been substituted. Think two Brabus turbochargers with more room for compression and special exhaust manifolds. Before the air reaches them, however, it passes through a bigger-than-normal air duct on the hood and bigger air filters. The intake and charge-air tubes are plated with a special “Gold Heat Reflection” material for better heat dissipation. ECU management also comes into play and so do the high-performance catalysts, plus the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system that provides the right note at the right time.

If you think 850 hp is impressive, wait until you hear the torque figure – 1,150 Nm. This means that the 255/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 20 tires that come with the programme have to both provide enough traction for the Biturbo to get to 62 mph from a standstill in just 3.1 seconds, and stay intact throughout. The top speed is limited to 186 mph.

Visual Brabus treats include the front spoiler lip that acts as an add-on to the production bumper and the Brabus diffuser insert that nestles the two dual ceramic-coated tailpipes. Don’t forget the largest in size Brabus 9.5Jx20 Monoblock F or R wheels or the optional Brabus Monoblock R “Platinum Edition” set that sees 9Jx20s at the front and 10.5x20s at the back.

Inside, the distinguishable features include a Brabus Mastik leather and Alcantra upholstery, a pair of aluminum shift paddles, and a set of Brabus Race pedals.

Source: Brabus

December 4, 2013

Caractere Exclusive Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Caractere Exclusive has introduced their latest project based on the new Porsche 911 Cabriolet (the 991 model).

The exterior boasts full conversion kit including modified front and rear bumpers as well as different side skirts. All elements are manufactured from polyurethane (PU). Other highlights include a new wing featuring a third brake light, engine vents and a boot lid.

Caractere 911 Cabriolet is finished in white paint, while the three-piece modular matte GRAPHITE CW2 forged alloys boast two-tone finish. They are available in 20” or 21” sizes.

No words about performance upgrades.

Source: Caractere Exclusive

December 4, 2013

2014 Saab 9-3 Aero – Price €31,510

Saab has officially introduced the all-new 2014 9-3 Aero. The new model will hit the market on December 10^th with pricing starting from €31,510.

Detailed performance specifications were not released but the company confirmed the model will have a turbocharged 2.0 liter petrol engine with 220 HP (162 kW). It will be connected to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

“It is truly a complex mission to start a car production process which has been still for two and a half years. It is very pleasing that we have embarked on a journey where we want to and will make a difference with our partners and customers. Our electric car will be launched next year, and already today we can offer Saab cars with continued high, proven performance and quality”, commented According to National Electric Vehicle Sweden President Mattias Bergman.

Source: Saab

December 4, 2013

Power Version of BMW M6 Cabrio by BBM Motorsport [VIDEO]

The serial BMW M6 is an upper class athlete which also has the characteristics of elegance and luxury in both coupe and cabriolet forms. The tuners at BBM Motorsport weren’t stopped by these facts and embarked on a project with the aim to make more powerful the exclusive M6.

The project carries the name BBM M700BT and focuses mainly on the area of power enhancement. Precisely, the professionals used chip tuning software and Akrapovic complete exhaust system including down pipes and sports cat.

The result is astounding; the M6 now delivers the following performance values: 705 horsepower (518 kW) at 6.100 to 7.200 rpm and 864 Nm (638 lb0ft) of max torque. This means an addition of 145 hp and (107 kW) and 184 Nm (136 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the exhaust system features carbon fiber end pipes.

In terms of suspension, there has been installed a KW suspension set in order to maintain the “dynamic damping control” (DDC). This BMW was also equipped with Breyton Spirit R 21” rims. At last, what needs to be mentioned is the exclusive car wrapping by SFT Carwrap in „Mat Steel Blue“ and the sportive accents in „Gunpowder“ by Sott/Arlon.

httpv://youtu.be/OahwvlOwKkI

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Miranda Media

December 4, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender 2.2 TDCI SW 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition

Kahn Land Rover Defender 2.2 TDCI SW 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition is undeniably unique in its appearance. It has powerful visual credentials which include a combination of fine detailing, diverse design, cutting-edge technology and individuality further strengthened by the fungus green exterior color.

As a basis of this project the designers at A. Kahn Design used a Land Rover Defender from which they have managed to make an exclusive vehicle that exudes powerful stance. They have equipped it with a styling package which additionally strengthens the capabilities of this vehicle.

Precisely, the styling package comprises of front and rear wide wings with integrated vents and bolt apertures, extended wheel arches in satin black, front grille with mesh stainless steel, Chelsea Truck Company Spare wheel cover, Kahn prototype tailgate logo, side vents and bonnet vents with mesh stainless steel, Kahn oval tailgate logo.

All this exclusivity of the vehicle is transferred on the road via the outstanding 1948 Defend wheels which come in size of 8×16”. In addition, the brand has also added Kahn prototype wing badges that round off the exterior modification.

The exclusive tuning can be seen in the interior as well since we are familiar with the capabilities of the designers. This particular Land Rover features roof grab handles with Harris Tweed covers, rear door panel and handle in Harris Tweed, rev counter facia in red, fire extinguisher, passenger dashboard top and grab handle in Harris Tweed and rear passenger knee protectors in Harris Tweed.

They have also included an exquisite single spoke leather steering wheel, hard wearing front and rear cabin floor mats, front sports GTB seats and rear folding seats in quilted and perforated leather, instrument binnacle in Harris Tweed, Churchill time clock facia insert in red and vented foot pedals in machined aluminum.

Source: A. Kahn Design

December 4, 2013

Mazda6 To Enter 25 Hours Of Thunderhill

Mazda enters three modified-for-racing 2014 Mazda6s in the longest endurance race in America – the National Auto Sport Association (NASA)’s US Air Force 25 Hours of Thunderhill. The event will take place on 7th and 8th of December at Thunderhill Raceway Park in Willows, California.

At the race, the visitors will see how two teams of Mazda dealers are set against one team of MNAO employees, along with nearly 80 other teams. All of the three teams will race brand-new 2014 Mazda6 SKYACTIV-D Clean Diesel racecars.

Of course the vehicles are based on the production models but have been modified for the competition and are ready to enter in NASA’s E1 class. To be more precise, the cars remain nearly stock, but the interiors were removed to accommodate an Anthony Woodford Racing roll-cage, a Sparco Pro-ADV racing seat, Safecraft racing seatbelts and plumbed-in fire systems and AIM MXL Pista dashes and data acquisition.

Under the hood, the cars hide the SKYACTIV-D diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual SKYACTIV-MT transmission. The suspension is custom-designed by ProParts USA and utilizes Koni dampers and Hypercoil springs as well as custom ProParts rear stabilizer bars.

Connecting all this to the track are 17×8” Enkei Kojin wheels wrapped in 245/40R-17 BFGoodrich g-Force R1 tires. The force of the Mazda6s is slowed down via four-piston STR-40 calipers and AeroRotors, delivered by the experts at StopTech.

Next, the drivers representing the Dealers in cars 55 and 56 will be Richard Fisher, Joel Weinberger, Taz Harvey, Chris Wilson, John Finger and Taylor Hacquard. The Factory Guys will be in car 70, represented by Randy Miller, Ken Saward, Dave Coleman, Nathan Edmonds, Mike Allen and Jason Meise.

The Mazda6s will race alongside 70 other cars competing in six different classes. In addition at the contest there will be also 13 other Mazdas.

Source: Mazda

December 4, 2013

Honda Shows The First Render Of 2014 WTCC Civic Challenger

The first ever image of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship Civic has been released. The WTCC Challenger is built according to all new technical regulations for the FIA WTCC which will come into force for 2014.

The render shows the exclusive visual credentials of this Honda vehicle. It features wheel arch extensions, larger diameter wheels, sleeker aero package and extended rear spoiler. Of course, the engine has been also modified and now delivers more power. This will enable the drivers to compete courageously for the World Champion title.

In the competition, the brand will enter two works cars which will be driven by JAS Motorsport for Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro, and in addition there will be other Civics to be entered by private outfits Zengo Motorsport and Proteam Racing for Norbert Michelisz and Mehdi Bennani.

This announcement follows hot on the heels of the recent reveal of the new 2014 BTCC Honda Civic Tourer racer which will debut in March at next year’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Matt Neal and Gordon ‘Flash’ Shedden were confirmed as the Honda Yuasa Racing drivers for another season.

Source: Honda

December 4, 2013

2014 Hyundai Genesis [videos]

Hyundai has released published several videos showcasing the all-new 2014 Genesis luxury saloon. The second generation of Genesis is expected to hit the market in the beginning of the next year. It combines stylish design and exceptional capabilities. The video clips show both inside and out as well as some very clever innovations.

The 2014 Genesis is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 with 257HP (189 kW), a 3.3 liter V6 with 282HP (207 kW) and a 3.8 liter V6 with 315HP (232 kW). The top-of-range 5.0 liter V8 boasts 425HP (313 kW). 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). All motors are connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The HTRAC all-wheel drive setup will be offered as optional equipment for the 2014 Genesis, while the standard car will retain its rear-wheel drive arrangement.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWu9ggYFHQk

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERgx_3hMsDQ

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgT8iceCeJU

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66DXT91bvLY

Source: Hyundai

December 4, 2013

Category: Car Makes