Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Chevrolet To Introduce Impala Bi-Fuel CNG Next Year

    2015-Chevrolet-Impala-Bi-Fuel-CNG-THUMBGeneral Motors is going to build 2015 Chevrolet Impala Bi-Fuel CNG vehicle which is going to operate on gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG). The model is expected to hit the showrooms in the summer of 2015 and it is created in order to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the OPEC Oil Embargo – The National Summit on Energy Security.

    In addition, the bi-fuel Impala is an example of utilizing affordable technology with the aim of minimizing the oil consumption and saving consumers money at the gas station. The use of natural gas is always associated with cleaner energy source when compared to petroleum, and in addition it costs much less than the latter.

    To be more precise, the CNG vehicles usually have 20 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline-powered cars. 2015 Impala Bi-Fuel is going to be equipped with factory-engineered powertrain that switches from CNG to gasoline. Its total range is expected to be up to 500 miles.

    In addition to the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Spark EV and the upcoming Cadillac ELR, the new 2014 Chevrolet Malibu is now going to be equipped with a start-stop technology as a standard. Thanks to it, the vehicle is expected to achieve a fuel economy rated at 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • SRT Viper Color Contest – An Opportunity to be Original

    Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand is giving someone a chance to make their mark on automotive history as the color palette for the 2014 Dodge SRT Viper gains a new entry.

    The contest gives fans a chance to submit and choose an official new exterior color name of the 2014 SRT Viper. The fan who submits the winning name will win a trip to the ‘2014 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona’ at Daytona International Speedway and the opportunity to spend time with the Viper Design team throughout the race weekend.

    “The SRT Viper Color Contest gives our Viper enthusiasts an opportunity to be original, creative and contribute to the exterior design of our flagship American supercar,” commented Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer – (SRT) Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC.

    “Already available in a wide array of exterior color combinations, which provides our owners a way to personalize their cars, this contest is a great way for our dedicated fans to connect with the SRT brand and become an authentic part of Viper history.”, Mr. Gilles added.

    Source: SRT

  • TEASER: Chrysler Previews The New Mopar ’14

    2014-Chrysler-Mopar-THUMBChrysler Group has just released a teaser image of the limited-edition Mopar ’14 that will make an official debut next month. The premiere will happen at Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

    The new muscle-car is prepared especially for those who love high octane and customizable performance. In fact, the Mopar ’14 will be one of the 20 customized vehicles on display at the event. Some of the vehicles included in the exhibit are the Mopar ’10 Challenger, Mopar ’11 Charger, Mopar ’12 300, and Mopar ’13 Dart. Jeep Performance Parts will be also on display.

    Mopar is Chrysler’s service, parts and customer-care brand and its global portfolio features more than 500,000 parts and accessories distributed throughout more than 130 markets. The brand’s parts are one-of-a-kind and more importantly are engineered with the same precision by the same teams that create the factory Chrysler vehicles.

    To make an impressive example, Mopar has introduced so far many industry-first features such as vehicle-information apps, electronic owner manuals, Wi-Fi inside the vehicle, wireless charging, Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS), wiAdvisor and wiTech. Another instance is the 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak which was the firs car that was equipped with 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package.

    Source: Chrysler

  • Audi A5 DTM Champion Special Edition – 300 units

    Audi is introducing the A5 DTM Champion Special Edition. It is designed to celebrate Mike Rockenfeller’s triumph in the 2013 DTM season. The A5 DTM will be produced in limited series of just 300 units.

    The exterior features DTM badges on the side sills, fenders and door sill trims. There is also a fixed body-colored rear wing and exterior mirrors in aluminum look. A5 DTM rolls 20” 5 V-spoke alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    The limited A5 is available with a 2.0 liter TDI – 177HP (130 kW), a 3.0 liter TDI with 245HP (180 kW), a 2.0 liter TFSI with 225HP (165 kW) and a 3.0 liter TFSI with 272HP (200 kW). All of them feature Quattro AWD system.

    There are three paint schemes: Glacier White, Daytona Gray and Misano Red. The price for DTM Champion Special Edition package is €1,900.

    Source: Audi

  • 2014 Porsche Macan – Production Ready [images]

    Porsche has published several images of the production ready version of 2014 Macan. The small “Cayenne” will make its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

    The exterior features include an aggressive front fascia, a sloping roofline and LED-infused headlights. There is also a tailgate-mounted spoiler and roughly shaped bodywork.

    The engine range includes a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged V6 and a 3.6 liter twin-turbocharged V6 – 395HP (294 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. The entry-level model will get a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 254HP (189 kW). The engines will be connected to manual or PDK gearboxes sending power to an AWD system.

    2014 Porsche Macan is expected to hit the market in the end of this year with pricing of around $52,000.

    Source: Porsche

  • JE Design 2013 Seat Leon FR

    JE Design has announced their latest project based on 2013 Seat Leon FR. The hot hatchback gets both – styling and performance ugprades.

    The exterior features a lot of carbon fiber elements including a front spoiler, side skirts and a rear bumper insert. The price for the complete set is €1,369. In the five-door hatchback, you can opt for a roof spoiler – 357. There are also two stainless steel tailpipes on both sides, each with a diameter of 80 mm. The complete stainless steel muffler (€899) has an EC approval.

    Other goodies include lowering springs -30mm for €237 or KW coilover suspension – €1,049, which can lower the car between 35 and 65 mm. For the highest standards, JE DESIGN also offers the adjustable rebound and compression-damping KW coilover suspension Variant 3 – €1,749.

    “Scorpio” type light alloy wheels come in dimesions 7.5J x 18” and matt black finish with matt silver front. They are fitted with 225/40 R18 performance tires. The complete wheel set is available at a price starting from €839.

    Last, but not least is the performance upgrade for the 1.8 liter TSI engine – 215HP (158 kW) and 300Nm (221 lb-ft) – an increase of 35 HP and 50Nm. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). The price is €1,990 including VAT and 12 month warranty.

    Source: JE Design

  • Mulgari Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG – 510HP and 710Nm

    Mulgari has announced their project called “510” based on Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. As you may suggest, the number stands for the amount of HP, which the mighty 6.2 liter V8 produces. Designed as a lifestyle upgrade the “510” not only boasts impressive horsepower figures but also offers the customer a unique identity.The 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 is boosted to 510HP (380 kW) and 705Nm (521 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 63HP and 105Nm. 0-100 km/h in less than 4.3 seconds and a top speed of over 275 km/h (171 mph).The 510 features a brand new stainless steel exhaust system with active valve technology. Designed with everyday living in mind, the active valve system allows the user to control the sound track they desire with a simple push of a button.The exterior boasts some carbon fiber elements like front splitter and a new rear spoiler improving the aerodynamics.High performance vehicles demand high performance braking. All Mulgari 510’s receive upgraded performance braking fluids and materials.The entire package costs £7,995 (VAT included).

  • Renault Duster Detour Concept

    Renault has announced Duster Detour Concept at the Johannesburg International Motor Show.

    It boasts an increased ride height and wears a two-tone pearl yellow and matte grey paint complemented by tinted windows and black pillar masks. There are also widened wheel arches and a set of 18” bespoke alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tires.

    The custom front grille has a chrome Renault diamond logo and comes together with special headlamp clusters and daytime running lights. There are also “Duster” graphics while the back features a roof-mounted spoiler and black LED taillights.

    Last, but not least is the double exhaust system and a new diffuser.

    Boasting rugged good looks, loads of space (475 litres of boot space for starters) and real off-road capabilities, New Renault Duster is the perfect companion for active families.

    Source: Renault

  • Frozen Black Edition BMW E92 M3 by iND

    iND-BMW-E92-M3-Frozen-Black-THUMBTwo years ago, BMW introduced a very special model. In fact, it was so special that its production was limited up to 20 units, and as some of you might have figured it out – this was the 2011 BMW E92 M3 Frozen Black Edition. The model was distributed only throughout the U.S. market.

    Now year is 2013 and the tuners at iND has got the luck to enhance the powerful Frozen Black M3. The standard specifications of this BMW include matte black exterior with gloss black accents, red calipers and 19” GTS alloy wheels.

    On the other hand, the standard features in the interior include Novillo leather upholstery, red contrast stitching, carbon fiber trim with leather accents, heated front seats and premium audio system.

    The powertrain under the hood of the car is the 4.0 liter naturally aspirated hi-revving V8, which is capable of producing 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is coupled to M Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT), thus an effortless acceleration is ensured. To be more precise, the vehicle accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

    The tuners at iND had the strength to make even better this exclusive model by adding some sophisticated features. First of all, they have taken care for the wheels of the car, which now are the HRE P43SC E9x M3 Satin Black Wheels that come in sizes 19×9.5” at the front and 19×10.5 at the rear.

    They have also included Akrapovic EVO with carbon tips, ESS Direct flash and Vorsteiner’s Type II carbon diffuser. The ground control is ensured by E9x M3 camber plates. At the front three were added euro front bumper painted Frozen black, carbon front grilles. The same material can be seen at the side grilles which in addition feature Dark LEDs.

    What is left to mention here is the special iND Frozen black key hole cover, the included Macht Schnell 75mm Stud Kit and black chrome Project Kics R40, the RKP GTS front lip in Gloss carbon and the premium BMWPedals.

    Source: iND

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class With On-Screen Debut [VIDEO]

    2014-Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-Control-THUMBThe 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 is the first of the new-generation S-Class model line which hits the U.S. showrooms today. In addition, it makes an on-screen debut as a part of an integrated marketing launch.

    The vehicle is undoubtedly a benchmark in the luxury sedans, but it also adds many exclusive features such as hot-stone massage and at the same time provides one of the most sophisticated accident-avoidance technologies.

    The marketing campaign includes two TV spots. The first one is called “Four Words” and it explores the origins of the company’s storied tagline “The Best or Nothing”. The video goes back in time through the 127-year history of Mercedes-Benz, and begins with the Gottlieb Daimler’s garage, where the very first automobile was made.

    The advertisement then reviews the historic Silver Arrow race cars inside the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart, and more importantly, the ad conveys how those four simple words written by the founder have challenged Mercedes-Benz to “inspire, provoke and push”. The end of the ad shows the new 2014 S-Class as the logical development of the entire history and philosophy of the brand.

    httpv://youtu.be/AHvwMA7h6bg

    The second advertisement is named “Control” and it illustrates what makes the S-Class driving experience “a new era of innovation”. The video shows a nighttime drive through the city and introduces features such as hot stone massage, interior lighting available in seven colors and a cabin fragrance system.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a vehicle which brings new levels of luxury, technology and safety to market. The interior of the car includes heated armrests ionized air purification via the Air Balance Package, First Class rear-seat luxury and a Burmester sound system.

    Its sophisticated exterior design is complemented by an intelligent suspension system, named Magic Body Control that sees the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly. In terms of safety technologies, Mercedes-Benz offers more than 30 standard and optional active and passive features.

    An example for one of them is the Driver Assistance Package, which includes the following: DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE Brake, PRE-SAFE PLUS, BAS PLUS with Cross Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Protection. Other Intelligent Drive safety features include Attention Assist and Night View Assist Plus with human and animal detection.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting price of $92,900 USD.

    httpv://youtu.be/lN16r051m0g

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid Goes On Sale Today

    2014-Acura-ILX-Hybrid-THUMB2014 Acura ILX Hybrid is hitting the market today and gets upgrades via the new Technology Package included. It will be available throughout the dealerships across the United States with a base price of $28,900 USD.

    As a matter of fact, the ILX is the only luxury model on the top ten list of Generation Y car shoppers according to J.D. Power and Associates. Now, the Hybrid version of the vehicle will offer to those interested excellent fuel efficiency as well.

    The EPA fuel economy of this Acura model is estimated at 39 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined. The reason for these numbers lies in the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an Integrated Motor Assist electric motor, which were coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The total output of both is 111 hp (82 kW) and the generated maximum torque is 172 Nm (127 lb-ft).

    As a standard, 2014 ILX Hybrid features many luxury standard features such as Keyless Access System with smart entry and push-button start, Pandora interface and SMS text message function for easy connectivity, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, a power moonroof and aluminium wheels.

    On the other hand, the car is also offered with an optional Technology Package which adds on the top of the standard features the following: ELS Surround audio system, AcuraLink Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather with radar image maps and HomeLink.

    Tim Level MSRP EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
    (city/highway/combined)
    2014 Acura ILX Hybrid $28,900 39/38/38
    2014 Acura ILX Hybrid with Technology Package $34,600 39/38/38

    Source: Acura

  • Walkinshaw Performance Holden VF Commodore and HSV Gen-F [video]

    Walkinshaw Performance has introduced their tuning packages for the Holden VF Commodore and HSV Gen-F. The name of the projects are W457 and W497.

    “The W Series has already seen the naturally aspirated W310 and W375 packages which offer terrific performance and value for money that we have developed thanks to the outstanding base vehicles- the VF SS Commodore and the Gen-F HSV. Today we take another step with the W457 and W497 packages. These packages represent the pinnacle of Australian automotive design and engineering capabilities. On power figures alone it’s impressive, but as we always say; drivability is the number one goal and we believe that these W Series twins are exceedingly well mannered in this key area. That said, it’s hard to hide the performance results and these cars are guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of every motoring enthusiast.”, commented WP General Manager Tony Harris.

    The W457 boosts the VF Commodore’s 6.0 liter V8 engine to 621 HP (457 kW) and 780 Nm (575 lb-ft), while the W497 for the HSV Gen-F’s 6.2 liter V8 has 675 HP (497 kW) and 955 Nm (704 lb-ft) of torque.

    The pricing starts from $18,990 AUD.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cl4AcOTGT5c

    The 2013 W457 and W497 packages offer:

    • WP230 Supercharger Package
    • Large high flow injectors
    • Eaton Twin Vortices 2300 Series (TVS) Gen VI rotors
    • Water to air intercooler package
    • Custom moulded heater hoses
    • Cast aluminium coil covers
    • Unique Walkinshaw Performance injection moulded cold air intake package
    • Heavy duty serpentine belt drive system
    • 12” long intake runners
    • Custom moulded intercooler hoses
    • Self-contained oil system
    • Full stainless steel exhaust system including, ceramic coated headers and high flow catalytic converters.
    • Full dyno tune from an authorised Walkinshaw Performance Centre
    • W Series Certificate of Authenticity and Vehicle Identification
    • Full drive line warranty for the balance of the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty for eligible vehicles.

    Source: Walkinshaw Performance