Car Makes – Page 601 – Automobiles Review

Brabus 850 6.0 Bi-Turbo iBusiness based on Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Brabus will exhibit its super-fast and super-powerful 850 6.0 Bi-Turbo iBusiness based on the new Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in few days. Brabus iBusiness comes with styling and performance upgrades, especially under the hood.

The 6.0 liter twin-turbo V8 is boosted to whopping 850HP (625 kW) at 5,400RPM and 1,150Nm (848 lb-ft) of torque at 2,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The result is thanks to enlarged displacement (by 0.5 liters), two bigger turbochargers, forged pistons, a billet crankshaft, a larger air filter box, a stainless steel sports exhaust system and an optimized ECU.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of modified side skirts, carbon fiber fender vents and a rear diffuser. There are also carbon-ceramic brakes and an electronic lowering module, which can reduce the ride height by 15mm. The big saloon rolls tailor-made BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters of 19”, 20”, 21” or even 22”.

The BRABUS Monoblock G “Platinum Edition” forged wheels feature a combination of size 9J x 22” wheels and size 255/30 ZR 22 tires on the front axle with size 10J x 22” wheels and size 295/25 ZR 22 tires in back, and make full use of the available space below the wheel arches.

The interior features an iPad mini, an iPod touch, a Mac mini and an Apple TV (iBusiness). Other highlights include premium leather upholstery, a mobile hotspot and a custom rear center console. There are also a 15.2” TFT display, a rear seat entertainment system and fiber optic lights that are mounted in the leather headliner.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo “iBusiness” is built to order. The multimedia system and all other BRABUS tuning components are available for all current S-Class models. BRABUS engine tuning is also available for all other engine variants.

Source: Brabus

September 9, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hits the US Market

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 S-Class. The luxurious saloon is expected to hit the US market next month with pricing starting from $92,900 for the entry level S550.

With its beautiful interior craftsmanship that features heated armrests and hot stone seating massage, ionized air purification via the Air Balance Package, First Class rear-seat luxury, and a Burmester sound system, its character and overall presence is unmatched. Its fresh, confident, and sophisticated exterior design goes hand-in-hand with an intelligent suspension system called Magic Body Control, which sees the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly.

“The S-Class is the embodiment of the four words which have served as the inspiration for our company since its inception – The Best or Nothing. Every time we introduce a new generation, we have the opportunity to deliver more power, greater efficiency and unmatched safety, backed with an improved value proposition. Not only is the new S-Class the most intelligent car on the road, it’s also a smart choice”, commented Steve Cannon, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.

A month later, the manufacturer will receive orders for the S550 4MATIC priced at $95,900 and the top-of-range S63 AMG 4MATIC – $139,500.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 9, 2013

2014 Opel Ampera – Price €38,300

2014 Opel Ampera is priced from €38,300, which is a massive price cut of €7,600.

“The Opel Ampera was the first electric car on the market from a European manufacturer. With our new pricing, we show our straightforwardness and continue to pursue our strategy for sustainable mobility. We at Opel remain committed to investing in electric propulsion and believe in an emission-free automotive future – not in the future, but today.”, commented Opel CEO. Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

The Ampera is powered by an electric motor and a 1.4 liter range-extender petrol engine. The combined power is 152HP (111 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft), which is more than enough for everyday driving. 0-100 km/h in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h (100 mph). The electric motor is powered by a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery.

The car can go up to 80 km (50 miles) on electric power and more than 500 km (311 miles) on hybrid mode.

Source: Opel

September 9, 2013

2014 Buick Regal – US Price $30,615

Buick has announced the pricing of the 2014 Regal. The car was presented earlier this year at the 2013 New York Auto Show. The entry level model is priced from $30,615.

Standard equipment includes next-generation IntelliLink connectivity with an eight-inch color touch display, 18” alloy wheels, rear vision camera, leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated front seats and a new 2.0L I-4 Turbo delivering better power, refinement and fuel economy. The engine delivers 259HP (193 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and is able to return 21 mpg US city / 30 mpg on the highway.

Also new for 2014 is an advanced all-wheel-drive system that incorporates electronic limited-slip differential to help make the most of traction in all driving conditions and comes standard with HiPer Strut front suspension. Regal AWD is available starting at $32,790.

A new Regal GS also goes on sale later this year with a suggested retail price of $37,830, including a $925 destination charge. In addition to standard Regal content, GS includes high- intensity discharge head lamps; sport seats with leather seating surfaces; eight-inch full color reconfigurable driver information cluster and display; navigation; Bose premium audio; HiPer Strut front suspension; Computer Damping Control; Interactive Drive Control with Sport and GS modes; Brembo four-piston front brake calipers; and 19-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires. Also available are 20” polished aluminum wheels with summer rated tires.

Source: Buick

September 9, 2013

TEASER: Bugatti Legend To Be Revealed At Frankfurt Motor Show

Bugatti has just released an image on their official Facebook page, which shows the next Bugatti Legend that is to be revealed at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Since the show has already started, we are eagerly anticipating seeing the new vehicle, given that the brand hasn’t disclosed any details around it so far.

What has been written below the image in Facebook is: “The next Bugatti Legend is about to be revealed at the Frankfurt Motorshow. Who could it be?”. Many of the fans of the luxury sports car company are proposing that it could be the Bugatti Galibier 16C or the Super Veyron. Whether they are right, is a matter of time to understand.

In fact, last month the automaker revealed the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Jean-Pierre Wimille Edition at Pebble Beach which was the in the special edition Legend series. Now it is time for the second one to be unveiled, which will probably be based on the Vitesse model. Stay tuned!

Source: Bugatti via Facebook

September 9, 2013

Production Start For 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid

The first models of the new 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid are currently rolling out from the factory and will carry an EPA fuel economy rating of 50 mpg in city driving. This will make them the new leader in gasoline fuel-economy ratings among 4-door sedans.

The new Honda Hybrid model will go on sale later this year. Its calculated driving range is 673 miles which is more than 46 miles farther than any vehicle in its segment.

To go further into details, the EPA fuel-economy ratings of the car are of 50 mpg city / 45 mpg highway / 47 mpg combined. The model will also offer to customers sophisticated exterior styling and spacious interior.

The main advantage it has however is the highly efficient two-motor hybrid system from Honda’s Earth Dreams™ Technology advanced powertrain series. The 2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine delivers a powerful 169 hp (124 kW) with a traction electric motor that also functions as an electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), while the electric motor adds 143hp (105 kW).

In fact, the Accord Hybrid will join the already fuel-efficient Accord lineup which features the EPA-rated 36 mpg highway 4-cylinder Accord Sedan and the Accord Plug-in Hybrid. The latter is EPA-rated at 115 MPGe combined in electric-only mode.

Source: Honda

September 9, 2013

Frankfurt Motor Show: 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet Makes World Debut

2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet makes its world public premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. What makes this model different from the Saloon version is that its dimensions have grown in order to achieve sleeker profile and provide the capacity for complete soft-top concealment in open mode.

To be more precise its length has increased from 4.24 to 4.42 metres, its wheelbase from 2.58 to 2.60 metres and its width from 1.77 to 1.79 metres. Only its height of 1.41 metres is down on its predecessor, by 15 millimetres. The luggage capacity has also been increased to 60 litres (2.12 cubic ft).

When looked from the front, this Audi model is characterised by the single frame radiator grille, which is flanked by flat headlamps. They consist of either halogen or xenon bulbs, or can be optionally equipped LED headlamp technology.

The two-door car is harmonized additionally by the rear overhang, while the windscreen frame is made of aluminium. On the sides of the A3 Cabrio is featured a taut tornado line and contoured surfaces.

More importantly, for the soft top the designers have utilized soft fabric roof that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel. With just a push of a button the top opens or closes electro-hydraulically in less than 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The acoustic soft top has a glass rear window and will be offered in black, grey and brown color, while its roof liner can be specified in black or lunar silver. As an option the brand also offers here a wind deflector and head-level heating. An active rollover protection system which comprises of two spring-loaded plates that are recessed into the body protects the occupants in case of a rollover accident.

Next, the interior of the car retains the elegant design philosophy of the exterior. Elegant lines, clean surfaces and high quality can be seen throughout it. Highlight here is the electrically retractable 5.8-inch colour monitor which features Driver’s Information System. For the first time here is also included an optional lighting package with a touch-sensitive switch for the reading lights.

As one can see the steering wheel and seats have brand new design. Depending on the trim levels – SE, Sport and S line, the seats can be finished in either cloth or a combination of cloth and leather, with full leather and an Alcantara/leather mix.

The assistance systems featured in this model include adaptive cruise control, Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist, camera-based traffic sign/speed limit recognition, park assist with selective display and the Audi pre sense safety system. On the other hand, the line-up of infotainment components includes Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI Navigation plus.

To go further, three newly developed engines will be available for the Audi A3 Cabriolet: the two TFSI engines which generate 140 hp (103 kW) and 180 hp (132 kW) from 1.4 and 1.8 litres of engine displacement, as well as the 2.0 TDI which produces 150 hp (110 kW). The other engines offered range from the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp (80 kW) to the 2.0 TFSI with 300 hp (220 kW). All of the powertrains, use direct injection and turbocharging and are backed up by a start-stop-system.

The chassis of the 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet utilizes MacPherson strut front and four-link rear setup which includes lightweight aluminium elements. The sports suspension has bee lowered by 15mm. S line versions will offer three choices – standard suspension, sports suspension and S line sports suspension lowered by a further 10mm over the sports set-up.

The driving experience is further enhanced by the power steering, S tronic transmission and air conditioning, the optional adaptive suspension control system Audi magnetic ride, adaptive cruise control, adaptive light and progressive steering.

The power steering system for instance includes an efficient electromechanical drive, and ESC stabilisation control system. In support of this, powerful and durable brakes can be seen behind wheels, which range in size from 16 to 19 inches.

Source: Volkswagen

September 9, 2013

2014 Toyota 4Runner – US Price $32,820

Toyota has published the full price list for 2014 4Runner and Tacoma models. The 2014 4Runner is priced from $32,820 and goes up to $43,400, while the 2014 Tacoma has a starting price of $17,625 and goes up to $28,185.

The base SR5 model of 2014 4Runner packs 17” alloy wheels, Entune infotainment system and fabric seats, but for an extra $1,875 it can have auto-dimming mirrors, sunroof, navigation, SofTex faux leather seats and power passenger seat. AWD system can be ordered for additional $2,920.

4Runner Trail has received a $1,430 price cut for the new model. It features a multi-terrain response system, hill-start assist and the company’s crawl control system.

The Limited trim comes with four-wheel drive with a center locking differential, 15-speaker Entune Premium JBL sound system and a more refined X-REAS suspension.

The engine is a 4.0 liter V6 with 270HP (201 kW) and 376Nm (278 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 5-speed ECT-i automatic transmission and a transfer case.

2014 4Runner Pricing

Model #	Grade	Engine	Transmission	Body Style	MSRP 2013	MSRP 2014	MSRP Chg ($)	MSRP Chg (%)

8642	SR5	V6	5AT	SUV 4X2	$31,490	$32,820	$1,330	4%
8664	SR5	V6	5AT	SUV 4X4	$33,365	$34,695	$1,330	4%
8646	SR5 Premium	V6	5AT	SUV 4X2		$35,740	NEW
8648	Limited	V6	5AT	SUV 4X2	$38,995	$41,365	$2,370	6%
8666	SR5 Premium	V6	5AT	SUV 4X4		$37,615	NEW
8670	Trail	V6	5AT	SUV 4X4	$37,155	$35,725	($1,430)	-4%
8672	Trail Premium	V6	5AT	SUV 4X4		$38,645	NEW
8668	Limited	V6	5AT	SUV 4X4	$41,030	$43,400	$2,370	6%

2014 Tacoma Pricing

Model #	Grade	MSRP 2013	MSRP 2014	MSRP Chg ($)	MSRP Chg (%)
7103	TACOMA REGULAR CAB 4X2	$17,625	$17,875	$250	1.4%
7104	TACOMA REGULAR CAB 4X2	$18,525	$18,775	$250	1.3%
7113	TACOMA 4X2 ACCESS CAB	$20,415	$20,515	$100	0.5%
7114	TACOMA 4X2 ACCESS CAB	$21,315	$21,415	$100	0.5%
7162	TACOMA PRERUNNER ACCESS CAB	$22,075	$22,125	$50	0.2%
7164	TACOMA PRERUNNER ACCESS CAB V6	$23,510	$23,560	$50	0.2%
7182	TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 4X2	$22,525	$22,625	$100	0.4%
7186	TACOMA PRERUNNER DOUBLE CAB 4X2	$23,175	$23,225	$50	0.2%
7188	TACOMA PRERUNNER DOUBLE CAB 4X2 V6	$24,610	$24,660	$50	0.2%
7190	TACOMA PRERUNNER DBL CAB 4X2 V6 L/B	$25,110	$25,160	$50	0.2%
7503	TACOMA REGULAR CAB 4X4	$21,475	$21,725	$250	1.2%
7504	TACOMA REGULAR CAB 4X4	$22,605	$22,855	$250	1.1%
7513	TACOMA 4X4 ACCESS CAB	$24,250	$24,350	$100	0.4%
7514	TACOMA 4X4 ACCESS CAB	$25,150	$25,250	$100	0.4%
7553	TACOMA 4X4 ACCESS CAB V6	$25,805	$25,905	$100	0.4%
7554	TACOMA 4X4 ACCESS CAB V6	$26,685	$26,785	$100	0.4%
7593	TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 4X4 V6	$26,805	$26,905	$100	0.4%
7594	TACOMA DOUBLE CAB 4X4 V6	$27,685	$27,785	$100	0.4%
7596	TACOMA DBL CAB 4X4 V6 L/B	$28,185	$28,285	$100	0.4%

Source: Toyota

September 5, 2013

BMW M6 G-Power vs Alpina B6, GT-R AMS Alpha 12+, Cayenne Turbo S, M6 ESS

Dragtimesinfo has published a video – BMW M6 G-Power SKIII with 750HP making several starts versus Alpina B6 with 540HP, Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ with 1500HP, BMW M6 ESS VT3+ with 950HP and Porsche Cayenne II Turbo S with 550HP.

The first start is against the B6, which set personal absolute record on ¼ mile – 12.807 seconds, but it wasn’t enough to beat the 210HP more powerful M6 G-Power, which finished the 1 mile race in 30.499 seconds with 282 km/h.

The second start is versus the mighty Alpha 12+, which obviously won the race, but the information in the end is wrong (they switched the tables for M6 ESS and the GT-R). So, the GT-R finished in 27.245 seconds with 342 km/h terminal speed, which is pretty slow time, while the M6 G-Power needed 29.930 seconds with 292 km/h.

In the third race, the Cayenne II Turbo S stopped the clock at 32.453 seconds with 252 km/h, which is pretty good for a big SUV. What is more, it was driven by a lady – Olga G.

The last start is against the mighty M6 ESS VT+, which finished in 28.358 seconds with 303 km/h, while the M6 G-Power needed 29.930 seconds with 291 km/h terminal speed, which is personal absolute record on 1 mile.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFtOA0QaH8s

Source: Dragtimesinfo

September 5, 2013

Official Debut For Smart Fourjoy In Frankfurt

The new smart fourjoy is a proof that more than two seats are also fully in keeping with the smart brand experience. The new vehicle has all the typical attributes for the brand and comes to deliver to the occupants pure carefree enjoyment of drive. The compact four-seater is the first of new smart generation and it will have its world premiere at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Smart fourjoy has no doors, no rear window and an open roof. The futuristic exterior design is continued in the interior which includes rear seat bench in the style of lounge furniture. Of course, the car retains the compact dimensions typical for the brand. It is 3494 mm long, 1978 mm wide and 1494 high.

Furthermore, this smart utilizes an electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor which delivers zero-local-emission. In addition, the design elements featured here stay true to the brand’s philosophy and include extremely short overhangs, wheels positioned on the four most outer points, tail lights integrated in the sturdy tridion cell and spherical instrument cluster.

Next, the exterior is exquisite and includes polished aluminium and white pearlescent paintwork. The three-dimensional upright front further strengthens the expressive appearance of the smart fourjoy.

Another highlight here is the pronounced tridion cell. It is made of polished full-aluminium and its brilliant bright lustre finish highlights the premium character of the brand. The raised smart lettering milled from aluminium on the side skirts continues this design scheme.

In addition, the pearlescent white on the bumpers, front bonnet and tailgate provides a contrast to the aluminium of the tridion cell. The door mirrors “float” on an aluminium stele. On the other hand, the rear lights are built in the tridion cell.

The headlamps do not have a glass cover and this delivers a three-dimensional impression of the U-shaped daytime running lights. Moreover, LEDs are featured in the front and tail lights. Transparent petroleum-coloured moulded parts are to be seen in the wind deflector at the top of the front windscreen, on the A-pillars on the sides and on the rear roof spoiler.

The fact that the vehicle doesn’t have any doors, rear window or roof panel, connects the exterior and the interior. Inside, the most prominent features are the two futuristic-looking front seats and the rear seat bench.

The rear of the seats is made of dark chrome. The same petroleum colour as the plexiglass accents on the exterior is used at the piping-like line winds around the sides of the seats. In addition, perforated and smooth surfaces alternate on the vehicle floor.

A continuous central structure supports the seats and the instrument panel, which includes a convex surface with touch-sensitive operating functions. The instrument panel is support of transparent, illuminated plexiglass into which apertures have been milled.

The spherical instrument cluster and the single-spoke steering wheel are reminiscent of the original smart. On the dashboard there are also mounted two smartphones and on the centre tunnel at the rear for cutting-edge connectivity and tailor-made entertainment for all passengers.

More importantly, the electric drive is positioned at the rear and is based on the current smart fortwo electric drive. It is a 55 kW magneto-electric motor which utilizes lithium-ion battery which a capacity of 17.6 kWh. When the battery is entirely empty it takes a maximum of seven hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station.

Source: Smart

September 5, 2013

World Premiere Of Lexus LF-NX Crossover Concept

Lexus is going to bring to this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show a brand new mid-size crossover concept, called LF-NX. The concept vehicle will probably be included in the future model range.

LF-NX includes a hybrid powertrain and in fact it is powered by a new variation of the Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid system which was additionally tuned for SUV performance. In addition, the powerfully sculpted styling reflects the evolution of the L-finesse design language which is used in today’s Lexus models.

The front of the vehicle includes a strong interpretation of Lexus’s spindle grille and a signature arrangement of the front lights. The daytime running lights are further visually strengthened by their new position, which is independent from the headlamps. New also are the front corners, which separate the bumper from the front wings with a sharp vertical cut line.

In profile, the new SUV concept displays muscular wheel arches, which are additionally edged with a black protective finish. Above the belt line, which has a diamond shape, is the side glazing arranged in the classic profile. In fact, it creates an athletic coupe-like silhouette because it works with the steep rake of the tailgate.

Going to the rear, one sees an emphasized lamp clusters which extend down the full depth of the bumper. This also creates a sharp and aerodynamic trailing edge. The exterior of the concept is decided in new Brushed Metal Silver finish. It immediately makes a striking impression.

Furthermore, the interior of the vehicle completes the futuristic design philosophy of the exterior and includes powerful forms and a highly ergonomic driver’s cockpit. As a matter of fact, the cabin follows the “Human Oriented” element of Lexus’s L-finesse design.

To be more precise, the dashboard is divided between an upper display zone and lower operation zone, which enables an ease of interaction with the concept vehicle’s next generation technology. The latter features touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touchpad Remote Touch Interface design. The interior of the premium crossover is reinforced by carved metal surfacing, sophisticated blue instrument lighting and yellow and black leather upholstery with contrast stitching.

Source: Lexus

September 5, 2013

Debut For Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept

Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept vehicle is going to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. There it will showcase to the audience that it includes unique new visual stance and colour scheme, materials and finish.

The car is in the form of limited edition concept and it is being readied for future development into a MY2014 production version. The production car will maintain the same personality and quality of the current Quattroporte range.

Ermenegildo Zegna’s concept is the result of collaboration between two companies that are connected by history, tradition and exclusivity. First, the exterior of this limited edition Maserati Quattroporte includes a special effect paint finish which simulates the fluidity and purity of metal. This was achieved through the utilization of ultra-fine aluminium pigments.

In addition, the gloss black primer further strengthens the brilliance of the aluminium pigments and creates a sensation of depth. The platinum metal colour effect finish is also nuanced in order to express the Maserati’s classic and sophisticated technically advanced character.

The interior of the Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept car continues the luxury design philosophy of the exterior. Inside were used warm hues like moka and greige, that make a link to Zegna’s latest men’s fashion collections. Furthermore, the interior components such as seats, door panels and roof lining are finished in soft leather, in addition to a velvet-smooth and bright fabric.

Source: Maserati

September 5, 2013

Category: Car Makes