Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Totally Transformed: New Ad For 2014 Kia Soul

    2014 Kia Soul was revealed last week and it was also disclosed that the vehicle is going to make its official European debut next month at Frankfurt Motor Show. Now it is time for Kia to present the advertising campaign of the new model.

    The brand has already released an official video, which to be honest is my favorite commercial so far. In it the famous brightly clothed hamsters are appearing again. After their debut in 2009 they have become nearly pop icons, and I must confirm that thanks to this video their popularity will become even bigger.

    Five years later, the hamsters have slimmed down and slicked their hair back, and come to introduce the latest version of 2014 Kia Soul. The ad carries the name “Totally Transformed” and it features Lady Gaga’s newest hit “Applause”.

    In “Totally Transformed”, the hamsters have followed suit by getting fit and developing a new fashion sense that reflects the sophistication of the newly refined Soul.

    The redesigned Soul is more refined and functional than ever. It offers more room, more available premium features and materials, improved driving dynamics and an instantly recognizable fresh appearance.

    The vehicle’s design was inspired by 2012 Kia Track’ster concept, but it adds more freshness and attitude. It retains the outgoing model’s upright stance, squared shoulders, wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights and confidence-inspiring SUV ride height. 2014 Soul rides on a new chassis that is stiffer, longer and wider.

    In addition, the enhanced torque and significant suspension upgrades make the new Soul an agile companion in city environments. The interior of the model is made via higher quality materials and now has more driver-focused design. It offers a wide range of standard comfort and convenience features, including Bluetooth wireless technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

    Source: Kia

  • Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition

    Kahn-Range-Rover-Vogue-THUMBKahn-Range-Rover-Vogue-01Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition is definitely a reminder of what luxury means. And of course we can not expect anything else from the designers at A. Kahn Design. They again have proven their craftsmanship and attention to the detail.

    The tuned Range Rover has suitably presidential in appearance thanks to its exterior santorini Black Metallic paint finish. What is more, this look is additionally enhanced by the unique brake calipers in liquid gold.

    More highlights to mention with regard to the exterior are the fender accents in satin black, front and rear bumper accents in satin black and door accents in satin black. But this is not everything! This athletic vehicle rides on 9.5×22 RS600 wheels, which further add to the luxurious stance of the car.

    Additionally, the panoramic glass sunroof allows the driver to bask in the rays of the sun. He or she will also enjoy the cabin which has been wrapped in perforated leather interior – in this case it is again in black in order to match the exquisite exterior.

    Source: A.Kahn Design

  • 2014 Lexus GX 460 Gets Updated

    2014-Lexus-GX-460-THUMB2014 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Utility Vehicle (LUV) has been redesigned and now is going to be offered in two grades which are going to include even more equipment. What is more, the new updated design of the model features a new interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille with standard LED headlamps and daytime running lights. As an option there are also LED fog lamps available.

    In terms of interior, the luxurious and spacious GX has received a new touch-screen display audio with an eight-inch screen, backup monitor, HD Radio™, Bluetooth® audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio.

    The comfort of the cabin is additionally enhanced via the new linear espresso wood/abyss black trim, while the mahogany wood trim will be available only for the Premium Package and Luxury model. In addition, the 2014 GX 460 also offers an available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

    To go further into details, the Premium Package of the new Lexus model will include Navigation system with backup monitor, perforated leather trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, Intuitive Parking Assist and Three Zone Climate control.

    On the other hand the 2014 GX Luxury is equipped with Adaptable Air Suspension, Navigation, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Intuitive Parking Assist, and 18-inch split six-spoke wheels with liquid graphite finish.

    Under the hood of the vehicle hides a 4.6-liter V8 engine which is matched to a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). It generates an output of 301 horsepower (221 KW) at 5,500 rpm. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

    In terms of safety, the GX has standard 10 airbags and on the Luxury model available Advanced Pre Collision with Driver Monitor. Furthermore, the standard full-time four-wheel drive utilizes an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing limited slip center differential which can be electronically locked. This makes possible the low range for off-road driving.

    2014 Lexus GX 460 will be available in dealerships in September and it will have a starting price of US $49,085.

    Source: Lexus

  • Pricing Announced For 2014 Subaru BRZ

    2014-Subaru-BRZ-THUMBSubaru has announced the price tag for the 2014 BRZ. The BRZ lineup still puts the main focus on a contemporary sports car design, which includes low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering.

    In addition, the brand also created the rear-wheel drive BRZ using an all-new naturally aspirated 200 horsepower (147 kW) horizontally opposed (BOXER) engine design. Although it is extremely sporty, the vehicle also has the capacity to deliver enough comfort and practicality. For instance, it delivers an estimated 34 mpg highway fuel economy when the car is equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission.

    Other ratings are concerning the fuel economy are of 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, and 25 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

    The very low-slung coupe body allows a roof height of just 50.6 inches, combined with a swept-back roofline, bulging front fenders, short overhangs and pronounced rear haunches. This undoubtedly gives the new BRZ an athletic stance.

    Vehicle’s high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, hexagonal lower grille and six-star ornament are other exterior highlights that contribute to the sporty stance of the car. The BRZ Limited edition model adds a body-color trunk spoiler, standard fog light and Alcantara trimmed interior and Keyless Access.

    The car will be offered in Premium or Limited trim levels, which will performance features like sport-tuned suspension with front strut brace and TORSEN limited-slip differential. To be more precise, the BRZ Limited will deliver to its driver better comfort and amenities.

    The exterior of the Limited model is characterized by fog lights and a body-color trunk spoiler. The interior on the other hand includes seat upholstered with Alcantara inserts and leather bolsters. Aha® infotainment smartphone integration included with the standard navigation system is what is new in the 2014 MY Subaru.

    The BRZ Limited has a dual-zone automatic climate control as a standard, while the Premium model is equipped with manual HVAC system. The latter also includes a standard All-Weather Package with dual-mode heated front seats and heated side mirrors. In the Limited, there are also dual visor vanity mirrors which are illuminated, and front door courtesy lights illuminate when the doors are opened.

    2014 Subaru BRZ
    Model/Trim Transmission MSRP MSRP + destination and delivery
    BRZ Premium 6MT $25,595 $26,390
    BRZ Limited 6MT $27,595 $28,390
    BRZ Limited 6AT $28,695 $29,490

    Source: Subaru

  • Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 vs Corvette Z06, Panamera, GT-R and Gallardo

    Dragtimesinfo has published a video with Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with 667HP going against Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Supercharged with 750HP, Nissan GT-R Mk.2 Ecutek Stage 2 with 660HP, Porsche Panamera Turbo S Stage 1 with 700HP and Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 SL UGR Race Version with 2005HP.

    The first start was versus the Z06, which lost the race. The Mustang GT500 stopped the clock on 30.867 seconds with 267 km/h on 1 mile.

    The second race was against the GT-R, which won the race with 29.728 seconds and 288 km/h on mile, while the GT500 set 30.321 seconds and 266 km/h.

    The third start versus the Panamera was also doomed, because the Porsche had almost a second lead over the Shelby. The Panamera Turbo S Stage 1 crossed the finish line in 29.711 seconds with 273 km/h, while the Mustang needed 30.607 seconds.

    On the last start, the Mustang GT500 set personal absolute speed and et records on 1 mile – 30.225 seconds with 270 km/h, but the winner was the super powerful Gallardo UGR crossing the finish line in 24.422 seconds with 358 km/h.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLTBn66hB6Q

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • 2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion – 4.5 l / 100km

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion

    Volkswagen will exhibit Caddy BlueMotion at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The super-efficient model boasts an incredibly low average fuel consumption of just 4.5 liters / 100 km.

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion is powered by a 1.6 liter TDI with 102HP (75 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is equipped with Start/Stop system, low rolling resistance tires, regenerative braking system, ride height lowered by 27 mm and an optimized ECU. The driving range of the Caddy BlueMotion, which has a fuel tank capacity of 60 litres, is over 1,300 km.

    The new Caddy BlueMotion with a short wheelbase is available in four equipment versions: as a panel van and kombi as well as in the passenger versions Startline and Trendline.

    On its exterior, the Caddy BlueMotion can be made out by a badge at the  rear, its lower ride height, special full wheel covers and painted side guard strips. The Caddy BM is also distinguished by equipment features such as standard hill hold assist, cruise control system, exclusive seat upholstery and air nozzles in high-gloss black (passenger version).

    2014 Volkswagen Caddy BlueMotion is priced from €17,720.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Ferrari 458 Italia – Price with Extras £271,125

    Ferrari 458 Italia is one of the best sports cars in the world and as we can see, one of the most expensive, especially when you add almost £100,000 additional equipment.

    This particular model is ordered with £92,000 optional extras. The carbon fiber seats are £4,900; the carbon fiber engine cover is whopping £13,000; the rear diffuser worth £5,100 and carbon fiber sill covers are £5,000; painted forged wheels add another £4,100 to the large sum. The nice exterior paint is £11,500.

    The interior also has some additional equipment which worth a lot. The carbon fiber sports package with steering wheel is £8,277; the SAT NAV is £2,900, the rear parking camera costs £2,274; fire extinguisher – £500; premium sound system for £3,400 and £580 for an iPod.

    Of course, the Ferrari owners have a lot of money, but few want to waste money like this.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0UeRFGt-HU

    Source: Goodwood via Youtube

  • Video Teaser Of Ferrari 458 Speciale Released

    ferrari-458-speciale-THUMBFerrari 458 Speciale was revealed couple of days ago showing the latest product in Ferrari’s portfolio. The new model is based on the exceptional 458 Italia but offers great powertrain characteristics, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics benefits. Now the brand is revealing a first video teaser of the new model which you can view below.

    Many sophisticated and innovative solutions have been applied in this special edition model featuring advanced active aerodynamics, which are expected to become standard in all new Ferraris in the future.

    The highlight in this model is definitely the aerodynamics, which guided the work of the Ferrari Styling Centre. I order to make them better than ever, the brand joined forces with Pininfarina, and hence have delivered such forms of the car which ensure more performance-oriented driving than ever.

    In fact, the most notable features in these terms are the front and rear movable aerodynamics. They balance the downforce and cut the drag, thus making 458 Speciale the most aerodynamically efficient range production car in brand’s history.

    Another highlight which is one of the most innovative content of this Ferrari model is the Side Slip angle Control system (SSC). The latter performs instant-to-instant analysis of the car’s side slip, comparing it with the target value and then maximizing the torque management and torque distribution between the two wheels.

    Moreover, what also improve the performance of the car are the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which were specifically created for this model. Ferrari 458 Speciale will make a public world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.

    httpv://youtu.be/eUEcWmIw4SE

    Technical Specification Summary:

    • Engine
      • Type: V8 – 90°
      • Total displacement: 4495 cm3
      • Max. power output: 605 cv at 9000 rpm
      • Max. torque: 540 Nm at 6000 rpm
    • Weight
      • Dry weight: 1290 kg
      • Weight/power ratio: 2.13 kg/cv
    • Performance
      • 0-100 km/h: 3.0”
      • 0 – 200 km/h: 9.1”
      • Fiorano lap time: 1’23”5
    • Emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
      • CO2 emissions (with HELE System): 275 gr/km

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Ferrari

  • European Debut For 2014 Kia Soul Urban Crossover

    2014-Kia-Soul-THUMB2014 Kia Soul Urban Crossover is going to make its European debut at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show on 10th of September. Then the vehicle will go on sale across the Old Continent in the beginning of next year.

    The car’s design was inspired by 2012 Kia Track’ster concept, however the new 2014 Soul has a thoroughly fresh and enchanting appearance with recognizably “Soul” attitude. It retains the outgoing model’s upright stance, squared shoulders, wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights and confidence-inspiring SUV ride height.

    In addition, the new model also includes new interior which is made via higher quality materials and now has more driver-focused design. The car will be also offered with three different roof colours – black, white and red, and eleven exterior paint finishes.

    The new Kia model will also be equipped with optional SUV Styling Pack, which includes piano black bumper trim, side skirts, wheel arches and a black painted roof. The biggest highlight here however which is also the biggest technical change, is the adoption of an all-new platform. The latter is based on the one of the latest Kia cee’d.

    As a result, the Soul has enhanced ride and handling as well as more mature and refined on-road behavior. In addition, the car also comes with upgraded suspension, 29 per cent stiffer bodyshell and comprehensive soundproofing. The interior noise levels are also minimized.

    2014 Kia Soul also has larger dimensions with a longer wheelbase and wider track. This of course effects in bigger cabin space and cargo capacity as well as more leg, head and shoulder room for the passengers.

    The model will be fitted with either the 1.6-litre GDi petrol engine or the CRDi diesel one. They will be matched to a as six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Despite the fact that both engines are carried over from the outgoing model, they have been improved in terms of efficiency and emit less CO2.

    A range of new premium features will be also available. Some of them are front LED daytime running lights and rear LED ‘halo’ lights, xenon headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated and electrically folding exterior mirrors.

    Source: Kia

  • 2013 Hyundai ix35 – Price £16,995

    2013 Hyundai ix35

    Hyundai UK has announced the pricing of the 2014 ix35 Facelift. The practical crossover is priced from just £16,995 for the entry level 1.6 GDi – 2WD Manual S and goes up to £27,755 for the 2.0 CRDi – 4WD Automatic.

    The entry level S model boasts 16” alloys, USB/AUX connections, remote central locking with alarm, downhill brake control, hill start assist, trip computer and air conditioning.

    The SE trim adds goodies such as 17” wheels, cruise control, heated front/rear seats, Bluetooth, rear parking sensors, LED taillights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, along with an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

    The SE Nav version is equipped with satellite-navigation, sharkfin antenna, uprated 7-speaker sound system and rearview parking camera.

    The Premium trim level comes with bi-xenon headlights, 18” rims, leather seats, privacy glass, keyless entry, headlamp washers, chrome door handles, along with electric tilt and slide panoramic sunroof for the Premium Panorama model.

    New ix35
    Fuel
    Type
    CO2
    Emissions
    g/km
    Insurance
    Group
    (1-50)
    VED Band Recommended
    On The Road
    Price £
    S
    1.6 GDi – 2WD Manual P 158 TBC G 16,995
    1.7 CRDi – 2WD Manual D 139 TBC E 18,495
    SE
    1.6 GDi – 2WD Manual P 158 TBC G 18,495
    1.7 CRDi – 2WD Manual D 139 TBC E 19,995
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Manual D 145 TBC F 22,895
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Automatic D 179 TBC I 24,355
    SE Nav
    1.6 GDi – 2WD Manual P 158 TBC G 19,495
    1.7 CRDi – 2WD Manual D 139 TBC E 20,995
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Manual D 145 TBC F 23,895
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Automatic D 179 TBC I 25,355
    Premium
    1.7 CRDi – 2WD Manual D 147 TBC F 22,595
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Manual D 149 TBC F 25,495
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Automatic D 183 TBC I 26,955
    Premium Panorama
    1.7 CRDi – 2WD Manual D 147 TBC F 23,395
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Manual D 149 TBC F 26,295
    2.0 CRDi – 4WD Automatic D 183 TBC I 27,755

    Source: Hyundai

  • TEASER: 2014 Nissan Rogue CUV

    2014 Nissan Rogue CUV2013 Frankfurt Motor Show is just around the corner, beginning at 10th of September. Several brands have already released teasers of their upcoming vehicles ahead of the event and it is now time for Nissan to do so as well.

    Therefore now the Japanese company is disclosing a glimpse of the bold design of the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue, which will push the envelope of CUV design. The teaser image shows how the headlights and the front fender of the new model will look like.

    Not much information however has been unveiled around the new car and we are expecting it ahead of its official premiere in Frankfurt. Although the engine it will be available with isn’t confirmed yet, we are expecting to see the 2.5-liter four-cylinder under its hood.

    The unit generates 182 hp (134 kW) and 244 Nm (180 lb-ft) of torque and it will be probably coupled with a continuously variable transmission. Of course, an all-wheel-drive system is also at question.

    The Rogue model has been present on the automotive scene since 2007 and it is now ready to show its new form and hence to enchant even more people.

    Source: Nissan

  • G-Power BMW M6 F13 – 710HP and 890Nm

    G-Power has announced their latest project based on BMW M6 F13 (Coupe version). It comes with a number of upgrades including G-POWER Bi-Tronik III V2 performance package, new brakes, suspension, wheels and styling modifications.

    The 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 is boosted to 710HP (522 kW) at 6,000RPM and 890Nm (656 lb-ft) at 4,800RPM of torque. This is an increase of 150HP and 210Nm. However, there is a “softer” version with 640HP (471 kW) and 777Nm (573 lb-ft). 0-200 km/h in 10.8 seconds and a top speed of over 300 km/h (186 mph).

    The result is thanks to a number of upgrades including an ECU re-map, a new sports exhaust system with titanium link pipes, which is also 12 kg lighter than the original.

    The M6 F13 rolls enormous 21” HURRICANE forged wheels fitted with 265/30 ZR21 front and 305/25 ZR21 rear tires – €8,325. For improved handling and better stance, G-Power offers coilover suspension for €2,179, while the carbon ceramic brakes will cost you €14,460. The perfomrnace packages start from €17,985.

    G-POWER M6 F13

    • 710 hp / 522 kW at 6.000 – 7.000 rpm (+ 150 hp / 110 kW)
    • 890 Nm at 4.800 rpm (+ 210 Nm)
    • V-max: >300 km/h
    • 0-200 km/h: 10,8s
    • G-POWER 21’’ forged wheel set HURRICANE
    • G-POWER Titanium exhaust system
    • G-POWER coil-over suspension GM6-RS
    • G-POWER Ceramic Braking System

    Source: G-Power