Car Makes – Page 719 – Automobiles Review

Famous Parts Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG Black Edition Wide Body

Famous Parts have equipped the latest Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG with their Black Edition Wide Body Kit, in thus way transforming the elegant vehicle into a masculine athlete with muscular proportions and broad shoulders.

The tuning is attributed to the work of the company Famous Parts from Ratingen, Germany. What they have done in particular is to give the Mercedes-Benz new front bumper together with spoiler blade, a pair of side skirts, a rear bumper with diffuser, a pair of front mud guards, rear side wall enlargements, a new engine hood and lattice inserts.

In addition, what is good to mention is the integrated Famous Parts in Prior Design front bumper with bright LED daytime running lights with exact fitting molded parts. Of courrse, what grabbs the attention is the powerful stance of the car, achieved by the complete wrapping in the striking color shade of “Frozen Gray Matt Champagne Metallic“ rounded up with the tinting of the rear side glasses and the rear windshield.

To roud of the aggressive presence of the CL63AMG, the specialist have equipped it with high-grade Brabus alloy wheel rims of size 10.5 x 21 inches. Moreover, the “Monoblock E“ rims were fitted with Continental Sport Contact high-performance tires of the dimensions 265/30R21 on the steering axle and 305/25R21 on the drive axle.

Even more, Famous Parts lowered the vehicle through the electronic adaptation of the serially produced ABC chassis frame while spacing discs of the company H&R accounted for the horizontal alignment of the wheels in such a way that they blend perfectly well with the edges of the wheel arch.

At lats and defintely not least, the tuners done some excusite work on the 6.2 liter V8 driving mechanism of the CL63. With the help of a software, they modified and enahced the exhaust gas system, thus achieving a significant power boost of 85 horsepower. The result is 610 horsepower (450 kW) in total.

Source: Famous Parts

November 30, 2012

EXCLUSIVE: Vilner Audi RS6

Absolutely exclusive for the readers of automobilesreview.com is the new hot tuning of the Bulgarian based specialists from Vilner. This time they are going to amaze us with their exceptional and sophisticated work on the Audi RS6.

Vilner Audi RS6 has everything that one wants to see in a car concerning its exterior as well as interior. Absolute craftsmanship and perfectionism grabs ones attention at first sight. The exterior immediately strikes with its provocative color – an effect achieved through a green mate wrapping.

What is more, one is also captured by the alloy wheels, which are in Black Piano Varnish and include green edge that continues the theme of the wrapping. At last, it must be also mentioned that they have supplied the Audi with new grilles and diffuser – of course all made from Carbon Fibre, which contribute to the improved aerodynamism of the RS6.

But the true masterpiece of the work of Vilner can be seen throughout the interior. The ceiling, the door panels, the steering wheel and the gearshift were all carefully wrapped with Alcantara. This undoubtedly contributes to more comfortable feeling of the occupants of the coupe. Adding to it are the seats, which were “dressed” in Nappa.

It is completely obvious that a lot of attention has been put to the details here. The green stitching on the seats for example not only continues the design philosophy of the exterior, but also contributes towards more luxurious driving experience. In addition, what rounds off the modification of the interior are the seat belts, which were changed with such that “shine” in the same challenging color of the exterior wrapping.

On the other hand the RS6 does not need anything in terms of power enhancements or any engine modifications. Thanks to its V10 unit, it produces the staggering 580 horsepower which are equivalent to 426 kW. In addition it has 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque, which adds further to its powerful road presence.

Some impressive data here is that the car reaches 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds on its way to the top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph). This Audi model definitely delivers supreme dynamism that makes no compromise in its qualities, and now its aggressive stance is magically amplified, thanks to this exquisite work of the professionals from Vilner.

Source: Vilner

November 29, 2012

2013 Toyota RAV4 at the Los Angeles Auto Show

Toyota has finally revealed the all-new 2013 RAV4 at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The SUV was introduced after a lot of leaks and it looks pretty amazing. This is Toyota’s fourth-generation RAV4, the world’s original crossover sport utility vehicle. It will hit the market in the beginning of the next year.

There are a lot of upgrades as well as completely new exterior, but some of the most interesting are a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, new 6-speed transmission, two-row seating for 5, and a host of available in-cabin technologies,

The new RAV4 offers a good balance of performance and all-around capability, including class-leading cargo capacity, striking design, class-leading 8 standard airbags, and a compelling array of standard extras.

2013 RAV4 will be available in three trim levels: LE, XLE and Limited.

The exterior boasts nice and sporty appearance with rounded front fascia, a slopping roofline and distinctive rear quarter windows. There is also a roof-hinged liftgate, which is expected to be more convenient than the previous side-hinged door.

As on other recently introduced Toyota models, RAV4 engineers paid special attention to aerodynamics, the most obvious detail being small vortex generators molded into the taillight cases and near the base of the A-pillars. Less obvious are the aerodynamic undertrays beneath the passenger cabin that help smooth and control airflow.

The interior boasts an interesting asymmetrical dashboard featuring ambient lighting, a lot of controls and a big 6.1” touchscreen display. There is also a multi-functioning three-spoke steering wheel. A lot of metallic accents and circular air vents give additional cosiness. The high-end trim levels come with leather seats, an Entune Infotainment system and an 11-speaker JBL GreenEdge premium audio system.

The new 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine is able to return 24 mpg in city and 31 mpg on highway with FWD and 22 mpg in city and 29 mpg on highway with the optional AWD system. The engine delivers 176HP (131 kW) and 233Nm (172 lb-ft) of torque.

The all-wheel drive system offers three different modes: Auto, Lock and Sport.

Like every Toyota, RAV4 will feature the Star Safety System, which includes Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System and Smart Stop Technology.

So, this is 9 years of evolution… pretty good!

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

2013 RAV4 SPECIFICATIONS:

POWERTRAIN
2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
Horsepower: 176 @ 6,000 RPM
Torque: 172 lb.-ft. @ 4,100 RPM
Transmission: Six-speed ECT-i
Drive System: Front- and All-Wheel-Drive

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length:             179.9
Overall Width:                 72.6
Overall Height:                65.4
Wheelbase:                   104.7
Ground clearance:         6.3
Wheels:                            17-inch steel wheels (LE)
17-inch alloy wheels (XLE)
18-inch alloy wheels (Limited)

Tire Size: 17-inch: 225/65R17 (LE and XLE)
18-inch: 235/55R18 (Limited)

Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches)
Head Room:                   39.8 (Front)
38.9 (Rear)
Leg Room:                      42.6 (Front)
37.2 (Rear)
Shoulder Room:              57.3 (Front)
55.4 (Rear)
Hip Room:                       54.3 (Front)
48.9 (Rear)
Cargo Volume:                73.3 (Behind first row)
38.4 (Behind second row)
Seating Capacity:           5

Source: Toyota

November 29, 2012

2014 Kia Forte – The Third Generation Model

Kia has announced the third generation Forte Saloon at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. This is the American version of Cerato, which was presented earlier this year. The 2014 Forte is expected to hit the US market in the beginning of the next year. It is slightly bigger and lower than the previous model and will be offered in LX and EX variants with 1.8 liter or 2.0 liter engines.

“The all-new Forte significantly raises the bar, offering upscale amenities and eye-catching appeal,” commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA.

“When you combine exclusive available features like a ventilated driver’s seat and UVO eServices in a car with such an attractive design, it’s very clear the all-new Forte sets a new standard for the compact segment.”, he added.

The entry-level LX will be equipped with a 1.8 liter MPI four-cylinder petrol with 150HP (110 kW) at 6,500RPM and 177Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque at 4,700RPM. The new Forte is FWD and the power is sent to them through a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or the optional 6-speed automatic transmission. The car rolls 15” wheels with 195/65 R15 tires and 16” alloys with 205/55 R16 available as an option.

The second trim level – EX is coming with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder GDI petrol with 175HP (129 kW) at 6,500RPM and 208Nm (154 lb-ft) of torque at 4,700RPM. The model is coming with 6-speed automatic gearbox as standard and a set of 16” alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 or optional 17” alloys with 215/45 R17.

The options list include 4.2” color LCD, power windows and mirrors, central locking, Bluetooth and some chrome accents. The options list also includes leather upholstery, dual zone climate control, power sunroof and HID head lights.

Source: Kia

November 29, 2012

Manhart BMW M3 E92 MH3 V8 R Biturbo Convertible Produces 655 Horsepower

Manhart BMW M3 E92 MH3 V8 R Biturbo Convertible is the next exciting project that the specialists from Manhart Racing have prepared for us today. The performance professionals, based in Wuppertal, Germany, achieved the goal to create the quickest and most powerful convertible.

What helped them achieve this aim is the 4.4 litre V8 twin-turbo engine from the X6 M, fitted with a large carbon-fibre cover. Additionally, they developed software, which increased engine’s performance up to the breath-taking 655 horsepower. What is more, the maximum torque was increased to the phenomenal 975 Nm (720 lb-ft).

The powerful engine of this BMW was mated to a six-speed sports automatic transmission from the X6 M. The latter was also fitted with a differential lock for optimal traction.

Of course, as the previous tuning, Manhart Racing has removed the electronic Vmax limiter, and now the German machine can reach a maximum top speed of 320 km/h. Furthermore, in order to get rid of the engine exhaust fumes, there were installed stainless steel downpipes, as well as an Akrapovic Evolution Titanium exhaust system with a 200 cpsi sports catalytic converter system and four 90 mm tail pipes.

Moreover, the MH3 V8 R Biturbo has been equipped with a robust MHR braking system with four-piston calliper brake pads and 396 mm brake discs (taken from the X6 M, with the discs being retrospectively drilled) on the front axle and 374 mm brake discs on the rear axle.

The transformation was continued on the outside too. MHR carbon-fibre elements were added here and they give the vehicle the look of a sports car: GTR air intakes, the mirror caps and the diffuser can be noted effortlessly. In addition, BMW performance carbon flaps have been installed and MHR decorative strips have been applied.

The BMW now races down the streets on an extra-light MHR Concave One Ultra-light forged wheels of impressive size: the 9×20 inch and 12×20 inch wheels fit perfectly with the high-performance tyres of size 255/30ZR20 up front and 305/25ZR20 at the back, respectively. Here is also important to mention the MHR suspension system (by KW V3) with in-house adjustment.

Source: Mahnart Racing

November 29, 2012

The noble Stealth Fighter: Manhart BMW M5 MH5 S Biturbo

Manhart BMW M5 MH5 S Biturbo is a reworked version of the current BMW M5 by the performance specialists of Manhart Racing. They have equipped it with MH5 S Biturbo, which makes the vehicle visually and technically more impressive than ever before.

The goal was to turn the M5 into a lightweight racing car through reducing every single gram possible. What helped is the in-house aerodynamic components of the MH5 S Biturbo, which are made of ultra-light and high-strength carbon.

The front fascia of the BMW is decorated with an MHR front spoiler, whose rear counterpart is found in an MHR rear diffuser and rear spoiler as well. In addition, the engine hood was manufactured with integrated GTR air intake systems, again – made of carbon.

All in all, the whole body was eventually covered in a full grey-matt metallic wrapping with decorative MHR stripes. And this is the reason why the other name of the project is „The noble Stealth Fighter“ – it definitely look very similar to the famous air machine.

The visual stance of the BMW is further enhanced by the MHR08 Deep Concave by ADV.1 wheels. They sit perfectly in terms of dimensions and design. In particular, the three-part rims of sizes 9.5 x 21 inches were added to the front and the 10.5 x 21 inches are added to the rear. They were covered by high-performance tires of the dimensions 265/30ZR21 and 305/25ZR21, respectively.

An installation of the fully adjustable MHR by KW Clubsport chassis frame ensures that all wheels constantly have the optimal road contact. The chassis frame in fact can be adjusted additionlly and separately in compression. Moreover, Manhart also created performance-optimized racing drive-shaft support systems.

The software and the periphery of the 4.4 litre Biturbo driving mechanism were additionally reworked. The result is the impressive number of 646 horsepower (475 kW) and the maximum torque of 773 Nm (570 lb-ft). Thanks to this and to the removal of the electronic speed retarder, the vehicle now has a top speed of 316 km/h.

MHR Carbon Air Intake System added plays a crucial role as well. It boosts performance as well as gives the engine compartment an extremely enticing outward appearance. The MHR sporty end-silencer made of high-grade steel with two 90 millimetre twin tail pipes right and left respectively, gives the Biturbo-V8 a catchy and an exceedingly impressive “voice”.

Source: Manhart Racing

November 29, 2012

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid – US Price $24,995

Volkswagen has announced the new 2013 Jetta Hybrid. The new Jetta Hybrid can go in pure electric mode, and therefore with zero emissions, at speeds of up to 70 km/h (44 mph) and over a distance of 2 km (1.3 miles). It also boasts an extremely low (combined) fuel economy value of 45 mpg.

2013 Jetta Hybrid is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI and an electric motor. The power is put on the road through to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. The overall power is 170HP (127 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds and fuel consumption of just 5.2 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle.

The petrol engine can be fully disengaged, when the car is in pure electric driving mode or ‘sailing’ mode (coasting / braking). Therefore, during braking, the Jetta Hybrid switches over to a battery regeneration mode, which ‘captures’ kinetic energy and feeds it into the battery as electrical energy.

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE include 15” alloy wheels fitted with all-season, low-rolling resistance tires. The mid-range SEL1 comes with 16” wheels, electric sunroof, electric adjustable driver’s seat, SAT NAV, front heated seats and keyless access. The top of range SEL2 rides on 17” alloys and adds bi-xenon headlights, fog lights and 400 WATTS Fender premium sound system.

Extensive safety and convenience features

Electronically stabilised. Standard equipment in the new Jetta Hybrid includes an electronic stabilisation programme (ESP), anti-lock braking system (ABS) and six airbags (driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags in front as well as window airbags, front and rear). This pack can be extended to include rear side airbags as an option.

SE – specified exterior. Visually, even the base version (SE) of the Jetta Hybrid is distinguished by aerodynamic modifications that include a new front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler that is harmoniously integrated into the design. The results: the car’s Cd value was improved by 10 per cent. In addition, the Jetta Hybrid SE is equipped with a new LED rear lights design and special 15-inch alloy wheels with all-season tyres optimised for low rolling resistance. Hybrid signatures on the front, rear and side body panels identify the new drive version. Other distinguishing features: a special radiator grille where the VW logo is integrated on a blue background for the first time. Exclusively reserved for the Jetta Hybrid is the new body paint ‘Oryx white’.

SE – upgraded interior. Inside, the car features high-end seat covers in ‘Titan black’ or ‘EcoTech’ design and new accent strips with the ‘Hybrid’ chrome signature, which identify the car as the Jetta Hybrid SE. A 2-zone automatic climate control system (Climatronic) with a new high-voltage air conditioning compressor ensures that the interior can be cooled even without the petrol engine running. Compared to the Climatronic used to date, this system also has the new ‘maxAC’ function, which cools down the interior very quickly at the press of a button. The technology of the Jetta Hybrid SE was perfected by specific instruments that include an energy flow diagram in the Premium 8 audio system, a trip computer, hands-free telephone system (Bluetooth) and interface for iPod and other multimedia sources as well as a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel.

SEL1 and SEL2 are high-end. In the mid-level equipment version, the SEL1, standard features of the new Volkswagen are extended with such details as 16-inch alloy wheels, a tilt/slide glass sunroof, RNS 315 navigation system, electric driver’s seat adjustment, seat heating in front, and the Keyless Access system for door locking and engine starting via a Start button. Customers who order the top version, the SEL2, can also enjoy details such as 17-inch alloy wheels, newly developed bi-xenon headlights with dynamic cornering lights and automatic motorway lights, fog lights, reversing camera and a new Fender sound system with 400 Watts of output power. And that is how it should be. After all, who says that maximum sustainability cannot be fun as well?

Source: Volkswagen

November 29, 2012

Barracuda Racing Toyota GT86 meets Tzunamee

The brand new Toyota GT86 has a maximum power of 147 kW (200 hp) and peak torque of 205Nm (151 lb-ft). What is even more, the fuel economy is absolutely remarkable for a sports car like this: it is only 7.8 litres/100km for manual variants – and even better for automatic versions – just 7.1 litres/100km. CO2 emissions are 164 grams/km (auto) and 181 grams/km (manual).

Tuning enthusiasts have been waiting exactly for this car. Among them are the professionals from Barracuda Racing Wheels, who found a way to make this Toyota look even more perfect.

They weren’t satisfied with the serial 17 inch wheel/tyre combination, and therefore the Swiss wheel rim producer put the Japanese racer onto the right Tzunamee light-metal wheel rims to match its sporty character.

The wheel runs in sizes 8×20 inch for the front and 9×20 inch for the rear and fit ideally into the wheel housings of the Toyota GT86. Furthermore, all four tyres are size 225/30R20. Barracuda Tzunamee model is available in matte black/polished, higloss-black, real-chrome, white-polished and gun-metal finishes.

Source: Barracuda Racing Wheels

November 29, 2012

2013 Jaguar XFR-S – Officially Unveiled

Jaguar has officially revealed the new 2013 XFR-S high-performance saloon. The car is exhibited at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

It is powered by the same engine as XKR-S – a 5.0 liter supercharged V8 with 550HP (404 kW) and 678Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with Quickshift. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) – electronically limited. Despite all that power, the car is able to return 15 mpg in city – 23 mpg on highway and 18 mpg on combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 270 g/km.

“What we have given the XFR-S is greater handling capacity, greater precision and greater capability. It’s a car for driving purists – it will feel engaging within the first 50 meters but remains accessible and confidence-inspiring at any speed.”, commented Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar

The car is equipped with Electronic Active Differential and Dynamic Stability Control system for perfect handling and traction. It rolls 20” Varuna forged alloys with wide low-profile tires to improve grip.

The exterior features new front bumper, a carbon fiber front splitter and extended side sills. The rear bumper is also different with integrated carbon fiber diffuser. The massive rear wing provides additional downforce.

The price for the high-performance saloon is $99,000 and it will hit the market, next summer.

JAGUAR XFR-S: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 5-liter V8 supercharged with Intelligent Stop/Start

Capacity (cc) 5,000

Bore/Stroke (mm) 92.5/93

Peak Power (hp@rpm) 550@6500

Peak Power (kW@rpm) 405@6500

Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm) 502@2500-5500

Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 680@2500-5500

Transmission ZF Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic

0-60 mph (seconds) 1 4.4

0-100km/h (seconds) 1 4.6

Top Speed (mph | km/h) 1 186 | 300 (electronically limited)

Fuel Economy2 (US EPA Estimated mpg) 15 city / 23 highway / 18 combined (Same as XFR)

CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270

Source: Jaguar

November 28, 2012

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe – 5 Stars in Euro NCAP Crash Test

Euro NCAP has published a crash test video of the new 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The SUV managed to earn full five stars safety rating by independent vehicle assessment organization. Its scores on all four test categories make it one of the safest vehicles ever assessed and a leader in its segment.

2012 Santa Fe is the safest vehicle in its category with class-leading 96% in the “adult occupant”. The judges awarded maximum points in the side barrier test thanks to the good protection afforded to all body regions. In the ‘child occupant’ category, the New Generation Santa Fe received a score of 89%, and features such as electronic stability control contributed to the car’s score of 86% in the ‘safety assist’ category.

“The five-star rating for New Generation Santa Fe shows our commitment to developing cars which provide the highest levels of safety to Hyundai customers. The car’s class-leading safety complements the enhanced efficiency that brings low CO₂ and low running costs, to make New Generation Santa Fe a compelling choice for consumers.”, commented Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe.

Every New Generation Santa Fe on sale in Europe comes with Hyundai’s Five Year Triple Care.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fUzOHRFMlA

Source: Euro NCAP

November 28, 2012

Teaser: 2013 Kia pro_cee’d GT

Kia has just exclusively released the first teaser image of their new and aerodynamically empowered Kia pro_cee’d GT. The model will make its official launch in the second half of next year, exuding thirst for speed and adventures.

It is visible that the hot hatch is perfectly aligned with Kia’s sportiness and “fun to drive” positioning. The model of course is based on the all-new pro_cee’d which had its global debut at the Paris Motor Show earlier this year.

The pro_cee’d wiil to go on sale next year, however earlier than the GT model – in the spring. Unfortunately, there’s scarce information around the technical details and specification of the latter. All we know so far is that the 2013 pro_cee’d GT will include the 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Source: Kia

November 28, 2012

2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition is a special edition vehicle which will mark the emblematic moment ten years ago when the first Wrangler Rubicon model was introduced. Back in the days the Rubicon models were the most extreme Wranglers ever produced.

Then, in 2005 model year was introduced the Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited which brought more utility to the Rubicon’s quickly established off-road credentials. And now looking forward to the future, the 2013 model year we will see the introduction of the limited edition 2013 Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition.

The Jeep model will be available in two-door or four-door variant, and according to the brand is the most capable Wrangler ever produced. It is equipped with six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission mated to a Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The latter generates 285 horsepower (210 kW) and 352 Nm (260 ft.-lbs.) of torque.

The one-half inch increase in ride height versus the standard Rubicon model provides the BF Goodrich KM2 265/70R17 tires more room to claw at rugged terrain. The tires are mounted on 17-inch Rubicon aluminum wheels painted satin black with polished faces and a red Jeep Wrangler “icon” logo on the outside lip.

Black front and rear steel off-road bumpers enhance the powerful presence of the vehicle. Here the front bumper includes removable end caps and winch-capable design, which help the vehicle climb obstacles without hindrance, and reduce the damage potential to the bumper system.

On the other hand, the dual-intake Power Dome hood helps aid in engine cooling. Red tow hooks adorn the front and rear, and Mopar rock rails give added protection from trail damage. A “10th Anniversary” badging can be seen on the fenders and a red-silhouette “Rubicon” decal on the sides of the hood.

As a standard the Rubicon will be equipped with Premium Sunrider soft top and as an option ca be purchased with a black three-piece Freedom hard top or body-color hard top. Available exterior colors here are Billet Silver, White and 10th Anniversary Edition-exclusive Anvil.

What about the interior – it has many special touches as well. The first thing that one sees is the striking red leather seats with “Rubicon 10th Anniversary” embroidered into the front seat backs. Of course, red stitching adorns the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the center console, to match the seats.

The final design touches include Mopar slush mats, unique axle locker and sway-bar disconnect switches and a plaque mounted in the dash tray. There is stored the important technical data: axle type and ratio, tire size, transfer case crawl ratio and manufacturer location.

2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicion 10th Anniversary Edition can be seen in showrooms in the spring of next year.

Source: Jeep

November 28, 2012

Category: Car Makes