Car Makes – Page 768 – Automobiles Review

ABT AS7 based on Audi S7

ABT Sportsline has introduced their latest tuning package, which is for the S7 Sportsback. The luxurious four-door car comes with more power, better stance and nice wheels completing the aggressive exterior.

The 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged TFSI engine now produces 520HP (382 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque, instead of factory’s 420HP (309 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft). This is an improvement of 100HP and 100Nm. The result is thanks to a number of upgrades including a new sports exhaust system, cold air intake and an ECU re-map. The top speed is 290 km/h (180 mph), again electronically limited.

The exterior boasts a set of new enormous 21” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires. The stance is improved thanks to a set of sports springs and if the car is equipped with air suspension, ABT offer a special setting called Abt Level Control.

Source: ABT

July 26, 2012

2013 Lexus LS 460 F Sport [leak image]

Here are the first two pictures of the 2013 Lexus LS 460 F Sport. The car will make its official debut at a special event in San Francisco on Monday, July 30.

The car comes with new headlights, a modified front grille and larger air vents feeding cold air for the huge engine. It will be a 4.6 liter V8 with 385 HP (283 kW) and a hybrid model will be also available – 5.0 liter V8 with 444HP (327 kW) and an electric motor. The model range includes LS 460, LS 460 L, LS 600h L and the all-new LS 460 F SPORT.

The exterior of the new 2013 Lexus LS also features tinted taillights and a dual exhaust system.

The aerodynamics package includes aggressive front and rear bumper, a pair of side skirts and a rear diffuser.

Source: Carscoop

July 26, 2012

2012 Honda CR-V Facelift [VIDEO]

2012-Honda-CR-V-Facelift-T The facelifted 2012 Honda CR-V is the fourth generation of the emblematic model, which has appeared for the first time in 1995. The facelift include modifications on every level of this Honda model.

First of all, the length and height of the car have been reduced by 5mm and 30mm respectively compared with the current model. However, the interior space of the SUV is not reduced.

The new CR-V has more aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deeper sculpting of the bodylines and a bolder nose section. The front bumper’s smooth, flowing lines are joined by a horizontal three-bar grille and deep-set headlights.

Furthermore, the CR-V’s signature vertical rear brake lights are now more three-dimensional style. In addition, the front LED daytime running lights and rear LED lights are other stylish enhancements.

This means that now the vehicle has sleeker proportions. Moreover, the rear seats fold flat, so the boot capacity of the CR-V has grown by 148 litres to 164 litres. This means that the boot of the CR-V can now accommodate two mountain bikes or four sets of golf clubs.

What about the interior of the Honda? Of course, there were made several important modifications.

For instance, the major controls have been further grouped according to their function. Here is the “driver interface zone” which is positioned behind the steering wheel as well as the “information interface zone” in the centre of the cabin.

The materials used of course are only high quality ones and have been carefully chosen for the European market. A lot of attention has been put on the details as well.

The interior enhancements include impressive range of equipment that has been added. It features 5 inch “intelligent” Multi-Information Display (i-MID), which controls the audio, telephone and navigation systems.

Next, the front seats incorporate the new whiplash mitigation system. These seats work in conjunction with the CRV’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACETM) body structure.

The passengers’ seats on the other hand have transformed hip point. They have now been lowered by 38mm compared to the current model, resulting in a more comfortable seating position and increased headroom.

Here is also included for the first time a new design which allows the introduction of Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seats. They now can be folded flat in one movement. Hence, the CR-V can be transformed from a five-seater passenger car into a versatile load-lugger.

More importantly, the aerodynamics is another key area of the new CR-V design. The drag coefficient has been reduced by 6.5% compared with the current model and now benefits from performance, fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

httpv://youtu.be/lB_sfD3fj5c

Under the bonnet can be seen either a 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine or a 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, both fitted as a standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The power and torque outputs of the i-DTEC engine remain at 150 hp (110 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) respectively. However, the CO2 emissions fall from 171g/km to 149g/km for the manual version and from 195g/km to 174g/km for models equipped with the five-speed automatic transmission.

On the other hand, the power output of the 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine has risen from 150 hp to 155 hp (114 kW), while the torque has been increased to 192Nm (142 lb-ft). Although there has been increase of the performance, the CO2 emissions have fallen here as well from 192g/km to 173g/km for the manual version, and from 195g/km to 175g/km for the automatic one.

At last, the new CR-V now includes upgrades to the car’s suspension, steering and four-wheel drive system. Here the next generation Motion Adaptive electric power steering system now combines maneuverability with increased feedback and response at higher velocity.

In addition, this sophisticated system includes Advanced Vehicle Stability Assist system, which detects instability in slippery road conditions and automatically initiates steering inputs that prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction.

A wide range of electronic systems are also included: Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Emergency Stop System.

In short, the new improved model of 2012 Honda CR-V is now more confident, efficient and functional and successfully builds on the fame of its predecessors.

httpv://youtu.be/7g_BbfOPFI8

Source: Honda

July 26, 2012

2013 Kia Carens Teaser

2013 Kia Carens is set to debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which will take place on 27th of September. Just two months ahead of its world premiere, Kia has unleashed two teaser images of the new model.

What we can conclude from them is that the new MPV is now sleeker and lower and promises style and spaciousness. It has a completely fresh and cab-forward design.

Furthermore, there is also the impression of lower roofline, longer wheelbase, larger wheels and chrome beltline accent. All this points only to the fact, that the new Carens has been conceived around the theme ‘dynamic space’.

In addition to that the new Kia model will combine striking looks with spacious functionality and an emotional appeal.

Source: Kia

July 26, 2012

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion with the CFD as a key tool in development [VIDEO]

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion was enhanced thanks to the CFD. And if you wonder what this abbreviation means – it stands for Computational Fluid Dynamics. In fact, this was the key tool of the development of the new NASCAR Fusion.

To go further into details, the Computational Fluid Dynamics is an engineering tool used by many industries in the world. With it they look at the aerodynamics of the vehicle on the computer, in order to make better, more efficient cars.

The brand new racing car was created in relatively short time – only for 18 months. This was the reason, a method such as CDF to become an integral part to the process. Furthermore, nowadays the engineers are not allowed to test the cars any track race, hence computer-aided and engineering tools like this are becoming more and more valuable.

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion

Another advantage, next to being able to make a series of changes in a short period of time, is the ability of CDF to show the aerodynamic strengths and weaknesses of the vehicle from a variety of perspectives.

With this technology, the engineers can see the flow of air over the car, as well as the pressures on the surfaces. Here’s a video where professionals from Ford discuss the process of utilization of this technology.

Source: Ford

July 26, 2012

Audi R8 V10 Plus – Best of the Best

Good news. Audi are refreshing their R8 range and are also adding a version which from now on will be the scoreboard leader. It’s the Audi R8 V10 Plus with a new deliciously clever 7-speed S tronic gearbox.

Let’s first talk about all the changes that have been made to the range. A new front bumper that underlines the innovations in the headlight department. By innovations we mean an extensive use of LED technology. Besides the daytime running lights, diodes emit the high and low beams. Optionally a carbon fiber reinforced plastic front splitter can be installed for that extra something. At the back the diffuser has been restyled alongside the R logo.

Under the engine cover, the choice of engines pretty much remains the same. There seems to be however, a bit of a jolt when it comes to power. The 4.2 FSI engine that goes in the Coupe and Spyder V8 models now produces 430 hp and just as much Nm of torque between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. The 5.2 FSI V10 version of these cars stands now at 525 hp and 530 Nm. All seems very proportional. The highlight here however is the acceleration. Provided that the cars are with the new 7-speed S tronic, the 4.2 Coupe will cross the 62 mph mark in 4.3 seconds, the 4.2 Spyder – 4.5 seconds. The 5.2 Coupe and Spyder (again with the new gearbox) will do that in 3.8 and 4.1 seconds.

The real highlight however is the now fastest R8 of them all. Despite being called the Plus, it’s not a plus size lady. In fact, because of the lightweight bucket seats and wheels and ceramic brakes and the scarce use of insulation, the Audi R8 V10 Plus – which is strictly a Coupe – weighs only 1,570 kg. Ten kilograms more than the 4.2 V8 Coupe. Consider the freshly squeezed 550 hp from the 5.2-liter V10 and also the 540 Nm that come along, and you have yourself a super car that can reach 60 mph from a stand still in just 3.5 seconds (S tronic again). Being a quattro, there should be no remarks on the handling whatsoever (no more than 30% of the torque goes to the front wheels so you get some tail-happy action as well).

On the outside, one can recognize an Audi R8 V10 Plus by the black exhaust tips, front splitter, funnier looking air vents, the rear diffuser and mirror caps. It’s 19-inch black gloss wheels with widths of 8.5 and 11 inches are subsequently coated in 235/35 and 295/30 tires respectively.

Source: Audi

July 26, 2012

2014 Mazda 6 – First Image

Mazda Motor Company has released first picture of the all-new 2014 Mazda6. The highly- anticipated car will make its official debut at the next month’s Moscow International Automobile Salon. It will come with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, the brand’s proprietary engineering focus on developing fuel-efficient, performance-oriented vehicles as a result of lightweight and redesigned engine, transmission, chassis and body structures.

The sedan will be powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine mated to a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle also will feature “i-ELOOP,” the world’s first capacitor-based regenerative braking system.

In normal driving conditions, which involve frequent acceleration and braking, i-ELOOP, a name derived from “Intelligent Energy Loop,” will improve fuel economy by up to 10%.

The complete lineup of 2014 Mazda6 vehicles will make their global debut in late September at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

Stay tuned for more information and price lists!

2014 Mazda 6 - first image — 2014 Mazda 6 – first image

Source: Mazda

July 25, 2012

Wald International unveiled Toyota 86 ZN6 Sports Line

Wald International has presented their tuning version for one of the most eagerly awaited cars this year – 2012 Toyota 86. The Toyota 86 is the same car as the GT 86 in Europe, Australia and other regions/countries around the world and the Scion FR-S for USA.

Wald has installed a complete aerodynamics package including modified front spoiler, a pair of side skirts and a new rear bumper. There are also front fender vents and a set of enormous wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

At the rear, there is a boot lid spoiler and a new rear apron with an integral diffuser and a quad-pipe exhaust system.

The ride is lowered by a new sport suspension, which completes the aggressive stance.

Nothing is mentioned about improving the front-mounted 2.0 liter boxer engine delivering all power to the rear wheels.

Source: Wald International

July 25, 2012

Unleash the LFA – Lexus [HD video]

Lexusvehicles has released an teaser video for their upcoming clip, which will feature a mighty LFA sports car and a professional race driver on a closed course. Of course, the manufacturer warns everybody “Do not attempt”, so we expect something spectacular like drifts, burnouts and more interesting sequences.

The Lexus LFA is one of the fastest cars in the world. It is powered by a 4.8 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine equipped with dual VVT-I. It has 560HP (412 kW) at 8700RPM and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at 6800RPM. The red line is at whopping 9500RPM. The engine has forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves.

The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1 480kg (3 263 lbs), so the performance is sensational. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 326 km/h (203 mph). Power-to-weight ratio is 2,64kg / hp. The more interesting 0-200 km/h discipline is covered in 11.4 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.6 seconds with 201 km/h (125 mph) terminal speed.

The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida, the LFA set a time of 7:22.85.

The price for the toy is $375 000.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FKS3edMRk4

Source: Lexusvehicles via Youtube

July 25, 2012

Gunther Holtorf’s 23-year road trip in Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen

Mercedes-Benz--G-Wagen-T Gunther Holtorf has unique destiny. Since 1989 he has been traveling the world and has visited many place, explored variety of cultures and had experiences which many of us can’t even imagine. This is a story which I find insightful an inspiring and it is definitely worth viewing it.

What makes Gunther’s around-the-world traveling so unique is that he has done this with unfailing “friend” Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. In fact, in the short film below he reveals that the “Otto” (as he calls the car) never had a serious breakdown and the engine always started!

The Mercedes-Benz called "Otto"

The story began back in 1989, when the Berlin Wall fell. This was the time when Gunther Holtorf and his wife Christine decided to go on an 18-month tour of Africa in their Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen.

Twenty-three years later and more than 800,000km (500,000 miles) driven, Gunther is continuing visiting places. The German former airline executive has travelled the equivalent of 20 times around the planet in this Mercedes. Recently in Vietnam, the photographer David Lemke joined Gunther on one section of his epic journey.

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: BBC

July 25, 2012

Project Burberry Range by Carlex Design

Project “Burberry Range” by Carlex Design is obviously done for the ladies, because its main source of inspiration was the typical Burberry tartan and the special way of connecting structures, which can be seen on luxury Burberry Handbags.

For the Range Rover’s upholstery is used unique way of stitching. What does this mean? Carlex Design is going to densely backstitched horizontally the tartan.

Furthermore, the patterns on headrest are obtained by white embroideries on leather, which have been designed especially for this interior. Extensive headliner pattern made of alcantara are accomplished by the method of serigraphy.

All stitching patterns on the seats are made through sophisticated connection of leathers. Moreover, decorative trims are varnished in the color of deep piano black and juicy cherry with a touch of white sand.

Stunning design, isn’t it?

Carlex Design Range Rover Burberry Interior

Source: Carlex Design

July 25, 2012

ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

ADV1-Wheels-Mercedes-Benz-SL65-AMG-Black-Series-T The next exciting project for today from ADV.1 Wheels is the ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series.

First of all we have to reveal that the SL65BS is a rare car to find. Furthermore, finding this Mercedes-Benz in matte teal color is nearly impossible.

This vehicle is in fact Mercedes’ most powerful production car ever. It comes equipped with the double-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine under the hood, pumping out 661 hp (486 kW) and 738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) torque. The car comes with electronically limited top speed of 320km/h

ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

What makes it one-of-a-kind however, is the set of ADV5.0 Track Spec’s. Furthermore the flared Mercedes wheel arches hide a 20″ staggered set of ADV.1 wheels, 9.5″ in the front and a massive 12″ footprint in the rear. A simple gloss black lip, spoke, and inner were added to contrast off the fantastic paint job.

Source: ADV.1 Wheels

July 25, 2012

Category: Car Makes