Automobiles Review – Page 217 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

RAV4 will receive some neat updates for the upcoming season. Check ’em out!

2015 Toyota RAV4 Toyota team expands the safety features to eight of the overall 10 RAV4 models. There are going to be new autonomous braking additions and tons of hi-tech convenience goodies as satellite navigation and Toyota Link connectivity. So, let’s see what Toyota got for customers.

The new safety systems will be available as optional variant for the GX and GXL lineup, while it will be part of the standard equipment for the flagship Cruiser. In fact, buyers of the automatic petrol GXL will be pleased to know that along with the optional safety pack there is a little surprise: customizable dual-tone paint with silver accents on the bumpers, wheel arches door sills and side mirrors. Sweet.

2015 Toyota RAV4

In fact, there are changes in many dimensions: many of them will meet the new season year with new styling, revised interiors and new Euro5-complaint engines. There will be revised Cruise Control systems, Automatic high beam, Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist. Exclusive for the RAV4 GX remain satellite navigation, 4.2-inch color multi-function display, enriched instrument cluster and fog lights.

And what happens to the drivetrain system?

As we have told you, the range includes three four-cylinder power units that start with the agile 143hp (107kW) 2.0-liter petrol unit and finishes with either a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine or the 2.5-liter petrol unit with 176hp (132kW).

2015 Toyota RAV4

Also, there are not that big changes, as it come to gearbox systems: there is the usual six-speed manual and there is the trustworthy Multidrive S 7-speed CVT. All petrol AWD units will be geared with the manual one as a standard, but customers can specify their vehicle with the automatic transmission. In fact, the 7-speed CVT remains standard feature for the 2.0-liter petro Two-Wheel-Drive and the 2.2-liter diesel AWD models.

Source: Toyota

September 12, 2016

2017 Sentra ST Turbo: modest in features, unappealing in design

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo The 2017 Sentra SE Turbo has already showed its features at this year’s Miami International Auto Show. Joining and enriching the well-known Sentra lineup, the SE Turbo will be available for order later this fall all over the world. So, what did Miami Show’s audience witness?

Sentra Turbo features new 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline turbocharged power unit that delivers 188hp (140kW) and 177lb-ft of torque. This means that the 1.8-engine delivers a total of 64hp and 52lb-ft of torque more output, compared to the non-turbo 2017 Sentra model.

Of course, engine power output is not enough to make a certain sporty vehicle appealing, right? Nissan team has also enhanced the body structure, improved the steering system and braking system, included new 6-speed manual or the special Xtronic gearbox with manual mode and has done some sweet fine-tuning on the suspension system.

Exterior design

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo

In terms of exterior styling, the refreshed Sentra comes with LED low beam projector headlights with LED accents, lower side sills, new rear spoiler and redesigned LED brake lights. The sporty feeling is enhanced with sweet 17-inch aluminum alloys.

But let’s be honest here: This vehicle comes with not well-proportioned body. Yes, we got the clean and straight lines, but they are just not enough to hide the fat-looking body and not-sporty-at-all appearance.

Interior styling

Nothing that interesting. Functional and simple, the cabin incorporates sporty seats, seatback pocket, heated front seats, 5.0-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display and Siri Eyes Free Voice Recognition. That’s it.

Additional equipment

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo

Offered in four trim levels, S, SV, SR and SL, the Sentra Turbo includes power sliding moonroof as a standard feature for all trim levels, numerous Turbo badges and… this is it. Yep, nothing else. What makes exception is the optional Premium Package, available with all trims. It adds Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, leather-dominated interior and sweet Bose Premium audio system. Sweet.

Final words

We believe that this one stays true to Nissan’s politics to deliver us high-quality and reliable vehicles. However, we should mention one more time Sentra’s unsexy looks, poor standard equipment and overall unappealing pack of goodies.

But tell me, what do you think?

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2016

A well-done job: Carbon Motor refreshes the interior of Mercedes C-Class

2016 Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz C-Class As you might remember, when Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 was first revealed it quickly gained popularity as “The smalll S-Class”. What impressed buyers and Mercedes enthusiasts back in 2007 were the numerous premium components: sweet finish for the buttons in the cabin, ceramic details, fresh infotainment system and hard disc drive. And of course, this well-known Mercedes-Benz quality and feel.

2016 Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz C-Class

And now the team at Carbon Motors decided to refresh the vehicle after 9 years of well-done service. The Bulgaria-based tuning studio wrapped the seats in black and grey leather, bond them together with red contrast stitching and eye-catching red stripes. Definitely a bold decision that brings feeling of luxury and sportiness. The rest of the cabin is dominated by grey Alcantara, aided by black stitching and additional red accents.

What is surprising though, is that there is complete absence of carbon-fiber elements: this is something unusual for our friends from Carbon Motors. However, we see a beautiful Mercedes vehicle with incredible interior design: everything looks tight, clean and sexy. In fact, what makes this redesign project so successful, is that the tuner kept it simple and close to the original design and appearance: all the changes just fit the styling concept of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle and brings joy to our eyes.

2016 Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz C-Class

So, do you like it? We most certainly do.

Source: Carbon Motors

September 10, 2016

UX Concept revealed and numerous more surprises at the Paris Show by Lexus!

2016 Lexus UX Concept Lexus revealed more details about a special concept vehicle that will be showcased on September 29 at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

This is indeed the Lexus UX concept, created by brand’s European Design Centre, ED2. The concept will show brand’s new design plans that are heavily influenced by urban streets and connected environment. There will also be present tons of hi-tech solutions and next-gen technologies. What we also know so far is that the interior will also impress audience and critics: it will incorporate traditional hi-quality craftsmanship, along with some modern-day manufacturing technologies. Long story short, we do expect a vehicle that will be incredibly agile in city environment, but also powerful and capable enough to tackle down some off-road challenges.

Furthermore, Lexus will show redesigned IS model, new NX Sport Edition model and brand’s latest flagship coupe, the LC at the 2016 Paris Motor show.\

To be honest, I do expect much from Lexus team. Recently the brand confidently and professionally showcased some incredible systems, technologies and vehicles that are worth the review. And since it is such an important meeting, we do believe that there will be even more pleasant surprises at Lexus’s stand.

The official Lexus Press Conference will take place on September 29 at 13:30 pm CET at the Lexus stand in hall 4.

Stick with us for further information!

Source:: Lexus

September 10, 2016

Larte Design creates one simply unique interior design! Check it out!

2016 Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Many people dream of having this super luxurious vehicle that is not only expressive, but it also completely represents this refined taste in style and quality. And many get what they have always wanted. And there are also these who show the final product, so much desired by many. This time the presenters are Mercedes-Benz and LARTE Design. Built by Luxury Technology studio and first showcased at the Russian Jet Expo Show, the final product is named “Black Crystal”. So, let’s see what makes this one so sexy.

Exterior design

2016 Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class

LARTE Design team has exclusively created special pack, named V-Class Black Crystal. This tuning kit catches the eye with expressive, yet elegant lines, refinement and clarity. The front and rear bumpers are enhanced with carbon-fiber components, while the two black Swarovski crystals enhance the style and exclusivity of the pack.

There are new headlights, fog lamps, LED daytime running lights and all this perfectly blended with the well-known Mercedes-Benz original styling. We like it.

Interior design

2016 Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class

This is where things get interesting. This so-called “Cabinet on wheels” is not just an ordinary cabinet on wheels. It is super luxurious and exclusive. The cabin is fraught with high quality finishes, soft leather, chrome, piano lacquer and wood components. The design team has even managed to put a 32-inch screen inside! In fact, the whole cabin looks just super classy. As it was especially created for some multi-billionaire world-elite guy. Anyone can just feel the heaviness of luxury and exclusivity inside.

2016 Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class

And we like it. We do like it very much. Whether I need to sit back and relax or just to take an ordinary drive, I would love to do it in such a vehicle. But tell me, what do you think?

And here are more pictures, personally presented to us by Larte Design team:

Source: Larte Design

September 10, 2016

Jazz and Hatches at Honda’s stand at the Paris Motor Show

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Honda team will unveil the new Civic hot hatch at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The vehicle showcases massive exterior and interior design changes and what we know so far is that it will be available for purchasing from early 2017. So, what should be excited for?

This is the tenth edition of Honda’s one of most popular models and the team decided to undertake the most comprehensive research in order to deliver us one just fine vehicle. What we know so far is that there will be numerous additions and improvements and customizable options and combinations.

Jazz Spotlight Edition

2017 Honda Jazz Sportlight Edition

This is one more cool model that will be showcased at the Paris Show. A further step in probably the right direction, this Jazz Keenlight Concept prototype will showcase refreshed design, bronze front grille decoration, door mirror decorations, exclusive 15-inch alloys, tailgate decoration, steering wheel and central console treatment.

In fact, we are hyped about Honda’s presentation at the show. For the last ten or so years the team showcased numerous successful ideas, concepts, technologies and automobiles and we all believe that this tendency will go on. After all, these two vehicles look fantastic, as many of Honda’s lineups.

So, what do you expect from Honda’s camp?

Source: Honda

September 9, 2016

Mercedes E-Class receives special gift from Cor.Speed Performance team!

Cor.Speed Performance Wheels team has always stood out from the crowd by showing the world its unique and exclusive high quality alloy wheels.

And now the crew decided to create special set of wheels for the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 model. What we see here are sweet five-spoke Cor.Sppeed VEGAS in Highgloss Black Polished Finish wheels. This set can be already purchased and comes in two sizes: 8.5×20 inch and 10.0×20 inch.

2016 Cor.Speed Performance Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class lucky car is also geared with 245/35ZR20 and 275/30ZR20 tires that completely resemble the style and appearance of the whole vehicle. In fact, there are deep offsets that make the car look wider and more muscular, which, in our opinion, is one more cool feature.

This wider look is further expressed by these Barracuda wheel sparcer that can be blended with optional H&R sporty spring pack that not only drops the overall height with massive 35mm, but also contributes to more sporty stance and agile handling.

2016 Cor.Speed Performance Mercedes-Benz E-Class

So, how do you like the Mercedes-Benz vehicle? We do like it. With all its massiveness, elegance and sportiness. And one more thing: let us not forget that this is indeed a Mercedes vehicle, which means it is originally beautiful. After all, I don’t remember seeing an ugly one. Have you?

Source: Cor.Speed Performance

September 9, 2016

Porsche reveals the 2018 Panamera 4 E-Hybrid. Definitely they got us with this one!

2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Ahead of the official debut at the Paris Motor Show Porsche team reveals the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid model. Confident, beautiful and functional, this latest additional to the lineup fills an exact gap: it will be both aggressively agile and efficient. Many will say that this is a sort of contradiction, but it looks like Porsche team has given it a shot.

In terms of drivetrain specs, the new Hybrid machine offers all-wheel drive, 462hp (344kW) power output and… 2.5l/100km fuel consumption. Sounds good? Yes it does. But we still wonder whether these numbers are correct and whether this is the next marketing gimmick or this time it is for real. But soon we will find out.

Drivetrain system

Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid manages to sprint from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in just 4.4 seconds and chases a top speed of 309km/h (172mph). Just like its brother, the 918 Spyder, this sweetheart incorporates the same hybrid strategy: it not only uses fuel far more efficiently, but also gives this neat sporty kick to the Panamera.

There is also this new thing, called “E-Boost”. What it does is to unleash additional torque and horsepower output, when driver has pressed the throttle pedal at least 80 per cent of the way down.

2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid

And let’s talk a bit about the electric engine. This liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery-charged thing delivers 14.1 kWh and is placed under the luggage compartment floor. Although it is bigger and more powerful than previous models, the weight hasn’t changed. What has changed, though, is the charging time: it takes only 12 hours to be fully charged. Sweet.

Additional equipment and system improvements

This Panamera model comes with improved Porsche Advanced Cockpit concept. There is larger infotainment display, two additional seven-inch screens and maybe the most notable addition is the overall revised intuitive operating principle that offers easy control of the multimedia and automated processes that do not disturb the driver while driving.

The driving modes

2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid

Of course, as any other Panamera model, the E-Hybrid offers incredible driving comfort and versatility. Indeed versatility is the word to use, when talking about the driving modes. There are a total of four: “E-Power”, “Hybrid Auto”, “E-Hold” and “E-Charge”. Going from smooth and soft ride towards aggressive sporty experience, drivers can be ensured that they will find their “sweet spot”, when tweaking the modes.

2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid is expected to be available for order in summer of 2017. More details and prices will be announced later this year.

Stick with us for further information!

Source: Porsche

September 9, 2016

Mercedes vehicle tweaked by Kahn Design: it is beautiful, stylish and distinctive. Check it out!

2016 Kahn Design Mercedes-Benz ML So, what we have here? Kahn Design team, one of the most popular tuning brands around decided to take a closer look to a lucky Mercedes-Benz ML vehicle. What we see as a final product is a sweet M Class with boosted confidence, more eye-catching details and boosted levels of luxury. So, let’s check it out!

Exterior styling at its best

2016 Kahn Design Mercedes-Benz ML

Vehicle’s visuals remain close to the original appearance, but at the same time engineers and stylists have geared some neat additions: aggressive front and rear wide wheel arches, reshaped front bumper assembly, integrated daytime running lights and a redesigned bootlid spoiler. And all this topped with crispy 22-inch Diamond Cut on Black alloys. Neat, right?

What I personally like about this one is that the design team managed to keep the true nature and beauty of the original Mercedes-Benz ML styling, but somehow boost its muscularity and confidence in slight and indirect way. It is like taking the essence of Mercedes-Benz styling philosophy and add some muscles to it. And more confidence. And more beauty.

2016 Kahn Design Mercedes-Benz ML

In fact, these tweaks are not about boosting vehicle’s performance rates and agility. It is all about style and character. And as we all can see, Kahn Design magicians have done some pretty good job.

But tell me, what do you think?

Source: Kahn Design

September 8, 2016

More power and neat wheel sets: WIMMER team tweaked the Porsche Macan Turbo

2016 WIMMER Porsche Macan Turbo We have told you a lot about Porsche Macan. About its wonderful features and about people’s desire to make it even better. And here we have witnessed yet another masterful project. This time WIMMER team decided to take a closer look to the Macan Turbo and see how it can be improved.

As you know, the flagship in the Macan lineup is the Macan Turbo model. And this is indeed the vehicle that WIMMER Rennsporttechik decided to improve. The final result is a total power output raised to 435hp (324kW) and 640Nm of maximum torque. Also, the vehicle received and sports exhaust system. Cool.

2016 WIMMER Porsche Macan Turbo

Also, along with the power boost, the blackbone Macan Turbo received a set of sweet Shift rims by SCHMIDT Revolution in Bad Segeberg. These are 22-inch beauties, wrapped by 265/35R22 tires on the front and 295/30R22 on the back. What is special about these rims is that they come with a polished undercut and they will be produced in different concativities for the different axles.

Furthermore, these neat 22-inch wheels come in many styling options: they are available in Hyper Silver, Black Mat with polished undercut, Black Glossy, Black Glossy with decorative screws on the polished rim ring, Black Mat with polished spokes and Black Mat with front polished spokes and decorative screws. Sweet.

2016 WIMMER Porsche Macan Turbo

Source: WIMMER

September 8, 2016

BORLA team created exclusive exhaust system for 2016 Chevy Camaro. Check it out!

2016 BORLA Chevrolet Corvette Exhaust System BORLA Performance Industries, one of the most notable brands in design and manufacture stainless steel performance exhaust systems announced some sweet additions and upgrades for the already hot on wheels Chevrolet Camaro.

Long story short, the exhaust system is exclusively created for the Camaro 3.6-liter V6 and 2.0-liter Turbo models. Additionally, it can be installed on vehicles with Chevrolet Dual Mode exhaust function. These are indeed the Camaro SS 6.2-liter V8 models.

Created at BORLA’s Research and Development Center in Oxnard, CA, and manufactured in USA at the facility in Johnson City, TN, the recently developed system greatly contributes to better performance, enhanced vehicle agility and of course, some badass sound and aggressive styling.

So, what are the highlights?

2016 BORLA Chevrolet Corvette Turbo Exhaust System

Actually, BORLA enthusiasts and fans should be impressed with this one. The brand proudly demonstrates a 2.25-inch diameter system that is drone-free and made of aerospace-grade T-304 stainless steel. Especially made for 2016 Camaro 3.6-liter V6 and 2.0-liter Turbo models, the system features OE-standard, high-quality engineering and stainless steel construction, oversized exhaust tips in two-tip and four-tip configurations, BORLA ATAK or S-Type muffler options are also available, along with touring resonator option. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

It is always good to see how tuners push the boundaries even further. In fact, we are impressed of how BORLA team managed to improve the already mighty and incredible 2016 Camaro. But no one has ever doubted in the magic hands of engineers, hasn’t they?

Source: BORLA

September 8, 2016

Ferrari with a touch of MEC Design Magic: a rather satisfactory result!

2016 MEC Design Ferrari 488 Spider We all love Ferrari vehicles and we all love fine-tuned Ferrari vehicles, do not we? And because of our unconditional love we will tell you about a special 488 Spider model. So, sit down, relax and enjoy!

As you might know, the latest 488 Spider made its debut some years agosince then is one of Ferrari’s proudest moments. But, there are some people who still want more and know that can push the boundaries even further. Indeed MEC Design team decided to take a closer look to the vehicle and tweak it a bit.

The Berlin-based studio has just rolled out a special styling and technical program for owners that look for something more than stock power and visuals. There a lot of exclusive tweakable features and tons of improvements, but the design team makes it clear of one thing: to keep the looks and performance as close as the original without changing the nature of the 488 Spider too much.

So, what did they do?

2016 MEC Design Ferrari 488 Spider

First of all, there is a three-piece “Scossa Rossa” body kit with new spoiler lip, dive planes on the corners, side sill panels and multiple-section rear diffuser with under-run protection. Also, there is a matt-black theme that covers the air intakers, grille and other body components.

This stylish black theme leaves its presense on the rear light cluster and door lock and then finally covers the darkest of hues. At the same time the in-house meCCon CCd5 alloys contribute to the visual styling with sweet five-spoke design in matte black. Cool.

In terms of performance and drivetrain system, MEC Design team adds sporty suspension kit that lowers the overall ride height by 60mm and further improves handling. The engine itself hasn’t undergone any notable changes, but on the other hand, MEC Design offers a special sport exhaust system, named “Apocalypse”. Badass.

2016 MEC Design Ferrari 488 Spider

The interior is dominated by exclusive leather and some MEC Design-exclusive components: there is a whole carbon-fiber interior package fitted in that brings carbon-fiber inserts for the doors, dashboard and central console, including heater control panel. Also, there are sweet MEC Design floor mats and LED lightning set.

So, what do you think?