Automobiles Review – Page 224 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BMW 740Le xDrive iPerformance: next big trend or next “nothing new” ?

Sporty Appearance with Efficient Heart

So, we can finally review it! The new BMW flagship model comes with some more futuristic systems and technologies. One of the most interesting is definitely the eDrive system with plug-in hybrid drive system that uses some precise executed interplay of a four-cylinder gasoline engines with Twin Power Turbo technology.

In fact, the new plug-in hybrid unit delivers some dynamic driving experience, blended with all-electric and locally emission-free mobility. Furthermore, BMW Group defines the new BMW 7 Series as the most eco-friendly lineup the brand has created so far. Actually, we are not that sure. We have written for numerous brands that have revealed “the most economic and environmentally-friendly system” and 99% of them are pure marketing gimmicks. So, BMW, your move!

BMW 740Le xDrive iPerformance

Of course, as it comes to BMW vehicle, we are obliged to talk about design. This sweetheart demonstrates all the famous and well-known design tweaks that all in the family share. We see a confidently standing vehicle with elegant lines and neatly placed edges. Of course, the double-kidney grille defines the front, just as the badass-looking headlamps. The sides are clean and do not show anything that should not be there, while the back shares this concept: it is tight, muscular and clean. Beautiful.

Performance, numbers and more

So, what more could be said about the drive system? The plug-in hybrid system blends together innovations from the world of combustion power units and electric systems. Or, in other words, the 255hp (190kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque machine offers some more dynamics and power, all generated far more efficiently and confidently.

And when this power unit works in harmony with the hybrid system, the overall output rises to a total of 322hp (240kW) and 369lb-ft. Massive, right? And when in optimal conditions and power setup the vehicle can reach 100 kilometers per hour in mere 5.1 seconds and then chase an electronically limited top speed of 279km/h (155mph).

BMW 740Le xDrive iPerformance

So, BMW team still proves itself worthy, even in the new world of economy, electricity and flexibility. Honestly said, we do love BMW and all of brand’s machines. And there is a fine reason for that.

But tell me, what do you think? Write down in the comment section below!

Source: BMW Group

August 12, 2016

Honda team reveals details for the 2017 Pioneer lineup. Check them out!

2017 Honda Pioneer 500 Honda Motor Co, Inc, announced some rather good news! Pioneer 700 and Pioneer 500 side-by-sides will be granted with numerous new features for the 2017 model year. These midsize and entry vehicles are incredibly popular and they grow in number and fame. So, what has Honda team has prepared for us for the upcoming model year? Let’s find out!

Pioneer 700

2017 Honda Pioneer 700

This one will be offered with new aluminum wheels, electric power steering wheel and painted suspension springs. Also, the Deluxe lineup will be geared with completely automatic gearbox and dash-mounted toggle switch. Furthermore, the Deluxe models will be available with more exterior finishes and all of them will receive new bumper, fascia and exclusive graphics. Kewl. And last, but not least, Honda promises that this refreshed lineup will be available for deep personalization with more than 50 original Honda accessories and components.

Pioneer 500

This is the top-selling model. And for 2017 Honda will make everything to keep this trend. There will be some big changes made onto the transmission system, acceleration and ride smoothness. There will be some sweet additions as dual-rate suspension springs, narrow 50-inch width for customer transport in full-size pickup-truck bed and some more surprises that are soon to be announced!

Stick with us!

Source: Honda

August 12, 2016

Modern Classic Ferraris are seeking their new owners!

Hexagon Classics makes a rather special offer!

Hexagon Classics is impatient to find the new owner or owners of two extremely rare and low-mileage open-top Ferraris, both of which representing the essence of the modern classics. So, what more can we say about these beauties?

2000 Ferrari 550 Barchetta

Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina is a limited-edition roadster with a total of 478hp (356kW), processed through a 5.5-liter V12 power unit. The vehicle was first unveiled at the Paris Motor Show back in 2000 and there are just 448 units. Something more: this particular one is one of the rarest Ferrari models to offer open-top for the last 20 years. Incredible, right?

2000 Ferrari 550 Barchetta

This sweetheart, already offered for sale, has run just 1,625 miles and is finished in neat Giallo Fly yellow paint with Nero leather-dominated interior. The vehicle was first supplied by Japanese dealer Cornes & Co and through the years has received some meticulous care and now it is offered even with the original handbook and spare keys. Cool, right?

And here’s one more story for you. When the 550 Maranello was replaced with a faster and more powerful 5.7-liter V12 power unit in 2002, Ferrari team decided to offer one more limited version: not just more futuristic, but also offering a special roof top.

2005 Ferrari 575 Superamerica

Launched in 2005, the Superamerica comes with electrochromic glass panel roof that rotates backward through 180-degrees to rest flush with a just a press of a single button. Cool!

2005 Ferrari 575 Superamerica

Also, all Superamerica models come with a powerful 575M power unit, producing the massive 533hp (397kW). And the concrete 2005 model is finished in Grigio Silverstone Metallic with Caramel Leather interior and has covered just 1,380 miles for its 11 years of life. Cool.

2005 Ferrari 575 Superamerica

So, which one do you prefer?

Source: Hexagon

August 12, 2016

noelle motors impresses with BMW 750i’s new power capability

The iconic BMW 750i receives a three staged power uprating program

This project will excite many BMW enthusiasts, because it adds more power within the means of three upgrade stages. The conversion has been developed for the BMW 750i G11, and those looking for an uprating might consider this one. So, here are the details.

If you are very strongly linked with your love for BMW, then you should probably know the tuning company called noelle motors, which is responsible for the current project here. An interesting fact is that it’s founder Karl-Otto Noelle was the former head of engine development at Alpina in the 80s. He’s main passion and duty was to extract massive amount of power from engines.

The legendary BMW 750i is currently equipped with the V8 unit, which due to the addition of a pair of turbochargers, direct injection and Valvetronic, pumps out 450 hp and 650 Nm of torque. In other words, the engineers at noelle motors has the best possible toy to play with. They have thus developed a three staged program for the bi-turbo V8 N63B44 motor.

2016 noelle motors BMW 750i G11 rear view

Stage 1 is just software optimization, which takes the output to 590 hp and 760 Nm of torque. Given that these numbers have been raised, this means that the benchmark 0-100 km/h sprint should be shortened: it is now 4.0 seconds, compared to the standard 4.7 seconds.

The Stage 2 conversion adds over the first one a free-flow exhaust downpipe with the appropriate ECU remapping. The result is 609 hp and 790 Nm of torque and even a shorter 0-100 km/h sprint time: 3.8 seconds.

At the top of this project is the Stage 3 modification, which unleashes V8’s unlimited potential. It adds modifications to the turbochargers, larger downpipe and tailored ECU remapping, thus helping the BMW 750i produce 629 hp and 820 Nm of torque. If you wonder about the 0-100 km/h time, it is just 3.6 seconds, giving noelle motors’ BMW 750i a place in the super sports car league.

That’s kind of great, isn’t it?

Source: noelle motors

August 12, 2016

G-POWER surprises with stunning Mercedes-AMG G63 conversion

G-POWER Mercedes-AMG G63 front view

The iconic off-roader’s V8 now receives an addition of 74 hp and 140 Nm of torque

G-POWER has been mainly associated with BMW conversions. However, the tuning studio is also keen on optimizing another German automaker’s models: the Mercedes-Benz cars. The conversion here includes the iconic off-roader G63 AMG, which has received a significant power boost and a brand new shoes to run on.

The latest variant of the Mercedes-AMG G63 is driven by the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which produces the impressive 571 hp (420 kW) with 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) of torque. So, it is a great basis to work on, and the G-POWER engineers have taken advantage of this fact.

The first thing they did is to develop a Bi-Tronik 5 V1 power module, which helps the V8 release additionally 74 hp and 140 Nm of torque. To make the math for you, this makes a total of 645 hp (474 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft).

G-POWER Mercedes-AMG G63 engine

Here are some details about this power module: it is connected upstream of the engine control unit, thus modifying the data from the vehicle’s sensors and transmitting it to the stock ECU. The latter has an output control parameters, which are based on this incoming data.

If we have more power, we should also have better performance, right? The stopwatch says it better: due to the extra power and torque, this G63 AMG is now capable to run from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. After the removal of the top speed limiter, the off-roader can now produce more than 250 km/h!

More power sometimes requires new on-road attitude, and the simplest way to achieve this is to add new wheels. So the specialists at G-POWER didn’t hesitate to equip the Mercedes with their ultra-light 23-inch HURRICANE RR forged alloys, fitting it additionally with 305/35ZR23 tyres. They have black finish and five double-spoke wheel design, which perfectly highlights the sports character of the G63 AMG and contrasts its exterior paint scheme.

Show some love for this project!

Source: G-POWER

August 12, 2016

LARTE Design offers new tuning pack for the popular Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal project

The extras included make the V-class Black Crystal the perfect luxury family car for business people

This week has started with the announcement of LARTE Design’s Mercedes GLS Black Crystal, which will be revealed at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 24th. But besides this exclusive project, the Russian tuner is about to show there all emblematic vehicles in its portfolio, including the Tesla Model S Elizabeta and the V-class Black Crystal. By the way, the latter has received some additional updates, and now LARTE is introducing them ahead of the show at the end of the month.

On the pictures in the galley you will see a white variant of the LARTE Design’s Mercedes-Benz V-class Black Crystal. The pictures have been taken in a lovely place in front of an American styled house, depicting the perfect and harmonious atmosphere.

As you know, if you have followed the projects of the tuners, the bespoke van is the perfect companion for long-distance business trips, VIP-shuttling and management level meetings. But it is also great for family trips with kids; and this is entirely due to the space and comfortability it offers.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal by Larte Design front view

The appearance of this V-Class Black Crystal is also something to ponder on. It is striking: looking like a precious diamond and attracting the glances of everyone. But it couldn’t be otherwise. Just look at its expressive body design and forms, offering refined and stylish performance.

This of course is due to some extra add-ons, including the in-house made brand-new front and rear bumpers, new radiator grill with LARTE horseshoe logo on it. The tuning pack also includes side sills and stainless steel tail-pipes. And if you wonder why this project is named Black Crystal, it is because of the two black Swarovski crystals embedded in the front bumper. The iconic for the tuning company look is rounded out by the stunning LED daytime running lights. All parts are made of composite materials, while just some elements are covered with carbon fiber. This white version of the V-class Black Crystal by LARTE Design is the perfect vehicle for those wanting to express their high status and at the same time bring the home on the road.

Source: LARTE Design

August 12, 2016

Triumph Rocket: 493km/h is, in fact, achievable. Here’s how they did it!

2016 Triumph Infor Rocket TT Legend Guy Martin, who piloted the Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner became the pilot who reached highest speed ever achieved with a Triumph machine with the incredible 274.2mph. The record was broken at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Unbelievable, right?

Achieved on 8 of August this year, the speed of 493.65 km/h is much more faster than the previous record speed of 441km/h, set by Bob Leppan with the Gyronaut X-1.

Even the bad weather conditions were not able to stop the team of achieving success: with tons of confidence and preparation, in 08:30am Guy Martin set off on the first run for the day and after a steady start, Martin managed to reach the legendary speed of 274.2mph, writing some more Triumph history in the process.

Definitely getting more and more confident, the whole engineering team put all its energy into the project. Throughout a week Martin and his fellow colleagues have impressed anyone who was watching as the Triumph Rocket gained more and more speed.

And as we are talking about the vehicle, let’s mention some of its features, shall we? This monster comes with carbon Kevlar monocoque construction with not one, but two Rocket III power units, producing a total of 1,000 hp (735kW) at 9,000rpm. The whole thing is a total of 25.5 feet long, 2 feet wide and 3 feet tall. Also, by power, gained from methanol fuel, the bike can compete in the Division C category. Cool, right?

Source: Triumph Motorcycles

August 11, 2016

A reward for INIFINITI’s passionate team: check it out!

2016 Infiniti QX60 INFINITI USA proudly announces that the 2017 INFINITI QX60 Premium crossover has received a 5-star overall safety ration from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program testing. Just like its older brother, the new generation of premium vehicles does not satisfy itself with only good looks or some trendy hi-tech gadgets.

As we have told you, the 2016 lineup offers some sophisticated designone hell of a drivetrain system: buyer are granted with INFINITI’s latest technology achievements and systems. Efficient hybrid combos, Intelligent AWD and flexible front-wheel drive system: all is present!

But let’s get back to the safety features. INFINITI earned NHTSA’s trust by incorporating numerous passive and active safety systems, along with driver-assistance technologies. There are Forward Collision Warning and Forward Emergency Braking systems, Backup Collision Intervention, Moving Object Detection and numerous cameras. Cool, right?

But the exact additions that earned the 5-star rating are indeed the Advanced Air Bag System with dual-stage supplemental front airbags, roof-mounted curtainside impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensors, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental airbags and Dynamic Control and Traction Control System.

What we have seen so far is a brand and highly motivated team that not only tries to keep its positions in the worldwide charts, but also makes its best to push the boundaries of conventional automobile manufacturing.

Good job, INFINITI!

Source: Infiniti

August 11, 2016

Hyundai shares first insights on the new generation i30 [w/video]

Hyundai i30 is entirely designed and developed in Europe

The new generation Hyundai i30 is here…Well, almost. It will be revealed online on September 7^th, meaning that there is nothing else for the brand to do other than to tease the new car with first official images. There are three of them and even better – there is a video showing more of the upcoming model. The facts and information given are scarce, but we are excited to understand that the i30 has been entirely designed and developed as well as tested in Europe.

In other words, Hyundai has been very clever as it is expansion is growing strongly throughout the Old Continet. Well, what people like there is definitely the classic German design. We are far from the thought that the new Hyundai model will look like a BMW or a Mercedes, but the fact that the Asian company has made efforts to impress the conservative European public brings joy to our hearts. Here are the details.

The President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, Peter Schreyer, said that the New Generation i30 is a “car for everybody”. He continued that in the design pursue, the team focused not only on one customer, but on a wide range of different people. As he describes it, it is an “evolution of Hyundai Motor’s design language”.

Hyindai i30 headlights - teaser

The car is about to appear with natural flowing lines, more refined surfaces and a sculpted body. And all of this is linking to a timeless appearance. The most impressive detail revealed so far is the further developed grille, called “the Cascading grille.” Additional details disclosed include the efficient and dynamic powertrain line-up, innovative safety and connectivity features as well as excellent market value.

After the official online debut of the New Generation Hyundai i30, it will receive a stage premiere at the Paris Motor Show next month.

httpv://youtu.be/WLHhrigZyxA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hyundai

August 11, 2016

What to expect from ŠKODA KODIAQ as brand reveals first images [w/video]

ŠKODA KODIAQ carries company’s new design language into the SUV segment

The debut of ŠKODA KODIAQ will happen in a month on September 1st in Berlin. Since there isn’t much time left and the interest must be raised, ŠKODA has just released four images and a teaser video of the upcoming SUV, which is destined to transfer the brand’s new design language into the crossover segment.

Since we have a number of photos, let’s comment on what we are about to expect from the new model. The aim of ŠKODA’s designers is obviously to impress the public in Berlin. The radiator grille appears to be wider than expected, with three dimensional design, and coming in combination with narrow and rake-like headlights. The appropriate question here is whether the full-LED technology featured will be standard on the KODIAQ or not? Well, unfortunately it will come as an option for those keen on goodies like the LEDs.

Next, at the sides we see the athletic shapes of the doors, while the rear’s tailgate shows an expressively design forms. The good news here is that the rear lights will be fitted with LED technology as standard, shining in the typical ŠKODA C-shape.

Skoda Kodiaq rear view - tail lights

But there are also details we can’t see on the teasers in the gallery, which ŠKODA has politely disclosed. First, the KODIAQ is going to offer a large amount of space. Precisely: a capacity of 720 to 2,065 litres, when the rear seats are folded down. If you haven’t heard, the SUV will have the convenience of a seven seat option.

In terms of driver assistance systems, ŠKODA has equipped the KODIAQ with Area View, which uses surround-view cameras at the front, rear and in the wing mirrors; Tow Assist and Manoeuvre Assist. The connectivity won’t be left inappropriate, because the company has ensured that the innovative ŠKODA Connect mobile online services are featured. By the way, what we know so far is that they will be divided into two categories: the Infotainment Online services and Care Connect services. The centrepiece of the latter is the emergency call following an accident (it automatically calls emergency if an airbag is activated).

So are you excited for the word premiere?

httpv://youtu.be/Mn4IrB2Igyw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Skoda

August 11, 2016

What’s new for the refreshed 2017 Audi A3 Lineup?

Audi of America reveals technology abundant updated Audi A3 Family

2017 Audi A3 Family has been refreshed for the new model year and those who will benefit from the advantages it offers are the American customers. The prices are starting as low as $34,200 USD. The lineup, which is debuting in the United States, includes the A3 Sedan and Cabriolet, A3 Sportback e-tron and the high-performance S3 Sedan models.

Basically, the new lineup’s exterior has been refreshed, and Audi has also expanded the suite of driver assistance systems and technology offerings. One of the added standard features for instance includes the Audi pre sense front, while available are the rear cross traffic assist, Audi virtual cockpit, MMI touch and smartphone integration.

What’s new for 2017?

As mentioned, the exterior design of the A3 model line has been refreshed. It now looks sportier due to its new lighting design. The interior also features some minor design refinements, while greater attention to detail has been paid to the driver-focused technologies. Some of the new highlights on the outside include new front fascia with high-gloss Singleframe grille, undercut headlight design and light signatures, lower front and rear bumper styling as well as new wheel designs. On the inside, a major change is the new six-way power adjustable front seats that go for the Cabrios only.

The new technology features for the 2017 model year are abundant and include the Audi virtual cockpit, smartphone integration and the retractable MMI screen. In addition, the The A3 model line now incorporates many new driver assistance features like the standard rear view camera and Audi pre sense front, Parking system plus (standard on Premium Plus and Prestige models), High beam assistant and Audi active lane assist (standard on Prestige) and more.

2017 Audi S3 Interior

Although we wished for changes under the hood, Audi A3 Sedan and Cabriolet continue to come equipped with a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The unit is linked to a six-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive and generates 220 hp (162 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.

The same counts for the S3 sedan, which continues to be driven by the 2.0 TFSI engine with quattro all-wheel drive. It generates 292 hp (215 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, which is enough to achieve a speed of 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

Audi announced that it will continue making product changes and updates, which will be announced at a later date.

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Specifications:

MODEL	ENGINE	TRANSMISSION	HORSEPOWER	TORQUE
A3 Sedan / Cabriolet	2.0 TFSI quattro AWD	Six-speed S tronic	220 hp @ 4,500-6,200 rpm	258 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,400 rpm
S3 Sedan	2.0 TFSI quattro AWD	Six-speed S tronic	292 hp @ 5,400-6,200 rpm	280 lb-ft @ 1,900-5,300 rpm

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Pricing:

MODEL	PREMIUM	PREMIUM PLUS	PRESTIGE
A3 Sedan quattro	$34,200	$37,450	$43,150
A3 Cabriolet	$40,300	$43,550	$49,250
S3 Sedan		$42,900	$48,400

Source: Audi

August 11, 2016

Mercedes A-Class: the controversial car is now in its best form after PIECHA’s conversion

PIECHA Design offers new styling kits for the W176

Who said that the controversial Mercedes A-Class can not look sporty? Well, of course after the general transformation it received in 2012, the car looks unrecognizable from its original form. Because of the negative customer reaction of the “minivan”-like A-class, the new variants look mostly as a small version of the C-class. Still, the transformed automobile debuted four years ago, and if you are among those owning one, but are satisfied with its performance and capabilities, then you will most certainly like this article.

The tuning experts at PIECHA Design have just released very stylish and sporty variant of the A-Class. The cosmetic changes are due to the addition of company’s GT and GT-R styling kits, but they not only contribute for the good looks, but also make the car faster and more agile.

Here are the details: the front of the A250 is adorned with a pair of new GT-R front cup wings. They have been placed in the original AMG bumper, thus helping the car look wider. For added assertiveness takes care the GT-R front splitter as it divides the big external front apron grid.

At the back of the automobile we see something very pleasing: the GT-R roof edge spoiler, which highlights the striking new body shapes of the A-Class. The final touch at the rear is given by the GT-R rear diffusor insert that sports the original AMG twin tailpipe trims of the SL63 AMG (or C63 AMG, depending on customer’s choice).

PIECHA Design Mercedes-Benz A-Class front view

By the way, if your A-Class isn’t an AMG, then you will need PIECHA’s GT air dam lip URBAN that is stuck upon the production bumper. To it should be also added the GT sill flaps URBAN, so that you can get the sporty AMG appearance. Not forgetting to add better alloys: the tuning studio is actually offering 19-inch high-tech MP1-Monoblocks in titanium or black, or 20-inch MP5-LXMs in silver or black.

Now that’s an A-Class to praise, isn’t it?

Source: PIECHA Design

August 10, 2016

Blog

Sporty Appearance with Efficient Heart

Performance, numbers and more

Pioneer 700

Pioneer 500

Hexagon Classics makes a rather special offer!

The iconic BMW 750i receives a three staged power uprating program

The iconic off-roader’s V8 now receives an addition of 74 hp and 140 Nm of torque

The extras included make the V-class Black Crystal the perfect luxury family car for business people

Hyundai i30 is entirely designed and developed in Europe

ŠKODA KODIAQ carries company’s new design language into the SUV segment

Audi of America reveals technology abundant updated Audi A3 Family

What’s new for 2017?

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Specifications:

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Pricing:

PIECHA Design offers new styling kits for the W176