Automobiles Review – Page 233 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Toyota reveals first images and details about C-HR’s interior

Toyota applies new “sensual tech” design philosophy for the first time

Toyota C-HR remains remarkably true to the concept car that it is based on. Revealed back in 2015, the experimental SUV attracted widespread public acclaim at motor shows in Paris and Frankfurt. It is therefore no surprise that Toyota streamed the C-HR into a production variant. Now you can take a look at the emotional interior design it has as the Japanese brand is releasing the first images of the cabin. But before we jump into details, we must say that this SUV is very special for Toyota, since it represents its determination to allow greater stylistic freedom and promote engineering creativity. Nods for that!

In short, the cabin looks contemporary and original, and reflects what Toyota is calling the new “sensual tech” design philosophy. The goal of the latter is to combine high-tech functionality with a modern style.

The interior is spacious and creates a sense for airiness through the layered architecture of the instrument panel that continues through to the door trim via stylish ornamentation and a piano black panel. Speaking of the instrument panel, it will feature a 6.1-inch touch-screen and Toyota says that it will be more functional and easier to reach and the same is promised for the center console.

Toyota C-HR interior first image

The design of the seats, door trims, headliner and even the needles of the driver’s analogue instrument dials feature diamond scheme; while the other decorative elements are finished in high-quality piano black and satin silver.

Customers will have the option of purchasing features like the pre-collision system with autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering control, automatic high beam and a reversing camera as well as heated seats, smart entry and start system, privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels and bi-tone metallic paintwork.

By the way, Toyota is making the link between interior and exterior via the addition of diamond-shaped switches, which reflect the diamond motif of the body shell. Speaking of which…

Some words about the exterior

Toyota C-HR rear view

Why the Toyota C-HR is unique? The answer is that it demonstrates the flexibility of the “Toyota New Global Architecture”. The SUV is positioned between the Corolla hatch and the RAV4, measuring 4350mm in length, 1795mm in width and 1550mm in height. The wheelbase is 2640mm.

The diamond architectural theme of the exterior is probably one of the most impressive designs we have seen on a production car lately. With its prominent and edgy wheel arches, the C-HR leaves the impression of strength and rigidity. The combination of a lowered body and raised ground clearance results in a slim and sleek coupe-like profile.

And there are two powertrain options

At last, we should mention that the C-HR will be offered as a hybrid as well as a full petrol vehicle. If one opts for the first variant, he or she will get the latest-gen hybrid powertrain with 120 hp (90 kW). The other option is the 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit, delivering 114 hp (85kW) and 185 Nm of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable Transmission. The latter features front or all-wheel drive.

Source: Toyota

June 28, 2016

Silver King Edition Ford Mustang commemorates 80th Anniversary of Richard Petty

King Edition Ford Mustang by Petty's Garage first sketch The King Edition Mustang is here and it looks hot as hell! Actually we have received the first sketch of an upcoming version of the famous pony car, which is going to be created by Petty’s Garage in a very limited run. The vehicle appears after a continued partnership with Ford Motor Company for an exclusively 500 “King Edition” Ford Mustang GT model. This makes the third year in a row, that both companies join forces to build these cool Mustang King Editions.

However, there is something very special about the 2017 model year lineup: it is going to have a limited run of 43 examples, all celebrating the 80th birthday of “The King” Richard Petty. Respect for so much years of hard and successful work!

The silver design that we see on the sketch mimics the livery of the famous No.43 raced in 1996. In addition, the unique muscle car will be powered by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which Petty says that will be the most radical EcoBoost to be ever offered on the market. Unmatched in speed and performance, this is what we are promised, precisely – up to 825 horsepower.

What is more, this Mustang will also get some extra support for its on-road representation, namely: race spoiler and signature center exhaust system. For the appearance of the car, Petty’s Garage have prepared custom paint and vinyl strip packages as well as full-line of suspension components, brakes, wheels and tires.

2017 King Edition Ford Mustang by Petty’s Garage has a starting price of $35,000 USD.

Source: Petty’s Garage

June 28, 2016

How to make your 15 year old Mercedes SL Roadster look modern

Piecha Design offers state-of-the-art looks for the roadster

Mercedes-Benz SL R230 Roadster was introduced 15 years ago. Back then no one could ever imagine that this model would become a timeless car classic. Well, if you take a look at it, it might seem a little bit outdated, however, in terms of performance it might take a lot cars down. So, what happens if you are an owner of SL R230 roadster, you love classics, but still wish to look contemporary?

The problem can be solved immediately, if you contact Piecha Design: a studio which has just made a strong and modern package for the Mercedes. Called Avalange RS, the name is reminiscent of the SL’s motorsport roots back in the 50s. And this counts for the exterior, too.

Precisely, the rear is adorned by a DTM-like diffusor that has been integrated in a mighty rear apron with or without a lateral grid insert, as well as rear spoiler lip and four-pipe Quadro exhaust. Piecha says that the sound is a “killer”.

Piecha Mercedes-Benz SL R230 Roadster rear and side view

On the sides there is a wedge-shaped side skirt with air inlet, while the front features angular Avalange RS air dam with integrated LED DRLs. The front also sports new bumper, which looks more contemporary than ever.

The whole car has been brought closer to the ground via lowering-suspension springs and wheel spacers. But, the most important part of the Avalange is the Vario roof module. It significantly speeds up the opening grip (26 seconds now), simply by clicking the key three times. Last, but not least in every package are the wheels, which in the case of the SL Roadster are in-house made MP1-monoblock, sized at 20-inches.

Simple, but effective changes are more always more impressive, aren’t they?

Source: Piecha Design

June 28, 2016

Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is here to win some hearts

Pays Tribute to Historic Livery on 1966 Le Mans Winner

Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is not just another limited Ford. It comes to honor, the GT40 Mark II car, which made historic victories at Le Mans with drivers Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. The year of course was 1966.

Making the long story short, this car is paying tribute to the GT40 Mart II by sporting its livery. But what makes the new model really exclusive is the fact that it will be strictly limited to production in 2017 model year only, and it will be created in limited quantities.

In short, the ’66 Heritage Edition has a Shadow Black exterior. It can be chosen in either gloss or matte finish. The contrasting point is made by the silver stripes that run in the middle of its body, while the pint of salt and pepper is added by the exposed carbon fiber package.

Frozen White hood and door graphics are the other elements of the exterior that make it fresh and at the same time remind us about the historical event. Running on 20-inch one-piece forged alloys in a gold satin clear-coat with black lug nuts, the car truly stands out among its siblings and more importantly – among other cars on the road.

2017 Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition interior

On the inside, this Ford GT boasts carbon-fiber seats in Ebony leather with pillowed inserts and plow-through stitching. The same material has been used for the instrument panel, pillars and headliner. Gold appliqués are featured on the instrument panel, the seat’s X-brace and shift paddles. We see the Ford GT logo on the seats’ head restraints and the steering wheel. By the way, speaking of the steering wheel, it too has been leather-wrapped, just like the one in the 1966 race car. Another similarity is that the seat belts featuring a unique blue webbing.

At last, to highlight the uniqueness of the GT ’66 Heritage Edition, Ford added serialized identification plate (#2) on the interior door, exposed matte carbon fiber door sills, air pods and center console.

As some may say, GT40 Mark II race car is actually the true predecessor of the Ford GT. What do you think?

Source: Ford

June 27, 2016

One-off Lamborghini Huracan spotted in Hong-Kong [w/video]

Features new design wrap as well as aggressive DMC Carbon Fiber package

It is all about luxury when it comes to Lamborghini. Besides the speed, of course. But the most controversial fact is that the Lambo owners always want more luxury, more speed and more… in general. Hence, companies such as DMC have been emerging and offering what is being looked for. The Lamborghini Huracan LP610 you see in the gallery and video below is a special Cairo Edition made by DMC. It has been spotted in Hong Kong, where immediately grabbed the attention with its unique design pattern on top, the carbon pack and the aerodynamic parts.

The wrap just perfectly complements the aero kit, which is actually the main attraction of this project. One of the most important elements of this kit is the wing spoiler, which is also adjustable to three angle settings: Choose City Cruising, GT Track day or Fun Mode. They are all made by DMC and then tested in the wind tunnel. In addition, the wing comes with a base deck under it. It is the stronger version of the original part that each LP610 has.

Up front, DMC have added a stunning full front lip spoiler with side flaps, which actually reminds us of the aggressive LP720 Anniversario look. On the sides, the kit continues with new side skirts, which add extra downforce, while the rear diffuser at the tail supports road stability even better. It features front lip, which is more of a cosmetic addition, but really makes this new package stand out.

DMC Lamborghini Huracan LP610 Cairo Edition wheels

The forged wheels this Lambo runs on come in 20″/21″ and they are fitted with 245/30r20 / 325/25r21 P-Zero tires.

And here is what we have found on YouTube: the video shows the Huracan Cairo Edition being parked on a street in Hong Kong. Well, it is all about showing-off, so make sure you don’t miss and watch it. It pleases the eye.

httpv://youtu.be/_E7FUaN-7QQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: DMC

June 27, 2016

Honda Accord: flexibility and dynamics for under $25,000

2017 Honda Accord Sedan 2017 Accord Sedan and Coupe hit showrooms and with the new Sport Special Edition we do have some intentions to check out whether this one is worth the $22,355 or not.

Coming in variety of trim levels, 2017 Accord Sedan and Coupe are geared with 4-cylinder V6 power unit, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox: enough power and flexibility for the not-so-demanding users. Right? Also, the Accord Sport Special Edition will grant buyers with leather upholstery, red stitching, heated seats and of course, “Special Edition” badges.

In fact, the 2017 Accord lineup received tons of upgrades, compared with the predecessor model. There is fresh new styling, elegant lines and confident stance, upgraded chassis and of course, refined drivetrain system. There are expanded LED exterior lights and tons of interior additions: 7-inch Display Audio touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, heated rear seats and parking sensors. Optional feature remains the Honda Sensing suite, but all is not that bad even without it, right?

Definitely becoming more and more confident (for a reason!), Honda team has really done good job with the 2017 Accord lineup. And provided that the vehicles are geared with last-gen Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure that has received the highest possible crash safety rates from NHTSA, we do consider this vehicle to be one of the best in the whole Honda lineup.

But tell me, what do you think?

Source: Honda

June 27, 2016

Mercedes-AMG strikes again: 2018 GT R revealed!

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R So, what do we have here? A premium automobile brand, a premium tuner brand and a street-legal masterpiece: definitely the new AMG GT R is one hell-of-a vehicle. Distinctive and beautiful, the car has a lot to show. And without any further stalling, let’s see what we are dealing with.

Exterior design

We all know that this is a Mercedes-Benz vehicle and we all know how stylish these cars are. Of course, this one is no exception: we have a low-slung front section, forward-inclined radiator grille that somehow makes a “shark-nose” expression. In fact, the front fascia proudly demonstrates a new jet-wing design that enhances the feeling of massiveness and width.

Spending countless hours in a wind tunnel, the new Mercedes-AMG comes with sleek and aerodynamic profile with elegant lines and overall aggressive appearance.

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R

Furthermore, the front fenders not only contribute to the overall beautiful expression, but also reduce weight: made of light carbon-fiber, these bad boys add a total of 1.8 inches to the width. The side view also benefits from new AMG Performance forged wheels in matte black. Of course, we do see the brake calipers, painted in yellow. Apparently, the sporty spirit is present and within the side view. And provided that the vehicle comes with high-grade carbon roof, we tend to believe that this is by far the most sporty-oriented Mercedes-AMG machine created so far.

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R

And last, but not least, the rear end also has some stuff to show: new aluminum side walls that widen the rear with a total of 2.2 inches, which also improves the airflow and leaves space for additional dissipation of the heat generated by the rear silencer. So, what we do have as a result: aerodynamic shape that increases the surface contact and an enhanced drivability blended with striking beautiful and sporty design. Cool, right?

Interior styling

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R

The cabin is also heavily inspired by the world of motorsport. Buyers will be pleased to know that the car is geared with AMG Performance Seats with Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber components. Also, the wide-looking dashboard looks functional and somehow reminds of an aviation design theme. There are four central spotlight-style vents and concave-shaped door paneling with dynamic central console. Surely the AMG GT-R offers some neat sporty experience, thanks to the driver-focused cabin and all of these small sporty details that make a huge difference.

Drivetrain and performance

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R

Led by the idea of less is more, the AMG team managed to reduce the overall weight and therefore enhance the agility and versatility of the vehicle. Mercedes-AMG engineers used numerous aluminum alloy components for the body and chassis, some steel for the trunk and magnesium for the front deck.

The suspension system was also fine-tuned and systematically designed for racetrack use. Wishbones, steering kunckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle were created entirely of forged aluminum, while the high camber and the toe-in stability contributes in high cornering speeds and at the same time offers optimum feel for the road when driving with full force.

Also present is the high-performance composite brake system that ensures precise deceleration and high fade-resistance with internally ventilated and perforated 15.4-inch diameter brake discs.

And most importantly: what does the engine offer? Well, the GT R comes with a handcrafted AMG power unit with 4.0 liters of fuel capacity, offering the titanic 577hp (430kW) and peak torque of 516 lb-ft between 1,900 and 5,500 rpm.

The engine has undergone some special tweaks and fine-tunes and comes with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsule and sharpened engine mapping. The V8 Biturbo engine also features twin-scroll turbochargers, mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks. This contributes to a compact engine design, better response and better CO2 emission rates.

This unit is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox with modified hardware and software for longer ratio for the first gear and longer ratio for the final ones.

So, do you like it? We are more than excited about the new Mercedes-AMG creation. Write down what you think in the comment section!

Source: Mercedes-AMG

June 27, 2016

A GT-R sports car versus a GT-R drone: how and why!?

2016 Nissan GT-R Drone

Nissan showcases the GT-R Drone: the fastest accelerating First Person View racing drone in the world. Or, at least, it is expected to be.

This gadget was created to be able to keep up with the 2017 Nissan GT-R, while filming on the racetrack and features some of the latest and greatest technologies. It was custom designed by World Drone Prix Champions, Tornado XBlades Racing and uses special race configuration that lets it reach 100 km/h (62mph) in mere 1.3 seconds. Impressive, right?

2016 Nissan GT-R Drone

And in order to prove itself worthy, the agile drone was challenged on the Silverstone circuit. Both the GT-R Drone and GT-R sportscar showed their best and surely entertained the audience. And when you think about it, it’s not an everyday sight: there’s a 3.8-liter 24-valve V6 beast that is especially created to dominate the most challenging race tracks around the globe and then there is this sweet drone thing that tries to catch on.

SEE ALSO: Candy Skull Altima to enter the Continental Tire Series

What the audience witnessed was an epic race and a battle for speed, acceleration and agility. We let you see the event for yourself and see how it ended.

2016 Nissan GT-R Drone

And in case you are interested in Nissan brand and Goodwood festival, let us remind you that both machines will be on display at the festival this week. Enjoy!

2016 Nissan GT-R Drone

https://youtu.be/q50lgzDuNOA

Source: Nissan

June 24, 2016

Mondeo ST-Line: sporty, aggressive and confident. We like it.

2016 Ford Mondeo ST-Line Ford reveals the sporty Mondeo ST-Line at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed: the latest addition to the ST-Line shows neat styling and sporty spirit. Thanks to the aid of Ford Performance designers and engineers, we see a rather beautiful vehicle: all well-known Ford lines are present, along with some small tweaks and additions. And in terms of the drivetrains, fans will be pleased to know that the Mondeo ST-Line features some neat additions.

Joining the Fiesta ST-Line and Focus ST-Line, the Mondeo comes in five-door and estate body styles and will grant buyers with glossy exterior components, LED daytime running lights, rectangular fog lamps and distinctive 18- or 19-inch alloys in glossy black diffuser-style insert.

2016 Ford Mondeo ST-Line

We have to admit that the team did a great job with the exterior: what we see is a confidently standing vehicle with vast muscles and sporty appearance. Distinctive and straight lines get the tone for sporty experience, while the front face screams “look out, you are dealing with a badass!”. Or, in other words, we like the design.

In terms of power and performance, the setup tries to meet name’s requirements: the TDCi power unit has an output of 150hp (111kW) and can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed PowerShift automatic that comes with paddle shifters. Sweet.

The drivetrain technology delivers smooth transition of torque between all of the four wheels and provides better grip and footing in slippery conditions. Also neat feature is the torque delivery between wheels and the speed of doing it: under 20 milliseconds.

2016 Ford Mondeo ST-Line

So far we do like the sporty Mondeo. But it also has to prove itself worthy through time. What do you think?

Source: Ford

June 24, 2016

Long live Miura! Lamborghini pays homage to the iconic model with a special edition

Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage celebrates the life of the forerunner of all V12s

Lamborghini has just unveiled a very special edition of the Aventador coupe, called Miura Homage. As the name suggests, it pays tribute to the Miura, which has been regarded “the forerunner of all V12 Lamborghini super sports cars”. The car is also revealed in the year of celebrations for the Italian brand, which makes 50^th anniversary on the automotive stage.

In details, the Aventador Miura Homage has been created by the Lamborghini’s Ad Personam studio. As you can expect, it features the colors as well as the specifications of original Miura models. The exterior paint scheme features contrasting upper and lower body colors. The original Miura was offered in wide range of colors and trims, but in the case of the tribute car Lambo has selected six of the most iconic solid and metallic hues, including the Rosso Arancio Miura, Verde Scandal and Blu Tahiti.

The 20”/21” Dione rims in either matt silver or gold continue the design homage, while the metallic Miura badge on the side and black Lamborghini logo on the rear as well as the limited edition plate on the inside, show the uniqueness and exclusivity of the model.

Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage interior view

Speaking of the interior, there are two internal color options, namely, full Nero Ade or Terra Emilia leather with tone-on-tone stitching and carbon fiber package. We can see that the Miura 50th logo has been stitched into the upper part of the seats in order to reflect the car’s livery.

When it comes to power, the Aventador Miura Homage is driven by the potent 6.5 l V12 unit. It generates exactly 700 hp at 8,250 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 690 Nm at 5,500 rpm. The V12 assists this Lamborghini to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 2.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 350 Km/h (217 mph).

Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage will be produced in 50 examples only. However, the majority of the units have already been sold. But you can still see the model at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend (in case you are in the vicinity).

Source: Lamborghini

June 24, 2016

Be the first to see the 2017 Porsche Panamera as first images leak online

2017 Porsche Panamera pictures leak ahead of official debut next week

The Internet is a source of all things good and bad. In this case, the first leaked images of the new 2017 Porsche Panamera are the worst thing that could happen for the company and the best for the car enthusiasts. Thanks to this, you can meet the model a week earlier. The 2017 Panamera is about to make official debut in Germany next week. Porsche must be very upset right now.

Let’s talk about what we see. The pictures here give us not only hint of the new model, but rather an extensive look: they show the exterior and interior as well as the engine. And the latter is probably what’s going to make the 2017 Panamera “the fastest luxury sedan on Earth.”

The image of the engine (the last in the gallery below) shows a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. However, we don’t have any information about its output, but given the fact that the car will have significantly lighter body; this would undoubtedly lead to an increased performance.

In terms of exterior, there is nothing dramatically changed. The basic attractive form and shape of the Panamera has been kept. At the front we see LEDs while the rear suggests slightly reworked trunk lid, new diffuser and exhaust tailpipes at each corner.

2017 Porsche Panamera interior

On the inside, the leaked image shows luxurious cabin with sport seats up front. The materials used seem to be of the highest quality and everything has been kept classy and stylish. There is also a high-tech entertainment system for the occupants at the back, featuring a large LCD infotainment screen.

Enjoy the first images of the 2017 Porsche Panamera in our gallery below. More details to be revealed (officially) on June 28. Stay tuned!

Source: Motor1

June 24, 2016

R-Design Lineup: Volvo’s challenge towards German manufacturers

2016 Volvo V70 R-Design Volvo unveils the performance-oriented R-Design models, based on the new S90 and V90 estate. What impresses is the sporty restyled chassis and the overall dynamic character. Of course, we do see these well-known style tweaks that refine Volvo as a noticeable brand: clean lines, expressive look and confident stance.

Exterior design

Coming with some sharper changes, the R-Design lineup proudly shows spoiler-integrated fog lights, distinctive grille style, piano black trim and distinctive 5-spoke matt black diamond-cut wheels.

2016 Volvo V90 R-Design

Led by the slogan “less is more”, the premium Swedish manufacturer excluded every unneeded curve, line or detail and let the beauty of elegance talk for itself: the R-Design is definitely a beautiful combination of passion, precision and determination.

Generally we do see a well-done classic Volvo design with some tweaks here and there in order to enhance the feel of exclusivity and luxury.

Interior styling

Just as the exterior, the interior remains clean, cozy and functional. Black dominates the whole cabin, while the carbon-fiber components enhance the feel of luxury. The vehicles are geared with special sporty seats, large touch screen and multifunctional steering wheel.

2016 Volvo V90 R-Design

There is a wide range of styling cues to match the exterior elegance: special deco trim, pedals and mats, sporty contour seats, the high-level interior illumination package and the overall meticulous attention to small details.

2016 Volvo V70 R-Design

Volvo team has rarely let us down, as it comes to fine vehicles with high quality build. And the new R-Design wheel is no exception. In fact, we do believe that sometimes the Swedish metal is better than German techno.

What do you think?