Automobiles Review – Page 263 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Audi R8 Spyder: The Star at the New York Auto Show

2016 Audi R8 Spyder Elating open-air driving, combined with aggressive drivetrain power: this is indeed the essence of the new Audi R8 Spyder, brand’s purest and advanced vehicle, especially created to be the star at the New York Auto Show. With its naturally-aspired V10 engine and refined drivetrain components, this sweetie has a lot to demonstrate. So, let’s check it out!

Construction and drivability features

The new R8 Spyder offers lightweight body and improved body architecture that contributes to the overall performance and agility. Also, the aluminum and carbon-fiber elements further improve vehicle’s stability and dynamics. In fact, the aluminum components make up almost 80% of the body weight, while the special construction ensures stability and comfort.

Drivetrain system

2016 Audi R8 Spyder

The powerful mid-mounted engine with dual injection system is indeed a 5.2-liter machine with dynamic throttle response and distinctive sound that would impress event the Audi skeptics out there. This beast produces a total of 540hp (397kW) and 540Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. But what does all of this mean? It means that the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in mere 3.6 seconds and chases a top speed of 354km/h (197mph).

In terms of fuel efficiency, the drivetrain system is capable of returning up to 24.1mpg and 277g of CO2 per kilometer.

Additional systems that worth mentioning are the seven-speed S tronic geabox that offers incredibly fast gear shifts, Audi Drive Select System with four modes for even better road domination.

Additional equipment

2016 Audi R8 Spyder

Customers will be pleased to know that this vehicle offers sporty and comfortable seats with highly contoured seat shape, extended list of interior gadgets, optional equipment that adds front spoiler, diffuser and sidebars in carbon.

Source: Audi

March 24, 2016

Acura Reveals the NSX GT3 Racer in New York

Acura NSX GT3 Race Car and Acura NSX Acura NSX GT3 Race Car was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show yesterday. The twin-turbocharged NSX supercar is about to be featured in a campaign in North America starting in 2017. What is currently happening with the NSX? It is undergoing testing and this means that this fall it will be slated for homologation as an FIA GT3 class racecar.

The car featured at the event has its custom bodywork and aero components. These include large deck wing spoiler, underbody diffuser and enlarged hood vents. Of course, the latter serve in terms of engine cooling. Speaking of which, it is the NSX GT3 will be powered by a 3.5-liter, 75-degree, twin turbocharged DOHC V-6 unit, a.k.a. the same one in the production 2017 Acura NSX. The powerplant will be mated to a six-speed sequential-shift racing gearbox, driving the rear wheels.

Another thing in common between the production and the GT3 NSX is that the latter will utilize the ultra-rigid and lightweight multi-material body of the production model, which comprises of with aluminum-intensive space frame. It will be produced by the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio as the twin turbocharged V-6 engine.

Acura NSX GT3 Race Car Interior

The NSX GT3 was initially developed by the race engineering team of Acura and additionally tested in Europe and Japan. The FIA GT3 global racing specifications are currently being undertaken by the company’s North American race engineering group.

The production variant of the 2017 Acura NSX will be launched on the market this spring. The serial production begins in late April at Acura’s Performance Manufacturing Center. Those willing to buy the exclusive car can already place their order online with the help of the NSX online configurator at NSX.Acura.com.

Source: Acura

March 24, 2016

Mercedes-Benz Proudly Showcases the 2017 GLC Coupe at the Shanghai Auto Show

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe The expressive and beautiful GLC Coupe concept, as expected, was the center of attention at its global premier at the Shanghai Auto Show. And now, a year ahead of the debut, the new GLC Coupe comes with extended list of features: sporty suspension, direct and fine-tuned steering system, DYNAMIC SELECT, 4MATIC AWD system, 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic gearbox and many more. So, let’s see what this sweetie offers in details!

Exterior styling

The front end shows reshaped diamond radiator grille with single louver and integral star, short and SUV-inspired override guard, beautiful headlamp concept design and of course, this well-known and beloved Mercedes-Benz premium appearance.

The side of the vehicle demonstrates stretched roofline, elegant lines and wide shoulders. All this finished with large 21-inch wheels and optional side running boards.

The rear end, on the other hand, shows wide shoulders, muscular bumper and athletic looks. The sharp spoiler lip reflects the design of the S-Class Coupe and contributes to that aggressive, yet elegant appearance.

Interior styling

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Just like the exterior, the cabin also offers distinctive and elegant ambience. The whole design concept is b

ased on purity and sporty dynamics, which does not mean that the cabin is not comfortable. Just the opposite: with all the premium components and styling tweaks, one would dream of being a passenger in this car.

There is also an optional Sport Package that provides clear commitment to even greater dynamics. The pack includes sporty seats with upholstery in MB-Tex man-made leather, flat-bottom steering wheel, rubber studded pedals and AMG floormats.

Drivetrain system

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

The vehicle comes wist DYNAMIC SELECT transmission with five modes: ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+, INDIVIDUAL.

In terms of performance, the sweetie is geared with four-cylinder GLC300 4MATIC with 241hp (177kW), but there is also an optional 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine with a total output of 362hp (266kW) that finishes the 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint in less than 5 seconds.

Additional equipment includes Active Brake Assist, Crosswind Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and ESP. In terms of safety, the Mercedes-Benz car comes with 3-point safety belts with pyrotechnical belt tension, numerous airbags and a special body construction with improved stiffness and collision-endurable components.

The GLC300 4MATIC Coupe will be available for sale in early 2017.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 23, 2016

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth: What to Expect?

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth Since the introduction of the Fiat 500 Abarth back in 2011, the model has undergone some comprehensive improvements and for the upcoming 2017 model season we see a new and entirely refined Fiat 123 Elaborazione Abarth. This sweetie will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show and we are all impatient to see what it has to offer.

This is the latest addition to the Fiat 124 Spider lineup and will offer improved performance features and more aggressive appearance. So, let’s waste no more time and see what the changes are!

Exterior design

With distinctive and massive silhouette, the new Fiat shows revised front and rear fascia, black side sills, distinctive 17-inch Gun Metal aluminum wheels and sporty chrome quad-tip exhaust with one-of-a-kind sound. Furthermore, Fiat offers and five new colors: Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Rosso Passione (Red Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Jet Black Metallic), Grigio Argento (Gray Metallic) and tri-coat Bianco Perla (Crystal White Pearl).

Interior styling

The cabin depicts this performance-oriented ambience and welcomes drivers to a place with distinctive red details, leather-wrapped steering wheel, wrapped instrument cluster hood, lower instrument panel and parking brake. The matte black instrument, along with the aluminum-accented sport pedals and the overall premium components further enhance the sporty and luxury feel.

Drivetrain system

The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth comes with the trustworthy turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder power unit, producing a total of 160hp (117kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque. It is further paired with a six-speed manual gearbox or the optional six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Furthermore, the engineering team made some improvements and fine-tune tweaks on the engine, transmission, steering and overall stability features in order to ensure sporty, yet smooth performance-oriented driving experience.

The 124 Spider will be available for purchase at the beginning of Summer 2016.

Further details will be announced as the vehicle makes its debut at the New York Auto Show.

Source: Fiat

March 23, 2016

Two Fresh Models Will Join the MINI Family at the New York Auto Show

MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4 MINI USA will premiere two new vehicles at the New York International Auto Show: the fresh MINI Clubman ALL4 and the MINI John Cooper Works Convertible. With AWD drive and boosted power, the ALL4 is ready for any road challenge, while the beautiful Convertible is by far the fastest and most powerful open-top vehicle, created by MINI.

Refined drivetrain system

2016 MINI John Cooper Works Convertible

In addition to the AWD drive system, ALL4 also benefits from fine-tuned traction, directional stability and handling. Furthermore, the system can shift power from the front to the rear wheels in matter of seconds. Also, the engineering team used lightweight components and tried its best to reduce the overall vehicle weight in every possible way. And the result is a good looking MINI vehicle with exceptional capabilities and quick response. Sweet.

High performance rates with open-top exclusivity

MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4

The first open-top MINI with BMW power unit offers tons of technology and utility features, along with extended list of optional and customizable goodies.

And all this with the premium engine system that offers a total of 228hp (167kW) and refined suspension technology for enhanced driving experience.

MINI Clubman ALL4 and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible will be on display at the MINI stand in North Hall #260 of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center at the New York Show.

2016 MINI John Cooper Works Convertible

Source: MINI

March 23, 2016

Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype Debuts in New York. To be Driven by a Six-Speed Manual

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype Side View All Honda fans must be hyper-excited, because the next-generation Civic Hatchback Prototype is about to make its premiere at the New York Auto Show today! With its striking design and sporty European-inspired driving experience, the car promises to be the best Civic ever created! The exclusive news here is that the 10^th generation Civic is going to be equipped with the new 1.5-liter turbo engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. The other option is the CVT transmission.

The production 2017 Civic Hatchback is going to happen later this year. The hatch is actually going to be built on the same platform as the sedan and will be defined by a combination of sportiness, efficiency and utility as well as distinctive styling and premium features

The Civic Hatchback is actually the thirds Civic variant in the lineup, joining the sedan and the coupe. Two other variants are about to join the 10th-generation range in 2017 – the Civic Si and the radical new Civic Type R (oh, how we can’t wait)!

The Highlights

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype Rear View

There are several highlights that make the hatch unique and that need to be mentioned. These include the new larger and wider wheels and tires, the longer wheelbase, the short overhangs and the sleek cabin. They all make the vehicle look more ambitious and dynamic on the road.

Furthermore, at the front of the car we see that the short overhangs with large air intakes define the new take on of Honda’s family face. The LEDs… well, at the front the headlights and the daytime running lights flow from beneath the hood into the muscular front wheel arches, looking aggressive but at the same time tempting.

The sleek and swept-back body lines continue to the side of the car, which is defined by the front and rear door handles. The rear incorporates C-shaped LED rear lights and a new bumper with angular creases and vents.

2017 Civic Hatchback will be produced at the Honda’s plant in Swindon, UK. The exact production date is to be announced at later time.

Source: Honda

March 23, 2016

Is Mazda MX-5 RF the Convertible We Have Been Waiting For?

Mazda MX-5 RF front view New York Auto Show is already “on” and this means that we are about to witness the birth of many exclusive models, one of which is Mazda’s MX-5 RF. The RF behind the name of the familiar MX-5 stands for “retractable fastback” and shows that the newest model is about to offers a new dimension of open-top driving fun.

The aim of the Japanese company is to make the roadster experience accessible to more drivers. In this purpose, Mazda has broken with conventional thinking, thus creating the future and making an entirely new product. All in all, the MX-5 RF has a fastback styling, smooth roofline sloping down to the rear, unique rear roof and retractable back window. These elements are making the convertible distinctive.

The so called “power roof” opens and closes with the press of a button. This can happen at speeds of up to 10 km/h. And despite the sleek design and the new roof, the MX-5 RF offers the same boot space as the soft-top model. Furthermore, this variant of the MX-5 will be available with two gasoline engines, namely the SKYACTIV-G 1.5 and SKYACTIV-G 2.0. They will be mated to either six-speed SKYACTIV-MT gearbox or a six-speed automatic.

Mazda MX-5 RF Side View

The owner of the new MX-5 RF can also chose to paint it in Machine Grey, which is a premium colour, specifically designed for Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion exteriors. Its unique effect of interplay of shadows and light is created via the Takuminuri painting technology originally created for the Soul Red. The system uses a three-coat paint structure consisting of colour, reflective and clear coats.

For those wanting to buy another Mazda vehicle, they will also have the option of choosing the Machine Grey. This includes the new Mazda CX-9, too (see the link above), which will make an US market debut this spring.

Source: Mazda

March 23, 2016

World’s First Super Car, 1957 Jaguar XKSS, to be Rebuilt

1957 Jaguar XKSS side view Jaguar is going to rebuild the unique XKSS from the 1957 as an “ultra-exclusive continuation model”. Only nine examples of world’s first supercar will be hand-built by Jaguar Classic. There will be no deviation from the exact specification of the model as it was constructed back in 1957. These nine examples are actually going to replace the cars that were lost due to the famous Browns Lane factory fire.

The XKSS is definitely a car that every collector would love having in it garage due to its exclusivity and design. Almost 60 years ago, the original cars were to be exported to the USA. Nevertheless, only 16 reached the country before the disaster struck. Those nine lost cars that are going to be rebuilt by Jaguar are going to select group of collectors and customers.

The reconstructed models will be created with the help of the expertise gained during the construction of the Lightweight E-type project. As mentioned, each one will be hand-built and this will happen at Jaguar’s new ‘Experimental Shop’ in Warwick to the same specification as those 16 made in 1957. Every collector will have to pay a price exceeding £1 million.

1957 Jaguar XKSS Rear view

The XKSS was one of Jaguar’s successful sports cars, achieving three successive Le Mans victories in 1955, 1956 and 1957 with the all-conquering D-type. After these wins, Sir Williams Lyons took the decision to convert the remaining 25 D-types into road-going versions, thus creating the world’s first super car.

The modifications needed for this, include the addition of new higher windscreen, an extra door on the passenger side, taking away the divider between driver and passenger and the removal of the fin behind driver’s seat.

1957 Jaguar XKSS built in 2016 will be delivered to its new owners in the beginning of 2017.

Source: Jaguar

March 23, 2016

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited: What to Expect at the New York Motor Show?

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited Edition Infiniti announced that the 2017 QX70 Limited will make its world premiere this week at the 2016 New York International Auto Show. Available both with rear-wheel or AWD configuration, the limited edition is expected to go on sale later in Summer of 2016. As you may know, this is the second limited vehicle that will join the 2016 QX80 Limited.

2017 QX70 Limited and its offerings

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited Edition

The QX Limited demonstrates revised exterior with distinctive front fascia, LED daytime running lights, new grille design, body-colored side air vents, dark-finish mirror housing, dark finish rear lamps and stainless steel rear bumper protector. Also new for this vehicle is the eye-catching “Limited” badge and the unique 21×9.5-inch multi-spoke premium aluminum-alloy wheels.

The inside features high-contrast Graphite and Stone-colored interior components, along with dark-color headliner, special open pore wood trim with aluminum flake trim on the console, deep pillow quilting and aluminum-trimmed pedals.

And just like the rest of the lineup, the QX Limited will be geared with a 325-hp (238kW) 3.7-liter V6 power unit with Variable Valve Event and Lift function. This beast is mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox with Adaptive Shift Control and benefits from advanced technologies as Around View Monitor System, Moving Objection Detection, Intelligent Cruise Cotrol and Lane Departure Warning systems.

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited Edition

Further details will be released as the vehicle makes its debut at the New York Show.

Source: Infiniti

March 22, 2016

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell: Fine Exterior and Improved Drivetrain System

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Honda finally reveals details for the next-gen Clarity Fuel Cell sedan at the New York International Auto Show. This five-seat, hydrogen-powered vehicle will be available for order later this year offers advanced technologies and tons of utility systems.

As we have told you, the vehicle comes with low and wide aerodynamic body, clean and straight line, cozy interior and intuitive driver-oriented systems. And the most notable feature is the technical advance of the whole drivetrain system that delivers a total of 33 per cent better fuel economy. The compact fuel cell and the integrated V6 power unit blend perfectly to ensure not only smooth performance, but also wider interior space.

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

And with the integrated Display Audio feature with Apple Carplay and Android Auto platforms, this sweetie ensures 24/7 connectivity and access to the navigation, audio and other functions.

Also, one of the most interesting additions is the Honda Sensing function that uses advanced sensor technology to detect potential collision or lane departure and engages the emergency brake or steering in order to prevent damages and reduce severity of injuries. The safety features also include Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Road Departure Mitigation.

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

Source: Honda

March 22, 2016

Volkswagen Presents the 2017 Golf Allroad Machine

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Volkswagen of America, Inc., unveiled the US production model of the AWD Golf Alltrack, scheduled to go on sale the Fall of 2017. The Alltrack is based on the SportWagen and will become proud Golf family member with its MQB architecture, turbocharged and direct engine and the overall excellent performance rates.

The Alltrack can also show some wonderful fuel consumption efficiency, but at the same time it also reminds of its agility: the 4MOTION AWD drive system, along with the Haldex-5 coupling offer front-wheel-drive experience, but as soon as the system detects wheel slip, it immediately delivers some torque to the rear wheels. Furthermore, the Haldex coupling also contributes to the effectiveness of the electronic stability control system by enabling uninterrupted transfer of drive power to the opposite side of a broken wheel.

Exterior design

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The fresh Golf also impresses with some distinctive looks. The car proudly shows fresh new bumpers, wheels, side sills and front fascia expression. Also, the S and SE trim levels come with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, while the flagship SEL offers large 18-inch wheels. Also notable are the silver details on the roof rails, matte mirror caps and diffuser.

Interior design

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The cabin offers brown leatherette option with aluminum pedal covers, door sills with Alltrack branding and ambient lightning. The standard equipment also brings a 6.5-inch capacitive color touch screen with proximity sensor, rearview camera, VW Car-Net App-Connect connectivity.

Furthermore, the Drive Mode selector includes the Off-Road mode, which adds hill descent control and improves traction control for some off-road action. Also, the HMI displays compass, steering angle and altitude.

Additional equipment

Just like the rest of the Golf lineup, Alltrack provides a blend of passive and active safety features as six airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. Some of the driver-focused utility systems are Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

So, what do you think about the new Golf Alltrack?

Source: Volkswagen

March 22, 2016

Lexus RC F is the Newest NSW Police Vehicle

Lexus RC F NSW Police Coupe Front View Lexus RC F will join the Police Force as it was added to the NSW Police fleet of vehicles. The V8 high-performance coupe will be utilized as a multi-purpose vehicle for the aforementioned police, thus playing an active role in roadside campaigns by promoting safety, and at the same time it will feature static display at community engagement activities such as the MS Sydney and the Gong bike ride.

The car will be also featured as a race control vehicle in motorsport events such as the Bathurst Six Hour during Easter. There it will open and close the circuit before and after the races. The RC F coupe will be mainly seen (and used) in the Southern Region, assisting the officers with their important tasks.

Well, starting with the common features, the police vehicle will be powered by the same engine driving the production RC F: the V8 unit, which produces 477 hp (351 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed Sports Program Direct Shift transmission, which drives the rear wheels. There’s also an adjustable torque vectoring differential, which distributes the torque to each wheel.

Lexus RC F NSW Police Coupe Side view with officer
And here are the details that differentiate it from other RC F coupes. NSW RC F Coupe will have more focused handling thanks to a stiff chassis and racetrack developed suspension, which features ZF Sachs monotube shock absorbers. The stopping power is ensured by Brembo brake package.

Furthermore, the high performance mechanical package comprises of an aggressive as well as aerodynamic styling kit, while the interior is cockpit-like and includes competition-inspired high back sports seats, steering wheel, pedals and instrument meters.

We are sure that the NSW Police Force will be happy to have such a racing beast in its fleet.