Automobiles Review – Page 281 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Fresh and Exclusive Mulliner Features Debut in the Flying Spur

2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house coach-building division reveals its new range of distinctive and exclusive accessories for the Flying Spur that will enable customers to tweak and personalize the luxury sedan in fresh and unique ways. In fact, this is the first time when the Flying Spur can be specified with refrigerator, painted veneer, Mulliner quilter leather, sterling silver atomisers and hide-trimmed stowage boxes. And the best news is that these are only some of the countless features that buyers can choose from.

So, what makes these additions so appealing? Let’s find out!

Mulliner Refrigerated Bottle Cooler

2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur The refrigerated bottle cooler is available in the Flying Spur for the first time. All the rear seat passengers will appear to be lucky to find special storage for champagne bottle in a canted position, along with bottle stopper and two unique champagne flutes. And when not in use, the bottle cooler and glasses can be stowed and concealed with the fifth seating position reinstated.

Painted Veneers

Bentley brings some coziness and colorful experience with the special finish that is also first shown on the Flying Spur. The distinctive veneers is carefully selected by Bentley’s master craftsmen, carefully hand sanded and carefully placed in a way that ensures flawless finish, futuristic ambience and cozy ride.

Sterling Silver Atomisers

2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur Elegant and stylish, the silver atomisers can be used to spray water or perfume for refreshment for the whole cabin. Each atomiser is polished and carefully housed in especially created compartment within the interior trim of the rear door for discreet, yet useful purpose.

Hide-Trimmed Stowage Boxes

2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur The central console can also be specified with premium hand-made rear stowage compartment. The luxurious and extremely useful addition also includes a watch holder and dedicated place for secure stowage of cuffinks, coins and similar items.

From the inside, Mulliner also offers compartment with incredibly colorful details. For example, the Mandarian “Hidden Delights” hide. Influenced by the tradition of Savile Row tailoring, this feature demonstrates how flexible the personalization of the vehicle can be.

Source: Bentley

February 2, 2016

Exclusive VisionS Concept Shows Future Skoda SUV Portfolio

Skoda VisionS Side View Another premiere in Geneva, but this time by Skoda. The company is going to debut its brand new design study called VisionS Concept. Through it Skoda aims to preview the future modern design language in the SUV segment. The show car is said to look very closely to the production one, representing a perfect balance between aesthetics, power and function.

Back in 2014, Skoda released the VisionC design study, and to continue this approach, now the brand is transferring this to the SUV segment. The name VisionS clearly shows that ‘S’ stands for SUV. Speaking of which, it will be larger than the Yeti model, and will have length of 4,700mm and width of 1,910mm. Adding a height of 1,680mm, is what contributes for show car’s perfect presence on the road.

On the outside, Skoda VisionS features edgy and sharp lines, highlighted by crystalline design elements. This effect is even further strengthened via the strikingly chiselled surfaces. Furthermore, the front bonnet has contours flowing towards the brand logo. The wide grille and four tapered, high-set LED headlights characterize the face of the show car. There are also crystalline elements in the vertical struts in the grille and on the logo, which are tribute to the Czech art of crystal-glass design.

Skoda VisionS Rear View

At the sides, the future Skoda SUV continues the sharp design language, while the angular wheel arches highlight the off-road character of the vehicle. The upper-shoulder contour forms a deep groove over the sills. At the back, the VisionS has a strong diffuser insert, large exhaust pipes, shallow rear lights with dynamically cut crystalline housings and the characteristic C-arm, which begins at the rear lights, runs into the flat reflectors in the bumper.

At last, there are some details revealed for the interior of the car, too. The cabin is large and features three rows of seats, thus offering enough space for six people. Stay tuned for more details coming prior Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Skoda

February 2, 2016

Redesigned Infiniti Q60 and QX30 to Make European Debut in Geneva

Infiniti Q60 Side View Infiniti Q60 and QX30 are going to make European debut in less than e month at the Geneva Motor Show. Along with the duo, the company will present the further upgraded Q50. Common among all three is the iconic design language, innovative technologies and precise driving characteristics.

We have seen “the birth” of the 2017 Infiniti Q60 sports coupe at the North American International Auto Show in the beginning of the year. And we were impressed. The car promises powerful drive from its highly-advanced new V6 twin-turbo engine, which by the way produces 405 PS (298 kW).

As you can see, the Q60 has bold exterior, which reflects Infiniti’s ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language. The car has distinctive proportions and muscular lines. The 405 PS are due to the innovative drivetrain technologies applied and the power channeled through the rear wheels. Precisely, the engine is the high performance 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo that comes from the exclusive ‘VR’ powertrain family.

Infiniti QX30 Front View

The next “star” in the show is the QX30 premium active crossover, which we have also seen. It is characterized by its highly-sculpted concept-like exterior, elevated stance and asymmetric cabin design. In other words, this car aims at the new generation buyers, who look for breaking the standards and thinking “outside the box”. In fact, the design of the car remains true to the ‘Powerful Elegance’ approach that guided the original QX30 concept.

At last but not least, at the show there will be the updated variant of the Q50 sports saloon. Its secret is that it is driven by the same engine, found in the Q60 sports coupe, as well as that it will feature Direct Adaptive Steering and Dynamic Digital Suspension.

More details to be disclosed near launch.

Source: Infiniti

February 2, 2016

Jeep Renegade Gets Night Eagle Limited Edition

Jeep Renegade Night Eagle Front View Jeep Renegade Night Eagle comes after the debut of the Limited Cherokee Night Eagle Edition that happened in November last year. The Renegade is again limited edition and it is going to be produced in 350 examples only and distributed exclusively throughout the United Kingdom. This variant is based on the Longitude mid-range level, but adds some exclusive features. Here are the details.

Night Eagle Exterior

On the outside the Jeep Renegade Night Eagle is equipped with some unique styling features, which we have seen already in the Cherokee version. In particular, the vehicle rides on 17-inch black alloy wheels, features one-off satin grey Jeep badges and unique Night Eagle badge, coloured roof bars and side mirrors, and satin grey grille rings on a black front grille. There are also rear parking sensors included.

160 of the 350 examples of the model are going to be available in the unique Volcano Sand matt paint finish. There are two other colors in the range: the Carbon Black and the Alpine White, from which the customers can choose.

Night Eagle Interior

Jeep Renegade Night Eagle Side View

On the inside, this Renegade features seats in bark brown fabric with electric lumbar support for the driver, leather wrapped steering wheel, dual zone climate control, DAB UConnect radio with 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and satnav, and cruise control.

There is also additional equipment offered that will further enhance the exclusivity of the Jeep. These include electric panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, and regular size spare tyre.

Engine Options

Just like any other Renegade this one is offered with a choice of two MultiJet II diesel engines, both mated to asix-speed manual transmission. The first one is the 1.6-litre 120hp (88 kW) with two-wheel drive, and the other is the 2.0-litre 140hp (103 KW) unit, driving all four wheels. The top speed is 111 mph and 113 mph, respectively, while the 0-62 mph acceleration happens in 10.2 seconds and 9.5 seconds

The new Jeep Renegade Night Eagle costs £21,595 OTR for the 1.6 MultiJet II 120hp 2WD, and £24,095 OTR for the 2.0 MultiJet II 140hp 4WD.

Jeep Renegade Night Eagle is currently available to order and has a starting price of £21,595.

Source: Jeep

February 2, 2016

Audi Dominated the 2016 Rolex 24-Hours at Daytona

Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing won the 24-hour classic with stunning finish. In one of the closest finishes in endurance racing, driver John Potter and racers Andy Lally, Marco Seefried and Audi factory driver, Rene Rast, took the checkered flag after a harsh battle with all the 703 laps and with only a 3.048 seconds lead ahead of the second car! And yes, this is the final result: Audi R8 LMS that shares almost half of its parts with the 2017 Audi R8 production vehicle won in its US racing debut.

Indeed, this was one of the most exciting and competitive races that kick off the IMSA 2016 season where Rene Rast drove the final stint, which required limiting fuel consumption in order to stick to team’s strategy that eventually turned to be the most successful one in the whole event.

Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing

#9 Stevenson Motorsports Audi R8 LMS made its path from last place to 8th, backed by its trustworthy teammates. #6 sister vehicle held the lead, but eventually finished 14th in the twenty-two car GTD category. Furthermore, #45 Flying Lizard Motorsports/Krohn Racing race car encountered some technical issues which led to retire after 20 hours and 513 laps of pure racing experience.

The next passionate and fast-paced race will be at Sebring International Raceway on March, 19th, 2016.

And for all the Audi lovers out there: The special R8 LMS will go on sale this Spring.

Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing

Stay with us for further details!

Source: Audi

February 1, 2016

The Barkleys Return for the Latest Subaru Ad Campaign!

Subaru of America, Inc. has launched its latest advertising campaign in celebration of the love of animals. A love that also connects brands, racers and automobile fans. It is named “Dog Tested. Dog Approved” and for now contains five spots. In fact, the well-known Barkleys, the lovely dog family that starred back in 2013’s “Meet the Barkleys” also makes appearance in the latest Subaru advertisement campaign.

The national television spots that were created by Carmichael Lych, will be launched in the coming weeks and all the five ads will be featured on February 7 during the PUPPY BOWL XII on Animal Planet, where Subaru of America will also mark its 6th year as event’s official sponsor. And one more thing: during the whole campaign, viewers will be encouraged to share photos of their own pets. Cool, right?

As said, the whole campaign contains a total of five videos. So, let’s check them out!

“PUPPY” – the video showcases that a nighttime drive is the only acceptable lullaby for one sweet and tired puppy, so a tired father takes the special Barkleys’s Subaru Legacy for one more lap around the neighborhood.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGkDqfdgVEQ

“PHONE NAVIGATION” – This video tells you the truth: your smartphone is not as smart as you think! Why? Just watch the video.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ejf8lk9nYH4

“DOGGIE BAG” – It looks like sometimes the appearance and capabilities of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive can be too appealing. The Barkleys take the Subaru Forest for a night ride, but it looks like they were not prepared for what was coming next.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMZM8MG6X1o

“WINDSHIELD WIPER” – The unusual family runs into oddly localized weather in their Subaru Legacy, but luckily the vehicle has everything Barkleys need.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AavneQ8s0g4

“BAD HAIR DAY” – How do Golden Labs keep a poker face? They don’t.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1msc2Gi_S5Y

Also, in support of the campaign, Subaru team created a custom Barkley emoji for all Twitter lovers out there in order to help all good men out there share their passion for animals.

Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

February 1, 2016

2016 Acura NSX Supercar Was Sold for Nearly Ten Times its Book Price

2016 Acura NSX The first production model of the latest Acura NSX was sold at auction in US last week for nearly ten times its book price: $1.2 million USD. The sweetheart comes with #001 VIN number personally brought by Rick Hendrick, owner of the Henrick Motorsports NASCAR team with all the money raised and donated to children’s charities of the Paediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Camp Souther Ground.

Furthermore, the high amount of money marks the highest charity sale of a VIN #001 manufacturer vehicle in the auctioneer’s almost half a decade of history. Also, Rick Hendrick, known for his passion of first-edition performance vehicles, will add the unique NSX to his museum collection in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Acura NSX and why is it so special

With starting price of $157,800 USD, the sweetie is the first built-to-order car with orders available from 25th of February, 2016 worldwide. There is also a special online platform that allows customers to take a close look at the 573-hp (421kW), twin-turbo hybrid beast.

2016 Acura NSX

Especially created to deliver “new sports experience” to the whole supercar segment, the NSX sets new benchmarks, just as it did 25 years ago. And the engineers have a point: with the addition of a three motor electric hybrid system, a twin-turbo V6 power unit, mated to a 9-speed DCT gearbox and multi-material body architecture with cutting edge technologies, the NSX beast will be a center of attention for a long time. Or at least it looks so.

And with the concept of “human-centered supercar”, the next-gen NSX also delivers the latest and greatest of technologies and systems that ensure exceptional driving experience and immediate response to every single driver impulse.

Developed under the concept of a “human-centred supercar,” a car that puts the driver first in every aspect of its design, the next-generation NSX leverages its state-of-the-art hybrid supercar power unit, body and chassis to deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.

2016 Acura NSX

Source: barrett-jackson.com

February 1, 2016

Toyota Corolla Hybrid is the Fifth Hybrid in Company’s Synergy Drive Range

Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre Hybrid Front View Toyota has released a Corolla Hybrid for its Australian customers, but we are sure that this will happen very soon for the rest of the world, too. So lets teak a sneak preview of the direction Toyota is undertaking. The Corolla Hybrid Hatch will be introduced as well-specified single grade, just like its siblings that have Hybrid Synergy Drive. It will be actually the fifth model following in the range, following the Prius, Prius c, Prius v and Camry.

An abundance of features will be included in the car and examples do not end with the satellite navigation, Toyota Link connected mobility, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning or the bi-LED headlamps.

The details about the powertrain reveal that the Corolla Hybrid hatch will be fitted with a Euro 5 compliant 100 hp (73kW) 1.8-litre petrol engine linked with a 60kW electric motor. Driving the wheels will be the Multidrive S automatic transmission. By the way, the new hybrid car is expected to use around one-third less fuel and at the same time Prius-like fuel economy.

Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre Hybrid Powertrain

The low oxides of nitrogen and virtually zero particulate matter emissions contribute for the environmental benefits of the car. Precisely, the car will also feature a selectable electric-vehicle mode, which will enable the Corolla hybrid hatch to be driven for up to two kilometres at speeds of up to around 45km/h with zero tailpipe emissions.

There is no surprise that Toyota is entering a Corolla Hybrid to the Australian market first, since the Corolla nameplate is the most successful in Toyota’s Australian range. It has more than 1.34 million sold to local customers! And here are the details:

2016 Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre Hybrid

POWERTRAIN
Type	Four cylinders in line
Valve mechanism	DOHC 16-valve with Dual VVT-i
Displacement (cc)	1,798
Max power (kW @ rpm)	73 @ 5,200
Max torque (Nm @ rpm)	142 @ 4,000
Motor generator max. voltage (V)	650
Motor generator max. power (kW)	60
Battery type	Nickel-metal hydride
Max system output (kW @ rpm)	100
SUSPENSION
Front	MacPherson strut
Rear	Double wishbone
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Overall length (mm)	4,330
Overall width (mm)	1,760
Overall height (mm)	1,475 (inc roof antenna)
Wheelbase	2,600mm

Source: Toyota

February 1, 2016

Polestar Introduces Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Models

Polestar has just introduced the new generation Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 models with four-wheel drive. So this is exclusive, since we received the news directly from Polestar minutes ago. Actually, this optimization has been already available for the Volvo XC90 T6 AWD, but from today Polestar is offering it for the S60, V60 and XC60 T6 AWD models as well.

As a result, the powerful and agile T6 AWD models become even more dynamic and responsive. The secret hides in the fact that the package is really balanced and is based on Polestar’s methods for boosting their race and performance cars. At the heart of the Polestar Optimisation is something very curious: it actually includes the entire powertrain in the optimization, instead of only the engine.

In addition, the optimization includes five substantial areas: increased mid-range engine performance, faster gearshifts, optimized throttle response, optimized gearshift timing and off-throttle functionality. As a result the driver gets faster and more exact responses from his/her Volvo and of course – more predictable behavior. Those five features are important for all forms of active driving, being on racing circuit or on “basic” roads.

Throttle Response

Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 - Second Picture

After the improvement of this feature, the cars can now offer better feedback and response. For instance, this happens when overtaking or during active driving on a twisty road. The engine responds faster to the commands of the driver, and this is how it delivers enhanced precision in the driving experience.

Gearshift Speed

The increased gearshift speed results in faster acceleration and more direct commands of the driver. Imagine when shifting down fast ahead of an overtaking maneuver, this faster gearbox provides you with more direct control of your vehicle.

Gearshift Precision and Gear Hold

The calibration of the gearshifts results in more direct and precise driving experience and as mentioned – faster acceleration. The modified gearshift points use optimized mid-range performance of the unit, while the gear hold function holds the gear during cornering at high lateral g-forces.

Off-Throttle Response

Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Third Picture

Calibration has happened not only for the gearbox but for the engine, too. As a result, the driver gets faster response during a short period of braking ahead of a corner. All is about enhanced control after all.

Engine Performance

All Drive-E optimizations are about better performance especially when driving actively. All in all, this means that the improved mid-range performance combined with the changes for the gearbox and throttle response makes the car more dynamic and responsive to drive, thus enhancing the overall engaging driving experience.

Source: Polestar

February 1, 2016

2017 Acura NSX Makes it Official in America with Hot Super Bowl Spot!

2017 Acura NSX Super Bowl Spot First Picture Acura has finally released the NSX in America and has done this exclusively with a hot rocking Super Bowl spot! The soundtrack of an iconic Van Halen rock song infuses high-voltage energy into the NSX rollout. By the way, this is the first time the rock band is releasing “Runnin’ with the Devil” (the song you hear in the spot) for use in advertising. The spot debuted during the Super Bowl 50, and the moment we saw it, we loved it. It was then inevitable of not showing it to you!

“Runnin’ with the Devil” by Van Halen is probably the best song choice for this ad. Its high-energy vocal effects provide the powerful beat for the Acura NSX and describe it character very well. In addition, via the advertisement, the company also showcases the Precision Crafted Performance direction, which is now that is core to Acura and is vividly imbued in the NSX supercar.

The commercial is tagged with the words “What He Said,” and this is not devoid of sense, because “NSX is better described through raw emotion than words alone”. Besides the loud vocals, the spot evokes the emotions via its elegant design and powerful inner-workings. In the end, the NSX erupts in a powerful crescendo through rapid-fire vocals. You ca see how every hollers and screams respond to the camera movement across the details of the car.

2017 Acura NSX Super Bowl Spot Second Picture

2017 Acura NSX is one of the most exciting and exclusive cars in the world. It has been created to bring about unforgettable experience infused with emotion and exclusivity. Basically, the next-gen NSX Acura is challenging the conventional beliefs about supercars. The reason for this is the cutting-edge and world-first technologies it includes.

The car is equipped with the unique Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive power unit, has a multi-material body structure, rides with advanced aerodynamics and features a cabin inspired by motorsport performance but that does not sacrifices comfort. Who wants more than this?!

At last, we should mention that the Acura NSX online vehicle configurator is going to be launched on February 25 and it will enable potential customers to design and build their dream NSX. On the same date, those interested in purchasing the car can contact an authorized Acura retailer to place their order. The production of the 2017 Acura NSX is going to start this spring at the new Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio.

Videos Source: YouTube
News Source: Acura

February 1, 2016

Toyota Gives Out Stunning Prizes At This Year’s Toyota 86 Racing Event

Racing drivers can be part of this year’s Toyota 86 Racing Series! Open to all manual variants, the event is focused on finding out the most talented and passionate young talents and grants them the opportunity to build their own racing career.

Furthermore, Toyota ambassador and four times Australian Rally Champion Neal Bates has worked with numerous specialists to create a high-performance, low-cost race pack that can be affordable, fast and flexible at the same time. This pack is also approved by the Confederation of Australian Motorsport and is already available through Neal Bates Motorsport.

It includes adjustable front and rear coil-over damping system which is fine-tuned by Qeensland-based MCA, owned by motorsport legend Murray Coote. Also, brakes are upgraded with larger rotors and AP Racing callipers, while the wheels step up to 18-inch OZ Asfalto alloy rims.

Toyota 86 Racing Series

The exhaust system is exclusively made from Toyota Racing Development. There is also added engine oil cooler and specific locked Motec M150 Electronic Control Unit. And in addition, the vehicle will be geared with Toyota 86 Racing Series-compliant roll-cage and CAMS-compliant race seats.

Toyota 86 Racing Series kicks off in May with subsequent rounds confirmed for August. And with its entry fee of $1,500 per round, this series becomes one of the lowest of all the mainstream national series and ends up with a prize of $125,000 USD. How cool is that?

Source: Toyota

January 29, 2016

SsangYong Expands The Available Via Motability Scheme Models

SsangYong Turismo ELX SsangYong Tivoli diesel and petrol models are now available via the Motability Scheme, so even the disabled people can experience the pleasure of driving such a vehicle.

As you might know, the seven-seater Turismo MPV was one of the first vehicles by SsangYong to become a part of the Scheme last year. Powered by a 2.2-liter Euro 6 compatible power unit, this vehicle is expected to be even more popular than its predecessor. So, let’s check out what these two vehicles have to offer to customers and fans.

Turismo MPV

With its stunning length and width, the Turismo is especially designed for families, leisure and business transportation. The vehicle blends multi-role flexibility with incredible driving experience.

Thanks to its 3,000mm wheelbase, this car has the capability to provide huge interior space for seven adults and their luggage. There are a total of three rows of seats and a large load space that can be increased by completely removing the third row of seats.

And while the rear wheel drive is present for the SE and EX trim levels, the top of the top ELX comes with the uncompromising 4×4 low ratio system. This makes the vehicle extremely reliant and trustworthy, no matter the road or weather conditions.

The Tivoli SUV

SsangYong Tivoli ELX

Appealing and dramatic in style, Tivoli SUV comes in three trim levels: SE, EX and ELX, along with a choice of 1.6-liter petrol or diesel engine, paired to either six-speed manual or six-speed Aisin automatic gearbox.

The EX trim level adds the optional automatic gearbox, grey or beige leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy Spiral wheels, dual zone climate control, 7-inch touch screen smart audio system, rear view camera, heated seats and more, whereas the ELX will grant buyers Diamond cut alloy wheels, smart instrument cluster, smart keyless starting, front and rear parking sensors, privacy glass, rear spoiler, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, full TomTom navigation and more.

Along with the ample space for five adults, the SUV also offers high levels of safety with its seven airbags. Of course, SsangYong team also included numerous customizable features as choices for exterior and interior color schemes and optional equipment. Furthermore, the SE entry trim offers smart grey cloth trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and start/stop systems, along with Smart steering and RDS/Bluetooth radio.

Source: SsangYong

January 29, 2016

Blog

Mulliner Refrigerated Bottle Cooler

Painted Veneers

Sterling Silver Atomisers

Hide-Trimmed Stowage Boxes

Night Eagle Exterior

Night Eagle Interior

Engine Options

Acura NSX and why is it so special

2016 Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre Hybrid

Turismo MPV

The Tivoli SUV