Automobiles Review – Page 288 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Audi Announces Plans for 2016 Season

2016 Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept Audi has already announced its plans for the upcoming 2016 season. The brand will continue to invest in new models and company expansions and has just announced that it will start a new chapter in the SUV segment development. Furthermore, the Four Rings brand has also announced its plans to deliver large-series vehicles that are entirely electricity-powered by 2018 and by 2020 Audi ensures us that it will expand the electric lineup to up to 60 different models. Impressive and brave, isn’t it?

And while Audi passionately invests in brand’s development, CFO Axel Strobek sees the possibility for the company to not only make well-planned future decisions, but also develop some next-gen systems and gadgets.

In fact, Audi continues its devotion to the digital world. As you might know, in early December, the brand acquired one-third interest in HERE, the leader in digital maps and location-based service. And in order to maintain its positions as a leader in these technologies, Audi will also strengthen its workforce with additional personnel that will take further actions for the whole company. The big plan is to deliver even lighter and even more reliable body constructions, advanced digital technologies and further drivetrain enhancements that altogether will ensure outstanding quality, performance and pleasure of driving.

Source: Audi

December 29, 2015

Mercedes-Benz SLC Exclusively Gets a Stylish Night Pack

Mercedes-Benz SLC with Night Pack It was about time for Mercedes to reveal some additional tweaks for its recently introduced SLC model. The new extra equipment is called Night Pack and it is definitely worth the look. Both the new SLC and the new styling kit will be available to order and in dealerships in the spring of 2016.

The good news is that the pack will be available for as many trim levels as possible, including the SLC 250 d, 180, 200 and 300 as well as a slightly different AMG Night Package for the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 that stands at the top of the range.

The “Basic” Night Pack

To go directly into the details, the additional components here include a diamond grill that comes in chrome with blade in high-gloss black. There is also a front splitter, exterior mirror housings and rear diffuser in high-gloss black.

Furthermore the package adds 18-inch AMG alloys in multi-spoke design and in high gloss black-paint. They are mated with appropriate tires: 225/40 ZR 18 at the front and 245/35 ZR 18 at the rear.

The SLC 43 Night Pack

Mercedes-Benz SLC with AMG Night Pack

The appearance of this additional styling kit is due to the fact that the aforementioned components can not be added to the AMG variant of the car. So, Mercedes-AMG had to come up with a special AMG Night package.

It is of course optional and adds a front apron with front splitter and fins again in high-gloss black, trim strip diffuser and exterior mirror housings in the same color and AMG sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes.

Now the new SLC looks even more attractive than before, doesn’t it?

Source: Mercedes-Benz via blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com

December 29, 2015

BMW to Introduce AirTouch at Consumer Electronics Show

AirTouch by BMW BMW is getting ready for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which will take place between 6^th and 9^th January in Las Vegas. The company will happily present there a so called Vision Car, which will have a single purpose: to demonstrate the interior of the future including a modern user interface. Why is this needed? Because of the faster and faster advance of networking between driver, car and environment, which is becoming more intensive.

The first instance of new technologies that works in favor of networking is the AirTouch. This is a feature, which provides intuitive control of entertainment, navigation and communication functions. The driver or any of the occupants can use only a basic gestures made with a flat hand to control it.

In other words, the AirTouch also allows the display in a vehicle to be utilized like a touchscreen, but with one difference, one doesn’t have to make contact with the surface. This is possible via sensors, which record the hand movements in the area between the central console and the interior mirror. As a result, drivers or occupants can change the focus on the surface of the large panorama display. What is more, sensors on the instrument dashboard allow 3D control.

How to confirm an action: first – with a simple gesture, or secondly through a concealed AirTouch button, which is located on the rim of the steering wheel. It is positioned on the left and it is easy to reach with the thumb. It also lights up when a menu or icon can be activated and a single tap is enough to activate the desired program or change a setting.

But this is not all. There is another button like this specifically intended for the front passenger. It is located at the side sill in the door area and it allows passengers to use one hand to navigate through the menu and the other hand to confirm inputs very quickly.

Another highlight in the new AirTouch technology is the intelligent menu control, which the number of steps needed to make a selection. Basically, AirTouch “guesses” which selection and control steps are required next and displays them in advance.

A year ago, BMW presented “BMW Gesture Control” at the CES, so AirTouch seem to be a continuation of their good work. The previous gesture control enabled simple movements of a finger to carry out actions such accepting phone calls and was available in the new BMW 7 Series. It is obvious that the AirTouch is another big leap forward for the brand.

Source: BMW

December 29, 2015

G-Power Says Goodbye to 2015 with Special BMW M3 RS E9X

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Front View G-Power has released its last project for 2015. As the year went by we witnessed some great tunings and this one here is another example of the exquisite work of the specialists. Under the attention of the masters is the BMW M3 E9X considered as the perfect base for a track day car. In combination with their SK III supercharger and the carbon-fibre aerodynamic parts, the M3 easily becomes M3 RS – a “serious player in the supercar league”.

Faster & Faster

There are two ways to make a car faster. The first one is to add power to its engine. The second: to reduce its weight by replacing some of the components with lightweight ones. But if you want to make an already faster car even faster, then you should first add the extra power and then use some carbon-fiber… or the other way around. This was basically the idea under the work of the experts at G-Power.

Carbon Manifesto

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Rear View

Te tuning company undertook an in-house CAD development program to manifest one-off carbon-fibre aerodynamic components for the BMW M3 E9X. As you can clearly see, the largest carbon-fibre component on the car is the vented Carbon Venturi bonnet ‘RR’. It is not only the largest but also the lightest you will find on the market with weight of just 8.4 kg. This is a saving of 2.6 kg. In addition, this component was designed to dissipate the extra heat produced by the uprated engine.

G-Power ‘RS’ carbon-fibre front spoiler is available with or without air intakes and it reduces the lift over the front axle. At the rear, the ‘RS’ carbon-fibre boot lid in GTS style saves almost 5.0 kg… and due to CNC-machined aluminium struts it weighs just 1.2 kg.

Supercharged Power

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Engine

G-Power SK III supercharger system is increasing the power output of this BMW so dramatically that it can be mistaken with some sort of rally car. Basically the horses were pumped up to 740 hp (544 kW), while the torque – to 700 Nm (517 lb-ft).

If you are familiar with the capabilities of the M3, then you have already grasped how huge the power increase is. There are 320 hp and 300 Nm in addition. The huge extra power is achieved through a displacement increase from 4.0 to 4.6-litres, followed by the installation of an ASA T1-724 supercharger with a high efficiency charge-air intercooler.

The powerplant is complemented with in-house crafted titanium exhaust, which incorporates a pair of 100-cell metal sport catalysts. The weight saving is 26 kg over the original steel system.

At last, we should mention that the M3 RS E9X runs on HURRICANE RR forged alloy wheels, sized 9.0 and 10.5×20-inches at the front and rear respectively, and coupled with 245/30ZR20 and 295/25ZR20 Michelin tires.

G-POWER M3 RS E9X Fast Facts:

740 hp / 544 kW at 8100rpm. (+ 320 hp / 235 kW)
700 Nm at 5,900 rpm. (+ 300 Nm)
Displacement increase: 4.0L to 4.6L
V-max: over 340 km/h
0-100 km/h: 3.7 sec.
0-200 km/h: 9.5 sec.
M3 supercharger system SK III
Venturi hood “RR” in visible carbon
Carbon front spoiler “RS” in visible carbon
Carbon decklid “RS” in visible carbon
Carbon rear wing “RS” in visible carbon
20-inch forged wheels HURRICANE RR

Source: G-Power

December 29, 2015

Classic Recreations Expand the EcoBoost Engine Lineup

Classic Recreations, the only authorized builder of Shelby Mustang proudly announces the addition of the EcoBoost engine lineup to the 1966 GT350CR and 1967 GT500CR Shelby Mustangs. These powertrains represent Ford’s incredible leap forward in terms of power, performance and efficiency.

The one of the engines, the 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 EcoBoost unit offers a total of 365hp (268kW) and 420 lb-ft. of torque. Thanks to its high pressure direct fuel injection, variable cam timing and dual water cooled Honeywell/Garrett GT15 turbochargers this sweetie makes a difference. And in addition it comes with all-aluminum construction and numerous more lightweight components that make it almost like a dream come true to Ford fans out there.

The other power unit comes with 300hp (220kW) via its 2.0-liter capacity and four cylinders. It is one of the most popular EcoBoost mdoels and it is a best-seller with Ford Focus ST in China. This sweetie is fine-tuned and ECU-tweaked and also offers 360 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the Ti-VCT twin independent variable camshaft iming and a Borg-Warner turbocharger. And let’s not forget that it is extremely light and offers incredible response and flexibility.

Both units will be available with automatic and manual gearbox systems and furthermore the Coyote and Windsor models will also be available. How cool is that?

Source: Ford

December 28, 2015

Subaru Will Unveil Special Concept Vehicles at the Tokyo Auto Salon Show

STI Performance Concept Subaru Technica International Inc., along with Fuji Heavy Industries announced a special exhibition to take place at the 2016 Tokyo Auto Salon with NAPAC (Japan Car Parts and Aftermarket Promotions Association) that will be held between 15-17 January at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba.

At the Subaru place at the event there will be some special models, along with the “STI Performance Concept”, Levorg STI Concept” and “Subaru XV Hybrid STI Concept”. So, let’s see what do these sweeties have to offer.

STI Performance Concept

This beauty includes numerous STI technologies and features, including STI suspension and brake systems, along with neat exterior and interior enhancements. And in order to signify STI’s commitment to motorsport, it embraces the STI-fine-tuned EJ20 horizontally-opposed 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo performance-oriented power unit, currently used for the Super GT race in Japan.

Levorg STI Concept

The WR “Blue Pearl” demonstrates special front fascia with quality feel and STI-designed exclusive 18-inch alloys and overall dramatic exterior look. And with the red-wine and black two-tone color scheme interior with high quality elements and especially created accessories, this vehicle brings some outstanding feel of comfort and superiority. And let’s not forget the special STI-tuned dampers, ride quality and stability that this beauty offers.

Subaru XV Hybrid STI Concept

This special Concept comes with the well-known Subaru quality and XV’s “casual and sporty” spirit: the sweetie comes with special orange and beige color scheme for the interior and custom STI sport components that altogether contribute to that aggressive, yet elegant character.

Source: Subaru

December 28, 2015

Jannarelly Design-1 Is Ready for Global Debut

2015 Jannarelly Design-1 Jannarelly, the new car brand that wants to prove itself worthy, launches a special high-performance and customizable sports car that looks smoking sexy and it is ready to tackle down every challenge. So, let’s check out what is going on here.

Anthony Jannerelly, designer of the W Motors Supercars and Fredric Juillot, owner of Equation Composite, announced that they combine their skills and passion to create a masterpiece, known as Jannarelly Design-1.

With apparent love to the 60’s era, the duo went for that straightforward approach: they created a concept vehicle that catches all the well-known elements of vintage automobiles, along with modern-age passion and ambitions.

The 60’s tribute

2015 Jannarelly Design-1

Jannarelly Design-1 brings together the best of the two worlds: the well-known and beloved vintage and aggressive lines and the modern materials and technologies that ensure impeccable performance. Properly described as a “car with a soul”, this concept is all about passion, style and perfection.

Jannarelly Design-1 offers a rear wheel drive with special steel tubular frame and structural aluminum panels for the chassis. Geared with a V6 DOHC 24-valve power unit, this sweetie has a lot to offer. Furthermore, the two ambitious men are putting the final touches to the first prototype and prepare for the first demonstration in Dubai in early February that will be followed by premieres in Europe and US.

2015 Jannarelly Design-1

Source: Jannarelly

December 28, 2015

Rare Mercedes-AMG A45 Edition 1 Sees More Power and Torque Than Ever

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC Front View Posaidon has been very active lately (see in the link below) and this time they have sent us a very exclusive project, which again involves a Mercedes. However, what is particularly very cool about this car and what has impressed me much is that the tuning company has worked with the rare Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 Edition 1. The changes featured here not only involve power uprating but also feature some additional upgrades which we’ll discuss in details.

The Excellent Tracktool

The Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC is the perfect basis for power uprating because it initially offers impressive performance and exclusive optical properties. This is the reason why the tuning company did not hesitate to develop right away a breathtaking tracktool.

Posaidon’s tracktool-package features a complex overhaul of the four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged engine. The result is impressive increase in power, which I will reveal you in a moment.

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC Rear View

The boost was made possible via the addition of upgraded turbocharger, catless downpipe and revised the engine control software that includes the fine-tuning on a dynamometer. In addition, the tuners also optimized the charge air cooling and the airflow for the intake air.

As a result, the increase in power is up to 485 hp (357 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque. In combination with the reinforced transmission, the powerhouse now reaches a top speed of 310 km/h.

Other Goodies

Nevertheless, this impressive performance requires an upgraded deceleration means. So, Posaidon offers an upgrade for the original braking system or special two-piece potted discs. At last, the conversion of the A45 Edition 1 includes in-house made speed-trap update for the navigational system, unlocking of the TV-Mode and the deactivation of the Start/Stop-ECO mode.

Source: Posaidon

December 28, 2015

Volkswagen Has Great Gifts for the Polo, Golf GT and R-Line, and Passat Models

Volkswagen Golf GT Edition Side View Volkswagen has released generously-equipped Polo Match model, which comes to replace the famous SE trim. In addition the high-spec Golf GT Edition and R-Line Edition replace the GT and R-Line trims, while the new Passat SE Business comes to offer more functional upgrades including the Discover Navigation. Here are the details.

Volkswagen Polo Match

The car adds extra style and function. As mentioned it comes on the place of the popular SE trim and will be offered in three- and five-door body styles, wide range of engine and transmission options, as well as added extra equipment.

The standard features here include cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, front fog lights with static cornering function, tinted rear windows and new 15-inch Stratford alloy wheels. Note that we have no pictures of the Polo Match, and the one above is depicting the Golf GT Edition.

Volkswagen Golf GT Edition and Golf R-Line Edition

Golf R-Line Edition Side View

The next huge changes involve the iconic Volkswagen Golf VII, which now has brand new Golf GT Edition and Golf R-Line Edition. They replace the trim levels with the same name but add extra standard equipment. Basically, the Golf GT Edition gains extra 18-inch Durban alloy wheels and panoramic sunroof.

On the other hand, the Golf R-Line Edition also rides on larger 18-inch Serron alloys wheels and gets a panoramic sunroof.

Volkswagen Passat SE Business

Volkswagen Passat SE Business Front View

Volkswagens also debuts the Passat SE Business trim, which boosts the appeal of the multi-award-winning Passat and Passat Estate. The standard equipment added here includes Discover Navigation, front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors and tinted rear windows.

The Pricing

Volkswagen Polo Match has a starting price of £12,735; the Golf GT Edition is priced at £23,915, while the Golf R-Line Edition can be order from £24,860. The cars are set to arrive at showrooms in early 2016.

Source: Volkswagen

December 28, 2015

The Dark Side is Strong and Calls for Chevy Trax

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is definitely a big hype and the might of the Dark Side has even gone to the minds of the designers at Chevrolet… metaphorically of course. The latest addition in Chevy’s lineup is the Trax Midnight Edition, which contributes to the versatility of the small SUV. With it’s blacked out styling it seems that has taken inspiration of the famous movie series.

The car is based on the LTZ trim level and includes a lot of cool styling components inside and out. The exterior of the Midnight Edition features black wheels, black bezels and beltline molding, door handles of the same color as well as black rear license plate appliqué.

Speaking of the interior, we should also mention the seats which have been trimmed with gray accents. The other thematic feature is the floor mats that have gray piping.

As a matter of fact, Chevy Trax is unique vehicle which fuses the agility of a small-car with the utility and convenience of an SUV. It offers up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space and is driven by the 1.4L turbocharged engine. The powerplant is efficient but at the same time 138 horsepower (102 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm) strong. In details, the small displacement engine offers an EPA-estimated 34 mpg highway for the FWD models.

Another advantage of the Trax is the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, which in my opinion is one of the coolest connectivity features included in Chevy’s options.

If you are already interested, then you should know that 2016 Chevrolet Trax Midnight Edition is scheduled to go on sale in late February. The Midnight package is priced at $500 USD, while the Trax LTZ has a starting price tag of $26,125 USD.

Source: Chevrolet

December 28, 2015

Nissan Murano Is Ready for 2016 Season!

Nissan continues to please customers and fans with Christmas presents! The brand today announced details and further improvements for the 2016 Nissan Murano. As you might know, since its release, the third-gen design managed to reach a total of 30 per cent increased sales through the first 11 months of 2015. So, what is so special about this one? Let’s find out.

Nissan Murano and its offerings for 2016

As one of Nissan’s best SUVs, this sweetie expresses Nissan’s vision for perfect design and functional drivetrain system. The beautiful exterior styling features elegant lines, special V-motion front end shape, LED boomerang lights and special floating roof.

This concept is also continued through the interior that welcomes customers and fans in cozy and comfortable cabin. The refined instrument panel, low center console and advanced Zero Gravity front and rear seating really do enhance this warm and yet functional atmosphere.

There are numerous technologies and features that will ensure pleasurable and rewarding driving experience: special navigation system, 8-inch color display, Around View Monitor, 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Travel Link. And these are only some of the countless goodies this vehicle is geared with.

In terms of safety and convenience technologies, 2016 Murano offers Moving Object Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking and more.

In terms of drivetrain features and performance, the new Murano has also a lot to demonstrate: the standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 unit, paired to the advanced Xtronic gearbox ensures fast response and enhanced driving versatility. And along the boosted performance capabilities, this sweetie also offers a fuel consumption more efficient with 20 per cent, compared to older models. And with the low rolling resistance tires and the active grille shutter, this sweetie can deal with any road situation.

Prices for the 2016 Nissan Murano start from $29,660 USD.

Source: Nissan

December 23, 2015

2015 Pathfinder Finds New Paths for 2016 Season

2015 Nissan Pathfinder Nissan announced details for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SUV. As we have told you, this sweetie offers incredible versatility, energy efficiency and high level of comfort. Available with 2- or 4-wheel drive systems the beast also offers sweet 260hp (191kW) of power output via the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 power unit and the Xtronic gearbox with D-Step shift logic.

Nissan Pathfinder and its offerings for the upcoming season

First of all, the vehicle will now offer special Almond interior with contrasting black and beige materials, while the special Cold Package with heated cloth front seats, heated steering wheel and heated outside rearview mirrors will ensure not only comfort during the Winter, but also boosted pleasure of driving.

The Pathfinder also offers towing capability of 5,000 pounds and fuel economu of 27 mpg highway for the 2WD models. In fact, the vehicle also features selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock models from the optional ALL-MODE 4×4-i System. How cool is that?

Furthermore the comfortable ride and the high levels of pleasure are achieved by responsive handling system, independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension system, hydraulic electric power-assisted steering standard.

The interior also attracts customers with the comfortable seven seats, the innovative EX Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE, 2nd row tilt and glide seat, easy 3rd row access and child safety seat. The standard equipment also includes Nissan Advanced Drive-Assist Display with special 4-inch color display and special 8-inch touch-screen monitor that provides all the information needed about vehicle’s condition in every single moment.

But this is not all. The Nissan team also includes numerous optional features like leather appointed seating, Around View Monitor, 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, Blind Spot Warning system, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth, Hands-Free Phone System, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and numerous more.

Prices for 2016 Nissan Pathfinder start from $29, 780 USD.