Automobiles Review – Page 369 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Golf Cabrio Gets Updated Engine Range

Volkswagen has just announced that the latest Golf Cabriolet edition will get updates in its engine range. The new EU6-engine generation will deliver up to 15 percent lower fuel consumption. In addition, the car is also getting a different radio and navigation systems as an option.

All engines in the new TSI range are turbocharged. Here are featured the following: the 1.2-liter four-cylinder capable of producing 105 PS (77 kW) and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque; the 1.4-liter four-cylinder generating 125 PS (92 kW) and torque rated at 200 Nm (147 lb-ft); and the 1.4-liter four-cylinder pumping out 150 PS (110 kW).

The top of the range Golf GTI Cabriolet will have an uprated output, which is now 220 PS (162 kW). In comparison to its 210 PS predecessor, the 220 PS GTI convertible will be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, which is 0.4 seconds faster. Despite the increase in power, the fuel consumption has been lowered by more than 15 percent and it is measured at 6.5 l per 100 km.

The diesel units have also received upgrades that have made them more efficient and powerful. For example, the 2.0 TDI now boasts 150 PS (110 kW) and 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque, which means gains of10 PS and 20 Nm. It is capable to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and achieving a fuel consumption of 4.6 l per 100 km.

Besides these powertrain upgrades, the car will also benefit from the latest generation radio and navigation systems. The “Composition Colour” and “Composition Media” radios feature large multicolor touch screen and eight speakers, while the “Discover Media” navigation system now features Bluetooth option.

Source: Volkswagen

May 22, 2015

Zagato Maserati Mostro Debuts at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

Mostro is a name of a car powered by Maserati and created by Zagato. In fact, it is company’s latest creation, which is set to be revealed during this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The car is not only created to celebrate the centenary of Maserati, but also to honor one of the most iconic racers in Tridente’s history, the Maserati 450 S Coupe Zagato Monster. The latter was designed back in 1957 by Frank Costin, who was a specialist in aerodynamics. Then it was coach-built in Milan for the 24 Hours of Le Mans because of a request of Stirling Moss.

Body

Just like its predecessor, Mostro is built on the philosophy of pure racing mechanics. However, it is also completely road sanctioned. Its chassis is made of a MonoCell of carbon fiber coupled to a mid-structure of steel tubes. This creates the cockpit and the subframe that carries the fuel tank, exhaust system, rear suspension and gearbox.

The car is constructed in Italy and Zagato says that its bodywork is entirely carbon fiber. With a coupé-body design built on a sports car chassis, the Mostro features specific 450 S Coupe characteristics that express the classic design and timeless beauty of Zagato vehicles. All in all, its design showcases the spirit of the best aerodynamics combined with the stance of a modern race car.

Exterior Design

The idea behind this project is to keep the initial design of the 1957 racer. This is visible through the enormous frontal part that houses the engine. In addition, the large front fender runs along the entire length of the frontal part, then it disappears at the door. This is where the line of the car’s massive rear fender begins.

The other design characteristics that define this car are the fixed glass windows along the sides, the wide windshield increasing the visibility, and the high opening of the doors. The large rear fixed-wing creates adequate downforce on the rear axle.

Engine & Suspension

Under the hood there is a central-front V8 Maserati engine, which has dry-sump lubrication. The unit is linked to a semi-automatic six-speed rear-positioned gearbox. The latter optimally distributes the weight of the car along the longitudinal axis. At the front and the rear Zagato installed double wishbone architecture with a pushrod, spring and shock absorber system.

Wheels & Tires

This unique car will be running on 19-inch multispoke alloys behind which will be working large disc brakes. The wheels will be fitted with 255/40 R19 and 295/35 R19 rubbers at the front and rear, respectively.

Zagato Maserati Mostro will be exclusive edition and only five examples will be created. Each unit has been already assigned to selected Zagato collectors. First deliveries will happen before December this year.

Source: Zagato

May 22, 2015

TeslaVets by SS Customs Receives One-Off Photoshoot

This project is rather an old one, but the reason for our attention is the latest photoshoot it received. SS Customs has worked together with Richard Le Photography & Design to achieve these stunning pictures. If you do remember the car well, then you should also know that it comes to recognize the all the work Tesla does with US armed forces. Even more, the customization specialists also say that working with a company like Tesla on this creative project is dream come true.

So, #TeslaVets is based on the Model S – the most famous electric automobile. As you can see it carries specific visuals, which has been achieved in house but with some help from Tesla. The reason for this collaboration was Veterans Day honoring (11th of November)and this car is the way both companies say “Thank you”.

From what we know, the car is dressed in a special military Camo vinyl wrap, which was hand cut and then applied by hand. This cool appearance was then emphasized by the multispoke green powder coated green 21 inch Model S wheels.

In addition, we also see Yakima roof basket on whispbars with full Armed Forces regalia. We can’t skip the yellow tinted headlights, which are visible here very well, as well as the typical military equipment mounted on the custom-made roof rack.

And don’t forget to see the photos in the gallery below!

Source: SS Customs via Facebook

May 22, 2015

Kahn Releases Tech Pack for the Range Rover Evoque RS Sport

After the latest projects we have seen from Kahn Design, it is now time to show you something “more ordinary”. Of course, I am not talking about the exclusivity of the vehicle here, but about the fact that it isn’t that ambitious as the Vengeance Project or the Flying Huntsman. Instead, this Range Rover Evoque has received a thorough treatment.

Exterior

Equipped with the Tech Pack, the RS Sport version of the Evoque carries a wide range of exterior styling upgrades. First I should mention the striking exterior color, which is slick Santorini Black Metallic. See how dramatic it looks?

Next, at the front there is a matte black centre bumper section accompanied by a grille with 3-D mesh and a bumper mesh in matte black and silver. The side sills are contrasted by side vent inserts and integrated vents and LED daytime running lights.

At the sides we see new Matt Gun Metal multispoke RS600 wheels that come in the dimensions of 20-inches. They have been fitted with 275x40x20 tires, behind which hide a set of brake callipers. At last, rounding out the exterior of this car is the stainless steel cross-hair exhaust system, which gives the SUV even further muscular presence.

Interior

When one steps inside the RS Sport, he or she finds out an interior dressed in quilted and perforated black leather highlighted by the contrast stitching along. Other cool elements inside are the diamond gear selector, aluminium vented foot pedals, the stainless steel door entry sill plates and the carpet floor mats.

Source: Kahn Design

May 22, 2015

Polestar “Carbonizes” Volvo V40

The latest Volvo V40 Carbon is the first model to be geared with the latest generation of Polestar Performance Optimisation. In fact, the model will be limited edition and will be called Volvo V40 Carbon. The engineers at Polestar have done some optimization and development changes, that result on wonderful control, performance and pleasure of driving. Oh, yeah. And one more thing. The Volvo V40 Carbon will come with the latest and most advanced drivetrain, that Volvo brand ever produced.

The optimization has been done in order to provide the driver with even better response and feeling of confidence on the road. The tweaks allow the driver to predict the behavior of the car, which, as we all know is really important for safety on the road and on the track.

The engineering team has focused on five areas of the drivetrain system: throttle response, gearshift speed, gearshift precision, off-throttle response and overall engine performance. With all the tweaks and improvements, Volvo team decided to produce a total of 343 V40 Carbon units, that will be available in Finland, France, Japan, Netherlands and Sweden.

The vehicles will be geared with the T5 and D4 engines, that produce 253 hp (186 kW)/400 Nm and 147kW/440 Nm. The team focused to increase the power and overall performance of the car in the mid-range, where the latest tweaks and features bring additional 25 hp (18 kW)/50 Nm for the T5 and 16 hp (11 kW)/40Nm for the D4 engine.

And in addition, as the name suggests, the V40 will include numerous carbon details, 19-inch wheels, special belts and additional equipment packs.

Source: Volvo

May 21, 2015

Fiat Releases a Specia Ægea Model

Fiat unveiled the latest Compact Sedan, especially designed in Italy and crafted in Turkey. The model is named Fiat Ægea, which is actually a tribute to Turkey, that has always played important role for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and for the representation of the symbolic bridge between the East and West.

For the debut, Fiat chose the Istanbul Motor Show, that remains extremely important for the Turkish market since 1968. In fact, the latest Fiat model brings incredible blend of comfort, performance and efficiency. And with the added delicate Italian style, the vehicle shows both elegance and confidence.

2015-Fiat

Style

Designed in Italy at the FCA Style Centre, the Fiat Ægea is crafted with the knowledge and abilities of over 2000 people, who worked on the project for more than three year period. The latest Fiat model brings the feeling, that it is pure “Born to be Sedan” and furthermore incorporates design lines, that make the car beautiful, stylish and vigorious.

Energy Efficiency

The Fiat Ægea offers wide range of engines, that are all reliable, with high performance rates and of course, economical and efficient. All the available units have power output between 95 and 120 hp (69 to 88 kW). As said, all the engines are extremely efficient: the car uses less than 4 liters of diesel for each 100 km (62 miles).

Technology

In a true Fiat style, the Fiat Ægea sedan comes with numerous technology treaks, that improve the driving experience and the overall pleasure of all passengers. There is a Uconnect system, a 5-inch touch screen, a Bluetooth system, audio streaming and voice recognition.

Source: Fiat

May 21, 2015

Volkswagen’s Safety System Reduces Injuries and Collisions With the Incredible 45 Per Cent!

Both Volkswagen Golf and Passat models are been tested by safety experts at the Thatcham Research Centre, who noticed a total of 45 per cent drop in third party personal injury, thanks to the auto-emergency brake system. As you know, the latest generation of Golf is on sale in UK since January 2013 and almost all models are geared with the Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist and emergency brake system. Thanks to all these gadgets, injuries with the latest Golf models are halved down.

These systems are new, but it was the Golf vehicle, that made them popular. Especially the ACC technology. As you know, this system is completely effective between a speed range of 30 to 160 km/h (18 to 99 mph). In normal driving, the ACC calculates the speed and the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically brakes or accelerates, depending on the traffic.

In addition, the Front Assist continues the monitoring the traffic ahead and calculates distances, speed and the force of the brake in occasions it has to be used. And if the driver fails to react on time, the technology automatically generates a braking force, that helps avoiding collisions. Handy, isn’t it.

On the other hand, the latest Passat model, that went on sale in UK in January is also geared with ACC. In fact all the Passat models have it as a standard equipment, except the S models. With additional gadgets and the function to detect pedestrians, on-time indications from Thatcham are what avoids accidents and collisions.

ACC system is also available on Polo an Touareg, while the city emergency brake system is included and into the Up! city car.

May 21, 2015

2015 Toyota Hilux Will be Even More Powerful And More Confident

Toyota team is ready to take the HiLux mode to the next level with the premiere of the latest next-gen model. The global debut will be staged simultaneously in Australia and Thailand and what the latest HiLux model has to offer is advanced safety, comfort and convenience features. Additional features will include an even stronger frame, four powerplants, improved towing capacity and payloads of up to 1240kg. And as always, Toyota team will demonstrate a vehicle with even better off-road performance, compared to the old model, upgraded suspension and handling. Toyota Australia’s execute director sales and marketing Tony Cramb is convinced, that the HiLux will continue the proud tradition to demonstrate what unbreakable means.

Drivetrain system

The latest HiLux comes with a 2.8-liter engine, that offers 450 Nm of torque, while the 2.4-Liter brings 400Nm. In both cases the fuel consumption is optimized with about 10 per cent, compared to older models. Further power and performance boost gives the redesigned six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

Also, HiLux comes in Australia with expanded customizable variation: there are about 30 variants with 4×2 and 4×4, a total of three cabin styles and three equipment grades. In fact, the team focuses on the double cabs, 4×4 variants and the diesel options. And this will be the first HiLux model, that will include Hi-Rider variants, which means, that a 2WD system will include the height, power and heavy-duty suspension of a 4WD drive. The latest model will also come with bigger fuel tank of 80 liters, all terrain tires and numerous other additions.

Style, interior and exterior

The HiLux, showed in Australia offers 18-inch wheels, that fit perfectly on the redesigned body, that now looks even more confident and even more muscular. In fact, the vehicle is with 70mm longer and 20mm wider and with a lowered roofline. Optional to the range are the 16- and 17-inch wheels. The widened exterior dimensions are wonderfully collaborated with the spacious interior, that is now even more comfortable and cozy.

As we see from the latest HiLux,Toyota team is confidently stepping forward to the award of maximum safety features, stability and control.

We will see about that. Stay with us for further information!

Source: Toyota

May 21, 2015

BMW Team Unveils a Really Special Model

BMW decided to pay tribute to the legendary ZHP Performance package with releasing details for the latest 2016 BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition. As you know, the original ZHP code was created by BMW as an additional tech pack for the 2003-2006 E46 3 Series and included M-Tech II body kit, a special ZHP shifter knob and shifter, a better suspension, output of 235 hp (172 kW) and many more. And now the 435i ZHP Coupe Edition demonstrates a wonderful collaboration between stock features and many more additions, that come with BMW M Performance Accessory list. What is special about this car, is there will be only 100 units offered on the market.

And as the latest BMW member, the 435i ZHP Coupe Edition will grant its buyers improved aerodynamics, even better response and precise handling. In addition, the BMW M Performance line will offer accessories, that will further boost the sporty character and bring additional performance tweaks. What BMW team promises is, every single component went through intensive process, that ensures only premium quality elements and performance.

And here we offer you what the key packs and features: BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential, BMW Performance Parts, M Sport Package, Track Handling Pack.

The Track Handling Package

This pack of goodies comes with 18-inch Orbit Grey V-Spoke Wheels and M Sport Brakes and Adaptive M Suspension, that includes the special Variable Sport Steering.

BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential

This technology brings additional performance tweaks, that boost the acceleration and deceleration performance and in addition provides additional grip power to the wheels. Furthermore the Limited Slip Differential ensures better control and smoother ride.

BMW M Performance Engine Kit (+35 hp, up to +32 lb-ft)

Thanks to that Kit, the BMW monster gets additional acceleration and speed boost. With the special Air Intake system, that is incorporated into the Kit, the car now delivers additional 335 hp (35 hp additional boost)/ 246 kW (25 kW additional boost). The torque also deserved its attention as it is now with 32 ft/lb gain for the automatic transmission, which results as a total of 332 lb-ft and 317lb-ft for the automatic gearbox ( 17 lb-ft gain). This pack also reduces the 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time: the car takes it now with 2 seconds faster.

BMW M Performance Exhaust

The M Performance Exhaust reduces the weight with 8.8 pounds and brings some aerodynamic tweaks, that result on a better handling and improved weight balance.

BMW M Performance Aerodynamics Package

The 435i ZHP can be geared and with a special Aerodynamics Pack. The upgrade underlines the sporty design and lines and as the name suggests, brings numerous tweaks to the aerodynamic aspects of the car. What it brings is a rear high-quality carbon-fiber spoiler, a special diffuser and a special high quality polymer. Furthermore, the Aerodynamic Pack brings and wonderful confident and muscular appearance.

M Sport Package

The last available pack for the 435i ZHP Edition come with tweaked aerodynamics, aluminum hexagon trim, glossy accents and sport steering wheel.

And for the people, who still need additional tweaks, BMW brand offers numerous special Performance Parts via a special program, called Vehicle Distribution Center Installed Accessory.

Source: BMW

May 21, 2015

Meet the Flame Throwing Nero Nemesis Lamborghini Aventador [VIDEO]

This Lambo is astounding! Not only because of its exceptional looks, but also because it has received some special performance and visual updates. The specialists responsible for this are those at the Netherlands based company Baan Velgen. Called Nero Nemesis (like an Arch Enemy song, isn’t it) because of its looks, the car has been fitted with HRE styling upgrades as well as Akrapovic exhaust.

First, I must say that the Aventador runs on alloys that were specifically created for its purposeful stance and athletic appearance. These forged wheels come directly from the working place of HRE and are named P101. Colored in Satin Black to match the exterior, they undoubtedly contribute for the impression that this Lamborghini leaves.

The next extra things about this car are the Akrapovic goodies. First, the tuners installed slip-on exhaust and then they continued with the Akrapovic link pipes. They both are responsible for the special look and the special sound of the LP700-4.

Oh, and did I mention that one of the most impressive features of this exhaust is its capability to shoot flames?

What is more, this exhaust also includes the power of the Aventador and also saves around 46% of weight over the standard exhaust. This means that the V12 unit will have the capability of producing more than 700 horsepower (522 kW) and 690 Nm (511 lb-ft) of torque.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy this:

httpv://youtu.be/YoebPIUCRAw

Source: Baan Velgen via YouTube

May 21, 2015

See How Hennessey VelociRaptor Survives TopGear Test [VIDEOS]

I am sure that you know very well the 2015 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600, right? You can’t miss it because it is very loud, it has this eye-catching yellow color and it is literally huge! Not to mention that it is so powerful that even some of the famous sports cars can envy it.

And if you follow the famous Top Gear or Stig’s YouTube channel, then you should also know that there he has tested it to the limits. The first video below shows behind the scenes of this test. It seems that he actually drove it for fun rather than speed, so Top Gear didn’t time it.

In the second video, you’ll hear how John Hennessey speaking of what it takes to build a vehicle that is capable of surviving a TopGear off-road test. As a matter of fact, the VelociRaptor 600 was one of the last vehicles driven by Jeremy Clarkson on TopGear.

So, basically VelociRaptor 600 can pump out up to 623 horses, due to the addition of a 2.9 Liter Supercharger System to the Ford F-150 FX4 4×4 truck on which it is based. In addition, the 5.0L V8 breathes more deeply thanks to the high-flow air induction system and stainless-steel exhaust system included in the upgrade.

In other words, this is the most capable 4×4 ever built. And there is no wonder, why Stig enjoyed the ride so much. And don’t miss to watch the videos!

httpv://youtu.be/3iSftD0j2zY

httpv://youtu.be/F150ftqW6JU

Source: Hennessey Performance via YouTube

May 21, 2015

Honda Reveals the Fuel-Efficient Jade RS

Honda is starting with the sales of the new Jade RS on 28th of May. The sad news is that this car will be distributed only in Japan. The car is powered by the new 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC TURBO engine and is the newest addition in the Jade lineup. The Jade RS is benefits from the combination of the sedan, minivan and high-quality driving performance.

Honda also said that the new engine’s torque is equivalent to that of a 2.4-liter one. However, the fuel consumption of the VTEC Turbo is better and it is rated at 18 km per liter.

The other advantages of the car include a stylish exterior, three-row seating, Honda’s SENSING driver-assistive system, nimble steering and great chassis and suspension characteristics as well as the adoption of Agile Handling Assist (AHA).

Drivetrain

As mentioned, the Jade RS is powered by a 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC TURBO unit, which features improved turbo effect in the low rpm range. This allows for great torque response as well as smoothness and powerfulness.

In addition to the great fuel efficiency, the air-intake can be precisely controlled. The car also sports better noise insulation and vibration management, which is achieved via various measures like the increased rigidity of bearing caps supporting the crankshaft.

Furthermore, Honda has also developed a new transmission that is perfect for the new engine, because it exploits its full potential. The CVT also contributes for improvements in economy. It also features seven-speed mode paddle shifter for better driving experience.

Exterior

Honda means expressive and emotional design. The same approach is applied here and it is visible through the new front grille with the exclusive mesh-type design, which shows the torque-full driving. At the front grille we also see the “RS” emblem, which can be found on the tailgate as well.

Dark chrome plating has been used for the fog light garnish, outer door handle and tailgate molding. Helping in the noise reduction are also the 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Interior

Two interior trims are available for this car: black and brown. The materials utilized for the seat surface combine fabric and Prime Smooth. The leather wrapped steering wheel is contrasted via red stitching as are the black-color seats. At last, the acceleration pedal and brake pedal have an exclusive design and make this seven-seater sportier.

Chassis

It is important to mention that the rigidity of the front and rear suspensions was improved by 15% and 20%, respectively. The springs and dampers have these exclusive settings which allow for stable driving and a sporty steering feel.

The Agile Handling Assist or the so called AHA electronic control system uses brake vectoring to improve corner traceability. It also ensures a ride with confident handling feel and smaller steering wheel inputs.

At last, the car also got enhanced the rigidity of floor area via a reinforcement to the underfloor with a tunnel brace. This also allows for a movement which reflects more direct and linear steering operation.