Automobiles Review – Page 399 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Top Gear Continues without Jeremy Clarkson, BBC Confirms [VIDEO]

Jeremy Clarkson officially dropped from Top Gear BBC has just confirmed that the contract of Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson won’t be renewed. The reason for this is a huge scandal that the star created, involving a physical altercation with the producer of the show. BBC‘s general director, Tony Hall, said that Clarkson has crossed many lines and that he should bear the consequences.

After the so called “fracas” with Oisin Tymon, Clarkson was suspended on 10^th of March. What has been announced as the reason for this quarrel was a cold plate of food served to the star. In addition, the show was stopped in the middle of the season and this caused an outrageous respond from Top Gear fans. There is even a petition going on around the internet that supports Clarkson’s reinstatement in the show.

Top Gear is the most watched TV program in the world and the main contributor for this is Jeremy Clarkson and his witty individuality. The official BBC statement unfortunately signifies that the show will continue without Clarkson presence.

It is also under question, whether James May and Richard Hammond, will be kept, since their contracts are also ending this year. What’s more, they seem unwilling to continue to do their job without their co-presenter.

This is sad news really, because it signifies an end of an era. Now, over the internet there is a burst of speculations, involving the question who exactly is going to join the show. Any suggestions?

Edit: Hear exclusively James May’s reaction to Jeremy Clarkson being sacked by BBC:

httpv://youtu.be/N6cfFnBNELs

Image Credit: Beretta/Sims/Rex Features

Video Source: YouTube

Source: BBC.com

March 25, 2015

Cadillac ATS-V is now 464HP SEA-Certified

Cadillac ATS-V Front View Today, at Los Angeles the new 2016 ATS-V was introduced by Cadillac – the new generation family member that expands brand’s elite hi-end V-Series. The start of the production will be this spring with the availability in sedan and coupe forms. The first ATS-V’s will bring the twin-turbocharged power and uncompetable design artwork and performance system.

Now, for more than ten years, the V-Series have driven incredible power and performance to Cadillac’s ever-expanding luxury range. Built on the base of the award-winning ATS line, the V-series add even more capabilities to what was the most resilient and agile-driving compact car class.

The result? Luxurious multi-purpose vehicle. It comes with the well known and trustworthy true track capability, combined with the smooth feel on the road. The new ATS-V is geared with the first of it’s kind twin-turbocharged engine in a V-series model. The machine comes with SAE-certified 464 horsepower (364kW), highest output six-cylinder engine segment, 601Nm (444 lb-ft) of torque, 0-60 performance in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 189 mph. The engine is coupled with a six-speed manual or a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission.

In order to create an agile, luxurious and smooth-performing ATS-V, the Twin Turbo engine supports completely redesigned chassis, suspension and drivetrain systems. Other upgrades and further improvements include Brembo high-performance brake system straight from the factory, third-gen Magnetic Ride Control with additionally enhanced damping response, selectable driver modes for sport-based track etc.

In addition, ATS-V comes also with exterior design that supports aerodynamic performance as well as powertrain and drivetrain cooling technology. The interior focuses on the driver’s interface system for even better performance driving, including more ergonomic and high performance seats.

Chief engineers ensure the highest performance available via the bond that the smallest V-series has with the driver. It’s not just a bond, they say, but the engine actually adapts to driver’s preferences for more pleasure of driving. How cool is that?

Source: Cadillac

March 25, 2015

Superb SE Business Edition with Two Engine Options

Skoda Superb SE Buisness is designed to meet the specifics of the fleet market with additional equipment that adds even more comfort and technologic additions. This particular trim level is geared with front and rear parking sensors, touchscreen satellite navigation, drive mode selection, including Eco, Sport and Normal modes, sunset glass from the back and even a Phonebox with wireless enhanced signal.

But the goodies do not end here. The SE Buisness comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights for better vision, Adaptive Cruise control and lumbar support. The most interesting fact is that, although the vastly increased number of additions, the new trim will come at the same price as its predecessor. With all improvements and the incredibly spacious cabin and the increased rear legroom, the new SE Buisness is set to be the businessman’s best friend out on the streets. Only some of the new features are the optional: Virtual pedal system, Blind spot detection, new generation Park assist.

The SE Buisness will come with a choice of two EU6 diesel engines: the 1.6-litre 120PS unit and the 2.0-litre 150 PS one. Both come mated to DSG transmissions. Also, the new GreenLine model will emit about 95g/km of CO2, or at least it is expected to do so.

Furthermore, the SE Buisness will be up to 75kg lighter, despite the fact it is larger than the SE – 47mm wider, with 80mm longer wheelbase. It is believed, that all of these features will make the new model more efficient and comfortable.

Other “firsts” here are the LED rear lights, sunset glass, the redesigned multi-function steering wheel, manual lumbar support, electric parking brake, expanded set of safety and security extras – ABS, EBW, MSR, EDS, HDA and more. The technical additions include AC Contro, Satelite navigation control and SmartLink. The new Skoda SE Buisness will be specifically distributed in Europe and is expected to make a market debut later this year.

Source: Skoda

March 25, 2015

Jaguar XF Revealed via Strenuous High-Wire Journey [VIDEOS]

2016 Jaguar XF has been officially unveiled via a dramatic three minute, 787ft ‘high wire’ journey. This has happened in London, and specifically at the famous Canary Wharf over the Royal Dock. The person behind the steering wheel was Jim Dowdell, who is a veteran stuntman famous for his Bond, Bourne and Indiana Jones movies. There is a video below, where you will find out how this has been achieved and whether it was successful or not.

The new XF will also make a North American debut at the New York Auto Show. Basically, the car is an expression of refinement and luxury emphasized via its outstanding interior and athletic coupe-like design. In fact, the XF is based on Jaguar’s aluminum-intensive architecture, thus having exceptional proportions. The car is 7mm (0.3in) shorter and 3mm (0.1in) lower, while the wheelbase in 51mm (2in) longer.

Under the hood we have one of the two 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engines. The first one produces the combination 340 hp (250 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), while the second one: 380 hp (280 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). Both engines are coupled with the eight-speed automatic transmission.

And regarding the excellent steering feel and response, Jaguar has ensured that there is a system that takes care for that. It is called Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system. Other technology features that need to be mentioned are the Adaptive Dynamics, the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) that delivers rear-drive handling and the All-Surface Progress Control system that helps in adverse conditions.

Speaking of luxury, the cabin is filled with the finest materials and the latest technology features like the new Jaguar InControl Touch Pro premium infotainment system1 and a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster. The company will also offer abundance of available features like the additional advanced driver assistance systems, featuring the full-LED headlights and Laser Heads-Up Display.

httpv://youtu.be/WfSxPkgWSIU

httpv://youtu.be/ttjkWzYAG1c

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

March 25, 2015

LM2 Streamliner Supercar with Premiere in New York

LM2 Streamliner is the name of a very interesting project that the visitors of the New York Auto Show will be capable of seeing. It is a supercar project by an American company called Lyons Motor Car. We have to tell you immediately that this car will challenge our perception of horsepower because it can actually produce 1700 hp (1250 kW). These horses come from a DOHC V8 engine that has been 4 cam twin turbocharged and features twin intercoolers, and has been connected to AWD 7 speed sequential gearbox.

And if you wonder about the 0-60 mph acceleration time, it is as impressive as the output. The company guarantees 2.2 seconds coverage, or even better, and below 8 seconds quarter mile time.

For these numbers is also contributing the body of the Streamliner, since it is made of pure carbon fiber. The chassis is full length carbon and features billet stainless steel subframes. Even the Brembo brake rotors are made from the same lightweight material.

Other highlights that must be mentioned here are the Bosh ESP and ABS systems package, the titanium and billet aluminum suspension, the Sport Mode for lower ride height, and the stainless steel, inconel and titanium exhaust system. Full LEDs are also inevitable with their 1200 watt HID driving lamps.

Inside, one will find 16 inch touch screen control center computer that will offer access to the navigation and the premium infotainment system. There are no words on the pricing yet, but we expect that it will be revealed during the auto show.

The big question that is circulating in my mind is: Should Bugatti fear?

Source: Lyons Motor Car via Facebook

March 25, 2015

Redefined 2016 Infiniti QX50 with Premiere in New York

2015 Infinit QX50 Front and Side View Just like many other exclusive and luxury companies Infiniti will also have its stand at this year’s New York Auto Show. The big news regarding its participation in the event is that this is where the debut of the 2016 QX50 will happen. The vehicle is a very special one since it has played a significant role in company’s history being one of the first personal crossovers. Nowadays this segment is growing rapidly and every company is trying to release its own successful version.

There will be a wide range of updates in the new QX50. Starting with the wheelbase, it will feature a three inches increase that will eventually ensure the occupants have more rear legroom and interior space. In addition, Infiniti also told us that the crossover will sport new front and rear fascias and have a higher ride stance.

The wheels and side sills will be also new and actually we do expect to see a very big change in the car. Although these are the official details, we also want to see another unit underneath the hood of QX50. The current model is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that has the potency of generating 325 hp (239 kW) and 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque. The 7-speed automatic is a standard, while the all-wheel drive system is left optional. Maybe we will see AWD as a standard in New York?

QX30 Concept is the other vehicle in Infiniti’s lineup which will make a North American. The car is a preview of a future compact crossover expected to be seen in dealerships in early 2016.

Note: The image above displays 2015 Infiniti QX50.

Source: Infiniti

March 25, 2015

Mercedes-AMG Collaborate with MV Agusta for the DTM Race Car

Mercedes-AMG und MV Agusta has cooperated for this year’s DTM season. The result is this special C63 Coupe race car with one-off MV Agusta livery. In addition, it was also announced that the person behind the steering wheel and taming the racetrack will be Maximilian Götz, who also makes his debut at the DTM.

As you can see the logo of the Italian motorcycle brand “sits” on the top of the hood and the roof of the Mercedes‑AMG DTM car. The vehicle itself has been covered with many and versatile stickers and was decided in white and matt grey exterior colors underneath.

Just like MV Augusta’s logo adorns the AMG C63 DTM car, Mercedes-AMG logo will be the main glance catcher on the livery of MV Agusta F3 and F4 RC machines. The last two will enter the World Superbike and World Supersport championships and will carry German’s brand signature for the first time.

What’s common between the two brands? Well, first thing we should mention is their passion to always deliver the best. And secondly, the North Italian manufacturer is the Mercedes-Benz of the motorcycle world. It has achieved great popularity due to the advanced technology it uses and the high performance of its machines. Therefore this is a logical step for both companies to continue writing a racing history together.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 25, 2015

Limited Edition Range Rover Sport HST Debuts in New York

2016 Range Rover Sport HST Limited Edition European Version Showed Next to the new Outlander the visitors at the New York Auto Show will also see the premiere of the Range Rover Sport HST Limited Edition, some additional models from the Sport line-up and the opportunity to test the Hands-Free Gesture Tailgate and see how Automatic Access Height works. More importantly is what the HST derivative will do for the range of vehicles. In details, it will bring enhancements not only in terms of interior and exterior styling but also in terms of performance.

The secret here is that the 380 hp (279 kW) 3.0-liter supercharged V6 unit under the hood of the masterful vehicle, has been supercharged and is now capable of producing 550 hp (404 kW). This additional output will be supported by new chassis settings, changes to the suspension and updated upgraded brakes.

As a limited edition, this vehicle must have unique exterior and interior. To mention some of the highlights included, let’s start with the black theme that is expressed via the darkened front and rear lamps, the Santorini Black contrast roof and spoiler. The same theme is applied onto the 21-inch wheels via their dark satin grey finish contrasted by brakes’ red calipers.

Both on the outside and inside of this Range Rover one will find the special HST badging. Speaking of the interior, it is fitted with TFT instrument panel, Noble-plated paddle shift levers on the steering wheel, ‘Sports’ pedals and aluminum accents. The seats have been wrapped with Oxford Leather of the highest quality, and they are complemented by the Ebony colored dashboard, doors, and center console.

It seems that New York Auto Show will be extremely exciting, doesn’t it!

Source: Land Rover

March 24, 2015

Vorsteiner’s Yellow Continental GT is Simply Gorgeous

Vorsteiner Bentley Continental GT BR10RS Front and Side View The tuners at the Texas based Progressive Autosports company helped the Californians from Vorsteiner achieve this exquisite project involving the high speed Bentley Continental. I basically love the second tuner because its projects are simple but at the same time express the maximum of car’s advantages. The same has happened with this Monaco Yellow Continental GT with stock’s W12 unit.

Speaking of the engine, the 6.0-liter twin-turbo V8 has this great capability to produce rigorous amount of power: 575 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) and push the car to its 320 km/h top speed limit. So this fact made both tuners pretty sure they didn’t want any engine boost.

This means that the current project comprises only of styling tweaks, but I assure you that they are worth it. As the name of the car shows, it is equipped with new BR10-RS aero kit made of carbon fiber components. It includes front bumper, side skirts and rear bumper crafted out from Vorsteiner’s specifically in-house made PrePreg lightweight material.

In addition, in the making of this aero package the designers had thought of keeping it in harmony with the factory design so that the new components can transition seamlessly, but at the same time emphasize the additional aggressiveness they give the car. At last, let’s take a look at these eye-catching futuristic wheels delivered by Velano. For the perfect on road presence of the car they were fitted with low-profile tyres.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 24, 2015

Mitsubishi Teasing 2016 Outlander Again

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Facelift Ten days ago Mitsubishi announced that it will introduce its Outlander facelift at the New York International Auto Show on 2nd of April. Now the brand has given us more hints of what this future SUV would look like and they are definitely exciting. First, there are two new teaser images that you can see below, which show a darkened view to the front and rear of the vehicle.

Next, the Japanese company has also disclosed that the 2016 Outlander will be the first model in the range to apply company’s new design philosophy and innovations. The refinements made throughout it measure more than 100 engineering and design improvements. Some of them feature powerful and dynamic appearance and this is quite visible from the teasers.

Mitsubishi also said that the refined crossover utility vehicle will be capable of delivering better road performance.

Mitsubishi has also made sure that the occupants inside the car hear less outer noise, and experience better ride via the advancements achieved in the new ride, handling and throttle response. Inside, they will also enjoy interior that features more vivid and functional space.

In other words the new Outlander promises to bring some buzz around Mitsubishi. It is matter of time to know whether this happens or not, but the highlights put on style, refinement and driving experience shows that things are moving in that direction.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 24, 2015

Long Live Chevy Small-Block V8! [VIDEO]

Chevy Small-Block V8 Fully Restored As the name suggest correctly, Hagerty Classic Cars is a source where one can find a lot of classic vehicles, stories involving such and people who appreciate and love to drive them. One can hardly escape from Cupid’s arrows, when it comes to old-fashioned vehicles, and especially in the case they are muscle ones.

We found this video on the YouTube channel of Hagerty and we were impressed by the very interesting story it tells. The short film involves a Chevy, and specifically its small-block V8 engine. And did you know that this particular unit has played a significant role in the automotive industry, and specifically the one in the U.S.

To provide you with some background, the production of the original powerplant began back in 1954 and soon after its release it was known as “Turbo-Fire V8” motor. It was the power source of the Corvette and the Bel Air. Over the years its original 265 cu displacement grew and somehow became GM’s corporate standard. Its production continued until 1990, when it was eventually superseded by GM’s LT and LS V8s.

All in all, this engine has powered tens of millions of passenger cars, trucks, race machines and even boats. For this reason I think that calling it an icon wouldn’t be a hyperbolization. The video below is a celebration of its 60 years anniversary and shows how this icon can be literally disassembled, cleared from the dirt and fully restored in the end.

httpv://youtu.be/W5saoYQIlh8

Source: Hagerty Classic Cars via YouTube

March 24, 2015

Take Closer Look at Saleen’s Powerful Mustang [VIDEO]

Saleen S302 Black Label Mustang Front and Side View If you have followed us yesterday then you definitely know that the most powerful production Mustang has debuted in LA this weekend. Those who are responsible for this are the specialists at Saleen. The car is super sophisticated, does not look like the other pony cars and has this outstanding output of 730 hp. And this all comes under the name of S302 Black Label.

Under the hood of this beast-machine we find the 5.0L motor enhanced with twin-screw supercharger, which is the reason of the aforementioned output. The torque is measured at 813 Nm (600 lb-ft) on 91-octane gas.

To sum up, Saleen has basically changed the perception for this Ford model. The muscle car has one of the most aerodynamically efficient profiles, new suspension and luxurious and spacious interior.

Fast fact: Edmunds says that the current Mustang is with 10% more expensive than the previous generation. In addition, the overall sales are up 62% when regarding the same period. This means that there will be a great interest in what the company has presented and they are “riding the trend”, if we can say so.

Of course, the Black Label Mustang will be produced in limited numbers, meaning a special serial badge that identifies its exceptionality. The exact starting price of each car has been estimated at $73,214 USD, while the car itself can be acquired in Ford dealers around the United States.

At last, below you find a 3 minutes long video, which will give you a hint of how this special vehicle was built. Oh, and don’t miss the extensive gallery below it.

httpv://vimeo.com/122972157

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Saleen

March 24, 2015

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