Automobiles Review – Page 402 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Dacia Lauréate Prime Special Editions are Here

Dacia is not an extremely popular brand but we must admit that it is trying to bring more and more attention to its products. After we have seen the anniversary vehicles last month (the reason for the release was the 10^th birthday of Logan), now it is time for another limited edition line-up, comprising only of three models: the Sandero, Logan MCV and Duster. The specification is called Lauréate Prime and stands at the top of the line-up.

The first special and immediately noticeable thing about those cars is the exclusive metallic blue color scheme, dubbed Cosmos Blue. It actually pays tribute to the traditional livery. The same color is to be found inside on the inserts of the front and rear seats, the details of the floor mats and the seat belts.

In contrast to this hue is the metal grey door mirror shells and the dark alloys. In addition, any Lauréate version is equipped with convenience features (from the Comfort Pack) like the front central armrest and the leather steering wheel, the electric rear windows and the MediaNav Evolution multimedia system.

Sandero and Logan MCV of this specification will be driven by either the 0.9-litre TCe 90 or the 1.5-litre dCi 90 engines. On the other hand, the Duster Lauréate Prime will get more powerful unit, namely the 1.5-litre dCi 110. It will be offered in two- or four-wheel-drive variant.

Yes, we know it is not a Ferrari or a fancy BMW, but still this Romanian car has the potential to become significant in the automotive industry. Why not?

Source: Dacia

March 18, 2015

SR Auto Surprises with Aero Package for Lamborghini Aventador

SR Auto Lamborghini Aventador Side View After the very good feedback from the joint project of Liberty Walk and SR Auto Group, the insane Ferrari 458 Spider, the Canadian specialists are now presenting their next intriguing machine. If you have followed their work, then you should know that they have this special relationship with Lamborghini cars. When it comes to tuning them, they simply do their best.

The matte black exterior you see is not a new thing, but it is factory made. However, everything that is shiny and glossy can be attributed to the work of SR Auto that has installed the PUR Aero carbon fiber kit.

Precisely, it adds front lip and side skirts made from the lightweight material as well as rear diffuser. The project does not end with the installation of the kit, but continues with the new race adjustment arms that help bring the Aventador closer to the ground.

Regarding the performance of this beautiful matte Lambo, we only know that it has been given a new valvetronic exhaust system delivered by Innotech Performance. Probably, there isn’t a huge change in the numbers, so this means that the V12 under the hood produces no less than 700 horsepower (522 kW) and 690 Nm (511 lb-ft) of torque.

At last, we can’t just skip the wheels that contrast so prominently. PUR LX04.V3 was the choice for this Lamborghini. The alloys are finished in gloss brilliant silver and feature polished step lip. They come in 21 inches at the front corners and 21 inches at the back. Of course, low profile tires are a must!

Source: SR Auto

March 17, 2015

Meet the Fastest Diesel on the Sachsenring!

2015 AC Schnitzer BMW Z4 Diesel Side View It is not a production model, but a tuning company product based on the BMW Z4. The modifier behind this project is AC Schnitzer that was capable of extracting the pure sports capabilities from the powerful diesel engine under the bonnet of the Z4. Since this is only a one-off example of the car, then it is probably better to name it a concept.

So, the most important thing about this tuning concept is the engine conversion. It is actually M5’s M50d unit under the hood of the car, which now produces 430 hp (316 kW) and 840 Nm (620 lb-ft) of maximum torque. This additional power should be attributed to the engine conversion and its weight reduction due to the utilization of lightweight elements.

On the other hand, taken from the M3 series are the new limited slip differential and the rear axle gear. Another replacement affects the transmission. AC Schnitzer team did not like the original manual gearbox, and therefore it has been substituted with an eight-speed automatic with pedal sports shift.

These changes help the BMW perform fantastic. It can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 300 km/h. As a matter of fact, according to Auto Bild sportscars this is the fastest diesel on the Sachsenring with a lap time of 1:37.22 minutes.

19 inch AC Schnitzer forged alloys Type VIII fitted with dramatically huge rubbers, is on what this car runs. In addition, on the front axle there is a new lightweight high performance braking system that helps during deceleration.

Left to mention about the external changes are the 30 mm body lowering and the aero package that comprises of front spoiler, sports fenders, bonnet vents, a two-piece rear spoiler and the carbon rear skirt insert all made of carbon fiber.

The interior of the car was also improved with the addition of orange highlights, carbon racing bucket seats, aluminium pedals and foot rests as well as velours floor mats. And although this concept is a pure one-off, it has a price which is around 113,965 euro.

Source: AC Schnitzer

March 17, 2015

Vorsteiner Releases GTS-V Package for BMW M6

Front View of Vorsteiner's BMW M6 GTS-V It is white, it is grandeur, it is based on the M6 series and it is pretty much the latest project presented by Vorsteiner. We were impressed by the visuals of the car as well as the modifications done on it. Although they are not as massive as Mansory’s Bentley GT Race car, they are that harmonious that it feels like the vehicle has always owned them.

We all know that the M6 series is currently offered in three variants: cabrio, coupe and Gran Coupe, and the good news is that the tuner’s package is available for all of them. Precisely, Vorsteiner designed a new front spoiler specifically for the M6. The benefit of this is that this new addition to the car creates downforce at high speeds.

Furthermore, the front spoiler mimics the edgy lines of the factory bumper and this is the reason why it seems like it has just got out fresh from the BMW factory. At the front we also see new front lip made of company’s speciality: the PrePreg carbon fiber. The same material has been used for the rear diffuser and the deck lid spoiler.

Also featured in this project are the GTS-V brake ducts that help force the air directly to the rotors. And that is all. Unfortunately, there isn’t any change in the 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine, so this means that it boasts 560 HP (412 kW) between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and 680 Nm (501 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 17, 2015

Mansory GT Race is a brilliant 1000 HP Bentley Continental

Mansory GT Race Front and Side View Today’s project made by Mansory involves a Continental GT and a bunch of genius improvements. The so called Mansory GT Race car has nothing or a little to do with its predecessor, due to the extensive changes that has been done to its bodywork, power unit and interior. Well, this might sound a little bit forced but we urge you to take a look at the pictures.

The new body package comprises of impressive elements like the ultra light hood made of exposed carbon fibre, the fantastic look of the daytime driving lights, or the improved aerodynamics and weight. It is no surprise that the car has less body mass, because literally every detail in it was made of carbon, beginning with the doors, going through the side mirrors and ending with the width increasing fenders.

Furthermore, more downforce on the rear axle is provided through the new side skirt, diffuser and GT3 wing profile. Of course, less weight also means better performance. As if this fact inspired the tuner to upgrade the heart of the car. Precisely, they have added new elements like the exhaust system, turbocharger, engine and transmission management and more.

Obviously 1000 is the favorite number of the company since this is the third model in their garage which is capable of producing around 1000 hp (736 kW). There is a raise in the torque to 1,200 Nm, too. The maximum speed is of 330 km/h and it is achieved while the car tries to accelerate in less than 3.9 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint.

New lightweight alloys and huge tires are also at hand, but what’s more impressive is the interior. It is equipped with a combination of upholstery from leather and Alcantara and greencoloured carbon fibre. Rounding out the project are the sports seats made of carbon, the newly designed airbag sports steering wheel and the pedals made of aluminium.

Source: Mansory

March 17, 2015

Nissan Celebrates GT-R with Gold Edition

The first GT-R introduced with gold exterior was this of Usain Bolt. It obviously became very trendy since the brand will even produce it. We are talking about the 2016 Nissan GT-R 45th Anniversary Gold Edition which comes to praise the heritage of this particular model. It is based on the Premium trim level and its gold characteristics do not end with the exterior paint. But before continuing with them, we must also say that this special color, called “Silica Brass” was used for the R34 Type or the Skyline GT-R M-Spec.

The designers added a special gold-tone VIN plate under the hood and in the vicinity of the engine, as well as a plaque on the center console in the interior. In addition, there is some really good news regarding the powertrain. It is now capable of additional 50 horsepower added to its already generous 550 hp.

This means that the VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 unit now produces a total of 600 hp (441 kW) thanks to additional fine tuning. There are also 24 Nm added to the torque, resulting in the spectacular 656 Nm (484 kW).

At last, we must also mention these premium wheels on which the car runs. Painted in nearly black as a contrast, they have 20-spoke design. The alloys are shod with Dunlop performance run-flat tires that measure 255/40ZRF20 up front and 285/35ZRF20 at the rear.

Only 30 examples of this special edition will be produced and they are all going to the United States.

Source: Nissan

March 17, 2015

Revology Cars Make the First Ever Ford Mustang Replica

Have you ever dreamt about driving the first generation Mustang, not in a restored form, but in a fresh form, just like it has arrived from the factory? Believe it or not, all things are possible since the Florida based car manufacturer, named Revology Cars, has produced the exact replica of the original 1964 Ford Mustang. The goal was to make a replica of the model, but with one simple difference – it should include all of the modern technologies that contemporary cars are infused with.

So, the result is at hand, since this Beauty has already debuted at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance this weekend. As a “postmodern interpretation” of the iconic muscle vehicle, this Mustang actually includes various updates that not only highlight the original design, but also improve some old-fashioned features.

For instance, the technicians have integrated here power windows which are activated via the original window crank handle. There is also an electronic instrument cluster (not typical for the first gen model, isn’t it?) and LEDs mounted in the five-dial bezel. The perfect place for the USB and AUX jacks has been found in the ashtray.

More prominent changes have been applied to the powertrain and suspension. The power here comes from the gasoline 5.0L V8 engine coupled with automatic or a manual transmission. The suspension improvements feature MacPherson strut and three-link design rear end for more balance and improved performance. Speaking about balance (and safety), we should also mention the four-wheel disc brakes.

The other equipment highlights at a glance are the remote keyless entry and power door locks. The occupants will also enjoy the power seats, tilt steering column, intermittent wipers, digital message center, remote trunk release and even the integrated Bluetooth. There is so much done inside.

Old school safety does not equal its modern interpretation, so Revology Cars has to infuse the car with many additional active and passive safety features like LEDs up front, the dual chamber master cylinder as well as the rack and pinion steering. They are accompanied by the side intrusion beams, collapsible steering column, three-point seat belts and a fuel pump inertia shut-off switch.

Besides all of the aforementioned details, we must highlights that this replica is built on a brand new steel body, delivered by Dynacorn. Last thing to mention is that if you want to acquire this beautiful muscle car, then you should prepare at least $119,500 US. Oh, and you can chose between a fastback and a cabrio.

Source: Revology Cars

March 16, 2015

BMW Introduces its First Production PHEV

BMW X5 xDrive40e is here and it is pretty impressive, since it is actually the first production plug-in hybrid that the famous company releases. Although we have seen its concept form, it is still a surprise that this car, being the first hybrid, is actually a Sports Activity Vehicle with all the benefits of permanent all-wheel drive and EfficientDynamics eDrive technology. Another interesting fact about this special vehicle is that it is infused with technologies directly taken from the popular BMW i cars.

Next to these qualities the vehicle can also show-off with a huge output and fuel efficiency. Of course, the low CO2 emissions are also an advantage. To go directly into details, the total output of this hybrid is 313 hp (230 kW) and it is produced by an electric motor combined with four-cylinder petrol engine. The result is envious and it is a combined fuel consumption of around 3.3 litres and15.4 kWh per 100 kilometres, and 78 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

As usual as in all hybrids, there is also a lithium-ion battery which supplies energy for the electric motor, which is then integrated in the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The battery is recharged when needed via any domestic power socket, public charging stations or a BMW i Wallbox.

We did not mention anything about the torque and the number is pretty impressive, since it is 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Combined with the horsepower this allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds. On the other hand, zero emissions and a run on pure electric mode cover the range of up to 31 kilometers.

Various technology features have been included in the X5 xDrive40e like the ConnectedDrive and the 360° ELECTRIC services. Navigation system Professional is added as a no-cost option and the same is valid for the remote app that helps in the check of the battery.

Of course, there are a lot of equipment options that could be mentioned here, like the extended navigation or the Adaptive Suspension Package Comfort and Dynamic Damper Control, or even the special M package. However, the most important news is that the first BMW hybrid is a SAV. It was a big surprise, wasn’t it?

BMW X5 xDrive40e details:

Model	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO2 Emissions g/km
X5 xDrive40e	Petrol: 245hpElectric: 113hp	Petrol: 350 @Electric: 250	6.8	130mph (limited)	85.6	77
	Total system output: 313hp	Total system output: 450Nm			Figure range due to varying tyre format

Source: BMW

March 16, 2015

Henrik Fisker Shows-Off with Vanquish Based Thunderbolt Concept

Another exquisite car from Fisker was shown at the Concours d’Elegance this weekend. This time it isn’t a muscle car, but a very stylish V12 Vanquish which has taken the form of a Thunderbolt. Or at least its name. Being a GT coupe concept, the vehicle features timeless design and it is actually a representation of Henrik Fisker’s personal preferences about the Vanquish.

The body of the car shows design cues typical for Fisker, like the deeply sculpted air ducting, but what’s hidden here is that the bodywork was made of carbon. A large power dome is what has a strong presence on the hood as well as the one-off new head lamps.

At the rear the car features unique tail lights with blade-like form. It is also impossible not to see the innovative wraparound rear window and panoramic dark tinted glass roof. Moreover, other details around the exterior include aluminum grille and assorted bright work as well as 15 mm lowering of the ride height and 21-inch alloys.

Substantial changes have been made to the interior, too. In fact, the Thunderbolt is a concept that features the first application of Panasonic’s 11.6-inch Curved Control Screen that reduces reflections and glare.

In addition, the Swiss watch maker Maurice Lacroix delivered a Skeleton chronograph integrated into the dash, while Natuzzi supplied the trimmed Italian leather for the upholstery. A very special feature, which will definitely grab your attention, is the unique champagne/wine bottle holder that you can see in the gallery below. It is first of its kind and I must admit that it is very charming and creative element of the interior.

The sad news is that the car has been developed only as a study. However, Fisker has promised that it will use the help of his friends at Galpin Auto Sports for a limited number of additional cars only if there is any initial response for this and on the condition that the car stays non-commercial and a true collectible.

Source: Fisker

March 16, 2015

Meet the First Production Rocket

GAS Fisker Ford Mustang Rocket Front Angle The Rocket is a project which you probably remember from the L.A. Auto Show, when it was unveiled only in a prototype form. It is based on the latest Mustang and designed by Henrik Fisker and Galpin Auto Sports. What’s new is that the first production carbon-fiber infused 725 HP super-Mustang made debut this weekend at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.

L.A. impressed us with the fact that the car was inspired by those very iconic pony cars of the 1960s and early 1970s, like the 1968 Shelby GT500. The next thing was the extensive use of carbon fiber including the body panels and some additional performance and visual upgrades.

Now, it was officially announced that the limited series will be offered in various exterior colors like the “Eminence Grise” which is actually a combination of back, Ingot silver and Magnetic (grey). The other colors in the range include Oxford White, Race Red, Deep Impact Blue and Competition Orange. Although these shades catch the eye immediately we must say that there are other exterior options that can’t be left unmentioned: exposed carbon fiber hood stripe, mirror covers and lower front fascia.

Inside, the car is as special as it should be, because it is equipped with the Rocket Interior Package. Outstanding about it are the seats wrapped in Italian leather. The same material is used for the upholstery of various other elements like the dash board and center console, and even A, B and C pillars.

In terms of performance we mentioned that the muscle car can produce 725 hp (533 kW), and this is due to the addition of the Mustang performance package. Brembo 6-piston front brake calipers with larger rotors take care for the stopping power, and they are hidden behind the ADV1 10-spoke 21-inch wheels. And you won’t definitely miss the presence of this Rocket if it’s near because Bassani ensured that there is a very loud cat-back exhaust system with quad tip, which produces rigorous sound.

The Rocket has price tag starting at $109,100 USD.

Source: www.galpinrocket.com via Facebook

March 16, 2015

Mansory with Another 1000 HP S-Class Project Called Diamond Edition

Do you remember Mansory’s 1000 hp S-Class sedan? If you do, then you will be happy to hear that the tuning brand has transformed another S-vehicle, this time a coupe. The car was on display in Geneva and gathered a lot of attention. There are reasons for this, not only due to the exuberant color, but also due to the masculine body extensions, the massive interior change and more importantly the 986 HP (725 kW) that the car can now produce. There is now no question why Mansory decided to call the vehicle Diamond Edition.

To go into details, the muscular and athletic stance of this Mercedes can be attributed to the remake that has happened to the front. This includes new LED daytime running lights and cooling air inlets as well as the lightweight hood with integrated NACA nozzles.

Next, we have to mention that both sides of the car have been widened by 50mm and this has happened with the help of the new front fender made of carbon fiber and the integrated spacers on rear ones. The sides also received modifications, but they are somewhat expectable: these are the side skirts and the carbon housing for the side mirrors.

Carbon has been featured at the back of the car, precisely in the roof spoiler, rear lip and rear bumper. Speaking of the rear we can’t skip the new sports exhaust which produces threatening sound.

This beautiful new machine couldn’t be complete without the revisions on the engine, could it? The tuner has revised the aggregate of the S 63 AMG and installed the M1000 performance Kit. The result is astounding, since the production 576 hp (430 kW) has been boosted to 985 hp (735 kW). In addition, the maximum torque has been raised up to 1,400 Nm at 1,500 – 3,500 rpm.

And if you ask about the 0-100 km/h acceleration time, we won’t hide that it is 3.2 seconds! The maximum speed is limited at 300 km/h. The nearly 1000 hp are transmitted onto the road via better 22-inches multispoke alloys that were fitted with ULTRAC SESSANTA tyres.

At last, the interior comfort has been improved due to its total transformation. Take for instance the new white-and-blue leather wrapping or the aluminium pedals, or the redesigned steering wheel. There are also more beautiful foot mats and illuminated door sill trims. Well done Mansory, well done!

Source: Mansory

March 16, 2015

Project Kahn is More Confident with its Range Rover RS-650 Edition

This Range Rover is not only exceptionally beautiful, but it is also a pure expression of Project Kahn’s signature style. It was shown at the Geneva Motor Show next to the amazing Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept. So if you were lucky enough to visit the show, then you have probably seen it. The complete body color change as well as some other additional tweaks is what makes the car so impressive.

Next to the new Volcanic Rock Satin exterior paint scheme, the tuners have added to this Range Rover contrasting floating roof. Further highlights here include the new piano black side vents, tailgate strip and chin spoiler.

But if you take a careful look at the front and rear of the car, then you’ll definitely see that the bumpers there have been entirely redesigned. Precisely, they are made of lightweight carbon composite. All of this is mixed with exposed carbon fibre detailing and complemented by widened wheel arches with integrated air dams.

New for the bumpers are also the 3D mesh inserts on all intakes, in contrast to the front fog lights which stay the same as the original vehicle. The front grille also received some enhancements in terms of new floating insert.

At the back, the vehicle can proudly show-off with extended roof wing and boot lid spoiler, both made of lightweight carbon, as well as new stainless steel quad crosshair exhaust system. RS-650 Edition rides on huge lightweight wheels that are accentuated via gold painted brake callipers.

Moving inside, this SUV is all wrapped in perforated black leather. To deliver some contrasts, the designers added a gold contrast stitching. In addition, changes have been made to the door tops and armrests, the fascia of the centre console, the instrument binnacle and steering wheel hub. At last, stainless steel has been chosen for the door sill plates, while machined aluminium – for the foot pedal set.

Rover RS-650 Edition 02

Source: Project Kahn

March 13, 2015

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