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Which is Women’s World Car of the Year?

If you have ever wondered what women want, well it is obviously a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The car has been voted Women’s World Car of the Year 2014 by 21 judges from various countries around the globe. Next to this award, the pretentious S-Class was named Luxury Car of the Year, too. The selected jury had to vote on 10 criteria which are said to be the most important among women. Some of them include the appearance of the car, styling and of course the ‘wow’ factor.

In other words this basically means that the car stands for everything she seeks to find in a vehicle. Of course, there are other factors that have lead to this award and they include the great safety characteristics as well as the quality and comfort of the model.

And if you consider buying an S-Class as a present for your dearest lady, then you should know that the range comprises of four-, six-, eight- and twelve- cylinder engines. There are also two Hybrids and a Plug-in Hybrid.

The trims are two: SE and AMG that can be ordered in two different wheelbase options: a standard and a long one. In case there is something of Christian Grey in you, then you should definitely think of acquiring a Mercedes-Maybach or a Mercedes-Maybach Pullman.

Comfort is the other name of the S-Class. It proves it with the seven different ambient colours for its interior, the hot stone massage capability of the front seats and the perfume diffuser. Regarding the driving quality, it has been recently made even better with the introduction of Magic Body Control. The technology is capable of detecting bumps in the road ahead and then automatically corrects the suspension.

Mercedes-Benz was presented with the Awards at the Geneva Motor Show, where it has made a lot of furore with its luxury-imbued stand.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 11, 2015

Larte Design Invites us to Solve the Enigma

At the Top Marques Monaco the Russian tuning company Larte Design will reveal its Enigma. We are speaking about the recently teased Tesla Model S which will also be called with the synonym of “riddle”. It is inspired by both Nikola Tesla who still gives rise to many puzzles, and by the car that is the perfect combination of power and eco-friendliness.

With this project the tuner aims to give a new vision of the EV. Judging by the teasers it is obvious that this vehicle will pay tribute to the Master of Lightning. The sharp lines of the car seem to be even sharper and this in turn emphasizes its sporty nature.

Larte Design says that inside the car will be fitted with various luxury features but does not continue with any other details. Large forged wheels accompanied by acoustical element are what will draw the attention. The sound will come from integrated electronic sound module that will also have another purpose: to show-off the 700 hp capability of the electric car.

It was also revealed that the tuning kit will be made of light and strong composite material. Most probably it will be a carbon fiber, but there are rumors for a basalt-fiber reinforced plastic, too. If you wonder about the latter, well it is generated from lava rock and is usually utilized in bullet-proof vests of space technology.

The big reveal of Larte Design Tesla Model S Enigma will happen on 16^th of April at Top Marques Monaco.

Source: Larte Design

March 11, 2015

Liberty Walk and SR Auto Roll Out Insane Ferrari 458 Spider

In December last year we announced that the specialists at SR Auto Group have begun working on a Liberty Walk Ferrari 458 Spider. Back then there was only a couple of photos released suggesting that the black Italian supercar will have some red stylish accents. And so it has. Today we have the project fully revealed and I must admit it is crazy!

At first we must bring some attention to the LW wide body kit, which is the first factor making the car that impressive. The Japanese tuner has installed a front splitter as well as new extended side skirts. There is also the need of flared wheel arches so Liberty walk couldn’t just skip them. At the back we see carbon fibre bootlid lip spoiler and a new rear diffuser.

In fact, the lowered ride height perfectly complements the new aggressive and contrasting Davinci Red alloys. They come from PUR Wheels in the size of 20 inches at all four corners and feature exposed hardware in Gloss Black.

At last, this Prancing Horse did not receive any engine upgrades, meaning that it is powered by the direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 unit. It generates 578 horsepower (425 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. The maximum speed is of 320 km/h (198 mph) and the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is under 3.4 seconds.

All in all, this project seems to be very minimalist, but this is what I really like about it: small details mixed with a lot of passion!

Source: SR Auto Group

March 10, 2015

Touring Superleggera F12 Berlinetta Lusso Inspired by Italian Golden Era

Staring at the pictures of the Touring Superleggera Ferrari F12 Berlinetta Lusso I am amazed by the detailed work the tuners have done. The car is a main star at company’s stand at the Geneva Motor Show and so far has gathered many glances. The good news is that there will be more than one car produced. Precisely – only five. But they are enough if we are going to see the same precision and individuality applied.

But let’ see why the Berlinetta Lusso is so attractive. First of all it is a natural born street legal two-seater. Secondly, its visuals are stunning, given that they have been inspired by the golden era of Italian “fuoriserie”, literally meaning a “custom build car.”

Next, luxury is to be found everywhere: from the exterior with its long bonnet to the unique cockpit. The Azzurro Niourlague paint finish further strengthens the sense of freedom evoking images of the Mediterranean Sea in a sunny day. In contrast, the interior has been decided in dark shades but harmonized with blue accents like the stitching.

Based on F12berlinett’s chassis, the car has also kept many of its characteristics unchanged. This means that there is no improvement to the engine, electronic equipment or technology. However, more than twelve different types of alloy – have been used for the modification of this car with the sole purpose of saving more weight. The result is a body mass of 1.525 kg better torsional stiffness, outstanding performance and probably some improvements in efficiency.

The other material used here is of course carbon fiber. The bonnet, front bumper, skirts, tailgate, front splitters and rear diffuser have all been made of it. But enough talk! Dive into the gallery below and see how detailed this modified car is. Impressive, isn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/4xLnWnhRejo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Touring Superleggera

March 10, 2015

Honda Launches Indy Car Aero Kit [VIDEO]

Honda will participate in 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series with a special Indy Car that has just received a new aero kit. As the name suggests, this new addition to the vehicle is all about aerodynamic components and upgrades. It is really very impressive that the kit comprises of nearly 200 individual pieces, each of which can be fitted to the already known Honda-powered Dallara Indy car chassis. Of course, all this is done for the sake of optimum performance.

Honda’s Indy car aero kit was developed with the help of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technology. Then what followed was a validation via Driver-In-Loop (DIL) Simulators that allowed the determination of the better aerodynamic direction prior the development of kit’s components.

The next step was the testing of the components in a full-scale wind tunnel. At last, the final proof-of-concept correlation was conducted by HPD and included test track on various circuits for six days.

Next to the improved performance, Honda also says that this kit makes the Indy car safer. This includes the new design of the fuel safety interlock system, which is now fitted on all Indy cars, as well as the new chassis floor, specifically developed for 2015 season.

The official debut of Honda Indy Car Aero Kits will happen on 16^th and 17^th of March with an “Open Test” at Barber Motorsports Park near Birmingham, Alabama. The new season starts on 29^th of March at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Florida.

httpv://youtu.be/7W_9lFylVcc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 10, 2015

VATH Mercedes-Benz C-Class V18 has nearly 200HP to Share

VATH is a German tuning company which specializes in Mercedes-Benz transformations, if you wonder about it. Their latest modification involves a C-Class and a V18 tuning kit, which as you can expect endows the car with more power. And if your interest has grown you should definitely read further.

This kit has been applied to C180’s CGI T engine with more than 156 serial horsepower (115 kW). As a result the Mercedes is now capable of 192 hp (141 kW) and 300 Nm of optimum torque at 2,800 rpm. The maximum speed has also shifted to 230 kmph (140 mph).

No gain in power is that good without a new exhaust. Hence, the tuner decided to complement the silversih car with a sports exhaust comprising of down pipe system with 200 trimetal stainless steel cells and a two flood stainless steel axle back exhaust system with two oval end pipes.

The next thing to mention when it comes to additional power is how close the car to the ground is. Correct, there is also a VATH lowering set making the C-class more aggressive, sportier and 30mm closer to the ground.

What is more, for the sportier look also contribute the black multispoke alloys in dimensions 8.5 x 20 inches and 10 x 20 at the front and rear, respectively. Oh, did we forget to mention that there are some external tweaks. Obviously, the tuning company has decided to share its carbon front spoiler and diffuser with fins with this Mercedes. Nothing as impressive, but if you decide to have this kit on your C-Class you’ll definitely end up faster and more individual.

March 10, 2015

2016 Chevrolet Spark based on Opel Karl Debuts in New York

2016 Chevrolet Malibu will not be the only car which is going to debut at the New York Auto Show on 2nd of April. It will be accompanied by the new 2016 Spark, which at the same time will make an appearance in Seoul. The company said that it has redesigned the mini-vehicle and to prove that it has also released an image. Unfortunately, someone forgot to turn the lights on, so we are left with a dark teaser only.

Nevertheless it is still visible that the car has more aerodynamically viable profile, new LEDs and foglights underneath. In addition, Chevrolet said that the redesigned mini will incorporate all of company’s signature design cues. This intends to make Spark even more likable and with higher aesthetics.

Unfortunately, the popular American brand did not disclose any other details. But our sources say that 2016 Spark will be based on Opel Karl (Vauxhall Viva in the UK) and this leads to the logical conclusion that it will be probably driven by the same engine. Precisely, it is the three-cylinder 1.0-liter unit, which generates 75 horsepower (55 kW).

Just like the Karl or Viva model, this Chevrolet should be built on a 2385mm wheelbase and have a length of 3680mm. If this is true we will have to wait and find out in the beginning of next month. Stay tuned for more teasers!

Source: Chevrolet

March 10, 2015

Italdesign Giugiaro Envisions Near Future with GEA Concept

GEA Concept debuted last week in Geneva, previewing the future of luxury design. The car is a project of Italdesign Giugiaro and is a stunning piece of art. The most important thing is that the focus in it has been changed from the driver to the passengers occupying the rear seats. In short, the car offers three different configurations of the compartment at the rear, including business, wellness and dream.

In other words, this change is expressed via a technology called “Piloted Driving” that allows the car to drive autonomously. The conceptual center of gravity is changed from the driver’s seat to the passengers in the rear. When the car takes control over driving, it then allows the occupants to focus on other tasks.

Some of the other highlights included are the remotely operated 90° book-type doors and virtual red carpet. In addition, there is this cool function where the glass darkens at driver’s wish in order to match the car’s body color.

After one is welcomed by the “red carpet”, then he or she sees the 19-inch LED screens in the back and the 180-degree swivel front passenger seat. There are also 12-inch screen in the front displaying important vehicle data and two additional 3.5-inch displays where one can see what side cameras are shooting at the moment.

In this concept lights are used in a very interesting way. First, the LED light clusters and laser lights are a source of communication between the exterior and the interior. Depending on the selected driving mode, the lights instantly change. Another impressive and immediately seeable feature is the wheels which comprise of more than 60 spokes. In fact, they are huge, measuring 26-inches and made from aluminum.

But more import is the question where the power comes from? Interestingly enough, this innovative concept is driven by four electric motors. Considering the name (GEA stands for Earth) it was obvious that the car will be ecologically-minded. Each of the motors generates 190 horsepower (143 kW), meaning that the total output of the car is pretty impressive, 760 hp (570 kW). The top speed stands at 250 km/h (155 p/h).

Although GEA Concept seems really exciting and innovative, and also focuses on a lot of technology advancements, we doubt that it will see the lights of the automotive market. Maybe next year Italdesign Giugiaro will offer more production-viable version of this intelligent car.

Source: Italdesign Giugiaro

March 9, 2015

Impressive Mitsubishi XR-PHEV II Concept Goes in Production?

Mitsubishi XR-PHEV II Concept is a continuation of the previous concept model which debuted at LA Auto Show last year. This new vehicle was displayed in Geneva and in my opinion is nothing that much different from what we have seen. The crossover shows company’s visions for the future of urban mobility that employs lightweight technology and efficient engine.

The exterior of the XR-PHEV II is pretty impressive and as you can see, the silhouette of the car is dynamic but at the same time muscular. This is due to this character line which cuts into its sides and flows effortlessly into the rear.

Going up front, all we can see there is a big shield or the so called new grille. The same motif can be seen at the rear, where we also find a bold interpretation of tail lamps. And look at the back of the model, isn’t it quite futuristic?

Inside, the car is as modernistic as the exterior. Just take a look at the aluminum frame, which spreads out sideways from the central console that is in black-and-silver hues. All of the controls have been gathered in the center console and in the steering wheel to maximally aid the driver.

This concept is designed to be a PHEV front-engine/front-drive vehicle. Precisely, the hybrid system comprises of MIVEC engine and electric motor as well as a new power drive unit. Mitsubishi has found space for all three at the front. The result is impressive, since the crossover produces only 40 g/km of CO2 emissions.

As a matter of fact, the PHEV system works mainly in the all-electric mode. In it the engine operates like a generator and supplies more power. Of course, the system can automatically switch between the aforementioned, the series hybrid and the parallel hybrid modes, when this is needed.

Whether this will be e production model it is still a secret. However, we sincerely hope to see it in one form or another.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 9, 2015

Is this the Next-Gen Chevrolet Malibu?

Yes, it is! And this is the first official picture we have so far. Designed for the 2016 model year, the car is scheduled to make a global debut at the New York International Auto Show. Chevrolet did not say much, but what we got as information is sufficient to please our ears. The new Malibu is made to be more efficient than its predecessor due not only to better engine but also to the fact that it will be around 300 pounds lighter.

For this weight loss is responsible the implementation of the higher-strength steel structure. In turn, this will not only lead to better economy but also to improvements of handling.

In addition, this totally new architecture will be 4 inches longer than the outgoing model. Of course this also contributes to an increased cabin space and more importantly – to more leg room for the front and rear occupants.

Other enhancements will be included throughout the interior, so we do expect some luxury treatment like leather, nappa or Alcantara. The confirmed changes so far include connectivity and advanced safety features, which is said to be better than ever.

From what we can tell judging by the teaser, it seems that 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has sleeker profile and more aggressive front. The company said that this is because the front wheels have been moved forward as well as the front and rear overhangs have been minimized.

So are we to see more dynamic and refined model in New York is a matter of time to understand. No words on engine range too, we will definitely have to wait till the big reveal or few days prior to that if we’re lucky.

Source: Chevrolet

March 9, 2015

Chevrolet Shows Colorado Trail Boss Edition in Cleveland [VIDEO]

Geneva Motor Show has been taking a lot of attention lately and this must be the reason why we missed the Cleveland Auto Show. This is exactly where a new beautiful red Chevrolet has debuted. Its name is Colorado Z71 Trail Boss Edition and it is ready for extreme adventures. Compared to the standard Colorado, this one has more aggressive appearance and better off-road capabilities. There are several reasons for this.

First of all, the Trail Boss is fitted with the Z71 off-road truck suspension package. This means that it gets more rugged tires and some styling features. To be more precise, these include new projector beam headlamps and front fog lamps, as well as front recovery hooks and black rocker steps.

This Chevy will ride on standard 17-inch dark argent metallic alloys fitted with 265/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Exterior-wise the vehicle is also equipped with GearOn moveable cargo tie-down rings, load bar and cargo divider. Rounding out its visuals are the black fender flares as well as the front and rear black bowtie logos of the company.

Apparently there is nothing new throughout the interior, because Chevrolet hasn’t commented on that.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss Edition will be offered in two configuration options. It can be an extended or a crew cab, with the additional choice of long or short cargo bed. The four-wheel drive (4WD) is an option. This edition will go on sale in the spring and will have a price tag of $28,505 USD with package price of $3,320 USD.

httpv://youtu.be/iT54Y2Ywkes

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

March 9, 2015

Volkswagen Surprises with Passat Limited Edition

The famous Passat is getting a better version. But no, there’s no new facelift or whatsoever, instead Volkswagen has released a premium Limited Edition of the model, which includes better engine and more equipment features. The new trim will also substitute the Wolfsburg and SE levels from this model year. In terms of visuals, this car does not differ much from its other siblings in the line-up. The only distinctive features are the 17-inch alloys, chrome window surrounds and the front foglights.

But, this has nothing to do with what VW has left inside. To start from the opening of the car, the new Limited Edition has the KESSY, meaning that the driver can access the vehicle keylessly only with a push-button start.

Then to aid his or her parking, the company has provided a rearview camera. For the optimum comfort there are V-tex leatherette seating surfaces and heatable front seats. In fact, the driver’s seat also includes a power lumbar. Continuing with the leather theme, the steering wheel is also wrapped in it.

The technology features which can not be seen in other trims for free are the touchscreen radio with SiriusXM and the eight-speaker sound system. More importantly, the car will be powered as a standard by the turbocharged 1.8-liter TSI engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen says that this unit is highly efficient and can achieve 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

In other words this is the perfect family car, because it is also famous for its large cabin space. It has the needed individuality and stands for luxurious experience. 2015 Volkswagen Passat Limited Edition is currently on sale and has a starting price of $23,995 USD.

Source: Volkswagen

March 9, 2015

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