Automobiles Review – Page 407 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Magna Steyr Returns with Mila Plus Hybrid Concept

The Austrian manufacturer Magna Steyr has introduced its Mila Plus hybrid concept along with some specifics and a few images. The premiere of the car will be at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week. In terms of power, this machine has a hybrid system that includes a 3-cylinder petrol engine and two separate electric motors for each axle. We still don’t know how much power they are going to deliver, but the Mila Plus is said to be able to speed up from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds in hybrid mode.

The all-electric mode, on the other hand, enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 50 mph (0-80 km/h) in 3.6 seconds. A total driving range of approximately 500 km (310 miles) is expected to be delivered, thus including more than 70 km (43.5 miles) in all-electric mode. The average CO2 emissions are 32 grams per kilometer.

As the carmaker explains, the innovative Magna Steyr Mila Plus is a two-seater sports car that has a weigh of 1,520 kg. Moreover, the automobile arrives with an aluminum frame fitted with batteries that will increase the overall stiffness.

Interestingly enough, the chassis components as well as parts of the interior are said to be completely recyclable. And this is what’s really exciting!

More details will be revealed soon!

Source: Magna Steyr

February 26, 2015

Italdesign Giugiaro GEA Concept Teased Again Before Geneva [VIDEO]

Prior to the official debut during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month, Italdesign Giugiaro has shared another teaser of its new model this time in the shape of a video. Described as “the future luxury mobility vision”, the GEA Concept turns into a subject that raises a lot of questions and gives no answers so far. Some time ago, the manufacturer released an image that showed nothing else but the red paint work of the car as well as the prominent logo of the brand.

No other specifications have been shared for now which is pretty annoying really as the expectations become more and more. Now, the released video shows nothing but some unclear outlines and teases with the silhouette contours of the car. Expected to focus primarily on the idea of luxury, we hope that the new Italdesign Giugiaro GEA Concept won’t be one huge disappointment.

If you remember though, last year the company with sofisticated name introduced its Clipper Concept. The vehicle represented a sport MPV which was fitted with an electric powertrain. It consisted of two 110 kW engines with one at the front and one at the rear. The Italdesign Giugiaro Clipper Concept had a four-wheel drive and independent wheels.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaV-plBX8_U

Source: Italdesign Giugiaro via Youtube

February 26, 2015

Lada Has in Mind a Supercar Concept? [VIDEO]

Have you heard about the Lada brand? If you have, then you are probably coming from Russia or Eastern-Europe. The cars of this brand were famous (and still are) for their durability, rigidness, tough handling and dynamics. We won’t discuss the looks of the cars, just google them and make your own judgment. In 2012 we have seen that the company was revived and is now proudly part of Renault-Nissan alliance which is world’s fourth-largest automobile manufacturer.

What we were longing to see was a special Lada concept and we are not talking about the X-Ray, but something taken to the extremes. Our wish was granted, since we have stumbled upon a very interesting project made by the designer Dmitry Lazarev.

We present you the Lada Raven supercar concept that has literally outlandish visuals! Just take a look at the huge “gaping” grilles at the front complemented by massive vents out the tail. You surely have noticed the enormous wheel arches and the incredibly aerodynamic design.

It definitely does not have in common anything with the previous models, except for the badge that signifies that this car is a Lada. And this is what we really like about it. Although there aren’t any engineering data included, it seems that the design is more likely to be connected with a mid-engine.

What we hope is to see something more powerful than the engines included in the current Lada range. It is still under question whether this car will be actually built or will stay in a render form only. The rumors however hint to a positive outcome.

httpv://youtu.be/KvBpGlnGUEQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Dmitry Lazarev via Google+

February 26, 2015

Forget the Teasers! 2016 Audi R8 is Finally Here!

It is finally here! Audi took the wraps off of its newest model named Audi R8. It will be debuting during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week, promising to deliver a genuine definition of an evolutionary styling and driving capabilities. The overhauled second generation R8 is powered by an improved V10 5.2-liter FSI naturally aspirated power unit which offers 540 HP (397 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of maximum torque in the base model, and generates 610 HP (449 kW) with a peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) in the V10 Plus variant.

When we talk about performance, the revamped Audi R8 needs exactly 3.5 seconds to sprint from standstill to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) before hitting a top speed of 200 mph (320 km/h). Thanks to the Plus mode, this run is covered in 3.2 seconds, thus hitting the 205 mph (330 km/h). The car consumes 11.8 liters per 100 km on average (19.9 mpg US or 23.9 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 275 g/km.

The R8 V10 Plus consumes 12.4 liters per 100 km (18.9 mpg US or 22.7 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 289 g/km. Both engines are mated to a revised seven-speed S tronic gearbox. It has three automatic modes and manual control and transmits power to a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system fitted with a front electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch.

Arriving with a lighter aluminum body, the long-awaited 2016 Audi R8 is 4.42 meters long (14.5 ft), 1.24 meters high (4.1 ft) and has a relatively short a wheelbase measuring 2.65 meters (8.7 ft). With prominent proportions, the car exhibits sufficient amount of sportiness and characteristics suitable for a real race car. We can see a signelframe front grille, familiar flat LED headlights which can be replaced by optional laser lighting clusters with extended range of up to 600 meters.

Moving to the side profile, this high-performance sports car has curvy lines that continue to the wheels. The prominent shoulder line is formed like a “powerful muscle” and connects the wheels with one another, while dividing the side blades in two. This makes the car appear longer and lends it a more dynamic presence.

At the back, the LED taillights give the vehicle a more mature and serious outline. Also, there is a retractable rear spoiler. The Plus model impresses with a new wing made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The base model moves on 19-inch wheels with 245/35 front and 295/35 rear tires with 20-inch alloys with 245/30 & 305/30 tires available as an option.

In terms of the interior, when we step inside the Audi R8 it feels like we step inside Heaven. The cabin benefits from new bucket seats with stylish looks and a driver-focused cockpit. The latter features a configurable 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit which replaces the tons of buttons and knobs. Buyers are given the opportunity to select either Alcantara, pearl Nappa leather or fine Nappa leather upholsteries.

Set to go on sale this summer, the new Audi R8 has the starting price of €165,000 for the standard model and €187,400 for the Audi R8 V10 Plus.

Source: Audi

February 26, 2015

Porsche Announces Mysterious Geneva Premiere

Porsche will make a double world premiere in Geneva next week. We have seen the first car that is going to be officially presented and it is the Cayman GT4. The second model however is covered in mystery, since there is no word or even a teaser about it. The only thing that the company said is that it will be “another exceptional Porsche” that is destined to bring new standard in terms of performance.

And does this mean that actually the company is enjoying making high-performance vehicles suitable for everyday driving? Inarguably yes! In addition these two debuts speak of something like tradition which Porsche has established. We talk about the fact that it always introduces motorsport-bounded vehicles in Geneva.

Take for instance the 911 GT3 and 919 Hybrid. We have witnessed their birth in the Swiss city in the previous years. Now it is time for the Cayman GT4 to do the same. In fact this is the first high-performance sports car from the GT family based on the mid-engine coupes.

The model already made an impressive Nürburgring track debut by achieving a lap time of 7 minutes and 40 seconds on the North Loop. The main responsibility for this should be attributed to the 3.8-liter engine that has the capability of 385 hp (283 kW) and is a derivative of 911 Carrera S’ unit.

In addition, what differentiates the new Cayman from the others in its family are the new front featuring lowered front spoiler, the additional hood air outlet and the rear wing. These elements all contribute towards better downforce at both axles.

Still, our mind is taken by the thoughts of this mysterious model and we can’t wait to know more about it. Do you have any suggestions?

Source: Porsche

February 26, 2015

Rolls Royce Phantom Al-Adiyat is Inspired by Equestrian Power

If you think that Rolls-Royce is that old-fashioned automaker that changes nothing, well you’d be wrong. At least in term of the way it is communicating its news. For a long time now the company is using its official facbook page to announce special edition models like the one we are going to review. What we have at hand is a beautiful Phantom Coupe, styled in “Al-Adiyat” theme.

In Arabic “Al-Adiyat” stands for the noise which a powerful horse makes when its hooves hit stone. What happens next is sparks flying. As a matter of fact, under this designation will not only stand this Phantom special edition, but it is intended to be a bespoke collection that adds nine Wraiths, too.

The vehicles in the Al-Adiyat collection share a design that is inspired by equestrian power. As you can see from the pictures, the car carries a passionate red exterior paint scheme, which is continued inside where it meets white.

The interior is also filled with motifs of reigns and horses that signify this special edition series. In addition, there is a gold-plated horseshoe stamps found on the clock and treadplates. The two-tone seats are accompanied by exquisite dark wood trim as well as red headliners.

Just like the other Phantoms this one will be driven by the V12 engine which produces 453 horsepower (338 kW) and 719 Nm (531 lb-ft) of maximum torque. This makes it enough for the car to be capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h). Like it?

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 26, 2015

Audi Unveils Hybrid Prologue Avant Concept

The awaited Audi Prologue Avant Concept has been revealed before its official premiere at the Geneva Auto Show next week. We have seen from the teasers that the car has a revolutionary design, which hints to the possible direction of company’s creative philosophy. The car is fitted with new infotainment system and entertainment technology, but most importantly it comes with a hybrid drivetrain.

The high-performance unit is capable of a total of 455 hp (335 kW) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. As a matter of fact, the plug-in hybrid drive of the prologue Avant is almost similar to this of the Q7 e-tron Quattro.

This means that the car is driven by a 3.0 TDI engine combined with a powerful electric motor. The first unit produces 353 hp, while the second one (which by the way is integrated in the transmission) generates additional 100 hp. Speaking about transmissions, the one used here is eight-speed and has the special designation “tiptronic”. Of course it translates the power to all four wheels.

In terms of acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, this car does not show anything impressive. In fact, I’ve always thought that Audis are little tardy. The number I am referring to is 5.1 seconds and the top speed is 155 mph.

The “big deal” here is the CO2 gases emitted as well as the efficiency. Audi prologue Avant returns up to 176mpg and emits only 43 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In pure electric drive, the car performs average and shows a range of 33.6 miles. Next thing that must be addressed is the AWC. This abbreviation stands for Audi wireless charging, meaning that the battery of the car can also be charged inductively.

New in the design of the car is the Singleframe grille integrated into the body. The headlamps are another element that needs to be mentioned. They comprise of high-resolution Matrix Laser technology, thanks to which the light is decomposed into many tiny pixels.

The sides of this Audi include flat D-pillars and huge 22-inch wheels fitted with size 285/30 tyres. The car is painted in dark blue color, the outside rear-view mirrors are made from aluminium, while a frame made from polished and matt aluminium surrounds the side windows.

Inside, there is nothing but luxury. The spacious interior is in dark hues and features a dashboard that is composed of three touch displays, showing important information. Furthermore, the upper instrument panel is in lifestyle blue, while sarder brown color has been chosen for the bottom instrument panel, seats and the carpet.

Just like the exterior, the interior features aluminium elements. These include the spokes of the steering wheel, the frames of the driver displays, the door inserts and the mountings and switches of the seats. Natural Unikat leather has been used for the upholstery of the seats, dashboard and centre tunnel console.

You already know that Audi Prologue Avant will have an official world premiere next week in Geneva, and this is the time when we expect to see some more from it. Whether this concept will become a production model, I sincerely doubt, but it is definitely a step further in company’s range of vehicles.

Source: Audi

February 25, 2015

Is this the new Civic? No, it’s Honda Jazz

Honda Jazz Prototype debuted last year at the Paris Motor Show. Back then, I remember when looking at it for the first time I though that it is like the Civic. Fortunately, my hopes and expectations proved right and now we have a production Jazz that has carried over the beautiful looks of its prototype form. The car definitely seems to have higher ground clearance than the Civic and is with wider proportions, hence delivering more interior space.

As we can expect from Honda, the new Jazz will be fitted with advanced safety and infotainment technologies, and will offer (hopefully) more dynamic driving experience. For its efficiency we don’t even have to assure you.

The car is based on the B-segment chassis which also directs us to the thoughts that it is bigger inside and outside. And this is where the occupants will meet the Magic Seats system which will make their life easier through its various configuration options. The interior will also benefit from a seven-inch touchscreen, new infotainment system called Honda Connect and online access.

Also new in the Jazz range is the 1.3- litre i-VTEC petrol engine that promises more responsive and engaging driving experience. The unit produces 102 hp (75 kW) at 6,000 rpm, and is coupled with a six-speed manual or a semi-automatic CVT transmission.

Active and passive safety technologies are also priority here. Advanced Driver Assist System is what matters in this case since it is Honda’s rage of safety equipment. It comprises of Intelligent Speed Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system and High-beam Support System. As a standard the car will also get the City-Brake Active system.

In other words, we can’t wait to see this car hitting the dealerships which will happen this Summer.

Source: Honda

February 25, 2015

It’s Official: McLaren 675LT Redefines Notions of Beauty and Power

McLaren 675LT is finally revealed! Set to make its debut in less than a week in Geneva, the car is destined to change some standards in the automotive world. Lightweight, optimized, aero and powerful, the coupé only 675LT is fully road legal and capable of 2.9 seconds 0-100km/h acceleration time. The 200 km/h barrier is broken in 7.9 seconds, focusing on the next goal – the 330 km/h top speed and going beyond it.

The new McLaren model is almost a synonym for carbon fiber. This material has been used literally everywhere. Take for instance the front splitter and the big active ‘Longtail’ Airbrake, and the carbon fibre-shelled bucket seats inside. The result is a dry weight of just 1,230kg. At the rear, the circular twin titanium exhaust pipes are what give us some hints to the performance of the car.

The levels of power have been increased due to some substantial improvements to the 3.8-litre V8 engine. We are not going to discuss them in details, but we will only mention that due to these changes the engine unit has received a new unique code – M838TL.

What we haven’t said so far is that the 675 LT is F1 GTR ‘Longtail’ successor (LT stands for “Longtail’), meaning that it embodies its parent’s characteristics. As the name of the car shows, the V8 is capable of generating 675 hp (496 kW). This number suggests only a track focused car. However, as we already told you, McLaren has managed to make the 675LT fully road legal.

What really caught our attention is that the company will offer the vehicle in five different “By McLaren” hero specifications. What this means? Basically, there will be four new colors specifically “invented” for the car. These include Silica White, Delta Red, Napier Green and Chicane Grey. The fifth color will be the heritage Orange.

Each model will be equipped with “stripped out” interior that has been fitted with premium materials and stylish hues, bucket seats wrapped in Alcantara, 675LT logos on the headrest and on the rev counter. Below you can read in details the official specifications of the car. If there’s anything unsaid around it we will let you in a week, when it makes its official debut.

McLaren 675LT Technical Specifications:

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)	2.9 seconds
0-200 km/h (0-124 mph)	7.9 seconds
Top speed	330 km/h (205 mph)
Power-to-weight	549PS per tonne
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc
Power	675 hp (496 kW) @ 7,100 rpm
Torque	700 Nm (516 lb ft) @ 5,500-6,500 rpm
Transmission	7 Speed SSG
CO2	275g/km
Dry weight	1,230kg
Weight distribution	42.5 / 57.5
Length	4,546 mm
Width	2,095 mm
Height	1,188 mm

Source: McLaren

February 25, 2015

Jensen is Back with fresh GT Model

Have you ever heard about Jensen cars? Well, if you have then you are fan of old automobiles. It is almost 13 years in which this name haven’t been circulating in the automotive news, and this simply means that it is time for it to appear again. The big news here is that the brand is being born again thanks to the introduction of a Jensen GT car. This vehicle will mark the next chapter of company’s history because it is now possible for anyone to purchase the officially sanctioned model.

The company is also planning to embark on other projects in the future. Precisely, there is envisioned an Interceptor 2 car that must launch next year and will be built with the help of a famous carmaker. It is strictly kept in secret though.

The car will make a bridge between the last Jensen model – 1976 Interceptor, and the aforementioned future model. Of course, to show its heritage, the GT car will include all of the classic design cues that were typical for generation one Interceptor, but will also benefit from contemporary design and many technology features.

Furthermore, the Jensen GT will also be the first legitimate new car to proudly carry the Jensen badge in the more than 13 years. The 2001 saw the demise of the S-V8 model that was a convertible. The car was powered by a Mustang based 4·6-litre engine producing 325 hp (239 kW). A coupe version was in the plans of the car maker, but because of its troubles the car never saw production.

Having this data in mind we have this question: are we to expect a Ford Mustang sourced engine again and will it be with bigger output than this?

Source: Jensen Group

February 25, 2015

Aston Martin Vulcan is all about Horses and Carbon!

If yesterday was the “international day of teasers” today is the “day of the big reveals”, since so many models have been shown ahead of their official premiere at the Geneva Auto Saloon. The first one that we are going to review today is Aston Martin Vulcan. We have already heard the sound of its engine (that was really intriguing) and now it is time to get some impressions of the official data and pictures released. As we already know the car will be track only and will have a limited production of around 30 units. Well, to be more precise they will be less – 24.

The new information confirmed that the car will be driven by a 7.0 litre V12 engine that produces more than 800 horsepower (588 kW). Even as exciting as this news is the fact that the Vulcan will be all-carbon fibre. In addition, every of the 24 owners will have the chance to tailor their driving experience through some adjustments to the performance via a special “experience” program.

This car is all about motorsport engineering. The evidence for this is that its power-to-weight ratio exceeds this of the GTE cars. Responsible for this are the carbon fibre monocoque, the integral limited-slip differential, the carbon fibre propeller shaft of the magnesium torque tube and the calipers coming from Brembo. The latter are fitted with carbon ceramic racing disc brakes in the sizes of 380mm and 360 mm at the front and rear, respectively.

The Xtrac six-speed sequential shift gearbox is translating the power coming from the V12 to the rear wheels. By the way they are fitted with huge Michelins measuring 345/30×19.

In terms of suspension this Aston Martin gets the best. In addition, Multimatic has delivered the DSSV (Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve) adjustable dampers and rear and front anti-roll bars. Variable traction control and driver-adjustable anti-lock braking is what rounds out this equipment.

The British company will also gather important technical and performance data shown by the car during testing, and then will release the information closer to the track introduction of the car. Since this will happen later this year, we all must focus on the world debut of the Vulcan on 3^rd of March.

Source: Aston Martin

February 25, 2015

MISHA Designs Releases Stylish Gullwinged SLS AMG

MISHA Designs Mercedes SLS AMG Equipped with new aero kit This news is really hot, since MISHA Designs has just released the first official photos and data of their new project. And you are on of the lucky people to see it first, and we promise you that it is worth it! The tuners are mainly famous for their exquisite modifications on two brands: Mercedes and Porsche. And as you can see from the pictures, the new one involves Mercedes. But this is not just a simple S class but the gullwing SLS AMG!

I must mention that the red color of the car is the first thing that captivated my attention and I definitely like it better than company’s previous project, which involved the same model colored in yellow. Then, the next thing to capture the sight is the aero package, which gives the car unique appearance.

The kit comprises of specifically developed for the model front bumper lip, as well as hood mount and vent covers. The latter elements help the car breath easily and cool down its untamed character. At the sides, the changes continue with skirts and side vent covers, while the rear gets new diffuser.

Proper size of the rubbers and alloys is always needed when it comes to extreme cars and exquisite tuning. The wheels for this particular project were delivered by ADV.1., while the tyres are coming from Pirelli and are with low profile.

There is nothing changed in the engine, so there are no surprises. Basically this car is driven by the naturally aspirated 6.2 liter AMG V8 unit, which produces the astounding 571 hp (420 kW) at 6,800 rpm and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque at 4,750 rpm. These impressive numbers allow the car to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in mere 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 317 km/h (197 mph).

Source: MISHA Designs

February 24, 2015

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