Automobiles Review – Page 414 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Kia Trail’ster e-AWD Concept Makes Chicago Debut [VIDEO]

Kia Trail’ster e-AWD Concept has been officially revealed at the Chicago Auto Show. The Soul-Based Off-Roader is a mix of the essence of the “Go Anywhere” city CUV and one that is ready for mountain adventures. The new concept has design based on the Soul, but has some captivating highlights like the round front- and headlights, and the fully retractable canvas roof. Not to mention the smartly integrated electric all-wheel-drive system.

The turbocharged Trail’ster is covered with its Polar Pearl Snowdrift/Terra Bronze Metallic paint. In addition, it is armored with aluminum skid plates, and shows promising efficiency as well as capability to support wide variety of mountain activities. This is possible thanks to its rear axle-mounted electric all-wheel-drive system of the Trail’ster.

The Polar Pearl Snowdrift exterior paint is contrasted via fire-red wheel accents and polished billet aluminum sections. Other stylish features include the weatherproof rollback canvas roof, advanced LED technology at the front and back, Kia’s signature grille bars, and K900-style projector headlamps below which we see expressive fog light elements.

Inside, the vehicle features a color and trim palette which brown leather and aluminum accents. These cabin materials are inspired by snow sports gear and equipment. The focal point of this interior is a tactile and sturdy center console which has a thickset gear shifter, AWD controls and a bright red ignition button. The seats are trimmed in brown leather and feature pillow-embossed textile inserts.

Really interesting is the drivetrain system of this concept. It is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which produces 185 horsepower (136 kW) and 251 Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. The unit is matched to an electric all-wheel-drive system on the rear axle, which improves fuel economy.

Trail’ster has two power sources: a front petrol engine and a rear electric motor, making it a hybrid vehicle. Its electric propulsion system draws energy from a 1.2 kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery powering a 27 kW, 270 volt AC synchronous permanent magnet electric motor. It generates 35 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels.

In summary, the total output is 220 horsepower (162 kW) and 386 Nm (285 lb-ft) of torque. To further improve fuel efficiency, the system also utilizes a Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) to start/stop the engine as well as an electrically driven A/C compressor.

For driving in tough terrain, the Trail’ster has been raised more than two-and-a-half inches over the production Soul. In addition, its rubbers are the Pirelli Winter Carving 245/45-19 snow tires for enhanced traction. The KSport coilover shocks absorb the effect of the rough and uneven surfaces.

httpv://youtu.be/X6sP-hOHeyk

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kia

February 13, 2015

2016 Honda Ridgeline Previewed in Chicago

2015 Chicago Auto Show has already started where a lot of vehicles will have their premiere. We start the day with the announcement that Honda has revealed at the saloon yesterday the first image (sketch) of the future next-gen Ridgeline. The new truck is said to retain the award-winning performance, comfort and utility of the original model, and in fact to bring it to new levels. These new levels will feature entirely new styling that communicates unmistakably that it’s a pickup. At the same time they will still express that this is a Honda.

The next Ridgeline is expected to get into production in a year. So this means that we won’t see a detailed sketch soon. Nevertheless, the rear-three-quarter image that we were given displays some interesting features.

Let’s start with the back of the truck, which, as it is completely visible, has been redesigned. Now, it appears like an “ordinary” pickup that has a separately attached bed. The latter feature is something we haven’t seen in the previous generation of the model.

The sketch also shows that the chassis has been refined and is now more rigid. If you take a closer look you’ll definitely think that the truck looks longer than its predecessor. The tailgate will probably add a split rear-gate feature, which will drop or swing open like a set of doors.

The teaser also displays that the new Ridgeline has curvier lines compared to the previous generation truck. All in all, the 2016 Honda Ridgeline appears to be almost in a production form.

There is no information on the powerplant or any output details. However, there are rumors that the new gen Ridgeline will be equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 unit, producing around or more than 250 horsepower.

Source: Honda

February 13, 2015

1963 Chrysler Turbine Car Strikes with Classic Sophistication

The 2015 Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) is going to host one of the kings among classic cars – the historic 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car! This “Turbine Bronze” model will be revealed to the public along with 18 other classic cars as part of the Art and the Automobile historic vehicle exhibition, February 13-22, 2015. Since the event is tracing the artistic development of the design of vehicles through time, the Chrysler Turbine Car is just a perfect example of this progressive transition.

This rare prototype vehicle takes its power from a turbine engine that runs on Kerosene, Diesel – or JP-4 Jet Fuel. Attractiveness, old-time-spirit and beauty spring out from every side of the two-door hardtop coupe. It has four individual bucket seats, power steering, power brakes, and power windows. Its remarkable design also includes two large horizontal taillights and back-up lights which are installed inside a heavy chrome sculptured bumper.

“The Chrysler Turbine program began in 1954 – in the supersonic jet airplane age -and lasted until 1981,” said Brandt Rosenbusch, Manager of Historical Vehicles – FCA US. “Like today, the company was exploring alternative propulsion solutions and to prove the engine’s flexibility, even ran them on perfume and alcohol – aside from the ‘standard’ JP-4 Jet Fuel. We have not shipped the car to Canada in the 25 years I have been here.”

An interesting fact is that between 1963 and 1964 a total of 50 Ghia-bodied Turbine Cars were built and were given to members of the general public. Unfortunately, those cars never underwent series production.

Source: Chrysler

February 13, 2015

Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept Looks Dazzling and Ready to Go

Shown on Thursday during the Chicago Auto Show, the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept managed to impress with its one-off bodylook and stylish appearance. This hotter version is just a performance study at this point but its potential for a production model is huge. The design of the Concept combines an open-air driving excitement of a standard 370Z Roadster and a racing-inspired vision as well as performance of a 370Z NISMO Coupe.

Just like Nissan 370Z Nismo coupe which was revealed last year, the new Roadster takes its power from an upgraded version of Nissan’s 3.7-litre petrol V6 engine. The unit receives a power-boost of 16 kW and 11 Nm over the standard 370Z which allows it to produce 350 HP (261 kW) and 374 Nm of maximum torque. The engine goes with NISMO suspension and updated brakes.

Fred Diaz, senior vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations U.S., Nissan North America, pointed out that; “First, we’ve injected all the performance equipment from a 370Z NISMO Coupe. Inside, since the interior is on display whenever the top is down, it features the full NISMO treatment, as well as a few special custom touches.”

Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept gets a more aggressive face, beefed-up 19-inch NISMO super-lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels by RAYS (19×9.5-inch front, 19×10.5-inch rear), reworked LED daytime running lights and black headlight bezels. The rear end of the car has been redesigned as well and now it has a carbon fibre lip spoiler. Finally, the automatic roof has the same cloth material as the one used in the regular 370Z Roadster.

Taking the top down, we are presented with a well-crafted driving environment. The dramatic interior is highlighted by custom red stitching with NISMO logo, an Alcantara-appointed leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and NISMO red tachometer.

If the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept is approved for production, it will become yet another addition to the Nismo family, thus joining the current Nissan 370Z NISMO coupe model.

Source: Nissan

February 13, 2015

Mercedes-AMG GT3 Teased Before Its Debut

Back in November last year, Mercedes-AMG made an announcement regarding its new GT3 which is set to make its debut next month in Geneva. Now, the company has displayed two images of the same upcoming vehicle.

The two design sketches reveal an automobile which has wider body kit, underlined by flared wheel arches, a lot of additional air vents and a massive rear wing which brings more downforce to the rear axle. The new Mercedes-AMG GT3 is compliant with the FIA GT3 requirements and regulations and is going to hit the track for the 2016 season. This means that we are going to say goodbye to the SLS AMG GT3. When comparing it to the new model, SLS AMG GT3 racer exhibits less aggressive presence. So the new racer might really be a good replacement after all.

No technical and performance details have been shared so far. What we know for sure, though, is that everything will be unveiled soon as the GT3 will be brought to the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. After that, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 will go through an “intense testing and development period” in order to be reinforced and made ready for the FIA GT3 Championship season in 2016.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

February 13, 2015

GM Keeps it Simple and Stylish: Chevy Silverado Gets Official Custom Edition

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom not only offers capability and dependability, but also adds a stylish package in the range of trucks Chevy is currently producing. The vehicle is based on the double-cab Silverado LS. The Custom package will enhance it so we get an entirely new model which runs on 20-inch aluminum wheels coupled with wide tyres. The new package also adds chrome bumpers, a body-colored top cap above the front bumper as well as chrome mirror caps and door handles. For those who are not keen on two-door vehicle, we have some good news. This latest Silverado has four full doors for easier access to the front and rear seats. And speaking of the seats, they are wrapped in special cloth.

Other features that are unique to this model are the tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and door locks. Oh, and we must also mention the addition of the Chevy MyLink technology with 4G LTE WiFi, which ensure that passengers are connected to the Internet at any time.

2015 Silverado Custom is offered with two engines. The first one, the 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8, produces 355 horsepower (261 kW) and offers the best fuel economy of any V-8 pickup (up to 23 mpg highway). The second one is the 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6, with the most torque of any standard V-6.

Just like its siblings – all other Silverado 1500s, the Custom utilizes hydroformed, boxed, high-strength steel frame and a cab structure. The latter makes extensive use of high-strength steels. The truck also features a roll-formed steel box that is lighter and stronger than traditional stamped boxes.

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom has a starting price of $33,820 USD and it is currently available in dealerships.

Source: Chevrolet

February 12, 2015

Techart Releases new Tuning Kit for Porsche 911 GTS Models

Techart’s new program for Porsche 911 Carrera GTS and 911 Carrera 4 GTS offers individualization options that can literally match any taste. Enhanced aerodynamic styling, driving performance, wheels and bespoke interiors are all key characteristics of the refined Porsches. There is also good news for those who will be visiting the auto saloon in Geneva, because the

The individualized exterior of the 911 GTS is all about styling and aerodynamics. Although there is subtle difference to the standard models, it is quite distinctive. Take a look at the new front spoiler which upgrades the original front apron of the car.

It also creates extra dynamics by visually lowering the body and reducing the aerodynamic lift at the front axle. Next, there is the elegant roof spoiler, the prominent rear spoiler and sharp profiled side skirts.

In terms of driving dynamics, Techart created performance equipment and wheels that add to the credentials of the car. The new sport exhaust systems add a sporty highlight to the rear of the 911 Carrera GTS. In addition, it also provides a racier soundscape at all speeds.

As a matter of fact, there are two different exhaust systems. Both are dynamically valve-controlled to adjust the sound according to the driving style. Besides the sport exhaust system with two twin tailpipes on each side, the second system has a motorsport-like appearance, meaning that it comes with two central tailpipes and an extraordinary audible presence.

The driving dynamics of the Porsche were further enhanced vie the new sport springs bring the 911 GTS body closer to the track. Furthermore, the electro-hydraulic TECHART Noselift system provides 45 mm of additional ground clearance at the push of a button by lifting the vehicle’s body at the front axle. This feature is perfect to overrun obstacles like garage ramps.

The huge amount of power of the Porsche is transmitted onto the road via forged Techart Formula IV Race center lock wheel. They have five twin-spokes wheel design and come in 20-inch size and standard bicolor finish in titanium grey with a gloss-turned front surface.

Inside, the tuners have also prepared some tweaks for the 911 GTS models. Take for example the individualized door entry guards or the multi-function sport steering wheels with paddle shifters. Of course, we can’t miss the aluminium-made sport pedals, contrasted decorative stitching, color-coordinated instrument dials, and a coupe wrapped in select leather. Nice work Techart!

Source: Techart

February 12, 2015

ABT Individual Makes Dreams Come True

ABT Sportsline developed an “Individual” programme which is more than just some body kits, engine upgrades and suspension features. This time, the components are designed in a way that make cars more individualized, unique and even extravagant. What is more, the exterior and interior of models that benefit from the tuning package gain exclusive proportions, dynamism and sophistication.

In terms of the exterior, the tuner offers individual body color, special wheel outlines, customized body parts, tailor-made engine performance upgrades and personal lettering on the exhaust pipes. Thanks to the ABT Individual, the interior arrives with leather upholstery which is smooth, back – stitched or suede. It can be found on seats, switches, steering wheels and under roofs. For more personalization, extra design elements, logos and special color combinations can be added too.

Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of the globally largest tuner of VW and Audi cars says that; “If you go to ABT Sportsline, you are looking for something special. And for some, even that is not enough. For this very exclusive group of customers we now have tailor-made solutions.”

According to the top manager, people who own a top model like Audi S8, RS6 or the new Q7, for example, would really appreciate an additional doze of exceptional individualization. One thing is for sure then: bespoke designs are what make car owners feel special when driving their unmatched vehicles.

Source: ABT

February 12, 2015

Cobra Accessories Adorn the new Mercedes V-Class and Vito vans

Cobra Mercedes V-Class

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offers exclusive accessories for the new Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans. The new components are designed with such precision that they not only enhance the vans visually but also serve to protect the body against damage. Benefiting from the goodies, both the exclusive V-Class lifestyle model and the Vito are designed mainly for commercial use. With the add – on conversion parts, the vehicles are able to demonstrate exciting appearance and active safety.

The upgrade package includes front guard that has a tube diameter of 60 millimeters and arrives in three surface finishes: chrome-plated stainless steel, a titanium-look finish, and coated with matte black plastic. This accessory feature serves to provide with protection against minor fender benders. Focusing on the idea of maximized safety, the German vehicle refinement specialist Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offer auxiliary high-beam headlamps. They come as a ready-to-install kit which is comprised of two different brackets for mounting the auxiliary lights either on the top or bottom tube of the front guard.

Additionally, Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans receive an upgrade on the sides too. Thanks to the rocker panel guards that can be installed, the access and exit as well as the loading and unloading becomes much easier. The stainless-steel components are available for vans with one or two sliding doors and can be purchased in a matte black, chrome-plated or titanium-look finish. Another option, though, is the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle rocker panel guards that embrace the body, thus, protecting the sides of the van. They come in diameter of 60 millimeters and are available in a brushed stainless-steel version. Finally, the robust running boards for the V-Class and the Vito vans can be ordered with integrated LED entrance lights.

Source: Automediapool

February 12, 2015

Fresh Faced 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed! [VIDEOS]

Chevrolet has just unveiled the contemporized 2016 Equinox. The updated version of the popular compact SUV includes new styling, new wheel designs and more optional safety features. Inside, there is larger color touchscreen radio and a standard rear-vision camera. The model will be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT and LTZ. As you can see from the pictures, the SUV has a new distinctive front fascia and chrome-accented dual-port grille design. This is because Chevrolet released the pictures of the LTZ trim only, which got these specifics. The same will be applied to the LT trim.

Furthermore, projector-beam headlamps are now standard on all models, while new daytime running lamps come only for the LT and LTZ, with reflector-style lamps on L and LS, and light-emitting diode (LED) lamps on LT and LTZ. The last trim will also get new fog lamps.

At the rear, we see restyled dual-element tail-lamps, revised license plate appliqué and lower rear fascia on all models. The new aluminum wheels range from 17- to 18-inches. Among many safety features are the optional Available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The seven-inch-diagonal Color Touch radio and rear-vision camera are now standard in the L and LS trims.

2016 Equinox has room for five passengers and is offered with an all-wheel drive offered on LS, LT and LTZ models. It features roomy interior with GM-exclusive MultiFlex sliding rear seat.

More importantly, the car is powered by a standard Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected engine. It delivers exceptional EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway (FWD models).The direct-injected 3.6L V-6 comes as an option of the LT and LTZ models, and produces 301 horsepower (225 kW) and 369 Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the V-6 engine also enables a trailering capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).

LT and LTZ trims will also get as a standard the new MyLink technology, while OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi hotpot is offered on all trim levels. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is scheduled to go on sale this fall.

httpv://youtu.be/PiFIrcr9SjI

httpv://youtu.be/07RZfQehkqo

httpv://youtu.be/S4zVkYTo_yY

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

February 12, 2015

B&B Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is Capable of up to 450 HP/580 Nm

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG has received a B&B three-stage performance upgrade program. The result is substantial power increase from the standard 360 hp (265 kW) to 450 hp (331 kW) and a peak torque boost from 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) to 580 Nm (428 lb-ft). The first update for the CLA 45 AMG starts with a Stage 1 ECU remapping and includes revised fuel, ignition and turbo boost curves. In this stage the power and torque are raised to 400 hp (294 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft).

Stage 2 steps on the first one, adds air intake system with improved ram effect, and the B&B exhaust downpipe for reduced exhaust back-pressure and exhaust gas temperature. The ECU mapping is optimized, thus making this Mercedes capable of 425 hp (313 kW) and 540 Nm (399 lb-ft) of torque.

The ultimate conversion stage is the third one. It is centered on a bespoke turbocharger, enhanced cold air intake system and exhaust downpipe from Stage. There is also a bespoke ECU mapping which suits the new hardware. As a result we get 450 hp (331 kW) with 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque.

In this tuned CLA 45 AMG jointed Racing Motor’s “World’s Fastest Sedan”, it would probably beat the Dodge. The stopwatch would witnesses a 0-100 km/h sprint in spectacular 3.8 seconds (instead of standard 4.6 seconds). The 0-200 km/h time is reduced from 17.1 to 14.3 seconds.

B&B also removed the 250 km/h top speed limiter. Thus, Stage 3 allows 296 km/h, and together with the improved sprinting ability, gives the luxury supercar performance without compromising.

B&B also added a high-efficiency oil cooling system, which uses the factory temperature thermostat and keeps engine’s life by giving lubricant from overheating in hard driving conditions. In addition, B&B exhaust downpipe sits between the turbocharger and exhaust system. It helps reduce backpressure and exhaust gas temperature, thus making it easing thermal stress on the engine, releasing an additional 15 kW/20 hp with no other modifications.

The cars stance and handling are lowered via the use of B&B sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by 30 and 25 mm at the front and rear respectively. On the other hand, the coil-over suspension kit for the CLA 45 AMG, allows the cars ride height and damper bounce and rebound to be set independently for road or track driving.

At last B&B needed something to balance the increased performance. They added a six-piston high performance brake system and B&B 8.5Jx20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/30ZR20 tyres.

Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

February 12, 2015

Nissan Invents LEAF EV that Glows in the Dark [VIDEO]

Nissan has just released a very interesting video showing the first car to have to glow-in-the-dark paint scheme. By doing this, the company writes history, being the first manufacturer to partner with similarly innovative inventor, Hamish Scott, to create paint that uses UV energy absorbed during daylight to glow at night. And of course the model to apply this new “color”-approach is the all-electric LEAF.

Hamish Scott is creator of STARPATH. This is a spray-applied coating that absorbs UV energy during the day. When the night falls, the absorbed energy glows for between eight and 10 hours.

The Japanese company not only offers glowing car paint, but also glow-in-the-dark car wraps, both made up of entirely organic materials. Precisely, the Scott used very rare natural earth product called Strontium Aluminate. It is solid, odorless and chemically and biologically inert.

Another very interesting fact about this paint is that if it is made commercially available, it would last for 25 years. Nissan LEAF owners have reported significant savings and are using the saved money for example for solar panels for their homes. This in turn decreases the household carbon footprint and means owners are also effectively charging their vehicle for free.

According to a recent research, 89% of LEAF owners charge their cars at home overnight. And here is the deal: solar panels do not store energy or provide it outside of daylight, but any leftover power which is generated during the day is fed back into the national grid. Homeowners then can get a Government payment for it, which simply means that the overnight charge is already paid for.

One of these lucky LEAF owners is Ian Finch. He has combined the savings offered by running an all-electric vehicle with solar panels to power his home. Here is a fascinating interview with him on LEAF charging using solar energy:

httpv://youtu.be/xM9XRn1amqQ

httpv://youtu.be/nKj2sEpg1xg

Source: Nissan

February 12, 2015

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