Automobiles Review – Page 417 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2016 Chevrolet Equinox to Debut at Chicago Auto Show

This week Chevrolet will unveil at the Chicago Auto Show a refreshed 2016 model that is the new Equinox. This will happen on 12th of February when we will receive more details about the vehicle, since the official released up to date are scarce. With the introduction of the new Equinox, Chevrolet aims to continue to win customers in one of the industry’s most competitive segments. The company promised that the facelifted model will keep its value-driven balance of performance, versatility and personal connectivity, and will continue to represent the depth of Chevrolet’s strong SUV lineup.

Although there aren’t many details on 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, from the released teaser image we see a new front bumper as well as entirely refreshed headlights and LED daytime running lights. Plastic body cladding and new fog lights are also present. Unfortunately we will have to wait a little longer to find out whether these features are optional or standard, in the best case scenario.

As far as engine line-up, there is a rumor circulating that there isn’t going to be any change. If this is true, then the new Equinox will retain the powerplants of the current lineup. The base model is offered with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder unit, which produces 182 horsepower (134 kW) and 233 Nm (172 lb-ft) of torque.

The second engine option is the 3.6-liter V6 one, that generates 301 hp (221 kW) and 369 Nm (272 lb-ft) of optimum torque. Both engines are connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. The front-wheel drive comes as no-cost option, while the all-wheel-drive is available.

Source: Chevrolet

February 9, 2015

DMC Teases new Lambo Lineup Ahead of Geneva Debut

It took exactly five years for the luxury tuning company DMC to be accepted to join the renowned Geneva Motor Show. The good new is that this year the visitors of the famous car exhibit will have the opportunity to “meet” the brand and get to know its work better. As a matter of fact, if one company wants to join the prestigious exhibitions, it can’t just simply give money for a booth. To be accepted, the company needs to have professional background, and most important history.

So this basically means that addition of DMC to the auto salon in Switzerland signifies that it has already joined an elite level of brands. For the show is where the top players of the industry showcase their annual developments.

And to get us all heated up of the most important event, DMC specialists have just released a first teaser image, showing part of their line up. We are almost sure that we are going to see an all Lambo set-up, which will have a possible Stage2 Huracan kit.

We have already seen the Lambo which is going to be featured in the event, so we aren’t quite sure whether there is to be a new project, or the already presented one. The DMC Lamborghini Huracan has a rear wing with an additional base spoiler under it. The latter is stronger and more reliable on the inside.

The interior design of the Huracan was also refined and now features fine leathers and carbon fiber components. There are also a lot of buttons and trims as well as redesigned steering wheel that come as additional packages.

During Geneva Motor Show, DMC will also present the new rims in the lineup. They will come in a 20″/21″ setup and are considered to be the widest sets in the market so far.

On the teaser image we also see silver Lamborghini Countach, but we aren’t sure we are to see it at company’s stand at the show.

Source: DMC

February 9, 2015

Adidas and Porsche 911: An Unexpected Combination

Athleticism is measured in many different ways but Adidas seems to know how to dig its path to the best possible methods. The shoe company uses Porsche 911 as a platform which is able to commercialize and advertise their new UNCAGED adizero 5-Star 40 Football cleats. So the sporty 911 turns into a perfect base for a subtle marketing trick which promotes not just the car but a pair of shoes as well.

In order to match the athletic spirit of the Super Bowl event, Adidas is promising to provide three customized Porsche 911s to the NFL Scouting Combine runners who will achieve the best results. There is one condition only. They should wear the new UNCAGED adizero 5-Star 40 Football cleats. Just to clarify, the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine is a showcase which lasts for one week where prospective football players will go through a range of physical and mental tests before NFL coaches, general managers and scouts.

The three Porsche cars receive a uniquely designed bodylook which matches that of the shoes in question. The cheetah graphics which covers the entire back of the Porsche 911 Carrera is definitely like nothing else seen before. But it is kind of weird – looking paintwork really not only on the car but on the cleats too. Undoubtedly the winners will appreciate their prizes but I won’t be surprised if they decide to remove the graphics from the cars and make their Porsches look more… normal and less as vehicles that transport animals to the local zoo.

Source: Adidas

February 9, 2015

Renault Twingo Now With Dynamique S Trim Level

The second Renault model which receives visual enhancements in the beginning of the new year is the Twingo. The city car range has been supported by the addition of the top-of-the-range Dynamique S TCe 90 model. Its exterior now features the previously optional ‘Sport Pack’ as well as some new interior tweaks. It is powered by the 0.9-litre TCe turbocharged petrol engine which produces 90 hp (66 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque at 2,500 rpm.

This power is absolutely enough for the Twingo to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 103 mph. The engine is fitted as a standard with Stop & Start function that makes the car extremely efficient. In fact, it shows an official 65.7 mpg – and more than 50 mpg in urban city use, while the CO2 emissions are of just 99 g/km.

There are standard features that are unique to the new top-of-the range Twingo.

Examples are the aluminium pedal set, red and black part leather upholstery and a red interior touch pack.

The visual appearance of the vehicle is strengthened by the 16-inch sport diamond-cut alloy wheels, matt black side decals and the red exterior touch pack in red. While the interior touch pack includes red highlights on the steering wheel, centre console and air vents, the exterior one does the same for the front grille insert, door mirrors and side door protectors.

Dynamique S can also show off with LED daytime running lights, front foglamps, electric heated door mirrors, cruise control, a lane departure warning system, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift knob, air conditioning and white instrument backlighting. The little Twingo is practical too and can prove this via its unique folding front passenger seat and a split-folding two-seat rear bench.

In terms of safety equipment, this particular model is equipped with Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Emergency Brake Assist and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Fuel economy can be improved by up to 10 per cent by using the Renault Driving eco2 feature. It is incorporated within the R & GO or R-Link connectivity systems and alters the throttle mapping and air conditioning power. As a standard, this Twingo trim will also get Variable Gear Ratio steering.

2015 Renault Twingo Dynamique S is offered in the following exterior colors: Crystal White, Diamond Black or Flame Red paint. The first deliveries are expected in April.

Source: Renault

February 9, 2015

Renault Clio Receives Cosmetic Changes via GT Line Look Pack

Renault’s GT Line Look Pack is the new addition to the Clio range. It improves the appearance of the car with many tweaks like new wheels, more expressive exhaust and bumpers. It is actually offered in two Clio versions – Dynamique MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav, both exuding the dynamic nature of the model. In addition, all Clio models are having changes in the interior, while the GT Line version adds rear parking camera as an option.

Precisely, the GT Line Look Pack makes the spirit of the car even sportier through GT Anthracite alloy wheels. They are 16-inch on Dynamique MediaNav models and 17-inch on Dynamique S MediaNav. The GT front and rear bumpers are absolutely new and they now feature LED daytime running lights as well as a single chromed exhaust tailpipe.

On the doors we see Anthracite mirror casings and protective inserts. Renaultsport sill kick plates and GT Line badging are also included in the pack and the first are available with the Glacier White, Diamond Black, Flame Red and Mercury paint choices. The GT Line Look Pack can be provided to the Dynamique MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav powered by the 90 hp (66 kW) 0.9-litre TCe and 90 hp 1.5 dCi engines.

These versions also include some new interior trim details. For instance, the interior lighting is more contemporary white rather than amber, grey replaces gloss black for the door armrests and handles. The MediaNav or R-Link inserts and air conditioning controls have a matt chrome rather than a shiny chrome finish.

Matt chrome is also used for the air vent surrounds, air vent handle and gear knob of all Clios as well as the dashboard rings, handbrake button and interior door handles. The gear gaiter surround is grey on Expression and Expression+ versions, and it is gloss black on Dynamique MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav models. Several trim levels receive leather wrapped steering wheel.

Source: Renault

February 9, 2015

Could This be Seat’s Fastest-Ever Production Car?

Sometimes the name really says it all. Dubbed SEAT Leon SC Cupra 280, the sports coupe arrives with no less than 280 HP. Apart from the obvious, now the automaker is launching a performance kit for this model which copies the specific characteristics of the first front – wheel – drive car that set the sub – 8 minute Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record.

Called “Ultimate Sub8 Performance Pack,” the kit gives the SEAT Leon SC Cupra 280 more focused nature. The car is fitted with rear seats and a radio, DAB at that. In addition to this, the kit also offers 30 mm larger brakes with Brembo calipers, body colored side skirts, multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels in black or orange and a number of weight reduction treatments. The weight-reduction measures also replace the initial climate control with an easier and simpler heating system, while removing the center console armrest, rear air vents and storage boxes placed under the front seat. Finally, semi-slick Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires can be purchased for £460 as an option too.

Since the newly – developed pack is all about diversity, customers are given the opportunity to select either a six-speed manual or a DSG transmission. Of course, there are other standard components like the cruise control, rear parking sensors, touchscreen satellite navigation and tire pressure monitor which are also included in the pack. The Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system and Cupra Drive Profile come as standard as well. The latter enables drivers to choose between Normal, Sport, Cupra and Individual settings in order to adjust the suspension, throttle sensitivity, gearbox and engine note.

Seat sells the “Ultimate Sub8 Performance Pack” for £4,200.

Source: SEAT

February 9, 2015

2015 Opel Corsa Envisioned in a 5-door Variant

Pictures of the new Opel Corsa leaked well ahead of the car’s official debut and now an independent designer from Hungary named X-Tomi Design took a chance and rendered a five-door variant of it. Suggested as a five-door model, the car can’t be said to look too bad.

Even though the chances of an actual production are less than zero, the envisioned Opel Corsa with five doors seems to be a good option. It will be more practical and will definitely offer bigger convenience. The three – door car is a sort of a significant upgrade of the previous 2 – door Corsa and is considered to be a huge and innovative step. So, X-Tomi Design, your creation is unlikely to come to life.

Power for the on-going and existing 2015 Opel Corsa is provided by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, which generates 205 HP (150 kW) and 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) of maximum torque, between 1,900rpm and 5,800rpm. An overboost facility brings additional 35Nm of torque which ensures safer and smoother overtaking. Corsa VXR achieves 37.7mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 174g/km. Power is transmitted to the front wheels thanks to a second-generation six-speed transmission that has a short, fluid gearchange.

Finally, if customers are willing to spend more money, they can get the Corsa OPC with Performance Package which includes 330 mm front brakes by Brembo, 18-inch wheels with Michelin tires, and a mechanical multi-disc differential lock produced by Drexler.

Source: Xtomi.blogspot

February 6, 2015

IGLHAUT GmbH Treats Mercedes-Benz V-Class

When Mercedes-Benz V-Class was launched, it marked the return of the V-Class presence for the first time after the first model was originally introduced back in 1996. Now, set to improve the characteristics of the Vito van, IGLHAUT equipped the vehicle with an all-wheel-drive conversion for all-terrain capabilities.

Taking advantage of the new goodies, the latest generation IGLHAUT Mercedes-Benz V-Class Vito receives optimized functions and characteristics. Thanks to the conversion kit, the V-Class gets: a permanent four-wheel-drive, high and low-ratio gearbox, 100% locking differentials in the front axle, transfer case and rear axle, chassis-lift kit, underbody protection for front axle, transfer case, sills, and brush guard, pre-separator for engine intake (snorkel) with TOP-AIR® air filter, off-road tires in various dimensions, roof rack, spare wheel carrier at the rear

In addition to this, the V-Class with IGLHAUT all-wheel-drive demonstrates:

Ground clearance: front axle/transfer case/rear axle: approx. 280/320/370 mm
Approach/Departure Angle: 30° / 40° (depending on vehicle overhang)
Breakover Angle: 32° (depending on wheelbase)
Fording depth: 600 mm
Climbing ability: 80%

In case you dont remember, there are two engines which were offered at launch in the UK. The first one is the latest 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel which is capable of producing 161 bhp and 280 lb-ft of maximum torque. The other variant is the 2.1-liter BlueTec hybrid which generates 188 bhp and 325 lb-ft of peak torque.

Source: XMedia

February 6, 2015

Suzuki Teases its iM-4 and iK-2 Concept Cars

Suzuki is going to take the wraps off of two new concept cars during the Geneva Motor Show next month. The release of the first teaser pictures for the iK-2 and iM-4 concepts marks the beginning of the bright future of the new icons which are already confirmed for production.

Starting with the iK-2, Suzuki points out that this model is “an ideal compact sized car, developed with an innovative theme of Harmonized Force.” According to the Japanese automaker, the new car will catapult the values of compact vehicle up in the space. Even though there aren’t any official specifics revealed, the Suzuki iK-2 is expected to be approximately 90 kg lighter than the Swift. In addition to this, power is likely to be provided by a new 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, apart from a diesel engine.

The second concept car is called Suzuki iM-4 and looks like a mini-SUV. Its creator says that the new model will arrive with a “compact 4×4 DNA” and a pack of technologies. What is more, the mini 4×4 will try to conquer the market with “distinctive styling that will give real inspiration to drivers.”

Along with those innovative vehicles, Suzuki is planning to launch six all-new models by 2017.

Source: Suzuki

February 6, 2015

Audi Shows Fifty-Shades-of-Grey-Inspired Video Clip [VIDEO]

Since Audi is the official partner of the soon-to-be-revealed movie titled Fifty Shades of Grey, it has shown a new video where Vanessa Bayer is trying to seduce strangers in an elevator. And we have to admit that it is pretty hilarious.

Many famous singers and performers, like Beyonce and The Weeknd, have been inspired by the worldwide phenomenon Fifty Shades of Grey. But it hasn’t left an imprint on the music industry only. The domination of the box office has reached even productions such as Spongebob Squarepants as well. And now Audi has asked Saturday Night Live’s star to recreate perhaps the most popular scene in the movie industry so far.

The attempts of the desperate woman fail to bring her the so-wanted results but we at least are presented with something genuinely funny. Her pickup lines like “I’m working out right now. Kegels. Making everything real strong” and “You’re so dominant,” as well as the gestures, facial expressions and mimics are an unquestioned recipe for a failure.

What really stands behind this video is the idea of Audi to promote itself as well because in the upcoming movie different characters will drive Audi models such as the S7, S8, Q3, A3 and Audi R8 V10 Spyder. So what’s better than making a parody out of the film and showing a shadowy image of Audi vehicle at the end? Nothing.

Well done, Audi! You know how to play with subtleties!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utP3ROiT_DM

Source: Audi via Youtube

February 6, 2015

LARTE Design Range Rover Sport Winner: Winner at Horse Race

Russian Tuning company Larte Design has come up with an aggressively looking design for the Range Rover Sport and presented it at last year’s Essen Motor Show. Apart from new components for the vehicle, it also received a minor addition to its name. Dubbed “Winner”, the luxury SUV was the main star in a new photo shooting on the Gelsenkirchen (Germany) trotting course.

Horse races are a popular thing around the globe. They are accompanied by a certain amount of adrenaline which makes people hold their breath while waiting to see the final result. Something else that can make people do the same is the new Range Rover Sport Winner.

The styling programme underlines the dynamic look of the automobile by providing with a uniquely shaped front fascia that has a new grille sporting three trapezoidal frames and a lower sporty-looking grille with blue accents which “lend the car even more character and an artistic touch.” The revised horizontal LED daytime running lights contribute to the seemingly natural bodylook of the Sport Winner as well. In addition to this, there is a black “sport band” that flows down to the rear where a prominent roof spoiler, third brake light and Remus quad exhaust system are placed too.

Finally, Larte Design Range Rover Sport Winner benefits from a set of gloss-black ten-double-spoke alloy wheels, new rear bumper and boomerang grids.

Source: Larte Design

February 6, 2015

Lexus Enters 2015 V8 Supercars Events with Official RC F Safety Car

The high-performanceLexus RC F coupe will be featured this year as V8 Supercars’ official Safety Car. In addition, a GS 350 F Sport and an IS 350 F Sport models will also be on track as the championship’s official course and medical cars. V8 Supercars is an annual world’s touring car series and the involvement of the company as supplier of vehicles reflects its new energy. It also presents the dynamism and performance credentials of the cars in brand’s lineup.

RC F is the latest model to wear the F badge. It is powered by the 5.0-litre V8 engine. The unit generates 477 horsepower (351kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of optimum torque. The car will be included in each of 2015 V8 Supercars Championship events.

The car features aggressive and aerodynamic curves, and along with that it includes racetrack-developed suspension and brakes. Its power is delivered onto the road through an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission and unique torque vectoring differential.

The GS 350 F Sport will be used as a course car, while the IS 350 F Sport will play the role of medical car. Both vehicles will boast performance and safety credentials to deliver support to V8 Supercars’ intense on-track activities.

They are driven by 3.5-litre quad cam V6 unit, which produces 316 hp (233 kW) and 378 Nm (279 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual control via paddle shifters.

2015 Lexus V8 Supercars will start doing their job at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide from 26^th of February to 1^st of March.

Source: Lexus

February 6, 2015

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