Automobiles Review – Page 418 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Kia’s Mysterious Electric AWD Concept is a Soul Based Trail’ster

A week ago Kia released teaser image of a mysterious vehicle, which is to debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Now, the company is showing second picture that gives some hints to the back of the car. In addition, Kia has also revealed the name of the model: Trail’ster e-AWD concept. Unlike last week, when we weren’t given any information, this time the brand told us that the car will be based on the Soul, but will bring it to a new level of expression, efficiency and capability.

In addition, the concept vehicle will have bold design with a fully retractable canvas roof. It will be driven by smartly integrated rear electric all-wheel drive system and its drivetrian will be turbocharged.

Although the new teaser does not display much than the previous one, one can clearly see that the five-door concept features round taillights, lower body edging as well as underbody protection panels. The five-hole wheels are very expressive due to their red design theme.

Designed by Kia’s California design studio, the bold off-roader is aimed at the city dwellers seeking the ultimate urban escape. The concept will enable a wide array of outdoor activities such as skiing or snowboarding, camping or hiking, and even mountain biking.

Trail’ster e-AWD not only focuses on the environmental side of things, but it definitely promises adventures at higher elevations. This concept will undoubtedly prove that the practical urban vehicles can also be rugged and capable.

Kia Trail’ster e-AWD concept will be unveiled at the show in Chicago on 12th of February.

Source: Kia

February 6, 2015

The Coolest 4×4 is Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track

One of the coolest-looking 4×4’s out there is made by the British tuning company Kahn. It is based on the Land Rover Defender 2.4 TDCI XS 110 Double Cab Pick Up. With super-strong stance, this vehicle is not only one of the toughest, but also one of the most capable luxury automobiles one can find on the market. Adding to its beneficial credentials is the designation “Chelsea Wide Track” after its name.

In details, the tuners have added to this Land Rover new front and rear wide wings with vents and bolt apertures. The body color of the car was decided in Corris Grey, while there are accents like the extended wheel arches which were painted in matt black.

The shadow chrome headlamps contribute to the strong appeal, and the same thing do the front bumper replacement with bumper lights, bonnet and side vents with mesh stainless steel, side steps and the X-Lander front grille. There is a special Chelsea Truck Company rear wheel cover that demands immediate attention.

This aggressive beauty runs on a set of 9.0×20” Volcanic Black Mondial wheels. They are coupled with 275 x 55 x 20 tyres, beneath which we can see brake callipers finished in Liquid Red. Rounding out the rugged look of this vehicle are the rear mud flaps in toughened leather and a twin crosshair exhaust system.

The interior matches the exclusive characteristics of the interior. Inside we see Front Sports GTB seats in quilted and perforated leather and Churchill Time Clock and speedo/rev counter facia insert in red.

The designers took care of the steering wheel and wrapped it in leather. The in instrument binnacle is also in leather, and all around are highlights in Alcantara. Hard wearing front and rear cabin floor mats, vented foot pedals in machined aluminium and door cards in black leather make a definitive statement.

Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 02 Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 03 Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 04 Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 05 Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 06

Source: A. Kahn Design

February 6, 2015

Toyota to Debut Camry and Corolla Special Editions, and Updated Avalon

Toyota has released a teaser image and a statement to introduce the refreshed 2016 Avalon model at the Chicago Auto Show. The new sedan will be revealed next Thursday on 12^th of February. What is more, the Japanese company will also make another two debuts. They are for the 2016 Camry and Corolla Special Editions. These are limited production models that are equipped with unique sport-themed features.

To redesign the 2015 Camry, Toyota literally changed almost everything and re-engineered nearly 2,000 parts. The only thing unchanged was the roof. Now, the new Special Edition adds to the bold look of the car an extra dose of both aggressiveness and technology.

It is based on the SE trim level, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. It will come standard with the Star Safety System.

This limited production Camry will add to the appeal of its exterior unique 18-inch alloy wheels with machined face contrasted with gloss black painted accents, power tilt/slide moonroof and smoked tail lamp treatment as well as and unique exterior badge. It will be offered in two colors: Blizzard Pearl and new Blue Streak Metallic.

Inside, the sports seats trimmed with black SofTex bolsters and blue patterned inserts will feature high contrast blue stitching. The same design treatment is included in the shift boot and dash. Among other goodies are sport meter cluster with blue details and white background, Entune Audio Plus, Smart Key with Pushbutton Start, Qi wireless charging and floor mats with logo.

The next vehicle to have a Special Edition is the Corolla and it is based on the S Plus grade. Sporty styling features, inside and out, complement the car. Next to the new steering wheel paddle shifters, rear disc brakes and Sport Driving Mode, there is an array of additional standard features.

Precisely it adds 17-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish and just like the Camry – unique exterior badge. The car will be offered in three distinctive colors: Absolutely Red, Black Sand Pearl and Super White.

The interior is one-of-a-kind thanks to the black design scheme with red contrast stitching. Red accents are also featured on the dash and door trim. There is also Smart Key System with pushbutton start and floor mats with logo. Here, the tilt/slide moonroof is available as an option.

Another option for Camry and Corolla Special Editions is the Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite.

2016 Camry Special Edition will have a limited production of 12,000 units and will run from August to January. 2016 The Corolla Special Edition will be produced between August and December and will be limited to 8,000 units.

Source: Toyota

February 6, 2015

Skoda Updates Superb SE Business Model

Skoda has updated the equipment of the Superb SE Business model, which will now feature more goodies at no additional cost. The upgraded version of the car now comes with full leather upholstery and heated front seats as standard, thus adding more comfort and convenience to its characteristics. Next to the new equipment, the occupants and driver will also enjoy the benefits of the already abundant standard kit in the Superb.

Precisely, it includes premium features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, DAB radio, dual-zone air-con, power-fold door mirrors, cruise control, trip computer, Bluetooth and an umbrella in the rear door.

Superb SE Business is currently offered in two variants: either a hatchback or an estate. It is powered by the efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine, producing 140 hp (103 kW). The hatchback features as a standard manual transmission, while the estate model is equipped with DSG-transmission.

Thanks to the latter the car shows low carbon footprint, emitting only 109 grams per kilometer. The model also offers excellent practicality and 633 litre boot.

SE Business suite of vehicles includes not only the Superb range, but also company’s Octavia and Yeti models. It is specifically designed to offer corporate customers comprehensive specification, class-leading space and versatility.

Source: Skoda

February 6, 2015

See the Glory of the 2015 BMW M6 in Motion [VIDEO]

The one true God among all powerful automobiles is the iconic BMW M6 which is available either as a coupe or as a convertible. It is visually splendid, with a design that breaks down the boundaries between what can be achieved and what cannot in the automotive universe.

In a recently published video, BMW unleashes the wild spirit of the unbeatable M6, thus underlining its superb and exhilarating character. In addition to this, the sporty and luxurious high-performance essence of the 2015 BMW M6 is pointed out as well. Being a time-honored synonym for superiority, dominance and class, the model imposes fuming exclusivity beyond compare. Just seeing this unrivaled beauty on a picture can make your head spin. Imagine what seeing it in motion can do. Showing the highest of standards in terms of performance, handling, comfort, technology and appearance, the car climbs the top of its existence.

Just as a reminder, the new BMW M6 Coupe, BMW M6 Convertible and BMW M6 Gran Coupe are powered by a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine that dazzles with 560 HP (412 kW) between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm, while the maximum torque is that of 680 Nm (501 lb-ft)

Check out the link bellow to see the outstanding presence of the models.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9-TLRA8PpE

Source: BMW via Youtube

February 5, 2015

Infiniti QX30 Concept Teased

We were expecting Infiniti to unveil its crossover variant of the upcoming Q30 compact car and today we finally got our chance to catch a glimpse of it. The released teaser image is of a concept version that is going to make its premiere next month during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

The new Infiniti QX30 concept car is said to match the “urban – week – and – get – away – weekend lifestyle” of customers. According to the carmaker, this model is going to be an example of how the sleek lines of a coupe are combined with the rugged appearance and commanding seating position of a crossover. The SUV-like look is partially obvious from the image which depicts an intriguing rear end underscored by an interesting tailgate and well-shaped LED taillights. Moreover, the huge rear bumper is completed by large exhaust tips.

Beefed up tires and massive wheel arches also adorn the silhouette of the QX30 concept. Along with the Q30 hatch, both cars will receive a production version later this year. Despite the fact that there is still plenty of information that is missing, Infiniti revealed that its QX30 will be based on the Mercedes-Benz MFA premium compact car platform developed for GLA compact crossover. The Infiniti Q30, on the other hand, will be similar to Mercedes-Benz MFA-based A-Class hatch.

Source: Infiniti

February 5, 2015

The MINI Sport Pack adds style & boosts residual value

There is unquestioned presence of sportiness in the MINI’s DNA but now customers can get their compact cars with additional sporty flair. Thanks to the new Sport Pack, MINI 3-Door or 5-Door Hatch can reinforce their athletic appearance.

It is not a secret that MINI hatches are among the most wanted cars, with the 3-Door Hatch being a class-leading RVs. Available on all models, the MINI Sport Pack provides the automobiles with even more class-leading characteristics, refreshed styling and refined performance equipment. Some of the desirable features are: new bonnet stripes, sport suspension, 17-inch Track Spoke alloy wheels in silver or black, John Cooper Works steering wheel (with cruise and multifunction control) and John Cooper Works spoiler.

The full list of equipment included in the Sport Pack (in addition to existing Chili Pack content):

Cloth/leather Diamond upholstery
Multi-function controls for steering wheel
Bonnet stripes
Sport suspension (not for MINI One & One D)
17″ Track Spoke alloy wheels in silver or black
John Cooper Works steering wheel
John Cooper Works roof spoiler
John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit
Floor mats
Passenger seat height adjustment
Storage compartment pack
Anthracite headlining
Piano Black interior trim
MINI Excitement Pack
MINI Driving Modes
Rain sensor and automatic headlight activation
Air conditioning, dual-zone automatic
Interior lights pack
MINI John Cooper Works door sill finishers

Pricing of the MINI Sport Pack varies depending on which model it is being added to. The pack for One and One D is £4,500, for Cooper and Cooper D it costs £4,300, for MINI Cooper S and Cooper SD is £3,300.

Source: MINI

February 5, 2015

The New Volkswagen Caddy with a Variety of Engines

Volkswagen has introduced the fourth – generation of its well – known Caddy and is expected to score the same or even bigger success like the third – generation which hit more than 1.5 million sales around the globe during its eleven-year production.

This model arrives with a number of engines including a 1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder with 102 PS (75 kW), a 1.2-liter TSI four-cylinder producing 84 PS (62 kW) and a 1.4-liter TSI four-cylinder that is capable of generating 125 PS (92 kW). What is more, there will be four TDI engines as well. They will be able to deliver a power output ranging from 75 PS (55 kW) to 150 PS (110 kW).

Some of the upgraded features for the 2015 Volkswagen Caddy are represented by a new front end that has a larger grille. The latter is characterized by redesigned headlights. Alterations in terms of the style continue at the back too. There is a new rear bumper, revised taillights and a modified tailgate.

Bigger modifications can be found in the cabin where Volkswagen Caddy adopts some very striking components. For example, the modern look of the car is accentuated by new door panels, reworked switchgear, as well as new steering wheel and dashboard. The automaker pointed out that the vehicle can be fitted with plenty of safety and comfort features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Discover Media radio-navigation system, Composition Media radios and Composition Color infotainment systems. There is an optional ‘Park Assist’ system too. It enables automated parallel parking and parking at right-angles to the carriageway.

Source: Volkswagen

February 5, 2015

Bugatti Introduces Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition

Qatar Motor Show starts on 6^th of February and this is where Bugatti will bring world’s fastest production car: Veyron 16.4 Super Sport. Officially confirmed by the Guinness Book of Records, the 1,200 hp bolide set the world speed record for production cars in 2010 with an average maximum speed of 431.072 km/h. And interestingly enough, this record can’t still be beaten.

For the first time Bugatti will display the vehicle in its original configuration as a World Record Edition. The original Veyron 16.4 Super Sport was introduced in 2010 and it has been sold out for quite some time.

To remind you, the Super Sport’s record-setting run took place on 26 June 2010 at the Volkswagen grounds in Germany. The official pilot of the company was Pierre-Henri Raphanel. And in accordance with the Guinness rules, Raphanel had to drive the Super Sport down the long straight twice, once in each direction. Guinness then estimated the average from the maximum speed attained on each run, and it was 431.072 km/h.

In terms of technical data the car is pretty impressive. It is driven by the 8-litre W16 engine that can produce 1,200 hp (882 kW) and a maximum torque of 1,500 Nm (1107 lb-ft). This translates to a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds.

The exterior shell of the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is made completely of carbon-fibre. The aerodynamically modified body improves the efficiency and provides better balance. The monocoque is also full-carbon and it guarantees great high torsional rigidity with maximum safety.

The vehicle has a long, low silhouette, which further improves aerodynamics. Instead of the usual air scoops over the engine, a pair of NACA ducts set in the roof delivers air to the powerplant. The front of this Bugatti is characterised by larger air inlets, while the back – by a double diffuser and centrally located exhaust system.

2015 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition can be identified by its two-tone finish that includes black carbon and orange color.

Source: Bugatti

February 5, 2015

Mitsubishi’s More Powerful Outlander is a Nice Surprise

Mitsubishi is currently introducing to the market a new and more powerful version of its top SUV, the Outlander. The Sport GT and ES trim levels will be equipped with the 2.4-liter MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. The unit produces 168 horsepower (123 kW) which is a 20 horsepower increase over the current 2.0-liter engine.

The Outlander Sport 2.4 ES features a black center bumper that differentiates it from the standard ES trim. On the other hand, the Outlander Sport 2.4 GT can be equipped with optional features such as a power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped parking brake handle and aluminum pedals. The GT version also features exterior enhancements tweaks such as the black center bumper, black roof rails and outside mirrors with LED turn indicators.

Furthermore, this trim can be also optionally equipped with the GT Premium Package. The latter adds 710-watt Rockford Fosgate premium sound system with 9 speakers including 10-inch dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch Control DTS Neural Surround, PremiDIA-WIDE surround and Dolby Volume. The available package also includes panoramic glass roof with adjustable LED mood lighting and auto dimming rearview mirror.

The GT can also get a Touring Package. It comprises of leather seating surfaces and Mitsubishi’s Navigation system with 7-inch high definition touch panel, 3D mapping, point-of-interest information and real-time traffic.

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2.4 ES has a starting of $21,295 USD, while the Outlander Sport 2.4 GT – of $23,595 USD.

Source: Mitsubishi

February 5, 2015

Morgan Prepares a New Model for Geneva

The British carmaker, Morgan, does not announce very often new launches but when it does so, well, everyone seems to be pretty interested because the rarest things are the most intriguing! This time around, the company will release a new model during 2015 Geneva Motor Show which is going to take place in March.

We haven’t been given any solid information yet. What we have, though, is a single shadowy image which leaves us drooling and leads us into assuming that the new model might be somehow linked to 2012 Morgan Electric Aero Supersports vehicle or 2012 Morgan Aero Coupe. As a refresher, Morgan Aero Coupe has BMW-sourced 4.8-liter V8 engine which carries a power output of 367 HP and 361 lb-ft of torque. Since both of the cars represent an escape from the automaker’s traditional vision, we won’t be surprised if the model we are waiting for is yet another departure.

Design and performance details surrounding the new Morgan classic creation have been pretty vague at this point but the company is promising to reveal more over the next couple of weeks. Being as scarce, secretive and unspecific as possible is a combination that achieves two things: on the one hand it makes you hungrier to find out more, on the other hand it is kind of annoying. For now patience is the answer.

Source: Morgan

February 5, 2015

Porsche Exclusive’s “Aerokit Turbo” is what every 911 Turbo Needs

New Aerokit from Porsche Exclusive is now here for all 911 Turbo and Turbo S models. The performance package will add to the exclusiveness of the car and gives it more character and sportiness to its traditional silhouette. Precisely, it includes new front spoiler with side fins as well as an entirely redesigned rear deck lid. The latter has a fixed rear spoiler with side winglets while maintaining the automatically adjusting rear wing.

But the attractive look wasn’t priority number one for the designers. In fact, the aerodynamic function was a top goal during development of the Aerokit. There were extensive tests conducted in the wind tunnel as well as many test drives on the test circuit at the Porsche Development Center in Germany.

The end goal was to enhance the driving dynamics by further improving the downforce. At the same time, Porsche preserved the same coefficient of drag as the standard equipment. The result is a proper integration of the flow-optimized Aerokit into the harmoniously balanced overall concept.

To make an example, the aerodynamic components of the “Aerokit Turbo” create even more downforce at the front and rear axles. This in turn increases driving stability at high speeds. The total downforce generated by the 911 Turbo adaptive aerodynamics at 186 mph on the track was increased to 57 lbs in the Speed setting, and to 331 lbs in the Performance setting.

There are two versions of the “Aerokit Turbo”. The first one is in car’s body color, while the second one is in high-gloss black. Next to the goodies coming from the kit, there are also side skirts and rear fascia painted in the body color. In the black version only, the air intake cover on the rear lid is painted black.

Porsche Exclusive’s “Aerokit Turbo” is currently on sale with a starting price of $6,950 USD.

Source: Porsche

February 5, 2015

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