Automobiles Review – Page 421 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Toyota Returns to FIA World Rally Championship with Yaris WRC Car [VIDEO]

Toyota is returning to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2017 with a Yaris WRC car. It was developed and built by the Toyota Motorsport (TMG) technical centre in Cologne, Germany. Over the next two years the team will make tests of the car, which will prepare it for a full return to the racing series. This announcement was made by company’s President, Akio Toyoda, at a news conference in Tokyo. The Yaris WRC also made its public debut there.

The car is driven by a 1.6-litre turbo-charged, direct-injection engine, which generates over 300 hp (221 kW). In addition, advanced simulation, testing and production techniques have shaped the Yaris chassis.

Furthermore, the development of the car will be expanded and the dedicated team of specialists assigned to engineer and operate the car will be increased. Several young drivers already tested the car. This resulted in the selection of Eric Camilli, 27, who has been chosen to be the first member of a junior driver development scheme.

Camilli will cooperate in this program with Stéphane Sarrazin, 2014 Tour de Corse winner, as well as with Sebastian Lindholm. The experience which will be gained from the test program will help Toyota prepare the car for the 2017 season. This is when updated technical regulations are expected to be introduced.

Toyota Yaris WRC is expected to make a competitive debut in 2017. This is more than 17 years since the company’s last world championship rally. Back in 1999, the company marked the end of over 25 years of continuous rally activity with 43 wins achieved.

Toyota Yaris WRC Technical Specifications:

Chassis:

Type	Steel body shell
Brakes	300mm discs on gravel, 355mm on tarmac
Wheels	Wheels 7 x 15″ gravel, 8 x 18″ tarmac
Tyres	Michelin
Dimensions	Length: 3910mm
	Width: 1820mm

Powertrain:

Engine capacity	1.6 litres
Type	In-line four-cylinder
Direct injection	Up to 200bar
Fuel	Petrol
Turbo pressure	2.5 bar absolute (maximum)
Air restrictor	33mm
Power	Around 300hp (at 6,000rpm)
Torque	420Nm
Max revs	8,500rpm
Transmission	Six-speed sequential
Clutch	ZF Sachs

httpv://youtu.be/QY8A4m0g5aw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota Motorsport

February 2, 2015

Nissan Previews 2016 Maxima in Super Bowl Ad [VIDEO]

Cheeky Nissan has managed to trick us in terms of the new Maxima. When we got our first look at the concept version of the next-generation Nissan, the automaker refused to confirm that this was actually it! While now the truth came out. In a 2015 Super Bowl commercial, the manufacturer teased us with a glimpse of the vehicle in question.

Nissan is staying tight-lipped and still hasn’t revealed any specific information about its 2016 Nissan Maxima but judging from the touching and full-of-emotion “With Dad” ad, which came out during last night’s Super Bowl, the new sedan implements the latest language design. From what we can see, the exterior of the vehicle is an amalgamation of a healthy dose of audacity and ambitiousness which perfectly match the stylish look of the Maxima.

From a mechanical standpoint, the car is supposed to be fitted with a V6 3.5-liter engine that is capable of producing at least 260 HP (194 kW). Yet, nothing has been officially confirmed so far, so we will have to wait little bit longer until that happens.

As if trying to compensate the lack of information, Nissan introduced its seductive and aggressively-looking GT-R LM Nismo in the short video too. The racer will take part in the LMP1 class at Le Mans.

Have a look at the commercial and share your opinion regarding the highly-anticipated Nissan Maxima.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd1qCi5nSKw

Source: Nissan via Youtube

February 2, 2015

Speedhunters Maximum Attack FR-S on Display at Chicago Auto Show [VIDEO]

2015 Speedhunters Scion FR-S Maximum Attack is the name of the winning vehicle of Scion’s 10th annual Tuner Challenge. The good news is for all visitors of this year’s Chicago Auto Show, because the car will be on display there. From its participation in the Scion Tuner Challenge, Speedhunters were given 90-days and $15,000 to transform a stock Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0. They designed the “Maximum Attack” Scion FR-S with 1970s look that incorporates the racing heritage, taking on the number 86 and an IMSA style look.

The visual standout on their design is overfenders as part of a special edition kit designed by Kei Miura. The car itself is equipped with Cosworth Stage 2.0 supercharger and also features RS*R Black-i coilovers as well as a Wilwood big brake kit with 6-pistons front/4-pistons rear. It runs on custom Rotiform BLQ wheels which are in size 17×9 inches at the front and 17×11 inches at the rear.

At the show, Scion will also feature its full lineup of exciting youth-oriented vehicles. On display will be the FR-S 1.0 and tC 9.0 Release Series vehicles. In addition, Scion tC Release Series 9.0 arrives in dealerships this month.

This is a limited edition two-tone version of the popular sports coupe that was designed in conjunction with Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. The vehicle has one-of-a-kind black and magma exterior, and also features an aero kit designed by Cartel Customs, a center exhaust, a Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the “Cartel Logo” and orange front seat belts.

httpv://youtu.be/1expMUIsuGU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Scion

February 2, 2015

The All-new Mazda MX-5 Redefines the Driving Experience

Smaller, lighter, nicer and fresher from the ground up – this is the fourth generation Mazda MX5! Comparing it to the 1989 model, the new one is shorter than the original version and loses more than 100 kg of its body weight.

Becoming the essence of every Mazda model, 2015 Mazda MX5 undoubtedly redefines the idea of fun and pleasure when it comes to driving. To maximize the lightweight aggression which the car presents, the automaker equips it with a SKYACTIV – G direct-injection 1.5-litre petrol engine matched to a six-speed manual gearbox. It produces 131 PS (96kw) at 7,000rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 4,800rpm.

Exteriorly, Mazda MX5 conveys a certain harmony due to the blend of top-notch design and well-crafted proportions. With its nicely-sculptured front, the new MX5 knows how to make an impression. Since the engine is mounted lower in the chassis, the bonnet is lower too and this gives the driver a better view while on the move.

Interiorly, the car is arranged in such a manner that allows for ultimate concentration on the driving experience. For instance, the pedals, controls, gauges and the rest of the features are optimally positioned, enabling the driver to keep a straight posture and drive as comfortably as possible. Inside the car, one will definitely get the feel of a design that is balanced, plain and stylish, at the same time. It seems that everything in this open-top car is put on its right place and in the right shape.

It is good that Mazda MX5 has come to life because this small preciousness adds a renewed “sensation of the driver and car being in sync with each other as they communicate.”

Source: Mazda

February 2, 2015

PP-Performance Tunes Porsche 911 Turbo to the World Record [VIDEO]

PP-Performance released a video showing how a tweaked Porsche 911 Turbo is making a world record. The car covers the ¼ mile for 9.8s! The tuning company has put some more oomph into the probably most known Zuffenhausen sports car forge family member. After the engine intervention the serial horsepower numbers have been significantly raised. Precisely, the Porsche 911 Turbo produces 520 hp (382 kW) and maximum torque of 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) without the tuning.

The “surgical intervention” (as the professionals call it) into the engine techniques include PP-Performance Digital Racing Box, IPD intake plenum, 3-to-1 headers, downpipes, x-pipe and BMC high performance air filters. The result: the 911 Turbo model is capable of producing 670 horsepower (493 kW) and 820 Nm (605 lb-ft) of optimum torque.

But more importantly, this power boost gave the opportunity for the team to reach impressive acceleration values. In details, the car can now cover the 0-60 mph sprint within 2.5 seconds instead of the serial 3.4 seconds. This literally means that the 911 Turbo’s acceleration time equals with Bugatti Veyron 16.4.

In addition, the car also made a speed world record, which you can view below. Instead of 11.1 seconds of the serial version, the 120 mph limit is reached by PP-911 within 8.2 seconds. In addition, the 9.8 seconds world record in the corresponding class for the ¼ mile on dragstrip is also no wonder! See for yourself:

httpv://youtu.be/OWhGaRgsvm8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: PP-Performance

February 2, 2015

Nissan GT-R LM NISMO is Like No Other Le Mans Car [VIDEO]

The first glimpse of race-ready Nissan GT-R LM NISMO happened during Super Bowl XLIX. For those who missed it below is a bunch of pictures displaying the racer as well as the commercial video which was aired last night. Last year’s Super Bowl was the most watched television programme in the US with over 110 million viewers. Therefore the 2015 game was the best opportunity for Nissan’s “With Dad” ad to air for the first time, revealing the much-anticipated GT-R LM NISMO.

Nissan says that the LM P1 racing car is so innovative that it is like no other Le Mans car. The Japanese manufacturer has interpreted the sport’s technical regulations in an innovative way. If you ask how – it has produced a front-engined, front wheel drive car that is driven by a V6 3-litre twin turbo petrol engine and has a kinetic energy recovery system.

As you have probably figured it out, the new car will contest the LM P1 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship. This is the highest category in world sports car racing. The racing season begins on 12^th of April at Silverstone, UK. The series then will travel around the world to Spa in Belgium, onto the Le Mans 24 Hours and Germany’s Nurburgring.

The spotlight in this car falls on energy efficiency. With more technical freedom the LM P1 engineers had the opportunity to innovate. The intensive test programme began in Arizona last year and continues this week at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas.

Nissan GT-R LM NISMO is the ultimate Nissan GT-R and expresses innovation that excites. What does this mean? We have already mentioned that the there is a V6 3-litre twin turbo petrol engine which sits in the front of the front-wheel-drive car, while the hybrid power is harvested from the front driveline to support acceleration.

In horsepower this translates in around 1250 hp (919 kW) with 550 hp (404 kW) from the petrol engine and around 700 hp (515 kW) from hybrid power. The engine produces a large amount of power – utilizing the allotted fuel flow limit (one of the new regulations at Le Mans).

In addition to that Nissan is using a kinetic energy recovery system (ERS). The car is a mass, travelling at velocity and as it slows down for the upcoming corner it harvests that kinetic energy. Then, the stored energy is deployed to accelerate the car out of the corner and because the energy recovery system can release the stored energy very quickly it makes it very powerful.

httpv://youtu.be/Bd1qCi5nSKw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

February 2, 2015

Lexus Uses Revised Pricing Structure for Key Model Lines

Lexus models from the CT, IS, ES, GS, LS, RX and LX become a real bargain now thanks to the removal of the existing five per cent import duty. After the implementation of Australia’s most recent trade agreement with Japan, the automaker has introduced lower prices for its leading model lines which are mentioned above.

The revised price tags have already taken effect and now customers can buy the new Lexus NX compact SUV and Lexus RC coupe models for less money than before. For example, the retail price reduction is between $2,000 on Lexus CT 200h premium hybrid hatch and $8,600 on Lexus LS limousine. This pricing structure is really an opportunity which will open many (cars’) doors for more people who want to have that unique Lexus experience.

Commenting on this event, Lexus Australia chief executive Sean Hanley said that; “In recent times we have introduced dynamic new models that offer progressive design and performance in NX and RC,” and continued; “Now we can offer our existing model lines with even more competitive pricing to allow more customers to experience the vast benefits of Lexus ownership.”

“That ownership experience is built on enhanced features, leading technology, design, unmatched reliability and a rewarding driving experience.

“It is positive news for our brand and customers and adds to what is already a significant year for Lexus as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.”

Source: Lexus

February 2, 2015

Toyota Racing Confirms Lineup for FIA World Endurance Championship

2015 Toyota TS040 Hybrid is to be driven by two brand new drivers included in the lineup for the FIA World Endurance Championship. They are Anthony Davidson and Mike Conway. With the announcement of their addition to the list, Toyota Racing has finally confirmed the driver line-up for this year. The team will be competing with two TS040 Hybrid cars and has the goal of keeping the drivers’ and manufacturers’ world champion titles.

As a reminder, Toyota was 2014 champion and this means that the cars will be placed at the No1 and No2 plates. And to reach the final goal and stay on the first place, Toyota’s driver line-ups have been fine-tuned.

Precisely, the No1 car will feature Anthony Davidson and Sébastien Buemi, who jointly claimed the 2014 drivers’ title, alongside Kazui Nakajima. The No2 car will be driven by Alex Wurz, Stéphane Sarrazin and Mike Conway. There will also be a future announcement regarding a test and reserve driver in the coming weeks.

In addition, the company confirmed that it has plans to return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2017. The Cologne-based Toyota Racing Team said its World Endurance Championship (WEC) campaign would not be adversely affected by its involvement in the WRC project.

Team president Yoshiaki Kinoshita praised the performances, attitude and commitment of the six drivers and said that they have worked with all our drivers for a long time and have developed very strong relationships. This stability and consistency has been a significant part of the recent success and made it to number one priority in the plans for 2015 and beyond.

Driver Details:

ANTHONY DAVIDSON
Born	18 April 1979, Hemel Hempstead, UK
Le Mans debut	2003
Le Mans starts	7
Le Mans best result	2nd (2013)
WEC starts	17
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	1st (2014)

SÉBASTIEN BUEMI
Born	31 October 1988, Aigle, Switzerland
Le Mans debut	2012
Le Mans starts	3
Le Mans best result	2nd (2013)
WEC starts	17
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	1st (2014)

KAZUKI NAKAJIMA
Born	11 January 1985, Okazaki, Japan
Le Mans debut	2012
Le Mans starts	3
Le Mans best result	4th (2013)
WEC starts	16
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	8th (2014)

ALEX WURZ
Born	15 February 1974, Waidhofen an der Thaya, Austria
Le Mans debut	1996
Le Mans starts	8
Le Mans best result	1st (1996 & 2009)
WEC starts	20
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	3rd (2012)

STÉPHANE SARRAZIN
Born	2 November 1975, Alès, France
Le Mans debut	2001
Le Mans starts	13
Le Mans best result	2nd (2007, 2009 & 2013)
WEC starts	24
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	3rd (2013)

MIKE CONWAY
Born	19 August 1983, Sevenoaks, UK
Le Mans debut	2013
Le Mans starts	1
Le Mans best result	n/a
WEC starts	10
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	7th (2013)

Source: Toyota

February 2, 2015

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe Nighthawk is Here

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe undoubtedly conveys a mixture of class, good look and grace. Being one of the finest cars to move around the streets now it has become even more phenomenal and provocative thanks to the limited-edition Phantom Drophead Coupe Nighthawk. This model is built as a part of the collection of 9 vehicles, each of which offers definite uniqueness.

All cars from the Phantom line are equipped with adaptive LED headlights, Diamond Black Metallic paint, Matt Diamond Black bonnet and a windscreen surround. The already known 6.75-liter V12 engine with 453 HP (338 kW) and 719 Nm (531 lb-ft) of maximum torque resides under the hood. This is enough to sprint the amazing vehicle from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h).

Rolls-Royce Nighthawk is perfect for people who find the standard Phantom Drophead Coupe not as satisfying as they expect it to be. Limited to just nine cars, the new special edition is an example of what truly stunning Rolls-Royce should look like. Accentuated by carbon fiber treatment on the door panels, dashboard and the steering wheel spokes, the Nighthawk creates a vision of supremacy. The two-tone theme of the cabin features Hotspur Red and black leather and carbon instrument dials.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe Nighthawk is going to be sold in North America exclusively.

Source: Rolls-Royce

January 30, 2015

ARES Atelier Mercedes-Benz S-Class XXL will Resist Military Weapons

Described as the “epitome of representative automobiles”, Mercedes-Benz S-Class XXL by ARES Atelier is an attempt for the tuning company to get one step ahead of Daimler.

What happened indeed was that ARES Atelier stretched a regular Mercedes-Benz S-Class chassis and then installed new carbon fiber body kit to reinforce the structure of the vehicle.

Part of the newly added components include a front bumper, rear bumper, rear diffuser, sideskirts and a front grille. Other upgrades feature beefed up brakes, refined gearbox, 6 mm thick tempered side glass and 21-inch ARES forged wheels.

The revised braking system might turn out to be of a great advantage and use since the limousine will also get a power upgrade which will enable the car to impress with more than 600 HP. With such power package refinement, the S-Class XXL will be capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.8 seconds, while setting a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Packed with some goodies too, the interior makes a great impression, thus bringing a feel of originality and excellent workmanship. Inside the cabin, the ARES Atelier Mercedes-Benz S-Class XXL is polished by some exclusive materials and features such as Nappa leather upholstery, 17 inch HD flatscreens, electric curtains, Nocturnal blue ambient lighting on the ceiling, individual climate control cooling boxes and glasses storage.

If customers are willing to pay more, they can have the car with the highest protection standard on the market which ensures emergency mobility and an effective defense against military weapons as well as explosives.

Source: ARES Atelier

January 30, 2015

Lexus Introduces New Turbo Engine in Lexus NX 200t

When talking about innovative technology and cutting-edge performance, Lexus sometimes manages to fit in. With their soon – to – be – launched first ever turbocharged petrol engine in the NX small SUV, the automaker is setting stronger values in the segment. People who appreciate performance definitely will be made happier!

New performance qualities are brought to Lexus NX range thanks to the all-new 175 kW engine. The models also benefit from a power and equipment improvements which add some really notable highlights to the small and medium premium SUVs.

The NX 200t Line, which is already on sale, starts with the Luxury model priced at $52,500for the two-wheel-drive version, while the all-wheel-drive Luxury models cost $57,000.

For the price of $63,500 Lexus NX 200t F Sport receives an extensive pack of goodies which includes: Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), 360-degree panoramic monitor, blind spot monitor, front and rear performance dampers. Additionally, there is rear cross-traffic alert, as well as LED headlamps, wireless phone charger, 10-way adjustable power front seats with driver memory, heated and cooled front seats. The car moves on F Sport 18-inch alloy wheels while also taking advantage of attractive exterior and leather-accented interior design.

There are two enhancement packs for F Sport versions too. The first one is comprised of moon roof and 14-speaker Mark Levinson Audio system. Enhancement Pack 2 includes Pre-Collision Safety system (PCS), all-speed active cruise control, Lane Departure Warning, widescreen color heads-up display (HUD), auto high beam, smart card key, moon roof and 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio.

Lexus NX 200t Sports Luxury variant is highlighted by the segment-first power 60:40 rear-fold seat, PCS, all-speed active cruise control, Lane Departure Warning, widescreen color HUD, all-LED headlamps with auto high beam, smart card key, moon roof and 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio. The price is that of $72,500.

Source: Lexus

January 30, 2015

Kia Sorento and Pierce Brosnan: An Unexpectedly Good Combination [VIDEO]

Days ahead of the Super Bowl game, automotive companies keep flooding the internet space with their event-dedicated ads. The extended video for the all-new Kia Sorento is among the best ones that we have seen so far. The 60-second commercial, which will make its broadcast debut during the third quarter of Super Bowl XLIX, shows the vehicle in snow while simultaneously combining humor, action-like scenes and motion. We can see not just the attractive car while moving but also Pierce Brosnan who goes through a range of contrasting emotions as he listens to the explanations of one too excited Hollywood agent.

Completely redesigned, 2016 Kia Sorento is longer, wider, lower and more powerful. With its 290 horsepower and all-wheel drive, the car becomes “The Perfect Getaway Vehicle”. Having more aggressive styling, intricate surface detailing, and excellent off-road capabilities, the new Sorento inserts some exclusive dynamism into the automotive world.

Teaming up with the well-known actor Pierce Brosnan, the automaker tries to highlight the sophisticated personality and virtues of the refined Kia Sorento by creating “a getaway so unexpected that even Pierce himself did not see it coming.”

Brosnan shares that; “Along with the two leading teams, at one of America’s greatest sporting events, the Super Bowl commercials are the centrepiece of the day,” and then adds; “I’ve enjoyed being a part of the Kia team, which traditionally has one of the most memorable commercials in the game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSqqCI0LNHs

Source: Kia via Youtube

January 30, 2015

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