Automobiles Review – Page 428 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

See the Fashionable Side of Mercedes-Benz [VIDEO]

What is better than a Mercedes-Benz C111? Perhaps two Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the same model but Justin O’Shea would do the trick as well. Combining a flair for fashion, sexiness and more than just good-looking… cars, the automaker is introducing a film with the title “Champions of fashion” for the Fall/Winter 2015 edition of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin.

Dynamic, mysterious, engaging and, most of all, passionate, the video brings together performance and sensuality. We see the seductive world of fashion through the fast-paced world of cars. And vice verse.

The short video begins and there we have Justin sitting in a C111 all calm and focused, glancing into an invisible point in the distance before him. He talks and as he talks we become more and more sucked into his intense speech until it is all cut off from his sudden realization of a missing set of keys. He gets off the car and we are left with nothing else but a “fistful of wolves.” The clichés of fashion advertising are somehow broken, twisted and presented in an unconventional way. Slow motion, seriousness and dramatic tones contradicted by the acuteness of the Mercedes C111 that appears now and then just show how fashion and automotive business complement one another. At least in this video.

P.S. If O’Shea and the C111 are still not enough, well, you can also enjoy a glimpse of the most sought-after model for the time being, Dree Hemingway.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpp3niOf9Nw&feature=youtu.be

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 19, 2015

2016 Audi Q7 Scoops the “Best Designed Interior” Award

Do you remember the 2016 Audi Q7? Of course you do, because it continued to be one of the most discussed SUVs ever since it was mentioned for the very first time. Now, the story is repeating itself for all eyes are on the new Audi model again. Earning the EyesOn Desig Award at North American International Auto Show, the vehicle confirms that it has something which no other car in this range has. Precisely, an award-winning interior design!

What is interesting is the fact that this is the first-ever vehicle to be praised with the “Best Designed Interior” award . But it isn’t surprising really because the new Audi Q7 exhibits inherited sportiness mixed with advantageous technology.

The question is what exactly has grabbed the attention of the jury? The all-new Q7 offers more interior room for up to seven passengers as well as more technological controls than the outgoing model. With significantly fewer buttons, the easiness of driving is complete. There are improved infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems. For example, the new MMI all-in-touch control unit with a large touchpad makes operation much more simple. On top of this, the smartphone integration with Google Android Auto and AppleCarPlay further contribute to the range of technological tweaks.

Just to remind you some performance characteristics, the 2016 Audi Q7 can be powered by the 3.0TDI which boosts 272 HP (200 kW) or by the 3.0 TFSI with 333 HP (245 kW). They enable the car to accelerate from 0 to 62.1 mph (100 km/h) in 6.1 seconds (TFSI) and 6.3 seconds (TDI), respectively.

Source: Audi

January 19, 2015

Next-generation Audi R8 with 400-km-plus Range

Audi has confirmed that the second generation Audi R8 will finally make its long-awaited debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March. The car is said to receive an all-electric transmission which promises a range from 400 km (248 miles) to 500 km on a single charge. Not bad at all taking into consideration the fact that the previous all-electric R8 e-tron range was 220km.

The mid-engine platform is shared with that of the Lamborghini Huracán. In order to reduce mass, it features an aluminum frame and carbon-fiber pats. There are rumors which point to a 5.2-liter V-10 naturally aspirated engine , able to produce around 600 horses. Audi is said to offer its naturally aspirated V-8 generating around 450 HP for the 2016 Audi R8 as well.

Additionally, the second-generation supercar won’t get a manual transmission, because, as Audi board member for technical development Ulrich Hackenberg acknowledged: “double-clutch gearboxes are extremely sporty, and if you want to drive extremely sporty and fast, for the record of your personal lap time, you will need a double-clutch.”

Prices and official performance figures are yet to be announced.

Source: CarAdvice

January 19, 2015

Fiat 500 1.2 Pop: Suitable for 18-Year-Old Drivers

Statistics show that about three quarters of young drivers cannot afford a car that is good-looking as well as affordable because of the amount of money spent on car insurance. For this reason around 35 percent of 17-25 year old drivers find the costs too prohibitive so they choose not to have a car. On the other hand, those who take their chance and decide to own a vehicle spend up to 30 percent of their income on their automobiles just to keep them alive.

Things are about to change so attention, please, youngsters! Thanks to Fiat 500 i-Deal powered by Carrot, younger drivers can afford the new Fiat 500 1.2 Pop for a fixed monthly payment of £239 per month over a three-year period. The compact car arrives with a compact list of usefulness, including Easy Care Servicing Maintenance and fully-comprehensive insurance cover from Carrot, underwritten by Zurich Insurance.

Each vehicle is fitted with an i-box, created by Crewe-based telematics service provider Trak Global in the UK. The device helps young drivers attain valuable experience behind the wheel with Carrot’s cash rewards programme for they are encouraged to develop safer driving habits from the very first time when they set foot on the pedal.

What is more, from now on every Fiat 500 will feature ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and seven airbags as standard, with fuel-saving Start & Stop and low-tax emissions which reduce running costs even more. Offering more than 500,000 variations in colors, wheels, decals, options and accessories, Fiat 500 owners can customize their vehicle so it can fit their tastes and personalities.

Initially, there are two engines available for the Pop trim, a 1.2-litre petrol that is capable of 59 mpg and a more powerful 1.3-litre Multijet diesel that produces 72mpg.

Source: Fiat

January 19, 2015

Production McLaren P1 GTR Debuts in Geneva [VIDEO]

We had a glimpse of the interior of 2016 McLaren P1 GTR, and it is now time for the motorsport oriented company to show us little more. With the news that a production-intended P1 GTR is coming to Geneva, McLaren has also revealed pictures from the testing at global circuits in Europe and the Middle East. There is also a video showing the latest stages in the development programme of the car, which is featured below.

The launch of the bespoke Driver Programme happens ahead of the start of production car later this year. As testing continues P1 looks like one of the fastest McLarens that wears the famous ‘speed mark’.

Weight-saving measures have been significant here. Combined with the track-optimisation of the petrol-electric powertrain, the new car is set to boast a power-to-weight ratio in excess of 10 percent (when compared to the road-going model). This means more than 700 PS per tonne!

The team at McLaren did extensive work to achieve this result. Thanks to the motorsport-derived technology and expertise, the track-only model has already covered thousands of kilometres of extreme testing.

The result: the tests pushed the performance of the car to its limits! And also revealed the need to further enhance cooling and aerodynamics over the design concept previewed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance last summer.

This dedicated development programme is continuing at the moment and will do so over the coming months. It aims to additionally tune the performance, aerodynamics, driving dynamics and handling balance. In the forthcoming weeks, new drivers will join the Driver Programme. They will test the car at some of the most iconic racing circuits.

httpv://youtu.be/4pDwmMruOtA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: McLaren

January 19, 2015

2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid Makes Track Debut in Abu Dhabi

The second generation of Porsche’s Le Mans prototype – 2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid, has completed extensive testing yesterday at the Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. Tests are continuing till 22nd of January. As scheduled, this shows that it is time for Porsche to start the 2015 motorsport season. 919 Hybrid has already had its roll-out on company’s test track called Weissach. Since the WEC season is planned to open on April 12 in Silverstone, there will be also several performance and endurance tests conducted before this date.

The second generation model is a sophisticated evolution of the successful car, which we have seen rising in 2014. The new hybrid sports car will include the same innovative drivetrain concept. It comprises of a 2-liter V4 turbocharged petrol engine, working with an electric motor powering the front wheels, and two energy recovery systems.

The powerplant revs up to 9,000 rpm and sends the power to the rear wheels. At the same time the electric motor provides force for the front wheels. The brake energy recovery and a thermal energy recovery system are included in the exhaust. This means an 8 megajoule per lap energy recovery boost function.

The first roll-out of the new gen gar was 15th of December 15 on Weissach track. The driver behind the wheel was Marc Lieb.

Source: Porsche

January 19, 2015

Lexus Shows-Off with First Two-Tone Model

Lexus is expanding its CT 200h line-up with the Advance Plus model. It is based on the Advance grade but adds little more exquisiteness. Most importantly, this model makes history because this is the first Lexus with a two-tone paint finish. Precisely, one can choose metallic paint, or a contrasting Velvet Black roof with Fuji Red, Ultra Blue, Sonic White or Sonic Titanium body. This is also the first CT model which adopts the new Sonic Titanium finish. We’ve seen this shade on the NX 300h crossover.

CT Advance Plus will also make another first: it will be the only version available in Celestial Black. Other highlights except for the new paint finish include the F Sport roof spoiler and brand new 17-inch alloy wheels in dark silver as well as the exclusive and a sunroof. Inside, the cabin is adorned by seats in fabric and Tahara upholstery.

The optional features include front and rear parking sensors, easy keyless entry and cruise control. There are also offered heated front seats and Lexus Navigation system with Remote Dial control.

Advance Plus’s style and equipment is further strengthened by company’s quality and reliability of its hybrid system. It delivers CO2 emissions figures of 88g/km and also good fuel economy – combined cycle consumption of 78.5 mpg.

All of this is supported by the hybrid system’s ability to maximize the utilization of its electric motor. For instance, when driving in slow-moving city traffic, the car switches automatically to its EV mode.

Lexus CT 200h Advance Plus is currently on sale in the United Kingdom and has a starting price of £25,495.

Source: Lexus

January 19, 2015

Shelby Launches Shelby GT at Barrett-Jackson and Sells Shelby GT350R VIN#001 for 1 Million US Dollars!

Shelby has launched the first Shelby GT muscle car based on the popular Mustang GT. With its 627 horsepower, the car was unveiled during the weekend at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction. More importantly, the company is ready to take orders for the model with the first deliveries planned for the second quarter of this year. Every aspect of the Shelby GT is enhanced and in addition, this car includes Ford Racing Performance Parts.

For instance, one of them is the 627 hp supercharger, or take another example – the performance handling kit and half shafts. Gearing has been upgraded 3.73 gears and paired with chrome-tipped Borla exhaust. The power is transmitted onto the road via set of WELD Racing wheels shod with sticky Michelin tires.

The new performance handling kit adds to the Mustang Wilwood six piston front brakes. At the front, the car is enhanced by the addition of new hood with functional air vents and other functional aerodynamic components like a 2-piece rear diffuser. All of the exterior parts are made of carbon fiber, except or the front grilles, which were made entirely out of billet aluminum.

For those who aren’t enough 627 hp (461 kW), Shelby has created a 700+HP performance upgrade. It can be perfectly complemented by adjustable suspension and upgraded big brake kit. There are also various interior upgrades which will take care for the comfort of occupants.

The first retail production Shelby GT350R Mustang VIN#001 was auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale for $1,000,000 USD. All of the proceeds are going to JDRF – country’s leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research.

Source: Shelby American

January 19, 2015

2016 Maybach S-Class: Soon a Fact in the U.S.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is going on sale in the United States very soon. Since the car was introduced for the first time, everyone is eagerly awaiting to hear its pricing. The Europeans got their and now it is time for the people living in the U.S. to get the opportunity of owning the luxury icon. Maybach S-Class stands atop of the Mercedes-Benz model range, because it has numerous exclusive details which highlight its “ambition” to lead. These are not only luxury-enhancing features, but also all of the technological benefits of the S-Class.

The highly-anticipated vehicle will have its market launch in April. This exceptional addition to the lineup has more than 8 inches in length when compared to the S-Class. In addition, it features a suite of intelligent safety technologies and exclusive appointments that round-out the abundant package.

As a matter of fact, Mercedes-Maybach is not just a model, but it is also a second sub-brand for Mercedes. It was created for those willing to achieve the maximum. One of the main features in these models is that they have unique interior appointments and extensive individualization options that are unparalleled.

Maybach S600 is driven by a V12 bi-turbo engine. With a displacement of 5980 cc, it produces more than 523 hp (385 kW) and a maximum torque of 829 Nm (612 lb-ft) available from 1900 rpm.

The luxury model can also show-off with the fact that it is the quietest car in the world. Its level of wind noise is very low and even surpasses levels found in the S-Class Coupe. Standard equipment includes a Driver Assistance Package with Intelligent Drive, the popular (from the ads) MAGIC BODY CONTROL, Night View Assist PLUS, a Warmth and Comfort Package with a heated windshield and Head-Up Display. Other features at no additional cost are the LED Intelligent Lighting and Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound System, Executive Rear Seat Package, Rear Seat Entertainment System and the Air Balance Package.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has a starting price of $189,350 USD and is arriving in U.S. dealerships in April.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 19, 2015

Graffiti Skoda: Looks Worse Than a Picture Painted with Two Left Hands

Arriving with a simple and plain design on the outside, the new Skoda Fabia gives a venue for different possible customizations, modifications and interpretations. But there are times of doing it right and times of doing it not-so-right. The Art Version of the Fabia is an example of how it should not be looking.

If the goal was delivering a form of… “Art” which is emotional, touching, effective and pleasing, weeeell, the car is going slightly pass that line. Maybe I know nothing about this expression of human creativity called graffiti. Or maybe, this expression of human creativity called graffiti knows nothing about cars and just does not fit in the automotive world. Apart when there is an already rotting rusty vehicle sent to its death in a scrapyard and in order to look less dreadful, there is a graffiti-made flower painted on what is left of the car.

It is true that the Skoda Fabia Street Art receives a sort of individuality. But I bet that no other car would like to be punished like this. A life in a junkyard would be a life in heaven compared to a life with such bodywork.

This Skoda, the creation of the hardest to comprehend fine art, was completed in several stages. Firstly, Armando Gomes, the artist, laid the groundwork by applying the lines and geometrical shapes to the body of the car. After that, the surfaces were sprayed in different colors.

The art project took place in Lisbon at the end of October as part of the new Skoda Fabia’s international presentation to the press.

Source: Skoda

January 16, 2015

The All-new Vauxhall Corsavan Offers a Variety of Engines

Making its global debut at the Brussels Motor Show today, the new Vauxhall Corsavan will reach the showrooms in UK in February. The small car has fresh exterior, refined chassis and simple but effective interior. Replacing its award-winning predecessor, the new model is 4.02 meters long and 1.94 meters wide.

Power is produced by a high-class range of economical Euro-6 compliant petrol and diesel engines. The offer up to 83.1mpg fuel economy and CO₂ emissions as low as 90g/km. The full list of Corsavan models with different engines includes: 2015 Vauxhall Corsavan powered by 1.2-liter engine that delivers 70PS. This model is priced at £11858.33. Vauxhall Corsavan which takes its power from the 1.3CDTi (75 PS) Start/Stop unit comes for the price of £13108.33; the model with the more powerful 1.3CDTi Start/Stop version which generates 95 PS will cost £13558.33 and, finally, the Corsavan Sportive that takes advantage of the 1.3CDTi (95 PS) Start/Stop has the price tag of £14558.33.

Furthermore, the driving environment has been improved thanks to the seats that offer better support, durability and extended travel. Additionally, the reduced levels of noise, harshness and vibration contribute to the pleasantness of having this car. Other extras include electronic climate control, Winter Pack with heated seats and heated steering wheel, IntelliLink with 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and DAB, 16-inch black alloy wheels and rear parking sensors.

Source: Vauxhall

January 16, 2015

2016 Maserati Levante Still Looks Strange

Before the official launch of Maserati’s new crossover, it has been spotted once again but this time in the cold lands of Scandinavia.

Despite the good-looking concept SUV, Kubang Concept, which was shown some time ago and which seemed to be ready for production, the automaker is still teasing and postponing the official reveal of the new vehicle. The 2016 Maserati Levante crossover is based on the Ghibli sedan but with some significant modifications.

Even though there are no specifications announced, powertrains are expected to be similar to the ones found on Ghibli and Quattroporte. Precisely, the base engine will be a V6 producing 350 HP with a 425 HP V6 version following after the first one. In order to thrill customers even more, Maserati is planning the production of a V8 performance model which will be capable of delivering 560 HP.

Some of the alterations mentioned above include increased ride height and wider tracks. Most probably there will be an all-wheel drive system. As it seems, the age of the SUVs has arrived, for last week, Jaguar teased with a video about its most recent F-pace model which is set to go on sale in 2016.

More information will come soon.

Source: Autoevolution

January 16, 2015

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