Automobiles Review – Page 431 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE Stands for Highest Fuel Economy

Ram Truck has good news for its environmentally minded customers. It will add new and more fuel-efficient model to its half-ton truck lineup – the 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE. This vehicle will deliver the best fuel efficiency among all its competitors. And this is why Ram has called this model “HFE”, meaning “Highest Fuel Economy”. The truck already got an EPA-certified 29 mpg highway fuel economy rating, while the city and combined mpgs are 21 and 24, respectively.

Furthermore, the “fuel economy king” is also equipped with one-of-a-kind trim package. It also features 6-ft. 4-in. bed as well as huge 20-inch wheels. The truck will be also available with a body-colored fascia adopted from the Ram Express model, thus giving it sporty exterior appearance.

Not to mention the class-exclusive wheel-to-wheel side steps and a tri-fold tonneau cover, which will offer better functionality, best-in-class aerodynamics and better fuel efficiency. There will be a special HFE badge which will proudly show truck’s MPG claims.

TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system are all standard here. The active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension also contribute towards vehicles outstanding fuel efficiency.

1500 EcoDiesel HFE will be offered with several trims destined to combine capability with sophistication. Precisely, they are called Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Laramie Limited, and they feature full-leather seating, real wood interior components and modish design.

2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE will go on sale in the first quarter of this year.

Source: Ram Truck Brand

January 14, 2015

2016 Lincoln MKX Offers More Power and Better Agility

2016 Lincoln MKX has debuted at the North American International Auto Show. The vehicle has grown from a concept to a production form and it will satisfy the senses of the public in North America as well as China, Middle East, Mexico and South Korea. All in all, it will offer more technology, engine choices and personalization options as well as unprecedented luxury. Moreover, the new MKX is equipped with the first high-end Revel audio system in a vehicle. It also can be equipped with 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, while the range of designer’s themes consists of two Lincoln Black Label limited-editions.

At the top of the engine list sits the optional 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged Ti-VCT EcoBoost V6 unit. It produces more than enough: 330 horsepower (243 kW) and more than 501 Nm (370 lb.-ft.) of torque.

MKX will come as a standard with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 300 horsepower (220 kW) and 379 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.

Both engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with push-button shift and SelectShift. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is optional.

Lincoln Drive Control is a suite of ride-enhancing technologies, which are destined to optimize performance. They have three modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort, each of which will assist the driver. As a standard the car also comes with electric power-assisted steering and is the first Lincoln to offer adaptive steering.

There is also a wide range of aids and technologies as an option: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping system, blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert and a height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate as well as the 360-degree camera and the enhanced park assist.

Another interesting characteristic in this Lincoln, which is also available for the first time, is the enhanced driver visibility. The available LED headlamps include a feature that adapts when accelerating from 0 to 35 mph by adding width to the low-beam pattern through the use of additional LED reflector elements.

As you can see, the exterior design of the vehicle is modern and well-balanced. The interior creates a cocoon-like environment. There is a push-button gearshift which creates a dramatic open suspension bridge that flows from the instrument panel to the center console, providing two tiers of open space.

The two new Black Label themes will be offered with four designer themes, two of which are all-new. The first one is inspired by the fashion, lifestyle and art scene of 1920s Paris. The second one interprets excitement, passion and pageantry of high-stakes thoroughbred horse racing.

2016 Lincoln MKX will go on sale first in the United States this fall. Then it will be followed by other markets including China, Canada, the Middle East, Mexico and South Korea.

Source: Lincoln

January 14, 2015

Honda Launches FCV Concept at NAIAS

2016 Honda FCV Concept has been revealed at NAIAS. The vehicle is planned to be produced specifically in the United States and Japan and its market debut is scheduled for March 2016. Honda‘s environmental plan includes the production of several advanced powertrain vehicles, including a new battery-electric model and plug-in hybrid model by 2018. What is more, the Japanese company also envisions further application of its two- and three-motor hybrid systems in the near future. This will offer Honda users in the US very low carbon transportation. In addition, Honda plans to introduce new VTEC Turbo engines that will debut later this year.

FCV Concept is company’s next-gen fuel-cell vehicle. The fuel-cell car has spacious cabin and offers seating for five-persons. Its driving range is estimated to be more than 300 miles, while the refueling time is approximately 3 minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa.

The car has a fuel cell stack, which is mounted under the hood. Compared to the outgoing Honda FCX Clarity, it is 33 percent smaller with a 60 percent increase in power density. As you can see, the FCV Concept features a low, wide aerodynamic body and clean character lines.

Inside, the designers have successfully achieved harmony between man and machine. They have also taken advantage of the powertrain packaging efficiencies, thus delivering greater passenger space and room for five.

What is more, Honda has announced that it will provide FirstElement Fuel with $13.8 million in financial assistance and will build additional hydrogen refueling stations throughout the state of California. In addition, by 2018 the company will introduce two next-generation advanced powertrain vehicles which will use the new Honda Earth Dreams Technology powertrains: new Honda plug-in hybrid model (PHEV) and new Honda battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

The new 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo engine will be introduced by the end of the year. It will be part of the extension of the Earth Dreams Technology powertrain lineup and hence it will deliver fuel efficiency at a very high level.

Source: Honda

January 14, 2015

2015 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS with 440 HP and Great Noise [VIDEO]

Porsche knows how to surprise us and just when we were thinking that Porsche 911 Targa could not get any better, we were presented with a 911 Targa 4 GTS! This dazzling little automotive jewelry is the perfect final piece to add to your collection… If you have one. If not, well, it isn’t too bad for a start!

Being unveiled at the North American International Auto Show, the 2015 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS takes its power from a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine that pushes 430 PS (316 kW) and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the car to speed up from 0–60 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, before scoring a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h).

Created to mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Targa, the model is equipped with a sportier front end design, wider rear fenders and tinted bi-xenon headlights. Aerodynamic mirrors, a sports exhaust system and gloss black 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels are part of the features as well. Let’s not forget the GTS logo on the doors, rear as well as the Targa bar.

There isn’t much to be added about the interior except that the cabin takes its usual Alcantara upholstery and four-way adjustable Sport Plus seats for exceptional comfort.

The new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS will go on sale in Germany in March. Its starting price is that of €137,422.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98nu07DOvZg

Source: Porsche;

Video Source: Porsche via Youtube

January 13, 2015

Does the AHG-Sports Infiniti QX70 Really Make a Difference?

Infiniti QX70 just got a bit more exclusive thanks to a new body kit and tuning package by AHG-Sports. The Japanese QX70 SUV is really worth to be noticed because after the improvements, it shows refined performance characteristics and specifications.

Named LR2, the body kit is comprised of front bumper with LED day lights, side skirts, wheel moldings which are painted in the same color as that of the car, rear bumper with talipipes and body colored wheels. The price of this pack is 11,900 Euros, which results in bringing the final cost of the reworked Infiniti to 89,900 Euros.

There is a bunch of other goodiesfor the AHG-Sports Infiniti QX70 such as: brake calipers in red with “Infiniti” lettering for 1,200 Euros engine covering painted in red for 200 Euros door handles in car color for 600 Euros painted in mat black roof rails and radiator grill for 1,150 Euros chrome trims wrapped in mat black for 980 Euros wheel set CLR22 DB703 with tires 285/35R22 for 5,900 Euros wheel spacing by 15 mm for 500 Euros lowering by 25 mm for 1,250 Euros and sport exhaust system for 2,990 Euros

Lastly, for the Infiniti QX70’s turbo-diesel engine, the tuner offers an upgrade kit which boost the power to 280 HP for 1,250 Euros.

A lot of numbers, isn’t it?

Source: Miranda-Media

January 13, 2015

Hyundai’s “Urban Adventurer” Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept Revealed in Detroit

Hyundai Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept is company’s take on sport truck concepts, which was just unveiled at NAIAS. It is a completely new interpretation of truck utility aimed at the drivers in the city areas. This means that the design of the Santa Cruz includes more attributes in comparison to the traditional pickups. And yes, the concept vehicle is more expressive, efficient and maneuverable. Or to say it this way: Santa Cruz is for the growing population who sees and pursues the world differently. It combines the traditional attributes of a small CUV, but adds those characteristics needed for the “Urban Adventures”.

The designers of the car have featured at the front upright and hexagonal grille with cascading lines framing the sides, dual lens-free, honeycombed headlamp projectors, and prominent LED fog lamps. The sides of the CUV are highlighted by oversized wheels, Michelin tires with a special tread design, center-locking hubs and yellow Brembo brake calipers.

The rear seats can be accessed easily with rear-hinged rear doors which integrate seamlessly with the front door design. At the back, the concept presents highly-contoured bed forms and can be reconfigured for longer cargo.

One of the key characteristics of this CUV is the efficiency. The powertrain is the 2.0-liter turbo diesel unit which produces 190 horsepower (140 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque, but it is capable of achieving fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range. Santa Cruz is also equipped with the HTRAC All-wheel drive system.

For those who need even more cargo room, there is this innovative tailgate extension which allows the bed length to be expanded whenever needed. When fully extended, Santa Cruz’s bed length is similar to a mid-size pickup.

All in all, Hyundai’s Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept is intended to attract CUV and sedan buyers who are looking for greater utility, without the compromises that the traditional trucks often demand.

Source: Hyundai

January 13, 2015

Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG with an Extra Oomph

Mercedes-Benz has presented the C450 AMG Sport in Detroit at 2015 NAIAS, promising an unmatched AMG expressiveness, typical for the brand. The new AMG sports model is available as a saloon and an estate version.

From the very first look it becomes apparent that 2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG Sport indicates sufficient class, style and presence. Thew new version takes advantage of an upgraded twin-turbo V6 3.0-liter engine that delivers 362 bhp (270 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 517 Nm (382 lb-ft) of peak torque available between 2,000 rpm and 4,200 rpm.

This significant power output is transmitted to a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system through an improved 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic gearbox. It allows the sedan to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds. The wagon slightly slower, by 0.1s precisely. Still, both of the vehicles have a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

But the extra oomph is not all, because the the C450 models share some of the range-topping C63’s technical features such as: optimised pull rods and front-axle carrier mounts, firmer springs and adjustable dampers. There are also new load bearing joints, additional negative camber and tweaked steering knuckles.

For an extra pinch of individualism, the C450 AMG features 5-spoke black AMG light-alloy wheels wrapped around in 225/45 front and 245/40 rear tires. Still. attractive 48.3-cm (19-inches) light-alloy wheels in different designs are available as an option too.

Standard equipment components of the Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC include: adaptive brake, Attention Assist, audio 20 USB multimedia system, Collision Prevention Assist Plus, ECO start/stop function, ISOFIX child seat attachment system and sports pedals.

The exclusive sporty interior is underlined by a front bumper with original air intakes, diamond meshes, black exterior mirror housings, silver chrome trim, as well as a rear bumper with matt iridium silver diffuser insert. On the inside, the car caries the same sporty but classy flavor thanks to the sports seats, 3-spoke nappa leather sports steering wheel with flat bottom, red seat belts, red stitching, alloy pedals and other minimal interior enhancements.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 13, 2015

Volvo Introduces S60 Inscription Luxury Model in Detroit

Volvo is introducing at the Detroit Auto Show the new S60 Inscription model, which comes with extra spacious interior and luxury design. It focuses on elegance and comfort and it is specifically aimed to meet the requirements of U.S. customers. The “Inscription” designation takes the S60 to a higher level in terms of comfort and convenience. The car offers 3.4 inches additional rear seat legroom and features and added luxury thanks to the utilization of the most natural materials, attention to detail and the iconic Scandinavian design language. The materials used in the S60 Inscription reflect the authentic Scandinavian origins of the brand.

Take for example the Linear Walnut trim or the silk metal detailing. In addition, to this the car is equipped with unique 19” wheels which add to the stability and muscularity that this car exudes. Other enhancements include interior accent lighting and Inscription branded tread plates.

Volvo S60 Inscription will be offered in two variants: Premier and Platinum. The first one will add leather upholstery, a sun/moon roof and the Sensus Navigation package. It will also come with the optional T5 in both front-wheel drive and All-Wheel Drive.

The Platinum trim level adds over the aforementioned equipment full Sensus technology package, a high-end Harman Kardon audio system, dual Xenon lights and a thoughtful convenience package. Volvo S60 Inscription is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. this summer.

Source: Volvo

January 13, 2015

Fear the 2016 Toyota Tacoma for it is here! [VIDEO]

The rival of Nissan Titan is here and it is called 2016 Toyota Tacoma! Of course, many will be on the opinion that both vehicles can’t be compared, but it is fact that they are in the same segment. Let’s see what makes the Tacoma so unique. First of all, it has been entirely rebuilt – inside and out. It features new engine, transmission and suspension and can handle any terrain. In fact, this is North America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for ten years, with over seven million units sold since 1964. The new generation Tacoma has been built from the ground up. It features new frame with added high strength steel to improve rigidity and overall strength. In addition, the suspension was fine-tuned and now deliver smoother on-road ride but it is still capable of exceptional off-road management.

Speaking of the motor, the new pickup is driven either by the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and or the brand new 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 unit. Both are coupled with a new six-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift delivering quick and easy shifting. There is also the option for a new six-speed manual transmission.

The aggressive appearance of the Tacoma is further strengthened by the wide wheels, ranging from 16 to 18 inches. The front end features bold upper grille and a taller, more muscular hood. Mounted high above the clamp-shaped bumper sits slim, high technology headlights. They feature projection beam lamps with available LED Daytime Running Lights.

At the rear, the new locking tailgate emphasizes pickup’s wide stance. The tailgate includes integrated spoiler and a stamped Tacoma logo as well as easy lowering feature. There is also an available tri-fold hard tonneau cover for securing the gear.

Inside, the interior includes “handlebar” design theme in the instrument panel, leather-trimmed seats and metallic accents as well as wide range of premium features. To mention some: Qi wireless charging, power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, enhanced touchscreen audio and Blind-spot monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

In addition every Tacoma will come standard with a GoPromount located near the rear-view mirror. The drivers of the new pick-up will enjoy also abundant array of technology features such as Multi-Terrain Select system Automatic Limited Slip and Locking Rear Differential, Hill Start Assist Control, Clutch Start Cancel, Active Traction Control, and Crawl Control.

Toyota will enter the Tacoma on the market in five different grades both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and the top of the line Limited.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

January 13, 2015

Jeep Wrangler Sport Arrives with More Power

Known for their styling and performance improvements for US cars, the Munich region-based professionals at GeigerCars.de provide a Jeep Wrangler with some significant modifications. Like a supercharger upgrade that boosts the Jeep’s power for example.

Thanks to the GeigerCars.de supercharger, the Wrangler’s 3.6 liter V6 engine is now able to pump out a power output that is 80 HP and 70 Nm of torque more than before. Thus, the vehicle now has to tame 356 horses while giving 417 Nm of torque respectively.

Other components which are part of the conversion are: a cold air intake box, charge air inter-cooler and bespoke ECU remapping. Furthermore, power and throttle response are helped by GeigerCars.de four-outlet-pipe stainless steel sports exhaust. It reduces back-pressure and is able to offer more sporty and harmonious sound. If such sound could be described as harmonious… Maybe harmonious in a rougher way.

What is more, the off-road capability of this powerful automotive monster is improved by a riser kit that lifts the ground clearance by 2.5 inches and also raises the seating position. Looking tougher than ever, this Jeep Wrangler Sport benefits from 18-inch alloy wheels with 305/70 Mickey Thompson tires. The tuner also gives the Jeep five powerful LED E-marked street legal auxiliary lights, front bumper bull bar and strong metal front skid plate, protecting the front grille and the undercarriage when going through a difficult terrain, while the rear bumper gains a special carrier for the big spare wheel and a water tank.

Lastly, this vehicle comes with the factory automatic transmission, hardtop, leather upholstery, high-end audio system, and a kilometers speedometer.

The completed 2015 GeigerCars Jeep Wrangler Sport with all the components costs 64,200 euro. Yet, they can be ordered separately.

Source: XMedia-Group

January 13, 2015

Salute the Next-Gen Acura NSX! [VIDEO]

Acura has finally taken the wraps off its icon, the 2016 NSX supercar, at the North American International Auto Show. Twenty-five years after the debut of the original model, the new NSX comes to make a huge shift in our understanding of sports cars! The production model comes in shiny red finish and is driven by a twin-turbocharged 75-degree DOHC V6 engine mated to nine-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system. All of this is imbibed in rigid and lightweight multi-material body.

The iconic car has been developed under the concept of a “human-centered supercar”. This means that it puts the driver first in every aspect of its design. Next to the hybrid power unit, the body and chassis deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.

The body of this fantastic car has low and wide proportions coupled with contemporary and aggressive front design and tail lights. Every element of the exterior has been optimized and modified with the aim of perfection, including the hood vents, front fender vents, side air intakes, and the deck spoiler.

When it was introduced for the first time, the NSX was world’s first all-aluminum supercar. The new NSX includes an innovative new multi-material body design with world’s-first material applications and construction processes.

To be more precise, the body uses a space frame design. This is an internal frame constructed of aluminum, ultra-high strength steel and other advanced materials. Anchored by a carbon fiber floor, torsional and bending forces are taken up entirely by this structure. The body panels are composed of a combination of aluminum and sheet molding composite.

Inside, the NSX offers exceptional forward visibility, simplicity and intuitiveness in terms of controls, and exceptional ergonomics. The instrument cluster features a dynamic TFT display, while the center console holds the Power button that readies the sport hybrid powertrain.

What is more, the supercar utilizes a fully independent, all-aluminum front and rear suspension. It puts its significant amount of power down through ContiSportContact high-performance tires. They come in dimensions of 245/35Z R19 at the front and 295/30Z R20 at the rear, and are coupled with 19×8.5 inch front and 20×11 inch rear aluminum alloy wheels.

The braking performance is provided by 6-piston front and 4-piston rear monoblock calipers squeezing ultra-high performance carbon-ceramic brake discs. Handling is greatly improved by Sport Hybrid Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD), which enables lightning-quick response to all driver inputs.

2016 Acura NSX has been specifically created to bring a “new sports experience” to the supercar segment. It challenges conventional beliefs about supercars that we have. Acura will begin accepting custom orders for the new NSX in the summer, while the first customer deliveries are expected later in the year.

2016 Acura NSX dimensions:

	NEW NSX	2013 NSX Concept	Diff (in.)	2005 NSX	Diff (in.)
Length	176 in. (4470 mm)	172.8 in. (4390mm)	+3.1	174.2 in. (4425 mm)	+1.8
Width	76.4 in. (1940 mm)	75.4 in (1915 mm)	+1.0	71.3 in. (1810 mm)	+5.1
Height	47.8 in. (1215 mm)	47.2 in. (1200 mm)	+0.6	46.1 in(1170 mm)	+1.8
Wheelbase	103.5 in.(2630 mm)	102.8 in. (2610 mm)	+0.8	99.6 in. (2350 mm)	+11.0
Front track	65.2 in. (1655 mm)	– –	– –	59.5 in. (1510 mm)	+5.7
Rear track	63.6 in. (1615 mm)	– –	– –	60.7 in.(1540 mm)	+3.0

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Acura

January 13, 2015

Alfa Romeo is the New Yellow

Enough is enough already! After a series of teasing and leaked images, Alfa Romeo finally showed its 2015 redesigned Alfa Romeo 4C Spider at the North American International Auto Show. If you liked the initial 4C Coupe design, you will be glad to know that the automaker has preserved bigger part of it. Not to disappoint those who have been expecting it to be improved, the car arrives with some alterations. Just to spice things up a bit.

You might get bored, though, from the powerplant since power is still produced by the same four-cylinder, 1.75-liter turbocharged gasoline engine used in the 4C Coupe. It generates 177 HP (237 bhp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

The thing that is quite different is the optional exit lightweight Akrapovic exhaust system that comes with center-mounted tips with carbon fiber surrounds. The performance status hasn’t been changed either so the new 4C Spider covers the 0-60 mph run in 4.1 seconds with a top speed of 160 mph. To bore you even more with listing the same features, just like the 4C Coupe, the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider will be available with the standard and the Racing exhaust system.

Perhaps the most notable alteration is the removable roof which refines the traditional spider body look. And honestly, the open-top is the only thing that I find exiting. Otherwise, it is just the same as its sibling! Almost. The open-air model also receives refined headlights which are somehow slightly more appealing and attractive than the old version. Another new attachment is the set of either 17-inch (front)/18-inch (rear) or 18-inch (front)/19-inch (rear) sizes all-new wheels in Silver or Dark finishes.

The color… In combination with chopping off the roof, adding a new color is the easiest way to expand the range. So by giving the car this saturated yellowness, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider US version kind of really manages to sting one’s vision.

Unfortunately, the price hasn’t been announced yet.

Source: Alfa Romeo

January 13, 2015

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