Automobiles Review – Page 432 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Bentley Names its Upcoming SUV “Bentayga”

The first news for today has nothing to do with the North American Auto Show, but rather with an upcoming debut of highly anticipated SUV. Bentley has finally revealed the name of their upcoming crossover next to a picture which shows its wing vent. Dubbed as Bentayga, this new SUV is going to take luxury to new places and combine it with pinnacle performance. Its design is inspired by the natural world and this is highly visible in the last video teaser we have seen.

In it we have also seen Bentley’s familiar grille that is flanked by circular headlights and inspired by the Continental model. The crossover will also boast front fender vents and muscular rear fenders, roof rails and a unique tailgate as well as hand-stitched leather upholstery.

The natural world also inspired the company for SUV’s name, signifying the dramatic beauty of the Taiga in the north – world’s largest transcontinental snowforest. To the south, the rugged peak of the Roque Bentayga in the subtropical Canary Islands draws attention from all directions and a challenging climb rewards with beautiful panoramic views of an abundant landscape.

It is not confirmed yet, but Bentayga is rumored to be powered by either of 4.0-liter V8 as well as the 6.0 litre twin-turbocharged W12 units. A plug-in hybrid variant is planned for 2017. The twin-turbocharged engine is coupled with an eight-speed transmission and develops 600 hp (441 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.

Bentley Bentayga will be revealed later this year and is scheduled to go on sale in 2016.

Source: Bentley

January 13, 2015

2016 Titan XD is Nissan’s Secret Weapon at NAIAS [VIDEO]

2016 Nissan Titan XD was just unveiled at the auto show in Detroit, marking company’s aggressive return to the full-size pickup battlefield. And more importantly, the mighty vehicle will be equipped with the powerful Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel engine! The unit is set to carve out new class of full-size truck that stands between the heavy- and light-duty classes. Of course, the pickup has been created and intended for American buyers only, sadly for the other countries that won’t be able to see it or to buy it. As you can see from the photos and the videos below, the Titan XD is endowed with the power of a bold exterior design and an interior design which follow “powerful precision tool” theme. The latter is topped with new Warrior-inspired TITAN badging.

The new Titan offers effortless towing and hauling, but at the same time is capable of achieving great fuel efficiency results. As mentioned already, it is driven by the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel, which (as expected) produces 310 horsepower (228 kW) and hefty 752 Nm (555 lb-ft) of torque.

The available maximum towing capacity of the pickup is around 12,000 pounds. There are also cutting-edge towing features such as an integrated gooseneck hitch engineered into the frame. Other optionally available utility and convenience aids feature RearView Monitor with Trailer Guides, Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD) and a Trailer Light Check system.

As a matter of fact, the last system allows one-person hook-up operation. This includes checking turn signals, brake lights and running and clearance lights from outside the vehicle. Other available features that need to be mentioned are the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and a Front and Rear Sonar System. Inside, the interior can be adorned by front and rear NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats and a large center console.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab is the first of three cab configurations, two frame sizes, three powertrain offerings and five grade levels which are set to be available later in the Titan lineup. More details on the full range will be announced at a later date. 2016 Titan XD is scheduled to go on sale in late 2015.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

January 12, 2015

Meet the First Flying Huntsman a.k.a.105 Longnose Defender

At last! The Flying Huntsman (Longnose 105) is here. We have seen the vehicle only in sketches and now we are presented the first images of the unique model. The Land Rover Defender has been elongated with an extra 400mm of bodywork, which was inserted into the elongated nose cone ahead of the windscreen. The vehicle is a combination of Kahn‘s sublime style and Paris-Dakar race bred performance technology. In other words it combines great visual characteristics with supreme performance.

To be more precise, the Flying Huntsman is powered by a 6.2-litre GM LS3 V8 engine, which drives a six-speed automatic gearbox operated by push-button controls. An upgraded braking and suspension system completes the engineering overhaul. The power of the engine is around 400-450 hp (294-330 kW).

On the outside, the exterior of the Huntsman is augmented with a square sectioned wide arch body kit, which features front bumper with integral LED lamps and sump guard, vented tailpipe exit mud flaps, side steps, Chelsea signature wide wings, crosshair headlamps and a rugged new grille.

The future models that will wear the Flying Huntsman badge include a 4 door variant with a correspondingly longer wheelbase, and a 6×6 model. There will be also a number of engine manufacturers to make a total of four variants of powerplants, which consist of 3.0 and 6.2 petrol models and 3.2 and 4.6 Diesel models.

B4 and B6 armoured variants or the so called extreme conversions will also be available, while the B7 variant is still under consideration. Currently, there is no confirmation of the number of units that are to be produced. Previous information points to the number 49.

The Flying Huntsman 105 Longnose is the first in an upcoming line of related retro classic models. Each of them will be based on the Land Rover Defender. The first example of the 105 Longnose will be formally unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: A. Kahn Design

January 12, 2015

Mopar Shows-Off with Trio of Moparized Vehicles in Detroit

This year the visitors of North American International Auto Show will meet a trio of customized vehicles made by Mopar. The brand will display a pair of Mopar-equipped Jeep Renegade vehicles and a Dodge Challenger T/A Concept. The first Renegade unit is “off-road-equipped” and it is based on the Trailhawk model. On both sides, its Commando Green “skin” is accentuated by large, bold body-side graphics that mimic the “X”-shape styling of the taillamps. As a matter of fact, the “X” design of the graphics is associated with first-generation military Jeep vehicles.

The map of Detroit decorates the Mopar Topographical Hood decal to pay tribute to the Motor City. Next, the vehicle runs on satin black wheels with a single spoke trimmed in Colorado red. There are also tow hooks at the front and rear of the model which also receive the same treatment.

In contrast, the cross rails and a Mopar roof basket come in satin black and feature a gloss black body side rail. The small SUV handles off-road obstacles by a concept skid plate, prototype rock rails, rear valance and production roof rails. These elements are neatly tied together by a matching neutral grey satin color.

Inside, we meet a balanced premium interior which includes Katzkin leather seat covers, HVAC bezels, speaker grilles and the center console in Commando Green. The wheel, shifter and door lever receive satin black trim, with all bright interior badging finished in neutral grey.

The second Renegade unit is “urban-equipped” and it is based on the Limited model. It is painted in stylish Anvil color that is highlighted by Omaha orange touches. The latter color is to be found also on the pockets featured on the satin black wheels, mirror caps, grille rings, taillamp surrounds and roof rails.

Inside, the first thing to mention is the Katzkin leather seats. As with the off-road Renegade, modifications to the exterior influence the interior and this means that we see the Omaha orange on the HVAC bezels, speaker grilles and the center console.

The last Mopar model that is on display in Detroit is the Dodge Challenger T/A Concept – the car that debuted at the 2014 Specialty Equipment Market Association in Las Vegas last November. This Dodge is a modern interpretation of the legendary T/A package that was available in the 1970s for the Challenger.

Basically, two colors have been used for this model: Sublime Green and black. In fact, the full-length matte black T/A graphics are flanking each side of the body and remind the viewer of the original T/A. The matte black look can also be seen on the rear deck-lid spoiler.

What is more, the functional “Viper”-inspired center scoop hood with Mopar gloss black hood pins has been adapted to accommodate a Mopar induction system. It helps the cool outside air to stream into the air box of the legendary 392 HEMI engine.

At the front of the car, we see a Mopar matte black front splitter, which works in unison with the matte black gurney-lip deck-lid spoiler. They both deliver additional downforce assist. Iconic heritage Challenger script T/A badges complement the front gloss black grille and rear deck-lid spoiler.

The car runs no wide 20-by-9.5-inch matte black lightweight forged aluminum wheels. Beneath them we see Brembo six-piston calipers with two-piece slotted and vented rotors. The rear and side exhaust tips include a black ceramic-coated finish.

Inside, the interior is race-inspired and includes design elements such as high-performance flat bottom steering wheel in perforated leather and gloss black bezels. There are also carbon fiber seats with T/A embroidered logos, while the rear roll-bar is designed for enhanced chassis rigidity.

Source: Mopar

January 12, 2015

2016 Buick Cascada Drops its Top at NAIAS

Another debut for Buick at this year’s NAIAS is making the Cascada Convertible. As a matter of fact, this will be the first Buick convertible offered in the United States in 25 years. The stylish car utilizes new powertrain and chassis technologies, and just like the Avenir Concept, it has room only for four. The rigid body structure of the car feature sophisticated HiPer Strut front suspension (based on the MacPherson strut design) and responsive Watts Z-link suspension in the rear. Oh, and have we mentioned the 200-horsepower (149 kW) that the turbocharged engine produces?

Since it is a convertible, it is important to mention that the top drops only for 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. When lowered, the top folds neatly and completely beneath a hard tonneau behind the rear seats, giving the car a pure open-air aesthetic.

The Cascada has a flowing, sculpted profile and windswept exterior design. Sleek headlamps flow into the front fenders, and feature integrated swing-shape light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lights. Adding more to the distinctive appearance are the chrome trim bridges between the wing-shaped LED taillights.

Inside, the car is thoughtfully trimmed and comprehensively equipped. Take a look at the instrument panel, which is wrapped with soft-touch material. An authentic stitching is also at hand, while the heated front seats and steering wheel offer additional comfort.

The engaging driving experience is ensured by the 1.6L turbocharged powerplant, which is rated at 200 horsepower (149 kW) and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque. Direct injection and variable valve timing complement the turbo engine’s performance. The power unit is also backed by a six-speed automatic transmission.

The electric power steering system executes the steering inputs, while the stopping power is handled by standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Cascada runs on standard 20-inch wheels. The rigid body structure of the car includes a high-strength steel in strategic areas and it is the foundation for the Cascada’s driving experience. The wheelbase measures 106.1-inch (2,695 mm), which of course enhances ride smoothness while enabling greater rear-seat legroom.

The Cascada Convertible goes on sale in early 2016.

2016 Buick Cascada Convertible Specifications:

Model:	2016 Buick Cascada
Body style / driveline:	two-door, four-passenger convertible; front-engine/front-wheel drive
Construction:	steel body-frame-integral
Wheelbase (in / mm):	106.1 / 2695
Overall length (in / mm):	184.9 / 4696
Overall height (in / mm):	56.8 / 1443
Overall width (in / mm):	72.4 / 1839
Track (in / mm):	62.5 / 1587 (front and rear)
Engine:	1.6L turbo I-4 DOHC with direct injection
Horsepower (hp / kW):	200 / 149
Torque (lb-ft / Nm):	206 / 280 (221 / 300 with overboost) – estimated
Transmission:	six-speed automatic
Front suspension:	HiPer Strut with direct-acting stabilizer bar
Rear suspension:	compound crank with Watts Z-link
Steering:	rack-mounted electric, variable-assist rack-and-pinion
Brakes:	four-wheel disc with ABS and stability control
Wheels:	20-inch aluminum
Cargo room (cu ft / L):	13.4 / 380 – top up 9.8 / 280 – top down

Source: Buick

January 12, 2015

2015 Buick Avenir Concept Revealed at NAIAS

2015 Buick Avenir Concept will surprise us in the New Year with changed design proportion and rejuvenated interior. The car has just been introduced and it is currently making its world debut at the North American International Auto Show. “Avenir” stands for future in French and this is no coincidence, since the car is distinguished by its futuristic looks – inside and out. First we see that the model features premium sports proportions and it actually embodies and interpretation of the original Buick design.

Avenir can show-off further with sculptural surfacing, expressive proportion and a sweep-spear bodyside. On the other hand, the interior ensures maximum comfort and piece of mind for the driver and passengers.

And have you noticed the long hood and the wheels-at-the-corners stance? However, the most striking difference from the contemporary Buick models is the new grille design. It includes a large opening highlighted by a return to the three-color (red, silver and blue) Buick tri-shield insignia, accented by wing-shaped elements. This new design element is flanked by bold headlamps that of course feature LEDs.

Buick designers have prepared for the Avenir a sophisticated color palette, which includes a Crystalline exterior color. This paint finish accentuates to another level Avenir’s body lines. In addition, it also complements the interior perfectly.

Speaking of the cabin, it has only space for four persons. The interior focuses on the easier management of technologies and enhances the feelings of personal space and well-being. The surfaces are inspired by nature and sea waves and this can be seen in design motifs, which are featured on the seats and even carried over to the carpet.

Light and natural tones adorn the interior. They are blended with oiled and buffed wood trim and accented by Galvano satin-chrome elements. In terms of functionality – it is manifested in the car’s device-integration technologies. They have been designed to lift the user’s mood and make daily life easier.

For instance, Avenir instantly configures gauge cluster and infotainment screen displays based on prior customization. At the same time it can also recognize user’s music preferences and recently visited locations.

At last, the personal connectivity has been extended to the rear-seat passengers. They have USB ports and video screens, which allow them to plug in to their favorite media and slip into complete relaxation.

Source: Buick

January 12, 2015

Smart Fortwo Edition Flashlight Cabrio – Big Name for a Small-sized Car

Smart has revealed the fortwo edition flashlight cabrio at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, ahead of its global deliveries beginning in April. The special model implements premium sporty feel on the outside as well as on the inside too.

There are three different engine-versions available for the Smart fortwo edition flashlight cabrio. It can be purchased with a three-cylinder 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine which develops at 71 HP (52 kW) at the price of €17,580. There is also a turbocharged 84 HP (62 kW) variant at €18,150. Lastly, Smart is offering a 55 kW electric model that costs €22,992.

There is a choice of body panels for the edition flashlight, so customers can select either a deep black or an exclusive matte crystal white finish. Still though, the tradition safety cell and door mirror caps in lava orange are available for all cars. The special edition is additionally differentiated from other models thanks to the black radiator grille, black alloy wheels in a 3-twin-spoke design with lava orange hub covers providing striking accents, H7 projection headlamps with a titanium-colored background and the edition logo in the mirror triangle.

In terms of interior design, the style of the new Smart fortwo edition flashlight cabrio is highlighted by black leather seats with black fabric inserts on the backrests. The orange contrasting stitching contributes with a genuine effectiveness too. There is also a three-spoke leather steering wheel, one-of-a-kind “edition flashlight” floor mats. Lastly, a softouch automatic gearshift programme and an Audio-System basic come as standard features. The latter includes an RDS radio with USB and AUX ports for MP3 or CD player, two integrated loudspeakers and an additional drawer below the operating unit.

Source: Smart

January 12, 2015

Is the BMW i8 Worth the Price of $100,000 Market Adjustments?

BMW i8 is perhaps one of the most remarkable sports cars around the world. This is not surprising at all because ever since its production last year, the model quickly became the most wanted car on the market.

This time, the car arrives with a markup for $100,000 which was paid by one rather impatient customer in order to receive its machine right away without taxes and fees. The total amount paid for the car is estimated at $247,000. But is this surcharge worth it? I personally don’t think so. It is true that the car’s exotic look knows no compromises but still… $100,000 for some additionally installed accessories? No, thank you.

The power to the front wheels of the BMW i8 is provided by an electric motor that boosts 131 HP. The rear wheels are powered by a three cylinder 1.5 liter motor generating 231 HP and 236 lb-ft of torque which turns it into the most powerful motor among any other BMW production motor at 154 HP per liter.

As the company’s sales and marketing leader Ian Robertson commented some time ago, there is an 18-month waiting list in some markets and it is, in fact, growing.

Source: bmwblog

January 12, 2015

Will the Jaguar F-Pace be the Ultimate Sports Car? [VIDEO]

The all-new model which will be added to the Jaguar line-up was teased with a short video. The car is named Jaguar F-pace and is set to go on sale in 2016.

Basically, this is the made-into-reality version of the well-received Jaguar C-X17 concept car last year. Inspired by the F-type, the 2016 F-pace couples unrivaled senses of practicality, performance and style. According to the car-maker, this family sports car is going to shake the world with its rugged exterior design and convenient luxury interior. Furthermore, the characteristics of a true performance crossover are achieved thanks to the extraordinary on-road capabilities with five-seat usability.

Speaking in Detroit, Andy Goss, Jaguar Land Rover Global Sales Director, points out that: “In 2015 we will celebrate Jaguar’s 80th year. We have started it by announcing our first performance crossover which we consider to be the ultimate practical sports car – a car that builds on the marque’s founding ideals of Grace, Pace and Space to become one of the most innovative Jaguars we’ve ever developed. The F-PACE has now begun its engineering and development testing programme ahead of the new model going on sale in 2016.”

After such superlatives, expectations of customers have jumped one level up. So, Jaguar, careful what you are going to present at the end!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvDhs-MM_Zc

Source: Jaguar
Video Source: Jaguar via Youtube

January 12, 2015

Infiniti Q60 Concept Takes After Q80 Inspiration and Q50 Eau Rouge [VIDEO]

Voila! Infiniti gave us a full preview of its 2016 Q60 Concept so we could finally see what to expect.

Under the hood, there is said to be a newly created V6 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine that takes advantage of a direct injection that is able to produce a hell-of-performance. According to the manufacturer, this power unit is part of an innovatively smaller, lighter and more efficient range of engines.

The new Infiniti Concept car shows pronounced wheel arches which add a rugged touch to the overall masculine look. Being 4690 mm (184.6 inches) long, 1865 mm (73.4 inches) wide and 1370 mm (53.9 inches) high and in combination with the “razor-sharp edges and strikingly deep recesses”, the vehicle seems to be lower than it actually is.

Still though, there are repercussions of the line curves of the Q80 Inspiration and Q50 Eau Rouge. The sleek and highly elegant Infiniti Q60 inherited the Inspiration’s low roofline, intelligent headlamps and stylish leather seats. From the Eau Rouge, the two-seater drew the Formula One-inspired lower intake and exhaust pipes.

“The Q60 Concept has the emotion and sculpting of the Q80 Inspiration. At the same time, it adopts the performance aspects of the Q50 Eau Rouge, which is immediately associated with Infiniti performance and the science and sport of Formula One racing,” explained Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director.

The assertive look of the car is also found inside where the car arrives with premium components featuring a leather-wrapped two-toned black and white instrument panel and door inserts. There is also a double hand-stitched leather steering wheel. Using a variety of leathers to cover the seats, Infiniti manages to not only complement the car’s exhilarating individuality but also offers the best comfort possible.

Obviously the culminating sense of artistry is everywhere when it comes to the 2016 Infiniti Q60 Concept!

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

Source: Infiniti
Video Source: Infiniti via Youtube

January 12, 2015

Volkswagen Cross Coupe GTE

It is Volkswagen. It is new. And it is concept. Meet the VW Cross Coupe GTE which was revealed ahead of its premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive embodies Volkswagen’s new US design language and combines German engineering with an American kind of lifestyle.

This is the third Cross concept which is depicted by the automaker. Precisely, the concept SUVs range includes: the CrossBlue introduced in Detroit in January 2013, the CrossBlue Coupe presented in Los Angeles in November 2013 and the Cross Coupé GTE that is now being shown at the NAIAS.

Power for the new Cross Coupe GTE is provided by a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine that comes with two electric motors. The six-cylinder direct-injection engine (FSI) produces 280 PS and a peak torque of 350 Nm. Moreover, the two electric motors deliver 40 kW and 220 Nm (front) and 85 kW and 270 Nm (rear) and are powered by a compact 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. This allows the concept car to generate a total output of 360 PS and 379 Nm (280 lb-ft). Using this full power, the GTE speeds up from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds, with a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph). Lastly, there are five different power modes: E-Mode, Hybrid, GTE, Offroad and Battery Hold / Battery Charge.

In terms of what the new Volkswagen crossover features, there is an aggressive front, aluminum grille, LED headlights, as well as more seriously-looking fenders, accentuating gloss black elements and strong character contours.

The interior is quite simple but is still nicely equipped. The five-seater benefits from sports semi-aniline Nappa leather seats, gloss black trim and, once more, aluminum elements. Also, there is a 12.3-inch Active Info Display and a 10.1-inch touchscreen which controls the infotainment system.

Source: Volkswagen

January 12, 2015

8,000 Exterior Color Options For Dodge Viper GTC

Care for a completely individualized 2015 Dodge Viper GTC model? Well, now you can have it thanks to the new program developed by Dodge which gives Viper fans the chance to create their very own one-of-a-kind American hand-built performance car. But this is not all. Buyers can virtually follow the making-process through the Viper Ambassador website at driveSRT.com.

Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge and SRT, FCA said: “Because every Viper is hand crafted with such an extreme level of detail, we have the unique opportunity to make each one even more special by giving buyers the opportunity to customize each vehicle to their exact specifications. Now, Viper owners will be able to say their Viper is truly one of a kind.”

As iconic as it is, the Viper GTC takes its power from a hand-built aluminum V10 engine which delivers 645 HP. The hand-crafted body features hand-laid carbon fiber, aluminum, magnesium and high-strength steel and a racing pedigree.

The unique opportunity to craft a customized Dodge Viper GTC becomes even more exciting as there are 8,000 exterior color options, 24,000 custom stripe colors, 10 wheel options, 16 interior trims and 6 aerodynamic packages. Also, there are more than 25 million ways for customers to personalize their special Dodge Viper. Moreover, each one-of-one Viper car will include an individualized instrument panel badge with the customer’s chosen name which will celebrate and mark their bespoke design.

The price for the 2015 Viper GTC is $94,995. Dodge will begin accepting orders next month with production set to start at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in the second quarter of 2015.

Source: Dodge

January 9, 2015

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