Automobiles Review – Page 439 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid is Here!

2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid is the second generation of Porsche’s Le Mans prototype and more importantly – it is already here. By “here” I mean that it has just rolled-out at company’s test track in Weissach. The driver behind the wheel was Marc Lieb from Germany. With this introduction, the Porsche team could end the 2014 motorsport season with successful debut in the WEC as planned.

The technical director of LMP1, Alexander Hitzinger, said that this roll-out of the race car is not only much anticipated but also a milestone achieved by the Stuttgart based company. The target of the specialists at the team developing the race car is to make the Porsche 919 Hybrid for the 2015 season right before Christmas. Mission achieved.

In addition, he also confirmed that the car was almost optimized on every level and compared to its predecessor it has been significantly developed. The 2014 version of the vehicle features a drivetrain which consists of a single-turbo V4 2.0-liter direct-injection gasoline engine working with a front axle-mounted electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack.

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

The first meaningful test with the new race car is scheduled to take place from January 18 to 22 in Abu Dhabi.

Note: The photos included in the article depict the 2014 Porsche 919 Hybrid.

Source: Porsche

December 16, 2014

Overfinch Shows What Perfection Is [VIDEO]

“Perfection” is word that signifies a state or quality of being flawless, or a person or thing considered to be ideal. The video below shows the concept that Overfinch company has for perfection. They display how their improved Range Rover Sport adds bespoke design, luxury and exclusivity to the performance SUV. The latest film showcases the 5.0 litre supercharged model driven in a stunning alpine setting.

Overfinch Range Rover Sport sets a sporting focus over the standard SUV. It combines visual stance and exclusivity with exhilarating performance. Thanks to its assertive and muscular appearance as well as distinctive styling features, the car draws immediate attention.

The imposing stance of the SUV is further accentuated via the subtly flared front air intakes and rear diffuser, which catch the light and visually widen the car.

At the same time, when entered, the interior exudes exquisite detailing crafted by hand. For this Range Rover Sport, Overfinch has created Body Styling Package. The latter is executed in carbon fibre which adds more strength and lightness.

The interior is wrapped in hand-crafted Bridge of Weir leather upholstery, the design of the seats is chosen by the customer as well as the stitch patterning and hide colours. All of this enables the lucky owner of the Overfinch Range Rover to create an ambience that is reflection of their style.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Overfinch

December 16, 2014

Elvis Presley’s Cadillac Seville on Display

The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is getting slightly rock’n’rolled for the authentic 1977 Cadillac Seville purchased by Elvis Presley himself is going on display. The burgundy-and-silver-colored beauty is presented in its original condition. Even the installed CB radio used by the King of Rock & Roll in order to communicate with the kitchen at Graceland and to the guard house outside Graceland is still there!

Cadillac Seville V8 Automatic was manufactured by General Motors while the body was custom built by Fisher for Cadillac. The engine was able to produce a power output of 180 hp (130 kW) with gas mileage of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Some of the car’s features include electronic windows and mirrors and a grey interior with wood grain highlights on the dashboard, doors and steering wheel.

This is the last car that Elvis purchased and it is said to be the vehicle driven before his death. What is more, it is thought that the singer bought more than 200 Cadillacs in his entire life not just for his personal use but also for family, friends and even strangers. After his death the 1977 Seville was given to his girlfriend Ginger Alden by Elvis’ father.

In 1994 the Cadillac was auctioned in Las Vegas and was sold for $101,500 to a private collector. After that, it was presented for sale again in August when Graceland organized its first auction. Other items included in the Graceland auction were Presley’s first-known signature on a Tupelo, Mississippi, school library card; a 1969 handwritten set list and jewelry.

Source: Beaulieu

December 16, 2014

Lamborghini Confirms 2015 Blancpain Super Trofeo Calendar

Lamborghini Squadra Corse has already confirmed the 2015 Blancpain Super Trofeo calendar. There will be six rounds once again for the European, Asian and North American series. The World Final is to happen in the United States in Sebring. Each of the series will “comprise” of two races over each weekend round. Very exciting fact is that the Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo is going to make a debut in all three series.

The Huracán race cars will share the grid with the Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo. The format of this year’s racing will be continued. How about the 2015 World Final? It location, for each of the series for both their sixth and final round of the season, will happen at Sebring in Florida, USA. It will be then immediately followed by the World Final on the 21^st and 22^nd of November.

New is the addition of PRO class in the Asian and North American series.

The season will begin once again in Monza, Italy, on 11^th and 12^th of April. It will be then followed by Silverstone in Great Britain on 23^rd and 24^th of May. On 20^th and 21^st of June the racing will continue at the Le Castellet in France.

The fourth round will be in the historic Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, and it will happen during the prestigious 24hrs weekend held on 25^th and 26^th of July. The next venue will be in Germany at the Nürburgring on 19^th and 20^th of September. The sixth round is the final for the season of racing and is scheduled in late November in the USA.

This is the fourth season of the Asian series that will start in Japan with Fuji on 20^th and 21^st of June and in Motegi on 11^th and 12^th of July. The third meeting will be held in Malaysia (on 8^th and 9^th of August).

The other two rounds will be held in Sentul, Indonesia on 5^th and 6^th of September, and in Shanghai, China on 17^th and 18^th of October. The sixth round will be the last and it is at the same location and time as those in Europe.

North American series meet their third edition this year and will kick off in Laguna Seca, California on 2^nd and 3^rd of May). Then come the Watkins Glen, New York, on 27^th and 28^th of June, and Alton, Virginia on 22^nd and 23^rd of August.

On the weekend of 18^th and 19^th of September the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North America will race for the first time ever in Cota, Texas. The fifth round is scheduled in Georgia, precisely at Road Atlanta on 1^st and 3^rd of October. The series will end in Sebring.

Source: Lamborghini

December 16, 2014

Can Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet be More Exclusive? VILNER Answers with new Project!

Porsche 911 is a synonym that stands for the ultimate sports car. The engineers of the brand from Stuttgart have polished this 911 diamond into even more glamorous and exclusive “creature”. However, the specialists at the Bulgarian studio Vilner, know that one can always do and expect more. And they have proven it once again with their latest project on 911 (997) Turbo Convertible, thus showing that there can be more exclusivity to a 911Turbo Cabrio.

Despite the expectations of a total transformation, the car hasn’t received any exterior enhancements. And we think it does not need them, because the interior is so abundant and splendid.

The red-black design theme of the original interior has also been preserved, but it now has received a brand new stance thanks to the combination of red nappa leather and black Alcantara used for the seats. Their headrests are embossed with Porsche’s emblem.

Vilner managed to imbue some extra exclusivity with several attractive design solutions.

First, the steering wheel received new ergonomic shape. Then it also got rich amount of handmade carbon fiber. The same material was used for a substitution of the plastic parts of the seat belts sockets. The gearshift lever also received a carbon therapy, just like the decorative elements around it and the door handles.

Unexpected but very exciting is the fact that Vilner has improved the 6-cylinder turbo boxer engine. They did this with the help of the German specialists at RaceChip. The result is 17% more horsepower. In numbers, this means 561 hp (413 kW) or in other words – additional 81 hp to the serial 480 hp (353 kW).

December 16, 2014

Skoda Teases Once Again 2015 Superb

Are you interested into seeing more from the third generation Skoda Superb? Because we have three more photos showing more details of the car. After we reviewed the released spy shots, which preview an expressive design, now it is time to make some space for the official teasers and sketch. All in all, the pictures speak of an appearance which is influenced by the VisionC concept.

They also display that the vehicle is in sedan form but featuring a coupe-like profile. At the front of the Superb we see the iconic for Skoda radiator grille and the unmistakable headlights. Probably they will be highlighted by LED daytime running lights.

There is not much to say, because the information is scarce, but the third-gen model will be built on Volkswagen’s MQB technology. Furthermore, Skoda is also promising that the car will offer the best values in terms of comfort, infotainment and connectivity, safety, fuel-efficiency, consumption and performance.

Rumors say that 2015 Superb will shed 75 kg off and it is likely to be powered by the with 1.4-liter petrol engine. The will produce around 125 horsepower (92 kW).

We can say that Superb has been entirely redesigned. More importantly, it has recently completed the final test series in Southern Europe. The premiere of the new Superb will happen on 15th of February next year in Prague. The market launch in Europe is scheduled for the summer months, while the first deliveries – for the autumn.

Source: Skoda

December 15, 2014

KTM X-Bow GT4 Teased With 320 HP

Austrian automaker KTM has released a new image and additional information of its futuristic GT4 X-BOW race car. The vehicle is a product of the collaborative work between KTM and Reiter Engineering GmbH. It is developed for racing in the SRO GT4 European Championship and Pirelli World Challenge GT-S.

Underneath the skin of this red automotive monster, there is a 2.0-litre TFSI engine from the Volkswagen Group which will pump out approximately 320 HP (235 kW). This power unit will be mated to a sequential six-speed transmission delivered from Holinger and will be further complemented by paddle shifters. In addition, the new KTM racing car features ABS system as well.

KTM’s first X-BOW weighs less than 800kg and has a 177-kW-model of the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. If it can sprint to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds, I am convinced that the new KTM’s X-BOW will present even more striking performance results.

From the unveiled picture we can see the aggressive body-look of the KTM X-Bow GT4. It features a glass cockpit with curvy lines stretching to the highly impressive rear wing with matching bold front spoiler. The GT4 X-BOW is said to depict some of the most recently created racing technologies combined with significant safety applications.

In relation to this, Hans Reiter, the owner of Reiter Engineering, states that: “When you reflect on what the customer is being offered here in terms of the most modern racing technology, together with a very impressive safety concept, then you can really speak about it being exceptionally good value for money.”

The price of the bespoke GT4 racer is yet to be announced.

Source: KTM

December 15, 2014

Watch West Coast Customs “Remix” the Toyota Sienna [VIDEO]

West Coast Customs released a video of their future project, where they transform a Toyota Sienna entirely. In fact, if you been following them or this year’s SEMA show, the car on the verge is the music-powered Sienna:Remix. For this project, the tuners have collaborated with SiriusXM. The episode and the entire transformation were aired yesterday, on 14th of December, on FOX Sports 2.

The founder and CEO Ryan Friedlinghaus and his crew were shown in the building process of the ultimate personalized Sienna. The design of the vehicle aimed at highlighting at the unexpected ways drivers are energized by music every day.

The “remixed” Sienna includes fully functional DJ booth inside it as well as a 360-degree A/V column that can rise out of the roof. The latter includes two 40-inch LCD monitors, four subwoofers,16 speakers and two LED bars. The audio system also received five amplifiers and two 32-band equalizers.

With this “Swagger Wagon”, West Coast Customs and SiriusXM have undoubtedly shown how families using this Toyota model can transform parenting into adventure. In fact, this is an adventure that features a soundtrack.

If you have missed the TV episode, there is good news for you. The vehicle is going to tour across the United States and will have stops at cultural and music festivals, auto shows and sports events.

httpv://youtu.be/GIxtsO-FUYg

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

December 15, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Finally Announces Pricing for Maybach S-Class

Since we were first presented the 2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, we were definitely awaiting eagerly the pricing of this luxury vehicle of the highest of class. It stands atop of the Mercedes-Benz model range, because it has numerous exclusive details which highlight its “ambition” to lead. These include not only luxury-enhancing features, but also all of the technological benefits of the S-Class. We have to wait a little longer for model’s market launch, which is scheduled for 15^th of February. However, with the announced price, the models are now available to order.

The new Maybach is 5453 mm long and sits over a wheelbase of 3365 mm. It is also 20 cm larger in both dimensions than the long wheelbase S-Class Saloon. The big difference between the S-Class and the Maybach is to be found at the rear, where one can experience the real sense of spaciousness.

Inside, the saloon is the quietest in the world for rear-seat passengers. What is more – it has been extended by 200 mm, which benefits those sitting in the back. There is also more headroom. Unique and innovative safety features are also included in the rear of the car. Such are the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag and seat cushion airbag.

Mercedes have introduced for the first time the voice amplification system.

Absolutely new for Mercedes-Benz is the introduction of voice amplification system. As a chauffeur-driven vehicle, this innovative function makes it easier to communicate with the rear passengers from the front. It comprises of two microphones, which can be also utilized to pick up speech for the hands-free telephone system. The signals are then amplified but at the same time constantly adjusted for the speaker’s volume.

The superb car, and precisely its top-of-the-range trim, S 600, is driven by the exceptional V12 biturbo engine. It has a displacement of 5980 cc and produces no less than 530 horsepower (390 kW) and a torque of 830 Nm (613 lb-ft) available at 1900 rpm.

The S 500 gets the V8 biturbo engine with an output of 455 hp (335 kW) from a displacement of 4663 cc. This model also produces a maximum torque of 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) that is available from 1800 rpm. Here, the combined fuel consumption is estimated at 8.9 litres of petrol per 100 km, while the CO2 fumes are measured at 207 g/km.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has a starting price of 134,053 euros.

Mercedes-Maybach	S 500	S 600
Number of cylinders/arrangement	8/V	12/V
Displacement (cc)	4663	5980
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm)	335/455 at 5250-5500	390/530 at 4900-5300
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	700 at 1800-3500	830 at 1900-4000
Fuel consumption (combined) from (l/100 km)	8.9 S	11.7 SP
Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km)	207	274
Efficiency class	C	F
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s)	5.0	5.0
Top speed (km/h)	250	250
Price (in euros; incl. 19% VAT)	134,053.50	187,841.50

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 15, 2014

The New Toyota Aygo Enhanced by Eibach

The all-new Toyota Aygo receives some tiny improvements which have a major impact on the car. The Eibach Pro-Kit and Pro-Spacer stand for dynamism, a lot of action and more confident look attributed to the car. All Eibach Suspension Components are available through authorized dealer. They also come with a high-quality corrosion protection and are TÜV-certified.

With the installation of the Eibach Pro-Kit Performance Springs, cruising around the city transforms into a fun and more pleasurable driving experience. What is more, they give the Toyota Aygo a refreshed look. Due to the lowering of the center of gravity, the 3.46m short body exhibits a certain dynamic appeal. Precisely, the Pro-Kit is part of the Eibach B12 Pro-Kit and it contributes to the refinement of the car by offering:

exceptional-performance handling;
lower center of gravity by lowering the vehicle up to 40 mm (depending on car model)
innovative spring design and sufficient ride quality.

The Eibach Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers focus on the Aygo’s X-front and outline the self-confidence of the model from all angles. Pro-Spacer, is created from high-tensile-strength aluminum alloy and adds up to the outstanding handling and appearance of the Toyota Aygo. It also offers:

exact fitment by implementing minimal production tolerances which results in excellent wheel balance;
all applications tested in rigid durability- and fatigue tests;
high-grade corrosion protection through a special coating process (salt spray test according to DIN 50021);
considerable weight advantage compared to wheel spacers made from steel;

Source: Eibach

December 15, 2014

Alfa Romeo Releases Giulietta Business Edition

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition is a special edition which is aimed specifically at the business sector. It is driven by a line-up of efficient and low-CO2 engines. It is also equipped with a lot of standard specifications such as the new 6.5-inch Uconnect satellite navigation or the electric lumbar support. The car is based on the Distinctive trim level. Nevertheless, it hosts additional features.

To remind you, the Distinctive trim includes 16-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate and cruise control, rear parking sensors, DAB digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity. If the customer chooses the Business Edition over the first one, then he or she will benefit from the upgraded 6.5-inch Uconnect infotainment system as well as the Visibility Pack.

The latter comprises of the following special features: dusk and rain sensors, self-dimming rear-view interior mirror and power folding door mirrors. There are also front seat electric lumbar support and front parking sensors and as special metallic paint at no cost.

The 2.0-litre JTDM-2 turbo-diesel is the most potent engine in the range, producing 175 horsepower.

The choice of engines for the Giulietta Business Edition consists of four powerplants. The first one is the 1.6-litre JTDM-2 turbo-diesel unit, which produces 105 hp (77 kW) and contributes towards 104 g/km of CO2 emissions. The second one is the 150 hp (110 kW) 2.0-litre JTDM-2 turbo-diesel with 110g/km CO2 emissions. Both engines are fitted with six-speed manual transmission.

The third unit is the 170 hp (125 kW)1.4 Turbo Petrol one with 118 g/km of CO2. At the top of the range sits the 2.0-litre JTDM-2 turbo-diesel that generates 175hp (129 kW) and produces 116 g/km of fumes. Both come with Alfa Romeo’s six-speed ALFA TCT twin dry-clutch transmission.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition Equipment:

16″ Turbine design alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 tyres
Metallic/Special Paint
Competizione cloth upholstery with quartz dashboard trim inserts
Alfa D.N.A. switch (vehicle dynamic control system)
Uconnect™ 6.5″ colour touchscreen with
Dual-zone automatic climate control with a cooled glovebox
Front Parking Sensors
Rear Parking Sensors
Visibility pack
Electric lumbar adjustment on driver and passenger seats
Cruise Control
Tyre pressure monitoring system
LED Daytime Running Lights and LED tail lamps
Electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors
Start&Stop
Height adjustable driver & passenger seat
Front fog lights
Chrome-effect window sills and door mirrors
Sports dials with white illumination
Front armrest with storage compartment
Front and rear electric windows
Rear spoiler
Leather steering with phone and radio controls
Multifunctional display and trip computer
VDC (ABS + ASR + EBD + Brake Assistant) with Hill Holder and Electronic Q2 differential
Six Airbags – Driver, passenger, front side & window
Remote central locking with alarm and immobiliser
Space saver spare wheel

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition Optional Equipment:

17-inch multi-spoke or turbine alloy wheels
18-inch alloy wheels
Exclusive Competizione Red with satin-effect door mirrors
Dark-tinted windows
Electric double sunroof
Bi-xenon headlamps with washers
Headlamp washer system
Brembo Brake Callipers
Bose Hi-Fi Sound System
Premium Pack

Source: Alfa Romeo

December 15, 2014

Jaguar Land Rover to Develop New Concept Technologies

Focusing on how to improve the driving experience around the busy and hectic city, Jaguar Land Rover is developing innovative technologies such as 360 Virtual Urban Windscreen and Follow-Me Ghost Car Navigation. Their aim is to ensure safer, more convenient and less distracting urban driving.

One of the new systems will offer the driver a 360^o view out of the vehicle, without being disturbed by the pillars that support the roof. There is going to be a screen attached to the surface of each pillar inside the vehicle and it will extract live video information from cameras. In addition, the installed cameras will cover usually obscured corners outside the car in the blind spots made by the A, B and C-pillars. Consequently, other automobiles, road users and their movements will be visible from any angle.

Connecting the virtual windscreen to the Cloud will unleash the full capacity of 360 Virtual Urban Windscreen technology. Moreover, when the car is connected to roadside infrastructure and businesses in relation to the city environment, the innovative Virtual Urban Windscreen will deliver information about petrol station prices, number of parking spaces available and so on. As a result, drivers won’t have to search for such information on their own because the system will do it instead.

What is more, Jaguar Land Rover specialists are also creating Follow-MeGhost Car Navigation which will navigate the car to a certain destination by depicting an image of a car in front of the driver’s vehicle. This way the driver will be able to follow it in order to reach the right location.

What do you think? Will this really make driving less stressful?

Source: Jaguar Land Rover

December 15, 2014

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