Automobiles Review – Page 440 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Production Launch For the New Skoda Fabia Estate

Skoda-Fabia-Combi The new Skoda Fabia Estate is expected to set new benchmarks in terms of eco-friendliness, connectivity, practicality, convenience and spaciousness. The entirely reworked third generation model is the most famous one in its range.

The small car establishes new standards in relation to fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. It really sets some exclusive results because the vehicle consumes up to 17% less fuel than the second-generation model. Which is an advancement really. Yet, the most economical version will be the new Fabia Estate GreenLine which will be introduced in the second half of 2015. Its consumption is estimated at 91.1mpg combined and CO₂ emissions of 82 g/km.

Back to the Fabia Estate now. The car offers advanced safety, comfort and infotainment systems thus including the innovative MirrorLink technology which is able to project smartphone apps, like sat-nav, on the infotainment system screen. Another new functional ‘adoration’ is the SmartGate technology. Using it, the driver will be able to access the information on the vehicle and to display and save it on his or her smartphone via special apps.

Exteriorly, the Skoda is highlighted with some dynamic and edgy proportions which demonstrate a subtle interaction between light and shadow. This interplay results in underlining the rigid appearance of the Fabia Estate. What is more, despite its size, the car conveys more than enough space for up to five passengers which brings sufficient comfort. The boot has the largest capacity in its segment at 530 litres (1395 litres with the rear seat folded down).

The new Skoda Fabia Combi will be officially launched in January 2015, with a UK launch happening in March.

Source: Skoda

December 15, 2014

BRABUS smart electric drive Goes Shopping

You must hurry with the Christmas presents if you haven’t already bought them, because the holidays are coming closer. And if in the city centre there’s not a parking space available, then BRABUS have the solution. They know a way around this: first – it has to be a late night shopping, and secondly – it has to be in 2014 BRABUS smart electric drive. We are not speaking mere talks, but this is exactly what happened at the Galleries Lafayette in Berlin, Germany.

Whether drawn by reindeer (in the case of Santa Claus) or in a normal car, finding a place to park, especially in a big capital city such as Berlin is always hard. And in fact, this is particularly challenging during winter holidays.

Why this emission-free smart BRABUS electric drive is the perfect solution? First, because one can transport loads of presents and can be also accompanied by someone special. In addition, they can find a parking space faster than in a bigger car … or Santa’s old sleigh. In fact, in the aforementioned gallery he was allowed to drive the smart directly into the store itself.

What is more, at the store, he also charged the smart battery with the help of a 220-volt socket. The other benefits of this little smart are that it is driven by a 60 kW electric motor. It is hardly believable that it can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in only 4.4 seconds and running to its maximum speed of 130 km/h.

The driving range of the 17.6 kWh lithium-ion battery is circa 145 kilometres in the city traffic. The advantage: there are no local emissions! This BRABUS smart fortwo electric drive is also available as a coupé and a cabrio, without the tuning of the famous company. However, it will be driven by a less potent 55 kW engine.

2014 BRABUS smart electric drive has a starting price of 18,910 euros.

Source: Smart

December 15, 2014

Mercedes-Benz s63 AMG Reworked by Brabus

2014 Brabus Mercedes-Benz s63 AMG Mercedes-Benz S63 has caught the attention of German tuner Brabus and has turned into its latest project once again. Along with a speedometer updated to 400 km/h, the new S63 receives an exquisite satin gold exterior finish as well.

Starting with the power plant, the S63 AMG by Brabus retains the original twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine. This time around it no longer generates 585 HP (430 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). Thanks to the significant rework by the tuner, now the engine delivers a 850 HP (625 kW) at 5,400 rpm and 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) of torque in the 2,500 – 4,500 rpm range.

Even though there has not been confirmed any performance data, Brabus Mercedes-Benz S63 is going to be quicker than the well-known stock model in rear wheel drive configuration. The base car requires 4.4 seconds until it reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) while the 4MATIC version is able to achieve it in 4 seconds. Initially, Mercedes-Benz is offering the S63 AMG with a 155 mph (250 km/h) electronic top speed limiter but due to Brabus’ previous project this figure is increased to 202 mph (325 km/h).

The refined Mercedes arrives with new aerodynamic features too. For instance, the luxury sedan is equipped with carbon fiber front air intake surrounds, a carbon front splitter, carbon components behind the front wheels and carbon wing mirrors. There is a bootlid lip spoiler, quad tailpipes and aggressively looking carbon fiber diffuser installed by Brabus.

Source: Brabus

December 15, 2014

Aston Martin Marks Its Diamond Jubilee with Six Limited Edition Sports Cars

aston-martin-vanquish-super-gt-anniversary-edition-01 The best way to mark great achievements in the past is by looking towards the future with a determination to gain even more and bigger accomplishments. This is precisely what Aston Martin is striving to do now. In order to celebrate its 60^th anniversary and to really set this event as something tremendously important and big, the automaker is revealing six bespoke models which are confirming new standards.

All of the models represent interpretations of the current Vanquish super GT in either Coupe or Volante version. Their creation is the product of the exciting Aston Martin personalization service and the luxury British brand’s Gaydon-based design team of proffessionals.

The cars are powered by the standard 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine which is used in the Vanquish super GT. It is mated to the latest generation Touchtronic III eight-speed automatic gearbox and delivers 568 HP and 630 Nm of torque. What does it do for the car though? This enables the Vanquish to speed up from 0 to 60mph in 3.6 seconds, developing a maximum speed of 200mph.

Precisely, the six pistons have been drawn from engines in the following Newport Pagnell-built sports cars:

1955-1965: DB 2/4 Mk II saloon
1965-1975: DB5
1975-1985: V8 Coupe
1985-1995: V8 Vantage X-pack
1995-2005: V8 Vantage supercharged
2005-2015: Original Vanquish

Moreover, the new Aston Martin Anniversity vehicles share some explicit features such as rotaries made from worked metal of a heritage model piston from the relevant era; distinctive Anniversary Yellow accents on the side strakes and alloy wheels; White/black Duotone seat centre panels; one-of-a-kind sill plaques exemplifying the era of the car with the Works Anniversary logo. Additionally, the distinctive color and trim treatments are highlighted by contrast yellow stitching in the leather and new heavy weave carbon fibre.

The first of the models has already been released at the Buckinghamshire-based firm’s customer Christmas celebration.

Source: Aston Martin

December 13, 2014

2016 BMW 6 Series Line-up to Debut in Detroit

The new 2016 BMW 6 Series and the M6 are going to make their global premieres at next year’s North American International Auto Show. The event starts on 12^th of January and is always conducted in Detroit. Also on display at BMW’s stand are the plug-in hybrid sports car i8, the EV i3, as well as the M235i Coupe, and other BMW vehicles. The Bavarian company will also show the prototype its first drive module for electric hydrogen fuel cell drive systems.

All three body styles of the 6 series will be shown in Detroit. These include the 6 Series Coupe, the 6 Series Gran Coupe, and the BMW M6 Convertible. They will show the highest of standards in terms of handling, comfort, technology and of course of appeal. The new BMW 6 Series utilizes exceptional suspension technology, thus exuding unprecedented balance between agility and comfort.

The interior of the coupé is ambient and it is designed to accommodate four people. Similarly, the 6 Series Gran Coupe mixes the performance and elegance of a coupe with the functionality of a four-door vehicle. In the US, the 6 Series line-up will continue via the 650i and 640i models.

The first one uses TwinPower Turbo V8 engine mated to an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission. It generates 445 horsepower (327 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque, and accelerates the car from 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds.

On the other hand, the 640i utilizes the TwinPower Turbo inline six unit, producing 315 horsepower (232 kW) and 447 Nm (330 lb-ft) of torque. The powerplant is again mated to an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission and accelerates the BMW from 0 to 60 in 5.2 seconds.

All new 6 Series are equipped with full-LED headlights as standard equipment. The M6 line-up will be represented in Detroit by the M6 Convertible. Next to the standard LED headlights the car is also defined by the M-specific double-bar kidney grille.

The M6 also includes one-of-a-kind M gills, side skirts, 19-inch M forged light-alloy wheels as a standard or 20-inch M light alloy wheels as an option. M6 is driven by the 4.4-liter M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine which boasts 560 horsepower (442 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) of torque.

In other words, this means that the M6 Coupe and Gran Coupe will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about four seconds (4.3 seconds for the M6 Convertible). The engine’s power is transferred to the rear wheels via either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic.

2016 BMW 6 Series line-up is scheduled to arrive in US showrooms in the second quarter of 2015.

Source: BMW

December 13, 2014

This is the 2016 Audi Q7. Like or Pass?

2016-audi-q7-05 2016 Audi Q7 is here! Many of us already have shared some thoughts on how this new Q7 looks and we will be definitely glad to hear what you think! Although it looks to me very rough and masculine, and definitely not a car I would drive, this SUV has its advantegous characteristics that need some respect. First, being a true Audi, it has inherited the sportiness and premium comfort for which the company is famous.

Another interesting fact that I really like about this vehicle is that thanks to its lightweight construction, efficiency and assistance systems, it is 325 kilograms (716.5 lb) lighter and around 26 percent more efficient in comparison to the previous generation. What is more, this is the first diesel plug-in hybrid with quattro drive.

The removed 325 kilograms as well as the low center of mass make the Q7 also more agile. At the same time, it is the most spacious car in its segment. Believe it or not, its exterior dimensions have gotten smaller (To me they look larger). Despite this, the SUV offers substantially more interior room for passengers and luggage.

Because of the reduced weight (the curb weight is of just 1,995 kilograms (4,398.2 lb)), this model is also more efficient. In particular, it shows 26 percent better efficiency when compared to the previous generation Q7. The vehicle is also equipped with the latest assistance systems, infotainment modules and connection features.

Speaking about power, the Q7 can be driven by the 3.0 TDI with 272 hp (200 kW) and the 3.0 TFSI with 333hp (245 kW). They accelerate the 2016 Q7 from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 6.1 seconds (TFSI) and 6.3 seconds (TDI), respectively. The diesel V6 consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (41.3 US mpg), corresponding to 149 grams of CO2 per kilometer (239.8 g/mi).

A very important highlight is the Audi Q7 e‑tron quattro, which will be launched very soon. It is the first plug in hybrid from Audi with a diesel engine. It impresses with 373 hp (275 kW) and 700 Nm (516.3 lb‑ft). This is world’s first diesel plug‑in hybrid with quattro all‑wheel drive in the premium SUV segment.

This particular model needs only 1.7 liters per 100 kilometers (138.4 US mpg), which corresponds to less than 50 grams CO2 per kilometer (80.5 g/mi). A full battery charge can cover a distance of 56 kilometers (34.8 mi).

Audi virtual cockpit is what features the new infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems. For instance, the MMI all‑in‑touch control unit with large touchpad makes operation easier. Other innovations include the more services from Audi connect, the Audi tablet for the rear seat passengers and the two sound systems with 3D audio, and many more. In terms of driver assistance systems, the engineers of the car have included the adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assistant.

2016 Audi Q7 will be introduced at North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Source: Audi

December 12, 2014

First Spy Shots of Third-Gen Skoda Superb. Is this the Best Skoda ever?

We have just received a couple of pictures showing the design of the future Skoda Superb. These photos obviously show the car covered in camouflage but still – its expressive design is visible. As we can see, the Superb model has been completely redeveloped and it has recently completed the final test series in Southern Europe. This is the flagship model in Skoda’s range and we suspect that it will also offer new proportions, space, innovative technology, driving dynamics and more quality.

This will be the third-generation Superb. It will come to offer highest functionality with a better package. What we have understood so far is that the amount of space and boot size has grown and they are to set a new benchmark in the segment.

The vehicle will be built on Volkswagen’s MQB technology. This is how Skoda will bring about qualities from the higher vehicle classes into the automotive mid-class. Furthermore, the Czechs company also promises that the car will offer the best values in terms of comfort, infotainment and connectivity, safety, fuel-efficienvy, consumption and performance.

The premiere of the new Superb will happen in the middle of February next year in Prague. Two weeks after that it will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show. The market launch is scheduled for mid-2015 in Europe and the first deliveries are about to happen in the autumn of the same year. The question left unanswered is: Are we to see the best production Skoda model?

Source: Skoda

December 12, 2014

EDAG Light Cocoon Concept is based on Nature’s Example

Geneva Motor Show will happen in the beginning of March next year, where we will see the birth of EDAG Light Cocoon Concept. The builders of the special car declare that it is not just a concept study of a compact, dynamic sports car. It is rather a projection of a lightweight construction. The reason for this is that it includes a bionically optimized vehicle structure combined with a weatherproof textile outer skin panel. In addition, backlight technology illuminates the organic-like structure of the car.

For the implementation of the bionic construction principles and natural strategies, there has been also put an additive manufacturing potential in this concept. The designers had in mind vision for sustainability, which is demonstrated by nature.

Furthermore, they did not treat the body like a closed surface. Every single material which wasn’t needed for the special load cases was removed. As an inspiration, the designers used the leaf, being the ultimate, lightweight outer skin. Just as with a leaf, the textile skin covers Light Cocoon.

Currently, there are also tests made with a stretch fabric that is also extremely weatherproof, to serve as the new outer body skin. As a matter of fact, this skin weighs no more than 19 g/m², which additionally supports the maximum lightweight design requirements with minimum weight.

In addition, this material, which is four times lighter than standard copier paper, is also extremely strong. When combined with the topologically optimized structure of the car, this offers enormous potential and stimulus for the ultimate lightweight construction of the future.

Source: EDAG

December 12, 2014

Kahn Reveals Volcanic Grey Range Rover Evoque RS Sport

The latest tuning by Kahn Design features one of the most wanted urban SUVs, and it is the Range Rover Evoque. The car is finished in Volcanic Grey Satin exterior paint scheme and it is one of the main characteristics that differentiate it from the factory models. In addition, the exterior of the Evoque also received aggressive carbon fibre units that replaced the front and rear bumpers. At the rear, there is an integrated matte black diffuser and stainless steel cross-hair exhaust tips.

Furthermore, the fascia also go new LED daytime running lights as well as 3-D grille with a matte black mesh and sump guard. Each side of the vehicle was additionally adorned by piano black door handles and mirrors stand out as well as matte black side vents.

Reviewing again the back, we see on this Range Rover new roof spoiler, lower trunk spoiler with matte black lip, and a tailgate trim. New Kahn lettering on the hood and tailgate round out the package.

The Evoque is driven by a 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine. It is capable of a total of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft), which is sent directly to all four Matt Gun Metal RS-600 wheels. They come in the size of 8.5″ x 22″ and are coupled with 275x40x20″ tyres.

Behind those wheels we see callipers and a set of lowering springs. The latter minimize the ride height by 20 mm. What is left to be mentioned regarding the exterior is the twin crosshair exhaust system in stainless steel.

Inside, the vehicle received custom upholstery on the seats. The material used was perforated black nappa leather, which is also to be found on the centre glove box. In contrast, the transmission tunnel and headliner is available with woven contrast stitching. A diamond gear selector, red gauges, machined and vented aluminium pedals and discreet Kahn branding is what’s left untold here.

Source: Kahn

December 12, 2014

Infiniti Offers First Glimpse of Q60 Concept

Infiniti is rolling out one teaser after the other. The company has released an image of the future Vision GranTurismo Concept in the beginning of the week. It is today that Infiniti gives us an intriguing first look at the premium sports coupe concept called Q60 Concept. The car is scheduled to be on display at the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, which will begin in January the 12th.

The teaser shows only the sides of the car, emphasizing its muscular lines. The silhouette of the Q60 Concept is pure and features well-defined contours. In addition, it seems that the overall proportions speak of a performance coupe.

The same impression leave the full-sized wheels placed out at the corners of Q60. Some parts of the car, especially towards the rear, strongly resemble the Q80 Inspiration. The latter was revealed at the Paris Motor Show in October.

Q80 Inspiration is powered by a downsized twin turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and a hybrid electric engine. The total output is 550 hp (404 kW). Despite this, the car is still capable of returning 5.5L/100km (42.8 mpg) and 129g/km of CO2 emissions. We are wondering what powertrain we are to see in the Q60?

Going back on the current topic, the Q60 is the latest concept builds on the language seen on recent Infiniti concept cars. With it Infiniti absolutely clearly states its future visual philosophy and the design consistency which is to be a key ingredient of products in the future Infiniti line-up.

Source: Infiniti

December 12, 2014

Bad News for Tesla: Gas Prices are Falling

At the heart of Tesla Model S is a proven powertrain which delivers great range and a thrilling driving experience. The car offers many battery options that set the benchmark for electric driving range. All of them use automotive-grade lithium-ion cells arranged for optimal energy density, thermal management and safety. The vehicle has a rigid body structure, nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a remarkably low center of gravity. This means that it offers responsiveness and agility nearly as a sports car. And all of these features of the Model S as well as other factors contribute towards its popularity.In fact back in 2013 Tesla promised that it will expand its retail network worldwide in order to support its mission of engaging as many people as possible in driving electric vehicles.These days something peculiar has happened: we’ve seen the drastic fall of the gas prices. This might be a quite big hindrance in Tesla’s way of accomplishing the goal set.Many probably ask themselves “Would it be still cool to own a Tesla, if this gas price continues to fall”. In terms of power, performance and luxury the answer might incline towards the negative direction. If we do speak about environmental aspect – then yes, it is definitely worth it owning a Tesla and saving the eco-system.Another difficulty in owning a Tesla might be the price tag. In fact, in the last couple of years it has risen. The same happened with the US gas prices which were hitting their maximum. They however appeared to be there to stay and no one expected what we are observing now.Then again: If the gasoline is affordable then why would anyone need an electric car? Wall Street is having the same question, since the price of Tesla shares has fallen by nearly 20 percent. This happened from mid-November until this Tuesday after falling for seven straight trading days.Ben Kallo, who is an analyst for Baird Equity Research, said that this recent decline in TSLA shares is actually driven by the low gasoline prices, which could impact demand if sustained for the long term.A “pro” Tesla argument is that if one can afford a $70,000 Model S and a $30 for a tank of gas versus $60, this wouldn’t be probably an issue. Then, he or she is definitely buying the electric car out of a sense of environmental responsibility.Kallo continued that Tesla cars are purchased for performance and quality, and this is not affected by oil prices. He also estimates that Model S owners will still save nearly $1,400 per year even at the current average gas price.Another problem for electric vehicles is keeping an electric car powered up via an infrastructure which is only in “infant” stage. Therefore, if gas stays cheap, the future building of this infrastructure will be even harder. Because, no matter how great the EV is, not having a place to charge it will leave one helpless.Any thoughts on this debate? Are you “pro” or “contra” electric vehicles, and what do you think about the falling gas prices?

December 11, 2014

Gray Design Introduces a Concept Called ‘The Sidewinder’ [VIDEO]

gray-design-sidewinder We haven’t reviewed for a long-long time anything that was created by Gray Design. And we have to stop this by presenting to you their sand basher called “The Sidewinder”. The car was designed in order to make it easier for those who want to enjoy their hobby of sand dune racing in luxury and style. The concept vehicle is perfect to take one from dune to dune an entirely in comfort. At the same time the high tech chassis will keep car’s level and its handling.

This fantastic concept vehicle is powered by an LSX Bowtie big block engine. Thanks to it the Sidewinder can produce 630 hp (463 kW) at 6400 rpm on its way to a top speed of 150 km/h, and note – all of this happens on sand! The torque developed by the powerplant is 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) at 5400rpm.

The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h happens in 5.5 seconds. All these great number are also possible thanks to the robust suspension. It includes front and rear boxed chrome arms, front and rear anti-sway bars and 3.0 KING bypass shock absorbers.

The interior of the Sidewinder is all about luxury. In it the driver is surrounded by a full array of matching OLED infotainment and display screens. The insides of the car are designed by Eduard Gray and delivered by Swedspot.

The Swedish-based company has provided the open, Android-based platform, which enables developers all over the world to fine tune the optimal user experience. Their carefully selected automotive adaptations of Android are what add unique vehicle extensions. At last, a standardized Vehicle Application Programming Interface (API) provides a leading-edge access to information from the sensors and signals of the Sidewinder.

httpv://youtu.be/kmgFEfUdvQQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Gray Design

December 11, 2014

Blog