Automobiles Review – Page 443 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Lexus RC F: Dynamic Beauty

No one can deny that the styling of the new Lexus RC F coupe exhibits particular sophistication and determination in every curve. Being good on the outside is one thing, but being equally good on the inside and under the bonnet is totally different. The combination of such characteristics results in an ultimate quality which signifies efficiency and remarkable dynamic potentials. All of this is well demonstrated by the RC F.

Inspired and developed from the exclusive LF-LC and LF-CC concepts which Lexus revealed in 2013, the RC F conveys a distinguishable appearance which is confident enough to stand out in the crowd. The compelling coupe has a front end that is enhanced by a new spindle grille. This time around, it has a double-spindle effect with a graduated F-motif mesh grille which helps ventilate the 5.0-litre engine.

There is a three-LED lamp headlight design which is underlined by separate LED running lights arrayed in the Lexus L motif. Stability when driving at high speed is further complemented by the slick flow of vented air over the top and sides of the Lexus and by the aero-stabilizing fins integrated in the door frame moulding.

Finally, the RC F Carbon incudes a bonnet, roof and rear wing fabricated in lightweight Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic, reducing the coupe’s overall weight by approximately 10kg.

Lexus RC F is available to order now with a starting price of £59,995. UK customer deliveries are going to start in February.

Source: Lexus

December 8, 2014

All-new Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine: The Most Powerful and Cleanest SUV Around the World

When creating the Volvo XC90 T8, the automaker climbs one step up in the automotive industry. The car is not deprived of any quality and performance features. On the contrary, it demonstrates sufficient stability, dynamics and class.

The spacious 7-seater SUV delivers 400hp and a peak torque of 640Nm combined with ultra-low emissions of 59g/km (TBC). With such power, the SUV can speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds which is pretty impressive for a car of this size. Let’s not forget to mention that there is an 82 horsepower 240 Nm (117 lb-ft) electric motor which is placed on the rear axle and it drives the rear wheels. Yet, is the Volvo XC90 T8 as environmentally friendly as it is proclaimed to be?

Despite the lack of official data, in-house testing has demonstrated that this powertrain can produce 59 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Looking at the statement, the answer to the question above is “yes”. The family car definitely delivers the best overall fuel consumption and is eco-friendly.

Additionally, the car offers five different driving modes for unique driving experience. Drivers can choose from: Hybrid, Pure electric, Power mode, AWD and Save.

Under the hood, this Volvo features is equipped with: Drive-E engine, 8-speed automatic gearbox, crankshaft-mounted starter generator (CISG), high-voltage (270–400V) battery, delivering 65kW of power, rear electric motor, two-step braking system, one-of-a-kind cooling and climate system, pre-conditioning. The latter can be done while the car is plugged-in which really allows the battery to last as long as possible in Pure Electric Drive mode.

Source: Volvo

December 8, 2014

One-off Ferrari Sergio Arrives in UAE

Ferrari-Sergio-651 The first Ferrari Sergio has just been delivered to its proud owner in the United Arab Emirates. This makes it the first Sergio to arrive in the UAE. The supersports car has been designed by Pininfarina and more importantly, only six of this limited edition roadster will be ever built. The model was introduced as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show in 2013 and it comes to celebrate the spirit and core values of the historic Cambiano company in the 60th anniversary year of its collaboration with the Prancing Horse.

The name Sergio was the only possible choice, because it pays homage to great Sergio Pininfarina. The Ferrari Sergio is both exclusive and spare. What I mean is that every single element aboard is focused entirely on performance.

To get more precise, it features an authentic open-top and great driving dynamics. In fact, the car is based on the 458 Spider and has kept its technological content as well as its functional aspects of its cockpit.

This basically means that it is powered by Ferrari’s naturally aspirated 4497 cc V8 which produces 605 hp (445 kW). The engine ensures a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3 seconds.

Sergio has also an extremely simple and clear style, which reflects the spirt of Pininfarina’s 1960s and 70s creations for Ferrari. For instance, the front of the car seems to penetrate the rear which itself projects forward. The two bodyshell masses are melded together via a longitudinal black insert.

The flank also gets the same black longitudinal element which serves as both a dividing and unifying element between front and rear. The two sections of the car flow effortlessly into one. Furthermore, there is a semi-floating development of the front spoiler beneath the bonnet which balances downforce and optimises heat exchange. The roll-bar is a modern take on the classic Ferrari flying buttress and negative rear window.

At the front we see classically-shaped headlights. While at the back, there are circular tail lights, which is another modern nod to Ferrari history. The two-tone theme continues on both the front bonnet and rear deck. The latter gets the iconic circular air vents typical for Pininfarina’s design.

This example, delivered in UAE, has three-layer red exterior paintwork as well as an extremely sporty cockpit with black leather upholstery with contrasting red stitching. The interior alsp gets Alcantara seat inserts, and extensive carbon dash and door well trim.

We forgot mentioning these special gold Sergio-specific forged wheels that are painted with a diamond finish.

Each one of the six Ferrari Sergios is absolutely unique, because it was configured by its owner. The result is exclusivity down to the tiniest detail which continues the tradition of creating bespoke cars minutely tailored to each client’s wishes.

Source: Ferrari

December 8, 2014

Impressive Crash Prevention System by Volvo

City Safety becomes one of the most developed, useful and enhanced crash prevention system which is standard in the all-new Volvo XC90. The system is active at all speeds from 4 km/h (2.5 mph) and it turns into the umbrella name for all Volvo’s auto brake functions.

The purpose of the Volvo City Safety system is to help and guide the driver by using an intuitive warning method as well as a brake support system. In a situation when the driver cannot respond right away, the system will provide automatic braking. Precisely, the system functions include:

Addressing Oncoming vehicles, including motorcycles and cycles, when the driver turns left (or right in left-hand traffic). City Safety then can note a possible crash and brakes automatically in order to avoid a collision.
Noting vehicles, including motorcycles, travelling in the same direction. City Safety can avoid an impact if the relative speed difference between the two vehicles is up to 50 km/h (31 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking reduces the consequences of the collision.
Addressing cyclists crossing the path of the car or suddenly swerving out in front it. Depending on the situation, City Safety is able to avoid a collision if the relative speed difference is up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can mitigate the consequences of the collision.
Observing pedestrians walking out in front of the car. The system is able to avoid a collision at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can help mitigate the consequences of the collision.

The excellent functions of the safety system also feature detection in darkness thanks to the integrated camera and radar which is able to monitor objects in front of the car and to determine their distance and movement.

Source: Volvo

December 8, 2014

GeigerCars Powers Up Dodge Ram 1500 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee

GeigerCars has boosted the power of the Dodge Ram 1500 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD. Both US-cars received performance increase of 40 hp and 62 Nm. The production “numbers” of the 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine are 241 hp (177 kW) and 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) in the Ram, and 250 hp (184 kW) and 570 Nm (421 lb-ft) in the Jeep.

After the software optimization of the 24-valve engine, these numbers increase to 281 hp (207 kW) and 631 Nm (465 lb-ft), and 290 hp (213 kW) and 632 Nm (466 lb-ft), respectively. Moreover, in the Jeep Grand Cherokee the maximum speed was increased from 202 to 223 km/h, while the Vmax of the powerful Dodge Ram 1500 was increased to 190 km/h.

Except for the power tuning, the Dodge Ram has also received some styling refinements. The leather interior is in brown and tan color scheme. A folding armrest placed at the middle of the backseat along with a pair of cup holders. There are also two cup holders on the floorboard.

An 8.4 inch touchscreen display has all the navigation controls. The rear view camera position is next to the handle of the tailgate which allows closer position to the trailer hitch. A few other safety items, like parking sensors positioned all along the rear bumper, along with duo exhaust tips.

Dodge RAM 1500 3.0 l V6 EcoDiesel:

Motor: V6-turbo diesel
Displacement: 2,988 ccm
Output: 177 kW (241 hp)
Torque: 569 Nm
Gear: 8-gear automatic transmission
Consumption combined: 10.2 l (diesel)
Co2 combined 267 g/km
Pollutant class: G

Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD Overland

Motor: V6-turbo diesel
Displacement: 2,988 ccm
Output: 184 kW (250 hp)
Torque: 570 Nm
Gear: 8-gear automatic transmission
Consumption combined: 7.5 l (diesel)
Co2 combined 198 g/km
Pollutant class: G

Source: GeigerCars

December 8, 2014

2015 Scion xB Goes on Sale

2015 Scion xB is equipped with many features, which make it the perfect Christmas present. For the new model year, the car gets a standard rear back-up camera. Of course, the car offers roomy interior for up to five people and the convenience of 60/40 split rear seat that folds flat. Other great features include storage bins, a large center console with sliding armrest and a hidden compartment under the rear seats. The power of xB comes from the 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. The unit produces 158 horsepower (116 kW) and 220 Nm (162 pound-feet) of torque.

The excellent fuel efficiency is also a benefit: 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with both the manual and automatic transmissions. The ride is smooth thanks to the MacPherson strut front suspension with stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension. For this also contributes the standard 16-inch wheels.

Inside, the three-spoke steering wheel features audio controls right at the fingertips. Behind it we see gauges, deep orange multi-information display and the metal-tone accented dash. Other standard features include remote keyless entry, power windows with driver side auto down and electric power steering.

Inside, the occupants will benefit from standard Display Audio system with 6.1 inch LCD touchscreen. As an option, Scion is offering BeSpoke Audio system, push-to-talk voice navigation and many more tweaks.

In terms of exterior colors, the standard offered are Black Sand Pearl, Nautical Blue Metallic, Sizzling Crimson Mica, Army Rock Metallic, Absolutely Red, Classic Silver Metallic and Super White.

2015 Scion xB is currently available at dealerships across the United States with a starting price of $17,120 USD.

Source: Scion

December 8, 2014

Market Debut for Nissan Murano’s “Social lounge” Interior

2015 Nissan Murano just made its market debut this Friday on 5th of December. It is already available in the dealerships across the United States. Murano is expanding the range of crossovers and SUVs, and delivers refinement, luxury, technology features and a very interesting interior, called “Social lounge”. The vehicle is offered in four trim levels: S, SV, SL and Platinum, and two-wheel drives: front- or all-wheel. Every Murano is powered by a standard 260 horsepower (191 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, which is coupled with a Xtronic transmission.

The fuel economy is rated at 21/28/24 mpg city/highway/combined for both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. In terms of exterior design, the car features V-motion front end, which is further emphasized by the LED boomerang lights and the unique floating roof.

The latter uses glass areas and D-pillars, which appear disconnected from the roof that help lighten the cabin appearance. LED Signature lights and LED taillights are standard. The most interesting thing in this SUV is the interior that offers an engaging social lounge feel.

This means that it includes refined instrument panel, low center console, advanced Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating as well as airy atmosphere. The total interior volume is of 147.7 cubic feet, while the cargo volume – of 39.6 cubic feet.

The technology features in Murano include NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 8-inch color display with multi-touch control, Around View Monitor, 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, iPod interface, 11-speaker Bose premium audio system and Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System with streaming audio.

The safety in this Nissan is secured by the Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) and a new Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). The starting price of 2015 Nissan Murano (S FWD trim) is $29,560 USD.

Source: Nissan

December 8, 2014

Pricing and Specifications for the New Calerio

The all-new global compact Suzuki Calerio is going on sale in the UK from February the upcoming year. Its starting price is set to be the modest sum of just £7,999 for the SZ3 model and £8,999 for the SZ4.

CO₂ emissions of the Calerio are as low as 99g/km and 65.7mpg on the EC combined cycle. The vehicle is powerted by 1.0-litre three cylinder 68PS engine. Nevertheless, a new engine will be available next summer and it will be offering higher combined fuel economy of 78.4 mpg and CO₂ emissions that drop to 84g/km due to the introduction of Suzuki’s new Dualjet engine technology. This engine will also feature a stop start facility when stationary.

The height of 1,540mm and a non-slanting roofline are the reasons for more headroom for occupants. Moreover, the 2,425mm long wheelbase offers a tandem distance of 743mm. This results in more than enough space in the cabin which is able to accommodate five occupants. Thanks to the design and excellently done work, Suzuki is offering a vehicle that comes with a convenient and roomy interior. The compact body is just 3,600mm in length and has a width of 1,600mm. Suzuki Calerio has a turning circle of 9.4 meters.

Some of the typical specifications for the Celerio SZ3 are comprised of six airbags (Driver, passenger, side and curtain), ESP*, air conditioning, alloy wheels, DAB Radio, CD Tuner, USB, Bluetooth connectivity and remote central locking. Additionally, the Suzuki SZ4 model is equipped with polished alloy wheels, rear electric windows, front fog lamps, body colored door mirrors and chrome front grille.

Source: Suzuki

December 8, 2014

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4Matic S Improved by Vaeth

VAETH is considered to be one of the best Mercedes-Benz specialists which really knows how and what to give to Mercedes models. The tuner demonstrates sufficient skills and craftsmanship when it comes to car ennobling, power enhancement, exhaust systems, chassis, light alloy rims, carbon aerodynamics, interior and many more.

Now VAETH is redirecting its specialists gaze towards Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4Matic S giving it finishing touches that enhance the model’s performance. The basic engine of the vehicle produces 585 HP (430 kW) but with the VAETH tuning kit, the Swabian model comes to the mind-blowing capacity of 750 HP (551 kW) and electronically limited 1,000 Nm of peak torque. This results in Vmax of 350 kmph (220 mph). As an option, there is a MOT/certified version with 680 HP (500 kW) available as well.

What does the kit of the tuned Mercedes-Benz V 63 RS Export comprise of though? It offers modified VAETH turbo charger, VAETH oil chilling system, a downpipe system which reduces exhaust counter pressure and increases the engine power and a VAETH axle back exhaust. It costs 24,740.00 Euro.

There is an optional lowering by 20…40 mm using corresponding springs with coilovers on the front axle and electronic adaption of the rear axle for 1,166.20 Euro (plus 297.50 Euro for mounting including axle alignment).

Three part forged rims with tinted in titan stars, in 9.0 x 20 innches on the front axle have been installed too. They come with tires 265/30ZR20 (1,542.24 Euro). On the rear axle there is 11.0 x 20 inches rims with tires 305/25ZR20 (1,832.60 Euro).

The initial interior parts, such as air conditioner frame, ashtray cover in front, central cover panel, controller frame, door frames left and right, fan frame left and central decoration cover panel are highlighted in classic black carbon. This alterations costs 3,927.00 Euro plus 238.00 Euro for mounting.

Source: Miranda Media

December 8, 2014

2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta Unveiled with Retro Styling

Maggiora and Carrozzeria Viotti team up and unveil the 2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta at the Bologna Motor Show.

Does it remind you a little bit of Renault Alpine A108 but in a modern way? Well, don’t be surprised because in the past Willys built 822 units of a vehicle called Interlagos that was, in fact, based on the Alpine. The 2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta represents a contemporary interpretation of a classic design. It is not just a show-car though beucase it will undergo a production, LIMITED, of only 110 units. The starting price is that of €380,000.

Let’s face some performance specifications now. Willys AW 380 Berlinetta is powered by a 3.8-liter bi-turbo six-cylinder engine which generates 610 bhp (455 kW) and 830 Nm (612 lb-ft). The carbon fiber body brings a total weight of only 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs). The sprint time from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 2.7 seconds, before it reaches 212 mph (340 km/h).

The car arrives with a MacPherson struts front suspension with a multi-link rear arrangement. The ceramic composite brakes feature 380mm front and 360mm rear discs as well as six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers.

The vehicle benefits from 2418mm wheelbase and 19-inch front / 20-inch rear alloy wheels which are wrapped around in Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires. It is said to consume about 18.9 liters / 100 km in the city and 9.2 liters / 100 km on the highway.

Source: Maggiora and Carrozzeria Viotti

December 5, 2014

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Opens for Ordering

The first volume production B-Class Electric Drive by Mercedes-Benz can be ordered from the present day on. There are two model lines – Sport and Electric Art.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is capable of travelling up to 142 miles on a single charge and can speed up from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds due to its electric motor which develops 180 HP and 340 NM of torque. With the Tesla-developed technology, the B-Class Electric Drive represents the fastest accelerating five-seat electric car in its range. Still though, it preserves all the flexibility of the B-Class on which it’s based. The car has enough space to carry five adults and a 501-litre boot – rising to 1,456-litres when the seats are folded down.

Prices for the B-Class Electric Drive start at £31,950 for the Sport model. Subject to approval, an OLEV grant (£5,000) can be applied, reducing the price to £26,950. The Electric Art has a starting price of £32,245 which will be reduced to £27,245 if the OLEV grant is applied.

The Sport model is equipped with an original design for the front and rear bumpers, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a seven-inch central display, Artico trim, automatic climate control, a reversing camera and cruise control. This model is available in eight paint colors.

The Electric Art model does not have the same variety of colors like the Sport. It comes in either Cirrus White or South Seas Blue. Its features include contrasting mirrors and radiator grille elements, 18-inch dual color alloy wheels, automatic climate control, contrast blue stitching for the seats and aluminium trim.

The lithium-ion batteries that power the B-Class Electric Drive are placed under the floor of the car which allows the car to keep its standard cabin room and boot space. There is a fast charging cable supplied with the car which makes charging via a wall box or public charging station much easier. The battery is fully recovered in between three or four hours.

Making the most of the capabilities of the B-Class Electric Drive is the optional Energy Assist Package (£945) with adaptive energy recuperation systems to scan road conditions.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 5, 2014

The All-new Volvo XC90: One of The Safest Cars Worldwide

Among the most important characteristics of a car is its safety. Volvo Cars’ all-new XC90 has fully comprehended the significance of this virtue and therefore has implemented it very successfully which labels the car as one of the safest vehicles in the world.

Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group points out that: “Our starting point on safety is the same today as it was 87 years ago: real-life situations,” and then adds; “We study data. We crunch numbers. We innovate. The result is one of the safest cars ever made.”

Run-off road is an accident type which happens often. There are different causes, like driver distraction, bad or poor weather conditions and so on. Disturbed by the huge number of such accidents, Volvo Cars is seeking a practicable solution. The development of the automaker’s Safe Positioning which addresses such and similar situations is a massive step forward that leads towards a safer driving.

Precisely, The Safe Positioning capability means that in a run-off road occurrence, the all-new Volvo XC90 is able to monitor what is happening. As a result, the front safety belts are tightened which keeps the occupants in a stable and secured position. The belts stay firmly tightened as long as the car is in motion.

Furthermore, The XC90 is the first car around the globe with technology that includes automatic braking in case the driver turns in front of an oncoming car. Also, there is a wide range of other safety innovative technologies available on the all-new XC90 such as: Pre-crash protection in rear impacts, Groundbreaking rollover prevention and protection, City Safety auto braking functions, Extended Road Sign Information, Covers the blind spots and Queue Assist.

Source: Volvo

December 5, 2014

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