Automobiles Review – Page 445 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Mercedes-Benz Shows CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake OrangeArt Edition

The production version of the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake was shown couple of weeks ago, and now the German luxury company has released online several pictures showing a special limited-edition named OrangeArt Edition. Although the information for the specifications of the model is scarce, it is definitely worth reviewing it. Why? Simply because this Mercedes-Benz car features thrilling design that adds flair to the market launch. Just like the original production version, this one is set to make a sales debut in the first months of 2015.

Precisely, this unique CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is fitted with select design features in matte graphite grey above the side sill panels. This design technique gives the car additional impact to its sporty lines.

As a beautiful contrast to the gray accents there are the orange splashes found on the AMG radiator grille as well as on the exterior mirrors and in the rear apron trim. The same orange color scheme is applied on the black allows and bi-xenon headlights which include highlight rings of the aforementioned hue.

All of this is combined with the Night package that includes black design features and chrome tailpipes. Inside, we see the same sports-styling via the flat-bottom steering wheel, the carbon fiber used and the two leather sport seats wrapped in DINAMICA microfiber. The dashboard is ARTICO-wrapped and is highlighted by orange contrast stitching.

No modifications to the engine have been implemented. This means that we get the same engine, which is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo unit. It produces around the globe which produces 181 horsepower (133 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. The car speeds up from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel consumption is of just 7.1 liters for 100, while the emissions are rated at 161 g/km.

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Facebook

December 4, 2014

Peugeot RCZ R Receives Top Award Frpm FHM Magazine

The amazing RCZ R has scooped some really significant praises since its launch early in 2014. Now, Peugeot’s flagship coupe has been honored by FHM Magazine in its annual Car of the Year Awards.

Let me remind you some specifications about the car. This Peugeot arrives with a THP engine that’s is able to deliver 270 hp (199 kW) from its 1.6-litre engine at 6000rpm and has a peak torque of 330Nm at 1900rpm to 5500 rpm. The CO2 emissions are estimated at just 145g/km. In order to “tame” this significant power, the RCZ R is fitted with a Torsen®differential which delivers improved grip efficiency and dynamics.The 1.6-litre engine and the HP turn the RCZ R into the most powerful production model in Peugeot history. The vehicle can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds.

What is more, the suspension of the new Peugeot RCZ R is lowered by 10mm compared to standard models of the RCZ. Its aerodynamic downforce has been increased because of the new fixed rear boot spoiler. There are some technical upgrades developed by PEUGEOT Sport which feature a new turbocharger, larger intercooler, redesigned exhaust, modified pistons, reinforced engine block plus a new clutch and gearbox.

More about the FHM Car of the Year Awards can be read in the January issue of the magazine, which is already on sale.

Source: Peugeot

December 4, 2014

MINI ALL4 Racing to Participate in the Dakar Rally

The MINI ALL4 Racing is returning in 2015 again to defend its Dakar Rally crown! This thrilling motor race takes drivers across 9,000km of the South American continent, thus passing through Chile, Bolivia and Argentina. The people who are going to fight for MINI’s trophy are the famous Nani Roma and his experienced co-driver Michel Périn. The latter is a four-time Dakar winner himself.

In relation to the race, the legend Nani Roma commented: “The Dakar Rally is the most physically and mentally challenging rally in the world. After doing it 18 times it runs through my blood. Winning the 2014 Dakar Rally in the MINI ALL4 Racing was very special to me because it came exactly ten years after my first Dakar victory.”

The MINI ALL4 Racing is said to be ready to demonstrate what is really locked in its nature. It is super powerful, really reliable and, above all, fast! Those are qualities that will definitely help the MINI justify its title of a winner.

More about the race now. The Dakar Rally represents an absolute orienteering challenge and endurance test. People who are taking part in it, drivers and co-drivers, are not aware of the exact route until the night before when the co-driver is presented with his Roadbook. This is the key to the race which provides information about the route, dangers highlighted courses and the different terrains the car is supposed to go through.

Most importantly though, the Dakar Rally tests the unique skills of the participants, their orientation and individual character.

Source: MINI

December 4, 2014

Techart Porsche Targa 4 in Lime Yellow [Yes or No?]

2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4 model debuted at the beginning of the year at the Detroit Auto Show. And as we remember it, we get genuinely excited being a reinterpretation of a classic. Now Techart is ready to show us its take on the car through (as they say) sharpening its character. They have created an aero kit, dedicated wheels and unique interior! Starting with the aerodynamic kit, the Techart’s Targa 4 receives wide body with active taillight strip and of course a glass roof with iconic aluminium bar. The kit was made of lightweight fibre composite of carbon and polyurethane RIM, and its characteristics include high levels of load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability with a low tare weight.

Next, it also adds two-part front spoiler I with integrated splitter drags, which serves in terms of lowering the vehicle. It is combined with new rear spoiler II wing profile and new diffuser add-on. Going further, we can’t miss the aero wings, which are integrated into the front air inlets, and create a dynamic shaft outline. They work in concert with the air outlet grille at the front apron.

911 Targa 4 also get exclusive alloys, which are called Techart Formula IV light-alloy wheel and that come in five-twin-spoke design. They are offered in 20- and 21-inch size in various colors. The tuners also offer suspension options for the car. The sport spring kit brings the vehicle closer to the asphalt, while the noselift system generates an additional 45mm of ground clearance by lifting the vehicle level at front axle.

Exhaust systems sport and sport muffler racing deliver the acoustic performance of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models with a touch of a button. The valve-controlled system can be used even when closed under full load across the entire speed range.

Inside, this Porsche gets enhanced with in-house saddlery. The illuminated aluminium door entry guards, the ergonomically shaped thee-spokes multifunctional sport steering wheel with paddle shifters and aluminium sport pedals are all there. The company ha also provided aluminium foot rest, decorative stitching, backrests for sport seats plus in leather, safety belts. There is also the option of Techart Carbon Interior Styling Packages.

Source: Techart

December 4, 2014

Hennessey GMC Yukon Denali HPE650 Runs 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds [VIDEO]

The latest video of Hennessey is exciting! Why? Because it shows how a big American vehicle can sprint as fast as some of the popular sportscars. Of course, behind this performance hides tuning company’s expertise and craftsmanship. The vehicle we are speaking about is the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with the 6.2 liter EcoTec3 V8 engine. The model recently got new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission instead of its six-speed automatic.

With this production engine, and hence before the power-tuning, the vehicle was capable of producing 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. It achieves best 0 – 60 mph run of 7.0 seconds with the Four-Wheel Drive turned “OFF” and the Traction Control switched “ON”.

However, when the engine of the GMC Yukon Denali was supercharged and equipped with Hennessey HPE650 upgrade, the car shows incredible results. It covers the 0 – 60 mph acceleration sprint in mere 4.5 seconds! And the video below confirms that!

To be more precise, the refinement also results in better power output: 665 hp (489 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 892 Nm (658 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The HPE650 supercharged upgrade includes the following: 2.9 liter supercharger and high flow intercooling system, high flow cylinder heads, HPE camshaft and engine management calibration.

Of course all of the necessary gaskets, fluids and hardware were also provided as well as the dyno tuning and road testing. To show its uniqueness the car was equipped with serial-numbered dash and engine plaque, Hennessey and HPE650 exterior badging, supercharged badging and Hennessey embroidered headrests.

httpv://youtu.be/b1qCYz6aEB8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey Performance

December 4, 2014

Reiter Engineering Prepares Powerful Gallardo Extenso for Blancpain GT Series

Reiter Engineering has plans to enter new racecar in the Blancpain GT Series, the US Pirelli World Challenge and the SRO GT Sports Club. The car is based on Lamborghini’s model Gallardo and it has received a comprehensive facelift, after which it is proudly called “Extenso”. At the back, the car seems significantly wider: the rear has received carbon fibre rear quarter panels. In addition, the track width of the rear axle was extended by 13 cm thanks to the utilization of the new wishbones. The result is a total width of 205 cm and of course – better handling.

The torque curve was improved via race camshafts, while the Mahle pistons reduce fuel consumption and increase reliability. At the front we see new front headlights, but at the rear there are new tail lights and considerably wider carbon rear.

At last, but not least we must mention the sound of this Lambo, which stands at the top of the new specifications along with the visual packaging.

Reiter Engineering also disclosed that they will focus clearly on the performance levels which are to be expected for 2016 and beyond. And due to the exemplary history of the company that includes over 100 cars built, over 200 race wins and more than 400 podium results, the redesign of the Gallardo GT3 is a strategic move.

The specialists will create only 10 Reiter Gallardo Extenso for customers. Depending on thei personal taste, the vehicles can be manufactured in “Carbon-Black” or “Titanium-Grey”. If the first is hosen, then the entire skin will be left in carbon-black except for the Aluminium doors and the roof skin. In the other case, the titanium-grey impresses with its aggressive military appeal.

Source: Reiter Engineering

December 3, 2014

McLaren Special Operations Introduces MSO Defined Division

McLaren Special Operations or more commonly known as MSO has announced the release of MSO Defined division which offers individual personalization options for the McLaren 650S and the 625C. This marks the start of the first of five personalization and support options offered by MSO. The newly formed division joins the MSO Bespoke, which specialises in one-off models, MSO Limited that produces limited-edition series production cars, MSO Heritage, focused on the maintenance and storage of historic cars and the MSO Programmes that includes the McLaren P1 GTR.

MSO Defined line will enable customers to truly express themselves through their vehicles. To be more precise, the program includes aerodynamic kit, which was created in order to improve the design of 650S and features subtle carbon fibre interior upgrades.

On the outside, there is additional carbon fibre rear diffuser option as well as extended side door blades. Weight can be saved via the full carbon fibre rear deck and mirror arms. At the same time the interior options include extended carbon fibre shift paddles and a redesigned instrument cluster with Formula 1 inspired shift lights mounted on the instrument cluster.

MSO Bespoke is what provides customers with limitless level of customization in terms of paint, leather and stitching colours and upholstery and body. The MSO Limited has already designed limited-run and special edition examples of the 650S and 12C. The models produced include the McLaren 50 12C and 12C Spider, built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the McLaren brand in 2013 and theMSO 650S, which debuted at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

MSO Heritage offers an unrivalled level of knowledge and expertise on the McLaren F1, while the MSO Programmes division encompasses the upcoming McLaren P1 GTR Driver Programme. Each car will be built, maintained and prepared by MSO in advance of the rack days held at the F1 circuits.

Source: McLaren

December 3, 2014

Eco-Friendly Honda N-Box Slash Debuts in Japan

Honda N-Box Slash is a new mini passenger car which is specifically created for Japanese customers. Its strange forms and “box-like” shape is what makes this model truly distinctive. The N-BOX Slash is scheduled to be released on 22nd of December and until then no detailed information will e revealed. We have only received scarce data and some photos which you can view below.

As visible, the car s based on the layout of the N-series, but if you look carefully thorough the images you will see that it includes exclusive packaging and excellent features. It is better looking in comparison to the 2013 N-One and undoubtedly looks more interesting.

Take for instance the fact that Honda has prepared five distinctive exterior and interior designs. Furthermore, the car weighs less than its predecessor. It also includes range of innovations and is built upon the concepts of retro lightweight passenger hatchback, comfort and excellent economy.

The N-series currently feature the following range of models: N-BOX or NTT box, “N-BOX + or NTT box plus, N-ONE or Enuwan and the fourth model – N-WGN or Enuwagon. The N-Series are also built to fit the rigid Kei car class, which means that they shouldn’t be longer than 11 feet and wider than feet.

We do expect to see this mini powered by the same 600cc three-cylinder engine, which drives front wheels, and that we have already seen in the already released four cars in the lineup.

Source: Honda

December 3, 2014

Novitec’s Spofec Refines the Refined Rolls-Royce Wraith

Do you remember Novitec’s Spofec Rolls-Royce Wraith? The company has refined the car luxury further and with custom components, 22-inch wheels and lowered suspension. But this is not everything: there is also carbon-ceramic high-performance braking system and more importantly – boost for the engine, which now produces more than 700 horsepower. Spofec’s stainless-steel sports exhaust system on the other hand features electronic sound management.

To go into details, tuning company’s newly developed front carbon fiber bumper replaces the production one. Thanks to this it not only gives the Rolls-Royce more distinctive face, but also minimizes negative lift on the front axle. Two front flaps upgrade the grille in the bumper and make the car with more muscular appearance.

Next, the rocker panels are also new and they come to ensure lower and longer visual stance. The stylized air extractors behind the front wheel arches and the sweeping light-catching contour complement the sporty look.

At the rear we see carbon spoiler and new rear bumper as well as spoiler lip on the trunk. The mentioned wheels are under the designation SP1. They are with ten double spokes offset in two planes and come in sizes 9Jx22 at the front and 10.5Jx22 on the rear axle. The wheels are available in silver, matte black or titanium and are wrapped in Pirelli performance rubbers in sizes 265/35 ZR 22 and 295/30 ZR 22 for the front and rear, respectively.

The new air suspension features a special control module which lowers the ride height of the car by 40 millimeters at speeds below 140 km/h. At higher speeds the body automatically reverts to its original level.

In addition, the carbon-ceramic high-performance braking system includes vented discs that measure 405 x 30 and 395 x 38 millimeters respectively offers total weight savings of 38 kilograms.

What also has to be mentioned is the 6.6-liter V12 engine which received a boost and now involves the integration of a processor-controlled plug-and-play N-TRONIC module into the engine electronics. The result is a maximum power output of 717 hp (527 kW) and 986 Nm (728 lb-ft).

This of course means faster acceleration which in this case is measured at 4.2 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. The top speed remains limited to 250 km/h. At last, the stainless-steel sports exhaust systems saves up to five kilograms and features electronic sound management which can be remotely controlled from the cockpit.

Source: Novitec

December 3, 2014

Vauxhall Reveals First Pictures of VIVA

Vauxhall has revealed its brand new model called VIVA via first official photos. The car is scheduled to be launched in the spring of 2015. It will be powered by specially-developed 1.0-litre ECOTEC powertrain and will offer comfortable and practical with room for up to five people. Seamless smartphone integration is secured via the addition of IntelliLink connectivity. The five-door entry-level model will join ADAM and Corsa in the small-car range.

The vehicle is named after the original Viva which was in production from 1963 to 1979. It also shares the same clean lines, durability and practicality, and is designed for modern, everyday life. With its length of 3.68 metres it provides more than enough room for up to five people.

Three strong feature lines swoop down the sides with the signature ‘blade’, slicing through the doors. The two others run through the front and rear door handles. The front end of the model includes distinctive winged chrome bar and the Griffin badge.

The front and rear have one thing in common and this is the large head- and taillights. In addition, VIVA will be available in ten exterior paint colours with a variety of 14- to 16-inch wheels.

As mentioned, the car will be powered via the new ECOTEC engine, which produces 75 horsepower (55 kW) and is mated to a five-speed transmission. In terms of equipment, the mini gets the IntelliLink infotainment system that allows integration of Apple iOS and Android devices.

Other technology features include ESP with traction control, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Hill Start Assist. Safety options feature Lane Departure Warning, City mode which reduces steering effort and Park Assist.

Source: Vauxhall

December 3, 2014

“Ring your Setup” – Adaptive KW DDC ECU with Smartphone App for Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series is a pure driving machine which offers pure driving pleasure. With its power output of 517 HP (380 kW), deriving from its powerful 6.2-litre-V8 engine, the car demonstrates a certain amount of sophistication, sportiness and convenience. Now with the adaptive KW DDC coilover kit and app, the experts from KW automotive set improved characteristics and virtues which result in maximized comfort and excellent experience on the road.

There are three different modes which the KW DDC ECU coilover kit offers so that the driver can alter the damping characteristics to the road conditions. The options include: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+” all of which are just one button away from the person who drives the vehicle. The free KW DDC App via iPhone or any other iOS or Android compatible Smartphone also allows such configuration.

Right in the heart of the development of these KW DDC ECU coilovers is situated the „Comfort“ mode and its soft dampings. Being the primary focus, it serves the purpose to provide comfort-oriented setup (which is pretty obvious by the name). Furthermore, the KW DDC control module is able to scan the vehicle data while driving the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series and automatically adapts the damping characteristics to the driving speed. The “Sport” mode is defined by more agile and lively move. When in “Sport+”, the sporty damping characteristics double the lively sporty performance of the C 63 AMG.

In case there is a technical error, the KW DDC ECU coilovers automatically switch into a mechanical failsafe mode. In consequence, a proportional valve is adjusted instantly to a neutral middle position and the dampers continue to work in the KW basic setup.

Completely mounted KW coilover struts replace the original struts when installing the KW DDC ECU kit. The new ones come in “inox-line” stainless steel finish and allow a continuous lowering of 0 – 20mm at the front and rear axle.

Source: KW

December 3, 2014

World Debut of Ferrari FXX K

Ferrari has officially revealed the FXX K ahead of its debut in Abu Dhabi during the Finali Mondiali event. The car is formerly known as the LeFerrari XX and is based on Maranello’s first hybrid machine. The K in its moniker refers to the “KERS” kinetic energy recovery system which it adopts in order to maximize its track performance.

Now to the basics. The FXX K is equipped with the basic V12-plus-electric engine just like the road-going LaFerrari. This time around, though, it generates more power. Presicely, 101bhp more power. As a result, the car shows off with a total output of 1036bhp. Thus, there is 848bhp that derives from the 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine and 187bhp from the electric motor. Combined maximum torque is estimated at 664 lb-ft.

Even though Ferrari hasn’t announced any performance inormation for the LeFerrari, it is expected to dazzle with an amazing 0-62 mph sprint time of no more than three seconds. As it seems, it is going to be really fast. And furios. (Those just cant exist separately.)

The new Ferrari FXX K has attained a number of additional devices and features. At the front there is a 30 mm lower twin-profile spoiler, with vertical fins which tranmist air over the car’s flanks, and propels the efficiency of the aerodynamic underbody. The verticle fin-winglet arrangements on each side of the retractable rear spoiler function as guide vanes and boost the spoilers efficiency in optimized downforce mode.

According to Ferrari, this results in 50% improvement in downforce in the low drag configuration and a 30% improvement in the more aggressive downforce configuration with a final figure of 540 kg at 200 km/h.

Finally, the dynamics of the FXX K are enhanced even more by the use of Pirelli slicks complete with sensors that monitor longitudinal, lateral and radial acceleration, as well as temperature and pressure.

Source: Ferrari

December 3, 2014

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