Automobiles Review – Page 451 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Urban Look Project: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz GLA

Carlsson is famous for tuning only Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. This time they show us their take on the GLA. What they have done is simply adorable: the GLA got stronger through performance upgrades; it also received new aerodynamic components, sports exhaust and alloy wheels. The designers call this project “Urban Look” for short. The vehicle initially is equipped with the AMG Sports package. To further emphasize the dynamic qualities of the car, Carlsson has added new front spoiler and grille.

We also see Carlsson’s badge in place of the three-pointed star. The rear skirt has cutouts for the trademark Carlsson four chromed oval tailpipes. These emerge from a stainless steel sports silencer designed to lower backpressure and produce a throatier soundtrack.

To offer versatility, the company has created for this project a total of three alloy wheel designs in different finishes. The first one is the Carlsson 1/10 style in 18 to 20 inches sizes, with diamond, graphite or Titanium Edition finishes. The second is the 1/16 RS design in 19 and 20-inches. It is shod with 255/40ZR19 and 255/35ZR20 tyres respectively. And at last, the highly polished 1/11 Ultra Light 21-inch forged wheel, mated with 265/30ZR21 tyres.

Speaking of performance upgrades, the tuners have taken into account the petrol and diesel engines in the GLA range. Staring with the output of the GLA200, it was increased to 187 horsepower (138 kW) with a peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). Next, the Carlsson GLA250 produces 253 hp (186 kW) with torque peaking at 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

Inside, Carlsson has used the finest leather and Alcantara for the seats and soft surfaces. The door, dashboard and centre console inserts can get either a wood or carbon-fibre finish. The cabin also got polished aluminium scuff plates with an illuminated Carlsson logo for driver and aluminium door lock pins, pedal set and footrest.

The last detail here is the four-piece floor mat set from soft black velour. Additionally, an exclusive, illuminated floor mats set made of soft velour is also available.

Source: Carlsson

November 25, 2014

McLaren Teases “Black Swan” Sports Series Again [VIDEO]

McLaren-Sports-Series-THUMB The black swan is a symbol of a moment that completely changes the way we look at the world. The new McLaren Sports Series which is debuting on the world stage in 2015 is the next black swan moment for the brand. We have already seen the first teaser image and the video, and now McLaren has introduced the second photo (you can see it below), showing part of the butterfly door. The car is expected to be named McLaren P13 Sports Series.

P13 will be positioned below the 650S, and its lineup will probably comprise of coupe and a spider version. It will feature a carbon fiber composite chassis. How about the engine here? There are rumors saying that the new Sport Series will be powered by a modified 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine.

It will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All this will allow P13 to cover the 0-100 km/h in approximately 4 seconds, while top speed is expected to be 333 km/h or even lower.

Although it somewhat resembles a Ferrari, the car definitely looks like a contemporary McLaren. You can see the thin LED headlights as well as ten-spoke alloy wheels. Wing mirrors are also there and they are mounted to the doors, and this is what is similar between the P13 and P1, and different between the first and the 650S model.

This car is being developed and released into production before the Acura NSX makes an official appearance. This means that the McLaren will definitely offer a better car Acura. McLaren Sports Series is also set to take on the admirers of the Audi R8 or the Porsche 911 GT3. The two-seater is currently undergoing testing.

httpv://youtu.be/0ff_kV1wqYE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: McLaren via Facebook

November 25, 2014

Australia Finally Gets the 2014 Lexus RC 350

Announced in June, 2014 Lexus RC 350 is now tuning heads in Australia. The car has just been launched, being the most emotive vehicle produced since the LFA supercar. Ahead of its 25^th anniversary Lexus has designed the coupe to engage with a younger audience. The brand undertook major design changes in order to create a new direction with its styling and drive experience. In fact, the RC 350 is not an adapted sedan, but it has been created as a coupe from the ground up.

First we have to take in account its involving chassis as well as the high output drivetrain. The styling package and high level of standard equipment contribute towards car’s unique presence and strong charm.

Just like other Lexus vehicles, the RC 350 follows company’s ‘Y’ strategy across its three model offerings. This means that it will be introduced in Luxury trim and then followed by F Sport and Sports Luxury.

F Sport boasts Lexus Dynamic Handling system. It incorporates Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Dynamic Rear Steering. On the other hand, the Sports Luxury adds to this Adaptive Variable Suspension, its own 19-inch alloys, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio, Shimamoku ornamentation, power front seats with driver memory and semi-aniline leather accented trim.

As a standard, all trims will get the Blind Spot Monitor, which can detect vehicles within a range up to 60 metres. In addition, Lexus will also introduce a unique paint application technique together with two custom colours: Infrared and Cobalt Mica.

RC range is driven by the 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 318 horsepower (234 kW) and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). The unit is coupled with an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission, and the power is put to the ground via the rear wheels.

Source: Lexus

November 25, 2014

MTM Audi S8 Talladega has 760 Horsepower to Show-Off With

MTM Audi S8 Talladega is probably one of the last tunings we are to see from MTM in 2014. And for this reason it is powerful, imposing, and have these extremely aggressive and sporty looks. But when one hears it, he or she definitely gets it why we like this custom Audi so much. They eight cylinders have been boosted and now delivers 760 hp (559 kW) at 5950 rpm and maximum torque of 945 Nm (697 lb-ft) between 1700 and 5500 rpm. The torque is stable over the entire range and this huge outpouring of power is being applied to the road through all four wheels.

The power unit is based on the RS6’s eight cylinder engine. In order to achieve more power, MTM tuners have touched the turbochargers, exhaust system and water cooling. The team also intervened in the gearbox software to set the shifting points at 7000 rpm.

Speaking in numbers, these modifications result in a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration of 3.48 seconds, passing the 200 km/h mark in 10.51 seconds and reaching its top speed at 325 km/h Carbon and ceramic brakes on the front and rear axles is what stops the Talladega.

MTM’s 240 hp of additional power comes with M-Cantronic and V-Cantronic including turbocharger, MTM 4-pipe stainless steel exhaust system after the turbocharger with flaps in two pipes, and an in-house manufactured F-Cantronic II used to lower the air-sprung chassis.

There is also a set of 21′ Bimoto wheels, which were shod with 295/30 Michelin Pilot Super Sports. They perfectly complement the MTM aerodynamics kit that includes high carbon fiber content. Inside, we see a premium quality interior package that makes the atmosphere cozier.

On 24^th of March 1986, Audi unleashed an Audi 5000 CS Turbo on the Talladega Speedway in Alabama in pursuit of a record. The US model, (Europeans know it as Audi 200 Turbo), was driven by a 2.2 litre, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine with five valves per cylinder and power output of 650 hp (678 kW). The Audi averaged a speed of 332 km/h around the oval track and it made it through the longest straight at a top speed of 350 km/h.

Source: MTM

November 24, 2014

Chevrolet Sail 3 is Intended for China Only

Chevrolet Sail 3, as well as Camaro RS Limited Edition and Corvette Stingray Coupe have just made their China debut. In addition, Buick is showcasing a customized Regal GS and Excelle XT. In total there are 32 GM vehicles on display in Shanghai. The third generation Sail is Chevy’s entry-level family car. The model was introduced 15 years ago, and since then it has been a driving force in this car segment. As a matter of fact, there have been nearly 1.4 million Sails sold across China. The car will go on sale nationwide by the end of this year.

Sail 3 is built on Shanghai GM’s small car architecture and has fully adopted Chevrolet’s new design language. The exterior is relatively small, exuding youthful and dynamic feel. Sail 3 is 51 mm longer and 45 mm wider than its predecessor.

The wheelbase has been extended by 35 mm. This of course indicates for a roomier cabin. The trunk space is 366 liters and there are also many user-friendly storage compartments.

The front fascia includes wider dual-port grille, which is also sportier than in previous models. There are also visible the eagle eye-shaped headlights. At the back, the dual-C-element taillights provide unique touch to the rear.

The interior of the third generation Sail features a dual-cockpit design. It also includes innovative flowing instrument panel, dual-mode sunroof and sculpted seats.

The car is driven by a 1.5L DVVT or a 1.3L VVT engine. Each can be coupled with either manual or mechanical automatic transmission with start-stop function. The fuel consumption is rated as low as 5.3 L/100 km. As a result, Sail 3 has been listed in the National Energy-Saving and Eco-Friendly Vehicle Catalogue ahead of its market launch.

Source: Chevrolet

November 24, 2014

Nissan Reveals 2015 Juke Range US Pricing

2015 Nissan Juke not only features a revised exterior but also can be customized with the special Juke Color Studio and thus made really unique. Its market debut, after it made North American premiere in L.A., is already a fact and below we have listed the detailed pricing. This jewel has kept its dimensions and aggressive stance as previous years, but offers a refreshed appearance due to its new projector beam headlights and LED front Signature Accent Lamps.

Not forgetting the grille, which incorporates the new Nissan V-Motion look, as well as the robust trim beneath the bumper. The side rearview mirrors now feature integrated LED turn signal repeaters as a standard, while the redesigned back of the car includes more aggressiveform with LED accented boomerang taillights.

In addition, there is also wide range of new standard features included in the 2015 Juke. Some of them include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, RearView Monitor and NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch color display, USB connection port for iPod interface, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth®and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

Furthermore, there are three new exterior colors offered in the new model year: Super Black, Solar Yellow and Cosmic Blue. These three were added to the already available six exterior colors.

The engine standard on JUKE S, SV, SL and NISMO trims is the second-generation 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine. It produces 188 horsepower (138 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque.

2015 Nissan JUKE US Pricing:

Model/Transmission
JUKE S Xtronic FWD	$20,250 USD
JUKE SV Xtronic FWD	$22,300 USD
JUKE SL Xtronic FWD	$25,240 USD
JUKE NISMO MT FWD	$24,830 USD
JUKE NISMO RS MT FWD	$28,020 USD
JUKE S Xtronic AWD	$22,100 USD
JUKE SV Xtronic AWD	$24,150 USD
JUKE SL Xtronic AWD	$26,940 USD
JUKE NISMO Xtronic AWD	$27,230 USD
JUKE NISMO RS Xtronic AWD	$30,020 USD

Source: Nissan

November 24, 2014

Updated 2015 Lexus RC F Delivers Performance For All

2015 Lexus RC F made its global premiere at NAIAS event in the beginning of the year. Now the coupe is ready for launch before the end of the year in the United Kingdom with customer deliveries from January 2015. This is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced. The car features contemporary styling combined with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. In the UK this Lexus will be launched in two versions RC F and the RC F Carbon.

If you have ever wondered what’s the meaning of the “F” designation in car’s name, well it denotes Fuji Speedway, the Japanese track where Lexus carries out much of its high-speed product testing. The key ingredient for this performance is the 5.0-litre V8 engine. It produces 471 hp (346 kW) and 530 Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque.

The unit is coupled with a significantly upgraded eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission that gives the driver a choice of five operating modes, from fuel-efficient Eco to full-blooded Sport S+. 2015 RC F covers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 4.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 168 mph.

The RC F also received a revision in terms of Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system due to the addition of the new Sport and Expert settings. They allow the driver safely exploit the car’s full performance capabilities.

In addition, the coupe has been engineered to offer exceptional grip, agility and high-speed stability with chassis, brakes, steering and suspension. Precisely, the handling features active rear wing and Torque Vectoring Differential.

Many of the body elements are made of carbon fiber for improved lightweight. We should also note the clever instrumentation that automatically changes display with different driving modes and a stirring engine note, project into the cabin through an Active Sound Control system.

Throughout the United Kingdom, 2015 Lexus RC F will be offered in two versions: RC F with a starting price of £59,995, and the RC F Carbon – with a price tag beginning at £67,995.

Source: Lexus

November 24, 2014

2015 Nissan Murano Goes on Sale

2015 Nissan Murano which was revealed in April at the New York Auto Show and was also on display in L.A., will make its market debut across the United States at 5th of December. The new third-generation crossover has new futuristic design and concept car-like like styling, premium interior and advanced, purposeful technology. The model is offered in four trim variants: S, SV, SL and Platinum. They are all offered with a choice of front- or Intuitive all-wheel drive.

Nissan is offering only three option packages for the Murano: Navigation Package (S), Premium Package (SV) and Tech Package (SL, Premium). No matter the trim, every Murano is equipped with the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine coupled with an advanced Xtronic transmission.

The engine is rated at 260 horsepower (191 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque. In terms of exterior, the future customers will enjoy the V-motion front end, LED boomerang lights and the unique “floating” roof.

Inside, they will be engaging in social lounge feel through features such as the refined instrument panel, low center console, advanced Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating. The atmosphere is airy and is created by the large windows and oversized Power Panoramic Moonroof.

Technology convenience is ensured by the NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 8-inch color display with multi-touch control, Around View Monitor and the eight-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support as well as other features.

2015 Nissan Murano US Pricing:

Murano S FWD	$29,560 USD
Murano SV FWD	$32,620 USD
Murano SL FWD	$36,950 USD
Murano Platinum FWD	$39,000 USD
Murano S AWD	$31,160 USD
Murano SV AWD	$34,220 USD
Murano SL AWD	$38,550 USD
Murano Platinum AWD	$40,600 USD

Source: Nissan

November 24, 2014

B&B Automobiltechnik Improves the Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI

Despite the fact that the third generation of the iconic Audi TT has not been around the sales rooms for too long, the performance professionals of B&B Automobiltechnik from Siegen are delivering a tuning portfolio for the progressive Audi TT vehicle.

Following several progression-steps, the B&B provides the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI with a power-boost from 230 PS to 360 PS. The initial 370 Nm of torque jumps to the very impressive 500 Nm of peak torque. The acceleration time is ready to score some mind-blowing rates too for the car can speed up from 0 to 100 in the screaming 4.8 seconds. What is more, the 0-200-km/h-value is improved from 24.3 to 17.4 seconds. With a maximum speed increased from 250 km/h to 276 km/h, the tuned Audi TT is able to rock your world!

The B&B motor programme for the Audi TT 8S is firstly marked by the stage 1K (Comfort, 1,198 Euro). It increases the power output of the 2.0 liters four-piston turbo motor to 300 PS and 420 Nm. Next, the TT gains even better dynamic highlights with the B&B-stage 1S (Sport, 1,698 Euro) which mobilizes the power to 310 PS and 435 Nm.

326 PS and 450 Nm are possible in B&B-stage 2 (3,950 Euro) by installation of an enlarged and cross-section optimized B&B-special exhaust tube, comprised of sport catalyser and increased charge pressure by approx. 0.25 bar with adjustment of the electronic injection parameters.

Finally, stage 3 includes the currently developed performance pack of the B&B programme for the new Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI (9,950 Euro) at 360 PS and 500 Nm. This power package includes B&B special turbo charger with in-house charging air cooler, brand-new air intake system and a B&B sport exhaust system with exclusive exhaust pre-tube and racing sports catalyser.

The tuner B&B offers a sports spring set (from 298 Euro upwards) to lower the car body by approx. 30 mm at the FA and by approx. 25 mm at the RA, or, as another option, a B&B-threaded chassis for the new Audi TT. The driving dynamics are perfected and finalized with weight-optimised rims in the 10×20 inch format with tyres sized 265/30R20.

Source: XMedia-Group

November 24, 2014

Sporty BRABUS Refinments for the C-Class with AMG Line

The continuous and tireless work by BRABUS has resulted in some very impressive improvements for Mercedes-Benz C-Class with AMG Line. This time around, the tuning company offers even better sporty and dynamic bodywork upgrades which propel the C-Class models further in their segment.

It is a well-known fact that the most significant and exclusive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles is offered by BRABUS. Thus, BRABUS PowerXtra B18.2 performance kit is available for the C 180 model which powers it with an additional15 kW / 21 horsepower (20 bhp). The plug-and-play module is adjusted to the engine electronics, and boosts power output from 156 HP (115 kW) to 177 HP (130 kW). The maximum torque is increased from the initial 250 to the impressive 300 Nm (184 to 221 lb-ft). The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.4 seconds while top speed is boosted to 230 km/h (143 mph).

The C 200 model is powered by BRABUS PowerXtra B20.2 performance kit. As a result, the four-cylinder turbo engine pumps out a maximum power output of 225 HP (165 kW) and a peak torque of 330 Nm (243 lb-ft). With BRABUS engine tuning the C 200 speeds up from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 7.0 seconds, accomplishing a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph).

Another improvement on the C-Class arrives with the BRABUS Monoblock wheels which complement the sensational BRABUS look of Mercedes-Benz. The wheels can be mounted on the C-Class in various designs and with diameters of 18, 19 or 20 inches. The largest safety-certified tire/wheel combination is comprised of BRABUS Monoblock F or R alloys of sizes 8.5Jx20 at the front and 9.5Jx20 on the rear axle. The high-performance tires of sizes 225/35 ZR 20 and 255/30 ZR 20 are available by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

The complete BRABUS appearance of the C-Class is also achieved thanks to the specifically styled BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the lower part of the AMG Line bumper which highlight the sporty look of the sedans. In addition, all vehicles in this range can be equipped with the BRABUS rear spoiler. The diffuser-look rear bumper insert is another enhancement which provides the perfect backdrop for the four chrome-plated tailpipes of the BRABUS sports exhaust system.

Finally, the tuner provides a number of refinements for the interior of the new Mercedes C-Class. Buyers can enjoy a variety of custom accessories such as aluminum pedals and excellent velour floor mats with BRABUS logo, as well as other exceptional BRABUS breathable leather and Alcantara interior components.

Source: BRABUS

November 24, 2014

2015 Toyota Corolla RZ and its “Dark Side”

The Toyota Corolla RZ special edition has launched in Australia, demonstrating certain darkness, edginess and value-added specifications.

The Corolla RZ is powered by 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is known from the rest of the line-up. It generates 138 hp (103 kW) and 173 Nm (127 lb-ft.) of maximum torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a MultiDrive S-CVT automatic transmission which offers a sequential seven-speed Sport mode.

Perhaps the most striking part about the exterior of the new Toyota is the set of the racy 16-inch black gloss alloy wheels which perfectly suit the black caps that bear the Toyota emblem. Other enhancements include lower grille edge, lower rear bumper, and the panel beneath the tailgate glass all of which complete the sporty look of the car.

The “dark side” of 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ is revealed through an intensive choice of the black color which is the color chosen for the front bumper mouldings and the leading edge at the bottom of the trapezoidal lower grille. Still, there are six exterior colors available – Wildfire, Inferno, Tidal Blue, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl and Positano Bronze.

The interior is equipped with “RZ” branded mats for the driver and front passenger. But this is not all of course. The cabin benefits from Corolla hatch regulars including six-speaker audio, cruise control, Bluetooth^{®^}connectivity, air-conditioning and seatbelt warning alarm for all five seats. There is also a satellite navigation which is accessible via 6.1-inch touch-screen display.

The special edition small car joins the Camry RZ, thus becoming the second RZ in Toyota Australia’s line-up.

Corolla RZ prices
(including optional paint)
Manual – $22,290
CVT auto – $24,540

Source: Toyota

November 24, 2014

DMC Strikes Again with the New Huracan AFFARI

DMC tuning company has been actively involved in tuning the beasts produced by Lamborghini for many years now. Its strong passion for renewing and improving a certain model results in outlining enhanced super-cars which really can blow your mind. DMC final products can be seen as a piece of art all of which stand out with their individuality and assertiveness and just point at themselves saying: “Look at us and beat us if you can!”

When it comes to Lamborghini vehicles, DMC really knows how to break in and subordinate this wild animal. Now the tuning company turns out to be the first to show a complete body kit, wheels and performance package for the brand new Huracan Affari.

The new styling kit created by DMC offers a phenomenal front fascia which is comprised of 2 spoiler lips and unique wide body extensions with aero-swords. The integrated side skirt diffusers have the role to deliver better overall aerodynamics which are supported by the brand-new rear diffusor. The biggest and most notable enhancement of the package is the new rear wing spoiler that is placed on a re-engineered deck lid. The wing can be set to three different angles. By doing this, it provides the driver with a number of custom settings which vary from hard to soft. All of the components are made of carbon fiber.

The Green Goblin, uh, I mean the new DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari has a boosted power of 630 PS due to the optimized engine electronics, an electronic load pressure control system and a brand new Exhaust system.

The tuner gives this Lamborghini new forged alloy wheels which stabilize and secure the car on the road. Precisely, the DMC rims come in a 20″/21″ setup. The front receives a technical set up of 20×8,5J while the rear showcases specs of 21x12J. Finally, DMC is going to use a 245/30r20 / 325/25r21 tire combination with a softer P-Zero application available too.

The finishing touch is the refined interior which is polished with Italian fine leather and carbon fiber materials.

Source: DMC

November 24, 2014

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