Automobiles Review – Page 460 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

MINI 5-door Model Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show 2014

Now MINI is expanding the brand with its new volume-chasing five-door model, which is a pioneer if we don’t count the Countryman crossover launched in 2010. The latest generation of MINI transforms its very successful concepts through a more innovative prism which, sort of, changes the traditional aspects of the brand.

Being the latest addition to the family, which is formed of seven members by now, MINI 5-door will be revealed to visitors at the Los Angeles Auto Show from November 21st till the 30^th, 2014 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. There are also going to be presented currently running new products in terms of equipment, accessories and MINI Connected.

2015 MINI 5-door shines with an individual character, flexible qualities and authenticity. The car comes with two more doors facilitate entry to the rear, where there will be three seats available. Additionally, the wheelbase has been extended by 72 millimeters which results in providing more space for luggage and occupants. The rear backrest has a 60:40 folding split and expands the luggage compartment volume to approximately 941 liters.

The new model MINI will be powered by remarkably efficient engines with either three or four cylinders. The base Cooper receives a turbocharged 1.5 liter three-cylinder gas engine that offers either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. It is able to deliver 134 HP (99 kW) and 219 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. MINI Cooper S mates the same six-speed gearboxes to a 2.0-liter turbo four engine, producing 189 HP (140 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque.

Finally, the car is equipped with a large selection of innovative driver assistance technologies, comprising of an optimized head-up display, road-sign detection for speed-limit placards, camera-based adaptive cruise control, collision and pedestrian-impact warnings, and an automatic braking function.

Source: MINI UK

November 10, 2014

Kahn Shows Second Autobiography LWB Performance Edition in Fuji White

Fuji White is the name of the colour of A. Kahn Design’s next project on the Range Rover Autobiography LWB. What we also get with this tuning is not only a cool exterior paint, but also the exclusive interior and other tweaks, which have lead to the addition of “Performance Edition” to the name of the car. First to mention is the included RS-600 aerodynamic styling package. It comprises of a 16-piece wide wheel arch kit that adds an aggressive stance and muscular presence.

The front also received grille with 3D mesh, which is a typical element for almost all Kahn modifications. In contrast to the exterior color is the roof which is painted in piano black. In the same shade are decided also the mirror caps.

Kahn enamel wing shields and the RS-600 front and rear wide wheel arches with integrated air dams also contribute for the tailored style of this SUV. The shoes this Range Rover has are 9.5 x 23″ RS wheels in matt black fitted with 305/30/23″ tyres. Carbon side vents and a RS600 front chin spoiler rounds out the car from the outside.

Going further, the interior consists of handstitched front and rear seats, centre glove box, centre dashboard surround and Kahn single spoke leather steering wheel. Not to forget the rev counter facia, dashboard and instrument binnacle. What they have in common is that they are all adorned in copper orange quilted and perforated Nappa leather.

If you look even more carefully, then you’ll definitely see the vented foot pedals in machined aluminium, door entry sill plates in stainless steel and the Kahn branding. Again the tuning team has done great work!

Source: A. Kahn Design

November 10, 2014

New Forgiato Wheels: The Unbreakable

Two questions are circling around my head right now: Is there anything stronger than the wraith of a woman? And is there anything that can resist it? I would have said no if I had not watched the latest advertisement of Forgiato Wheels for their new ‘Unbreakable’ series wheels, staring a Cheating Boyfriend, The Other Woman, The Not-so-one-and-only Woman, and the ultimate sufferer Ferrari 458 equipped with a new set of Forgiato wheels. Ah, did I forget to mention the sledgehammer? Yes, there is a sledgehammer playing a significant role too. A marvelous choice of ‘actors’ that is, right? You cannot help but wonder what the hell is going to happen!? Actually, I take that one back. Looking at the bigger picture, it is in fact quite obvious.

For a great number of famous people including football players, NBA Stars and, pretty much, the whole continent of Asia, Forgiato has been continuously number one choice when it comes to selection of wheels. The company sells aftermarket wheels for different high-end luxury cars that are manufactured in Los Angeles, California. From the released teasing video, the newest models seem very similar to Monoleggera Sport wheels, yet we are not told anything else about them. Left with only a chance for speculations, we can simply observe that the new Forgiato wheels are remarkably indestructible.

You pulled a nice one there, Forgiato! There’s no better way to show how much of a pounding your wheels can take than setting them against an angry supermodel… with a sledgehammer in her hands. You caused a lot of screaming behind the screens and a headache to Ferrari.

Watch the link bellow and be careful not to get a heart attack.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht3oYiqCPPM

Source: ForgiatoTV YouTube Channel

November 10, 2014

Ex-Brunei Royal Family XJ220 Offered By Silverstone Auction

It will be considered a sin if one makes a list of 1990s supercars and does not mention the Jaguar XJ220 there. The very special, specious, and, more or less, degenerated coupe (of course when it is compared to 2015 Renovo Coupe for instance) still manages to fascinate the imaginations of collectors around the world. Perhaps the bittersweet history of the car has a role in this established old-fashioned splendor that springs out of the XJ220 model. With its outdated and yet salient characteristics, the supercar remains an icon which demands respect. That is indeed a car for a Royal family… Or, at least, it used to be.

Now let me take you back in time. In 1988, Jaguar automobile company revealed a concept car that was supposed to be powered by a 530-hp V12 engine. Yet, until the time when rolling prototypes started being made, there occurred slight changes. The initially planned V12 engine was replaced by a new V6 with the promise of more than 200 mph top speed. Nevertheless, the XJ220 would end up being equipped with a 542-hp 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. With 0-60mph acceleration in the screaming 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 213mph the XJ220 was considered to be the fastest road car back in the day even though its fame and glory only lasted for a short period of time.

The car has now covered just less than 6,000 miles and is supported by MoT certificates dating back to 2002. Moreover, Silverstone Auctions estimates this 1994 Jaguar XJ220 to bring between £200,000 and £220,000 on auction day, or between $322,000 and $355,000.

Something quite exciting is that such beauty also exists in Bulgaria. The modified version by Overdrive has the modest price of 400 001 euros (about $544 300 and £300 000).

Source: Silverstone Auctions

November 10, 2014

Fiat 500 Ribelle and 500L Urbana Trekking are Demonstrating Potential for Self-Expression

Fiat 500 is probably the most versatile model in the automotive industry at the moment. What I mean is that it has multiple personalities that can literally suit anyone. And now Fiat is introducing two other special edition specifications of the popular car which will debut at the 2014 Miami International Auto Show. Namely, they are Fiat 500 Ribelle and the Fiat 500L Urbana Trekking.

In addition, at the event the company will also showcase the entire lineup and highlight the updates for the 2015 model year. Some of them include advanced instrument panel with a 7-inch cluster display for the Fiat 500 line, and automatic transmission options for the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth and the five-passenger Fiat 500L.

The currently presented two new models are based on the 500 Pop and the 500L Trekking. 2015 Fiat 500 Ribelle (the latter word means rebel in Italian) shows its adventurous nature with a red Rosso roof, spoiler and mirror caps.

To make a perfect contrast the designers at Fiat complemented these red accents by the gloss black color called Nero Puro of the headlamp and tail lamp bezels. In addition, in the same color come the wheels. They however also add Rosso wheel caps.

The car will be offered in four exterior paint colors: Bianco (white), Billet Argento (Billet Silver), Grigio (gray) and Nero Puro. While the interior options are only two: Grigio/Nero or Grigio/Rosso.

2015 Fiat 500L Urbana Trekking is intended also for the urban streets. It has a Matte Nero exterior mirrors and bezels on the front and rear fascia, side sills and body-side molding. The car runs on 7-inch Matte Nero wheels. The black paint is complemented by Satin Chrome door handles, tail lamp bezels and accents on the front and rear fascia.

Here, six glossy exterior paint colors are available: Verde Bosco Perla (Forest Green Pearl), Rosso Perla (Deep Lava Red), Giallo (yellow), Bianco (white), Grigio Scuro (Gray Metallic) and Blue Tornado, paired with a Nero (black) roof. Inside, the 500L Urbana Trekking adds some special tweaks like the Nero leather steering wheel, leatherette door bolsters and cloth seats.

Of course, the Beats Audio system is standard. It features six premium speakers, a 6.5-inch dual-voice coil (DVC) subwoofer with trunk-mounted enclosure and eight-channel amplifier with Beats Audio’s proprietary digital sound processing (DSP) algorithm.

2015 Fiat 500 Ribelle will be available at dealerships in December at a starting price of $17,395 USD, while the 2015 Fiat 500L Urbana Trekking will appear in studios in the first quarter of 2015 with a price tag beginning at $22,795 USD.

Source: Fiat

November 10, 2014

2015 Hyundai Genesis Scoops Ruedas ESPN “Best Luxury Sedan” Award

With its well-built comfortable interior, well-crafted cabin, powerful engine, high reliability and safety ratings, the new 2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan earned the accolade of “Best Luxury Sedan” presented by the leading Spanish automotive radio show Ruedas ESPN. This model is another addition to Hyundai’s already praised vehicles such as the 2014 Hyundai Equus and 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, which were named Ruedas ESPN’s “Best Luxury Sedan” and “Best Large SUV,” respectively in 2013. The reward was introduced at the 44^th annual Miami International Auto Show and it proves to be the ultimate testimony of Genesis’ excellent quality and standards.

The 2015 Genesis is an expression of Hyundai’s brave and innovative notions which propel the automotive company further on. The renewed interior and improved exterior, the car depicts class implemented in its premium features and superb driving dynamics. The sedan is said to be more powerful and stiffer than before which makes the ride more comfortable and pleasant. Hyundai Genesis is equipped with a suite of advanced assistance components like Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Blind-Spot Detection and Smart Cruise Control.

There are two engine options: a 311 horsepower 3.8 liter V6 and a 420 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 engine, On top of this, the car comes with an advanced HTRAC AWD system that is available for the first time on a Hyundai passenger car. By all means then, the vehicle discloses an impressive combination of plain but stylish design, safety, premium value and better dynamics.

2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan has a starting price of $38,000.

Source: Hyundai

November 10, 2014

Hyundai Azera is Stronger in 2015

2015 Hyundai Azera that has made an official premiere in North America this weekend comes stronger and more appealing for the new 2015 model year. The car was shown at the 44th annual Miami International Auto Show. So here what the new Azera gets. First, there will be a lot of standard features, which were available in the previous generations. Such are the Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic alert and Lane Change Assist.

The list of standard equipment expands with illuminated door sill plates, hands-free Smart Trunk opener, an eight-inch color LCD navigation display, and a new center stack design. Women always count on looks so they will definitely enjoy what this Hyundai car will offer them, especially when it comes to the Limited trim. It adds LED fog lights and standard redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels.

Other visual tweaks of the same trim level include the front grille, bumper fascia, and rear bumper fascia. Under the hood, there is the II 3.3-liter direct-injected V6 engine, which produces 293 horsepower (219 kW) and 346 Nm (255 lb-ft), while simultaneously offering great fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions.

The customers of 2015 Azera will also enjoy the next gen Blue Link system hat includes the Vehicle Safeguards Alerts In-Vehicle App. The application allows parents to coach teen drivers and monitor their driving behavior.

Source: Hyundai

November 10, 2014

2015 Yukon Denali Gets New Transmission

The new 2015 GMC Yukon Denali has gotten a new transmission that brings numerous benefits to the vehicle including but not limited to higher horsepower, better torque and improved highway fuel economy. The new transmission is fully automatic and features 8 gears.

Featured in the Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali the new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission is connected to the vehicles’ 6.2-liter EcoTec V8 engines and retires the older and less fuel efficient 6-speed automatic gearbox used until now in the Denali. Thanks to the new more advanced transmission the EPA highway mileage estimate for the two-wheel drive Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali increases to 22 mpg (10.7 l/100 km) while the EPA city mileage estimate for the four-wheel drive Yukon Denali rises to 15 mpg (15.7 l/100 km). The combination between the new 8-speed automatic transmission and the 6.2-liter V8 engine delivers a segment-leading 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 460 lb-ft (624 Nm) of torque along with highway fuel economy that can rival many other 6-cylinder and 8-cylinder engines in competitive makes.

The new 8L90 transmission increases comfort by offering smaller steps between gears that allow the engine to efficiently leverage its peak power bands. The wider gearing spread also allows the use of a lower 3.23:1 rear axle ratio, which reduces engine speeds and fuel consumption, especially during highway cruising. Moreover the shift controls and solenoids of the 8L90 are more responsive and provide quicker shift times. A new torque converter also delivers smoother performance at low speeds, especially when carrying heavy loads or pulling trailers. Tow ratings – up to 8,400 pounds (3,814 kg) for the Yukon Denali and 8,100 pounds (3,677 kg) for the Yukon XL Denali – are unaffected by the addition of the eight-speed transmission.

The new gearbox is not the only new thing that the two models provide. The 2015 GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali feature other convenience and connectivity improvements such as:

A new hands-free power liftgate, which can be opened and closed by simply passing a foot beneath the rear bumper
A wireless charging surface for WPC (Qi) or PMA (Powermat) compatible mobile devices integrated into the design of the center console lid. A list of compatible devices is located at gmtotalconnect.com
OnStar with 4G LTE, which provides in-car data connectivity and a Wi-Fi hotspot capable of connecting up to seven devices at one time
An enhanced GMC Intellilink system, which provides incoming ‘Text Message Alerts’ when paired to a compatible Bluetooth phone

Owners of 2015 Yukon and Yukon XL models can receive a tutorial on these new features through a new Yukon-specific application for tablet devices, which supplements the owner’s manual. The new Yukon app will be available for both Apple iOS and Android devices.

The updated 2015 Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali models are priced from USD 64,965 and USD 67,665 respectively, and are now available at dealers.

Source: GMC

November 7, 2014

Upcoming Bentley SUV is Changing Standards! [VIDEO]

Bentley SUV will definitely change how we all think about all-terrain vehicles. The key word here is “luxury”. According to company’s philosophy, the SUV will be both supremely capable in any environment, as well as supremely comfortable. And this is what we can make as a conclusion from the last teaser video, which has just been released. Thanks to it (by the way you can watch it below), we can see that the upcoming model will feature the familiar grille that is flanked by circular headlights, inspired by the Continental.

What is more, the crossover will also boast front fender vents and muscular rear fenders, roof rails and a unique tailgate. The video clearly shows that this Bentley will be adorned by hand-stitched leather upholstery.

We continue expecting a remake of Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept which was introduced two years ago in Geneva. It exudes the same muscularity and robustness, and at the same time bold and dynamic exterior.

Just unlike concept’s engine, which is the 6.0 litre twin-turbocharged W12, the production crossover will be powered by it as well as by the other option: 4.0-liter V8 unit. A plug-in hybrid variant is planned for 2017. The 6.0 litre engine is coupled with an eight-speed transmission and develops 600 hp (441 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.

The new SUV is currently being prepared for production and is scheduled to hit roads in 2016.

httpv://youtu.be/YUnBwnLU9Lw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bentley

November 7, 2014

2015 Panoz Esperante Spyder GT Shows 560 hp at SEMA

This is 25th Anniversary Edition Esperante Spyder GT which is capable of 560 horsepower! Of course, where this car belongs is at this year’s Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, and this is the reason why we present it to you. The production of the model will be strictly limited, thus staying exclusive and keeping with company’s aim to deliver exclusive, American-made and custom hand-built sports cars.

Esperante Spyder GT has no roof and can offer space for two persons only. The visual dynamic sportiness of the car further strengthened by the carbon fiber panel that conceals the functional twin roll hoops, the shorter windshield reinforced by tubular steel A-pillars with carbon fiber windshield frame.

Inside, the pilot and the co-pilot will enjoy a full leather interior with Alcantara accents on the seats, dash, door panels, center console, and as inserts on the Spyder’s carbon fiber Spyder shell. On the leather we can see that a contrasting stitching is present. What we can also see is that the leather dash features a big10.6-inch ID4Motion digital instrument display, showing important functions.

The supercharged 560 horsepower (412 kW) powerplant is mated with a close-ratio Tremec T56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission. And this is as standard equipment! The option (and my least favorite) is the six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Those who desire more power can opt for custom build engine, which will generate more than 800 horsepower (588 kW).

In addition to the higher output V8 under the hood, other key upgrades include wide body carbon composite and aluminum body, exterior styling reminiscent of the Le Mans-winning Esperante GTLM race car as well as side exhausts like the Panoz Esperante GT2 race car.

Clear-coated carbon fiber is used for the front splitter, rear diffuser and side skirts, taillight and rear trunk panels. The car runs on custom 19 inch wheels, which are fitted with Brembo® six- and four- piston monobloc front and rear calipers, respectively. The LED taillights are the last element which can’t be skipped.

2015 Panoz Esperante Spyder GT 25th Anniversary Edition is priced at $204,750 USD.

Source: Panoz LLC

November 7, 2014

DMC Lamborghini LP988 STAGE 3 Edizione GT: God of Uniqueness

After two very successful and triumphant Lamborghini Aventador packages, the luxury tuner DMC has presented another one. This time it is even more exclusively good and is able to shatter people’s preconceived notions about the meaning of the word “amazing.” Dubbed Lamborghini LP988 STAGE 3 Edizone GT and developed according to the FIA regulations in mind, this one-of-a-kind Aventador strikes with poisonous glory. Moreover, it is absolutely street legal. Imagine this! Don’t you just want to have it?

The third car has been recently built and distributed to China, where the local artist Yinfeng has had the chance to take it for a series of pictures which can make pretty much everyone gasp in daydreaming. The majority of changes are taken by the body kit and the engine updates as well. This monster distinguishes from the other two individual Lamborghini LP988 Edizone GTs thanks to the two-tone paint and the set of forged alloy wheels. The interior refinements, including Italian fine leathers and carbon fiber, plenty of buttons and trims available as a small package, and a redesigned steering wheel, contribute to the overall stylish representation.

Additionally, the styling package offers a newly designed front and rear bumpers, flanked by unique side skirts and culminating GT-Spoiler that can be manually set to 3 different angles for different aerodynamics. In terms of its performance, DMC Aventador LP988 benefits from an engine upgrade kit that is comprised of a twin-turbo system, reprogrammed ECU, individual intake throttle plates for each of the 12 cylinders, new fuel pumps, fuel lines, modulators and injection nozzles.

The Limited Edition car is allowed in only one sold color which makes every other model phenomenal and special in the entire world. The steep price of the package is 288.888 USD (excluding the base car of course).

Source: DMC

November 7, 2014

Land Rover SVO and Holland & Holland Reveal the Most Luxurious and Expensive Range Rover Ever

Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) in collaboration with British gun-maker company Holland & Holland have unveiled a special edition of the Range Rover which is thought of as the most expensive and most luxurious Range Rover ever. Combining eccentric style and bespoke design, this is a car for real connoisseurs. And even though I am not a huge fan of Range Rovers, I have to admit that this one in particular gives me the chills. Especially when I look at the interior.

The previously considered as the most expensive Range Rover Autobiography Black long wheelbase which costs £146,900 is no longer on the top of the price-ladder. It has been uncrowned by the 2015 Range Rover by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations and Holland & Holland priced at £180,000. Sitting on the throne, the special 2015 Range Rover is said to be distinguishable since it encapsulates demonstratively excellent off- and on-road performance as well as splendor and workmanship. The Holland & Holland Range Rover arrives with an option of powertrains. There is a diesel-powered 4.4-litre SDV8, which delivers 339 HP (252 kW) and a 510PS petrol-powered 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged engine.

Thanks to the professional skills and effort of Holland & Holland, the new Range Rover shines with one of a kind bodywork, mirrors and bonnet vent. The grille is painted in the same intensive and saturated green color and has chrome highlights. In addition, Holland & Holland badging is placed on the lower accent door badges of both long and standard wheelbase versions and on the tailgate too.

The interior, though, is what strikes the most. If perfectness was a physical thing, then, 2015 Range Rover has got it! On the inside the vehicle benefits from soft tan and espresso leather upholstery including Holland & Holland embroidery placed on the front seats. The sides of the transmission tunnel are trimmed in a similar leather too. In order to complete this craftsmanship, there is a sustainably-sourced French walnut veneer that is carefully polished in order to resemble the oil-finished gunstocks produced by Holland & Holland. To mark this, their logo is inlaid into the front center console. The car’s woodwork is made from a single huge piece of walnut, 1500mm long by 500mm wide, to ensure that every veneer is perfectly matched. A final touch adds the deployable loadspace floor which is engineered from aluminum and carbon fiber with a leather and wood veneer finish.

Source: Land Rover

November 7, 2014

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