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  • Instinctive All-Wheel-Drive? 2016 Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe Just Got It

    2016-Jaguar-F-TYPE-R-Coupe-Instinctive-All-Wheel-Drive-THUMBHave you ever thought that an All-Wheel-Drive System can be Instinctive? Well, if you haven’t then you are not alone in this. Obviously, for Jaguar things are getting pretty modern because the 2016 F-TYPE R Coupe just got an Instinctive All-Wheel-Drive. The car was unveiled in the South African desert on Hakskeen Pan. The technology is a first for the F-TYPE line-up and it expands the dynamic capability of the car.

    Speaking in numbers: it reaches the 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 186 mph. What delivers better traction in different road conditions is the standard Instinctive All-Wheel-Drive and Intelligent Driveline Dynamics.

    F-TYPE model range will soon grow from 6 to 12 derivatives in the 2016 model year. The entire lineup will debut very soon at the 2014 Los Angeles International Auto Show on 19th of November.

    The event and the special premiere also mark the beginning of the technical partnership between Jaguar and Bloodhound SSC. The goal is to raise the world land speed record to above 1,000 mph. For this reason, Jaguar assisted the Bloodhound SSC team in successfully completing a vital communications test at the Hakskeen Pan.

    There was achieved also one more thing: the stability of the F-TYPE R AWD Coupe was demonstrated as it was driven flat-out by Bloodhound SSC chairman and former world land speed record holder, Richard Noble. The car was driven at top speed towards a jet flown at 500 mph and just above 50-ft above the ground.

    The combined closing speed of almost 700 mph enabled the successful test of the system. This will also allow communications between the ground crew and Andy Green in the Bloodhound SSC, which will run for the first time on the Hakskeen Pan just twelve months from now. Andy holds the supersonic land speed record of 763.035 mph.

    The additional details on the 2016 Jaguar F-TYPE range will be announced after the official launch at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.

    Source: Jaguar 

  • The New Audi Q3 and Audi RS Q3 – Better Than Ever

    Well, that was impressively quick. Only 20 months after its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, Audi has presented its RS Q3 crossover with some very good styling improvements (interiorly and exteriorly), increased equipment levels and, finally, a better engine range. The face-lifted Audi Q3 does not run behind and has also been tweaked visually.

    As it seems, this time Audi’s team has set a goal to make as many styling, efficiency, safety, equipment and power adjustments as possible in order to accomplish highly successful results. With the new productive redesigns the vehicles become even more distinctive. The Q3 now comes with the 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine with Cylinder-on-Demand technology, which has originally been used in the A1 and A3 hatchbacks. The front-wheel-driven Q3 1.4 TFSI can now scamper to 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds (S tronic). This engine comes with either a six-speed manual or a twin-clutch S-tronic automatic gearbox. Nevertheless, the two versions are capable of 50.4mpg and 47.9mpg.

    As for the Audi RS Q3, it is powered by an imposing 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI engine which produces boosted 340 HP and torque of 450 Nm (it has jumped from 309 pound-feet to 332 lb-ft). This extra boost lowers the initial sprint time of 5.5 seconds. As a result, the RS Q3 is enabled to accelerate to 63 miles per hour in the screaming 4.8 seconds.

    There are also two more diesel engines both of which deliver more power. They have outputs of 150PS (the old one being 140PS) and 184PS, up from 177PS. The 2.0-litre TDI SE with 150PS, manual transmission and 17-inch alloy wheels is the efficiency standard bearer in the TDI camp. It shaves 18g/km from its CO2 rating, and offers official fuel economy of up to 61.4mpg and emissions of only 119g/km.

    In relation to its exterior look, the Audi RS Q3 demonstrates idealness with its high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers. It is also given a special front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and a unique rear diffuser insert flanked by a large elliptical tailpipe. To add up to the simple but stylish look, there are also roof rails in matt aluminum, roof spoiler, special door sill plates and door trim strips. Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in Fine Nappa leather with contrast stitching.

    Audi Q3, on the other hand, has LED headlights, new five-spoke design 18-inch alloy wheels and exterior enhancements. Inside the S line upgrade is comprised of cloth and leather combination upholstery for the sports seats and the option to specify S line sports suspension in place of the standard set-up at no cost.

    Source: Audi

  • AC Schnitzer presents the BMW X4 in an outstandingly athletic version

    Despite the continuous presence of BMW X4 on the market, there hasn’t been done a major overhaul until the German tuner company AC Schnitzer took on this ‘initiative’. With the improvements given by the tuner, the face of BMW X4 is changed. It receives an impressive athletic vision which shapes the car’s look like that of a real winner!

    The enhancements include new aerodynamic parts like front spoiler, a new rear diffuser, carbon fiber mirror covers and a new rear skirt protection foil.

    Apart from the aerodynamics and the wheels, AC Schnitzer has been working on improving some technical qualities as well. In consequence, BMW X4 20i (export version) delivers 245 hp and BMW X4 28i can go up to 294 hp. The winner among those models in terms of power, though, is the BMW X4 35i which can even amaze world championship judges with its mighty 360 hp.

    On the diesel front there are some good enhancements as well. The diesel version comes with performance upgrades from 190 to 220 hp (in preparation) for the 20d, 309 hp for the xDrive30d and 360 hp for the xDrive35d. Initially, all performance updates have been developed on AC Schnitzer’s principle of “Efficient Performance.” In other words, that means that although the engine power is extended, the CO2 emissions remain the same. So the CO2 value per hp falls. All of them come with a two year warranty up to 100,000 km (62,000 miles).

    The Aachen-based tuning professionals are fully aware that inner characteristics play a very crucial role for they raise the market value of a certain car. For this reason, AC Schnitzer completes the changes by providing the new BMW with pedal set and foot rest made of aluminum, the unique AC Schnitzer keyholder and the velours footmats. Along with this, the German tuner integrates a gear knob with digital gear display, illuminated leather gear knob and “Black Line” aluminium gear knob which highlight the sporty interior feel of BMW X4.

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • Volvo Ocean Race XC60 Wows Miami

    Volvo-Ocean-Race-XC60-Limited-Edition-THUMBVolvo Ocean Race Editions were shown at first at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The range of exclusive vehicles included the V40 and V40 Cross Country, V60, XC60, V70 and XC70 Editions. The fleet Ocean Racers is intended for customers who want more dynamic look and handling. Now North America is set to see the birth of the limited edition Volvo Ocean Race XC60 at the Miami International Auto Show. The event starts today and will last until 16th of September.

    Precisely, this special edition pays homage to the courageous men and women racing across the oceans. This is highlighted with the special design elements. First thing that grabs the eye is the distinctive “Ocean Blue II” exterior color. Next are the unique to the model blonde leather interior with orange stitching.

    The exclusive 18” wheels just perfectly combine with the T6 Drive-E FWD or the T6 AWD engine by which this car can be driven. Other Volvo Ocean Race XC60 features include an inscribed “Volvo Ocean Race” tread plate as well as exterior emblem on front fenders and deco inlay. Orange stitching is featured on door panels, floor mats and luggage compartment.

    2014-2015 Volvo Ocean Race has already started in Alicante, Spain more than a month ago. The finish will happen in Gothenburg, Sweden, in June next year. In the race are participating 66 of world’s top sailors, who will race 38,739 nautical miles around the world. To make it clearer: this number is actually almost twice the circumference of the Earth.

    Volvo Ocean Race XC60 Limited Edition has a starting price of $42,100 USD.

    Source: Volvo

  • New DIG-T 163 1.6-litre Turbocharged Petrol Engine Joins Qashqai Range

    Nissan moves far ahead of the field again for it is expanding its famous Qashqai range with an improved new DIG-T 163 petrol engine. Covering all the requirements of the strict EURO6 emissions regulations, the new 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit depicts high-class performance with low CO2 output and strong fuel economy.

    DIG-T 163 engine exceeds and indicates better features than the already existing 1.2 DIG-T unit which develops 115 HP (85 kW). The new powerplant has an advanced turbocharging technology and possesses additional specifications which are carried out in a way that maximizes the performance and economy figures. The DIG-T 163 petrol engine is able to produce 163 HP (120 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 240 Nm of maximum torque estimated between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.

    As you can suppose, typically for all engines used in the new Qashqai range, the DIG-T 163 is also equipped with Start/Stop ignition system and expresses a sense of precise, easy and pleasurable driving experience. Buyers can expect acceleration from 0-62mph to be achieved in only 9.1 seconds which defines Nissan Qashqai as the fastest model in the range with a top speed rated at 124 mph.

    Yet, even more striking are the DIG-T 163 engine’s fuel efficiency and emissions rates. Cars that come with the new engine are able to return from 48.7 mpg on the EU Combined cycle and have CO2 emissions from 134g/km for vehicles provided with 16″ and 17″ wheels to 138g/km for vehicles provided with 18″ and 19″ wheels.

    The new DIG-T 163 engine is supplied with a six-speed manual transmission and is available in front-wheel-drive form. The product will be available to order now with deliveries starting from January 2015.

    Source: Nissan

  • 2016 Kia Sorento to go Official in America

    2016-Kia-Sorento-THUMB2016 Kia Sorento CUV is going to make its official North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The car has been redesigned and is larger than the previous generation model. In fact, it offers up to three rows of seating. But you can expect even more: it is packed with luxurious equipment. The CUV will be available in five trim levels: L, LX, EX, SX and SXL. This is the third gen of Kia’s best selling model and this means that it now features more mature appearance.

    The new styling is now more aggressive and features intricate surface detailing. The car is longer, lower and wider, meaning that it has an extended wheelbase. The design of the mode incorporates fresh visual elements inspired by the Kia Cross GT concept. As an example: just take a look at the long bonnet and the distinctive treatment of the wide D-pillars from the previous generation.

    The Sorento includes larger, more upright ‘tiger-nose’ grille as well as a three-dimensional diamond pattern, and long, swept-back headlamps. The lower roofline, higher beltline and more muscular, rounded shoulders at the rear give the car a dramatic appearance.

    The SUC has grown also in size with 95 mm to 4.780 mm. In contrast, the height was reduced down to 1,685 mm, while the 80 mm longer wheelbase is now 2,780 mm and is what ensures the space for all three seat rows.

    2016 Kia Sorento is expected to go on sale globally in the Spring of 2015.

    Source: Kia 

  • Cayenne and Cayenne GTS Debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

    Porsche premiered two new Cayennes, Cayenne and Cayenne GTS, which are slightly more compelling than their predecessors.

    The new 2015 Cayenne GTS gets its power from a 3.6 liter V6 twin-turbo engine, which is a performance-oriented improved version of the new powertrain that was recently presented in the Cayenne S. The GTS’ power output is increased by 20 hp to 440 hp and torque by 62 ft.-lbs. to 445 ft.-lbs., while –observe!- fuel consumption is reduced. Porsche claims that its Cayenne GTS accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 163 mph. The standard kit includes a sports exhaust, PASM and air suspension, and flared wheel arches. Yet, not to lose itself in too much standard dimensions, Porsche has added a new feature on the front doors: striking GTS lettering! Wow!

    Not to disappoint you but “standard” seems to be the leading factor in terms of the new models for there aren’t too many innovations with the base model. Cayenne is equipped with the familiar 3.6 liter V6 naturally aspirated engine. It produces 300 hp and accelerates the car from 0 to 62 mph in 7.7 seconds – 7.6 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package. Well, there is a slight enhancement obviously because that’s 0.2 seconds faster than before.

    Cayenne and Cayenne GTS are going to celebrating their world debut in November 19th at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. Sales of the cars will begin in the United States at the end of February 2015. The price for the Cayenne is $58,300 and for the Cayenne GTS is $95,500.

    Source: Porsche

  • Ken Block Unveils the EXCLUSIVE Hoonigan Ford Mustang RTR

    Hoonigan-Ford-Mustang-RTR-by-Ken-Block-THUMBWe haven’t seen a tuning like this for a long time. The Hoonigan Ford Mustang RTR by Ken Block is breath-taking at first glance and I’m sure you are going to fall in love with it as I did. The muscle beast was showed for the first time at Ford’s booth at this year’s SEMA Show. As you can see the project is completely unique. It is based on world’s first performance all-wheel drive 1965 Ford Mustang notchback, and is a result of the collaborative effort between Block, Hoonigan and RTR.

    The pony car was heavily modified by RTR and ASD Motorsports and is powered by a 410 cubic inch Roush Yates V8 engine which boasts 845 hp (621 kW) and 976 Nm (720 lb.ft)!!! This force is coupled with a one-off six-speed Sadev SC90-24all-wheel drive system, featuring a hydraulic handbrake system.

    Block unveiled that he and the other teams have been working on this project for more than two years. And now it has come fully to fruition. The racer will be competing with the special Mustang at the Gymkhana SEVEN, and by far, I must say, this is the best Gymkhana car we have ever seen.

    The suspension of the special car is delivered by ASD Motorsports, as well as the full tubular chassis, custom roll-cage, door bars and front and rear suspension mounts. RTR made the carbon fiber body panels, while the wide body of the car was designed by RTR, Ken Block and Hoonigan.

    We can’t pass by the fifteen 52 three-piece R40 wheels in the size of 18” x10.5”, which were fitted with 295/30/18 Pirelli Trofeo R tyres. All in all, this bad boy has made our day: it is one-off, absolutely adorable and has a lot of power and potential to show. Good work Hoonigan!

    Source: Hoonigan Racing

  • Toyota Shocks Sema with 850-horsepower Camry Dragster

    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry managed to shock onlookers at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. Loud roars and extensive enthusiasm abounded around the Toyota booth after the reveal of the all-new Sleeper Camry. The word “sleeper” presented in drag racing terms identifies a car which has the look of an innocent kitten but acts like a lion. In other words, it is a vehicle that can blow your mind and leave you speechless.

    At first sight, the mild-mannered seemingly stock sedan looks like it has nothing special than some custom-made wheels and ordinary smoky shade. BUT! Reality is different. The 2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry does indeed give grounds for the presence of the word “sleeper” in its name. The car flips open, and uncovers a tube-frame chassis. Just like some of those autobots that you can see in Transformers. Almost.

    The underneath part of the elegant Camry skin is all about intimidating force, strong durability and rough speed. The purpose-built dragster features a 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 engine sourced from the Toyota Tundra boosted by a TRD supercharger. It also includes a wet nitrous system that strikes with more than 850 HP. The crazed Sleeper Camry is equipped with brutal DOT 335/30/18 drag racing tires which are expected to help propel this Toyota to a dazzling 9.80-second quarter mile.

    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry features:

    • Magnuson Products
    • IPT Performance Transmissions
    • Plumbing: Goodridge Fluid Transfer Systems
    • TRD
    • Magnaflow
    • Autometer Digital Dash
    • Impact Racing safety harness
    • Battery: Optima Yellow Top
    • Goodyear tires
    • Nitrous Supply
    • Seat: Fast Ed’s Interiors
    • The Polishing Shop
    • Forged pistons and connecting rods
    • Suspension: Strut front and 4-link live rear axle

    Source: Toyota

  • BMW M6 RS800 Gran Coupe by PP-Performance is World’s Fastest 6 Series [VIDEO]

    BMW-M6-RS800-Gran-Coupe-by-PP-Performance-THUMBBMW M6 RS800 Gran Coupe by PP-Performance can show more than 240 horsepower than the production M6 power. The reason for this almost unbelievable optimization is the work of the tuners at PP Performance, who wave optimized the engine and it now delivers 800 hp (588 kW) instead of 560 hp (413 kW). The first number means that this is the world’s fastest BMW 6 series.

    The top speed stands at 328 kmph (203 mph) the new Newton metes measure 950 (production are 680 Nm). The customizing specialists have also added special downpipes, an Akrapovic titan exhaust system and BMC racing filters.

    For the external appearance of the car took car professionals at Cam Shaft. They not only specialize in optimization of car hard and soft ware, but also highly professional process high tech foil in fields of car design. And now you get the reason why this RS800 shines brightly in exclusive Electric Lime.

    Furthermore, it has to be mentioned that each PP-Performance power improvement solution has being developed and tested in Abu Dhabi. The reason is because of the dominating climate there and the daily highest temperatures above 50°C (122°F), the tuners are able to give the necessary stability guarantee. Enjoy the video below, it is worth it!

    httpv://youtu.be/g3SoFVKFyiA

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: PP-Performance

     

  • Hyundai Fantastic Five Debuting at SEMA

    Hyundai-SEMA-Concepts-THUMBSEMA is a really big thin at the moment for the entire automotive world. One of the companies with an every year presence at the show is Hyundai, and it has released five of its concepts introduced at the event. It has once again teamed up with some of the biggest names in the tuning community. This year, the focus is on performance, thus boosting the new Genesis and Sonata models. The lineup of Hyundai vehicles includes ARK Performance AR550 Genesis Sedan, Bisimoto Engineering Sonata, Blood Type Racing Genesis Coupe, JP Edition Sonata and Toca Signature Edition Genesis Sedan.

    ARK Performance AR550 Genesis is ultra-luxurious and equipped with supercharged power. ARK also focused on the power, handling, and note: sound of the Hyundai power plant. High-performance racing technology was also integrated in the Genesis in order to introduce a very unique and bold tuning.

    Bisimoto is teaming up with Hyundai for the third year for SEMA. The powertrain gurus have created the most-powerful, front-wheel drive Sonata ever! The number is 708 horsepower (521 kW) and is produced by the entirely custom 2.4-liter “Theta-II” four cylinder engine. The car is made distinctive via the custom laminated body wrap and graphics.

    The third car is the Blood Type Racing Genesis Coupe and it is the most-powerful 2.0-liter Genesis Coupe ever built. It features high-boost Precision Turbo turbocharger, strengthened and fully balanced internal components, a custom intake, intercooler, full exhaust kit and nitrous injection. All of this means that the tuners at BTR achieved the goal of extracting almost 1000 horsepower (735) from the engine.

    The aggressive appearance of the Genesis Coupe which perfectly complements power under the hood is the addition of a widebody kit from Japanese designer Kei Miura, with 40mm-wider front and 60mm-wider rear fenders, front bumper lip spoiler, rear diffuser and a GT wing.

    Number four is the JP Edition Sonata and it features a balance of performance products, in-car entertainment and represents the enthusiasts whose cars showcase an extension of their personalities and lifestyles. JP has given the Sonata a performance boost, as well as AEM cold air intake, a MagnaFlow exhaust kit and a hot charge pipe from Bisimoto engineering.

    At last, Toca Signature Edition Genesis, dubbed “Steel Phoenix”, is powered by the Hyundai’s “Tau” 5.0-liter V8, which later was enhanced with Garrett twin turbo setup, ARK Performance catback exhaust system. The result is a power output of 600 horsepower (441 kW). Inside, the vehicle has also been given a boost: custom black leather seats with contrasting white stitching, carbon-fiber trim panels and a Rockford Fosgate sound system are all at hand.

    Which one do you like the best?

    Source: Hyundai

     

  • The New Skoda Fabia Ensures Top-level Safety

    Recently the new Skoda Fabia has been praised with the maximum five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests which are based on results for occupant protection for adults and children, pedestrian protection and safety assistance systems. Demonstrating high efficiency and top-notch safety performance, the new small car highlights its great qualities of a highly reliable vehicle in the market.

    Undergoing a number of tests by Euro NCAP in order to see how this hatchback will perform in case of an accident, Skoda Fabia scores remarkably high results in relation to its protection of 18-month-old and the protection of three-year-old children. Of course, such astonishing achievements would not have been possible without its safety features.

    For example, the new Skoda Fabia features Front Assistant with integrated Emergency Braking Function which uses a radar sensor to measure the distance to the traffic ahead. If the distance is too small, the Assistant interferes and it switches from warnings to a full automatic emergency stop. Moreover, in the car available is the Multi-Collision Brake which is part of the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. The key role of the Multi-Collision Brake is to lower the chances of risk of the vehicle when becoming involved in a secondary collision following an accident.

    Things get even better and more secured for Skoda Fabia is supplied with an optional Driver Activity Assistant (fatigue detection). Additionally, other safety systems include Speedlimiter (standard from SE), Hill-Hold Control and an electronic tyre-pressure monitor. The comprehensive safety package of Fabia includes six airbags (front, side and head airbags) as well. There are also five three-point seat belts which protect the occupants of the car in case of a collision.

    Skoda Fabia is going to be launched in the first European markets in the next couple of days.

    Source: Skoda