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2014 World’s Greatest Drag Race

Motor Trend has once again presented us with their annual World’s Greatest Drag Race video. How can a person not love it when in the last video we can see 10 of the world’s most badass sports car and supercars gathered in one place?! That’s pretty freaking amazing! So prepare for a mixture of epic sound, speed and performance!

This year, the lineup shows off with some stunningly fast cars for sure. The group of ten is comprised of the following beauties: Porsche 911 Turbo S (560 HP), BMW i8 (357 HP), BMW M4 (425 HP), Alfa Romeo 4C (237 HP), Ford Fiesta ST (197 HP), Jaguar F-Type R Coupe (550 HP), Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 (505 HP), Nissan GT-R NISMO (600 HP), Volkswagen GTI (217 HP) and Subaru WRX STI (305 HP). Well, well, give me one of those head-scratchers for a day and I will be more than glad to take the keys.

Predictable as it may be, the ¼ mile drag race is firstly blasted-off by the all-wheel-drive and turbocharged duo of Porche 911, followed closely by Nissan GT-R NISMO. So take out and wave the 911 flag and still congratulate Nissan fans for the great performance of the GT-R NISMO.

The winner scores 10.9 second time at 126 mph which gains it the leading and winning place. Second comes the GT-R at 11.1 seconds and 125.3 mph. The third place is achieved by Jaguar at 11.8 seconds at 122.3 mph. The rest is as it follows: BMW M4 – 12.2 seconds at 117.8 mph; Camaro Z/28 – 12.3 seconds at 117.2 mph; BMW i8 – 12.4 seconds and 112.1 mph; Alfa Romeo 4C – 12.8 seconds at 104.8; Subaru – 13.1 seconds at 104.4 mph; Volkswagen – 14.5 seconds and 97.9 mph and, finally, Ford Fiesta ST with 14.9 seconds and 94.6 mph.

Click on the link to also enjoy the fun!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ9NVz_LKj8

Source: Motor Trend Channel YouTube

October 30, 2014

BMW X5 M and X6 M: The Ultimate Pleasure of Driving

The second-generation BMW X5 M and X6 M have finally made their arrival for the speed-obsessed and crossover lovers. The X5 M and X6 M have been reborn. This time with more power, more torque, more style and better driving experience all of which make this pair of darlings some of the most wanted vehicles worldwide.

While the new models retain their 4.4-liter, when compared to the 2009 models, the new Ms bring enhancements of up to 10 per cent in terms of power, torque and performance while, in fact, they have lowered fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent. To cast some light on those raw statistics, the power of the BMW new models has been sufficiently increased from 555 horsepower to 567 horseSUPERpower (423 kW). Staying true to their twin-turbocharged V8 engines, both of the cars are powered by a bran-new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two TwinScroll turbochargers. The combination of power and torque outputs (750 Nm) outline this engine as the most powerful and efficient one ever created by BMW for four-wheel-drive cars. Finally, BMW X5 M and X6 M fire up from 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds at a tops speed of 155 mph.

Of course, it is not just the statistics above which make BMW’s M cars so distinctive. There are cardinal aesthetic updates interiorly and exteriorly in order to suit and complete the high-performance behavior of those machines. X5 M and X6 M combine sportiness with luxurious style. The sporty exterior design of the new models is function-oriented. The eye-catching looks of the cars is complimented by the flared wheel arches, standard 21-inch M wheels, four large air intakes in the front fascia and, perhaps, the best twin-stalk exterior door mirrors that can be seen on a production car.

The interior is highlighted by new over-large steering wheel which is completed with aluminum paddle shifters. The design of the seats is deliberately more aggressive which works in perfect harmony with, again, the sporty nature of the BMW’s new beauties.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M will be available from 11 April, 2015, and will be priced at £90,170 and £93,070. Both models will hit the US market next spring – $99,650 for the X5 M and $103,050 for the X6 M.

Source: BMW

October 30, 2014

Is FCC4 Concept the Next Big Thing for Fiat? [VIDEO]

Fiat says that its FCC4 Concept explores the language in design. The car was unveiled at the auto show at Sao Paulo with the introductory words that it is a “real four door coupe with an adventurous spirit”. However, we find that the FCC4 is some kind of odd mixture between a pickup and a Range Rover Evoque. What do you think? The FCC4 adopts a specific typology for a car, it treads hybrid paths, has generous dimensions and raised floor height. All of this is combined with the luxury and internal space of a large sedan.

At its sides the concept car has unprecedented and surprising proportions. They definitely reveal its dynamic character via the dynamic lines and muscular surfaces. As you can see the glass area has been reduced in order to recreate the feeling of protection and privacy.

The windshield, lateral glass area and rear glass further emphasize the highly dynamic character of the concept. The menacing front look of the FCC4 is achieved via new daylight running LEDs and other optical groups underneath.

The rear features a fastback glass, LED lamps that repeat the front assembly and the exhausts at the ends of the bumper and the aluminum central protection. The asymmetrical doors appear to be also provocative, because they adopt a new typology of opening and use. The concept car is loaded with technology and refinement.

Of course, we can’t miss the exuberant color of the body of this Fiat, which is metallic blue, and makes the concept noble and luminous, with nuances of light and shadow. At last, the dimensions of the Fiat FCC4 really prove that it is different: the length is 5,000 mm, width – 1,940 and height – 1,600 mm.

httpv://youtu.be/4nL-y3meSAQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Fiat

October 30, 2014

Volkswagen Up! Becomes Sportier in Germany

Two years ago Volkswagen introduced a super mini car called with the strange name up! It became a big hit around the globe and it is common view on the city streets, thanks to its fuel-efficient characteristics, great price and convenient dimensions. Now, the company is announcing a derivative of the model, which features unique styling inside and out, and it is called street up! special edition.

It was created with the intent to appeal to the sports-minded customers. As you can see VW’s street up! has catchy black exterior with contrasting mirror caps and special white and yellow stripes on the hood, roof, doors and side panels. There is also a “Street” lettering on the doors.

Despite the fact that the car is based on the up! 5 door version, it features a sport-tuned suspension, chrome fog light surrounds and runs on 16-inch alloy wheels. Other design cues feature chrome mirror caps and fog lights frames.

The same sporty treatment can be seen also inside, where there the upholstery features yellow contrast stitching. “Black Style” design package is adds black headliner and darkened side windows. At last, the “Up!” lettering can be seen on the seats and door sills. The car also features air conditioning, an RCD 215 radio and a unique gear knob.

Volkswagen Street Up can be powered by any of the engines available in the Up lineup. The pricing of the car begins at €13,575 and it is available only in Germany.

Source: Volkswagen

October 30, 2014

Hennessey Jaguar F-Type R Coupe: Sometimes Power Means More Power

It might be inspired by the legendary E-Type sports car, but equipped with a 5.0-liter supercharged V8, the 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe is just as powerful and furious as the 707 HP 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat for instance.

With the upgrade offered by the Texas tuner Hennessey Perormance, this Jaguar’s already frenzied power is boosted to something that will fire you up in the space. Compared to the standard V-8 powered Jag, The HPE600 receives a supercharger pulley upgrade, custom-made software, intercooler cooling upgrades as well as the initial dyno tuning, serial plates and Hennessey badging. On top of this, the tuner also includes a 3-year, 36,000 mile limited warranty on all modifications.

The standard 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe is powered by supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 engine producing the impressive 550-hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. What is more, the car can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds. And then comes the improved, wild, sensational, mind-blowing (I can continue with the adjectives on and on but will stop here) Hennessey HPE600 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe! It yields 623 horsepower and rocks out 568 lb-ft Torque at 4,300 rpm. Impressed already? Wait until you see what’s next! This beast is capable of a 0 to 60 mph sprint of just 3.5 seconds and a 1/4 mile of 11.4 seconds with a terminal speed of 126 mph. Did it manage to make your jaw drop?

Here is a full list of what the HPE600 upgrade includes:

• Custom software upgrade tuning
• Supercharger pulley upgrade
• Intercooler cooling upgrade
• Professional installation
• Dyno tuning & road testing
• Serial-numbered dash plaque
• Serial-numbered engine plaque
• Hennessey exterior badging
• 3 Year / 36,000 mile limited warranty

Power:
• 623 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
• 568 lb-ft Torque @ 4,300 rpm

Performance:
• 0-60 mph: 3.5 sec.
• 1/4 mile: 11.4 @ 126 mph

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4v3pq1jnLtY

Source: Hennessey Performance

October 30, 2014

2015 GT-R NISMO and 370Z NISMO Safety Car on Display at Sema Show

In the upcoming Sema Show Nissan will have its own booth where it will return with its new 2015 Nissan GT-R Nismo. The NISMO Lounge will be situated in Booth #46045 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – Lower South Hall where on display there will be the new 2015 GT-R NISMO supercar and 370Z NISMO Safety Car. The show will continue from 4^th of November 4 to 7^th of November. Apart from showcasing all of the best parts of Nissan go-fast division, the brand will also introduce some of the people standing behind it.

Presenting a special “NISMO Lounge,” the Nissan booth will focus on its production vehicles, performance parts and aftermarket accessories all of which are marked by the NISMO brand. As I mentioned before, attenders will be able to see the new 600-horsepower 2015 GT-R NISMO and another representative of the Nismo family, precisely, Nissan 370Z NISMO safety vehicle.

The show will become even more globally acknowledged because it will be granted with the attendance and the attention of Nissan staff from all around the world. In essence, it will include members from accessories, product planning, and marketing departments. Among the Global executives who are going to attend are Hiroshi Tamura, Chief Product Specialist, GT-R, Z and NISMO; and Darren Cox, global head of Brand, Marketing & Sales, NISMO.

Those who are unable to go to the SEMA show can catch up on the latest information and updates via the hashtag #NISMOLife on Facebook and Twitter as well.

Source: Nissan

October 30, 2014

2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 Stands Out Form the Crowd

Thanks to its visual credentials, 2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 can effortlessly stand out from the crowd. Its vibrant magma orange and black exterior as well as the aero kit designed by Cartel Customs makes it more than appealing. This limited-edition car is a result of the joint work of Scion and Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. Form it will be produced only 2,000 units, which makes it pretty unique.

The bold exterior of the two-tone version of the sports coupe is intended for drivers who are looking for a show car they can drive every day. Other details that will be featured only here are the center exhaust and the blacked out Scion badge, which bring the final aggressive detail to the front face.

The orange theme is continued inside and can be seen in the form of stitching on the steering wheel and seats. There is also an orange paint on the dashboard components, door panels and shifter surround. Last to mention in the interior are the Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the “Cartel Logo” and orange front seat belts.

tC Release Series 9.0 will be running on black finish alloy wheels with matching center cap. The other contrasting black elements are the gloss black finish side mirrors and door handles. Scion have added also special Release Series badge mirror cover, Toyota Racing Development lowering springs, high-profile rear spoiler as well as Cartel logo floor and cargo mats.

This exceptional limited edition vehicle will be equipped with either six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology. It has a starting price of $23,190 USD and is expected to arrive in dealerships in January next year.

Source: Scion

October 30, 2014

Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains Win the Dewar Trophy

Should Mercedes-Benz be proud? Hell yeah! Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), Brixworth, was awarded the prestigious Dewar Trophy which is noted as the most respectable and honorable award in British engineering sector. The award is highly exceptional and of significant importance for The Royal Automobile Club’s Dewar Trophy is only given in a moment when according to the Club’s experts there are some exclusive candidates who have remarkable achievements in the automotive industry.

The trophy was received by Andy Cowell, Managing Director, Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains, on behalf of the Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains’ team. He pointed out that; “To have received this prestigious award for the second time is a fitting tribute to the commitment to excellence within our organisation. Our work in the constantly evolving arena of Hybrid technology has allowed us to explore an exciting new breed of automotive innovations relevant not only to our performance on the racetrack, but also to the everyday motorist.”

Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains received the award for producing the best, most profitable, beneficial and efficient powertrains within the new Formula One technical regulations. The Mercedes-Benz PU106A Hybrid power unit has been the most assertive and dominant one this season, gaining the brand a huge success after winning 13 out of 16 races. Wow.

The primary goal for Mercedes-Benz this year was to increase the engine efficient capacity to work from about 29% for the previous normally aspirated 2.4 liter V8 to more than 40% with the new 1.6 liter V6 Hybrid turbo. As it seems, Mercedes really accomplished its aim and once again proved itself to be one of the bests.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 30, 2014

Jeep Wows Brazil with 2015 Renegade

2015 Jeep Renegade has been introduced in March but it is not late for the vehicle to make its first official appearance in Latin America. The equivalent of the show in Geneva is Sao Paulo and it is where the magic happens. In fact, at this show debut such vehicles that we can’t see anywhere else in the world. Take for example the Nissan Kicks concept or the new Troller T4.

But continuing with the main topic, the Renegade stands out with its perfect proportions, which is ideal for the region’s narrow roads. The car offers great off-road capability, open-air freedom and convenience. More importantly, it is equipped with a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission that contributes to outstanding on-road and off-road driving dynamics.

In Brazil, the nine-speed automatic is coupled with the 2.0-liter Multijet II diesel engine flex fuel, while the 1.8-liter E.TorQ engine comes linked to the five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. As a matter of fact, the Renegade will be the first compact SUV equipped with a diesel engine to be sold in Brazil.

In addition, it will also be the first Brazilian-made car that will have the ParkAssist function. 2015 Jeep Renegade perfectly matches the spirit of adventure and can-do attitude of the country and is expected to attract thousands of new customers to the brand. The sales are expected to start during the second quarter of 2015.

Source: Jeep

October 30, 2014

2015 R8 Competition is the Most Potent Production Audi

2015 Audi R8 Competition which is one of the most powerful and fastest production cars is set to debut at the upcoming 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. And this is what we needed today to pump some excitement in our blood. This aggressive car will be only an exclusively available in the United States and will go to no more than 60 lucky customers. The strictly limited edition R8 Competition redefines the iconic R8 with 570 hp (420 kW) peak performance and racing-inspired, lightweight matte carbon elements.

In fact, this power rating makes the newcomer the closest road car to R8 LMS ultra race car. The R8 Competition is powered by the 5.2L V10 engine which is coupled to seven-speed S tronic transmission. The car also features a sport exhaust system with black high-gloss tailpipes.

This is a perfect combination, which will accelerate the car from standstill to 60 mph in mere 3.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 199 mph. Note that these numbers make the R8 Competition the fastest R8 ever offered.

Audi has thought about the exterior and gave it striking matte carbon exterior elements consisting of a fixed rear spoiler, engine bay, mirror housings, flics, side blades, front spoiler and rear diffusor. Of course, thanks to the utilization of the lightweight material, the weight of the car is lowered which results in greater downforce.

Gloss black wheels with 305 cross-section rear tires and ceramic brakes with anodized red brake calipers make a stunning contrast to the matte carbon fiber elements. The interior of the car is also adorned by carbon carbon fiber. The material can be seen on the center console and illuminated “R8 competition” door sill inlays.

Since a total of 60 units will be produced, customers can begin ordering 2015 Audi R8 Competition as of early November. The deliveries are expected to beginning in 2015. We definitely dig this unique vehicle and the fact that it has brought some of the most important characteristics of the R8 to a new level. What are your thoughts on this?

Source: Audi

October 29, 2014

Astounding Frozen Experience: Bentley Continental GT3-R to Perform on Ice

Power on Ice driving event organized by The Bentley Motors brings the driving performance of Bentley to a totally new level. Lasting for four days, this is one of a kind opportunity to owners, enthusiasts, fans and aspiring Bentley drivers which gives them a chance to experience and test the qualities of the brand in one of the most severe natural driving conditions – on an icy surface.

Returning to the cold north of Finland for the Power on Ice 2015 show, this year Bentley will push to the limits no other than the monstrous Continental GT3-R. It is time for the car to heat up its engine and make its breath-freezing debut on the frozen ground!

Yet, this is neither just an event not a simple ordinary occasion to observe car performances. It is art. And it is cool. Figuratively and literally speaking. The full comprehension of the beauty of this art called ice-driving is only achieved through substantial years of experience. For this reason, every single ice track is created by Juha Kankkunen in a manner that carries individual characteristics and significances that are distinguished from one another. This way, the four-time World Rally Champion and ultimate Bentley Boy Kankkunen carves tracks into the thick frozen ground by using a professional equipment. The result is that of pure uniqueness which is able to impress and engage even returning customers.

All of this is a Bentley experience that blends in adventure, excitement and performance-focused magnificence. The driving challenge is overcome without any difficulty by a range of Continental GTs. The all-wheel drive systems constantly adapt the levels of power to the front rear wheels and despite the imperfect icy ground, there is an optimal grip that is delivered. Inside the GT3-R features heated seats and luxurious hand-crafted trimmed leather interior for ultimate comfort.

Hosted in a typical Bentley stylish mannerism and attitude, the home of the event is the boutique hotel of Chalet Ruka Peak.

Source: Bentley

October 29, 2014

Nissan Kicks Concept is What We Have Not Expected

Nissan Kicks Concept is what we haven’t expected. Not in terms of a vehicle, because it was teased and we have been anticipating it, but because of the strange choice of name. The so called Kicks Concept will be premiered at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show this week next o the March Rio 2016 Edition. Nissan says that its design is reflecting the design inspiration from Brazilian streets and that it was designed for its people.

The Japanese brand saw a big gap between vehicles on Brazilian roads, which were mainly silver, black and white in color, and they weren’t reflecting the exuberant nature of the country and its people. Kicks Concept comes to bridge that gap.

This is made possible via the utilization of two contrast shades: grey tones that are example of the urban settings in Sao Paulo, and the bright sunset orange that is uniquely Brazilian. Nissan also says that they are seriously taking into consideration offering the crossover in other countries. And it will be a cheaper alternative to the Juke.

The Kicks concept was runs on large 19-inch alloy wheels. It has the typical crossover characteristics such as aggressive bumpers, raised driving position and roof rails. The V-shaped front grille is also present.

This small SUV measures 4300mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1600mm in height, and is built over a 2620mm wheelbase. Nissan also revealed a couple of videos which reveal little bit more about the car. Take a look:

Source: Nissan

October 29, 2014

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