What is the best way to test if a Range Rover Sport is really a Range Rover and if it is really Sport? Well, there is nothing better than driving it through mud, water, curvy roads and hills so steep that they seem to only be there to test the theory of gravity. The mark of a proper Range Rover will definitely survive such bumps on the road. Literally.In the video, the first part is dedicated to off-road driving test. The expert from Top Gear, Richard, takes the Range Rover Sport and puts it through a variety of challenges in order to argue its Range Rover qualities. The results are astounding for the car is able to tackle all sorts of off-road provocations. Mud? Ponds of water? Slopes? Not a problem at all. The performance is beyond excellent thanks to the dynamic stability control and the next generation Terrain Responses System which automatically adjust and optimizes the settings of the vehicle in order to fit the ground surface perfectly. As Richard comments; “I feel like I’m driving a luxury hotel room through a swamp.”The sporty bit of it and its on-road dynamics are tested by speeding up the car at the Donington Park Racing Circuit. Powered by V8 5.0-litre supercharged petrol engine with 510 HP, it offers improved fuel economy of 13.8l/100km and CO₂ emissions of 321g/km. Just like the off-road performance, the on-road one is proven to be equally good. The driving feels all natural and stable. The Range Rover is able to cover every corner without the slightest difficulty. The Sport seems to have everything in order and works just fine. Setting a lap time of 1:29.5 seconds which beats the lap time of 1:29.8 seconds set by the Mini John Cooper GP, one thing is for sure then; Range Rover Sport is really a Range Rover and is really Sport.It is yes and yes for the Range Rover Sport!httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWL-r72tGOE
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Water, Mud and Adrenaline: Test-driving the Range Rover Sport
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EXCLUSIVE: Vilner Writes Autobiography with a Special Carbon Pack
There are two best autobiographies in the world. The first one was sold in millions of copies, while the other – only in a few thousand. The first belongs to Winston Churchill, and the other is a Range Rover. The Long wheel base Range Rover Autobiography sits at the top of the luxury two-wheel drives – it is simply brilliant!Nevertheless, the tuning specialists at Vilner were inclined to add one more special thing in it and it is carbon fiber. Maybe this was the missing element that can now highlight the enormous potential of 5-liter V8 petrol engine which produces 510 hp (375 kW).
The tuning began with the replacement of the plastic exterior accents with identical handmade elements from carbon fiber. The material was also used for the frame around the radiator grille and side strips, which connect the front and rear doors.
This Carbon Pack by Vilner for the new Range Rover also provides the perfect therapy for the mirror caps, part of the front and the rear bumpers. Brand’s name Range Rover on the front and back covers is also written in new “carbon letters”.
The menacing tone in the stance of this Range Rover is additionally emphasized by the new glossy and matte black 21-inch wheels. What the images in the gallery below can’t show is the additionally mounted sound system, which through one-touch of the button gives stunning sound to the exhaust of the car.
Oh, and if you want to by this car – don’t worry! The specialists also reveal that unlike all other Vilner interiors (that are one-off) this Carbon Pack will be the first product by the studio, which will be available in limited edition run.
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Comfort and Safety with BMW Intelligent Headlight Technology

The new adaptive BMW LED headlights provide improved visibility at night which makes the driving smoother, easier, safer and reduces the danger of road accidents when driving. In July 2012 BMW presented its newest highlight technology on the new BMW 7 Series as part of the optional Adaptive LED Headlights. Upgrading this functionality and ensuring even better driving-conditions at night, this operation is now also supported with Xenon headlights on all new BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring versions and is accompanied with a Visibility package.
In order to work properly and most efficiently, there is a camera which automatically scans and observes the traffic situation at night. After that it redirects the collected information on to the BMW Intelligent Headlight Technology which reacts accordingly and, well, intelligently in a way that only technology can.
As it becomes obvious, the glarefree BMW Intelligent Headlights are also very adaptive to the traffic situation which results in a smooth and convenient driving too. There are several variants in which the technology operates.
For instance, the oncoming traffic can already be detected in great distance which allows the Highbeam light to adapt in relation to other vehicle. Thus, when passing it, the headlight on the left switches to lowbeam right away. If there is a preceding car, then, the headlights open up a tunnel which follows the car on the front. The multi-functionality of the BMW LED headlights leaves the right–hand side of the road still ideally illuminated without glaring other drivers.
As I mentioned before, safety always comes first. With the BMW Intelligent Headlight Technology efficient and safe driving just got much easier to be accomplished.
Follow the link bellow to check out precisely how BMW Intelligent Headlight Technology works.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dvPZ3H1Vm4
Source: BMW
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Detroit Electric Reveals “Final” Design of SP:01 (Battery) Sports Car
One week ago we have published the latest news for the (hopefully) final version of the Detroit Electric SP:01 electric sports car. The company is now giving some additional information about the production model: it will feature a striking new rear end. When released the battery-power two-seater will be the most powerful rival of the Tesla cars, and in fact, the SP:01 is expected to be the world’s fastest production electric sports car.The prototype version of the EV sports car has been subtly updated. The most striking element of the design is the bold new fastback configuration. It replaces the prototype’s flying buttresses on either side of the rear window. Aerodynamics were also improved, and at the back there is a large sculptural rear wing and an under-body diffuser.
Other exterior enhancements with aero-treatment feature also reshaped front air intake and outlet ducts on the bonnet. They improve airflow to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. In addition, vehicle’s battery packs have been clad in a protective composite casing, which provides an extremely robust barrier to protect the batteries.
With these changes Detroit Electric is expecting to show to the world that it can change the status-quo of the EVs. What is to happen – we are to witness very soon. The fact that these changes to SP:01’s design have been already made, will probably ensure that it will set new standards for performance and handling. Believe it or not, its electric motor will propel the car to a top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h) and accelerates it from 0 to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds.
Source: Detroit Electric
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Measuring Powers: 2015 Ford Mustang GT vs 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Attention please! Let me present to you the clash of the titans; the battle of the 2015 Muscle Cars; the wrath of engines; the power-measuring between 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE and 2015 Ford Mustang GT! This is not a movie. This is the ultimate rivalry and desire for supremacy.
The rivalry between Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro is perhaps older than the Universe. Ok, not that old but slightly older than our plant. Well, maybe I exaggerated a bit too much but the important thing is that you got the point. Nevertheless, with the modern-day enhancements the two vehicles have never been functioning better than now. Both the 2015 Camaro SS and the recent 2015 Mustang GT pull out more than 420 HP and have 6-speed manual transmissions. But which one is the winner of this race? (I’m not going to spoil it for you right away and say it is the 2015 Camaro… Oops. I just did it.)
When you put the Camaro and the Mustang side by side it is probably more than just obvious enough to spot who is going to be the wolf and who is going to be the sheep. Or is it…? Exceeding in almost every feature and characteristics, 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS is expected to eat up the 2015 GT. Yet, many of the Ford fans still kept their hopes up for the next generation Mustang was introduced with an independent rear suspension setup that would improve the handling and had a little more horsepower than that of the Camaro.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTJPDurLEKw
In order to see if the improvements on the Ford Mustang will help it win, Motor Trend set the two cars through the paces to show which would demonstrate better time.
In the video we see Carlos Lago who continues to compare the two cars. The first one to be tested is the Ford Mustang GT. Despite the fact that it loses (not really surprising after all), the muscle car shows some spectacular results too. It is slightly faster than the Camaro – and it covers ¼ miles in 12.8 seconds at 112.2 mph while the Chevy accomplishes its ¼ mile in 12.9 seconds at 110.5 mph. Just like the winner, though, the GT braking performance hits 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. As for the figure eight, the Camaro beats its opponent with the final result of 24.5 seconds at 0.87g (avg).
My personal favorite though is the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro. It burns with tight and strong power and it also has really good turning and balance-management at a high speed performance. It is pulling some serious leading characteristics there! Mustang is less track-focused and it lacks the high level of stability that the Chevrolet hits us with. The latter is really kind of what you want and expect out of such car.
Source: Motor Trend Channel
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Lotus Exige S with Automatic Transmission?

Yes, you’ve read that just right! The fastest car in the United Kingdom will be equipped with just two pedals… And we are NOT excited about it. But it is definitely good news for those who are lazy to use their left leg. Lotus has just officially announced that it will equip the Exige S with a six-speed automatic transmission. The so called by Lotus “convenience of an automatic” has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the Exige S.Just like the manual gearshift, this automatic will provides its driver with all round engagement and excitement which will reflecs the Lotus DNA of pure driving experience. At least we hope so … The dynamic system changes were activated when the driver selects either ‘Sport’ or ‘Race’ mode. The improved gear selection and response deliver quicker all-round performance for sportier experience is desired.
Lotus says that this new introduction opts to make the Exige S model range more accessible to customers worldwide. Now, those who are more accustomed to two pedals can enjoy the exceptional performance and handling of the Exige S without compromise.
Exige S Automatic is currently completing its final stages of testing. And Lotus actually expects to see better performance results than the manual variant. As a matter of fact, Exige S with automatic transmission is as fast as its manual counterpart.
Around the Hethel test track it covers the 0 – 100 km/h sprint 0.1 seconds quicker than the Exige S manual, precisely – 3.9 seconds. The new transmission option will be available to both Coupe and Roadster models. However, we are still counting on the spirited drive with manual transmission that the Exige S can offer. Do you share our point of view?

Source: Lotus
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The All-New Mazda2 Kicking off in Mexico

The Japanese automaker Mazda has officially fired up the production of the next generation Mazda2 at Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation (MMVO) in Salamanca, Mexico.
In the last couple of years, Mazda has introduced a range of vehicles which include advanced SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The SKYAVTIV products enjoy the victorious taste of their global recognition, high sales and growing demand worldwide. In relation to this, SKYACTIV models are expected to account for 85 percent of global sales by fiscal year ending March 2016.
The production of the all-new Mazda2 in Mexico along with the start of operations at the engine machining plant plus the planned production capacity increase are part of the Structural Reform Plan announced in February, 2012. Initially all of these ‘procedures’ sketch some highly important stages in the fast-paced development of Mazda. What is more, Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation’s engine machining plant accepts and naturalizes the same progressive production technologies as Mazda’s Hiroshima Plant. In consequence, it is capable of creating an engine parts processing line that is simultaneously effective and able to manufacture a number of unique and high-quality products.
After Hofu Plant in Japan, where production began this July, and Auto Alliance (Thailand) Co., Ltd., where production started in September, MMVO is Mazda’s third international production and administrative facility which is beginning to produce the next generation Mazda2.
MMVO President Keishi Egawa has pointed out that; “With the start of production of the all-new Mazda2, operations underway at the engine machining plant, and an increase in our annual production capacity, we now have an even stronger production framework capable of supplying global markets with SKYACTIV products of the same high quality level as those made in Japan. At the same time, we are pleased to be able to make a contribution to Mexico’s further economic growth.”
The all-new 2015 Mazda2 boosts with energy, high-class performance, more than just reliable safety system, and fuel efficiency.
Source: Mazda
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Art and High-Performance Blend in John Pangilinan’s SEMA-based Sonata [VIDEO]

At the SEMA show we are used to see Hyundai displaying a range of exceptional custom vehicles. For this year the company is set to raise the standards even more by blending art and performance … literally. The embodiment of this philosophy is John Pangilinan’s SEMA based Sonata, which strives to change the perception of what the regular sedan is by combining high performance driving dynamics with the striking visuals of Los Angeles street art.The design vision for the JP Edition Sonata is included in details in the video below. It is called “Hyundai SEMA 2014: Meet the Builders” and it shows how it is possible to build the connection between the fashion and street art and the tons of horsepower.
JP Edition Sonata keeps the stock white paintwork as the visual base. In this way, John Pangilinan wanted to represent a blank white canvas, upon which he would create his work of art. The artist has worked together with Flexfit | BSCMP and Mr. 44 – a renowned Los Angeles-based street artist. The result is exceptional: the trio was able to create a Sonata that reflects a union between equally passionate street art and auto-enthusiast cultures.
In addition, the Sonata also got a performance boost via the added AEM cold air intake, a MagnaFlow exhaust kit and a hot charge pipe from Bisimoto engineering. The chassis has also been changed with the addition of KW coilovers.
LTMW wide body and lip kit make the JP Sonata more aggressive. The same effect is additionally strengthened with the exclusive 19 inch RAYS Gram Lights 57Getter wheels wrapped in Toyo R888 tires.
Inside, the tuning consists only in the substitution of the standard seats with Recaro cross sportster seats and the addition of BP Auto Sound with Alpine and Scosche electronics, which we definitely don’t find enough for a project which is to be exhibited at SEMA.
Don’t miss to check out what inspires these tuning veterans to build this Hyundai car for the SEMA show. Are they missing something and will their work be as successful as they claim? Leave your thoughts below in the comment section and stay tuned for more details around this project!
httpv://youtu.be/xmUyrPkYptc
JP Hyundai Sonata Specifications:
ENGINE MODIFICATIONS:
- AEM Cold Air Intake
- MagnaFlow Exhaust
- Bisimoto Hot Charge Pipe
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS
- Progress Sport Springs
- RAYS Gram Lights 57Getter Wheels (19 x 9.5-in. Front, 19 x 10.5-in. Rear)
- Toyo Tires Proxes R888 (245/40 R19 Front, 295/35 R19 Rear)
INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS
- Custom Widebody and Lip Kit by LTMW
- Custom Vinyl Art by Mr. 44
- The Retrofit Source and Retrofit House Custom JP Edition Headlights with VLEDs
INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS
- RECARO Cross Sportster Seats
- Bisimoto Custom-Fabricated Seat Brackets
- Katzkin Re-Upholstery Leather Seats
- Alpine Electronics System built by BP Autosound
- Scosche Electronics
- V-LEDs Lighting
Video Source: YouTube
Source: Hyundai
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Lexus Releases All-New NX 300H SUV

They say bad things come in threes, and maybe good things come in twos for Lexus debuts with a new model in two versions: the NX 200t with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and the NX 300h hybrid. Yet, the focus of this article falls on the latter version.
The NX 300h hybrid conquers the world with its quite sporty persona and excellent fuel efficiency. One of the most startling features of the SUV is the innovative design. The style is a cutting-edge compilation of edgy body creases and pointed outlines which transform the vehicle into something really distinguishable and like nothing else on the market. In combination with its truly distinctive look, the crossover utility vehicle enchants even more with the metal-like shades which accentuate it on the outside.
What else does The NX 300h offer apart from the obvious sharply angled bodylook? The hybrid model features Lexus Hybrid Drive with an Atkinson cycle 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 235 HP and 258Nm of torque. Moreover, the new Lexus SUV adopts sprung-weight damping control in order to increase ride comfort and other suspension improvements for better handling and stability. Additionally, the new Lexus uses just 5.6-litres per 100km and emits only 131g of CO2 per kilometer.
Many of the attributes of the SUV are optional on some of its rivals, including smart entry and start, 10-speaker audio with digital radio, reverse camera, satellite navigation, power tailgate, Enform connected mobility, tyre pressure warning sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels, 60:40 rear-fold seats and a spare wheel. Finally, this becomes the first hybrid powertrain in its class that offers and rear cross traffic alert in its range.
Interestingly enough, as Sean Hanley, Chief Executive, Lexus Australia, says that; “When designing the all-new NX, the engineers and designers wanted to offer consumers something unique – something that stood out from the crowd and offered innovative on-board technology while meeting the practical requirements of SUV customers.”
Source: Lexus
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Is Techart’s new Porsche Macan Lineup Character-Oriented?

The famous tuning company Techart, which specializes in modifying Porsche models only, claims that its latest Macan Lineup is “character-orientated”. We are about to put some questions and see whether this is likely to be so or not. Techart’s fifth generation Macan can show-off with new aerodynamics, better engine performance, new exhaust systems, suspension and wheels as well as interior refinement. So far so good, but lets go further into details.First, the aerodynamics program for this Porsche model stands under the slogan “Reduction vs. concentration” and offers the typical design language of the company. Therefore, the attributes of the basic vehicle’s sporty lines are emphasized. Precisely, the aerodynamic elements include new front spoiler, side skirts, roof spoiler, rear spoiler trim and rear diffuser, which were made of high-quality PU-RIM. This material general characteristic is the low weight.
For those who do not think that these aero-elements are enough to make the car exceptional, then Techart has created for them the in-house made Sports Package Carbon that sets sincere styling highlights. It includes duct trim at the Macan’s front, new side mirror trims as well as roof spoiler. There’s a catch though – they will only be available for all Porsche Macan in carbon fibre.
Talking about personalization and character-orientated tuning, the customization company is offering attractive accent colour via its individual paint elements like fog light trims, air intake uprights, front wings or side blades fit seamlessly into the desired play of colours. But … is this enough?
Of course, if there weren’t any power kits for these Porsche Macans, the answer would be probably “No”. However, Techart tuners are thoughtful and have come along with several proposals for power gains. Speaking in these terms, the 6-cylinder engines of the Porsche Macan models are enhanced via company’s power kits, based on the intelligent Techart engine management system, dubbed TECHTRONIC.
This system elicits additional power output for the petrol and diesel engines and generates approximately 50 hp (37 kW) and 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) more power for the Macan Turbo with just one press of the Sport- or Sport Plus button. Thus the maximum output of the twin-turbo engine becomes 450 horsepower (331 kW) available at 6.200 1/min and 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) at 2.700 1/min. The acceleration time in Sport Plus is measured at 4.4 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, which is 0.2s faster that the standard model; from 0 to 160 km/h – in 10.6s (standard model 10.9s). The top speed increased from 266 to 271 km/h.

This additional power has to have its audible equivalent. Here come Techart’s exhaust systems Sport for the Porsche Macan models. They are made of stainless steel, which ensure that you’re not only able to feel, but also hear the strength of the Macan. The electronically valve-controlled exhaust is controllable by the press of a button at centre console.
As a result, the driver gets a distinctive and rich sound with a high recognition value for the V6 petrol engines. In addition, Techart’s Sport Tail Pipes in stainless steel and attractive dual oval design with embossed logotype provide the visual significance.
Next are the suspension options that offer additional variability and sportiness. The well known Air Suspension Module Sport of the tuners has been intelligently adjusted to the vehicle levels of the Macan models. It enables ride height adjustment in driving, loading and parking condition for vehicles with standard air suspension. In the low level or driving in Sport Plus mode, the vehicle lowers by 30 mm in comparison to the normal level and remains activated during all speeds.
The possibilities of individualization for the Porsche Macan models continue with the offering of three wheel designs, available in 21- and 22-inch as well as in various surface finishing combinations. Besides attractive color combinations, they can be customized individually to suit the vehicle in question. Brake calipers can also be customized with unique paint to match the colour combination in the wheel arch.
At last, we have to review whether Techart interior refinement for the Macan is what will eventually round-out this character-oriented tuning. Inside we see that the exquisite new leather equipment was complemented by tuning company’s interior styling package. The latter features carbon fibre or in exotic woods elements.
There are new ergonomically shaped 3-spokes multifunctional sport steering wheel with Techart paddle shifters, aluminium sport pedals and foot rests, floor mats, loadspace floor ma as well as illuminated door entry guards. And here is where we feel a little bit disappointed. In general this tuning offers exceptional individual customization … except for the interior. Maybe Techart has to learn something like tuners such as Vilner and A. Kahn Design? What do you think?
Source: Techart
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R&GO Smartphone Application Available For Renault’s Latest SUVs

What is better than comfort while driving? I say even more comfort. So if you want to enjoy the experience of driving your Renault even more, now there is R&GO app for your vehicle which provides a variety of extras and functions that work towards improving the experience of being at the wheel of the car.
R&GO is an extremely practical, purpose-driven application which is developed to perfectly unify with your Renault. The infotainment smartphone app can be downloaded for free and works on the recently launched All-New Trafic and New Master vans. TheR&GO app is connected to the vehicle via Bluetooth. The four key functions, Vehicle, Multimedia, Phone and Navigation, can be easily accessed from the main menu.
Vehicle: It provides a number of useful information for the driver like distance travelled, fuel economy and an Eco² rating which ensures that you drive economically.
Multimedia: this section includes controlling the FM radio, listening to Internet radio, and the app also enables the driver to choose and play music which is already saved on their device.
Phone: this interface allows the drive to make and receive calls in the easiest way possible. It offers one-touch access to contacts and encourages a safer communication. Just received a SMS message? Well, that’s not a problem at all for the text messages can be read out loud thanks to the SMS-to-Speech function.
Navigation: the satellite navigation option is comprised of UK and Ireland mapping, CoPilot Premium software with 3D turn-by-turn navigation and live traffic alerts. The Mapping function is downloaded and stored on the device and enables GPS navigation without using any mobile data which conveniently directs you to your destination.
Renault’s LCV models are all about comfort, workability and practicality. Therefore, the R&GO app is yet another addition to the number of refinements that feature on Renault’s LCV models which strives to achieve a maximum of convenience and efficient driving experience. This range of SUVs create a ‘mobile office’ environment, including practical storage solutions found in the 90-litres of cabin storage and a fold down central seat with detachable clipboard and a specially-designed space for a laptop.
Source: Renault
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