Automobiles Review – Page 476 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

GT Line Pack is Now Ready for 2014 Renault Clio Hatchback

Renault Clio Hatchback GT Line Pack - Front Angle GT Line Pack is now available for the European version of the Renault Clio Hatchback. The new pack has been designed in the same spirit as previous found in models such as the Megane. The new GT equipment makes the Clio even more exclusive and with a distinctive sporty look. GT Line Pack was specifically developed for the model by Renault Sport Technologies.

In addition to the existing Clio R.S. 200 EDC and Clio GT 120 EDC, the line-up of sporting Clios has been extended with the launch of the new GT. The reason for this was the strong response from those customers, who were looking for a distinctive look.

To go further into details, the GT Line Pack provides the hatchback version of the Clio with a sporty stance thanks to a number of bold features that immediately set it apart. What is more, the GT version of the Clio can also be specified with the iconic Malte Blue body colour as an option.

Those who are getting the pack will also get new front bumpers incorporating daytime running lights. In addition, there are also body colour lower door protective strips and a specific rear bumper with single exhaust tail pipe. Dark Metal details can be seen on the daytime running light trim, door beading, door mirror housings and diffuser.

Renault Sport door sill guard and GT Line badging on the tailgate also adorn the car, which runs on special 17-inch Design GT wheels. The GT Line Pack is optional for the Zen and Intens versions of the Clio Hatchback. This means that this model will be driven by one of these powertrains: TCe 90 and TCe 120 EDC petrol, dCi 75, dCi 90 and dCi 90 EDC diesel.

Source: Renault

October 13, 2014

Ferrari Shows the Exclusive F60America

This year marks the 6oth anniversary since a Ferrari model has stepped on North American ground. To celebrate this, Maranello has returned to its 1950s and 60s tradition of producing strictly limited edition cars. As a result the company is currently presenting the Ferrari F60America, which will be produced in only 10 examples. Furthermore, the car combines the two of the greatest passions Americans have: the V12 engine and open-top driving. F60America will be revealed tomorrow evening at an anniversary celebration gala dinner at Beverly Hills City Hall.

Just 10 F60Americas will be built, and this is an example take directly from the1967 275 GTS4 NART Spider that was specifically requested from Enzo Ferrari for his US clients. As mentioned, the car is driven by Ferrari’s award-winning mid-front-mounted V12 which enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds.

The personality of the car is instantly clear from its flanks which are characterised by an innovative diapason design theme. At the front, this Ferrari features the classic Ferrari single front grille with chrome finish and integrated air intakes for the brakes.

A couple of leather-trimmed roll-hoops are backed by carbon-fibre-trimmed flying buttresses that stretch from behind the cockpit to the rear. The driver’s area is emphasized via cabin’s asymmetrical design. At the same time the passenger side is decided in black and inspired by the historic Ferrari competition cars.

Furthermore, the cabin trim is exclusive with the dash, tunnel and door panels on the driver’s side all swathed in composite materials. The racing seats also include a stylised American flag motif on the centre of each seat and backrest.

What first strikes the viewer is that the F60America’s bodywork has adopted the classic North American Racing Team livery. It also features the special Ferrari 60th anniversary Prancing Horse badge on the wheelarches and on the tunnel in the cabin.

Source: Ferrari

October 10, 2014

Maserati Introduces 100th Anniversary Ghibli S Q4 Neiman Marcus Edition

2015 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 100th Anniversary Neiman Marcus Edition was introduced in the legendary Christmas Book. Only 100 units of the unique vehicle will be produced and eventually made available at a price tag of $95,000 USD. The vehicle features a bespoke combination, which will not be offered on the current Maserati Ghibli.

Ghibli is named after a North African wind and just like it this limited edition model is hot and powerful. It has flowing curved lines accentuated by the aggressive grill and bold triple vents, which perfectly illustrate car’s unique combination of elegance and sportiness.

The vehicle is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, which was exclusively produced in collaboration with Ferrari. It helps the Maserati sprint from 0 to 60 in a mere 4.7 seconds. In addition, the car is fully equipped with Q4’s all-wheel drive technology that handles any all-weather driving conditions.

The exterior color of this special edition is called Grigio Maratea. What is more, a centennial-exclusive combination of premium exterior and interior options additionally sets the car apart. For instance such is the premium leather in Cuoio with Piano Black lacquer trim. Gloss Black door handles, a shadowline exterior trim, 6 piston front and 4 piston rear brake calipers in red as well as commemorative centennial center caps add additional visual strength to the car.

Furthermore, to make it even more exclusive, the models will get a special Neiman Marcus Edition number badge and 100th anniversary logo. They are placed on the center console. Black contrast stitching on the seats, dashboard and armrests are also highlighted by a black stitched trident on the headrests. Other features that need to be mentioned are the shift paddles and the 1,280 watt Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, front and rear parking sensors, heated steering, heated front and rear seats among other luxury options.

Source: Maserati

October 10, 2014

Vortsteiner’s Program for Lamborghini Huracan

Vorsteiner is adding to its Nero program the new Lamborghini Huracán. Just like they have done with their Aventador, the Californian-based tuners will be designing, testing and fabricating many wheel and aero components, which were specifically created for the Huracán platform. The first pictures are at hand and we promise you that they are worth viewing!

First, look at the wheels. In the case of this hot red Lamborghini, it runs on 20 and 21 inch special edition VSE-003 forged wheels wheel combination specifically tailored to maximize both inner and outer clearances. What is more, the choice of Vorsteiner to add 20 inch at the front and 21 inch at the rear was to appropriately suit the radius of the Lamborghini fenders. The wheels come in Matte Black finish and are fitted with Pirelli P Zero in the dimensions of 245/30/20 and 325/25/21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Next, the company is famous for its spectacular aerodynamic components. The tuners are currently working on many cutting edge aerodynamic enhancements which will additionally improve the nearly perfected design as seen in the rendering below.

This Rosso Mars Huracán is the perfect example of what stands behind the philosophy of Vorsteiner. What drives the company is the pursuit of unique creations, to be the forefront of innovation and art. More details about this exciting project are coming soon.

Source: Vorsteiner

October 10, 2014

German Special Customs Previews the BMW i8 iTRON

BMW i8 is a plug-in-hybrid racer, powered by 1.5 litres of displacement spread across three cylinders that produce 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft). There is also an electric motor which generates 131 hp (96 kW) PS and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft). The combination of both is enough for offering an output similar to this of a “real” sports car. In fact, the car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel economy is stunning: 2.1 litres of gasoline per 100 kilometres.

BMW i8 has been available on the market for several months and now the customization specialists at German Special Customs have prepared some styling enhancements for it. At this particular moment, they offer only design drafts of the new look of the project called “iTRON”.

At first sight, GSC’s vehicle looks more aggressive and powerful. Some of the new features include distinctively shaped front spoiler bumper with large cooling air inlets, integrated LED daylight headlights and a spoiler sword with winglets, as well as air outlets integrated into the new motor cowl.

At the back we have exhaust end tubes. End-tube blinds aligned with the shapes of the i8 are integrated in the new rear apron, which also repeats the winglets of the side sills and visually leads on until behind the rear wheels. At last, the serial wheel/tyre combination has been substituted with much wider and with larger diameter.

Source: German Special Customs

October 10, 2014

Limited Edition Opel ADAMs by Bryan Adams

Seven examples of the Opel ADAM Limited Edition designed by Bryan Adams will be auction and all the proceeds will go to “Bryan Adams Foundation”. The auction on Germany’s largest charity auction portal, United Charity, is open for bids for the camouflage look ADAMs. The Foundation of the Canadian rock star looks after people in need around the world.

This special edition features an exterior in camouflage look and is powered by the standard 1.4-liter gasoline engine which features Start/Stop technology. The unit produces 100 horsepower (74 kW) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) of torque, while its CO2 emissions are estimated at around 199 g/km.

Inside, the vehicle is equipped with black leather trim, which makes it differ from other ADAM models. It also includes automatic climate control, heated seats for the driver and front passenger, leather steering wheel and the award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system with 7-inch color touchscreen.

Apart from designing the camouflage look ADAM, the cooperation between the singer and Opel included the artistic direction and shooting for the 2014 Opel Calendar. This calendar was presented to the public in Munich earlier this year under the name “The ADAM by Bryan Adams”.

As a matter of fact, Adams began his charity work by making the organization in 2006 through which he aims to improve the quality of people’s lives around the world. The Foundation seeks to protect the most vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals in society. The goal it has is to advance education and learning opportunities for children and young people worldwide.

Source: Opel

October 10, 2014

Renault Releases Top-of-the-Range Captur Signature Trim

Renault Captur Signature is the top-of-the-range trim level of the compact-crossover. This modification steps on the Dynamique S MediaNav version and adds wide range of extras. On the outside we see it rolling on 17-inch Explore alloy wheels with black inserts and chrome exterior details on the side strips. Also noticeable are the boot lid, front grille and fog lights. The exterior is decided in two-tone paint finish as a standard. There is an optional color called Flame Red metallic paint.

Inside, the Captur Signature gets enhancements via the part-leather upholstery, Signature door sill plates and mats and the Red Touch Pack, which adds bright red detail to the centre console, speakers and air vents. The technology features here include R-Link infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation, USB connectivity and 4 x 35W Arkamys radio with 3D sound.

There have been also added a rear parking camera with the rear parking sensors and Grip Xtend advanced traction control system. Other special features included in this trim are the electric folding door mirrors, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, tinted rear windows and tailgate, Bluetooth connectivity and LED daytime running lights.

Renault is offering the Captur Signature with a choice of two petrol and diesel engines. The gazoline line-up comprises of a 0.9-litre TCe 90 engine coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, and a 1.2-litre TCe 120 with six-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The diesel option is the 1.5-litre dCi 90 engine with manual and an automatic transmission.

Version	VED Band	CO2 (g/km)	MPG (combined)	0-62mph (secs)	Top speed (mph)
Captur Signature ENERGY TCe 90 Stop & Start	C	115	56.5	13	106
Captur Signature ENERGY dCi 90 Stop & Start	A	95	78.5	13.1	106
Captur Signature TCe 120 Auto EDC	D	125	52.3	10.9	119
Captur Signature dCi 90 Auto EDC	B	103	72.4	13.5	106

Source: Renault

October 9, 2014

Toyota Prius+ Updated for MY 2015

Toyota Prius+ is a seven-seat hybrid MPV which now has been refreshed for the 2015 model year. It can show off with new styling, equipment features and color choices. The front-end of the car has been redesigned and now includes a new upper grille and a more prominent Toyota badge that extends the forward line of the bonnet. One can not pass the new LED headlights, too, with their slim profile and contrasting black and chrome plating.

In addition, the lower grille is now in trapezoid shape, while the new gloss black metallic exterior paint finish further highlights the presence of the car. The bumper corners have been given extra emphasis in a flowing form that extends from the headlights to the new air intakes and LED daytime running lights.

At the back of the car one can see a new combination lamp design with “light guides” as well as red inner lenses. The new licence plate trim and bumper now feature an integrated diffuser. There are two body colors new for the palette: Dark Sherry metallic and Attitude Black mica.

Modifications have been done inside, staring with the dark silver metallic finish for the driver’s switchgear and the air conditioning dial control and a chrome finish for the door handles. In the center console one finds two chrome-trimmed, slim-line air vents and a new 4.2-inch colour TFT information screen. The latter displays important vehicle information.

As a standard, the 2015 Prius+ comes equipped with Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, which includes touchscreen control, Bluetooth and reversing camera. This system can be upgaded – Toyota Touch 2 with Go, in order to deliver additional satellite navigation, live traffic information, expanded range of connected services, text-to-speech function and 3D city modelling with landmark graphics.

Furthermore, other standard equipment features include electric seat adjustment, a front centre armrest and Intelligent Park Assist. In terms of safety, Toyota has provided emergency brake signal as a no cost option.

Prius+ also comes with improved ride and handling, reduced noise intrusion in the cabin and the hybrid powertrain has been upgraded to comply with Euro6 emissions standards. More details, specifications and pricing to be announced close to sale date.

Source: Toyota

October 9, 2014

Porsche Reveals 911 Carrera GTS Models

The second generation 2015 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS models are here! They come in coupe and convertible variants and with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. These two new cars are the link between the 911 Carrera S and race track tested 911 GT3. The dynamic performance of the models is strengthened via the 430 horsepower engine from the Carrera S Powerkit which incorporates the Sport Chrono package and Sport Exhaust. In addition, as a standard they come with PASM active damper system, which brings the vehicle 10 mm closer to the ground.

PDK stands for Porsche Doppelkupplung dual-clutch transmission, and it is what helps the 911 Carrera GTS accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds. The cabrio variant does this in 4.0 seconds. Top track speeds for the GTS models range from 187 to 190 miles per hour, depending on drivetrain and transmission.

Next, the standard equipment here includes Bi-Xenon™ headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the Sport exhaust system. The latter delivers an unmistakable GTS sound. The interior is adorned by Alcantara. This high-quality material can be seen on leather-trimmed sport seats, precisely on their center panels.

All GTS models are based on the 911 Carrera 4 body with flared rear wheel arches and a wider track. From the outside, the new GTS is different from the other Carrera variants. It features standard are 20-inch center lock wheels, painted in an exclusive gloss black. In addition, other special trim elements are the tinted Bi-Xenon headlights accentuate. On the other hand, the black trim strips on the customized GTS air intake and black chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes distinguish the rear of the Carrera GTS models.

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS has a starting price of $114,200 USD, while the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet – of $126,100 USD. The models will be available in dealerships by the end of the year.

Source: Porsche

October 9, 2014

2015 Honda CR-Z Goes on Sale

2015 Honda CR-Z has just gone on sale. It will offer its future customers sleeker and sporty proportions and styling along with spirited performance and high efficiency. The latter is due to the powertrain which drives the CR-Z. Under its hood finds itself the 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) electric motor.

The powerplant is coupled with a either a short-throw six-speed manual transmission or sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters. The combined peak horsepower of the engine and motor is 130 horsepower (95 kW) while the torque is rated at 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) or 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) on CVT models).

As a standard this Honda model will come equipped with Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Bluetooth Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers. There are also at no cost option the following features: automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control. By the way, the feature-rich EX trim comes also equipped with the aforementioned goodies.

Those who are keen on more performance-oriented driving will have the opportunity of adding an enhancement delivered by Honda Performance Development (HPD). HPD is offering full range of track-proven, street-reliable performance upgrades and accessories. In details, these include front brake, sport suspension and exhaust kits, limited-slip differential, clutch, 18-inch alloy wheels and spoilers.

2015 Honda CR-Z has a starting price of $20,145 USD.

TRIM	MSRP5	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1 (city/highway/combined)
CR-Z 6-speed manual	$20,145	31/38/34
CR-Z CVT	$20,795	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual	$21,990	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT	$22,640	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual with Navi	$23,490	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT with Navi	$24,140	36/39/37

Source: Honda

October 9, 2014

BTR Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Preparation for SEMA Show

Blood Type Racing (BTR) has teamed up with Hyundai for a project which will have the “wow-effect” on anyone who sees it. The Chicago-based builder specializes in extracting extreme, street-friendly performance of the Korean vehicles. Precisely, BTR has specifically modified this Genesis for SEMA Show and it now features a host of engine upgrades, suspension changes, and exterior and interior modifications. BTR Genesis Coupe combines massive power with the true, adrenaline pumping experience of underground racing. The car will be revealed at the show 4th of November.

To go further into details, the coupe uses the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, BTR has customized it and now the unit includes new sleeves and larger displacement. There is also an addition of a high-boost Precision Turbo turbocharger, strengthened and fully balanced internal components, a custom intake, intercooler, full exhaust kit and nitrous injection.

With all of the aforementioned enhancements, the powerplant of the BTR Genesis Coupe can generate over 800 horsepower (588 kW) to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, BTR has also worked on Genesis’ appearance. They have added a custom wide body kit designed for BTR. The kit includes 40mm-wider front and 60mm-wider rear fenders, front bumper lip spoiler, rear diffuser and a GT wing.

Inside, the tuning specialists promise that we are to see Tanabe OLED Revel gauges, Sabelt racing seats and harnesses. The steering wheel is also new and it is provided by Sabelt, while the roll cage – from Cusco.

BTR Genesis Coupe Specifications:

Engine modifications:

Brian Crower BC625+ Forged Connecting Rods
CP Pistons 8.5:1 Compression 90mm Bore Forged Pistons (2.2ltr)
Darton International Cylinder Sleeves
Cosworth 90mm Bore Race Head Gasket
Brian Crower Oversized Stainless Steel Valves
Brian Crower Valve Guides
Tomei Powered Valve Springs
GSC Stage 2 Cams
ARP Head Studs
ARP Main Studs
ARP Flywheel Bolts
ARP Cam Tower Studs
BTR Custom Intake Manifold
Clevite coated Bearings
Upgraded Engine Mounts
BTR Custom ECU Tuning utilizing the OEM Hyundai ECU

Turbo Kit:

Intensepower T4 Twinscroll Top Mount Turbo Manifold
Precision Turbo 6266 Ball Bearing Twin Scroll Version 2 Turbo
Precision Turbo PW46 External Wastegates
GFB G-force II Electronic Boost Controller
Custom Down Pipe
Modified MXP Dual Exhaust System
Custom Precision TurboIntercooler System
Custom Oil Cooler System
Custom Fuel Return System
Custom Fuel Rail
Custom External Dual Pump Fuel Setup
Upgraded Injectors

Nitrous Kit:

Nitrous Express Direct Port Nitrous System
Nitrous Express Purge Kit
Nitrous Express Bottle Heater
Nitrous Express Bottle Blanket
Nitrous Express Billet Bottle Bracket

Drivetrain Modifications:

Competition Clutch Upgraded Clutch Kit
Competition Clutch Flywheel Kit
Enthuspec Stainless Steel Clutch Line
Tomei Powered Trax Advance 2 way LSD
Upgraded Driveshaft
Upgraded Axels
Short Throw Shifter
Shifter Bushings
Upgraded Transmission Mount

Chassis and Suspension Modifications:

Stance Suspension Coilover System
Stance Suspension Cup Kit
Whiteline Sway Bars
Strut Tower Braces and Body Braces
Enthuspec Adjustable Sway Bar End Links
Enthuspec Rigid Subframe Collar Kit
Wilwood Performance Brake Kit
Toyo R888 Tires
19-in. WORK Wheels Custom 2 Piece Wheels

Interior Modifications:

Sabelt GT-200 Carbon / Fiberglass shell Racing Seats
Sablet Sliders
Sabelt Racing Harnesses
Sabelt SW-390 Racing Steering Wheel
Planted Seat Brackets
Tanabe OLED Revel Gauges
Cusco Roll Cage
BTR Custom Rear Seat Delete

Exterior Modifications:

Custom Wide Body Kit Designed by Kei Miura
Custom Wide Body Front Fenders
Custom Wide Body Rear Fenders
Custom Front Bumper Lip Spoiler
Custom Rear Diffuser
Custom GT Wing
Custom Candy Red Paint

Source: Hyundai

October 9, 2014

BMW Teases the M6 GT3 Racer

BMW M6 GT3 has just been presented with couple of sketches. This means that the company will cease the Z4 GT3 racer and substitute it with the new car based on the powerful and aggressive BMW M6 Coupe. This will happen by the end of next year and the car is planned to compete in the GT racing from 2016. At the moment, the racecar is under development and its first track tests will start in the beginning of next year.

BMW specialists also reveal that the properties of the car make it predestined to succeed the BMW Z4 GT3. In addition, they also wanted to show the high product substance of BMW M cars in motorsport.

Under the hood of the M6 GT3 will be sitting an optimized version of the standard car’s 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine. The power output is expected to be between 500 hp and 600 hp. In addition, the chassis will also be improved for the racetrack.

Although the car will be based on the M6, it will feature a lot of lightweight components and will loose a lot of its unnecessary equipment. The weight it must achieve is between 1200 and 1300 kilograms. Furthermore, the M6 GT3 will be also equipped with a racing gearbox and ABS brakes.

Source: BMW

October 8, 2014

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