Automobiles Review – Page 477 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

AC Schnitzer BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe is the Perfect Blend of Performance and Comfort

AC Schnitzer BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe combines perfectly the sporting performance of a coupe with the comfort of a saloon. The tuning package first delivers enhancements to the exterior. Take a look at the new front spoiler and rear diffusor, which provide better ground adhesion. The carbon mirror covers, chromed front grille and rear skirt protective film prove that this car is the perfect blend between sporting performance and comfort.

Inside, AC Schnitzer gave the interior additional comfort. There are the new aluminium handbrake handle in “Black Line“ style, the gear knob with digital gear display, the illuminated leather gear knob or the aluminium “Black Line“ gear knob. The aluminium pedal set and foot rest, AC Schnitzer keyholder and foot mats in velours round out the interior improvements.

There are various wheels to choose form for the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe. The Aachen tuners offer a choice of four different types: Type VIII forged alloys in BiColor, Type VIII rims in BiColor (black, silver or anthracite), Type IV wheels in silver or BiColor, and Type IV rims in BiColor black.

In terms of engineering, this BMW received various performance upgrades. The AC Schnitzer version of the 428i develops 294 hp (216 kW), while the 435i produces 360 hp (265 kW). In addition, the 420i now offers 245 hp (180 kW).

The diesel engines were also uprated and their figures are the following: 420d now delivers 218 hp (160 kW), the 430d and 435d generate 309 hp (227 kW) and 360 hp (265 kW), respectively. There is also available AC Schnitzer intercooler for the petrol engines as well as engine styling for all versions.

The enhanced power output is further underscored by the throaty sound of the AC Schnitzer silencer. It comprises of two chromed tailpipe trims, which comes in a choice of “Racing Evo“, “Racing“ or “Sport“ style, in right/left combination.

At last, the sports suspension here is a first-class setup, lowering the front axle by 10 – 25 mm and the rear by 5 – 15 mm. There is also an available suspension spring kit, which lowers the 4-series by up to 25 mm at the front and brings the rear 10 – 25 mm closer to the ground. The AC Schnitzer racing suspension ensures spirited cornering and delivers 30 – 40 mm lowering on the front and 25 – 40 mm on the rear.

Source: AC Schnitzer

October 8, 2014

Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Shown on Track for the First Time [VIDEO]

Lamborghini Huracán GT3 was shown on the track for the first time in Vallelunga (Rome). The evidence for this is the video below, which was officially released by Lamborghini. The Huracán GT3 made the testing on the ”Piero Taruffi” circuit under the supervision of Giorgio Sanna. The drivers were the two official Lamborghini Squadra Corse test drivers Adrian Zaugg and Fabio Babini. With joint forces the team set up the new race car for the first time.

The Huracán GT3 is an example of the next step for Lamborghini towards development and production of a race car for one of the most prestigious international categories. In fact, the GT3 model will be company’s first in-house racing project.

There not much revealed by Lamborghini, but the rumors say that the car will be powered by the 5.2-liter V10 engine, which is expected to produce up to 600 horsepower (441 kW). According to the GT3 configurations, cars must meet certain power to weight ratios and they must produce outputs between 500 and 600 horsepower. The weight is should be between 1200 and 1300 kg.

After the tests, Sanna confirmed his satisfaction with the Huracán GT3. Although they had much work to still do with the car, he found its performance and reliability feedback is encouraging. Sanna will be competing next season in the 2015 Blancpain Endurance Series. The racings are scheduled at five venues in Europe such as the Spa 24 Hours.

httpv://youtu.be/bF28ssh-gP4

Source: YouTube

Source: Lamborghini

October 8, 2014

Suzuki Updates the SX4 S-Cross Range

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range has received a major update. The company has removed the SZ4 model, but added the 1.6 SZ-T CVT and 1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP models to the range. Every S-Cross comes fitted with wide range of equipment as a standard. Precisely, the new no-cost options include seven airbags for optimum protection, ESP and Tyre Pressure Monitoring as well as Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Furthermore, the updated Suzuki also runs on new alloy wheels. Other standard features in the equipment include the cruise control with speed limiter, air conditioning, heated door mirrors, black protective skid plates and black wheel arch extensions.

Next, the SZ-T is the model which adds satellite navigation with DAB digital radio and rides on polished 17-inch alloy wheels. It also features Dual Zone automatic air conditioning, front fog lamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, silver roof rails and silver skid plates, rear parking camera and rear parking proximity sensors.

In fact, research showed that 70% of customers who has purchased SX4 S-Cross chose SZ-T or SZ5 versions. The added SZ-T model to the range is now to include the petrol powered CVT, while the ALLGRIP models will offer wider choice of higher specification versions.

Updated Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range:

Model	CO2 emissions
1.6 SZ3 Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ-T Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ-T CVT	125g/km
1.6 SZ5 Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ5 CVT	125 g/km
1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual	135g/km
1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual	135 g/km
1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP CVT	130 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ3 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ4 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ-T Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ5 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual	114 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual	114 g/km

Source: Suzuki

October 8, 2014

Volvo’s New Drive-E Powertrain Concept Delivers more than 450 Horsepower

Volvo’s Drive-E Powertrain Concept is delivering unique mix of performance and efficiency. Precisely, this unit is a triple boost 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine which is potent to produce no less than 450 hp. More interestingly, the 450 hp (331 kW) High Performance Drive-E is based on a set of technologies not usually found in a four cylinder engine. The powerplant utilizes two parallel turbochargers that draw force from electrically powered turbo-compressor.

The compressed air from this unit is used to spool up the two parallel turbochargers. Furthermore, the fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure. This power density, along with the triple boost installation and unique fuel system, enables a very dynamic drivability.

The engine has already attracted the attention and involvement of Volvo Cars suppliers AVL, Denso and Volvo Polestar Racing at an early stage. They have allowed the theories and technologies that they are using for racing to be infused in the development process.

This combination of technologies will end up in a unique engine with its high power yet quick response. What is more, its compact size enhances weight distribution between the front and rear axle and lowers the center of gravity. This had a major effect on the handling of the car using the engine.

In addition, the compact powertrains deliver more space and have less weight, thus entirely modifying the structure of the car. The freed space and saved kilograms can be used for electrification and even additional emissions reduction.

Source: Volvo

October 8, 2014

Chrysler issues voluntary recall

The US branch of Chrysler Group has issued a voluntary recall for an estimated 22,115 small cargo vans that need a software upgrade for a program that controls certain airbags.

The recall is the result of an investigation that discovered that specific vehicle configurations may adversely affect sensors that control side-curtain and/or thorax airbags, causing inadvertent deployment. The problem is that under certain circumstances there might be exclusion of rear-audio and climate-control components adjacent to the sensors. The resulting gaps can generate a resonance, exaggerated by loaded roof racks and rough-road inputs, which may disrupt normal sensor operation. Fortunately, according to Chrysler, no one has been injured so far and no accidents have been reported.

Unfortunately the only solution is to undergo a software upgrade but the good news is that the availability of the new software is on its way. Chrysler says that in the US there are about 18,245 2013-2015 Ram C/V Tradesman vehicles that are affected and then 3,870 in Canada. Owners, most of whom are fleet customers, will be contacted by Chrysler Group and advised when they may schedule service, the cost of which will be borne by the Company. You can also call Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for more information.

Source: Chrysler

October 7, 2014

DD Customs BMW X6 M Facelift

DD Customs has presented their latest project based on BMW X6 M Facelift. The Sports Activity Coupe looks incredibly good, especially with the complete aerodynamics package by DD Customs and huge 22” alloy wheels.

2013 BMW X6 M is powered by the impressive 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 – 555HP (408 kW) at 6,000RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,500RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed M-Sport automatic gearbox with paddleshifters on the steering wheel. The power is put on the road through the world’s most intelligent AWD system – xDrive. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds; 0-200 km/h – 16.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The staggering performance is delivered by a number of new technologies – M TwinPower Turbo Technology with exhaust gas manifold connecting both rows of cylinders, Twin-Scroll twin-trubo technology, High Precision injection and double VANOS.

The Tycoon wide body modified by DD Customs delivers epic look. There are extended mudguards and big aprons, front and rear. The DD Customs-X6 appears like a professional bodybuilder posing on the stage. The strongly contoured Tycoon motor cowl and the front spoiler and outer mirror housing by Hamann Motorsport are made of super light carbon fibre fabric.

There is also a modified rear diffuser, entrance strips, door handles, roof railing and even the aerial fin on the roof with exposed carbon.

The tire/wheel set includes 10.5J x 22” front and 12J x 22” Hamann Anniversary Evo Black Line wheel rims fitted with Continental Sport Contact 5P rubbers – 295/30 R22 and 335/25 R22.

The interior boasts a number of carbon fiber elements, new upholstery for the head rests, a set of aluminium pedals as well as new entrance lighting.

Source: DD Customs

October 7, 2014

Roush Reveals Custom 2015 Ford Mustang RS Lineup

Roush Performance is famous for its customization projects involving muscle cars. Under the lights toady is Roush’s latest freshly redesigned Ford Mustang. The aggressive 2015 RS lineup will be built on the Mustang’s V6 platform. The first Stage will feature the new turbo-charged Ford 2.3L Eco-Boost motor, while the second – the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8. All of the modified Mustangs will get the R7, or the seventh generation aero-body package.

To go further into details, the R7 kit comprises of an entirely remodeled fascia with integrated aero-pockets, a five-blade upper grille, high-flow lower grille with driving lamps, and a front chin splitter. Along with the aggressive new look, the Stage 1 and Stage 2 get the new ROUSH quad-tip performance exhaust system.

There are also available suspension setups that deliver handling boost as well as new Quicksilver 20-inch Roush wheels. They were wrapped in the Roush/Cooper RS3-S ultra high-performance tires.

Inside, the vehicle was also modified. The cabin now includes Roush embroidered floor mats and a serialized dash badge. There is an optional gauge cluster and leather seating upgrades. There will be also offered several exterior and interior options, including side quarter window scoops, body side scoop, hood scoop and more.

The Mustangs will first be available in manual coupes. Later, the convertible chassis and automatic transmissions will follow. 2015 Roush Ford Mustang Lineup is expected to be available at dealerships in mid October.

Source: Roush

October 7, 2014

SEMA-bound Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition to be Named by Fans

2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will make a firs world appearance at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas thus November. As part of National Name Your Car Day, the musclecar builder is inviting fans to name the vehicle, which will be revealed also at the event. What is more, this Chevy won’t remain one-off model, but instead – will go into production very soon. The car wears an exclusive Emerald Green Metallic exterior color, but is also endowed with other unique exterior features.

This special-edition Camaro SS will be offered in both coupe and convertible variants. They will be equipped with the 2SS trim. Chevrolet will also add the RS Appearance Package, which comprises of high-intensity discharge headlamps, light-emitting diode (LED) taillamps, RS-specific front upper grille, body-color roof moldings and body-color antenna.

Furthermore, this emerald beauty will be rolling on the streets on Chrome Dusk 21-inch accessory wheels. Other goodies featured here include body-color SS hood extractor and ZL1 rear spoiler, body-color accessory ground effects package as well as Cyber Gray rally stripes.

Inside, both variants will include a black interior with Graphite Silver door panel and instrument panel inserts. The convertibles will get a black top. Of course, the company has prepared optional equipment, which includes a sunroof, dual-mode exhaust, navigation radio and Chevrolet Performance short-throw shifter.

Under the hood of the unnamed warrior will hide the 6.2L V-8 engine. It produces 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) in models with the standard six-speed manual transmission, and 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) for models equipped with the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Special Edition will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2015.

Source: Chevrolet

October 7, 2014

Fiat 500 Couture Special Editions Exhibited in Paris

Paris saw a really nice debut this year in the face of the Italian style icon – the Fiat 500 Couture. Under this name hide three distinctive vehicles: 500 Ron Arad Edition with a specific design like a garment “sewn” onto the car; the 500 Comics and 500 Camouflage showcars. The trio is inspired by the world of fashion and created to add to the pop and trendy nature in the 500′s DNA. The premiere took place during the Paris Fashion Week at the MotorVillage Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées.

500 Ron Arad Edition is a result of the joint work of the Italian brand and the internationally celebrated designer Ron Arad. To be more precise, the silhouette of the historic 1957 Fiat 500, or more famous as ‘Cinquino’, is drawn on the sides of the car using the Italian craftsmanship.

The car is equipped with great features such as a glass sunroof, chrome-plated accents, black interiors, superb black Poltrona Frau leather seats with ivory trim, 7″ TFT instrument panel, Blue&Me, leather steering wheel with radio controls, automatic climate control system, fog lights, 16 inch alloy rims, black metallic paintwork and white mirror caps with the silhouette of the legendary 500 drawn on the side panels.

The next two models, 500 Comics and 500 Camouflage showcars pay homage to the pop nature of the iconic Fiat 500. The first one has a two-tone livery, pastel ochre yellow and metallic black, embellished by craftsmanship resulting in “stitching” that traces out the stylish lines. The second model is inspired by 500′s DNA and features grey/green camouflage pattern, highlighted by the fluorescent yellow mirror covers.

Only 2015 Fiat 500 Ron Arad will eventually go on sale in Europe, starting from November this year. The car will be delivered to the new owner’s home together with an 1:18 scale model.

Source: Fiat

October 7, 2014

Chevrolet Fights Breast Cancer for Fourth Consecutive Year

Chevrolet and General Motors are uniting to battle breast cancer for fourth consecutive year. Both companies are hoping to gather more than last year’s $1.1 million proceeds this October. Te money will be raised for the American Cancer Society (ACS) through Chevrolet’s nationwide grassroots support for the society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks and other activities.

There will be several events, which will include nationwide employee and dealership-sponsored fund-raising walks as well as the especially themed pink Chevrolet SS. The vehicle will be the official pace car, making caution laps at three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekends. There also will be test-drive donations at Chevrolet dealers throughout this month.

The gathered proceeds will go for ACS’s ongoing research, wellness and breast cancer awareness education. They will also support breast cancer patients and their families. In fact, since Chevrolet has been involved in this campaign, it has helped the society raise more than $3 million.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in America. Its early detection and treatment are life-saving. Getting involved in a walk or making a donation is something anyone can do to make a difference.

Chevrolet-sponsored activities in October in support of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer:

Chevrolet test drives: Chevrolet will donate $10 for every customer who test drives a Chevrolet at a dealership this month
Team Chevy motorsports: Chevrolet is donating $250 for each caution lap that the pink Chevrolet SS Pace Car leads in three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends
Chevrolet and GM employee walks: During October, General Motors facilities, plants and warehouses across the country will participate in fund-raising walks. Learn more about the Detroit walk by visiting the event page and contribute directly.
Chevrolet dealership walks: Hundreds of dealerships are sponsoring teams in community walks. Apparel sales: Cruisin’ Sports is contributing 10 percent of its sales from items supporting Making Strides to the ACS.

October 7, 2014

Enhanced 2015 Kia Rio Hatch with World Premiere in Paris

2015 Kia Rio is getting enhanced and it just made its official debut at the Paris Motor Show. The car now features a number of improvements, including a slight visual makeover both inside and outside. The Rio design team in Korea has updated car’s ‘tiger-nose grille’, thus giving it a newly-designed front bumper and fog lights. The enhanced Rio will be offered exclusively in Europe with a choice of up to four efficient engines. Their power output will range from 75 hp to 109 hp.

The units will drive the front wheels via five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. In addition, every engine in the range can be equipped with the optional second-generation fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology. The ISG features an automatic start-stop function, advanced alternator control and an upgraded starter motor.

Kia is also offering three new alloy wheel designs that will be available in 15-, 16- and 17-inch dimension. What is more, the refreshed Rio’s profile is rounded up by the new rear bumper. Two new exterior paint finishes, called Urban Blue and Digital Yellow will be also added.

Inside, the updated Rio is brightened by the addition of chrome accents around the four dashboard air-vents. There is also a newly-designed centre-stack around the audio system. The range-topping EX models have a new cloth trim as standard, while the Kia is also offering as an option grey faux leather upholstery.

Other available features for this car include DAB digital radio and the AVN (audio-video navigation) system with a 7.0-inch display screen, improved processing speed and faster route calculation. 2015 Kia Rio hatchback is expected to go on sale in Europe in 2015.

Source: Kia

October 7, 2014

Chevrolet announces 2015 Trax pricing

The US automaker Chevrolet has announced the pricing of the upcoming 2015 Chevrolet Trax – the small-sized vehicle will start at USD 20,995.

The 2015 Trax tries to combine SUV style, space and versatility with the maneuverability of a compact car. The Trax offers various comfort features that include a MyLink infotainment system with a seven-inch touch screen, a rear view camera, remote keyless entry and a 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat and fold-down front passenger seat offering more than 48 cubic feet of cargo space. If you are not satisfied with this, a USD 1,500 option, which is available on all trim levels, provides you with all-wheel drive, which makes the Trax the most affordable AWD model in Chevrolet’s portfolio. An OnStar 4G LTE system with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot completes the picture. The Trax is also the first car in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free connectivity for compatible iPhone users. The car is powered by a standard 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that provides EPA fuel efficiency of 26 US MPG (9.0 l/100km) in a city and 34 US MPG (6.9 l/100 km) on a highway.

The Trax is Chevrolet’s seventh small vehicle launch in four years. During that time, the brand’s share of the small-, compact- and mini-car segments has more than tripled. “Trax is positioned to be a strong competitor in the emerging small-SUV market, which is expected to grow more than 80 percent in the next few years,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet director of car marketing.

In the USA the new car will be available in January 2015 in three trim levels – LS, LT and LTZ. The vehicle is already available in 66 markets around the world; sales have reached 155,000 vehicles.

Source: Chevrolet

October 6, 2014

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