Automobiles Review – Page 484 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Honda Civic Sport Unveiled Ahead of Paris Debut

Just ahead of the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, Honda has released the first details and images of the revised 2015 Honda Civic Sport. In general there are enhancements made across the entire Swindon built 2015 Civic model range, which will be revealed on 2^nd of October when the show starts. First, both the Civic and Civic Tourer have new front exterior design. They look sportier due to the addition of new headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and a new sleek front bumper. The hatchback model also features LED rear combination lamps as well as new rear bumper, side skirts and rear spoiler finished in black.

Inside, the 2015 models also receive a specification upgrade. There are used new seatfabrics and stitching on the headrests, new door trims with chrome door handles and a control panel, which is finished in a metallic black. The interior is cosy and spacious, and still keeps its class-leading interior space. In fact, Civic’s 477-litre and Civic Tourer’s 624-litre boot capacity remain the best in their respective segments.

To the range will be also introduced the Honda Connect in-car audio and information system. It delivers convenience and connectivity for the occupants whilst on the road. The system includes key features such as AM/FM, DAB and Internet Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, internet browsing, satellite navigation and rear-view parking camera. Furthermore, this system runs Android 4.0.4 and features the familiar pinch, swipe and tap functionality of a smartphone on a seven inch display screen.

The star of the show will be the Civic Sport derivative, which has been based on the Civic hatchback. The car is driven by the 1.6-litre, 120 hp (88 kW) diesel engine or the 1.8-litre, 142 hp (104 kW) petrol unit.

It stands out from the crowd thanks to its colour-coded rear spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels that are unique to the Sport derivative. More importantly, Honda disclosed that the Civic Sport echoes the striking design of the forthcoming Type R with a new front bumper featuring a lower grille mesh and a black roof lining for the cabin.

Every single model in the updated Civic range will benefit from the addition of Honda’s City- Brake Active (CTBA) system as standard. CTBA was specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents. It operates at speeds below 30 km/h and utilizes radar technology to scan the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if a risk of collision is detected.

Source: Honda

September 24, 2014

Nissan adds more features to 2015 Navara

We all know that Nissan plans to launch the 2015 Navara model – after all the vehicle has been in the news since this past summer but the Japanese auto maker has decided to make a splash – the new vehicle now comes with more features and extras than previously expected.

The latest version of the 2015 Navara pick-up will be launched at the upcoming IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover, Germany (September 25 – October 2) and will have new safety features, new standard equipment, new body colors and an upgraded interior trim. For instance, starting now every model in the 2015 Navara range has 17-inch alloy wheels and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) as standard. Two new body colors are also present – bronze and grey and they both offer enhanced looks and improved quality. Nissan says the overall goal has been to bring enhanced value to the new features and improve customer benefits by up to EUR 800.

The big news is that the new 2015 Nissan Navara now offers a new SE model that comes with a 144 HP (106 kW) version of the 2.5-liter diesel engine used in other Navara modifications. This engine, which was launched for the first time in the fleet-oriented XE version last year, is the perfect compromise between power and efficiency. The 144 HP engine now produces 215 g/km of carbon dioxide, which is 7 g/km improvement over the 190 HP (140 kW) version and needs 8.2 liters of fuel per 100 km (29 US MPG). In addition to that the new SE version offers numerous improvements over the XE model that include automatic air conditioning, a combined CD tuner with Bluetooth connectivity, side airbags, chrome front grille, cruise control with speed limited, driver seat height adjustments and more.

The 2015 Navara has three versions – XE, SE and the top LE – and they all now feature a 190 HP (140 kW) version of the dCi engine, while the most advanced LE version of the same pick-up is available with a more powerful 231 HP (170 kW) 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine along with an advanced Nissan 7-speed automatic transmission. The LE version excels in other areas – it has premium navigation, a reversing camera, roof rails, heated seats, cruise control, privacy glass, rain sensor and electrically folding door mirrors as standard. A special version of the LE also adds eather/alcantara trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome touches and a steel bar at the front for added protection.

No word on pricing as of now.

Source: Nissan

September 24, 2014

Sporty Additions to Mercedes-Benz A-Class W176

An absolute premiere in the high-performance vehicle segment. For the first time Mercedes AMG has built a true AMG for the compact class. The AMG is equipped with the world’s most powerful stock four-cylinder turbo engine. With a power output per liter displacement 233 kW (315 hp), it exceeds even the most powerful super sports cars. With its maximum power output 256 kW (247 hp), and maximum torque curve of 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) and the standard AMG 4matic all-wheel-drive, stands for a really sporty driving experience.

The new AMG A Class W176 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/p (0-62 mph) in only 4 seconds, at the same time it delivers convincing duel consumption with 6.9 liters/100 km, (41 UK mpg), (34 US mpg) and already fulfills the EU 6-exhaust gas standard. Mercedes AMG enhances the already amazing exterior design of the new A class with strikingly sporty accents such as the eye catching, twin blade radiator grille , the 2 angular chrome tailpipes.

With an absolutely new line the Swabian premium manufacturer now focus on younger and more sporty audiences. The redesigning the vehicle by the German styling specialists in Chemnitz has taken on a step forward equipping this car with new spoiler bumpers for both the rear and the front of the AMG A class.

Dynamic, powerful and unique, the AMG A Class W176 sets new standards in the compact car segment.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 24, 2014

Ballistic BJ Baldwin Recoil 2 – Unleashed in Mexico by Monster Energy

The attention is focused on the little town of Ensenada, Mexico Set as a stage for Ballistic BJ Baldwin’s viral hit Recoil. We become witnesses to one mind blowing, exciting and adrenaline pumping action driving video. This video, by Monster Energy shows us BJ driving his 800hp (596 kW) Trohpy Truck, raging down across the quiet, unsuspecting seaside town. You can see the Monster truck being pushed to the limit of the aggressive terrain it’s driven on. But what better way of beating an aggressive terrain, than to run it over with your Monster Trophy tuck. Overcoming with ease every drop and twisted angle the town has, as he attempts to win a bet set by his friend Dan Bilzerian. What does he have to win or to lose? You can only find out after having watched the amazing video.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXMyZ929lpY

Source: Monster energy Via Youtube

September 24, 2014

Mercedes-AMG C 63 Saloon and Estate

Amazingly, the V8 has a lot of power and handles pretty good. With a muscle car feeling. The visual modes are different. There are working air vents for the V8 engine

The all new C63 has a 4.0-litre biturbo engine, allowing excellent performance, with 3 stage adjustable dampers and custom steering set-up, the car remains agile, making it one of the most popular AMG models.

The unique technology installed in the Mercedes-AMG C 63 makes the car high-performance and as exciting as it can get but viable for everyday use as well. The C63 engines reduce vibration from themselves and the gearbox when you are driving in normal conditions. Of course, on the other side, if you want to go faster, they intensify so they can provide and improve performance and handling.

The C 63 is equipped with a genuine suspension set-up. With independent steering, 4-link suspension and improved stability, while the rear system uses increased negative camber. AMG RIDE CONTROL system is connected to both of these, through three stage dampers, which are electronically controlled, provide comfort and track settings.

The S model comes with 245/35 R19 (front) and 265/35 R19 (rear) tyres while the C 63 gains 245/40 R18 (front) and 265/40 R18 (rear) tyres.

A masterpiece M177 engine, equipped with twin turbochargers is implemented in the AMG C63 series.The four different models come with very different characteristics:

Model	Power	Torque	0-62mph (secs)	Top speed (mph)	Economy (mpg)	CO₂(g/km)
C 63 Saloon	476 hp at 5,500-6,250 rpm	650 Nm at 1,750-4,500 rpm	4.1	155	34.5	192
C 63 Estate	476 hp at 5,500–6,250 rpm	650 Nm at 1,750-4,500 rpm	4.2	155	33.6	196
C 63 S Saloon	510 hp at 5,500-6,250 rpm	700 Nm at 1,750-4,500 rpm	4.0	155	34.5	192
C 63 S Estate	510 hp at 5,500-6,250 rpm	700 Nm at 1,750-4,500 rpm	4.1	155	33.6	196

Outstanding changes to appearance, both on the inside and the outside. An unique AMG grille, front wings featuring a quiet V8 biturbo engine, front bumpers and rear bumpers, designed to handle the new quad exhaust pipes, give the vehicle all that exciting, shiny new look.A new version of the ”AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT” 7-speed transmission is installed on the C 63 – now with quicker shift times.As a Saloon, the C 63 AMG weighs from 1,715 kg while the Estate weighs from 1,785 kg.

New visible changes are noticed inside. A small original AMG wheel with AMG dials. You can get your AMG with sports seats option along with different leather settings. A optional active AMG performance exhaust system and the “AMG ride control buttons”.

Mercedes-AMG C 63 Saloon and Estate will be available for sale next month in the UK. First delivers will be in Spring 2015. Pricing and specifications will be unveiled when the ordering opens.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 24, 2014

Ready for Laser-powered Headlights?

Lasers can do some amazing things. They are being used today to read DVDs, correct blurry vision and even for destroying Imperial Star Cruisers. Now you can add this to the list, “replacing car headlamps.” That’s right; vehicle headlights are getting the laser treatment.

BMW, one of the first automakers to adopt the technology, says that lasers have an illuminating power 1,000 times more powerful than LEDs — which up until just recently provided the greatest wow factor of all the bulb technologies out there. BMW explains that the technology has some compelling advantages, for example: laser automobile lights can be much smaller than conventional lighting systems, they can use less energy to operate, and they look pretty darn cool, too.

But wait a minute, can’t lasers burn your eyes out? Not a problem says BMW, because of the way the beam energy is directed, then reflected, then ultimately displayed out of the headlight housing, you can’t accidentally injure your eyes. This is not like “looking into a laser”. What happens with each headlight is that three blue lasers positioned at the rear of the assembly fire onto a set of mirrors closer to the front. Those mirrors focus the laser energy into a lens filled with yellow phosphorus. The yellow phosphorus, when excited by the blue laser, emits an intense white light. That white light shines backward, onto a reflector then the reflector bounces the more diffused white light forward to illuminate the road.

Because laser-powered headlight systems can be much smaller, automotive designers can have a lot more flexibility to make more aerodynamic shapes or fit more stuff into the engine compartment with the freed-up space.

BMW, the developer and so far frontrunner on this technology, hasn’t yet said when laser-powered headlights will be a regular option on its production cars and SUVs. And other companies? Given the “arms-race” nature of the auto business, it’s probably a safe bet that other manufacturers are already trying to figure out how to produce their own laser-augmented lighting systems. We will likely be seeing a great deal more about automotive laser illumination systems in coming years.

Source: Crosstown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

September 24, 2014

Family Heritage in Dodge Custom Convertible

Collector cars usually have a base price to them, and are usually cataloged based on whether it is all original, packed with certain features, as well its overall mileage. But what can not be explained or defined in the pricing is how that vehicle came to be, the story behind that specific car, and who the original owner can improve the price of the vehicle.

A 1964 Dodge 880 Convertible is the topic of this discussion. It is a custom convertible produced in a model year celebrating the 50^th year of the Dodge auto brand. It is also the year in which Dodge produced over 100 thousand vehicles. Out of all those created, there were just a thousand or so of these convertibles created. That alone adds value to the vehicle.

Now the major kicker to all of this is that the original owner was Anna Thomson Dodge, aka Mrs. Dodge herself. The widow of one of the Dodge Brothers, Horace. The convertible was purchased and given to her from her son Horace Jr. The sad end of that story was Horace never got around to seeing his mother drive her new vehicle, and died that following December.

Now almost 50 years later we now know this remarkable story of a vehicles history, and the people that were involved with it. The current owner Mary Wilson, and whose husband was the founding owner of the Buffalo Bills, says she knows the vehicle could use some restoration work done, but she is always glad to take it for a spin whenever she gets the chance.

Source: Kolosso Dodge

September 24, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Beetle Gets new Retro Classic Trim

2015 Volkswagen Beetle Classic is a limited edition model which is set to appear only at the North American market scene. Volkswagen of America has also announced that the iconic model in a new trim is ready to go on sale this week. This new addition to the Beetle range enhances its value story by the addition of a host of more equipment.

Beetle Classic runs on 17-inch “Heritage” aluminum-alloy wheels, which lend it old-school visual appearance. Thanks to them the car looks more closely to the original bug from the mid 50s. In addition, this particular model adds rear spoiler and will be offered in three exterior paint finishes: Pure White, Black Uni, and Reflex Silver.

The Classic trim has an understated retro look inside: there we see leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake lever, multifunction steering wheel, two-tone brown “Sioux” leatherette and checked cloth seating surfaces and comfort front seats with driver’s side lumbar support. The historic mini model also gets some special technical characteristics in term of equipment such as Sirius XM Satellite Radio, an RNS 315 navigation system and a six-speed automatic transmission.

This coupe is powered by the 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI four-cylinder engine. It produces 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 240 Nm (177 pound-feet) of torque. The Beetle 1.8T Coupe has an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 33 mpg with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen will also offer a Beetle Classic Convertible, which will go on sale early in 2015. It will have the same equipment as the coupe and will be driven by the same powertrain. The EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating here is at 32 mpg. 2015 Beetle Classic Coupe has a starting price of $20,195 USD, while the Convertible – $25,995 USD.

Source: Volkswagen

September 24, 2014

CVTs – The Perfect Transmission?

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission but operates very differently than older fluid-based automatics. CVTs are mechanically-based transmissions and provide more useable power, better fuel economy and smoother driving than traditional automatics. It should be noted that CVTs have been around for years in other motorized applications. Vehicles such as snowmobiles and some off-road recreational vehicles have utilized CVTs for decades. Only just recently has the technology seen mainstream automotive use.

How they work

Conventional automatic transmissions have sets of gears inside their housings that provide different gear ratios or speeds. Control units sense a vehicle’s speed and other parameters and use that information to shift the transmission’s gears. The user just puts the transmission in the appropriate mode with the gear selector switch (P-R-N-D-L). A CVT uses a similar selector switch but replaces the complex gears sets common in automatic transmissions with two simple variable-diameter pulleys, each shaped like a pair of opposing cones, with a metal belt running between them. The way it works is that during operation the pulleys move in and out such that a drive belt between moves higher on one pulley, lower on the other and this provides a numerical gear reduction. You can picture this roughly as the way a 10-speed bike works, by routing the chain over smaller or larger gears to change the gear ratios. The gearing effect with a CVT is essentially “continuous”, hence the nomenclature.

What they are like to drive

The controls for a CVT-based car are the same as an automatic-based car: Two pedals (gas and brake) and a P-R-N-D-L-style shift pattern. When driving a car with a CVT, you won’t hear or feel the transmission shift, though. It simply raises and lowers the engine speed as needed, calling up higher engine speeds (or RPMs) for better acceleration and lower RPMs for better fuel economy while cruising. Some people find that driving a CVT-based automobile is a little disconcerting because they sound different when being driven.

Advantages of CVTs

Internal combustion engines do not develop constant power at all speeds; they have specific speeds where either torque, horsepower, or fuel efficiency are at their optimum levels. Because a CVT can theoretically adjust to any gear ratio, engineers can program them to give maximum performance in all these situations.

Disadvantages of CVTs

The CVT’s biggest problem has been user acceptance. Because the CVT allows the engine to rotate at any speed, the noises coming from under the hood can sound odd to ears accustomed to conventional automatic transmissions. Automakers have gone to great lengths to make the CVT feel more like a conventional transmission. For example, many CVTs are now programmed to simulate the “kick-down” feel of a regular automatic when the pedal is floored.

Reliability of CVTs

Because early automotive CVTs were limited as to how much horsepower they could handle, there has been some concern about the long-term reliability of the CVT. This has not proven to be a problem, though. Advanced technology has made the CVT quite robust and reliable. Nissan has more than a million CVTs in service around the world and says their long-term reliability is comparable to conventional transmissions.

The future of the CVT remains to be seen. In spite of the obvious efficiencies of CVTs, customers can be fickle and may prefer and older technology. Give it a few more years and we should know how user acceptance plays a role in the adoption in CVT technology.

Source: Team Nissan North

September 24, 2014

Common Electrical Problems in Jeeps

If your engine components go there is an easy decision on whether to fix it, replace it or trade in for a new vehicle. But when there is something small like an electrical problem, it always seems like those little ones can lead to larger problems, and are incredibly challenging to fix.

Faulty Instrument Lights. One problem any vehicle can face, not including Jeep models is a instrumental or gauges that aren’t lighting up properly. This could be a problem for a number of reasons, one you can’t see how fast your going, you can’t see your fuel gauge just to name a couple.

No blinker or hazards, or even blinkers that are blinking too fast. This is oddly a problem that does happen often with some LED lights. Sometimes just by adding LED lights could cause this problem, or more commonly you have lost a bulb recently. Nobody wants to be driving behind a Jeep that looks like they are having a rave whenever they turn.

Brake Light is staying lit, well after releasing the brake? The main cause for this is because the tab doesn’t release from the connector properly, which signifies the light as if the brake is still on. But it also could be something as natural as a corroded connector or broken wire.

The problems with electric components can be large of very small and granular. This is the challenge of owning any vehicle, and not a Jeep. But in order to maintain the longevity of your vehicle as recommended to us by a local car tech, is to simply have it maintenance on the regular. Just like visiting your doctor, have your check-ups done to catch the small things before they come big problems.

Source: Service Center of Pomoco Chrysler

September 24, 2014

Infiniti Q80 Inspiration is Feasting the Senses

Another picture teaser of the Infiniti Q80 Inspiration was just revealed. The car, which is set to debut at the Paris Auto Show, is Infiniti‘s vision of supreme luxurious driving. It is a “top-of-the-line, four-seat fastback” with driver-centric powertrain and onboard technologies. The car will be introduced exactly at 15:30 local time on October 2 in Hall 5 of the Parc des Expositions de Versailles in Paris. There, the company will premiere not only the progressive Q80 Inspiration but also will offer a glimpse of its high-performance and efficient hybrid-electric powertrain as well as additional technologies.

The profile of the Q80 Inspiration extends to 5052 millimeters (198.9 inches) with a long wheelbase of 3103 mm (122.2 in). It strikes width is of 2027 mm (79.8 in) while the height is of 1350 mm (53.1 in). The vehicle runs on custom 22-inch five-dual-spoke lightweight alloys.

This model is created with the aim of capturing the unforgettable feeling when one experiences something important, beautiful, magnetic for the first time. If you look closely to the released photo you will see that the there are no side-door mirrors to break up the aesthetics of the unmistakable profile of the car.

The lightweight acoustic glass highlights the full roof length of the teardrop passenger greenhouse. Moreover, the doors open portal style, which allows the cabin to be fully on display while driver and passengers step effortlessly in and out.

Inside, the cabin of the model is capable of bringing together the four occupants (“1 + 1 + 1 + 1” seating.) in a highly stylized and personalized ambiance. Infiniti reveals that only high quality materials were used for the interior. These include carbon fiber, aluminum and leather.

Next, the car is equipped with advanced adaptive suspension, rides on light and rigid chassis and delivers optimum sound deadening. In other words, Infiniti Q80 Inspiration four-door fastback is expected to redefined premium fastback segment.

Source: Infiniti

September 24, 2014

Take a Look Into The Production of the Chrysler 200

Chrysler Group subsidiary Chrysler has gone ahead and created a new website that allows online users to explore their Chrysler 200 plant in Sterling Heights, MI. It is a very interesting and interactive way of providing people a look into the facility.

Let us start by explaining the facility. It is a completely overhauled facility just outside the Detroit metropolitan area. It is designed solely for the production of the all new Chrysler 200 sedan model. This is the same model that Chrysler is pushing out to the North American market, expressing they have a completely redesigned 200 sedan, that is fresh, and should fulfill many who are looking for a midsize sedan.

This facility might be one of the hardest working facilities over the next 4-5 years as they work hard to reach the FIAT Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne’s goal of selling over 700 thousand units of the Chrysler 200 by the 2018 year. This is a very optimistic stretch goal for the Chrysler Group, as in 2013 they were only able to sell just 350 thousand units.

Now back to the tour itself. It includes a great narrative, and segmented structure. So it allows you to pick and choose what part of the manufacturing plant you wish to tour. It gives you a blue line to follow for a scripted tour, or you can take a more manual tour, and just click around the screen.

The tour is powered by Google Maps Business, and throughout the tour you will reach highlighted areas where you can watch a video to gain a better understanding of what happens at each and every station throughout the production of the Chrysler 200.

Related Article: Chrysler 200 Sedan on Thompson Chrysler Baltimore

September 24, 2014

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