Automobiles Review – Page 487 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BMW F32 435i And F06 Gran Coupé Dinan Performance & Springs

Dinan continues to design and supply us with even more outstanding car upgrades that provide extra speed, handling and high performance on the road.

This time we have upgrades for the F32/F33/F36 435i, F30 335i, and F10 535i! We would not be able to cover the updates for all of the models, but here are several upgrades for their respective car models:

For the F32 435i we have a Performance Spring Set, with which you can have by up to 50% increase in spring stiffness as well as Lowering the vehicle 1″ in both the front and the rear.

Dinan’s Performance Spring set for the F32 435i now guarantees greater control over the body roll. Dinan lowers the BMW 435i by 1-inch in both the front and rear for more aggressive styling and improved suspension geometry. There is also reduced rear suspension compression under acceleration, giving your car a more controlled feel. Now, for high speed driving situation that require trust in your car’s abilities, Dinan offers a improved performance springs, which will also provide a sensible improvement in grip. Now there is excellent steering response to the driver which can be felt in both lower and higher speeds.

Additional ride quality and handling kits are optional to choose from. For this kit includes especially tuned, progressive rate bump stops that maximize suspension travel on the lowered car for improved handling capabilities and ride quality.

For the F06 M6 Gran Coupé you can have the “Coil-Over Suspension Kit”

When running at higher speeds, the car has to be always at its best. The Dinan Coil-Over Suspension insures that. With a lowered aggressive stance providing improved handling, high performance and comfort with amazing visual looks.Components are designed from 6061-T6 aluminum for appearance and corrosion protection.There are a lot of benefits in upgrading with Dinan’s performance coil-over suspension system, some of which include substantial reduction in body roll, spring rates are 15% stiffer for both front and rear, as well as designed to fit into the stock mounts for quiet operation.

Moreover, up to 1.125″ of lowering is possible depending on tire clearance although .625″ drop is recommended to maintain ride quality. More improvements add: threaded collars allow easy and precise front & rear vehicle height adjustments. Dinan-spec progressive bump stops improve ride quality at lowered ride heights, components are machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and black anodized for a sporty appearance as well as corrosion protection and last but not least, Included suspension packers allow adjustment of bump-stop clearance to fine-tune handling and comfort.

Dinantronics Performance Tuner for F30 335i & F10 535i (N55) (RWD & xDrive):

Manufacture date after June 2013 (Electronic Wastegate). Before July 2013 already supported. Retail Price: D440-1602-ST1,Stage 1: $1999.00 with install time: 1.5 hrs

BMW Factory Ratings: 300 HP (223 kW), 300 lb-ft torque (406 Nm), with Dinantronics Tuner (stage 1): 360 hp (228 kW), 392 lb-ft torque (531 Nm).

Dinantronics Performance Tuner for F32/F33/F36 435i (N55) (RWD & xDrive), Retail Price: D440-1606-ST1, stage 1 $1999.00 with an install Time of 1.5 hrs. BMW Factory Ratings: 300 hp (223 kW), 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) torque but with Dinantronics Tuner (Stage 1): 360 hp (228 kW), 392 lb-ft (531 Nm) torque.

Source: Dinan

September 18, 2014

Ford Introduces 2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX

Ford has revealed the updated for the 2015 model year C-MAX family range yesterday consisting of the duo C-MAX and Grand C-MAX. Both vehicle feature sleek exterior design, beautifully crafted interior with improved stowage ideas, and major fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions improvements. C-MAX is a five-seater, while the Grand C-MAX – seven-seater, and they come to offer superior comfort and refinement. The models will introduce advanced technology including Ford’s SYNC 2 voice-activated connectivity system.

The C-MAX range uses Ford’s innovative twin sliding doors and “walk-through” seat design for greater convenience, space and flexibility, remain available. The family of vehicles is available in new exterior colours Red Rush and a stylish brown-grey color called Caribou. The front end of the car was restyled and features dynamic styling, featuring company’s distinctive inverted trapezoidal grille.

Additionally, the sleeker, more chiselled front headlamps and more rectangular, elongated fog-lamps add to the bolder front end. At the back, we can see smoother and more sophisticated one-piece appearance. A compact tail lamp design rounds out the contemporary look. Both cars will be equipped with LED Daytime Running Lights, Bi-Xenon HID headlamps and Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System.

Inside, the 2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX feature refined interiors. There is more intuitive layout and fewer controls and switches. The new black satin trim and chrome detailing contributes to a cleaner, modern look. There are also other higher quality trims across the entire range, a heated steering wheel, door-sill scuff plates and load-net fitting points behind both the first and second row seats.

In terms of safety, the new Ford C-MAX family is equipped with advanced technologies such as the Ford’s Active Park Assist and Park-Out Assist. Ford has also improved its Active City Stop collision avoidance system, which utilizes sensors at the front of the vehicle. In the case of moving objects C-MAX will utilize Active Braking. Also new to the range is the Adaptive Cruise Control technology. It enables drivers to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even when that vehicle is travelling more slowly than the cruise speed.

2015 C-MAX and Grand C-MAX family powertrain line-up comprises of the new 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, delivering 120 hp (88 kW), the 100 hp (74 kW) and 125 hp (92 kW) versions of the multi-award winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. More importantly, Ford will feature for the first time as a standard its Auto-Start-Stop technology on EcoBoost petrol and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engines, in order to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions.

2015 Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX will go on sale in the beginning of 2015.

Source: Ford

September 18, 2014

Toyota FT-1 Vision GT is a Race Concept for Gran Turismo 6 [VIDEO]

Toyota FT-1 Vision GT is a high performance race concept designed by Calty and entirely virtual. It comes to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Gran Turismo series and is now available to download within Sony PlayStation3’s Gran Turismo 6 (GT6) real driving simulator. It is obvious that the car is based on the Toyota’s stunning FT-1 sports car concept.

The Japanese company has revealed so far two physical interpretations of FT-1 concept. One has a red exterior color and the other – graphite – to showcase the vehicle’s versatility and striking styling. Both versions are currently available to download on the game, with the red one introduced in earlier this year, and the graphite one – available now.

The original red FT-1 concept ignited enthusiasts with its January debut at the North American International Auto Show and its bold red exterior color scheme. This second version impresses with sophisticated graphite and light-coloured leather interior accents. It was on display for the first time at the Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival gala held on California’s Monterey Peninsula.

The creatives behind this project work at Calty Design Research – Toyota’s North American design studio in Newport Beach, California. They have made the FT-1 to stun the world with bold, sculpted lines that immediately speak of speed and power.

Calty designed an ultra high-performance race version of the FT-1 which inside the GT6 is dubbed the FT-1 Vision GT. This high-powered version interprets what a full-race FT-1 might achieve on the track.

httpv://youtu.be/uuXFyCHp59w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

September 18, 2014

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Achieves 22 mpg on the Highway

It is no secret that the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is the most powerful muscle car ever built. This is due to its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine which produces 707 horsepower. In addition, the unit is mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, which contributes towards the result of 22 miles per gallon for the highway fuel-economy rating, estimated from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Considering the price, output and highway fuel-economy ratings of cars like the Aventador Roadster (700 hp), Aston Marton Vanquish (576 hp) and Mercedes SLS AMG GT (583 hp), Challenger SRT Hellcat carves a special place for itself in the lofty world of high-performance driving.

The unique Hellcat engine benefits from content that is 91 percent new. It is engineered in-house and is designed for optimum durability. It features forged-steel crankshaft which have induction-hardened bearing surfaces, thus offering a capacity to withstand firing pressures of 1,595 psi (110 bar).

The premium-grade, heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads were improved for thermal conductivity. These are topped by a twin-screw 2,380-cc/rev supercharger which includes integral charge coolers and an integrated electronic bypass to regulate boost pressure to a maximum of 80 kPa (11.6 psi).

Furthermore, there is a separate low-temperature cooling circuit with two air/coolant heat exchangers that is integrated into the supercharger housing and that keeps air temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). At the same time it enables air flow of up to 30,000 liters per minute.

Next, Dodge‘s TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission has 30 percent greater maximum engine-torque capacity than any Chrysler eight-speed transmission. In addition, the transmission features one additional pinion gear in each of the 1st and 3rd gear sets, and five more clutch-pack disks – two in clutch E and one each in clutches A, C and D. More importantly, what makes the gearbox so special is the 7.03 ratio spread. It enables the powerful HEMI Hellcat to operate in its most efficient mode.

When the Challenger SRT Hellcat is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission it achieves highway fuel-economy rating of 21 mpg. The sporty gearbox has an internal cooling pump and vehicle-mounted (external) oil cooler and its 258-mm heavy-duty clutch affords easy access to HEMI Hellcat’s exhilarating power.

Source: Dodge

September 18, 2014

Vauxhall ADAM S with Premiere in Paris

Vauxhall revealed that it will premiere the top-of-the-range ADAM S model next month at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The car was previewed in March at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, where it showed its slick design, its potent 150 hp 1.4-litre turbo engine, its specially-tuned chassis and its VXR braking system. ADAM S visually appears more muscular than the standard ADAM, due to its front lip spoiler, side sill moldings and an extended rear bumper cut-out with a visible, bold exhaust tailpipe.

The company will offer to its customers ten body paint choices and four roof combinations, which are available with the Red ʼn‘ Roll roof design reserved exclusively for ADAM S customers. The distinctive rear spoiler above the rear window and the special ADAM S logo on the C pillars round out the specific look.

The interior of this car offers the driver and front passenger the opportunity to choose between four different seat arrangements, three of which are exclusively available for this ADAM variant, including the Recaro Performance seats in Morrocana or nappa leather. The interior reflects the Red ʼn‘ Roll design in many ways. An instance is the optional leather package which features black and red steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake in leather or the red and white lighting for the instrument panels and doors.

ADAM S also features as a standard a tinted LED daytime running and rear tail lights, electronic climate control and sophisticated IntelliLink system. The system provides USB and Bluetooth connectivity, audio streaming, seven speakers, 7-inch high-definition colour touch-screen, navigation by the BringGo app, Stitcher and TuneIn apps.

The new version of the 1.4-litre Turbo ECOTEC engine which powers the car produces up to 150 hp (110 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. Combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, this powertrain propels the ADAM S from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and to a top speed of 124 mph.

In addition, ADAM S’s unit is fitted with Start/Stop technology and the engine already meets Euro 6 emission standards. The dual cam phasing for continuously variable valve timing and a turbocharger integrated within the exhaust manifold are characteristics of the engine which make it lighter and more compact. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 44.1 mpg while the CO2 emissions – at 149g/km.

This Vauxhall also has some sporty credentials thanks to its specially tuned performance chassis and direct, sharp performance steering. ADAM S also features large VXR S brakes, custom-made for the various wheel sizes, and runs on a standard 17-inch or optional 18-inch alloy wheels.

Vauxhall ADAM S will go on sale in January next year.

Source: Vauxhall

September 17, 2014

Senner Tuning Gives Audi A8 Additional 76 Horsepower

Audi A8 has always been one of the most luxurious and desirable cars, since it was introduced to the automotive market. In fact, according to a recently published study, the A8 is the ultimate dream car for Germans. But even these facts can’t keep the tuners at Senner Tuning from exploring the optimizing potential of this Audi. The particular car on which they have worked is the 4.2 litre V8 model.

The external modifications include the exchange of the standard wheels for Oxigin14 Oxrock rims in the “Black Full Polish” finish. They come in the format 10×22 inch all round and are coupled with Continental Sport Contact 3 tyres in the dimensions 265/30R22. The standard air suspension has been lowered via DLC lowering module from KW. Due to the utilization of a WLAN module, the lowering of the air suspension can be individually adjusted using an iPhone application.

As mentioned, the A8 is powered by the 4.2 litre V8 engine, which produces as a standard 321 horsepower (236 kW) and 445 Nm (328 lb-ft) of torque. Here, Senner Tuning found the optimization potential and increased the power to 397 hp (292 kW). In addition, the maximum torque number also got bigger to the 477 Newton meters.

The tuners has spotted an interesting side effect after the performance increase: in spite of this additional performance, the A8 uses on average between 1.5 and 2.0 litres less petrol per 100 km. At last they have rounded the performance intervention by two new sport air filter inserts and a power converter.

The exhaust gases are processed by an in-house stainless steel exhaust gas system, which features a presilencer with a 100 mm end pipe to the right and left. The exhaust system has an EU operating permit (ABE) and produces great sound. The final step was to give the luxury car red painted brake calipers and LED number plate lighting.

Source: Senner Tuning

September 17, 2014

McLaren 650S Sprint to Debut at the Penultimate Round of the GT Cup Race

McLaren 650S Sprint will make an official dynamic debut at this weekend’s penultimate round of the GT Cup race at Donington Park in the United Kingdom. A month ago, McLaren has unveiled the 650S Sprint at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This weekend’s race marks the European debut of the car. 650S Sprint was developed and optimized specifically for the track, and now its eligibility to race in the NARRA US GT series, the SCCA GT Championship and the UAE GT series, has been confirmed.

The extremely fast vehicle will contest three races during the weekend: one sprint race with a driver-change on Saturday, followed by two shorter events on Sunday, where the drivers will be contesting one complete race each. Behindd the steering wheel will be the McLaren GT factory driver Rob Bell, who returns to the Von Ryan Racing team after running at this year’s Total 24 Hours of Spa in the 12C GT3.

Furthermore, Bell has also been included in the development of the 650S Sprint, so that he can have a thorough knowledge of the track-only racer. Next to the driver will be sitting the experienced Nürburgring-racer and journalist Lomas, who has shown good pace in testing ahead of the event.

McLaren 650S Sprint is based on the road-going 650S. It features aerodynamically enhanced design, delivering increased levels of downforce, and revised air intakes that offer better cooling of the 3.8-litre twin-turbo M838T engine. The 650S roadcar and the 650S Sprint share the same unique engine and transmission calibration, which will also result in enhanced on track drivability and driver engagement. Other important improvements include new developments to the Brake Steer system, more refined aerodynamics and a race set-up for the ProActive Chassis Control (PCC).

McLaren 650S Sprint has a starting price of £198,000 and is currently on sale.

Source: McLaren

September 17, 2014

GGR has new Performance Package for Ford Fiesta ST

The performance specialists at Graham Goode Racing (GGR) are introducing their new performance tuning package for the 182 hp (134 kW) Ford Fiesta ST hot hatch. Last year they have released the mind-blowing 225 hp (165 kW) package, and now they are going a step further. GGR continued their development work on the Fiesta ST, using all of their BTCC turbocharged engineering experience to improve the performance of the 1.6-litre Ecoboost direct injection engine. At the same time they have managed to drastically lower the price point of the conversion.

As a result, the tuning company has released the GGR ST240 package, which comprises of an all-new High Flow Direct Air Induction System and a ‘Smooth Flow’ Air Induction hose allied to an entirely revised ECU remap from electronics experts Superchips. The ECU remapping is delivered via the well-proven bluefin handset.

The combination of these components results in a boost of Fiesta ST’s engine power to the blistering 240 hp (176 kW) and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque. Despite the increase in these numbers, the standard Ford exhaust system and catalytic converter weren’t change in order to ensure MOT emissions compliance.

The standard air filter box on the Ford ST is essentially the same as used in all Fiesta models and this obviously the limits airflow into the 1.6-litre Ecoboost engine. In addition, the standard air filter outlet pipe is very restrictive and uses convoluted sections. These are also very disruptive to air flow.

GGR has found a solution for this by creating a special High-Flow Direct Air Induction System and matching silicone air induction hose to eradicate the restrictions of the standard components. The result of course is greatly increased inlet flow.

The aforementioned system comprises of a large cone K&N filter element, which fits into a special spun aluminium trumpet assembly with a CNC machined mounting for the Ecoboost engine’s Mass Air Flow sensor. The cold air feed to the GGR High-Flow Direct Induction system channels air from the standard position at the front of the car, utilizing a special ABS plastic moulding to feed air directly to the cone filter.

There is no restriction to the incoming air due to the added large K&N air filter. The incoming air is then directed into the inlet hose and through the Ecoboost motor’s Mass Air Flow sensor by the special trumpet shaped section.

The tuning company’s air induction hose is moulded from smooth walled 4-ply silicone throughout. This also removes any restriction and prevents any disruption to the Ecoboost engine intake.

GGR Fiesta ST240 conversion package also features engine management system calibration or the so called ECU. For this part of the modification, GGR customizers have collaborated with long-term automotive performance electronics specialists at Superchips.

Comparison Engine Performance Figures:

Standard Ford Fiesta ST	Power 180 bhp	Torque 290 Nm
GGR Fiesta ST 240	Power 240 bhp	Torque 343 Nm

Source: Graham Goode Racing

September 17, 2014

Dinan’s Performance Tuner Just Got The Newest BMW M’s Faster

Dinan’s objective is designing a sophisticated technology to provide the ability to control and enhance the engine performance, with no threat to voiding your car warranty coverage. The system doesn’t interfere with the on-board diagnostic systems.

New applications are constantly being introduced for the Dinantronics Performance Tuner because the final objective is applying this system in all BMW line-ups. However the tune is now available for the M series. The F80 M3 and F82/83 M4 already equipped with the tune reach maximum power of 516 hp (384 kW), 489 lb.-ft. (662 Nm) of torque, are now faster than ever. Including the F22 M235i, F30 335i, F32/33/36 435i, F10 535i, F07/10 550i, F06/12/13 650i, F01/02 750i, F10 M5 (STD & Competition Package), and the F06/12/13 M6 (STD & Competition Package) are some of the models compatible with the system. Only talented engineers are capable of designing the Dinan Difference, keeping the engine power at its top and giving it even more power at the same time.

This state-of-the-art system is designed with the most advanced hardware and best possible components, which visible component is elaborate wiring harness. All plug in devices send a modified signal to the factory ECU. Afterwards the factory ECU raises the boost presure if it is below target values. BMW fans are provided with additional performance without sacrificing other care features. The Dinantronics Performance Tuner is capable of sending signals to divers other systems in the car at the mind blowing 4000 times per second. Moreover, a higher level of drivability and lighter running conditions are achieved, which is what Dinan is all about.

Source: Dinan

September 17, 2014

Honda Civic Returns for MY2015

Honda Civic comes back for the 2015 model year even more stylish and equipped than before. Joining the Civic family for 2015 is a new Special Edition (SE) sedan, which is positioned between the already known LX and EX. This car will deliver to its occupant exclusive telematics, audio, comfort, convenience and style upgrades. In the 2014 model year, the Civic lineup has received more than enough upgrades. For instance it features redesigned exterior (for the Coupe), new wheel designs, interior refinements, a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) as well as a host of available premium features.

Of course Honda has retained all of them for MY2015. Important to mention from the list of standard features on the 2015 Civic are the rearview camera with guidelines, expanded view driver’s mirror and Bluetooth HandsFreeLink. The optional equipment here includes 7-inch capacitive touch-screen Display Audio, HondaLinkTM next-generation connected-car technology, LaneWatch display and Smart Entry with Push Button start.

The continuously variable transmission is available on the Civic Sedan LX, Civic Coupe LX and EX. They come as a standard with slick shifting five-speed manual transmission. In contrast CVT comes as a standard on all other trims, thus enhancing the responsiveness of the Civic’s 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine. It provides quick and smooth acceleration, while its wide ratio range and low internal friction provide better fuel efficiency.

The new addition, 2015 Civic Sedan SE, comes equipped with the CVT, 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels with black painted inserts, Honda LaneWatchTM, automatic climate control, Display Audio with next-generation HondaLink and additional tweeter speakers. In the fall, all of the aforementioned trim levels will be joined by the Civic Si Sedan and Coupe, Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas in the fall. The Sedan SE specification will also be available in the fall.

2015 Honda Civic range is offered at the following prices:

TRIM	MSRP1	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings2 (city/highway/combined)

Civic Coupe LX 5MT	$18,290	28/36/31
Civic Coupe LX CVT	$19,090	30/39/33
Civic Coupe EX 5MT	$20,390	28/36/31
Civic Coupe EX CVT	$21,190	29/38/33
Civic Coupe EX-L CVT	$22,640	29/38/33
Civic Coupe EX-L Navi CVT	$24,140	29/38/33
Civic Sedan LX 5MT	$18,490	28/36/31
Civic Sedan LX CVT	$19,290	30/39/33
Civic Sedan SE CVT	$19,990	30/39/33
Civic Sedan EX CVT	$21,190	30/39/33
Civic Sedan EX-L CVT	$22,840	30/39/33
Civic Sedan EX-L Navi CVT	$24,340	30/39/33
Civic Sedan HF CVT	$20,040	31/41/35

Source: Honda

September 17, 2014

Red Bull professional drifter Mad Mike Whiddett and KW suspensions team up

One of the most exciting drivers in the world, Mad Mike Whiddett, who displays incredible speed on the track is breathtaking. He is in partnership with “Red bull” and “Mazda Motors” proven himself by driving his “BADBUL quad-rotor Mazda RX7”. By winning the Goodwood Festival of Speed Hillclimb, as well as winning multiple championships he deserved his title “Most Exciting Driver 2014”.

The best suspension solution suggested by KW, Competition 3-way Race Dampers, moreover adding the KW 3-Way upgrade, a four-rotor, twin turbo engine capable of producing 1,200 horsepower is going to boost Mad Mike’s most recent project ‘RADBUL’ Mazda MX5 which becomes one of the best drift cars in the world, thanks to the partnership with KW.

KW Competition 3-way Dampers are engineered only for international and national motor sports such as VLN (which is amateur motor sport) and FIA Touring Car Championship. The dampers are designed and based on a mono-tube damping construction, along with a separate adjustable compression reservoir canister. Adding to that, you are free to adjust and mount the compression reservoirs away from the dampers.

This teaming up of KW suspension and Mad Mike is on the verge of changing the “BADBUL” and “RADBUL” in a good way making it even better.

Source: Mazda

September 17, 2014

Honda’s Jazz Prototype To Be Unveiled At Paris Motor Show

By releasing some teaser images of the all new – Jazz prototype, Honda is going to exhibit its newest model next month at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

Little is known about the interior, at this point, except that it is sophisticated and stylish. The outer dimensions are improved, with new dimension, now being 15 mm longer and with wheelbase 30 mm longer which makes the Jazz prototype even more spacious.

With Honda giving its best to deliver its customers benefits in terms of flexibility, storage space design and cabin practicality its models are becoming more and more luxurious, comfortable and faster with the Jazz prototype first in the line.The new Jazz will be featured with Honda’s newest seats delivering an even more exquisite and convenient ride for both the driver and passengers, with an all new unique suspension system.

The new 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol “Earth Dreams Technology” engine, aided by a six-speed manual or a CVT transmission which is equipped in the upcoming Honda Jazz prototype, will provide its owners higher performance and improved fuel economy.

The Jazz prototype is hitting the market this summer 2015, unfortunately further information will be unveiled during Honda’s debut at the 2014 Mondial de l‘Automobile in Paris on Thursday 2 October.

Source: Honda

September 17, 2014

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