Automobiles Review – Page 491 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Suzuki Introduces Dualjet Technology to Swift Model

Suzuki Swift will deliver improved fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions. The reason for this is the addition of new engine for the popular Swift model. The 1.2-litre petrol unit is planned to be introduced next year. This engine incorporates Suzuki’s latest technology that uses twin fuel injectors in order to deliver better fuel economy. This new technology is called Dualjet and it has resulted in Swift achieving 65.7 mpg on the EC combined fuel consumption cycle.

Precisely, this is an improvement of 9.2 mpg or 16 percent over the current petrol engine. The other benefit of Dualjet technology is the reduced CO2 emissions, which are now rated at 99g/km. In addition, the Dualjet technology positions the fuel injectors very close to the engine inlet valves. This allows for a finer fuel atomisation or mixture, which in turn provides more effective transfer into the cylinder.

Furthermore, internal modifications to the unit feature the utilization of a new type of inlet port and combustion chamber with other mechanical parts. This minimizes frictional losses and facilitate smoother running.

Other changes have been made to the piston crowns have. They have been modified with a slight bowl shape to deliver higher air turbulence inside the cylinder. In addition, the pistons have cooling oil jets to help reduce internal temperatures.

The future Swift will also benefit from a new type of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. It will be utilized in order to help avoid abnormal combustion or ‘knocking’. These modifications have resulted in a higher compression ratio of 12.0:1 versus 11.0:1 for the current engine.

The new 1.2-litre petrol unit produces a maximum of 90 hp (66 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. When compared to the previous petrol unit, which delivers 94 hp (69 kW) and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 4,800 rpm, this accounts for subtle changes, but in improved fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

Other modifications feature slight alterations to gear ratios for greater flexibility on the road, and the addition of Engine Auto Stop Start (EASS). The Dualjet technology will initially be available as an optional engine choice on the Swift SZ4 two wheel drive models. Pricing will be confirmed closer to introduction.

Source: Suzuki

September 11, 2014

Evanta Shows First Official Barchetta Sketch Ahead of its Premiere

Evanta Barchetta is a joint project which will make its official world premiere at the Goodwood revival motor show, which will happen this weekend. The car has been manufactured by Evanta, and it has currently revealed the one and only official image of the Barchetta so far. The Evanta Barchetta is a 2-seater open top speedster, which has a design obviously inspired by the cars made in 1950s. Just take a look at its sleek and sweeping curves. Its low profile shows its Anglo-Italian parentage.Each vehicle of the Evanta Barchetta will be designed and built in Britain. It will be hand-crafted using traditional coach building methods, which include a composite kevlar body on a tubular frame. There will also be an alternative model available, which will come in an aluminium body.The Barchetta will be powered by its potent 6.2L engine, producing 450 hp (330 kW). Given the fact that this vehicle features a light frame, the engine contributes towards car’s exceptional agility. The unit will be mated to either an automatic or manual gearbox.The good new is that although the Bachetta will be built in Britain, the company will produce both left- and right-hand drive variants. Production will be strictly limited imited to 99 composite bodied vehicles and 49 aluminium bodied vehicles.The price of the Evanta Barchetta is yet to be confirmed. It is expected to be around £125,000 for the composite and £165,000 for the aluminium variant. Following the release of the Barchetta, the Evanta has announced plans to launch a GT concept car in the spring of next year.

September 11, 2014

Mercedes-AMG GT: A Perfect Combination of Sportiness, Style and Everyday Life

The more you look at this car, the more you like it. Mercedes-AMG GT combines the pure sport race feeling with the everyday feeling of a car. Full LED headlights and 18 rear lights give the car a mean look. The turning signal is showing its direction by a running signal in the direction its turned on. I like the single blade that cuts into the middle of the grill and the awesome AMG badge. We also have the A-Wing concept on the spoiler and in the front. Glossy black comes with the color of the GT as well as for the GTS. The car looks amazing in every available color.

With a brand new V.8 bi-turbo engine developed specifically for the GT is being placed very low in the car. To reduce the height it has been put a turbocharger. This helps to achieve a very low car and a low hood and at the same time to have big engine. A spoiler on the rear that moves up and down if you push a button inside the cabin or the car moves fast enough. The GT traditionally goes with a 19-inch alloy wheels both in the front and at the rear with 255/35 R 19 and 295/35 R 19 tyres. While the GTS is provided with 19-inch in the front side with 265/35 R 19 tyres and 20-inch in the rear with 295/30 R 20 tyres. As an available option, you can order high-performance carbon ceramic brakes.

Numerous, usual safety assistance system are equipped such as: Collision prevention assist plus, adaptive break and attention assist. There are additional extras available, some of which include: Adaptive Highbeam Assist, PRE-SAFE® system, PARKTRONIC, Reversing camera, Lane Tracking package including Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist (included in COMAND Online).

Looked from the side, the AMG looks a little bit like the SLS. However it has a longer hood and its trunk is a lot smaller.

In the interior we notice a sophisticated instrument cluster with a 360 km/h (223 mph) speedometer with a black “nappa” leather coated steering wheel. The AMG emblem is embedded in the center of the big V shaped armrest with 8 buttons on it (which reminds us of the V.8). An exciting new feature is a glass roof opens up above. The cabin feels a little tight along with the long hood, reminding of the SLS model. Four air vans are positioned before the armrest which gives the interior a unique sporty look. The seats are sporty themed as well, but in the same time they are extremely comfortable. Also the new GT comes with a bonus sound system

GTS has 375 kW (510 hp) at at 6250 rpm with a max. torque of 650 Nm (479 lb.-ft.) at 1750-4750 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 9.4 l/100 km (30 mpg UK) with 219 g CO2 emissions per km, This amazing ride accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 s with the breathtaking top speed of 310 km/h (192 mph).

On the other side, we have the GT model. This one is a little bit slower. Although slower it doesn’t mean it is less important than the GTS. The Mercedes- AMG GT rounds up 340 kW (462 hp)at 6000 rpm with max. torque of 600 Nm (442 kW) at 1600-5000 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is 9.3 l/100 km (30 mpg) UK. This model releases up to 216 g/km of CO2 emissions. As far as for the acceleration, it reaches 0-100 km/p (62 mph) in 4.0 s with top speed of 304 km/h (188 mph).

Pricing will be available around the 6^th of October, even though it will hit the market in Spring 2015. Additional details will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.

Source: Mercedes

September 10, 2014

BMW 2 Series Convertible – a new beginning

This is the first BMW 2 Series Convertible. A perfect combination of sportiness and open air feeling in the premium compact class. It is a typical BMW convertible. The flat shoulder profile combines at the athletic appeal of the BMW 2 Series Coupe with an elegant appearance.

The front is well known from the BMW 2 Series Coupe and of course it’s a typical BMW. At first look, you notice the three-dimensional kidney grill which is augmented by the slender bar around the frame and the double round headlights. Taking a look at the astounding rear of the vehicle, you notice the horizontal lines, in combination with the tail lights and the low rear end.

Safety and design can coexist together, that shows us the fully-integrated roll-over protection.
The dynamic shape of the engine hood gives the car a distinct forward orientation. The belt line runs almost parallel to the road and makes the care look longer. This appearance is supported by the almost horizontal trunk lid which creates an elegant silhouette.

The interior boasts with high refinement with high gloss center stack and the chrome elements around the air grill. BMW “ConnectedDrive” allows online entertainment, with instant access to over 22 million songs, its almost impossible not to find one’s favorite song. This car offers a huge driver system package to make your driving even safer along with the usual intelligence services and apps.

BMW presents an optimized “Efficient Dynamics” engine. The new diesel generation is stronger and high performance brake system. For instance here are some of the models’ characteristics:

The BMW 220d Convertible: It delivers 140 kW (190 hp) at 4,000 rpm with max. Torque of 400 Nm (296 lb.-ft.) at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. This model reaches from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mp/h) in 7.5 seconds, automatic: 7.4 seconds. Average fuel consumption is 4.7 – 4.4 (4.4 – 4.1) litres/100 kilometers and 60.1– 64.2 (64.2–68.9) mpg imp. The ride’s top speed is 225 km/h (140 mph).

At the top of sportiness is BMW M235i Convertible: With its 240 kW (326 hp) at 5,800 – 6,000 rpm, max. torque of 450 Nm (332 lb.-ft.) at 1,300 – 4,500 rpm. With a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mp/h), the car reaches 0 – 100 km/h (62 mp/h) in 5.2 seconds and, if automatic: 5.0 seconds. The average fuel consumption is 8.5 (7.9) litres /100 kilometers / 33.2 (35.8) mpg imp.

Another model is the BMW 228i Convertible: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine and High Precision Direct Injection, its capacity output is 180 kW(245 hp) at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm with max. torque: 350 Nm (258 lb.-ft.) at 1,250 – 4,800 rpm. Average fuel consumption is 6.8 (6.6) litres/100 kilometers and 41.5 (42.8) mpg imp. A top speed of 250 km/h (155 mp/h), it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mp/h) in 6.1 seconds (automatic: 6.0 seconds).

The BMW 220i Convertible’s capacity is 135 kW (184 hp) at 5,000 – 6,250 rpm; max. Torque is 270 Nm (199 lb.-ft.) at 1,250 – 4,500 rpm.Accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mp/h) in 7.5 seconds if the gear box is automatic: in 7.6 seconds. top speed reaches 231 km/h (143 mp/h).Average fuel consumption is about 6.8 – 6.5 (6.4 – 6.2) litres/100 kilometers and 41.5 – 43.5 (44.1–45.6 ) mpg imp.

Some of the BMW 2 Series Convertible models can be equipped with “BMW X drive”. For the first time a four-wheel-drive is now available for convertible of the premium compact class.An acoustics, folding roof top which reduces noise can be opened or closed is 20 seconds while driving at 50 km/h (30 mp/h).

The trunk volume with opened roof, you get about 280 liters (74 gallons) of space and with a closed roof 335 liters (88 gallons). Another function is the optimized through loading function, with width of 45 cm. you are able to transport even larger objects.

The BMW 2 Convertible is for sure the most dynamic in its area. Prepare for a nice driving pleasure, and fantastic design and option to individualize your car.

The new BMW 2-Series Convertible is expected to hit the market in February, 2015. The pricing starts from $38,850 for the 228i model in the US and goes up to $48,650 for the top-of-range M235i.

On the UK market, the entry level model is 220i starting from £29,180 and the M235i will be £37,710.

Source: BMW

September 10, 2014

World’s First 3D-Printed Car is Here! [VIDEO]

It will be the end of the automotive world as we know it, when the world’s first 3D-printed car drives out of McCormick Place in Chicago. During the six day event of International Manufacturing Technology Show, the vehicle will be printed over 44 hours then rapidly assembled by a team led by Local Motors. Then there will be a historic first drive set that will take place in the morning of September 13th.

The car carries the name “Strati” and it will be 3D printed in one piece with the utilization of direct digital manufacturing (DDM). And this is definitely history, because for the first time this method has been used to make a car.

And if you wonder how the mechanical components such as battery, motor, wiring, and suspension will be printed, well – they won’t. They will be sourced from various suppliers, including Renault’s electric Twizy.

The hopes for the Strati are to change the manufacturing status quo as well as consumer’s experience. It is also an example for the development of technology nowadays and how a car can be born in an entirely different way.

The innovative vehicle uses the material science and advanced manufacturing techniques pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The 3D printing will also contribute to faster and innovative manufacturing solutions.

The machine behind this project is called BAAM, which stands for Big Area Additive Manufacturing machine. Its deposition rate of 40 pounds per hour of carbon reinforced ABS plastic and its large size allow for 3D printing of larger parts.

Strati will be displayed at AMT’s Emerging Technology Center. Local Motors, is a platform, which empowers anyone to design, build, and sell machines. It combines global co-creation and local micro-manufacturing to bring hardware innovations faster to the market. The Company is created by community of enthusiasts, hobbyist innovators and professionals which have gathered together to solve complex mechanical problems. Currently, Local Motors have plans to launch production-level 3D-printed vehicles for purchase from the general public. This will probably happen several months after the show.

httpv://youtu.be/daioWlkH7ZI

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Local Motors

September 10, 2014

2017 Cadillac Vehicles to be Equipped with new Vehicle Technologies

Cadillac has announced that in two years it will begin offering advanced “intelligent and connected” vehicle technologies. The announcement was made by General Motors CEO Mary Barra this Sunday during her keynote address at the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) World Congress in Detroit. Some of Cadillac’s 2017 model year vehicles will offer the advanced driver assist technology called Super Cruise.

In addition, the 2017 Cadillac CTS will be equipped with vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology. Barra said that General Motors is taking these giant leaps forward to remain a leader of new technology, and because of customer’s demand. The ultimate goal is through technology and innovation to make driving safer.

Super Cruise is just a working name for GM’s automated driving technology. It will offer customers a new type of driving experience, including hands-off lane following, braking and speed control. What is more, this system has been created in order to bring about more comfort to the attentive driver on freeways, both in bumper-to-bumper traffic and on long road trips.

Next, the V2V communication technology could help reducing many traffic collisions and improve traffic congestion. It will make this possible via sending and receiving basic safety information such as location, speed and direction. In this way it will warn drivers and it can also supplement active safety features, such as forward collision warning.

httpv://youtu.be/T7OHUXkMqZ8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Cadillac

September 10, 2014

2015 KIA Forte

What I love about the 2015 KIA Forte is its five doors. Perfectly suited for recreational lifestyle or if you just need room for work or play, the hatchback provides excellent versatility. What makes this car a number one seller, is that it combines in a long list of standard equipment with incredible value starting at just $23,980.

The Forte comes in a four-door sedan; two-door coupe. It has three trim levels: The “LX” with a 1.8-liter engine, starting at just $20,980. Its equipment is often found on higher trim levels. Like standard AC power equipment, heated wipers, body colored mirrors and door handles. The next trim level is the sporty “EX” which has a more powerful 2.0-liter engine.

Let’s move to the SX model which comes with the highest training equipment level. In addition to the long list of standard equipment, like navigation, sunroof and duo climate control, it comes standard with the all-new 1.6-liter, 201 hp (149 kW) turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A choice of either six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shift on the steering wheel.

When you combine KIA’s aggressive rebates and finance programs with this long list of standrat equipment, you won’t be disappointed. The EX comes with 2-liter 173 hp (129 kW) gas direct injection engine with an automatic transmission that provides superior handling. Inside the cabin we immediately notice a sophisticated leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls, including cruise control and hands-free Bluetooth, rear center console in 60/40 rear back seat and auto-dimming rear view mirror. KIA has also installed an UVO infotainment system, as well as rear view backup camera which helps you maneuver the car with an ease in reverse gear.

As for as the exterior the Forte has automatic headlights.The hatchback versatility, it comes with an optional sunroof, as well as the famous five-year “worry free” comprehensive warranty that basically covers everything on the vehicle.17-inch alloy wheels, outside chrome door handles and molding.

KIA never compromises on safety. The Forte comes with ADS brakes, Hill Assist Control, Electronic Stability and Traction Control and available rear view camera on “EX” and “SX” trims.The trunk is really spacious with a large cargo friendly rear hatch.

The line between luxury, practicality and fun is really thin in the 2015 KIA Forte. If you are looking for a fast, luxurious and stylish car the Forte is your best bet.

Source: KIA

September 10, 2014

Nissan Project Titan is Ready to Conquer Alaska’s Wilderness [VIDEO]

Nissan Project Titan is world’s first crowd-sourced truck. Nissan has handed over the build to their Facebook fans and now the custom ultimate off-road machine is to take two heroic Wounded Warrior Project Alumni across Alaska. The project is based on a 2014 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X. Fans have voted on 10 different areas of customization in order to assist the company to conquer Alaskan wilderness. There were three stages in the development of the vehicle. Along the way, fans have voted giving the company direction for almost every inch of the truck.

The exterior appearance of the Titan is adorned by a “Recon Titan” wrap, which is a digital-camouflage design that pays tribute to some of the most capable vehicles in the military. In addition, the fans have chosen a NISMO cold-air intake and Borla cat-back exhaust system, which open up airflow on both ends of the vehicle’s powertrain – the Endurance 5.6-liter V-8 engine.

On the Alaskan landscape, the Titan will be running on 18-inch Fuel Revolver D525 wheels wrapped in 35-inch Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires. During the night, it will illuminate its way via Bulldog LED Lighting, while the ARB Deluxe Bull Bar will deliver additional protection.

The interior of the vehicle has been also customized. The shifter and steering wheel have been refreshed, while the seats got new rugged Katzkin leather-wrap as well as Wounded Warrior Project embroidery. Coordinated tan stitching can be seen on the seats, steering wheel and door panels.

Fans have also added utility to the experience. Precisely, Project Titan tows a customized camping trailer which includes a camp-style kitchen, tent, water/fuel storage and a spare tire.

Currently, the truck has been fully prepared and already arrived in Alaska. Iraqi war veterans and Wounded Warrior Project Alumni David Guzman and Kevin McMahon will trek over mountains and through valleys in the ultimate Titan. Of course, Nissan will document the adventure, with a YouTube series set to launch this fall. If you want to follow the team’s journey just visit Nissan’s Trucks Facebook page.

Unfortunately, this custom Nissan Project Titan won’t enter production or be available for purchase.

Source: Nissan

September 10, 2014

Honda HR-V is Small SUV Debuting at Paris Motor Show

Honda has revealed the first official images and details around the HR-V Prototype. This is company’s new small SUV intended only for European customers. In fact, the vehicle has been introduced in Japan last year at the Tokyo Motor Show., but under a different name – Vezel. The HR-V will have a world premiere at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, which is to happen next month. The small crossover features a unique design, which echoes that of a coupe.

HR-V sports sharp and dynamic lines that effortlessly link to its sleek upper body with the stable and planted lower body. The SUV has clean lines are additionally complemented by hidden rear door handles, which lends the model even sportier presence. The car will be smaller than the CR-V, but will be still perfect for utilization in both the city and mountain roads.

The elegant exterior appearance of the car is continued inside. The interior practicality of the car was achieved due to the addition of a centre fuel tank. Honda states that the fuel tank’s location creates one of the most spacious and adaptable small SUV cabins.

But that is not all: Honda Magic Seats make great use of this versatility. They enable a wide range of seating configurations. In addition, they provide the ability to fold the second row seats completely flat for added cargo space.

The Vezel, which is currently on sale in Japan, is offered with two powertrain options, so we are expecting to see something similar for the European market. In details, the first one is the 1.5-liter direct-injected VTEC four-cylinder unit, and the second is a hybrid system that utilizes the same engine coupled with an electric motor.

More details on Honda HR-V will be announced during company’s press conference at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile on 2^nd of October.

Source: Honda

September 10, 2014

Vauxhall to Introduce New Model Called Viva Next Summer

Vauxhall Viva is a future five-door entry-level model, which the company is set to introduce to us the summer next year. The vehicle will be part of Vauxhall’s small car range and this means that it will be accompanying the popular and fashionable A-sector icons: the ADAM and the Corsa supermini. In addition, the company is also promising to offer Viva at extremely attractive price tag.

What Vauxhall has revealed so far is that the future Viva will have a five-door body style and will accommodate up to five or four occupants, meaning that it will come with either four or five seats. The car will hold great appeal in this rapidly growing sector, thanks to its great specifications and range of trims and equipment levels.

Vauxhall is also hoping that the bold and radical name “Viva” of the car will attract attention and engender curiosity. Precisely, Viva is an acclamation or salutation that comes from Latin. It still has ameaning in neo-Latin languages such as Spanish, Portuguese and Italian, and means “Long live… !” or more literally “Live!”.

Furthermore, the name of the five-door model also pays tribute to Vauxhall’s original Viva, which was produced between the years 1963 and 1979 in over 1.5 million examples. The car will feature a design adequate for the contemporary everyday life and will share the original’s clean lines, durability and practicality.

Unlike Vauxhall, Opel will introduce the car in different name, which will be announced tomorrow, and we are also hoping to get more details.

Source: Vauxhall

September 10, 2014

2015 Toyota Tundra: A Combination of Toughness and Luxury

2015-Toyota-Tundra-t 2015-Toyota-Tundra-651 After a complete redesign, the 2015 Toyota TRD Pro package hits the market. This package consist of suspension upgrade. Tuned for off-road capability, but can pretty much give you a good ride on the road as well.

Very durable and capable truck with a brand new grill added. Blacked-out badging , the black wheels kinda set with that aggressive look. As far as for the suspension, you have an increased ride height in the front, up to 2-inches depending on the vehicle.

We all know how well a V8 would fit in a Tundra model. For 2015, this Toyota comes with the 4.6-liter i-Force V8 that reaches out 310 hp (231 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 327 lb.-ft. (443 Nm) of peak torque at 3,400 rpm. The 5.7-liter i-Force V8 is considered one of the top when it comes to pickup segment. It produces 381 hp (284 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. (543 Nm) of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. If you want a variation of the 5.7-liter, you can get it, because it is available in both Flex Fuel and gasoline variants. Tundra’s pickup trucks can handle up to 10,500-lb. (4762 kg) towing capacity. It is, in my opinion unmatched. Tundra comes with 18-inch steel wheels, first class 4-wheel disc brakes.

For such a though pickup truck, the Tundra surprises us with very unique features in the interior, like stitching on the the door panel, as well as red stitching on the exquisite seats. Aerodynamic stabilizer is used for reducing the air turbulence along the car. The tailgate lowers gradually and if needed, it can easily be removed when necessary. All models come with a standard back-up camera, making it easier to park your car. Tundra raises the bar for safety again with the available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Limited CrewMax, Platinum and 1794 Edition), which detects vehicles not visible using mirrors alone.

Source: Toyota

September 9, 2014

Lexus Updates 2015 RC F With Even More Powerful Engine [VIDEO]

2015 Lexus RC F which debuted at 2014 NAIAS event is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced … until now. Lexus has just revealed that the RC F is getting an engine update that will endow it with even more horsepower. The new coupe will develop 477 horsepower (351 kW) from its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. Compared to the version introduced in the beginning of the year, this one is getting 27 hp (21 kW) additional strength.

Furthermore, the new engine will develop nearly 13 per cent more power than the IS F engine on which it is based. And these simple facts are making the new RC F driven by the most powerful Lexus V8 engine in the company’s history.

The 5.0-litre, 32-valve engine features new cylinder heads and lighter moving parts. These additions contribute towards an increase of the maximum power by 40kW, and maximum revolutions increased from 6600 to 7300rpm.

The updated RC F will be also fitted with an intelligent engine management system, which will allows the drivetrain to switch between Atkinson and Otto cycle. The result will be conserved fuel while coasting or delivering maximum power when required. 2015 Lexus RC F V8 is scheduled for launch during the first quarter of 2015.

httpv://youtu.be/UAGKMhH9r2g

Video Source: YouTube
Source: Lexus

September 9, 2014

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