Automobiles Review – Page 493 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Porsche Macan by German Special Customs

German-Special-Customs-Porsche-Macan-651

German Special Customs has presented their latest tuning project based on the sporty crossover – Porsche Macan. The tuning specialists is now offering only a styling package for the “baby-SUV” from Porsche.

The exterior boasts a complete wide body kit including a new front bumper, extended wheel arches connected to enormous side skirts and a new rear bumper. The engine hood is also modified with a distinctive power dome. Other highlights include a new roof spoiler, a massive rear apron with air outlets and big diffuser. Last, but not least is the set of 22” light allow wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

All parts are TUV certified and come with limited warranty. Pricing is available upon request.

The engine range of Porsche Macan includes a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 258HP (190 kW) for the S Diesel model, a 340HP (250 kW) for S gasoline and the powerful Macan Turbo powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.6 liter V6 – 400HP (294 kW). 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (4.6 seconds with Sport Chrono package) and a top speed of 266 km/h (165 mph). The fuel consumption is decent 9.2 liters / 100 km (30.7 mpg UK or 25.6 mpg US)and CO2 emissions of 216 g/km.

Source: German Special Customs

September 8, 2014

Zagato Shows Aston Martin Virage Shooting Brake at Concours D’Elegance

2014 Aston Martin Virage Shooting Brake Zagato debuted this weekend at the Concours D’Elegance. This is a one-of-a-kind car, which was commissioned by a client based in Europe, who desired an atelier-level, collectible modern car. As you can see this car features a bespoke cutting-edge Zagato design for this elite Aston Martin vehicle. The car pays homage to Zagato’s artistic tradition as a part of centennial trilogy that started in 2013 with the highly-acclaimed DBS Coupé Zagato Centennial and DB9 Spider Zagato Centennial. This modern interpretation shares similar design cues with the V8 Vantage and Volante of the mid 80s.

In 2013 Zagato paid tribute to Aston Martin’s 100th Anniversary. Back then it revealed the DB9 Spider Zagato Centennial, who was created for the American car collector Peter Read. The DBS Coupe Zagato Centennial was commissioned by a young Japanese collector of modern Zagato cars. Both models were unveiled the same year at Kensington Gardens in London during the official celebration.

After Zagato’s Coupé and Spider, the Shooting Brake is a logical successor. In fact, this is one of the most appreciated body styles, in the Italian and British tradition. Although these cars come to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Aston Martin, Zagato’s Trilogy arrives also in time with its own 95th Anniversary.

Since the 60s, the Shooting Brake body has referred to a luxury coupé, rigorously-styled with two doors and a functional boot space. This body style was created to match drivers’ sport and leisure passions. An interesting fact is that nearly all of the prestigious English marques include a Shooting Brake mode.

To sum up, there are three different Aston Martin donor cars – the DBS, the DB9 and the Virage; there are three different models of body works – Coupè, Spider and Shooting Brake; and there are three clients from three different continents – Asia, America and Europe.

Source: Aston Martin

September 8, 2014

2015 Lexus NX 300h is Rich in New Technologies

2015 Lexus NX 300h is rich in new technologies for driver information, control and on-board entertainment. The new SUV features the first Lexus use of a wireless phone charging tray, G-Monitor and 360-degree Panoramic View system. In addition, another first is the in-car use of ClariFi technology which enhances the music reproduction from compressed digital files. ClariFi also features Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system. The new technology features will defintely make life on board easier, better informed and more enjoyable. NX 300h has a full hybrid powertrain and includes advanced safety and handling systems.

The passengers in the crossover can recharge their smartphones by placing them in a special charging tray located handily between the front seats. And there is no need for a cable connection. The tray comes as a standard with the F Sport and Premier models and is an option in the NX 300h Luxury.

Panoramic View Monitor is a no-cost-option on the NX 300h Premier, thus giving the drivers better reassurance, especially when moving in confined spaces, on or off-road, at speeds up to 12mph (20km/h). An ECU positioned behind the C-pillar monitors input from four interconnected cameras located on the door mirrors, front grille and rear trim.

Then, it processes the images and relays them to the audio and navigation display monitor in a range of seven sequences. The display allows the driver to see the obstacles that would remain concealed in blind spots.

This technology works together with the parking assist system and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. It finds obstacles coming from either side in the driver’s blind spot when reversing out of a parking space.

The next technology is the Remote Touch Interface touchpad on the centre console. It includes features such as the climate control, audio and navigation. NX 300h F Sport is fitted with Lexus’s first G-force sensors, called the G-Monitor. It sends live data to the multi-information display.

At last, 2015 Lexus NX 300h Premier is also equipped as a standard with Mark Levinson Premium Surround System with Clari-fi. The 14-speaker Premium Surround Sound System is the first in-car package to uutilize the Clari-fi. The latter reproduces sound from digital sources, enhancing the quality of music sourced from compressed digital files. The Mark Levinson system package includes a 12-channel Class D amplifier and new Unity technology that places 9cm speakers at each end of the instrument panel.

Source: Lexus

September 8, 2014

McLaren P1 GTR Design Concept with European Debut

McLaren P1 GTR design concept debuted in Europe, specifically at this weekend’s Chantilly Arts & Elegance concours, after it had been unveiled at the Pebble Beach automotive weekend last month. Currently, the development programme for the McLaren P1 GTR continues at pace. McLaren says that this vehicle will be the most track-tailored and powerful model produced by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) up to date.

There are various updates done on the car. Take for instances the power uprate, with an increase in power to 1,000 horsepower. The prototype has been camouflaged and tests race-proven slick tyres with a unique exhaust system. The next stage in the development of the GTR P1 will be the optimization of the aerodynamic performance. The testing will continue even during the winter.

Alongside the McLaren P1 GTR design concept, the company has premiered a unique example of the McLaren 650S. The 650S Coupé has been produced by MSO and commissioned by the McLaren Paris retailer. It is a visually striking example of the mid-engined supercar.

The body of the vehicle has been painted in gleaming Pearl White metallic finish. The same color extends throughout the exterior, including the front splitter, door blades and side intakes. The contrast is made via details such as the roof, lightweight alloy wheels and mirror casings which all have been finished in gloss black.

Furthermore, the body-coloured front bumper and MSO door blades enhance the airflow and optimize the aerodynamic efficiency. In addition, the rear of the car is fitted with an aggressive carbon fibre diffuser which is in contrast to the crisp paintwork. Additional contrast is achieved with a set of five-spoke lightweight forged 650S alloy wheels finished in gloss black.

The interior of this unique 650S is trimmed with lightweight black Alcantara and contrasting orange stitching throughout. Extensive use of carbon fibre can be seen inside as well as a gloss black finish applied to the air vents, instrument cluster and switches on the Active Dynamics Panel.

Source: McLaren

September 8, 2014

Meet the 2016 Audi A6 Range

2016 Audi A6 range has been shown in all its glory, refined and enhanced in terms of styling, equipment, engine performance and efficiency. There cars have undergone various styling revisions, xenon headlamps have been added as a standard for the SE versions, LED headlights for the S line, and the Matrix LED lights are optional for the A6 and S6 and standard for the RS 6 Avant. There are also interior improvements and upgraded infotainment system. The many gains of the new A6 will be also shared by the 2016 A6 allroad, S6, S6 Avant and RS 6 Avant models.

Precisely, revisions have been made to the Singleframe grille, the air inlets, the bumpers, the side sills, the rear lights and the tailpipes. A very exciting highlight here is the addition of xenon headlamps as standard on the A6 SE trim levels. The LED headlights and the dynamic ‘sweeping’ rear indicators are a no-cost option for the S line versions and above.

The Matrix LED headlights incorporate clusters of LED bulbs that can be individually dimmed when sensors detect oncoming or following traffic to automatically divert their beams around obstacles. They are optional for all A6 and S6 variants and standard for the RS 6 Avant.

The spacious interior, which in the Avant is combined with a 565-litre load bay, features new Lunar Silver upholstery and headlining colour choice for S line versions. There are also subtle detail enhancements, including an upgrade from dual-zone to deluxe four-zone climate control, new gear lever designs and additional chrome detailing.

The upgraded infotainment system now features MMI navigation plus and Audi connect elements. Furthermore, the range of driver assistance systems is topped by adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, Audi’s side assist, active lane assist and night vision assistant.

The engine line-up for the 2016 A6 and A6 Avant will comprise four TDI engines with either four or six cylinders and either single or twin turbo charging. The most efficient engine is the 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder which produces 190 hp (140 kW) –and will power the Saloon and Avant. This powerplant returns up to 64 mpg and 114g/km of CO2 emissions.

The trio of 3.0-litre six-cylinder TDI ‘clean diesel’ engines begins with a single-turbo V6 unit. This one produces 218 hp (160 kW) and is followed by a 272 hp (200 kW) variant. At the top of the range stays the 3.0 TDI clean diesel biturbo, which generates 320 hp (235 kW). The last engine is coupled with an eight‑speed tiptronic automatic transmission. All other engine variants are linked to either a six‑speed manual gearbox or a seven‑speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission.

Furthermore, sports suspension has been lowered by 20 mm as a standard for the A6 S line, while this is optional for the SE model. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard. Next, the 2016 Audi A6 allroad Quattro is based on the A6 Avant. This model features a raised body accentuated by wheel arch extensions and stainless steel protectors. It rides on adaptive air suspension with allroad-specific settings and is powered by three 3.0‑litre V6 TDI engines.

Unlike the previous mentioned models, the 2016 Audi S6 and S6 Avant use the 4.0-litre TFSI petrol engine. This is a twin turbo V8 unit which generates 450 hp (331 kW), and can accelerate the Saloon from rest to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, and S6 Avant – in 4.6 seconds. Standard equipment in these models include quattro permanent all‑wheel drive incorporating sports differential and adaptive air suspension and matt black brake calipers grip the front discs mounted behind the 19‑inch wheels.

The top of the A6 family remains the RS6 Avant, which is also driven by the aforementioned engine. This car accelerates to 100 km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 189 mph. An eight‑speed tiptronic transfers the power from the twin turbo V8. The RS adaptive air suspension lowers the body by 20 millimetres, while the large brake discs feature a weight-saving wave design, and the wheels measure 20 inches in diameter.

Source: Audi

September 5, 2014

Citroen DIVINE DS Concept Revealed Ahead of Paris Debut [VIDEO]

Citroen DIVINE DS Concept was just unveiled prior to its official first world appearance at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The car represents a vision of the future for the DS brand and combines sophistication with advanced technology. Through this concept, Citroen also premiers the new ‘Hyper-typage’ interior design, which offers haute couture inspired levels of personalization. Furthermore, the car is equipped with a 10.4 inch HD Touch Drive interface, laser headlights and a holographic display. For this project, the French company has partnered with Swarovski & Lesage embroidery to make the interior even more luxurious and classy.

DIVINE DS is a compact 4-door vehicle which is powered by a 1.6 THP turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine. The unit produces 270 hp (199 kW) at 6,000rpm and 330 Nm (244 lb-ft) of torque between 1,900 and 5,500 rpm. This engine not only delivers excellent performance, but also is Euro 6 compliant, emitting just 145g/km of CO2.

The concept car has unique styling cues. It is elegant and enchanting, and it exterior has been decided in metallic grey. The strong, sensual curves showcase some striking graphic features, such as the ‘DS Wings’ at the front or the dramatic lines on the sides as well as the unique roof design. This DS model measures 4.21 m in length and 1.98 m in width. It also features a low driving position of only 1.35 m height. In the centre, the radiator grille includes floating diamond shapes and provides a place for the DS emblem.

Inside, the interior is as striking as the exterior. The cabin design includes a bold, high-tech layout, expressing the avant-garde design. On passenger’s side, a single continuous drape enfolds the console and dashboard. It forms a twist as it reaches the door inserts. The airy-looking drape enfolds the passenger, while driver’s side is a true example of advanced technology.

The central console sets out the driving functions. Main features include special toggle switches decorated with gemstones and a digital clock with a stone set in its surround in the middle. The rectangular steering wheel resembles more a sculpture rather than a regular steering wheel.

The seats are as futuristic as everything throughout the interior. They are upholstered in full-grain aniline leather. At the rear there aren’t any rear windows, which allow passengers to immerse in an intimate atmosphere.

This Citroen concept also stands for new automotive experience, which is all about exclusive philosophy for personalization, referred to as ‘Hyper-typage’. The cabin of DIVINE DS features three interchangeable interior ambiences. They are based on a dashboard and door scrolls that can be changed in just 15 minutes. The first one is called “Mâle”, which offers a blend of highly masculine materials and pearl stitching in red and black. The second one is “Parisienne Chic”. This one includes full grain ivory-coloured leather allied with pleated silk and satin, which is embroidered with beads and crystals.

The last one is “Fatale Punk” which offers nothing less than bold ambience, with its darker and more glamorous touch. The dominant note is provided by deep black, padded leather studded with crystals. The door panel scrolls are covered in Swarovski fabric. This is a material that shimmers with millions of tiny crystals.

DIVINE DS is a concept with a dynamic and avant-garde design, featuring futuristic headlights combining sequential indicators with laser technology, facets on the roof that open to reveal a reversing camera and optimised aerodynamics. Inside, the ‘cockpit’ driving position and exclusive use of digital systems such as touch screen and holographic display showcase the latest in-car technology. The 20-inch alloy wheels, on which the car runs, have an innovative design with the floating spokes.

The high-tech ‘cockpit’ features HD Touch Drive interface with a spectacular 10.4 inch screen. It is located on the overhead console and includes a function that replaces the rear-view mirror. The driver’s information is in digital form, with a head-up display above the steering wheel, while behind it there is a holographic display.

Citroen DIVINE DS concept was unveiled in Paris yesterday, prior its official premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October. The car will be also displayed at the Chantilly Concours d’Elégance event on 7^th of September.

httpv://youtu.be/9B1VMesowAc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Citroen

September 5, 2014

The BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

BMW is presenting the first front wheel drive car, the all new 2 series Active Tourer. The car measurements are about 4,342 mm long; 1,555 mm in height and 1,800 mm wide, it fits perfectly for city area usage. There are new lightweight turbocharged engines with three and four cylinders. The two models’ specs are as follows (petrol and diesel):

For the BMW 218 i SE priced at £22,150 with 136 hp (101 kW), along with its 220 Nm(162 lb-ft) the ride accelerates from 0 to 62 mph for 9.3 seconds with top speed of 124 mph (199 kph). The car releases 115 CO2 emissions (g/km).
The BMW 218d SE model’s price is £24,205. If we were to compare these two models, in my opinion, this one is the winner. The 150 hp (111 kW) with around 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) allows it to go form 0 to 62 mph for 8.9 seconds. The car’s top speed is a little bit higher than the first model, right about 127 (204 kph) mph, with releasing 109 CO2 emissions (g/km).

Of course there are lots of options with which you can upgrade your ride.Which inevitable leads to spending pay extra cash, but at the end you would have your own uniquely designed exterior. There are four different styles you can choose from, like a sport line for instance. For example bi-LED front and rear headlights which are optional.There will be a choice of manual and automatic gearboxes for most of the engines.

This compact premium car is both luxurious and sporty at the same time. It has a really long wheel base and a high roof line, which all together provide a lot of space inside. Talking about lots of space, when I first saw this car I was amazed how spacious it was, along with its huge trunk. The rear seats can be slide forwards and backwards to alter luggage space behind thus allowing more legroom as well. The doors open widely so it’s easy to get inside.

What I enjoy about the interior is that is well design and functional its red stitching everywhere which gives the car a sporty look. The front and back seats provide a lot of headspace. A 6.5 inch big entertainment display, but very wide. In the middle of the backseats there is an armrest with a little compartment in its back and two cup holders which are able to fit in even big bottles. For a first time there is a full color head-up display which extends between the windscreeen and the steering wheel. This enables the driver the comfort of reading all the necessary safety information he needs without the need to divert their sight from the road.

Spacious, compact premium car The Active Tourer allows you to store up to the amazing 420 kg inside the car, which I must say is a lot.There is another storage under the floor which can fit in about 70 litres. With its large tailgate and flat load floor, the boot can hold up to 486 litres. By folding all rear seats the space increases to 1,510 litres. However I dislike the cupholders placement which is really awkward.

Overall, this BMW is a great family car allowing lots of luggage to be stored. It combines the modern and luxury together with the comfort and style while driving safely on the road.

Source: BMW

September 5, 2014

Kahn Shows Range Rover Evoque Prestige Lux

Kahn Range Rover Evoque Prestige Lux 2.2 SD4 5DR RS Sport is A. Kahn Design’s customized vehicle for this week. The car now features improved visual characteristics and more luxurious interior than ever. To go further into details, the exterior of this beautiful Evoque is decided in Orkney grey color, which lends the Range Rover Evoque RS250 more dramatic and imposing appearance.

In addition, the rear bumper now includes an integrated gloss black diffuser and a central twin cross-hair exhaust system in matt black. At the back, the tuners added a new roof spoiler, lower trunk spoiler, and a piano black tailgate trim.

At the front we can see new LED daytime running lights, a front grille with 3D mesh and sump guard. Piano black was also used for each side – precisely for the door handles, side vents and mirrors. The paint used for the body color was also applied on the wheel arch trims and side sills. Of course, this Land Rover has been equipped with a privacy glass and features a distinctive Kahn lettering on the hood and tailgate.

This Range Rover Evoque is powered by a 2.2-liter turbo diesel inline engine. It produces effortlessly 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) which it sends directly to the all four of the newly-fitted 8.5″ x 20″ RS600 wheels. The latter were finished in matt gun metal. Behind those wheels one can see liquid red-painted brake callipers and a set of lowering springs, which reduce the overall ride height by 20 mm.

Inside, the vehicle has received an extremely luxurious interior. The seats for instance are trimmed in perforated black leather. The same material has been used for the centre glove box. As a contrast the diamond gear selector surround is in piano black, the centre console facia – in carbon finish and the vented foot pedals – in machined aluminium.

A. Kahn Design has also announced that they will soon reveal the Evanta Barchetta at the Goodwood Revival Show. The event will take place on the 12th – 14th of September.

Source: A. Kahn Design

September 5, 2014

Honda Unveils XR-V Crossover Concept in China

Honda XR-V Crossover Concept has been unveiled at the Chengdu International Auto Show. The cutting-edge compact SUV was specifically created for the Chinese market. The new XR-V is a fusion of the latest design concept, and embodies stylish and textured exterior and interior. It is powered by the 1.8L engine as a standard, and also comes at no cost option with a panoramic sunroof. The overall wheelbase of the model is 4275 × 1770 × 1605 mm and features the long axis of 2610 mm, which creates comfort beyond measure.

There is also another engine intended for the XR-V and it is the 1.5L one. Both units promise to deliver sports car driving pleasure. In terms of technology, Honda’s latest SUV is equipped with intelligent screen DA interconnected system, automatic start and stop function, ECON intelligent green energy support system, vehicle stability assist and electronic parking brake system.

Furthermore, the XR-V also features world’s most sophisticated FUNTEC technology and environmental protection. In fact, in terms of visual appearance, this Honda looks similarly to the Vezel. Just take a look at the bodywork, the front end, the grille and bumper. The side flanks however are less swoopy and include more aggressive and edgy wheel arches.

Although the crossover has been dubbed as a concept, we assume that it will soon enter production.

Source: Honda

September 5, 2014

CMC to Build Limited Run of Jaguar Mark 2 by Callum [VIDEO]

Jaguar Mark 2 by Ian Callum has been introduced a few days ago. After the car was launched, an amazing response from car enthusiasts around the world followed. This was the reason Classic Motor Cars Limited (CMC) to announce that they intend too get involved in this amazing project. They will be producing a limited edition run of Mark 2 cars. A little less than a week ago, the car was one-off redesigned Jaguar, who has been working with CMC for more than 18 months on this project. Both parties have retained the integrity of the original Mark 2, whilst making it even more exciting in shape and performance.

The car has been modified in terms of aesthetics and technology, which results in more practicality and driving excitement. Mark 2 is driven by the refined 4.3 litre XK engine that has been coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox. It also features unique independent rear suspension and improved front brakes. This car runs 17” split rim spoke wheels, while its bumpers are part of the overall form.

CMC restorers have worked on the suspension: the front now includes a power assisted rack, uprated coil springs, roll bar and wishbone bushes, adjustable dampers and solid subframe mountings. At the back one can find independent rear suspension with refined coil springs, blade control wishbones, outboard disc brakes, an anti-roll bar and adjustable dampers. The interior was also customized.

Ian Callum himself said that he didn’t believe that this model will get such interest. He made rebuilt and reengineered the vehicle for his personal use and he is delighted with the response, and happy that a few more cars are going to be built.

Jaguar Mark 2 will have a price tag between £350,000 and £375,000.

httpv://youtu.be/da6YFvi4R6w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

September 5, 2014

GeigerCars Dodge Ram 1500

Dodge RAM 1500 is now presented to us with breathtaking variation. In my opinion it’s probably the best looking full-size pick up truck on the road. It was named a “Motor trend truck of the year 2014”, the only vehicle to win that award in back-to-back years.

This award winning, half ton pickup truck is equipped with the new 3.0 liter V6 Common Rail turbo diesel engine, with the maximum performance of 241 hp (179 kW). With a maximum torque peak of 569 Nm (419 lb-ft). Highly manageable consumption rate of just 7.5 liters(100 km), ( 38 mpg UK or 31.3 mpg US), along with a brand new automatic 8-gearbox, pneumatic suspension and huge trailer load of a maximum of 3,500 kg Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 Crew Cab Ram Box 3.0l V6 EcoDiesel, makes us happy and mostly surprised to witness its overwhelming leadership over the Nissan Navara which has a slightly different gearbox of just 7 levels.

What I really like about that Dodge Ram is how wide the doors open with a great entryway. As far as for legroom, there is plenty of space in the backseat position with enough space for your knees, providing enough room to feel as comfortable as you can. The headroom is great, and even better with a indent at the top of the roof line which provides extra room for the taller ones.

The leather interior is what I like as well, with its brown on tan color scheme. A folding armrest placed at the middle of the backseat to which you can lean on, along with a pair of cup holders. There are also two cup holders on the floorboard. An 8.4 inch touchscreen display has all the navigation controls you can access and work on making your driving a lot easier.

The rear view camera position is right next to the handle of the tailgate which allows you to see how close you are to the trailer hitch, assuming you want to attach a trailer or a boat. A few other safety items, like parking sensors positioned all along the rear bumper, along with duo exhaust tips. The Dodge Ram 1500 behaves extremely well and handles itself good in deep snow and rough terrain.

Source: Dodge

September 5, 2014

Larte Design Lexus LX 570 Alligator

Larte Design has unveiled their latest project based on the full-size SUV – Lexus LX 570. The big vehicle has received only styling upgrades giving it improved road presence and style. The name of the project is Alligator for puzzling reason. The luxury crossover is able to carry up to eight passengers.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package made from high-quality fiber-glass. All parts fit perfectly and are painted in body’s original color. There is a new enormous chrome brace under the front guard. There are also new LED DRLs (daytime running lights) specially created by the German supplier – Nolden.

Other highlights include a modified front bumper, a new rear bumper with a diffuser insert in a different color. There are also narrow air slots, chrome exhaust pipes ending the sports exhaust system provided by Remus. It features electronic valve control, which provides drivers with a better range of sounds.

Last, but not least the Larte Lexus LX 570 comes with a set of matt black 22” alloy wheels with a red flange and ultra-wide, off-roader-like spokes. They are fitted with proper tires in order to fit the wheel arches.

The LX 570 is powered by a 5.7 liter V8 engine – 367HP (270 kW) and 530Nm (393 lb-ft) of torque. 0 -100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h (138 mph). The curb weight is 2,719 kg.

Source: Larte Design

September 4, 2014

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