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  • Infiniti Previews Mysterious Car Debuting in Paris

    Infiniti_Paris_Teaser-THUMBThe next news for today from Infiniti is slightly strange. The company has released a teaser image showing the grille and emblem of a future car, as well as a press released which hasn’t got more than 40 words in it. The company has stated in it that it will push the preconceived limits with more style and substance. It also disclosed that it will share a vision – “its soul – on a scale not seen before from the company”.

    The last sentence however says more than the photograph or the text together: “À bientôt.” This French phrase means in English “See you soon”. This clearly had lead us to the thought that the future Infiniti model will debut at the Paris Motor Show, which will take place between 4th and 19th of October.

    Clearly that photograph doesn’t say much about the upcoming vehicle, except for the elegant detailing on the grille pattern. Nevertheless, the grille has almost the same shape like most of the company’s products.

    What we expect, given the image and the scarce details, is that the car will be a concept vehicle rather than a production one. The mystery which keeps us still hanging is the question in what form this vehicle will be.

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2015 Audi TT – UK Price £29,770

    Audi UK has announced the pricing of the new 2015 TT. It starts at just £29,770 (OTR) for the entry level 2.0 TDI ultra Sport 184HP (135 kw) and 6-speed manual gearbox. The top-of-range 2.0 TFSI Quattro S-line 230HP (169 kW) with 6-speed S-tronic automatic transmission is £35,335. For now, the German manufacturer doesn’t offer a performance version of the sports coupe.

    Initially, only a Sport and S-Line trim levels will be available. The standard equipment includes xenon headlights, LED DRLs, a sport suspension and a set of 18” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires. The interior boasts leather and Alcantara sport seats, keyless GO and a digital instrument cluster featuring 12.3” display.

    The S-Line adds LED headlights and stiffened suspension and reduced ride height (-10mm). There is also a complete aerodynamics S-Line package and a set of 19” alloy wheels.

    The options list includes matrix LED headlights, a 12-speaker premium audio system from Bang & Olufsen and a GPS SAT NAV system with internet connectivity.

    The engine range includes a 2.0 liter TDI – 184HP (135 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission which sends power to the front wheels.

    The 2.0 liter TFSI four-cylinder has 230HP (169 kW) and 370Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque. It is available with either 6-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive or a 6-speed S tronic and Quattro all-wheel drive system.

    The first deliveries are expected from December, this year.

    2015 Audi TT – UK OTR pricing

    • 2.0 TFSI Sport 230HP 6-speed manual – £29,860
    • 2.0 TFSI quattro Sport 230HP 6-speed S tronic – £32,785
    • 2.0 TDI ultra Sport 184HP 6-speed manual – £29,770
    • 2.0 TFSI S line 230HP 6-speed manual – £32,410
    • 2.0 TFSI quattro S line 230HP 6-speed S tronic – £35,335
    • 2.0 TDI ultra S line 184HP 6-speed manual – £32,320

    Source: Audi

  • 2014 Fiat 500 Abarth and 500c Abarth

    Fiat has presented the 500 Abarth and 500c Abarth. Both models are available at the Abarth Track Experience dates in the fall. The owners will now have more opportunities to develop their driving skills in the one-day Abarth Track Experience.

    Drivers will pilot cars from a fleet of Abarths provided and put their skills to the test through four driving modules: autocross, head-to-head challenge, driving dynamics and performance drive. Drivers will end their day by riding shotgun as professional drivers push the track-tuned Abarth vehicles to the limit.

    “As the Abarth Track Experience becomes more popular, we’re expanding the schedule to ensure more customers have the opportunity to develop their driving skills in a safe track environment,” commented Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America.

    “Now, with the addition of the specially tuned automatic transmission as an option for the 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth and Abarth Cabrio, we expect even more customers will want to join in the fun.”, he added.

    2015 Fiat 500 Abarth is powered by a 1.4 liter MultiAir Turbo engine – 157HP (115 kW) and 249Nm (183 lb-ft) of torque. The exclusive, Abarth-calibrated Sport mode allows for an even more engaged driving experience with special features such as fuel-cut upshifts, rev-matching downshifts, brake-assist downshifts, corner gear hold and fast-off gear hold, as well as a more aggressive pedal map.

    There is also an Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally included on a small car, the 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth and Abarth Cabrio unleash legendary Italian performance heritage to American streets.

    Source: Fiat

  • Wald International Shows First Image of Customized Bentley Continental GT

    Wald-International-Bentley-GT-THUMBWald International Bentley Continental GT Sports Line is the latest release delivered by the luxury tuning company based in Japan. Thanks to the image revealed we clearly see that they have supplied the Continental GT with aerodynamic kit. Although the customization company didn’t reveal any details about its program for this Bentley, the Sports Line package will clearly feature aggressive lower fascia with a front lip spoiler.

    In fact, the design of the car is one of the simplest we have ever seen coming out from Wald International. The new bodykit apparently will also include redesigned front bumper with a blacked out grille and LED daytime running lights.

    What is more, there are also revised side skirts which will include air intakes that are positioned ahead of the rear wheels. It is also seeable that the car rides on a set of attractive custom alloy wheels with multi-spoke design.

    As the information is scarce, there are no details around any changes in the engine. The Continental GT will probably stay true to its production figures. The car is originally powered by the 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which produces 528 horsepower (389 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at 1,700 rpm. The powerplant is coupled with a close-ratio ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. All this makes it possible for the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds on its way to top speed of 308 km/h (191 mph).

    Additional details and images of the Wald International Bentley Continental GT Sports Line are expected to be released very soon. Stay tuned.

    Source: Wald International

  • KW High Performance Coilovers for Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

    KW Automotive is now offering high-performance coilover suspension for the extreme Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4. The dampers are made from heavy-duty aluminium and allow individual setup adjustment of the rebound and high and low speed compression damping. The KW coilover kit is also compatible with the lift system on the Aventador.

    The tuning specialists fitted a Novitec Torrado Aventador LP969-4, which gains safe handling and superb driving dynamics at the limit. Pricing for the KW coilover high-performance suspension kit is available upon request as well as installation. Some of the highlights of Novitec Torrado include a complete aerodynamics package including a new front splitter, modified side skirts and a new rear diffuser. All parts are manufactured from high-strength carbon fiber composite material ensuring lightweight and high durability.

    The normal Aventador LP700-4 has a a 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 with 700HP (522 kW) at 8,250RPM and 690Nm (511 lb-ft) at 5,500RPM. The engine is connected to a 7-speed ISR transmission sending the power to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds and 0-300 km/h in 24.5 seconds. The top speed is 350 km/h (218 mph). ¼ mile in 10.2 seconds with 219 km/h and 1 km in 19.1 seconds with 281 km/h.

    Source: KW

  • Land Rover Teases the Interior of Discovery Sport [VIDEO]

    Land Rover has jut teased the interior of the upcoming Discovery Sport model via a special video. The first look inside the new Discovery Sport reveals its “5+2” seating configurability, luxurious environment and the used premium materials. The short film shows glimpses of the cabin design. In fact, the new premium small SUV is the first member of the new Discovery family of vehicles.

    The seven seater is expected to be powered by a variety of petrol and diesel four-cylinder engines. Furthermore, Land Rover has previously announced that the first mass production engine will be the turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel.

    With the release of the “In the film”, viewers are shown around the luxurious interior as the camera glides through the cabin. The footage not only shows details of the versatile seating layout, but also reveals desirable features such as the luxurious full panoramic roof.

    Versatility is one of the key characteristics of the Discovery family. And next to the optional 5+2 seating, generous load space and configurable seating the new model deserves to wear the Discovery badge. In addition, this video also displays the high cabin quality and craftsmanship implemented inside.

    Land Rover Discovery Sport will be unveiled officially and worldwide on 2nd of September. The new car is expected to go on sale in 2015.

    Source: Land Rover

  • Ad Personam Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 at Pebble Beach

    Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 created by their Ad Personam division was presented at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The impressive vehicle is designed to highlight the “made-to-order” program.

    The exterior boats a two-tone paint finish and black alloy wheel. There is also a new lather/Alcantara interior, contrast stitching and carbon fiber trim elements.

    As a reminder, the Aventador LP700-4 is powered by a 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 with 700HP (522 kW) at 8,250RPM and 690Nm (511 lb-ft) at 5,500RPM. The engine is connected to a 7-speed ISR transmission sending the power to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds and 0-300 km/h in 24.5 seconds. The top speed is 350 km/h (218 mph). ¼ mile in 10.2 seconds with 219 km/h and 1 km in 19.1 seconds with 281 km/h.

    The program caters to those who love to engage with their dream car — even before they take delivery.

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Infiniti Q50L Debuts in China

    Infiniti-Q50L-THUMBInfiniti Q50L is the long-wheelbase version of the Q50 sports saloon which has just made its premiere in China at the Chengdu Motor Show. The car has a 48 mm (1.9 in) longer wheelbase than the standard model thus delivering more space and comfort for rear passengers. Unfortunately, Q50L won’t be distributed anywhere else in the world. It is dedicated to the mainland Chinese market and will be offered exclusively there.

    Q50L premium sports saloon has several trim levels: Comfort, Elegant, Sports, Luxury and Luxury Sports. They come to offer a wide range of personalized choices for the customers. Infiniti says that first deliveries will start in the beginning of November.

    Furthermore, the Q50L will be produced in China at the Xiangyang factory in Hubei province. This is company’s fourth assembly plant. The introduction of the model marks the next step in the Infiniti’s global growth plan, namely – to turn China into Infiniti’s second volume hub globally. At

    To go into details, the new Infiniti Q50L has an overall length of 4852 mm and wheelbase enlarged to 2898 mm. It is powered by the turbocharged 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder gas engine that produces 208 hp (153 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is coupled with 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.

    In terms of safety and technology, Q50L is equipped with the world’s first steer-by-wire system – Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS), intuitive double touch-screen Infiniti InTouch HCI system, Active Lane Control (ALC), Bose 14-speaker Studio on Wheels audio system, in-car mood light system, rear window sunshade, electronic anti-glare side mirrors and much more.

    Source: Infiniti

  • Renault publishes UK Twingo pricing and more

    New-Renault-Twingo_thumbNew-Renault-Twingo_651

    The French automaker Renault has described in detail the pricing of the upcoming third generation Twingo. The prices are valid for the UK only but they still give an idea what the new city car will cost.

    Before we go to the price list we have to say that there are three versions of the all-new Twingo – Expression, Play and Dynamique with a choice of two engines – the new 1.0-liter 70 hp SCe three-cylinder normally aspirated engine and a Dynamique TCe 90 with a 0.9-liter 90 hp three-cylinder turbocharged unit. This gives a total of four models – the Expression SCe 70 will sell for GBP 9,495, the Play SCe 70 will cost GBP 9,995, while the Dynamique SCe 70 S&S and Dynamique ENERGY TCe 90 S&S will sell for GBP 10,995 and GBP 11,695, respectively.

    In case you wonder what this money will get you here’s some more information. The new 1.0-liter SCe three-cylinder engine delivers 70 horsepower (51 kW) at 6,000 rpm, 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) of torque at 2,850 rpm and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 14.5 seconds, while offering a top speed of 151 km/h (94 mph). The 0.9-liter TCe 90 three-cylinder turbocharged unit offers 90 horsepower (66 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque at 2,500 rpm; the engine can accelerate the new Twingo from 0-100 km/h (0-62 miles) in 10.8 seconds and the top speed is 166 km/h (103 mph).

    The new Twingo offers much more than engines, though. For the first time in the history of the car the engine is placed in the back and drives the rear wheels; in addition to that there are five doors instead of just three. The new rear-engine layout makes the car a bit smaller and the third generation Twingo is 10 cm (4 in) shorter than its predecessor at just 3.59 meters (11.8 feet) but the wheelbase is 12 cm (4.7 in) longer at 2.49 meters (8.2 feet) and there is 22 cm (8.7 in) more cabin room. The very fuel efficient three-cylinder 12V engines now allow you to get up to 14 UK mpg (22.5 km) more than before and feature as much as 35 grams/km lower carbon dioxide emissions than the engines in the previous Twingo. Thus the Dynamique SCe 70 car with Start & Stop technology can achieve 67.3 mpg UK (4.2 liters/100 km) of fuel consumption and just 95 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. All versions of the new Twingo exceed 60 mpg UK (4.7 liters/100 km) of mixed fuel consumption and reach 50 mpg UK (5.6 liters/100 km) in urban conditions.

    On the outside the new car comes with body-colored bumpers, door handles and exterior door mirror shells, a rear spoiler and LED daytime running lights.  Comfort and convenience are provided with electric power steering, electric front windows, remote central locking, a speed limiter, a height-adjustable steering wheel, a trip computer and gearchange indicator, a lane-change function for the indicators and the automatic activation of the rear screen wiper when reverse gear is selected. The Play version adds an air conditioner, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel and 15-inch black two-tone wheel trims in place of the grey ones with Expression.

    Dynamique versions add 15-inch alloy wheels, pinstripe shoulder-line decals, front fog lamps, electric heated door mirrors, cruise control, a lane departure warning system, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift knob, white instrument backlighting, a folding key and storage pockets in the rear doors. This version also benefits from Stop & Start engines that cut emissions and improve fuel economy.  The Dynamique TCe 90 is fitted with Variable Gear Ratio power-assisted steering, making the vehicle more agile and reactive at lower speeds.

    All new Twingos provide connectivity through a new, smartphone-operated R & GO system that gives owners access to a variety of navigation, telephone, multimedia and trip computer functions as well as internet radio and a host of other practical features.  Dynamique models offer the option of the R-Link multimedia system with a seven-inch touch-screen, voice control, TomTom®navigation and 3D sound by Arkamys. DAB radio, Bluetooth®connectivity and USB sockets are standard on every version.

    The new Twingo will be commercially available in September of this year but you can pre-order one of the models now.

    Source: Renault

  • Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse 1 of 1 at 2014 Pebble Beach

    Bugatti has unveiled another special edition of Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse. The time the name of the model is “1 of 1” and was presented at the 2014 Pebble Beach event. The special edition model takes inspiration from the brand’s historical designs and vehicles.

    “The Bugatti Veyron is an iconic car, which has set benchmarks in many respects”, said Wolfgang Durheimer, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.

    “In addition to the certainty of owning the world’s fastest production sports car, exclusiveness is extremely important to our customers. This is the reason that we have always placed so much focus on customisation and personalisation at Bugatti.”, he added.

    The exterior of Grand Sport Vitesse 1 of 1 boasts yellow and black two-tone livery. It is derived from Bugatti’s classic models: Type 41 Royale, Type 55 and Type 44. There is also a new mesh grille with the customer initials “PL”. More than 200 working hours are needed to attain this special, luxurious anodised duo-tone appearance in the finest quality.

    “ A Bugatti is purchased as a collector’s item. As a brand, we do everything to be worthy of the trust placed in us and to maintain the sustained value of this automotive icon,” notes Wolfgang Durheimer.

    “This means that we also support our customers in the personalisation of their Bugatti in the way they would like it. Our customers’ wishes are our highest priority.”, he finished.

    Source: Bugatti

  • 2015 Lexus RC F is Getting Ready for Launch

    2015-Lexus-RC-F-THUMB2015 Lexus RC F made its global debut at this years NAIAS event in the beginning of the year. Now the coupe is ready for launch before the end of the year in the United Kingdom. This is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced. The car features contemporary styling combined with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. In the UK this Lexus will be launched in two versions RC F and the RC F Carbon.

    Both of course will be powered by the 5.0-litre, 32-valve V8. This engine was specifically developed for the RC F and matched to calibrated eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission. The results it achieves are impressive, namely – 450 hp (330 kW) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft).

    When one looks from the sides the RC F, the first thing to grab the attention is the 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Brembo brakes behind them. There are also Sachs monotube shock absorbers and an active rear wing, Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

    RC F Carbon benefits from additional features such as torque-vectoring differential and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, bonnet and rear spoiler. It gives the driver the choice of with three operating modes with which he or she ca operate traction and vehicle control in different scenarios. The use of CFRP contributes significantly for reduction of weight. This material has been originally developed by Lexus for its LFA supercar.

    Furthermore, the RC F also takes advantage from the comprehensive array of comfort, safety and advanced technology features. The coupe comes equipped with high and low beam LED headlights with automatic high beam function, a 10-speaker multimedia system including DAB, DVD player, a new Remote Touch touchpad control and Lexus Premium Navigation, dual-zone climate control and Drive Mode Select.

    In terms of safety, the brand has provided eight airbags, a reversing camera, Hill Assist Control, Lane Departure and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a blind spot monitor and VDIM, ABS, brake assist, traction control and electronic brakeforce distribution. Other features include front and rear parking sensors, electric, auto-dimming, folding and heated door mirrors; cruise control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, electric steering column adjustment and keyless Smart Entry.

    Inside, the luxurious feel of the RC F is strengthened by the high-grade leather upholstery and electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation functions. Throughout the interior there are Lexus ‘F’-themed details. As available features, Lexus is offering Adaptive Cruise Control with a Pre-Crash Safety system and a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system.

    RC F Carbon also runs on 19-inch forged alloy wheels; however inside it features Alcantara upholstery. The Mark Levinson Surround Sound system here is included as standard. The ACC/PCS combination is optional.

    Order books for 2015 Lexus RC F and RC F Carbon are open now. The first cars are expected to arrive to customers in late January.

    Source: Lexus

  • BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition – Auctioned for $825,000

    2015 BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition has been sold for the breath-taking $825,000 at auction held during 2014 Gooding & Company’s annual Pebble Beach Auctions. This is a world auction record price for a BMW i8. It actually equates around 6 times the recommended retail price of the model – $135,700.

    The special edition model boasts BMW Individual Frozen Grey Metallic and a Dalbergia Brown leather upholstery. Other highlights include embossed headrests and of course “Concours d’Elegance Edition” badges.

    2015 BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5 liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery.   The overall power is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft), which is enough for acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

    The fuel consumption is impressive – 2.1 liters / 100 km (134.5 mpg UK or 112 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 49 g/km. The 2015 i8 can go up to 37 km (23 miles) only on electricity with zero emissions.

    Source: BMW