Automobiles Review – Page 505 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Ford Begins Testing Of Right-Hand-Frive Mustangs

2015 Ford Mustang is already a fact. It has been unveiled months ago and all we are waiting for is seeing it on the streets rolling powerfully. Now, Ford is announcing, that for the first time ever, a right-hand-drive Ford Mustang will roll off a Ford assembly line when the production starts. This is great news because the addition of a right-hand-drive Mustang to Ford’s line-up will allow the famous pony car to be exported to more than 25 right-hand-drive countries. Some to mention are United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa.

The construction of the very first right-hand-drive sixth-generation Mustang has been recently finished. The prototype will be utilized for various development tests which will serve as preparation for car’s entry into the global market in the coming months.

Of course, the United States have been for the latest 50 years the largest market for Mustang on the world. In fact, there have been more than 9.2 million sales since the car’s debut in 1964. For this period of time, more than 161,000 Mustangs have been sold outside of North America.

2015 Ford Mustang will be powered by one of these three engines: the upgraded 435 horsepower V8, the standard 300 horsepower V6 and the new 310 horsepower EcoBoost. Every powertrain can be coupled with either a manual or automatic transmission.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost also produces 434 Nm (320 lb-ft) of torque. EcoBoost benefits from direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing and turbocharging thus producing big-engine power and torque with improved fuel economy. The must powerful unit is the 5.0-liter V8 engine. It has undergone many upgrades which help it work better in higher speeds. It has an output of 435 horsepower (320 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The sixth-generation Mustang will go on sale in the United States this autumn and in the UK in 2015. It will be made available in more than 110 countries worldwide.

Source: Ford

August 19, 2014

All Bugatti Veyron Legend Editions

All six Bugatti Veyron Legend Editions have been gathered for a one-off presentation at the Monterey Car Week. The entire collection costs no less than $17.64 million.

The special edition series were firstly introduced a year ago with the Jean- Pierre Wimille edition. The last model is the Ettore Bugatti edition, which was showcased last weekend at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Other four are: Jean Bugatti, the Meo Costantini, the Rembrandt Bugatti and the Black Bess editions.

Totally 18 units of “Les legends de Bugatti” editions have been built.

As a reminder, the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is powered by an 8.0 liter W16 quad-turbo engin – 1200HP (883 kW) and 1500Nm (1106 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 7.1 seconds, 0-300 km/h in 16 seconds dead. The top speed is 410 km/h (254 mph). ¼ mile is covered in 10.0 seconds flat and 1 mile in just 25.0 seconds. Other interesting disciplines like 0-100-0 km/h take 5.9 seconds and 0-200-0 take 12.9 seconds. The interesting 0-300-0, which is brutal for the brakes take 23.9 seconds.

I also want to remind you, that the Veyron model will actually cut of production and a new model is expected to hit the scene in the next years. Stay tuned!

Source: Bugatti

August 19, 2014

2015 BMW X5 Security Plus

BMW is going to exhibit the 2015 X5 Security Plus at the Moscow Motor Show. The armored SAV (sports activity vehicle) was previewed as a concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, but now a production model is ready to hit the market.

2015 BMW X5 Security Plus comes with safety glass, special protection of seams, joints and connections of elements of the body. The model will have a protection class rating of VR6.

The engine is the well-known 4.4 liter TwinPower Turbo V8 – 450HP (330 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. No words about performance, but the normal X5 xDrive50i accelerates 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Since, the armored model will be a lot heavier, the performance will suffer, but the overall dynamics will be good enough.

At the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS 2014), BMW will present the latest innovations of its model range and innovative technologies for even greater driving pleasure. Visitors to the exhibition, which opens its doors to the public from August 29 to September 7, 2014 at the Crocus Expo exhibition area (Crocus Expo IEC), will be able to get acquainted with the diversity of the modern model line brands, including new items: the leader segment SAV – BMW X3 and coupe for active recreation (SAC – Sports Activity Coupe) BMW X4.

Source: BMW

August 19, 2014

2015 Skoda Fabia

Skoda has officially presented the new 2015 Fabia which will make its public debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October. The new model is based on the popular Volkswagen PQ26 platform, which was introduced earlier this year in the 2014 Polo.

2015 Skoda Fabia is significantly lighter than its predecessor (-65 kg), so the overall weight is just 980 kg (2,160 lbs).

The engine range includes Euro 6-compliant three- and four-cylinder engines. The petrol range features a 3-cylinder direct-injection 1.0 liter MPI – 60HP (44 kW) and a 1.2 liter TSI – 110HP (81 kW). The diesel side includes a new 3-cylinder 1.4 liter common-rail power unit with different outputs – from 75HP (55 kW) to 105HP (77 kW).

Sometime in 2015, the range will be joined by a 1.4 TDI with 75HP (55 kW) featuring Start-Stop and kinetic energy recuperation technology.

For now, Skoda doesn’t plan a powerful vRS Fabia, but it will eventually happen. The vRS Fabia will have around 200HP (147 kW) and will compete versus Ford Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS.

Stay tuned for full information and pricing!

Source: Skoda

August 19, 2014

2015 Jaguar XE to Feature Advanced Connectivity

2015 Jaguar XE which will be company’s latest addition to its range of vehicle will be premiered in London on 8th of September. This is a well known fact, but what we don’t know is that it will be equipped with equipped with a wide range of technologies offering smooth ride, sharp steering, quiet cabin and seamless connectivity. In other words the XE is designed to make every journey an enjoyable experience.

Jaguar will introduce its InControl infotainment system on the 2015 XE. This system was designed around an 8-inch touchscreen and features a clear, intuitive user interface. The latter ensures quick and easy access to all features and functions. On the other hand the voice control function utilizes plain speech means that drivers can keep their eyes on the road at all times.

Furthermore, the new vehicle will also allow drivers to stay connected via their smartphones. Precisely, Jaguar InControl Remote allows users of iOS and Android smartphones to connect to the car from wherever they are and control variety of vehicle functions such as seven-day timed pre-setting of the climate control system, locking and unlocking the doors and starting the engine.

We can’t speak about smartphones without mentioning applications. Jaguar InControl Apps allows users to access smartphone apps through the vehicle’s touchscreen. This technology is of course making much easier to operate functions such as calling someone, finding a parking lot or booking a hotel room. XE can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

An advanced driver assistance system, which is available as an option here is the new laser Heads-Up Display (HUD). It projects colorful images onto the windshield and provides driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions.

Source: Jaguar

August 19, 2014

Lexus is Introducing New Visibility Technology to the NX Range

Lexus is going to roll out new visibility technology called Rear Cross Traffic alert. It will be featured in its range of sedans and SUVs. The first models to have the innovation are the soon-to-be-launched Lexus NX and RC Lines. In addition, the existing IS, ES, GS and LS, which currently include an optional blind spot monitoring, will also receive Rear Cross Traffic Alert technology before the end of 2014.

The addition of the innovative specification reaffirms company’s commitment to safety. Lexus already has as a standard the reverse camera across its entire model range. This means that the Rear Cross Traffic Alert and blind spot monitoring will only strengthens brand’s stance on safety.

When it will be launched, the brand new Lexus NX will feature 360-degree panoramic view monitor. This technology enables drivers to conduct a visual ‘sweep’ of the vehicle’s exterior prior to driving away to ensure the vehicle is clear of obstructions.

By far, the luxury automaker has disclosed that it is to introduce two NX derivatives – the NX 200t and the NX 300h. The first one is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine while the NX 300h is a hybrid model.

NX 200t will be powered by thr 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which produces 235 hp (173 kW) at 5600 rpm with 350 Nm (258 lb.-ft.) of torque from 1650 – 4000 rpm. NX 300h is driven by the finely-tuned 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter gasoline engine working in conjunction with the electric drive motor. Both they produce 197 horsepower (145 kW) in total.

Source: Lexus

August 19, 2014

Mulgari BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe SV 640d

Mulgari has presented their latest tuning project based on the super-stylish BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe F06. The tuning specialists used the 640d model powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged diesel engine. Mulgari is offering both: styling and performance modifications for the Gran Coupe.

Firstly, the engine has received an ECU re-map boosting it to 368HP (271 kW) and 751Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 55HP and 121Nm. 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The exterior comes with a set of enormous Vossen 22” as well as H&R suspension set-up, custom headlights, a carbon fiber splitter and lower bumper extension. The unique look continues to the sides – carbon fiber side skirts and black window trims and side markers.

There is also a new carbon fibre rear diffuser housing the satin black Mulgari sport exhaust system. The overall look is finished by a carbon spoiler on the rear hood. Of course, Mulgari badges are been attached to differentiate the Gran Coupe SV from the normal one.

Source: Mulgari

August 18, 2014

SEAT Leon CUPRA 280 Gets Sub8 Performance Pack

SEAT has launched Sub8 Performance Pack as well as two coloured exterior packs – Black-Line and White-Line for the Leon CUPRA 280. The cars will be available with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres and CUPRA bucket seats. The storming CUPRA 280 became the first front-wheel-drive vehicle which was capable of dipping under the eight-minute Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time. The optional Sub8 Performance Pack features more substantial brakes, specially-designed 19-inch alloy wheels in either black or orange and body-coloured side skirts.

The brake discs measured at 370 mm provide enough stopping power in keeping with the car’s potency, and are 30mm larger than those on the standard car. They also feature Brembo four piston callipers. Furthermore, the CUPRA 280’s electronically-controlled limited slip differential offers impressive levels of grip. Leon CUPRA 280 is five-door car, which on one hand is capable of up to 44.1 mpg, while on the other hand it can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) from standstill in only 5.7 seconds.

CUPRA Black-Line and White-Line exterior packs also debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. They were designed to add an extra dose of Latin flair to the Leon flagship. These two shades will be initially available, with more packs to be introduced in the future. Such is the Orange-Line, which will be launched in December.

Precisely, they include CUPRA 19-inch alloy wheels, door mirrors, CUPRA tailgate lettering and front grille surround, and black rear side spoilers. Rounding out the array of option additions for the Leon CUPRA 280 are the special bucket seats. The front seats include one-piece head restraint and are wrapped in black Alcantara with simil leather bolsters and white accents, with embossed CUPRA logo.

Source: SEAT

August 18, 2014

Mike Newman with Litchfield Nissan GT-R – Land Speed Record for Blind Driver

Mike Newman has beaten his own speed record for a blind driver. This time, he has achieved over 323 km/h (200.9 mph) with a heavily-tuned Nissan GT-R. He made four back-to-back runs on the 1.8-mile runway at Elvington airfield.

The race car was prepared by Litchfield, who boosted the engine to over 1,200HP (882 kW). It also comes with a motorsport-spec roll cage, carbon ceramic brake system and several lightweight carbon fiber body panels.

Mike was all alone in the GT-R and received audio guidance from his stepfather via headphones. Despite the wind and the rain, he managed to beat his own record, which was set last year with a Porsche 911 Turbo, when he averaged 300 km/h (186 mph) at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground in Leicestershire.

“It’s safe to say that we simply could not have done this without them,” explained Mike.

“These two Litchfield-built GT-Rs are the only cars we have ever used that have been able to giving us the speed, acceleration, stability and reliability that we needed for this record. The cars are just astonishing and the team have been a joy to work alongside. Time for a drink together to celebrate I think!”, he finished.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3Oq8AMdxvI

Source: 5News

August 18, 2014

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN is Enhanced Tesla Model S

In the beginning of the year we were informed that the first electric car to be transformed by Saleen will be the Tesla Model S. The FOURSIXTEEN performance electric car was shown for the first time at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The exterior of the car is an example of a harmonious blend of aggressiveness and class. It features the emblematic Saleen DNA design with brand new front fascia and carbon fiber rear diffuser.

At the front of the FOURSIXTEEN there are also aero management vents, which maintain the low pressure field as air acceleration increases around the chassis. In addition, there is also one-of-a-kind V-shaped hood architecture, which efficiently directs hot air away from the drivetrain cooling system.

At the back of this Model S, the rear fascia features a designed high-downforce decklid mounted spoiler. Mid-chassis air is directed across the carbon fiber accents stretching between the taillights. Saleen diffuser boosts further the aerodynamic downforce capability of the vehicle.

What drives the FOURSIXTEEN is the three-phase, four pole AC induction motor and copper rotor with the upgraded Saleen drivetrain. The latter includes new 11.39:1 final gear ratio for quicker acceleration.

Another innovation is the MAXGRIPTM locking differential, which is specific for the tuning company and which allows each wheel to efficiently apply rotational force and maximize traction and grip during performance. Saleen’s high-efficiency drivetrain cooling system ensures that the electric motor works in the appropriate temperature. This system comprises of a larger volume radiator, upsampled cooling fans, and a high-flow water pump.

Furthermore, a specific S4 track-calibrated suspension which features a monotube coilover, works in conjunction with an S4 sway bar setup. All in all this improves cornering agility without sacrificing ride quality. The Stability Control System has been also enhanced via software change.

Saleen-specific brakes have been also included in the modification, which work together with the stability control software, wheel, tire, and S4 suspension system. The standard brake package features 14” 2-piece aluminum hat vented rotors and multi-piston front calipers with performance brake pads. FOURSIXTEEN rides on specifically Saleen designed wheels, which are coupled with ZR-spec tires.

Inside, the tuning company has also made changes. From the handpicked leather palette to the carbon fiber dash accents, the cabin is more luxurious than ever. The seats are wrapped in black leather that features contrast perforated leather accents and Alcantara suede inlays. A new center console has also been integrated into the interior redesign.

To go further into details, the front and rear seating have been remolded in ordered to produce four full bucket seats. Saleen’s tailor-made door panels and a full leather-wrapped dash complimented with hand sewn contrast stitching as well as the black leather seat shells finalize the interior enhancement.

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN Tesla Model S has a starting price of $152,000 USD.

Source: Saleen Automotive

August 18, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Touareg Facelift – UK Price £43,000

Volkswagen UK is going to offer the all-new Touareg from 27^th August. It starts at just £43,000 for the entry-level 3.0 litre 204HP TDI 8-speed automatic SE model. The top-of-range 3.0 litre 262HP TDI 8-speed automatic R-Line costs £47,500.

The 2014 Volkswagen Touareg comes with modified front and rear bumpers, a new front grille as well as several alloy wheel designs. There are also several new colors in the range and bi-xenon headlights as standard. The interior features front seats with standard lumbar support, two new wood trims – Sapelli Mahogany and Engineered Ebony and optional Nappa leather upholstery in two tones – Flint Grey and Titan Black. Last, but not least is the automatic post-collision braking system, which is now standard.

There are three trim levels – SE, Escape and R-Line. The standard equipment includes 19” Salvador alloy wheels, RNS 850 SAT NAT system with 8” touchscreen display, DAB digital radio and Bluetooth, 2Zone climate control, Cricket leather upholstery, bi-xenon headlights, fog lights, front and rear PDC and chrome roof rails.

The Escape trim level ads 4XMOTION off-road four-wheel drive system with 50:50 torque split and centre and rear axle mechanical differential locks. This makes the new Touareg an extreme off-road monster. There is also a higher off-road suspension as well as smaller wheels with bigger tires – 18” Karakum alloys. Other highlights include 100-liter fuel tank, underbody protection, black roof rails and a headlight cleaning system.

On the other hand, the top-of-range R-Line boasts an aerodynamics package, 20” Tarragona alloy wheels, lowered suspension, LED DRLs and a panoramic glass sunroof. The interior features black roof liner, bespoke R-Line seats and aluminum pedals. Other special features include a heated steering wheel, electrical tailgate and keyless entry and start function.

Trim	Engine/transmission	Combined mpg	CO₂ (g/km)	Price (£), RRP OTR
SE	3.0-litre 204 PS TDI 8-speed automatic	42.8	173	43,000
SE	3.0-litre 262 PS TDI 8-speed automatic	42.8	174	44,500

Escape	3.0-litre 262 PS TDI 8-speed automatic	40.9	180	44,700

R-Line	3.0-litre 204 PS TDI 8-speed automatic	42.8	173	46,000
R-Line	3.0-litre 262 PS TDI 8-speed automatic	42.8	174	47,500

Source: Volkswagen

August 18, 2014

Brabus 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205

Brabus has unveiled their latest tuning project based on the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205. The styling package is available for Avantgarde and Exclusive trim levels. There are also several performance packages.

The exterior features a complete aerodynamics package including modified front bumper with big air intakes, a lip spoiler on the trunk lid, modified rocker panels and optionally available integrated LED entry lights. The new rear diffuser houses Brabus quad sport exhaust system.

There are tire/wheel combinations in different dimensions: 18”,19” or 20”. The largest version of Monoblock F and R alloy wheels is 8.5J x 20” at the front and 9.5J x 20” at the rear fitted with high-performance tires – 225/35 ZR20 and 255/30 ZR20 Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

The stance is further improved by a lowering kit developed in cooperation with Bilstein.

The interior boasts fine leather upholstery as well as Alcantara elements. There is also an extensive line-up of custom accessories such as aluminum pedals and high-quality velour floor mats with Brabus logo.

There are performance upgrades for the C200 model as well as the C220 BlueTEC. The petrol model is boosted by Brabus PowerXtra B20.2 performance kit – 41HP (30 kW) and 30Nm (22 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph). The diesel gets Brabus PowerXtra D3 performance kit – 50HP (36 kW) and a peak torque of 450Nm (332 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph).

Performance tuning for all other C-Class models is backed by Brabus Tuning Warranty of 3 years or up to 100,000 km.

Source: Brabus

August 18, 2014

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