Automobiles Review – Page 528 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Ford Mondeo Based on the CD4 Platform

2015 Ford Mondeo is going to share same platform with several new models from Lincoln. The Mondeo and its US version – the Fusion are based on the global CD4 platform, which underpins the recently revealed Edge SUV, as well as the next S-Max and Galaxy minivans. The first Lincoln to use this architecture will be the MKX luxury crossover expected to hit the market next year.

“The suspension and platform were developed to be capable for Lincoln as well, so it needs to be state of the art.”, commented Darren Palmer, Ford’s assistant global line director for CD platform cars.

In Europe, Ford will deliver the new Mondeo before the end of this year and the car will compete the all-new Volkswagen Passat and the Opel Insignia Facelift. It is interesting, because Volkswagen has already targeted the new Passat upmarket. It is set to go against the luxurious Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3-Series.

The upcoming Mondeo will feature Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch in-car connectivity system. It will enable integration of smartphones and deliver wi-fi capability, while new-generation adaptive LED headlamps enhance visibility and vision.

The manufacturer continues to develop a unique interpretation of modern luxury and design, and this year it was the first auto manufacturer to participate in the world’s leading furniture design show – Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan.

Still, the sales of the outgoing Mondeo fell to around 19,000 units compared to 22,028 registrations for the same period in 2013.

Source: AutomotiveNewsEurope

July 7, 2014

BMW Z4 sDrive20i GT Spirit

BMW Japan will produce only 60 units of a special edition of the Z4 – sDrive20i GT Spirit. The model is prepared exclusively for the Japanese market as another one has just been introduced celebrating the win of the BMW Sports Trophy team in the Super GT series with a Z4 GT3.

The 60 units will be based on the sDrive20i model equipped with ///M-Sport package. All cars will be finished in Alpine White paint and will come with black kidney grilles, a set of 19” M light alloy wheels. The interior boasts ///M door sill plates, aluminum pedal set and a combination of leather and Alcantara with orange accents for the rest of the cabin.

The sDrive20i GT Spirit is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 184HP (135 kW) and 270Nm (200 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). The engine is connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The fuel consumption is very low considering the performance – 9.1 liters / 100 km in city; 5.5 liters / 100 km on the highway and 6.8 liters / 100 km on combined cycle. The curb weight is 1,495 kg (3,296 lbs), which is not bad at all for a roadster.

No words about pricing, but a normal Z4 sDrive20i is priced at $79,900 in the US, while the top-of-range sDrive35is is whopping $119,545.

Source: BMW

July 7, 2014

Porsche Macan Turbo – Nurburgring Test [video]

Porsche Macan Turbo was spied during Nurburgring tests and probably this is a more powerful “S” model planned by the German manufacturer. The Macan Turbo is expected to hit the market sometime in 2015 with a starting price in Germany of €79,826 (VAT included). So, the possible Macan Turbo S will be over €90,000.

2015 Porsche Macan Turbo is powered by a twin-turbocharge 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.

The Macan Turbo S is expected to generate at least 430HP (316 kW), so the 0-100 km/h will be cut by 0.2 seconds and the top speed will be slightly increased probably to 280 km/h (175 mph).

Besides the additional power, the Turbo S model will get some styling and performance upgrades like retuned suspension, improved braking system and more aggressive aerodynamics elements.

Enjoy the impressive sound of Macan Turbo tackling the world’s most difficult course!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyLxDcs1LZA#t=15

Source: TouriClips via Youtube

July 7, 2014

JMB Optimering Ferrari LaFerrari – 1,050HP

JMB Optimering boosted LaFerrari to the whopping 1,050HP (772 kW). The model is produced in a limited series of just 499 units, so getting one for modifying is extremely difficult.2013 Ferrari LaFerrari is powered by a 6.3 liter V12 with 800HP (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. With the help of HY-KERS, the overall power is whopping 963HP and over 900Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7 seconds and 0-300 in breath-taking 15 seconds. A lap around Fiorano race circuit takes just 1 minute and 20 seconds – 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta.So, the tuning specialists from JMB squeezed another 90HP from the mighty twelve cylinder engine. It is interesting that the overall output matches that of the rumored track-only LaFerrari XX expected to hit the market next year.LaFerrari XX will be limited to just 30 units. Since the “normal” LaFerrari is priced at €1.3 million, we expect the XX version to be something close to €2.0 million, which is sensational.There is no doubt that the manufacturer spends a lot to produce such supercar, but to ask that kind of money for a track-only car is just ridiculous.

July 7, 2014

Jaguar F-TYPE Project 7 Makes Dynamic Debut At Le Mans Classic

Jaguar F-TYPE Project 7 made an official world debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed just recently. Then details about it were released via an exclusive video. Now, the road-legal two-seater roadster is making a dynamic debut at the Le Mans Classic between 4th and 6th of July. There F-TYPE Project 7 will complete demonstration laps on the race track. This model is the most powerful and fastest production Jaguar ever built, and it is the first project of Jaguar Land Rover‘s newly established Special Operations division.

Its construction is all aluminum and also includes carbon-fiber aerodynamic aids, a unique suspension tuning and it with 80kg less in weight when in comparison to the concept model on which it is based. The car is powered by 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine, which produces 575 hp (423 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque.

Carbon Ceramic brakes, Torque Vectoring by Braking and race-inspired seats are all included as a standard. In fact, at the official world premiere of the car at Goodwood, customer’s interest of exceeded the intended production run of a maximum of 250 units.

Furthermore, Jaguar celebrates this year D-type’s 60th anniversary. For this purpose, the F-TYPE Project 7 will complete its demonstration laps alongside the very first D-type ever built and with examples of the all-new F-TYPE R Coupe. The drivers behind the wheel are going to be 1988 Jaguar Le Mans winner Andy Wallace, Richard Meaden, Gary Pearson and Chris Harris.

2014 Jaguar F-TYPE Project 7 Technical Specifications:

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Engine capacity (cc)	5000
Cylinders	8
Valves per cylinder	4
Compression ratio	9.5:1
Bore/stroke (mm)	92.5/93.0
Bore/stroke (inches)	3.64/3.66
Transmission	8-speed ‘Quickshift’ ZF 8HP70
PERFORMANCE
0-60mph (sec) 1	3.8
0-100km/h (sec) 1	3.9
Top speed (mph) 1	186, electronically limited
Top speed (km/h) 1	300, electronically limited
Power (HP@rpm)	575@6500
Torque (lb ft@rpm)	502@2500-5500
Wheels	20-inch ‘Storm’ alloy, in gloss black
Tires – size	255/35/20 (front) 295/30/20 (rear)

Source: Jaguar

July 4, 2014

2015 Saleen 302 Mustang Teased

2015 Saleen 302 Mustang has just been exclusively shown with a first [teaser] image. The photo shows only the front of the car and it features Saleen’s purposeful stance and powerful presence. In fact, the 2015 302 Mustang is the first major Saleen’s Mustang redesign since 2005. The specialists took this as an opportunity to push the limits in both car’s design and performance. This latest Saleen Mustang model is perfectly positioned as the next American exotic, campaigning on the world stage.

The release teaser shows many of the typical for Saleen design cues. Just take a look at the aggressive multi-layered front fascia and splitter, or the blacked-out grille, which is Saleen’s trademark, and large single hood scoop.

Unfortunately, there are no additional details announced. However, the tuning company is promising to reveal the final features and specifications of the 2015 S302 Mustang as the unveiling and production of the car draws nearer.

2015 Ford Mustang made a debut in December last year. It is equipped with 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine, which generates more than 420 horsepower (310 kW) and 529 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. Two other engines which will also be available when the car hits showrooms later this year, are the 3.7-liter V6 and 2.3-liter EcoBoost.

Source: Saleen

July 4, 2014

ABT Tunes Volkswagen Scirocco

ABT Volkswagen Scirocco is based on the third generation Scirocco, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show this March. In fact, the model is celebrating its 40th birthday and on this occasion, ABT is offering some exclusive upgrades. Drivers of the original Scirocco, will enjoy not only its fascinating Giugiaro silhouette, but also the enhanced engine that can deliver up to 310 horsepower (228 kW). The strongest ABT Scirocco is based on the model equipped with the 2.0 TSI engine. Its serial power is estimated at 210 hp(154 kW).

In addition ABT also improves the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI models. With the ABT Power “New Generation” and its own control unit the small turbo petrol engine can be uprated. The TSI can get enhanced up to 210 hp (154 kW), while the diesel engine – up to 195 hp (140 kW) and 390 Nm (287 lb-ft).

The other upgrades for this Volkswagen offered by ABT are new suspension springs and height adjustable suspension kit. The ABT brake system is there to offer its deceleration potential. The new visual credentials of the Scirocco make it more assertive.

The extensive aero kit consists of high-quality PUR-RIM material. The dynamic silhouette starts with the aggressive front skirt add-on. After that it continues with the side skirts and ends in the redesigned rear part.

At the back is where one can see how ABT has used a striking wing, a carbon-look rear panel and a dynamic rear skirt add-on. The latter accommodates a 4-pipe rear muffler. At last, but not least, the ABT Scirocco runs on 20’’ Gun-Metal ABT DR wheels.

Source: ABT

July 4, 2014

BMW 4 Series Coupe by AC Schnitzer

BMW 4 Series Coupe by AC Schnitzer is equipped with tailor-made components that have maximum perfection. The new aerodynamic components from the tuners are precisely matched to each other and allow for complete conversion and optimization. The new 4 Series models can be enhanced not only with performance upgrades, wheel and tyre combinations, sports and racing suspension and accessories for the interior, but also with a complete range of aerodynamic body-styling elements.

The aerodynamic range offered for the tuning of this BMW coupe and cabrio model comprises of front spoiler for vehicles with M-Technik pack, chrome front grille, rear roof spoiler, rear diffuser as well as rear skirt protective film.

The principle which the brand follows is “form follows function” and it is visible through this conversion. As you can see, at the rear, the new diffuser draws the vehicle down to the asphalt, while the AC Schnitzer silencer in the latest Racing Evo tailpipe design is perfectly integrated into the rear end.

Additional downforce is provided due to the extra rear roof spoiler and front spoiler. In fact, all aerodynamic components lend new contours to the body of the car, but still emphasizing its stylish lines.

Furthermore, AC Schnitzer states that its aerodynamic components minimize drag thus enhancing the driving behavior. The components also deliver excellent durability and offer perceptible gain in sporting performance.

Source: AC Schnitzer

July 4, 2014

2015 Hyundai Elantra Sedan – More Value for Money

Hyundai US has presented the 2015 Elantra Sedan coming with a lot of minor upgrades adding more value for money and additional comfort for the driver and the passengers. The new model is priced from $17,250 (excluding the $810 destination charge).

2015 Hyundai Elantra comes with a choice of additional packaging options and updated colors across the line-up. The performance Elantra Sport model gets a new optional Tech Package, while Elantra SE adds a new Style Package offering savings adding up to $400 in value. Similarly, the Limited Ultimate Package offers $350 in savings over the previous model year Limited Tech Package with the same content. 2015 Elantra pricing starts at $17,250, excluding $810 freight.

SE and Limited trim levels now offer several fresh body paint finishes like Lakeside Blue, Shale Gray Metallic, Symphony Silver and Quartz White Pearl while the Elantra Sport gains a Monaco White hue.

The engine range includes two power units: a 1.8 liter four-cylinder – 145HP (106 kW) and 176Nm (130 lb-ft) of torque – standard on SE and Limited trims. The Elantra Sport is powered by a 2.0 liter GDI – 173HP (127 kW) at 6,500RPM and 208Nm (154 lb-ft) at 4,700RPM. The engine is connected to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and returns 24 mpg US in city / 35 mpg US on the highway and 28 mpg US on combined cycle. The 1.8 liter achieves 28/38 and 32 mpg US, respectively.

Source: Hyundai

July 4, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Passat – Officially Unveiled

Volkswagen has finally revealed the all-new 2015 Passat B8 ready to go upmarket as the manufacturer says. The new Passat is described as being “the most successful European business car”. We can’t wait to see how it is going to compete versus the best-in-class saloons and estates – 3-Series, A4 and C-Class.

As we previously reported, the Passat B8 boasts a number of new technologies including an Active Info Display – 12.3” TFT screen, instead of the regular analog instruments. It boasts a lot of customizable features including navigation, range and fuel consumptions. There is also a head-up display featuring a separate glass panel installed within the top of the dashboard to project all the useful information within the line of sight of the driver.

The engine range includes a 2.0 liter TDI with several outputs – 150HP (110 kW); 190HP (140 kW) and the top-of-range – 240HP (176 kW). The smaller 1.6 liter TDI will have a 120HP (88 kW) version. The petrol range features a 1.4 liter TSI – 125HP (92 kW) and 150HP (110 kW) as well as a 1.8 liter TSI with 180HP (132 kW) and a mighty 2.0 liter TSI – 220HP (162 kW) or 280HP (206 kW) – taken from Seat Leon Cupra 280. Of course, there is a plug-in Hybrid model with a 1.4 liter TSI and an electric motor.

The new Passat is 4767mm long, 1832mm wide and 1456mm tall with a wheelbase of 2791mm. A combination of high-strength steel, hot-formed steel and aluminum is used to build a rigid body and chassis. Volkswagen’s engineers were able save 85 kg (188 lbs), so the lightest model is measuring just 1,312 kg (2,892 lbs). This results in improved fuel economy and better performance.

Some of the safety and assistance systems are: Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, City Emergency Braking, Trailer Assist, Emergency Assist and a revised 360-degree Area View function.

2015 Volkswagen Passat B8 will be available to order from 10^th July with pricing starting from €25,875 for Saloon models and €25,950 for Estates.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80C6AomdI84

Source: Volkswagen

July 4, 2014

2015 Acura TLX – US Price $30,995

Acura has officially unveiled the 2015 TLX, which will reach the dealerships in August.The stylish saloon is priced from $30,995 (excluding $895 destination tax). The model was presented back in April and now the TLX customers have the opportunity to reserve the vehicle at special introductory prices, along with special lease and APR financing rates and a $500 allowance toward the purchase of Acura Genuine Accessories.

The TLX lineup includes three distinct model offerings that carry a long list of standard luxury comfort, convenience and safety features. All TLX models can be upgraded to the Technology Package and the V-6 models are available with the line-topping Advance Package.

The three model variations feature two Acura exclusive, high-output direct-injected i-VTEC engines, two advanced transmissions and two unique dynamic handling systems.

Acura TLX – 2.4-liter 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine producing 206HP (151 kW) mated to an all-new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (8DCT) with torque converter. The 2.4-liter TLX has an MSRP of $30,995 and $35,025 with the Technology Package. For handling prowess, it features the latest iteration of Acura’s Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS).
Acura TLX – a 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 delivering 290HP (213 kW) and mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) and will be available with both P-AWS and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The two-wheel-drive model with P-AWS has a MSRP of $35,220 and $39,250 for the Technology Package. The 3.5-liter TLX with Advance Package has a MSRP of $42,500.
Sharing the same 3.5-liter dynamic powertrain as the two-wheel-drive model, the all-wheel drive TLX SH-AWD features a new hydraulically controlled version of Acura’s acclaimed torque vectoring SH-AWD and will be available with the Technology Package for an MSRP of $41,450 and $44,700 for the Advance Package.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights, rearview camera, Hill Start Assist and push button ignition. There is also a 7” infotainment system, heated and ventilated front seats, LED interior lighting, automatic climate control, 10-speaker 455-watt Acura ELS Premium Audio System. The safety features are Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Source: Acura

July 4, 2014

2014 Nissan Pulsar – Space, Style and Technology

Nissan UK has published full information and pricing for the new C-segment vehicle – 2014 Pulsar. The Japan manufacturer presented the stylish Pulsar several weeks ago, but it is expected to hit the market this autumn. It is priced from £15,995 OTR for the entry-level DIG-T 115 Visia 6-speed manual model and goes up to £21,945 for the top-of-range dCi 110 Tekna 6-speed manual variant.

2014 Nissan Pulsar comes packed with advanced technology and offers sector-leading levels of cabin space. The arrival of the new Pulsar further strengthen Nissan’s outstanding product portfolio by offering to the traditional C-segment buyers an alternative to the successful Qashqai crossover.

There are four trim levels – Visia, Acenta, n-tec and Tekna – giving buyers the ability to easily choose a model that best suits their lifestyle and their budget.

Standard equipment of Visia includes a 5” colour screen, steering wheel mounted controls, Bluetooth and air conditioning. The Acenta adds Forward Emergency Braking, automatic lights and wipers and Nissan’s ingenious i-Key system. The n-tec model features a set of 17” alloys, privacy glass and Nissan’s signature LED lights. It also offers two much sought after features – a helpful colour reversing camera and NissanConnect 2, a state-of-the-art infotainment system offering full smartphone integration, Google Send-to-Car and access to a wide variety of useful and informative apps. The top-of-range Tekna boasts Nissan Safety Shield Technologies including Forward Emergency Braking, Moving Object Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Warning for the ultimate in passenger protection.

The engine range includes a 1.2 liter DIG-T and a 1.5 liter dCi available with either manual or Xtronic automatic transmissions.

Equipment summary

Visia

5″ colour TFT screen
16″ alloy wheels
6 airbags
CD system with 4 speakers
Bluetooth/iPod connectivity
Steering wheel audio controls
Body coloured mirrors and door handles
Electrically adjustable mirrors
Cruise control
Speed limiter
Idle start/stop
Air conditioning
Tyre pressure monitoring system
ABS, ESP, EBD
Remote central locking
Active Trace Control
‘Follow me home’ lighting

Acenta (additional equipment over Visia)

6 speakers
Forward Emergency Braking
Auto headlights
Auto wipers
Auto dimming rearview mirror
i-Key
Engine starter button
Dual zone climate control
Front fog lamps
Heated mirrors
Leather steering wheel
Leather gear knob
Rear armrest
Acenta interior trim

n-tec (additional equipment over Acenta)

17” alloy wheels
Privacy glass
LED headlamp signature
NissanConnect 2
Reversing camera

Tekna (additional equipment over n-tec)

Leather seats
Heated front seats
Around View Monitor
Lane Departure Warning
Blind Spot Warning
Moving Object Detection
Electric folding mirrors

Engine	Grade	Transmission	OTR* (£)
DIG-T 115	Visia	6 speed manual	£15,995
DIG-T 115	Visia	Xtronic	£17,345
dCi 110	Visia	6 speed manual	£17,595

DIG-T 115	Acenta	6 speed manual	£17,645
DIG-T 115	Acenta	Xtronic	£18,995
dCi 110	Acenta	6 speed manual	£19,245

DIG-T 115	n-tec	6 speed manual	£18,995
DIG-T 115	n-tec	Xtronic	£20,345
dCi 110	n-tec	6 speed manual	£20,595

DIG-T 115	Tekna	6 speed manual	£20,345
DIG-T 115	Tekna	Xtronic	£21,695
dCi 110	Tekna	6 speed manual	£21,945

Source: Nissan

July 4, 2014

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