Automobiles Review – Page 543 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Koenigsegg CCX in Australia for Sale – $1.3 million AUD

The only one Koenigsegg CCX in Australia is currently available for sale. The hyper-car is located in New South Wales and can be had for “just $1.3 million AUD (around $1.2 USD).The odometer has clocked only 281 km, which means that it is a brand new and is driven mainly for demonstration during auto shows and media events.

We don’t know the real reason, but the owner probably decided that he (or she) don’t need so expensive and useless “jewel”.

Otherwise, Koenigsegg CCX is a spectacular vehicle. It is powered by a 4.7 liter twin-supercharged V8 with 806HP (593 kW) at 7,000 RPM and 920Nm (679 lb-ft) of torque at 5,500RPM. The same engine can be tuned to 1,018HP (749 kW) and 1,060Nm (782 lb-ft) (powering the impressive CCX-R).

It is connected to a 6-speed manual CIMA gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.8 seconds and a top speed of over 395 km/h (245 mph). According to the owner, it can do 417 km/h (259 mph).The chassis is made from carbon fiber reinforced with Kevlar and aluminum honeycomb like previous models.

June 11, 2014

Mazda SKYACTIV-D 1.5 liter Diesel

Mazda has unveiled full details about the newly developed four-cylinder, 1.5 liter SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine. It will power the next generation Mazda2 and boasts a number of technologies improving not only the performance, but the fuel consumption as well. The new engine complies with EURO 6 regulations.

Combined with Mazda’s i-stop idling stop technology, i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system, and high-efficiency SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission or SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, the SKYACTIV-D 1.5 will ensure the all-new Mazda2 achieve among the highest level test mode fuel economy figures for a vehicle powered solely by combustion engine in registered vehicles excluding hybrid and micro-mini vehicles in Japan, as well as drastically improved practical fuel economy.

It is another example of how Mazda is implementing its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, which promises to deliver all Mazda customers both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

The new engine delivers 105HP (77 kW) at 4,000RPM and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque at 1,500RPM.

Key features of the SKYACTIV-D 1.5

Development pursued ideal combustion efficiency despite the lowest compression ratio of any small displacement diesel engine—14.8:1.
Cooling loss is suppressed by combustion mode transition control technology, and high dispersion solenoid injectors which, along with stepped egg-shaped pistons, help to reduce contact between the flame and chamber wall.
The range of homogeneous lean burn is extended through the adoption of high-pressure EGR and low pressure EGR systems, resulting in improved fuel economy, environmental performance and performance feel.
Engine cooling system features cooling water control valves (CCV) and water jacket spacers^*4 for improved combustion efficiency and reduced mechanical resistance.
Variable turbine geometry turbocharger with rotation sensor delivers plentiful boost pressure from low through to high engine speeds.
Water-cooled intercooler integrated into the intake manifold improves acceleration response and turbocharger efficiency.
Outstanding environmental performance to meet Japan’s Post New Long-term regulations and Euro6 emission standards without an expensive NOx aftertreatment system.

Source: Mazda

June 11, 2014

Nissan Vision Gran Turismo Concept

Nissan has published a new picture of Vision Gran Turismo Concept on Twitter. The Japan manufacturer didn’t release any further information, but the interesting sports car resembles a GT-R from the future.

There is a strange V-motion front fascia and slender headlights. The huge air-intakes are going to deliver enough air for the expected extremely powerful engine, which will power the upcoming Nissan GT-R. It is rumored to have over 800HP (588 kW), which is considerably more than the current most powerful version – Nismo having 600HP.

The drivetrain of the new Nissan GT-R will consist of the well-known VR38DETT 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor. Of course, a KERS-like system will be installed thanks to Williams F1 Team.

The Vision Gran Turismo Concept boasts a double bubble roof flowing into the rear end. There are also aggressive side skirts and huge five-spoke alloy wheels probably measuring 20” or 21”.

Nissan will unveil more information on June 16^th as well as more pictures and details.

Stay tuned!

Source: Nissan

June 11, 2014

Arrinera Hussarya 33 To Be Launched Next Year

Arrinera Hussarya 33 is expected to be launched in late 2015. It will be the first model of Arrinera Automotive to go in production. At the beginning of October last year, in Motopark Ulez the Hussarya rolling chassis underwent extensive driving tests. In fact, the car designer Lee Noble was a main member of the supervisory board, and personally participated in tests. At this moment, Arrinera is adding the final touches on the bodywork and the interior.

Other tests of the complete super car are scgeduled for October this year. However, this time they will take place on tracks both in Poland and the UK. The 33 number in the name of the car does carry a special message. It is that this unique version of Hussarya will be delivered to only 33 customers around the globe.

The car will be powered by a V8 engine, which will have the capacity of producing 650 horsepower (478 kW) and 820Nm (605 lb-ft) of torque. The acceleration time of course is impressive. Preciselt, for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h the car needs just 3.2 seconds. The top speed is 340 km/h.

The standard version of the Hussarya has a starting price around 160 000 euro, while the Arrinera Hussarya 33 will be priced at 200 000 euro.

Source: Arrinera Automotive

June 10, 2014

Suzuki Has Upgrades For 2014 Swift

2014 Suzuki Swift is one of Suzuki’s world strategic models. It has great styling, exceptional safety for its class, delivers excelent driving performance, handling and low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It is driven by 1.2 litre engine with Dual Variable intake and exhaust Valve Timing, which produces 94 hp (70 kW) at 6,000rpm with a torque figure of 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 4,800rpm. Swift is available in four specification grades: SZ2, SZ3, SZ4 and Sport. They are powered by the 1.6-litre engine.

Next to the seven airbags and ESP as standard, SZ2 adds for 2014 front passenger airbag deactivation facility, electric front windows, remote central door locking with deadlocks, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, MP3 / WMA compatible CD tuner with USB port and steering wheel mounted audio controls. The SZ3 goes over the SZ2 and adds air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, integrated audio unit and bluetooth connectivity with music streaming facility.

The changes for the 2014 also include added LED Daytime Running Lights and front fog lights. A gear shift indicator has now been added to help aid fuel efficiency as well as Tyre Pressure Monitor System.

Upgrades for the SZ4 include navigation and DAB digital radio as standard. The model has been already equipped with automatic air conditioning, electric rear windows, rear privacy glass, push button keyless start, automatic headlamps, cruise control and heated mirrors with integrated turn indicators. New is also the Amethyst Grey Pearl Metallic paint finish.

The flagship Suzuki Swift Sport model offers a bespoke exhaust system with twin tailpipes, one on each side of the rear diffuser. It is powered by an M16A engine that has a variable intake system and an optimised intake Variable Valve Timing. The latter increases valve lift. The maximum output is rated at the impressive 100 kW (136 hp), while the maximum torque is 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) at an engine speed of 4,400 rpm.

Source: Suzuki

June 10, 2014

Nissan Teases Vision Gran Turismo Concept

There are exactly 148 Nissan cars in the Gran Turismo franchise. And with the teaser revealed by Nissan we are definitely expecting to the 149th one. These numbers speak of only one thing – that the company has developed more Gran Turismos than any other automaker in the industry. Each car, ranging from the Skyline Sport Coupe and Fairlady Z to the GT-R NISMO GT3, displays a chapter of Nissan’s history. There hasn’t been revealed much about the new concept, except for the debut date – June the 10th. This means that we are soon to expect the full official information and images, so stay tuned!

The project Vision Gran Turismo involves world’s leading brands, which develop concept cars for Gran Turismo and its fans. The previous models that we have covered in our blog are the Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo, BMW Vision Gran Turismo and Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Evolution Vision Gran Turismo, and you might like to look them up.

The video game, created specifically for PlayStatio3 players, was introduced in 1998. It is one of the biggest and most famous award-winning racing simulations. It offers a wide range of realistic racetrack options and authentic-looking HD graphic images.

Source: Nissan

June 10, 2014

Toyota Introduces 2014 Camry RZ Special Edition

2014 Toyota Camry RZ is a special edition model which expresses the sports potentials of the Camry model. It is packed with a substantial list of added features. One of the styling updates include Inferno Orange premium paint, which has never been offered on Camry. This paint scheme joins the five other colours available. In addition, the revised frontal treatment features front foglamps with black surrounds, sports headlamps with dark inserts, and a stylish grille that combines body colour and gloss black elements. Other enhancements include sports suspension, sports body kit with side skirts and rear bumper, and a boot lip spoiler in gloss black.

Camry’s newest special-edition model also gains dual exhaust system, which lifts maximum power output to 184 hp (135 kW) from the 2.5-litre dual VVT-i four-cylinder engine. Camry RZ side view is dominated by gloss-black 17-inch alloy wheels with a unique gloss black finish. They are set off with a black wheel ornament with chrome highlights.

Inside, RZ’s interior includes sports combination meters, premium three-spoke steering wheel and gear-shift knob, and display audio with reversing camera monitor. What rounds out the package is the black interior trim and the Camry RZ logo embroidered on the front floor mats. The logo can be also seen on the decals on the doors and rear bumper.

As a standard, Camry RZ offers six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift, seven airbags, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, electric power steering, and six-speaker sound system with steering-wheel controls.

Source: Toyota

June 10, 2014

2014 Porsche 911 S Martini Racing Edition

Porsche has unveiled the 911 S Martini Racing Edition , which is specially designed to celebrate the brand’s returning to the world famous 24 hours Le Mans race. The 911 Carrera S pays tribute to the successes of the legendary Porsche Le Mans race cars such as the 917 and the 935 “Moby Dick”. The special edition is limited to 80 units and will be exclusively sold in select markets of Europe, in China, Japan and in Latin America. For select 911 models, Porsche Tequipment will be selling the exclusive Martini decal set as an aftermarket kit in Germany and other markets.

The special Martini Racing Edition of the 911 S is available in two color – white or black featuring Martini’s traditional blue-red color scheme on the roof, rear wing, boot lid and sides. There is also an Aerokit Cup front apron and fixed rear spoiler. Other special features include stainless steel door sill panels with “911 Carrera S – Martini Racing Edition” illuminated lettering.

A standard Sport Chrono package and a sport steering wheel are also fitted. Other standard extras include Porsche Communication Management (PCM), black leather-wrapped electric sport seats, tachometer with black gauge and a Bose premium audio system.

The sports car is powered by a 3.8 liter flat-six with 400HP (294 kW) at 7,400RPM and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) at 5,600RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 302 km/h (187 mph).

The production will be limited to just 80 units.

Source: Porsche

June 10, 2014

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 – Exceptional Performance

Lotus has unveiled the 2014 Exige LF1 Limited Edition created to celebrate the manufacturer’s Formula One “origin”. This summer, totally 81 Lotus Exige S cars will get a Lotus F1 Team livery and interior trim to mark the number of grand prix victories held by the Lotus marque.

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 Limited Edition is based on the Exige S and boasts a black and gold exterior with red accents and special badges. There are also golden alloy wheels and the Race Package including a Dynamic Performance Management system, high-performance brakes and Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo tires.

The interior also comes in two-tone scheme – black and gold leather/fabric seats with embroidered headrests and seat backs, air conditioning and an individually numbered carbon fiber plaque.

Lotus Exige LF1 is powered by a 3.5 liter supercharged V6 – 350HP (257 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph). The curb weight is 1,176 kg (2,593 lbs).

The customers will also get an “Exige LF1 Membership” that includes a factory tour of Lotus Cars in Hethel and a tour of the Lotus F1 Team headquarters at Enstone. It also includes a Romain Grosjean 1:2 scale replica helmet, a Lotus F1 car key fob, a Lotus F1 Team USB stick and special discounts for the manufacturer’s lifestyle products.

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 Special Edition:

Exterior:

Bespoke black and gold livery with red accents

Bespoke exterior badges incorporating ‘LF1’ logo

Exclusive black and gold ‘Lotus’ nose badge and wheel centres

Interior:

Bespoke trim in leather and technical fabric featuring black and gold design with gold contrast piping and stitching details

Embroidered ‘LF1’ logos on headrests and floor mats

Embroidered ‘Lotus F1® Team’ logo on seat backs

Matt gold 5-spoke 17”/18”cast alloy wheels

Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo Tyres

Race Pack

Two-piece high performance brake discs

Red brake calipers

Air conditioning

Individually numbered limited edition carbon fibre build plate

Bespoke carbon fibre engine plate

Optional Equipment:

Convenience Pack

Heated seats

Rear parking sensors

The Lotus Exige LF1 special edition comes with the following Formula 1 package within the purchase price of the car:

A factory tour for 2 people of the Lotus Cars production facility at Hethel

A factory tour for 2 people of the Lotus F1® Team headquarters at Enstone

Collector’s edition owner’s pack including Exige LF1 Membership card entitling members to 20% discount on Lotus Originals and Heritage ranges and 10% off Lotus F1® Team Replica collection

Romain Grosjean 1:2 scale replica helmet

Lotus F1® car key fob

Lotus F1® Team USB stick

Source: Lotus

June 10, 2014

Audi RS1 Sportback [render]

Remco Meulendijk from The Netherlands is the designer of the stunning Audi RS1 Sportback. The two render pictures give us an imagination of a potential look for the ultra-hot hatchback. The German manufacturer has released the S1 and S1 Sportback just a several months ago and we are pretty sure, that the RS1 is “on the table”.

The S1 Sportback is powered by the well-known 2.0 liter TFSI from Golf GTI Performance – 231HP (170 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The power is put on the road through a 6-speed manual gearbox and Quattro AWD (all-wheel drive) system.

Some of the highlights include a set of 17” alloy wheels fitted with 215/40 R17 tires. There is also an option for bigger 18” wheels with 225/35 R18. There are also xenon plus headlights combined with LED taillights, enormous 310mm front disc brakes with red calipers and S1 logo.

The pricing for 2014 Audi S1 Sportback starts from €30,800 in Germany.

The expected RS1 will have a lot more power and probably will do 0-100 km/h in around 5.0 seconds or less. It will be also a lot more expensive considering the new special features.

Stay tuned!

June 10, 2014

Wheelsandmore Lamborghini Huracan LP850-4 Lucifero

Wheelsandmore are continuing to surprise everybody with their project based on super expensive sport cars. Their latest creation is based on Lamborghini Huracan and named LP850-4 Lucifero. The tuning specialists have developed three significant performance upgrades and minor styling improvements.

Stage I includes a stainless steel sports exhaust system, high-flow air filters and of course an ECU re-map. The result for the 5.2 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine is 640HP (470 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 30HP and 40Nm.

Stage II includes a full supercharger kit as well as a reinforced clutch and limited-slip differentials. The result is spectacular – 777HP (571 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 167HP and 140Nm.

Stage III increases the boost produced by the compressor and the result is 850HP (625 kW) and 730Nm (538 lb-ft)… a real Lucifer(o).

Other upgrades include a set of multi-piece concave forged wheels – 9.5 J x 20” at the front with 245/30 ZR20 performance tires and 11.5J x 21” at the rear fitted with 305/25 ZR21. The modular three-piece construction allows an individual customizing according to customer´s specifications.

Last, but not least a hydraulically adjustable racing suspension with adjustable train and compression damping is currently on development.

Source: Wheelsandmore

June 10, 2014

2014 MINI Cooper SD – 170HP and 370Nm

MINI has revealed the new powerful Cooper SD, which is the most powerful diesel ever in a vehicle of the brand. After its successful market launch, the engine range for the new original in the small car premium segment continues to expand as of July 2014.

2014 MINI Cooper SD is powered by a 2.0 liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine – 170HP (125 kW) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds (or 7.2 seconds with the optional 6-speed Steptronic transmission). The small car is able to cover 100 km with just 4.0 liters – 58.8 mpg US or 70.6 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 104 g/km.

MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology has a turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry and common rail injection with magnet valve injectors operating at a maximum pressure of 2 000 bar. This combination enables both highly spontaneous power delivery as well as a precisely controlled fuel supply.

MINI also offers a One First model powered by a a 1.2 liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder diesel engine – 75HP (55 kW) and 150 Nm (110 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 12.8 seconds and an average fuel consumption of 5.0 liters / 100 km – (47 mpg US or 56.4 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 117-122 g/km.

Both models will hit the market in July and in the United Kingdom the Cooper SD will be priced from £19,450 OTR.

Source: MINI

June 10, 2014

Blog