Automobiles Review – Page 558 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Kia Optima – Minor Facelift

Kia US has unveiled the 2015 Optima midsize sedan. It is built at Kia’s West Point, Ga., facility (KMMG) and features next-generation of UVO eServicesand a number of subtle interior refinements meant to improve ergonomics and offer a more premium experience.

As before, the new Optima is available in LX, EX, SX, SX Turbo and SX-Limited trims. The UVO eServices is available as an option on the EX, SX, SX Turbo and standard on the SX-Limited. The new feature include Geo Fencing, Driving Score, Speed Alerts and Curfew Alerts.

Other innovations include repositioning the wheel-mounted buttons, new brushed bezels for the D-shaped steering wheel coming with SX-Limited and also a new black cloth option for the LX.

Outside, the 2015 Optima is now available with a Smokey Blue (late availability) metallic paint, and Sparkling Silver and Platinum Graphite replace Bright Silver and Metal Bronze, respectively. The acoustic laminated windshield, found last year only on SX-Limited, is offered across the Optima lineup for 2015.

The engine range includes two powerful Theta II powerplants: a 2.4 liter GDI four-cylinder and a 2.0 liter GDI turbo.

The 2.4-liter GDI engine is available on LX, EX and SX models while the more robust 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine is offered exclusively in the SX and SX Limited.

Each engine choice is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic shifting. Drive Mode Select (DMS), which offers owners a customizable driving experience by adjusting transmission shift points and steering weight, remains exclusive to the SX Turbo and SX Limited.

Source: Kia

May 16, 2014

2015 Honda Civic Type-R [spy photos]

Worldcarfans has published several spy photos of completely undisguised 2015 Honda Civic Type R. The upcoming hot hatchback comes with an aggressive body kit and a powerful engine.

The new Civic Type-R has been tested alongside with Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, Renault Megane RS and the new Golf R. The Concept version of the model was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

The exterior boasts modified front and rear bumpers, a pair of aerodynamic side skirts, extended front fenders and a big rear wing. There is also a new rear diffuser, a four-tailpipe sport exhaust system and dark-yellow alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

The engine under the hood is expected to be a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with over 280HP (206 kW). Seat Leon Cupra 280 has already raised the bar with the epic lap around the Green Hell, so all new hot hatchbacks will have at least and over 280HP in order to be competitive. Of course, big brake systems and performance wheel set are compulsory. So, everything will be reduced to the better platform.

We expect the Megane RS 275 Trophy to be the new King of the Ring, until the Civic Type-R is officially on the scene.

Source: WCF

May 16, 2014

Olsbergs MSE Enhances Ford Fiesta ST Supercar For 2014 GRC

Olsbergs MSE Ford Fiesta ST Supercar is under preparation for the Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship (GRC). The rallycross has existed for three years now, during which Ford Racing has set a high standard, claiming three driver and three manufacturer championships. Olsbergs MSE (OMSE) has involved in the evolution of the Fiesta ST in order to make sure that the car will be a winner this year. The combination of enhancements in the Fiesta ST Supercar and changes in series regulations created an opportunity for improvement.

To be more precise the enhancements included has been done on the suspension, engine, wheels and body. Ford Fiesta ST Supercar’s suspension was an area of significant development with the series changing the spec tire from a bias ply tire to a radial Yokohama tire.

The OMSE retuned Fiesta produces up to 600 hp (441 kW) and 813 Nm (600 ft-lbs) of torque from its turbocharged 2.0L engine. For the wheels, OMSE have partnered with Motegi Racing to develop a lightweight, rallycross-specific wheel. The wheels are strengthened and reduce rotational mass. Ford Racing OMSE factory Supercars will also get updated looks.

Olsbergs MSE Ford Fiesta ST Supercar will make its Red Bull GRC debut on 18th May in Barbados. It will be driven by Patrik Sandell, Joni Wiman, Brian Deegan, and Nelson Piquet Jr.

Source: Ford

May 16, 2014

2015 Scion FR-S And tC Get Updates

2015 Scion FR-S and tC models are getting bolder and better this summer. They have been enhanced with the addition of several features and also include minor changes when compared to the previous model year. The new FR-S for instance features improved tuning as well as exterior appearance. The 2015 tC sports on the other hand, receives new colors and a sporty feature. Both vehicles are scheduled to go on sale in early June. Pricing is listed below.

To begin with the 2015 Scion FR-S, it is known for its outstanding dynamics, which are taken to a new level for the new model year. The updated FR-S features better handling and stability thanks to a more rigid front suspension and re-tuning of the rear shock absorbers. As a result from the improved damping, there is less body roll and a more communicative driving experience.

Furthermore, for better aerodynamics, the smooth look of a shark-fin antenna replaces the pole antenna. The exhaust tips are enlarged and charmonize perfectly with the rear bumper. The interior of the vehicle features an added auto on/off headlights, an updated interior panel with a carbon fiber look, and a new key design.

The car has been equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology. Exteriorwise, Steel replaces Argento as a sleek silver color and Whiteout has been replaced by Halo pearl white color.

2015 Scion tC has received and upgraded automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters which enhance the sporty driving experience. For the new model year there are two new colors: Cosmic Gray which replaces the Classic Silver and Blizzard Pearl which replaces the Super White. The refreshed Scion also includes Dynamic Rev Management technology.

Scion Pricing Chart:

2015 Scion FR-S (MT) $24,900 USD
2015 Scion FR-S (AT) $26,000 USD
2015 Scion tC (MT) $19,210 USD
2015 Scion tC (AT) $20,360 USD

Source: Scion

May 16, 2014

Oettinger Volkswagen Golf R – 400HP and 500Nm [video]

Oettinger has presented their latest tuning program for the ultra-hot hatchback Volkswagen Golf R. It comes with a lot of styling and performance upgrades and an impressive power boost.

The 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI engine is equipped with bigger turbocharger and improved ECU. The result is epic – 400HP (294 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) – an increase of 100HP and 120Nm. 0-100 km/h in under 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph) – electronically limited. The company offers softer versions with 360 (264 kW) or 380HP (279 kW).

Oettinger 2014 Volkswagen Golf R comes with a new front spoiler, a pair of modified side skirts and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. There is also a big brake system, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system and sets of 19” or 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires.

As is to be expected from Oettinger, the high end tuner from Friedrichsdorf, the Golf R body kit is manufactured in OEM standard high quality RIM.

The latest developments can be admired fort he first time at the Tuner GP in Hockenheim (23^rd and 24^th May) and then a few days later at the GTI meet at the Wörthersee.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGSQF-dgylA

Source: Oettinger

May 16, 2014

2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo To Be Revealed At ZDay Z

2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo has just been teased. Besides the image of the part of the front end and head-light the Japanese company has only disclosed that the vehicle will make a special global Nismo debut today 16 at 1:00 p.m. ET at ZDAYZ event located at Fontana Village Resort in North Carolina. And that is all. Luckily enough we don’t have to wait too long to take a look at the vehicle and get the impression of what it would be like. However, we can still get some information from the released teaser photograph.

What is visible is that the new 370Z Nismo has horizontal LED running lights and associated vertical vent, additional air intakes and a more-aggressive front splitter. We can’t see the grill very well but it seems updated. At last, the car will be probably running on double five spoke wheels fitted with low profile tyres.

As a matter of fact, this model stands at the top of the line of 370Z range. So far the car has been powered by the 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The unit generates 350 hp (257 kW) and 374 Nm (276 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission with SynchroRev Match technol.

Source: Nissan

May 16, 2014

Bentley Mulsanne 95 Celebrates Company’s Anniversary

Bentley Mulsanne 95 Special Edition has been designed and produced in order to celebrate Bentley’s 95th anniversary. The model is company’s luxurious flagship model. Only 15 examples will be hand crafted and they have all been reserved for customers in the United Kingdom. Their exterior paint finish is inspired by the British flag, while the interiors include unique wood veneer and range of design cues.

To go into details, there are three bespoke exterior colors: Britannia Blue, Empire Red and Oxford White. They have been created especially for this limited run of cars. The classic red, white and blue color palette is complemented by unique exterior details, such as a dark tint finish given to the iconic Flying B bonnet mascot and the striking 21-inch five-spoke wheels.

Inside, one can find the luxurious wood veneers and leather hides, illuminated treadplates featuring a bespoke ‘NINETY FIVE’ script and union flag detail, which turns the simple act of opening the door into an occasion. In addition, a distinctive ‘95’ emblem has been embroidered onto the front and rear seats. It has been also included on the passenger fascia panel.

In the case of Mulsanne 95, Bentley has selected a rare wood veneer from a huge walnut tree. It is estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old, and eventually came down at Fulbeck Hall in Lincolnshire during a heavy storm in 2007.

The signature ‘ring of wood’ of the veneer encompasses the entire interior. Its complex pattern shows a rare rippled effect which sweeps through the cabin. Furthermore, the walnut veneer is complemented by a blue and white two-tone leather split with red contrast stitching.

Source: Bentley

May 15, 2014

Virtual Reality: BMW Vision Gran Turismo [VIDEO]

BMW Vision Gran Turismo is just too good to be true. It is a virtual race car which races on the racetrack in Gran Turismo 6. The latter is an acclaimed racing title available exclusively on PlayStation3. Of course, the vehicle was created by BMW Group Design. It is powered by a virtual three-litre six-cylinder inline engine, developed by BMW M GmbH. The unit delivers peak performance of nearly 550 horsepower (404 kW). The car also promises fast laps and optimum handling and control.

The virtual the BMW Vision Gran Turismo has crisp proportions and a dynamic silhouette. The front and rear spoilers ensure optimum down-force, while all air conduction elements reduce drag. They also lower the vehicle’s total weight via the use of carbon fibre. The paint finish in BMW M colours traces the flow of the airstream.

As mentioned, this unique BMW is powered by the three-litre six-cylinder inline engine which utilizes M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 549 hp are delivered between 6,200 min-1 and 7,300 min-1. The peak torque is 680 Nm (502 lbb-ft) and is developed at just 1,900 rpm.

The powertrain is coupled with a sequential six-speed transmission, and is operated by gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. The engine power is distributed to the driven rear axle. All in all, BMW Vision Gran Turismo weighs only 1,180 kilograms, and includes a perfect 50:50 axle load distribution.

The video game “Gran Turismo” 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.

httpv://youtu.be/_obcI-bIS4Y

httpv://youtu.be/a8U89-JtMlI

Video Source: YouTube

Souce: BMW

May 15, 2014

Brabus And Smart Invite Fans To Create Unique Model [VIDEO]

2014 Brabus Smart Fan Edition is a very special model. It was created by Brabus and Smart as wished for by the fans of one of the smallest cars in the automotive industry. In fact, this is the goal of an unusual social media campaign that smart is launching today on Facebook. The end result will be to bring the unique vehicle to the road. The project can easily stand under the name of “anything but convetional” and the major contributor for the realization of this is Brabus.

An interesting fact is that Brabus has delivered more than 50,000 customised vehicles to the roads and this is since 2012. But the smart Brabus fan edition is breaking new ground: all smart fans are able to vote online for the configuration of the special model that will go on sale in the fall.

There will be five rounds of online voting and those who are interested are invited to vote on Smart’s official Facebook page. There, participants can vote on the color of the body-panels, the color of the tridion safety cell, the color of the seats and their quilting and the design of light-alloy wheels. In the end, the fans will have designed their ideal car.

The tuning company has developed an individualization program, which give the customers the option of a tailor made Smart Fortwo, which to match entirely their style and taste. They can choose among many features and add extra packages.

For instance, there is an available color package as well as leather package for the interior. The combined fuel consumption of the car is rated at 4.2 l/100 km, while the combined CO2 emissions at 97 g / km.

Source: Smart

May 15, 2014

2014 Toyota Auris Gets Icon Plus Grade

2014 Toyota Auris Icon Plus is one of the revised trim grades which will add to the current Auris range additional equipment features. Under refinement are both hatchback and Touring Sports wagon models. The new Icon Plus grade includes rear privacy glass, retracting door mirrors and heated front sports seats. In addition, the Auris Hybrid now can be ordered in three trim levels – Icon, Icon Plus and Excel. An innovation is the introduction of Toyota Touch 2 with Go touchscreen multimedia and navigation control system throughout the range.

Precisely, the Icon Plus grade builds on the established Auris Icon specification. It adds over it freshly designed 16-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and a folding function for the electrically adjustable door mirrors. Furthermore, the exterior of this Icon Plus will also benefit from the Tungsten Blue metallic paint finish.

The interior of the new grade includes heated sports front seats with electric lumbar support control, cruise control on the petrol and hybrid models as well as improved Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia and navigation package.

Furthermore, the Icon Plus grade will be available also for the Auris Hybrid hatchback and Touring Sports, next to the Icon and Excel trims. Additional features include leather upholstery for the seats, centre armrest and door panels. It is offered in black with either white or blue contrast stitching.

On the other hand the available Parking Pack (Icon, Icon Plus) provides color-matched front and rear parking sensors, while the Protection Pack adds front and rear mud flaps, scuff plate, a boot liner and a bumper protection plate.The third optional pack is the Chrome Pack that adds chrome side sills and boot trim.

2014 Toyota Auris Model Range:

GRADE	BODY	ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Active	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-i 6MT
Active	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-i 6MT
Active	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Active	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive E-CVT
Icon	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive E-CVT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Excel	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Excel	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Excel	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Excel	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Excel	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT

Source: Toyota

May 15, 2014

Audi A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept – 525HP and 600Nm

Audi has unveiled a spectacular A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept, which will make public debut at the 2014 Wörthersee Motor Show starting on May 28^th. It is based on the S3 Sedan and comes with incredible engine and other performance upgrades.

2014 Audi A3 Clubposrt Quattro Concept is powered by a 2.5 liter five-cylinder TFSI engine with epic 525HP (386 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. Compared to the “tiny” 2.0 liter TFSI and its 300HP (221 kW) and 420Nm (310 lb-ft), the new power unit is sensational. The performance is more than scary – 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph). The curb weight of the car is just 1,527 kg (3,366 lbs), so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 343HP / ton. The power is put on the road through Quattro AWD (all-wheel drive) system and a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox featuring launch control.

Other highlights include an improved suspension and lowered ride height by 10mm. There is also a set of enormous 9.5J x 21” alloy wheels fitted with 275/25 R21. Of course, the manufacturer has fitted the performance sedan with carbon fiber ceramic brake system – 370 millimeters discs.

The exterior boasts impressive Magnetic Blue paint scheme and an aggressive body kit including CFRP front blade and side sills as well as a big rear diffuser and dual oval exhaust pipes. The popular Matrix LED headlights are also present.

The interior features bucket seats equipped with four-point seatbelts. The luggage compartment is present only to fit your racing helmets (two).

The Audi A3 clubsport quattro concept is 4,490 millimeters (14.7 ft) long, 1,856 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide and 1,382 millimeters (4.5 ft) tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,631 millimeters (8.6 ft).

Source: Audi

May 15, 2014

Arden Sport Exhaust System – Range Rover AR 9

Arden Automotive is now offering a high-performance exhaust system specifically for the Range Rover LG. The entire system is made of high-quality stainless steel and includes a pre-and rear silencers as well as sport catalysts.

It not only result in epic soundtrack, but also a significant power increase of 25HP (18 kW). The twin tailpipes are made from polished stainless steel. The system has a flap control, so the owners achieve the maximizing use of performance. It is electronically adjustable through a switch mounted in the center console so that the driver can choose the volume of the system during the trip. Last, but not least, the high-performance sport exhaust system gives a significant throttle response.

The price of the complete system is €8,318 (including 19% Tax). You may decide, that is too much for such kind of upgrade, but it really sounds incredible. Check the video below and convince yourself.

The item number is ARK 64025 and pricing excludes installation!

Range Rover Sport is powered by a 5.0 liter turbocharged V8 with 510HP (375 kW) and 625Nm (463 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).

As you will see in the video, 0-100 km/h in achieved in 4.5 seconds and 0-150 km/h in 8.8 seconds.

Enjoy!

Source: Arden

May 15, 2014

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