Automobiles Review – Page 570 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2015 Scion FR-S Special Edition – TRD Upgrades

Scion is going to exhibit FR-S Special Edition at the 2014 New York Auto Show in few days. It draws on track heritage and the expertise of Toyota Racing Development (TRD). There is a wide array of nice upgrades which will be appreciated by the fans.

“It’s fitting that the first Scion FR-S Release Series draws on the rich motorsports history that inspired the FR-S design while standing out in new ways that will excite our drivers,” commented Scion Vice President Doug Murtha.

“FR-S enthusiasts will appreciate the side spoilers and lowered stance that deliver a look and feel meant for the track, at a price meant for them.”, Mr. Murtha added.

The exterior comes with a Yuzu paint scheme and a custom aerodynamic body kit which will include a rear spoiler and side fender elements. There is also a quad exhaust setup and lowered ride height thanks to the set of sport springs. Other highlights include a Smart Key with Push Button Start. TRD installed a different steering wheel, shift knob, black seats with T-pattern and a unique logo cargo floor mat.

Last, but not least are the headlights with HID headlamps and LED DRLs (daytime-running lights).

Of course, each of the 1,500 units of Scion FR-S Special Edition will have an individually numbered plaque and a price of below $30,000.

Source: Scion

April 16, 2014

BMW 2-Series 228i Coupe Track Handling Package [video]

The 2015 BMW 2-Series 228i Track Handling Package is officially unveiled. BMWBlog has published a lot of pictures and a video clip presenting the performance coupe. The car will be available to order in July, this year.

As we previously mentioned the Track Handling Package includes ///M Adaptive Suspension, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on unique 18” light-alloy wheels , Variable Sport Steering, and M Sport Brakes. The package will be available from July 2014 for both 6-speed manual and 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission-equipped BMW 228i Coupe models.

The /// M Adaptive Suspension lowers the ride height by 10mm and makes use of several sensors to provide a “comprehensive real-time profile of damping needs at all four corners to effectively read and adapt to the road” in a few milliseconds. In other words, the 228i with Track Handling Package will corner even sharper.

BMW 2-Series 228i is powered by a 2.0 liter TwinPower turbo gasoline engine with 245HP (180 kW) at 5,000RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,250RPM. The engine is connected to an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels or a 6-speed manual variant. 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hW8kJMJvaU

Source: BimmerBlog

April 16, 2014

2015 Chevrolet Trax – US Spec [video]

Chevrolet is going to offer the new 2015 Trax in the US with first deliveries expected in the beginning of the next year. The compact crossover will be exhibited at the 2014 New York Auto Show. We doubt that it will make huge success, because the US market is quite demanding.

“Trax offers customers another option in the Chevrolet family and will be a strong competitor in the emerging small-SUV market, which is expected to grow more than 80 % by 2016,” commented Alan Batey, General Motors senior vice president, Global Chevrolet.

“Trax also leverages our global resources and builds on Chevrolet’s strong SUV heritage.”, he added.

2015 Chevrolet Trax US is virtually identical to the European version. The US model comes with a “dual-port” grille, sweptback headlights and muscular rear fenders. The model also has plastic body cladding and 16” or 18” alloy wheels.

The interior boasts a new inspired instrument cluster, metallic accents and a MyLink infotainment system with a 7” display. The luggage compartment is pretty big – 530 liters and can be increased to 1,371 liter with rear seats folded down.

The engine is a 1.4 liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline with 140HP (103 kW) and 200Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lUr_NhPn9o

2015 Chevrolet Trax Specs:

Overview

Model:	Chevrolet Trax
Body style / driveline:	small SUV, front-engine/front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
Construction:	body-frame integral
EPA vehicle class:	sport utility vehicle
Key competitors:	Kia Soul, Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Manufacturing locations:	Bupyeong, South Korea and San Luis Potosi, Mexico

Engine

	1.4L turbocharged DOHC I-4
Displacement (cu. in. / cc):	83.2 / 1364
Bore and stroke (in. / mm):	2.85 x 3.25 / 72.5 x 82.6
Block material:	cast iron
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, double continuously cam phaser intake and exhaust (DCVCP)
Ignition system:	coil on plug
Fuel delivery:	sequential multi-port fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Compression ratio:	9.5:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	138 / 103 @ 4900 (SAE certified)
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	148 / 200 @ 1850 (SAE certified)
Recommended fuel:	regular unleaded
Max engine speed (rpm):	6500
Emissions controls:	close-coupled and underfloor catalytic converters; pre- and post-oxygen sensors
EPA fuel economy (city / hwy):	26 / 34

Transmission

	Hydra-Matic 6T40 6-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1)
First:	4.58
Second:	2.96
Third:	1.91
Fourth:	1.45
Fifth:	1.00
Sixth:	0.75
Reverse:	2.94
Final drive:	3.53

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	MacPherson strut with coil-over spring; direct-acting stabilizer bar; steel 6-point rigid attachment front cross member
Rear:	compound crank (torsion beam); coil springs with twin-tube shock absorbers
Steering type:	column-mounted electric power steering; rack-and-pinion gear (straight ratio)
Steering ratio:	16.1:1
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:	2.7 (16-inch wheels) 2.6 (18-inch wheels)
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):	36.7 / 11.2

Brakes

Type:	FWD: front discs with ventilated rotors, rear drums; standard ABS AWD: four-wheel disc with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs; standard ABS
Brake rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):	front: 11.8 x 1.0 / 300 x 26, ventilated discs (FWD & AWD) rear: 10.6 x 0.5 / 268 x 12, solid discs (AWD)
Drum diameter (in / mm) :	rear: 9 / 230 (FWD)
Anti-lock braking system:	Mando MGH60 Chassis Controls: ABS / TCS / ESC with rollover mitigation

Wheels/Tires

Wheels:	16 x 6.5-inch steel with wheel cover (std.) 16 x 6.5-inch aluminum (opt.) 18 x 7-inch aluminum (opt.)
Tires:	P205/70R16 ALS (std.) P215/55R18 AL3 (opt.)

Dimensions

Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):	100.6 / 2555
Overall length (in / mm):	168.5 / 4280
Overall width (in / mm):	69.9 / 1776
Overall height (in / mm):	65.9 / 1674
Track (in / mm):	front: 60.6 / 1540 rear: 60.6 / 1540
Curb weight (lb / kg):	FWD: 2805 / 1293 (est.) AWD: 3208 / 1455 (est.)
Minimum ground clearance (in. / mm):	front: 6.2 / 157 rear: 6.2 / 157

Interior

Seating capacity (front / rear):	2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):	front: 39.6 / 1005 rear: 38.8 / 985
Legroom (in / mm):	front: 40.8 / 1037 rear: 35.7 / 907
Shoulder room (in / mm):	front: 54.1 / 1374 rear: 52.8 / 1340
Hip room (in / mm):	front: 51.7 / 1313 rear: 50.2 / 1274
Passenger volume (cu ft / L):	92.8 / 2628
Cargo volume (cu ft / L):	18.7 / 530 (behind rear seat) 48.4 / 1371 (rear seat folded)

Capacities

Fuel tank (gal / L):	14 / 53
Engine oil (qt / L):	4.75 / 4.5
Cooling system (qt / L):	6.9 / 6.5

Source: Chevrolet

April 16, 2014

2015 Infiniti Q70 Facelift

Infiniti has unveiled 2015 Q70 Facelift, which will be also available in a long-wheelbase variant. Its evocative design, class-leading rear space, invigorating performance, innovative technology and superior craftsmanship combine to make the new Q70 a strong offering in this category.

The Q70L will be with 15cm longer wheelbase compared to the normal model. This means increased rear knee and legroom resulting in more comfort for the occupants. The model also looks more elegant and refined. It features different headlights and taillights benefiting from LED technology. There is also a new front fascia and new wood accents for the interior.

The engine range includes the well-known 3.7 liter V6 with 330HP (243 kW) at 7,000RPM and 366Nm (270 lb-ft) of torque. There is also a powerful 5.6 liter V8 with 420HP (309 kW) and 565Nm (417 lb-ft). The engines work exclusively with a 7-speed automatic transmission and if you want to opt for the hybrid variant you will have to settle for the standard wheelbase version.

The Hybrid model combines a 3.5 liter V6 working together with an electric motor. The gasoline engine delivers 302HP (225 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft), while the electric motor has 68HP (50 kW) and 290Nm (214 lb-ft).

The 2015 Infiniti Q50 and Q50L facelift will be also revealed to the public at the New York Auto Show.

Source: Infiniti

April 16, 2014

2015 Infiniti QX80 Limited

Infiniti has recently unveiled the new 2015 QX80 and now they are introducing the top-of-range Limited trim level. It boasts an extensive menu of exclusive features, including an upgraded level of craftsmanship surpassing even the high standards of “ordinary” QX80s.

2015 Infiniti QX80 Limited comes with full LED headlights and taillights, a revised front grille, two new alloy wheel designs and three new unique paint schemes. The interior boasts two new base colors as well as two color schemes. The Tuscan Burl trim was replaced with darker Mocha Burl.

Other highlights include a set of bespoke 22” dark alloy wheels, smoked headlights and taillights and a special Truffle Brown interior finish combining brown, black and silver leather with wood appointments and trim. There is also dark-finished upper and lower grille surround, side vents, roof rails, fog light surround, side mirror caps, door handles and crossbars.

2015 Infiniti QX80 is powered by a 5.6 liter V8 with 400HP (293 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The Infiniti QX80 Limited also offers a seemingly unlimited list of advanced technology and safety features, including High Beam Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Emergency Braking and the new Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Front Pre-Crash Seatbelts. Also included are Blind Spot Intervention (BSI), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP).

Source: Infiniti

April 16, 2014

Audi exclusive RS7 dynamic edition Debuts In New York

Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition is making a debut today at the New York International Auto Show. In addition, the car will start arriving at dealerships in early summer. Highlights of the new model include Crimson Red safety belts, stitching throughout the interior, Tornado Red brake calipers, Carbon fiber elements, DRC suspension and sport exhaust. In addition, this car also combines all of the performance of the 560 horsepower RS 7 including with elements of the exclusive customization program.

The interior of the car is adorned by Black Valcona leather seats which have RS specific honeycomb stitching in Crimson Red. This comes in harmony with the safety belts of the same color. The same Crimson Red stitching can be seen on the dashboard, gear shifter boot, center and door armrests as well as along the center console.

On the outside, the exterior is emphasized by Tornado Red brake calipers with RS 7 logo and 21-inch Gloss Black wheels. Carbon fiber is used for the splitter, diffuser and engine cover. Four exterior colors are available: Ibis White, Suzuka Gray metallic, Daytona Gray pearl, Phantom Black pearl.

A highlight here is the DRC system, which utilizes three-stage adjustable dampers. They are hydraulically cross-linked and integrated into the Audi drive select system. Combined with the standard rear sport differential they deliver maximum performance driving. Dynamic steering adapts the steering boost and ratio for more precise handling.

At the heart of the five-door coupe is the twin-turbo 4.0 Liter TFSI V8 engine. The unit generates 560 hp (412 kW). This launches the RS 7 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds. The car also is fuel efficient due to the use of innovative solutions. For instance thermal management and cylinder on demand enable the RS 7 to achieve a EPA estimated MPG of 16 city/27 highway/19 combined.

Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition has a starting price of $146,045 USD.

Source: Audi

April 16, 2014

Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo By Vorsteiner

Vorsteiner Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo is simply stunning! It has been completely refined and now exudes even more class and luxury. The engine under the hood of this beautiful car is the 3.6 litre twin-turbocharged flat-six one. It generates 480 horsepower (353 kW) and 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) of torque, and catapults the car from standstill to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. The top speed here is 310 km/h (193 mph).

The additional enhancements by Vorsteiner include V-RT aerodynamics package, VSM-310 multi-piece forged wheels, as well as custom embroidered velour floor mats. At the front end of the Porsche, the aero kit adds a replaceable chin spoiler increasing the downforce as well as carbon fiber brake ducts which direct air to the rotors to maximize cooling during heavy braking.

At the rear, the kit enhances the car with a functional carbon composite rear deck lid/engine cover with twin ram air scoops. They feed air into the engine bay and air intake for optimum airflow and cooling. What is more, a carbon fiber wing blade rounds out the final appearance while increasing down force to the rear of the vehicle at high speeds.

Oh, we forgot to mention the unique wheels on which this 911 Edition runs. They are Vorsteiner’s Sport Multipiece Forged VSM-310 finished in Gloss Brushed Shadow and coming in sizes 20×9” at the front and 20×12” at the rear. Of course, the Michelin Pilot Super Sports complement them perfectly.

Vorsteiner Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo Details:

V-RT Edition 997 Aerodynamics Package:
- V-RT Front Bumper with Carbon Fiber Brake Ducts, Chin Spoiler and Grille Insert
- V-RT Carbon Fiber Side Intake Inlets
- V-RT Rear Wing with Integrated Twin Air Scoops
- V-RT Rear Bumper with Integrated Carbon Fiber Diffuser and Intercooler Shrouds
Interior:
- Porsche 997 4-piece Vorsteiner Embroidered Velour Floor Mats
Wheels:
- Sport Multipiece Forged VSM-310
- Wheel Finish: Gloss Brushed Shadow
- Wheel Size: 20x9J Front, 20x12J Rear
- Tire Size: 245/30/20, 325/25/20 Michelin Pilot Super Sports

Source: Vorsteiner

April 16, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Teases New AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT sports car is to thrill us this autumn when it is set to make its world premiere. The brand new vehicle will feature breath-taking design and supreme agility –qualities typacially found on the AMG GT. Furthermore, form Mercedes-Benz announced that the car is destined for a new segment. We don’t have any visuals of the exterior yet, but the company has released two images of the exclusive interior, which is adorned by red and black leather, carbon fiber and a range of new technologies.

The designers have put mainly their attention on the driving dynamics, agility and sportiness of the car. In fact, the new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG.

The sneak preview of the interior provides a good impression of what we are to expect. Inside, car’s design embodies emotion and sensuality. The uncompromising lines of the interior components define the concept of “modern luxury”.

The biggest impression however, makes the stylistic development of the central “aviation design” theme. The dashboard is wide and creates impression of a powerful wing. This design treatment is supported by the four central spotlight-style vents and the individual vents at the left and right ends of the dashboard.

The dominant centre console has a shape reminiscent of a NACA air intake and the employed materials suggest that it has been adopted directly from motor racing. The controls on the AMG DRIVE UNIT are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout. All in all, the finest materials and outstanding workmanship contribute to the typical Mercedes luxury.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 16, 2014

1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 By RK Motors

1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 by RK Motors is to compete in 2014 HOT ROD Magazine Power Tour. It will take place between 7th and 14th of June. The exclusive car has just been teased with couple of images and we are definitely impatient to see it in all its glory. Behind the steering wheel will be Rob Kauffman.

In addition, RK Motors also disclosed that the redesigned vehicle is going to be officially unveiled at Charlotte’s celebration of Mustang’s 50th anniversary this Friday. RK527 is an 800-plus horsepower tribute car based on a 1967 Shelby GT500.

What was also revealed is that RK527 is loaded with extensive features and upgrades such as custom Jon Kaase Heads, Fast XFI ECU Port Fuel Injection, Billet Specialties drive system. Here are also present the new Bryant Billet Crankshaft, custom 3” Exhaust and Magnaflow mufflers, Custom Detroit Speed Alumaframe.

The powerful engine of the car is coupled with Tremec T56 6-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, other exclusive treatments include complete with coil-over shocks in the front and Detroit Speed quadra-link suspension in the rear, and massive Baer calipers and rotors. 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 runs on Vintage HA Series 427 Shelby Wheels coupled with BF Goodrich G-Force Sport Tires.

Source: RK Motors

April 16, 2014

Oettinger Audi A4 Sport – Avant and Sedan

Oettinger has unveiled their latest tuning program for the new Audi A4. The tuning company from Ingolstadt offers styling and performance upgrades for the Avant and Sedan models and also for the long version of the A4 which is only available in China.

The styling program includes a new front bumper, a carbon fiber front splitter and a honeycomb mesh grille insert. There are also carbon fiber mirror covers, aerodynamic side skirts and 19” RXX alloy wheels which are available in a silver or black finish. Upon request, there is a new rear bumper, a carbon fiber rear diffuser, a sports exhaust system and roof or tailgate-mounted spoiler (for the Avant model).

For additional performance, Oettinger offers a new “Engine Power Command” system which promises to deliver a lot of power and “beefy torque”. All engines in the range including the powerful S4 and RS4 models can benefit from the new power.

The new RS4 is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.2 liter V8 – 450HP (331 kW) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. The power is put on the road through 7-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission and Quattro AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph). The combined fuel consumption is just 10.7 l / 100 km (22 mpg US) with 249 g/km CO2.

Source: Oettinger

April 15, 2014

2015 BMW 2-Series 228i Coupe with Track Handling Package

BMW is going to offer a special Track Handling Package for the 2015 2-Series 228i Coupe in the US. Inspired by the original formula of BMW “S-package” vehicles manufactured in the course of the past three decades, the new Track Handling Package embraces the desires of the most enthusiastic BMW drivers.

The Track Handling Package includes /// M Adaptive Suspension, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on unique 18” light-alloy wheels , Variable Sport Steering, and M Sport Brakes. The package will be available from July 2014 for both 6-speed manual and 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission-equipped BMW 228i Coupe models. The Track Handling Package may be added to any 228i Coupe during the vehicle ordering process.

BMW 2-Series 228i is powered by a 2.0 liter TwinPower turbo gasoline engine with 245HP (180 kW) at 5,000RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,250RPM. 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

There is no doubt that the 2-Series 228i equipped with Track Handling Package will be extremely fun to drive and slide. What is more, it will set ultra-fast lap times and will compete with very tough track cars like Porsche Cayman and Lotus Elise. Still, the 228i will be a good everyday car with low fuel consumption and nice equipment.

Source: BMW US

April 15, 2014

Peugeot 2008 DKR for 2015 Dakar Rally

Peugeot has unveiled the 2008 DKR Race Car, which will compete in the world’s most tough challenge – 2015 Dakar Rally. The extremely muscular vehicle will be driven by Carlos Sainz and Cyril Despres, who will defend the colours of Team Peugeot Total on next January’s Dakar.

The French manufacturer makes a return after 25 years with a 2008-based racer, which looks quite aggressive. It rolls enormous 37” (94 cm) off-road Michelin tires and has received a large rear wing while the rear doors were removed. There is also a short front overhang to allow a high approach angle.

Still there, are no further details except that the vehicle will have a two-wheel drive layout and all the necessary improvements to comply with Dakar’s regulations. The 2008 DKR’s breath-taking forms are sure to cause a stir even before the new car starts to kick up dust as it begins to be put through its paces in the colours of Red Bull and Total.

Peugeot 2008 DKR will be exhibited at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show.

“We provided Peugeot’s Style Centre with a very precise brief,” commented the Project Leader at Peugeot Sport, Jean-Christophe Pailler.

“We supplied them with the basic key dimensions, as well as other information such as the cabin space we required, plus the wheel size and the suspension travel. They also had aerodynamic data resulting from our early simulation work.”, he added.

Source: Peugeot

April 15, 2014