Automobiles Review – Page 576 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Kia To Debut Multi-Purpose Vehicle In New York

Kia’s new midsize multi-purpose vehicle has just been teased with a first image. The picture above actually shows a lot of what we can expect to see at the 2014 New York International Auto Show in April, when the car will make an official debut. With this vehicle Kia aims to challenge the segment and offer a new interpretation of an eight-passenger car that will also appeal to the adventure seekers.

Except for this information, the brand didn’t disclose much more information. Making conclusions when looking at the teaser, we see that the vehicle really looks like a crossover. It has a large front grille and big headlights, typical for Kia’s range.

We are also wondering, whether this new multi-purpose vehicle will has something to do with Kia KV7 Concept that we have seen debuting at the Detroit Auto Show back in 2011. The KV7 got gullwing opening rear doors, swivel seating, minimalist dash and wood panel floor.

It is also rumored that the new car will be powered by Kia’s 2.2-liter diesel engine. We have to wait for some more time to get the clearer image. The brand promises to release more information in the weeks ahead, so stay tuned!

Source: Kia

April 4, 2014

Audi RS6 AS by HPerformance

HPerformance Audi RS6 AS is a car we must review. First of all, because it includes all of the benefits of the emblematic RS6; and secondly, because it has some enhancement features which makes it unique. Oh, we forgot to mention that its powertrain got also improved and now delivers even more power. All in all, the tuners at HPerformance, who are actually based in Germany, did great work.

In particular, this third generation Audi RS6 got transformed firstly in terms of weight. Its overall mass was reduced with around 200 lb. This of course contributes towards improved fuel consumption and enhanced acceleration capabilities.

Next, the tuners added HPerformance 70 mm double pipe exhaust system which includes two controllable exhaust valves. This exhaust can be operated pneumatically via an overpressure or via electric ways using MMI. The end effect is the great sound that comes out of the pipes.

Speaking about performance, the RS6 has under its hood an enhanced version of the standard 4.0 liters V8 biturbo 4×4 engine. After the boost via control device programming, the unit delivers 700 hp (515 kW) and 860 Nm (632 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to an eight speed automatic transmission. At last, this Audi has been equipped with a prototype of a carbon suction system.

Source: HPerformance

April 4, 2014

2014 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 Enters GT4 Challenge Series

2014 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is going to take part in brand’s GT4 Challenge series. The model is part of the latest three entries, headed into their first round at Watkins Glen. Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America is a seven-event, multi-round series. In it the vehicles compete on some of the finest road courses in the country. The racing event is owned and operated by TRG-AMR North America, and begins on 18th of May, while ending on 23rd of Novemer at Sebring International Raceway.

This weekend, Joel Segal tested the Vantage GT4 at the Thermal Club. The driver was so impressed by the car that he even purchased it with the aim to enter the racing competition with it. Aspiring competitors will drive the evocative Aston Martin GT4 Vantage cars they have acquired.

The vehicle is equipped with a 4.7-liter 400 plus horsepower (295 kW) V8 engine, coupled to a six-speed paddle-shifted gearbox. It also features adjustable suspension with track-tuned springs, shocks and antiroll bars, and Pirelli P-Zero tyres. In order to make it appropriate for competition, the designers at Aston Martin made it circa 650 pounds lighter than its road-legal sibling.

In addition, the GT4 also comes with an aerodynamic package, stripped cockpit and FIA-approved roll cage. The price of the model is approximately $200,000, depending on options the drivers chose.

2014 Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America Schedule:

May 16-18 Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, N.Y.
June 6-8 Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.
July 25-27 Circuit Mont-Tremblant, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Aug. 29-31 Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, Calif.
Sept. 12-14 Monticello Motor Club, Monticello, N.Y.
Oct. 10-12 Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis.
Nov. 21-23 Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Fla.

Source: Aston Martin

April 3, 2014

Mopar ’14 Dodge Challenger Sold Out

2014 Mopar Dodge Challenger Limited Edition has just been made available in the dealerships across the United States and has already been sold out. It took only one day for the new muscle car to vanish out from the market, with the total number of 100 examples sold. This makes the Mopar ’14 Challenger the rarest limited-production Dodge offered up to date.

This clearly demonstrates that Mopar-modified vehicles are preferred by customers who want to show out their individuality. This latest model in the line-up is based on the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker. Mopar’s personalizations offer two exterior color options and three Mopar Blue stripe options.

The car is equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, features unique Satin Black Shaker hood scoop, runs on 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps and has unique Black Vapor grille surround, a black fuel-filler door, a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler with Gloss Black “Mopar Design” badge and “Mopar” quarter-glass decals.

Inside, the model has been upgraded with premium leather seats including the Mopar Blue accent thread and Mopar Omega M logos embroidered on the seat backs. Also throughout the interior can be seen serialized instrument panel plaque, “Mopar” branded key fobs, a custom-crafted personalized owner’s kit and much more.

Furthermore customers can benefit from the following available features offered exclusively by Mopar: short-throw shifter, cat-back exhaust, performance suspension, lowering springs, Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS), performance badges, hood pin kit, car cover, door-sill guards, sequential taillight kit, premium floor mats or slush mats, chrome exhaust tip, fuel-filler door, wheel locks, interior trim bezel kit and Mopar Shaker hood.

Source: Dodge

April 3, 2014

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Celebrates 60th Anniversary

2014 Alfa Romeo Giulietta debuted back in September last year at the auto show in Frankfurt, Germany, but little did we know back then that this year the model is actually celebrating its 60th anniversary. 19th of April 1954 was an iconic date in Alfa Romeo’s history because at the 36th Turin Motor Show the legendary Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint was revealed to the eyes of world for the first time. By the end of the exhibition more than 700 orders had been taken.

In order to celebrate this success and the special anniversary, the company is entering on the market the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB Progression that is capable of generating 120 horsepower (88 kW). This special edition can be painted with a Special Lunar Pearl finish, which is the new color included in company’s range.

The range of Alfa Romeo Giulietta models has been extensively revised for this year and now feature more technology, including standard Uconnect touch-screen infotainment systems, new engines, redesigned seats and seat’s fabrics and leather upholsteries, new colors and improved standard specifications.

At the top of the range stands the Giulietta equipped with the new 2.0 liter JTDM 2 engine. The latter develops 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, and is equipped with the second-generation MultiJet injection system. This system enhances unit’s combustion in all operating conditions, thus delivering better fuel economy.

Source: Alfa-Romeo

April 3, 2014

2015 Acura RDX Goes On Sale In The US

2015 Acura RDX Crossover is currently going on sale across the United States. The SUV has been a sales hit, making its 22nd consecutive monthly sales record in February 2014. The model is equipped with 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission as a standard. The unit delivers an estimated 273 horsepower (201 kW). The vehicle can be optionally equipped with an all-wheel drive system.

RDX’s has been aerodynamically enhanced and includes Amplitude Reactive Dampers and motion adaptive electric power steering system. On the other hand, the interior has been crafted with wide range of interior materials and has been carefully insulated.

Standard features on the 2015 RDX include the following: leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, a power moonroof, 360-watt audio system, Pandora interface, Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, Active Noise Control system and a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera.

Those who are willing to get even more from their RDX can opt for the Technology Package, which brings about AcuraLink Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather, a GPS-linked solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system, Acura/ELS Surround®Premium Sound System, a power-actuated rear tailgate, projector beam headlights with Bi-Xenon HID bulbs and front fog lights.

Furthermore, a comprehensive array of technology features is also provided. They enhance the overall safety of the SUV. For instance, as a standard are featured the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control and a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Other key safety technologies include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, six airbags, active head restraints and front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system.

2015 Acura RDX Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP**	EPA***
RDX	$34,895	20/28/23
RDX with Technology Package	$38,595	20/28/23
RDX with AWD	$36,295	19/27/22
RDX with AWD and Technology Package	$39,995	19/27/22

Source: Acura

April 3, 2014

Mercedes SL 65 AMG Black Series vs Ferrari 458 Italia [video]

Dragtimesinfo has published an interesting drag race video with Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG R230 Black Series (stock) going against Ferrari 458 Italia (stock) and a tuned Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG Gorilla Racing with 700HP.

The SL 65 is powered by a 6.0 liter V12 Bi-Turbo with 670HP (493 kW) at 5,400RPM and 1,000Nm (740 lb-ft) of torque at 2,200RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.9 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.6 seconds with 202 km/h (126 mph).

Ferrari 458 Italia has a 4.5 liter naturally aspirated V8 – 570HP (419 kW) at 9,000RPM and 540Nm (399 lb-ft) at 6,000RPM. This means the incredible 127 HP/liter. The curb weight is 1,380kg, so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/hp. 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

The first start was between the 458 Italia and the SL 65 AMG. It was really intense and both cars were neck in neck during the whole 1 mile run. Still, the 458 Italia managed to win the race with 29.267 seconds with 283.7 km/h, while the SL 65 AMG needed 29.630 seconds with 295 km/h terminal speed. The ¼ mile times are 11.854 seconds and 12.074 seconds, respectively.

The second start is between the SL 65 AMG and the ML 63 AMG Gorilla Racing. Of course, the Roadster humiliated the big SUV. The SL 65 AMG crossed the finish line in 28.996 seconds with 298 km/h (which is more than enough to beat the Ferrari) and the ML 63 AMG in 30.142 seconds with 269 km/h.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFDKeH2PkzU

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

April 3, 2014

Porsche Boxenne S [render image]

Here is a nice render image of Porsche Boxenne S, which is a mixture between the recently announced Macan crossover and Fiat 500. The hardcore fans of Porsche will curse it, but as the market demands these days, the Boxenne could be a real hit.

The render image is published by X-Tomi Design, who obviously has some very nice ideas. The small affordable Porsche Boxenne will never happen, but it will be surely appreciated. Still, we think that it will be better, if Porsche announce smaller model than Cayman. A direct rival of Lotus Elise and Alfa Romeo 4C will be very interesting.

If Porsche produces a smaller version of Macan, it could be fitted with some powerful engines. For example the Macan S is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 bi-turbo engine – 340HP (250 kW) and accelerates 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2 seconds. A 7-speed double-clutch transmission transfers power to AWD system. The top speed is 255 km/h (158 mph), and its NEDC fuel consumption figures are between 31.4 and 32.5 mpg, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of between 212 and 204 g/km. All these figures will be drastically improved, if the weight is lowered as well as the improved aerodynamics.

Imagine what will do the Boxenne S with the same engine!

Source:x-tomi design

April 3, 2014

Prior Design BMW M6 F13 Pickup [render]

Prior Design has published a nice render picture of BMW M6 F13 Pickup. For now it is just an idea, but Prior actually said that it could become a reality. We hope that don’t happen, because it will ruin one perfect car… or more.

However, there is a lot of positive feedback from fans on the Facebook page of Prior Design. We wonder why, but everybody has an opinion even if it is wrong. You may remember that BMW actually produced one M3 Pickup based on the E92 model. It looked ridiculous, but nobody cares because it is an M3.

The tuning package for M6 F13 Pickup by Prior Design remains the same as the one fitted on the Coupe – a new front bumper, a carbon fiber front lip spoiler and carbon fiber fins. There is also a new ventilated hood, a pair of widened side skirts and extended wheel arches. The rear bumper is also new and comes with an integrated diffuser.

BMW M6 F13 Coupe is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 (S63B44TU) – 560HP (412 kW) at 6,600RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque available at just 1,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds , 0-200 km/h in 12.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited or 300 km/h (186 mph) with ///M Drivers package. The engine is connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. ¼ mile in 11.7 to 11.9 seconds.

The curb weight is 1,850kg and the powerful sports coupe is able to cover 100 km with just 7.6 liters on Highway.

Source: Prior Design

April 3, 2014

2015 McLaren 650S Coupe and Spider – US Price

McLaren is now offering the 2015 650S Coupe and 650S Spider in the US and Canada across all 15 retail locations. The pricing starts from $265,500 for the Coupe and $280,225 for the 650S Spider in the US, while in Canada, they are priced CAD $287,000 and CAD $305,500 respectively.

2015 McLaren 650S is powered by a M838T twin turbo V8 engine – 650HP (478 kW) and 678Nm (500 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds. The top speed is 329 km/h (204 mph) and the uel consumption and emissions – 11.7 l / 100km on the combined cycle and 275 g/km of CO2.

“Driving excitement is at the absolute heart of the McLaren 650S”said Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive.

“Of course the performance figures are important, and they help boost excitement. But they’re only part of the story. This is a car that’s about feel as well as measurement.”, he added.

Standard equipment includes carbon ceramic brakes that sit behind unique lightweight alloy wheels and shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres. The interior boasts a fully-trimmed cabin in lightweight Alcantara, IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth connectivity, SIRIUS satellite radio in North America, wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control all fitted as standard.

Optional equipment features fixed-back carbon racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, an electric steering column adjustment assists ingress and egress, a rear parking camera and extended carbon fiber throughout the interior.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION – McLaren 650S COUPÉ

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1,656 / 1,583
Engine Configuration	3.8L V8 Twin Turbo / 3,799cc	Length (mm)	4,512
Engine HP / rpm	641 @ 7250	Width (mm)	2,093
Torque / rpm	500 lb-ft @ 6000	Height (mm)	1,199
Transmission	7-Speed SSG	Dry Weight, lbs (Coupé/Spider)	2,932 / 3,020
Body Structure	Carbon Fiber MonoCell with Aluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2,670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Carbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 / Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

PERFORMANCE DATA


Speed	Maximum speed	207 mph

Acceleration	0-60 mph	2.9 seconds
	0-100	5.7 seconds
	0-186 mph	25.4 seconds
	¼ mile	10.5 @ 139 mph

Braking	62-0 mph	100 ft
	124-0 mph	404 ft
	186-0 mph	889 ft

Source: McLaren

April 3, 2014

BMW 3-Series F30 M Performance Edition

BMW is going to offer the 3-Series F30 ///M Performance Edition in South Africa. It is scheduled to hit the market in May and will come with a number of cool upgrades including engine boost. The German manufacturer has already presented ///M Performance packages for X5 and X6 as well as the 1-Series and 5-Series F10. Now it is turn to F30 to become really impressive.

The ///M Performance Edition comes with a black front grille, a pair of aerodynamic side skirts and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. There are also carbon fiber mirror covers, ///M-Sport brake system and a set of 19” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

The options list also include ///M Performance stripes, an ///M Performance sports exhaust system and exclusive Laguna Seca Blue or Valencia Orange paint scheme. The ///M Performance Power Kit boosts the engine at least with 13HP (10 kW) and 30Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque (for 320d).

Production will be limited to just 500 units and the M Performance Edition package can be ordered on any model from the 320d to the 335i.

The fans will appreciate this special edition a lot, because of all these nice goodies.

Pricing:

BMW 3 Series Sedan M Performance Edition Content: R50, 000 and R65, 000 if specified with exclusive metallic paints (Price of M Performance Edition content if fitted at dealership is R 87,000).

20” BMW M Performance light alloy wheel Double-spoke 405M: R43,900

M Performance Top Stripes: R2,895

M Performance Exhaust System: R11,755

M Performance Power Kit: R15,670

Source: BMW

April 3, 2014

Sievers Tuning Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary Edition

Sievers Tuning has unveiled their latest project based on one the five units ever built of Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 45^th Anniversary Edition. It has been given a new exterior look including new paint scheme, some black graphics, including a Batman logo on the rear wing’s sides and also on the rear bumper.2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 45^th Anniversary Edition is powered by the well-known 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 591HP (435 kW) at 6,800RPM and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque at 4,750RPM. The engine is connected to a 7-speed AMG Speedshift DCT sport transmission sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph). ¼ mile is covered in 11.1 seconds with a terminal speed of 212 km/h (132 mph).The price of SLS AMG GT3 45^th Anniversary Edition is €446,250. It comes with carbon fiber reinforced plastic doors, boot lid, front hood, mud guards, front and rear aprons. Other elements from CFRP are the rear wings, rear diffuser and front splitter.The interior boasts a rollcage, center console and dashboard with similar matt carbon fiber appearance.Mercedes-Benz SLS is expected to be retired in the next few months. It won’t get a direct replacement, instead the new model by the premium German manufacturer is going to be smaller and lighter and a lot less expensive.

April 2, 2014

Blog