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2015 Ford Mustang Convertible Combines Function And Design [VIDEO]

2015 Ford Mustang Convertible is here and as its fastback sibling it is redesigned from the wheels up in order to offer more driving enjoyment. As a true Mustang it has unique design characteristics which make it instantly recognizable.

As a matter of fact, it has an entirely redesigned top system, and as the technicians and creatives at Ford say, it is the best convertible they have ever built. Both the fastback and the top-lees 2015 Mustangs include an array of important changes, while at the same time deliver enhanced standards of performance, luxury and refinement.

An innovation for the MY2015 is that every convertible roof is getting a full fabric outer layer, as well as full inner headliner to incorporate the five-bow structure. In between these layers is positioned the full 10-millimeter thick insulation pad which contributes for the quietness of the muscle car inside.

Furthermore, the new Ford Mustang features electromechanical drive system, which raises or lowers the roof in half the time required previously. This is achieved via press of a button on the center console. The significant use of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels throughout the body structure delivers more stiffness, which is enhanced by 13 percent, and fully utilizes the independent suspension. As a result, the cabrio has more refined ride quality and enhanced handling.

Usable cargo space is also offered in the 2015 version of the Mustang. This is due to the more compact roof and flat load floor, making enough space for two large golf bags. In addition, the wider rear and the new top design contribute towards more shoulder and hip room for rear-seat occupants.

2015 Mustang fastback and convertible are equipped with the line-up of Ford engines, including the new turbocharged EcoBoost 2.3-liter power plant. There is also available the updated 420 hp (309 kW) 5.0-liter V8 unit, which can be coupled with a manual or automatic six-speed transmission. The models are also equipped with state-of-the-art connectivity systems, available advanced driver-assist systems, track applications and launch control.

Source: Ford

March 27, 2014

Shelby To Show Four Vehicles At The Ford Shelby Nationals Event

Shelby American will show its latest vehicles 624 hp Shelby GT/SC and 50th Anniversary Shelby FIA Cobra at the 40th Annual Mid-America Ford Shelby Nationals event in June. At the festivals an appearance will also make the 850 hp GT500 Super Snake and Shelby Raptor muscle truck.

The first generation Shelby GT was unveiled in 2008. Now the brand is returning with the new version of that car. At the event Shelby will have the opportunity to put its ultra-performance vehicles through their paces on the road circuit at Hallett and the Tulsa drag strip, and make some spectacular demonstrations.

Shelby GT is equipped with a host of performance options and more importantly its engine was upgraded and now delivers 624 hp (459 kW). In fact, any 2011 to 2014 Ford Mustang GT V8 can be converted into a Shelby GT or Shelby GT/SC.

A very special appearance at the show will make the FIA Cobra, which has been built in oreder to celebrate the birth of the 289 Ford powered roadsters. In fact, Shelby American is building 50 limited edition continuations (CSX7000) of the Shelby 289 FIA Cobra. The car is painted “Viking Blue” with FIA stripes and roundels, and includes a black FIA interior, special billet anniversary badges, original style wheels and a variety of additional options.

The other vehicle featured at the event is the stunning Shelby Raptor, who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty. The truck offers heart pounding, supercharged 575 hp (423 kW) and is tuned with Shelby Stinger exhaust, leather interior, all wrapped in Shelby graphics and styling, and finished with registry number and badges.

At last but not least, Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake, which was unveiled at 2013 North American Auto Show in Detroit, will also join the company of the other three vehicles. The Super Snake is offering street-legal 850 horsepower (625 kW) and is equipped with a wide body package.

40th Annual Mid-America Ford Shelby Nationals will take place in Tulsa, Okla., from June 11- 15.

Source: Shelby

March 27, 2014

Audi Unveils 2014 R18 e-tron quattro

The new 2014 WEC season began for Audi with spectacular appearance. The brand has just unveiled the updated Audi R18 e-tron quattro not only rolling on the Le Mans legendary race track, but also on public traffic. Tom Kristensen, who holds nine victories and who is a record holder of the Le Mans 24 Hours, drove the diesel hybrid sports car from the Saint-Julien du Mans cathedral in the city centre to the famous race track.

Audi’s newly livered LMP1 race car completed the ten kilometer distance through the city in a motorcade, did a lap on the Circuit Bugatti and eventually arrived in front of the race track’s center. The new colour scheme of the vehicle now has white, silver, red and black, and also features fresh and expressive graphics.

These colours are symbolic: silver emphasizes the past success in racing and is used as a base for the livery; white harmonises with the former color and stands for the hybrid drive, being utilized asymmetrically in order to highlight the complexity of the powertrain technology; black is used for the front and rear wings, as well as on sections of the fenders and sides with highly defined geometric contours, and this contrasting color stands for light-weight design; at last, red is Audi’s performance colour.

The graphics featured include Audi’s logos and inscriptions. They have longitudinal orientation and express the speed that is also emblematic for Le Mans. Red color is also included in the rims, and due to the wheel rotation, it also achieves a very dynamic effect.

2014 Audi R18 e-tron quattro is equipped with a V6 TDI power plant, which was increased from 3.7 to 4 litres, thus additionally optimizing the efficient engine. The energy flows through a motor generator unit (MGU) at the front axle and is stored in a flywheel energy storage system.

The new race car provides the optimum balance between efficiency, size, weight, energy conversion efficiency, responsiveness, drivability and durability. It is expected to participate in the official test of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) at Le Castellet in France on 28th and 29th of March.

Source: Audi

March 27, 2014

Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle Receiving Upgrades

Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles are getting enhanced for the new model year. The improvements comprise of two new body styles, all-wheel drive, many features in the standard equipment and high-performance, but efficient EcoBoost engine options.

The two body styles of the utility vehicles are a traditional, pursuit-rated large sedan and a pursuit-rated utility vehicle, which will benefit from the new standard AWD. This feature will come only across the car equipped with a 3.7-liter or 3.5-liter EcoBoost engines. The system operates full-time and can thus shorten pursuits, which protects everyone involved.

Next, is the EcoBoost advantage. Precisely, the Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicle can be equipped with Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 powertain, which delivers 365 horsepower (268 kW) and 474 Nm (350 lb.-ft.) of maximum torque. As a matter of fact, in a recent Los Angeles County Sheriff Department testing, both vehicles were fastest in both 0-100 mph acceleration runs and average lap times, making them for a third consecutive year staying at the top. In addition to the efficient EcoBoost units, Ford also offers the 3.5-liter and 3.7-liter non-turbo engines, which also provide increased fuel economy ratings.

But this is not all. The latest addition to Ford’s police lineup the 2.0-liter EcoBoost Special Service Police Sedan. Thanks to its efficient powertrain the car achieves EPA-estimated rating of 20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. This Special Service vehicle offers a mix of durability and efficiency. The engine generates 240 horsepower (176 kW) and 366 Nm (270 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The new sedan Special Service come with many standard features and technologies such as a 75-mph rear crash test rating, two times durability testing, police-tuned suspension, police brakes, steel wheels, police interior and upfit options.

Source: Ford

March 27, 2014

Hartge BMW X5 F15 Wheels

Hartge is now offering several wheel sets for BMW X5 F15. These include Hartge Classic 2, Hartge Ultima Ultra Light forged for vehicles with or without ///M Aerodynamic package. There are also Hartge Ultima silver wheels.

The tuning company also offers different types of wheel spacers in order to make the perfect set suitable to customers’ needs.

The alloy wheels range in dimensions from 9.5 J x 21” to 10.5J or 12J x 22” and even 11J x 23”. Hartge also offers different tires for all rims – 285/35 ZR21, 295/30 ZR22, 335/25 ZR22 and 315/25 ZR23.

All sets of wheels and tires are tested and TUV certified. The price list is available upon request.

Source: Hartge

March 26, 2014

2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car

Acura Motorsports has unveiled the the new 2015 TLX GT Race Car, which will make its official debut at the Pirelli World Challenge competition on May 30^th. It will face Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458.

“The competition in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge is incredible, but Acura has never shied away from strong competition, in the marketplace or on the race track,” commented Art St. Cyr, President of Honda Performance Development and Vice President, Product Planning and Logistics, American Honda.

“The 2015 Acura TLX is a true luxury sport sedan, so it is fitting that the car be raced against several of its natural competitors, and even some up-market brands, in the Pirelli World Challenge.”, he added.

The Acura TLX GT Race Car will feature HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition, and will be powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed by HPD from the normally aspirated, production TLX luxury sport sedan. It will utilize all-wheel drive, as found in Acura’s SH-AWD system.

Source: Acura

March 26, 2014

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 Special Edition

Mitsubishi Motors UK is going to offer Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 MR Special Edition. The model is created to celebrate the company’s 40^th Anniversary in the UK. The Lancer Evolution X has already achieved legendary status thanks to its past rallying successes and this special edition will help push the boundaries even further with more power than ever before.

“Mitsubishi Motors in the UK are pleased to announce that, as part of our celebrations of being 40 years in the UK, we will be producing 40 special edition Evo Xs. The Lancer Evolution has always been a halo model for Mitsubishi and this special edition is no exception. More powerful than ever before and with a very limited availability, it will be a ‘must have’ for all die-hard Evolution fans!”, commented Lance Bradley, Managing Director for Mitsubishi Motors in the UK.

FQ-440 Specification

Technology:

Bespoke engine ECU re-map developing 440bhp at 6,800rpm and 412 lb.ft at 3,100rpm
HKS turbo
Janspeed exhaust system with a high-flow sports catalytic convertor
6 Speed Twin Clutch Sports Shift Transmission (SST)
Janspeed intake & intercooler piping kit
Janspeed tubular manifold
Motorsport specification high-flow fuel injectors
Alcon front braking system – 6 pot mono-block front calipers with floating disc and bell assembly
Alcon rear caliper with floating disc and bell assembly
Front suspension lowered by 35mm
Rear suspension lowered by 30mm
Eibach coil springs
Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) with full time 4WD system
Keyless Operation System (KOS) with push button start
CAT 1 approved alarm immobiliser

Exterior:

Forged 18” BBS alloy wheels
Bi-xenon headlights with adaptive front-lighting system (AFS)
Front fog lamps
PIAA motorsport silicone windscreen wiper blades

Interior:

Recaro branded leather bucket seats
Rockford Fosgate premium audio with SD card based music server – 8 speakers + subwoofer
Leather sports steering wheel with audio and cruise controls
SD Card based Navigation system with 7-inch LCD touch screen
Airbags – dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee SRS airbags
Bluetooth handsfree system with music streaming
High contrast LCD Display
Climate control
USB terminal

Additional Equipment:

All vehicles will be fitted with a data recorder which is connected through the On-board diagnostic (OBD) system. This will record details such as driving style, performance, vehicle diagnostics, and present location. Details of the data will be available to both CCC and the registered owner of the vehicle. The fitment of, and reporting of data from this device is a condition of the vehicle warranty. A three year subscription to the service is included in the vehicle price.

Colours

Lancer Evolution will only be available in Frost White (W37)

Pricing

QG5 Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 MR will be priced £50,000

Servicing and Warranty

Servicing schedules for the Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 MR will consist of an initial 1,000 mile oil change, with further service intervals at 4,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. The FQ-440 is supplied with a comprehensive 3yr or 36,000 mile warranty.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 26, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Transporter – Combined Cycle 5.8 l / 100 km

Volkswagen is now offering the most economical Transporter in the UK. 2014 Volkswagen Transporter Bluemotion is able to return 48.7 mpg UK – 5.8 liters / 100 km on combined cycle with emissions of only 153 g/km.

The class-leading fuel efficiency is possible thanks to some recent updates for the BlueMotion model. These include modifying of the engine management system and transmission as well as using low rolling resistance tyres, Start/Stop and battery regeneration systems and cruise control. Every aspect of the vehicle’s specification has been optimised to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics. The engine is the well-known 2.0 liter TDI with 114HP (84 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque.

At the heart of the Transporter BlueMotion is the familiar 114 PS 2.0-litre TDI engine with common rail direct injection, which delivers a maximum of 250 Newton metres of torque.

The cleanest and most fuel-efficient Transporter panel van ever is available to order now through Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Van Centre network. The pricing start from just £19,245.

Source: Volkswagen

March 26, 2014

Unplugged Performance Tesla Model S – Styling Upgrades

Unplugged Performance is a tuning company based in California, US. They have introduced a new styling program for the Tesla Model S.

The exterior comes with a front lip spoiler – $995, aerodynamic side skirts – $1,450, a rear diffuser – $1,550 and a trunk-mounted spoiler – $895. Last, but not least is the new front fascia and Unplugged Performance said that they are working on performance and suspension upgrades as well.

“As an owner of a Tesla Model S P85+ I can tell you that the car is already an exceptional and unique driving experience. However being also an active member of the supercar community I can say from experience that every car including even the greatest supercars have the ability to become better still when upgraded with the right selection of parts. It has been proven again and again that regardless of how great a car is from the factory, it is truly only a starting point to extract the vehicle’s true potential. Brands like Mercedes’ AMG exist to bring an increased level of excitement to the ownership experience and Unplugged Performance’s goal is to push the potential of the Tesla Model S further than anyone has imagined. Unplugged is creating a future for our fellow Tesla owners that want to get the most out of their Tesla experience by upgrading their cars. Whether it is new heights of performance, styling or driving satisfaction Unplugged Performance will be developing upgrades that are worthy and well-designed improvements for such a revolutionary car.”, commented the President of Unplugged’s parent company Bulletproof Automotive, Ben Schaffer.

Source: Unplugged Performance

March 26, 2014

Roads Once Less Travelled — the Middle East and the SUV

As one of the most prosperous economic regions in the world, the Middle East attracts many automotive manufacturers looking to take advantage of this vast wealth.

While luxurious sports cars and executive saloons target the most affluent individuals, SUVs have become the car of choice with scores of everyday motorists. It’s become a lucrative market and shows no signs of slowing down. From small SUV cars to large all-terrain vehicles, the Middle East has become a region that loves its motors.

A Blossoming Market

In contrast to the US and Europe, SUV sales have soared across the Middle East in recent years, as fuel prices are less of an issue here. According to a report on Bloomberg, some brands have enjoyed as much as 50% growth in the region’s largest market of Saudi Arabia.

Ask any major manufacturer and chances are they’ll tell you that the Middle East has the most potential of any region or is currently their biggest market.

Competition between US, European, and Japanese SUVs is fierce, but certain trends have become apparent. While some consumers feel more affection towards US-built cars, Japanese manufacturers have gained an upper hand due to their hugely reliable, technologically advanced and robust vehicles.

Coping with ‘No Car’s’ Land — the Popularity of SUVs

In a region that boasts some challenging natural terrain, such as mountain ranges and deserts, a vehicle that can go off road without any fuss is somewhat essential. At the same time, the Middle East’s climate and geography often means that motorists must drive long distances under a relentlessly blazing sun. It all makes a dependable vehicle with mod cons such as air-conditioning, cruise control and in-car entertainment highly desirable.

Thankfully, the range of SUVs available in the Middle East can cope with these demands. Smaller cars feature a surprising amount of interior additions yet can still accommodate entire families, while larger vehicles can take on the tough terrain without so much as batting an eyelid (or buckling a tire, as the case may be!).
Now that the people have access to vehicles that can stand up to the terrain and get motorists from A to B under difficult conditions, the Middle East’s SUV market is most definitely here to stay.

March 26, 2014

Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Indy 500 Pace Car To Be Driven By Dario Franchitti

Dario Franchitti who is a three-time Indianapolis 500 winner will be driving the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Indy 500 Pace Car at the Indianapolis 500 in May. In fact, for the eight time a Camaro becomes the official pace car for the show, with a first appearance in 1967.

The driver – Franchitti, won the Indy 500 in 2007, 2010 and 2012, and his appearance in the Z/28 pace car shows a new start in his career. He sys that it is a tremendous honor to drive the Pace Car for the Indianapolis 500, and adds that he will appreciate every minute of getting to pace the field in the new 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.

The Pace Car is based on the brand new 2014 Camaro Z/28, which is the most track-capable model in its history. The car was built on the legacy of the original SCCA Trans Am-series contender, which was originally introduced in 1967.

The design of the Z/28 focuses mainly on track capability, thus sporting unique exterior elements. In addition, it is designed just like a race car in order to generate downforce that delivers greater grip – up to 1.08 g in cornering acceleration – and faster lap times.

And to harmonize perfectly with the great power of the car, Chevrolet designers gave it greater stopping power. The Z/28 is equipped with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and also has reduced curb weight. In fact, this Camaro weighs 300 pounds less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1.

The model as well as the Pace Car, is driven by the 7.0L LS7 engine, which is rated at 505 horsepower (376 kW) and 652 Nm (481 lb-ft) of maximum torque. In fact, the powertrain is hand-built and is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.

Source: Chevrolet

March 26, 2014

Ford Everest Concept Makes ASEAN Debut

Ford Everest Concept has just made its ASEAN debut at the Bangkok International Auto Show, showing a blend of strength, style and technology. In August the premium SUV will make a global reveal in Sydney, Australia.

The new concept of the brand shows the innovative design philosophy for a mid-size, seven-seat SUV. It is powerful and refined, and unmistakably Ford, being built on key design cues. The vehicle combines sleekness and refinement with bold and rugged style.

At the front, the headlamps are connected to an inverted trapezoid grille. In fact, the headlamps were enlarged offering better functionality and at the same time emphasizing the grille and the SUV’s width.

At the sides, the concept has sculpted sleek and tailored lines, while at the rear Everest boasts chiseled taillamps over a negative scallop. This makes contrasts with the square, flat liftgates typically found on traditional SUVs. In addition, the vehicle has high ground clearance which contributes towards great off-road potential.

The paint scheme that Ford has used here is called “Sunset Flare” – a show-stopping red with a flash of orange. The color highlights additionally the credentials of the bold and powerful model, while giving an extra touch of warmth and luxury.

Source: Ford

March 26, 2014

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