Automobiles Review – Page 598 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Land Rover Defender XS Gets Two Option Packs

With Geneva Motor Show being around the corner brands are getting more competitive than ever. After the reveal of 2015 Range Rover Evoque Autobiography And Autobiography Dynamic yesterday, now Land Rover announced that the visitors at the event will see the launch of two new distinctive option packs – the ‘Black Pack’ and ‘Silver Pack’, for the iconic Land Rover Defender XS.

Defender XS will be also equipped with a suite of optional features such as a new aluminium finish to the vehicle’s side runners, contrast finish leather seats, privacy glass and ebony Alston headliner.

To go further into details, the Black Pack will add to the exclusivity of the vehicle Santorini black finish applied on the roof, grille, grille surround, headlamp surrounds, wheel arches, ‘Defender’ bonnet script and interior facia. The pack will be available with two wheel variations – a gloss black Sawtooth alloy wheel and a new gloss black heavy duty wheel.

On the other hand, the Silver Pack gives the Defender a bright Indus silver finish, which serves as a contrast to the roof. The same finish is applied on the grille surround, headlamp surrounds and facia. This particular pack also adds to the model a Dual Finish alloy wheels as standard and a bright light pack that comprises of white tail and indicator lights.

The privacy glass option is an addition which delivers more drama to the appeal of this Land Rover. It comes as a standard in the black pack and adds darkened glass to second and third row windows on the Station Wagon and to the alpine light and rear quarter light windows on Hard Top XS.

Inside, the Defender will be optionally available with contrast leather premium seats. The latter will feature Windsor leather inserts, and a choice of three colourways: Ebony/Pimento, Ebony/Tan or Ebony/Lunar. What rounds-out the look are the front centre stowage compartment contrast leather highlights.

Source: Land Rover

February 19, 2014

Vauxhall Adam Rocks Ready To Roll In Geneva

Vauxhall‘s urban mini-crossover Adam Rocks is going to make its first official appearance in Geneva. What is the difference between the Rocks addition to the Adam model range to the other vehicles in the line-up? Well, first that has to be mentioned is that Adam Rocks is taller, wider and tougher in terms of appearance.

The second thing visible at first stance is that it offers a full-length electric folding canvas roof. Precisely, Rocks is with 15mm raised chassis. This fact required parts of the chassis system to be modified or re-tuned. Dampers, springs, the rear suspension geometry, and steering were all refined.

The higher and wider stance of the car is supported by a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, which can be additionally personalized with new wheel clips in “Wild” design and different colors.

Another element that contributes towards the muscular look of the car is the protective, anthracite-coloured cladding wrapped around it. Moreover, the front trapezoidal grille features a chrome central brand bar, is also embedded in the cladding.

In contrast to it are the satin chrome ‘boomerang’ elements which frame the front fog lamps/indicator housings and the reversing/fog lamps at the rear. In addition, an integrated rear roof spoiler and LED daytime running lights are also featured. Silver skid plates front and rear and a bold chrome exhaust complete the exterior design. Vauxhall has also announced that it will add new exterior paints, revealing only one of them – the yellow Goldbusters.

Another highlight here is the electric folding canvas roof, which can be operated via a button located in the front area of the headliner and folds back neatly on to the C-pillars in five seconds. The folding canvas roof will be offered in a choice of three exterior colours – Black, Sweet Coffee and Light Oak.

Inside, the same creative design manner is being utilized. Two new interior trims are available. They include a main instrument cluster, seat and door panel colors and other trim elements. One trim has elegant-sporty Peanut-colored fabric/Morrocana seats and door panels, leather steering wheel, gearshift and handbrake in the same color, and a “Surf” décor trim. On the other hand, the second one features a sophisticated Coffee Bean design, in other words – rich dark brown seats in a black cabin trimmed with bright blue stitching.

Vauxhall Adam Rocks will be also the first vehicle to be equipped with company’s new 1.0-litre ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo three-cylinder engine, which packs up to 115 hp (85 kW) and 166 Nm (123 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel-saving Start/Stop technology is an integral part of the system and will be offered as standard.

The powertrain will be offered in a choice of two outputs, 90 hp (66 kW) and 115 hp (85 kW). Both versions will be coupled with a new six-speed manual gearbox with a compact package design.

Other engines included in Rocks are the three current four-cylinder naturally-aspirated units: 1.2-litre engine with 70 hp (51 kW) and a 1.4-litre available in two power outputs, 87 hp (64 kW) and 100 hp (74 kW).

Source: Vauxhall

February 19, 2014

Toyota Aygo Teased Ahead Of Official Geneva Reveal

A brand new Toyota Aygo will be born at this year’s Geneva Motor Show of 4th of March. The Japanese company has just released a teaser image and video of the upcoming new model, and has promised that it will deliver fun-to-drive character and individuality.

In fact, in the video below, the chief engineer of the new Aygo tells that his aims when designing the car were to make it expressive, different and to catch the European spirit. See and hear for yourself what he adds next to this.

The major European car-exhibit will also mark the European premiere of Toyota’s hydrogen-powered FCV Concept, as well as the FV2. The latter is a future mobility concept that explores new interactions between driver, car and environment.

FV2 concept shows brand’s vision for the future of vehicles. What is interesting about it is that it does not use a steering wheel. How it operates? The driver shifts their body to intuitively move the vehicle.

Source: Toyota

February 19, 2014

2014 Audi S3 Cabriolet – Price €48,500

Audi has unveiled the 2014 S3 Cabriolet before its official premiere at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, in March. The manufacturer says that the open-top four-seater is unrivaled in its segment. It boasts extreme power and impressive fuel consumption as well as dynamic exterior combined with stylish interior.

The engine is the well-known four-cylinder 2.0 liter TFSI – 300HP (221 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed S-tronic gearbox sending the power to Quattro AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The combined fuel consumption is just 7.1 liters / 100 km (33.1 mpg US or 39.7 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 165 g/km. The curb weight of the vehicle is 1,620 (3,571 lbs), which is pretty much.

The new S3 Cabriolet is lowered by 25mm and can be distinguished by the aerodynamics package – new front and rear bumpers. There are also aluminum mirror housings, a chromed windscreen surround and soft-top in three different colors. The last can be opened or closed in 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph). The luggage compartment is decent – 285 liters.

Other highlights include a set of 18” alloy wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 tires. There is also an option for huge 19” rims. The exterior can be finished in twelve different colors.

The interior boasts Pearl Nappa leather and fabric, but according to customer’s taste, it can be upholstered in various types of Alcantara, Pearl Nappa leather or Fine Nappa leather with contrasting stitching. There are also S-sport seats with built-in head restraints and shoulder panels with diamond stitching.

Last, but not least is the huge brake system including 340mm brake discs with black calipers for the front.

The price of this bijou is “just” €48,500.

Source: Audi

February 19, 2014

2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 and DB9 Carbon Black and Carbon White

Aston Martin will unveil two exclusive new special editions at the 84^th Geneva International Motor Show. The V8 Vantage N430 boasts race breeding and sports styling, while the timeless DB9 is now available in Carbon Black and Carbon White versions.

2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 is available in Coupe or Roadster form. It comes with carbon fibre and Kevlar seats and ten-spoke forged alloy wheels in a new graphite painted finish – together yielding a weight saving of 20 kg – and it’s clear that the GT4-inspired N430 has been created to deliver exceptional performance with a club sport ethos.

The N430 is powered by a 4.7 liter V8 engine – 436HP (321 kW) at 7,300RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 310 km/h (190 mph). The power is sent to the rear wheels through a sporty 6-speed manual gearbox. There is an option of a close-ratio 7-speed Sportshift™II automated manual transmission with short final-drive ratio for those demanding the most driver-focused yet involving set-up.

The interior comes with machined carbon sill plaques, N430 seat logos, black magnesium paddle-shifts or carbon fibre gearshift surround; contemporary driver instrument panel; black anodised rotaries; leather steering wheel with contrasting on-centre stitch feature; seat and door inserts in technical PlissèAlcantara – indented leather on Roadster models – and unique seat trim patterns.

2014 V8 Vantage N430 starts from £89,995 with first deliveries expected to begin in September this year.

The new Carbon Black accentuates DB9’s potential through a strong dark theme underpinned by a unique combination of lightweight carbon fibre features. Meanwhile, the contemporary Carbon White special edition creates a dramatic visual effect with the carbon fibre and dark elements contrasting strongly against the Stratus White paint and accented caliper colour.

Striking exterior additions for both Carbon Black and Carbon White editions include carbon fibre side strakes and black window surrounds reinforcing the powerful visual themes.

The interior boasts a strong black styling theme with a choice of accent colours in line with the caliper shade showcases carbon fibre details and new black hardware. Bespoke sill plaques with the Carbon Black or Carbon White logo, communicate the cars’ rarity, too.

Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Black and Carbon White are powered by the well-known 6.0 liter naturally aspirated V12 – 517HP (380 kW) and 620Nm (459 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and the top speed is 295 km/h (183 mph).

Aston Martin can be found at stand number 5253 in Hall 5 at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show, once again taking place at the Palexpo complex.

Source: Aston Martin

February 19, 2014

2014 Peugeot 308 SW: A Spacious Estate for Modern Families

Peugeot has officially unveiled full details about the all-new 308 SW model. The dynamic estate car with a performance-oriented design boasts outstanding load space and impeccable road manners.

2014 Peugeot 308 SW meets the expectations of the customers by concentrating on the basic requirements for this segment in four key areas – design, efficiency/functionality, driving experience and quality.

The exterior features ‘floating’ grille framed in chrome flanked by expressive, emblematic headlamps. Full LED technology – 31 per headlamp – is fitted as standard on the upper trim levels, providing a technical and distinctive lighting signature.

The profile of the 308 SW benefits from a wheelbase and rear overhang that are 11cm and 22cm longer respectively than the hatchback. It means the model takes its place among the most ‘balanced’ estates in the segment.

The dimensions of the 4,585 mm in length, width of 1,804 mm and height of 1,471mm. The car’s generous dimensions allow it to offer volumes that are among the best in the segment. The boot below the parcel shelf is an impressive 660 litres and outstanding 1,660-litres with rear seats folded down.

The interior is based on the Peugeot’s i-Cockpit from the hatchback. It comes with a compact steering wheel, a head-up instrument panel and a tall centre console and a 9.7” touch-screen for intuitive access to infotainment functions.

The engine range includes ultra-efficient Euro 6 petrol and diesel engines. The power ranges from 130HP to 155HP for the petrol units and 92HP to 150HP for the diesel variants. There is also a new BlueHDi 1.6-litre 120HP diesel mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and returning the exceptional 88.3 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 85 g/km. This is a record in the segment.

Presented for the first time at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the new Peugeot 308 SW will go on sale on 19^th June in the UK.

Source: Peugeot

February 19, 2014

2014 Audi A3 Sportback g-Tron – Price €25,900

Audi is now ready with the 2014 A3 Sportback g-Tron, which is already available on the market with pricing starting from €25,900. The super-efficient hatchback was introduced at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

It is powered by a 1.4 liter TFSI with 110HP (81 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. It is able to run not only on gasoline, but also on natural gas and Audi-generated e-gas. In e-Gas mode, the A3 Sportback g-Tron is “entirely CO2-neutral”. 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph), which is pretty decent dynamics for such low power.

The car comes equipped with two gas tanks that carry 7 kg (15.3 lbs) of compressed natural gas (CNG) at a maximum pressure of 200 bar. The tanks have been manufactured from CFRP and when at their full capacity they weigh 27 kg (59.5 lbs).

The average gas consumption is around 3.2-3.3 kg / 100 km, which means running costs of about €3.50 / 100 km. The maximum range on CNG is 400 km (242 miles) and on gasoline, it can go up to 900 km (559 miles).

“In addition to our e-mobility developments, the Audi e-gas project is an important pillar of our sustainability strategy – as is the development of other synthetic fuels”, commented Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

Audi is already operating a research facility for the production of Audi e-ethanol and e-diesel with its partner Joule in Hobbs, New Mexico. Moreover, the company is conducting research into the synthetic manufacture of Audi e-gasoline in cooperation with Global Bioenergies.

Source: Audi

February 18, 2014

Chevrolet Camaro GT3 will race at Monza

Chevrolet Camaro GT3 Race Car will take place at the opening round of the Blancpain Endurance Series in Monza. The Camaro GT3 is specially prepared by Reiter Engineering.

American Muscle and German Engineering, that was the philosophy of Bavarian Lamborghini specialist Reiter Engineering when it created its SaReNi division to develop a GT3-version of the Chevrolet Camaro.

The muscle race car has an enormous 7.9 liter V8 engine, full body kit, improved brakes, suspension and stripped interior. There are also racing wheels and tires for maximum traction.

The Camaro GT3 Race Car was tested by eter Kox, Tomas Enge, Albert von Thurn und Taxis and Stefan Rosina. General Motors works driver Oliver Gavin also had a go in the machine, to further advance its competitiveness.

“The Camaro is something of a rebel. It relies on the massive power of the V8 engine to be among the frontrunners. At the same time, it is one of the most cost-effective cars on the starting grid, which is why it represents the ideal solution for cost-conscious teams and drivers to get involved in the Blancpain GT Series.”, commented Hans Reiter, Тeam’s Principal.

Source: Chevrolet

February 18, 2014

2015 Range Rover Evoque Autobiography And Autobiography Dynamic To Debut In Geneva

Range Rover Autobiography and Autobiography Dynamic will be officially introduced at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show this March. In fact, this is the first time when Land Rover decides to give the Autobiography name to the Evoque model range.

The more powerful and more agile Autobiography Dynamic is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 285 hp (210 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft), and has an optimized chassis for better performance and sharper handling. The transmission here is the 9-speed ZF one which now responds even more keenly to sportier driver inputs.

Active driveline is unique four-wheel-drive systems which is optional on all Range Rover Evoque derivatives and comes as standard equipment on the Autobiography Dynamic. It improves traction, enhances agility and fuel efficiency by engaging four-wheel drive seamlessly and automatically when required.

The chassis of the Dynamic trim level also features upgraded suspension geometry, firmer spring rates and recalibrated adaptive dampers, upgraded 350mm front brake discs, and Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVB) as a standard equipment.

Furthermore, Land Rover’s InControlTM Apps will also debut across the range. InControl Apps enables vehicle-optimised smartphone apps to be displayed and controlled with their original look and feel from the vehicle’s touchscreen.

The styling of Autobiography Dynamic is bold: premium grille design, lower front valance, jewel-like headlights and tail lamps and 20-inch forged alloy wheels all contribute towards vehicle’s unique appearance. Autobiography ingot badging on the tailgate and front wing vents provides further visual differentiation. For this new special edition, Land Rover will introduce a new metallic body colour called phoenix orange.

The interior of the model sports luxurious leather which will be offered in a selection of six color palettes. Dynamic plus leather interior with either sports or premium climate seats, headrests with an Autobiography embossed logo an Autobiography illuminated tread plates are just some of the highlights which one can find inside. Stay tuned for more details ahead of the debut of the models!

Source: Land Rover

February 18, 2014

McLaren 650S Coupe – Official Images And Details Released

We have shown you yesterday the first unofficial images of the new McLaren 650S Coupe. The pictures-leak was obviously a marketing strategy, because now the brand is officially showing the car through series of pictures of its fastest, most engaging, best equipped and most beautiful series-production supercar yet.

Next to the images however, McLaren 650S has also announced some details. First of all, the 650S will be produced in both coupe and Spider variants, the latter of which will have a retractable folding hard top. As expected, the 650S badge refers to the power output of 650 hp (478 kW) delivered by McLaren’s M838T twin turbo V8 engine.

The ‘S’ in the name of the car stands for ‘Sport’, which highlights the developments made to handling, transmission, drivability and engagement. Unfortunately, the brand did not want to reveal the performance figures but preferred to disclose it ahead of the Geneva Show. What was only announced was that they but will improve on the already rapid 12C.

The design of the model was inspired by the McLaren P1. Precisely, its design includes new front bumper which sits below new LED headlamps. The more integrated front splitter contributes to increased levels of downforce, greater level of steering feeling and additional agility. Unique door blades behind the front wheels direct air from the trailing edges of the front splitter.

The super-car runs on unique design five-spoke lightweight forged ‘650S’ alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. They deliver better roadholding, handling and driver feedback. In terms of technologies the 650S features active aerodynamics, McLaren Airbrake that optimizes levels of downforce on the rear of the car, the brand new ProActive Chassis Control (PCC) suspension system with three modes – Normal, Sport and Track.

Furthermore, McLaren 650S will be also equipped with IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio (SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control as standard. The available options here include fixed-back carbon racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, an electric steering column adjustment assisting ingress and egress, a rear parking camera and extended carbon fibre throughout the interior.

McLaren 650S Coupe and Spider will be officially revealed on 4th of arch at Geneva Motor Show.

Source: McLaren

February 18, 2014

LARTE Design Range Rover Evoque Is Unique Eye-Catcher

LARTE Design Range Rover Evoque has a sporty stance never seen before. The tuners at LARTE Design decided to take away its off-road credentials and to make it s sporty-street racer. For this purpose they have enhanced the Range Rover Evoque with first-class materials such as PU RIM plastics and stainless steel.

At first glance, this Evoque truly conveys sportiness, because of its black-and-red paintwork. Furthermore, the enhancement included also a new body kit which comprises of honeycomb grille, massive air intake in the front apron, matt-black contrasting elements and larger air intakes.

In fact, the two large air intakes on the sides have been fitted with the double-rowed LED daytime running lights, and combined with Rover‘s side skirts which were decided in black, they create an attractive visual stance.

Moreover, the integrated black high-gloss insert also enhances the length of the SUV. At the rear the car features a rear apron made from PU RIM, and a completely redesigned exhaust system. The latter is made of stainless steel and besides the fact that it produces enticing sound it really looks great.

In order to make this vehicle a real racer, LARTE design has enhance the performance of its diesel engine. It now generates 162 kW (220 hp) instead of the previous 140 kW (190 hp), as well as a raised maximum torque from 420 (308 lb-ft) to 480 Nm (354 lb-ft). At last, the designers have lowered the Evoque by 30 mm via lowering suspension, and equipped it with LARTE’s 21-inch light-alloy rims in glossy black.

Source: Larte Design

February 18, 2014

KTW BMW 1-Series Black & White

KTW Tuning has presented their latest project based on the new BMW 1-Series 116i. The stylish hatchback is available in black or white version.

The upgrades for the black 116i include Essen TN-9 Black aluminum rims – 8.5J x 20” ET35 fitted with 235/30ZR20 88Y tires. There are also red coated brake calipers, H&R lower suspension settings, foil wrapped BMW kidneys and interior ledges. The side and back windows are tinted black. The overall price (including the car) is €22,999.

The white one comes with AEZ Antigua Dark Black rims – 8.5J x 20” ET35 fitted with 235/30ZR20 88Y tires. Other upgrades are also the same as the black 116i, but the white one has mat black kidneys, outer mirrors, roof, front-middelsword and lower part of the rear bumper. The price is €23,599.

Source: KTW

February 18, 2014

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