Automobiles Review – Page 662 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Nissan Partners With Apple For The iTunes Radio

Nissan is going to be the exclusive automotive partner for the launch of Apple’s iTunes Radio. The latter will benefit from new creative formats, including audio and video, across Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and PC.

2014 Nissan Rogue , 2014 Nissan Versa Note and Nissan LEAF electric vehicle will be among the first to be equipped with the one-of-a-kind iTunes Radio, which in addition will be integrated in the vehicles.

Furthermore, there is also a campaign theme going on for the new 2014 Rogue which is named “Make the Ordinary Extraordinary”. The marketing campaign aims to drive reservations for the vehicle, which will goes on sale at Nissan dealerships in the United States in November with a starting price of $22 490 USD.

2014 Nissan Rogue is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine which generates 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transmitted on the road via standard Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Other exclusive technology features included here are Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a choice of an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel drive.

Source: Nissan

September 25, 2013

2013 Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Based on BMW F30 and F31

Alpina has announced the new 2013 D3 Bi-Turbo based on BMW 3-Series F30 (Saloon) and F31 (Touring). The model boasts uncompromising performance with nice styling modifications.

The new D3 Bi-Turbo presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show is a logical and consistent step: the extremely successful and proven straight-six 3-litre diesel with Bi-Turbo charging, known from the D5 Bi-Turbo and most recently also the XD3, now finds its way into the new and multi-award winning BMW 3-Series.

2013 Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged diesel with 350HP (257 kW) at 4,000RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at just 1,500RPM. The engine is connected to an 8-speed ZF Sport-Automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 278 km/h (173 mph). The fuel consumption is extremely low – 6.0 liters / 100 km in city; 4.9 liters / 100 on highway and 5.3 liters / 100 in combined cycle. The curb weight is 1585kg (3487 lbs).

With the new BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo, Alpina is once again setting the benchmark, combining extraordinary performance and excellent efficiency with familiar Alpina virtues appreciated by the customers worldwide.

D3 BITURBO Saloon SWITCH-TRONIC

Dimensions
Length (mm)	4628
Width (mm)	1811
Height, unladen (mm)	1428
Wheelbase (mm)	2810
Track, front (mm)	1539
Track, rear (mm)	1556
Luggage capacity (l)	480
Fuel tank capacity (l)	ca. 57

Weight
Unladen (kg)	1585
Max permissible (kg)	2135
Permitted load (kg)	550
Max axle load, front (kg)	1020
Max axle load, rear (kg)	1175
Max trailer load, braked (kg)	1800
Max trailer load, unbraked (kg)	750

Engine
Cylinders	6 in line
Capacity (cc)	2993
Bore (mm)	84.0
Stroke (mm)	90.0
Compression ratio (:1)	16.5
Max output (kW / hp / 1/min)	257 / 350 / 4000
Max torque (Nm / 1/min)	700 / 1500-3000
Engine management	BOSCH DDE 7.31
Fuel type	Diesel
Emissions classification	EU6

Transmission
Transmission	8-Speed Sport-Automatic ZF 8HP70 SWITCH-TRONIC
1st	4.71
2nd	3.14
3rd	2.11
4th	1.67
5th	1.29
6th	1.00
7th	0.84
8th	0.67
Final drive ratio	2.81

Performance
Acceleration 0-100km/h (s)	4.6
Top speed (km/h)	278

Fuel consumption *
Urban (l/100km)	6.0
Extra-urban (l/100km)	4.9
Combined (l/100km)	5.3
CO² emissions (g/km)	139
Efficiency category	B

Wheels and tyres
Standard wheels and tyres	ALPINA CLASSIC 19″
Front	8 x 19 245/35 ZR19
Rear	9 x 19 265/35 ZR19

Standard Equipment

Adaptive ALPINA Sport Suspension

Air conditioning and radio control panel with Black High-gloss highlight

Airbags, for driver and passenger with seat occupant detection

Auto Start-Stop

Automatic air-conditioning, single-zone

Auxiliary input point for auxiliary playing devices (e.g. MP3 player)

BMW Emergency Call

Brake Energy Regeneration

Brake system 18″ high-performance, callipers painted in blue with ALPINA lettering

Centre armrest/centre console – rear

Door sill finishers ALPINA

Drive Performance Control with ECO PRO mode

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) incl. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)

Exhaust system ALPINA, made by Akrapovič, stainless steel, two double-ended tailpipes

First aid kit and warning triangle

Floor mats ALPINA

Fog lights

Front spoiler ALPINA

Hands-free facility with USB interface

Headlight wash

Instruments ALPINA

Interior trim: ALPINA luxury wood Burled Elm

Kidney grille, Chrome with Black vertical slats, front air inlet with Chrome finisher

Move cloth upholstery

Paintwork: non-metallic paintwork in standard BMW colours

Production plaque

Radio Professional

Rear spoiler ALPINA

Rear valance ALPINA with two double-ended tailpipes

Remote control, including integrated key, in Black with insert in Chrome

Sport Automatic Transmission (8-speed) with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC

Sport seats, front

Steering wheel: SWITCH-TRONIC leather steering wheel with Multi-function

Tyre Puncture Warning System (TPWS)

Variable sport steering

Wheels: ALPINA CLASSIC 19

Xenon headlights

Source: Alpina

September 24, 2013

ABT Sport Utility Vehicles – Uncompromising Performance

ABT Sportsline is proud to announce their full SUV line-up including Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg as well as Audi Q3,Q5 and Q7. They are all part of the elegant and dynamic ABT 4WD family.

“Our versions also include a huge power pack and you should always be able to see that, too” commented Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of ABT Sportsline.

A striking front skirt and grille plus side skirts to accentuate the lateral lines of this special car are all augmented by a rear spoiler and rear skirt set and, of course, elegant wheels developed by ABT as well. Geared to the athletic characteristics of these cars, ABT recommends the sporty DR or the latest designer wheel ER-C. Their styling and features all underscore the SUVs’ thrust and visualise ABT Sportsline and its customers’ standards.

ABT Sportsline offers performance packages for all engines in respective model range. For example, the 3.0 TDI can be boosted to 282HP (207 kW) and the 3.0 Bi-TDI can produce 360HP (265 kW). The tuning company also offers a performance package for 6.0 liter V12 TDI – 560HP (412 kW) and 1,200Nm (888 lb-ft). They were all developed by experienced and successful motorsport professionals.

Source: ABT

September 24, 2013

BMW X6 M Design Edition – Limited to 100 Units

BMW has officially introduced the X6 ///M Design Edition. The sports activity coupe features a lot of styling upgrades for the exterior and the interior.

The exterior boasts a carbon front splitter, a matte black grille and 21” lightweight alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires. There are also a carbon fiber rear spoiler and a new rear diffuser. ///M Performance stripes are available upon request.

The interior comes in Black and Mugello Red leather for the dashboard and seats. There are also some Piano Black elements and Mugello Red contrast stitching. Each X6 ///M Design Edition comes with an individually-numbered plaque (in this case “1/100”).

Production will be limited to 100 units.

Source: BMW

September 24, 2013

Zender Abarth 500 Corsa Stradale – 236HP and 335Nm

Zender has introduced the Abarth 500 Corsa Stradale at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The German tuning company fitted the small hatchback with styling mods as well as performance package.

The exterior boasts an aggressive body kit including new front and rear bumpers, big side skirts and wheel arc extensions in order to fir the 18” alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero Black performance tires – 215/35 ZR 18. The stance is improved thanks to an adjustable sports suspension.

The interior features stainless steel pedals, illuminated door sill strips and custom sport seats.

The 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol is boosted to the spectacular 236HP (176 kW) and 335Nm (247 lb-ft) of torque. The result is thanks to a bigger turbocharger, modified injection with a bigger fuel pressure regulator, sports exhaust system and an ECU re-map. 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 232 km/h (144 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCF03YdtDjQ

Source: Zender

September 24, 2013

Prior Design Bentley Continental GTC With New Photoshoot

Bentley Continental GTC is definitely a car that immediately catches the attention. Not only because of its unique on-road presence, but also because it is powered by a 6.0 liter bi-turbo W12 unit, which is capable of generating the impressive 560 horsepower (412 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 RPM.

In addition to this, all that power of the cabrio is put on the asphalt through All-Wheel-Drive system. Prior Design has released a styling package for the Bentley Continental GTC as well as given it new photoshoot. The PD Bentley GT/GTC Aerodynamic-Kit improves vehicle’s aerodynamics as well as its stance.

To go further into details, the body kit comprises of Prior-Design front and bumper, Prior-Design side skirts as well as a new Prior-Design front bonnet. The complete aerodynamic package for this Bentley model is made from DURA-FLEX, which is a high quality material that delivers outstanding surface structure and provides sufficient flexibility and stability.

Source: Prior Design

September 24, 2013

TEASER: 2015 Cadillac Escalade SUV

Cadillac has just teased with two images the 2015 Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV. The brand also disclosed that the vehicle will be unveiled on 7th of October with exclusive film, which was created by the rock photographer and director Autumn de Wilde, and which will show the Escalade design process.

De Wilde’s vivid portraiture will deliver a unique way of portraying the 2015 Escalade in an artistic perspective. The images highlight the sophistication, luxury and iconic posture of the SUV. And all is done in an expression that is different than the traditional automotive photography.

The photographer said that in the creative process she is searching for those iconic portraits that make one wish one were there. The film and images will be unveiled at the Escalade Global Reveal on the mentioned date in New York City.

Source: Cadillac

September 24, 2013

Next-Generation 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi

2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi will deliver to the North American market low operating costs, and improved comfort and flexibility. The vehicle was revealed at the 2013 International Association of Transportation Regulators.

First, the new Transit Connect Taxi is equipped with a new engine – the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. It provides quick response, durability and great fuel efficiency. What is more, the vehicle will be the only taxi on the market which will be offered with a compressed natural gas/liquefied petroleum gas engine prep package.

The taxi has been redesigned and includes a decreased height. In addition, an interior hood release was added, which enables the drivers to easily check fluid levels prior to starting a shift. The car is also longer and offers seating for up to five people as well as enhanced cargo capacity of up to 60.5 cubic feet.

Next, Ford Transit Connect Taxi utilizes a modern, durable twist-beam rear suspension that prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo carrying capability. Moreover, the vehicle’s floor has been lowered which as a consequence improves the access to the cabin and even more – can be modified to be wheelchair-accessible.

The technology included here are a rear view camera, 6.5-inch touch-screen display with navigation, and SYNC with MyFord Touch. The start of the production of 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi will begin early next year.

Source: Ford

September 24, 2013

German Special Customs Tunes Mercedes-Benz S-Class

We are all familiar with the fact that the Mercedes-Benz vehicles are one of the most exclusive and luxurious ones. This is very true especially for the series called “S-Class“. Since five decades, the series is present on the automotive market, and a few weeks ago we have seen the introduction of its latest member.

And now German Special Customs is presenting its own design of an optically as well as technically clearly re-sharpened S-Class luxury limousine. Some of the most striking modifications are the bulky aprons on the front and rear sides.

To be more precise, the GSC front spoiler bumper bar with integrated LED daylight running light bars seems to be virtually sucking in the air stream with its massive cooling air openings. On the other hand, its counterpart on the rear creates a frame on the trapezoidal end-pipes of the new sport exhaust system.

There are also connecting links of the new bumper bars which form side skirts that also contribute towards an optical sense of lowering. Furthermore, the engine hood embodies signs which give a hint of the power concealed beneath it, thanks to its powerful contours and integrated ventilation openings.

An engine modification is expected in the future. The GSC professionals aim to tune the Biturbo V8 Sports S63 AMG unit so that it provide up to 850 horsepower (625 kW). At last, the company will offer XL wheel/tire combinations with diameters of up to 21 inches for the wheel houses of the S-Class.

Source: German Special Customs

September 24, 2013

Specifications And Pricing Announced For 2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country embodies the true rugged luxury, delivered by exquisite craftsmanship. The new model offers exclusive package of distinctive design elements, comfort and convenience features as well as great power.

What’s new and exclusive to the 2014 High Country is the car body which is available with a 5’8” or 6’6” cargo box. Other unique features include a chrome grille with horizontal chrome bars, body-color front and rear bumpers, specific 20-inch chrome wheels with P275/55R20 all-season tires. In the additional standard equipment are also featured halogen projector headlamps, chrome body side moldings, door handles and mirrors.

The interior of this Chevrolet model is decided in saddle brown. Inside are visible heated and cooled perforated premium leather front bucket seats with High Country logos on the headrests, 8-inch touch screen with Chevrolet MyLink connectivity, Bose premium audio and front and rear park assist.

Furthermore, the available features for this special edition Silverado include a sunroof, navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system with a BluRay/DVD player, and a High Country Premium Package that comprises of heated steering wheel, driver alert package, adjustable pedals and integrated trailer brake controller.

As a standard, the vehicle is equipped with EcoTec3 5.3L powertrain, which is capable of generating 355 horsepower (250 kW) and 383 lb.-ft. of torque (519 Nm). In addition, this engine also delivers great fuel economy of up to 23 mpg highway (2WD models). As an option, there is also available, the new EcoTec3 6.2L unit, which produces 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 460 lb.-ft. (623 Nm) of torque.

The standard and the optional engine include direct fuel injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing. Each engine is coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission featuring auto grade braking, which downshifts the transmission on downgrades to reduce brake wear. The brake system includes Duralife rotors that provide quieter braking with less vibration.

What is more, the electric power steering helps in the fuel savings and enables a more consistent, steering feel. The larger rear axles now have the strength to accommodate the engines’ higher outputs. In addition, the standard locking’s rear differential ratio is 3.42.

Other standard features are the trailering package, with frame-mounted trailer hitch, seven-pin and four-pin connectors; trailer sway control that works with StabiliTrak to provide an added measure of confidence when towing a trailer.

At last, the stiffer chassis of this Silverado enables more precise tuning of the front and rear suspensions. This results in more responsiveness of the vehicle as well as smoother performance and less vibration and shake.

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country goes on sale this autumn with a starting price of $45 100 for 2WD models equipped with the standard 5.3L engine.

Overview

Models:	Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab High Country
Construction:	body on frame
Manufacturing location:	Silao, Mexico and Flint, Mich.

Powertrains

	EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 FlexFuel (L83)	EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 FlexFuel (L86)
Fuel delivery:	direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management	direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	355 / 265 @ 5600 (SAE certified)	420 / 313 @ 5600 (SAE certified)
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	383 / 519 @ 4100 (SAE certified)	460 / 623 @ 4100 (SAE certified)
Estimated fuel economy:	16 / 23 (2WD) 16 / 22 (4WD)	TBD
Transmission:	Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed auto.	Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed auto.
Final drive ratio:	3.42	3.42

Chassis / Suspension & Brakes

Front:	independent coil-over-shock; twin-tube shock absorbers
Rear:	solid axle with semi-elliptic, variable-rate, two-stage multileaf springs; splayed shock absorbers; twin-tube shock absorbers
Steering type:	electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Brakes:	power-assisted, four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS, with Duralife™ rotors; vented front and rear rotors
Wheel size & type / tire size:	20 x 9.0-in. aluminum / P275/55R20

Exterior

	Crew Cab with 5’ 8” box	Crew Cab with 6’ 6” box
Wheelbase (in / mm):	143.5 / 3645	153 / 3886
Overall length (in / mm):	230 / 5843	239.6 / 6085
Overall width (in / mm):	80 / 2032	80 / 2032
Overall height (in / mm)
2WD:	74.2 / 1884	73.7 / 1873
4WD:	74.0 / 1879	73.8 / 1875

Interior

	Crew Cab, Front	Crew Cab, Rear
Headroom (in / mm):	42.8 / 1087	40.5 / 1029
Legroom (in / mm):	45.3 / 1150	40.9 / 1040
Shoulder room (in / mm):	64.8 / 1647	65.7 / 1670
Hip room (in / mm):	60.7 / 1543	60.3 / 1531

Payload and Trailering

Minimum curb weight Payload (lb / kg):	5156 / 2338 1933 / 877(2WD w/ 5’8” box) 5370 / 2435 1957 / 887 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 5216 / 2366 1871 / 848 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 5429 / 2462 1883 / 854 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)
GVWR (lb / kg):	7000 / 3175 (2WD w/ 5’8” box) 7200 / 3266 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 7000 / 3175 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 7200 / 3266 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)
Max trailer towing (lb / kg):	9700 / 4400 9800 / 4445 (2WD w/ 5’8” box) 9500 / 4309 9600 / 4354 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 9600 / 4354 9700 / 4400 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 9400 / 4263 9500 / 4309 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)

Source: Chevrolet

September 23, 2013

Hyundai And Bisimoto To Create 1000 HP SEMA Show Genesis Coupe

The powertrain guru Bisimoto will partner with Hyundai to create a Monster-powered Genesis Coupe SEMA Show car. Instead of its standard horsepower, the car will produce up to 1000 hp, tanks to the tuning delivered by Bisimoto Engineering.

The latter is famous for its capabilities of extracting mode power out of production-grade, everyday powerplants. Under transformation will go the turbocharged Hyundai-factory-based 3.8-liter V6 engine. Bisimoto will utilize Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec engine as a core building block, and around it will add newly-designed internal parts.

Not every vehicle can withstand the modifications. Hence, the core powerplant must be strong enough. Next to the extensive work underhood, Bisimoto created a custom Electric Blue paint, Denmatic design graphics package, ARK hood and Carbon Fiber decklid. At last, at the rear, a Burns stainless exhaust and Bisimoto rear badge round out the visual impact.

Bisimoto Hyundai Genesis Coupe concept vehicle will be presented in Las Vegas at SEMA Show, later this year.

3.8-Liter Lambda Engine Modifications:

• Stock Hyundai Lambda 3.8-liter V6 engine

• Bisimoto-developed internal components:

o Steel connecting rods

o Intake gasket

o Injectors

o Level 2.4 camshafts

• Twin Bisimoto/Turbonetics BTX6462 turbochargers:

o Godzilla blow-off valve

o Dual RG45 wastegate

• Arias forged pistons

• Golden Eagle sleeves

• WPC metal surface treatment

• Supertech valvetrain

• Vibrant VanJen clamps and stainless hardware

• Magnafuel 750 fuel pump

• ARP head, main, and wheel studs

• Portflow custom headwork

• AEM Infinity EMS

• Custom smart ignition coils

• NGK Iridium spark plugs

• Puröl Elite synthetic oil

• Spearco intercooler

• Griffin radiator

• Kinsler fuel filters

• Bisimoto-spec Action Ironman clutch

Chassis Modifications:

• Bisimoto roll cage

• Progress coilover suspension and anti-roll bars

• Drive Shaft Shop 5.9 Axles and driveshaft

• Incurve 20×9.5 and 20×11 aluminum wheels

• Toyo Tires R888 R-Compound tires

Interior Modifications:

• Buddy Club racing seats and harness

• Bisimoto reservoir socks

• Racepack IQ3 dash

• Bisimoto oil cap

• Odyssey dry cell battery

• Rywire mil-spec harness

• G&J braided lines

Source: Hyundai

September 23, 2013

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid Goes On Sale On Halloween

2014-Honda-Accord-Hybrid-THUMB Two weeks ago Honda reported the beginning of production for the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid. Now, the Japanese brand is revealing the pricing of the EPA-rated 50 mpg city vehicle as well as its debut in the dealerships in the United States on Halloween.

The vehicle will be equipped with a host of standard equipment, which includes brand’s exclusive LaneWatch blind spot display system, rearview camera, LED daytime running lights (DRL), an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, USB/iPod integration, Pandora compatibility, SMS text message function, dual-zone automatic climate control, alloy wheels, a driver’s seat with 10-way power adjustment, and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system.

On the other hand, the Accord Hybrid EX-L includes safety technologies such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). In addition, it is also equipped with leather-trimmed and heated front seats, HondaLink cloud-based media and connectivity system with Aha compatibility. Other exclusive standard features in this trim are the driver’s seat memory, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment and one-touch moonroof.

The top-of-the-line is the Touring trim which adds to the equipment Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and FM traffic data, LED headlights with blue tinted chrome bezels, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and hard disk drive (HDD) audio memory.

More importantly the MY 2014 Accord Hybrid has a great fuel economy ratings which begin from 50 mpg city / 45 mpg highway / 47 mpg combined. The reason for these numbers is the highly efficient two-motor hybrid system from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology advanced powertrain series.

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP2	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1(city/highway/combined)
Hybrid	$29,155	50/45/57
Hybrid EX-L	$31,905	50/45/47
Hybrid Touring	$34,905	50/45/47

Source: Honda

September 23, 2013

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