Automobiles Review – Page 666 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BMW i8 Spyder [render]

Theophiluschin has published several render pictures of BMW i8 Spyder. After the revealing of the i8 Coupe, which make astonishing impression at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, we expect a convertible version of BMW’s supersport car.

The powertrain will be the same – a 1.5 liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine – 231HP (170 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) powering the rear wheels and an electric motor – 131HP (96 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) on the front axle. The total output is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in less than 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

It is able to return 113 mpg UK or 94 mpg US – 2.5 liters / 100 km and a zero-emission range of 35 km (22 miles) with top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph).

September 16, 2013

2015 Honda Civic Type R [render]

ATC Design has published in Facebook several renderings of the upcoming 2015 Honda Civic Type R. The hot hatchback comes with improved performance, handling and nice styling.

The exterior boasts an aggressive aerodynamics package including new front and rear bumpers, modified side skirts, big rear wing and 4-tailpipe sports exhaust system. The ride height is also reduced. The new Civic Type R rolls glossy black multi-spoke alloys fitted with performance tires.

The power is coming from a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol providing 280HP (206 kW). The new Civic will try to steal the record for stock FWD vehicle on the Nurburgring (currently held by Renaultsport Megane 265 RS Trophy).

Source: ATC Design

September 16, 2013

New Photoshoot For 2013 Prior-Design Audi R8 PD GT850

Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 Widebody is a transformation which we already know very well. However, the specialists at the tuning company have just released some new stunning images of the car which a worth ones attention.

As seen on the images, the Audi R8 has masterful presence due to the V10 engine that lies under its hood. This means that Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 offers exceptional performance. The 5.2 litre engine can generate up to 525 hp (386 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. This on the other hand results only in excellent acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, which is 4.1 seconds.

Having all these facts in mind, the professionals at Prior-Design have created for this Audi, the PD GT850 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit. To be more precise, the kit consists of the following: PD GT850 front bumper, PD GT850 front lip spoiler (for PD GT850 front bumper), PD GT850 side skirts, PD GT850 rear bumper, PD GT850 rear diffusor, PD GT850 front fenders, PD GT850 rear widenings, PD GT850 front bonnet and PD GT850 rear trunk spoiler.

All of the elements utilized here are made from quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) material which has excellent surface finish and provides enough flexibility. In addition, the parts are all made with excellent fitment with no modifications or changes needed.

Source: Prior-Design

September 13, 2013

BMW Concept X5 Security Plus Offers Enhanced Protection For Occupants

Along with many other concepts BMW will be presenting at the Frankfurt Motor Show the third generation of a Security version based – the BMW Concept X5 Security Plus. This vehicle is the only one in its class which fulfills the requirements of protection level VR6.

The car delivers all-round protection against violent assault, kidnapping and organized crime. BMW Concept X5 Security Plus combines effective occupant protection and generous comfort with the dynamic performance, agility and versatility.

The vehicle is built around an armored passenger cell which was constructed from steel moldings and panels. And in order to prevent a penetrating bullet or fragment the car includes sealed joints in the critical areas around doors or where panels adjoin body pillars.

Of course, there is also a security glass which was especially made for such protection. Inside of the glass there is a special treatment of polycarbonate coating. Furthermore, this BMW is equipped with the powerful 450 hp (330 kW) V8 petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

Based on a regular BMW X5 production model, this concept features a modified chassis, electronic management systems and brake system, which have been adapted to the enhanced vehicle weight. Another advantage of the BMW Security model is the discreet integration of security features. This means that BMW Concept X5 Security Plus does not differ visually from a regular production model.

Of course, this Concept model also delivers the same comfort and convenience of the regular one. It features ergonomic design, spaciousness and choice of optional equipment. Here an Intelligent Emergency Call system is standard, but there are also extensive communication and information features and wide range of driver assistance systems optionally available. Other options for this model are the LED strobe lights in the radiator grille, roof beacons with a siren system and an auxiliary battery.

Source: BMW

September 13, 2013

Volvo Announces Engines Included In V60 Sportswagon Model Range

Volvo is a company that always targets best-in-class performance and fuel economy. Now the brand is announcing the engines which are to be included in the Volvo V60 Sportswagon. The model will go on sale in the United States in January 2014.

The V60 will provide its customers with the handling of a dynamic sports sedan but will also offers versatility for those who need a wagon. The car will be powered by a range of engine choices (listed below). It will include a front-drive power from the new Drive-E family, and all-wheel-drive models which will be powered by engines from Volvo’s current lineup.

An example of the Drive-E gasoline engines that are featured is the two-liter, turbocharged, 240-horsepower version. The V60 customers will have the choice between new engine and some current engines. At the top stands the performance-tuned T6 engine, which will be included in the V60 R-Design. It is capable of generating 325 horsepower (239 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque.

Particular highlight here are the new smaller and lighter Drive-E engines that deliver extremely lower emissions and higher fuel economy. They also offer the opportunity to be enhanced by electrification.

Volvo V60 Engine Range:

T5	4 cylinders	2.0 Liter	Turbocharged	240 HP	258 lb.-feet	FWD	New Drive-E
T5	5 cylinders	2.5 Liter	Turbocharged	250 HP	266 lb.-feet	AWD	Current
T6	6 cylinders	3.0 Liter	Turbocharged	325 HP	354 lb.-feet	AWD	Current

Source: Volvo

September 13, 2013

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring

This year marks the 60th birthday of the legendary Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 ‘Disco Volante’. In order to celebrate this anniversary the prestigious Milanese coachbuilding firm Touring Superleggera created the 2013 edition of the Disco Volante.

The model presented here is a two-seater Gran Turismo with a entirely bespoke, hand-made carbon fibre and aluminium body. It is equipped with front-central mounted 4.7-litre V8 engine and transaxle rear drive. The Disco Volante reaches a top speed of 180mph and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.2 seconds.

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring has a design that combines innovation, emotion and aerodynamic characteristics. Inside, the 2013 Disco Volante includes red LED interior light profiles, and also aeronautical-inspired touches which are featured on the dashboard, instruments and controls. Bespoke leather is used for the upholstery; the seats are wrapped with black Alcantara.

Touring Superleggera used as a basis the characteristics of Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. The chassis if the latter forms the basis for the coach-built bodywork of the vehicle. Alfa 8C’s steel space-frame, the frame members and the central carbon cell were also retained.

In addition, what also has been kept here are the engine bay and firewall, the windscreen and cowl, the A-pillar and the locks and hinges as well as the dashboard, instruments, pedals and steering wheel. Modification underwent the doorframes, roof frame and C-pillar in order to match the new shape of the car.

The engine included here, as mentioned, is the 4.7 litre V8 one, which generates 450 hp (330 kW) and 480 Nm (355 lb-ft) of peak torque. It is coupled with a six-speed, sequential transaxle gearbox with electronic control and paddle-shift gear selection. In combination with the limited-slip differential and braking system with large diameter, ventilated discs, they deliver excellent driving dynamics and exciting ride.

In order to guarantee the torsional stiffness and noise reduction of the car, a very special attention has been paid to the under-body structure, the tubular frames supporting the rear wings and bumper, and the roll bar joining the C-pillars.

Disco Volante has lightweight bodywork thanks to the use of a combination of aluminium and carbon fibre. The latter element is utilized for specific components such as the front bumper and grille, the bonnet, the side skirts, the boot lid and the integrated rear-window frame.

The bonnet and boot lid are sandwich-built with Nomex filler to obtain a superior stiffness/weight ratio and to dampen vibration and noise. On the other hand, aluminium panels are hand-made using an epoxy mould.

PERFORMANCE
Top speed (est)	292kph / 181mph
Acceleration (est)	0-100kph (0-62mph) in 4.2seconds

DIMENSIONS
Length	4,620mm
Width	2,032mm
Height	1,309mm
Wheelbase	2,640mm
Track front/back	1,591mm/1,589mm
Boot volume	142-litres
Fuel tank capacity	88-litres

ENGINE
Cylinders / type	8 / V 90°
Cubic capacity	4,691cm³
Nominal output	331kw/450HP@7,000rpm
Max torque	480Nm@4750rpm
Emission level	Euro 5

ECONOMY
Urban	23.6l/100km (12mpg)
Extra-Urban	11.4l/100km (24.8mpg)
Combined	15.8l/100km (17.9mpg)
CO2 emissions	377g/km (combined)

DRIVELINE
Rear wheel drive
6-speed, electroactuated sequential gearbox with paddle-shift control and automatic mode
Limited slip differential

WHEELS
Tyres	Pirelli PZero Rosso, front 245/35 ZR20, rear 285/35 ZR20
Wheel type	Aluminium forged wheels

Source: Alfa Romeo

September 13, 2013

2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition – US Price $36,095

Jeep has announced the 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition, which will be available later this year in the US with starting price of $36,095.

“When we introduced the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Design Concept last year, we received tremendously positive feedback,” commented Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.

“Our loyal Jeep enthusiasts asked us to build this unique Wrangler, and we are delivering exactly what they’ve asked for. The new 2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition boasts a stunning, unique, upscale design with styling cues that make it unlike any Wrangler ever seen before.”, he added.

The dragon symbolizes strength and power and is an aspirational character normally associated with royalty and good fortune. It was these characteristics that inspired the upscale design of the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition. Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, the Dragon Edition has numerous unique exterior and interior styling cues consumers will appreciate. Available only in Black and as a four-door Unlimited model , the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition features Bronze Satin Gloss trim inside and out.

Source: Jeep

September 12, 2013

2015 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe

GMC has unveiled the 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban. Both are set to hit the market in the beginning of the next year.

They feature an evolutionary design with a prominent grille and distinctive headlights. There is also an angular hood and a lot of chrome trim. A more-efficient, direct-injected EcoTec3 powertrain coupled with improved aerodynamics help offer greater estimated highway fuel economy based on GM testing while preserving overall performance and capability. Official EPA estimates are not yet available.

“There are several new features and enhancements at the core of the all-new 2015 Suburban and Tahoe that will extend the legacy Chevrolet has built as the segment leader,” commented Tim Mahoney, Chevrolet global chief marketing officer.

“Customers will experience greater refinement, efficiency and safety with the same capability that has made Chevrolet the go-to brand for full-size SUVs”, he added.

Inside, premium materials and enhanced ergonomics demonstrate the Tahoe and Suburban’s blend of sophistication, craftsmanship and function. A new instrument panel houses an available eight-inch color touch screen radio with a secured storage bin behind the motorized screen. The compartmentalized center console is large enough to store a laptop or iPad.

New functionality and technology features found on both vehicles for 2015 include:

Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo convenience – including an available power-folding feature
Approximately two inches greater legroom for second-row passengers, along with easier entry/exit
Available eight-inch color touch screen radio with next-generation MyLink connectivity
Up to six USB ports and six power outlets – including a 110-volt three-prong outlet – to support electronic devices of all kinds (up to 12 charging locations)
Available rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens (Suburban only) and Blu-ray DVD player
Conversation mirror in the overhead console that provides a panoramic view of the rear seats
Keyless entry and push-button start.

Overview

Models:	2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
Construction:	body on frame
Manufacturing location:	Arlington , Texas

Powertrains

	EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 FlexFuel (L83)
Fuel delivery:	direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): estimated	355 / 250 @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): estimated	383 / 519 @ 4100
Estimated fuel economy:	TBD
Transmission:	Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed auto.
Final drive ratio:	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
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:	18 x 8.5-in. aluminum / P265/65R18 20 x 9.0-in. aluminum / P275/55R20 22 x 9.5-in. aluminum / P285/45R22

Exterior

	Tahoe	Suburban
Wheelbase (in / mm):	116 / 2946	130 / 3302
Overall length (in / mm):	204 / 5181	224.4 / 5699
Overall width (in / mm):	80.5 / 2044	80.5 / 2044
Overall height (in / mm)	74.4 / 1889	74.4 / 1889

Interior

	First Row	Second Row	Third Row
Headroom (in / mm):	Tahoe: 42.8 / 1087 Suburban: 42.8 / 1087	Tahoe: 38.7 / 983 Suburban: 39.1 / 993	Tahoe: 38.1 / 967 Suburban: 38.5 / 978
Legroom (in / mm):	Tahoe: 45.3 / 1150 Suburban: 45.3 / 1150	Tahoe: 39 / 990 Suburban: 39.7 / 1008	Tahoe: 24.8 / 630 Suburban: 34.5 / 876
Max cargo room – seats folded (cu ft / L):	Tahoe: 94.7 / 2681 Suburban: 121.1 / 3429	Tahoe: 51.7 / 1464 Suburban: 76.4 / 2163	Tahoe: 15.3 / 433 Suburban: 38.8 / 1098

Capacities

	Tahoe	Suburban
Curb weight (lb / kg):	5349 / 2426 (2WD w/ 20-in. wheels) 5585 / 2533 (4WD w/ 20-in. wheels)	5576 / 2529 (2WD w/ 20-in. wheels) 5815 / 2637 (4WD w/ 20-in. wheels)
Max trailer towing (lb / kg):	8500 / 3855 (2WD) 8300 / 3765 (4WD)	8300 / 3765 (2WD) 8000 / 3628 (4WD)

Source: Chevrolet

September 12, 2013

2015 GMC Yukon Denali

GMC has announced the 2015 Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali. The big SUVs come with advanced EcoTec3 engines boasting segment’s best V-8 fuel economy.

The both range-topping models come with a mesh grille and high-intensity discharge headlights with C-shaped LED daytime running lights. There is also bright chrome trim and 20” alloy wheels fitted with proper tires.

The interior features premium leather upholstery and wood trim. Other highlights include ambient lighting, contrast stitching, active noise cancelation technology and a Bose sound system. There is also a start/stop button, a head-up display and an IntelliLink infotainment system.

The 6.2 liter EcoTec3 V8 has 420HP (313 kW) and 610Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. It is to a 6-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.

The new Yukon family will be built at GM’s Arlington, Texas assembly plant, and scheduled to begin arriving at GMC dealerships in the first quarter of 2014.

Source: GMC

September 12, 2013

2013 BMW Concept Active Tourer Outdoor

BMW is currently exhibiting the 2013 Active Tourer Outdoor Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. It is possible to be the new 1-Series GT.

The concept is 4350mm in long, 1833mm wide and 1576mm tall, with a 2670mm wheelbase and 20” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile low-resistance tires.

The powertrain is a plug-in hybrid with a 1.5 liter petrol engine and an electric motor. The combined power is 190HP (140 kW) and the fuel consumption is just 2.5 liters / 100 km (94 mpg US or 113 mpg UK). Furthermore, the Active Tourer can go up to 30km (19 miles) only on electricity. 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (125 mph).

The interior boasts an 8” screen showing relevant data about hybrid system status, satellite navigation and ConnectedDrive.

Source: BMW

September 12, 2013

First Details Revealed: Honda Civic Type R [VIDEO]

Honda has revealed some details around the extremely anticipated new Civic Type R at brand Frankfurt Motor Show Press Conference. The new vehicle will be powered by a direct injection turbocharged 2-litre engine which will produce at least 280 horsepower (205 kW).

The new Civic Type R went through its paces by Honda’s WTCC driver Gabriele Tarquini and in addition the Japanese company has released already a short film about it. The latter shows the storming performance and handling of the car on the Nurburgring and can be viewed below.

The ambition of Honda is to make the Civic Type R the fastest front wheel drive car around the infamous Nurburgring circuit in Germany. However, there are two more years of development ahead of the car before it goes on sale in 2015.

The company has also confirmed that the Civic Tourer will deliver extremely low CO2 emissions from just 99g/km and an excellent fuel economy of 74.3 mpg when powered by Honda’s 1.6 i-DTEC engine.

httpv://youtu.be/ZIJ6Kh1Fvzg

httpv://youtu.be/aha-DQB3xDY

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

September 12, 2013

Frankfurt Motor Show: 2014 Nissan Rogue

Nissan debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue compact utility vehicle (CUV). In Europe the car will carry the name Nissan X-TRAIL. The new model offers user-friendly combination of right-sized exterior, flexible interior and low environmental impact.

The 2014 Rogue’s exterior design delivers high-quality look and feel. The car is equipped with standard LED signature daytime running lights, outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and rear spoiler. As an option there are also available LED headlights, power panoramic moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

For the first time, the new Nissan model will be available with optional 3-row/7-passenger seating. This was made possible due to the improved interior packaging efficiency. Throughout the interior one can enjoy the innovative Divide ‘n Hide Cargo System that provides 18 adjustable variations (two-row models) between the cargo and occupant areas.

Also the rear-seat passengers will also have enough leg- and headroom. In addition, the EZ Flex™ Seating System features a reclining 40/20/40-split second row seat and second row legroom of 37.9 inches and 9.0 inches of fore/aft adjustability.

Other standard interior equipment features Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant. As an option the brand offers NissanConnect with Navigation and NissanConnect Apps, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Warning.

Under the hood of 2014 Nissan Rogue hides the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine which produces 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transmitted in the road via standard Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Other 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. An enhanced level of driving confidence is secured by the new suite of confidence-inspiring dynamic technologies: Active Trace Control, Active Engine Braking and Active Ride Control.

Regarding the fuel economy, it is estimated at 33 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models. In fact, 2014 Rogue carries the distinctive “PURE DRIVE” badge, which signifies Nissan’s commitment to developing more environmentally friendly vehicle.

2014 Nissan Rogue is scheduled to go on sale in November with a starting price of $22 490 USD.

2014 Nissan Rogue Pricing: