Automobiles Review – Page 667 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Rolls-Royce Ghost Golden Sunbird Unveiled On Facebook

The one-off Rolls-Royce Ghost Golden Sunbird has just been unveiled on the official Facebook page of the luxury company. Being a true Rolls-Royce it includes many bespoke motifs which in this case were inspired by the excellent craftsmanship found in an ancient Chinese artefact.

The design of this unique model features all hand-made embroidery, veneers and coachline motif. The colours of the paint, interior and golden treadplates complement the Sunbird and make it even more exquisite.

The exterior is decided in two colors – white and golden, in order to match the design concept. The same philosophy is applied to the nine spoke wheels at thee center of which we can see the brand’s logo enclosed by a golden circle. This two-tone design manner is continued throughout the interior, although the predominant color here is the golden-brownish one.

This Rolls-Royce Ghost is powered by 6.6 litre V12 engine which produces 563 hp (414 kW) and 780 Nm (575 lb-ft) of torque. The time this car needs to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h is only 4.7 seconds and the top speed is 155 mph.

The Ghost is equipped with automatic ZF eight-speed gearbox, which transmit the enormous power to the road. The car also includes an intelligent air suspension system for better road behavior, as well as Anti-Roll Stabilisation, Dynamic Brake Control and Dynamic Stability Control.

Source: Rolls-Royce via Facebook

September 12, 2013

KTW Tuning Gives New Look To Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage is offered in with gasoline and diesel engines. And for this reason the tuners at KTW Tuning have enhanced not one but two examples of the model, each carrying one of the powertrains.

The transformed Kia vehicles definitely make surprising impression. The gasoline car is also known as Edition Desperados and includes a 1.6 GDI unit which deliver 135 hp (99 kW). The additional equipment given by the tuning company includes aircon, 6-speed gearbox and wide range of features such as carbon seat heating for driver and co-driver.

In addition, the team has furnished also the backrests with heating mats. The transformed Sportage now runs on 20” alloy wheels in black which were coupled with tires in 255/30ZR20. The exterior of the car was decided in black and achieved through top wrapping as well as black foiling of the side and rear windows.

But this is not all of it. KTW has also featured here rim slots, removable trailer coupling, darkly tinted rear taillights and the airbag for driver and co-driver.

The other Kia is equipped with front driven diesel 1.7 CRD unit, also and it is also known as Edition Desperados. The engine produces 116 hp (85 kW) and the tuning here includes aircon, 6-speed transmission, removable trailer coupling with MOT approved 2,600 kgs of towing capacity, carbon seat heating and airbags for both driver and co-driver.

Source: Miranda Media

September 12, 2013

Tuningwerk BMW M135i – Fast and “Ugly”

Tuningwerk has announced their latest project based on the new BMW 1-Series M135i. The top-of-range model received styling and performance upgrades turning it into a real small beast.

The 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged I6 originally produces 320HP (235 kW) and 450Nm (333 lb-ft) of torque. It can be boosted from 360HP (265 kW) to 450HP (331 kW) thanks to a sports exhaust system with a down pipe with 200 cells cat, modified turbo charger, an enlarged intercooler and an ECU re-map. Tuningwerk also offers a 2 kg lighter dual mass flywheel or a single mass flywheel with about 4,5 kgs of weight saving and a reinforced clutch.

The suspension received triple adjustable KW Clubsport coilovers and an LSD (limited slip differential). The M135i rolls 245/40 R18 (front) and 265/35R18 (rear) Dunlop Direzza semi slicks.

Additionally, there has been installed a BMW performance braking system with Tuningwerk racing brake pads and steel flex pipes. The warm state braking values reach incredible 33 meters (about 100 ft.).

The interior gets Recaro pole position seats and a driver’s cage is also available as an option.

The Tuningwerk M135i is able to lap Hockenheim GP in 1 minute and 58 seconds.

Source: Tuningwerk

September 11, 2013

JE Design Seat Leon SC – 210HP and 430Nm

JE Design has announced their latest project based on the 2013 Seat Leon SC. The hot hatchback gets styling and performance upgrades as well.

The 2.0 liter TDI is boosted to 210HP (154 kW) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 26HP and 50Nm. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 228 km/h (142 mph). The entire performance boost from JE Design is available for €1,990.

The tuning company also offers an aerodynamics package in carbon look for €1,035. The front spoiler is €417, the side skirts €357 and the rear skirt insert is €298.

Two stainless steel tailpipes on both sides emphasize the sporty appearance. The tailpipes each have a diameter of 80 mm. The complete stainless steel muffler is €899 and has an EC approval.

Other goodies are a set of lowering springs for €237 (-30 mm); KW coilover suspension for €1,049 (from -35mm to -65mm) and adjustable rebound and compression-damping KW coilover suspension Variant 3 for €1,749.

JE Design developed “Scorpio” type light alloy wheels specifically for the Seat Leon. They fill the wheel arches in the dimension 7.5J x 18” and a matt black finish with matt silver front. Especially for the FR-TDI, JE DESIGN has wrapped the wheels with high-performance tires in size 225/40. The complete set is sold from €839.

There are also MULTISPOKE rims available in shadow silver, either in 7.5J x 18” (€839) or 8J x 19” with 225/35 R 19 tires (€999).

Source: JE Design

September 11, 2013

2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show: Hamann Nervudo based on Lamborghini Aventador

Hamann has exhibited their Nervudo at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The insane project is based on Lamborghini Aventador. The manufacturer in Laupheim, Germany refines the Italian sports car using their own independent body concept and still manages to add some performance as well.

The exterior of Nervudo boasts a new new front bumper, two front spoilers and aerodynamic side skirts. There are also a new engine cover, a roof-mounted scoop and a big rear wing for additional down force. Other upgrades include a complete sports exhaust system, a carbon fiber rear diffuser and high-performance rims – 9J x 20” (front) and 13J x 21” (rear) fitted with ultra high-performance tyres in 255/30 ZR20 and 355/25 ZR21, respectively.

The interior features a number of carbon fiber elements, leather and Alcantara wrapped steering wheel and two-tone upholstery for the seats.

The insane 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 is boosted to 760HP (559 kW) and 735Nm (542 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 60HP and 45Nm. The engine is mated to a 7-speed ISR gearbox. Nothing is mentioned about the performance, but the original figures are 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).

Source: Hamann

September 11, 2013

Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Carlsson has exhibited their tuned Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Carlsson tuning programme ranges from aerodynamic components, sports exhaust, uprated suspension, alloy wheels solutions, performance kits for petrol and diesel engines and interior trim upgrades.

The exterior features a new front spoiler, aerodynamic side skirts and a new rear bumper. There are also stainless steel grille insert and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system. The stance is improved by a set of lowering springs (-35mm) or an adjustable coil-over suspension. Carlsson CLA rides 1/10 and 1/16 RS wheels available in 18”,19” and 20”.

The interior boasts alloy pedals, illuminated sill plates and special floor mats. Upon request, Carlsson can create a bespoke cabin with premium leather and Alcantara upholstery.

The CLA200 can be boosted to 187HP (138 kW) and 300Nm (221 lb-ft) – an increase of 31HP and 50Nm. The CLA250 now produces 253HP (186 kW) and 420Nm (309 lb-ft) of torque – boost of 42HP and 70Nm. The top-of-range CLA45 AMG coming standard with 360HP (265 kW) can produce up to 450HP (331 kW) turning the compact four-door Coupe into a supercar killer.

Source: Carlsson

September 11, 2013

Bugatti Legend: Jean Bugatti Veyron Receives Its World Premiere [VIDEO]

After the launch of “Les Légendes de Bugatti” (Bugatti Legends) series a few weeks ago in Pebble Beach in California, Bugatti has just unveiled the second vehicle in this exclusive edition. The world premiere was at the 65th International Motor Show in Frankfurt.

With the Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse “Jean Bugatti” the French luxury sportscar brand celebrates the oldest son of company founder Ettore Bugatti and his most famous creation – the Type 57SC Atlantic. The model as well as the other five vehicles in the Legend series, will be limited to three examples.

The technology in the second Bugatti Legend model is based on the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse. It is equipped with the 8-litre W16 engine which produces 1200 horsepower (882 kW) and 1500 Nm (1107 lb-ft) of torque at 3,000 to 5,000 rpm. It can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds.

The designers of this Jean Bugatti aimed to follow the concept of its historic predecessor, the Type 57SC Atlantic La Voiture Noire. Therefore the body was constructed entirely from jet black, clear-coated carbon fibre. In addition, the utilization of platinum lends an air of extravagance to the vehicle, with the famous Bugatti horseshoe on the front grille and the EB logo on the rear.

Furthermore, the exclusive appearance of the car is additionally highlighted by the wheels, which include black diamond-cut rims. The signature of Jean Bugatti has been lasered onto the petrol and oil cap and painted Arctic grey.

Next, for the interior of this Bugatti model, the designers was also used the same design philosophy of adding a motif of the historic La Voiture Noire. Inside the car has been fully fitted out in leather.

The Vitesse will also include the same beige and brown tones that were present in the Type 57SC Atlantic. In addition, the seats, instrument panel, steering wheel, dash panel, centre console, door trim panels and windscreen crossmember are all decided in chocolate brown.

The chocolate brown makes the perfect contrast to the light beige silk leather upholstery, which in turn is continued in the footwell, the outer door trim panels and the handle recesses. The colour of the decorative stitching complements the used leather.

The attention is immediately grabbed by the embroidery on the doors and the cover of the rear storage compartment. This passion to the tiniest detail is also visible on the steering wheel as well as in the EB logo, which as mentioned has been styled in gleaming platinum. Another highlight is the gear-shift which stays true to the original Type 57SC design and is rendered in valuable rosewood.

What is more, there are also features such as leather insert embossed with the lettering “Les Légendes de Bugatti” in the extended section of the centre console, and door sill plate displaying the image and signature of Jean Bugatti.

Jean Bugatti Veyron is priced at 2.28 million euros.

httpv://youtu.be/OPZ3NyzNStE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bugatti

September 11, 2013

Infiniti Q30 Concept Unveiled At The Frankfurt Motor Show

Infiniti has revealed today the Infiniti Q30 Concept in Frankfurt. The vehicle showcases the next step in brand’s strategy to expand into new segments. Q30 Concept has sleek design and exudes individualized character.

As a matter of fact, this model is a unique blend a coupe, a hatch and a crossover, because in it were included features typically found in the three types of cars. May be the reason for this is tat the Q30 Concept is designed to appeal to younger customers who are not afraid to step in unknown territory.

The designers of the brand has the freedom for this project to be more creative and to explore bolder, even more sensual sculpting, increased muscularity and playfulness. Infiniti Q30 Concept is the precursor for brand’s future production vehicle.

Next to the unveiling of the new concept model, at the Frankfurt Motor Show was also announced the start of the sales of the Infiniti Q50 sports saloon in Europe. The vehicle will go on sale as of mid-November.

Source: Infiniti

September 11, 2013

Suzuki Unveils iV-4 Compact SUV Concept In Frankfurt

Suzuki is currently making the official world debut of its new compact SUV concept vehicle named iV-4. The new model has striking and powerful exterior design, which follows the tradition of brand’s compact SUVs.

In fact, the vehicle is created to be personalized. The result will be a car which perfectly complies customers’ wishes and lifestyle. And this concept is featured in the name of the SUV as well. Here, the “i” stands for “individuality”, “V” for “vehicle”, and “4” for “4 wheel-drive”.

The design of this new concept features straight, sleek lines, clamshell hood, five-slotted front grille. This effects in very futuristic stance which is continued by the distinctive kicked-up character lines on the sides, the fog light with built-in laser sensor on the roof and the illuminated grille.

This Suzuki runs on large-diameter tyres, matched with wheel design that gives a foretaste of the powerful road performance of an SUV. The individualization regarding the exterior is through individual choice of exterior parts, colour, texture, and much more. For instance, there is now being offered the specially created exterior colour Brilliant Turquoise Metallic which comes to remind us of the sky reflected in a skyscraper.

The brand has also announced that there is going to be a production model based on the iV-4 that will be lightweight and will deliver one of the lowest CO2 emissions figures in its class. In addition, it will be equipped with ALLGRIP, which is a next generation of 4WD technology created for exhilarating and powerful drive.

The production model will be launched in 2015.

Dimensions of Suzuki iV-4 Compact SUV Concept:

Overall length 4,215 (mm)
Overall width 1,850 (mm)
Overall height 1,665 (mm)
Wheelbase 2,500 (mm)
Tyre size 235/55R20

Source: Suzuki

September 11, 2013

Frankfurt Motor Show: Volkswagen e-Golf And e-Up!

A double premiere in Frankfurt is making the iconic German brand Volkswagen, which has unveiled two new and very efficient electric cars – Volkswagen e-up! and Volkswagen e-Golf. Both zero-emission cars are perfect for urban mobility and everyday utilization.

Being a four-door models they deliver perfect comfort an in addition are fully equipped. Both Volkswagens are equipped with the following standard features: automatic climate control, remote controlled parking heating/ventilation (air conditioning and heating), radio-navigation system, heated windscreen, alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and in the case of the e-Golf all-LED headlights.

More importantly is that they are also extremely efficient. For instance when travelling 100 kilometres, the e-up! consumes just 11.7 kWh of power, whilethe e-Golf also achieves 12.7 kWh/100 km.

Despite their great efficiency both vehicles promise to deliver sporty performance. They have superior suspension and as a result of the low centre of gravity of the batteries positioned within the car floor, the handling becomes sharper. The silent electric motors with which the cars have been equipped also generate a level of starting torque from standstill.

Volkswagen e-Golf I powered by an 85 kW (115 hp) electric motor, which achieves speeds of up to 12,000 rpm. In addition the unit generates maximum of 270 Nm (200 lb-ft). These numbers make it possible for the car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds on its way to a Vmax of 140 km/h.

Next, the Volkswagen e-up! is also equipped with electric motor that produces 60 kW (82 hp) and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque. The four-seater achieves the sprint up to 60 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches 100 km/h in 12.4 seconds. The top speed here is 130 km/h.

From a single battery charge (18.7 kWh) the e-up! has a range of up to 160 km. The e-Golf has a larger battery (24.2 kWh) and therefore has bigger range of up to 190 km. Both vehicles work in three driving modes (‘Normal’, ‘Eco’ and ‘Eco+’) and four levels of regenerative braking (‘D1’, ‘D2’, ‘D3’ and ‘B’).

The new zero-emission Volkswagens are ready to charge the electric car segment with innovative engineering, great everyday practicality and a dynamic feeling.

Source: Volkswagen

September 11, 2013

Frankfurt Motor Show: Lexus LF-NX Crossover Concept [VIDEO]

Lexus has just officially revealed its latest concept – the LF-NX Compact Crossover at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. As one can see the design philosophy behind this vehicle is that it focuses on the growing segment of smaller, city-compact premium crossovers.

It is only 182.7 inches long and has a wheelbase of 106.3-inch. Although its smaller size when compared to other SUVs in the segment, it is youthful, confident and innovative; and it includes a new bold look that gives an insight into the future evolution of the Lexus L-finesse design language.

The exterior of the brand’s new concept is definitely bold and delivers more distinctive and sculpted styling. The front of the new concept features a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille. Here, both the chrome trim and grille mesh pattern are enhanced in size as the grille widens through the lower bumper area. This emphasizes vehicle’s wide front track and powerful visual presence.

Furthermore, the upper edges of the grille create powerful lines which in turn define the hood edges. The base on the other hand is highlighted by a chrome-finished underbody panel. The front is characterized also by signature front lighting which includes three diamond-shaped LED headlamps and the independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

The front as well as the rear fender is formed by a series of muscular curves. The wheel arches incorporate black painted trim. In profile above the belt line, this Lexus combines with a steeply raked tailgate and integral spoiler to create an athletic stance.

Next, the rear of the LF-NX is includes sculpted lamp clusters that make an instantly identifiable light signature, and extend the full depth of the bumper. The wide lower bumper has been detailed without a visible exhaust system. This is because of the full hybrid powertrain with which the vehicle is equipped. At last, the exterior paint finish of the Lexus LF-NX concept is the new Brushed Metal Silver.

Going inside the vehicle, one sees that Lexus have continued here its ‘Human Oriented’ L-finesse design philosophy. The interior features bold, powerful forms which create a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.

One immediately views that the center console extends the full length of the cabin and goes to the rear seats. Bright, brushed metal finish has also been applied to the driver’s instrument meters, the steering wheel, the seat structure and the overhead console.

Black and Sunrise Yellow leather upholstery with contrast stitching is visible on the seats and soft parts f the interior, while sophisticated blue instrument and switchgear lighting add to the feeling off luxury.

The interaction with the switchgear and instrumentation is at the heart of Lexus interior design. The cabin of the car includes an upper display zone and lower operation zone dashboard. The upper display zone features an exclusive driver’s instrument meter design. The other one serves in terms of allowing access to a new generation of touch-sensitive, electrostatic switcheson door trim, and the new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

More importantly, the LF-NX concept is equipped with a full hybrid powertrain specifically updated for SUV performance. The full hybrid drive system includes a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine and a powerful electric motor. Of course, this only results in outstanding fuel consumption and low emissions.

httpv://youtu.be/e0NGXcejdKQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lexus

September 11, 2013

2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show: 2014 BMW i8

BMW has unveiled the production ready 2014 i8 super car at the 2013 IAA in Frankfurt. This is the first plug-in hybrid vehicle from the BMW Group and world’s most forward-looking sports car. It features the revolutionary interpretation of BMW’s hallmark driving pleasure and groundbreaking premium character clearly defined in terms of sustainability.

2014 BMW i8 is powered by 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).

The i8 weighs just 1,490 kg (3,285 lbs). 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).

Extensive standard equipment includes the Navigation system Professional with proactive drive system for all-electric driving, fully-digital instrument display, BMW iDrive with freestanding Control Display and leather sports seats; choice of four exterior paint finishes and four interior equipment variants There are also 20” alloy wheels, a rear view camera, high beam assistant, speed limit info, Surround View, Head-Up Display and Collision Warning with pedestrian recognition.

Source: BMW

September 10, 2013

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