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  • 2014 Toyota Hilux Invincible Combines Power And Style

    2014-Toyota-Hilux-Invincible-THUMB2014 Toyota Hilux Invincible is going to extend Hilux’s presence on the automotive market. The model became renowned throughout the world for its excellent quality, durability and reliability. The Invincible model is going to complement the current DLX, DLX+, SR and SR+ Hilux model range and thus to deliver even better choice to customers.

    In fact, this Toyota vehicle is perfect for those who wish to have a pick up that combines power and dependability with greater comfort and style. The Invincible model is to be at the top-of-the-range and will be available in a choice of Extra Cab or Double Cab body styles and ‘Active’ or ‘Sport’ versions.

    First, the Hilux Invincible Active includes a silver front underguard, chrome air-intake, fog lamp and rear lamp bezels, and ‘Invincible’ door badging. It has an all black interior which features black fabric seats, a soft padded armrest, a leather handbrake, a light grey roof lining and ‘Invincible’ scuff plates.

    Next, the Hilux Invincible Sport adds to the previous specifications chrome hi-bars, and the optional availability of a new hard-top, chrome side bars, new 17″ dual-tone alloy wheels and black, full leather seats.

    2014 Toyota Hilux Invincible is to be offered in eight exterior body colours and with a choice of four powertrains: a 2.5 litre D-4D engine with manual transmission and either 2WD or 4WD, and a 3.0 litre D-4D unit with manual or automatic transmission and 4WD. The model will go on sale throughout Europe in the second half of 2013.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2014 Dodge SRT Viper – US Price $101,309

    SRT has released the pricing of 2014 Dodge Viper, which is now $1,919 more expensive. The GTS model has a price tagof$122,390, while the TA model has not been disclosed yet but it will probably be slotted between the base model and the GTS.

    2014 Dodge SRT Viper is powered by an 8.4 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 640HP (477 kW) and 814Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1,521 kg (3,354 lbs), so 0-100 km/h takes 3 seconds and a top speed of 331 km/h (206 mph). The ¼ mile is covered in 11.5 seconds. If that’s not impressive enough, the model can go from 0-160-0 km/h in less than 12 seconds.

    The standard equipment includes a rearview camera, SAT NAV system, HD radio, 12-speakers Harman Kardon audio system with two subwoofers and Uconnect infotainment. The optional hi-end stereo with 18 speakers is just $1,955.

    Source: SRT

  • Mercedes-Benz E200 Natural Gas Drive And E220 BlueTEC BlueEFFICIENCY

    Mercedes-Benz-E-200-Natural-Gas-Drive-THUMBMercedes-Benz E 200 Natural Gas Drive is the economical and environmentally friendly variant to the E-Class. What is so special around it is that it features bivalent drive. This means that it can run on both petrol and natural gas.

    When this Mercedes-Benz runs on natural gas, this means it delivers 20 percent reduction in CO2 emissions, which in this particular case are estimated at just 114 grams of CO2 per kilometer. In addition, the new model – Mercedes-Benz E220 BlueTEC BlueEFFICIENCY Edition also highlights how environmentally friendly the E-Class is.

    To be more precise, the E200 Natural Gas Drive utilizes only 4.3 kg of natural gas per 100 kilometres. If the new E 200 NGD automatically switches seamlessly to running on petrol because the gas tank is empty, then the fuel consumption is just 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The CO2 emissions in this case are 147 g per kilometer.

    In addition, the car’s driving range is also enhanced. The car covers more than 400 kilometres when running on natural gas. As soon as the gas tank becomes empty, the vehicle automatically switches to run on petrol and can run up to 1300 kilometres.

    To go even further into details, the natural gas is stored securely in three containers: one behind the rear backrest and two under the floor of the boot. They have the capacity of holding 121.5 litres (19.5 kg) of natural gas together.

    In fact, the heart of the E200 NGD is the new four-cylinder petrol engine with spray-guided direct injection. The unit develops an output of 115 kW (156 hp) and maximum torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) at 1250 revolutions per minute. The acceleration time for the standard sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is 220 km/h. Moreover, there is also included in the car an ECO start/stop system which adds to the efficiency of the drive system.

    Next, the Mercedes-Benz E220 BlueTEC BlueEFFICIENCY Edition: utilized Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder diesel engine with direct injection. It is fuel-efficient, but it is still capable of generating 125 kW (170 hp) with an engine displacement of 2143 cubic centimetres.

    The model also develops staggering torque of 400 Nm (294 lb-ft). The special model’s unit is matched with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission that has been optimized and includes ECO start/stop function.

    The car is also equipped with low-resistance tyres on 16 or 17-inch wheels, has a lowering of the chassis by up to 15 millimetres and a radiator blind that directs the flow of air as required and thus improves aerodynamics.

    All in all, the fuel efficiency of the model is estimated at 4.4 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 114 grams per kilometer. The acceleration time of the car from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at 8.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 227 km/h.

    Mercedes-Benz E220 BlueTEC BlueEFFICIENCY Edition will be available from September with a starting price of EUR 47,272.75. Mercedes-Benz E200 NGD will be available from December for EUR 47,808.25.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • First Glimpse Of 2014 Honda Civic Tourer

    Last week, Honda announced that it is going to display the new Civic Tourer in September at Frankfurt Motor Show. The car was developed and designed in Europe and now the brand is officially revealing the pictures of the car as well as more information about it.

    It has a sleek and sophisticated profile, and delivers great practicality through its versatility and functionality with class leading interior space of 624 liters. Honda Civic Tourer will be equipped with either the 1.6 i-DTEC engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series or the 1.8 i-VTEC engine. Both can be matched with manual or automatic transmission.

    To go further into details, the exterior design of the Civic Tourer is sophisticated and sporty. It has a unique style which is achieved through the bold line that runs from the front A-pillar to the D-pillar. This creates the impression of a floating roof line.

    What is so enchanting about the new Civic Tourer is the new class leading interior space that it offers. When the rear seats are up, the volume is estimated at 624 liters, while when the rear seats are down, the trunk volume grows to 1668 liters.

    Furthermore, the designers of the vehicle have created an additional under floor storage in the boot which makes carrying tall objects in the boot easy. In addition, the height of the loading lip has been reduced by 137 mm in order to make easier the loading process.

    As mentioned, the Civic Tourer will feature either the1.6 i-DTEC engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series or the 1.8 i-VTEC engine coupled with manual or automatic transmission. First, the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine delivers great balance between fuel economy and driving performance.

    The unit comprises of an aluminium cylinder head joined to an open deck aluminium block and is the lightest diesel engine in its class. Additionally, every rotating part has been carefully maximized to reduce their friction. This in turn provides better fuel efficiency.

    Moreover, a new Adaptive Damper System (ADS) will help to enhance stability and comfort. The system features three settings – comfort, normal and dynamic. In the car are also featured advanced active safety systems, which will deliver a high standard of safety for the driver, passengers and pedestrians.

    2014 Honda Civic Tourer will be launched in Europe from early 2014.

    Source: Honda

  • Nissan GT-R BoosLogic Godzilla vs GT-R Altechno, X6 M PP-Performance and GT-R GTT

    Nissan GT-R Mk.1 Boostlogic Godzilla with 1450HP made several runs versus GT-R Mk.1 Altechno A2 with 1000HP, BMW X6 M PP-Performance Stage 3 with 740HP and a mighty GT-R Mk.1 GTT with 1000HP.

    The Godzilla lost the first start because of problems from the GT-R Altechno A2, which stopped the clock on 25.277 seconds with 327.27 km/h on 1 mile and  10.356 seconds with 228.28 km/h on ¼ mile mark.

    The X6 M didn’t have any chance, but it set personal record of the day ¼ mile, 1 mile and speed record on 1 mile. The Godzilla finished in 24.044 seconds with 347.15 km/h.

    The third start was most interesting – the GT-R Boostlogic Godzilla won it as well as 2nd place in super sport class 2013. It set absolute record of all-time for Nissan GT-R on ¼ mile – 254.59 km/h in 9.446 seconds. The driver also set personal absolute speed record on 1 mile – 357.85 km/h in 23.034 seconds. The GT-R GTT crossed finish line in 24.545 seconds.

    Enjoy the video!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJlgD-aHrro

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • Mazda Deep Orange 3 Concept Shows Innovative Engineering Inside And Out

    mazda-clemson-deep-orange-THUMBMazda Deep Orange 3 Concept vehicle was born out of the collaboration between Mazda and the automotive engineering students at Clemson University. We must admit that the car looks impressive and immediately stands put.

    This next-generation Mazda concept vehicle features body panels designed by student Frederick Naaman at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. On the other hand, Derek Jenkins, who is the design director for Mazda North American Operations, shared that taking part in this college program of was automaker’s dream come true.

    The students who took part in the program had free rein to push the boundaries of conventional design and engineering. The result is visible and extremely impressive: Deep Orange 3 includes a unique hybrid powertrain that automatically chooses front-, rear- or all-wheel drive.

    In addition, the concept also features a load-bearing structure which is based on innovative sheet-folding technology patented by Industrial Origami. The very highlight of the car is the groundbreaking 3+3 seating configuration, which is to be seen for the first time in sports car architecture.

    The collaboration program between the automotive brand and the university provides the students with experience in vehicle design, development, prototyping and production planning. In fact, a prototype vehicle is developed annually, and it focuses mainly on innovation.

    Furthermore, the project not only displays advanced vehicle technologies but also provides students with the chance to cooperate and work directly with automotive industry companies in order to manifest their ideas.

    Source: Mazda

  • TEASER: Kia B-Segment Concept To Be Revealed In Frankfurt

    Kia-B-Segment-Concept-THUMBKia’s dramatic new European concept is going to be revealed on 10th of September at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Two teaser images have been just released showing some glimpses of the car.

    It is being rumored that the model is to be the possible future B-segment of the brand, which will undoubtedly take on the urban environment with style and tenacity. As a matter of fact, this concept vehicle combines a mischievous character in very robust but stylish bodyshape.

    In addition, it was unveiled that the vehicle will include a mix of contrasting materials in compact and purposeful dimensions. This concept vehicle was born out of Kia’s determination to find new compact-car options. It aimed with it to deliver to the more individualistic and demanding driver better and compact size, intriguing elements and exquisite technologies.

    Kia has no current plans to enter the vehicle in production. Its debut in Frankfurt will be used to gather customers’ response for future models.

    Source: Kia

  • TEASER: Chevrolet Colorado And GMC Canyon Pickups

    Colorado-Canyon-THUMBGeneral Motors has just released a first teaser image of the new upcoming Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. The firs look of the new vehicle was provided by General Motors Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Dan Ammann at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars.

    He has revealed that the new models are going to be even more capable, versatile and fuel-efficient. They will come as an additional choice next to the already presented to the market 2014 Silverado and Sierra 1500s.

    Just recently GM has also announced that the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra will be equipped with the most capable standard V6 engine in any full-size pickup truck. The new 4.3 liter V6 leads the segment in city fuel economy. It generates 285 hp (212 kW) and 413Nm (305 lb-ft) of torque. The unit also gives the trucks the highest-available payload rating of 956 kg (2,108 lbs) and the highest-available towing rating of 3,266 kg (7,200 lbs).

    What we are also to see in the future are the new Silverado and Sierra HDs, that aim to give Chevrolet and GMC the industry’s most comprehensive lineups of pickups. The production of the teased Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon is scheduled to start in 2014.

    Source: GMC

  • DMC Ferrari F12 SPIA Middle East Special Edition

    DMC-Ferrari-F12-SPIA-Middle-East-Special-Edition-THUMBNew exciting project of the luxury tuners at DMC has just shown up. This time they have worked not on a Lamborghini but instead on Ferrari. The project is called DMC Ferrari F12 SPIA Middle East Special Edition.

    The production Berlinetta generates 740 hp (544 kW), but this wasn’t enough for the professionals from Duesseldorf. This was the reason of the development of a performance package that enhances the power output of the sportscar up to 766 hp (563 kW) mark. The top speed after the tuning is nearly 354 km/h.

    This new power is mainly achieved thanks to the new Titanium Exhaust System. An ECU refinement added also additional power for F12.

    Of course, DMC couldn’t resist not improving the exterior stance of the car. They have equipped it with new set of forged Rims and Sport Springs. A combination of 21″ at the front and 22″ at the rear was used.

    An effect of this step is that the overall handling of the vehicle was improved,. The sport springs on the other hand round-off the new appearance by supporting the new weight-ratio and handling. The new wheels were matched with Pirelli Sport Tyres in dimensions of 255/30 for the front and 335/25 for the rear.

    In addition, DMC stayed true to its tradition and gave a carbon fiber body kit to this Ferrari, which adds aggressive new look and improved aerodynamics. To be more precise, the front diffuser is substituted with a prominent new lip splitter. The latter extends the car and includes own centric sword, which enhances the road stability.

    Furthermore, the front hood is also replaced this time with a carbon fiber version. There is also an optional roof scoop. The extended side skirts use a pair of diffuser plates and stand out with flaps that match the ones that are also found on the front diffuser. Next, the trunk now has 599XX esque spoiler wing, which goes well along with the newly designed rear diffuser.

    At last, what finalize the package are the interior refinements included. For example, inside the car there is an extensive use of Italian fine leathers and carbon fiber. In addition, there are also plenty of new buttons and trims and redesigned steering wheel.

    Source: DMC

  • Carlsson Personalises Mercedes-Benz B-Class

    Carlsson-Mercedes-Benz-B-Class-THUMBCarlsson Mercedes-Benz B-Class is not an ordinary vehicle. In fact, it is a true masterpiece due to the work of the tuning specialists at Carlsson. In this project were used head turning aerodynamic styling additions and alloy wheels, which were supported by upgraded suspension and performance kits. The result is 42 horsepower (31 kW) more.

    To go further into details, the kit for this Mercedes-Benz model includes a front spoiler which contributes to car’s more dynamic face. At the same time this kit improves the high-speed stability.

    In addition, there are more sculpted side sills which make easy the airflow along the cars flanks and then lead to the new rear apron. The latter now has an integrated diffuser flanked by cut-outs for two pairs of rear exhaust outlets. There is also added a new and larger roof spoiler which helps reduce the drag and lift at speed.

    Furthermore, the professionals at Carlsson have also added lowering springs. They drop the ride height by 35 mm. This means that now the handling and grip are enhanced as well as the car exudes more purposeful stance.

    And in order to complete the masterful visual appearance of the car, Carlsson’s 1/10 design alloy wheels were used. They are available in Titanium, Diamond and Graphite Editions in 18, 19 or 20-inch sizes, properly matched with 225/40 R18, 225/35 R19 and 235/30 R20 tyres from Dunlop or Vredestein.

    What is more, a racier exterior can be achieved via Carlsson’s C-tronic CB kits, designed to increase output of the B-Class four-cylinder petrol engines. The effect is increase of B-Class’ output. The B250 horsepower rise from 211 hp (155 kW) to 253 hp (186 kW), while those of B200 go from 156 hp (115 kW) to 187 hp (138 kW), B180 achieves 146 hp (107 kW) from 122 hp (90 kW).

    The interior of the vehicle has been also upgraded thanks to the new carpet mats, alloy pedal set and door pins, bespoke leather upholstery and wood or carbon-fibre trim.

    Carlsson Mercedes-Benz B-Class as well as other vehicle tuned by the company can be seen at this year’s 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

    Source: Carlsson

  • Vauxhall Cascada To Be Equipped With New Engine

    2013-Vauxhall-Cascada-THUMBThe new Vauxhall Cascada is going to be equipped with new and more powerful engine which is to deliver 200 hp (147 kW) and generate 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. The top speed of the vehicle is 146 mph. These figures are due to the high-performance version of the new 1.6 SIDI turbo engine.

    The latter is going to make its world premiere next month at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Moreover, the unit is one of the newly-designed Vauxhall four-cylinder SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) units. It will joins the existing 170 hp (125 kW) 1.6 SIDI turbo unit, which is standard on the production Cascada.

    The 1.6-litre SIDI turbo unit delivers 11 per cent more power, but also 300 Nm maximum torque with overboost. This adds 70 Nm more, which is an increase of 30 per cent.

    What is more, at the heart of the SIDI turbo is a new engine block. The latter is optimized and can withstand a maximum combustion pressure of up to 130 bar in the cylinder. The block is made of grey cast iron with an aluminium baseplate.

    Another highlight that needs to be made is about the type of piston which was specifically developed for this unit. Its compression ratio was reduced from 10.5 to 9.5:1. Vauxhall engineers also aimed to achieve high power output with refinement. This was made possible through the optimization of vehicle’s induction and exhaust systems.

    The end result is that the drivers and passengers will appreciate quiet and smooth ride regardless the road speeds, engine speeds and loads. Additionally, the HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) front suspension improves more the optimized driving characteristics.

    The new top-of-the-line petrol engine extends the Cascada powertrain portfolio. It joins the 1.4 turbo 140 hp (103 kW) as well as the 170 hp (125 kW) 1.6-litre petrol direct injection unit. The diesel units available are the 2.0-litre turbo diesel with 165 hp (121 kW) and the 195 hp (143 kW) 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI one.

    The new Vauxhall Cascada equipped with 1.6 SIDI turbo engine matched with a six-speed manual transmission can be ordered from October.

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Subaru Announces Pricing For 2014 WRX And WRX STI

    2014-Subaru-WRX-THUMB2014 Subaru WRX and WRX STI are going on sale today. The iconic WRX will now deliver its biggest performance value in a competitive set. The car for the model year 2014 will offer to its customers more power and all-wheel drive.

    The engine under the hood of this Subaru is the 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled four-cylinder BOXER one, which generates 265 horsepower (195 kW) and 331 Nm (244 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System.

    The latter utilizes viscous coupling locking center differential, which splits the power 50:50 under normal traction conditions. In case of a wheel slippage, the center differential transmits the power to the wheels with the best traction.

    In addition, the standard equipment for this vehicle features sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and an AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers, Bluetooth® audio streaming and hands-free phone connectivity and iPod® control.

    Furthermore, there is an option package WRX Premium which delivers more comfort. It comprises of fog lights, a power moonroof and body-color trunk spoiler. All five-door models have a rear spoiler. The All-Weather Package is also standard and it features heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

    2014 Subaru WRX Limited adds leather-trimmed upholstery and high-intensity discharged (HID) headlights. The option package here will offer its customers the addition of Navigation System with AHA Connected service, which includes a 6.1-in. touch screen, voice-activated controls, SMS text messaging, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, iTunes® tagging, SD card map upgrades.

    Next, the 2014 Subaru WRX STI takes the company’s rally-bred road performance to the highest level. It is equipped with 305 horsepower (225 kW) turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Also standard on this model are the performance suspension and the exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

    Moreover, the WRX STI also includes Brembo® Performance Brake System, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) and Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system which features track performance-optimized mode.

    All WRX STI models include as a standard HID headlights and the All-Weather Package. The latter comprises of heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. Also standard here are the BBS® forged aluminum-alloy wheels, along with fog lights, rear window wiper/washer and special cargo area features.

    The Limited edition of this model add on the standard specification the following: power moonroof, fog lights, leather upholstery and BBS wheels. As an option, there is being offered Navigation System.

    Brand’s iconic line of sport models has a starting of $25 995.

    Source: Subaru