Automobiles Review – Page 721 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2014 BMW M5 and M6 with optional Competition Package

BMW will offer an optional Competition Package for the new 2014 M5 and M6 (Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe) facelift models. Besides the additional equipment, the package will also boost the engine. The Competition Package open up a new dimension of dynamics in customary BMW M style.

The 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 is going to produce 575HP (423 kW), instead of 560HP (412 kW). Although the power increase is insignificant, surely it will provide better acceleration. The engine is connected to a 7-speed M dual clutch gearbox and an Active M Differential at the rear axle.

Other performance components are M carbon ceramic brakes, updated suspension and damping systems, tuned stabilizer bars, 10 mm lowered ride height and new hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with M-specific Servotronic function. There is also a set of new 20” M alloys and a sport exhaust system with custom M black chrome twin tailpipes.

The contents of the Competition Package make for optimised performance characteristics in all models, as demonstrated for example by 0.1 seconds being shaved off the standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time and 0.2 seconds when accelerating from zero to 200 km/h (124 mph).

Cornering dynamics and elasticity are also enhanced – something that is noticeable in everyday driving but most powerfully experienced on the race track. In particular in conjunction with the optional M carbon ceramic brakes, all the driving dynamics attributes associated with BMW M automobiles are experienced at the highest level.

Source: BMW

May 20, 2013

BMW 5 Series Sedan And Gran Turismo – Specifications And Pricing Announced

BMW 5 Series is one of the best selling models around the world and now its 2014 facelift version is absolutely ready for a launch. Precise modifications to the design, the addition of a new inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine for the Sedan, and a wide range of exceptional equipment raise the appeal of the BMW 5 Series family even further.

In terms of design, a new BMW kidney grille and redesigned lower air intakes reinforce the sporty stance of the 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan. In addition, the width of the rear end is underscored by an extra crease in the apron and sharply contoured rear lights.

On the other hand, the 2014 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo has modified front apron and redesigned rear end that contributes to a longer and lower look. What is more, the depth to the dynamic character of the model is further reinforced by three-dimensional surface design for the area around the license plate holder and a chrome strip in the rear apron.

Xenon Adaptive headlights are standard on the models, while there are also optional Adaptive LED Headlights. Additional exterior paint colors, as well as light-alloy wheels, upholstery colors and interior trim elements for all BMW 5 Series serve as an enhancement element to the individualization of the cars. 2014 BMW 5 Series customers are now offered new additions to the range Calisto Grey metallic, Jatoba metallic, Mineral White metallic and Glacier Silver metallic.

Moreover, exclusively composed BMW Lines are now available for the first time as an alternative to standard specification. We are speaking here about the Luxury Line , Modern Line, and M Sport. All of them feature as an option to upgrade to luxurious Nappa Leather upholstery at no additional charge.

To be more precise, the Luxury Line includes high-class features for the exterior and interior. For instance, the chrome finish of the trim bars in the outer sections of the lower air intake, the fronts of the black kidney grille slats, the window recess finishers, the trim strip in the rear apron and the exhaust tips are something that has to be mentioned. The interior of the model includes leather upholstery with exclusive stitching, a black sports leather steering wheel and interior trim strips in exquisite Fine-line anthracite wood.

Next, the Modern Line comes to offer even more dynamism with its exceptionl air intake bars, kidney grille slats, rear trim strip and exhaust tips in matt chrome, and instrument panel and sports leather steering wheel ins Oyster light color shade.

The M Sport Package now includes M steering wheel, LED fog lights, and no-charge Nappa Leather upholstery.

The interior of the 5 Series adds new layers of functionality. The Central Display of the standard iDrive operating system for instance is now bordered in the Sedan by chrome trim. The storage compartments and cup holders in the center console of these models now have enhanced capacity.

More space is present, as well the use of exquisite materials and high-quality craftsmanship. The iDrive controller is now fitted as a standard Navigation system and includes a touchpad surface that allows character recognition.

The engine range of the 5 Series family have been further expanded by including the BMW 535d as the latest diesel variant in North America. In addition, BMW’s inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology makes 255 horsepower (188 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque from 1,500 – 3,000 rpm.

The top unit includes an updated V-8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology. It generates monstrous 445 horsepower (327 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. It can be found under the hood of the BMW 550i Sedan and BMW 550i Gran Turismo, allowing the firs to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

Furthermore, the 2014 5 Series chassis technology now features double-wishbone front axle, integral rear axle and Servotronic variable power steering function. Specifically for Gran Turismo there is a standard air suspension with automatic self-leveling rear suspension, while the Driving Dynamics Control switch on the center console is standard on all models.

On the other hand, customers can chose as an option the Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering systems. Also standard are the Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start-Stop functionality, and ECO PRO mode, BMW EfficientDynamics technologies that further enhance the fuel efficiency.

Other innovative technologies included as an option are the BMW ConnectedDrive and iDrive4.2 that now comes with touchpad, which add more to the exclusiveness of the 2014 5 Series. The newly updated 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and Gran Turismo will be presen in North American dealerships in August 2013.

MSRP for the 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo:

528i Sedan	$50,425	550i xDrive Sedan	$67,125
528i xDrive Sedan	$52,725	ActiveHybrid 5	$62,325
535i Sedan	$56,025	535i Gran Turismo	$60,925
535i xDrive Sedan	$58,325	535i xDrive Gran Turismo	$63,225
535d Sedan	$57,525	550i Gran Turismo	$68,825
535d xDrive Sedan	$59,825	550i xDrive Gran Turismo	$71,125
550i Sedan	$64,825

Source: BMW

May 20, 2013

Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept Unveiled [VIDEO]

In order to celebrate its centenary Aston Martin is unveiling the exceptional Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept. The model looks both to the past and the future. Back in the days the DBR1 was brand’s greatest sporting triumph on the track. Of course, the future is “teased” by the glimpses of potential future design direction.

The concept is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 engine. It competed yesterday at the famous Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring race, driven by Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez. In fact the speedster represents company’s fantastic sporting heritage, exceptional design capability, superb engineering know-how and adventurous spirit.

But this car is even more – it shows that the soul of Aston Martin, ad this is what differentiates Aston Martin from all the other car makers in the world. CC100 Speedster Concept was designed and constructed in fewer than six months. The aim was to create something that reflects the 100 years of brand’s heritage and to signal the future of the British company.

To be more precise, the car measures almost four and a half metres nose to tail, and more than two metres wide. This makes the Speedster Concept body a classic example of the almost infinitely flexible nature of Aston Martin’s trademark Vertical Horizontal engineering philosophy.

Of course, new materials were utilized throughout the construction of the body and the interior – carbon fibre can be seen prominently. In addition, the CC100 uses the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated V12 gasoline engine that is matched with a six-speed hydraulically actuated automated sequential manual transmission.

It is controlled via steering column-mounted paddle shifts thus delivering the needed sporting changes. This makes it possible for the concept to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in little more than four seconds on its way to a top speed of 180 mph.

httpv://youtu.be/pBzTgHK9A3E

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Aston Martin

May 20, 2013

Keep Your Car Good As New

There’s nothing quite like getting a new car. When you first bring it home – whether you plan on driving it everyday, or you are more of an automobile collector – it’s absolutely flawless. The paint job is shining, the car works beautifully, and each and every feature is completely perfect. And, if you’re like most people when they get new cars, you make up your mind then and there to keep your car in the closest thing to perfect shape as you possibly can! Unfortunately, somewhere along the way many of us start slacking off, and in one way or another upkeep and maintenance efforts are forgotten. So, here’s a brief guide to the steps most important to take if you’re truly interested in keeping your car good as new.

Scheduled Basic Maintenance

Keeping to a regular maintenance schedule is perhaps the single most important step in keeping your car operating good as new. Things like tire tread, brake pad wear, oil, and brake fluid, among others, require regular attention, and it’s easy to get too relaxed about your schedule. Strict maintenance will often keep your car from experiencing more serious issues.

Defensive Driving (And Parking)

Defensive driving techniques are all about allowing for the mistakes of others and compensating in advance, and the same principals can be applied to parking. Keep your car out of harm’s way by not driving too close, or parking too close, to other vehicles or potential hazards. This minimizes the chances for damage.

Proper Insurance Coverage

While protective measures can certainly help, there is no way to entirely guarantee that your car will never be damaged. For this reason, it’s still a good idea to speak to an insurance provider like Aviva to make sure that you have adequate insurance coverage. In the event of damage, or even theft, you will then be in better financial position to restore your car.

Occasional Customization

It’s impossible to totally prevent wear and tear from occurring to your car, and that’s why occasional customization and upgrade can be a good step to take. Whether it’s installing new leather seats after frays or tears, or even a new paint job, this sort of upkeep can certainly keep your vehicle looking and feeling fresh.

Sun Protection

Sunlight can wear down not only a car’s paint job, but even its interior over time. You can delay these issues by using a windshield sun reflector, as well as parking your car indoors and using a cover when appropriate. These steps can help your car to age far more slowly.

Gentle Handling

Finally, handling your car gently on the road is another very important step to take. When you drive harshly (high speeds, sudden braking, etc.) your car is put under more physical pressure, and will wear down more quickly. For that reason, in addition to driving defensively, it’s important to drive gently.

May 20, 2013

The Nissan Resonance Concept Car

Nissan showed off their exciting new Resonance concept car at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, Featuring what the company calls “V-Motion” styling, it features a grill that sweeps upwards and a windshield and A-pillars that are steeply raked rearward. The impression is a car in motion. Nissan says its designers were inspired “hypersonic space travel.” Team Nissan in New Hampshire explained to us that the Resonance is similar to the current Nissan Murano with proportions that imitate the mid-size crossover’s, with an oblong profile and short hood. High concept details of the Resonance concept include a panoramic glass roof, a tinted translucent acrylic grille, giant 22-inch wheels and boomerang-shaped lights.

Under the Resonance’s hood is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine driving a hybrid-electric drive system. It employs a single motor and dual clutches driving an all-wheel drivetrain. The transmission is Nissan’s next-generation Xtronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The electric motor is powered by a large lithium-ion battery pack which is recharged not only by the engine and but by the vehicle braking kinetic energy.

Inside the Resonance the “V-Motion” styling ethic continues. Even though this is a concept car, the futuristic interior aesthetic seems to appear production-feasible, not just for the show. The cockpit displays feature neat “layered” display panel graphics that reproduce a holographic setup without actual holographic technology. The gauges directly in front of the steering wheel are similar in color and look to the information and control center so the combination has an all-encompassing panoramic feel to it. Light-colored leather covers the seats and nearly every surface that isn’t already covered in metal or polished wood.

The Resonance may be a proxy for the styling of the 2015 Murano. Why not a separate Model? Well, the Murano has been one of Nissan’s more popular SUVs but not really one of its more practical cars. With the new seven-passenger Pathfinder now filling the role of people and gear hauler, it could very well be that the Resonance hints at Nissan’s planning for the future Murano, not a separate model. That may not a bad thing because in either a Resonance or Murano model, it should be a big hit in the showroom.

Pictures Courtesy: www.autoevolution.com, www.caranddriver.com

May 20, 2013

The History of Kia Motors

Kia was founded in 1944 as a producer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. The name Kia has roots in the Chinese language and means to “to rise and come out of Asia”. According to native Koreans, the name evokes a parable that may be roughly equivalent to the Greek mythological tale involving the Phoenix bird arising from the ashes of its predecessor.

By the early 1950s the company had expanded into the production of completed bicycles, the first Korean manufacturer to do so. By the late 1950s the company began to produce motorized scooters with the rollout of the model C100 (1958).

The 1960s saw a rapid expansion in Kia with a lineup that included motorcycles and three-wheeled cargo vehicles. The Kia brand was a frequent site on the streets of Korea and in many other parts of Asia. The next logical step after this was to enter the automotive market and the company started moving in this direction in the early 1970s. A key factor in this process was the construction of Kia’s Sohari manufacturing plant in 1973. According to Team Kia in New Hampshire this plant was Korea’s first fully integrated automotive production facility and it was where Korea’s first internal-combustion motor was tooled and built. A year later, Kia unveiled its first car – the Brisa.

After several years of manufacturing automobiles for other brands, Kia began manufacturing its own brand for US consumption in the early 1990s. The first US-destined car was the compact Sephia. It was rolled out to only to several Western states in order to test demand. It wasn’t until KIA started shipping its very popular Sportage SUV that Kia became a nationwide brand.

The next phase in Kia’s history was due to financial difficulties. After considerable discussion, Hyundai, South Korea’s other major automaker, acquired the company. Kia has been on a major upswing since its purchase by Hyundai, with improvements in build-quality, performance and overall refinement. Reliability, previously a weak point, has also improved greatly and consumer confidence followed along.

Today Kia is offers a broad lineup of well-built coupes, sedans and crossovers that stand out for their value, performance and sporty styling.

Images courtesy of www.automaistv.com.br , www.engineact.com

May 20, 2013

Yes, There were Turbine Cars!

There used to be a time when the coolest things were built in America and one of these things was the turbine-powered automobile. Unfortunately the turbine car never went into actual production but it was close. The company that tried was Chrysler.

We learned that the Chrysler turbine was the brainchild of chief engineer George Huebner from Sheboygan Chrysler. Huebner began studying the feasibility of turbine-powered vehicles at Chrysler in the mid-1940s. The turbine engine’s smoothness and durability seemed to be a viable, perhaps superior, alternative to the standard piston engine because it had few moving parts compared to a piston engine -just fan blades on a spinning shaft.

Huebner built a few ordinary-looking prototypes in the ’50s, but the pilot-program cars would be driven, and seen, by the public so Elwood P. Engel, a former Ford designer, crafted an all-new,futuristic body. The bodies were hand-built by Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin, Italy, and shipped to Detroit for final assembly.

The Chrysler Turbine was not a one-off concept car. Between 1963 and 1964, Chrysler built 55 turbine cars and 50 of these were made available for testing by 203 families nationwide. Each family kept the car for three months and, as part of the deal, the drivers recorded impressions and mileage in logbooks.

However, the turbine automobile never went into production. The high cost was one reason. Back then you could buy a fully optioned V8-powered car for some $5000 or this “turbine car” that would have cost around $16,000. The two had about the same performance; the turbine car was rated at 130 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque, about the same as the standard V8 Model.

Despite no actual production models being made, between 1949 and 1981 Chrysler built seven different generations of turbine test vehicles. Unfortunately, the company’s shaky finances, the challenge of reducing the engine’s Nitrous Oxide emissions, the oil embargo of 1974 and the need to downsize cars for front-wheel drive, all hurt the Turbine’s chances.

Today, the Chrysler turbine is just a footnote in automotive history and just 3 cars survive. Needless to say they are very valuable collector cars.

Photos Courtesy of: www.dudeudeworld.com.au, www.popularmechanics.com and www.hemmings.com

May 20, 2013

Ford Sustainability Plan Making a Difference

In recent years, many companies have begun to show concern for the environment and sustainability by rolling out green initiatives. The Ford Motor Company has sponsored several such initiatives over the years. In 1999, Ford released its first annual Sustainability Report. Since then, the company has worked diligently in an attempt to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

In 2008, the company released a list of its strategies for sustainability, including such diverse approaches as using 100% recycled fabric for seating in the Ford Escape, adding 6-speed transmissions that are fuel-efficient, and introducing the 2008 Super Duty, which is the first clean diesel heavy-duty pickup truck. These initiatives also displayed concern for the environment, adding almost 200 acres of sustainable landscaping to its properties in Michigan. Ford also became the first two-time winner of the EPA’s Energy Star award, winning for 2006 and 2007 consecutively.

Ford’s Sustainability Reports have included projections and goals for reducing energy expenditures and carbon dioxide emissions. In its 10^th annual Sustainability Report, Ford anticipates reaching its goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 30%, compared to 2006, by the year 2020. In its 13^th annual Sustainability Report, Ford relayed its intentions to reduce energy used for manufacturing its vehicles by another 25%, per vehicle, by 2016.

Ford has already seen some success from these policies. From 2006-2011, electricity usage for per-vehicle production went down by around 800 kilowatt-hours—the upper end of electricity usage by average households in California and New York. The company also added a 500-kilowatt solar panel system to its Michigan Assembly Plant.

Additionally, Ford also has the goal of continuing to reduce landfill waste. From 2010 to 2011, Ford reduced this waste by 11.3%, with intentions to continue to reduce waste by 10% per vehicle. If Ford continues on its path to green innovation, everyone benefits: Ford, its loyal customers, and the environment. If you are looking to drive a vehicle from a company that believes in the importance in being ‘Green’, then just contact your local Ford showroom, such as the Ken Garff Ford Dealership of UT. They will be happy to set up a test drive, go over financing, and answer any questions you may have.

May 20, 2013

Calling George Jetson!

There used to be a time when the coolest things were built in America and one of these things was the Chrysler turbine-powered automobile. Built in 1963, it is probably not entirely coincidental that Hanna-Barbera’s animated TV show The Jetsons aired from 1962 to 1963.

From the viewpoint of engineers, however, the turbine engine’s smoothness and durability seemed to be a viable, perhaps better, alternative to the standard piston engine. It had few moving parts compared to a piston engine, just a bunch of fan blades on a spinning shaft with one spark plug and no cooling system.

Chrysler built a few ordinary-looking prototype turbine cars in the ’50s, but the pilot-program cars for the 1960s would be driven and seen, by the public so an all-new, futuristic body was developed. The bodies were hand-built by Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin, Italy, and shipped to Detroit for installation of the turbine engine.

Chrysler built 55 turbine cars between 1963 and 1964 and 50 of these were made available for testing by 203 families nationwide. Each family kept the car for three months and, as part of the deal, the drivers recorded impressions and mileage in logbooks. The folks in the service department at (serving DC) told us that Chrysler actually had a special team of mechanics on call who would fly out and fix the cars right away if anything went wrong.

Unfortunately, the turbine never went into production. The high cost was one reason. Back then you could buy a V8-powered Chrysler for some $5000 or this “jet-engine” car that would have cost around $16,000. Big difference in price. They also had about the same performance; the turbine car was rated at 130 hp about the same as a Chrysler’s 318-cubic-inch V8. Gas mileage was the same on the highway too, both would get some 19mpg.

May 20, 2013

Attention George Jetson, Your Car is Ready

Not long ago the coolest automobiles were built in America and a good example was the Chrysler turbine. It is probably not entirely coincidental that Hanna-Barbera’s seminal animated TV show, the Jetsons, aired from 1962 to 1963 and the Chrysler Turbine premiered in 1963. True, the Jetson’s animated car flew but having a jet-like turbine in a ground based car seemed like a step in that direction.

From the viewpoint of engineers, the turbine engine’s smoothness and durability seemed to be a better alternative to the standard piston engine. It had few moving parts compared to piston engines, just a bunch of fan blades on a spinning shaft with one spark plug and no cooling system. It was a car manufacturers dream.

Chrysler built a few ordinary-looking prototype turbine cars in the ’50s, but for the pilot-program cars (1960s) an all-new, futuristic body was developed. The bodies were hand-built by the Italian company Carrozzeria Ghia and were shipped to Detroit for installation of the Chrysler-built turbine engine.

Chrysler built a total of 55 turbine cars between and 50 of these were made available for testing by 203 American families. Each family kept the car for three months and, as part of the deal, they recorded impressions and details in logbooks. The service guys at Earnhardt Dodge, told us that Chrysler actually had a elite team of mechanics on call who would fly out and fix the cars right away if anything went wrong.

Unfortunately, Chrysler’s Jetson-like turbine car never went into production. The high cost was one reason. Back in the early 60s you could buy a perfectly fine, reliable V8-powered car for some $5000 or this “jet-engine” car that would have cost around $16,000. Big difference in price! They also had about the same performance; the turbine car was rated at 130 hp about the same as a Chrysler’s 318-cubic-inch V8. Gas mileage was the same on the highway, both would get some 19mpg. The major difference seemed to be mainlyprice.

May 20, 2013

Vorsteiner Teases McLaren MP4-12C

McLaren MP4-12C is one of the iconic supercars in the automotive world today. In fact, it was a global phenomenon when it first was released on the market. It is simply impossible to even think about of adding more to this exotic machine.

Despite this fact, there are some tuning brands which accept the challenge to enhance the aggressive stance of this McLaren model and among them proudly stand Vorsteiner. The tuners have just released two teaser images of their future project.

Unfortunately, no additional information has been released so far in terms of what the enhancements in the MP4-12C will be. From what we can see, the supersports car will undoubtedly include aggressive new kit with a redesigned front and rear bumper featuring large air channeling attributes. A set of diffuser side skirts also looks to be present as well as some sort of carbon fiber add on spoiler.

The emblematic Mclaren MP4-12C is powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine that generates 625 hp (460 kW) and it is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The model accelerates effortlessly from standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 329 km/h (204 mph). In terms of efficiency, the MP4-12C achieves average 11.7 L/100km and delivers CO2 emissions of 279 g/km.

Source: SR Auto Group

May 18, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition

Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition is the latest creation of the luxury tuning specialists at A. Kahn Design. The model is in special Fuji White/ Matt Pearl Grey color and is equipped with XS 90 2.2 TDCI engine.

One of the key factors in the development of this emblematic Land Rover model was the astonishing styling package. The latter brings the exceptional design language of the tuning company to a new level by commanding curvatures and firm body elements in order to ensure the vehicle is mannered for daily driving.

This means that the vehicle provides exceptional resilience and style thanks to the lightweight design and sophisticated aerodynamics of this styling package. The visual stance of the model is dominated by front and rear wide wings with integrated vents and bolt apertures.

In addition, there are also the following features that enhance the overall look of the Defender: highly coveted 1948 Defend Alloy Wheels in Satin Black (8×16 fitted with 235x85x16” tyres), xenon crosshair headlights, bonnet vents with mesh, front grille replacement including headlight surrounds, front bumper with bumper lighting, front bumper sump guard, front and rear wing mesh inserts, side vents with mesh, exhaust shields, mud flaps, Kahn oval tailgate badge and Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover. Of course, there is also included emblematic for the tuners privacy glass and Kahn twin cross hair exhaust system.

The interior of the vehicle features the iconic ‘bespoke touch’ of the British designer. In this particular case, the Defender is equipped with front sports GTB racing seats and rear folding seats, instrument binnacle in grey alcantara with red and silver stitching, centre dashboard in leather & alcantara with Harris Tweed Inserts and two tone contrast stitching, tron ring lighting, door panel inserts and trims in black quilted leather & grey alcantara with silver stitching, Churchill time clock facia insert in red, billet machined leather steering wheel, hard wearing front and rear cabin floor lights, Kahn fire extinguisher, Kahn speedo & rev counter facia in red and vented foot pedals in machined aluminium.

Source: A. Kahn Design

May 18, 2013

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