Automobiles Review – Page 741 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Scion 10 Series Models Celebrate Brand’s 10th Anniversary

Scion_10_Series_Family_THUMB The Limited-Production Scion 10 Series Models are going to celebrate brand’s tenth anniversary. Back in 2003 the first Scion xA and xB vehicles were launched with the aim to appeal to younger drivers.

Since then, Scions’s passionate approach, iconic products and success have captured the hearts of many younger buyers. After ten years, company’s goal is to stay strong on the market by delivering product line that continues to stand out on the road.

In order to celebrate the firs decade of its presence in the automotive market, the brand is going to launch a limited-production version of each vehicle in its lineup. The family of vehicle will be named Scion 10 Series. Each car in it will have an exceptional exterior color – Silver Ignition.

In addition, in the interior one can see Scion’s name illuminated on the dash before fading to reveal the number 10. The models will be produced of a total of 10 000 vehicles and will arrive in dealerships in June.

Other highlights of the models include silver seat belts, a solar-powered illuminated shift knob and an LED Scion locator badge that lights up when the car is unlocked. Each vehicle also carries a sequentially numbered interior badge. The xB, iQ, and xD will feature unique alloy wheels in a graphite finish.

What is more, the Scion 10 Series FR-S will be equipped with HID headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps, dual automatic climate controls and a smart key with push-button start ignition.

Source: Scion

April 3, 2013

Sportier 2014 Scion tC Unveiled In New York

2014 Scion tC made its debut at the New York International Auto Show exuding its sportier stance, enhanced interior and promising to deliver better driving experience to its customers.

The new tC has more aggressive looks and prominent styling, because of its new front distinctive headlamps and hood that extends lower toward a muscular grille with an embedded tC logo. The new upper- and lower-grille treatments are bordered by LED accent lighting.

Beneath the rear bumper, a new black-out valance includes an FR-S style, lower-center trim piece and lower perimeter reflectors. In addition, there are also new advanced LED tail lamps that round off the exceptional visual characteristics of the model.

Not to forget the 18-inch alloy wheels matched with 225/45R18 tires which carry the aggressive character of this Scion model on the road. The wheels include a premium dark grey finish. The car will be offered in a range of seven exterior colors, including two new ones: Absolutely Red and Blue Streak Metallic.

In terms of interior, the 2014 tC is equipped with array of new technologies and upgraded materials. To be more precise it will include Scion Standard Display Audio, featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth compatibility, HD Radio Technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

More importantly, the engine under the hood of this model is the 2.5-liter, four-cylinder one which delivers 179 horsepower (132 kW) at 6,000 RPM. It can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or an updated six-speed automatic one. The latter now includes Dynamic Rev Management technology.

Handling is also improved through some changes made to the stabilizer bar hardware, the optimization of the shock absorbers, and by increase of the body’s rigidity with additional spot welds. The electronic power steering has been retuned and mow offers more engaging response.

2014 Scion tC will arrive in dealerships in June.

Source: Scion

April 3, 2013

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso Technospace Revealed

Citroen has just released the first images and information around their new 2014 Citroen C4 Picasso Technospace. The model will have a launch this summer and of course will be the excellent expression of company’s “Creative Technologie” moto.

The C4 Picasso benefits from the new EMP2 platform. It has reduced overhang (-70mm at the front); a lower engine block (-40mm to -50mm) and floor (-20mm) and wider tracks (+82mm at front and +31mm at the rear).

The assertive front end includes new look chevrons which extend out to spectacular hi-tech lights. Slim LED daytime-running lights, positioned just above the headlamps, flank the radiator grille, while the fog lamps complete the very original light signature.

At the rear, there are also LED lights mounted and they create modern 3D effect. In addition, the model will be available in a range of eight colours from Shark Grey, Aluminium, Hickory Brown and Obsidien Black to radiant Ruby Red, Teles Blue and Kyanos Blue. It will run on a range of alloy wheel designs in a choice of three sizes – 16”, 17” and 18”.

The interior of the 2014 C4 Picasso include some special features such as panoramic windscreen and large glass roof. The contemporary design is also evident in the quality of the materials and attention to detail. Some of the highlights in the interior are varnish on the paintwork, soft paint application technology, chrome technologies, full-grain leather for greater strength.

The dashboard is designed asymmetrically and combines several complementary colours and materials. The seats are designed elegantly thanks to the light-coloured Nappa leather which also delivers a sense of comfort.

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso is 140kg lighter than its predecessor thanks to the already mentioned EMP2 platform. The latter utilizes aluminium, and when it is combined with very high yield strength steel and a composite rear floor the result is a decrease of 70 kg. The body style cuts a further 70 kg through enhanced exterior dimensions and new materials such as an aluminium bonnet and composite tailgate.

A logical consequence is the enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions. In addition, C4 Picasso is the first compact MPV with an internal combustion engine which delivers sub-100g/km CO2 emissions.

For instance, the e-HDi 90 Airdream engine matched with the six-speed clutchless gearbox emits just 98g/km and has a fuel economy of 74 mpg. Stop & Start technology is fitted on all diesel units with the exception of the HDi 90 manual.

On the other hand, the popular e-HDi 115 engine emits just 104g/km CO2 with the 6-speed clutchless gearbox, 105g/km with the manual and delivers 70mpg. What is more, the Picasso will be brand’s first model available with a BlueHDi engine.

BlueHDi 150 emits just 110g/km of CO2 and features an SCR module (selective catalytic reduction), currently the most efficient technology for treating NOx (- 90%) and cutting CO₂ emissions in all situations.

In terms of safety, the model is equipped with full range of technologies, which deliver a safe and reassuring driving experience. Some of them are: active cruise controlwith a radar sensor in the front bumper, active driver and passenger front seatbelts, LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System), an image processing function for the miniature camera built into the rear view mirror, an ultrasonic blind spot monitoring system with an orange light in the door mirror, and Citroen eTouch.

Source: Citroen

April 3, 2013

Hennessey Venom GT – 427.6 km/h [video]

Hennessey Venom GT has managed to hit sensational speed of 427.6 km/h (265.7 mph) on the runway at the Lemoore Naval Air Station in California on February 9^th. This means, that it is officially fastest than Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, which is limited to “just” 415 km/h (258 mph).

However, the Veyron Super Sport still stands in Guinness Records as the “fastest production car” in the world with 431.072 km/h (268 mph). This won’t stop John Hennessey, who has always wanted to steal this record.

As a reminder, the Venom GT is based on Lotus Exige powered by a twin-turbo 6.2 liter V8 with 1217HP (895 kW) and 1564Nm (1155 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed Ricardo manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.96 seconds and 0-300 km/h in just 13.5 seconds.

The car weighs just 1220kg (2585 lbs).

The price is $950 000.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d9y2SFLl44

Source: Hennessey Performance via Youtube

April 2, 2013

2014 Porsche Panamera [leak photos]

The 2014 Porsche Panamera comes with minor changes. It has a new front fascia and different headlights as well as a revised rear end with new bumper and restyled taillights.

The engine range will feature a new 3.0 liter V6 coupled with an electric motor for the Panamera S E-Hybrid model. The total power will be 410HP (306 kW), which means 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h (167 mph). The fuel consumption is sensational – 3.1 litres / 100 km (91 mpg UK / 75.7 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of less than 100 g/km. This happens thanks to utilizing plug-in hybrid technology. Furthermore, the car will be able to travel up to 35 km with speeds up to 133 km/h only on electricity.

Other power unit is a new twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 with 413HP (308 kW) and 521Nm (385 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 19HP and 19Nm compared to the previous model. The fuel economy is also increased with up to 18 %.

Stay tuned for full details and price list.

Source: WCF

April 2, 2013

Official Debut: 2013 Porsche 911 RSR

2013 Porsche 911 RSR is brand’s new GT race car for the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the Le Mans 24 Hours. The new 911 RSR race car will be competing in the WEC LM-GTE class, and it is characterized by significant lightweight design and exceptional aerodynamics.

What is more important here is that this exceptional model honors a very special anniversary: 50 years of the Porsche 911. The Porsche AG Team Manthey works squad will enter two Porsche 911 RSR race cars in the World Endurance Championship’s 2013 season including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, the model won’t compete in the North America series for 2013.

2013 911 RSR is based on the seventh generation of the iconic 911 sports car. However, here the wheelbase grew by about ten centimeters. In addition, there is a new wishbone front suspension that replaces the formerly utilized McPherson struts.

What is also new is the lightweight racing gearbox. Next, the six gears are selected via paddles on the steering wheel; and the 4.0-litre six-cylinder boxer engine delivers 460 hp (338 kW). What is more important however is to highlight that the weight distribution here has been balanced more evenly.

Moreover, the center of gravity is also lower than that of its predecessor. Some high-quality materials, such as carbon fiber, have played a crucial role in the new Porsche model as well. On the other hand, the front and rear mudguards, front and rear lids, doors, underbody, wheel arches, rear wing, dashboard and center console are constructed from the very light and strong material.

Another innovation is that all windows are made of particularly thin and light polycarbonate. This of course results in enhanced weight. Adding to the same reduction is the lithium-ion battery known from the 911 GT3 road going models.

The visual appearance of the 911 RSR includes flared mudguards and the deep cooling air intakes at the front. The radiator is now centrally-located in the front and even more effective than in the previous model, thanks to the new air ducting.

To be perfect for endurance-racing, the quick-change concept of the body parts was specially adapted. The end result is easier maintenance and shorter repair times. The front end, front lid and rear panel are fitted with quick release systems and can be replaced within seconds.

Source: Porsche

April 2, 2013

SR Auto Group Scion FR-S – Wide Body Kit

SR Auto Group has presented their tuned variant of the popular Scion FR-S. The drifting machine comes with an aggressive wide body kit, big wheels and some other improvements for perfect stance.

The aerodynamics package includes widened front and rear fenders, also a new front lip, GT wing, rear diffuser and side skirts. The kit is developed by Rocket Bunny.

The headlights are tinted and a candy red finish was applied to the taillights and emblems. There are also some carbon fiber elements like – APR mirrors, Seibon bonnet and fog light covers.

The SR Auto FR-S is lowered thanks to a BC Racing adjustable suspension. It rolls 18” wheels finished in a “Winning Blue” paint and fitted with low-profile tires.

Last, but not least, SR Auto has installed an Invidia cat-back sports exhaust system.

Source: SR Auto Group

April 2, 2013

Callaway AeroWagonette Offers Practical New Design

Callaway AeroWagonette is an iteration of its recent model carrying the name AeroWagon Concept. In the first place, the AeroWagonette was created in response to the many requests that small children be accommodated into the AeroWagon plans.

The designer behind this project – Paul Deutschman, created a unique capsule that will allow up to three children to ride along behind their parents in the appropriate amount of isolation. In addition, this was especially designed for children that were particularly bothersome.

The Callaway AeroWagon is capable of speeds in excess of 200 mph, while the AeroWagonette proves safer and slower. SpacEx founder Elon Musk will be engaged to supply the coupling and decoupling strategy that was utilized in the docking of the ISS.

Furthermore, the AeroWagonette will be also self balancing. In addition, there will be a technology included which will give the opportunity to the driver to select a Retrieve or Refuse strategy for re-docking.

At the driver’s disposal, the unit can be de-coupled and continue unimpeded, but without directional control. Also at the driver’s command will be 14 separate and remotely deployable airbags within the AeroWagonette.

Source: Callaway Cars

April 2, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Impala – US Pricing Announced

2014 Chevrolet Impala was revealed almost a year ago and now it comes with an announced pricing for the US market. The flagship sedan began driving off the line at Oshawa Assembly today and it is on its way to Chevrolet’s showrooms which will be available later this month. In addition, it has also been announced that the Impala will be manufactured at General Motors’ Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant and the production will begin in May.

More importantly, the model includes several new features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and crash-avoidance technologies like Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert, and ten standard airbags.

In addition, company’s latest MyLink radio debuts in the 2014 Impala. This entertainment system features a customizable eight-inch color display screen and adopts natural voice recognition – which is the first to be met in a Chevy.

Three direct-injection engine choices will be available: a 3.6L V-6, a newly designed 2.5L four-cylinder and a 2.4L four-cylinder with fuel-saving eAssist technology. The latter is estimated to deliver up to 35 mpg on highway driving. All of the above mentioned engines are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The starting price of 2014 Chevrolet Impala begins at $27,535, including destination.

Source: Chevrolet

April 2, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra – US Price

GMC has presented the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra. The pick-up trucks come with a lot of innovations and nice styling upgrades.

The most interesting feature is the new 5.3 liter EcoTec3 V8 with 355HP (265 kW) and 518Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 40HP and 65Nm compared to the previous 5.3 liter V8.

The engine boasts good fuel economy of 16 mpg in city, 23 mpg on highway and 19 mpg on combined cycle for RWD and slightly less for AWD version. If this is true, the Silverado and Sierra will become the most fuel-efficient trucks in their class.

The engine will enable the trucks to have a payload capacity of up to 953 kg (2,102 lbs) and a tow rating of up to 5,216 kg (11,500 lbs).

The 5.3 liter V8 is just $895 more than the 4.3-liter V6. However, there is a powerful 6.2-liter V8, but specifications aren’t released.

2014 Chevrolet Silverado is priced from $24,585 for the regular car and $28,610 for a double cab model. The crew cab is $32,710.

The 2014 GMC Sierra costs $25,085/$29,110 and $33,210 for a crew cab model.

Source: DMC

April 2, 2013

Nissan Teases Friend-ME Concept Ahead Of Shanghai

Five days ago it has been announced that Nissan is going to make a world premiere of its brand new concept vehicle at the 2013 Shanghai Autoshow. Ahead of the event, which will happen on 20 April, the car, named Friend-Me Concept, has been teased.

It has also been revealed that the model will include one-of-a-kind center console that allows “Four Seats, One Mind Connectivity”, which allows the information to be shared among all aboard.

With the help of the teaser image released, we can conclude that the new model will include LED-headlights, will exude sportiness through its aggressive front fascia, and will probably have liquid lines which will contribute towards it aerodynamism.

Source: Nissan

April 2, 2013

2014 BMW 3-Series F30 328d Sedan

BMW has presented the new 2014 3-Series F30 328d Sedan at the New York International Auto Show.

The premium saloon is powered by a 2.0 liter TwinPower diesel 4-cylinder engine with 180HP (132 kW) and 378Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,750RPM. The engine is mated to an ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 7.0 seconds.

The fuel economy is superb – 45 mpg on the highway/ 32 mpg in city and 37 mpg on combined cycle.

The 328d is also available with world’s most intelligent AWD system – the xDrive. The sedans will be joined by the 328d xDrive Sports Wagon.

All Three variants will arrive in US showroom as 2014 models in fall of 2013.

BMW Advanced diesel models have already shown to US enthusiasts that diesel power can be perfectly suited to The Ultimate Driving MachineTM.

BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new 328d models true clean diesels.

Stay tuned for further details and price list!

Source: BMW

April 1, 2013

Blog