Automobiles Review – Page 781 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

HARTGE BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11 – Test Drive [video]

Hartge has published a video with their tuned BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11. The mighty diesel is doing several accelerations from 80 km/h to 200 km/h. It is really impressive, what a big station-wagon can do on the highway.

BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11 is powered by a 3.0 liter three-turbocharged diesel with code name N57D30. The engine also features high-pressure piezo injectors and a lot of aluminum elements. It delivers 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The fuel economy is just 6.3 liters per 100 km. The engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox and the power is put on the road through AWD system.

The Hartge version boosts the engine to 438HP (322 kW) at 3,000RPM and 870Nm (642 lb-ft) of torque at just 2,900RPM. The price of the performance package is 2,689.40 including 19% VAT.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRAOo4UTAd0

Source: Hartge

January 9, 2013

2013 Suzuki Swift X-TRA – Price €14,290

Suzuki Germany has announced a special edition of the Swift. The Swift X-TRA is priced from €14,290.

The special edition is based on the 5-door Swift Club and comes with a new Bison Brown Metallic finish. There is also a choice between: Silky Silver Metallic, Cool White Pearl Metallic, Galactic Gray Metallic, Ablaze Red Pearl Metallic and Cosmic Black Pearl Metallic.

The 2013 Swift X-TRA rolls 16” alloy wheels fitted with proper tires. It is powered by a 1.2 liter petrol with 94HP (70 kW). It returns up to 56.5 mpg UK – 5 liter per 100 km with CO2 emissions of 116 g/km.

Among the standard equipment you will find 7 airbags, a roof spoiler, tinted windows, MP3-compatible CD radio featuring steering wheel-mounted controls, USB port and an air conditioning system with pollen filter.

Source: Suzuki

January 9, 2013

2013 Peugeot 208 Intuitive – UK Price £14,245

Peugeot 208 Intuitive Special Edition is available with a choice of petrol and HDi diesel engines, 3- and 5-door variant. The pricing starts from £14,245 for the 1.2 VTi 82HP petrol. The small car comes with better equipment and showcases new technology in the form of Park Assist – the automatic parallel parking feature which is available for the first time on a Peugeot.

All Intuitive models are based on the current 208 Allure versions but benefit from a range of extra standard equipment consisting of: Park Assist, 16” alloy wheels, Satellite Navigation, Cielo Roof with ambient lighting, Directional front fog lights, Automatic Dual Zone Air conditioning and LED surround on the instrument dials.

As well as the extra standard equipment, all Intuitive models also benefit from: ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBFD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), power steering, six airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, three rear three-point seat belts, 2/3–1/3 split folding rear seats, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio / single CD player, trip computer, Cruise Control with speed limiter, electrically operated / heated door mirrors and air-conditioning.

Model Range	On-the-road Price	Combined MPG	CO₂ Emissions
3 Door Models
208 Intuitive 1.2 VTi 82	£14,245.00	62.8	104
208 Intuitive 1.4 HDi 70	£15,545.00	74.3	98
208 Intuitive 1.6 e-HDi 92	£16,195.00	74.3	98
5 Door Models
208 Intuitive 1.2 VTi 82	£14,645.00	62.8	104
208 Intuitive 1.4 HDi 70	£15,945.00	74.3	98
208 Intuitive 1.6 e-HDi 92	£16,595.00	74.3	98

Source: Peugeot

January 9, 2013

Clone of Tesla Model S Debuts in Hong Kong

The popular and breath-taking Tesla Model S now makes its first debut in the Asian market and it is available for in-person customer demonstrations and test drives in Hong Kong. Model S is a premium sedan built as an electric vehicle with the aim to raise the spirits of public’s expectations of what a premium sedan can be.

According to the opinion of those who were firs to test drive the model there, the EV is quiet, smooth, and pollution free at the tailpipe. They have expressed that it was a pure joy to drive it and it was like no other car – being fast and very responsive, and at the same time including luxury and comfort.

Furthermore, Tesla also introduced its innovative “Design Studio” in Hong Kong, within the same space as its existing Service Center. The Studio includes interactive displays where customers can design their own Tesla Model S on a large touchscreen.

The goal of the new step that Tesla Motors have undertaken is to expand the impression and knowledge in the audience of how advanced technology behind Model S and what are the benefits of an electric car.

At the heart of Tesla Model S is a proven powertrain which delivers great range and a thrilling drive experience. The vehicle has a rigid body structure, nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a remarkably low center of gravity. This means that it offers responsiveness and agility nearly as a sports car.

In addition, Model S offers many battery options that set the benchmark for electric driving range. All of them utilize automotive-grade lithium-ion cells arranged for optimal energy density, thermal management, and safety.

On the other hand the interior of Model S is designed to deliver more cargo space than any other sedan in its class and features a second trunk under the hood. In the cabin can be also seen a 17” in-dash touchscreen with Internet capabilities, allowing for streaming radio, web browsing and navigation.

Tesla is promising that it will continue to expand its retail network into 2013, supporting the mission to engage and inform as many people as possible about driving electric vehicles.

Image Source: Flickr

News Source: Tesla

January 9, 2013

2013 Kahn Range Rover RS600 Adds More Styling

2013 Kahn Range Rover RS600 is the first tuning for this year that the specialists from A. Kahn Design have revealed. They have equipped the new generation Range Rovers with exceptional wheels matching is aggressive stance thus enhancing its overall appearance.

In particular, the vehicle has been equipped with Kahn’s popular RS600 wheels, which were especially enlarged to an impressive 9.5 x 23 inch in order to fit the new 2013 Range Rover model. As a matter of fact, this wheel and tyre package delivers an improved road ride.

Due to the increase in diameter, the wheels will ensure suppleness and control that eludes most luxury SUVs. In addition this also contributes to more confidence in driving during vigorous driving situations.

As we can see, the RS600 wheels incorporate distinctive clean lines and tensioned spoke surfaces that eventually “end” in a purposeful mechanical centre. They are in silver, but also there is an option of matte black and matte gun metal paint.

Source: A. Kahn Design

January 9, 2013

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz E-Class C207 With Enhanced Aerodynamics

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz E-Class C207 is something worth seeing on the road and worth having in your garage. First being a true Mercedes-Benz it delivers all the needed qualities: luxury, comfort and pure joy of driving.

Secondly, since it is touched by the specialists from Prior Design, this means that it now has more to offer. And here we are talking about aerodynamics. The E-Class is equipped with Prior Desin’s C207 Aero Kit, which is made from Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic).

The latter has excellent surface finish which delivers enough flexibility combined with high stability and allows for effortless painting. All of the parts are made with perfect fitment with no modifications or alterations needed.

Prior Design C207 Aero Kit consists of the following:

Prior-Design front bumper
Prior-Design side skirts (2X)
Prior-Design rear bumper
Prior-Design rear trunk spoiler
Prior-Design roof spoiler
Prior-Design front lip spoiler
Mounting material

Source: Prior Design

January 9, 2013

Teaser: Renault Captur J87 [VIDEO]

Renault Captur J87 is a compact SUV that is exclusively teased by the French brand ahead of its online debut. Renault has just released this first image giving to the audience the first glimpse of what the vehicle would look like.

Of course no details around it were disclosed. What we can judge from the picture is that its exterior carries a provocative orange color and that the front fascia incorporates all the elements of the design language typical for the brand.

What is more, to make the first news even more interactive, the French company have released a video featuring the opinion of people about the SUV. Captur J87 will make its online debut on 11th of January on the official Renault web page.

httpv://youtu.be/5gs26SaWCWU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Renault

January 9, 2013

Audi RS5 on 20″ Vossen VVS-CV4 Concave Wheels

VossenWheels has published a nice video presenting a new Audi RS5 riding on VVS-CV4 Concave Wheels.

The rims are 10.5J x 20” front and rear and are finished in Matte Graphite Machined. The tuning company also has installed ACCUAIR (air suspension) to the sports car making the stance just perfect.

The new RS5 is powered by a a 4.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 450HP (331 kW) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox sending all that power to Quattro AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. However, upon request, the manufacturer can increase it to 280 km/h (174 mph).

Nothing is mentioned about the price of the wheels, but the complete ACCUAIR for the new RS5 is around $5,000.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1zJ11KyB-Q

Source: VossenWheels

January 8, 2013

Arden AR 9 – Wide Body-Kit and Modification package

Arden has presented two styling packages for the 4th Generation of the Range Rover. The tuning company enhances the individuality and emphasizes the contemporary appearance of the new Range Rover.

The rims are characterized by classic elegance. The customer can choose between Arden forged Sportline wheels that can be painted in body color on request or Arden Dakar II alloy wheels in monoblock design, available in black/silver matt or silver.

As a small version, it differs only subtly from the series, as wide version his appearance is already impressive. Alternatively, the new design package is also just available as a front or rear conversion with matching illuminated side skirts. Integrated LED daylight running lamps are elegantly merged with the front. Integrated LED daylight running lamps are elegantly merged with the front.

Arden AR 9 Wide Body-Kit:

Arden AR 9 Modification package:

Source: Arden

January 8, 2013

2013 Dodge Dart GT – US Price $20,995

Chrysler US has announced the new 2013 Dodge Dart GT. The model delivers sport-tuned suspension, distinctive styling, including standard class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps and integrated dual exhaust, and it’s loaded with premium standard features.

Among the extras you will find perforated heated Nappa Leather seats, 8.4” touchscreen and 7” TFT for an outstanding value. The car is priced from $20,995 (excluding destination charge).

The Dart GT model is the latest addition to the 2013 Dodge Dart lineup, which currently includes the Dart SE, SXT, Rallye, Aero and Limited models. Dodge continues to investigate a high-performance R/T model.

The GT trim level is based on the well-equipped Dart Limited.

Dart GT comes with a 184HP 2.4-liter Tigershark with MultiAir 2 with 6-speed manual or available 6-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick; 18” aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black projector headlamp bezels; body-color door handles; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps; unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats in Black with Ruby Red stitching or two-tone Black/Ruby Red; class-exclusive heated steering wheel; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic temperature control; remote start (with automatic transmission); universal garage door opener and GT badge.

Additional standard equipment on the 2013 Dart GT model includes: projector fog lamps; power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps; class-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen; class-exclusive floating island bezel; ParkView rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces; leather steering wheel with audio controls and speed control; accent stitching on the instrument panel; power 10-way driver seat, including power lumbar support; driver and front passenger seatback pockets; overhead console with sunglass holder; front passenger in-seat storage; illuminated front cup holders; illuminated vanity mirrors; temperature and compass gauge; 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console; speed-sensitive power locks; power windows with express one-touch up/down front windows; ambient LED interior lighting; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; underbody aerodynamic treatment; tire pressure monitoring display; air conditioning with micron filter; power mirrors; remote keyless entry; front center console with fore and aft sliding armrest; 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest with storage/cup holders and trunk pass-through; six-speakers; security alarm; front and rear floor mats and 600-amp maintenance-free battery.

A variety of options are available to allow the GT customer the ability to personalize their Dart to their exact specifications. It starts with a choice of 12 exterior colors – all available at no extra charge – including Redline Red, Header Orange, Blue Streak, Citrus Peel, Laguna Blue, Pitch Black, Tungsten, Bright Silver, Bright White, True Blue, Maximum Steel and Winter Chill.

Optional equipments:

Six-speed Powertech automatic transmission with AutoStick
Technology Group (push-button start, keyless Enter ‘N Go, rain sensing wipers, smart beam headlamps, blind spot monitoring with rear cross path detection)
18-inch Hyper Black Aluminum Wheels
Power Sunroof
HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Garmin Navigation with Sirius XM Travel Link
Alpine Premium Sound System with 10 speakers, including subwoofer and 506 watt amplifier
Engine block heater

Source: Chrysler

January 8, 2013

HOT: Vilner Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Finally Revealed

Do you remember that couple of days before Christmas the individualization tuning specialist from Vilner surprised us with a gift in the form of two teaser pictures revealing a glimpse of their latest endeavours? If you do than you will probably be happy to know that they have finally unveiled their work on the SLS AMG. And again, the readers of automobilesreview.com are the first to see it!

Vilner Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is something everyone wants to have in their garage. And since the interior tuning professionals from Vilner have given it their magical touch, this means that the SLS seems even more attractive.

The exterior looks like it wears a make-up and it definitely has visual characteristics that make it more beautiful than ever. In details, the bumper below the front headlights is painted in black and in this way it makes the perfect contrast to the overall light-silver exterior of this Mercedes-Benz.

In addition, the same contrast is ensured by the central strip around the emblem, which in its back part is also colored in black. The same styling has been chosen for the middle part of the bumper. What is more – even all of the grills are black. Here the substance utilized for their re-coloring is Black Piano Varnish.

And to make the appearance of the SLS look even more aggressive, the designers have added eyebrows to the front headlights. The latter were specifically designed by Vilner and on their top there is a light relief, which is a continuation of the inner part of the headlights.

No matter how great the exterior looks, the inner part of the vehicle is where the true power of the leather interior specialist from Vilner lies. The splendid cabin of the SLS underwent a lot of work done with attention and precision to the details. Although the AMG designers have done a great job here, there were some elements that needed transformation.

Straight to the details: the coupe and the boot are both wrapped in red leather and Alcantara. They have also received a big embroidered AMG emblem which resembles the one on the metal plate under the front hood.

The steering-wheel is also modified and precisely wrapped with black leather. The airbag and the box of the dashboard are also customized in black Alcantara. The “pocket” between the two seats has a brand new design and it now looks more stylish.

January 8, 2013

Hamann Fiat 500 With New Aerodynamics

Hamann Fiat 500 is a car which you won’t miss easily when it passes by. It is definitely a vehicle which is 100 percent unique and recognizable. It has all eyes on itself and the main reason for this is the work of the designers from Hamann Motorsports.

They have designed a very special aero kit for the Fiat 500. It strays away from the conventional lip kit, and in fact the tuning studio fully remodeled the Italian machine with its own wide body kit.

For instance, the front bumper includes a much more aggressive styling compared to the factory one. It also includes LED DRL system into the front bumper. Each corner adorns a brand new set of fender flares which blend with ease with the car.

The latter, allow the utilization of a much wider wheel increasing the amount of grip one can achieve. At last, the specialist created a new quad exhaust system that is positioned below the new rear bumper.

Hamann Aerodynamic Kit for Fiat 500 includes the following:

Hamann Front Bumper
Hamann LED DRL System
Hamann Side Skirts
Hamann Fender Flares
Hamann Rear Bumper
Hamann Performance Quad Exhaust System

Source: Hamann

January 8, 2013

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