Automobiles Review – Page 831 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is World’s Fastest Hybrid

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid has been announced as the world’s fastest hybrid ever created. The reason for this is that it as just set a world speed record at 185 mph.

This remarkable result was achieved at the Bonneville Salt Flats. The Volkswagen was driven by Motor Trend Associate Road Test Editor Carlos Lago. In fact, the official speed that he had achieved was 185.394 mph (298.363 km/h).

This number was enough to announce that this was the “fastest speed ever achieved by a production-based hybrid car on the famed Bonneville Salt Flats.” However, “production-based” still means that the powertrain was modified by Volkswagen engineers.

The wheels were also made more aerodynamically inclined, however what exactly happened to the car in order to achieve this excellent result, wasn’t revealed.

In general Jetta Hybrid gets 45 miles per gallon and has a sprint time of 9.0 secondts for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h. It utilizes four-cylinder 1.4-liter turbocharged TSI gasoline engine. The latter generates 150 horsepower (110 kW) and is mated to a 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor.

Source: Prindiville

August 31, 2012

SR Auto Audi A6 Vossen CV7

Another exceptional car that SR Auto has just transformed is the famous Audi A6. This powerful A6 generates 245PS (180 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft), thus being able to cover the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.

An in order to make it even more aerodynamically inclined, the tuning team combined forces with Vossen wheels. The result is a great visual upgrade in the stance of this brand new Audi.

Vossen’s new CV7 model perfectly fitted the A6. The seven spoke wheel reaches from edge to edge create the perception of a larger diameter. In addition to this, these 20 inch wheels include a machined face paired with matte graphite windows.

This combination creates a balance of contrast between the wheels and the exterior, and sets the level of luxury higher than before.

Source: SR Auto Group

August 31, 2012

SR Auto Range Rover with Agetro C100

This SR Auto Range Rover is a unique SUV which comes with a V8 diesel engine fitted with 8-speed transmission. Its 4.4 litre LR-TDV8 develops 313 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The performance is more than satisfying – 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds, 50-70mph in just 4.0 seconds and top speed of 130mph.

However, what makes it even more perfect is the customization made by SR Auto. In the opinion of the team, proportion is the comparative relation between things or magnitudes as to size. Hence, the proportion of the wheels is a direct reflection of the cars stature.

For that reason this Land Rover model was equipped with a set of 24 inch wheels. This Range Rover includes large chiseled lines crossing from the front to the back.

What this means is that the proportion of the large panels perfectly combine with the 24 inch Agetro C100′s. This results in an improved overall feeling of the strong and aggressive presence of the vehicle, doesn’t it?

Source: SR Auto Group

August 31, 2012

2014 Citroen DS3 Cabrio – First Pictures Released

2014 Citroen DS3 Cabrio will make its first world debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. This is the cabriolet version of the multi-award winning DS3 which uses intelligent design to make top-down driving considerably easier and more enjoyable.

The DS3 line-up was launched two years ago and immediately captured the hearts of many with its distinctive style and improved personalization options. Adding a convertible to the range, DS3 Cabrio doesn’t lack all the hallmarks and thrills of DS3, but instead delivers even bolder styling, sophisticated refinement, extensive personalisation and enjoyable handling, combined with the pleasure of al-fresco driving.

Furthermore it will continue Citroen‘s personalization philosophy by offering three soft-top roof styles – black, Infinite blue and a DS Monogrammed design. An innovative 3D rear light signature and original tailgate opening action are some of the refinements included.

Being totally urban and contemporary, the DS3 Cabrio delivers to customers electrically operated roof up to motorway speeds, 5-seater cabin and a large boot, in fact – the largest in the class.

Furthermore, the French brand announced the first details of the Cabrio. It is 3.95 m long, 1.71 m wide and 1.46 m high. This basically means that it keeps the hatchback’s compact and agile proportions.

All the unique styling choices are also retained. For example such are the “floating” two-tone roof and dynamic “shark fin”, the sculpted front-end with its instantly recognisable LED daytime running light signature.

However, an innovation is the soft-top roof, which is a source of personalization either. It will be available in a range of colors and designs that add to the model’s unique personality. In addition to this DS3 Cabrio can choose among seven body colors with the folding roof available in three designs – black, Infinite blue and DS Monogramme.

2014 Citroen DS3 Cabrio - interior

The interior of this car includes white LED ambient lighting on the ceiling-mounted console, which in addition serves as a home to the roof opening control, white lighting around the instrument cluster and automatic air conditioning displays, high-end feel and outstanding acoustic comfort.

All-new upholstery is features, which includes Granit blue leather and Akinen weft available in Mistral (dark grey), Chic brown and Infinite blue. In color are made the decors on the dashboard strip, air vent surrounds and gear stick knob.

In particular, there are going to be available six decors: grey, Brillant black, white, Carbotech, Infinite blue and Moondust grey. The rear also features a new three-dimensional LED light signature.

An innovation here is the 3D LED tail-light technology. The central part of it is made of a rectangular set of 31 LEDs and semi-reflecting mirrors which reflect the light guide into infinity.

The 3D unit illuminates at night when the headlamps are turned on and in daylight during braking. A 15-LED blade on the upper part of the light emphasizes the 3D unit and serves as both side and stopping lights.

Another important detail in terms of innovations included is that the roof takes just 16 seconds to fully close up to speeds of 120km/h (75mph). Moreover, a button, positioned on the ceiling console, opens the roof to three positions: intermediate, horizontal and total.

Occupant space of the car perfectly fit for up to five adult. In addition, the DS3 Cabrio features the largest boot in its class estimated at 245-litres. The aerodynamics are identical to that of the hatchback. However some of the modifications here include adding a longer spoiler and aerodynamic deflectors on the quarter-light surrounds.

2014 Citroen DS3 Cabrio is going to be officially launched in the beginning of 2013.

Source: Citroen

August 31, 2012

2013 Lada Kalina Debuts in Moscow

Another debut for the brand Lada: it has presented in Moscow the new face of 2013 Lada Kalina. Again, as a main person in the modernization process of the vehicle, was Steve Mattin. He adjusted the style of the front of the Kalina, which is a second generation vehicle.

In fact, the car provoked a great deal of interest among the visitors of the 2012 Moscow Motor Show. From the bran announced that they are going to officially launch the car on the market in the beginning of 2013.

In addition, it has been also announced that the car will take the price niche between Lada Granta and Lada Priora models. After the upgrade of the design of the car it has become more aggressive and definitely more contemporary.

More importantly, there will be a two engine choices – 8-valve and 16-valve, and two types of transmissions – manual transmission with a new cable-operated and automatic transmission.

Source: Lada

August 31, 2012

2013 Lada X-Ray Concept World Premiere in Moscow

2013 Lada X-Ray Concept has just made its first world appearance at the 2012 Moscow Motor Show. There AvtoVaz gave the audience first look into a crossover which might eventually go for production.
The concept vehicle X-Ray conveys everything about the future design philosophy of the carmaker. In fact, this Lada was designed by Steve Mattin. Those of you who are familiar with Mattin know that he was involved with the design of many Volvo and Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

In addition, designer lines are mixing the front bumper with the headlamps so that the futuristic visual appearance of the car would be possible. Even more, the X-Ray’s lines are showcasing the future design philosophy of the company and this design is expected to be seen again in 2015.

The smooth design lines are continued throughout the interior, where high quality materials have been engaged. Combined with the leather upholstery they create a first class feeling.

Source: Lada

August 31, 2012

2013 Nissan Almera for Russia [video]

Nissan has officially unveiled the new 2013 Almera model at the Moscow International Motor Show. The vehicle is specially designed for Russia.

It combines exceptional roominess and genuine refinement with a robust chassis and proven drivetrain, while the design mixes contemporary Nissan styling cues with classic features to create a modern yet timeless look.

“We have ambitious expansion plans in Russia and the new Almera will play a central role in that growth,” commented François Goupil de Bouille, Managing Director, Nissan Russia.

“To create the car we have taken the best engineers from Japan, Europe and Russia and immersed them in the specific demands of the region. The new Nissan Almera is a Russian car through and through, but one which benefits from the engineering and design expertise developed by Nissan globally. It is perfectly in tune with the needs and expectations of Russian consumers,” he added.

At the front, Nissan’s familiar wide four bar grille is chromed – as are the door handles – to underline the quality image. But showing the attention to detail that has helped to create the new Almera, the chrome incorporates anti-corrosion technology which was specially developed by Nissan.

Four wide-opening doors allow easy access to the interior which is notably larger than class rivals. In fact, the rear compartment knee room is actually more generous than that offered in some premium D segment cars and is easily capable of carrying three adults in comfort. As well as providing more interior space than rivals, at 500 litres Almera’s luggage trunk is among the largest in its class.

Power comes from another tried and trusted source, Nissan’s proven 1.6-litre, 16-valve petrol engine developing 75kW (102hp) and 145 Nm of torque for competitive performance and economy. Almera will be available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Following established Nissan practice Almera will be available in three grades: Welcome, Comfort and top-of-the-range Tekna.

Standard equipment on Comfort models, expected to be the biggest selling grade, includes remote central door locking, heated power door mirrors, fog lamps, a trip computer and height adjustment for the driver’s seat.

There are chromed accents to the air vents while the trim material is patterned. Large door mirrors are finished in body colour and the door handles and trunk finisher are chromed while the front seats are heated to provide extra comfort in winter months. Air conditioning and alloy wheels are available as options.

Top Tekna models have air conditioning as standard, along with power windows at the rear, four speakers, a leather wrapped steering wheel and 15-inch alloy wheels. The audio system is a fully integrated double-din AM/FM tuner with single disc CD player and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones. An Aux-in jack socket to connect a MP3 player is also standard.

The sophisticated Nissan Connect communications system is available as an option on Tekna models, making Almera the only car in its class available with a fully integrated navigation system.

Nissan Connect has a five-inch full colour touch screen with 2D/3D mapping and voice guidance. Updates can be downloaded from the Internet and uploaded to the system via USB. The audio system includes a single disc CD player, an AM/FM tuner, an Aux-in jack and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones and audio streaming.

All grades have active and passive safety features including anti-lock brakes, plus driver and front passenger airbags as standard.

The colour palette has seven exterior body colours – a solid white and six metallic shades.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypw93yMMG_A

Source: Nissan

August 30, 2012

Russian Premiere for Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Roadster

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Roadster is the fastest production roadster ever created! And it has just made its first appearance at the International Motor Show in Moscow.

This open-top version of the Grand Sport delivers 882 kW (1200 hp) reached at 6,400 rpm. The remarkable maximum torque of 1,500 Nm (at 3,000–5,000 rpm) it delivers from its 7.9-liter W16 engine.

These figures allow the car to reach 100 km/h in unbelievable 2.6 seconds. The top speed here is of 410 km/h (255 mph). These numbers say only one thing, the four-wheel drive Vitesse is the fastest production roadster ever!

In order to achieve this outstanding performance, the engineers optimized the drive system. The 199 hp increase over the Grand Sport has been achieved by using four larger turbochargers with new intercoolers.

Next, the gearing of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in particular has been adapted to the new requirements as well. In this context, the air ducting in the area of the drivetrain was also improved.

The effect is larger turbochargers and the overall reduced back pressure. And interestingly enough, despite the enhanced output, it was possible to reduce the fuel consumption as well.

The control of the vehicle has been further enhanced and perfectly balanced. The wheel-load fluctuations have been additionally reduced and now allow a maximum level of active safety.

Furthermore, Bugatti developed a new roof spoiler for the new Vitesse which significantly reduces wind noise. This also makes possible the extremely relaxed, open-top driving even at speeds of around 200 km/h (124 mph).

The front end here is characterized by larger air intakes; in addition the two central air intakes to the left and right of the Bugatti radiator grille are divided horizontally by a bar. The bottom air vent stretches sideways into the wheel housing and gives the Bugatti a masterful appearance.

Below this air intake there is a new visually refined front spoiler that has been designed in a similar way to the splitters used in motor racing. Another new feature here is the improved xenon headlights framed in black.

Next, the rear end includes a double diffusor and a centrally positioned twin tailpipe. A new Park Distance Control system (PDC) watches over the front and the rear.

The interior of this Bugatti is dominated by carbon fiber and stainless metals such as aluminium and magnesium. For instance the center console extension, a cover with EB logo in the rear-bulkhead leather trim and the belt outlet covers on the seats are made from carbon fiber.

The same material is used for the center console, the door inserts and the adjoining trim on the instrument panel. And on the armrest between the seats contrasting stitching is included.

Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse is painted in all black with red rims in a diamond pattern. Its carmine red interior and seats convey an aggressive, dynamic look. Only 300 units will be produced, each of which costs 1 790 000 euros.

Source: Bugatti

August 30, 2012

Depth of Speed: Back To Life [VIDEO]

We are always awaiting the next Depth of Speed video passionately! This time Josh Clason has made an incredible footage about a legendary car which was so uniquely transformed that no one could possible imagine that this is achievable.

Joel, the owner of a 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, entirely modified his car implementing an interesting theme and details onto it. For example the leather hood straps were made from belts. The steering wheel was wrapped in leather and the emblems were hand-painted.

Furthermore, an exquisite work can bee seen in the interior. In fact, Joel upholstered the seats himself from some old leather jackets. This tuning is so impressive, that it is hard to believe that this is the first car Joel had ever built!

Just take a look at the video below and you won’t regret it!

httpv://vimeo.com/48413248

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Depth of Speed

August 30, 2012

Lumma Design Porsche Cayenne S CLR 558 GT – Contrast Program

The latest model modified from Lumma Design is on their favorite Porsche Cayenne. We’ve seen so far many tunings by these folks made on this Porsche model.

Now what we are to see is the Contrast Program by the tuning company manifesting as the Lumma Design Porsche Cayenne S CLR 558 GT.

At first sight it impresses with its elegant combination of white and exterior elements in high-gloss black. This not only emphasizes the sporty and luxurious character of the car, but also conveys a sense of contrast thanks to the fine black accents.

In addition to the exterior package here, Lumma Design also included extended elements, such as door handles or headlight frames and tailgate handle which were lacquered in the same contrasting color.

At last, the wheel set featured here is the CLR 22 in individual color white. It expresses the powerful visual stance of the CLR 558 GT and works elaborately in conjunction with the electronic lowering module, resulting in improvement of the driving dynamics.

Source: Lumma Design

August 30, 2012

1983 Volkswagen Golf I Chocolate Brown Becomes Car of a Special Kind

This elaborately modified 1983 Volkswagen Golf I Chocolate Brown won the first place in the Show & Shine competition at the 2012 TÜV Rheinland Tuning Night. In addition to this the lucky winning Volkswagen will become a showcase car for TÜV Rheinland at the Automechanika 2012 in Frankfurt.

Marco Mueller is the name of the owner, and he is proud to demonstrate that spectacular tuning trim. The guy was trained as a master mechanic, so it is not a surprise that he had to deal every day with tuned cars.

He designed this car not with the so much appreciated nowadays prefabricated plastic parts, but instead used the old-fashioned metal work, such as the widened wheel arches.

Furthermore he also utilized chrome parts for the front and rear bumpers and wing mirrors. Additionally, the front optics now benefit from spoiler extension and new grill.

Clear glass headlights and red-tinted tail lights rejuvenate the appearance of the Golf.

The name Chocolate Brown is more than obvious for what it stands. The exterior color of the car has a terrific depth and shines with fascinating reflections. Thanks to the sparkling finish, the Golf I can now show its best side from any perspective observed.

Next, the glossy and compact BBS wheels harmonize with both the upgraded chrome embellishments and the classic feel of the car. In details he used 16-inch wheels with 195/45er Kumho tires.

The driving dynamics were also improved by the stiff suspension and whopping reduction. Other performance parts such as sharp Schrick camshaft, SLS chip, modified throttle, Supersprint exhaust system enhance the performance of four-cylinder barrel organ to an impressive 220 hp (162 kW).

This results in exceptional acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, which happens in little more than six seconds. The speed limit Marco Mueller estimated at about 220 km/h.

“I’m curious how my colleagues will find the Golf”, says the master mechanic, but we can ensure him that the positive feedback is unquestionable.

Source: Miranda Media

August 30, 2012

2013 Fiat Panda 4×4 debuts in Paris

2013 Fiat Panda 4×4 is the only A segment four-wheel drive model, which is going to make its first world appearance at the international Paris Motor Show. This third-generation four-wheel drive Panda is the perfect interpretation of the heritage of the emblematic car, and now offers great off-road capabilities with a refined design and efficient architecture.

The new Fiat model is with five doors, 368 centimetres long, 167 centimetres wide and 160 centimetres high. The designers made the car with purely functional design features, and added small details which express sophisticated multifunctional mini SUV.

The strong presence this car conveys is thanks to the geometric lines of the front and rear bumpers. In addition, the tailpipes follow the lines of the body thus offering complete protection for the lower part of the car.

Furthermore, the existing color palette range is now further enhanced by two new colors: Sicilia orange (pastel) and Toscana green (metallic).

The interior of the new Panda adds new styles as well. Some important innovations were included: a new green fascia variant framing the instruments and the large storage pocket, fabric seats with a special design in three color variant (green, beige, orange) and eco-leather details, front and rear door panels also with eco-leather inserts and a high console over the central tunnel.

One of the important highlights around this new model is the “Torque on demand” transmission system. It comes with two differentials and electronically controlled coupling. In particular, this is a permanent four-wheel drive system which is monitored by an electronic control unit.

The latter analyses vehicle signals, distributes traction on the front and rear axle homogenously and proportionally according to road grip conditions. And why it is beneficial? It is because it allows entirely automatic operation and no maintenance.

Moreover, as a standard the Panda 4×4 includes the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system with ELD (Electronic Locking Differential) function. What it does is basically to provide more assistance while driving and setting off uphill on slippery terrain.

Next, Start&Stop function is featured in both two engine versions. They are namely the new 85 hp (63 kW) 0.9 TwinAir Turbo and the 75 hp (55 kW) 1.3 MultiJet II diesel. They are mated to a six-speed gearbox.

The suspension system here is also unique. It ensures all typically 2WD features such as passenger comfort, handling, road hold and safety, and at the same time delivers better characteristics for tackling any type of terrain.

An independent MacPherson arrangement at the front was engaged as well as an interconnected wheel with torsion beam layout at the rear. This means that the rear suspension is now lighter and offers better ride and acoustic comfort.

The equipment featured in the car is more than satisfying. It includes ESC system with ELD, manual climate control system, CD/MP3 radio, 15″ burnished alloy rims, 175/65 R15 M+S tyres, electric rear-view mirrors, central locking system with remote control and rear head restraints. A vast range of optional equipment and accessories is also available.

Source: Fiat

August 30, 2012

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