Search Results for “feed” – Page 15

Futuristic Subaru XV Concept with World Premiere in Geneva

Subaru XV Concept Teaser Subaru XV Concept is going to be premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The news was just officially released by Japanese brand with a preview picture of the front of the new concept model. It is visible that it has a little to do with the production XV (the one featured in the news feed yesterday) and shows more futuristic take on the standard for the XV crossover design.

To make a promotion of the car, Subaru is also releasing a webspecial site, dedicated to the concept and everything happening at the Geneva Motor Show, which has been already opened and can be now visited. It features information regarding the Geneva Motor Show and allows everyone to watch “live” Subaru’s press conference.

The XV Concept will probably serve as a basis to a future next generation XV. Although we don’t see much from the design of the teaser image, we are quite happy to find the modern interpretation of the front. And hopefully, Subaru won’t change a thing in the production variant.

In addition, Subaru confirmed that the XV will also ride on the same platform used for the Impreza. There is nothing said on the engine, but the concept is likely to be a hybrid or to exploit some new sort of updated engine in terms of efficiency and fumes. For example, a downsized engine is a possible variant.

If we are lucky, we will have more information about the new XV Concept days ahead of the Geneva International Motor Show. Speaking of which, its 86th annual edition opens for public on March 3rd and continues until 13th. The Subaru XV Concept will be unveiled at a press conference on March 1, which you can view online.

Source: Subaru

February 9, 2016

Polestar Introduces Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Models

Polestar has just introduced the new generation Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 models with four-wheel drive. So this is exclusive, since we received the news directly from Polestar minutes ago. Actually, this optimization has been already available for the Volvo XC90 T6 AWD, but from today Polestar is offering it for the S60, V60 and XC60 T6 AWD models as well.

As a result, the powerful and agile T6 AWD models become even more dynamic and responsive. The secret hides in the fact that the package is really balanced and is based on Polestar’s methods for boosting their race and performance cars. At the heart of the Polestar Optimisation is something very curious: it actually includes the entire powertrain in the optimization, instead of only the engine.

In addition, the optimization includes five substantial areas: increased mid-range engine performance, faster gearshifts, optimized throttle response, optimized gearshift timing and off-throttle functionality. As a result the driver gets faster and more exact responses from his/her Volvo and of course – more predictable behavior. Those five features are important for all forms of active driving, being on racing circuit or on “basic” roads.

Throttle Response

Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 - Second Picture

After the improvement of this feature, the cars can now offer better feedback and response. For instance, this happens when overtaking or during active driving on a twisty road. The engine responds faster to the commands of the driver, and this is how it delivers enhanced precision in the driving experience.

Gearshift Speed

The increased gearshift speed results in faster acceleration and more direct commands of the driver. Imagine when shifting down fast ahead of an overtaking maneuver, this faster gearbox provides you with more direct control of your vehicle.

Gearshift Precision and Gear Hold

The calibration of the gearshifts results in more direct and precise driving experience and as mentioned – faster acceleration. The modified gearshift points use optimized mid-range performance of the unit, while the gear hold function holds the gear during cornering at high lateral g-forces.

Off-Throttle Response

Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Third Picture

Calibration has happened not only for the gearbox but for the engine, too. As a result, the driver gets faster response during a short period of braking ahead of a corner. All is about enhanced control after all.

Engine Performance

All Drive-E optimizations are about better performance especially when driving actively. All in all, this means that the improved mid-range performance combined with the changes for the gearbox and throttle response makes the car more dynamic and responsive to drive, thus enhancing the overall engaging driving experience.

Source: Polestar

February 1, 2016

BMW 1 Series M Coupe has Gained an Addition of 224 HP. See the Result!

Alpha-N Performance BMW 1 Series M Coupe Front View Alpha-N Performance is a tuning company famous for its attraction for BMW cars and its urge to uprate their power. This time we are about to witness how 1 Series M Coupé has become something more than just another BMW with “M” letter. We’ll go into details, but let’s take a look at some “stock” information first.

The inherent performance of the car has been used as a basis for its upgrade. The 1 Series M Coupé produces 340 hp (250 kW) from its TwinPower Turbo N54B30 straight-six engine. This is pretty good, isn’t it?

This is the reason, because of which the specialists didn’t choose to make “simple” software remapping, but went back to basics by first addressing the flow capacity of the engine’s forced aspirated system.

The in-house turbocharger upgrade uses larger compressor and turbine wheels in a modified housing. This results in gains in terms of power. The efficiency was improved as well, while the charge air temperature was reduced with a Wagner Tuning EVO3 intercooler. In order to increase the airflow velocity and volume, a larger Charge-pipe system with Forge Blow-Off Valve was installed. Updates were done on the fuel pump, spark plugs and ignition coil packs. The exhaust has been enhanced via Wagner downpipes, and a free-flow middle silencer in the ‘Race’ version, which feeds the standard rear silencer box.

Alpha-N Performance BMW 1 Series M Coupe Box

There is something fascinating here. To cool the top-end of the engine during combustion, 9.5-liter tank and its bespoke pump were installed in the boot. This is actually a Snow Stage 3 water-methanol injection system, calibrated for a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and ethanol. It also boosts the output significantly.

The hardware upgrades were then complemented by ECU remap of the fuel, spark and boost pressure parameters. The final result is spectacular and it is the sensational 564 hp (415 kW) and an impressive peak torque of 734 Nm (542 lb-ft). This makes more than 220 horsepower in addition! The newfound power is transferred to the drivetrain via competition grade clutch mated to a proprietary single-mass flywheel made of from high-grade steel.

Alpha-N Performance BMW 1 Series M Coupe Interior

The suspension was also improved via fully adjustable coil-overs that can be set up for road or track use. On the outside the car also got new BMW Performance front splitter and rear spoiler lip, thus reducing lift at both ends and giving the car a more purposeful look.

At last, we should mention the changes that have happened to the cabin. They include hard shell backed sport seats and sports steering wheel with LED upshift indicator and central display window. It seems that they are crucial aids that boost driver’s focus.

Source: Alpha-N Performance

January 28, 2016

Ferrari California T to Get Handling Speciale (HS) Optional Pack

Ferrari California T HS Front View Ferrari California T is a front-engined V8 cabrio with room for two and is now available with new Handling Speciale (HS) option. Ferrari has made this step in order to offer sportier driving experience to its customers and California T owners.

The Handling Speciale (HS) Pack

To go into details, this option adds an extra edge, especially if one is driving in the manettino’s Sport mode. It includes new damper settings and modified springs (more than 16% stiffer than the outgoing model) for stiffer ride, sportier feedback, and throaty engine sound.

Changes affect the gear-shift operation too, which is now faster and sportier during both up- and down-shifts. Another highlight is the SCM3 magnetorheological dampers that result in sportier changes when driving in the Sport mode. In addition, the revised F1-Trac logic ensures better acceleration.

The California T HS package also features brand new exhaust system with silencers with two primary pipes, which also contribute for the better sound. By the way, the exhaust was developed in tandem with the engine and gearbox control software. As a result, this emphasizes the performance gains, the rapid response and improved sound and volume.

Ferrari California T HS Rear View

On the outside, one can also tell that the car has the HS optional pack, because it carries new front grille in matte Grigio Ferro Met, rear diffuser in the same color with matte black fences and matte black tailpipes. Inside, the cockpit has one-off HS plaque, which shows the special treatment that the car features.

Ferrari California T with HS Pack is going to be revealed at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

Ferrari California T Technical Specifications:

Engine:
Type	90° V8 – direct injection
Overall displacement	3855 cc
Maximum power	412 kW (560 cv) at 7500 rpm
Maximum torque	755 Nm (77 kgm) at 4750 rpm
Dimensions and weight:
Length	4570 mm
Width	1910 mm
Height	1322 mm
Dry weight	1625 kg
Weight distribution	47% fr. – 53% r.
Performance:
Maximum speed	316 km/h
0-100 km/h	3.6 s
Fuel consumption:
10.5 l/100 km
CO2 emissions:
250 g/km

Source: Ferrari

January 25, 2016

Infiniti Reveals the Concept Based Q60 Sports Coupe

Infiniti Q60 Rear View Infiniti Q60 sports coupe has been finally unveiled. The place is of course the currently on going North American International Auto Show (or NAIAS for short) in Detroit. You can have a taste of what’s to drive it even from the pictures. By the way don’t miss them in our gallery below. The Q60 is undoubtedly designed and engineered to perform. It is based on the concept that was revealed at the same event one year ago. This daring design you see on the images just give a little hint on the exhilarating performance and dynamics that the car offers.

Elegant but at the same time bold, the exterior of the model is all about power expression. Its proportions and taut, muscular lines are designed to complement its character. Speaking of it, at the heart of the Q60 is the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, taken directly from the exclusive “VR” powertrain family.

SEE ALSO: Infiniti Reveals Q60 Concept

Even better, the six-cylinder powertrain will be offered in two power ratings: 300 horsepower or 400 horsepower, both channeled through the Q60’s rear wheels. As a matter of fact the latter is expected to offer one of the best power-to-efficiency ratios in the sports coupe class.

Infiniti Q60 Front View

The driving experience? Could you expect little less than engaging? Q60 balances ride comfort and agile handling, supported by Infiniti’s new Dynamic Digital Suspension. This technology has been engineered to provide crisp handling responses and superior ride comfort.

Another very cool option featured here is the second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering. It brings enhanced levels of steering feel and feedback to the Q60, while the Drive Mode Selector gives drivers the option to personalize the steering’s precise responses to their wish.

At NAIAS Infiniti has also debuted the Q50 sports sedan and the QX60 crossover facelifts. So if you are somewhere near, go see them!

Source: Infiniti

January 13, 2016

2017 Tiguan GTE Active Concept Will Challenge the Harsh Off-Road Conditions

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept made its debut at the North American International Auto Show and caught the eye with its countless innovative approaches, the efficient plug-in hybrid system, hi-tech gadgets and overall superior quality.

Based on the second-generation Tiguan, the Concept offers incredible performance capabilities: via the four-wheel-drive system and the 4MOTION Active Control system this vehicle can cover up to 20 miles in all-electric mode and with the engine engaged, this number drastically rises to up to 580 miles.

Also, the Tiguan GTE Active Concept embraces the latest and greatest safety systems such as the Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Monitoring, Lane Assist and Automatic Post-Collision Braking system. Another highlight is the infotainment system: this sweetie features the top of the line 9,2-inch touch screen, gesture control, Active Info Display and heads-up display.

Exterior design

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept

The second-generation Tiguan is based on the modular tansverse matrix and comes with the same long wheelbase, short overhangs and exceptional architecture. The Tiguan GTE Active Concept is 176 inches long, 74 inches wide, 69.5 inches tall and has a wheelbase length of 105.6 inches.

Some of the changes that were made on the concept is the include reshaped face, sturdy front skid plate, matte aluminum shield and redesigned front bumpers. At the rear and sides there are also special air intakers and along with the stadard LED headlights there are completely new C-Shaped LED Daytime Running Lights, which became a sort of signature mark for all Volkswagen hybrid models.

The sides are marked by distinctive profiled off-road tires, Dark Graphite wheelarch extensions and sill protection, especially developed for this particular concept.

The rear of the vehicle is also equipped with solid underbody guard of matte aluminum and just like the front end, there are four replaceable polymer protectors. The lower area of the bumpers is protected by anthracite colored all-terrain trim and also, the vehicle has two additional solid aluminum-colored metal hooks for towing struck vehicles or for removing obstacles that block the trail.

Interior design

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept

The design team also paid special attention to the interior and more precisely, to the interior space. The trim strips of brushed dark aluminum that wrap around the instrument panel and door trim panels match the materials that are being used for the front and read underbody guards and roof components.

At the same time, the fine Dragon Red strips in the air vents frames repeat the color of the exterior paint, as well as the two-tone Nappa leather upholstery: the seats, armrests and door inserts are covered in bright Rhodium Grey and Dark Graphite.

Drivetrain system

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept

Tiguan GTE Active Concept is geared with a turbocharged and direct-injection TSI gasoline power unit with a total of 148hp (108kW) and 184 pound-ft of torque. And all this paired to two electric motors. The first one produces a total of 54hp (42kW) and the second one 114hp (83kW) of additional power. This engine system is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

What is also interesting about the drivetrain system is that it offers differend driving modes that can switch to front-, rear- or all-wheel drive composition.

Other useful feature is the Regenerative braking: when the driver takes the foot off the accelerator pedal or brake and the batter is insufficiently charged, both electric motors start working as generators in order to feed the generated during braking energy to the battery. Smart, huh?

Source: Volkswagen

January 11, 2016

BUDD-e: Volkswagen’s Vision for the Near Future

2016 Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept Volkswagen embraces new visions and approaches for the 2016 season. And one of the symbols of this change is the futuristic avant-garde van dubbed BUDD-e. This is a special machine, based on the contemporary Modular-Electric Platform (MEB), which is especially created for plug-in vehicles. And in fact, this is the first car that is based on MEB technology and indeed, there is much to be shown. So, let’s waste no more time and see what is going on here!

With BUDD-e, Volkswagen shows what would the electric vehicles look like by 2019. The new platform will enable series of production vehicles to have pure electric range and is on par with today’s gasoline-powered cars by the end of the decade. Furthermore, BUDD-e is the first concept car that Volkswagen develops in order to fundamentally change the nature of electric cars.

The new platform is created to offer enough space for the electric drive components and large batteries, while at the same time there is plenty of interior space for passengers and luggage. In addition, MEB vehicles will also offer high levels of functionality and networking, thanks to this very same architecture. How cool is that?

Exterior design

2016 Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept

Inspired by the iconic Volkswagen vans, BUDD-e looks practical and clean, but at the same time demonstrates this distinctive innovative and futuristic spirit.

The front end is definitely a 100% Volkswagen. The area around the logo can be backlit by integrated LED modules in many different ways, while the distinctive LED headlights are placed high up and the integrated LED indicators further enhance the distinctive and yet familiar front.

2016 Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept

As we talk about vehicle’s appearance, we must also mention that its silhouette is characterized by the flat and enlonged roof, long windows, 21-inch aluminum alloys, while the narrow LED stripe that goes along the sides serves as special ambient lightning and contributes to that unmistakable design.

The rear shows an aerodynamic design with glossy black D-pillars that reduce the aerodynamic drag and optimizes the rear downforce. We also notice the iconic large tailgate, LED taillights strips and an unique C-shaped LED signature surrounds.

Interior styling

2016 Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept

The interior of BUDD-e is defined by innovative machine interface. The design is super-clean and cozy, while the technical architecture of the infotainment system makes a quantum leap to the flip phones to smart phones or from analog to smart watches. With the new design, BUDD-e eliminates the distinction between electronic instrument cluster and the center console.

Of course, the idea behind the navigation panel to be rooted was realized with one thing in mind: driving. Behind the panel is the 3D navigation map with graphics which becomes the matrix of an interactive human-machine interface.

All of BUDD-e’s components and systems are operated by gesture control, touch screen functions and of course, voice control. The driver can choose between numerous control modes as for example, the “Hello, BUDD-e” that activates the voice control function.

2016 Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept

Also, similar to smart phones, there is a special menu tab that offers quick and easy access to key functions. They include opening and closing the hatch, sliding the door, playing music, viewing video and numerous more. The information about basic functions as climate control and seat heating can also be shown at the bottom of the display, where all the buttons rest.

Of course, this is not all. The special vehicle also includes a special multifunction steering wheel with countless options and functions. It even activates some of the features by pressure or swipe gestures. Also, it offers this interesting new pre-sensing feedback. How cool is that?

Source: Volkswagen

January 6, 2016

Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition Reminds Why Jaguar Keeps Its Strong Positions

2017 Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition Since its day one of its global debut Jaguar F-TYPE received tons of positive feedback and there is not just one reason why. First of all, Jaguar brand is notorious for its beautiful and yet functional vehicles that offer only the best of the British culture and experience. Secondly, the F-TYPE is the long-awaited sequel by Jaguar and as promised, brings us high doses of premium quality and refinement, mixed with contemporary gadgets and systems. So, let’s see what is going on here in details.

Exterior design

2017 Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition

Winner of more than 140 awards since 2012, the all-aluminum Jaguar F-TYPE embraces that well-known British style and adds even more stunning features. The F-TYPE British Design Edition comes with Caldera Red, Glacier White, the new for the range Ultra Blue exterior finish or the exclusive Ultimate Black exterior finish.

Along with the refined and dramatic body lines, this sweetie is further enhanced with the special Sport Design Pack. Optional for the S model, this upgrade is now a standard feature and adds stylish glossy front splitter, body-colored side sill extensions and rear venturi with an optional fixed rear spoiler. Cool, right?

And along with the body upgrades, the vehicle features stylish 20-inch Cyclone wheels with Satin Dark Grey finish that are exclusive for the British Design Edition. They are fitted with 255/35/R20 and 295/30/R20 tires. But this is not all: especially for this model, Jaguar developed special Super Performance Brake system with calipers with red finish. And the best part? Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition will be available in coupe and convertible body styles.

Interior design

2017 Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition

The combination of driver-oriented “one-plus-one” cockpit, the supreme comfortable seats and the premium components really make the cabin a special one.

The British Design Edition offers special Jet leather with contrasting stitching in a choice of three colors: Red, Ivory and Reims Blue. Furthermore, the 14-way sports seats also feature a headrest with British Design Edition logo.

Also exclusive for the British Edition is the replacement of aluminum components with carbon fiber. You can notice it on the central console and numerous more places, along with the special British Design Edition branding.

And along with the premium fabrics and components, driver and passengers will benefit from Jaguar’s InControl Touch and InControl Touch Plus infotainment systems and refined audio system for crystal clear sounds. Cool.

Drivetrain System

2017 Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition

Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition will offer 380hp (279kW) and 460Nm of output through the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 petrol unit, paired to an eight-speed Quickshift gearbox that offers an all-wheel drive configuration.

So, what do you think about the latest Jaguar vehicle?

Source: Jaguar

January 5, 2016

Afzal Kahn Promises to Build the Ultimate Defender

Ultimate Defender Teaser This Friday we are excited to announce that the famous Afzal Kahn has made a promise to build the “Ultimate Defender”. Actually the popular designer has been commissioned to design a one-off and a bespoke version of the iconic Land Rover Defender. The car is going to be exhibited at the London Motor Show, which will take place on 5th – 8th May, next year.

We all know that this car is probably A.Kahn’s favorite to work with. In fact, we have seen most of tuner’s successful vehicle design. From what we know and see form the teaser image, the visual elements used in the Ultimate Defender capture subtle influences and recreate a resonant design with a contemporary feel.

The design of the vehicle will be also in harmony with the impeccable history of this British icon. And if you want to collaborate on the final design Afzal Kahn asks to have your say on what additional features would complement the unique car.

You can submit your entry on any social media using the hashtag #UltimateDefender. Those lucky of you will be invited to see the Ultimate Defender at the London Motor Show, which will feature their winning suggestions.

Afzal Kahn spoke with excitement about this project and told us that he has designed a vehicle that will celebrate the history and the unique personality of the Defender. He also said that he will pay a lot of attention to the details in this project.

He welcomes any feedback from Defender owners when they see the Ultimate Defender. We are impatiently looking forward until May!

Source: Kahn Design

December 18, 2015

Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 to Compete in 2016 GT4 Championships

Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 Side View Last weekend, we witnessed the final round of the 2015 Trofeo World Series. The motorsport event took place at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina circuit, making it the sixth and final season in Maserati’s single-make series to a close. Nevertheless, this isn’t the end of company’s sporting activities. Maserati has just announced that it will be back on track in 2016 with its super hero Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4. The car will be competing at international GT4 series run by private teams.

Basically, Maserati is returning to the GT4 category, after a distant debut in the 2009 European GT4 championship and a positive feedback from three ‘test races’ in 2015, at Road America, Laguna Seca and Misano. And the best part is that we will see Maserati battling on two fronts next season: the European GT4 Championships and the US Pirelli World Challenge.

However, before the start of the motorposrt events, the team must make some necessary modifications on the engine and regarding the aerodynamics. They are obligatory because of modifications required for GT4 homologation.

Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 Front View

In general, car’s overall technical make-up will remain unchanged. This means that GranTurismo MC GT4 will keep its 4700cc engine, electro-actuated transmission with paddle-shift commands and the kerb weight of 1410 kg.

The change lies in the additional air scoop, which will reduce car’s power output to 430 bhp from its current 488 bhp. In addition, the newly-designed rear spoiler and modified diffuser will contribute towards car’s performance that will match the other GT4 cars. The final set up of the car will be established during the official pre-championship Balance of Performance (BoP) tests where the GT4 SRO homologation standards will be completed.

The company will be tracking the performance of all teams that will be racing in Europe and the USA. What is more, it will also give a special award for the best Maserati driver and team. Now, you can watch the Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 in a video below.

httpv://youtu.be/ovJjr_Bp_0A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Maserati

December 17, 2015

Bugatti Is Almost Ready With the Exclusive Chiron Model

The latest Bugatti vehicle will bear the name Chiron, after Louis Chiron, the legendary racing driver who won all the major grand prix events for the luxurious brand back in 1920s and 1930s. In fact, he is connected to Bugatti’s history more than anyone else. The world debut of the super car is scheduled for the 86th Geneva Motor Show in 2016. Bugatti Chiron will continue brand’s successful affair of delivering premium and exclusive vehicles to customers.

Louis Chiron at 1931 Monaco Grand Prix

At this stage, the Chiron is undergoing through its final tests and there are some prototypes on the road for fine-tuning and further experiments that make tests for the variety of road and weather conditions and situations. In fact, there is no other super car that was put to such comprehensive and exhaustive tests and programs.

Meanwhile, there is a special pre-marketing campaign going around for the Chiron model. Bugatti has already invited selected customers to make private reviews. What is also known is that the feedback is mainly positive, even “outstanding”, according to the words of the developing team. There are even some exclusive pre-purchases made that are more than 100. By all it looks like this particular model has something really special to offer. But we will see about that.

Louis Chiron at 1931 Monaco Grand Prix

So, what do you expect from the latest Bugatti vehicle?

Source: Bugatti

December 1, 2015

Toyota i-ROAD Will Receive More Improvements

2016 Toyota i-ROAD Toyota’s bold and futuristic i-ROAD short-range urban electric vehicle undergoes additional series of trials. The sweet three-wheeler will join the Open Road project that has been already running in Japan since July, as the single-seat model was unveiled.

The i-ROAD model with the ability to carry more than one passenger is an idea that has already began its development. In fact, the nimble sweetie plays central role in a three-year connected public transport scheme in France. And with the certification from the Japanese government, the tests now can go to their further phase.

The Japanese versions of the i-ROAD will be tested for a month and will be used to carry two people that have different purposes and goals. Furthermore, Toyota will deliver comprehensive feedback and data from the tests and will talk about for all the requirements and changes that need to be done.

Now the i-ROAD is here with improvements and modifications some of which are changed reflextors and width indicators. The vehicles are also geared with advanced “approaching vehicle” audible warning. Cool.

2016 Toyota i-ROAD

The local authority in Shibuya, Tokyo, has also expressed interest in the vehicle and will also conduct further trials with Toyota team to look at the possibilities of using the i-ROAD for different community-based program. At the same time, in Silicon Valley in USA, the Toyota Onramp 2015 conference asked a team of innovators to come up with ideas for how i-ROAD could expand its influence in everyday use and in the whole Smart Mobility Challenge.