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  • 2015 Ford Mustang Debut

    2015-Ford-Mustang-shadow2015-Ford-Mustang-medium

    After Chevrolet’s jab yesterday about how the Camaro is thrashing the Mustang in terms of sales, Ford delivers a hasty comeback. It’s a brand new pony! The 2015 Ford Mustang got unveiled today simultaneously in six cities across four continents.

    How do we know it’s a Mustang? Well, the press release says so, but also just look at it. It is a modern reinterpretation of a classic shape: a long hood and a short behind, still low, and still sloping at the back. So not many surprises on the outside then.

    What did shock us a bit, however, was the fact that it will now be available with a 2,3-liter EcoBoost. Never thought that you can put “Eco” and “Mustang” in one sentence. But because of some clever engineering (variable cam timing, a special intake manifold and turbocharger housing) you expect around 305 hp and 407 Nm of torque which is pretty decent to say the least. Of course, purists can still refer to the 5.0-liter V8 engine that goes all the way up to 420 hp and 529 Nm of torque. An automatic gearbox with paddle shifters is available as an option.

    The good news is that whatever power grade you get, you will be able to put it to good use. The 2015 Mustang has an all-new suspension system. The front gets treated with a new perimeter subframe that stiffens the front structure yet remains lighter than its predecessors. The back axle is mounted on an integral-link independent suspension. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for high-performance cornering. Aluminum knuckles help reduce the curb weight. All Mustang GT models in Europe will come as standard with 19-inch wheels and performance brake packages.

    It’s not just the materials used that are clever, but the nervous system that operates them as well. There are different modes selectable from the plane cockpit-inspired cabin. Thus you can adjust the throttle response, steering feedback, and transmission and ESC behaviour to your taste. There’s torque vectoring for the wheels and the manual transmission GT Mustangs have launch control which should be loads of fun on the track. Optional conveniences include the 8-inch navigation system accompanied by a 12-speaker sound system.

    Source: Ford

  • Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe Revealed

    Jaguar-F-TYPE-R-shadowJaguar-F-TYPE-R-medium

    The Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé is officially here. Styled after the magnificent C-X16 concept, this Porsche destroyer comes in three forms – the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and the F-TYPE R. It is supposedly now Jaguar’s “most dynamically capable, performance focus production car ever”. So it should be good, right?

    Let’s gloss over the two that will be using the company’s 3.0-liter ssupercharged V6 engine – the F-TYPE Coupé and the F-TYPE S Coupé. The former sports 335 hp while the latter enjoys 40 hp more. Both have pretty decent 0 to 60 mph times with 5.1 and 4.8 seconds respectively. Top speeds: 161 and 171 mph. While the Basic F-TYPE does get the Dynamic Mode feature, sports exhaust, sports suspension and Jaguar’s Performance Braking system (354/325mm discs front/rear); the S Coupé adds to that a Dynamic Launch feature, an Adaptive Dynamics system and even bigger braaks with red calipers so that you know they are bigger just in case you didn’t bring a tape measure. The S Coupé is also available with the optional Super Performance pack and CCM braking system but about that later.

    Right!. The Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupé then. It has the same 5.0-litre supercharged V8 as its soft-top brother, but this one shows to the party with 542 hp – that’s 54 hp more in comparison. As a result the F-TYPE R is able to dart from 0 to 60 in just 4.0 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 186 mph.

    Just like in the S Coupé, the Adaptive Dynamics system actively controls the body’s vertical movement roll and pitch rates. Should it need to, this software can make up to 500 adjustments per second all in the name of keeping you firmly planted on the road. The spring rate values for the R Coupé have also been increased by 4.3% at the front and 3.7% at the rear as compared to F-TYPE V8 S Convertible. The Dynamic mode (present in all three models) firms up the suspension, hardens the steering wheel for better feedback, increases the throttle response, and sharpens the gear changes.

    The rear wheels are governed by Jaguar’s Electronic Active Differential (EAD) which carefully distributes variable amounts of torque to each of the two wheels. Main point being – more traction even in the most dangerous of stunts one can pull off. Then there’s the Torque Vectoring by braking system. Imagine a tank blocking one of its treads and thus performing a turn. Well, the Jaguar does exactly that with its Torque Vectoring by breaking but much, much more subtly. There is a multitude of sensors all-around the chassis which detect where and how much braking force you need in order to prevent understeering and from then on it’s the ABS’s job to execute the procedure without you even noticing it. Clever stuff! Oh, on the less delicate side, the F-TYPE R gets the biggest brakes of all – 380mm front and 376mm rear discs with either red or black calipers. Over them you can relish at the sight of the 20-inch “Gyrodyne” wheels in silver finish as standard.

    Inside, The F-TYPE R is mostly driver-oriented. The seats have inflatable side-bolstering and prominent wings for support during high-speed cornering. But don’t worry as they also add a touch of chic with a leathery surface. A new, full leather and Suedecloth Jet interior (with Cirrus contrast stitch) is also optional on all derivatives. Suedecloth is used on the seat facings, door casings, instrument binnacle pods and headlining – and can also be combined with a Suedecloth steering wheel.

    The CCM (Carbon Ceramic Matrix) Brakes.

    For a little something extra, one can mount a special braking package on the Jaguar F-TYPE S and F-TYPE R. Those come in yellow monoblock callipers so there’s no mistaking them – 398mm in diameter at the front and 380mm at the back. The key thing here, however, is the blend of carbon fiber and ceramic from which the disks are made – almost no fading, very low wear-and-tear and reduced overall weigh (21 kilograms less in fact). It is essentially a package for the track. If you plan on burning some rubber (which, with a car like the F-TYPE, is almost a certainty), this makes for a sensible option.

    Source: Jaguar

  • MINI Reveals 2015 Cooper And Cooper S Models

    2015-MINI-Cooper-S-THUMBMINI has just unveiled the new 2015 MINI Cooper and Cooper S models. Although the models are instantly recognizable, they are also built absolutely anew from the ground up. Every component has been modified in order to optimize the function, performance and style of the car.

    The result is that the 2015 MINIs now have significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and personalization in terms of exterior and interior.

    Speaking about the cabin, the new model is more spacious than before, safer and secures more dynamic and performance-oriented experience behind the wheel. One of the main highlights inside the car is the new LED display concept that provides the driver with visual feedback.

    The exterior of the vehicle is undoubtedly unmistakable; however it also has a contemporary style. The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long and of the MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm, they are 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. These numbers show that the models are 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than the preceding ones. The wheelbase has been also extended by 28mm.

    A subtle reinterpretation can be seen on the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging.

    Another exclusive element of the 2015 Cooper and Cooper S are the available LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring. At the rear are also used LED-powered lights. The brand now also offers five new exterior colours which complement the already existing range of MINI’s palette.

    Going inside the car, one finds more spaciousness due to the extended exterior dimensions. The interior is adorned by a choice of fabric or leather finishes, or a combination of both. The dashboard of the new MINI Hatch includes a horizontal structure of the cockpit, linked to circular and elliptical details.

    A new display and operating concept can be seen on the instrument cluster on the steering column. On vertically arranged circular dials are displayed the speed, revs and fuel level. In addition, inside is also featured a groundbreaking LED lighting around the central instrument.

    Keyless-go is now standard across the MINI Hatch range. More importantly, MINI is now offering for the 2015 Hatch three brand new engines and new gearboxes. Each unit includes MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The trio all also offer enhanced performance figures.

    2015 MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 134 hp (99 kW), while the 2015 Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 189 hp (139 kW). 2015 MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114 hp (84 kW).

    Engine MINI Cooper Hatch MINI Cooper D
    Hatch
    MINI Cooper S Hatch
    Type/no. of cylinders/valves in-line / 3 / 4 in-line / 3 / 4 in-line / 4 / 4
    Capacity cc 1499 1496 1998
    Bore/stroke mm 82.0 / 94.6 84.0 / 90.0 82.0 / 94.6
    Compression :1 11.0 16.5 11.0
    Output kW/bhp 100 / 134 85 / 114 141 / 189
    at engine speed rpm 4500 – 6000 4000 4700 – 6000
    Torque (with overboost) Nm 220 (230) 270 280 (300)
    at engine speed rpm 1250 – 4000 1750 1250 – 4750

    A six-speed manual transmission comes as a standard here, while the six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. Both make a contribution towards reducing CO2 levels. In addition, the suspension of the MINI has been optimized due to the less weight and it now delivers more fun of driving.

    Also new to the car is the Variable Damper Control, which presents drivers with the choice of a more comfort-oriented response or a sportier and firm one. MINI Cooper Hatch and MINI Cooper D Hatch run on 15-inch forged light alloy wheels, while the Cooper S Hatch is fitted with 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard.

    In terms of safety and security MINI offers front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, automatic passenger airbag deactivation and front and rear ISOFIX. Furthermore, a lot of standard features have been included for the MY2015. For instance there are electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, door sill cover strips with a model-specific inscription, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth.

    They can be complemented by the available features such as two-zone automatic air-conditioning, heated front seats, panoramic glass roof, visibility package including windscreen heating, rain sensor and automatic light control, a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system, sports leather steering wheel, Park Distance Control, electrically heated and folding exterior mirrors, and both interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function.

    The technologies included in terms of connectivity are MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL, MINI Visual Boost Radio and MINI Navigation System. On the other hand, the driver assistance systems include MINI Head-Up-Display, a camera-based cruise control and distance control function, a collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function, road sign detection and high-beam assistant. As an option, there are also available rear view camera and parking assistant system.

    Next to the ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, the driving stability control system (DSC), 2015 MINI includes a drive-off assistant, brake dry function, fading brake support and dynamic traction control (DTC).

    The brand also offers a lot of personalization features which add to car’s individuality and exclusivity. The list of interior and exterior customizable features the following: John Cooper Works rear spoiler, various decorative trims for roof, exterior mirrors, bonnet, seat upholstery, interior surfaces and Colour Lines.

    2015 MINI Cooper Hatch is priced at $24,660 USD (£15,300). It will be built in Britain at Plant Oxford and launched in the spring of 2014.

    Source: MINI

  • KTM X-Bow GT By Wimmer Rennsporttechnik

    Wimmer-Rennsporttechnik-KTM-X-Bow-GT-thumbWimmer-Rennsporttechnik-KTM-X-Bow-GT-medium

    It takes a special kind of person to have a look at a KTM X-Bow GT and go: “You know what? I want this to be madder. And I’m not talking madder by a degree. I want this to be able to blow your mind.” Here’s a testament, however, that there are such people. What you are looking at is Wimmer Rennsporttechnik showing off their latest abomination: a stock GT converted it into a machine that is, as they say, beyond recognition.

    Okay, the profile of an X-Bow is very recognizable. Still, the figures sure do go beyond what we expected to hear. The original KTM GT boasts 285 hp and 420 Nm of torque, but the Wimmer people have managed to up the scale to 436 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Zero to sixty miles an hour now stands at 3.3 seconds they say. Although they specialize mainly in chip-tuning and engine modifications, with the KTM X-Bow GT, they have gone the extra mile. Apart from fiddling with the engine, they have added a custom-made turbocharger, a 100-cell sports cat converter with a Y-pipe, an all-new exhaust system , a high-pressure fuel pump, a pre-feed fuel pump, and even a new water pump.

    In addition, Wimmer have thrown away the seats and bolted a set of their own with “orange colored seams”, replaced the gear knob and brake lever, added a sports muffler and finished off with four center lock racing wheels.

    Mad enough? We think yes.

    Source: Wimmer Rennsporttechnik

    Wimmer Rennsporttechnik
    Wimmer Rennsporttechnik
  • Ford Mustang Need For Speed To Pace Ford EcoBoost 400 Season Finale

    On 15th till 17th of November Ford Championship Weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway will take its place. There fans from all over the U.S. are going to see stock cars racing side-by-side at breathtaking speeds.

    NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for the Ford EcoBoost 400 season finale will be lead led by a highly-customized Mustang. It is this Ford Mustang which is featured as a main star in the upcoming Hollywood movie, “Need for Speed”. The vehicle can also be chosen in the Electronic Arts video game entitled “Need for Speed Rivals.” At the event, the pace car will be driven by one of the film’s stars, Ramon Rodriguez.

    Another vehicle at the race will be the F-150 Tremor which will pace the Ford EcoBoost 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event. The third featured car is the Mustang GT500 for the NASCAR Nationwide Series Ford EcoBoost 300.

    Ford Mustang Need for Speed is one-off, being created especially for the film. Its design includes a custom-designed wide body and unique 22-inch alloy wheels. It is capable of producing 900 horsepower (662 kW), and has larger intakes to feed its supercharged V-8 engine.

    What keeps the engine cool is the enlarged lower grille with corner air intakes to cool the front brakes. The aerodynamic drag was reduced by the utilization of low profile mirrors and extended rocker panels.

    The redesigned splitter on the other hand delivers enhanced handling at high speeds. At the rear, the spoiler and diffuser were created to improve airflow, reducing drag and giving additional traction for high-speed acceleration.

    Source: Ford

  • Cadillac Partners With Saks Fifth Avenue For White Diamond ELR

    2014-Cadillac-ELR-THUMBCadillac is partnering with Saks Fifth Avenue in order to create a unique limited edition 2015 Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV, as well as an exclusive special-edition 2014 Saks Fifth Avenue Cadillac ELR electrified luxury coupe through the 2013 Saks Holiday Catalog.

    On 25th of November, they will unveil a specially designed “Frozen Escalade” window display at the Saks flagship store near Rockefeller Center on Fifth Avenue in New York City. The display will feature the brand new limited edition series White Diamond 2015 Escalade with functioning light-emitting diode, or LED, running lamps, which appear embedded and breaking through a wall of ice.

    The other star at the display will be the 2014 Saks Fifth Avenue Special Edition Cadillac ELR, which has a production limited up to 100 units. Among them is the one-and-only 2014 Cadillac ELR with a White Diamond exterior paint.

    The Saks Fifth Avenue Special Edition ELR package is priced at $89 500 with deliveries expected in the beginning of March.

    To go further into details, the 2014 Cadillac ELR is equipped with Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) propulsion system that generates 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. If the driver selects the Sport mode, the reconfigured accelerator pedal provides quicker torque application and more sensitive feedback through altered suspension and steering settings.

    The ELR is also equipped with LED lights. In particular, the design of the main projectors for instance extends from the ELR’s front fascia up into the fenders. The result is a sleek and dramatic appearance. The LED lights are more advantageous, because they last much longer and use less energy than the halogen bulbs.


    Source: Cadillac

  • 2014 BMW i3 US – Full Details and Price $41,350

    BMW US has announced the full details and pricing for the all-new 2014 i3 EV. It is like no other car the world has ever seen. It offers visionary design, a ground-breaking vehicle architecture, dynamic performance and innovative connectivity.

    2014 BMW i3 US is expected to hit the market in the second quarter of the next year with pricing starting from $41,350 and $45,300 for the range-extender model. The prices are before any federal or state incentives, and before Destination & Handling fee.

    The small city car boasts RWD and an electric motor producing 170HP (125 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. 0-50 km/h in 3.5 seconds and 0-100 km/h in just 7.2 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to – 150 km/h (93 mph). Not bad performance for an all-electric vehicle. The range of the vehicle is 130 to 160 km (80 to 100 miles).

    The dimensions of i3 Concept are 3845 mm in length, 1537 mm height and 2011 mm width. The wheelbase is just a bit smaller than 1-Series – 2570 mm. The kerb weight is just 1250 kg, so the vehicle will be easy to drive with good dynamics.

    The BMW i3’s tires are a unique 155/70/19 size on 19” light-alloy wheels, but the contact patch is the same of that of a more conventional 16” tire. To improve efficiency, they have low rolling resistance, and the narrow section width is a key factor in the BMW i3’s super-tight turning radius.

    Safety is a key criterion in the development of the BMW i models. A range of systems and measures have been implemented in the vehicle that ensure safety in normal operation and in the event of accidental fires. The high-voltage system is designed to cope with accidents beyond the legal requirements, with the high-voltage battery including features that ensure its safe reaction even in situations such as this.

    The all-new BMW i3 will be featured at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November, 2013 and will arrive at BMW i centers in the US beginning in the second quarter of 2014.

    BMW i3 Quick-Reference Highlights:

    • Pricing (before federal or local incentives) starts at $41,350; $45,200 for Range Extender model. Destination & Handling Fee not included.
    • On Sale: Q2 of 2014 in the USA.
    • Preliminary Dimensions (subject to change for US models):
      • Length: 157.4”
      • Width: 69.9”
      • Height: 62.1”
      • Wheelbase: 101.2”
      • Turning Circle: 32.4 feet
      • Curb Weight (DIN) 2,635 lbs.  (2,899 lbs. for i3 with Range Extender)
      • BMW’s 360 Electric electro mobility services:
        • Home Charging
        • Public Charging
        • Assistance Services
        • Flexible Mobility.
        • BMW Navigation is standard.

    Driving:

    • 170-hp, 184 lb-ft hybrid-synchronous electric motor with max. revs of 11,400 rpm.
    • 80-100 mile real-world EV range.
    • 22-kWh lithium-ion battery, which weighs 450 lbs.
    • 650cc gasoline powered Range Extender optional; holds charge, doesn’t power wheels.
    • 0-30mph in 3.5 seconds, 0-60mph in approximately 7.2 seconds (preliminary).
    • Top speed of 93 mph, electronically limited to preserve efficiency.
    • BMW’s signature, near-perfect 50-50 weight distribution.
    • Ultra-tight turning radius (32.3 ft), which is ideal for city driving.
    • Macpherson strut front and 5-link rear suspension set up.
    • Single Pedal Driving Concept with Brake Energy Regeneration, which feeds power back into battery.
    • 3 drive modes: Comfort, ECO PRO and ECO PRO+.
    • 3 hour 220 V @32 amps charging time.
    • Optional SAE DC Combo Fast Charging allows for 80% charge in 20mins; 100% in 30 mins.

    Chassis and Body:

    • Purpose built construction. World’s first mass-produced CFRP-constructed electric vehicle.
    • Built on innovative LifeDrive architecture composed of two parts: Life Module and Drive Module.
    • Life Module is essentially the cabin, constructed from Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP).
    • Drive Module is where all of the powertrain components are housed.
    • Drive Module is made from 100% aluminum.
    • Magnesium cross-member for instrument panel saves 20% weight vs. steel.
    • BMW 1 Series external footprint with BMW 3 Series interior space.
    • LED headlights and taillights (standard in US market).
    • Weighs in at roughly 2,700 lbs.
    • No space-consuming transmission tunnel dividing car’s interior.
    • Pillar-less design with rear coach doors allow for easy entry and exit to rear seats.
    • Driver-oriented super-ergonomic controls.
    • Three vehicle Worlds (trim levels): Mega (standard in US), Giga, and Tera.
    • Standard 19-inch light alloy wheels with unique 155/70 all-season tires. 20-inch light alloy wheels optional.
    • No transmission tunnel and low console allows for Slide-through Experience, which benefits urban driving by the ability to exit from the passenger side.

    Sustainability:

    • Made with sustainable, renewable materials.
      • Instrument panel surround and door trim use fibers from Kenaf plant.
      • Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof panel is made partially with recycled CFRP from manufacturing process of other components
      • 25% of plastic used in interior comprised of recycled materials.
      • Dashboard wood trim crafted from responsibly-forested eucalyptus.
      • CFRP components are sustainably produced in Moses Lake, WA, USA, where the factory uses hydroelectric power.
      • The Leipzig, Germany assembly plant uses wind-generated electricity.
      • Olive-leaf extract is used to tan interior leather surfaces.

    Source: BMW

  • Toyota 86 GT To Be Equipped With Torsen Limited-Slip Differential

    Toyota-86-GT-THUMBToyota announced that it is currently making running changes to three of its four Toyota 86 sports-car variants. In addition, it was also disclosed that the brand is going to retain the $29 990 for the vehicles.

    One of the most prominent updates is the inclusion of a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD) as a standard to the automatic GT grade. This addition brings the vehicle into line with the rest of the range.

    Furthermore, the top GTS manual and automatic variants of the car will be equipped with a rear spoiler as standard. These new enhancements to the range were decided based on customers’ feedback, who desired the automatic GT to have the same dynamic properties as the rest of the range, and for the GTS to have greater external differentiation.

    To go further into details, the Toyota 86 has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, front-mounted, free-revving and horizontally opposed “boxer” petrol engine which drives the rear wheels. It develops a maximum power of 200 hp (147 kW) and generates a peak torque of 205 Nm (151 lb-ft). All that power is put onto the road via six-speed manual or sequential-shift automatic transmissions.

    The powertrain is combined with a compact design, light weight and a low centre of gravity, thus providing agile and accessible performance, and highly engaging dynamic abilities with minimal electronic intrusion.

    The standard equipment here features seven airbags, five-mode stability control system, traction control, anti-skid brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, air-conditioning, CD sound system, daytime running lamps (DRLs) and a multi-information display.

    Next, the Toyota 86 GTS adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a 6.1-inch display screen, satellite navigation, auto-leveling HID headlamps, leather-accented front seats, dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, aluminium pedals, LED DRLs and red stitching highlights.

    Source: Toyota

  • MZD Connect To Be Included In 2014 Mazda3

    MZD-Connect-THUMBMazda is now launching MZD Connect in the 2014 Mazda3 model. This is an exclusive new connectivity system which will offer a package of online services to go along with the completely redeveloped human-machine interface (HMI) in the cabin.

    Precisely, MZD Connect works in combination with user’s smartphone, thus expanding vehicle’s existing range of navigation and SMS features. It includes readout and voice recognition and whole new scale of connected convenience.

    The result is that the occupants in the car will enjoy carefree real-time access to infotainment services from Aha through the 7-inch display on top of the centre stack. In addition, a cloud-based platform is especially designed for in-car use and delivers more than 40 000 choices of content.

    Some of these feature internet radio, news, podcasts and audio books as well as Facebook and Twitter feeds. The connection is managed via a free Aha application which in turn is connected in the car through a Bluetooth or USB.

    Furthermore, MZD Connect also delivers vehicle’s own apps. Instances are the Eco-display and maintenance reminders. The new technology includes modular hardware structure and updatable software, which provides flexibility of the system.

    The system also supports playback from other connected mobile devices, offered in 25 different languages for audio and 38 for text. Additionally, it’s ease of use ensured by the new human-machine interface (HMI).

    The cabin setup featured Active Driving Display, which is Mazda’s new head-up display that delivers minimization of distraction potential and assists the drivers maintain a stable position and keep their eyes on the road.

    Source: Mazda

  • 2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition – US Price $36,095

    Jeep has announced the 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition, which will be available later this year in the US with starting price of $36,095.

    “When we introduced the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Design Concept last year, we received tremendously positive feedback,” commented Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.

    “Our loyal Jeep enthusiasts asked us to build this unique Wrangler, and we are delivering exactly what they’ve asked for. The new 2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition boasts a stunning, unique, upscale design with styling cues that make it unlike any Wrangler ever seen before.”, he added.

    The dragon symbolizes strength and power and is an aspirational character normally associated with royalty and good fortune. It was these characteristics that inspired the upscale design of the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition. Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, the Dragon Edition has numerous unique exterior and interior styling cues consumers will appreciate. Available only in Black and as a four-door Unlimited model , the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition features Bronze Satin Gloss trim inside and out.

    Source: Jeep

  • 2014 Jaguar XJ Now With Enhanced Luxury Features

    2014-Jaguar-XJ-THUMB2014 Jaguar XJ is the latest luxurious sports saloon produced by the iconic brand and it includes improved rear cabin luxury features, delivers more comfort and is equipped with in-car technologies. The model will be available with a choice of diesel and supercharged petrol 3.0-litre V6 engines and two supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines.

    Each of them will be matched with eight-speed automatic gearbox thus delivering smooth-shifting, economy and driver control. The new long-wheelbase models will include improved rear cabin luxury options such as ‘airline’ style reclining seats with massage function, increased headroom and fold-out business tables.

    In addition, the re-tuned rear suspension will deliver more rear seat ride comfort. Furthermore, the entertainment system now will include Rear Seat Entertainment options: two hi-resolution touchscreens and premium Meridian Reference Audio System with Conversation Assist.

    Throughout the interior are utilized special materials such as Bond grain, soft grain and semi-aniline leather, and versaatile veneers including Piano Black, Carbon Fibre, Gloss Burr Walnut and Satin Rosewood.

    The 2014 14 Jaguar XJ ‘R’ version on the other hand is equipped with bespoke chassis and aerodynamic developments. The car is capable of generating 550 horsepower (404 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque thanks to its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine. These numbers makes it possible for the XJR to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280km/h).

    To go further into details, the interior of the 2014 XJ includes a range of enhanced features which are mainly focused on the rear cabin of the car. The rear passenger compartment includes two separate ‘airline style’ reclining seats that both feature cushion and squab adjustment, three massage programs – Wave/Rolling, Lumbar and Shoulder.

    In addition, in the new centre armrest are positioned all the seat controls as well as the Front Seat Activation button. On the other hand, the front seat improvements include massage functions for each seat with five levels of intensity.

    What is more, the rear-seat passengers will enjoy many entertainment features included in the Rear Seat Entertainment package. The latter consists of two 10.2” high-resolution screens mounted on the back of the front seat headrests, which can display inputs from a number of sources.

    LWB XJ will also deliver to the occupants leather-surfaced business tables in the rear. In order to keep rear seat passengers shielded from the sun, there is available electric rear-side window blinds. Moreover, the rear headroom is increased by 13 mm thus resulting in more comfort for the rear-seat passengers.

    Going further to the engine range, the 2014 XJ will be available with powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 petrol and diesel engines, as well as two supercharged 5.0-litre units which will deliver 510 hp (375 kW), and in the XJR – 550 hp (405 kW).

    A standard eight-speed automatic transmission will be matched to each of them. What is more, steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles will deliver the driver higher levels of control.

    Another technology included in this Jaguar model range is the Intelligent Stop-Start system. The latter utilizes Twin Solenoid Starter (TSS) in order to shut down the engine when the car comes to a halt, and restart it when the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator.

    Next, the LWB version of the XJ will include an updated rear suspension for optimized performance. XJ has a lightweight aluminium construction which effects in great advantages in terms of agility, acceleration, braking and driver feedback and involvement.

    The exterior color palette has been also enhanced and now consists of 15 colours: Polaris White, Ebony, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Lunar Grey, Rhodium Silver, Cashmere, Osmium Blue, Dark Sapphire, Caviar, Carnelian Red, Black Amethyst, Italian Racing Red, British Racing Green and Satellite Grey.

    As an option Jaguar will offer 1300W Meridian™ Reference Audio System and Conversation Assist. The latter uses a microphone above each seating position and digital audio processing technology in order to enhance the occupant’s voice via the vehicle’s audio system.

    Technical Specifications

    2014 JAGUAR XJ 3.0-LITRE V6
    Engine 3.0-litre V6 SC petrol XJ 3.0L V6 Diesel
    Capacity (cc) 2995 2993
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 340@6500 275@4000
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 450@3500-5000 680@2500-5500
    Transmission Eight-speed automatic Eight-speed automatic
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes Yes
    0-60mph (secs) 5.7 6.0
    0-100km/h (secs) 5.9 6.4
    Top Speed (mph | km/h) 155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    Combined Economy
    (EU mpg | l/100km)
    29.4 | 9.6 44.8 | 6.3
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 224 167
    2014 JAGUAR XJ 5.0-LITRE V8
    Engine XJ 5.0L Supersport
    Capacity (cc) 5000
    Cylinders 8
    Transmission 8-speed automatic
    0-60mph (seconds) 4.7
    0-100km/h (seconds) 4.9
    Top Speed (mph/km/h) 155 | 250
    (electronically limited)
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 510@6000-6500
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 625@2500-5500
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes
    Combined Economy (mpg) 24.4
    Combined Economy (l/100km) 11.6
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270
    2014 JAGUAR XJR
    Engine 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
    Capacity (cc) 5000
    Bore/Stroke (mm) 92.5/93
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 550@6500
    Peak Power (kW@rpm) 405@6500
    Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm) 502@2500-5500
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 680@2500-5500
    Transmission Eight-speed automatic
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes
    0-60mph (secs) 4.4
    0-100km/h (secs) 4.6
    Top Speed (mph | km/h) 174 | 280 (electronically limited)
    Combined Economy
    (EU mpg | l/100km)
    24.4 | 11.6
    CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270

    Source: Jaguar

  • 2014 Hyundai Elantra Facelift

    Hyundai has announced the 2014 Elantra Facelift, which aims to further strengthen its presence in one of the world’s most competitive segments. The updated Elantra incorporates a refreshed design and improved product features.

    The facelifted Elantra, badged as Avante in the Korean market, has an overall length of 4,550 mm, which is 20mm longer than the previous model, while its wheelbase remains the same. With front and rear bumpers extended by 5mm and 15mm, respectively, the facelifted Elantra projects a more stable, balanced look. The exterior boasts newly-designed front bumper, radiator grille, fog lamps as well as adoption of LED light guide and projection headlamps add a dynamic, high-tech feel to the Elantra. When seen from the side, the redesigned 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels and chrome belt line moulding accentuate the Elantra’s premium image. A new black, two-tone rear bumper and LED rear combination lamps were also adopted.

    Interior design elements were modified with the aim of improving usability, reflecting feedback from customers of the previous Elantra model. The centre air vent position was moved upward on the dash, while the front centre armrest position was also raised. Rear seat air vent, 3.5” OLED display and ventilation seats were also introduced. The facelifted Elantra also comes equipped with high-tech convenience features such as advanced SPAS (Smart Parking Assist System) and flex steer.

    A diesel engine variant was added to the model line-up, responding to the growing popularity of diesel fuel in the Korean market. Equipped with a 1.6 litre diesel engine, the facelifted Elantra delivers fuel economy of 5.4 l/100kms (MT) and 6.2 l / 100 km (AT), while delivering maximum power of 128HP (94 kW) and maximum torque of 279 Nm (205 lb-ft)(AT). Moreover, Hyundai Motor’s advanced ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system is adopted on the automatic diesel variant.

    2014 Hyundai Elantra will hit the market in the end of this year.

    Source: Hyundai