Friday, August 23, 2013

Car Reviews and Road Tests: Mercedes-Benz GLA Class



The GLA is a new Mercedes-Benz model based on the platform of the Class A (which is also that of Class B and Class CLA). Will be available in late November 2013 and deliveries began in 2014.

Mercedes-Benz refers to it as an SUV, a name that is often used for those cars with a body similar to that of an SUV (gallery) but do not have the same skills as those for driving off-road. But for its size, the total height is less than five feet (1.49 m, ​​8 cm more than the Class A), it looks more like a tourist than of an SUV. Mercedes-Benz does not give the data of ground clearance.

 GLA length is 4.42 meters, an intermediate step between the Audi Q3 (4.39 m) and the BMW X1 (4.47 m), models, price and general characteristics, will be its main competitors , along with the Range Rover Evoque. Regarding these is remarkable aerodynamics GLA, which has a coefficient Cx of 0.29 vs. 0.32 (Audi), 0.33 (BMW) and 0.35 (Land Rover). The resistance factor (the product of the front surface Cx) is also lower: 0.66 instead of 0.77 and 0.78 (Audi and BMW, Land Rover does not give the data). Among the measures taken to achieve this result is the dashboard of the low, the grouting of the front (the space between the headlights and grille, for example) and the plates that close off air to the radiator when it is necessary that stream.

Something that distinguishes the GLA the GLK, ML, GL and G-the Mercedes-Benz SUVs, is that in the GLA-wheel drive is an option and it is also available with front wheel drive. A multi-plate clutch coupling is responsible for the rear wheels to the front.



Thursday, August 22, 2013

Car Reviews and Road Tests: KIA Optima 2013

 
 Has four-door body and measures 4.85 meters long. No major changes, only improvements in some items, and a slightly different look.

They are different headlights, pilots and bumper. Besides the new look, Kia says it has worked to improve the finishes and the comfort of the car. For the latter has focused rolling noise reduction, which amounts to 3.3 dB reduction. It does not specify how fast the gain is obtained but that has been accomplished by changing the rear shocks and using some new wheels.

There are also improvements in the safety-related equipment, comfort and multimedia systems but does not say what they are.

On engines, in the press release says that "They have also adopted a series of amendments designed to improve the efficiency of the engine such as the alternator or an innovative battery management" but appearing consumption for diesel version are the same 136 hp 2012 Optima. The current Optima's also a hybrid version of 190 hp.











Car Reviews and Road Tests: Audi A8 2014



This Audi A8 is not a completely new model, but an update of which was released in 2010 (version information with short body length of 5.13 meters and information from the long body of 5.27 meters). Will be available from September 2013 for € 85,300.

The differences between the new model (also available with two different length bodies) and the new are not great. Varies slightly the look (gallery model 2014 and model 2010), almost all engines are more powerful than before and there is some element of new equipment.

 One of the distinctive elements of the 2014 range are the new headlights. Besides having a different design than the previous ones, the technology used Audi-called "LED Matrix" - is unprecedented. A set of ledes are responsible for illuminating the road, something that different manufacturers use for about seven years, but in the A8 has the peculiarity that the 25 ledes be turned on or off by areas. Thus, it is possible to illuminate certain areas of the road, eg to avoid dazzling oncoming vehicles in reverse or vary the intensity and extent of light (more on the blog). The sequentially flashing lights in the direction of rotation (as in the Audi R8).

The engines are similar to those that had so far, although almost everyone wins power. Thus, the four petrol-versions 3.0 TFSI, 4.0 TFSI, W12 and S8-dan 310, 425, 500 and 519 hp (the first two before gave 290 and 420 hp). And Diesel-versions 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI-dan 258 and 385 hp instead of 250 and 351 hp respectively cites no current Audi diesel 204 hp. The hybrid version has no technical changes (more Audi A8 Hybrid information above).
 All-wheel drive and have automatic "Tiptronic" (torque converter) eight relations. Versions 4.0 TFSI, W12 and S8 also have a system that disconnects half of the cylinders (interrupts the fuel supply and electricity) under certain conditions.

There are new items of equipment. Is the system that projects information onto the windshield, the maintenance assistant in the lane detection function animals (big) night vision system and improved semi-automatic parking system.

The rear seats can be two individual in any of the body, although in the long term the two seats are separated by a console. These seats have electric adjustments.

 

Car Reviews and Road Tests: BMW Concept X5 eDrive


 A prototype is developed based on the new generation of the BMW X5 and powered by a plug-in hybrid system that BMW does not count, among other things, the power it has. Currently, BMW does not sell any plug-in hybrid model.

There are two engines in the car, a gasoline-direct-injection four-cylinder turbo-and electric-we do know the power, 95 hp. Both can power the car alone or together. BMW does not explain how they are coupled to the gearbox or what type is it. Permanent total traction is the same as used in other BMW X5.

The BMW X5 Concept eDrive accelerates to 100 km / h from standing out in seven seconds, two points more than what takes an X5 xDrive35i and six less than an X5 xDrive30d. The average consumption is 3.8 l/100 km. A Porsche Panamera S Hybrid E-that is a hybrid version of 416 hp and consumes 3.1 l/100 km plug in the same cycle.

When moving in electric mode, the X5 can travel 30 km if the lithium ion battery is fully charged or move up to 120 km / h. The battery is located beneath the trunk and cargo space remains. It is also possible to force the system to not use the electric motor and so have all the battery capacity later.


BMW says Proactive Driving Assistant by car may take into account the topography of the route, speed limits and traffic conditions (data obtained from the navigation system). If you program a route in the browser, there are public charging points that are next to it and you can see the time that the battery will need to be plugged in to achieve a full charge.

By an application on certain mobile phones may check the charge level of the battery, recharge program or operate the climate control system to find the interior at the desired temperature to reach the car.

Big Cars: Ford Ecosport 2013



As part of the renovation of the brand worldwide, Ford is launching the second generation of the EcoSport, an SUV based on the Fiesta light focused on emerging markets and also start selling in Europe. This new generation EcoSport has a much more modern and contemporary than the previous generation. This time we found a much more modern style with well done curves and character lines that give just that character. The EcoSport continues the trend of brand design style to share the grill with his brothers, but there is some freedom to look more like a big party than a compact Explorer.



Hot Cars: Chevrolet Camaro SS Hot Wheels 2013



The car lovers are always looking to have a different vehicle, whether buying exclusive models or customizing their vehicles. Sometimes that help brands with special editions, and the Camaro Hot Wheels is the perfect example of this.

Based on the 1:64 scale toy Spectraflame Custom Camaro that was part of the first collection of 16 Hot Wheels that were manufactured back in 1968, this special edition has a unique color Kinetic Blue, 20-inch black wheels, black center strip also , grid based on the ZL1 with red bottom line as well as Hot Wheels logos on the sides and grill to differentiate a common Camaro.

Inside are red stitching on seats, steering wheel and gear knob as well as Hot Wheels logos on wheel, seat brackets and complete.
This car was introduced as a prototype at SEMA Show 2011 and a year later there also was presented the production version.
Mechanically there is no change, our test unit was based on a Camaro SS automatic that uses the 6.2-liter V8 engine with 400 horsepower and 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.


With no mechanical changes, the behavior of the car is exactly like any other automatic SS. The explanation is quite good despite being a thoroughbred muscle car is a car quite docile and easy to drive at high speeds for the type of car that is.
The bronco character is still there, but thanks to the independent suspension and good chassis balance, the Camaro is a car that can be fun without being too dangerous, making the driver look good more by the characteristics of the car that skills pilot.


The problems you have are the same as in the normal version also: rear visibility is not very good and despite the great volume of the trunk, the entrance to this is small so it is difficult to get large objects.
The equipment is pretty good and the new touch screen stereo and navigation is very well integrated into the retro design of the board. We keep missing the wheel "Dip Dish" which was only available in the first year of production to be replaced by one with the common design of Chevrolet, which although has good grip and is of good thickness and dimension, remains the same as found in one Cruze. The previous wheel was much more the case with the retro style of the whole car.


The Camaro Hot Wheels is a car for those who are still children, mechanically the same, but the aesthetic details make it different enough from the other versions of the car. The subtle side flames and logos brand model cars fail not provoke a smile every time we see him. They say the difference between a man and a boy is the size of their toys and there is no better example than the Camaro Hot Wheels to demonstrate this.

 

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Car Review: Cadillac SRX 3.6 AWD 2013


Cadillac is a brand that is renewed every year to stay fresh and the taste of the public, and while the SRX has since 2010 without major changes, things like a new interior the keeping up and being a good proposition in its segment.

Outside there is the same aggressive style that he usually does the brand. Right angles and elongated headlights are present in the SRX and the beltline that rises as the vehicle travels and the huge 20-inch wheels that help firm and sporty style representing luxury Cadillac.


Inside the center console is new and has the entertainment system Cadillac CUE. As in the ATS (same console) The idea of ​​having no buttons is very good, but it shows that it is the first attempt and feels he still has some development since the touch is something strange. It's hard sometimes push the "button" to the first desired. The quality of assembly and materials is first rate, just like you would expect from Cadillac.
The overall design is quite nice on the inside and the huge screen in the center console makes it easy to control all systems. The seats are comfortable and the driving position is good. In the back there are two adults with no problems for long trips and three can do short runs.


The trunk is a good size and has a modular rail transport facilitates several things by keeping them in a fixed location, something like a network, but modular, allowing different dimensions to accommodate things.
The engine continues to feel the 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower with the six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive version adds a limited-slip differential that helps improve traction on difficult surfaces.
The management of the SRX is comfortable and although it has a powerful engine, is not intended to provide sporty handling. When the engine is required to respond, but the tuning of the suspension is designed for comfort over sportiness, like the gearbox.


Like any AWD car has some understeer, and the extra weight does not help much when you exceed the speed in curves, but security systems are the best and will keep us safe as long as they do not break the laws of physics.
The SRX is a crossover that loves people for aggressive design and comfort features. Its different layout and luxury that brings the brand makes the SRX a good option for those who want something luxurious and different.



 

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Auctioned Ferrari 275 GTB / 4 NART Spyder 1968 at $ 27.5 million




The most expensive and exclusive cars rarely change hands, but when they do it is by stratospheric amounts, so it was expected that one of the world's rarest Ferraris were sold by a significant amount, and did so to be sold Lawrence Stroll to Canadian businessman for $ 27.5 million.

Only 10 units were built Ferrari 275 GTB / 4 NART Spyder 1968 and only sold in the United States, making it one of the world's most exclusive cars. Apart from his distinguished pedigree, this 275 fulfilled everything you need to get a good price: Steve McQueen was one of 10 (crashed his and tried to buy just this, but the owner refused), this specific car has only had one owner, and finally all the money from the auction will be donated to charity.
 

The final price was the second highest ever paid at public auction for a car after the $ 29.7 million that were paid for a Mercedes-Benz W196, 1954 to Juan Manuel Fangio drove to victory in two races.

The most expensive car remains a Frrari racing 250 GTO built for Stirling Moss that changed hands in a private sale for $ 35 million.





 

Car Review: Cadillac Elmiraj Concept 2013




Cadillac unveiled the concept car Elmiraj, a large coupe that expresses the thrill of driving and exploring new dimensions for the continued expansion of Cadillac. The concept Elmiraj presents a new vision for the management of luxury and a wider range of top end.

"Cadillac is a brand driven by the creativity of our designers, led by Ed Welburn," said Bob Ferguson, Global Senior Vice Cadillac. "Elmiraj provides a look inside the Cadillac design studio, showing how to visualize the performance and luxury for the next generation of drivers in this segment."

Elmiraj is a modern representation of the classic format of a large coupe, becoming a pure expression of sleek, attractive rear-drive performance. With 205'' (511cm) in length, this a coupe with two doors and four seats has great presence and poise.
Memorable retrieved from the Ciel concept, Elmiraj is a statement of luxury and performance with functional character and proportion. The concept promotes the Cadillac philosophy spectacular design and performance as well as the commitment to creating light and agile car. Elmiraj is built chassis and structural elements of a project to develop vehicles that Cadillac is scheduled for future production. The architecture of this new vehicle extends the brand's commitment to the lightweight rear-drive performance, exemplified in the ATS sport sedan and the all-new 2014 CTS, which will be released this fall in the United States.


"Elmiraj promotes modern design and provocative performance Cadillac, in contrast to the craftsmanship and bespoke luxury," said Mark Adams, Cadillac design director. "Explore the high-performance driving while reflecting how we approach increase the range and the new dimensions of the philosophy of Cadillac's Art and Science".
Elmiraj is powered by a V8 4.5-liter bi turbo generates an estimated 500 horsepower. The engine technology brings new Cadillac V6 BiTurbo will be presented in the next edition 2014 CTS V Sport 420 hp, and extends the classic format of a V8 engine performance.



 

BMW introduced the M4 Coupe Concept at Pebble Beach




Over the iconic annual weekend in Pebble Beach, Monterey, California, BMW M presented, including historical and current proposals, a first view of BMW M4 Coupe Concept, a high performance sports car.

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"The BMW M4 Coupe Concept reflects the philosophy of BMW M ideally combines motorsports genes with unrestricted everyday in a highly emotional overall concept," said Dr. Friedrich Nitschke, President of BMW Division M.
"For four generations, the BMW M3 has prompted BMW motorsport and M4 Coupe Concept continues this fundamental idea consistently. The new designation of "M4" refers, like every BMW M car, the series in which this concept car is based, "the Dr. Nitschke.
The BMW M4 Coupe Concept, finished color "Aurum Dust" and developed exclusively for this model, continues the design language of BMW M-strong character, emotional and extremely dynamic.


From any perspective, this proposal is the embodiment of agility, dynamism and superior performance. The large air intakes in the front, a streamlined design on the side, and a rear sports and low, are a clear sign of the huge visual car's dynamic potential. CFRP elements (fiber reinforced polymer carbon) as the front diffuser, the roof or the rear diffuser, underline the concept of weight-optimized down to the last detail.
"At BMW M, the design is mostly a function expression. Each element is based on the underlying technical demands high performance. Through this authenticity, it also shows what can be experienced with this car: power, one precise control and superior driving experience-on the racetrack and on the road, "said Adrian van Hooydonk, director of BMW Group Design.
Multiple surfaces, the precise contours and distinctive visual depth expressive shape the front facia of the BMW M4 Coupe Concept. The dual headlights with LED technology provide the vehicle a distinctive identity, recognizing it as a BMW M vehicle at first sight.
The chest with its distinctive, muscular dome symbolizes the immense power of the engine is below this. This dynamic element is further accentuated by a distinctive contour.
The powerful front facia shape equipped with front diffuser carbon fiber immediately catches the eye. At the same time, the interaction of surfaces, contours and volume express the highest potential authentically car. The sharp contours vertical vents located in the outer section of the side air intakes are a statement of design itself.
BMW Common ratios a long hood, long wheelbase, a cabin rear position and short front overhang, create an exceptionally dynamic, even when the vehicle is at rest.



A high-tech item visible weight optimization is CFRO contoured roof. Besides eliminating kilograms, provides a low center of gravity, offering a driving experience even sportier.
A striking detail is the gill redesigned M on the side panels of the vehicle. This design characteristic element represents a sporting and functional statement. In the BMW M4 Coupe Concept, gills M incorporate air intakes (Air Breather), which together with the air intakes in the front fascia (Air Curtain) serve to ventilate the fenders and generate better airflow values. The bicolor unique wheels 20 inch alloy wheels with a design typical M dual beam, complete the sporty design in the side views of the vehicle. Also let you see the M carbon ceramic brakes.
The rear spoiler is integrated into the trunk lid to provide optimal downforce. Thanks to this feature, the BMW M4 Coupe Concept not only makes better use of the aerodynamic force exerted by the air on the car, from its side view, also has greater volume and length with athletic presence.


The rear facia BMW M4 Coupe Concept gives a visual indication of the supreme power of the vehicle. The entire rear section has a sculptural appearance and wide. Large shaded areas below the spoiler onto the rear facia flatter appearance and athletic.
At the same time, the headlights flat at the ends, the wide track and flared wheel arches emphasize the vehicle's stable stance on the road. The horizontal lines emphasize the width of the car, further reducing the visual center of gravity.
The twin tailpipes are characteristic of the BMW M. The facia embraces the two pairs of carbon fiber escapes. A rear diffuser complete carbon fiber aerodynamic package.