Monthly Archives: March 2017
Looking Closely at the 3 Main Features of the ABT Sportsline Audi R8 V10
ABT Sportsline will be highlighting its new tuning package for the Audi R8 at the 87th Geneva Motor Show. The package offers a significant power boost and extensive cosmetic enhancements for the car.
1. Engine
The ABT Sportsline tuning kit gives the naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine of the Audi R8 an output of up to 630 hp. The figures show a 20 hp increase from the power produced by the unit of the Audi R8 V10 Plus.
There’s no information yet about the overall torque of the car with the tuning upgrade but it is estimated to be somewhere along 420 lb-ft. The numbers indicate only a 7 lb-ft bump from the torque of the R8 V10 Plus.
The ABT Sportsline package lowers the car’s center of gravity by using coilover suspension springs and sports stabilizers for the front and rear axles of the auto. The changes bring about a reduction in the weight of the R8.
Taking the abovementioned factors into consideration, the resulting sprint of the vehicle from zero to 62 mph is approximately 3 seconds. Its top speed is also increased to reach around 207 mph.
2. Body
Improvements in the exterior of the R8 are extensive. The changes include the installation of new lip spoilers, bumpers, rear diffuser and wheels. Buyers can choose between a set of 19-inch and 20-inch black forged alloy wheels.
3. Interior
Going inside the ABT Sportsline Audi R8 V10 will reveal no shortage of upgrades as well. The in-house customization division of the tuner provides the car a taste of luxury, comfort and sportiness thanks to its use of high-quality leather and carbon fiber materials for its surfaces such as in the seats, dashboard, floormats and ceiling.
Photos of the ABT Sportsline Audi R8 V10
Check out the pictures of the Audi R8 V10 with the ABT Sportsline package in the gallery below:
Mercedes-AMG GT Concept Car Shown at the Geneva Motor Show
The Mercedes-AMG GT Concept car was finally unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. From the information, photos and video released by Daimler about the high-performance saloon, there is a lot to be excited about when the production version of the vehicle hits the market.
Check out the features of the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept based on the Global Media Site of Daimler AG:
Exterior
The Mercedes-AMG GT Concept is the four-door variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car. Significant improvements can be seen in the styling of the concept vehicle compared to its two-door counterpart.
The AMG GT Concept copies many exterior elements found in the AMG GT. However, due to the four-door design of the concept car, it appears more muscular and spacious than its AMG GT sibling. The body lines on the sides are also removed to give way to a smoother body that allows the artistic reflection of light from the vehicle’s surroundings. Then the front grille of the auto adopts the Panamericana design found in the facelifted AMG GT.
Engine
The AMG GT Concept makes use of the new 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine of Mercedes. The combustion unit is paired with an electric motor to give it a performance boost. According to Daimler, the concept vehicle was able to produce up to 600 kW in its latest testing. The automaker aims to make the zero to 100 km/h acceleration of the car to be achieved in under three seconds.
The four-door AMG GT can be driven using solely its combustion engine. The driver can opt to use its electric motor alone too. To utilize the maximum performance of the car, its operating mode can be set to use both power units to fully take advantage of its hybrid drivetrain.
Photo Gallery
Here are the official photos of the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept:
Peugeot 3008 Wins Car of the Year 2017 at Geneva Motor Show
The Peugeot 3008 emerged as the winner of the “Car of the Year 2017” title at the 87th Geneva Motor Show. The prestigious award was received by Peugeot CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato who took over the company in September 2016.
According to the official website of Geneva International Motor Show, the final voting for the award took place last Monday, March 6, 2017. The jury was composed of 58 journalists hailing from 22 European countries. The final list for the title included the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Citroën C3, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Nissan Micra, Peugeot 3008, Toyota C-HR, Volvo S90/V90.
The scoring of the judges were determined based on the criteria of design, innovation, security and value for money of the vehicles. The Peugeot 3008 gained a total of 309 points from the jury, which was the highest among the other entries. The Alfa Romeo Giulia was the first runner-up with 296 points followed by the Mercedes-Benz E-Class with 197 points.
President of the Jury Hakan Matson, who is also a part of Swedish economic magazine Dagens Industri, said they recognize the increasing share of SUVs and crossovers in the market. Therefore, they chose the Peugeot 3008 as the winner for this year’s award.
Based on a report by Car, Imparato stated, “We made it, the long way from hell to heaven. In 2012, we decided never more (to flirt with bankruptcy), we decided to put the money into the product. We are really proud, it’s a great moment for us,” as he received the award.
It should be noted that the Car of the Year award goes all the way back to 1964. It was created by STERN.
Peugeot is no stranger to the Car of the Year award. The brand first won the distinction in 1969 with the 504. Then, it went on to get the same recognition with the 405 and 307 in the past. The 3008 is the fourth product of the company to get the title.
Top 3 Features of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is making its way at the 87th Geneva Motor Show. The Targa is one of the most expensive cars of Porsche with a starting price of $138,200.
Is the car worth that much?
Check out the top 3 features of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS based on the information provided by its maker:
1. Engine
The new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS offers more performance and efficiency. The car is equipped with Porsche’s new 3.0-liter straight-six rear engine with twin turbochargers. The unit can produce up to 450 hp and 550 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an all-wheel drive system and 7-speed manual transmission.
The power of the car allows it to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Its top speed is electronically-limited at 308 km/h.
The improved fuel efficiency ratings of the auto show a 9.7 l/100 km combined fuel consumption and 220 g/km carbon dioxide emissions.
2. Exterior
The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS measures 1,291 mm in height, 1,852 mm in width, 4,528 mm in length and 2,450 mm in wheelbase. The car displays an imposing front end, sporty air inlets, Bi-Xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and LED DRLs, black 20-inch wheels, black roll bar and convertible top.
3. Interior
The cabin of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS combines a classy and sporty appeal thanks to its Alcantara surfaces. The driver can choose four driving modes to improve driving experience based on the preferred level of comfort or performance. Navigation is also improved due the car’s Porsche Communication Management (PCM) allowing multi-touch gestures and voice control.
Photos
Below are some official photos of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS:
Where Can You Find the Car in the Show?
Those who want to see the new Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS in the flesh can visit the booth of its maker at Stand 1050 during the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.
Top 3 Mercedes-Benz Vehicles at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show
Mercedes-Benz wasted no time in making a statement at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. The three-pointed star marque immediately showcased its new cars and sport utility vehicles in the press conference of the event.
The luxury vehicle brand presented a lot of its products in Geneva, including new drivetrains of its existing GLA range and special edition versions of its cars, but let us take a look at the three new models that really stood out in the event:
1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
The company focused on the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet during the show. The car gets the design of its coupe sibling, but it ditches the roof found in the coupe to give way to a retractable soft top. The featured model in Geneva was the Mercedes-Benz E400 Cabriolet.
2. Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet
The Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet combines the off-road qualities of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and the ultra-luxurious elements offered by the revived Maybach label.
The landaulet is based on the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6 and the Mercedes-Benz G500 4×42. The SUV has a four-seating capacity and a convertible rear to allow open air ride to its passengers at the back. Massage and neck-leaving heating function were also added for extra level of comfort for its occupants. Moreover, the auto is powered by a V12 engine with an output of 630 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque.
3. Four-Door Mercedes-AMG GT Concept
The company previewed the early phase of the development of the four-door Mercedes-AMG GT Concept. The sports car is the response of the brand to the Porsche Panamera.
Details about the high-performance saloon is still scarce. It is expected to get the form of the Mercedes-AMG GT and its engine trims. However, look forward to a smoother exterior with reduced body lines in the four-door sports car compared to the two-door AMG GT. The enhanced styling is in line with the new “Aesthetics A” design language of the luxury car brand. Of course, there might be adjustments in the measurements of the four-door AMG GT due to its new interior layout.
Photos
Check out the official photos of Mercedes-Benz at the 87th Geneva Motor Show in the gallery below:
6 Quick Facts About the Jaguar I-Pace
The Jaguar I-Pace finally makes it to the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. Although the electric vehicle is still in its concept form, the photos and information released about it were great so far.
Check out the 6 quick facts about the new Jaguar I-Pace here based on a source:
1. Debut
The I-Pace Concept first appeared at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. It marks its arrival in Europe at the 87th Geneva Motor Show.
2. Power Unit
The electric sport utility vehicle is powered by two 200hp electric motors. The power units generate a total of 400 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The output lets the auto accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just four seconds.
The EV is equipped with liquid-cooled 90 kWh battery with cells from LG Chem. The battery pack allows the SUV to cover a range of more or less 220 miles from a full charge.
The I-Pace also features at least 50 kWh DC fast charging with CCS Combo that takes it to 80 percent charge in just 90 minutes and full charge at around two hours. Jaguar offers an optional 7 kW home charging point too for the convenience of its customers.
3. Exterior
The Jaguar concept EV retained its look when it was introduced in LA last year. The auto resembles the shape of the Tesla Model X but with the styling elements found in the Jaguar F-Pace.
The I-Pace is 184 inches long and 74.4 inches wide. This time, the I-Pace comes in photon red paint finish similar to the image shown above.
4. Interior
The I-Pace offers a lot of space in its cabin thanks to the low positioning of its battery on the front and rear axle. The vehicle has a five-seating capacity. Again, the interior mirrors many things found in the F-Pace.
5. Tech
The notable tech features within the I-Pace include a 12-inch touchscreen, 5.5-inch touchscreen for infotainment and climate control, Wi-Fi hotspot plus improved connectivity for onboard and smartphone apps.
6. Photos
Check out the official photos of the Jaguar I-Pace in the gallery below:
4 Engine Options Revealed for the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo will be one of the vehicles gracing the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. The sports car will be unveiled by Porsche together with the Panamera 4, Panamera 4S, Panamera 4E Hybrid and the Panamera Turbo.
The concept version of the Panamera Sport Turismo was introduced around five years ago. The unit was first shown at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Basically, the production version of the car will carry most of the styling elements seen in its concept model.
According to a report, the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo will offer four engine options. The power units that customers can choose from include a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, 2.9-liter engine paired with a 136 bhp electric motor, and last but not least is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
Among the notable features of the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo are the Porsche Advanced Cockpit, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, Porsche Communications Management, electronic stabilisation control, Porsche InnoDrive, rear axle steering, AWD adaptive air suspension, adaptive air spoiler, Porsche Traction Management and many more.
The adaptive spoiler function of the car allows three settings to choose from depending on the driver settings and the speed of the auto. The feature is capable of generating a down-force of as much as 50 kg.
Moreover, it is the first time for the Panamera range to offer a three-seating capacity at the rear. There is also an option to get four seats with electric adjustment operation for the auto.
The 2017 Geneva Motor Show kicks off this Tuesday on March 7, 2017. The event runs until the 19th of the month. So watch out during those days for the Panamera Sport Turismo.
The first deliveries of the Panamera Sport Turismo to buyers will begin in October this year.
Photos
Here are some of the photos of the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo showing its front and rear exterior plus a peek at its interior:
8 Things to Know About the Opel Crossland X
Opel changed its mind about the venue for the debut of the Crossland X. The automaker has finally decided to introduce the vehicle live to the public for the first time at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. It should be noted the company stated earlier that it will be keeping the unit away from the event to focus on its Insignia range.
Based on sources, here are the key features of the Crossland X:
1. Model Year
The vehicle will carry a 2018 model year when it comes out.
2. Classification
The Crossland X is classified as a crossover utility vehicle. It possesses the same platform found in Peugot’s 2008 compact SUV. Unlike the more rugged Mokka X, which is built for off-roading, the Crossland X is designed for urban driving.
3. Engine
Not much has been officially revealed yet about the engine of the Crossland X. However, according to a source, it will have two engine trims. One will be packing 1.2-liter petrol unit and the other is a 1.6-liter diesel unit.
4. Size
The Crossland X is 4,212 mm in length, 1,765 mm wide and 1,590 mm tall. Its measurements are more than the Mokka X.
5. Interior
The Crossland X is more spacious than the Mokka X making it a nice option for a family vehicle. Among the notable features found in the interior of the auto are sliding rear seats, climate control system, cruise control system, touchscreen infotainment system and compatibility with either the Apple CarPlay or the Android Auto.
6. Sale
The Crossland X is expected to appear in showrooms in summer this year. It will likely cost less than the £17,640 price tag of the Mokka X.
7. Competition
The crossover utility vehicle of Opel will rival the Renault Captur and the Peugeot 2008 when it comes out in the market.
8. Photos
Check out the official pictures of the Opel Crossland X in the gallery below:
7 Important Stuff About the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was just unveiled. Let us take a look at the features, photos and other important stuff about the new sport utility vehicle of the giant Japanese automaker here.
1. Model Year
The new SUV will be carrying a 2018 model year.
2. Design
The Eclipse Cross features a sportier and more stylish appearance compared to the other SUVs of Mitsubishi. The auto borrows many elements found in the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV concept shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2013.
The front grille and headlamp layout of the Eclipse Cross also remind us of the ones found on the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Evolution. It should be noted that car was featured in the virtual world of the Gran Turismo 6 video game released in 2013 for the Playstation 3. It was said to be an extension of the XR-PHEV concept.
The interior of the SUV showcases black leather surfaces matched with silver accents highlighting its important elements plus red stitching on the seats. A central display can be found in the middle of the dashboard with tablet-like design. The automaker claimed too that the rear seats of the vehicle offer a 60:40 split.
3. Engine
Two options are available for the powertrains of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. One is a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine and the other is a 2.2-liter turbo diesel unit. The engine is paired with a four-wheel drive system.
4. Position in Hierarchy
The Eclipse Cross will bridge the gap between Mitsubishi’s Outlander Sport and the mid-size Outlander unit.
5. Debut
The debut of the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is scheduled on March 7 at the Geneva Motor Show.
6. Sale
The SUV is expected to hit Mitsubishi showrooms in the early part of 2018. Its market release in the US will probably come at a later date.
7. Photos
Check out the photos of the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross in the gallery below:
7 Things About the AC Schnitzer BMW i8
AC Schnitzer just introduced its customization kit for the BMW i8. The package offers new exterior and interior kit for the hybrid car. The additions make the auto more aggressive-looking.
Check out the key features of the new AC Schnitzer package for the BMW i8 here:
1. Exterior
AC Schnitzer only released information about its body kit for the BMW i8. The exterior of the car is enhanced by new bumpers plus set of 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels wrapped in 245/35 R21 and 285/30 R21 tires, respectively.
In addition, the specialist offers new wings on the bumper, side skirts, door handles, mirror caps, fixed rear wing on the boot lid and rear diffuser. The parts mentioned all make use of light carbon fiber materials.
2. Interior
AC Schitzer is yet to reveal photos of the car’s interior. However, the specialist confirmed that it will have aluminum pedals and foot rest plus velour floor mats.
3. Power Unit
No changes were made in the hybrid power unit of the BMW i8. Therefore, the car’s combination of AC Electric Motor, 7.1 kWh high voltage lithium-ion battery and BMW TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder engine retains its 357 hp 420 lb-ft of torque output. It’s acceleration from zero to 60 mph can be achieved in just 4.2 seconds.
4. Pricing
No pricing details were released yet by AC Schnitzer of its body and interior kit for the BMW i8. It should be noted though that the starting price of the car is at $140,700. So be prepared to dish out more than the said amount if you go for the cosmetic upgrades.
5. Debut
The custom BMW i8 of AC Schnitzer will be showcased at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show next week.
6. Photos
Check out the photos of the AC Schnitzer BMW i8 which were provided via Motor1.com in the gallery below:
7. Video
Here is a clip showing a quick preview of the vehicle’s exterior: