Thursday 23 November 2017

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2018 Renault Samsung SM3 Z.E. Has A Larger Battery, And 132 Miles Of Pure-Electric Range

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 04:30 AM PST


Renault has just unveiled an updated version of the Samsung SM3 Z.E., at the Daegu International Future Auto Expo in South Korea.

The Megane-based compact sedan, which is known as Fluence in different parts of the world, has dropped its previous 22kWh battery in favor of a 36kWh unit.

This move is said to have zero impact on the electric sedan's weight, but as a result, the range has increased by an impressive 57 percent over its predecessor, to 132 miles, or 213 kilometers, as based on the Korean type approval cycle.

According to a Korean Transport Safety Authority (KOTSA) report, the local average daily trip stood at 25 miles (40km) last year, which means that the 'new' Renault Samsung SM3 Z.E. will be able to run for some 5 days, in theory, between charges.

Thanks to its mechanical tweaks, this zero-emission compact car is expected to become very popular in South Korea, where state-run fleets and taxi operators are already using the pre-updated version.

Moreover, the country's Ministry of Health and Welfare purchased 1,200 units of the car last April, in a move that should help the brand "strengthen its geographical and segment coverage, and foster a step-up in the electric vehicle market", according to Renault's Electric Vehicle SVP, Gilles Normand.

PHOTO GALLERY

Lamborghini Murcielago With A Six-Speed Is A Rare Beast Of A Dying Breed

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 03:59 AM PST


There's little question that supercars are progressing at a suitably rapid pace. But sometimes, somewhere along the way, something falls by the wayside that we wish hadn't.

Take Lamborghini, for example, and its twelve-cylinder model line. The Aventador is, by all accounts, a vastly superior car to the Murcielago it replaced – switching from steel construction to carbon fiber and upping the performance factor considerably.

The transmission, on the other hand, is another matter. The Aventador's semi-automatic Independent Shift Rod gearbox may, for all its faults, be better than the Murcielago's e-Gear transmission. (Or maybe it isn't. We're not here to make that call right now.) But the Murcielago was the last of its breed to offer an old-school manual.

That's what we have here, enduring as something of a rarity. It's a 2008 Murcielago LP640-4 Roadster, in Grigio Avlon Metallic with a black and grey interior – and a six-speed stick-shift. According to Cats Exotics (the Seattle-area dealer that's selling it on JamesEdition), it's one of only four so equipped and delivered to the United States, and the only one in this color combination.

It's also equipped with all manner of optional extras, from the $9,100 carbon-fiber engine brace and $8,450 carbon interior trim package to the $3,250 navigation system. It ships with a brand new set of Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, and is listed with 13,631 miles on the odometer for $375,000.

For that kind of money, you could almost get into a new Aventador – and certainly find a used one in solid condition. But then you wouldn't have the pleasure of rowing your own gears, and it isn't likely to hold up its value as well either as manual-shifted supercars like this become a rare commodity on the collector's market.

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20 Million Vehicles In The US Still Need Their Takata Airbags Replaced

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 03:39 AM PST


Automakers are working to recall vehicles fitted with faulty Takata airbag inflators, but the bulk of the work still lies ahead.

According to the latest numbers cited by Automotive News, some 20 million vehicles fitted with the problematic inflators in the United States alone still need to be recalled.

That works out to 64 percent, or nearly two thirds of the 31.5 million vehicles being recalled for the issue that has claimed 13 lives in the US.

All told, some 43 million of those inflators have been recalled – with some vehicles requiring two – and as of mid-September, only 25 million of have already been replaced. What's more is that the total number is expected to climb to 65 million by the end of next year when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration expands the recall to the next phase.

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Maybe The 2018 McLaren-Renault MCL33 Will Actually Win Something

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 03:00 AM PST


After three pitiful years with Honda, McLaren is finally releasing itself of the shackles of an underperforming engine and starting next year afresh with Renault engines.

In the process, it's expected to adopt a new livery – one tipped to revive its classic Papaya Orange tint. And it could look something a little like this.

Imagined by livery specialist Sean Bull is a projected look at the 2018 McLaren-Renault MCL33, rendered in orange and blue – and with an integrated "halo" cockpit safety device, too.

Now orange was never this writer's favorite color, but we have to commend McLaren for looking to its roots... back to a time when it, you know, actually won races and championships. Here's hoping Woking's new challenger looks at least this good, and helps the team rediscover its winning form.

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F1 Files Trademark Applications For Three New U.S. Grands Prix

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 01:31 AM PST


Ever since Liberty Media took over Formula One, the company has expressed its intent to expand the calendar and add more races in the United States.

Now, it appears as if they are making the first moves in turning these hopes into reality, applying for a number of trademarks with the US Patent and Trademark Office for Grand Prix races to be held in New York, Miami, and Las Vegas.

According to Auto Guide, Liberty Media has filed six standard character marks for future races, specifically the Formula 1 Grand Prix of New York, the New York Grand Prix, Miami Grand Prix, Grand Prix of Miami, Las Vegas Grand Prix, and Grand Prix of Las Vegas.

It is unlikely that Liberty Media will end up adding an additional three Grands Prix in the United States and is simply protecting the names of these possible events. However, the company has previously stated that it wants an additional two races in U.S. time zones, meaning it wouldn't be out of the question for two of these races to be added to the yearly schedule in the future.

PHOTO GALLERY

Aston Martin On Target For First Pre-Tax Profit Since 2010

Posted: 23 Nov 2017 12:03 AM PST


Aston Martin chief executive says the British marque is on track to post its first annual pre-tax profit since 2010.

In the first nine months of the year, Aston Martin's pre-tax profit reach 22 million pounds ($29 million), Reuters reports. To put this figure into perspective, Aston lost 124 million pounds ($165 million) in the same time period in 2016.

Palmer says that demand for the new DB11 has been a key contributor in turning around the company's financials. With the launch of the DB11 Volante and all-new Vantage, things are looking good for the carmaker.

"Our strong financial performance and continued profitability reflects the growing appeal of our high-performance sports cars, with the new DB11 Volante and a new Vantage expected to stimulate further demand in the coming year," Palmer said.

Following Palmer's appointment as chief executive in 2014, the company has pursued an aggressive turnaround plan. Alongside launching overdue successors to the DB9 and Vantage, the plan includes creating the brand's first SUV and a halo hypercar developed alongside Red Bull, dubbed the Valkyrie.

PHOTO GALLERY

Honda Planning 15-Minute Charge Time For EVs In 2022

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 08:42 PM PST


Honda intends on launching a number of electric vehicles in 2022 that'll feature a fast-charging feature.

According to the Nikkei Asian Review, the Japanese automaker will release a fleet of EVs that can run 240 km (149 miles) on a single 15-minute charge.

To achieve this lofty goal, Honda will stop using Panasonic-sourced batteries and instead develop a new type of high-capacity battery with a yet-to-be-decided partner. Capable of handling ultra-quick charging, these batteries will be complemented by an efficient power control system and a lighter vehicle body to ensure impressive ranges.

As with any electric vehicle with fast-charging, all of Honda's efforts will be pointless if there isn't a charging network that supports such charging speeds. Fortunately, Europe is expected to have thousands of 350 kW charging stations by 2020 and Japan could follow suit, upgrading its current 150 kW fast-chargers to the same 350 kW limit.

In the meantime, Honda will launch a mass-market electric vehicle in Europe in 2019 and Japan the following year.

PHOTO GALLERY

Is The BMW M4 CS A Rival To Porsche's 911 GTS?

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 08:02 PM PST


If you were to forget the truly absurd price of the BMW M4 GTS, the hardcore M division product could be considered an impressive sports car. However, with its price rivaling that of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, it simply doesn't make sense to anyone but the BMW faithful.

Fortunately for those in the market for a two-door, German sports car wanting more performance than a standard M4, the recently-released CS is a new option.

Designed to slot between the M4 Competition and the M4 GTS, the M4 CS delivers 454 hp from its twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and features numerous suspension tweaks and weight-saving measures to distinguish itself from lesser variants. Are these modifications enough to allow it to rival the mighty Porsche 911 GTS?

Jonny Lieberman and Jethro Bovingdon from Motor Trend headed to Germany to pit the two against each other. In the process, the duo tackled the Autobahn and Nurburgring to fully explore what these two sports cars are capable of.

Which do you think will come out victorious?

VIDEO

Alonso Successfully Completes Test With Toyota's LMP1 Prototype

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 07:29 PM PST


Fernando Alonso has inched closer to his dream of competing at the Le Mans 24 Hours, completing a day of testing with Toyota in Bahrain.

Throughout the day, the Spaniard did over 100 laps, setting a best lap time of 1 min 43.013 seconds, six tenths shy of the best time achieved by Toyota LMP1 driver Mike Conway in the same conditions.

Speaking to Motorsport, Toyota advisor Alex Wurz said he was very impressed with Alonso's performance.

"I am a sports car fan, so I am proud when professional drivers come to feel the excitement of these prototype cars. Fernando is one of the best race drivers out there so, as you would expect, he did very well in the test.

"He adapted quickly to a rather unique driving style and gave some very good and structured feedback during the day," Wurz said.

Alonso is currently pursuing motorsport's 'Triple Crown' and recently reached a new deal with the McLaren F1 team that will allow him to race in other series' during the 2018 Formula One World Championship. He is widely expected to compete with Toyota during the famed endurance race and his successful test outing will only improve his chances of landing a one-race contract.

PHOTO GALLERY

Facelifted Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate Scooped With Subtle Changes

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 07:04 PM PST


Our spy photographers have managed to snap the facelifted Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate in the midst of testing.

We first saw pictures of the updated C63 in sedan form back in May and for the most part, this Estate variant appears to be hiding the same tweaked parts under black and white camoflage.

Up front, it is apparent that Mercedes-AMG will update the design of the performance car's bumper, potentially with reshaped air intakes¬. Additionally, tweaked LED headlights will be found on the finished production model. As with recent Mercedes-Benz models, to most obvious difference between the new car and the outgoing model will be the brand's Panamericana front grille featuring vertical slats and first found on the AMG GT R.

Exterior modifications will be completed with an overhauled rear bumper.

Moving to the cabin, customers can expect to be welcomed with a number of changes, potentially including a new steering wheel and touch-sensitive buttons like on the E63.

Power for both the C63 and C63 S models will continue to come from a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine. It is possible that some minor tweaks to the powertrain will be made to increase grunt from the 476 PS and 510 PS currently on offer.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

PHOTO GALLERY

Is This Ferrari's Upcoming 488 GTO?

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 06:31 PM PST


It is no secret that Ferrari is working on a hardcore variant of the 488 GTB and now an image has surfaced online that appears to show the supercar without any camouflage.

This photo, initially published by Motor.es, depicts two track-focused 488s in a garage, one of which wears white plastic over its revised body panels while the front-end of the second prototype has been left exposed.

Compared to the current 488, the mid-engine supercar has received a revised front fascia that includes a different bumper with larger air intakes and some black trim. The headlights have also been blacked-out to increase the vehicle's aggressiveness.

According to some sources, the car will be dubbed the Ferrari 488 GTO but we're not convinced. The 'GTO' badge has only been used three times in the history of Ferrari production cars and even the Ferrari F12tdf wasn't considered special enough to receive the honor.

Whatever it is called, we can expect the typical array of changes that are found on hardcore Ferrari models. Among these will be modifications to the twin-turbo 3.9-liter V8 to bump power to beyond 700 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, a number of weight saving measures will need to be employed if Ferrari wants the car to have any chance against the hypercar-beating McLaren 720S.

PHOTO GALLERY

Flower Power VW Microbus Could Fetch More Than $200,000 At Auction

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 06:03 PM PST


There are a few good reasons as to why this Volkswagen Microbus Deluxe could sell for more than the price of a new Audi R8 V10 Plus.

First, it's the highly-collectible 23-window version equipped with the canvas 'Samba' sunroof and other options, and second, it was fully restored to its factory specification using all original parts.

Clearly, the restorer has paid lots of attention to detail, as the Microbus features a gorgeous two-tone paint job, correct wheels and tires, leather seats, speedometer in miles-per-hour, and basic yet cozy cabin that can take up to 8 passengers alongside the driver.

All of these, combined helped it win various West Coast concours events, including the Hillsborough in 2014, and it also brought it various awards at every event it entered.

Details surrounding its exact mileage haven't been released by RMSothebys, which have the classic listed for their New York City auction, which will take place on December 6.

However, they do say that it was originally shipped to Los Angeles, California, back in 1960, and that it's offered with a proper tool roll, a classic Volkswagen logo ignition key, and another key used to open the engine and gas doors.

The Microbus will be offered without reserve, though the auction house estimates it will fetch between $150,000 and $225,000.

PHOTO GALLERY

Baojun Upgrades The 730 7-Seat MPV With 1.5-Liter Turbo Engine

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 05:36 PM PST


Spending $15,000 on a new car in the US would land you a new Ford Fiesta with a few extras, but the same amount will get you a new Baojun 730 in China.

Upgraded for the new MY, the MPV is still based on a Lotus-tuned chassis, though it gets a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine rated at 147 HP (149 PS) and 170lb-ft (230Nm) of torque that's mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Despite carrying a starting price of RMB 99,800 ($15,045), the MPV made by SAIC-GM-Wuling exclusively for the Chinese market comes with a few high-tech features, such as the active air intake grille, which controls the air entry into the engine compartment, allowing it to reach the optimal temperature faster, and reducing wind drag.

The 730 has a 2+2+3 seating layout, and is available with a new black and grey interior trim, dark wood-like accents, ice blue ambient lighting, dual-color seats and a 9-speaker Infinity sound system by Harman, which was custom made for this vehicle. Moreover, the automaker claims that the cabin is "segment-leading quiet", thanks to sound-absorbing and soundproofing materials.

GM's local joint venture expects the upgraded MPV to continue the success of the model introduced in 2015, which managed to achieve a 5-star safety rating from C-NCAP.

PHOTO GALLERY

Get An Inside Look At The 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 05:11 PM PST


Mercedes-Benz is whetting our appetite for the new, fourth generation A-Class with the first official photos of the compact car's cabin, released at an exclusive event in Germany, Wednesday night.

If the interior design looks familiar, that's because the new A-Class draws heavily from the latest E-Class and to a lesser extent, the S-Class. It borrows the former's dashboard layout with two high-tech, free-standing flat screens, five turbine-look air vents and simplified center console, and the S-Class' multifunctional steering wheel.

The highlight, of course, is the two screens that seem to be floating on top of the dashboard that's divided by a 'trench'. They will be available in three versions, depending on the model and equipment chosen. Base trims get two 7-inch (17.78 cm) screens, while higher level models either one 7-inch and one 10.25-inch (26 cm) or two 10.25-inch displays. The latter two variants use bonded glass technology for the screens.

The first screen replaces the traditional instrument panel while the other is used to display, and in conjunction to the buttons on the center console and the touchpad, control the air-conditioning and infotainment systems.

The same interior will be used on all A-Class derivatives.

"Thanks to the visual separation of the lower section from the main body of the dashboard, the former appears to float in front of the dashboard," says Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "At the same time, the A-Class is the first series-production model to dispense completely with a classic cockpit shroud. This literally places the large widescreen cockpit with its bonded glass technology in the forefront. Moreover, there is no longer a display in the A/C control panel, as the visual representation is exclusively via the central display."



If you haven't figured it out already, one of Mercedes' main goals was to nudge the A-Class closer to its more luxurious siblings by offering buyers of its entry model the sense that they're getting the same treats, but in a smaller, and more city-friendly, package.

To that extent, the Germans claim to have amplified the level of luxury by offering features and options more commonly found in higher segments. Two examples mentioned by Mercedes include the seats with climate control and massage functions, and the use of 64 LEDs for direct and indirect lighting to create a special and personalized ambience

On top of that, Benz says that the new A-Class will be more spacious for both passengers and their luggage. In particular, there's more shoulder-room (front +9 mm, rear +22 mm), elbow-room (front +35 mm, rear +36 mm) and headroom (front +7 mm, rear +8 mm), while boot space has increased by 29 liters to 370 liters.

Furthermore, thanks to the two-section rear lights, the loading aperture is 200mm wider than before, and the luggage compartment floor is 115 mm longer. The rear seats have a 60/40 split as standard, while a rear seat backrest with a 40/20/40 split will be available.

Passengers will have more and bigger storage units inside, with the door panels now having enough space to hold 1.5-liter bottles or A4-sized magazines.

Mercedes also stated that the A-Class will offer much better visibility as the obscured area has been reduced by 10 percent compared to the current model. "This was principally achieved by specifically slimming down the A, B and C-pillars and their claddings. Improved visibility is also assured by positioning the exterior mirrors on the door outer panel rather than in the mirror triangle," said the automaker.



The arrival of the five-door A-Class hatchback is scheduled for next year's Geneva Motor Show in March, with European sales starting in the summer. It will be followed by a more conservative A-Class Sedan in both regular and long-wheelbase (likely for China) forms in the same year, while in 2019, we'll see the replacements for the GLA crossover and the CLA in four-door sedan and possibly, shooting brake (estate) body styles.

All models will share the same underpinnings and powertrains that will include diesel, gasoline and 48V plug-in petrol-electric hybrid units. On the performance front, we'll see a new A40 AMG model with a de-tuned 2.0-liter four producing around 300 horses, and a full-force A45 AMG with a newly developed 2.0L four banger churning out over 400 horses.

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Ferrari's Portofino Now Speaks Mandarin As It Gets Launched In China

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 04:30 PM PST

Ferrari has brought the new Portofino to China, as part of their 70th anniversary celebrations that featured a program spanning 60 nations.

The successor of the California T will have a starting price of RMB 2,908,000, or $438,382 at today's exchange rates, in the People's Republic.

The steep price is due to the local luxury tax imposed on imported vehicles. To understand just how expensive the baby Ferrari really is in China, you should know that for that money one would be able to buy a 488 Spider in the US and keep around $150,000 in their bank account.

Coinciding with the local launch of the Portofino, Ferrari walked away with the 'China Performance Car of the Year' title, which was given to the 812 Superfast by a panel of 29 editors-in-chief, who voted it the most favored in Greater China after several rounds of screening and evaluation. The award was presented to the Prancing Horse in Guangzhou on November 16.

FERRARI PORTOFINO CHINA



FERRARI 812 SUPERFAST

McLaren 720S Vs 800 HP Dodge Viper ACR: Who's The Boss?

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 03:57 PM PST


One would think that a Dodge Viper ACR would be enough to tackle the new McLaren 720S - especially a tuned example like this one.

This particular ACR has new heads, cam, and a custom exhaust, which allow the 8.4-liter naturally aspirated V10 to make approximately 800 horsepower at the crank, or some 155 HP more than the stock one, which is good for 645 HP and 600lb-ft (813Nm) of torque.

Despite having a smaller 4.0-liter V8 engine (albeit with two turbos strapped to it) delivering 710hp and 568lb-ft of torque to the wheels, the McLaren 720S incredibly fast. Compared to its US-bred contender, the British supercar has some advantages, such as a dual-clutch gearbox instead of a manual stick shift, clever aerodynamics and less weight.

Now, we already know that the 720S is capable of beating some very serious machines on the drag strip, and the Viper ACR has recently ended up on its list, but how fast is it compared to this 800 HP example? DragTimes have put together a video that shows the two exotics going head-to-head in a few roll races, so click on the "play" button and find out who comes out on top.

VIDEO

America's Hyundai Kona Teased For The Los Angeles Auto Show

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 03:55 PM PST


The Los Angeles Auto Show kicks off next week and Hyundai has released the first teaser image of the US-spec Kona crossover.

The company is keeping details under wraps but the model should closely resemble the Kona that is sold in overseas markets. As a result, we can expect the a boldly styled crossover which features a prominent grille, plastic body cladding, and a unique front lighting system that mimics the Jeep Cherokee.

Detailed specifications will likely be announced on November 29th but the UK-spec model can be equipped with premium features such as leather upholstery and heated / ventilated front seats. Other options include an automatic climate control system, a wireless smartphone charger, and an infotainment system with an 8-inch display.

There's no word on what will power the US-spec model but the Kona is offered with an assortment of different engines in the United Kingdom including a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder that produces 120 PS (88 kW) and 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) of torque. A more likely candidate is the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine which develops 177 PS (130 kW) and 265 Nm (196 lb-ft) of torque. With the latter engine, the Kona can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 127 mph (204 km/h).

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Is The Ford F-250 Platinum Really Worth $77,000?

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 02:58 PM PST


The Cadillac Escalade EXT and Lincoln Mark LT have all fallen by the wayside but that doesn't mean the luxury pickup market has gone the same route. Instead, automakers are constantly introducing new range-topping models which regularly surpass the $50,000 mark.

While the GMC Sierra Denali is one of the better known luxury pickups, it's far from the only one as Ford and Ram offer Limited variants which are about as plush as they are rugged.

The Ford F-250 eschews the Limited trim but it's available as in Platinum guise for an eye-watering $62,310. Of course, the truck can still be equipped with an assortment of options and the one Doug DeMuro recently checked out stickered for $77,000.

That's nearly $6,000 more than the Mercedes-AMG E43 but the truck obviously has some advantages as the model offers an impressive payload and towing capacity as well as a huge bed which can haul plenty of cargo. The model also comes equipped with some legitimate luxury features including a panoramic sunroof and heated and ventilated front seats with a massage function.

Of course, driving a full-size pickup isn't like taking a spin in a Honda Accord as the F-250 has a massive turning radius. However, it's not all bad as the truck is quiet and offers a smooth ride as well as decent acceleration.

Videos

Israel Wants To Make Double Parking A Criminal Act On Par With Drunk Driving

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 02:32 PM PST


Getting double parked is a major inconvenience as drivers could be stuck waiting around for hours for another person to arrive and allow them to exit their parking space.

While the double parking is annoying, it could soon carry some serious consequences in Israel as Fox News is reporting Michael Malchieli has introduced a bill in the Knesset which would punish double parkers as seriously as people who drive drunk or drive without a license.

The Israel National News reports the bill states "Existing traffic laws regulate the movement of vehicles, parking and pedestrian traffic" but "provisions of the law do not currently grant clear enforcement powers to municipal police officers and inspectors for parking lots in shared buildings." As a result, the bill was introduced to "make it clear that parking in a lot contrary to traffic regulations, in a manner that restricts or prevents the passage of vehicles, in a manner that is not safe, is a [criminal] offense, and police officers will have the enforcement powers already established by law."

In essence, the bill would give police officers the power to deal with double parkers in a variety of different locations and provide them with tools to discourage the activity.

The bill doesn't specify which penalties double parkers would face but Fox News notes double parking would be added to a list of criminal acts which result in a fine or a minimum of two years in prison.

Photo Gallery

Lamborghini Urus Reportedly Does 0-62 MPH In 3.3 Sec And 188+ MPH

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 02:14 PM PST


The Lamborghini Urus will be unveiled on December 4th but we're starting to learn more about the crossover as Automobile Magazine has published an early review of a pre-production prototype.

According to the publication, the crossover will be powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces approximately 650 hp (484 kW) and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm) of torque. The engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission which sends power to an all-wheel drive system with a Torsen center differential and a locking rear differential.

While the Urus reportedly weighs more than 4,400 pounds (1,995 kg), the model is ridiculously quick as magazine says the crossover accelerates from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than 3.7 seconds and that figure got as low as 3.35 seconds during testing. The top speed is reportedly higher than 188 mph (302 km/h) and the Urus can lap the Nardo test track as quick as the Huracán.

You can read the full review at Automobile Magazine but the publication reports Lamborghini is also working a plug-in hybrid variant that will feature a V6 engine. There could also be lighter and more powerful Urus Performante on the horizon with more than 700 hp (522 kW).

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

Photo Gallery

Bentley Bentayga Field Sports By Mulliner Is The Ultimate Hunting Tool

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 01:36 PM PST


Bentley and luxury shotgun maker Purdey have teamed up to create the Bentayga Field Sports by Mulliner.

Billed as the "ultimate field sports lifestyle accessory," the one-off model is essentially a standard Bentayga which has been equipped with a custom storage unit that is constructed out of leather and aluminum. The sliding storage unit features an assortment of different compartments which can hold shotgun shells, binoculars, and ear muffs. The compartment is lockable and also includes a humidor as well as several different drink holders and a flask.

Since the crossover was designed for hunting, the Bentayga Field Sports by Mulliner comes with a leather-trimmed case which can hold two shotguns. The case rests on top of the storage unit and fits in between the rear seats.

Since Purdey also specializes in high-end fashion, the model has an "exquisite" bag that holds a waistcoat, a waterproof cape, and a field coat. It also houses gaiters, shoes, and an overnight bag.

Bentley declined to mention performance specifications but the model likely features a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine that produces 600 hp (447 kW) and 663 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque. It enables the standard Bentayga to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds before hitting a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).

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Photo Gallery

VW Tiguan Accessories Concept Is For The Dogs

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 12:59 PM PST


Volkswagen has unveiled the new Tiguan Accessories concept at the Wags, Wheels and Waffles charity event in California.

Since the event is focused on raising funds to help find homes for rescued animals, the Tiguan Accessories concept is an pet-friendly crossover which is based on the seven-seat Tiguan SEL Premium.

Starting with the exterior, the concept has been equipped with 19-inch Victoria Falls wheels which have a custom anthracite gray finish. The crossover also features an Urban Loader cargo box which can hold up to 17.7 cubic feet (501.2 liters) of luggage. Rounding out the exterior changes are aluminum side steps and side window deflectors.

Volkswagen didn't release interior photos but the company said the concept has all-season floor mats, custom seat covers, and a Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness. There's also a heavy-duty trunk liner and a WeatherTech PetSTEP ramp. Last but not least, the model has a universal tablet mount in the second row that can be used to hold a variety of tablets.

The concept is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder engine that produces 184 hp (137 kW) and 221 lb-ft (299 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

Photo Gallery

Hear The Kia Stinger GT Growl With A Borla Exhaust

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 12:25 PM PST


If you believe the reviews, the 2018 Kia Stinger is everything we ever hoped for, offering drivers superb thrills and luxury to rival the German alternatives.

Sitting at the heart of the range-topping Stinger is a twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 engine delivering 365 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, this engine, nor the exhaust system, produce an intoxicating soundtrack.

Thankfully, aftermarket firms have already started to resolve this, developing new exhausts for the South Korean sports sedan. As the video below demonstrates, the exhaust developed by Borla totally transforms the Kia.

The first 90-seconds of the video highlight the standard exhaust of the Stinger while the final 30-seconds show a bright orange Stinger with the Borla system. Not only does the aftermarket exhaust sound much better at idle, it also roars at full throttle, perfectly complementing the car's performance and eye-catching looks.

VIDEO

Imagine Getting Rear-Ended By This NSFW Mobile

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 02:15 PM PST


Batman has the Batmobile to play around with, but what would a guy named Richard drive? Yes, you're right, that would be a Dickmobile!

Now, leaving all puns aside, this contraption is as real as they come, and judging by the images posted on HowNotToDesignACar, a lot of work has been literally put into making it look like a…well, very special car indeed.

Regardless if you're looking at it from the front, side, or rear, it leaves very little to the imagination. It even comes with an open-top cabin that has room for two, and it also gets a black fabric soft top for when the weather turns nasty.

And if you're curious as to why would someone build or drive around in something like this, know that it's an 'art car' that was made in 1969 and retired 5 years later, but not before being driven for 500 miles (805km) on the streets of Los Angeles by its maker, Steve Paige.

Still, hopefully the weird machine doesn't have any hidden features for bumpy roads, and it's also probably the last thing you would want to get rear-ended by.

PHOTO GALLERY



VIDEO

Mercedes-AMG G63 Battles Porsche 718 To Prove It's More Aerodynamic Than A Brick

Posted: 22 Nov 2017 11:29 AM PST


While the AMG-powered G-Wagen may have plenty of grunt at its disposal, it's not exactly the type of car you want to be in if quick acceleration is your main priority.

It's true that certain SUVs can actually keep up with a sports car like the Porsche 718, however, we're talking about models that aren't as heavy as the G63, have more power, and aren't shaped like a gondola cabin.

As for what the numbers tell us, well, the Mercedes has more power and torque than the Porsche, sending its wheels no less than 570 PS and 760 Nm (560 lb-ft).

The 718 Boxster S on the other hand, packs 350 PS and 420 Nm (309 lb-ft) of torque, though weighs a lot less. In fact, the G63 is heavier by over a tonne, which does nothing to favor its power-to-weight ratio in this particular matchup.

Keep in mind however that this race features a rolling start, which sometimes can help cars that are at a weight disadvantage.

VIDEO

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