Sunday, 24 December 2017

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This 1986 Lotus Esprit HCi Turbo Should Fetch A Pretty Penny

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 03:42 AM PST


Reportedly one of just 246 HCi Turbo models ever built, this 1986 Lotus Esprit is certainly worth our attention.

The HCi variant was the first fuel-injected Esprit, utilizing a Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection system and a catalytic converted, on top of the higher compression engine, which is where the 'HC' moniker comes from.

When new, the 2.2-liter engine on turbocharged Esprit HC models would produce 218 PS (215 HP) and 298 Nm (220 lb-ft) of torque, with more pull available at lower engine speeds compared to previous incarnations.

This black over tan model, getting auctioned off on Bring a Trailer, comes with a removable roof panel, a 5-speed manual transmission, silver BBS wheels and just 48,000 miles (77,248 km) on the clock. The ad states that 4,000 miles ago, it was fitted with new cam belts, clutch kit, tensioners, rebuilt transaxle, fuel pump relay and ignition coil, among others.

Inside, it's got wider and lower tan leather seats, to accommodate taller drivers, although the driver's seat bolster does have a tear on it. Another negative is the non-operational air conditioning system, but at least there's a Sony head unit with four JBL speakers on-board.

PHOTO GALLERY

Collisions Galore: Relive The 10 Most Dramatic Moments Of F1 2017

Posted: 24 Dec 2017 02:15 AM PST


With 20 races on the calendar, it can be hard to catch each Grand Prix live. And even if you do, the most dramatic moments can quite literally pass you by in the blink of an eye.

Fortunately the organizers of the Formula One World Championship have compiled the best bits of action into this four-minute clip.

The highlights reel includes the first-lap carnage in Canada, the collision between the two Red Bulls in Hungary, Romain Grosjean running over a manhole cover in Malaysia, and Valtteri Bottas passing Lance Stroll at the finish line in Azerbaijan.

We also see both Ferraris puncturing their tires in Britain, Vettel and Stroll colliding (also) in Malaysia, Button flipping Pascal Wehrlein onto his side in Monaco, Vettel bumping into Hamilton in Azerbaijan (again), Verstappen's contested last-lap move on Raikkonen in Austin, and the starting-line carnage in Singapore.

Those top ten moments were voted on by fans, so if you've got beef with the choices, you can rant out the window... or tell us what they missed in the comments section below.

Video

These Are The Best 10 Supercars Of The 2000s

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 06:50 PM PST


The 2000s was a beautiful time for the supercar as great technological advancements allowed carmakers to take their high-performance cars to unexplored heights.

In order to celebrate the cars launched throughout the decade, Donut Media has put together the following video of what it believes are the best 10 supercars from the era.

In 10th place, we have the Saleen S7, a car that was short-lived, but unlike anything else to ever come out of the United States. Next is the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, a supercar that competed with the Porsche Carrera GT and Ferrari Enzo, but offered much more practicality and comfort. On the eighth spot we find the Porsche Cayman-based Ruf CTR3, a 224-mph (360km/h) animal.

Taking home seventh place is the 2004 Ford GT, followed by the Lamborghini Murcielago SV, a car we'd actually place a few spots higher on the list. Rounding out the top five are the Koenigsegg CCXR, Gumpert Apollo S, Porsche Carrera, GT, Ferrari Enzo, and in 1st, the iconic Bugatti Veyron (no surprises there).

Do you agree with the list or do you think other supercars are worthier of making the top 10?

VIDEO

Giving A Foot Massage Is One Way To Promote The New Audi A8

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 05:41 PM PST


Design features, high-tech equipment, and its marketed Level 3 autonomous driving system have all been left aside by Audi in their latest A8 commercial, which focuses on something a bit more enjoyable.

But what could be better than having your flagship saloon drive you around in autonomous mode as you enjoy the scenery behind the wheel? Why, of course, the A8's  foot rubbing function if you hop back at the rear and which can be combined with other types of massage, including for your back, with three levels of intensity to choose from.

To put this feature to the ultimate test, Audi offered six random people the opportunity to get inside the new generation A8 and enjoy 10 minutes of massage, at the Munich airport, in Germany, comparing its rear seat to "a wellness area".

"Whether 'wave', 'stretch', 'relaxation' or 'vitalization' - in every mode, the seat massages for ten minutes", says Audi. "The comfort seat in the rear is especially cozy: it offers an additional comfy footrest that can both massage and warm up feet."

There's no happy-ending to this video, because that would be the unveiling the new S8 for most Audi enthusiasts out there. The performance version of Audi's luxury limo should debut next year, likely powered by the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine of the Porsche Panamera, delivering around 680hp.

VIDEO

BMW M760Li Has The Audacity To Take On Mercedes-AMG's Mighty S63

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 04:33 PM PST


The BMW M760Li xDrive isn't the M7 people have been waiting to happen for years, but it is still exceptionally fast. So fast, in fact, that it can actually challenge a Mercedes-AMG S63 in a straight-line.

AutoTopNL recently had the chance to drive the duo side-by-side on the Autobahn and have synced runs of the two luxury super sedans accelerating up to 315 km/h (196 mph).

What makes the range-topping 7-Series such a formidable rival is its twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12 that pumps out 592 hp at 5500 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque at 1500 rpm. Additionally, it features an M-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.

Surprisingly, the M760Li is not that far behind the mighty S63 AMG that, with 603 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, clearly has the upper hand when it comes to performance. Even so, throughout most of the run, it's within 5-10 km/h of its performance-focused foe from Stuttgart. Not bad for something that's not a true M car.


VIDEO

Dear Santa, We'd Like This Bespoke Audi RS3 For Christmas

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 03:29 PM PST


The new Audi RS3 Sedan is an absolute animal and thanks to German interior master Neidfaktor, has been turned into something that will be high on our Santa's Christmas wish list.

When it comes to interiors, Audi is one of the leaders in the premium car segment, but that doesn't mean things can't be improved, as evidenced by this RS3.

To make things a little more sumptuous, Neidfaktor has installed a new Alcantara-clad dashboard that incorporates bright red stitching and accents, including on the air vents. Further custom touches include new black leather, Alcantara, and red stitching on the steering wheel, relatively small changes that have a big impact on the interior and make the performance sedan all the more luxurious.

Audi unveiled the RS3 Sedan in September last year. In the U.S., the car is powered by a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder engine delivering 394 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint of just 3.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

PHOTO GALLERY

Honda NSX And S2000 Spoon Racers Will Make You The Coolest Kid On The Block

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 02:25 PM PST


For many (if not all) automotive enthusiasts the first-gen NSX and the S2000 have a lot of appeal, thus we reckon these two are not going to have trouble finding new homes.

Both this 2007 NSX-R GT as well as the 2013 S2000 ST-4 were modified by renowned Honda tuner Spoon, sharing dual-tone yellow and light blue liveries and plenty of performance mods between them.

The NSX is estimated to fetch anywhere between 13,500,000 and 18,500,000 Yen ($119,205 - $163,355), while the S2000 could go in the 5,800,000 to 9,000,000 Yen ($51,214 - $79,470) range.

According to Bhauction, this NSX-R GT took part in the Macau Road Sports Challenge, boasting a tuned C32B naturally aspirated engine, which was later replaced with a modified C30A using an after-market turbocharger, resulting in 550 PS. The ad also states that all the mechanical components have been maintained in race-ready condition.

As for the 2013 S2000 ST-4, Spoon built it for the ST-4 Super Endurance Race Class, where it actually raced for three years until 2016. While its engine is mostly standard to comply with JAF N1 regulations, a careful calibration of components led to it being more responsive than stock units. Other mods include the custom bumpers and of course the massive GT wing.

PHOTO GALLERY

Chris Harris Takes On The New Lamborghini Huracan Performante

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 01:21 PM PST


It took a while before Top Gear's Chris Harris got his hands on the new Lamborghini Huracan Performante, but the review is finally here.

Thus, the following video shows the automotive journalist and TV host drive the Italian supercar really fast on the Knockhill track.

Lamborghini have really done some serious work on the Performante, with clever aerodynamics, a giant rear wing, tuned four-wheel drive, recalibrated steering, grippy tires made by Pirelli and an extra 30PS (30hp) and 40Nm (30lb-ft) of torque produced by the 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10, which resulted in it braking the Nurburgring lap record by posting an unbelievable sub-7min time, beating the Porsche 918 Spyder and even Lambo's own Aventador SV.

These noticeable changes have significantly transformed the Huracan Performante over its LP610-4 sibling, turning it into a proper driver's car, according to Chris Harris, who states that this is, quite probably, the best car Lamborghini makes right now.

Nevertheless, as mega as it may be, it's not perfect, as you can see in the video that follows after the jump.

VIDEO

Drone Footage Reveals That Tesla Has Ramped Up Model 3 Production

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 05:17 PM PST


Tesla is well behind schedule with its Model 3, but drone footage of the carmaker's Fremont factory shows that it has increased its entry-level model production in recent months.

In October, Tesla revealed that it built just 260 examples of the Model 3 in the third quarter of the year "due to production bottlenecks." This was significantly less than the 1500 units which Musk asserted Tesla could build in September alone.

This clip perfectly captures the enormity of the automaker's facility and the large number of Model 3s sitting in parking lots at the site. At the same time, it's baffling why so many new Teslas are still in the company's parking lots, especially since over 400,000 people are waiting for their EVs to be delivered.

Nevertheless, Tesla fanatics and Model 3 customers will, in all likelihood, be happy with the news that the automaker is finally is increasing its inventory.

VIDEO

Latest Ford GT Review Takes Place At The Arctic Circle

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 11:15 AM PST

It's only fitting that one of the world's most beautiful supercars should visit one of the world's most stunning racing locations, namely the Arctic Circle Raceway in Norway.

This track was built very close to the Arctic Circle and is the northernmost racing circuit in the world, plus it makes for a refreshing change of venues on which the 655 PS (647 HP) supercar is being tested.

Aside from Evo's Steve Sutcliffe letting us know just how much he likes the all-new GT, you'll also see pro racer Stefan Mücke attempting to set a new lap record - and on road tires at that. In the end, the GT proved more than quick enough. Sutcliffe even says that had it used racing slicks, it could have gone six, maybe even seven seconds quicker.

What's also interesting is the fact that Mücke had never driven the Ford GT road car before, just the Le Mans racer, and he commented that it felt "quite a lot faster" than the race car in a straight line.

VIDEO

You Could Say This Chevy Silverado Owner Has A Thing For Chrome And Spoilers

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 10:10 AM PST


While tuning might actually improve the looks of a car, or in our case a pickup, sometimes they leave a lot to be desired. The owner of this Chevrolet Silverado 1500, for one, definitely went to town when it comes to personalizing his ride, but the end result is far from commendable.

This modified pickup was recently shared on Reddit, and it's difficult to know where to start discussing it.

Immediately, your eyes will probably be drawn to the chrome stickers that cover the majority of the vehicle's sides, including its A-, B-, and C-pillars. Additionally, the owner has decided to install a set of chrome side steps and chrome wheels to complete the mirror finish.

But things don't stop here, as at the rear, we count no less than at least six different spoilers lifted off other cars and lumped together on the tailgate. What's more, there's even a wing mounted to the roof.

To say this Silverado is an ode overkill would be an understatement - but that's just us; what do you think about it, is this Silverado a hit or a miss?

PHOTO GALLERY

Future Cars: 2019 Nissan Altima Brings The Visual Punch

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 09:01 AM PST


It's not a good time to sit back and relax if you're a mid-sedan manufacturer. Faced with an onslaught of increasing SUV sales, models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord have upped their game trying to lure buyers with sleek styling, good handling and strong performance.

Then there is the Nissan Altima; which is about as alluring as a bar of soap - sure it does the job, but you'll promptly forget what job that was. Fortunately, Nissan are injecting some youth into their lineup, so let's have a sneak peek at how the 2019 Altima will look like.

Dynamic Styling

At a first glance, you could be fooled into thinking you're looking at a shrunken Maxima, but no, it's Nissan's boldest adaptation of Vmotion-styling language to date.

The front is dominated by a large V-shaped grille, dipping into the lower intake and flanked by a pair of chiseled LED headlamps. A sculptured crease runs from the front fenders, fading outwards to the rear door. Then a secondary crease sits below this and flows towards the taillights.

The side profile is very Maxima-like, with a fastback roofline and separated black section within the C-pillars. Rounding out the rear are Audi-esque tail lamps, twin exhausts and a high deck lid.

Cabin & Architecture

Mirroring the overhauled exterior is a comprehensively redesigned and higher quality cabin. Nissan have joined many others in incorporating a tablet-style infotainment screen with two physical knobs and a row of buttons. The flat-bottomed steering wheel could almost be from a Mazda and the start-button is located in front of the gear lever.

It's tipped that the Altima will remain on the D platform shared with the Maxima and Murano, with an increase in wheelbase to expand on the current car's limited interior volume.

Conjecture has the possibility of all-wheel-drive thrown into the mix, adding to the Japanese carmaker's desire to increase dynamic appeal.

Powertrain & Performance

Nissan have been quiet on future powertrain technology for the Altima, but we expect the current crop of 2.5-litre and 3.5-litre mills to carryover, with CVT to aid improvements in fuel efficiency and performance.

Although discontinued back in 2011, the hybrid model could make a reappearance, along with the possibility of a turbocharged four also joining the range.

It will also have the latest driver assistance technology under the ProPilot banner. Having debuted on the new Nissan Leaf, it's able to help with steering, braking and acceleration on certain single-lane roads and highways.

Mid-size Rivals:

The 2019 Altima will arrive amongst some freshly updated competition, including the likes of Honda's new Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda6, Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima, Ford Fusion and Volkswagen Passat.

Expect it to debut early in the New Year, possibly at the Detroit Motor Show next month.

Does the new Altima have the looks to impress? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

By Josh Byrnes

Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes

Can The New Opel Grandland X Challenge The SUV Establishment?

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 07:59 AM PST


Up until recently, Opel/Vauxhall lagged behind in the popular crossover segment, as the Antara was discontinued and its sole offering was the sub-compact Mokka.

However, things have changed in the meantime, and the automaker offers not only an updated version of the Mokka, but also two new crossovers: the Crossland X and Grandland X.

The latter is the largest of the three and shares its underpinnings and engines with the latest Peugeot 3008. Just like its French counterpart, and unlike rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai and Seat Ateca that have all-wheel drive variants, it is solely front-wheel drive. There is a 'Grip Control' system available, though, which adjusts the traction control and stability settings depending on the road surface, and for most of its buyers it'll probably do just fine.

Inside, the Grandland X has an upscale feel thanks to the soft touch materials, glossy black bits and aluminum trim, and rear legroom is okay.

On the downside, Opel's SUV could learn a thing or two from the Ateca and Qashqai in terms of offering a comfortable ride and reduced road and wind noise.

WhatCar reviewed the Grandland X, and you can see the details, and their verdict, in the video that follows.

VIDEO

We'd Love To See A New Peugeot RCZ But, Sadly, It Won't Happen

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 05:18 PM PST


In a cut-throat automotive world where modern customers dream of owning SUVs and crossovers, a sports car from a brand that doesn't have a history in this niche, like Peugeot's RCZ is, sadly, not a favorite with customers.

Consequently, it's little surprise that Peugeot has ruled out the possibility of a new RCZ on numerous occasions, no matter how sexy such a car could be. If you're like us, you may be upset by the French automaker's decision after seeing these renderings of what a next-generation RCZ could look like.

Created by Russian artist Aksyonov Nikita, the new RCZ has been rendered in both coupe and cabriolet guises and retains many of the same styling elements as the original - which, in our opinion, is no bad thing as it was already quite a looker.

From the double-bubble roof to the elongated decklid and short front overhang, the RCZ was one of the most eye-catching cars on the market. Updated with a set of LED headlights and taillights, it looks even sleeker.

Like we said, though, Peugeot prefers spending its cash developing SUVs, like the 3008, that sell like hotcakes and the low-volume RCZ will not be replaced.

PHOTO GALLERY

2018 Renault Kadjar Review Is A Tale Of Two Diesels

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 05:57 AM PST


If you're in the market for an affordable and feature-rich crossover, the 2018 Renault Kadjar can make a compelling case for itself.

According to Carwow's review, the Kadjar, while not exactly the best car in its class, is still worth shortlisting before you set out to visit nearby car dealerships. Compared to rivals such as its close relative, the Nissan Qashqai, the Kadjar offers a bigger boot and you'll fit better in the back if you're an individual with above average height, even in the middle seat.

The car being tested here is a 1.6-liter dCi diesel with 130 PS. While on paper it's quicker than the 110 PS 1.5 dCi, according to the reviewer you don't really notice the power difference between the two and, what's more, the dCi 110 is quieter, too.

Despite a few ergonomic hiccups, the Kadjar is still a very practical car for its size and worth taking a look into, which is quite an achievement considering that it belongs to one of the most competitive segments in the industry.

VIDEO

Ford Boosts Fiesta Production In Europe To Meet Increased Demand

Posted: 23 Dec 2017 05:01 AM PST


Ford has ramped up production of the new Fiesta supermini in order to meet the increased demand in European markets. Specifically, the automaker has extended the existing shifts and added new ones on Saturdays during November and December in order to increase daily production of the new Fiesta to 1,500 cars.

"The previous Fiesta was already a much-loved car, and if you add to that the many improvements offered with the new model, including our unique pedestrian detection system, this success is not altogether a surprise." said Ford of Europe's vice president in Marketing, Sales and Service, Roelant de Waard.

Customers in Europe are offered the new Ford Fiesta in Titanium, ST-Line and Vignale trim levels, with the company also set to add the Active pseudo-crossover version early next year.

The base engine is a 1.1-liter with either 70PS or 85PS, followed by the turbocharged 1.0-liter Ecoboost in 100PS, 125PS and 140PS guises, as well as a 1.5-liter TDCi diesel with 85PS and 120PS.

Ford is not going to bring the new Fiesta supermini in the US, leaving the Ecosport to play the role of the entry-level model in its range.

PHOTO GALLERY

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