Ford F-150 Raptor 2016 - For Adrenaline Addicts

Ford shows at the NAIAS 2015, the Raptor, the ultra-sporty flagship of its F-150 series. In the fall of 2016 Colossus is launched. We have already taken place in the mega-pickup. At the Detroit Auto Show 2015, the guys from "Ford Performance" have (like the M GmbH or AMG) rolled the king of the successful F-150 on stage. The F-150 Raptor is one of the top stars at the fair in Michigan. One more reason to look at it in more detail.

The fat V8 has to make a six-cylinder space, New machine in the bow: the V8 has had its day, now provides a V6 Ecoboost for adequate propulsion. Under the huge bonnet with large central binnacle now slumbers a new V6 Ecoboost engine. The fat 6.2 V8 from the predecessor was buried. The best thing is that Ford promises that the new 3.5-liter unit will whip more power to the tarmac, as the old eight-cylinder engine with its 417 hp. Also the maximum torque is 588 Newton meters of top the predecessor. Since the Raptor launches in the US until autumn 2016 Ford can not give any exact performance. Some modifications may be made before production starts. Highlight of the new Raptor is the new ten-speed (!) - Automatic transmission, which can also be switched over giant bronze perforated steering wheel paddles. The engineers have the mega-pickup donated a new all wheel drive system that guarantees optimal distribution between front and rear wheels. As the "normal" F-150 also saves the Raptor thanks to a lightweight aluminum alloy around 250 kilos in weight compared to the previous one.

Different driving modes provide off-road capability

Well prepared the terrain: Six driving modes take any bad track the horror.
For optimal stability in difficult turf provide a special off-road suspension and a widened by 15 centimeters body. The new "Offroad Mode Driving Technology" offers six different driving modes to "normal" (tagtägliches cruising), "Road" (sporty on-road driving), "weather" (rain, snow, ice), "Mud and Sand," "Baja "(fast off-road driving) and" rock "(slow ride over rocks and boulders). Externally falls on especially the large hood bulge, perched on a huge air scoop with four large gills. A front camera transmits images to the display inside. Huge Raptor logos are attached to the rear fenders left and right. The back of the tailgate is a silver sign with the words "Ford Performance". A clear statement of who is responsible for the performance figures for the race truck. Between the massive off-road slippers and the wheel arches fits loosely a forearm length. Two thumb thickness round tailpipes left and right the extremely aggressive styling of the Ford F-150 Raptor from. The doors open as in the standard F-150 in opposite directions.

The interior is cheap leather and carbon on

For his passengers he makes fine: Alcantara and carbon, the Raptor cleans the inside out.
Sorry, no concrete statements about diversity and functions of assistance systems to make, since it is a study. It is already clear that all inputs via Ford SYNC3 (radio, media, telephone, navigation, etc.) are placed over an eight-inch touchscreen display and the interior design of the Raptor will lean functionally to the "normal" F-150 , Whether there is a voice control remains to be seen. Of seats and steering wheel gray Alcantara applications, air nozzles, speakers and shift gate found to be surrounded by bronze strips. On the outside of the gray seats are blue Raptor lettering on white leather strips incorporated into the inside of the doors elements in carbon look. The study also has a large sunroof. Whether we will see that in the standard version as standard or option, we know only in mid 2016th.

Mercedes Maybach S 600 SUV 2015 with 585 hp

Daimler is the Maybach scratch. As a Mercedes Maybach S 600, it offers 530 hp from twelve cylinders, opulent luxury and space. We drove him. Nothing! You just do not hear anything: The deliverable from February 2015 XXL version Daimler uses the S-Class under the name Mercedes Maybach S600 the crown. Forward a power plant works with twelve cylinders, six-liter displacement and 530 hp and outdoors, thousands torment into the evening. But on the clouds soft leather couch in the back of the new Mercedes Maybach is one of the world caught up and feels like a king.

On the clouds soft leather couch in the back of the new Mercedes Maybach is one of the world caught up and feels like a king. Unlike the little happy relaunch shortly after the turn of the millennium, they have built this time but no car and no own brand lifted from the baptism, but keep close to the S-Class. "A better starting point there is finally not," says the chief product strategist John Rath tires overlooking the superior comfort and the pioneering assistance systems in the current Mercedes flagship. Nevertheless,  is defined by thicker leather, elaborate stitching and softer cushion. While there are over 100 pages in the price list only a handful of options such as the silver champagne flutes or the panoramic roof with the electrochromic dimming of the SL, which are only the top version reserved. For heated cupholders or elegant folding tables you can get even for the two shorter wheelbases. And design changes such as the chrome B-pillar or new trim strips in the grill are more subtle. But the Maybach logo on the C-pillar, the luxury liner deserves alone with 20 inches more wheelbase, now fully benefit with a length of 5.45 meters, the backbenchers: Due to the huge success extended, so to speak.

But who can slide right into the back cushion of not only enjoys legroom as in the ballroom and seating as in the first class of a line flyer - only that it is better than sleeping in the Maybach Jumbo. And the infotainment system with fixed screens without touch function and a complicated remote control is now even again a little outdated. But enriched with ionized, dozens of times filtered and classy Argarwood perfume air, a cloud-like chassis, a gentle but firm massage function in the cushions and a further refined sound insulation you are caught up in a moment the world.

Alfa 4C Spider 2016 - Detroit Auto Show

Alfa displays at NAIAS in Detroit 4C Spider, the long awaited open-top version of the Italian sports car. And the two-seater makes neat noise.  After the presentation of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider concept in Geneva in 2013 following the Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS, 17 to 25 January 2015) is now the production version. What has changed almost nothing - only we now know as the open-air spectacle works in 4C: The roof is easily removed and packed in the trunk behind the engine into a pocket.

Nearly 60 pounds of extra weight makes the construction of the two-seater 4C, the so thanks to its carbon-aluminum construction weighs even still less than one tonne. This will ensure that the 1.8-liter 240-hp four-cylinder in the rear catapulted the little Italian in less than 4.5 seconds to 100 km / hr and a with a top speed of up to 260 km / h, hairstyle disheveled. As the man behind remains only the views of the muscular rear together with LED taillights.

Optional ensures the Akrapovič exhaust system for sound

The rear of the 4C Spider is crisp, as has been the study at the Paris Motor Show in 2014 showed.
A surprise, Alfa then still with the premiere of the 4C Spiders ready. The centrally placed in the study exhaust system is optional to have also. It is produced by Akrapovič that have long been known for their infernal sound in the scene. And we have asked ourselves, like the Alfa with the loud screeching standard system could get the MOT approval. And if that is not enough sound: With the introduction of the 4C Alfa Spider also brings an Alpine radio system on board, which provides additional reinforcement. The open-air festival comes just in time for summer on the market and will have to be had from 55,000 euros.

Help From Space - Nissan Technology

Nissan gets in the development of a self-propelled automobiles using the NASA. The carmaker and the American space agency have agreed on a multi-year collaboration. The challenges in space and on Earth would parallels, said Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn at the agreed cooperation.

 The partnership will help to accelerate the development of a safe and reliable Nissan technology. First, to be tested in California with a whole fleet of vehicles from the end of 2015 in the Ames Research Center NASA. The tests are intended to demonstrate the feasibility of a remote control in the transport of materials, goods and people, such as Nissan put it. NASA to provide data to other findings for the control of a planetary terrain vehicle from a ground station.

First Look The Leon Cupra ST 2015

Seat Leon Cupra offers the sporty B from March 2015 to as ST. The up to 280 hp Combined swallows almost 1500 liters of luggage if necessary. The three- and five-door brings the Seat Leon Cupra now as a station wagon, called ST. According to Dr. Matthias Rabe, Head of Research and Development seat has "a lot of fine work invested so as a combination of the Leon Cupra has the same feel and the same sportiness -. But all the extra utility" Beginning in March 2015 rolls of Leon Cupra ST to the dealers.

As the compact version of the Leon Cupra (three- and five-door) is the ST in two stages with 265 and 280 hp. The well-known 2.0 TSI engine with gasoline direct and port injection works, variable valve lift and has a built-in cylinder head exhaust manifold. In the best case (280 hp version and DSG) creates the Seat Leon Cupra ST sprint to 100 km / h in smooth six seconds. With a manual transmission, it is 6.1 seconds, 0.1 seconds slower is the version with 265 hp. The maximum torque of 350 Newton meters is available in two versions between 1700-5600 tours. The top is in all cases limited to 250 km / h. Thanks to its start-stop system and brake energy recovery of consumption in both performance variants should at only 6.6 and 6.7 liters (manual transmission) are - in reality is probably to be expected at least nine liters or more.

The combination gets all the technical features of the compact model

With three different optical packets, the Leon Cupra ST can customize.In addition to driving the station wagon has taken over the extensive features of compact three- and five-door hatchback. This includes the front-axle differential lock, which aims to improve traction and driving dynamics of the front-wheel drive. In extreme cases, the entire drive torque can be directed to one wheel. Furthermore, the basic equipment includes DCC adaptive chassis control, the Proggresivlenkkung with a variable gear ratio, a high-performance brake system with 18 respectively 19-inch wheels (Cupra 280), full-LED headlights and LED taillights. Sports seats in Alcantara, the Cupra steering wheel, ambient lighting with LEDs in the door panels and the multimedia system plus with 6.5-inch touchscreen belong to the series features in the interior. The options White Line, Black Line and Orange Line the lens can be the Leon Cupra further individualize ST. The border of the grille, exterior mirrors and parts of the two-tone aluminum wheels are then painted in the color.

The prices for the wagon version of the Leon Cupra start at € 32,560 for the manual transmission 265-hp version with DSG at least 34,260 euros due. The more powerful version with 280 hp and manual transmission is available with at least 33,860 euros in the price list (with DSG: from 35,560 euros).

First Drive - Audi Q3 RS 2015

Audi in southern Germany shall, after SUV Powerlifting: The Q3 RS delivers a powerful 310 hp. He surpassed the competition significantly.

The arms race in the southern German triathlon continues - and this time, Audi is in the lead. For in order to secure the Q3 the crown among compact SUVs, the Quattro GmbH equips small climbers for the first time to the RS-model. As of November 2013, it is therefore with prices starting at 54,600 euros with more power than any other model in this class. Where exactly how far Audi with 211 hp is closing at the brand new Mercedes and BMW GLA in the X1 does not go beyond 245 hp addition, the Lords of the Rings score now proud with 310 hp.
News and tests the Audi Q3

The 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine produces 310 hp and 420 Newton meters balanced on all four wheels. Be mobilized from the famous five-cylinder turbocharged 2.5 liter engine, but it shows up in Q3 of his tame, well, at least civilized side. Not that it would lack the lustful barrel organ of explosive power development. Finally, it shows off up to 420 Nm, which is relatively easy to feel good even 1.7 tons. But where the engine is in other RS models showing the childish enthusiasm of a fairly tipsy 1860 fans after a towering home win, he here feels more like FC Bayern fan in the air-conditioned VIP box at: Potent and willing, but a bit chilly , Even if you change with the new for the RS models "Drive Select" to sports mode and open the exhaust sound dampers, the car looks like a mealy-mouthed, at least for the occupants. Who then, however, hear it from the outside, the flapping kickdown before the ears.

A big exhaust pipe ensures sonorous sound - at least on the outside. Inside it stays surprisingly quiet.
And the driver has not only be heard but also his buttocks. And for the Popometer the RS Q3 has a lot to offer when he has from 0 to 100 in 5.5 seconds and you ride the Alps through the serpentine cuts, as if the centrifugal force only an imaginative fable and no physical formula. Despite the higher seating position, and with it the raised center of gravity, long spring and the lush design, the RS Q3 can not make tamed by curves. May the mighty quiet tires squeal on the 19-inch wheels and sometimes even flicker the ESP light - the Quattro engages and pulls the lowered was up three inches Geländegänger clean around the corner. This one looks best on-road and gives the finger so tightly under the steering wheel that you can not even adjust the on-board computer. Otherwise, the view might fall in the consumption calculation and the good conscience is passé: Is the RS Q3 to the test that is satisfied with 8.8 liters presentable, you can see then suddenly fast times twice shimmer across the display.

Inside it comes to Audi's usual very chic, as is the Q3 RS garnished with various sports extras.
On a winding country road and even more so on a day out in the mountains of the RS Q3 therefore makes a really good figure, even if the dual clutch sometimes seems a little nervous, but you most like itself changes gear at the end. But on the highway is the joy with the strong climbers literally not unlimited. Because unlike all other RS models makes the Quattro GmbH this time at pace not listen to reason and does not increase the maximum speed of. Even for love or money drives the RS Q3 therefore no faster than 250 km / h. Not that this pace would not be enough. And so a whole lot of air for a meaningful full throttle is released due to the high structure and the large end face no more anyway, admits Quattro boss Francis of Meel. But on the other hand it's silly if you get stuck with such a car behind a Golf GTI or a normal triple - especially the overtaking would always be enough for a little more steam. For while the RS Q3 tame and rear also looks demure in a side view, he has quite a glare rearview mirror: Who sees emerging behind the large nostrils and the huge Quattro logo, which gives voluntarily left lane.

100 hp more than the most powerful model an own family and the competition for at least 20 percent ahead - so that Audi secures once victory in the showdown of the small climbers and demonstrated before the premiere of a number larger Macan that you're not on the Porsche has to wait if you want to drive a sporty SUV. But who wants to score in the car quartet with RS Q3, which should make his stitches soon. For a long time, Audi will lead possibly can not keep. For Mercedes pulls the new GLA soon after, builds there an AMG four-cylinder and then comes to 360 hp. "It's quite possible," said an Audi-man stressed left, "that it is us coming up with an answer." The arms race is so merrily.

Volvo Sedan S60 - Detroit Auto Show

Volvo shows at the Detroit Auto Show robust cross-country version of the S60. This spills over the land boom of the mid-size sedan.

Volvo presented at the Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS, 17 to 25 January 2015), the mid-size sedan S60 in the Cross Country version. This offer Sweden by his own admission, the world's first sedan in the rugged terrain look at.

News and tests to Volvo

                                

Since 1997, Volvo Cars in increased choice in, most recently, the manufacturer presented at the Los Angeles Auto Show the V60 station wagon in a 65 millimeters higher down version from. Also, a lot more ground clearance will also have the sedan that comes on 18- or 19-inch tires with a particularly high cross-section on the market. These are primarily for driving off-road, provide the necessary robustness. As of spring 2015, the Volvo V60 Cross Country is available for purchase and available with either front- and all-wheel drive. The front-wheel drive gets its power from the drive-E D4 diesel engine with two liters of displacement, with the all-wheel variant of the 2.4-liter five-cylinder diesel ensures propulsion.