Supertest: 2015 Mercedes Future Truck

Autonomous Future Truck 2025 from Mercedes can forever change the face of the main truck. TopGear received an exclusive invitation to the wheel

“We were inspired by the French group Daft Punk. They live always in helmets so that no one knew what they look like…”

Here is what Mercedes chief designer Bertrand Janssen about the “face” of the new concept, the autonomous truck Future Truck 2025. Rarely in the design of commercial vehicles penetrates the esthetics of French electropop. As pompous phrases like “sensual purity”, as well as skin cream flowers and trees with a porous finish. But Future Truck 2025 is no ordinary truck loaded with pallets and trash.

“It is very clean, absolutely speechless,” – says Jansen, friendly Dutchman with fashionable stubble. His truck instead of the traditional muzzle put on a bizarre mask: 2025 facade dotted with LEDs. In normal use, pulsating white (“beating heart of the machine”) and offline become blue. No headlights and turn signals traditionally. “Lights are not needed because the driver does not need to look at the road – explains Jansen. – The lights serve only to warn others.”

Whether standalone Future Truck 2025 real wagon, without headlights, would certainly not have done. Sometimes at night you need to take control in their hands.

Inside, the same story. This cocoon of expensive leather and wood with numerous HD-displays. You can not say it – cab of the truck. Design boldly denies conventions: clicking on the headrest, you can turn the driver’s seat by 45 ° clockwise – the steering wheel in the interior. But to remove the feet from the pedals and look away from the road is quite difficult. Feel uncomfortable.

However, with the exception of the conceptual beauty in 2025. All very realistic. White body – familiar Actros. Hybrid hydrogen plant is not, instead – a new 12.8-liter 6-cylinder diesel Mercedes capacity of 500 forces, torque 2440 Nm already. “There is no space, – says Georg Stefan Hagemann, head of an innovation. – Similar ideas we can implement in a very short period of time. “

COMPUTERS ARE MUCH BETTER THAN US, UNRELIABLE AND IRRESPONSIBLE FELLOWS

Including systems for autonomous movement. They are all very real and partly taken from the new S-Class. 2025 has already passed the first test on the autobahn, he remarkably rode 80 km / h, smashing cars off the road, turning where necessary and not trying to dive under the bridge is too low.

How does he do it? With many eyes. In the front bumper has a radar near and long range. Last scans a narrow portion of the road 250 meters ahead, with a viewing angle of 18 °, and in the first range wider than 130 °, but the range – of 70 meters.

Stereo camera at the base of the windshield with an overview of 45 ° horizontally and 27 ° vertically gives 3D-images of the road a hundred meters ahead. This camera recognizes not only cars, pedestrians and stationary objects, but also the road markings with signs. On each side of the cabin even radars scanning the entire length of the board in order to avoid “blind spots.” Add to this network V2V (vehicle-vehicle) and V2I (vehicle-infrastructure) and get a truck that can communicate with others vehicles and road structures: bridges, terminals and even the toll road with truck parking.

Many trucks, but nobody beats. Drivers of cars are delighted

But he will not make it out of Minsk in Maidenhead until the carrier napping on a cot. “The truck will follow the driver. That he tacked on and not sleep, – says Hagemann. – If the system does not receive data [that the driver awake], it will score the alarm. If the control and will not be transferred, the 2025 slowly stops on the roadside. By default, the truck will be slavishly sit in the band, and if the pilot wants to overtake, it will have to turn off the autopilot. “

All technologies are tested and working. Cruise control with stereo cameras and radars (including side) will soon appear on the series trucks. So why Mercedes prototype called “2025”, and not, say, “2016”?

The main technical problem – the integration of multiple monitoring systems. All the elements are close to the production stage, but each with its own language. Teach radars, cameras, and wireless systems to understand each other, to build a single detailed picture of everything that surrounds truck – phenomenally difficult task. Hagemann thinks that it will take years.

“If we add further elements, the system can detect weaknesses. We still feel it and experience. And legal issues too much.”

Legal issues – the main obstacle standing in front of autonomous vehicles. Lawyers all over the world now at war with the provisions governing the use of autonomous vehicles, and there is much confusion. New European regulations allow “corrective action steering system” at speeds up to 11 km / h, but not completely autonomous movement. That is why, although the new S-Class and is able to steer, brake and accelerate to maintain position in the stream without human intervention, the driver should hold the steering wheel, or rice-forges provoke a storm of squeaks and buzzes. While international law does not find a way to resolve the fully autonomous vehicles (and foresee the consequences of the first major accident), the technology will remain in standby mode. The delay is caused not by a lack of demand for truckers, says Hagemann.

“The drivers and dispatchers all hands at the idea – he adds. – Errors are costly. ” No wonder the ancient proverb says that the most unreliable gasket – between the wheel and the seat. How would we have any scary thought that a handful of processors and a coil of wires can be controlled with driving in the modern world, the truth is that computers will soon be able to do so much better than us, unreliable and irresponsible fellows. After all, computers do not go away with his head in picking your nose and do not argue with commentators on the radio.

Autonomous vehicle, according to Mercedes, maybe release truckers for other work – for example, logistics management fleet with its 4G-tablet. In a cynical magazine than TopGear, would have written that are exempt from the tedious need to watch the road truckers can find other ways to dispose of their newfound freedom. For example, eating chips and dill.

Such technologies should be interested and us mere mortals. You notice the wagon, but when they get out in the fast lane or create kilometer traffic jams. But on the trucks, according to Ford, kept our continent. A recent survey, which was to determine the effects of the ban trucks in Europe, found that as soon as people stop getting their usual portion of food, drink and magazines TopGear, he quickly overeat, and chaos would reign. If governments do not save a few million kilometers of rails, we need efficient movement of freight transport to the country continued to prosper.

Autonomous trucks, if they do not rebel against humanity and not enslave us, make trucking a much more efficient and free up space on the roads. They will allow trucks to drive faster, closer to each other and in his free time. And truckers, who will be a lot of free time, support the publishing business, buying adult magazines. Although this is the industry almost went digital.

Source: TopGear, Mercedes-Benz

Supertest: 2015 Mercedes Future Truck

First time: new Aston Martin DB10

Modern secret agent should not be evident. That will help him in this better than unique, loud roaring Aston Martin with a shark snout?

His name is 10, Aston Martin DB10. At the presentation in Pinewood Studios, where from the stars was not breathe, director Sam Mendes took the ashes with a new, unprecedented Aston Martin, presenting one of the stars of “Spectrum”, the 24th James Bond film. The film will be released in late 2015, and Don Juan among the best fictional spies will again play Daniel Craig. It is not surprising, perhaps, that in addition to the name of the new service motor 007 is not known, because it is created in a secret laboratory MI6. Therefore TopGear chose lamp brighter and called for questioning creator Aston Martin DB10, chief designer of Aston Martin Marek Raikhman. To find out what will be installed on the DB10, read Is it the future of Aston Martin and that hides the long-predlinny hood. We need the truth. Only the true mother peremat!

Top Gear: Where did the project start Aston Martin DB10?

Marek Reichman: In our first meeting Sam Mendes described the idea of a new machine Bond. Machine-poster for the boys, who first watch a movie about the 007. I was immediately introduced a new DB5. Sporty, yet classic. Tool mechanism, scalpel, rather than the kitchen knife. That’s what I wanted Sam. Simple, clean Aston Martin, what was the first DB5.

TG: But not a variation on the DB5?

MR: Retro excluded. Sam said: “We do not need similarity DB5, otherwise it is better just take the original.” This car should be modern and unique.

Aston Martin DB10 – predator hunters. I wanted to do it that way …

TG: And that Aston Martin DB10 inside?

MR: Inside the V8 Vantage. The wheelbase is longer than the Vantage, and the track is incredibly broad, almost like the One-77. The engine, as you guessed, probably, 4.7-liter V8 … but there is also something you were not expecting. We want to focus on what they do hands of James Bond. Here’s a hint.

TG: Hmm, accepted. And why “DB10″, if he was a relative V8 Vantage, instead DB9?

MR: Because this is a modern interpretation of the DB5. Bond associated with the model DB. Vantage design need only to car traveled. He even proportions others. We had very little time to work – I had to take what was.

TG: What’s new for Aston design Aston Martin DB10?

MR: Proportions: very long hood and shifted aft cabin. Simple and elegant line is on your side: it starts from the top of the front wing, goes to the door and breaks above the rear wheel arch. Tough, sharp line. Wheels stick out from the body though. The most noticeable change on the nose – in reverse, sharks tilted grating. And the nose – the lowest of the people that we have ever done. But he is not aggressive. Simple, sleek silhouette.

TG: Has the style Aston Martin DB10 on a more realistic image of James Bond, created by Craig?

MP: Definitely. The character is now closer to the original, hard Bond that much time to physical training. I wanted to create an image of the car and the athlete. Daniel Craig, of course, a lot of swings, I wanted the car to be like him. He – a predator, a hunter.

Wax figures of Craig and Mendez frighteningly realistic

TG: This reflects the new, darker side of Bond?

LL: Grate in the shade – a message, explicit or subconscious as you want. In this car more gloom.

TG: Is it a picture props, and how – to demonstrate the future of design?

MR: It is one of ten cars for the film. Of course, we will take something from him in the future. But this is a car for the movie, a brand new car of James Bond. This association will be as direct as in the case of the DB5 and Sean Connery. This car will be Daniel Craig.

How it all began: Bond and Aston Martin first met in “Goldfinger”. DB5 Sean Connery received a full set of accessories from Kew: changing rooms, and a catapult (can not be!) Satellite navigation

TG: Cargo liability feel?

MR: It’s about you and this dream to become a designer. That someone will come and say: “We would like you to do a completely new wheelbarrow for Bond.” And you said: “Excellent, ready to start right now.”

TG: you collect ten Aston Martin DB10 They can be bought?

MR: They’re just for the movie. Some will break. Cars will not be sorry, they will participate in the real trick. And it is not computer graphics – inside sits a man and everything happens at the maximum speed.

TG: What distinguishes the work on the car for the movie to work on the concept?

MR: We have to think about how the car is moving, as it looks on the screen, whether it is beautiful in the pursuit, consider all angles. Not to mention the gadgets …

TG: Oh yeah, gadgets. Come on, Kew, lay …

MR: [laughs] No. I want, but I can not. Sam introduced the car as “the first member of the cast.” He has a big role. He will do what we do not expect.

TG: Like what?

MR: [thinks] For example, they have a relationship with Bond, but not like Bond with his girls. In the film, all will see and understand.

TG: Friendship Bond and the brand has already lasted half a century. Why is this relationship so strong?

MR: As we have an element of mystery. We are recognized throughout the world, but in his heart remains true British …

Source: topgear

First time: new Aston Martin DB10

Q & A: what is the Mercedes-Benz F015?

The owners of factories, newspapers, steamers, your robolimuzin arrived

- This is an aquarium on wheels, or what?

- I made a joke, right? In fact, Mercedes F015 Concept Luxury in Motion is not just a preview of the S-Class in 2030, but a car with a self-managed. Theoretically, it can be controlled, the question – why?

- I do not understand why, in fact, no?

- At the opening of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where he was represented by F015, head of Daimler AG Dieter Zetsche said: “In the future cars of the vehicles turn into mobile homes. This will be the new definition of luxury car, which is based on the concept of “third house”, in addition to the present home and office. “

- In mobile homes should probably be a very cool interior …

- Of course, F015 best looks from the inside. Chair with a frame made of polished aluminum covered with snow-white nappa. They rotate 360 degrees and illuminated LED strips. Six built-in HD-monitors are controlled by a proximity sensor, mimic control and monitoring functions for the eyes. Wheel leaves unless F015 into manual mode and the display tidy stretches from rack to rack. Wooden floor, on the front panel – walnut.

INTERESTINGLY, IN THE FUTURE WE WILL BE ABLE TO MEET WITH DOC BROWN?

- What’s under the hood?

- Hydrogen fuel cells, issuing 272 hp, acceleration to hundreds in 6.7 seconds, top speed of 200 km / h and a range of the order of 1,100 km. AMG version is not worth waiting. Lightweight body – a cocktail made of plastic reinforced with carbon fiber, aluminum and steel. Doors double, purely for fun without costing an average rack. Lights F015 pulsing blue when the car is moving in robot mode, white – if the process taxis reasonable man.

- It appears to be self-powered cars?

- Yes, as soon as (or rather when) legislators will investigate the legal aspects of the problem. “You see, it’s a robot on wheels! – Explains the delicate moment mersedesovsky special Paolo Malabuyo. – Great difficulties begin where converge technology, society and the law. Technology matures faster than the law, and society are extremely wary of cars-robots “.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Q & A: what is the Mercedes-Benz F015?

Test drive - 2015 Renault Clio RS

Celebration continues. Now, with the cup!

The joke was over. So I thought, giving the key card from dark red Renault and in return the same piece of plastic from the yellow Renault. Monthly test Clio RS, held under the slogan “We are for a cool sound!”, Came to an end. Yellow Renault – a version of Clio RS Cup, which means that now all seriously. His older brother, Megane RS Cup, has already visited us in the garage , and it is one of the brightest memories of my automotive life. As he turned (thanks to self-locking differential) as brakes, obeying tough but informative pedal! And he was also yellow, remember?

However, yellow can be normal and Clio RS Cup And easily recognizable by the black disk of an inch higher dimension.

They are exotic tire dimension 205/40 R18 – with the purchase of summer tires will be no problems, but in the winter little choice. Another Cup – it’s stiffer suspension and … and, in fact, everything. Locking still “simulation-e” in the settings of the motor and the robot no changes, and the only difference between “cup” brakes – red calipers. In short jokes, as it turned out, did not end there …

1. Control on the steering column requires habits, but generally comfortable

2. Icons are large, but the access to the main functions too multipass

3. Fabric upholstery looks and fun, and keeps better

Still, the package Cup I recommend to all who dare to buy Clio RS Losses in driving comfort with it small (it there is not any much) in cornering machine is still willing to go into a skid under discharge of gas, but on direct yellow Renault stable. And in the pits felt that the stock of energy intensity in “cup” Suspension higher. And the package is worth Cup inexpensive, even now, in the crisis – 35 000 rubles. Still I would not regret 12,500 rubles for the camera, and would have refused leather (for free!) In favor of the upholstery fabric. And it is not because I am an animal lover.

GOOD LUCK

• Cups suspension, a gift that is more rigid, more suitable for our roads


• Clio RS cute. And in yellow – and at the handsome

PUNCTURES

• Rare tire dimensions can transform a banal puncture a big problem


• Motor Clio RS Cup with the same settings raised almost consumption per liter. Accident?

But in fact, the problem of choice is more difficult, because with these options Clio RS becomes more expensive than the base Megane RS! Of course, it also lacks the sweet buns – the same package with samoblokom Cup. On Megane it is more expensive, but it’s worth it! Plus monitor Renault Sport, the motor turns into a wild beast, plus sports buckets … But still get no more fatal Clio RS What can answer the younger brother? Only the robot, a pair of rear doors and a lower road tax …

Test drive - 2015 Renault Clio RS

Test Drive: 2015 Ford GT

50th anniversary of the historic victory at Le Mans Ford will celebrate the release of the new supercar

A present baked to fame. What we have seen in the cozy lounges deytroyskogo “Cobo Center”, while only a concept car previews, seed, nothing more. On the other hand, a big fish bait bite even with a belly full of satiety. It abruptly impregnated anise bread crumb will be!

The new Ford GT – exactly the case when forming an opinion about the wheelbarrow photos or videos will not work. Live superkarische looks a million times better than a digital puzzle assembled on your monitor or page of the magazine. In short, GT ought to see alive – then his long razvidish. Imbued with the spirit and animal aggression this furious brute, just forget about the race compared to the original design by Eric Broadley half a century ago, or a series of enlarged copies submitted in 2005.

By the way, the “G-minute” failed miserably in the market. Of course, to make predictions in the automotive business dumb thing. But there is a feeling that the failure of the New-GT can only contribute to an unexpected intersection of the Earth’s orbit an asteroid the size of Mytishchi.

No, seriously – what they promise fordovtsy, can not play. This carbon diet, dropping supercar at the bottom of his class weights, and more than 600-horsepower 6-cylinder 3.5-liter “Ekobust” developed on the basis of race motor Championship IMSA, and active aerodynamics, and – last but not turn! – The absence of a pleasant conversation about hybrid technology and the environment in general. In swing them back …

In general, a steep shelf and desirable supercars will arrive soon – promise to the production version already in 2016. And if the “Blue Oval” not too clever by half the price of a sudden, the problem will appear not only in Houston.

Test Drive: 2015 Ford GT

Test Drive: 2015 Lexus NX

My dad somehow invented recovery. By this time she was once invented, but he did not know. Therefore invented it again. Conducted research, wrote a scientific paper with charts, integrals and logarithms and sent to the magazine about the recovery. There are also about recovery still did not know anything, so the article was accepted. I decided to surprise ancestor and drove up to the house on otchemu Lexus NX. Come on, I say, wait outside, and I’ll be there for you so. Can you hear the sound of the engine? It is not! Now Get in, go to accelerate. Look at the diagram on the monitor (monitor, by the way, so-so) we overclock using two motors and all-wheel drive. And now I brake, and the braking energy is stored in batteries. Recovery!

Father was cool. Said that Lexus, of course, well done work. Wheelbarrow is necessary. Shop heaven, materials chic clearance sane, looks proud. But the recovery is not the same. It was he who came up with a much more efficient way to store energy. So I dropped it and went on alone.

NX good. Very nice rides in all great. Also artificial sound. Synthetic itching simpozera created the best minds in the frenzy of people. Of course, he does not turn off – it can only drown out the music, which could also sing and posochnee. On the other hand, Lexus is very solid. 197 hybrid forces enough for a very dynamic driving, the suspension is leksusovski free, but clear enough to not be afraid of speed. Yes, and prices for NX at the time of this writing starts from one and a half million rubles, so he simply had to press the market. I think that the BMW X4 will have to pump up the press, not to hand over positions. And think about recovery.

Hard boiled egg – breakfast for sniveller: I accept bank immediately steroids G17. Such a small silver jar. And I was rushing to her all day, as if I was born with the prefix “super”. I’m cool. Bitsuhi seen? And this powerful chin? And these cuts under the eyes? That’s right. I did not have long to cheat, I start from a light finger butting. Do not tread on me, in me so much strength that I get mad soon! That’s right away! In me all bubbles and lights. Someday I’m going to explode, I guess. I am very cool.

What have you got there? What are you fotkat me? And, iPhone. Lou-in-zer, haha. Look here! Here’s an 8-inch screen with four cameras. Immediately removes all around. Music, however, is not Bach, Bach but why should I? I myself sing! More precisely, moan so much that chills to the bone.

And you touch my skin? No, you touch it! Class, huh? So what that the black: I am a true Aryan! Chin remember? Say, a Japanese passport? Give me your passport and forget it! You do one – the driver? The driver now no one at all! Sidi, rudders, and see what I can do.

I Lexus NX, almost supercar. No, I’m better! I’m the type of SUV. I also trendy – I hybrid. Look, even switcher is: “eco-standards-Sport” and “Sport +”. What the difference is small, and the mode “eco” is generally not for us? But it is fashionable. I megakrut.

And you, that in me you sit, just perfect servant of my ego. Accessory with hands and feet, which is allowed to crush my chair his ass. Well, there has to someone to open the door for me and prepare breakfast. Yes, yes, the same jar of steroids in the battery. Well, more gasoline. 60 liters so a week: I have a good appetite if “sport +” do not disconnect. Well, someone out there is willing to join? Shell!

It’s a shame, but I have not tasted. During the three-hour then. Terrible, terrible, painful feeling. If came out of an expensive restaurant, did not really enjoy the taste of dishes. All watched, smarm, and stayed hungry. In general, made the worst mistake for the consumer: to go into detail, instead of simply is.

A little more, and plague NX zazhuet polstolitsy. Here it is, clear, sharp, almost the same as a concept. It will go and buy, showing off and enjoying the boardwalk. Stroke smooth, plump steering wheel, bow fashion.

By itself, Hybrid even steeper – because here complements ICE electricity by all the canons of Japanese cuisine. Conclusions shemku the display and see what they do and gasoline motors “turbo”: who what and where rotates. Like informative and visually. But with a caveat: if you do not listen to the sensations.

Tachometer needle at zero, with a traffic light, I roll out on electric. Noise take nowhere, but quiet cabin fills rokotok engine. Artificial, non-existent, submitted through simpozer. In the Sport Lexus voiced motor, even when he sleeps!

Synthetics tasteless, and I add gas, pushing the pistons. Another thing – now in the hands of the forces of 197, can be accelerated. But again, this acoustic falshak: go cheerfully and sound like nenaturalnenko again.

In enforcing mode EV system broadcasts that net elektroezda will last until the battery sits. Ten seconds of silence. In the end, it all ends preset by default, which from me as part of the pilot, the machine does not require almost nothing.

Honestly, without the intricacies of hybrid NX hardly seem less interesting. But the more tangible and understandable – that being said, know Daut.

“Stirlitz walked through the night Berlin. Nothing betrayed a Soviet spy, neither trailing behind a parachute, no dangling between his legs Mauser or the Order of the Red Star on his chest “…

Lexus NX 300h goes through Moscow at night, and nothing gives it a sports car. Neither predatory squint LED headlamps, no wide 18-inch rollers or F Sport nameplates on the front wings. Because as an athlete, he is really so-so. Too heavy – with all its motors and batteries accumulates almost 1800 kg. The passport had 197 horses, but to give them all his force, and not old Muller with his office. He also has the legend adaptive dampers: roll with them certainly smaller and more responsive steering. But the exercise “Rotate” performs “on chetverochku.” In short, the label “F Sport” badge adorns the NX-like “For conscientious work in the consumers’ …

This medal – plate Hybrid. In my opinion, this is the best hybrid Lexus! From sedans with blue emblem still want more liveliness. In the hybrid RX certain detachment from the management process already confuses me because of its weight and size – at our some crazy moves. A NX – the very middle. Compact, but with a spacious and comfortable interior. It is easy to fit into the 10 L / 100 km on the Moscow ring, prospects, and traffic jams.

There is not incite field, no annoying impressively. And this is the first Lexus, which to me is pleasant even in the Eco! Another would be the noise from the road a little smaller (it will charge for winter tires) so the music better – and can be awarded a medal “ideal car for the route home-work-home”. Joy for tired journalists and scouts. Remember? “Shtirlits ran alongside and pretended that walks” …

January 1989 divided the history of the car into two parts – before and after the debut of Lexus. Almost adventurous operation to force Americans to purchase expensive Japanese cars is not only a success, but also changed the idea of how the car is supposed to be a class “lux”.

The first Lexus – Executive sedan LS400 – did not stand out in appearance, but destroying reputable rivals inner content. Legendary V8 petrol burned out all life combination of great power characteristics, unheard quiet operation and phenomenal reliability. Smooth running drives into the paint even sellers Mercedes, Lexus and level of service has become the reference for all German brands.

A quarter-century later, however, the magic of the Japanese “premium” is no longer reeks spot.

At the peak of the historically legendary new LS400 Lexus NX looks flying saucer. Designers have seen enough mature Hollywood fiction, and a compact crossover tried body of props Star Wars. A sort of cross between a Z-95 Headhunter and Jedi fighter Delta 6! Here are just a modnyuchimi contours hiding chassis RAV4.

Lexus leases fraternal platform is not the first time, but perhaps for the first time so much source shines out. Kosmolik NX spreading harsh, was not going too fast and quite loud. The whole powder seems, went into the design and sturdy materials and finishes, and without careful engineering polishing distinguishing Q3 from “Tiguan” and “Poppy” by Q5, decided to do. If it was the first NX Lexus in history – hardly a car chronicle would be divided into “before” and “after”.

Of course, many are willing to justify very tasty price “en-xXx.” But black ponevtornik first half of December 2014 put it into question …

Test Drive: 2015 Lexus NX

Comparative test new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Nissan GT-R Nismo

The burden of expectations: two charged sports car race to the finish line neck and neck.

On every new car as soon as it becomes aware of his upcoming debut, automakers, members of the press and fans of the brand puts great hopes. Arguments and heated debates are multiplied when we try to draw conclusions about how this car will go and what will take place in its segment, based on the information available. Most demonstrations and numerous premature judgments concerning class sports cars, which leads us to two striking examples.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06, like the Nissan GT-R NISMO, was one of the most anticipated premier last year. The first was thoroughly improved exterior and interior, as well as an excellent engine and a corresponding suspension, which will allow him to encroach on the title supercar-killer (killer supercar), deservedly assigned to the second, completely revised version titled “supercar-killer” of this decade. Both cars promise dynamics at the level of machines in two to three times more expensive, and both achieve it in completely different ways.

Chevrolet chose traditional for the 21st century formula. 6.2-liter V8 with a supercharger, located in the front, coupled with a seven-speed manual transmission, which is trying to convey 650 horsepower and 880 Nm of torque to the rear axle by means of an electronic limited-slip differential, poluslik Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 and aerodynamic kit Chevrolet’s Z07 Stage III (more suitable to participate in this test model with an eight automatic transmission was available at the time of comparison).

Nissan chose not exactly new, but not the traditional way, as a Chevrolet. V6 engine with twin turbos and a working volume of 3.8 liters sends power to a six-speed automatic transmission with two clutches located in the rear of the machine, which immediately spins the rear wheels, but constantly monitors the level of grip of the front wheels to the road and, if necessary part of them transmits torque to maintain optimum dynamics. NISMO influence can be seen in the increased to 600 hp and 652 Nm of power, as well as improved aerodynamics and patches transmission and control systems work all-wheel drive.

Since the history of the model began in 2007 in Japan with the R35 GT-R, Nissan is constantly improving complex software GT-R NISMO, and this time is not an exception. In this case, changes were made to the system of control of the engine to remove a small dip in power in the midrange, we noticed a little earlier, in August last year. The result is noticeable as a pilot, and in time the circle. From the place of the 1760 NISMO pound accelerate to 60 miles / hour (96 km / h) in 2.9 seconds, as before, but now kvoter passes for 11 seconds (speed at the finish of 203.7 km / h), which is one tenth of a second and more for two km / hr faster. Failure? What is failure? An excellent result, but the advantage Z06 50 hp and 229 Nm in combination with at mass 160 kg (1600 kg) should affect its performance. In reality it is not. Powerful Corvette need 3.3 seconds to dial from a place 96 km / h and 11.4 seconds to go 402 meters (at the finish he accelerates to 200 km / h). Admirers of the model will notice that the new product on the tenth of a second and 2.9 km / h slower on both counts than the first model in 2015, which we tested. The reason, in our opinion, lies in aerodynamics. That first Z06 was equipped with aerodynamic bodywork Stage II, and this car is “dressed” in the scope of Stage III, which adds a massive rear spoiler and front splitter. At high speeds they offer undeniable advantages in handling, but the extra downforce that they generate, means additional resistance. If we compare it with the NISMO, Corvette is hampered not only by friction, but also its more sluggish transmission and the need to send all the power just two wheels.

However, in the arsenal of the Corvette have other tricks. For example, its massive uglekeramicheskie brake discs, wider and grippy front tires and lighter weight allow it to slow down more efficiently. With a speed of 96 km / h Z06 stops at 27.7 meters. GT-R NISMO this takes 29.5 meters.

Generally, these machines are designed not to participate in drag Racing, although this does not prevent them from being spectacular in the discipline. These are cars for the track, which you can drive on normal roads. They are designed for cornering, and in this they are also very good. The median NISMO 1,3g to test for lateral acceleration and 23.1 seconds in the “eight” with an average lateral acceleration of 0,99g make it one of the best cars ever fell into our hands. Despite the fact that his “eight” was 0.2 seconds slower than the other tested NISMO, these 0,99g – much better and are the best indicator for the GT-R in general (the previous record 0,91g).

Both cars provide the dynamics at the level of cars in two and three times more expensive.

No matter how tricky GT-R may be, for the Z06 it is not a competitor, because the combination of speed and grip make the last almost new record. At the moment, Z06 showed the second time in the “eight”, second only to the Porsche 918 Spyder. His time was 22.3 seconds, lateral acceleration in average 1,06g, which is 0.2 seconds faster than the other Z06, not to mention the acceleration (was 0,98g). If you analyze the passage of the route in detail, the Corvette higher speeds on straight stretches and brake later and harder than NISMO; in the corners, he was also faster. And all this in spite of the slight but steady oversteer, which is expressed in about the middle of the turn, which, if miss the moment, can easily go into an uncontrollable skid steer followed. In a simple test for lateral acceleration Z06 again improved his time and has strengthened its position as the car with the best grip of all that we were tested: on average, 1,17g, the previous record 1,16g.

Unfortunately Corvette Z06, all these figures are not able to help him on the track. We released both cars to the legendary track Willow Springs, so that they can properly display their abilities and unleash the monstrous power on the track Big Track, known as “the fastest track in the West.” Its length is 3895 meters: it turns nine, ranging from steep and technically difficult to pass up high and long, straight stretches that allow powerful cars from achieving their potential. We are pleased to invite our driver Randy Pobst to conduct this test and it showed an impressive lap time of 1: 25.70 on the NISMO and a 1: 27.10 at the wheel Corvette.

How could this happen? We were surprised no less than you are now. In Z06 indisputable advantage in weight, power and cohesion, and yet he lost his opponent more than two seconds. In fact, he did not outstripped even far less powerful (and easy) Porsche 911 GT3, and this in spite of the enormous difference in the 175 hp and 442 Nm. That’s what the data show: Z06 mainly NISMO ahead and developed a high speed in the apex of most turns, but NISMO began to accelerate earlier out of corners. Moreover, NISMO was noticeably faster on the straights, showed higher than the Z06, speed: 9.5 km / h on a straight line and accelerating at 11.2 km / h at the finish.

The only explanation we could find, it’s aerodynamics. Big Z06 front splitter and rear spoiler create a vertical downforce, which helps the car to be faster in the apex of the turn, but the additional drag on his brakes booster lines. On the “eight” is not felt because of low speeds. To verify the correctness of our assumptions, we have removed the central bar spoiler and asked Randy to do another lap around the track. As we expected, Z06 added to the direct (1.6 km / h faster on the booster line), but slowed down in the corners, because the absence of additional downforce provokes him to a more pronounced oversteer. Add to this the tendency to overheat Z06 after the first round, which makes it the computer to limit the power to avoid further heating, so that the machine becomes even slower.

“Feels like the car faster (than showing her lap), but I would not say it 650 horses – said Randy. – I just thought that it would be much faster. “He also lamented the fact that she had too much oversteer in the apex, and the gas pedal too spicy, so dosing capacity was extremely difficult. Then he said something that we from him never heard before: “I would add to this car a little understeer, it is clearly not enough. It would be trimmed back, to the front of excellent adhesion. “Then he added: “Those circles when I connect PTM (System Performance Traction Management), I realized that the work itself took a stability control system. I really do not like it, but it helps to cope with excess understeer. “He also preferred mode of Sport, and not Track, since the suspension settings in this mode proved to be too rigid. “She just beat me, despite the fact that this track can not be called hard.” There were also positive developments: “The brakes are phenomenal. The sensitivity of the pedals, huge potential, these brakes are much better than the GT-R. Z06 is much more interesting to manage. It is a challenge. GT-R is too boring. And I like the manual. This is old-school. I myself old-school ».

GT-R Randy has not caused a flurry of emotions. “He always keeps everything under control. They removed the excess understeer, which was in the previous version. It is more balanced. I would like to see it in slicks and with larger brakes. I think I would handle it. Power delivery is also improved. “

NISMO has always focused on the fact, without causing too much bright emotions.

Still in a state of shock from the results of a trip around the track, we went with Carlos Lago one of the best ways to California to check whether the test results will be reflected on track to situations in the real world. Under the new conditions rivalry began to gain degrees. We grumbled and doubted, discussing how the advantages and disadvantages of each of the vehicles counterbalance each other. Lago found out that he will be driving faster NISMO due to unrealistic ability of the car out of the corners at high speed. I found that the powerful brakes Z06 will give me confidence and enable faster cornering, where incredible grip provides good speed. That oversteer that we found on the track, on the road does not manifest itself. We agreed that the higher landing in the NISMO provides better visibility, but the car seems to be more severe, and still growing sense of heel and then there is no trace in the lower and sports Z06. Also, it was impossible to ignore the fact that the NISMO harder Corvette, which is felt in the turns and braking. In the end we agreed that the Z06 little fun in the management due to a mechanical transmission, more athletic fit and gorgeous sound.

When it was time to go in the back, very not a short path, doubts I had. Magnetorheological dampers third generation, set in the Z06, remain the best in its class and give it an unrivaled comfort on the road, but not so on a hard NISMO, even in the soft mode Comfort. The desire to seek out NISMO every flaw in the pavement very quickly tiring. Of course, the mechanics Z06 requires some effort and skill when driving in heavy traffic machines, but easy to grip makes this process is almost imperceptible. Where more problems delivering heat from the partition between the cabin and the engine compartment and the central tunnel; first I be fried legs and then heated the entire cabin. On the track and high speeds do not notice, because the engine compartment has time to cool ram air, but during rush hour can only include air conditioning.

When it’s time to wrap up, we were stunned. Corvette Z06 was better in everyday life and in the corners. Nissan GT-R on the track faster and direct. On a good road, these machines are equally comfortable. How to choose the winner? At first, I decided to ask the opinion of Randy, find out what kind of car he liked more. His response: «Corvette. GT-R is too boring in its uncompromising efficiency (on the track). But if I wanted to drive on the track, I would choose Nissan ».

In general, we have come to the same conclusion. Z06 us to have fun, but also from the fact that NISMO – an excellent option for the track, it is impossible to dismiss. If we choose the best car for the driver, the sensitivity Z06 and its fascination could provide additional points, but it never happened. These cars are designed for the track, and there GT-R is better, though Corvette very good, and for two-thirds of the price. GT-R is worth much more expensive, but in his case, get exactly what you pay for. Point in our debate put the fact that in spite of the difference in the cost of NISMO can do more with less. He received his old body, it is much harder, it is less powerful brakes, tires its smaller size, it lags behind in power, and he has much less torque. And, despite all this, on the road it is as swift as the Z06, but on the track leaves the competition behind. To overcome such obstacles and significant victory over the Corvette, we give the victory in our test Nissan GT-R NISMO, albeit with a minimum separation from the opponent.

Godzilla again ahead

When we left a diagram best laps Z06 and GT-R, it was greatly puzzled. So whether Nissan faster at higher speeds? Is Corvette in the second long hairpin much more grip than the GT-R? The data do not lie. (We wrote both circles with two loggers Vbox to provide the most accurate data). But on both lines, accelerating and finishing, Nissan each time was faster Corvette. Different settings transmissions? Aerodynamics? Overheating? Meanwhile, the more laps we did, the worse it gets Z06 grip the road in the second hairpin. The heated air increases the pressure in the tires? Also, pay attention to pause, Randy made between the fourth and fifth turns on the Z06 (not to waste time for changing gear) and its very early quenching before the ninth turn, caused a lack of confidence in the successful completion of at high speed. Often, such a comparison of data requires a lot of time, which is not always enough for a detailed analysis that would allow to get answers to all questions. But we do know that in spite of fluctuations in speed graph, Nissan GT-R quickly became leaders and not give up their positions until the finish, which came with a margin of 85 meters.

Comparative test new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Nissan GT-R Nismo

BMW tested the liquid new cooling system of the engine air new safety car for Moto GP

According to engineers units M Performance, the new system not only increases the return of the motor, but also reduces fuel consumption. According to engineers units M Performance, the new system not only increases the return of the motor, but also reduces fuel consumption.

The BMW Group has extended the details of the new car safety Championship Moto GP. They will once again become a coupe M4, but in the 2015 season, the car has received some fine-tuning.

Under the hood of the car is still in row “Six” with two turbochargers. The main innovation is the liquid cooling system air intake. According to engineers units M Performance, this solution not only enhances the efficiency of the motor, but also reduces fuel consumption.

The principle of operation is reduced to the news that water is sprayed into the reservoir to reduce the likelihood of knocking in the engine. This allows you to set the optimum ignition timing.

As a result, the process of ignition of the mixture becomes more efficient and occurs at a lower temperature. Since the density of the cold air is higher than the heat in the combustion chamber gets more oxygen, which in turn increases the return load of the motor and reduces its parts.

Required for operation of the system water is stored in a frost-five-liter tank with pump and valves located in the trunk of the car. Water is supplied under pressure of 10 bar. The delivery rate depends on the load and number of revolutions of the engine temperature.

BMW representatives say that in front of a dynamic ride around the track a tank of water needed to fill. When driving on public roads recharge takes approximately every fifth visit refueling.

It is expected that in the near future a new air cooling system appears on serial machines BMW.

BMW tested the liquid new cooling system of the engine air new safety car for Moto GP

Family Car of the Year: Mercedes C-Class

Two identical Mercedes C-Class, two full tank. Very different ways

FIRST DAY

Sam Philip: This is an unusual race. First prize is waiting, and finish at everyone. But overall start – in Stuttgart, home of Mercedes. We have two twin-wagon C220 CDI, tucked under the string. We photographer Simon go to the south, and Vijay dressed as a conqueror of Antarctica, go with Tom to the north. The Aim? Go as far as possible on a single tank, with one condition: the places where we zaglohnem should not be in German exotic. Points given for courage here, and not just for the distance.

At C220 larger tank (66 liters), while the standard C-Class – 41 liters. Official fuel consumption – 4.1 liters / 100 km. Theoretically, you can drive 1,600 km. That is, for many, many miles before refueling.

Not counting the voluminous stomach, the new C-Class station wagon for our race and the rest. Mercedes hung him the label “business class”. This comfortable, luxurious, full of technology midsize wagon. I unfold gray barn on Bentsshtrasse south to Austria and Italy’s Amalfi coast (if we go doedem). And see how Vijay crawls to the north.

Vijay Pattni: Tom and I will do everything properly and majestically rolled up to the finish line somewhere in Scandinavia. In Norway, unless specifically. The first step to success – go light, but I can not throw Tom and his heaviest equipment. Hence, we find other ways to not accelerate above a hundred, to anticipate the flow, go coasting and include air conditioning. I’m sorry, Tom.

Mercedes, infection, at a gas station to the report, he was ready to drive 925 miles. And just before the end of Denmark to go more than a thousand. Yes, Sam and Simon fell lot more enjoyable. Prior to Hirtshals – the town on the coast of Denmark – can only be reached by motorway. 1170 km boredom. Tom and I decide to settle accounts with the unpleasant part in one fell swoop.

BMW AND AUDI FLASHED BY LIKE LIGHTNING

On the way there are two insights. First, fuel economy, you become kilometromanom. When the distance before refueling increases after ten minutes, you scream with happiness. When the flow rate increases – you’re black clouds.

Second, go on the highway on Tortoise 100 km / h is very scary. We find solace in the hide and seek for the same slug – trucks. Glued to the bumper of Mr. Shenker bringing up who knows what, we use low-pressure area and hide from whistling past the cars.

After two hours, and only one hundred and fifty kilometers, we have increased the projected distance from 925 to 1160 km. That’s where the fun! We say goodbye to Mr. Schenker, who turns to Bamberg, and go further to the north, into the night.

Fifteen hundred kilometers at a speed of 88 km / h – in anticipation of Sam and his face Vijaya seven hours did not flinch a muscle

SF: While the team “Northern losers” dragged through Germany, the company “Southern Pretty Boy” has slipped three countries: the southern corner of Germany, Austria and drove to northern Italy. Unfortunately, this advantage is bought at the cost of a decent piece of our fuel reserves. While Vijay trudged through the flat central Germany, we darted through the Alps. And in the Alps impossible to save goryuchku.

Forget. Life is too short to hide behind the wagons and switch to 1300 rev / min. We fuck on the three-lane highway at 145 km / h, watching as each passed us eats five kilometer on the display. When Simon asked me not to drive, I patiently explained that go more slowly on the highway just dangerous. Patrol immediately selects the right, if you go less 140. When we climb into the Alps, I notice that Simon google phone “canister diesel Austria.”

About ten o’clock at an altitude of one mile above sea temperature behind -3◦S and hover in the air snowflakes. We stop for the night in an empty ski resort Vipiteno just behind the Italian border. C-CLass believes that fuel remains at 644 km. Amalfi much further. It is good that in a restaurant full of hot pizza and beer. I send photos Vijay our dinner and get a rude answer. It seems northerners still going.

VP: Somewhere between Hamburg and Hanover Tom amuses me a story about Donald Krauherste, English sailor, who in the sixties participated in the round the world yacht race. When he realized that not doplyvet, he lied about his coordinates, and then mad and killed himself. Good plan, I decide. But before committing suicide, I’ll kill Sam, because he imposed me north. Fuel economy on the German autobahn must be enrolled in the third article of the European Convention on Human Rights. This is a real torture. You do not take their eyes off the flow sensor, occasionally balls from stoplights. And when you get more leisurely carrier, it is necessary to perform the slowest in the world overtaking, checking in the mirror, no flies on you whether another meteor.

By night boredom becomes unbearable. No traffic lights, only lasers million BMW, Audi and vans, flying by at the speed of lightning.

At two o’clock in the morning we we reach Denmark, fuel remains at 772 km. I notice that the coating Danish roads better, which should reduce the rolling resistance and increase efficiency. I’m happy. O God, that I become?

After three and a half hours after a fleeting moment of happiness we finally we reach the northern edge of Denmark and valimsya to bed. Sleep is nothing at all.

DAY TWO

SF: Just one hour after Vijay and Tom went to sleep in the cheapest hotel in Denmark, we woke up with Simon frosty clear morning in the Italian Alps. Great European array immersed in the splendor of autumn. Bright blue sky above the lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks, quiet dawn in a light haze spiced aroma of burning wood. In this morning, the mood at the height of that life – a miracle. If it were not depressing thought that for the next two days will have to travel 1,050 miles on half a tank …

Plans to save crumbling after news of the terrible traffic jam at Bolzano. We’re going to detour through the mountains and find a terrific pass. Paso di Pennes winds along the slopes of the Alps at an altitude of 2200 meters. Sparkling paradise of eternal snow over the forest and babbling brooks. Streamer on impossible to keep consumption of 4 l / 100 km. To the top of the pass covered 32 km, and the instrument – 160 km. Florence so do not hold on. But on the way down we wins back 48 km …

WE GO FURTHER … OR RATHER, CRAWL AT A SPEED OF 88 KM / H

VP: Rubbing red eyes, we wake up in Hirtshals, which resembles a town of “The Truman Show”, full of seagulls and robbers, trawlers and ominous silence.

Night highway recall nightmare, in which, however, Mercedes was our best friend. Extremely comfortable (thanks to air suspension), well-equipped and reliably constructed. This business class.

Ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand Norwegian is 130 km, and then – along the coast to the west, while “Benz” is not out of steam. We pray for calm, hoping to take a nap, but the North Sea meets us furious pumping, – instead of refreshing sleep four o’clock horror.

While steam throws the waves, I understand that we: a) economy, thanks to the monstrous engines to Rolls-Royce, and b) I do not salt. We approach the late, just a few hours before dark and sigh of relief tread on the ground of a third country, Norway.

SF: I want to confess something. While Vijay was of the waves, we have committed fraud. No, worse. We tried cheated, but did not. Somewhere near Trento I broke down. Amalfi has 837 km and fuel must come to an end through the 483. I could not bear the shame, and thus have to refuel. “Only 20 liters” – crazy junky excuse in breaking. A single dose. No one will know. But damn diesel heater was not working. Wrinkled tanker, 60-year-old, a subsidiary tanned old man growled something in Italian. “Inglese, skuzi” – I apologize. He shrugged and said, “If Not possible.” “Can not?” – I asked. “No possible,” – he repeated, and went into the shadows. We left with nothing. This man saved us from ourselves.

This phenomenon of the Holy Spirit spodviglo I collect will in a fist. Cruise control at 100 km / h, turn off the air conditioner for home and crawl Ferrari, Lamborghini and balsamic. In this ride has something psychotherapy. No need to worry about the cops and speed cameras, the soul at rest.

An hour later, I changed my mind. Force people to save fuel – a crime worse than torture kittens. Another hour – and I wondered if it will work, holding rudder foot, take a nap in the backseat.

But we have to fight for miles. One ekodatchikov C-Class shows how much “clean km” you have earned. Fiction, but it’s nice. C-Class believes that we scored 130 bonus miles, while trudging along the Apennines. On the rise in two-lane truck taxiing in the fast lane, but can not be dispersed. We beat on the brakes and pour their selective mat as sailors syndrome Tourrettes. For us, and so every extra millimeter gas pedal or brakes – a mortal sin. Evening we meet in the mansion at Orvieto, wine and homemade pizza. Can be regarded as a reward for what we resist the temptation …

DAY THREE

SF: 386 km from Orvieto to Sorrento, straight on the highway A1 – real flour. The gauge indicates that the tank is full of a quarter. We dump the ballast (bottles of water and dirty socks), exhibiting a cruise to 88 km / h and sit in silence, watching as the glacier is melting at a rate of fuel. Judging by the malevolent Vijaya text messages, they reap what they have sown the first day of austerity.

VP: Today our harsh epic turned into a pleasant journey. Good Lord, Norway with a drop of sunshine in the autumn cold just fine. Stunning fjords, mountain views and a sense of God’s being.

Way from Kristiansand to Stavanger lies on the coastal highway where the speed is limited. But we have something that. Our goal – a beautiful place away from Stuttgart, and we almost there. Have time to think over how to characterize the C220. He was well-proven over the three days, coped with everything from exhausting the motorway to the narrow streets, from slush to the frozen asphalt. He gently took us to this area. Caring and considerate companion, who knows a lot about comfort.

We drove 1,450 km (!), And on the devices icon flashes to a gas station. Cautiously we propolzayem another 22 km and get up on the shores of beautiful Lake especially, before you reach Stavanger. Passed 1470 km, and in front of us views breathtaking. The trick is done.

Northerners traveled 1,470 km on one tank and got almost to Stavanger. Team southerners stalled over 1370 km after the start, on the embankment of Sant’Agnello. Sam swears he squandered all diesel alpine serpentine. The rest assured that he just does not know how to ride

2840 km of track for two. Sam shows a smug Buddha under the southern sun

SF: Northerners finished and exhaled, and in southern Italy solid nerves. Before Naples, 60 km from Amalfi, C-Class reported that the fuel ran out. Do not want to die in the most unattractive city in Europe, so we continue to crawl along the slow lane at a speed of 80 km / h, at the slightest opportunity sticking to the waggons. Sweat rolls hail not only from the 25-degree heat with no air conditioning – we expect that just about hear the death rattle of diesel and sharply stand. In the long tunnel under the north-east corner of the Amalfi voltage monstrous. If we stand now, clog the entire tunnel.

Finally we leave on blinding daylight and roll downhill along the waterfront Sant’Agnello. Golden evening light glare on the azure waters over which the circling seagulls. Two thick Italian argue, snarling and poking each other with your fingers. We are on the spot: 1370 km. Our tranzhirstvo the first day cost us 101 km. Northerners won, they went further. But we have cheaper beer and better coffee. And the heat! Decide who wins.

VP: Humble yourself, Sam. We won. In the theory of tank C-Class can squeeze all 1,600 km, but in theory you can kiss passionately mako shark. I do not recommend trying to neither the first nor the second. After these works you become unpleasant person.

But the most vivid impression still remains the C-Class. He is the ideal travel companion: a quiet, well-equipped Touring Year, who has never done anything wrong. Do you want this? Hurry – one we threw on the outskirts of Stavanger, and the other – in the port of Sant’Agnello. Just grab a canister with diesel fuel.

Family Car of the Year: Mercedes C-Class

Audi A1 & A1 Sportback: Bright resident of Monte Carlo Test-Drive

Fly to Nice, take the car and take off in Monte Carlo easier than large, powerful sports car, of which there are plenty, and the striker in the hatchback class. Especially when it is bright and premium and is not lost on the background of famous luxury cars – such as the updated Audi A1.

At first glance updates hatchbacks not highly salient. But grille with sharp edges, headlights with LED elements and an abundance of horizontal lines give the A1 and A1 Sportback is more mature and dynamic look. The car seems even wider, when in fact it is only a couple of centimeters in length increased. Particularly strong emphasis on sportiness S line packages due to the increased air intake area, overlays on sills, rear spoiler, diffuser and expressive blued shotgun exhaust system.

As before, the updated Audi A1 is available in two body styles: 3-door hatchback (pictured) and 5-door Sportback.

Five new exterior colors emphasize the sporty design and expression. For trehdverki A1 arches over doorways, and five-door A1 Sportback for all dome roof and exterior mirror housings are available in contrasting colors, appeared fresh application options.

At the forefront of the lineup are sporting 231-horsepower all-wheel drive modification  Audi S1 and Quattro S1 Sportback Quattro.

Those who are more concerned about the economy and the environment, certainly interested in two new 3-cylinder (!) Machine series Ultra: petrol 1.0 TFSI (95 hp) and diesel 1.4 TDI (92 hp). That’s just us they do not plan to deliver.

In the design, you can choose a design or sport direction. Now and A1 can install Audi Drive Select.

The first in Europe will be offered petrol 1.4 TFSI. Its 150-strong version with a 6-step “mechanics” perfectly pulls in a very wide range of speeds. The Audi A1 accelerates smoothly and confidently in every gear, the narrow serpentine rock studs allows you to stay in the third stage, and the second hatchback climbed the hill with almost space. And even when at the bottom disappears thrust, the engine does not stall tries and escape from turboyamy, fun and inspiration unwinds.

Petrol 1.4 TFSI is available in two power outputs – 125 and 150 hp From the first motor A1 S tronic gaining 8.8 per hundred with (A1 Sportback – in 8.9 c) and consumes an average of 4.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers.

A more powerful version of the engine accelerates the A1 to 100 km / h in 7.8 with (A1 Sportback 7.9 c) and consumes an average of 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers. The engine is equipped with cylinder cut-COD (cylinder on demand). When kickback torque of 100 Nm and less work at 1400-4000 rev / min or coasting COD disable the second and third cylinder.

Electromechanical power steering for A1 is completely new. It changes the degree of enhancement in the speed-dependent and gives pleasure in sports driving.

Residence permit

Updated Audi A1 is not lost even in areas of high concentration of luxury Rolls-Royce and pumped Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati. Behind the wheel of the agile hatchback do not feel discomfort on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo and the Principality of Monaco mountain serpentines. It turns out even on equal worn with smart Brabus, Renault Clio RS and different variations Mini. And at the end of winter hatchbacks appear in our country, and then we will know how to update Audi A1 prepared for life in Ukraine.

Rear lights with new graphics. Here are just a little girl cheated dynamic direction indicators, which we have already seen in other updated Audi.

Resume – Audi A1 & A1 Sportback

Body and comfort

A1 before has a wide customization options, they are now even more. For the model proposed design and sport direction, Luxury Line and Active kit, as well as accessories from quattro GmbH. All in all, for updated A1, you can create more than one million color combinations.

Changes are not highly salient, and on the road is not immediately distinguished restyling version.

Powertrain and dynamics

Robotic 7-speed S tronic transmission with two clutches can be installed in a couple of any engine. All motors from 90 to 192 hp New or upgraded. They became 10% more economical, some power is increased.

Gamma engines in our country will be limited.

Finance and equipment

The standard equipment includes six airbags and protection against a second collision. Components MMI navigation plus and Audi connect services allow you to use online services and easy to work with Internet resources. Now for the A1 and A1 Sportback is available sport suspension package S line, adjustable shock absorbers, and Audi Drive Select system with three programs: Auto, Efficiency and Dynamic.

If we use the proposed options, this machine can be more expensive than larger models. And in our country size matters.

Audi A1 & A1 Sportback: Bright resident of Monte Carlo Test-Drive

2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport - a new test drive

Farewell Freelander! After two generations of the compact SUV with automatic all wheel drive Land Rover in the family is no longer a place at the dinner table. His place in February took the car of a higher class with increased functionality. How is it linked to its off-road performance and road manners, sheds light our first test in snowy Iceland.

In the future the range of Land Rover Discovery Sport relies on functionality. He will be able to carry up to seven passengers, easier to evolve and accommodate more luggage. Reborn Freelander leaves oversaturated crossover segment where the Briton to compete harder and try to break into the niche of luxury SUV’ov as the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Thus, Land Rover responds to requests from its customers, who ever look at the big Range Rover, but can not afford them.

After three new models, Range Rover Discovery Sport – the first all-new Land Rover in the past more than ten years. The new model is superior to its predecessor in length and four inches by eight – wheelbase. This format is still fit into the standards adopted in the class of compact SUV, but the Discovery Sports unlike direct competitors offers a third row of seats. And even if he was not ordered as an option, Land Rover presents a new format for practitioners: the trunk can accommodate majestic 981-1698 liters. Including using shifted by 16 centimeters rear seats. This was made possible thanks to a new, compact multi-link rear suspension, which distinguishes the novice from technically related Evoque.

Discovery Sport differs from the Freelander more rounded shapes and relies on style. With its rakish profile and gloss in detailing a beginner is likely related to the models of Range Rover, rather than with a shy model line Land Rover. This theme can also be seen inside where found vysokoprobny design and an abundance of first-class materials.

On the road behaves majestically

Behind the wheel of Discovery Sports felt differently than technically related Evoque. This is mainly explained by the different position of the driver’s seat: his pillow set a few millimeters above and back – more upright. However, planting is still lightweight and visibility is much better than his seductive cousin.

Chassis set quite comfortable, only urban speeds body shakes on 19-inch wheels. C this problem must cope adaptive dampers MagneRide, which will be available as an option. With an increase in the rate of progress is truly luxurious – reserved for swinging and low noise.

Steering is no different reference feedback, but precise and sharp, so that the passage of the ligaments turns unable to make the mobility of cars. The base offers an improved 6-speed manual transmission, but the supplement for automatic, definitely worth it. 9-speed automatic transmission is no longer so nervous. Automatic transmission not only gently and playfully adapts switches, but also allows you to extract from the engine thrust, not forcing the tachometer pointer to the top of the scale. Accelerating dynamics and not a loser: with 9 gears acceleration to 100 km / h improves by half a second with the same 2.2-liter diesel engine.

No compromises outside of paved roads

As befits Land Rover, Discovery Sport outside of paved roads makes no compromises: who did not order an economical option with front-wheel drive, can expect to fully participate in adventurous nature outings. In dotted with dirt roads, rivers and rocks Iceland Discovery Sport climbs on snowy hills, storm tracks, rows in the sand and forwarded ford. And with a new wheel-drive system Active Driveline he is doing and where the drivers have finished the confidence and courage. Three electronically controlled clutch and a plurality of electronic assistants, which manages the system Terrain Response, require the driver only one thing – to press on the gas and indicate the course. There is not even a button of compulsory inclusion of all-wheel drive and locking clutch, which plays the role of the central differential.

Obviously, in the Land Rover were able to squeeze out of system capacity with four-wheel drive theoretical maximum. Anyway, moving on a parallel course Dicso 4 off-road can not go further, but lagging behind in the slush winding asphalt road.

Laconic tools, simple operation

Thus, the ride does not require undue effort. Contribution to the relaxation and making new interior. Sitting in the front get much more freedom than in the Evoque, and elegant interior is impressive, if somewhat conservative simplicity: for important messages for the first time in a classroom equipped with flat screen (optional) tools is hard to beat in their clarity, and the center of the instrument panel is decorated with a touch screen completely new multimedia system, which replaces most of the buttons and controls.

The motors are not new, but to write them early

Against the background of such a technical stuffing as automatic emergency braking, airbag for pedestrians and automatic high beams, engines is far from being the most outstanding units. Discovery Sports has not got a new family of engines, which have been developed for Jaguar XE, and it starts with familiar units Evoque. Nevertheless, there is a choice of 2.2-liter diesel engine 190 hp and turbobenzinovym engine that extracts 240 hp Two liters of working volume. None of them can not help feeling a lack of power. Especially good diesel: mostly quiet and well impressed with his muscular 420 Nm of torque assertive newcomer.

Autumn range will join Discovery Sport version with a drive only the front wheels. In combination with a 150-horsepower diesel engine manufacturer promises a 4.5 liter average fuel consumption – is quite competitive rate, while the powerful all-wheel drive version numbers do not fit into the best, although it was middle-aged members of the class. After all, despite the fact that the Land Rover uses a lot of aluminum and magnesium to reduce weight, Discovery Sport weighs no less than 1.8 tonnes, so that his name is not entirely untrue. And even diesel quickly goes to figure 9-10 liters of fuel per trip computer display, if you drive aggressively, while the gasoline engine requires another 2-3 liters more.

VERDICT

Land Rover boldly examines the territory of Range Rover – he has already entered it, using the technique and technology junior representative luxury family. And even added a lot of myself compact rear suspension, a modified four-wheel drive and the latest security systems. Discovery Sport proportionally added in price, justifying it with greater capacity and better finish. High practicality remains dignity Land Rover, as well as the talent to conquer the roads.

2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport - a new test drive