2014 Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale

The MC Stradale was unveiled three years ago as part of the Maserati Gran Turismo lineup at the 2010 Paris Auto Show.

The 2014 Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale has evolved into a 4 seater with more speed to offer. The Italian automaker kept the major exterior design in place while building this vehicle at its historic facility in viale Ciro Menotti in Modena, Italy.2014-Maserati-Gran-Turismo-MC-Stradale-zooming-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gals (90 L) MPG: 10 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 194.2 in. (493.3 cm) Wheel Base: 115.7 in. (293.8 cm)
Height: 52.8 in. (134.3 cm) Width: 74.9 in.* (190.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3968 lbs (1800 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 11.3 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2+2 people
Performance
Engine: 4.7 Liter V8 DOHC Compression Ratio: 11: 1
Horsepower: 460 HP Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 385 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-62 mph: 4.5 seconds Maximum Speed: 188 mph (303 km/h)

Engine & Performance

The 2011 edition was capable of 444 horsepower, 2014 MC Stradale comes equipped with a 4.7 liter V8 that now gives you 460 horspower.

It comes over with a top speed of 188 mph. The engine is paired with Maserati’s super quick 6 speed “MC Race Shift” gearbox.

Maserati adopted a friction resistant coating on its cams previously used only in Formula 1 racing. This, along with a lighter weight and an improved aerodynamic design accounts for its powerful capabilities.

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Exterior

The new Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale boasts a sporty appearance, while offering an elegant and exotic exterior.

Maserati maintained the design link to the Trofeo lineup in this year’s MC Stradale.
The previously mentioned decreased weight factor of this vehicle is, for the most part, due to the carbon fiber material it is constructed from.

Even the twin exhausts and central air intakes are made from the same substance.

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The front façade remains unchanged with the oval grille proudly displaying the Maserati emblem in its center. A centrally located hood scoop accentuates the top.

The profile view shows off its 20 inch alloy wheels with a set of Brembo premium brakes resting behind their surface.

The styling includes an integrated rear spoiler with “Maserati” written across its surface and the circular dual exhausts which cannot be missed.

Interior

The biggest change to the 2014 MC Stradale is inside. The 2011 edition was a 2 seater, now, it seats four.

The two front seats are made of (you guessed it) carbon fiber, wrapped in premium padding and displaying the esteemed Trident logo on the head rests and seat belts.

The instrumentation panel is basic, considering its luxurious nature, the center console area featuring a display screen at its top is a nice touch from Maserati.
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November 10, 2013 at 12:53 pm | No comment

2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

Somehow the description “cargo ready body style” does not seem appropriate when talking about a Cadillac, with the exception of the Escalade.

However, in the case of the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon, it is all but a moot point given its sleek style.

The amenities that Cadillac is known for are evident, including leather upholstery and an available UltraView sunroof.2014-Cadillac-CTS-Sport-Wagon-studio A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Wagon Base Price: $44,195
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gals (68 L) MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Dimensions*
Length: 192 in. (487.7 cm) Wheel Base: 113.4 in. (288 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4026 lbs (1826 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 58 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: V6 DI VVT Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 318 HP Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 275 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

* Performance RWD

Engine & Performance

The 2014 CTS Sport Wagon comes with a 3.0 liter Direct Injection V6 engine that is capable of generating 270 horsepower.

This engine is mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels unless you opt for the all wheel drive (AWD) version. The auto transmission has Driver Shift Control which allows you to manually shift without the use of a clutch.2014-Cadillac-CTS-Sport-Wagon-waiting C

Exterior

The CTS Sport Wagon has a wide stance that creates a balance in increased road responsiveness.

Three trim levels are available, with those being Luxury, Performance and Premium.

The detailed styling is obvious through the unique roofline, unusual edges and its angular profile. The LED taillights are positioned vertically, extending from the rear bumper up to the top of the rear window. The light pipe technology illuminates the wagons rear efficiently.2014-Cadillac-CTS-Sport-Wagon-CTS-V-cockpit B

Interior

It is obvious inside the new Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon that the driver’s compartment was designed with ease of use in mind. Every required touch point is ergonomically positioned within the reach of the driver.

The high performance gauges are reminiscent of those found on an elite motorcycle than a luxury vehicle, but they fit the instrumentation panel nicely.

An 8 inch diagonal glide up navigational screen is offered that also allows you to control a 10 speaker Bose surround sound audio system.

On an evening ride, the ambient interior lighting is perfect, as it glows off the polished metal surrounds and French stitching on the leather seats.

With the rear seats folded, you get 58 cubic feet of stowing space. You also have a power lift gate, making access simple. A memory function is available allows you to adjust the height for the seats.

The 2014 CTS Sport Wagon’s starting MSRP is $42,195, and you can build your own version through options based on you preferences.

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November 10, 2013 at 4:53 am | No comment

2013 Senner Tuning Audi S5 Coupe

Anyone interested in purchasing a European luxury sports coupe will normally have the Audi S5 on their shopping list.

The problem some car enthusiasts of this vein have with the S5 is its low power output. This dilemma is solved through the 2013 Senner Tuning Audi S5 Coupe.

The whole purpose of Senner Tunings involvement is to “soup up” the vehicle. How is an increase of 113 horsepower for starters? In basic terms, this is done by adding an Injun cold air intake and reprogramming the ECU. Not only does the car run faster, it sounds better too.

The Senner Tuning exhaust system has a valve control connected to a flow-optimized downpipe. The price of the Senner Tuned Audi S5 is approximately $87,500.

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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $87,500
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.1 gals (61 L) MPG: NA
Dimensions*
Length: 182.7 in. (464.1 cm) Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275.1 cm)
Height: 53.9 in. (136.9 cm) Width: 73 in. (185.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3858 lbs (1750 kg) Maximum Seating: 2+2
Performance
Engine: V6 TFSI Turbo DOHC Displacement: 3.0 Liter
Horsepower: 446 HP Torque: 377 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual Maximum Speed: NA

* Audi S5 Specs

Engine & Performance

Besides all of the extra accruements, the Senner Tuning Audi S5 comes with a 3.0 liter V6 with a total power output of 446 horsepower and 376 lbs ft of torque.

It goes from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 4 seconds to go with a top speed of 186 mph. The S5 is mated with a 6 speed manual transmission.

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Exterior

On the outside, you will find a special aerodynamics kit installed that improves aerodynamics. A new front apron reminiscent of the RS5 and a similar radiator cowling have been added along with a black emblem and number plate. The apron contains over-sized flash red air inlets.

From the side view, the color red is also employed on the exterior side mirrors and side skirts both of which are made of carbon fibers. Another flash of red can be found on the Work Varianza T1S alloy 20 inch wheel rims.

The rear view features a spoiler and rear screen cover that matches the cars body color.

Interior

Inside you will discover amenities such as a sports steering wheel (from the R8), RS5 style door linings with matching handles and bi-colored Nappa leather upholstery.

The dashboard is nicely decorated, as is the center console. As you enter and exit you will be reminded that this is a Senner Tuned Audi by the company’s name emblazoned on the leather enclosed velour floor mats.

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November 9, 2013 at 12:35 pm | No comment

2013 Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C HPE700

In early 2012, Hennessey Performance Engineering released its 800HPE kit for the McLaren MP4-12C. At that time the supercar was capable of 800 horsepower. In its latest revision the 2013 Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C HPE700 delivers 704 horsepower.

This was accomplished through an engine management software upgrade, an improved intercooler, addition of dual air induction filters, and a new stainless steel exhaust system.2013-Hennessey-McLaren-MP-4-12C-HPE700-being-still A

The basic idea of the upgrade is to allow an increase in the air and fuel into the combustion chambers causing an “explosion” of power. The new intercooler keeps the air cool and dense via a water/methanol injection pump.

The dual induction filters and exhaust allows for an abundance of air to move through the system as well. Without the 700HPE kit installed the vehicle is capable of 616 horsepower.

The MSRP of the 2013 McLaren is $239,400. The HPE700 kits costs an estimated $19,500.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gals (72 L) MPG: NA
Dimensions*
Length: 177.5 in. (450.9 cm) Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm)
Height: 47.2 in. (119.9 cm) Width: 74.6 in. (189.5 cm)
DIN Weight: 3249 lbs (1474 kg) Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: V8 Twin Turbo Displacement: 3.8 Liter
Horsepower: 704 HP Max RPM: 7500 RPM
Torque: 538 lb-ft @ 5800 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed McLaren Dual Clutch*
0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds Quarter mile Speed: 210 mph (338 km/h)

* McLaren 12C specs

Engine & Performance

The standard engine of the 2013 Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C is a 3.8 liter, twin turbo, V8 that generates 616 horsepower. By adding the HPE700 kit the horsepower is ratcheted up to 704 horsepower at 7500 rpm.

You get a torque of 538 pound-feet at 5800 rpm. This upgrade allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph at 2.8 seconds to go with a top speed of 210 mph.

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Exterior

What needs to be said about this cars outside after the above discussion about what can be found under the hood?

Suffice it to say, it’s lines are reminiscent of a Formula 1 racer with an ultra low stance, oversized wheels and sleek contour.

There is a serial numbered dash and engine plaques, along with special Hennessey and HPE700 exterior badging. The McLaren name is displayed in the rear just below the adjustable rear wing.

Interior

The cockpit of the Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C is basic for the task at hand. No frills and gimmicks are allowed as all your attention must be focused on the road ahead when navigating this “ultra car” down the highway.

The steering wheel is two tone in color and flat at the bottom. The McLaren “swoosh” is displayed in its center and the logo are also on the floor mats.

The sport bucket seats match the steering wheels dual colors and the instrumentation panel is ergonomically concise. A nicely fitted center console provides all amenity controls with a display screen located at its top.

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November 8, 2013 at 12:35 pm | No comment

2015 GMC Sierra HD

The new 2015 GMC Sierra HD, along with the new Silverado by Chevrolet, GMC unveiled their new Turbo Diesel line at the Texas State Fair.

The updates on the new GMC Sierra HD include a new look, an efficient engine, and a variety of new options for drivers.2015-GMC-Sierra-HD-3500-SLE-at-home-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Pick Up Truck Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 36 gals (136 L) MPG: NA
Dimensions
Length: 240.2 in. (610.1 cm) Wheel Base: 153.7 in. (390.4 cm)
Height: 78.1 in. (198.4 cm) Width: 80 in. (203.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 6119 lbs (2776 kg) Ground Clearance: 9.8 in. (24.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 6 people
Performance
Engine: V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel 2WD Displacement: 6.6 Liter
Horsepower: 397 HP Max RPM: 3000 RPM
Torque: 765 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm Transmission: X-Speed Automatic

* 2014 Crew Cab SLE Turbo Diesel Trim

Engine

The new Sierra come in either gas and diesel powertrain. The standard on all new HDs is a 6.0 L Voltec gas engine which can deliver about 360 hp and 380 lb of torque.

The engineers at GMC focused on improving the airflow for the engine. Their aim was to create an engine that would be able to maintain power during extended us in hot conditions.2015-GMC-Sierra-HD-2500-SLE-B

Performance

GMC says that their HD pickups are known for their towing capabilities. This new range includes the ability to carry the highest payload of 7,374 lb.

The maximum fifth-wheel trailering is capable of towing up to 23,200 lb. The enhanced engine-cooling feature helps it deliver optimal performance. It is even capable of towing up a mountain grade with a heavy load.

Exterior

The shape of the body is aerodynamic. This is due to the new inlaid doors which reduce wind noise since as it fits right into the body. There are also changes on the roof and rear which improve the aerodynamics.

Interior

Inside the new Sierra HD is infused with more technology. There are more intuitive and ergonomic controls have been tailored for the driver and passengers. The infotainment system received an upgrade and now comes with an eight-inch color touch screen.

The new HD is definitely a quality heavy duty truck. Not only is it able to perform under tough conditions, it received upgrades that make the ride more comfortable. The technology in these new models makes it fun and easy, not just for the driver but also for the passengers.

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November 7, 2013 at 12:35 pm | No comment

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