Lidia Todorova – Page 257 – Automobiles Review

2013 Chevrolet COPO Camaro With Additional Engine Choices

2013 Cehvrolet COPO Camaro factory drag-racing car will be produced in limited run and their customer will be identified starting Monday, March 11. Only sixty-nine units will be constructed in 2013.

Last year, for the 2012 COPO Camaros, when only 69 were built, more than 3000 people have shown interest. To remind you, COPO stands for Central Office Production Order and was originally used by dealers in the 1960s. Back then this created special orders, mostly for fleet vehicles.

In addition, some racing-minded dealers utilized this system in order to make higher-performance models such as the 1969 Camaro ZL1. And again, only sixty-nine examples of this Chevrolet were built, hence making the model valuable collector’s car.

To be more precise, the the 2013 production run will be offered with two new engines and a new manual transmission: 350-cubic-inch engine rated at 325 horsepower (240 kW) and the 427-cubic-inch engine rated at 425 horsepower (313 kW).

As a standard on all COPO Camaros comes the high-feature fuel-injection system with engine management directed by an all-new Holley HP EFI electronic control. The latter includes self-tuning fuel table strategies and data logging, and is utilized in conjunction with a Holley Hi-Ram intake manifold.

In addition, there is a brand new manual transmission. Rear axle gearing is optimized for each vehicle, depending on the engine and transmission. Other new and revised production features for 2013 include: a “heritage” grille and standard-production (non-HID) headlamps; new exterior graphics choices with engine-size call-outs; revised interior package with custom carpet and new switch panel; dedicated racing wiring harness; revised front springs that enhance performance; transmission cooler integrated with radiator.

What is more, five exterior colors are being offered as a choice to customers. They are namely: Black, Summit White, Victory Red, Silver Ice Metallic and Ashen Gray Metallic. The starting price for the COPO Camaro is $86 000.

Source: Chevrolet

March 8, 2013

2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 Supported By Bilstein

Aston Martin has confirmed their partnership with leading damping and suspension specialist Bilstein, appointing it as primary technical partner for Aston Martin Racing’s competition programme at the Nürburgring race in May.

The emblematic blue and yellow colours of Bilstein are now featured on the new 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 which will be driven by Darren Turner (GB) and Stefan Mücke (D), alongside Allan Simonsen (DK) and Pedro Lamy (PT) at the race.

In fact, Bilstein has played a crucial role in the success of Aston Martin’s road cars, giving them excellet performance and quality. The Bilstein-liveried V12 Vantage GT3 is going to be firstly presented at the 60. ADAC Westfalenfahrt four-hour race (VLN1) on 23 March and then again at the 55. The other events at which it will be seen are the ADAC ACAS H&R Cup (VLN3) on 27 April in preparation for the ADAC Zurich 24-Hour race on 19/20 May.

Additional details about the racecar, as well as Aston Martin’s full Nürburgring 24 Hours campaign will be disclosed in the coming weeks.

Source: Aston Martin

March 8, 2013

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Delivers Enhanced Efficiency

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid is the updated version of the popular vehicle and includes a more performance-driven and fuel-efficient powertrain as well as more cargo space and premium features.

To be more precise, the powertrain refinements are made to enhance smoothness and drivability, featuring a more robust 47 hp (35 kW) electric traction motor, stronger Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) and more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery.

The car delivers 199 horsepower (147 kW) and has combined 318 Nm (235 lb-ft) of torque. The Optima Hybrid is now being offered in two trim levels – base and EX. The firs one achieves an EPA estimated 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined, while the second trim model delivers an EPA estimated 35/39/371.

What also has been enhanced here is that the new Kia model has greater trunk space. Moreover, the EX model comes with additional equipment: navigation with back-up camera, an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch wheels to the already long list of amenities.

Furthermore, the model is lighter and aerodynamically enhanced. It runs on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, for the base and the EX respectively, and has reduced weight and drag. To be more precise, the enhanced aerodynamics is gained via the Optima Hybrid’s lowered ride height, full belly pan and rear spoiler.

In addition, what also differentiates the model are the satin finished front grille surround and trim on the lower front fascia and side sills, and unique front and rear lighting. In addition, the revised Kia name badge is applied to the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel.

2013 Optima Hybrid includes an impressive array of standard safety equipment: driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Traction Control System (TCS) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also come standard on all models.

Source: Kia

March 8, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Hyundai I20 WRC

Hyundai will take part at the FIA World Rally Championship with its new specification i20 WRC. The model was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show showing-off all its assets. The model embodies remarkable enhancements to the exterior bodywork and suspension.

To be more precise, the upgrades are the result of collaborative work between Hyundai’s R&D facility in Namyang, Koreaand and the newly formed Hyundai Motorsport GmbH in Alzenau,Germany, headed up by veteran WRC man Michel Nandan.

In fact, the Hyundai i20 WRC boasts striking looks due to the redesigned livery which blends a dynamic treatment of brand’s corporate blue together with an innovative use of characters from the native Korean script, Hunminjeongeum. The livery perfectly complements the

excitement and dynamism of WRC with the Korean heritage of the Hyundai brand.

The latest version of the i20 WRC has a design focused on aerodynamics and in addition – improved cooling systems. A new rear wing and front spoiler give the i20 WRC a new external appearance. Under the bodywork, some enhancements are noticeable on the suspension kinematics and chassis stiffness.

Source: Hyundai

March 7, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition

The launch of the Alfa Romeo 4C is already a fact. However, what also needs attention is the new lightweight sports coupe’s Launch Edition version which has just been unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This limited edition Alfa Romeo will be produced in limited run of 400 in Europe and will incorporate exclusive characteristics.

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition is available in two exterior color choices – Carrara White or Alfa Red. In addition, it is marked out by the distinctive badge, inlaid beneath the paintwork. What is more, this Alfa Romeo is enhanced with carbon aerodynamic kit which features spoiler and door mirror covers.

In addition, what also distinguishes this Launch Edition from the standard 4C model is the rear aluminium diffuser with dark finishing, Bi-LED headlights with dark surround and 18″ (front) and 19″ (rear) alloy wheels with burnishing treatment.

Moreover, the sporty appearance is further emphasized with the front air intakes, brake calipers in a specific colour, racing exhaust system with BMC air cleaner and suspension kit with specific calibration for shock absorbers and rear anti-roll bar.

In terms of interior, the same sporty design philosophy is applied. There are present leather/fabric sports seats with parts in Alcantara, as well as the distinctive, numbered carbon badge. On the other hand, if the livery is red, the Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition has red stitching on the steering wheel trim, handbrake, mats, handles and sports seats.

At the heart of the 4C Launch edition lies the same engine as in the standard 4C. We are speaking here of the new direct-injection 240 hp (176 kW) 4-cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol unit. The latter delivers exceptional performance without sacrificing driving fluidity and use in any circumstances, from the racetrack to the city streets. Torque delivery is generous, with a peak of 350 Nm at only 1700 rpm.

Moreover, the all-aluminium power unit incorporates the specific optimized intake and exhaust systems, to improve both response at low speeds and extension. Additional help is provided by the crankshaft with eight counterweights. What also has too be mentioned is that it boasts cutting-edge technical solutions including direct petrol injection, dual (intake and exhaust) continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a scavenging control system that eliminates turbo lag.

The result is an exceptional performance thanks to the applied state-of-the-art technical and technological solutions. The Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition has a top speed of 250 km/h, and needs only 4.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 7, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: 2013 Volkswagen Golf Estate

2013 Volkswagen Golf Estate is making a first world appearance at this Geneva Motor Show. The model has been present on the automotive market for twenty years. This Volkswagen model resembles the Golf hatchback but is based on the MQB platform and in addition is up to 105 kg lighter than its predecessor.

Furthermore, for the first time the Golf Estate will be available as a full BlueMotion model as well, with a combined fuel consumption of just 85.6 mpg which is equivalent to 87 g/km of CO2.

What also has to be highlighted is that its boot volume has been expanded from the 505 litres of itspredecessor to 605 litres. This means that when it is loaded up to the front seat backrests and under the roof, it delivers a cargo volume of no less than 1,620 litres.

Moreover, in terms of exterior visual attributes, the new Golf Estate closely follows closely the lines of the Golf hatchback model. It has a total length of 4,562 mm, and visually the “third” side window forms a part of the D-pillar. The result is more sporty appearance.

There are also available a variety of engines. First of all, the derivative BlueMotion utilizes a 1.6-litre diesel engine producing 110 PS (80 kW) and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The petrol engine line-up here begins with a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS (77 kW), rising via a 1.4-litre TSI 122 PS (90 kW) unit to a 1.4-litre TSI ACT 140 PS (103 kW) engine with cylinder deactivation.

Additionally, two other diesel-engine models will be offered: a 1.6-litre TDI 105 PS (77 kW) and a 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS (110 kW). Prices and specification will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Source: Volkswagen

March 7, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sport

Mercedes-Benz Sport has just surprised the visitors of Geneva Motor Show with the revealing of the sport version of the A 180 model in polar silver with detachable body parts in Jupiter red. This demonstrates how an A-Class can be sportily upgraded using Genuine Accessories and as a result this Mercedes-Benz model has light-catching edges and taut surfaces that sportiness and reinforce the car’s confident appearance.

The designers of this A 180 have chosen this striking colour for the front apron spoiler lip, the roof spoiler and the rear apron trim in diffusor look. The sporty appearance is additionally underscored by a decorative sticker kit in chequered flag design with a colour gradient and fine lines. The final look is achieved by the addition of racing numbers and a tinted sun protection strip with Mercedes-Benz Sport lettering.

This model shown in Geneva comes to offer a sense of the personalization possibilities. Some of them include: decorative sticker kits and installation kits for a two-pipe rear silencer, sports suspension and brakes with perforated brake discs and red callipers on the front wheels.

In addition, to the exhibited unit is included a “Night” styling package, front and rear trim, the diamond radiator grille, illuminated door sills with the “Sport” logo, sports steering wheel, sports pedals and 18-inch (45.72 cm) two-tone light alloy wheels in black and high-sheen.

The design here is based on high quality criteria, while the development – on experience and observation of the basic vehicle and the original vehicle computer data. This delivers more reliability, durability and function of the parts included in the vehicle.

In addition, the aerodynamic parts have been tested in wind tunnels and test drives such as high-speed circuits. What is more, thanks to the intelligent “add-on principle” for detachable body parts, no existing parts have to be removed or exchanged.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sport

W 176 accessories	Price in euro[1]	Item number	Availability
Exterior
Front apron spoiler lip	449.00	A176 880 0008	Immediate
Diamond radiator grille	565.25	A176 880 2083 9982	Immediate
Front trim, chrome-plated	169.00	A176 820 0090	Immediate
Decorative “Road” sticker kit in chequered flag design for bonnet, roof and sides	429.00	Upon request	Available from 2nd quarter of 2013
Decorative “Track” sticker kit with numbers (0-9) for bonnet and door as well as sun protection strip	199.00	Upon request	Available from 2nd quarter of 2013
“Night” styling package (black radiator grille and waistline trim strip)	339.00	A176 880 2383	Immediate
Exterior mirrors, black high-sheen	159.00	A212 810 0079	Immediate
Sport badge	25.00	A176 817 0420	Immediate
Roof spoiler	259.00	A176 793 0088	Immediate
Front trim, chrome-plated	119.00	A176 820 0190	Immediate
Rear silencer kit	499.00	Upon request	Available from 2nd quarter of 2013
Rear apron trim in diffusor look, no-pipe/two-pipe	359.00	A176 880 0208	Immediate
Chassis
Sports suspension kit	Upon request	Upon request	Upon request
Sports brake kit with perforated brake discs and red brake callipers on the front wheels	855.00	Upon request	Available from 3rd quarter of 2013
18-inch (45.72 cm) two-tone light alloy wheels, black high-sheen	309.00	A246 401 1602 7X23	Immediate
Interior
Illuminated stainless steel door sills, set of two	379.00	Upon request	Available from 3rd quarter of 2013
Leather sports steering wheel	279.00	A172 460 1603 9E38	Immediate
Velour floormats with logo, set of four	125.00	A246 680 3848 3D16	Immediate
Sports pedals in brushed stainless steel	52.00	A246 290 5401	Immediate

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 7, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: 2014 Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion

The new 2014 Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion is making a world premiere at this year Geneva Motor Show. This is one of the world’s most fuel-efficient family cars: a genuine five-seater, with all the Golf’s traditional attributes of comfort, safety and practicality, along with combined fuel consumption of 88.3 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 85 g/km, makes it the perfect car.

The above mentioned numbers also signify that there is a 15 per cent improvement over the previous-generation Golf BlueMotion, which emitted 99 g/km. The new model is equipped with a 50-litre fuel tank and has 88.3 mpg fuel consumption. The theoretical range of this Volkswagen model is 970 miles.

The great fuel consumption figure is achieved through innovative lightweight design. This includes 26 kg less weight in the running gear and 37 kg less in the body, engine-related modifications and a collection of other measures such as super low rolling resistance tyres with higher air pressure, longer gear ratios – five-speed manual gearbox, the Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems that are standard in all new Golf’s, plus specific aerodynamic modifications.

Furthermore, the frontal area of the new Golf has been reduced by 0.03 m2 and aerodynamic drag by nearly 10 per cent. In terms of aerodynamics, the BlueMotion has lowered ride height, a roof spoiler, lateral air guide elements on the rear window, a masked front grille, partially closed air inlet screens, enhanced cooling system airflow, special underfloor panels, optimised brake cooling channels and a C-pillar spoiler. The result is that the Golf BlueMotion is one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class.

More importantly, at the heart of the new Golf BlueMotion concept lies the 1.6-litre 110 PS TDI from the newly developed EA288 engine series. This unit develops 110 PS (80 kW) and has a maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) from just 1,500 rpm up to 2,750 rpm.

Pricing and exact specification of the 2014 Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion will be announced closer to launch.

Source: Volkswagen

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Auris Touring Sports Black

Another debut at the Geneva Motor Show is making the Toyota Auris Touring Sport Black. It is showcased next to the concept RAV4 models. The Touring Sports Black is based on the Toyota Auris Touring Sports, bud amplifies different aspects its styling and capabilities.

Auris Touring Sports Black has a one-of-a-kind black and red colour theme inside and out, thus offering striking looks and desirable quality. The model is an attention-grabbing newcomer to the compact estate car market. It offers class-leading functionality and segment-unique option of full hybrid power.

First of all it has a modern Toyota design, and is designed with a load capacity of up to 1,658 litres. In addition, its CO2 emissions are of 85g/km, which sets standards for ease of utilization. The Touring Sports Black design study exudes dramatic appearance inside and out and demonstrates how an estate/wagon body style can be much more than simply functional.

To be more precise, the exterior design is further highlighted by the new Night Sky black metallic paint finish. It contrasts with red 19-inch alloy wheels, red inserts on the front and rear bumpers and an eye-catching red trim on the front grille.

To get more sporty appearance, the model is equipped with a twin chrome exhaust pipes and dark tinted rear LED lights. Piano black roof rails and privacy glass give additional premium quality. The same colour theme treatment is continued in the cabin where one can see a black leather and double red stitching feature on the steering wheel, door panels, dashboard, sports seats, gear shift lever and handbrake.

In addition, red is the feature colour for the instrument panel illumination and the finish on the air vents and cup holders. Inside the coupe there are also high quality carpeting and exclusive sports seats upholstered in black leather and perforated red Alcantara. At last, it is good to mention that Alcantara is also utilized to wrap the interior pillars and for the roof lining.

Source: Toyota

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Range Rover Evoque With Black Design Pack

A centre stage on Land Rover’s Geneva Motor Show stand takes the absolutely astonishing Fuji White Range Rover Evoque equipped with the striking new Black Design Pack. Both coupé and 5-door models already deliver wide options for choice and personalisation options across three design themes: Pure, Prestige and Dynamic.

Now, the Black Design Pack emphasizes the confident stance of the Range Rover Evoque ‘Dynamic’, with a host of striking black exterior detailing. A good example is the 20-inch, 9-spoke forged wheels painted in gloss black.

The entire amount of exterior bright finishes has been removed in order to create the Black Design Pack. For instance, a dark exhaust finishers painted in Santorini Black are complemented by a gloss black rear bumper and inner and outer sump guard, which is carried through on the front.

In addition, there are also visible the darkened front headlights and fog lamps – they of course continue the black theme. On the other hand the rear lamps have been transformed to give a clear effect so that they do not visually appear permanently red. Santorini Black painted ‘RANGE ROVER’ lettering across both the bonnet and tailgate and a rear sport spoiler finish the look.

The same Black Design Pack made its debut earlier this year. We have seen it on the Evoque Special Edition model, which is currently still on sale and available in both coupé and 5-door body styles. In this case, the customers have the choice of two exterior colour schemes: Sicilian Yellow exterior body finish with a Santorini Black contrast roof, and a Santorini Black exterior body finish with a Sicilian Yellow contrast roof and door mirrors.

The model also includes one-of-a-kind interior finishes complemented by yellow contrast stitching on seats, central storage area, door trims and fascia mid-section, plus an anodised yellow horizontal finisher.

More importantly, the Range Rover Evoque is powered by a choice of four Engines: the 2.2 litre diesel engine, in both TD4 150PS and SD4 190PS guise, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive; the two-wheel drive eD4, powered by the 150PS TD4 version of the engine combined with a six-speed manual gearbox; and the lightweight 240PS Si4 petrol engine matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Source: Land Rover

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: European Debut For 2014 Lexus IS 300h

2014 Lexus IS 300h makes its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The model is equipped with 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain posting CO2 emissions from 99g/km and has a rear-wheel drive.

As a matter of fact, the key sub-100g/km CO2 figure is achieved by the IS 300h SE model, fitted with 16-inch wheels. IS 300h’s powertrain delivers a total output of 220 hp (164kW) and gives the new Lexus a dynamic drive with quick and smooth acceleration.

The hybrid system included in this Lexus model features a 141 hp (105kW) electric motor and a newly developed 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The latter generates a maximum 178 hp (133kW) and in addition it benefits from a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.

In addition, rear wheels of the IS 300h are driven through the hybrid powertrain’s E-CVT transmission. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is measured at just 8.3 seconds on the way to a Vmax of 125 mph.

Furthermore, the driver can select the style of driving through different modes: EV all-electric running, with the petrol engine switched off; Eco, for optimum fuel efficiency; Normal, and Sport, for sharper throttle response and a sportier steering setting.

In the new IS range is included the F Sport model as well, which comes with sports-tuned suspension and electric power steering. It is also distinguished by a dedicated exterior and interior design features.

2014 Lexus IS 300h Details:

IS 300h engine specifications (figures based on pre-production model)
Engine type	2AR-FSE
Cylinders and arrangement	4 cylinders, in-line
Valve mechanism	16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i
Bore x stroke (mm)	90.0 x 98.0
Displacement (cm³)	2,494
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Fuel injection system	EFI, D-4S with direct and port injection
Emission certification**	EURO 5+ (WVTA countries and ECO grade in non-WVTA countries) Euro 5 (other grades in non-WVTA countries)
Fuel type	Petrol
Combined max output (petrol electric) kW	164
Max power (petrol only) kW/rpm (electric only) kW	133 / 6,000 105
Max torque (petrol only) Nm/rpm (electric only) Nm	221 / 4,200-5,400 300

Source: Lexus

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Unveils RAV4 Premium Concept And RAV4 Adventure

At the Geneva Motor Show Toyota is revealing two new concept vehicles based on the stylish RAV4 model. Both of them were created to reinforce different aspects of the styling and capabilities of the latest RAV4.

The fist one is called RAV4 Premium and it comes to underline the compact SUV’s high quality while the second one – the RAV4 Adventure, builds on the vehicle’s rugged off-road character. RAV4 Premium brings about more sophistication.

Its bodywork and bumpers are finished in Deep Bronze. This enhances the sense of harmony in the design. In addition, at the front, there is a central grille with horizontal lines and air intakes, while the LED lights are further accentuated by a stylish chrome-finished spoiler.

On the other hand, at the rear one can see a redesigned bumper which now comes with chrome inserts, brushed aluminium skid plates and an integrated tailpipe design. The Premium Concept runs on 20-inch alloys that are matched to the aluminium roof rails.

The interior of the model exudes nothing but luxury, thanks to the premium leather upholstery. New black piping and a V-shaped outline reinforce the design of the seats, and the use of two-tone double stitching in several areas expresses both robustness and quality. Grey and black leather wrapping can be seen on the instrument and door panels.

Secondly, the RAV4 Adventure brings about more enhanced off-road capabilities. First thing that grabs the attention is the striking dark red paint that evokes the strong, athletic qualities of the fourth-generation RAV4’s exterior.

The aggressive presence of the morel is further enhanced via the addition of extended wheel arches that accommodate larger 20-inch alloy wheels. Here, the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned and finished with matt paint.

The front bumper is integrated with a new under-run while the rear includes fully integrated twin exhaust pipes and a reworked skid plate. At last, what has to be mentioned are the included here machined roof rails and dark-tinted privacy glass.

Source: Toyota

March 6, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova