Lidia Todorova – Page 290 – Automobiles Review

2012 Nissan Bolt GT-R to be Auctioned for Usain Bolt Foundation

2012 Nissan Bolt GT-R is a special limited edition model developed by the Olympic champion Usain Bolt. The purpose of the one-off gold GT-R is charity and in particular the car will be auctioned for the Usain Bolt Foundation.

The unique Nissan model is embossed with Bolt’s signature and includes interior fittings finished in real gold. The good news is that this model won’t be the last that we will see.

In fact, Bolt’s partnership with the Japanese brand includes his cooperation with Nissan product specialists on a limited-edition run. Of course – only on GT-R models. They will be available throughout the world and the details about this project will be announced at a later stage.

The resources from the auction will be utilized in order to create opportunities for children and young people in the Olympic Champion’s home of Jamaica.

Appointed Nissan’s new “Director of Excitement”, Bolt said: “Racing is my inspiration, and I want to help Nissan become an even more exciting brand for everyone.”

Source: Nissan

October 12, 2012

2013 Nissan Pathfinder with Announced Pricing

2013 Nissan Pathfinder was revealed in the beginning of August conveying entirely new design philosophy and purposeful style. We have seen that the popular family adventure-ready SUV is now going to deliver more comfort, fuel economy and thoughtful technology.

In addition, this Nissan model is available in 4WD and 2WD drive configurations and in four models: S, SV, SL and Platinum. In fact, the Pathfinder made the switch from body-on-frame to unibody construction, and still keeping the highest standard towing rating in its class (5000-lb.).

What’s also prominent for this vehicle is that it also delivers best-in-class passenger volume and fuel economy rated at 26 mpg Highway / 20 mpg City and 22 mpg Combined for the 2WD model and 25 mpg Highway / 19 mpg City and 21 mpg Combined for the 4WD model.

The new model also includes wide range of equipment featuring the EZ Flex Seating System™ with LATCH AND GLIDE™, an industry first 2nd row tip-up seat which allows easy 3rd row access with a child safety seat still installed, along with Easy Fill Tire Alert and Around View Monitor.

More importantly, the unit under the hood is the advanced 260 horsepower (191 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine matched with a next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

It is also the only vehicle in its class with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes from the available intuitive ALL-MODE 4×4-i system. In addition, the independent strut front/multi-link rear design with hydraulic electric power-assisted steering offers quiet and comfortable riding.

What come also as a standard here are the 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The one-of-a-kind 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offered with the Platinum model.

Furthermore, the interior is all-new as well. It includes comfortable seating for seven and people (in all three rows), including available leather-appointed seating. Next, the new Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display, positioned in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, includes a 4.0-inch color display.

There is also available an 8.0-inch touch-screen monitor that offers intuitive interaction and control. It features as a standard Nissan’s Navigation System, along with a variety of driver-selectable vehicle systems and settings.

Other elements of the equipment include leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, RearView Monitor, remote engine start, tri-zone entertainment system and Dual Panorama Moonroof.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Pricing Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices:

Pathfinder S 2WD	$28,270 USD
Pathfinder SV 2WD	$31,530 USD
Pathfinder SL 2WD	$34,470 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 2WD	$39,170 USD
Pathfinder S 4WD	$29,870 USD
Pathfinder SV 4WD	$33,130 USD
Pathfinder SL 4WD	$36,070 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 4WD	$40,770 USD

Source: Nissan

October 11, 2012

Nissan Micra Range – Pricing Announced

Nissan Micra DIG-S is the new trim level in the Micra range which is affordable and yet very well equipped. The supermini Nissan model has a starting price of £7 995.

Nevertheless, despite the price the car features as a standard Bluetooth, auxiliary input for MP3 players, etc. Going up the range, the Acenta model has a starting price of £9 995 and adds the additional 15-inch alloys, air conditioning, front fog lamps and a leather steering wheel.

The Acenta Connect model adds to the previous equipment, the following: the award-winning Connect touchscreen satnav system combined with Bluetooth for hands-free telephone calls and music streaming. This one’s price begins at £10 495.

The most stylish model of the range – the new Micra ELLE – a special edition produced with the world’s leading women’s magazine, adds to the Acenta Connect specification climate control, a glass roof, painted 15-inch alloy wheels and ELLE badging as standard. The price it starts at £11 195.

At the top of the range – the Tekna model adds a glass roof, parking space measurement, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers and climate control to the specification of the Acenta Connect. Despite the wide range of equipment, the price tag starts at £11 545.

The Micra range is equipped with either 80 hp (57 kW) 1.2-litre unit or a 98 hp (72 kW) 1.2-litre supercharged DIG-S unit. Both engines are three-cylinder petrol one, mated to a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission.

Source: Nissan

October 11, 2012

Lamborghini Perdigón Concept – Simply Breathtaking!

Lamborghini Perdigón Concept is an inspirational design worthy of carrying the Lamborghini badge, made by an independent designer working outside the brand. His name is Ondrej Jirec and surprisingly he is a final year Transport Design student at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.

He decided to name his vision Lamborghini Perdigón, the latter word of which in Spanish stands for Pellet. In fact, Perdigón is actually named after a famous fighting bull. The concept obviously is stealth jet inspired and includes sharp angles and polygonal surfaces reminiscent of aircraft like the F117 Nighthawk and F22 Raptor.

One of the untypical design elements which the young student included is for example the large air intake mounted just below the windscreen. In particular, this features a fan-like design on the inside which gives it the appearance of a jet engine.

But take a look at the interior of the car! It is literally breathtaking! On the inside the Lamborghini Perdigón concept features a sharply styled and futuristic cabin which perfectly compliments the exterior.

The steering wheel is high-tech and multi-functional. There are positioned the digital display showing the gear selection, and couple of buttons and switches. The instrument cluster is envisioned small with the gauges deeply inset into their housings.

Furthermore, the high center console not only gives opportunity to the air to be funneled from the front air intake to the mid-mounted engine, but also is the place where what looks like i-Drive inspired control knobs are positioned. In addition it leads up to the central infotainment screen mounted towards the front of the dashboard.

News and Pictures Source: Ondrej Jirec via diseno-art.com

October 11, 2012

The Unexpected Ones: Jeremy Lin and the Volvo XC60

Volvo is currently airing a national TV commercial which puts emphasis on the values that drove Lin towards his success. The relation is the commitment and values that make Volvo a unique luxury brand with an unmatched legacy of safety leadership.

The 30-second commercial carries the name “The Unexpected Ones”. In the spot, Lin is seen leaving a celebrity event in a Volvo XC60. To be more precise this is the model that got 5-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, which makes it the only European SUV with so high rating.

In the video below you’ll see how this incredible Volvo SUV is standing out in passion red among a procession of dull, black limos. Lin at first puts on the left turn indicator then unexpectedly activates the right turn indicator instead and drives away from the crowd.

Lin, who is a Harvard grad, is expected to help Volvo expand its reach in emerging markets and with younger customers. The bran has recently announced a two-year, global endorsement deal, which focuses on markets in China, the United States and other countries in Asia.

httpv://youtu.be/X9ebc-wKoZk

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Volvo

October 10, 2012

Petrolicious: When Outrageous Was Possible

The new project Petrolicious is gaining more popularity because the crew is working hard to deliver to all fans of vintage cars excellent footages of some of the rarest model. Such one is Lamborghini Countach, the story of which you can hear in the first seconds of the video below.

This model of Lamborghini debuted back in the distant 1971 and as the owner James Chen admits it was an “outrageous” car. Because it is not very organic, and in fact it has origami-like forms, it looks very aggressively on the road.

Back in those years the art form known as coachbuilding existed. Back then, the coach builder did not have to compromise his vision due to government regulations. And this is how the Lamborghini Countach was born.

If you are curious to want more about this Lamborghini and to know the true meaning of the word “exotic” then what you need to do is to take a look on this exciting footage:

httpv://vimeo.com/50406912

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Petrolicious

October 10, 2012

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody is the latest conversion of the tuning company Prior Design. It has equipped the Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL model with brand new PD Black Edition V2 Widebody aerodynamic-package and thus making it even more competitive.

Although the new body kit undergoes current development, some details have been just released. The main material used here for instance is high-quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic).

This material is characterized by an excellent surface finish which delivers enough flexibility combined with high stability. In addition it allows easier and inexpensive painting. The fitment is excellent because no modifications or alterations are needed for the parts.

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody - Front

Mercedes SL [R230] PD-BlackEdition V2 Widebody PRIOR-DESIGN Aerodynamic-Kit consists of the following:

BlackEdition V2 front bumper
BlackEdition V2 front lip spoiler (for BlackEdition front bumper)
BlackEdition V2 side skirts
BlackEdition V2 rear bumper
BlackEdition V2 rear diffusor
BlackEdition V2 front fenders
BlackEdition V2 rear widenings
BlackEdition V2 front bonnet
BlackEdition V2 mesh grille inserts
Mounting material
TÜV parts certificate included

As an option, Prior Design offers BlackEdition rear trunk spoiler.

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody - Side

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody - Rear Angle

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230FL PD Black Edition V2 Widebody - Interior

Source: Prior Design

October 10, 2012

Petrolicious: Targa California [VIDEO]

Do you remember that last week a new exciting project named Petrolicious just popped up? The web platform aims to bring the attention on high quality content for vintage cars. The people working behind it promised that they are going to publish a new video every week.

We have to wait no longer, because the second footage, called “Targa California” is out. And if you are huge fan of vintage car, then you should probably know that the Targa California is a non-competitive rally event in its fourth running.

It includes classic vehicles prior to 1973 which rally through some of central California’s most beautiful places. In fact it is homage to the original Targa Florio race in Sicily. So here was where the Petrolicious crew stepped in and recorded this three-day event.

Driving in the middle of a pack of Porsche 356’s, Alfa Romeos, BMW 2002’s and other beauties in windy mountain roads is what you are up to see in this exciting video.

httpv://vimeo.com/50545152

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Petrolicious

October 9, 2012

BBR Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger Conversion

BBR Cosworth Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger is equipped with additional engine power than the base model. In fact, BBR now offers two distinct stages of supercharger upgrades with power outputs up to a sensational 258 hp (190 kW).

In this particular tuning, BBR uses extensively modified Cosworth developed hardware as the basis for the conversions. In addition the British company has revised the crucial engine management side of the MX-5. In details, they have replaced the ‘piggy back’ Interceptor unit with a Starchip developed remap.

The latter optimizes the Mazda’s OEM ECU to the engine parameters needed for forced induction. Another benefit is that this allows further optimization with PROECU software/hardware bundle for DIY OBDII port ECU programming and data logging.

BBR-Cosworth Stage One Mk3 / Mk 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

Cosworth designed Inlet manifold housing and hardware extensively modified by BBR for optimum efficiency and reliability.
Eaton 4th generation MP62 Supercharger
Intercooler (Air to water)
High flow calibrated injectors
High flow replacement air box
Competition high-grade hoses and fixings throughout
BBR StarChip ECU remap (DIY conversions supplied with ProECu hardware for installation)
BBR Cosworth identification badges
BBR hardware and full DIY instructions

BBR-Cosworth Stage One 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3	235 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+77 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5	241*BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+83 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5	217 BHP / 176 Ib.ft (+93 bhp) / +53 lb.ft compared to standard output)

Basically, the huge hike in mid-range torque, instant response from the supercharger and progressive power delivery mean that a BBR-Cosworth supercharged MX-5 1.8SE or 2.0i offers matchless in-gear acceleration and drivability.

But this is not all of the upgrade that BBR offer. We all know that performance enthusiasts always seek the ultimate upgrade, there is a new BBR-Cosworth Stage Two MX-5 Supercharger conversion.

The stage two offers unmatched peak figures of up to 258 hp (190 kW) and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque, even sharper throttle response and a subtle yet, sporting soundtrack. This conversion is of course perfect for fast road or track day use. It adds on the ‘Stage One’ upgrades proven BBR components which enhance exhaust and intake flow to maximize performance.

BBR-Cosworth Stage Two Mk3 / 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold
BBR 2.5 “stainless steel exhaust centre section with metallic sports cat and centre silencer
BBR stainless steel rear silencer with adjustable 3.5”BBR branded tailpipes
High flow BBR performance air filter
BBR StarChip ECU remapping to suit Stage Two mechanical specification

The eventual outcome is a top quality BBR branded exhaust which manages to produce a pleasant note that’s subtle, sporting and allows MX-5 owners to tackle long distance motorway driving in confidence.

BBR-Cosworth Stage Two 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3	252 BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+94 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5	258*BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+100 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5	231 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+107 bhp) / +67 lb.ft compared to standard output)

Source: BBR

October 9, 2012

Citroen DS5 Hybrid4: More Environmentally Considerate Than Ever

2012 Citroen DS5 Hybrid4 is now more efficient than ever before. The engineers from the popular French brand have made him environmentally considerate and thus appealing even more to customers.

As a matter of fact, all three Hybrid4 200 Airdream EGS6 models in the DS5 range have received technical updates so that they can now deliver CO2 emissions from just 91g/km. In addition, this decrease in CO2 emission goes hand-in-hand with improved fuel economy.

To go further into details, the enhanced fuel efficiency is due to new management software. The latter was developed for the full-hybrid diesel powertrain with a number of technical improvements so that now this Citroen model has optimized efficiency.

Here some important enhancements include improved energy recovery when decelerating and braking, and a new battery management system. This makes the newly re-homologated DS5 Hybrid4 drivetrain reducing the official CO2 emissions for the DSign model from 99g/km to 91g/km (BIK tax band 10%).

Moreover, DStyle and DSport versions see their emissions reduce from 107g/km to 102g/km, with a BIK band change from 12% to 11%. Another feature, which reduces the emissions, is the 17-inch ‘Houston’ alloy wheels.

They are available as a no-cost option on Hybrid4 DStyle and DSport versions. The wheels have smaller diameter thus reducing the cars’ CO2 emissions from 102g/km to 91g/km – the same as the entry-level DSign (giving a further BIK reduction from 11% to 10%).

Source: Citroen

October 9, 2012

Glimpse into the Future: Mercedes-Benz Sculpture Aesthetic S [VIDEO]

One of the highlight at this year’s Paris Auto Show, was the event where Mercedes-Benz has shown their three dimensional sculpture paired with a multi media projection. The artistic rendering unveiled the design elements of the new S-Class shape.

The sculptural shapes are a classic feature of a Mercedes-Benz design. In the case of the “Aesthetics S” sculpture, the designers decided to present the exterior of a future saloon in artistic way. And as you can see from the video below – they surely did so!

In general what the people behind the design did is to combine together the modern sense of status, sensual shapes and stylish sportiness in one car. In fact, in the eyes of the viewer the aesthetics of the relief-like sculpture of the new car creates a three-dimensional world.

Here we can see how art is becoming an inspiration for car design. The sculpture is an artistic approach to the design of the new S-Class, which we are eagerly expecting next year. Gorden Wagener Head Designer of Mercedes-Benz talks about the sculpture and design by Mercedes-Benz:

httpv://youtu.be/x_GOG6b5Ng8

Video and News Source: YouTube

October 8, 2012

2013 Nissan Latio – Specifications Announced

2013 Nissan Latio has just been launched and is already on sale around the world. The new Nissan global sedan is characterized by environmentally-friendly features, a high-quality exterior and roomy interior.

Latio is going to offer its customers a high quality exterior, where an imposing horizontal side view and front styling with large headlights and grille are visible and contributing towards vehicle’s strong presence.

In terms of interior, this Nissan model offers great cabin spaciousness and comfort. Rear seat passenger comfort for instance is further enhanced by the ample knee room and wide field of vision. In addition, the trunk capacity is improved through the use of uniquely shaped trim, resulting in luggage space of 490L.

Nissan Latio is also offering a best-in-class fuel economy of 22.6 km/L. This is achieved in all the grades which are equipped with HR12DE engine and an Idling Stop System, with XTRONIC CVT.

The HR12DE engine delivers outstanding acceleration performance in city driving. It also contributes to the enhanced fuel efficiency. In fact, the new Latio with HR12DE engine is one of Nissan’s PURE DRIVE models.

2013 Nissan Latio Specifications:

Exterior design:

Sculptured body with a finely developed cross-section, like athlete’s muscles
Spacious interior cabin and horizontal yet flowing side view
Sporty front styling, as if the vehicle is staring straight ahead
A total of six available exterior colors, including Titanium Grey (TM) (TM stands for Titanium Metallic)

Interior design:

Functionally-arranged switches and controls, with silver-colored finishers (standard on X, G)
Surprisingly spacious rear seat space
Premium-feel Fine Vision Meter with attractive illumination (standard on X, G)

Engine and transmission:

All grades equipped with 1.2L HR12DE engine with an Idling Stop System
XTRONIC CVT adopted in all grades

Packaging:

One-class-above spacious interior room is achieved by minimizing mechanical space, including optimization of size and layout of the radiator and fuel tank and locating the accelerator pedal farther forward
Comfortable rear seat space is provided, with spacious knee room and large center armrest (rear center armrest is standard on G)
Short front overhang and engine hood that gives great visibility, helping reduce “invisible” areas for drivers as much as possible by making it easier to see where the vehicle’s front end is
With large rear window and inventive rear pillar shape, visibility when parking a car in a garage or changing lanes is improved
Brighter headlights, using smaller reflectors, cover a longer distance so that road shoulders are easier to see
Simply designed luggage space opening improves ease of loading luggage. Luggage space capacity is 490 liters – capable of storing four 9-inch golf bags

Aerodynamic performance and weight reduction:

Design that reduces air resistance (coefficient of drag of 0.31) is adopted by optimizing shapes of the front bumper, front pillar, side view mirrors and underbody, as well as making a spoiler-shape trunk lid
Weight is reduced by a total of approximately 70kg compared to the previous model by detailed attention to the refinement of shapes and structures, including engine weight reduction and a change in suspension and exhaust parts

Key Safety and Environmental Technologies:

Multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) that help optimize light distribution
Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors
RearView Monitor (available only on vehicles equipped with car navigation system – provided as a dealer option)
High Mount Stop Lamp
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control [TCS functionality included]) (standard on G, factory-installed option on X, S and B)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) + Brake Assist
Front ventilated disc brakes
High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS curtain air bag system (factory-installed option on G, X)
Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts for front seats
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Mileage display function
Achieves “10% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards” in all grades
Achieves SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards in all grades
Reduces interior volatile organic compounds (VOC)

Source: Nissan

October 8, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova