Lidia Todorova – Page 310 – Automobiles Review

Global debut for Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is the new sports car by the famous British brand which will be available for only limited number of customers because it comes out as a limited edition model.

It comes equipped with the astonishing power of Aston Martin’s naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine that will offer the lucky drivers the thrills of Vantage Roadster driving experience. The V12 is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and hence is able to produce 517 hp (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

It is no surprise then that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.5 seconds. The top speed here is 190 mph.

Furthermore, the new Roadster includes modified rear boot lid and lower front air intake to maintain a level of dynamic performance that’s fully in keeping with the V12 Coupe. In addition redesigned are also the rear damper set-up, front and rear damper valve tuning and a new rear spring design. The outstanding performance of the vehicle is improved additionally by the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.

Some other stylish characteristics of the car include: carbon fibre side strakes; a carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser; carbon fibre mirror caps and carbon fibre rear lamp infills; new forged alloy wheel design.

The interior includes some new features as well. For example, there are subtle additions as the use of glass switches in the lower centre stack. They give more luxurious ambience to the Vantage Roadster cabin.

What is more here is the unique feature of the V12 Vantage’s which the engine’s “Sport” mode button is. What it does basically is to enables the driver to select between two different powertrain modes.

When in Normal mode, which is active as soon as the car starts working, the Roadster has not only a more relaxed throttle response but also a quieter, more refined exhaust note.

On the other hand, the Sport mode is made for more dynamic driving situations where sharper responses are required. Thanks to it the car has sharper throttle response, with the engine delivering more torque during the early stages of throttle pedal travel.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster pricing starts at £150 000 RRP.

Source: Aston Martin

July 11, 2012

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster enters European market this Autumn

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster is the newly-upgraded version of one of the most famous open-top sports car, and more importantly it will go on sale in Europe this autumn. It has improved safety and driving attributes, along with exterior and interior upgrades.

The first new thing around the upgraded MX-5 to be mentioned is the new front bumper design. It gives the Roadster more aggressive-visual appearance and additionally it contributes to optimal aerodynamic performance.

Furthermore, the MX-5 is now even more responsive to driver input. Throttle movement, and the degree to which the gas pedal is pushed, are now controlled separately on all manual transmission models. The effect of this is that it increases the feeling of linear acceleration, and gives the driver more control during acceleration.

The brake return control is enhanced as well, which is very advantageous when the driver brakes upon entering a curve. Another advantage after the upgrade is that Mazda has introduced a new “active bonnet” pedestrian protection system to the Roadster.

2013 Mazda MX-5 will go on sale across Europe in autumn 2012.

Source: Mazda

July 11, 2012

2013 Vauxhall Adam: first official images revealed

The first official images of 2013 Vauxhall Adam has just been released and we can see how excitingly stylish and sophisticated this car looks. Adam is a three-door four-seater built with the help of the highest quality materials. This Vauxhall is to be presented to the public officially at this year’s Paris Motorshow.

The design philosophy of the car was implemented by the Brit, Mark Adams’ team in Europe. It has a “floating” roof which is visually disconnected from the body. The aim is to use more than one colour for the body and to make the vehicle even more eclectic.

Adam carries design signatures which are typical for other Vauxhalls: the crisp line around the door handle (GTC), the wing-shaped chrome grille bar (new Astra) and the blade shape in the lower doors. However, it will include as an option a LED daytime running lights, making it the first car of the A-Segment to incorporate this.

Furthermore, the vehicle will be available in three trims from launch – JAM (fashionable/colourful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty). It is all about personalization here which can match any individual taste. There are plenty of visual combinations, with a wide variety of exterior colours: two different roof colours, interior colours, equipment and materials.

Not only will be the car unique to its driver, but also it will be offered with a choice of three efficient ecoFLEX four-cylinder petrol engines: 1.2-litre 70 hp (52 kW), plus two 1.4-litre engines with either 87 hp (64 kW) or 100 hp (74 kW). In addition the optional Start/Stop technology will further improve the efficiency of the Adam. All engines will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

What is more, for the first time in the A-segment, ADAM will offer a new top-of-the-range infotainment system. It was especially designed to support new media sources, including Bluetooth, as well as connectivity for smartphones with Android or Apple iOS software. Of course, this will enable access to internet-based applications, including GPS navigation.

In particular, the system utilizes state-of-the-art seven-inch, full-colour touch screen display. Thanks to it the driver and the passenger next to them can quickly access the variety of on-board controls.

Next, the technologies included here are also unique to the segment. An example is the Advanced Park Assist II system. With its help the drivers switch on the system with a button on the dashboard and it tells them when they reach a parking space large enough to accommodate the car.

Adam comes equipped with a front suspension created by MacPherson and with a compound crank system at the rear. The wheels are in sizes from 16- to 18-inch, and cars that are specified with 17- or 18-inch rims come as standard with the lowered sports chassis.

The first examples of 2013 Vauxhall Adam will be seen at dealerships in January 2013.

Source: Vauxhall

July 11, 2012

2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra adds spice to the urban life

2013 Seat Mii Vibora Negra is an inspirational mix between Seat’s Ibiza Bocanegra and the Mii FR concept. The Vibora Negra is going to be on sale in just one month, delivering its unique style and stance.

In fact, in Spanish Vibora Negra means black viper. The vehicle includes a complete range of personalized accessories and in addition will mark the start of a host of planned customization packs.

The new range of visual accessories takes the Mii onto a new level and transforms it so well so that it can be come one of the most striking, aggressive and sportiest urban cars. And if you take a look at the pictures below you’ll get the impression that Seat aims to conquer the hearts of the young people, who strive to all be individual. Well, the Vibora Negra Pack is for them!

In details, the complete Vibora Negra pack can be added to any Mii, and includes:

Black Vibora Negra twin stripes (bonnet, roof and tailgate)
Black Vibora Negra side stripes
Black 14- or 15-inch alloy wheels
Black tailgate spoiler
Black side skirts
Black mirror caps
Black gloss gear knob
Black chequered dashboard decal

Source: Seat

July 11, 2012

How to Change Cars Forever: 2013 Dodge Dart

2013 Dodge Dart is the major star of the latest Dodge TV Ad, where the brand reveals how the groundbreaking vehicle was made.

The spot is under the name “How to Change Cars Forever”. It is a rapid-fire “instructional” and dynamic commercial which shows us how to make a world-class car today. It also gives us an insight of Dodge’s approach to designing and engineering.

The advertisement adds a huge dose of creativity and the viewers will definitely appreciate the light sense of humor in it. ‘How to Change Cars Forever’ captures in details the process of starting with a simple idea and developing it to the end by creating a revolutionary new car.

2013 Dodge Dart is an embodiment of a world-class architecture and DNA of Alfa Romeo. Combined with great design philosophy and high-quality technologies, the new Dart is very agile, fun-to-drive, spacious and comfortable. It comes equipped with the 1.4-liter MultiAirï® Turbo engine and offers great ride and handling, and innovative interior style.

Source: Dodge

July 10, 2012

2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 – Pricing Announced

2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 is a vehicle which is going to be produced only in a 2 000 units and more importantly the examples of the model will be specially equipped sports coupes. The tC RS 8.0 is to be seen at dealerships later this month.

The first thing that grabs the attention around this Scion is the exclusive Absolutely Red exterior paint. The next thing that catches the eye are the contrasting gloss black side view mirrors and matching black 18-inch alloy wheels.

Furthermore, the exterior become even more aggressive thanks to the unique and stylish five-piece body kit that was inspired by Troy Sumitomo of Five Axis. This one features front and rear lower valences, side skirts and a rear spoiler. The attitude of the car is emphasized through the lowering springs and an exhaust system that is integrated into the center of the rear lower valence.

Next, the interior of the tC includes sporty seats, which are dressed texturized black fabric with red stitching. The red stitching is a design element which can be seen on the leather wrapped steering wheel as well. And of course, every example of the car will carry its unique number commemorating the individuality of the model.

2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 has a starting price of $21 815 and $22 865 when equipped with a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission respectively.

Source: Scion

July 10, 2012

Eisenmann Audi TT RS gets equipped with racing technology

Eisenmann Audi TT RS is now equipped with high-quality performance exhaust systems. With its INCONEL® nickel-chrome alloy exhaust systems, Eisenmann is bringing Formula 1 racing technology from motor sports to this Audi.

What the tuners have done is to provide for the TT RS a rear muffler which is 40 percent lighter than the standard ones. What is so special about it is that it is made from high-tech INCONEL® material, which is very temperature-stable even at temperatures of over 1000 degrees Celsius.

The ultimate goal here was the development of performance-optimized sports muffler for the new Audi TT RS, which in addition can be utilized every day. More importantly, this optimized exhaust system ensures that the driver will have great driving experience because of the increase in performance of the Audi.

Eisenmann_Audi_TT_RS_644 — Eisenmann Audi TT RS

Source: Eisenmann

July 10, 2012

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Chelsea Jeep 300

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Chelsea Jeep 300 is the latest beautiful creation of Afzal Kahn. It is sportier, more aggressive and with exquisitely beautiful interior. The Jeep has comprehensive white contour, split level targa roof and lowered suspension.

Here the professional touch of the tuner includes a front grille industrial mesh, brake calipers finished in copper, mud flaps, side wing blades in carbon, xenon crosshair headlamps, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, Kahn enamel wing shields, fuel filler cap (smoked black), privacy glass, heated seats, floor mats, split level targa roof, aluminum machined foot pedals, Kahn enamel tailgate logo and to finish it all off, the compulsory branded rear wheel cover.

The new Jeep front grill is in fact manufactured with the help of the latest impact resistant technology. It gives the vehicle more luxurious outlook and powerful presence. In short, the Kahn Jeep front grille conveys linearity and purity.

Furthermore, the grill has additional purpose, other than just to be a beautiful design element. Openings within the grille and lower valance combat unwanted road debris by ensuring optimum airflow to the radiator, intercooler and front brakes.

If you take a look at the interior there you can find only luxurious “bespoke touch”. The seats are wrapped in red leather which contrasts perfectly with the white exterior.

At last, the model runs on special Kahn wheels, which go along perfectly with the vehicle and even further enhance its essence. They were created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology, and are in 9 x 20 size, in smoked black color.

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Chelsea Jeep 300 - front grille — 2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Chelsea Jeep 300 – front grille

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 9, 2012

BMW 1-Series M135i three-door offers sports style in compact format

The new BMW 1 Series is now being launched in three-door sporty and elegant versions, along with additional engine choices.

The powerful petrol and diesel engines are empowered by BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. In addition the new BMW has the latest chassis design and rear-wheel drive, which is unique for a vehicle in this class. And this is exactly what has to assure you that this vehicle will offer you sporty and dynamic driving experience.

The first BMW M Performance automobile for the compact segment is the BMW M135i equipped with a six-cylinder petrol engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology. Thanks to it, the BMW develops 235 kW (320 hp). In addition it delivers its typical M precision-engineered and high-performance chassis, and has now optimized aerodynamics of the body style and an exclusive interior design.

A new entry-level model in the 1 Series is the BMW 114i which is powered by a straight four-cylinder engine. This one generates 75 kW (102 hp). Furthermore, two additional models come with petrol engines and four – with diesel ones.

The BMW M135i and the BMW 114i will also be offered as five-door models. Except for the BMW 114i and the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition, all models can be mated with the eight-speed automatic transmission as an option. No matter the choice, Auto Start/Stop function is available for both manual and automatic transmissions.

The BMW EfficientDynamics technology package includes the ECO PRO mode, which can be activated via the Driving Experience Control button that comes as a standard on all models. The intelligent xDrive four-wheel drive technology can also be seen in the equipment of the BMW>

Of course the BMW 120d xDrive and the BMW M135i xDrive will be the first 1 Series models to have this four-wheel drive technology.

The new three-door model is offered in the BMW Sport Line and the BMW Urban Line versions with special options and equipment. Moreover, the M Sport package will be also available for the new BMW 1 Series three-door model.

Source: BMW

July 9, 2012

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines practicality and elegance

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is the new AMG high-performance vehicle, which combines performance with style and practicality in a completely new way. It comes euipped with 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with a power output range of from 386 kW (525 hp) to 410 kW (557 hp), the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension.

On the other hand the generous interior and luggage compartment with a volume of up to 1550 liters reveal the practical sides of this Mercedes-Benz model. And as a truly exceptional offering there is also the time-limited CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake “Edition 1” which adds further 24 kW (32 hp) of power and 100 Nm of torque.

The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine has the ability to combine direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, piezo injectors, biturbocharging, air/water intercooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function. This undoubtedly will reveal some of its unique features.

It has a power output and torque levels of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Nm respectively. In conjunction with the Edition 1 these figures are enhanced up to 410 kW (557 hp) and 800 Nm.

The first one accelerates from zero to 100 km/h for 4.4 seconds, while the second one for a second less. The top speed of both is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Despite the great power output the consumption figures remain low. Fuel consumption of 10.1 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC) corresponds to a CO2 output of 235 g/km and is identical for both power units.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake key data:

	CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake
Displacement	5461 cc
Bore x stroke	98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio	10.0:1
Output	386 kW (525 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm 410 kW (557 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm*
Max. torque	700 Nm at 1750-5250 rpm 800 Nm at 2000-4500 rpm*
Engine weight (dry)	204 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	10.1 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	235 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.4 s 4.3 s*
Top speed**	250 km/h

The AMG eight-cylinder engine is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, thanks to which the levels of performance and efficiency are further enhanced. In addition it is equipped with four individual transmission modes as well as automatic double declutching and RACE START functions.

For example, in “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is enabled and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the vehicle is at a standstill. When the car is in “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) modes, the engine and transmission are significantly more responsive.

Good contact with the road the Mercedes makes thanks to the titanium grey-painted, high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a triple-spoke design and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the rear.

Another highlight here is the interior of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, which includes: AMG sports seats in nappa leather with multicontour seat and memory functions, AMG black piano lacquer trim and the AMG-specific analogue clock featuring an IWC design, AMG instrument cluster with AMG main menu including RACETIMER and AMG start-up screen.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake Interior

Next, the AMG Performance steering wheel is wrapped in nappa leather and includes a three-spoke design with flattened top and bottom sections, a special shape, perforated leather finish and silver coloured aluminium shift paddles.

A highlight among the extensive range of optional extras is the designo wooden luggage compartment floor. Additional optional extras from designo include: designo metallic paint finish available in three colours, designo magno paint finish available in two colours, designo leather available in ten colours, designo roof lining in DINAMICA microfibre, available in three colours.

The AMG Performance Studio optional extras include the following: AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package, AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer, AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system, AMG rear axle differential lock, white Illuminated AMG door sill panels at the front, lightweight forged AMG light-alloy wheels featuring a 5-twin-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear, AMG light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design, painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flanges, and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system with 16-channel DSP amplifier, ICEpower amplifier, total output of 1200 watts and 14 high-end loudspeakers.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 9, 2012

2013 Puritalia 427 – first images released

The first images of the exciting 2013 Puritalia 427 have just been released and they convey the message that the car was inspired by the classic body shapes of the iconic 1965 Shelby Cobra. Of course, the Puritalia has an updated modern style and enhanced by the distinctive Italian design fingerprint.

The Puritalia 427 is a light and powerful 2-seater roadster, which will offer the lucky customers the best driving experience, great levels of comfort and daily driving use.

The car will be officially revealed to the world in the next year and will be produced in limited run of 100 units. It will be made available for those who are interested in purchasing through direct factory orders and a selected network of international dealerships.

Puritalia Automobili builds only exclusive Italian sport cars, which are designed for purist drivers and car enthusiasts. The cars are only handmade and in limited series, and are embodiment the Italian traditional craftsmanship.

2013 Puritalia 427 Specifications:

DIMENSIONS	L.171.259 in – W.76.850 in – H.49.409 in Front Track 62.598 in – Rear Track 62.992 in Wheelbase: 102.401 in – Weight: ~ 2403 Lbs (50/50)
CHASSIS	Aluminum semi-monocoque with Chromoly steel tubular subframes.
BODY	Roadster 2 seats – composite and carbon fiber body panels
ENGINE	Front mounted V8 5.0L 32V DOHC Ti-VCT Aspirated: 445Hp @ 6500rpm – 530Nm @ 4250rpm Supercharged: 605Hp @ 7000rpm – 640Nm @ 4500rpm
TRASMISSION	Rear wheel drive – 6 speeds manual transmission – Twin disc hydraulic clutch Limited Slip Differential – Aluminum driveshaft
SUSPENSIONS	Four-wheel Independent – Unequal length double wishbones with anti-dive and anti-squat geometry – two-way adjustable mono-tube shock absorbers – adjustable stabilizer bars
BREAKES	Hydraulically powered brake booster Front: Brembo 380mm/32 6 pistons Rear: Brembo 345mm/28 4 pistons
TIRES	Pirelli Pzero – Front: 275/35R19 – Rear: 335/30R20

Souce: Puritalia

July 3, 2012

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Concept by Slimane Toubal

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is an incredible Gullwing vehicle which is a design creation by Slimane Toubal. Exactly with this project the designer won the Design !ndex Awards Contest 3rd Edition. And if you take a look at the pictures below you will definitely know why!

Undoubtedly, the model of Mercedes-Benz 300SL is one of the most beautiful cars in the whole world. Since the first version, which was presented to the world in the distant 1954, this car became a dream car for millions of people around the globe.

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Concept by Slimane Toubal

It is amazing how after 58 years, this Mercedes-Benz is still a big legend and has captured the minds and hearts of so many. Obviously, a lot of designers are keen on working over design concepts on this particular model.

2015 Mercedes 300SL Roadster by Slimane is one of the best that we have ever seen. Slimane is an automotive design modeler, which has an experience of over 20 years in the different cars company as clay modeler or digital modeler. This definitely gave hime the freedom to effortlessly design this version of the popular Roadster.

The 300 SL Gullwing is one of his favorite car and this is why he decided to enter the contest with and interpretation on it. In fact, he didn’t use any sketch to build the car, just the blueprint of the actual Mercedes SLS as package.

Some pictures of the original one Slimane used to keep the DNA of the car. We can see how he preserved the three stripes on the body side, which are symbol for the 300. The wheels have a vintage outlook and give the supercar a special character. This could be a nice 60 years anniversary version for 2014, what do you think?

July 3, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova