Author: Lidia Todorova

  • McLaren MP4-12C Spider revealed

    McLaren-MP4-12C-Spider-THUMBMcLaren has just announced that McLaren MP4-12C Spider is now officially launched. The new 12C Spider has a lightweight, high powered engine which develops the incredible 625 horsepower (460 kW), has a RHT folding roof system and a carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis which is identical to that of the groundbreaking 12C.

    The impressive output of the McLaren comes from the bespoke 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine which is mated to the 7 Speed SSG dual-clutch transmission. Spiders dynamics technology including Brake Steer, ProActive Chassis Control and the unique McLaren Airbrake. The latter delivers comfort in all driving conditions, and at the same time a great race car performance and handling on track.

    The Retractable Hard Top is unique system of the 12C Spider which is operating utilizing a switch in the lower section of the centre console inside the cabin. In fact, it takes less than 17 seconds to raise or lower. And of course, the roof can be opened while 12C Spider is moving at speeds of up to 30 kph (19mph).

    The 12C Spider also includes a passive Roll Over Protection System which optimizes passengers and drivers safety. Each buttress contains a steel structure, which was made to absorb impact energy and protect the occupants.

    McLaren MP4-12C Spider
    McLaren MP4-12C Spider

    Furthermore, this amazing sportscar will be launched in Volcano Red. However, there are also 17 more exterior paint finishes which are going to be available.

    The interior of the car includes an exclusive new trim, which has been developed for the 2013 model year 12C and new 12C Spider. High quality semi-aniline perforated leather and Alcantara are optional choices for the customers. Moreover, there is a new wheel design in Diamond Cut, Standard Silver or Stealth finishes.

    As an optional choice will be also available the Vehicle Lift system, which allows the 12C Spider to be raised front and rear for improved ground clearance

    McLaren 12C Spider is now available to order worldwide, its starting price begins from £195 500 and the first deliveries to customers are planned for November this year.

    A short comparison between 12C Spider’s performance and 12C is below:

    MP4-12C Spider*
    (625 PS/616 bhp)
    MP4-12C *
    (625 PS/616 bhp)
    0-62 mph (0-100 kph) 3.1 sec 3.1 sec
    0-100mph (0-161kph) 6.1 6.0
    0-124 mph(0-200 kph) 9.0 sec 8.8 sec
    ¼ mile (400m) 10.8 sec @ 134 mph
    (216 kph)
    10.6 sec @ 136 mph (219 kph)
    V Max 204 mph (329 kph) 207 mph (333 kph)
    Fuel efficiency, EU MPG
    (litres/100km)
    24.2 (11.7) 24.2 (11.7)
    CO2 g/km 279 279

    McLaren MP4-12C Spider technical specifications:

    Drivetrain layout Longitudinal mid-engine, RWD
    Engine configuration V8 twin turbo
    Engine material Aluminium block and cylinder heads
    Oiling Dry sump
    Compression ratio 8.7:1
    Valvetrain 32-valve, DOHC, dual VVT
    Redline ( rpm) 8,500
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 93 x 69.9
    Engine displacement (cc) 3799
    PS / rpm 625 / 7500
    Torque Nm / rpm 600 / 3000-7000
    PS per litre 164
    Transmission 7 Speed SSG
    Body structure Carbon fibre MonoCell with aluminum front and rear frames
    Wheelbase (mm) 2670
    Track, F/R (mm) 1656 / 1583
    Length (mm) 4509
    Width (mm)  @ widest point 2093
    Height (mm) 1203
    DIN weight (kg / lbs) 1474 / 3249
    Dry weight (kg / lbs) 1376 / 3033
    Dry weight with lightweight options
    (kg / lbs)
    1341 / 2956
    Weight distribution at DIN F / R % 42 /  58
    Active aerodynamics McLaren Airbrake
    Suspension ProActive Chassis Control
    ProActive Chassis Control modes Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
    Powertrain modes Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
    Brakes Cast iron discs with forged aluminum hubs
    (F  370mm / R 350 mm)
    Wheel sizes (F / R) 19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J
    Tyres (F / R) Pirelli PZero 235/35 R19 / 305/30 R20

    Source: McLaren

  • 2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition

    2012-Kahn-Jeep-Wrangler-Military-Copper-Edition-THUMB2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition is the newest transformation delivered by the talented Afzal Kahn. Here he combined the mechanical perfection of the Jeep with an exterior beauty in copper.

    It is obvious that he is keen on working with Jeep Wranglers, we have seen some great transformations by him done on this model. The current one however, is probably the most expressive one.

    2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition
    2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition

    This Copper Edition is characterized by new 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 rear wheel cover.

    More cutting edge technologies can be seen on the blank rear window sections and LED lights, which can be made in bullet-proof glass according to customers wish.

    Furthermore, Kahn’s cross hair exhausts in stainless steel reflects an attraction to a pluto-matic lifestyle. This means that the vehicle now is more silent than ever.

    The interior of the Jeep is made exquisitely well with the craftsmanship of the tuner. This vehicle comes with front and rear seats in quilted black leather with copper stitching and a centre console, also in a copper finish. Just look at the picture below and you can get a sense of how perfect they look.

    2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition Interior
    2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition Interior

    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.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • 2012 Suzuki Alto: available for purchase

    2012-Suzuki-Alto-THUMB2012 Suzuki Alto is now available for purchase and will delight its customers with both low CO2 emissions and low price. The model will be available in three versions: five door body style SZ, SZ3 and SZ4.

    This Suzuki is popular for its outstanding performance in terms of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. Hence, this makes it perfect for urban driving. The vehicle also meets the pressing need for a reduced impact on the environment.

    2012 Suzuki Alto
    2012 Suzuki Alto

    Some of the recently made changes on the Alto Minor Change model include Dual VVT (Variable Valve Timing) for greater engine flexibility and response. Thanks to this modification the CO2 emissions were further reduced. This of course led to improvements to fuel economy as well.

    The latest model of the Alto embodies new design interior colour and fabric trim, new full wheel covers for SZ and SZ3 models and dipping rear view mirror. The range of exterior colors has been extended as well: it now includes Glistening Grey metallic.

    When equipped with manual transmission, the Alto emits just 99g/km CO2. The engine of the vehicle achieves a maximum torque of 90Nm/66lbft at 3,400 rpm, and combined fuel consumption of 65.7mpg. These number make the Alto one of the cleanest petrol-powered City cars in the world.

    2012 Suzuki Alto has a starting price of £5 995.

    Source: Suzuki

  • 2013 Volkswagen Polo BlueGT: dynamic and efficient

    Volkswagen-Polo-BlueGT-thumb2013 Volkswagen Polo BlueGT has the potential to set new benchmarks. It combines the aspects of “dynamics” and “fuel efficiency” and hence creates unheard levels of fuel efficiency.

    The most important highlight in the new Polo is that it benefits from its TSI engine with active cylinder management (ACT). What it does is to basically shut off two of the engine’s four cylinders.

    The torque-friendly 1.4-litre TSI engine produces power output of 103 kW / 140 PS. However it still is able to deliver fuel consumption of just 4.6* l/100 km and has 107 g/km CO2 emissions. When the Polo BlueGT is equipped (optionally) with the optional 7-speed DSG transmission, then the fuel consumption is further reduced to the number of 4.5 l/100 km and 105 g/km CO2, respectively.

    Nevertheless, the BlueGT is so powerful that it has a top speed of 210 km/h, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.

    The coexistence of efficiency and dynamic in one car is enabled by the systematic interplay of ACT, downsizing (reduced engine displacement plus direct injection and charging) and BlueMotion Technologies (Stop/Start system, battery regeneration, aerodynamic components).

    2013 Volkswagen Polo BlueGT
    2013 Volkswagen Polo BlueGT

    In addition, the new Volkswagen model is distinctive in terms of exterior and interior as well. Externally, the BlueGT is characterised by such features as new 17-inch aluminium wheels, a roof edge spoiler, modified bumpers (with diffuser on rear bumper), distinctive side sills and a 15 mm lower ride height.

    The interior of the car includes extended functional range of standard feature: multifunctional display, cruise control system, sport seats in front, ESP, front airbags, head/thorax airbags and electrohydraulic steering.

    2013 Volkswagen Polo BlueGT will be available at dealerships by the end of the year with a starting price of 19 650 euro.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL with market launch

    2013-Mercedes-Benz-GL-350-BlueTEC-4MATIC-THUMB2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is to be offered in three models: the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC with V6 diesel engine, the V8 petrol-engined GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, and the high-performance GL 63 AMG variant with V8 biturbo petrol engine. In addition, the standard equipment of the new GL Class is now further enhanced.

    The luxury vehicles can be use for both on- and off-road and now include an extended range of standard equipment: electric sliding sunroof, electrically operated EASY-PACK tailgate, EASY ENTRY system for convenient access to the third row of seats from both sides, high-insulation windscreen or electromechanical steering.

    In the interior, can be found the following standard equipment: colour screen with photo-realistic display and dashboard finished in ARTICO man-made leather.

    2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
    2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

    Furthermore, the new Mercedes-Benz SUV vehicle has as a standard safety features the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST collision warning system and ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system. One of the new GL’s innovations and highlights is the standard-fit Crosswind Assist, which helps the driver by targeted brake actuation if the vehicle is affected by sudden crosswinds.

    Moreover, the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY adds to these safety features the Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC, the Intelligent Light System, the KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system, 3-zone THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control and multicontour leather seats for driver and front passenger including massage function.

    More importantly however are the new added engines which deliver better performance with increased output and torque, while at the same time enabling a reduction in consumption levels. As a result, the 190 kW (258 hp) GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC achieves an NEDC consumption of 7.4 l/100 km, the V8 petrol model, the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, produces 320 kW (435 hp) and has torque levels of 700 Nm while consuming just 11.3 l/100 km (NEDC).

    2013 Mercedes-Benz GL prices:

    • GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC                            €60,900 (€72,471)
    • GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY           €79,500 (€94,605)
    • GL 63 AMG                                                        €109,500 (€130,305)

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • McLaren MP4-12C Spider – the next high performance sports car [Video]

    McLaren-MP4-12C-Spider-THUMBMcLaren MP4-12C Spider will open next chapter in the story of the automotive world. Almost a year after the appearance of the MP4-12C model and days after McLaren announced that the model is going to get some significant upgrades, they have just revealed their new high performance sports car – McLaren MP4-12C Spider.

    The Spider will bring ore versatility to the range with its open top. In addition it will be powered by the astonishing twin-turbo V8-engine which will deliver an experience of 625 horsepower (460 kW), to everyone riding this open roofed 12C Spider.

    As a basis of this model served the same super stiff carbon fibre MonoCell chassis as its hardtop sibling and this means that it will be nothing else but exciting and dynamic to drive.

    Nevertheless, the open top is going to dial up the sensations experienced, the emotions felt and the noise heard. Can you already imagine it?

    McLaren MP4-12C Spider (Teaser Image)
    McLaren MP4-12C Spider (Teaser Image)

    More information around this new exciting McLaren is going to be revealed in the next few days.

    In the video below Jenson Button (Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Racing driver) speaks about the connection he feels with the machine he drives and about what he senses when driving a 300 km/h open top car.

    httpv://youtu.be/TRNjLjlaeNc

    Source: McLaren

  • 2013 Jaguar XJ – Pricing and Specifications

    2013-Jaguar-XJ-THUMBMore details around 2013 Jaguar XJ has just been revealed. The vehicle will benefit from improved efficiency, more comfort and functional technologies.

    Jaguar’s most technologically advanced car is now more efficient and refined than ever before. In order to improve the overall efficiency of the XJ, the brand has included an eight-speed ZF transmission with Intelligent Stop-Start as standard to it.

    This new feature leads to lower fuel consumption and emissions and now the XJ is expected to achieve 47 MPG while emitting 159g/km of CO2.

    2013 Jaguar JX
    2013 Jaguar JX

    Further improvements concerning the performance of the Jaguar have been thanks to the introduction of a new 3.0-litre, supercharged V6 powertrain. This one produces 340 hp (250 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.

    Next, some upgrades have been done on the suspension of the car. Alongside the exciting new powertrain line-up all models in the range will include re-calibrated spring and damper tunes as well as remapped damper software, thus delivering enhanced ride isolation and passenger comfort.

    2013 Jaguar XJ Specifications:

    Engine Variant 3.0 V6 S/C Petrol 5.0 V8 S/C Petrol
    Layout V6 cylinder V8 cylinder
    Capacity 2995 cc 5000 cc
    Power 340PS 510 PS
    Torque 450 Nm 625 Nm
    Fuel economy 9.4 l/100km (30mpg) 11.3 l/100 km (25mpg)
    CO2 emissions 224g/km 268g/km
    Performance (0-60 mph) 5.7secs 4.7 secs
    Performance (0-100 kph) 5.9 secs 4.9 secs
    Engine Variant 3.0 V6 Diesel S
    Layout V6 cylinder
    Capacity 2,993 cc
    Power 275 PS
    Torque 600 Nm
    Fuel economy 6.0 l/100 km (47mpg)
    CO2 emissions 159 g/km
    Performance (0-60 mph) 5.9 secs
    Performance (0-100 kph) 6.4 secs

    2013 Jaguar XJ Pricing:

    XJ 13MY on-the-road (OTR) Pricing (£)
    Standard wheel-base
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Luxury 56,260
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Premium Luxury 60,060
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Portfolio 67,260
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Premium Luxury 65,365
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Portfolio 72,815
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Supersport 91,735
    Long wheel-base
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Luxury 59,260
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Premium Luxury 63,060
    XJ 3.0 Diesel Portfolio 70,260
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Premium Luxury 68,515
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Portfolio 75,815
    XJ 3.0 S/C Petrol Supersport 95,235

    Source: Jaguar

  • 2012 Mazda Axela 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style with number of upgrades

    AXELA-SPORT-20-S-SKYACTIV-Advanced-Style-THUMB2012 Mazda Axela is now upgraded and includes Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine. In addition, the special edition Mazda Axela Sports 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style now has enhanced features such as leather seats, a leather-wrapped parking brake lever, and cruise control.

    Furthermore, the ride quality has been improved and noise in the cabin has been further minimized thanks to the sound insulation and sound-proof glass. The model’s sporty features include a speedometer scaled up to 240km/h and a large rear roof spoiler.

    2012 Mazda Axela 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style
    2012 Mazda Axela 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style

    Next, there have been upgrades which concern the safety features. For instance, Mazda now includes Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), which alters the direction of the headlights in accordance with vehicle speed and steering movements.

    Additionally, the Rear Vehicle Monitoring system detects cars which approach from behind on either side of the Axela when driving on the highway. Then, warning signals become active there is a risk of collision.

    The most important update here however is the revisions to the fuel management system of the highly efficient SKYACTIV-G 2.0 direct-injection gasoline engine. The result is enhanced fuel economy.

    The Axela Sport 20C-SKYACTIV and 20S-SKYACTIV, which run on 15-inch tires, achieve a fuel economy rating of 17.4km/L.

    Main features of the special edition 2012 Mazda Axela Sport 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style are: superior high quality interior, genuine leather seats and a parking brake lever with genuine leather cover, quieter cabin, sound-proof glass, additional acoustic insulation beneath the hood and below the instrument panel, thicker sound and vibration padding under the front seats and addition of acoustic insulation below the A-pillar, sporty interior and exterior design, 17-inch reflective aluminum wheels, speedometer scaled up to 240 km/h, enhanced safety and comfort, Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), discharge headlights (bi-xenon), Rear Vehicle Monitoring system, automatic anti-glare rear view mirror, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control.

    2012 Mazda Axela 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style Interior
    2012 Mazda Axela 20S-SKYACTIV Advanced Style Interior

    2012 Mazda Axela Data:

    Model grade Drive Engine Transmission
    Sedan 15C FWD MZR1.5L
    (1500 DOHC)
    CVT
    (7 speed Activematic)
    20C-SKYACTIV SKYACTIV-G 2.0
    (2000 DOHC)
    SKYACTIV-Drive
    (6-speed EC-AT Activematic)
    20E-SKYACTIV
    20E (4WD) 4WD MZR2.0L
    (2000 DOHC)
    4-speed EC-AT
    Sports 15C FWD MZR1.5L
    (1500 DOHC)
    CVT
    (7 speed Activematic)
    15S
    20C-SKYACTIV SKYACTIV-G 2.0
    (2000 DOHC)
    SKYACTIV-Drive
    (6-speed EC-AT Activematic)
    20S-SKYACTIV
    Mazdaspeed Axela MZR2.3L
    DISI Turbo
    (2300 DOHC)
    6-speed MT
    20E (4WD) 4WD MZR2.0L
    (2000 DOHC)
    4-speed EC-AT

    Source: Mazda

  • HRE P40SC Porsche 997 Turbo adds more contrast to the road

    HRE-P40SC-Porsche-997-Turbo-THUMBWhat could make a Porsche 977 Turbo stand out among the rest? The answer is a dramatic grey and red contrast. It has been achieved thanks to the enhancement which has been done with the help of HRE Wheels.

    The car is originally equipped with a 6-cylinder, 3.8 liter boxer engine generating 500 hp (370 kW). The Porsche is equipped with manual 7-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, sport-chrono package, featuring the availability of an electronically controlled launch-control and an overboost-function for temporary increasing the turbo-pressure.

    HRE-P40SC-Porsche-997-Turbo-644
    HRE P40SC Porsche 997 Turbo

    Therefore which this amazing amount of horsepower it is no wonder that this Porsche can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.4 seconds, reaching its top speed of 194 mph (312 km/h).

    Now, with the set of HRE P40SC Wheels in Brushed Red with a fitment of 20″x9″ at the front and 20″x13″ at the rear, the 977 can be the star on the road, making everyone who isn’t driving it envy.

    Source: HRE Wheels

  • 2012 Mazda Verisa gets upgraded

    2012-Mazda-Verisa-THUMB2012 Mazda Verisa gets upgraded will get several upgrades including refined color options for both exterior and interior and in addition will offer its customers enhanced safety features.

    Mazda will equip the new Verisa new body colour, named Dolphin Gray Mica. This means that seven body colors will be now available for this model. Furthermore the color of the seat cushion fabric in the C model grade has been changed from Lilac Gray to Tailored Black.

    2012 Mazda Verisa
    2012 Mazda Verisa

    To go along with this change the meter hood and glove box lid have been changed to black, giving the interior a more luxurious outlook.

    Moreover, the headrests on the front seats have been enlarged and now the comfort of the Mazda is further improved. The headrests on the side rear seats have been redesigned with the same aim.

    The center rear seat has been fitted with a headrest and a three-point seatbelt, improving even more the car’s safety features.

    2012 Mazda Verisa Interior
    2012 Mazda Verisa Interior

    Source: Mazda

  • Porsche 918 Spyder concept debuts at Goodwood

    Porsche 918 Spyder concept has just made its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. It was introduced to the wide public back in the 2010 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it gathered praises and received overwhelming reaction from the sports car enthusiasts.

    918 Spyder has unique hybrid technology, thanks to Porsche’s Intelligent Performance system. The latter is responsible for the estimated fuel consumption of the car of 3 liters per kilometer (or 94 mpg), equating to CO2 emissions of 70 g/km. The supercar is equipped with V8 petrol engine which generates more than 500 hp (368 kW). In addition this engine is assisted by two electric motors with a total of 160 kW (218hp).

    The energy storage unit is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery that can be charged from a conventional domestic power socket, delivering a range in excess of 25km (16 miles) in the NEDC on purely electric power.

    Thanks to the great power it has, this super sports car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a maximum of 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of more than 320 km/h (199 mph).

    Porsche 918 Spyder concept
    Porsche 918 Spyder concept

    And what about the design of this concept? As you can see it carries the design DNA of the Carrera GT and Porsche 917 race car, as well as the RS Spyder. Despite all the similarities, the production version of the two-seater will include a manual roof system with removable roof panels which can be stowed in the front luggage compartment.

    First prototypes of the 918 Spyder are currently undergoing their final specification definition. They will include groundbreaking solutions such as the full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear axle steering and the upward-venting ‘top pipes’ exhaust system.

    Production of the 918 Spyder will start in September 2013, and will be limited up to 918 units. The delivery of the first vehicles will begin in November 2013 and will be priced from 645 000 Euro.

    Porsche 918 Spyder Specifications:

    Body: Two-seater Spyder; carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) monocoque interlocked with CFRP unit carrier; two-piece Targa roof; fixed roll-over protection system.
    Drivetrain: Parallel full hybrid; 4.6-litre V8 mid-engine with dry sump lubrication; hybrid module with electric motor and decoupler; electric motor with decoupler and gear unit on front axle; electrical system recuperation; four cooling circuits for motors, transmission and battery; thermal management.
    Engine Power: > 570 hp (V8 engine)
    ~ 90 kW (hybrid module on rear axle)
    ~ 80 kW (electric motor on front axle)
    > 770 hp (combined)
    Suspension: Double-wishbone front axle; optional electro-pneumatic lift system on front axle; electro-mechanical power steering; multi-link rear axle with adaptive electromechanical system for individual rear wheel steering
    Brake system: High-performance hybrid brake system with adaptive recuperation; ceramic brake discs (PCCB).
    Energy supply: Lithium-ion battery with 6.8 kWh capacity (BOL nominal), 202 kW maximum power and mains compatible plug-in charger.
    Performance: Top speed > 325 km/h  (201mph)
    purely electric > 150 km/h  (93mph)
    Acceleration: 0 – 100 km/h < 3.0 s
    Consumption
    (NEDC):
    Total ~ 3.0 l/100 km  (94 mpg)
    CO2 emissions: Total ~ 70 g/km
    Range: Purely electric > 25 km (15 miles)

    Source: Porsche

  • Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition hits the roads in July

    Mazda-MX-5-Kuro-Special-Edition-THUMBMazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition is all about involvement in the motorsport world, which will go on sale in the beginning of the next month. The sportscar carries a Brilliant Black roof, Brilliant Black door mirrors and dark gunmetal 17-inch alloy wheels, contrast with the three exterior colours – Velocity Red Mica, Crystal White Pearlescent and Brilliant Black. In fact, the word “Kuro” stands for black in Japanese.

    This Mazda model is based on the MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models and is available in two variants: 1.8i Soft-top and a 2.0i Roadster Coupe. Some of the specification highlights here include: a diffuser-style rear sports bumper, larger diameter sports exhaust, unique race car inspired exterior graphics, Black detailing around the front grille and front fog lights, plus unique ‘Kuro Edition’ badging.

    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition

    The interior of the MX-5 Kuro includes unique Stone and Black heated leather seats, Stone leather door inserts, with contrasting red stitching, a silver interior deco panel with red accents, alloy pedals, premium floor mats with race inspired logo and climate control air-conditioning.

    In fact, the MX-5 has been voted “Best Roadster” by Auto Express magazine for six years in a row. This is because the models have all the dynamic attributes of a great sportscar: front-engined, rear-wheel drive chassis to deliver perfect balance, with razor-sharp handling and pure driving exhilaration. The Kuro model has them all, of course.

    More importantly, there is a choice between two powertrains. The first one is the 126 hp (93 kW) 1.8i engine mated to the five-speed gearbox. This one goes only with the Soft-top version. And if you like more power and prefer roadster, then the Mazda MX-5 Kuro Roadster Coupe will offer you the 160 hp (118 kW) 2.0i engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

    As a true sportscar, this Mazda model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph for just 9.9sec, when in Soft-top veriosn, and in 7.9sec – when in Roadster Coupe version. The top speeds here are 121mph and 136mph respectively.

    The handling stability of the vehicle is ensured by Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Limited Slip Differential (LSD), side airbags.

    The starting price for the Mazda MX-5 1.8i Kuro Soft-top is £18 495 and for the Mazda MX-5 2.0i Kuro Roadster Coupe is £21 995.

    Mazda MX-5 ‘Kuro’ Soft-top otional equipment includes (above standard model):

    Unique 17-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 tyres, Brilliant Black roof and door mirrors, Diffuser-style rear sports bumper, Larger, sports-style exhaust tailpipe, Black front grille and front fog lights surrounds, Stone & Black heated leather seats and stone door trim, Leather steering wheel and handbrake, ‘Red’ colour stitching on seats and door trim, Alloy pedal set, Silver fashion bar covers, Silver decoration panel with Red accents, Climate control air-conditioning, Unique ‘Kuro’ exterior badging and race logo premium floor mats.

    Mazda MX-5 ‘Kuro’ Roadster Coupe otional equipment includes (above the Soft-top model):

    Cruise control, Side airbags, 6-speed transmission, Bilstein suspension, Integrated Bluetooth® system, Bose® 6-CD and additional speaker.

    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Performance & Economy:

    Soft-top Power
    (ps)
    Torque
    (Nm)
    0-62mph
    (sec)
    Top Speed
    (mph)
    Combined
    (mpg)
    1.8i Kuro 126 167 9.9 121 39.8
    Roadster Coupe
    2.0i Kuro 160 188 7.9 136 36.2

    Source: Mazda