Lidia Todorova – Page 312 – Automobiles Review

Graf Weckerle Audi R8 – a sense of perfection

Graf Weckerle Audi R8 is an example how little details can make the car look even more astonishing than possibly imagined. The reason for this is that this Audi R8 has been equipped with Graf Weckerle’s Collection Sport package.

The aim of the professionals from Graf Weckerle is to give an elegant and yet athletic improvement of the overall appearance of the Audi. First, what they have done is to include the one-of-a-kind lightweight multi-piece Graf Weckerle Collection Sport Forged Wheels. They have been designed especially for this car with the single aim to match its exterior.

These ultra lightweight aluminum wheel rims received a special high-gloss black coating. At the same time the forged and machined wheel discs were polished to a brilliant finish. And as you can see the aluminum center emblem has also been polished and is now making a dramatic contrast to the engraved and hand-enameled Graf Weckerle logo.

The dimensions of the wheels on which this R8 runs are 9 x 20 with tires 245/30 R 20 at the front axle and 11 x 20 with tires 305/25 R 20 on the rear axle.

Another visual highlight here is that the car has been further refined thanks to the hand-painted Graf Weckerle Coachline. The Audi R8 is finished in two shades of anthracite and it is accented by the characteristic Graf Weckerle brand logo which is positioned on the Sideblade of the R8. And this definitely goes so harmonious with the custom wheel rims that one couldn’t imagine more perfect combination.

To keep up with the dynamic wheels, the Graf Weckerle engineers and designers have installed a fully adjustable aluminum coilover suspension. The purpose of this type of suspension is to enhance both handling and looks.

At last, the performance of the R8 has also been significantly improved. The 4.2 FSI engine of the Audi received a remapped ECU and was joined by a handmade stainless steel exhaust system with exhaust flaps which can be regulated by a remote control. The result is almost unbelievable: now the Audi generates up to 455 horsepower (355 kW).

At last, to make everything perfect, Graf Weckerle took care even for the last detail: the exhaust tips have been covered with a matte black ceramic coating.

Source: Graf Weckerle

June 27, 2012

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe – Pricing

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is the latest new generation SUV delivered by Hyundai and it is going to be at dealerships in the middle of October this year.

The new Santa Fe is powered by a 2.2-litre CRDi engine which generates 197 hp (145 kW) and 311lb ft (230 Nm) of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission as a standard, and optionally can be coupled with six-speed automatic one.

The 4WD manual Santa Fe has combined fuel consumption figure of 46.3mpg and 159g/km of CO2 emissions. On the other hand the automatic model delivers 41.5mpg and just 178g/km, respectively.

The new Hyundai SUV model is available in three trim levels and a choice of either five- or seven-seat configurations. In addition there is a wide range of standard equipment features which the customers of 2013 Santa Fe will enjoy.

For example the vehicle runs on 18-inch alloy wheels, which are in the standard package. In it are also featured body coloured door handles, body coloured door mirrors with integrated indicator lights, reverse parking sensors, daytime running lights, self-levelling suspension (seven seat only), rear spoiler with high-mounted brake light, air conditioning, Bluetooth® with voice recognition, multi-function steering wheel and Hyundai’s adjustable Flex Steer™ system.

But the list of the standard equipment doesn’t finish here. A number of safety features are also included: ESP, Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, Trailer Stability Assist and seven airbags, and Active Bonnet System.

The first trim of the model is called Premium and its function is to add to the standard equipment touchscreen satellite navigation, reverse parking camera with Parking Guidance System, electric folding door mirrors with puddle lamps, dual zone climate control, heated front seats, roof rails, chrome effect door handles and black leather seat trim.

The second trim – Premium SE, consists of vast array of comfort, safety, and luxury features. It adds to the Premium feature the following: 19-inch alloy wheels, electric driver’s seat adjustment, Panoramic sunroof, Xenon headlights, keyless entry with engine start/stop button, front parking sensors, Smart Parking Assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, Supervision Cluster with LCD display.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Rear

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe prices:

New Generation Santa Fe

	Fuel Type	CO2 Emissions g/km	Recommended On The Road Price £
Style
2.2 CRDi 5 seat 2WD manual	D	155	25,495.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 2WD manual	D	155	26,695.00
2.2 CRDi 5 seat 4WD manual	D	159	26,895.00
2.2 CRDi 5 seat 4WD automatic	D	178	28,595.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD manual	D	159	28,095.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD automatic	D	178	29,795.00
Premium
2.2 CRDi 5 seat 4WD manual	D	159	28,995.00
2.2 CRDi 5 seat 4WD automatic	D	178	30,695.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD manual	D	159	30,195.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD automatic	D	178	31,895.00
Premium SE
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD manual	D	159	32,695.00
2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4WD automatic	D	178	34,395.00

Source: Hyundai

June 27, 2012

2012 DMC Lamborghini Murcielago LP700 M-GT

2012 DMC Lamborghini Murcielago LP700 M-GT will leave in awe every Lamborghini fan thanks to its styling and performance kit delivered by the German based DMC Exotic Car Tuning Company. Here DMC‘s team aimed to refresh the supercars look in terms of exterior and interior while staying true to the original line. The result is incredible.

The M-GT has a clear outlook with the pure aggressive stance of the design DNA of the LP670. To achieve greater downforce on the front, DMC tuners redesigned the front and rear bumper with integrated diffusers. All parts that are used were manufactured in pure carbon fiber by an Autoclave. Another addition is the newly developed rear wing spoiler.

On the other hand the interior of the DMC Lamborghini Murcielago LP700 M-GT has a cockpit which provides sports racing atmosphere. A complete make-over has been done with the help of carbon fiber and fine leathers, and of cours with great attention to the detail.

How about the exhaust of this Lamborghini? The DMC stainless sports rear end pipe emits a sound similar to that generated from race tracks. In addition, this end pipe gives the car even sportier rear look. The exhaust system can be further extended with a DMC sport metallic catalytic converter.

What is more important here is to mention that while the traditional Lamborghini design includes combined overhead throttle valves per cylinder bank, DMC has decided to use 12 unique single intake throttle plates, one per each cylinder.

The gasoline pumps and lines, as well as pressure modulators and injection nozzles are also replaced by new components. The new requirements therefore will be met with the new crankshafts created. Further optimization will happen on the engine electronics, an electronic load pressure control system, and in addition a new wiring will be included as well. Eventually, this will make possible for the engine to be rebranded as LP700.

Source: DMC

June 26, 2012

2013 Lancia Flavia Convertible: expression of Italian way of life

2013 Lancia Flavia Convertible has just been presented to the world with its free and sophisticated spirit. The new model of Lancia will satisfy any customer who is keen open air driving and in addition who likes to share it with their friends.

The new Lancia Cabrio is unique expression of the Italian way of life, combining all the beauty, style and refinement. The vehicle has a front wheel and has a length of 4.9 meters, height of 1.4 meters and width of 1.8 meters. This means that the elegant Flavia will deliver enough space for everybody who wants to ride on board.

It is obvious that it has new elegant and dynamic look, thanks to the sculpturesque front end with the grille on which the Lancia logo can be seen. Furthermore, the surface of the side panel is very clean adding further to its sleek line. The car runs on elegant 18 inch alloy wheels.

The rear LED light clusters are connected by a thin chrome-plated bar. This further enhances the overall look of the cluster. The exciting design is further reinforced by the unusual chrome-plated tailpipe and by the sophisticated electrically-controlled soft top enclosed inside the hood cover.

The interior of the Flavia is synonym of the words refinement and craftsmanship. Through the careful selection of fine materials and the attention to the smallest detail, the car can literally “show-off” with its sophisticated interior design.

There can also be seen a new console which has elegant chrome-plated frames and a large central display; a brand new steering wheel wrapped in leather complete with built-in controls for managing radio, cruise control and phone in total safety; and newly designed seats upholstered in fine leather, complete with practical “active” headrests.

The vehicle offers a wide range of standard equipment from the top quality leather upholstery, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction, latest-generation ABS and four airbags (front multi-stage and side) to the ISOFIX mountings for transporting children in complete safety, the innovative Uconnect® multimedia system complete with satellite navigation system, and the sophisticated “Boston Acoustic Sound System”.

Furthermore, the new Convertible comes with a 2.4 litre petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It delivers a maximum power of 170 hp (125 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm.

Source: Lancia

June 26, 2012

2013 Seat Toledo finally revealed

2013 Seat Toledo has just been unveiled with its new dynamics, elegant and modern design, and highly efficient TSI and TDI engines.

This attractive design is combined with practical characteristic: this new Seat model features generous space, a high degree of flexibility and outstanding efficiency.

All in all it has a length of 4.48 metres, which makes the new Toledo four centimetres longer than its predecessor. This means that it will offer enough space for all its passengers. Despite its saloon-like profile, this model has a large, wide-opening rear hatch.

As you can see this Seat Toledo has a powerful and solid stance, with clear and precisely defined surfaces, lines and edges. The current design philosophy of the brand can be seen through the broad, angular headlamps.

Combined with thee trapezoidal and slender grille, the lower air intake and the horizontal rear light clusters, bring added visual elegance this Seat. Furthermore, the designers have refined the roofline as well: it runs in an elegant arc to the broad C-pillar, which rises smoothly from the rear side portion.

More importantly, the engines featured here are offered in wide range: the most impressive ones are the highly efficient TSI petrol engines in 1.2 and 1.4 displacements, and a 1.6 common-rail TDI unit. Moreover, the seven-speed dual-shift gearbox (DSG) can be seen mated to the most powerful petrol variants. The petrol engines produce between 55 kW (75 PS) and 90 kW (122 PS). The petrol Ecomotive version boasts CO2 emissions of just 116 g/km.

The Ecomotive version of the TDI diesel engine – which generates 77 kW (105 PS) from a displacement of 1.6 litres –and in addition also delivers best-in-class CO2 figure of 104 g/km. It is promised that in the 2013 the range of engines will be expanded with a 66 kW (90 PS) TDI one.

The standard safety package in this vehicle is: driver and passenger airbags, front side airbags and head/thorax airbags, central locking, a two piece folding rear bench and power windows in the front.

Pricing and specifications for the 2013 Seat Toledo will be revealed closer to its on-sale date early in 2013.

Source: Seat

June 26, 2012

2013 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Utility Vehicle with Announced Pricing

2013 Lexus GX 460 keeps over unchanged with its quiet cabin and a long list of standard features and options. It is both perfect choice for city and off-road driving. This Lexus offers enough room for seven-passenger in a three-row configuration and body-on frame construction.

In fact, the GX 460 combines “right sized” mid-size packaging with family-friendly comfort and premium craftsmanship. More importantly, it comes equipped with 4.6-liter V8 engine, which produces 301 horsepower (221 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 329 lb.-ft. (446 Nm) of peak torque at 3,500 rpm. With this power it will effortlessly tow up to 6,500 lbs.

The prices have already been announced for this Lexus Luxury Utility Vehicle. The second-generation GX is offered in two grades. The base one has a starting price of $53 445, and the Premium: the $58 240. GX 460 will arrive at dealerships in July this year.

MODEL YEAR	MODEL CODE	MODEL NAME	12MY MSRP	PRICE INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	13MY MSRP
2013	9700	GX 460	$53,245	$200	0.4%	$53,445
2013	9710	GX 460 Premium	$58,040	$200	0.3%	$58,240

Source: Lexus

June 25, 2012

2013 MINI Clubvan enhances the small car-based van segment

2013 MINI Clubvan has two seats, five doors and of course the unmistakable MINI style. This makes it the world’s first premium compact delivery van. The model is based on the MINI Clubman platform and is designed with the aim to get the attention of new urban users.

The MINI Clubvan will bring more style, quality and driving fun in the small car-based van segment. The increased functionality offered by the MINI Clubvan is based on a closed-off load area which extends from the rear doors right up to the driver’s and front passenger’s seats.

In addition, the cargo can be easily reached either through the wide-opening split rear door or via the right-side Clubdoor. In other words the vehicle is the perfect versatile choice for upmarket commercial applications and for non-mainstream leisure and lifestyle use.

It has a length of 3,961 mm, a width of 1683 mm, a height of 1,426 mm and a wheelbase of 2,547 mm, ant these in fact are the same as those of the MINI Clubman. However, it includes only two seats and has opaque rear side windows in body-colour. The maximum payload capacity of this MINI is 500 kilograms.

More importantly, the Clubvan will come in three model versions: the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Clubvan, the 90 kW/122 MINI Cooper Clubvan and the 82 kW/112 hp MINI Cooper D Clubvan.

All engines are efficient four-cylinder ones. In addition the vehicle includes the familiar MINI front-wheel-drive set-up, Electric Power Steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension and powerful brakes, Auto Start/Stop, Shift Point Display, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units.

Going further into details, the MINI One Clubvan is equipped 1.6-litre engine with fully variable valve timing and generates maximum power of 72 kW/98 hp and provides 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 11.1 seconds, with a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). Its avarage fuel consumption is 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres (51.4 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of 129 grams per kilometre.

The MINI Cooper Clubvan develops maximum power of 90 kW/122 hp. This version has a 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h (125 mph). Here the average fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 5.5 litres/100 km (51.4 mpg imp) and 129 g/km respectively.

The most fuel-efficient model in the line-up is the MINI Cooper D Clubvan. Its four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with common rail direct injection delivers 82 kW/112 hp and is able to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.2 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 197 km/h (122.4 mph). The average fuel consumption is 3.9 litres/100 km (7.4 mpg imp), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 103 grams per kilometre.

All engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission as a standard. Optionally, the vehicles can be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Speaking about the exterior looks of the van, it will be available with a choice of four exterior paintwork shades: Pepper White, Ice Blue, British Racing Green metallic and Midnight Black metallic. The roof, rear side window area, C-pillars and exterior mirror caps are body-coloured on all model versions.

The vehicle runs on 15-inch wheels, but as an option it can be equipped with the exclusive MINI Clubvan Delta Spoke styling with 15, 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels.

On the other hand, the interior includes black seats with Cosmos fabric upholstery, a black interior colour scheme and Fine White Silver trim strips. This is the standard on all models. Optionally, the interior design can be customised to any individual requirements.

MINI Clubvan has also an extensive range of optional extras: xenon headlights, black headlight shells, Adaptive Headlights, Automatic Climate Control, Park Distance Control, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors, a trailer hitch, the MINI Boost CD radio, MINI Visual Boost radio, MINI navigation system.

2013 MINI Clubvan will be at dealerships in autumn this year.

Source: MINI

June 25, 2012

2012 Onyx Land Rover Rogue Edition

2012 Onyx Land Rover Rogue Edition is definitely the most comprehensive package of its type. Just look at the pictures below and you will be too assured of that. This tuning is made by the Onyx company and is in fact one of a kind.

The conversion included not only exterior and interior modifications but also the tuners went even deeper. First to be mentioned are the power gains, which were achieved for the petrol and diesel variants of the Land Rover. Secondly, there is also a complete new exhaust system mounted.

Next, the interior were carefully transformed by high quality tailoring. It was all over furnished with great attention to detail with the highest quality duo nappa leather. In addition the steering wheel completes the exciting look of the interior by its bottom carbon fiber form. In particular, in the interior almost every detail is made from carbon fiber, one instance is the dash clock bezels.

On the exterior we can see the same attention to the detail. Here almost 80% of the exterior panels are upgraded and feature new bonnet, bumpers, fenders, grills, bumpers, spoilers. Here a lot of details are made of carbon fiber, too. Some of them include the pillars, grills, vents, sills. They cooperate in harmony with the existing lines and contours of the Land Rover.

2012 Onyx Land Rover Rogue Edition Interior

Source: Onyx

June 25, 2012

1953 Timossi-Ferrari ‘Arno XI’ Racing Hydroplane [VIDEO]

1953 Timossi-Ferrari ‘Arno XI’ Racing Hydroplane is literally unique. Being built the beginning of the 50’s this one-of-a-kind hydroplane Ferrari is powered by a twin-supercharged 4.5-liter Ferrari Tipo 375 F1 V-12 engine.

Moreover, this powerful V12 is equipped with twin four-barrel carburetors. And if you wonder about the horsepower it produces, well … can you even imagine that an engine which is built in the middle of the last century can produce more than 600 horsepower?

To be hones, at first I couldn’t. But there were some videos recently made, which prove that this is in fact true. Take a look at one of them below, and see and hear for your own self how powerful this engine sounds.

This achingly beautiful and historic Ferrari was recently sold for $1 124 060 in RM Auctions’ Monaco sale. It weighs less than 1764 pounds and has been restored for the sale.

httpv://youtu.be/03Onlgc_hj4

Video Source: YouTube

Pictures Source: rmauctions

June 22, 2012

2013 BMW 3 Series Saloon with enhanced model line-up

2013 BMW 3 Series Saloon will now be offered in hybrid version, four-wheel-drive and M Sport variant. The production of 320i xDrive, ActiveHybrid 3 and M Sport versions will start from this July along with the 330d. Then the production of the 316i and 320i EfficientDynamics will follow from November.

First, the ActiveHybrid 3 is one-of-a-kind. It is powered by the BMW TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine which works in collaboration with a 40kW (55 hp) electric motor. Therefore it can generate 340 hp (250 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque, reaching 100 km/h from zero in just 5.3 seconds.

The electric power is supplied by its high-performance lithium-ion battery. Thanks to which combined fuel consumption is of 47.9mpg and the CO2 emissions are of 139g/km.

More practical and economical, these are the synonyms of this BMW model. The 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 starting price begins at £40 225 and will be in SE, Modern, Luxury and M Sport specification.

Next, the xDrive will deliver its customers the stability and safety of four-wheel-drive to the 3 Series. It will be added at first on the 320i model, which is powered by the 184 hp (135 kW) TwinPower Turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. The latter is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. 320i xDrive accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has fuel consumption and CO2 figures of 41.5mpg and 159g/km.

There is also an optional choice for transmission here, which is the eight-speed automatic one, which enhances the economy and emissions. The initial price of this model stars at £27 400.

BMW eight-speed Sport automatic transmission comes as a standard to the new 330d. The vehicle is propelled by the 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 258 hp (190 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.

This astounding power speaks for itself with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds. Despite that it is also supremely efficient and has a combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions of just 129g/km. The new BMW 330d Saloon is priced from £33 280.

Going further, M Sport specification will be now added to all variants of the BMW 3 Series Saloon. This special trim builds on the striking styling of the new 3 Series and its agile and dynamic character. It adds one-of-a-kind interior and exterior design changes and chassis upgrades.

Moreover, standard features here include 18-inch M Star-spoke alloy wheels, M Sport suspension and M aerodynamic body styling with High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim. Dakota leather upholstery is standard alongside a unique M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel, Anthracite headlining, M Sport seats and M designation door sill finishers, Sport+ function added to the Drive Performance Control switch, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim with an Estoril Blue finisher, Black finisher, Brushed Aluminium interior trim.

But the enhancement of the 3 Series does not stop here. The 316i Saloon and 320i EfficientDynamics Saloon will be presented in November. The 316i is powered by a 1.6-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine and generates 136 hp (100 kW) and 220Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. It has a combined economy of 47.9mpg, CO2 emissions of 137g/km* and can reach zero to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. Its starting price is £22 850.

On the other hand the 320i EfficientDynamics has a fuel economy of 53.3mpg and CO2 emissions down to 124g/km, being powered by the 170 hp (125 kW) version of the 1.6-litre TwinPower Turbo engine punching out 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque. It will be available priced at £25 730.

Source: BMW

June 22, 2012

2013 Hennessey Performance Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Biturbo with HPE700 Upgrade

Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is originally powered by the astounding 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8, which is one of the greatest naturally aspirated V8 in the world. This engine generates 557PS (410 kW) at a torque of 800Nm (590 lb-ft).

The engine of the E63 AMG is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports gearbox, which has three driving modes for the driver to enjoy: S, S+ and M. The AMG Performance package of the Mercedes-Benz also includes AMG Performance steering wheel with black Alcantara, red-painted brake calipers, electric rear window blind and genuine carbon fibre AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid for the Saloon.

2013 Hennessey Performance Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Biturbo

What have the tuners from Hennessey Performance added to this already perfect car in their effort to make it even greater? The answer is – the HPE700 Upgrade Package. This one includes HPE Air Induction System Modification, HPE Engine Management Calibration, Dyno Tuning, Hennessey Exterior Badging, Serial-Numbered Dash and Engine Plaques.

Some optional upgrades added to this exciting Mercedes-Benz are the Premium Wheel & Tire Packages, Suspension Upgrades, Carbon Fiber Trim Accessories. And if you have always wondered how one can improve an already perfect car, you would probably have to take the example given by Hennessey.

Source: Hennessey Performance

June 22, 2012

MINI Countryman in steampunk style by Carlex Design

This MINI Countryman is an exceptional, extraordinary and one-of-a-kind design concept project created by the talented designers from Carlex Design.

Undoubtedly what has been presented with the pictures below, show that this project will include unique interior in bronze and copper, and will probably include some interesting and eye-catching technologies.

Carlex Design MINI Countryman in steampunk style

Furthermore, the same color scheme can be seen on the exterior of the Countryman. Its designers categorize it as a MINI in a steampunk style. In addition they aim to do something that has never been done before.

Most of parts for the tuning are ready and the project is in an ongoing work, where upholsters, and various craftsmen are working hard to complete perfectly even the smallest, minute details. We are excitingly looking forward to seeing this project eventually completed, aren’t we?

Source: Carlex Design

June 21, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova