Author: Lidia Todorova

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo: a sneak preview

This Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo is in fact an early preview of the new completely redesigned high-performance Mercedes-Benz A-Class model enhanced by AMG. There are not a lot of details around this model. However we can expect around 370 hp (272 kW) and 300 pound-feet (222 Nm) of torque.

Compared to the standard mode, which only produces 211 hp (155 kW), the AMG improved A-Class as obvious is stronger in power. This is due to the new engine included: twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter one. It is named M133 and for its basis served the Daimler 2.0-liter turbocharged unit.

The car will come equipped with all-wheel drive, hang-on rear differential, ESP – in other words the entire standard features that an AMG Mercedes-Benz can have. In addition, it is rumored that there will be included an optional Driver Package, which that will let the top speed go to 174 mph.

Source: Autoblog via Mercedes-Benz

Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition

Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition is powered by the almost unbelievable 750 by its 427 CID Intercooled Twin Turbo engine. The new tuning by Lingenfelter combines the ultimate thrill of wide-open throttle acceleration with a Z51 based hard cornering capability and exceptional braking performance.

Here, in the Commemorative Edition of this Chevrolet model features a hand built 427 CID Gen II twin turbo engine, delivering 750 hp (552 kW) at 730 lbs-ft (539 Nm). The Corvette was carefully crafted and includes the hand built 304 stainless steel turbo manifolds, custom ducting and liquid to air charge cooler system.

The interior of the car is wrapped entirely by custom Caravaggio Connolly leather. In addition what adds to the greatness of the car are the Lingenfelter CES series C6 body kit, massive 345 series Michelin Sport tires on 19”x12” rear HRE forged three piece aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, serial numbered badges and a lot more.

Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition Specifications:

• 6 Speed manual transmission

• Z51 springs, sway bars & Koni adjustable shocks

• Navigation system with XM Radio

Lingenfelter package includes:

• 750 horsepower 427 CID engine with the exclusive Lingenfelter GEN-2 twin intercooled twin turbo package

• Corsa 304 stainless steel exhaust system – with 4 pro series tips

• Heavy duty dual disk clutch assembly

• Brembo 4 piston calipers, two piece rotors, stainless lines – front & rear with white Lingenfelter logo and victory red paint

• Custom Caravaggio Connolly leather seats, console cover, shifter knob/boot, e-brake knob/boot, steering wheel and duffle bag

• Lingenfelter C6 hood, Lingenfelter front spoiler, Lingenfelter side skirts and unique one piece rear fascia with Lingenfelter logo embossed

• Koni adjustable shocks

• Michelin Pilot Sport tires with Lingenfelter mini tub kit and 345/30/ZR19 series in the rear

• Lingenfelter 756 Series 19″ C6 forged three piece aluminum wheels – by HRE

• Special seat embossing, serial numbered plaque, wheel centers, Lingenfelter chrome fender badges

• Special commemorative C6 coil covers complete with the classic John Lingenfelter signature

• Commemorative Edition Hypertech HyperPac Onboard Diagnostic Computer

• Excellent drivability, highway mileage not adversely affected

Source: Lingenfelter

2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer Production Begins

2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer is going to join the i30 family as its production has already started. This Hyundai model will keep the characteristics which have made its hatchback sibling a great deal of success.

Not only will bring the Tourer the great quality, value, stylish design, efficiency and driving enjoyment, but also it will add greater load-carrying capability to the i30’s package.

The launch of the Tourer is the next phase of the New Generation i30’s introduction. The aim of Hyundai is to bring about more choice for their consumers. In addition the importance of quality and in terms of design, engineering and manufacturing will be retained.

The Tourer will come with a load capacity of 528-litres with the rear seats raised and 1,642-litres when the seats are folded. This means that the new i30 Tourer will add further practicality to the everyday life of its customers.

The design of the car was of course inspired by the new design philosophy of the company, and is in total coherence with Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture form language.

In addition it is important to highlight that the i30 has already achieved five-star rating from Euro NCAP in the organisation’s test programme. Here are included 90% score in the ‘child occupant’ assessment, with maximum points in the ‘18-month-old’ and ‘3-year-old’ tests.

Pricing and specification will be revealed shortly before launch.

Source: Hyundai

2013 Chevrolet Camaro in Europe [VIDEO]

2013 Chevrolet Camaro will finally delight its fans in Europe, however better and mightier than ever. After a decade long absence, the new Chevrolet model will deliver its customers the outstanding 432 horsepower from its V8 engine.

In addition the Chevy comes with a contemporary 21st-century design, which includes a V-shaped nose, wide, planted stance, and broad rear shoulders, and all distinguishing features of a true Camaro.

The car comes equipped with a manual transmission which is mated to a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine that produces 432 hp (318 kW) at 569Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600rpm. The acceleration time for the 0-62mph (0-100 km/h) sprint is 5.2 seconds for the coupé and 5.4 seconds for the convertible.

The car will be offered with an automatic transmission as well, which is mated to a L99 6.2-litre V8 engine that produces 405 hp (298 kW) at 556Nm (410 lb-ft) at 4,300rpm. The acceleration time for the 0-62mph (0-100 km/h) sprint here is 5.4 seconds for the coupé and 5.6 seconds for the convertible. The Camaro has an impressive top speed of 155mph.

The European version of the Camaro is similar in content to the 2SS model offered in the U.S. The new model includes all-new FE4 suspension. The set-up is distinguished by optimized stiffness and lateral stability for high-speed performance and maneuverability. The FE4 suspension package comprises of retuned front and rear dampers, plus new solid front (23mm) and rear (24mm) stabiliser bars.

This amazing muscle car runs on 20 inch wheels wearing Pirelli P-Zero tyres. Brembo four-piston anti-lock disc brakes combine with StabiliTrak and traction control to ensure effective braking and quick cornering.

The exterior design of the car of course is typical for Camaro. It includes the V-shaped nose which is flanked by high-intensity discharge headlamps with glowing LED xenon halo rings. Chevrolet’s ‘gold bow tie’ logo adorns the grille.

The rear of the exterior is unique: twin LED tail-lamp elements mirror the unique look of the front end, and design is finished off with large, round chrome exhaust tips similar to those on the Corvette Z06.

How about the interior of the Camaro? The vehicle’s interior conveys simplicity and refinement. However it incorporates contemporary details in the dials, switches and ambient lighting. The integrated centre console includes stereo and climate controls into a single piece of modern electronics. The cluster of four gauges – oil pressure and temp, transmission fluid temp and battery voltage – includes contemporary LED backlighting.The seats have sport design and sculpted shoulders. Accents of stitching can be seen as well.

Some of the technologies and safety features included in this version of Chevrolet are: Driver Information Centre, Head-Up Display (HUD), rear parking assist with camera, six airbags, ISOFIX anchor points, Boston Acoustics nine-speaker stereo system

Prices for the coupé start at £35 025 while for the convertible – at £40 025.

httpv://youtu.be/xBng-QVoe78

Source: Chevrolet

Smart Fortwo Iceshine Edition in Coupe and Cabrio

Smart Fortwo Iceshine Edition is the latest special model created by Smart, which blends fresh, cheeky look and in addition comes along with chic equipment details. This special model can be preordered in white or in the eye-catching azure blue from June. The first vehicles in this limited series will be in dealerships in October.

First, it is important to highlight that the Iceshine edition is going to be offered as a coupe and as a cabrio. It will come equipped with a 52 kW (71 hp) mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW (84 hp) petrol engine.

This two-seater customization has an unusual appearance. First, the tridion safety cell comes in white. The bodypanels are available in white, or an azure blue. The latter color was developed for this edition.

Other exclusives design cues include the white alloy wheels, with their new 3-double-spoke design and wide tyres in size 175/55 R 15 (front) and 195/50 R 15 (rear). These tie in nicely with the white tridion safety cell and door mirror caps. The LED daytime driving lights and special logo on the mirror triangle also add to the unique outlook of the Smart.

The interior of all Iceshine models includes leather-effect seats with a white fabric insert on the backrest and white stitching, 3-spoke leather sports steering wheel with shift paddles and white stitching. The rings round the dashboard instruments and some contrast components are also painted in white.

Some of the other standard features are: softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, panoramic roof with sunblind, electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment, the smart sound system with five loudspeakers.

Part of the optional feature include: smart audio system navigation/multimedia, black leather-effect instrument panel, BRABUS 3-spoke sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift and smart cradle for the iPhone® 3/3GS and 4/4S are available for the edition iceshine.

This Iceshine edition of Smart will be limited to 1,800 vehicles. This model is based on the passion equipment line.

Smart Fortwo Iceshie Edition pricing:

Engine/power	Engine type	Engine capacity	Price (€):
smart fortwo edition iceshine coupé
1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd	3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine	999 cc	14,490.00
1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol	3-cyl. in-line turbo engine	999 cc	15,060.00

smart fortwo edition iceshine cabrio
1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd	3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine	999 cc	17,580.00
1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol	3-cyl. in-line turbo engine	999 cc	18,150.00

Source: Smart

2013 Nissan Juke Nismo debuts at Le Mans

2013 Nissan Juke Nismo production model is going to make its world debuting appearance on the Nissan’s stand at the Le Mans 24. This particular vehicle is the first in a series of new Nismo models, which were all inspired company’s Japanese motorsport heritage and performance excellence.

Next to Juke Nismo, Nissan will show their DeltaWing and Juke-R models as well. 2013 Juke Nismo has been already revealed under the form of a concept at Tokyo and Geneva international Motor Shows.

Nissan’s Nismo product range offers uniqueness, distinctiveness and individuality. But this it not all, it will please you with sports handling, performance and excitement. The Juke Nismo combines the current Nissan Juke design with sports coupé lines and SUV stylin.

In fact, it includes new aerodynamics kit, making the car even more efficient, dynamic and powerful. The new model is equipped with lower front and rear bumpers, wider wings and sill side skirts, and a modified grille and tailgate spoiler. Furthermore, the car sits on new stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with wider tyres.

More importantly the Juke Nismo is empowered by a tuned-up version of its 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine. It features stiffened suspension settings, new steering modifications for sportier direct handling and enhanced traction control.

The interior of the model is totally redesigned in terms of steering wheel, pedals, gauges, gear knob and door trims. They now further emphasize the SUV’s sportier personality. For instance, special suede-trimmed Nismo sports seats with red stitching were included.

The Juke Nismo sales in Europe are due to start early January 2013. The model will be also available in Japan and USA at a later date. More details and specifications will be revelaed closer to launch.

Source: Nissan

2012 MINI Rocketman Concept at the Olympics

2012 MINI Rocketman Concept is especially prepared by the British premium car brand MINI for the Olympics and Paralympics that will take place in few months in London. The new edition has already appeared as a concept and debuted at the International Geneva Motor Show last year.

The new design of the MINI Rocketman Concept is absolutely stunning! It combines fresh ideas for personal mobility in big cities while at the same time keeping the classical, unmistakably British design features.

And if you are going to visit London during the Olympics, this extraordinary vehicle will be on show in the BMW Pavilion located close to the Olympic and Paralympic Village.

The 3+1-seater has three doors and an exterior length of just over three meters. It has irresistible design, clever functionality, great agility and exceptional efficiency. The advanced technology included in the vehicle underpins a lifestyle-focused mobility solution. In other words the MINI is equipped for life in big cities.

Further detail is that MINI Rocketman Concept’s spaceframe is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. This enables the lightweight construction of the car. If you go throughout the pictures of the car, you will see its innovative interior concept, which can accommodate three full-size seats.

The exterior and interior color schemes of the Rocketman are influenced mainly by its British heritage. All that has been used in the creation are high-quality materials thanks to which the stylish details can be additionally emphasized. All in all, it embodies a typically British form of sporting elegance.

The MINI runs on 18-inch light-alloy wheels, which have white polished areas and a metallic red accent. Matt Porcelain White paintwork is also utilized for the mirror caps, boot opener and surrounds for the radiator grille and headlights.

The grille structure is made up entirely of MINI logos. It has a red metallic paint finish and contrasting white surround. A red strip emphasises the path of the hallmark MINI diagonal link between the wheel arch and door at the foot of the A-pillar.

Another unique and special feature is the distinctive lighting design for the roof, which is full-surface glass roof. It has illuminated braces which recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. Even when the roof is not illuminated, the braces keep on shining in bright Porcelain White. In darkness, the integrated optical fibres provide a pleasant indirect illumination of the interior and a compelling night design visible from the outside. The roof’s transparent surfaces are bordered by a metallic red painted strip.

The interior is influenced by the Union Jack-led colour concept as well. Sporting ambience and intricate details are the characteristics of the coupe of the car. The inner door panels and rear side sections are trimmed in dark blue nubuck leather, while the elliptical door rings are in white leather.

The most distinctive element of the dashboard is the cockpit surface. The latter is bordered by a red bar and has a striking 3D effect. Its relief structure shows the name of every Summer Olympic Games host city.

MINI Rocketman Concept catches the imagination thanks to its innovative technology and irresistible combination of driving fun and sustainability.

Source: MINI

Nissan Skyline: Taking the Plunge [VIDEO]

The breath-taking Nissan Skyline is the latest addition to the Depth of Speed inspiring episodes. Depth of Speed was created with the aim to bring the greatest stories from the automotive world to the genera public.

In other words, everything resolves around the passion, depth, and love that the automotive world brings. This video portrays the enthusiasm and adoration which this remarkable version of Nissan Skyline has created in its owner.

Nissan Skyline

The owner – Eric Bauer, had made this Nissan unique, and more importantly in the video below you will understand what inspired him to do so. He not only provides 3D modeling services to many automakers across the world, but also teaches at the Art Center College of Design.

He is definitely encouraging many students to take up a future in auto design and bring to fruition their passion, as he did. Furthermore Bauer is discussing the inimitable and eye-catching automobile and what makes it unlike any other.

Watch and hear how Eric speaks about the twelve year story in the making of this car.

httpv://vimeo.com/43905308

Jeep Grand Cherokee S, Wrangler Mountain and Compass Black going to Europe

Jeep_Wrangler-Mountain_THUMB All new three limited edition vehicles for Wrangler, Compass and Grand Cherokee are going to enrich the Jeep European lineup. The new Mountain limited-edition model is the perfect vehicle for the performance and outdoor enthusiasts, whereas the all-new Jeep Compass Black Edition special-edition model and the S Limited trim line are going to bring more style and power.

These new Jeep vehicles are going to contribute to enhance the brand’s portfolio in Europe in the second half of 2012.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain is going to be officially launched in June but has already debuted at the latest Geneva Motor Show. On the other hand the Jeep Compass Black Edition will arrive in Jeep dealerships at the end of August and the new S Limited trim line of Grand Cherokee, will debut in September.

Jeep Grand Cherokee S Limited Edition combines stand-out from the crowd exterior design and sporty stance, thanks to the efficiency of the 3.0-litre V-6 CRD engine fitted with Multijet II technology. The latter is able to deliver 241 horsepower (177 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque.

Furthermore, the vehicle runs on one-of-a-kind black-gloss 20-inch alloy wheels. The distinctive styling cues and ‘Black’ exterior treatments create the aggressive and muscular look of new S Limited Jeep Grand Cherokee, which debuted in Geneva as a concept model as well.

The exterior includes more streamlined appearance thanks to the introduction of new roof molding covers which replace the roof rack. Next, the vehicle’s grille surround is in black gloss and the mesh grille texture – in platinum chrome. The same platinum chrome can be seen on the lower fascia applique´, which completes the unique front-end appearance.

The interior of the new S Limited is all leather-wrapped. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped as well, perforated however. The ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather completes the suede seats. Carbon fiber accents are integrated into the instrument panel and door trim panels.

The standard equipment for on-board comfort and infotainment includes the latest technologies: UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inches touchscreen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port, DVD video and voice activated Bluethooth UConnect Phone, Command View®dual-pane panoramic sunroof, state-of-the-art audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®.

Of course, in the new S Limited Edition is included a vast array of advanced safety and security features: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM), ABS with off-road calibration, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and 7 airbags (front seat, sidebags, side-curtain front and rear, seat-mounted). All of these are featured as a standard.

As optional equipment the new S Limited model offers the following: Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-path detection.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain is the new special edition-model for outdoor enthusiasts, which combines off-road capability, reliability and security. The Wrangler Mountain is powered by the efficient 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual and five-speed automatic transmission.

Another engine option is the 3.6-litre V-6 Pentastar matched to a five-speed automatic gearbox. The new limited-edition model is going to be offered in two- and four-door versions.

Undoubtedly the Jeep Wrangler Mountain has unique exterior and interior design. It is even further improved by exclusive styling cues: 17-inch wheels and authentic accessories by Mopar®. The exterior colors for the vehicle are the all-new Gecko, the Black, Bright White, Dozer and Black Forrest Green.

The exterior features include a unique Black decal on the hood, front Mineral Gray grille and painted high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch wheels. Additional features are the ‘Mountain’ decal over part of the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates familiar to outdoor enthusiasts, side steps and black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

How about the interior: it includes fabric seats with Slate Grey stitching and embroidered ‘Mountain logo’, Moapr’s tread-pattern slush mats and grab handles.

More importantly the model will be powered by 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine which produces 200 horsepower (147 kW) at 3,600 rpm, 460 Nm (400 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600-2,600 rpm when paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS).

Jeep Wrangler Mountain will also be available with the new 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine. This one produces 284 horsepower (209 kW) and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque, matched to the automatic five-speed transaxle with ERS.

Jeep Compass Black Edition is the all-new Black look for the compact SUV. It includes unique Black exterior treatment, black-gloss step pad and runs on new 18-inch black-gloss aluminium wheels. All of these features contribute for its sporty look.

Moreover, this model is powered by an efficient 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine with 163 horsepower (120 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. Jeep off-road capability is ensured by the active full-time Freedom Drive I® four-wheel-drive system.

Furthermore, the added equipment in the vehicle includes: UConnect® multimedia navigation and infotainment with Bluetooth UConnect® Phone, 9-speaker premium Boston Acoustics sound system

Source: Jeep

Bentley EXP 9 SUV Concept debuts at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Bentley EXP 9 SUV Concept is going to make its international debut at 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed. As a true Bentley this concept delivers exceptional performance combined with unmatched luxury.

The new vehicle is going to appear both as part of the Supercar Run up the iconic Goodwood Hill and on the Bentley Motors stand. In fact Bentley is to have strong presence at this event with a mix of contemporary and classic models. Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place 29th of June until 1st of July.

EXP 9 F is actually an attempt by the marque to build the fastest and most luxurious SUV in the world. The luxury factor can be definitely proven by the stunning interior made with the pinnacle of craftsmanship. The clean and muscular exterior on the other hand adds even more style to the car’s stance.

It is expected the Concept to include an exciting range of drivetrain options which are still under consideration. However, it is indubitable that the Bentley SUV would offer the thunderous performance.

Next to the debuting concept, at the Festival can be also seen the Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification

(MDS). This is the new driver-focussed edition of the Bentley flagship. Of course it delivers nothing else but powerful sporting performance.

Furthermore, the MDS comes equipped with sports-tuned suspension and steering settings, unique 21” alloy wheels, and a Diamond Quilted interior, and legendary comfort and refinement.

Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification

The other model of the marque that can be seen on their stand at Goodwill is the new 2012 Bentley Continental GT V8. It carries the all-new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine that combines power and torque with an exceptional power-to-emissions ratio in the high luxury sports car sector.

With 507 hp (373 kW) and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque, the GT V8 sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds (0 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds). It has a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h).

The persons driving these amazing Bentley models are Le Mans legend Derek Bell, Juha Kankkunen and Guy Smith.

Source: Bentley

2013 Nissan Pixo: Pricing and Specifications

2013 Nissan Pixo is Nissan‘s compact city car which now has been upgraded, refreshed and carries some new attitudes to bring to its customers this summer. The new model includes exquisite exterior colors and in addition will delight its driver and passengers with improved interior.

And of course as it can be expected from such a small range car, it delivers excellent fuel economy and CO2emissions of just 99g/km. The 5-door Nissan is powered by 68 horsepower (50 kW) by either a VISI A or n-tec 1.01 engines. Both engines are mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. However the latter one can be optionally equipped with 4-speed automatic one.

Pixo is definitely the urban-friendly vehicle, which perfectly combines an efficient three-cylinder engine and compact dimensions. With it anyone can avoid the traffic cones in the city, for example.

The enhancements in the interior for instance include door trims around the glovebox and centre console in black rather than grey. Now they add more a touch of class. In addition every Pixo is also fitted with an electronic auto-dimming rear view mirror.

The vehicle is going to deliver even fresher style by the range of exterior paint colors, which is now enriched by the two new metallic colours – Glistening Grey and Midnight Purple. Additionally, there are also six other shades available.

Prices for the 2013 Nissan Pixo start at £7250.

2013 Nissan Pixo Specifications and Pricing:

Doorplan	Grade	Engine	Transmission	Basic Price	VAT	Total Retail Price (£)	On The Road Price (£)
5 door	VISIA	1.0l 68PS	5 manual	5,995.83	1,199.17	7,195	7,250
	n-tec	1.0l 68PS	5 manual	6,829.17	1,365.83	8,195	8,250
	n-tec	1.0l 68PS	4 auto	7,579.17	1,515.83	9,095	9,150

PIXO Grade Specifications
VISIA	n-tec

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
• Power steering	• Front power windows
• Tilt-adjustable steering wheel	• Manual air conditioning
• 12v socket (front)
• Front cabin light
• Vanity mirror
• Pollen filter
HEATING, VENTILATION AND VISIBILITY
• 2-speed front wiper with intermittent setting
• Rear wiper
• Manually adjustable door mirrors
• Auto dimming rear view mirror
INSTRUMENTATION
• Headlamp leveller	• 50:50 split folding rear seats
SEATING, TRIM AND STORAGE
• 2 front cup holders
• 2 rear door storage pockets
• 2 Rear headrests
• Parcel shelf
SAFETY
• Front airbags	• Side airbags
• ABS with EBD and Brake assist
• ISOfix childseat anchorage points
• Child proof door locks
• Front fog lamps
SECURITY
• Immobiliser	• Central door locking
• Remote keyless entry
• Boot door opening lever
STYLING
• 14» Steel wheels with wheel covers	• 14″ alloy wheels
• Body coloured door mirrors
• Body coloured door handles
IN-CAR ENTERTAINMENT
• CD player with MP3 playback
• 2 Speakers
OPTIONS AT EXTRA COST
• Metallic or Pearlescent paint	• Metallic or Pearlescent paint
• Safety Pack (Curtain Airbags & ESP)

Source: Nissan