High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept is a product of the work of collaboration between Ford Motor Company and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). More importantly, standing under the name of “High Gear”, the car is the first ever SEMA Mustang which is going to be powered by women.
What does that mean? Basically, this satin-black luxury Ford Mustang concept is going to be build by group of women volunteers. In fact, in the design phase of the project were created three cars, among which the presented one stood out and was more appealing to the fans of the company.
“High Gear” is a design by Jennifer Seely of Ford, who was inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. She developed the idea of the concept around the goal to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power.
Hence, some of the special features in this Mustang include rose-gold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior; satin-black body; plush, quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Further modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.
The selected concept is now going to be built in eight weeks and this is going to be done entirely by group of women. This means that the actual work on the project is expected to be done from July to August this year. In the end, when the vehicle is ready it will make its debut at the 2012 SEMA show in Las Vegas.
LEXUS IS F CCS-R is a modified IS F sedan which will compete in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The racing will take place next month and will mark its 90th running.
This Lexus racing car has already debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon back in 2010 as a concept vehicle; and now is ready to make its first achievements. It includes several modifications from the standard IS F sedan and of course these are in terms of improved performance and racing safety regulations.
In details, some of the transformations included are lightweight carbon fibre bodywork and interior details, and polycarbonate windows. The latter help reduce the standard vehicle’s weight by 314kg. In addition, it comes equipped with reinforced monocoque with roll cage, racing brake package, modified race suspension and racing exhaust system.
Lexus IS F CCS-R is propelled by the 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 which is initially on the IS F. The engine develops 311kW (423 hp) and 505Nm (372 lb-ft) of torque and is mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shift.
WEIGHT: Curb weight 1400kg (314kg less than standard road car)
ENGINE: Designation 2UR-GSE; Displacement 5.0-litre; Power 311kW @ 6,600rpm; Torque 505Nm @ 5,200rpm; Fuel system SFI D-4 direct-to-cylinder injection with secondary port injectors
DRIVETRAIN: Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive system; Transmission 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode
EXTERIOR: Orange mica exterior paint; Reinforced monocoque (with roll cage); Carbon fibre hood, door handles, front fender, front spoiler, front canard, rear spoiler, ventilator; Polycarbonate windows; Lightweight door
RACING EQUIPMENT: 120-litre fuel cell; Air jack system; Fire extinguishing system; Data logger; Kill switch; Tow strap
INTERIOR: Carbon fibre dashboard, centre console, door and interior trim; HANS compatible full bucket driver’s seat; Lightened interior (removed power windows, door locks, rear seats, roof lining, etc); Six-point seat belt; Small-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters
Three Toyota models have been chosen as Best Family Cars of 2012. The choice was done by Parents magazine and Edmunds.com, bounding together to make their fifth annual list.
Namely the Toyota vehicles which were picked are: 2012 Toyota Prius V – in the high-mileage category; 2012 Toyota Camry Sedan in the sedan category; and at last but not least, the Toyota Sienna minivan in the large vehicle category.
The vehicles were evaluated based on several criteria, some of which for instance, are safety, fuel economy, and kid-friendly features, ride comfort, styling and handling. In other words, features which are mostly appreciated by large families.
In fact, this is the fifth consecutive year I which the Japanese brand has been included in the list of best family cars. Hence, the Toyota stands as a synonym for safety, quality and durability and of course convenience, when it comes to making the life of the family better.
2012 Toyota Prius V was in the high-mileage car category, and was appreciated for its stable ride and ample cargo space and was praised for its versatility and standard technology features including the Entune® mulitmedia system and a hands-free smart key, which unlocks the driver’s side door as one approaches the door handle.
2012 Toyota Prius V
The 2012 Toyota Camry was even picked as the best sedan in its category. This vehicle model was entirely redesigned for 2012, which played crucial role to be chosen as the best vehicle. In addition, the seventh generation Camry was picked its convenient technology including Entune, excellent fuel economy, quiet ride and ample trunk space.
2012 Toyota Camry XLE
The last Toyota included in the list is in the large vehicle category and is the Toyota Sienna minivan. It was included in the list, because it has flexible configurations, which can fit every type of trip, family and cargo combination. The Sienna model was entirely redesigned back in 2010 and now has more responsive driving characteristics, contemporary styling and onboard entertainment technology.
2012 SR Ferrari 458 Italia: Project Refined Beauty is in fact the second transformation done on Ferrari 458 Italia by SR Auto Group. The previous one carried the project name “Era” and has already captured many hearts. Of course, the fascination for this amazing vehicle is one hundred percent understandable.
The Ferrari is equipped with four and a half liter V8, which delivers 570 horsepower (420 kW) at 9000 revs and 540 N/m (400 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm. In addition, the fact that the 458 Italia, compared to other super sports cars, is a featherweight – 1380 kg, and it has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/hp results in acceleration from 0 to100 km/h in less than 3.4 seconds. Its top speed is of top 325 km/h.
2012 SR Ferrari 458 Italia: Project Refined Beauty
Like everything else the interior is exceptional as well. The ergonomics are perfect and the main controls are all clustered on the steering wheel. This car is the proof that Ferrari can make extraordinary cars from every single point of view.
SR Auto Group has refined the beauty of this ravishing pieces of work with the help of CEC Wheels. And now it could be said that function and form are paired perfectly together. The wheels have c884 design, which includes a modern twist on the classic five spoke design. The open five spoke wheel allows the signature red calipers to shine bright and complement the exterior color of the Ferrari.
2013 Honda Fit EV has just received the highest fuel-efficiency rating ever given by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In particular, the number it has shown is exactly of 118 MPGe.
Furthermore this Honda electric vehicle has an unprecedented low consumption rating of just 29 kilowatt hours (kWh) per 100 miles. This makes its EPA rated yearly fuel cost of only $500.
The reason for this efficient drive is that the Fit is equipped with a 20-kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, which provides the capacity to earn an EPA combined city/highway estimated driving range rating of 82-miles. Compared to the other electric vehicles, the Fit EV has the best fuel economy. For example, the EPA efficiency and range ratings of the Ford Focus Electric are 105 MPGe, 76-mile range; of Nissan Leaf – 99 MPGe, 73-mile range; and Mitsubishi i-MiEV – 112 MPGe, 62-mile range.
What contributes additionally for the fuel economy is the Fit EV’s efficient design. This includes the powertrain design, the weight-conscious engineering and the effective aerodynamics. In addition, the battery of the EV is the smallest one in its class and can be recharged in less than 3 hours from a low charge indicator illumination point (utilizing 240-volt circuit).
Important to mention is that the Fit EV’s 92 kilowatt (123 horsepower) coaxial electric motor produces 189 ft-lb (256 Nm) of torque. In addition, it works in team with a chassis with a fully-independent suspension and a driver-selectable 3-mode electric drive system. The latter one was adapted from the CR-Z Sport Hybrid.
In fact, this takes the Fit one step further, to the accomplishment of Honda’s goal to bring more environmental awareness to thee world. Furthermore, the brand aims to continue developing battery- electric, hydrogen, natural gas, and gasoline-electric powered vehicles, which are to show improved fuel-efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
Moreover, Honda Fit has topped the list of America’s greenest vehicles, from the America Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), for eleven consecutive years. Today, the company is striving for even greater reductions in CO2 emissions.
2012 SR BMW Z4 is the latest conversion by the tuners from SR Auto Group done on a unique BMW model. Although it is not changed in terms of performance, it was “spiced up” with unique design elements.
In short, SR Auto Group has enriched the already outstanding BMW Z4 model. The latter stands for style, speed and performance, and more importantly is able to capture any heart with its 245 horsepower (180 kW).Its torque produces 350Nm (260 lb-ft).
And the result is that the Z4 absolutely effortlessly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.7 seconds.
The so called spicing that came from the tuners was as you might have already guessed from the wheels. And this time they are more than unique. Painted in red, they fit perfectly this BMW Z4, thus making the car the star of the show.
In addition, the wheels are fitted with a set of 20″ CEC C882, which have been revamped with a two tone finish sporting a vibrant red shade. Sometimes a bit of color is just what one needs to spice up ones day!
2013 Scion FR-S Sports Car is now available in dealerships. This is an exceptional high-performance coupe, which is the fifth model joining the family of the brand Scion and plays an integral part in it.
First of all what FR-S will provide to its drivers is genuine sports feel. And secondly – it can be experienced at not so costly price: the price of this Scion model begins at $24 200.
The FR-S can be equipped with either six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic one which includes paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.
A fact that you might not know is that the FR-S stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport. And the name is proven by the engine that is at the heart of the vehicle: a 2.0-liter boxer one which produces an impressive 200 horsepower (147 kW) and 151 pound-feet (205 Nm) of torque. The flat engine is mounted extremely low, giving the car a dynamically low center of gravity.
2013 Scion FR-S
Furthermore, the designers of the car made it in such way that it is quick and nimble which going into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. In addition, the Scion has low weight, which is combined with a dynamically tuned suspension setup comprising of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear.
A standard feature here is the Torsen® limited-slip differential, apportioning power to the rear wheels with precision and immediacy. The FR-S runs on lightweight 17×7-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes.
The interior is also performance focused. It includes a 2+2 seating. The front seats are comfortable and assertive, and include deep bolsters. They are also mounted extremely low, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space.
2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT comes to offer enhanced driving dynamics and even better track performance. This is due to its output which now delivers the exceptional 435 kW (591 hp) and its new optimised AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. Adding further is the redeveloped AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension.
The SLS Mercedes-Benz is available both as a Coupé and a Roadster. Among the additional new features is the high-quality AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather interior, which can be optionally chosen.
Furthermore, the SLS AMG now has more masculine and athletic stance. It is equipped with darkened headlamps and tail lights as well as red-painted brake calipers. All this contributes for the unique new appearance of the vehicle.
The wing-shaped cross fins and the star recess in the radiator grille also has a high-gloss finish. He same finish can be seen on the exterior mirrors and the fins on the bonnet and wings as well. The AMG logo on the right of the boot lid includes the additional letters “GT”.
2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Coupe
Going further into details, this amazing sportscar is equipped with AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine. The latter has a maximum output of 435 kW (591 hp) at 6800 rpm, while the maximum torque is 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) at 4750 rpm. Therefore it will be very easy for the SLS AMG GT to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in only 3.7 seconds, and to reach a speed of 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds.
Next, adding to the exceptional performance is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7 speed sports transmission located on the rear axle. It is promised that it is more direct and spontaneous in the manual “M” transmission mode. The transmission is an optimized dual-clutch one.
Another important highlight here which contributes significantly for the great performance of the vehicle is the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension. What it does is to improve the vehicle’s sportiness.
The new AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension includes stiff spring/damper tuning and dispenses with “Comfort” mode. “Sport” mode is recommended as the maximal setting for undulating road surfaces and tracks requiring increased suspension travel. And the last mode- “Sport plus” provides higher damping forces and delivers sporty driving style on routes with a level road surface.
As standard, the vehicle runs on 265/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 295/30 R 20 tyres on the rear. Both are fitted to weight-optimised AMG forged light-alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design. They are painted in matt black and with a high-sheen finish. Three optional AMG light-alloy wheels are also available.
2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Interior
What about the interior of this Mercedes-Benz? Of course, it includes nothing else but a sporty design. Not to mention that it combines only the high-quality and functional atmosphere of a racing car.
For instance, the sports seats are embossed with a badge on the head restraints. The centre sections are finished in Alcantara®, which can be also found on the door centre panels. The black interior appointments are complemented by red seat belts and red contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats. The centre console and the door panel lining are finished in red too. The floor mats also feature red edging.
As an exclusive but optional extra, the SLS AMG offers AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather. This high-quality extra is available in single or two-tone finishes and has distinctive upholstery with a diamond design with contrasting stitching. The diamond design is included on the door centre panels as well.
Other optional highlights feature a designo leather finish for the dashboard, the beltlines and door armrests, the handrest on the centre console, AMG floor mats in black with porcelain leather edging, roof lining in Alcantara® porcelain, and the parcel shelf (Coupé) or roll-over bar (Roadster). Seams finished in contrasting colours create exciting highlights and underscore the high-quality, hand-finished nature of this new leather package.
Customers can choose among these available colour combinations: mocha brown/porcelain, titanium grey pearl/porcelain and mystic red/porcelain.
Other attractive optional extras for all SLS AMG models include (extract): AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirrors, AMG carbon-fibre engine compartment cover, AMG Interior Carbon-Fibre package (carbon-fibre trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels), AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system, AMG Performance Media, AMG 10-spoke forged wheels in other colour variants, AMG carbon-fibre trim, AIRSCARF (Roadster), Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system,
The official market launch of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT is scheduled for October this year and the starting price is 204,680 Euros.
2012 Vorsteiner Ferrari 458 Italia is the latest conversion by the talented tuners from Vorseiner. They have updated the powerful Ferrari with their new 458-V Program.
The latter is uncompromising in terms of design of aerodynamic components. The tuners admit that they have built it with the aim to integrate with the Ferrari’s style and even more – to make it even more perfect.
Having this approach in mind, Vorsteiner have successfully followed the fluidic lines of the Ferrari 458 and thus enhanced its looks and performance.
458-V Program includes the following equipment: add-on front spoiler to the front end of the vehicle; rear deck lid spoiler, which maintains the balance from the additional downforce on the front end; and a rear diffuser with extended aero fins, which further enhances the rear downforce.
All the aforementioned components are made from autoclave pre-preg carbon fiber with thw aim to ensure durability and performance.
Furthermore, this Ferrari Italia is equipped with forged aluminum wheels for even classier riding. The wheels are available in 20 or 21 inch configurations and are custom powder coated or painted.
2013 Skoda Superb Combi Outdoor is the latest enhancement that the brand has made on the Supreb Combi model line up. All the models included in it are comfortable and practical; What make the “Outlook” so special however, is that it gives the Skoda more off-road look.
The new model will be available with all Skoda Superb engine versions with front- and all-wheel drive, except for the GreenLine variant. In addition, the offroad attitude that this car inherently has, will now stand strong even beyond paved roads.
2013 Skoda Superb Combi Outdoor
Next, not only that the “Outdoor” version extends the model line, but it also comes equipped with features such as robust synthetic panelling for the rear bumper, the wheel wells and the doorsills. Compared with the standard Superb, the front bumper is fitted with a larger air intake and round fog lamps.
2013 Skoda Superb Combi Outdoor will fit perfectly in the urban environment as well as in the country one. And hence it will suit perfectly drivers which have an active life style. The vehicle will also deliver them enough spaciousness, precise workmanship and an excellent price.
Ford Evos Concept is an exceptional vehicle which is going to make its first Asian appearance at Computex 2012, which is one of the biggest and most important computer exhibitions in the world.
The Evos Concept, which was first unveiled at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, not only embodies Ford’s new global design language but also offers a glimpse of the company’s vision on integrating more technology into its vehicles.
The Evos Concept started from a vision of an outstanding design. In addition, the designers intended for the concept to include the momentum of innovations like the SYNC in-car connectivity system.
The latter system offers a new generation of driver interaction and awareness and is currently under development by Ford. The aim is to offer uncompromised connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s ‘personal cloud’ of information.
Ford Evos Concept
For example, the vehicle can utilize information from the driver’s cloud to provide the same connected lifestyle they experience at home or office. In other words this means that the car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience.
In addition, this amazing connectivity system can also provide an integration of on-board data about driver preferences with cloud-based information such as work schedules, music and weather conditions, and local data delivered through vehicle-to-vehicle communications.
Evos Concept will also enchant its drivers with the same music or news they were listening to on live streaming at home. Or for instance, can also cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in by simply predicting departure time based on his calendar.
Almost unbelievably, Ford’s researchers have also included technologies which can improve driver’s health and wellness while driving. How is that possible? There are features included such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors connect to the cloud to monitor the physical state and workload of the driver, and adjust the driving experience.
Ford Evos Concept
And for all people who suffer from allergies, the Evos Concept comes equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems. They are ‘aware” of the location and thus can access air quality data from the cloud and suggest a healthier route to the destination.
Another highlight here is that the Concept uses the power of the cloud in order to get more information on the driver’s behavior and travel patterns. Thus it will be able to predict the destinations and adjust the control strategies for the state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Therefore, Evos can switch between running on battery or engine power in order to use the least amount of energy for any situation.
Ford Evos Concept explores adaptive vehicle technologies to redefine the driving experience. For instance, the chassis settings can be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. Again, here the concept car predicts the tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel.
At last but not least, what is very specific for this concept is that it utilizes Ford’s “powersplit” hybrid architecture. The latter allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work in collaboration or separately in order to optimize efficiency.
The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency. The cloud-maximized powertrain automatically “knows” when to save energy and switch modes It does this by using information about the vehicle’s predicted travel route, the emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.
2012 Toyota 86 is a sportscar which is much appreciated and awaited and more importantly which now goes on sale. In fact the 86 model is an aim for a grand return to Toyota’s sporting roots. And the brand does this with the world’s only combination of a front-mounted, free-revving, horizontally opposed “boxer” petrol engine and rear-wheel drive!
The car is indeed unique, because it combines a one-of-a-kind powertrain format, compact design, light weight and a low centre of gravity. All this results in the best possible power-to-weight ratio. Of course, this also contributes to a maximum driving pleasure – lively, accessible performance and highly engaging dynamic abilities with minimal electronic intrusion.
2012 Toyota 86 is being offered in two grades – GT and GTS, which are both powered by a 2.0-litre flat-four engine. In addition, Toyota‘s D-4S direct-injection technology enhances the throttle response, power and torque over a wide range of engine speeds.
2012 Toyota 86 GT
In details, the maximum power the vehicle is 147kW – equivalent to 100hp per litre – and peak torque of 205Nm (151 lb-ft). Additionally, fuel economy is absolutely remarkable for a sports car: it is only 7.8 litres/100km for manual variants – and even better for automatic versions at just 7.1 litres/100km. CO2 emissions are 164 grams/km (auto) and 181 grams/km (manual).
Both engines can be mated to a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox, which offers quick, precise shifting through closely stacked ratios. The other option in terms of gear box is the Lexus IS-F-inspired six-speed automatic transmission, with shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel, combines direct response with an extremely fast shifting speed of only 0.2 seconds.
The 86 includes an aerodynamic and stylish body design built around a low, highly compact chassis for optimum handling and performance. The vehicle also comes equipped with wide array of standard equipment: seven airbags, a five-mode stability control system, traction control, anti-skid brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, air-conditioning, CD sound system, daytime running lamps (DRLs) and a multi-information display.
The 86 GTS runs on 17-inch alloy wheels, and has in its equipment a 6.1-inch display screen, satellite navigation with live traffic updates, auto-levelling HID headlamps, leather-accented front seats, dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, aluminium pedals, LED DRLs and red stitching highlights.
The unique visual identity of Toyota’s cars is due to the distinct T-mesh pattern in the front grille, door-switch base, instrument panel, meters, triangular rear-centre foglamp and spare-wheel cover. The models in both grades also include numerous exclusive sporting details through both the exterior and interior, including a conrod motif to the HID headlamps, twin exhausts, instrument dials, air vents and gear-lever base.
The 86 piston logo can be see on the car’s front wing and is based on the car’s unique front boxer engine, rear-wheel drive powertrain format. It also is a representation of the vehicle’s tyres sliding in a four-wheel drift, highlighting the perfect on-the-limit balance of the 86.
2012 Toyota 86 GTS
2012 Toyota 86 Pricing:
Grade
Price
86 GT manual
$29,990
86 GT automatic
$32,490
86 GTS manual
$35,490
86 GTS automatic
$37,990
2012 Toyota 86 Specifications:
Engine
Engine type
2.0L-Boxer 4
Capacity (cm3)
1998
Cylinders/valves
Boxer 4/16V
Description
Four cylinders, horizontally opposed, 16-valve, DOHC, four valves percylinder and alloy cylinder block
Bore x stroke (mm)
86 x 86
Compression ratio
12:5:1
Max. output
147kW @ 7,000rpm
Max. torque
205Nm @ 6,400-6,600rpm
Recommended fuel type
98 or more Octane
Fuel-tank capacity (L)
50
Transmission
Type
Six-speed manual
Six-speed sequential-shift
automatic (with paddle shift on GTS 86)
Ratios: 1st
3.626
3.538
2nd
2.188
2.060
3rd
1.541
1.404
4th
1.213
1.000
5th
1.000
0.713
6th
0.767
0.582
Reverse
3.437
3.168
Final drive
4.100:1
4.100:1
Steering
Turning circle
10.8m (tyre), 11.4m (body)
Type
Rack and pinion Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Suspension type
Front
MacPherson strut with coil springs, gas-filled dampers and rose-jointedstabiliser bar
Rear
Double wishbone with coil springs, gas-filled dampers and rose-jointedstabiliser bar
Capacities
Seating
4
Cargo space height
391mm
Exterior dimensions
Overall length (mm)
4,240
Width (mm)
1,775
Roof height (mm)
1,285
Wheelbase (mm)
2,570
Tracks (mm)
Front: 1,520 Rear: 1,540
Interior dimensions
Front to rear couple distance (mm)
700
Front legroom (mm)
1065
Rear legroom (mm)
759
Driven wheels
Rear
Wheels and tyres
GT
16 x 6.5J alloy with 205/55 R16 tyres
GTS
17 x 7J alloy with 215/45 R17 tyres
Brake type
GT
Ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes with anti-lock braking system(ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA) and vehiclestability control (VSC).
Front disc size: 277mm diameter by 24mm thick
Rear disc size: 286mm by 10mm thick
GTS
Ventilated front and ventilated rear disc brakes with ABS, EBD, BA andVSC.
Front disc size: 294mm diameter by 24mm thick
Rear disc size: 290mm diameter by 18mm thick