Lidia Todorova – Page 317 – Automobiles Review

2013 Skoda Citigo Five-Door Goes On Sale

2013 Skoda Citigo is the all-new five door vehicle delivered by the Czech brand and is now officially on sale. This is the sixth version of the award-winning model line-up and Skoda’s first urban car.

Although it has a simple design, it also will bring its customers a lot of style in their day-to-day life. It will also offer outstanding maneuverability, a lot of comfort, convenience and technical mastery.

In addition, the Citigo is also the first Skoda model, which wears brand’s revised “winged arrow” corporate badge. Skoda targets with this car to get the attention of younger drivers and families who need a second car.

The advantages of the Citigo are many. First, it has a spacious and bright cabin which can easily accommodate four persons. It also has the largest boot in its class and a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

The vehicle’s engine is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol one. It delivers 75 hp (55 kW), and comes equipped with the GreenTech fuel-saving technologies including stop/start and brake energy recuperation.

The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission as standard. However, as an optional choice there is an automatic gearbox also available. Citigo’s official combined fuel economy is 68.9mpg and CO2 emissions are 96g/km.

The model comes in three high specification trim levels – S, SE and Elegance, to which can be added a wide range of optional features. Some of which are is the Personal Infotainment Device (PID), a dashboard-mounted touch-screen technology providing Bluetooth, sat-nav, and trip data.

Prices for the 2013 Skoda Citigo line-up start at just £7 630.

Source: Skoda

June 4, 2012

Prior Design Ford Mustang C5

Prior Design Ford Mustang C5 is not the latest transformation by Prior Design. Although we are already familiar with this incredible car and its more astounding tuning, there were released some additional new and absolutely exclusive pictures of the muscle car.

The body kit for the Mustang features new front bumper with large air intakes. In addition to that it also comprises of pair of modified side skirts and newly styled rear bumper.

All these features can’t go without the Mustang which can offer any driver impressive numbers in terms of power and speed. The C5 is powered by a huge 5.4 liter supercharged V8 delivering 500 horsepower (373 kW) at 6000RPM and 650Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque at 4500RPM.

This outstanding engine works together with a six-speed manual gearbox delivering all that torque needed for more than enjoyable and exciting ride. You can take a look at some of the updated images in the gallery below:

Source: Prior Design

June 1, 2012

2013 Hyundai Elantra debuts as Langdong in China

2013 Hyundai Elantra has been exclusively unveiled for the Chinese marks at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. The new Hyundai model is exclusively designed for China and includes differentiated design and improved features.

The Elantra will carry the name “Langdong” (or 朗動 in Chinese). Next to this car was showcased the all-new Santa Fe as well. Langdong can be translated as a “dynamic (car) for the new generation” and this show where the marketing target f the brand lies.

Langdong will be produced in Hyundai’s new, third plant in Beijing starting the second half of this year. In fact, the Langdong is based on a design concept under the name Wind Craft. The latter is part of Hyundai’s design philosophy of Fluidic Sculpture. The Fluidic Sculpture has been successfully applied to the company’s entire lineup for three years.

Its design includes aggressive front-end design with wraparound headlights. They create the feeling of motion and powerful stance. The streamlined character line on the side volume sweeps back dramatically toward the rear, giving the entire vehicle the appearance of having been crafted by the wind.

Langdong model has compact dimensions, and yet providing the feel of a larger car. It has an overall length of 4,570 mm, width of 1,775 mm, height of 1,445 mm and a wheelbase of 2,700 mm.

More importantly, the car can be equipped with either a 1.6L or a 1.8L MPI engine. The first one has a maximum power of 93.8kW (127.4 hp) and a maximum torque of 155.5N.m (15.9kg.m). Pn the other hand the 1.8L engine has a maximum power of 107.4kW (146.1ps) and a maximum torque of 174.6N.m (17.8kg.m). Both can be mated to a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission.

The new model will deliver its customers an excellent fuel economy as well and includes Hyundai’s Active ECO driving mode.

Inside of the car only premium materials were used, and in addition feature premium technologies such as: navigation system, dual-zone and fully automatic air conditioning; ventilated, fully adjustable power seats with seat heaters, an LCD instrument display and push-button start.

In terms of safety and security the vehicle is equipped with series of active and passive safety features: side air bags, an emergency brake reminder, tire pressure monitoring system, Blue Link infotainment system, and etc.

Source: Hyundai

June 1, 2012

2013 Lexus ES 350 and ES 300h Hybrid with Improved Handling and Design

2013 Lexus ES 350 and Lexus ES 300h Hybrid are the sixth generation of Lexus’ popular luxury sedan. As new models they of course offer new and progressive design, refinement and even higher quality. Both vehicles are now available with Lexus Hybrid Drive.

More importantly, this is the first Lexus ES, which will include the Lexus Hybrid Drive. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine, which is expected to provide fuel economy ratings of approximately 40 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 39 mpg combined. In addition, thanks to it the ES 300h is able to generate 200 horsepower (147 kW).

In addition, this engine is low friction and uses a sophisticated power management system and high compression ratio (12.5:1) to increase the efficiency. Moreover, it includes electric water pump, electric power steering, and an integrated hybrid electric motor/generator. Surprisingly, this engine does not require any accessory belts, the result of which is that the beltless design helps improve fuel efficiency and the overall reliability.

On the other hand the 2013 Lexus ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Dual VVT-i. As a result of the powerful engine, the vehicle is able to produce 268 horsepower (197 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 183 Nm (248 lb.-ft.) of peak torque at 4,700.

The engine is mated to a six-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission which comes equipped with intelligence (ECT-i). The latter provides improved driving performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts. The fuel economy of the car is additionally improved due to the use of friction materials. Its fuel economy numbers are 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

Both Lexus models include Drive Mode selector, which offers selection among Normal mode, Eco one and Sport one. When Normal mode is on, it delivers mixture of performance and efficiency likable for everyday driving.

On the other hand the Eco mode is more suitable for cases when the driver really wants to save from fuel. The last mode, the Sport one, enhances the powertrain and steering responsiveness, and for the ES 300h, the IP changes from the hybrid power monitor to a tachometer.

One additional mode comes for the ES 300h which is named EV and allows short distance drives, at reduced speed, utilizing only the power from the hybrid battery pack.

Some suspension changes, including stiffer body and a quicker steering gear ratio, were include in the 2013 variants of this model. They result in more precise handling.

In details, the front suspension uses the opposite-wound coil springs to help enhance straight-line stability. The rear suspension is also revised in terms of geometry and improved shock absorber damping characteristics. The rigidity of the body has also been enhanced due to the use of lightweight, high tensile strength steel, added bracing and more spot welds.

The ES will run on the standard 215/55R17 low rolling resistance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels. As an option there are available 17- and 18-inch high-gloss alloy wheels.

In terms of safety and security these vehicles come equipped with wide array of standard and optional safety features: Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Pre-Collision System (PCS), 10 airbags as standard equipment, Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats, Lexus Safety Connect, including Enhanced Roadside Assistance, an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Stolen Vehicle Location services, and Automatic Collision Notification.

A luxury feature include in the Lexus is the enhanced NuLuxe seating surfaces, which were developed in order to help reduce environmental impact. The interior colors available are Black, Light Gray, and Parchment. Trim colors and materials include Piano Black, Espresso Bird’s-eye Maple, plus Bamboo for the ES 300h.

The exterior of the new ES includes a lower profile and clean styling lines from front to rear. It carries Lexus’ distinctive spindle grille. The “L” design motif is reflected in the LED daytime running lights and combination rear lamps. Fog lamps are integrated into the sculpted lower front bumper fascia.

The ES 350 comes equipped with dual exhaust pipes, while the ES 300h features an exceptional rear design with hidden exhaust and an integrated rear spoiler. Other details specific to the hybrid include unique blue badging and distinctive 17-inch alloy wheels.

How about the interior of the car? The ES features improved sightlines and visibility, logically placed controls, and new cabin materials. More importantly, there is provided a greater rear seat legroom and knee room which result in more spacious passenger cabin. In particular, the rear headroom is increased by 0.8 inches, knee room is increased by 2.8 inches and legroom is lengthened by 4.1 inches.

The cockpit now includes separate display and operation zones. The instrument panel is longer and shows the important information on a 3.5-inch color TFT multi-information display screen directly in the driver’s line of sight.

Source: Lexus

June 1, 2012

Heffner Performance Twin Turbo Lamborghini LP-560 [VIDEO]

Heffner Performance Twin Turbo Lamborghini LP-560 is the outstanding result of a project which started two months ago in the design lab of the Heffner Performance. Back then Jason Heffner received the request to do something exceptional with the performance of the already great Lamborghini Gallardo LP-560 Verde Ithaca.

The 560 horsepower weren’t enough, so the Heffner decided to modify this vehicle in terms of aesthetics, power and drivability characteristics. The transformation began, and its first phase included a work on entirely new turbo system with a certain goal in mind. The details of the new system were planned carefully, in order to give it an OEM quality appearance, fit, finish and technical superiority.

The second phase included a number of cosmetic changes. Of course, having a unique system makes it almost obligatory to have a unique appearance as well.

httpv://youtu.be/y3szXVy2pP8

The first phase began and what the mechanics did at first was to get the car on the dyno to get some baseline power figures. All factory elements that weren’t needed anymore were removed and this made it ready for its one-of-a-kind turbo system.

The team put a lot of attention on the location of the components. They wanted to keep the hot parts away from the cold parts. In addition, they kept the intercooler away from the exhaust, and wanted the air inlet plumbing to be able to take in fresh, cool air.

The overall function and expandability of the system was the next point of the work of Heffner Performance team. They have selected tubing diameters, intercooler core and turbochargers that would function very well at the bolt on level.

Heffner Performance Twin Turbo Lamborghini LP-560

Next, the appearance of the completed system was made like it has always been in the car – in other words – appearance of a factory installed system.

The modification of the LP560’s new system included Bosch electronics and direct injection. The first ones have full time, active wide band oxygen sensors, full time, active knock control as well as a number of other important safety features.

This basically means that if the fuel you use for the car has a low quality, the knock sensors will detect the detonation and remove the necessary amount of ignition timing to prevent from damaging the engine. The wide band oxygen sensors constantly monitor the air / fuel ratio and based on their readings the engine controller immediately compensate for any changes in fueling requirements.

Then, if the engine controller can not compensate for some reason, it will close the throttle bodies and trigger a fault code to direct you in the area of the issue. Here, the retention of the direct injection, especially in a bolt on configuration, is essential for the prevention of detonation.

Next, the direct injection system introduces fuel into the combustion chamber before the ignition. The purpose of this is that it almost makes it impossible to detonate the engine. In addition, if the fuel in the engine is not enough for the preignition to happen, it again makes it hard to create detonation.

Heffner located the exhaust tips at first. A pair of custom billet wheeled ball bearing turbos were next provided in order to support the expected 1400 whp. The specialists have chosen 3.5″ tubing for the downpipe, and then located the air inlet plumbing next.

As a result the completed downpipe is very clean, unrestrictive piece. What happened next is the plumbing in a pair of TIAL 44mm MVR wastegates. The exhaust flowed out of the mid pipe and back into the downpipe smoothly, which was made for very predictable boost control.

Next, they fabricated the intercooler and an air discharge end tank which will not restrict the air charge and will compliment the factory intake manifold nicely. Then the air inlet end tank and air charge pipes were also fabricated.

Jet Hot provided the hot side with a 2000 degree black ceramic coating. On the other hand the cold side piping received a black wrinkle finish. The latter one resembles a factory finish on the intake manifold.

At last, they made a billet cover for the intercooler with Heffner’s logo and raised the lines to give a look that is similar to “rolled out of the factory” one. The end result can be summed up in the following numbers:

Twin Turbo / Stock engine

1034 Engine HP / 879 WHP on 100 Octane
963 Engine HP / 819 WHP on 93 Octane

Source: Heffner Performance

May 31, 2012

Pricing Announced for the Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition – the world’s best-selling two-seater sportscar will go on sale with a starting price of £18 995. In addition to that, the other news that goes around the model is that it was named ‘Most Popular Convertible’ at the 2012 Honest John Awards.

The list included vehicles such as Volkswagen Eos, BMW 3-Series Convertible, BMW Z4 and Fiat 500C. The Mazda model however, was unsurpassed. It was chosen as a winner, because it has handling abilities, ease of use and low running costs.

The new special edition of the praised car Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition includes a Soft-top or can be purchase as a Roadster Coupe (a retractable hard-top). It includes upgraded luxurious specification, advanced technology, premium interior trim and exclusive exterior colours.

In particular, the Venture Edition comes equipped with 1.8-litre MZR engine for the Soft top (SE), and with a 2.0-litre MZR engine for the Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech).

The sportscar of course keeps the great dynamic attributes, low running costs and in addition offer open-top thrills. Exclusive highlights from the outside include light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a chrome front grille.

Inside a leather feast unfolds itself as you enter. The steering wheel, seats and the leather lever are all wrapped in Havana Brown leather. A matching door trim on the side and piano black dashboard accents at the front appease you. Technology includes climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, Dynamic Stability Control, TCS and airbags, lots of them.

The prices of Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition vary between £18 995 and £22 295.

Source: Mazda

May 31, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG blends luxury, style and performance

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG was born when luxury, performance and refinement blended. The new model has a striking design, maximum safety and the dynamism. It combines compelling technologies and comes equipped with wide range of standard equipment, and in addition can offer ride comfort for up to seven passengers.

The great performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine, which develops a peak output of 410 kW (557 hp) and maximum torque of 760 Nm (560 lb-ft). Important feature in this 2013 Mercedes-Benz model is the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension which has an ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM roll stabilization. Thank to it the driver can experience car’s high-level driving dynamics.

Due to the aforementioned facts, this Mercedes-Benz SUV accelerates form 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Its top speed is 250 km/h and of course is electronically limited. And if you wonder about the fuel consumption, it is estimated around 2.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The car emits 288 g CO2 per kilometer.

A detailed highlight must be put on the AMG M 157 eight-cylinder engine. It includes an innovative, high-tech power package featuring spray-guided direct petrol injection, piezo injectors, biturbo charging, air/water intercooling, all-aluminium crankcase, a four-valve-per-cylinder design with variable camshaft adjustment, plus alternator management and the ECO start/stop system.

The power which comes from this state-of-the-art engine is transmitted by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. The latter, includes three modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting. When it is in “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode then the ECO start/stop function is activated and it shuts down the eight-cylinder engine as soon as the vehicle comes to a standstill.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) driving modes, the ECO start/stop function is not in function and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility with more spontaneous responses.

In order to improve the efficiency of the vehicle, Mercedes-Benz made the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission special. Now it incorporates a fuel-economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, bearings designed for reduced friction loss and a transmission-oil thermal management system.

Additional features such as friction loss-minimized axle gears, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, an optimized belt drive, and demand-responsive control of all ancillary units and pumps also play an important part in minimizing the fuel consumption.

In addition, the GL 63 AMG has three suspension modes “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport plus”. The fully load-bearing air suspension system is speed-sensitive, lowering the body at higher speeds in order to minimize drag while increasing driving stability.

Mercedes-Benz has included electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering. It includes variable power assistance which responds in accordance with the chosen suspension mode. This one also contributes to lessen the fuel consumption.

Next, the GL 63 AMG comes as standard with 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in 10 x 21 inches. They are in titanium grey color coating and with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 295/40 R 21. The AMG high-performance braking system could not be excluded from this model. It is responsible for the shortest possible braking distances.

In terms of exterior 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG has striking and masculine appeal. In fact, the designers have used some specific elements to emphasize the top V8 model’s exceptional performance.

The typically upright GL radiator grille with its central Mercedes star is adorned with high-gloss slats painted in black. What comes from AMG as styling elements here are the front apron with its large openings which contribute for the effective air flow for the cooling modules.

The bottom air intake takes the form of a typical AMG stylised “A” with a gap under the fine black fin through which air can flow optimally to the cooling modules. And observed from the side, there can be seen the V8 BITURBO logos on the wings and illuminated running boards with an aluminium finish.

Great attention to the detail dominates throughout the whole interior. Not only this, but the luxury provided and the spaciousness will delight the customers as well. All seven seats for instance are covered in high-quality leather. In addition, the seats are electrically adjustable and include double topstitching in a contrasting colour and AMG badges on the front seat backrests and outer rear seat backrests.

Furthermore, the AMG Performance four-spoke steering wheel also comes with perforated leather in the grip area. Additionally, four round instruments on the AMG instrument cluster provide the driver with important information.

The standard equipment of the GL 63 AMG includes: AMG door sill panels in stainless steel, AMG floor mats, AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, Active Parking Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Bi-xenon headlamps, Audio 20 CD radio with Bluetooth® and USB interface, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, Electric EASY-ENTRY system in the rear compartment, Electrically operated EASY-PACK tailgate, Electric glass tilt/sliding sunroof, Intelligent Light System (ILS) with new off-road lighting, KEYLESS-GO, Multicontour seats for driver and front passenger including a massage function and Memory package, Crosswind Assist, THERMATIC 3-zone automatic climate control.

The optional extras are: five-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels (10 x 21 format) painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, fitted with 295/40 R 21 tyres, AMG Performance steering wheel with DINAMICA microfibre in the grip area, Brake callipers, painted red, designo Exclusive package, AMG sports seats in front and bench seats in the second and third rows

in designo leather, upper and lower section of the dashboard, centre console, beltlines, door panelling, door centre panels and armrests in the doors in designo leather, designo metal badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats, velour floor mats with designo metal badges and edging in designo black leather, 360° camera, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, trailer coupling with electric unlocking, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, Becker® MAP PILOT, Brake Assist BAS PLUS, DISTRONIC PLUS, electrically operated EASY PACK tailgate, Speed Limit Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG will be available at dealerships in November 2012.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG key data at a glance:

	GL 63 AMG
Displacement	5461 cc
Bore x stroke	98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio	10.0:1
Output	410 kW (557 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm
Max. torque	760 Nm at 2000-5000 rpm
Engine weight (dry)	204 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	12.3 l/100 km
CO₂ emissions	288 g/km
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.9 s
Top speed	250 km/h

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 31, 2012

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Edition Restoration Project

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Edition Restoration Project is the latest work of the talented UK based Kahn tuning team. Although the vehicle was already in exploitation for more than 70 000 miles, Afzal Kahn took the challenge to transform it. The result is as expected – outstanding!

The overall result is that this unique military grey metallic vehicle can now proudly run through the streets of any big city, where it can show-off its splendid appeal.

For this amazing new look, the Jeep had to undergo several upgrades, which include: meshed front grill, gold finished calipers, quad exhaust system, rear wheel cover, smoked side lights and repeaters, petrol flat cap in billet mat black, mud flaps hardwearing, aluminum machined foot pedals, smoked side lights and repeaters, sat-navigation, reverse camera, blue tooth, dial fascia clocks and LED driving lights. In the end all is rounded up with the branded rear wheel cover.

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Edition Restoration Project

Furthermore, the blank rear window sections and LED lights can be made from bullet-proof glass. This of course depends on the level of protection required. The interior of this tuned Wrangler is wrapped in red. In particular – red quilted leather seats, dial fascia clocks and more elements in the same color.

And as you can see, the last touch in this restoration project is the wheels, which namely are Kahn RS wheels in 9 x 20 in black. Their unique characteristic is that they have simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces on the edge of the spoke and a purposeful mechanical centre, thus giving the military vehicle more elegant outlook.

Source: Kahn Design

May 30, 2012

2012 Nissan Leaf powered by “LEAF to Home” Power Supply System With “EV Power Station”

Nissan Motor Corporation and Nichicon are going to launch “LEAF to Home” Power Supply System with “EV Power Station”. The “LEAF to Home” power supply system can supply electricity from batteries onboard in 2012 Nissan LEAF electric vehicles (EV) to homes when used with the “EV Power Station” unit. The latter is developed by Nichicon Corporation.

In fact, “LEAF to Home” is an industry first backup power supply system. What it can do basically is that it can transmit the electricity stored in the large-capacity batteries of Nissan LEAFs to a residential home.

Other good news is that Nissan will showcase this system in Japanese dealerships in the days to come. The aim is to promote efficient electricity management and the features built onto electric vehicles.

Behind the technology which moves the electricity from the vehicle to home through the EV Power Station Unit, stays the Nichicon. Its innovative technology enables electricity stored in high-capacity lithium-ion batteries onboard a Nissan LEAF to be sent to an ordinary home. This happens through the connection between the car and the home’s electricity distribution panel with a connector linked to the LEAF’s quick charging port.

The EV Power Station system is not big in size. In fact it is as big as an external air-conditioning unit. It can be therefore mounted outdoors. Furthermore, the system can run on various operating modes and has a timer function which can be controlled with a liquid crystal display (LCD) touch panel. More importantly, the electricity is stored or supplied automatically in accordance with a household’s electricity capacity and consumption.

The full charging time for the LEAF EV is as little as four hours. The great news here is that this is half the time, when the vehicle is charged via normal charger. This consequently means that it also can lower customers’ electricity bills.

2012 Nissan Leaf powered by "LEAF to Home" Power Supply System

The EV Power Station : Specifications

When charging Nissan LEAFs
Input voltage:	Single-phase, AC 200V (±15%), 50 Hz/60 Hz (±5%)
Input current range:	AC 0-36A
Output voltage range:	DC 50-500V (CHAdeMO Protocol)
Peak power output:	6kW
Conversion efficiency:	90% or more (at rated output)
Power factor:	99% or more (at rated output)

When supplying power to households
Input voltage range:	DC 150V-450V
Input current range:	DC 0-30A (Limited by cable specifications)
Output voltage:	Single-phase three-wire system (AC 100V x two-phase) AC100V (±6%), 50Hz / 60Hz AC 200V (±6%), 50Hz / 60Hz (Max.±2%)
Output current range:	AC 0 – 30A
Peak power output:	6kW (Single-phased, AC 100V·3kW x two-phase)
Conversion efficiency:	90% or more (at rated output)
External dimensions:	650 mm (W) x 350 mm (D) x 781 mm (H) (excluding projecting parts)
Mass:	Approx. 60 kg

Source: Nissan

May 30, 2012

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca among 2012 Best of the Best Coupes and GTs

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca has jut been included among the best Coupes in the luxury world for this year. According to Robb Report magazine the exceptional muscle car deserves undoubtedly to be featured as a 2012 Best of the Best Coupe and GT.

Robb Report is one of the main sources of information where the best purchases of the affluent lifestyle happen, and for almost quarter of decade it has been making list, which include several categories among which are cars, real estate and watches.

According to the report, the outstanding Ford vehicle is praised because it retains some of the best qualities and characteristics of its first form – the original 1969 Mustang Boss 302, and in addition have improved them in time. The ’69 model was racing one and was developed by the brand in order to compete in the Trans-Am series.

Furthermore, this Ford Mustang now is highly appreciated by people who not only adore the American muscle cars, but also count a lot on performance.

This great reputation of the vehicle is because its heart is in fact a 302 cu in V-8 engine. It is able to develop the astonishing 444 hp (325 kW) at up to 7,500 rpm. In addition to this, the powerful engine is mated not to an automatic transmission, but to 6-speed manual one, which helps retain the joy of driving! And with the price of about $48 000 it reasonably gets among the luxurious segment.

Souce: Ford

May 30, 2012

2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet and 2012 Audi TT Roadster are the Best Road Trip Convertibles

2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet and the 2012 Audi TT Roadster are among ten of the Best Road Trip Convertibles for 2012 according to Kelley Blue Book. The latter is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry.

The editors of the official web page of KBB have praised both Audi cars by including them in the aforementioned list of ten. 2012 A5 Cabriolet won the judges for its combination of style, refinement and performance. On the other hand the Audi TT Roadster was chosen for its well-appointed sportiness and superb handling.

In fact, 2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet is indeed an exceptional car. Not many cabriolet can show such style, combined with refinement and uncompromised performance. In addition it is the only car in its class to offer quattro® all-wheel drive.

Another advantage of the car is that it carries the award-winning 2.0 TFSI engine. Thank to it the cabrio can deliver 211 hp (155 kW) and 258 lb-ft (190 Nm) of torque. Of course, we have to mention the valvelift system, variable valve timing and TFSI® direct injection, which are alos included in it.

This convertible has it all. It has an Aluminum Optic trimmed windshield frame and runs on the elegant 18″ wheels. The soft top of this Audi delivers significant wind and road noise reduction and has only 15 seconds reaction time. At last, the vehicle is spacious enough and can offer room for four adults thank to its rear folding seats, twelve-way power adjustable front seats and an overall open design.

2012 Audi TT Roadster is the second praised Audi vehicle, which carries its unmistakable profile and its unique rear diffuser with dual exhaust. This blend gives an aggressive and exclusive look to the Roadster.

The body of this Audi Convertible was entirely constructed of lightweight aluminum and steel. Here, the folding soft top takes only twelve seconds to react and can be closed at speeds under 31 MPH for added convenience.

More benefits that this car delivers are in terms of performance. It comes equipped with a 2.0T engine, which employs a variation of FSI called TFSI®. TFSI-equipped has significantly higher compression ratios and cylinder pressure, thus fully atomizing fuel and optimizing boost response. The Roadster also delivers impressive fuel economy: 23 MPG city and 31 MPG highway.

Source: Audi

May 30, 2012

The Prowler Project: SR Maserati Gran Turismo Convertible

SR Maserati Gran Turismo Convertible – Prowler Project is the latest luxury project of the works of collaboration between PUR Wheels and SR Auto Group. If you have thought that they might stop amazing you with exceptional vehicles, well this Project called Prowler will prove you wrong.

The Prowler is based on Maserati Gran Turismo Convertible and this fact makes it already a very special tuning. It includes a six-speed, ZF automatic transmission with a hydraulic torque converter. Thank to this the gear shift changes quickly and effortlessly.

More importantly, being a true Maserati, the vehicle carries inherent sporty stance, characteristics, and of course – engine: the 4.7-liter V8 one. This motor produces 433 horsepower (318 kW) and 361 foot pounds of torque. These numbers enable the car to accelerate from 0 gto 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds.

The prowler project comes in a cloak of matt black, which to me looks as velvet skin. The objective here was to make a contrast between it and the light interior that the Maserati has. A special part of the tuning is the set of super silver PUR 1NE 21/22 inch wheels, which were developed for the purpose of making contrast as well.

SR Maserati Gran Turismo Convertible - Prowler Project — SR Maserati Gran Turismo Convertible – Prowler Project

Source: SR Auto Group

May 29, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova