Lidia Todorova – Page 324 – Automobiles Review

2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase with a Beijing World Debut

2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase made a global debut at Auto China. The vehicle completes the Phantom Series II family of the brand.

Phantom Series II is an evolution of the Rolls-Royce Phantom model which first appeared back in 2003. What is particularly specific about the extended wheelbase is that it features significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology.

Of course, it carries a striking new front-end design, which is completed with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures. In addition, there are also included fully-LED headlamps as standard. They deliver characteristic whiter light, and encompass technologies that automatically change the shape and direction of light beams according to road orientation and in response to different driving conditions.

Furthermore, there are also featured driver assistance technologies such as a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller, controls a new satellite navigation system with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and composite route planning.

All of the necessary information is displayed on 8.8 inch control centre display. There are also displayed the images provided from the front, rear and top-view camera systems, which in turn help in better manoeuvring.

What is more 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase includes a brand new eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential. They improve the driving dynamics and complement perfectly the V12 direct injection engine.

In fact, this results in improved fuel consumption and less CO2 emissions as well.

Another interesting remark here is that at least five layers of paint and clear lacquer coating are applied to each Phantom model. The number of the layers becomes seven if the car is two-tone.

Any chosen paint color can be specified by the customer. Furthermore, single or double coach-lines can also be added, where each five metre line takes three hours to apply (by hand) using only the finest squirrel and ox hair brushes.

Moreover, there are also wooden features can be seen in the interior. It depends on the specifications whether there how many pieces of wood are being utilized for the construction.

In particular, up to 43 wooden parts can be used. Each of which is constructed from up to 28 layers of wood. In order to improve the strength and to prevent splintering in an impact, these are interspersed with thin sheets of aluminium.

The leather in the interior is drum pigmented. This allows the leather to keep its soft and supple feel, giving a rich, uniform colour while maintaining the natural feel, softness and comfort.

Source: Rolls-Royce

April 23, 2012

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept delivers new level of sensory indulgence

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept is an outstanding luxury model which the richness of experience that comes as standard with any Rolls-Royce vehicle.

When one approaches this exceptional Rolls-Royce their senses are immediately provoked. The delight continues through the experience of the lavish use of soft, sumptuous leathers, finest veneer detailing and special bespoke enhancements.

In fact, the stunning interior was hand-made and maybe it embodies part of every craftsperson involved in the process of creation.

This luxury concept vehicle ignites the sight with its beautiful and elegant appearance. Every Rolls-Royce Ghost model is a sign of exceptional taste. In addition, what pleases the eye is pearlescent Carrara White finish complements new forged alloy wheels.

Another visually enriching experience comes through the interior which includes precision and detailing. The deep lustre of the Walnut Burr veneer complete with diagonally-oriented, brown oak cross-banding, are made to hint at the extraordinary power at the driver’s disposal.

Next, the senses of the ears are provoked by the sound most advanced audio systems included in the Ghost model. In details, Ghost Six Senses audio system fills the spacious rear cabin thanks to its upgraded amplifier and the inclusion of ‘exciter’ speakers housed in the leather headlining that help raise the centre of sound closer to a passenger’s ear.

Furthermore, the finest interior materials create scents that are unique to Rolls-Royce. Take for instance the natural soft grain leather in enveloping, hand-crafted seats, as well as in the car’s leather headlining, with added hints of the woody spice in the walnut veneer.

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept

And in addition to all this the Rolls-Royce comes to offer ultimate experience in terms of taste, because in it is featured a coolbox where any kind of refreshing drinks can be stored.

The tactile sense is provoked through the versatility of materials included in the design of the concept. They range from cool chrome and sumptuous leather to the finest veneers. In fact, Ghost Six Senses includes natural grain leather for the first time.

On the other hand the deep pile lambswool rugs encourage occupants to submerge feet, while opening the boot effortlessly with remote opener, reveals a further lambswool lining to cosset luxury luggage.

Source: Rolls-Royce

April 23, 2012

2013 Ford EcoSport SUV shows confidant stance in China

2013 Ford EcoSport SUV achieved great furore at 2012 Auto China in Beijing. The car offers confidence and stance and great agility and fuel efficiency. In other words, this For SUV is the perfect vehicle for the city. The new EcoSport joins Ford’s family of small global vehicles.

In addition to this EcoSport is full of smart technologies and features.

The brand has included its newest and most advanced engine the 1.0-litre EcoBoost™, thank to which the fuel efficiency is exceptional. It also includes Ford SYNC driver connect system with voice control. Additional innovative features are also included in a spacious and comfortable interior with new levels of craftsmanship.

The top-of-the-line model is EcoSport Titanium, which carries the distinctive paint of Mars Red. This version comes with 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels and a chrome grille.

The interior of the EcoSport delivers style and innovation, craftsmanship and quality. More importantly, the cabin is spacious enough for five people and their gear. This is possible because of the initial aim of the design, which is to deliver great of comfort and quiet operation for customers.

Some of the innovative technologies featured in the model are: Ford SYNC with voice control, Smart Keyless Entry, Ford Power Start, and a cooled bin in the glovebox.

2013 EcoSport will also offer advanced safety items. For instance: dual front airbags and side curtain airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program.

Of course, being a true ford, the SUV comes with an array of driver-assist features among which are the Hill Launch Assist, rear parking sensors, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) for outstanding steering response and improved fuel efficiency.

For has put highlight on fuel economy, drivability and performance. The aim set by Ford in the EcoSport’s development was to become the segment leader in fuel-efficiency. This was made possible thank to the all-new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost™ engine as well as the new 1.5L Ti-VCT petrol engine.

Additionally, EcoSport’s fuel economy is further enhanced by the availability of the innovative six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission. It combines the efficiency and driving dynamics of a manual gearbox with the convenience of a conventional automatic transmission.

Efficiency is achieved also through every aspect of the vehicle’s design. In fact, the SUV’s body was specially created in such way that it includes the use of high-strength steel and new designs to optimize weight and fuel efficiency.

Source: Ford

April 23, 2012

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept makes debut in Beijing

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept is the successor of the emblematic Beetle and it will be exhibited for the first time in Asia during Auto China in Beijing. There it will show how sportiness can also be transferred to a Beetle with pure electric drive.

The Concept vehicle is a two-seat Beetle speedster, 85 kW in power, and able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds. The surprise here is that it is able to produce zero emissions.

To go further into details, the central electric module of this Volkswagen has an innovative design. It weighs just 80 kg. The electric motor produces energy which is stored in a lithium-ion battery whose modules are housed in a space-saving location behind the front seats.

The battery has an energy capacity of 28.3 kWh. In kilometers this means that the vehicle is able to cover the range of at least 180 km in the urban world.

In addition, Volkswagen has included its special quick charging function, thank to which the battery can be ‘refuelled’ within 35 minutes at suitable charging stations. Of course, this battery can be charged at the convenience of the home environment through a conventional electric outlet.

The interface for the charge cable is located behind the normal ‘fuel door’ near the C-pillar. Due to the new Combined Charging System it is possible now for the E-Bugster to be ‘filled up’ flexibly via one interface using any available charging modalities, such as single-phase charging with AC current or ultra-fast DC charging at charging stations (quick charge).

Exactly how much energy the driver is requesting with the ‘electric pedal’ can be observed in a power display. In addition, there are also featured instruments which include a driving range indicator and a display showing the current charge state of the battery.

Furthermore, there is also an instrument in the new Bugster, which shows the intensity of battery regeneration. What this means in short is that the regeneration actually is the recovery of braking energy. When the driver’s foot leaves the accelerator pedal and/or brakes, kinetic energy is transformed into electricity, which in turn is collected in the battery.

This serves as a means to increase the driving range of the E-Bugster.

Furthermore, the 2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster is in fact a sports car. This is due to its height of less than 1,400 mm, which is about 90 mm less than that of the hard top Beetle. In details, the E-Bugster’s width (1,838 mm) grew by 30 mm, while its length (4,278) remained the same as that of the production car.

Another highlight here is that the E-Bugster has unique dynamic styling, due to a lot of new styling elements included in the model.

Looked from the front, it is the swept-back and wide windscreen that catches the eye. The E-Bugster’s glass extends to a point above the A-pillars.

In addition it includes LED headlights, highly customized, daytime running lights to the left and right of the central air intake as bands of LED lights in a C-shape. All these styling elements can be seen again in a transformed form as reflectors in the rear bumper.

The rear windscreen of the E-Bugster is extremely wide as well.

On the other hand a side view of the Bugster gives the observer the image of swept-back windows and a low roof. In addition, the designers lengthened the chrome strip of the lower window border towards the rear and it now runs once around the car, from A-pillar to A-pillar.

Moreover, this electrified Volkswagen runs on 20-inch ‘Twister’ wheels, which are equipped with 235/35 R 20 tyres.

What is left is of course the interior, which is spectacular. First of all it includes a combination of high-tech equipment. Secondly the dynamic performance reflected through the sport seats and a continuous centre tunnel in body colour.

The door handles and the belt guides are made of aluminium, and in addition to this the lightweight construction styling of the steering wheel also creates a direct connection between the exterior and interior.

Through the Start button, the driver not only activates the drive system but also puts a light show into motion. What happens is basically this: first, the interior is bathed in a white light, which eventually is substituted with blue light.

Next, it begins as a light pulse in the instrument cluster, from which the light emanates as a thin line of light. The latter is just one millimetre wide and courses into the door window sills and around the air nozzles.

Source: Volkswagen

April 21, 2012

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition brings even more luxury

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition is a model which Bentley Motors has produced in order to celebrate The Queen’s Birthday and her Diamond Jubilee year.

The model is designed with great precision, perfection and craftsmanship. From it will be produced only 60 examples.

What is very characteristic about these models is that they are distinguished by a range of exquisite, handcrafted features. For instance some of them bespoke embroidery to all four headrests with gold stitching, veneered picnic tables in the rear cabin decorated with a gold overlay depicting a royal carriage used for great occasions of state as well as luxurious, hide cushions featuring the same motif.

In addition to this these special models also include two beautiful, highly-polished stainless steel treadplate plaques featuring the famous ‘Bentley Mulliner, England’ script and ‘Diamond Jubilee Edition’.

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition

Furthermore, the Diamond Jubilee Edition vehicles include a spectrum of paint and hide colours that set them apart from other Bentleys and which stylishly uses various combinations and shades of red, white and blue. Hand-applied Single Fine Lines with the same three colours can be seen on two distinctive Bentley ‘B’ badges positioned on each ‘D’ pillar.

In particular, Bentley Mulsanne incorporates the source of the Bentley marque. It shows elegance and yet it is sporty in heart. It delivers effortless performance, while within its sumptuous cabin, advanced technology sits discreetly with handcrafted luxury.

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition Interior

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition overview and features:

• Twin-turbocharged, 6.75 litre V8 engine

• Power: 512 PS / 505 bhp / 377 kW at 4200 rev/min

• Torque: 1020 Nm / 752 lb ft at 1750 rev/min

• 0-60 mph in 5.1 secs (0-100 km/h in 5.3 s)

• 0-100 mph in 11.6 secs (0-160 km/h in 11.5 s)

• Max Speed: 184 mph (296 km/h)

• 21″ Classic Alloy Wheel

• Flying ‘B’ Radiator Mascot

• Jewel Fuel Filler Cap

• Bright Stainless Steel Matrix to Lower Bumper Apertures and Wing Vents

• Six paint options including – Beluga over Claret (duo tone), Black Sapphire, Claret, Pale Sapphire over Black Sapphire (duo tone), Pale Sapphire, White Sand

• Hand-applied fine lining

• Bentley ‘B’ badges on ‘D’ Pillar

• Burr Walnut Veneer

• Two Plain Hide Loose Cushions with ‘Diamond Jubilee’ Embroidery

• Diamond Quilted, Perforated Seat Inserts & Door Panels

• Lambswool Rugs (in addition to standard overmats)

• Veneered Gear Lever

• Veneered iPod Drawer & Minor Gauge Panel

• Diamond Jubilee Overlay to Fascia & Picnic Tables

• Ambient Interior Mood Lighting

• Rear Quarter Vanity Mirrors with Veneer Surround

• Drilled Alloy Sports Foot Pedals

• Seat Ventilation & Massage to Front & Rear Seats

• Rear Seat Entertainment Package

• ‘Naim For Bentley’ Premium Audio System

• Hide colours – Linen, Burgundy and French Navy

• Personalised Embroidery with Gold Thread

Source: Bentley

April 21, 2012

2012 Hyundai i20 Prices Announced

2012 Hyundai i20 debuted a more than a month ago at the Geneva Motor Show. And now Hyundai is announcing full pricing and specification for the new model. It will be available for purchase starting from 7th of May.

The new Hyundai i20 prices start from £9 995, which goes for the three-door 1.2 petrol Classic model. On the other hand the most expensive – 90ps (66 kW) 1.4 CRDi Style model costs £14 295.

What is new in the i20 is the enhanced interior, which includes new wheel designs plus a hexagonal front grille. Additional design changes to the front end feature new rounded front wings while the reshaped bonnet and headlights continue the theme along with new fog light clusters and daytime running lights.

Observed from behind, i20 has a redesigned rear bumper and taillights.

The interior of the Hyundai model is entirely made from high-quality materials, which deliver soft-touch plastics. It also includes a revised and classier centre consol along with updated seat trims.

2012 Hyundai i20 is available in three main trim levels: Classic, Active and Style. In each model is included broad list of standard specification featuring remote central locking, six air bags, air conditioning, ESP and, for the first time on i20, Vehicle Stability Management.

In addition to this the brand has added inside even more value with the feature of Active trim, which adds 15-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth with voice recognition, electric/heated door mirrors, front fog lights, leather steering wheel and gear knob and electric rear windows (five door bodystyle) when compared with Classic.

Thirdly, the range-topping Style comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, rain sensing front wipers, climate control along with an automatic dimming rear view mirror with an integrated reversing camera.

There is also available the optional Convenience Pack, which encompasses keyless entry, engine Start/Stop button, chrome exterior door handles and supervision cluster.

Another important highlight is that the i20 range will feature the cleanest internal combustion diesel engine in terms of CO2 emissions with the 1.1-litre unit emitting just 84g/km.

In details the improved 1.2-litre petrol engine, is now cleaner, more efficient and more powerful than the model it replaces. The maximum output it creates is now 85 ps (67 kW). Additionally, it delivers improvements in fuel consumption estimated from 55.4mpg to 57.7mpg on the combined cycle, plus emissions reductions from 119g/km CO2 to 114g/km CO2.

All these facts make the 1.2 petrol engine one of the most efficient ones in the world.

Moreover, the 1.2-litre petrol i20 is now available in Style trim.

The Blue Variant of the i20 is powered by Hyundai’s ultra-efficient 1.1-litre “U-ll” three-cylinder diesel engine. The latter is combined with Intelligent Stop and Go and low rolling resistance tyres emits a mere 84g/km.

Source: Hyundai

April 21, 2012

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler now enhanced with sport seats

kahnjeepsportseatsTHUMB 2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler is an exceptional tuning, made by Kahn Design tuning company, as we all remember. Now this project is going to be further expanded by the British tuners.

In order to stay true to the philosophy it incorporates, the tuning company decided to give the Wrangler not only external and mechanical perfection, but also took responsibility for the interior of the vehicle.

As a consequence of this aim, an innovative set of Kahn sport seats for the Wrangler Jeep was born.

In details, they are available not only one variant, but in wide range of fabrics, trims and colors. Undoubtedly, these seats can make the perfect solution for people who are looking for style and comfort.

Given this wide range of outstanding designs and excessive build quality, now anyone who has a Wrangler, will have the opportunity to be unique. In particular, the seats are completed with great flexibility with built in reclining mechanisms. They can also be utilized with original seat belts.

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler with new sport seats — Kahn Jeep Wrangler with new sport seats (2012)

Source: Kahn Design

April 20, 2012

2012 SR Fisker Karma ES – the debut of the White Knight

2012 SR Fisker Karma ES White Knight is an exceptional enhancement of the ECO innovative and revolutionary vehicle Fisker Karma.

When this inspirational luxury vehicle first appeared it made a furore in the hearts of many. It has also opened a whole new realm in the automotive world.

What it basically did is to combine in the same sentence the words hybrid and super car. No one before its appearance could imagine that hybrid technologies could be successfully applied to the super vehicles, and still deliver exceptional performance.

What the tuners from SR Auto Group done on this outstanding luxury car is to give it new super car set of wheels. Of course, the wheels were delivered by PUR Wheels.

The SR Auto Group professionals have selected a set of PUR 2WO’s in a twenty-two inch fitment. However, they didn’t apply to them the standard black or silver finish just. In fact, the faces were machined down to their raw aluminum core and sealed with a clear coating.

In addition to that, the inserts were color matched with the exterior to create a flawless design that is completely tailored to the Fisker vehicle.

Source: SR Auto Group

April 20, 2012

Lexus LFA Supercar and Lexus IS F Performance Sedan Competing at Nuerburgring

Lexus LFA Supercar and Lexus IS F Performance Sedan are going to compete at Nuerburgring 24 Hour Racing. The Race will take place from 17th till 20th of May.

This is not the first appearance of Lexus in this race but in fact – the sixth one.

The 2012 Lexus LFA Sportscar comes equipped with especially developed for the event Nuerburgring Package and will take class honours in shakedown event. Both vehicles will compete in the SP8 class. In this class only naturally-aspirated engines are allowed to join the competition.

This model is unmatched in its track-focused performance and hand-crafted quality.

As a basis for this model are used the speed and handling of the Lexus LFA. Nevertheless the Nürburgring Package adds further a number of elements which enhance the downforce for sharper circuit performance.

More importantly, the car is equipped with the 4.8-litre V10 engine, form which it draws maxim power of 562bhp (420kW). This means that the LFA accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7-second. The tops speed is 202 mph (325 km/h).

Recently the LFA model achieved great success at the German VLN2 series three-and-a-half hour endurance race. In fact, it was head of the Ferrari 458 Italia and Aston Martin Vantage.

The Lexus IS F performance sedan will be driven by Gran Turismo 5 creator Kazunori Yamauchi.

Source: Lexus

April 20, 2012

2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG deliver expressive design and enhanced fuel efficiency

Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG are vehicles which are delivering outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel”.

The design of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is reworked, and now features spray-controlled petrol direct injection, ECO start/stop function and generator management.

It is equipped with AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine which effortlessly develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 Nm (561 lb-ft).

Therefore it is no surprise that this exceptional vehicle is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. Its new top speed is 210 km/h.

Although this vehicle delivers a powerful performance, its fuel consumption is also impressive: just 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. This is 2.1 litres less than its predecessor model produced. The reduction is a result of the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function.

First, the seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting. Whan it is in “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. In addition, the AMG instrument cluster also includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.

There are also two other modes: the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes. Whan they are on, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays enhanced agility.

The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is improved with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

Furthermore, AMG sports exhaust system includes twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear. The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been modified for the more dynamic handling characteristics.

In addition to these modifications, the wheels and brakes are also completely new. This powerful Mercedes-Benz machine runs on new AMG 5×2 spoke light alloy wheels. They come as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with

275/50 R 20 tyres.

As an option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges.

Moreover, this Mercedes-Benz vehicle comes equipped with a new AMG high-performance brakes. They deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance.

The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator Mercedes-Benz grille now comes with four chrome inserts. This actuallt makes it AMG recognizable.

Another new feature is the AMG bumper. In particular it has three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. The vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts give the G63 AMG powerful stance.

Of course, the interior was also completely transgormed and now includes more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. There is a new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems. In addition to them, G 63 AMG comes with an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors.

The cabin looks even more comfortable, thank to the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. There are also other options available for an even more stylish interior.

G 63 AMG key specifications:

	G 63 AMG
Displacement	5461 cc
Bore x stroke	98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio	10.0 : 1
Output	400 kW (544 hp) at 5500 rpm
Max. torque	760 Nm at 2000–5000 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	13.8 l/100 km
CO₂emissions	322 g/km
Efficiency class	G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	5.4
Top speed	210 km/h

2012 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG has an autstading performance, it has maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) thank to the V12 engine. Hence, the G 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h.

In fact, this is the first G-Class vehicle which is equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine. The latter includes new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit.

As a result, the combustion is improved and this leads to smoother running and power delivery. As in the G 63 AMG, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G TRONIC automatic transmission system is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.

G 65 AMG key specifications:

	G 65 AMG
Displacement	5980 cc
Bore x stroke	82.6 x 93.0 mm
Compression ratio	9.0:1
Output	450 kW (612 hp) at 4300–5600 rpm
Max. torque	1000 Nm at 2300–4300 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	17.0 l/100 km
CO₂emissions	397 g/km
Efficiency class	G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	5.3
Top speed	230 km/h*

The exterior of the G 65 AMG is distinguished by its high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards.

The interior of the vehicle includes designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. What is especially made for this mode is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This theme is repeated on the door central panels.

A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo Mercedes-Benz mats with a V12 badge.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG will be launched in june with the following starting prices:

• G 63 AMG 137,504.50 Euros

• G 65 AMG 264,180 Euros

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 19, 2012

2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park and MINI Green Park offer style and excitement

The new design models 2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park and MINI Green Park are going to deliver even more style and excitement in the MINI fleet. They come with exclusive colour combinations and trim levels, which give them classic and sporty stance.

What is more, these two MINI models are going to offer their customers harmoniously combined design and trim features for the exterior and interior.

Both design models are available all around the world in MINI and MINI Clubman body styles.

More importantly, the customers can choose up to four engine variants:

MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Clubman with 90 kW/122 hp
MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper D Clubman with 82 kW/112 hp
MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Clubman with 135 kW/184 hp
MINI Cooper SD and MINI Cooper SD Clubman with 105 kW/143 hp

All of the above mentioned engines come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optional.

2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park embodies the classic British lifestyle. It has a discreet Pepper White body color which is combined with Hot Chocolate contrasting paintwork on the roof and exterior mirror caps.

In addition, regarding the MINI Clubman color scheme there are included the lower sections of the C-pillar in body color. And in order to match the contrasting paintwork, the MINI Hyde Park also sports bonnet and side stripes in Hot Chocolate. Another highlight is the indicator lenses in transparent white.

The interior of the MINI Hyde Park is as special as the interior. The surfaces are in Pepper White, and the seat upholstery and optional Color Line draw on the entire range available to the MINI and MINI Clubman. Furthermore, to make the interior even more stylish, the seats are in cloth/leather or Leather Gravity with the Carbon Black or Polar Beige Color Line. The MINI Yours dashboard lined comes in leather in a Black/Polar Beige combination.

On the other hand 2012 MINI Green Park comes offering sporting heritage. Its design embodies the traditional British passion for sporting competition.

British Racing Green paintwork is featured in the roof and exterior mirror caps display. The bonnet stripes are in British Racing Green as well. Additionally, the transparent white lenses for the direction indicators heighten the distinctly classic-sporty look. The lower C-pillars of the MINI Clubman are in body color.

Here too, the interior surfaces are in Pepper White, reflecting a cabin design that takes its cue from the exterior. Aging, the seats in Black or Polar Beige and the MINI Yours leather-lined dashboard in a combination of Black/Polar Beige.

Source: MINI

April 19, 2012

2012 Ford Kuga Compact SUV shows style in Milan

2012 Ford Kuga is being exhibited today on show at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan.

In this event the vehicle will showcase the evolution of Ford’s Kinetic design on the popular Ford SUV platform. The aim here is to highlight the new spaciousness of the Kuga and the high quality interior that it has.

The people who are going to attend the show will have the chance to see the latest technical advances included in the SUV. For instance, such innovation is the hands-free automatic tailgate, which can be opened and closed simply by kicking a foot under the rear bumper.

In addition, what distinguishes the all-new 2012 Ford Kuga is that it brings more spaciousness to the everyday driving. Additionally, it offers dynamic driving and capability.

This Ford crossover vehicle will also get the voice-activated in-car connectivity system, known as SYNC. It includes Emergency Assistance, which enables SYNC to help occupants place a call to the emergency services in the event of an accident.

But this is not all; a range of driver assistance technologies will also included in the Kuga. Some of which are the parallel parking aid Active Park Assist and the sensor-based Blind Spot Information System. The latter informs the driver with a warning light in the door mirror that a potential hazard is in the driver’s blind spot.

2012 Kuga is all about spaciousness. It features boot-space with an enhanced capacity of 82-litres, while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button.

Furthermore, the new Kuga was designed to be as visually appealing up close as it is from a distance with spaces between panels no wider than 0.5mm.

There is nothing else but craftsmanship that you can find in the Kuga. The interior emphasizes feel and touch through use of a soft instrument panel and soft door upper roll. A lot of attention was put on deleting exposed fasteners on moving parts like tailgate, sun visors and glove box.

Moreover, some great technologies are also included in the crossover vehicle, such as the Sony branded audio system with premium speakers and surround sound.

In addition, Kuga’s all-wheel drive (AWD) system assesses road conditions twenty times faster. It readjusts the AWD power split to the wheels to give the driver the best combination of handling and traction. Improvement in the driving dynamics also took place through the introduction of the Torque Vectoring Control system.

What is important to be mentioned here is that the engines available on 2012 Kuga are 140PS (103 kW) and 163PS (120 kW) versions of Ford’s popular 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine. Both can come with Ford PowerShift automatic gearbox as an option. Moreover, there also will be offered the powerful yet fuel efficient 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which we have seen in Ford Focus and C-MAX.

Source: Ford

April 19, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova