Lidia Todorova – Page 332 – Automobiles Review

2013 GMC Terrain Denali 3.6L V-6

GMC is currently expanding the Denali sub-brand through the debut of the all-new 2013 GMC Terrain Denali, which undoubtedly will bring even more style and power to the luxury small SUV range. The reason for this is that the with the introduction of the Terrain Denali, GMC also announced the simultaneous introduction of the new 3.6-liter V-6 engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing, which will replace the current 3.0-liter V-6 engine in Terrain lineup. In details, the engine delivers the exciting 301 horsepower (224 kW) at 272 lb.-ft. (369 Nm) of torque. And although it makes more power and torque, it is expected to deliver fuel economy equal to its predecessor. How is that possible? Well, the answer lies in the use of new lightweight components in the V-6 engine, which in contribute to the fuel efficiency. In addition, an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design saves about 13 pounds compared to a non-integrated design. Next, a composite intake manifold saves about 5.5 pounds vs. an aluminum intake. And eventually, there’s the lightweight structural front cover and high-strength connecting rods, which save further from the weight of the SUV.

Terrain Denali will be offered with its standard Ecotec 2.4-liter I-4 with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing as well. It will also include front-wheel drive as a standard on Terrain Denali, with all-wheel drive available for both engines. However, what is exclusive to the Terrain Denali’s suspension system are the new dual-flow dampers. In particular, this technology delivers a smoother ride and improved handling by means of control on the suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions.

2013 GMC Terrain Denali includes high-end details. The models with the 2.4L engine feature 18-inch wheels, while the V-6 engine model sides on 19-inch wheels. Further exterior features are: signature chrome grille, satin chrome accents, body color front and rear fascias, body color rocker panels with satin chrome molding, new headlamp and taillamp designs, dual chrome finish exhaust outlets (single outlet on 2.4L). How about the interior – Terrain Denali’s includes the soft-touch of Jet Black leather, which lines the seats and door inserts. In addition, a contrast stitching and red accent lighting contribute to an inviting interior. Additionally to the interior are exclusively included: soft-touch instrument panel with French stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel with smoked mahogany wood accents, embossed Denali logos on front seatbacks, smoked mahogany wood trim accents, Denali illuminated front sill plates, Eight-way power driver and passenger seat.

Of course, this SUV can’t go without class-leading technology: Terrain Denali comes standard with color touch radio with IntelliLink. This is a new infotainment system that includes reconfigurable home screen, intuitive voice commands, Bluetooth smartphone integration, control of streaming internet radio, and iPod controls with Gracenote music database technology. Furthermore, a forward collision alert and lane departure warning are standard on Terrain Denali. What is special about them is that they use the industry’s first single-camera crash-avoidance system to visually and audibly warn drivers when a collision is imminent or the vehicle crosses a lane marker. Additionally, Terrain Denali also comes with Automatic Crash Response, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link, stolen vehicle assistance and remote door unlock.

2013 GMC TERRAIN DENALI SPECIFICATIONS

Models:	GMC Terrain Denali; FWD and AWD
Body style / driveline:	5-passenger, 4-door SUV , front-engine, front- or all-wheel drive
Construction:	welded galvanized steel (except roof) monocoque
EPA vehicle class:	compact sport utility vehicle
Manufacturing location:	Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada
Key competitors:	Ford Edge, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe

Engines

Type:	2.4L DOHC I-4 DI	3.6L DOHC V-6 DI
Displacement (cu in / cc):	145 / 2384	217 / 3564
Bore & stroke (in / mm):	3.46 x 3.86 / 88 x 98	3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	DOHC, four valves per cylinder; continuously variable valve timing	DOHC, four valves per cylinder; continuously variable valve timing
Fuel delivery:	direct sequential fuel injection with electronic throttle control	direct sequential fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Compression ratio:	11.2:1	11.5:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	182 / 136 @ 6700*	301 / 224 @ 6500*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	172 / 233 @ 4900*	272 / 369 @ 4800*
Recommended fuel:	regular unleaded or E85 ethanol with federal emissions	regular unleaded or E85 ethanol with federal emissions
Emissions controls:	close-coupled catalytic converters; Quick-Sync 58x ignition system; returnless fuel rail; fast-response O2 sensor	close-coupled catalytic converters; Quick-Sync 58x ignition system; returnless fuel rail; fast-response O2 sensor
EPA-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy):	22 / 32 (FWD) 20 / 29 (AWD)	17/ 24 (FWD, est.) 16 / 23 (AWD, est.)

Transmission

Type:	Hydra-matic 6T45 six-speed automatic electronically controlled with electronic range select	Hydra-matic 6T70 six-speed automatic electronically controlled with electronic range select
Gear ratios: (:1):
First:	4.58	4.48
Second:	2.96	2.87
Third:	1.91	1.84
Fourth:	1.44	1.41
Fifth:	1.00	1.00
Sixth:	0.74	0.74
Reverse:	2.94	2.88
Final drive ratio:	3.23 (FWD) 3.53 (AWD)	2.77 (FWD) 3.39 (AWD)

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	independent strut-type with tuned coil springs; direct-acting stabilizer bar; hydraulic ride bushings; DFD (Dual Flow Dampeners
Rear:	independent four-link with coil springs and trailing arm; stabilizer bar; hydraulic link bushings
Steering type:	rack-mounted electric power steering with 2.4L; hydraulic power rack-and-pinion with 3.6L
Steering ratio:	17.4:1 (2.4L) 17.5:1 (3.6L)
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:	2.90 (2.4L with 18-inch wheels) 2.80 (3.6L with 19-inch wheels)
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):	40.0 / 12.2 (with 18-inch wheels) 42.6 / 13 (with 19-inch wheels)

Brakes

Type:	power front and rear vented discs, standard anti-lock brakes
Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):	front: 12.6 x 1.18 / 321 x 30 rear: 11.9 x 0.78 / 303 x 20
Total swept area (sq in/mc^2):	front: 68.4/441 rear: 50.5/326

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size and type:	18-inch chrome-clad aluminum (std. with 2.4L) 19-inch chrome-clad aluminum (std. with 3.6L)
Tires:	P235/55R18 all-season steel-belted radial blackwall tires P235/55R19 all-season steel-belted radial blackwall tires

Dimensions Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):	112.5 / 2857
Overall length (in / mm):	187.8 / 4771
Overall width (in / mm):	72.8 / 1850
Overall height (in / mm):	66.3 / 1684
Track (in / mm):	front: 62.9 / 1598 rear: 62.1 / 1578
Approach angle (deg):	15.2
Departure angle (deg):	23.5
Breakover ramp angle (deg):	16.7
Minimum ground clearance (in / mm):	6.9 / 174
Ground to rear load floor (in / mm):	28.8 / 731.2
Curb weight, base (lb / kg):	3893 / 1766
Weight distribution (front / rear):	56 / 44

Dimensions Interior

Seating capacity:	5
Headroom (in / mm):	front: 39.8 / 1012 rear: 39.2 / 995
Legroom (in / mm):	front: 41.2 / 1046 rear: 37.2 / 946
Shoulder room (in / mm):	front: 55.7 / 1416 rear: 55.3 / 1404
Hip room (in / mm):	front: 54.6 / 1387 rear: 51.3 / 1304

Capacities

EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):	127.2 / 3602
Passenger volume (cu ft / L):	99.6 / 2820
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): Maximum behind rear seat: Maximum behind front seat:	31.1 / 881 63.9 / 1810
GVWR, standard (lb / kg):	FWD 2.4L: 4960 / 2250 AWD 2.4L: 5070 / 2300 FWD 3.6L: 5203 / 2360
	AWD 3.6L: 5291 / 2400
Payload, base (lb / kg):	1146 / 520
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):	1500 / 680 (2.4L) 3500 / 1588 (3.6L)
Fuel tank (gal / L):	18.8 / 71.1 (2.4L) 20.9 / 79.1 (3.6L)
Engine oil (qt / L):	5 / 4.7 (2.4L) 6 / 5.7 (3.6L)
Cooling system (qt / L):	8.2 / 7.8 (2.4L) 10.8 / 10.2 (3.6L)

Source: GMC

March 15, 2012

2013 Koenigsegg Agera R at Geneva Motor Show

At the 2012 Geneva Auto Salon the brand Koenigsegg have launched the new 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R model, which features the industry first Aircore™ wheel technology, Triplex suspension and the astonishing 1140 horsepower output. An important highlight here is that the 2013 Agera R features the world’s first hollow, one piece, super light carbon fiber wheel. It was made through the method named Aircore™ Technology, which is unique technology developed by the brand. Thank to it, the Aircore™ wheels save close to 20kg in mass, while at the same time providing great integrity and safety. In particular, the only metal part in the wheel is the tire valve; all rest is once piece hollow carbon. Secondly, the Agera and the Agera R include the first production engines in the world which use nano-surfaced cylinder sleeves, which in addition are used for reduction of friction and fuel consumption. Next, it is important to mention that the new in-house developed engine management system provides added functionality and meets all OBD II regulations.

To go further into details, the rev limiter has been raised from 7250rpm to 7500rpm, which allows the power to be raised from 940 (691 kW) to 960hp (706 kW) on 98 Ron (93 din) fuel for the Agera; and from 1115 (820 kW) to 1140hp (838 kW) for the Agera R on E85. In addition, the unique Triplex suspension (which now comes as a standard on 2013 Agera R) was developed by the work of collaboration between Koenigsegg and the Swedish shock manufacturer Öhlins Racing. Furthermore, in the vehicle is also featured as a standard the one of a kind Koenigsegg Electronic Stability (KES). What is more, a new and significantly lighter rear exhaust section has been developed for the Agera R. It improves as well the performance of the rear diffuser. At last, the the new front and side winglets of the Agera R provide 20kg more downforce at 250km/h, as well as reduced drag.

Recent record achieved by 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R:

– 0-300 km/h in 14.53 sec

– 300-0 km/h in 6.66 sec

– 0-200 mph in 17.68 sec

– 200-0 mph in 7.28 sec

– A top speed of approximately 440 km/h (273 mph)

Source: Koenigsegg

March 15, 2012

2012 CFC Volkswagen GTI LeitGolf

This Volkswagen GTI Golf has been optimized by the company CFC Styling Station Neuss and now carries proudly the name LeitGolf. In it the tuner has applied their craftsmanship and had the aim to show the direct connection between the car and the street through the means of wheel and tyre combination. To accomplish this goal they have even equipped the car with two variations of different wheel designs – pink ASA GT1 8,5×19 inch wheels on the one side and red ASA GT3 wheels identical in size on the other side. Both were provided with Hankook EvoS1 225/35R19 tyres. At the front, one can see the Eibach spacers, while at the rear – the 5–mm H&R wheel disks. Furthermore, there has been also added APX AP coilovers, which in combination with H&R set of stabilizers, provide support for better dynamics. In addition, the car is supplied with the Kerscher carbon-lip and a 2,5 cm wide front fender. The new design of the car body is taken from the Golf VI’s R-variant, where side sills, rear diffuser, mirror caps and engine cover triumph as carbon-parts in Black-Gold-Design. Next, MR Car Design supplied the vehicle with down-pipe to the turbo exhaust system. The latter is equipped with a black end pipe as in R-Design. More importantly, this engine can develop 270 hp (199 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Additionally, the car features unique braking system with TÜV certificate, aluminum 4-piston brake calipers, carbon-steel two-piece grooved brake discs and also an ultra light floating aluminum hub. A car racing feel while driving, is delivered thank to the high-performance brake pads.

The car is covered with matt gray foiling and also has fender’s matt Sticker Bombing and parts for black and white spoiler. The top of the car is painted in High Gloss Carbon Black (, while the fog-lights are in Pink Tint Lights. A significant contrast is made by the anthracitic colored tinted glass sets. Another highlight that has to be made is the unique audio systems featured in this project: the Hi-Fi Device, which is delivered by MK SoundStyle, while the radio set is supplied by Pioneer, the amplifiers are by Mosconi and the dynamics by Rainbow. The car tuning costs 12 900 Euro, additional 10 000 Euro go for the HiFi.

Source: CFC Styling Station Neuss

March 14, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rinspeed Dock+Go Mobility System

What is “Dock+GO”? Basically it is the innovative mind of the Rinspeed designers coming into manifestation. In fact, it is backpacks on wheels for electric vehicles. This concept vehicle was is a main attraction at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It is specifically this third on-demand axle that is the crucial point of the innovative modular mobility system the Rinspeed has developed. The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary. What is so special about this concept is that any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go”: for example – a two seated smart. In Geneva Rinspeed showcased a rolling “sound pack” equipped with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.

In addition, the vehicle includes a unique “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or a combustion engine. They provide the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. In details, the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. In addition, when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not utilized, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid.

And how about the exterior of this amazing and mindful project? What catches the eye immediately is the silver paint with a finish that resembles sparkling ice crystals. In addition, the car rides on Goodyear low-rolling-resistance tires in size 205/40-17 mounted on 7.5-inch AEZ rims, whose decorative silver covers are attached to red fasteners with rubber bands. On the other hand the interior is as superb as the exterior. It is all in red and black premium upholstery, which in addition includes strong natural thermoregulation, good insulation and a high capacity for absorbing moisture. Furthermore, the transparent roof and its distinctive grass inlays – as well as a number of other interior materials contribute to the comfort f the vehicle. The view ahead is dominated by a 12.1-inch monitor. It belongs to the multimedia equipment and is part of the intelligent infotainment system developed from Harman. Of course, the platform features the latest integration technologies. The steering wheel is also wrapped in red and black upholstery. In addition, in the concept vehicle are included a recently newly developed high-strength, lightweight door frames. No compromises were made regarding the handling. There is also no need to recharge the car through plugs. Instead the vehicle simply rolls onto an induction field from SEW Eurodrive for non-contact charging.

The project “Dock+Go” is definitely a different concept vehicle. First, the size of the battery and therefore the costs are depend on several factors, drive with high power, or operating range, and the Battery charging strategies. Although it has a small Battery, it has enough power to cover all the daily trips. Secondly, three instead of two axles means six instead of four wheels. No other car includes this. The AEZ engineers’ technical goal was to make the rims as light as possible, in order to set high standards for the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. Third, it is fascinating adaptable vehicle with improved range size. It also offers technical solution for the functioning of interfaces accounts not only for coupling the e-vehicle’s mechanical and electrical equipment by means of energy, space and accessory ‘Packs’, but also connecting to existing infrastructure. Furthermore, a number of innovative business models have been developed for “Dock+Go”. Hence, this concept has the unique potential to significantly reduce existing e-vehicle drawbacks in terms of range and space. In fact, what is more important is that Rinspeed’s “Dock+Go” approach relies on an existing product line – like the Smart for instance – and establishes the best conditions for profitable production in the shortest possible time. This delivers the opportunity to literally “add” the project to any present EV.

Source: Rinspeed

March 14, 2012

2012 RENNtech Mercedes-Benz S 65

RENNtech featured 21″ Forged Wheels on the absolutely astonishing Mercedes-Benz S 65 model. The wheels have a brushed finish and in addition are combined with the RENNtech digital lowering module (DLM). Thus the S Class now has even more aggressive stance and sporty look. RENNtech Signature wheels include a single barrel design. They have been manufactured with some unique state-of-the-art processes. As you can see they are elegant and refined thank to the forged design, which includes much tighter tolerances than spun multi-piece wheels. Of course, only highest quality materials were used to ensure that the wheels are superior overall to any 3-piece design. Moreover, this multi-spoke forged wheel offers an ultra lightweight wheel with unmatched strength for the most demanding of performance driven enthusiasts.

	Front Specifications	Rear Specifications
Wheel Size	21″ x 9.0″	21″ x 10.5″
Offset	ET 36	ET 40
Weight	28.0 lbs	29.1 lbs
Lip	1.5″	2.5″
Recommended Tire Size	245/35/21	285/30/21

Source: RENNTech

March 14, 2012

2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6

The all-new 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6 package is developed with the aim to be one of the most affordable and powerful mid-size sedans. This aim is achieved by the great performance the car delivers and the favorable price it has. The vehicle is powered by a standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. What is more the 3.6-liter Pentastar engine delivers the whole 283 horsepower (208 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft) of torque while. In addition to all this it achieves an EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon (mpg) highway, which in fact is the best-in-class for a V-6-powered mid-size sedan. Furthermore, the vehicle rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels, has rear decklid spoiler, and dual exhaust with bright tips. 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V-6 models also include grat equipment list, which comes as a standard on all Avenger SE models and includes: LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control with traction control and electronic roll mitigation, advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain and front seat-mounted side airbags, laminated front windshield and front-row side glass, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, premium cloth seats, speed control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and speed controls, outside temperature display in gauge cluster, CD with four speakers, 60/40 rear seat with trunk pass through, fold flat front passenger seat and a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2012 Dodge Avenger is the perfect car for customers who are looking a sedan with more style, personality and performance, and in addition to all this – a great value for their dollar. To sum up, the car delivers best in class V-6 Power with fuel efficiency and price of a four-cylinder midsize sedan. The Avenger is available in five trim levels: SE – starting at $18 995 MSRP, the new SE V-6 starting at $21 495 MSRP, SXT, SXT Plus R/T, and eight exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic, Black Clear Coat, Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Copperhead Pearl Coat or Blue Streak Pearl Coat.

Source: Dodge

March 14, 2012

SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo Pure 1ne

SR and PUR Wheels have collaborated again and the result of their work is this exceptional Lamborghini Gallardo. In general this particular vehicle is extraordinary enough! However, with received new refreshed and revitalized look, thank to the 1NE design from PUR Wheels. And to make it even more astonishing and irresistible, the Lamborghini received full Hamann aero kit tuning. And this is how one can make a Lamborghini extremely more adorable and desirable. Now, this Gallardo is a styling icon from head to toe just in time for the forthcoming months of the so long awaited summer. All in all, with the top down, and a new set of “shoes” that it just received, this SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo Pure 1ne is ready to shine in the sun throughout the streets of any city.

Source: SR Auto

March 13, 2012

Wide range of Accessories for 2012 Fiat Panda

Thank to all the new and wide range of Fiat Panda accessories now the customers have the unique to customize their car and personalize it even further. The new range of accessories was introduced for the first time at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. To go further into details, over 70 products were presented there, and they are being collected in three main clusters: Customization, Utility and Comfort.

Of course, every single item was designed with the initial aim to increase comfort, increase enjoyment of leisure activities and improve the quality of life on board for all customers. These exclusive accessories perfectly suit the new car and fully respect its technical, style and mechanical features. Moreover, the Customisation area includes many original products for the new Panda.

For example: three series of body stickers, 15” diamond-shape alloy rims, lengthwise roof bars, door mirror covers and alloy hub caps in four different colours (silver, beige, red and purple), steel tyre valve caps sporting the Fiat logo and carpet, velvet or rubber mats with three different graphic designs.

They are all in perfect harmony with the new 2012 Fiat Panda. In addition, Fiat Panda accessories feature new ignition key with interchangeable protective covers in three different colours (red, silver and beige) – of which one luminescent – can be replaced in an instant to customise the key to match your mood depending on the day. Next, the Utility area features accessories designed to make short and long trips pleasant and comfortable experiences. For confidently tackling city traffic the new Panda accessory range includes “Blue&Me™ TomTom © 2”.

The safety ad security of the passengers are guaranteed by a full range of child seats, anti-theft systems, cargo nets and passenger compartment separation grilles for carrying animals, parking sensors and anti-theft wheel bolts. At last, the Comfort package is designed to satisfy the needs of people who want to customise their cars.

For example, the catalogue includes features for enhancing one’s leisure time, like roof-fitted cargo boxes (360 or 490 litres) and handy protective boot liner. There are bars for carrying bicycles or snowboards/skis (3 or 4 pairs), kayaks and windsurfing boards in total safety, with a touch of extra style and originality.

Additionally, Fiat and Mopar have created two packs: Techno and Flex. Both offer a set of optional equipment and accessories at a convenient price. The first pack includes the new Blue&Me™ TomTom © navigator system, the useful Blue&Me™ system, a “My port” multimedia port and controls on the steering wheel. The Flex pack instead enhances the outstanding flexibility of the Panda, and includes a functional driver’s seat back pocket, 5-seat version type-approval, seat folding to form a table, rear seat with 60/40 split backrest and cargo box.

List of Fiat Panda’s main accessories

Color wheel center caps: MATT Silver wheel center caps, MATT Beige wheel center caps, MATT Red wheel center caps, MATT Violet wheel center caps;
Color mirror caps: MATT Red mirror caps, MATT Red mirror caps, MATT Silver mirror caps, MATT Beige mirror caps, MATT Violet;
Color OE bars: MATT Red OE longitudinal bars, MATT Silver OE longitudinal bars, MATT Beige OE longitudinal bars, MATT Violet OE longitudinal bars;
Stickers: Squircles, Camouflage, Lettering;
Key covers: Red and Fluorescent, Silver and Fluorescent, Beige and Fluorescent;
Carpet mats: Rubber car mats with vehicle logo, Velour car mats with 3D embroidered vehicle logo, Velvet car mats with ecodome vehicle logo;
Carrying systems: Roof bars, Ski carrier (3 sets of skis), Ski carrier (2 sets of skis), Windsurf carrier, Kayak carrier, Standard steel bike carrier, Top aluminum bike carrier;
Techno Pack: Blue & Me TomTom 2 Live, Blue & Me, My port, Steering controls;
Flex Pack: Functionaility pouch, Rear seat 60/40, 5 seat homoligation, Kit comfort, Cargo box, Reclining seat.

Source: Fiat

March 13, 2012

2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger to compete in NASCAR

SRT Motorsports has just showed the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger that will compete in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series next season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS). What the designers basically did is to expertly incorporate the Dodge Charger Features into the racing version. From the beginning they have worked in collaboration with NASCAR. From NASCAR they got all the basic specifications. However, the manufacturers also wanted a new look of to venture beyond the look of the current race car. The design and engineering group of Dodge transformed the Dodge Charger street version into the race car. In fact, the Dodge Charger street car is the only rear-wheel-drive model in Sprint Cup competition that is available with a V-8 engine. In addition, NASCAR eased rules on where manufacturers could put glass and solid body pieces. That freed designers and engineers to make the “greenhouse,” the area above the doors, hood and truck lid, more closely resemble production cars. Rules were also made lighter for the front and rear, and especially the sides, allowing the character lines that come directly from the street car. The 2013 Dodge Charger race car design is a great example of what the public is looking forward to seeing on the race track. In conclusion, 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger is a product which will be easily identifiable on the track without compromise in the area of competition.

Source: Dodge

March 13, 2012

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid Trifecta

The new 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid Trifecta got its unique name because it has such an exclusive motoring trifecta: combining Power, Economy and Value in one car! The new model has to offer even more equipment and enhanced styling, aerodynamics, interior space, safety, ride comfort, handling and luggage space. And can you believe that although the vehicle has so many significant advances, the starting price for the entry-level Camry H has been lowered to $34,990.
Value has also been improved for high-grade Camry HL at $41,490.
Furthermore, Camry Hybrid debuts a highly revised version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. In other words this means that it includes 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a high-torque electric motor. Furthermore, the system’s combined output has been lifted to 151kW (from 140kW) with power varied between the petrol engine and electric motor, or combined as needed. In addition, the new 2.5-litre engine uses the Atkinson cycle to achieve optimum efficiency while producing more power and torque than the previous engine. All this results in city fuel consumption of jus 5.7 litres/100km. On the other hand, while driving on the highway, the fuel consumption drops to 4.9 litres/100km. All in all, the combined fuel economy is 5.2 litres/100km. Another important fact is that the carbon-dioxide emissions have been cut to 121 grams/km from 142 grams/km. No second thought that the 2012 Camry Hybrid has better fuel economy and lower emissions than many small cars. Moreover, the vehicle uses one-third less fuel on the combined cycle than the already efficient petrol Camry.

In addition, the new model has improvements in the exterior and the interior: exclusive exterior and interior designs and badges differentiate the Camry Hybrid from other Camry models, for instance. Additionally, an exclusive radiator grille with a chrome upper section and a “hybrid blue” Toyota badge is flanked by headlights with blue-accented extensions. Wheen looked at the back, the rear design expresses a solid stance including the hybrid blue Toyota badge and, for the HL grade, a bootlid spoiler and chrome garnish. What about the interior? Inside of the coupe, there can be seem refined touches such as soft-touch padding, quality stitching and a three-dial Optitron instrument panel with chrome-accented outer rings and metallic-blue meter gradations. Not to mention, the hybrid-exclusive brushed silver inserts, which ornament the upper console panels, door-switch bases and gear selector.

In the car s also featured, a comprehensive safety package, which includes stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and a reversing camera with the image displayed on a 6.1-inch touch-screen. In addition, there are also included seven airbags with the addition of a driver’s knee airbag plus seatbelt indicators for all five occupants. What is more, Camry Hybrid can offer quieter engine. Next, the proven nickel-metal hydride battery, located in the boot behind the rear seats, now has improved air cooling.

2012 Camry Hybrid is unique as well, because of the technology which improve the fuel consumption it features. It incorporates several measures to improve fuel economy and lower emissions, in particular the new EV (electric vehicle) drive mode. This mode may allow the driver to operate the car on the electric motor alone for up to 2km at lower speeds. Furthermore, the electric water pump, a roller-rocker type valvetrain and a variable-output oil pump boost economy by helping to reduce internal friction. Next, comes the water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system, which helps to ensure low emissions at all vehicle speeds and helps improve fuel efficiency. The optimized aerodynamics and the lighter body contribute to the better performance and fuel economy while lower rolling resistance tyres also boost fuel efficiency. Another important feature concerning fuel consumption and CO2 emissions is the ECO drive mode which optimizes throttle response and air-conditioning output to prioritize maximum fuel economy. In addition, there is featured as well a hybrid-exclusive instrument cluster, which has features that help the driver to operate the car as economically as possible. For example, the instantaneous fuel economy is shown with LEDs (light-emitting diodes) around the outside of the average fuel-economy gauge. Applying the brake converts the motor to a generator that captures the kinetic energy from the wheels, storing it in the hybrid battery pack. At last, the new hill-start assist control helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting off on an incline when the brake pedal is released.

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid Trifecta is offered in two variants: Camry H and Camry HL.

Source: Toyota

March 13, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco equipped with Ecotec 2.5 liter engine

The new Ecotec 2.5 liter engine is going to be included in the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco midsize sedan this summer. The engine is one of the most-powerful naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines in the midsize segment, and will deliver even more horsepower in comparison to the previous engine of Malibu. The Ecotec 2.5L delivers a 197 horsepower (147 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. of torque (259 Nm). These numbers mean that this is the most torque of any naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the segment. In addition, the other Ecotec engine, featured in Malibu’s range is the Ecotec 2.0L turbo, which in turn delivers 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm). Its peak torque is sustained from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm and thus it is possible for the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Both engines direct injection for increased fuel efficiency and higher power. In some countries the Malibus will include powertrain lineup that also features the segment-exclusive, fuel-saving eAssist™ technology. This specific technology combines start-stop with regenerative braking and a lightweight lithium-ion battery to provide an electric boost in certain conditions, delivering a GM-estimated 25 mpg in the city 37 mpg on the highway.

Furthermore, the new 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Eco was designed to be the most tuned Chevrolet midsize sedan ever and is in addition built on an award-winning global architecture that helps deliver a more confident, responsive and connected driving experience. In details, the body structure is 20-percent stiffer for a greater feeling of solidity, quietness and quality. Moreover, the driving experience is further improved by Chevrolet’s MyLink technology, which is an infotainment package that gives customers a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options. In particular, it adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability. Additionally, MyLink comes along with a seven-inch touch screen display that media navigation easier.

Source: Chevrolet

March 9, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rolls-Royce Ghost Two-Tone

Next to the world debut of Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II, a very special Rolls-Royce Ghost has also been presented to the visitor of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. All admirers of the luxury brand were delighted by the presentation of one of the first examples of a two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost. The exterior of the vehicle is finished in Infinity Black, with a Cassiopeia Silver upper two-tone. In addition the “Geneva Ghost” included an interior design scheme that perfectly reflects the two-tone theme. In details, seashell headlining and sumptuous black leather frame the black stained ash veneer into which steel pinstripes have been added. What makes the interior even more luxurious are the lambswool floor mats. The second upper two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost, has striking colour scheme in Baynunah Brown, with Arizona Sun colour bathing the car’s bonnet, window surrounds, roof and luggage compartment. A gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy and double coach-line in gold completes the design.

Source: Rolls-Royce

March 9, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova