Lidia Todorova – Page 341 – Automobiles Review

Mazda CX-5 SUV with world’s lightest bumpers

World’s lightest bumpers are going to be used in the design of the all-new Mazda CX-5 SUV. Mazda Motor Corporation in collaboration with Japan Polypropylene Corporation has developed, resin material for vehicle parts that maintains the same rigidity as parts made with conventional materials while achieving significant weight reduction.

Thank to this material, the manufactured parts are now thinner. The effect of this results in significant reduction in the resin, which is required to manufacture parts. In addition, when the material is used for both front and rear bumpers, it contributes to weight reduction of approximately 20%. Hence, the bumper has reduced thickness which allows a shorter cooling period for molding. Furthermore, by using computer-aided engineering (CAE) technology, the fluidity of the resin material has also been optimized. The result of this is that the bumper molding time, previously 60 seconds, has been halved to 30 seconds, leading to major reductions in the amount of energy consumed in the production process.

Further to be mentioned is that Mazda plans to adopt the lightest bumpers in the class using this resin material. The company is going to feature it in the all-new Mazda CX-5 SUV which is going to go on sale this spring. Other models are considered for such modification too. In details, the bumpers are positioned at the very front and rear end of a vehicle. More importantly, their weight has a major impact on fuel economy and driving performance. On the other hand, bumpers are multi-functional, requiring both rigidity to absorb impact, and molding and painting properties suitable for great exterior design.

The constituents of resin are two components found in polypropylene and rubber. They have different properties, and are successfully included in the double-layer structure in line with the required function for the surface and the inside of the base bumper material. As a result, the surface has excellent paint film adhesion and the inner section retains high rigidity and impact absorption, with actually reduced thickness. Mazda Motor Corporation will remains committed to the aim of reducing vehicle’s weight and improving dynamic performance.

Source: Mazda

February 9, 2012

Nissan Pathfinder Concept with Family Focused Interior

Nissan Pathfinder is probably the perfect family vehicle. Now, Pathfinder Concept adds an unprecedented level of premium style, comfort and thoughtful technology. The new concept vehicle includes new aerodynamic exterior design and innovative, flexible interior. It is going to make its debut this autumn. 2013 Nissan Pathfinder Concept is a big-size, 3-row/7-passenger SUV with the seating and cargo capacity that growing families need. Moreover it brings now enhanced comfort, innovative technology, increased fuel efficiency, and most importantly, more flexibility for the family.

First of all one of the biggest changes to the upcoming Pathfinder design is the return to a unibody platform. It now offers many advantages, including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility. Its premium features in the interior include quiet, comfortable interior with rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start and multiple user memory settings, and an advanced Bose® Audio System with thirteen speakers. Furthermore the Pathfinder Concept’s unique versatility is all about the design of the second and third row. The third row is possible due to the large rear door openings, 5.5 inches of second row seat travel, and forward folding seat design for ease of entry and exit. Next, the second row also features “child seat mode” which allows forward movement and access to the third row with a child safety seat remaining securely in place. The third row seat is a 50/50 split folding design, which also offers added cargo flexibility and reclines for greater passenger comfort. Both the second row and third row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity. In addition to that there is an under floor storage in the rear cargo area.

Innovative technology is also included in the Pathfinder Concept interior: instrument panel, which includes an advanced drive-assist display directly in front of the driver – along with a large multifunction IT display in the center of the dash; Nissan Navigation System with real-time traffic and weather information and Zagat Survey® restaurant guide; Bluetooth® Streaming Audio; and at last a RearView Monitor. What is special here is that the concept features Nissan’s advanced Around View™ Monitor, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes a tri-zone climate control system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration, and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row headrest-mounted DVD display screens. There is also the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). It provides both visual and audible signals to help customers conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. Of course here to be mentioned is the remote engine start function as well, which allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving.

In other words the new Pathfinder Concept offers a lot of interior flexibility. At the same time it also includes brilliant new exterior. The new unibody platform shines bright with more aerodynamic exterior, without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. Moving upscale in look, the new exterior styling presents a smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength. Furthermore the exterior is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars. They flow into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. The front and rear spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairings are helping the vehicle to achieve excellent aerodynamic performance. More importantly the new Pathfinder is expected to weigh significantly less than the previous body-on-frame design. This of course helps contribute to the enhanced fuel economy performance. Moreover, other exterior details feature a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles, large rear combination lights and panoramic dual-panel moonroof.

Furthermore the Pathfinder powertrain uses a refined V6 engine mated to a next-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which provides an expected 25 percent increase in combined City/Highway fuel economy in comparison to the previous V6-equipped model. In addition the Pathfinder Concept also includes an intuitive four-wheel drive system and a towing capacity comparable to the leaders in the segment. More importantly, the new engine and CVT combination offers enhanced efficiency, while maintaining nearly the same horsepower as the previous generation’s larger displacement V6. It also delivers responsive acceleration in a variety of conditions. The vehicle, of course, retains its ability to tow boats, jet skis, trailers and a variety of other recreational gear. The new Pathfinder stays an excellent vehicle for unfavorable driving conditions with four-wheel drive.

Source: Nissan

February 9, 2012

2012 Smart Fortwo Sharpred

The latest edition from smart, which today has just “arrived”, is named Sharpred, because of the sharp mixture of colours it features. As you can see for yourself this smart fortwo is a real attention catcher: the red coulour of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing makes a striking contrast to the rest of the black exterior.

To go further into details, the exterior of the 2012 smart fortwo sharpred is characterised by the striking contrast of between two strong colours, namely – black and red. The effect they are creating on the smart absolutely adorable. The bright red paintwork of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing catsh the attention immediately because of the rest black interior. In addition the front apron and rear trim panel are grained and the side skirts boast a high-gloss black finish. Moreover the front and rear axles are fitted with wide tyres: 175/55 R 15 for the front, and for the rear – 195/50 R 15. In addition, black finish have the stylish 15″ 3-double-spoke alloy wheels.

Of course, the designers of this shaped edition have featured in the interior the same colour contrast. This is made through red double stitching on the seats and colour accents on the the instrument panel. The seats come in black leather. Additional black leather look is given to the instrument panel and knee pad too. The standard equipment of this smart includes audio system basic and exclusive floor mats.

However, this special edition is limited only to 1800 vehicles. Moreover, it is based on the passion equipment line. Hence, this means that it has these standard features: softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control and a panoramic roof with sunblind. Optionally available are the electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment, the smart sound system with five loudspeakers, the smart audio system navigation and multimedia.

The 2012 smart fortwo sharpred is available both as a coupé and as a cabrio, with two petrol as an option – one 52 kW (71 hp) and one 62 kW (82 hp). The exciting special model can be ordered now and the first vehicles of this limited series will reach dealerships in May 2012. Pricing starts from €14 490.

Source: Smart

February 9, 2012

Buick Regal Lineup with Drivetrain Changes

On the new Buick Regal GS will be new automatic transmission and eAssist as a standard, thus making the evolution of Buicks’ Sport Sedan happening. More importantly, the vehicle with the new automatic transmission is already in dealerships. The famous eAssist fuel efficiency technology is also included and as you already understood, it also comes as a standard. The Regal was recently named by the U.S. News and World Report as the “Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families” and as the “Best Car for the Money”.

But what about the other changes included in the 2013 Regal GS Model. The 270 hp (198 kW) of the car come from the powerful turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine, which was by the way one of WardsAuto World’s 2012 “10 Best Engines” for North America. More importantly, it now can be controlled through a second transmission, which is a six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control. It also comes as a standard choice.

In addition the new Aisin AF40 automatic is calibrated specifically for the model. It includes the car’s Interactive Drive Control System set to “GS” mode. Hence, the transmission delivers firmer shifts and aids performance. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is in only 6.7 seconds. Furthermore the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway. This is due to the standard performance components like Buick’s innovative HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo front brake calipers.

What is more, the eAssist will be a standard on all 2013 Regal vehicles. More importantly the eAssist uses a compact lithium-ion battery pack and a small electric motor to aid the performance of a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter gas engine. The system provides an electrical boost to aid the engine at low speeds and on inclines where fuel efficiency can suffer most. Therefore it is possible for the Regal with eAssist to achieve the EPA-estimated 36 highway mpg, which is equal to the performance of some hybrid vehicles. In addition, the eAssist became standard for the larger LaCrosse luxury sedan and at the same price as the V6, thus gathering even more popularity.

Pricing and an on-sale date for the 2013 Regal with eAssist will be announced later this year.

Source: Buick

February 8, 2012

Vauxhall at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

At this years Geneva Motor Show, the brand Vauxhall is going to unveil stunning new models. The long awaited Astra VXR and Vauxhall Mokka are going to enter the market with their sharp design.

Firstly, the most powerful Astra ever made will make its show debut. The vehicle is based on the GTC’s platform and powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine. Hence, the Astra VXR produces 280PS (206 kW) of power and a mighty 400Nm of torque, achieving the top speed of 155mph. In addition it has been improved with some substantial chassis modifications, transforming it into a focused, high-performance coupe. Furthermore there was specially developed a mechanical limited slip differential, which works on the front wheels. In combination with the GTC’s sophisticated HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut), the LSD provides the Astra VXR with exceptional lateral grip and traction through bends. Further changes to the chassis feature brakes developed by Brembo, and an adaptive FlexRide system. The latte features not only a Sport button, but also a VXR button, offering drivers the choice of two, more focused stages of damper, throttle and steering control.

Next comes the Vauxhall’s Mokka entry which will break new ground for the company. This is Vauxhall’s new small SUV which will be unveiled in Geneva. The Mokka will be available with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system automatically transfers power to the wheels that need it most when grip levels are tested to the extreme. It is offered with three efficient engines, all equipped with fuel saving Start/Stop technology: the petrol 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine, another petrol 1.4-litre Turbo, and a diesel one – 1.7 CDTI turbo. All engines can be combined either with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. Moreover the Vauxhall Mokka brings cutting-edge technologies to the SUV B-segment. The first reason for this is the Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+). It increases driving safety based on the third-generation bi-xenon lighting system that includes High Beam Assist (HBA). There is also available a front camera system which gives the driver access to a number of functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and second generation Traffic Sign Recognition. Undeniably, the Mokka model is very attractive. The Mokka’s rugged character is reinforced by its higher ground clearance as well as a 1540mm track. In addition, its appeal is further enhanced by the 18-inch alloy wheels which are standard on most models.

At the Geneva Show as well will be the debut of Vauxhall’s most powerful diesel car., which produces 195PS (143 kW), 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque and emissions as low as 129g/km. The car is known under the name Insignia BiTurbo and it is available with a choice of five-door Hatch and Sports Tourer bodies in SRi, SRi Vx-line and Elite trims. This turbocharged diesel is based on the existing 1956cc unit which powers key models in the Insignia, Astra and new Zafira Tourer range. Nevrtheless, the BiTurbo engine produces up to 35PS more power and a significant 50Nm of extra torque, reducing the 0-100 km/h time by nearly one second to 8.2 seconds (Insignia FWD Hatch). In addition, due to the package of eco features, the FWD Hatch achieves a combined 57.6mpg, 2.2mpg better than the single-turbo 2.0 CDTi 160PS model. Furthermore there is also included the clever FlexRide adaptive damping as a standard. The system reacts within milliseconds to driver inputs and can ‘learn’ how the car is being driven and adapt damper settings accordingly. Drivers can also select Tour and Sport buttons, and configure the throttle, steering and damper settings in Sport mode separately. Moreover the FlexRide is integrated with the car’s Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and the rear axle’s electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD). All this allows the torque to be automatically transferred between front and rear wheels, and between left and right wheels on the rear axle, offering exceptional levels of traction, grip and control. For the safety of the passenger is featured the option of Vauxhall’s new Front Camera System, with traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Source: Vauxhall

February 8, 2012

2013 Hyundai Elantra Sport Coupe

2013 Hyundai Elantra Sport Coupe Hyundai has just introduced a new sport coupe variant based on the successful Elantra line-up at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. In particular, it is a two-door coupe model of the Elantra sedan and it will be available for purchase this spring. The new 2013 Elantra Sport Coupe has fluidic design theme which is a characteristic of Hyundai, and brings to live the sporty design language. At the same time it has the eco-efficient powertrain, generous convenience features, exceptional roominess and plenty of safety features.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe is Hyundai’s modern approach to the sporty coupe segment. The “Fluidic Sculpture” design language replicates the interaction of wind with rigid surfaces to create a perception of fluid in motion. The hexagonal front fascia gives Elantra Coupe even sportier look. Looked from the side, Elantra Coupe has a sport coupe silhouette with deeply sculpted surfaces. It sits on five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with dark spoke insert, which add even more dynamic presence. On the other hand the fast A- and C-pillar angles frame a sharply tapered greenhouse accentuates the wedge profile.

Below the belt line, a prominent character line carries from the door through to the rear deck. Wheel arch creases give a subtle flared appearance around front and rear wheels. Observed from the behind, a blacked-out rear diffuser valance contrasts with dual chrome-tipped exhaust tips. The body is undeniably highly aerodynamic: the drag coefficient for the Elantra Coupe is an exceptionally low 0.28 Cd, which results in minimal cabin noise intrusion and optimal fuel economy.

Elantra Coupe is powered by 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower (109 kW) and 131 lb-ft of torque (178 Nm). Moreover the Elantra Coupe is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, without the extra technological complexity and cost. To go further into details, the Nu engine features an aluminum block with a cast-iron cylinder liner, cylinder head and crank. This results in a block that is 30 percent lighter than an iron block, while at the same time still providing equivalent strength. Moreover, the 1.8-liter Nu also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts.

This gives the vehicle optimum power, efficiency and refinement. The result is 2 percent improvement in performance, 2 percent improvement in fuel economy and 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve-driven friction to improve fuel economy. The Nu engine also features a maintenance-free silent timing chain to enhance durability and reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Furthermore there is also included a plastic two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS), which enables intake air to be directed between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a 4 percent improvement in performance, a 15 percent reduction in cost and 30 percent reduction in weight.

The electronic throttle control is the technology which replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with instantaneous computerized control. This advanced system precisely regulates air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy. To even further improve fuel economy, Elantra Coupe features double-pipe plumbing technology to the internal heat exchanger, thus improving cabin cooling efficiency, while minimizing compressor size and reducing fuel consumption. The Nu four-cylinder engine also includes an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction and pressure between the piston and cylinder wall. The estimated fuel economy of this vehicle is 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission, and 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway for the six-speed automatic transmission.

As an option, Elantra Coupe can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC^® manual control. This six-speed automatic is to the 1.8-liter Nu engine and helps Elantra Coupe to deliver improved fuel efficiency. Moreover, the Elantra Coupe’s six-speed manual transmission offers positive shift feel and further optimizes powertrain performance.

The Elantra Coupe has 106.3-inch wheelbase, an overall length of 178.7 inches, 69.9-inch width, and 56.5 inch height for uncompromised headroom. Elantra’s total interior volume is 110.2 cubic feet. Therefore the Coupe’s long wheelbase delivers even more comfort levels. More importantly, the Elantra Coupe is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is a lightweight coupled torsion beam rear design for improved steering stability and monotube shock absorbers.

This delivers more driving comfort. In addition to this, Elantra Coupe offers a sportier SE model suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire. Furthermore on all Elantra Coupes is mounted motor-driven electric power steering (MDPS). Its function is to adjust instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a hydraulic steering system. Elantra Coupe offers world-class weight by weighing only 2687 lbs.
How about the interior? There is of course included a premium interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship.

For the construction of the seats is used lightweight materials and environmentally-friendly foam. The design of the seats in addition provides deeper side bolsters. Heated seats are standard equipment on all Elantra Coupes, while the SE model offers sporty aluminum pedals. Moreover, Elantra Coupe is being offered with two interior color choices: gray and black. Elantra Coupe also offers seven exterior colors, three of which are unique and newly developed: Monaco White, Black Noir Pearl and Volcanic Red.

Elantra Coupe is available with two audio systems. As a standard comes the 172-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod^®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. On the other hand the 360-watt system with external amplifier is an optional one. There is also included a touch-screen navigation, which is available on SE trim and includes a high-resolution 7.0-inch screen and voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone. Elantra Coupe owners can also get unique features, such as proximity key with push-button start, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power sunroof, and dual automatic temperature control with Clean Air Ionizer and auto-defogger.

Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) takes the safety features of Elantra Coupe to the next level. It optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS). In addition VSM works to control two effects. Firstly, when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) the VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. Then the VSM counters the pull and automatically provides eight Newton meters of counter steering force.

VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering. In addition the safety features include as well six airbags and state-of-the-art braking package, which includes four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). At last, in terms of passive safety, the Elantra Coupe has strong body construction, which will effectively absorb and dissipate any impact energy away from cabin occupants.

Source: Hyundai

February 8, 2012

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S in the US Showrooms

Porsche Cars North America have just released for sale the new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S models across all showrooms in the United States. The latest 911 is probably the best of all 911 models ever made. The 911 Carrera and Carrera S are excellent choices for customers who want to experience driving fun and excitement of a true benchmark.

The 2012 the 911 has been completely redesigned. It preserves the classical 911 lines, but yet is improved in power and fuel economy. Although it is instantly recognizable Porsche 911, it hides a major secret: the new 2012 models have 90 percent of components are either new or fundamentally revised. First of all, the new Carreras are longer, lower and wider. In addition, they are 100 lbs. (43 kg) lighter, which make them faster and more efficient than previous models. Hence the new 911 is the ultimate blend of modern design, innovative and intelligent engineering and performance. Furthermore, both of the models as expected offer no less than excellent performance, due to some enhancements made. The 2012 911 Carrera includes brand new 350-horsepower (261 kW), 3.4-liter boxer engine which provides five more horsepower (HP) than the outgoing 3.6-liter engine. On the other hand the new 2012 Porsche Carrera S features a 400 HP (298 kW), 3.8-liter boxer engine. This makes improvement of 15 horsepower compared to its predecessor. The 911 Carrera with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds, while the Carrera S sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. The time for acceleration is further reduced to 3.9 seconds when 911 is equipped with the Sports Chrono Package Plus. Top-track-speeds for the 911 Carrera and Carrera S are 179 mph (288 km/h) and 188 mph (303 km/h), respectively.

The performance and efficiency are even further improved through systems such as the Automatic Start/Stop function, engine and transmission thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and the ability to ‘sail’ or coast. At last but not least the new electro-mechanical power steering offers the ultimate Porsche precision and helps to increase the efficiency and reduce the fuel consumption. The new 911 Carrera Coupe has a base MSRP of $82 100, and the 911 Carrera S Coupe starts at $96 400.

Source: Porsche

February 7, 2012

Lexus wins three prestigious Intellichoice awards

Lexus has achieved a great success at this year’s prestigious Intellichoice awards, continuing the tradition and winning in three categories in the 2012 Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) section. Lexus CT 200h and Lexus RX 350 were recognized as value leaders in their respective segments. In addition the new CT 200h luxury hybrid hatch won the Premium Compact Passenger Car category. Moreover this same model won its class at 2011 Australia’s Best Car awards. On the other hand the Lexus RX 350 gained the leading ranking in the Premium Crossover/Wagon category for the second year in succession. The Best Overall Value of the Year awards appraise vehicles whose total cost of ownership is far much lower than expected relative to their peer models. Their aim is to help consumers in making better purchase decisions. And undeniably, by receiving these awards Lexus brand shows again their ability to deliver luxury vehicles at more than excellent value.

The award winners are selected after an in-depth, data-driven study that analyses nearly 1800 vehicles in 24 segments. Vehicles are being ranked based on the whole-of-life costs over the first five years of ownership and data obtained from automotive manufacturers, the US government and third-party resources. In addition, the accumulated expenses are taken into consideration, featuring repairs, insurance, depreciation, fees, fuel, financing, and insurance.

Source: Lexus

February 7, 2012

SR Ferrari 458 Italia Project Era

Ferrari 458 Italia in Rosso corsa red is probably the most emblematic car in Ferrari’s history. Today any color is delivered to the customer. Nonetheless the Rosso corsa red is the staple Ferrari color and it has captured and continues to capture many hearts.

Project Era is a fascinating tuning on a Ferrari 458 Italia made by SR Auto Team. It features a wheel design made by PUR ONE design company and which is significant for the 458 model. Here the wheels are further enhanced by a silver finish, which features a unique blue sheen. The sizes are also impressive: the Ferrari sits on twenty-one and twenty-two inch wheels.

Project Era’s by SR is an impressive modification, of which the auto team should be proud.

Source: SR Auto Team

February 7, 2012

2012 MINI Roadster: the first open-top two-seater model

2012 MINI Roadster will be launched this spring. It is the first open-top two-seater in MINI history and aims to bring more elegance, sportiness and compactness to the customers. Next to the stylish exterior design, the vehicle is also equipped powerful engine and precision suspension.

MINI has made a significant reproduction of its hallmark design language within the proportions of a roadster, bestowing on the open-top two-seater. Moreover the MINI Roadster’s soft-top can be easily opened by hand. In addition, the car has a 240-litre boot which offers versatility of loading options. The padded stainless steel roll-over bars and the windscreen frame are making the MINI look even more elegantly, while at the same functioning in safety terms.

What is more here, are the powerful engines in tandem with precisely tuned suspension systems. The front-wheel drive works in collaboration with the chassis technology thus ensuring excellent driving fun. In addition there is also included a standard-fitted Dynamic Stability Control system and optimal aerodynamics. And can you believe that even with the top down the MINI Roadster reaches 80 km/h (50 mph). This is due to the active rear spoiler.

The new MINI Roadster comes with an enhanced range of standard equipment, which features air conditioning, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, height-adjustable seats and an MP3-capable audio system with CD player and AUX IN connection. The paintwork on the front of the exterior has a palette of two non-metallic and six metallic shades to choose from, as well as three Sport Stripes variants for the bonnet, boot lid and rear aprons. The soft-top is of course in black. On the other hand, on the inside, the MINI Roadster delivers again a big range of design options, with seat and upholstery variants ranging from sporty, to compact, to elegant. They include exclusive piped sports seats in the color shade Toffy, as well as black sports seats in Punch Leather with beige perforations, and any of six different trim strip options.

The model variants which are going to be available on the market are in four sporty versions, which feature: the ultra-sporty MINI John Cooper Works Roadster with a handsome 211 hp (157 kW), the elegant MINI Cooper S Roadster, the MINI Cooper Roadster, and MINI Cooper SD Roadster, which requires just 4.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (62.77 mpg imp)!

Source: MINI

February 7, 2012

2012 Overfinch Evoque Olympus [VIDEO]

The new 20″ Evoque Olympus alloy wheel will give more beauty to the latest edition of the Overfinch wheel range.

The 20″ Olympus alloy wheel is available in tree different variations including black, titanium and anthracite.

They have been especially designed and engineered for Overfinch Range Rover Evoque and certified to TUV standards. As you can see below, they give even more elegance to the classy and already enhanced Overfinch Range Rover. With stylish curves it will make every driving experience more exciting. The special tuned wheels and more specifications about it will be available after 1^st of March this year. After this date every Evoque customer will have the privilege to enhance the exterior of their vehicle.

httpv://youtu.be/ZJglnYJhujM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Overfinch

February 6, 2012

“It’s Halftime in America” Chrysler Commercial [VIDEO]

Chrysler Group has just launched a television commercial named “It’s Halftime in America” and it aired during the 2012 NFL Championship game.

In the video is staring the famous super star Clint Eastwood. The ad lasts almost 2 minutes and 10 seconds. More importantly he speaks a monologue that is encouraging and inspiring, especially for people who have lost everything due to the economical crisis, or people who have gone under devastating tragedies. Although there are al lot of downfalls in everybody’s life, Eastwood’s calling is to look ahead towards a brighter future. He gives as an example the people of Detroit city, who have gone through a lot! This is an inspirational commercial which aims towards the brighter future, and at the same time recalling the great past of the Chrysler vehicles.

It''s Halftime In America Chrysler Commercial

httpv://youtu.be/_PE5V4Uzobc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chrysler

February 6, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova