Lidia Todorova – Page 345 – Automobiles Review

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Convertible and Bentley Mulsanne at the Qatar International Motor Show

Bentley Motors has just revealed their new 2012 Bentley Continental GTC. The luxury vehicle was presented for its first time at Qatar International Motor Show in Doha.

The all new Bentley GTC Convertible includes even more spacious cabin, which is of course hand-crafted. Moreover it is made from soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. Furthermore the new vehicle is now wit even more powerful 575PS 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine. It also has the new QuickShift transmission, enabling faster gear changes. In addition Bentley’s design and engineering professionals have improved and upgraded every aspect of the convertible with an uncompromising quality.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Convertible

Another luxury car was presented at the Motor Show. Namely, it was the famous Bentley Mulsanne, which is one of the most appreciated vehicles in the Middle East. The new Mulsanne definitely got everything essential from the Bentley marque. You can see all the elegance in it, combined with distinctly sportiness. Moreover it delivers effortless performance thank to the classic 6.75 litre V8 engine. Of course its interior is hand-crafted and delivers more luxury than ever.

Bentley sales were up 37% globally in 2011, which equals 7003 sold cars more than the previous year. For example, December saw 1059 cars delivered to customers (up 69% on the same month in 2010), the best month since Bentley’s pre-recession record of 2007 and the second best month ever. In addition the Middle East region remained stable in terms of sales. In details, from June to October there was even an increase of around 3%. Therefore, Qatar retained its position as the third largest market in the Middle East with 70 cars sold during 2011. This growth in sales predetermined Bentley strategy – obviously there is a strong demand for the new Continental GT and the Bentley Mulsanne. Moreover the Middle East remains one of the most important markets in the world in terms of interest in the vehicles. Hence, the demand for these cars is expected to continue in this year.

Source: Bentley

January 24, 2012

Lamborghini opens new dealership Lamborghini Paris Ouest

The brand Lamborghini has just opened a new dealership in Paris, France. The name of the showroom is Lamborghini Paris Ouest. In the event was marked with the presence of Stephan Winkelmann, who is the President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. The showroom is situated on 15 Boulevard Gouvion, Saint Cyr and is managed by Lamborghini’s partner Neubauer Group, which is famous with their professional work in Parisian luxury car market. In the new dealership can be seen the entire product range including the two series models – the Gallardo and the Aventador LP 700-4. The latter won 29 international awards for its unique design and innovative technology, which make it the new reference point in the super sports car world. The Aventador has achieved both public and commercial success. In fact, all cars which are going to be manufactured in the first 18 months’ production are already sold. On the other hand the Gallardo is the latest model from Lamborghini and it was presented firstly at the 2011 Super Trofeo Stradale. Moreover, the Gallardo product line-up is the most successful range in the company’s entire history. Given these facts, it is no surprise that since 2003 nearly 12,000 Gallardos have been sold.

The success for Lamborghini in the year if 2011 was major: it sold 1,602 cars (+ 23%). The lrgest market was the United States, followed by China. With the opening of the Lamborghini Paris Ouest, the company plans to improve and strengthen the sales network in France and the world. Moreover this new dealership increases the points of sales and aftersalec in France to five: two in Paris, Mulhouse and Lyon, and one in Montecarlo. In fact, worldwide Lamborghini has more than 120 showrooms in 45 countries.

Source: Lamborghini

January 23, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Sold for $600 000

The fastest Corvette convertible – the first 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition was sold on Saturday for the amount of $600,000 at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale. The model is going to be at dealerships in the U.S. this summer, and is designed to blend the elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models. In this auction was sold the car with The Vehicle Identification Number ending in 001. In details, it has the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine taken from the Corvette Z06. More importantly this is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible, with the astonishing 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm). On the other hand, like the Z06, the model is only available with a six-speed manual transmission, which puts an emphasis on the joy of driving.

2013 Corvette 427 Convertible at Barrett-Jackson

It is interesting information that the Corvettes made between 1966 and 1969, powered by the 427-cubic-inch are some of the most-coveted and collectable ones ever produced. In this auction, Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports have collaborated with four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jeff Gordon and team owner Rick Hendrick, to raise a total of $700,000 for the AARP’s Drive to End Hunger food relief program. This special cause, called Drive to End Hunger is part of a multi-year sponsorship for Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet. The aim is to raise money and build awareness on the Americans who face the threat of hunger. It calls on racing fans, corporations and charitable organizations to actively participate in the cause.

Source: Chevrolet

January 23, 2012

BMW Group Design with six 2011 GOOD DESIGN Awards

The prestigious 2011 GOOD DESIGN Award was given to six BMW models. The success was achieved by the BMW 6 Series Convertible, the BMW 6 Series Coupe, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the BMW ActiveE, and the two motorcycle models BMW K 1600 GT/GTL and BMW G650 GS. In the field of product design, the afore mentioned award is the most celebrated international accolade. This year once again it honors the excellent quality of BMW Group Design.

This is one of the world’s most oldest and esteemed design prizes, and it was founded in 1950 in Chicago. The aim of the award is to recognize the exceptionally innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that go beyond the regular horizons of everyday product design. The criterion of the award is the combination of functionality and aesthetics in terms of originality and ecological aspects.

The first award was given to the exceptional BMW 6 Series Convertible. The model includes a stretched bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and flat waistline with a classic soft-top roof featuring a distinctive “fin” design. The dynamic handling properties reflect, as you can see, on the car’s powerfully contoured surfaces and forward-surging lines.

Aesthetes who delight in luxury and forward-looking technology need look no further than the On the other hand the new BMW 6 Series Coupe brings to reality the unique combination of luxurious design, new technologies, dynamic athleticism and exclusive travel comfort. For example there re the innovative adaptive LED Headlights, which draw on the hallmark on round headlight look in a new rendition of BMW’s iconic design cues.

Next prize went for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The model cuts a compelling figure with its athletic demeanor and M-specific interior design. Moreover it has now an optimized track width of the front and rear axles, as well as an expansive front apron and powerfully flared wheel arches. Thus the new BMW 1 Series M Coupe now has an unmistakable character. The two sets of chrome-plated twin tailpipes, situated at the outer edges of the rear, make for the symmetrical look familiar from M styling.

The forth vehicle that was awarded with the prestigious prize is the BMW ActiveE. This all-electric-drive BMW 1 Series Coupe is the electric vehicle offered by BMW Group. The intelligent configuration of the drive components and energy storage systems within the vehicle create the ideal prerequisites for customary BMW driving dynamics and extended functionality. Moreover this model offers four full seats, boot space of around 200 litres, rear-wheel drive and a range of approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) in day-to-day operation.

BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL as part of BMW Motorrad were awarded too. Both motorcycles have undeniably self-assured, imposing and distinctive appearance. With its lean and wiry off-road physique, the BMW G 650 GS motorbike evokes an impression of lightness and adventurousness. Its characteristic enduro design and its colour concept are fully in keeping with the BMW GS family style and round off the bike’s overall sporty impression.

This is not the first time that BMW Group Design won the coveted design award. In fact, in the past it won it several times. Last year for example, the award winners were the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6. Moreover in 2008 the competition won the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupe, the MINI Cooper S Clubman and four BMW motorcycles. Going back to 2007, we find the award winners: BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupe, the new MINI and three motorcycle models.

Source: BMW

January 23, 2012

2013 Lexus LX 570 – Price $80 930

Lexus has just announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2013 Lexus LX 570 luxury utility vehicle. The vehicle will be at dealerships in February wearing its bold new styling, interior enhancements, cutting-edge technology and remarkable off-road capabilities. Speaking straight to the point, the MSRP price tag of the LX 570 is $80 930. This is means that there is an increase of the price with 1.9 percent or $1 475. In addition the MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee, which is $875.

There are a lot improved features in the new LX 570. Thank to them the model now offers the exciting combination of luxury, on-road smoothness and off-road performance. To go further into details, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 gets a new enhanced look at both the front and rear. The refreshment is due to the new Lexus spindle grille. In addition there have been added new LED daytime running lights, which also complement an updated headlamp design with new larger fog lamp bezels. Next, the taillamps have been also updated; while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated. Both front and rear bumpers are upgraded with the rear bumper protector having a chrome accent. The turn signals have been integrated into the side mirrors, and wider bodyside moldings sport a new look.

Furthermore the LX 570 is powered by 5.7-liter V8 engine, which has four cams, and four valves per cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). Therefore it is not a surprise that this astonishing engine produces 383 horsepower (282 kW) and 403 lb.-ft (297 Nm) of torque and moreover handles demanding tasks with remarkable smoothness.

More updates are made on the Crawl Control feature which now provides optimum throttle and brake modulation when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. There is also the new Turn Assist feature, which tightens turning circles by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel. The new Multi-terrain Select also allows the driver to optimize performance by choosing from five types of terrain settings.

The interior was improved by the new multimedia system. This system will be available with the next generation Lexus Enform®. The interior also got a new color TFT multi-information display, improved front seat cooling, and easy access for the driver’s seat, a power outlet for the middle row and unique trims and accents. The kuxury vehicle also has a standard navigation system with a high-resolution screen, which supports an enhanced map display, with audio, climate and other vehicle information. Moreover, the navigation system also has access to the next-generation Lexus Enform® Application Suite. The latter leverages customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. For example, users can conduct local searches through Bing, utilize voice-enabled apps, purchase movie tickets or surf the internet.

In addition Lexus offer the model in an optional Luxury Package priced at $1 510. In details it includes a cool box for beverages, semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with new contrast stitching, a heated steering wheel, new mahogany wood-trimmed door switch plates, a rear-center armrest cover, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats (outboard position only) and Smart Access card key. In combination with the Luxury Package, the new LX 570 features an available dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet, for the amount of $2 005. This unique system allows two video sources to be watched at the same time.

Source: Lexus

January 23, 2012

“Chevy Happy Grad” Advertisement – The Winner of Route 66 Super Bowl Ad Contest [VIDEO]

The advertisement called “Chevy Happy Grad” deserves some special attention, indeed. This ad won the Route 66 Super Bowl Ad Contest among 198 other choices. It was created by 26-year old Long Island resident Zach Borst. It will be aired officially during the telecast of Super Bowl XLVI. What is more interesting here is that the ads submitted for this contest gained more than 32 million total online views between December 22 and January 14.

The requirement for the filmmakers was to depict a life’s journey and how Chevrolet is there along the way. “Happy Grad” ad not only answers this requirement but also shows the passion that Chevrolet elicits. Moreover it is hilarious and lot of families can relate to similar situations, where expectations actually don’t meet reality. Some great news for the filmmaker Borst is that the audience on Super Bowl Sunday is expected to exceed 110 million television viewers.

Borst filmed “Chevy Happy Grad” near his home on Long Island during a weather window that offered Zach, his cast and crew only four hours to complete the project. They did spectacular job, didn’t they! Furthermore is that the story was inspired by his dad’s efforts to buy him a car for his graduation. Although it was used, it was very special gift. This lead Borst to the idea, what it would look like if he got a brand new Camaro as a graduation gift? And this is how the ad was born.

You can watch the video below:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae52ourE3Pw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

January 20, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco – Price $25995

With the first shipment of the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco midsize sedan today, Chevrolet makes a continuation of its global rollout. This is the most fuel-efficient model of Malibu ever created, and now it is available at dealers across the United States. However, this version of Malibu is only the first model of the all-new 2013 Malibu lineup, which is going to reach showrooms in the U.S. Now, it is more appealing than ever, because it features a sporty exterior shaped to save fuel, an all-new interior with more room, comfort and premium materials, sound-reducing and sound-absorbing components to make it the quietest Chevrolet in history, all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system that enhances customer connectivity, all-new ride-and-handling package, and engineering to meet top safety results around the world!

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco is Ready for Delivery to Dealers

However, the heart of the Malibu Eco is its most important and exclusive segment, is the fuel-saving eAssist™ technology. Thank to it the car now has GM-estimated 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway fuel economy. Moreover, it combines start-stop technology with regenerative braking. There is also a lightweight lithium-ion battery which provides an electric boost in certain conditions, improves fuel economy by 12 percent over today’s four-cylinder engine – and delivers better fuel economy than any non-hybrid midsize sedan currently available. In addition the all-new Ecotec 2.5L engine will debut in the Malibu later this summer, followed by an all-new Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine.

The great news continues, because the all-new Malibu Eco is priced less than a full hybrid vehicle. The suggested retail price is $25,995 and it includes a $760 destination charge. The 2013 Malibu is Chevrolet’s first global midsize sedan. It will be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. More importantly, last year, the Malibu was GM’s second-best selling car in the United States behind the Chevrolet Cruze compact sedan. The new Malibu is already on the world market, in particular is on sale in South Korea and will soon arrive in dealerships in China.

Source: Chevrolet

January 20, 2012

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV – Price $21625

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is the brand’s new 100% electric-powered vehicle which features Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV) technology. It is going to be delivered to the first retail customers in the continental United States. The fortunate early adopters of the car are going to benefit from this highly technological and advanced automobile and form its fuel efficiency. Moreover this all-electric production vehicle is not only one of the most affordably-priced mass-market EV available in the U.S., but also the car was recently announced as the number one vehicle on the EPA’s list of “Fuel Economy Leaders: 2012 Model Year”.

The very first Hawaii retail delivery of the 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV was last month in Honolulu, Hawaii. The model will be launched across the United States, however, in the summer of this year. The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV will be available across much of the United Sates by this summer. It has a starting net value of $21,625. The price includes the well-equipped entry-level ES model. On the other hand, the premium-grade SE version begins at $23,625. More importantly, the 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is the first of several new advanced, alternative-fuel production vehicles, which the Japanese company is planning to offer to the U.S. market in the near future.

Source: Mitsubishi

January 20, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Jump [Teaser]

The all-new vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), named 2013 Mitsubishi Jump, is going to be introduced for the very first time on the European Market in March. This will happen at the Geneva Motor Show, where the world premiere will take place. This is a strategic and innovative vehicle and it will be available for purchase during 2012. Moreover it is a car of major importance for MMC, because it conveys their gradual transformation in design language. The launch of the new 2013 Jump, will set in motion an all-new generation of global products for Mitsubishi Motors. As promised, this model will be consistent with the ambitions for a greener and more global Mitsubishi.

This re-focused design language is still pictured as open design concept, or in other words – it is still being formulated. However, it is considered to be flexible enough to suit specific vehicle requirements, whilst staging Mitsubishi’s famous Three Diamond logo accordingly. With its refined design it is going to be even more assertive: this new engineering-driven look can be understood as the new expression of Mitsubishi’s near century old tradition of technology. Such technology, for example is the i-MiEV, the 4N1 Clean Diesel engine, Green Plastics and PHEV technologies. The latter is based on MMC’s state-of-the-art electric vehicle know-how which led to i-MiEV, prior to other future significant breakthrough.

Source: Mitsubishi

January 19, 2012

Ferrari and Maserati with new Showroom in Hong Kong

On the 18^th of January there was a big event in Hong Kong, and it was the grand opening of the newest Ferrari and Maserati showroom in Repulse Bay.

This is a prominent new location and it will provide circa 19,000 square feet of showroom space for the vehicles of the brand Ferrari and Maserati. More importantly it will include state-of-the-art facilities. It has to be mentioned that from there one can enjoy the fascinating views of the South China Sea too. This new dealership is a result of the latest phase of the expansion plan, which is undertaken by Italian Motors (Sales & Service) and Auto Italia Ltd. Both companies, respectively, have represented Ferrari and Maserati in Hong Kong and in Macau for the last 29 years.

Ferrari Maserati New Showroom Opening in Hong Kong

In details, the new Repulse Bay location is one of the most prestigious parts of Hong Kong. It follows on from the Ferrari and Maserati 3S Center in Ap Lei Chau, which was opened in 2005; and the 2009 opening of the Ferrari and Maserati 3S Centre in Shatin. The dealership is cardinal in terms of meeting the growing needs in this area of the world. Moreover it also means a commitment to Ferrari and Maserati customers, with the aim of provision of the finest service. The opening ceremony was attended by Dr Richard Lee, Chairman of Italian Motors (Sales & Service) and Auto Italia Ltd., Mr Herbert Adamczyk, Managing Director of Italian Motors (Sales & Service) and Auto Italia Ltd. and Mr Edwin Fenech, President & CEO of Ferrari Greater China.

Ferrari Maserati New Showroom in Repulse Bay, Hong Kong

Source: Maserati

January 19, 2012

Chevrolet Malibu driven 1 million test miles across globe

A very interesting experiment has been done on the all-new Chevrolet Malibu. Engineers have driven over 1 million miles (1.6 million km) with the vehicle. The aim was on-road development testing. However, to achieve this goal of 1 million miles, it took them about 22 months and sent them on six continents. Of course, this extensive road development and validation process served as a guarantee for the new Malibu’s overall ride and handling, comfort, quality and durability. We have to admit that with this experiment, Chevrolet has made a great advertisement of the new model. The new Malibu will be sold in 100 countries on six continents, making it Chevrolet’s first truly global midsize sedan.

Interesting information to be considered here is that driving 1 million miles in 22 months is equivalent of: 66,66 years of driving a car 15,000 miles (24,140 km) annually; 201 round-trips between New York City and Los Angeles; or two trips to the moon and back.

In details, the early prototypes of the model were hand-built by General Motors in the United States and shipped around the globe. They were driven at GM’s proving grounds around North America, as well as on the freeways, highways and back roads of the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, China, the U.K., Dubai and Germany. In this development stage the Malibu pre-production cars represented meant the powertrains, suspensions and other core elements of the cars were already green-lighted for production. More importantly this test-driving have helped a lot for the final refinement, upgrade and fine tuning of the overall dynamics in performance, interior quietness, seat comfort and drivability of the Malibu. In addition the Malibus were driven through Death Valley in the hottest summer days to validate the air conditioning performance. Of course, to make the picture even more clearly, the vehicles were also driven to the top of the Rocky Mountains for high-altitude tests. Furthermore the Malibus were went through hundreds of miles of stop-and-go rush hour drives in Chicago and Seoul; and through the winding hills of North Carolina to evaluate seat comfort and other long-drive factors. And when driving on the concrete dry road surfaces there is generated a considerable amount of noise. However the Chevrolet Malibu engineers have made it possible to develop the car in such way that it can Malibu soaked up those grooved roads quietly. Important fact as well is that the final chassis tuning for the European variant of the Chevrolet Malibu was finished in the Germany. The evaluation involved putting the car through its paces on a former air base which today serves as a test facility. And around 3,000 kilometers were accumulated in order to determine which chassis set-up is best suited for European roads. Additional testings were made around Europe, which were focused on engine and transmission calibration, or on navigation and radio systems.

On the other hand there was also some not so “far-away-driving” development of the Malibu models. For example the development cars in the U.K. and the U.S. were run through salt water troughs and placed in a chamber to simulate years of corrosion and winter road driving. In addition to these experiments, other Mlibus were parked in the Arizona sun to see how the interior materials held up to extreme heat. Of course not everything went so smoothly. Engineers found a few areas of the vehicle that required a bit more attention. For example there was a need of change in the application of liquid sealer to steel parts of the body structure, which helped produce a quieter ride.

This is Chevrolet’s eighth-generation Malibu. It will serve as the brand’s flagship vehicle in China, Korea, Europe, Australia and other parts of the world. In addition, in Europe, the Malibu will be equipped with a 4-cylinder 2.0-liter diesel or a 2.4-liter gasoline engine. The gasoline models will be at dealerships in several markets in the spring of 2012. The diesel version, however, will be launched in the second half of the year.

Source: Chevrolet

January 19, 2012

2013 Lexus GS to Debut with a First Super Bowl Commercial [VIDEO]

Lexus is going to be one of the most successful brands this year, hosting new vehicles coming to market in 2012. To kick off the product onslaught, the company has decided to make an impressive debut with its first-ever Super Bowl commercial for Super Bowl XLVI. It will be aired for the fist time on Sunday, February 5 on NBC, so stay tuned.

Moreover this year Lexus is going to introduce nine new or updated models. The Super Bowl has given the luxury brand the great opportunity to reach a highly engaged audience of 50 million people. In the commercial, is put highlight on the all-new 2013 Lexus GS which will be launched in February. In details, the 0:30 seconds commercial is scheduled to run during the first half of Super Bowl XLVI. You can have a sneak peak of 0:15 seconds of the advertisement on Lexus social media channels.

2013 Lexus GS to Debut with a First Super Bowl Commercial

Leading up to its Super Bowl commercial, Lexus is undertaking unique social media activation under the name TweetDrive Engineered by Lexus, which airs live on NBCSports.com. Moreover it offers the fans the opportunity to earn yardage, move their “team” down the field and score a touchdown during the actual playoff games and throughout the week. The object of the game is to gain enough yards to score a touchdown. For more details about the game you can visit all official Lexus online sources.

But, let’s have a quick look at the above mentioned commercial:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCPBFLiGllQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lexus

January 18, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova