Lidia Todorova – Page 354 – Automobiles Review

2013 Venom GT Spyder

2013 Venom GT Spyder We have very special news from Hennessey Performance (HPE)! HPE have decided to offer in 2013 its ultra lightweight supercar with a removable roof. The vehicle named Venom GT Spyder has the astonishing 1200 horsepower and weights 1200 kilo. This means that you will definitely enjoy the summer breeze when you drive this mid-engine “monster” without the top. HPE’s goal was to offer their customers greater driving sensation.

For the year of 2013 HPE will build only five Venom GTs and unfortunately two of them have already been ordered. Furthermore deliveries will be made in the summer of 2012. Of course HPE cares about their client’s individual taste and offers them the choice to purchase the Venom GT – with a fixed hardtop roof, or the new modified Venom GT Spyder – with the new removable top. And if you are willing to buy this exceptional car, you’ll have to prepare at least $950000, which is the base price for the Venom GT. However, if you like better The Venom GT Spyder, then you’ll have to pay $1.1 million.

This open-air American supercar is built in Texas and provides the best power to weight ratio available on the market. Venom GT Spyder is powered by twin-turbo 6.2 liter V8 with 1217PS (895 kW) and 1564Nm (1155 lb-ft). Moreover the engine is mated to a 6-speed Ricardo manual gearbox. As already mentioned the car weighs just 1220kg (2585 lbs) and accelerates the speed from 0 to 100 km/h just in 2.5 seconds. And to go further into details its maximum speed is 443 km/h (275 mph). Without a doubt, Venom GT Spyder will offer the lucky five a driving experience like nothing else on the Planet!

Source: Hennessey Performance

December 2, 2011

2012 Renault Scenic UK

Finally Renault has announced the initial details for the freshly improved and remade Scénic and Grand Scénic models for 2012. Their UK launch will be next February. The brand new refreshed model will include sharper designs, numerous equipment enhancements and more importantly a debut of two impressive downsized engines.

Scenic 2012 obviously aims at contemporary lines with a sharper look. After the summer of 2009, when the two-models of the new Scénic line-up with fluid lines and generous interior were offered on the market, the sales of the both models went higher in numbers.

These models are Europe’s best-selling compact MPVs, and now they have a series of exterior upgrades. First of all the front end is revised and now looks both modern as well as status enhancing. Secondly, its new rear lights add a particularly dynamic touch.

The changes go further with the fitment of LED daytime running lights, gloss black features and chrome details (at the front, plus tailgate strip and side moulding strip). In addition there is a new range of wheel trims and alloy wheels. Moreover the customers will have the opportunity to choose between two new body colours: Azzurro Blue and Damask Red.

What is the highlight in the 2012 Renault Scenic is the new downsized engine for greater performance and fuel efficiency. Renault’s work on lowering emissions, combined with ever-improving fuel economy and performance through smaller cubic capacity engine innovation has borne more fruit. In the beginning they produced the petrol 1.4 TCe 130 and 1.5 dCi 110, and most recently there was the arrival of the 1.6 dCi 130 – the world’s most powerful and frugal diesel engine of its size. Now, Scenic welcomes two new engines! The first one – 1.5 dCi 110 Stop & Start, is an enhanced version of the Renaults marque’s core diesel engine. It includes several advantages, taken from Formula 1’s clever technologies, such as Stop & Start and brake energy regeneration. Additionally, it combines record low CO₂ emissions of 105 grams per kilometre (reduced by 23g/km), and a 12 percent saving in fuel consumption (up 11.3 mpg to 68.9), yet higher torque (260Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,750rpm; a gain of 20Nm/14,8 lb-ft) compared with the existing 1.5 dCi 110.

Starting from the spring of 2012, the five- and seven-seater versions of Scénic will also be the first Renaults, who will receive the brand new 1.2 TCe 115 petrol engine. This one offers low CO₂ emissions (135g/km), 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque (up 39Nm/29 lb-ft) and fuel consumption improved by a fifth, up 11.4 mpg to 49.6.

A greater performance and even lower emissions will be made possible thank to the 1.6 dCi 130 Stop & Start, which itself boasts 20% better fuel consumption.

And we must affirm, that these innovations will definitely be a great step for Renault’s goal – to become Europe’s number one manufacturer with regard to the CO₂ emissions of its range, without detracting from performance.

Moreover Renault has worked hardly to deliver improved comfort and a more reassuring ride, thank to the brand new feature – the Visio System. It will be included in both Scénic and Grand and it will assist the driver’s vigilance and night-time vision thanks to two key functions. The first one is a lane departure warning system: this is a camera that detects if the drivers strays out of lane and triggers an audible signal. The second feature is an automatic headlight function. In it the same camera will detect the lights of nearby vehicles and/or the presence of street lighting to automatically switch from dipped to main beam, (and vice versa).

Furthermore the driving and traveling comfort are improved thank to the addition of new features. And what here’s the great news: they all come as standard equipment. For example it will include a Hill Start Assist, which will have the function to prevent the vehicle’s rolling backward. On the other hand the motorway-mode indicators (by flashing three times following a simple flick of the indicator stalk) will warn the driver about other motorists, and this will happen when the driver is about to change lanes.

The 2012 versions of Scénic and Grand Scénic include further beneficial technologies that have helped forge the model’s success: from the tailor-engineered sound of the Bose® audio system to Carminat TomTom® navigation and associated LIVE services (HD Traffic, etc.).

Undeniably Renault Scénic and Grand Scénic are Europe’s number one compact MPV. Manufactured in Douai, in northern France, they fulfill the most exacting production standards to guarantee the highest level of quality. And for the curious ones, the number of their sales only in Europe exceeds 400,000 (since the launch of the generation at the end of 2009). And the overall picture is that altogether since 1996 there have been sold over 3.9 million Scénics.

Further details on Scenic 2012 range pricing and specification will be released closer to launch. UK order books are set to open on 1st February 2012, ahead of first deliveries in March.

Source: Renault

December 2, 2011

Top 3 Most Expensive Celebrity Cars

The first place goes to Jay-Z’s Maybach Exelero with the cost of the $8 000 000. Beyonce’s husband obviously can provide such ride for him, his DIVA and their upcoming baby. You can even see this “look-like-a-batmobile” vehicle in his video for the song “Lost One”. The optimum speed of this unbelievably expensive car goes up to the number of 351.45 km/h (218.38 mph). Moreover it’s acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achievable only in 4.4 seconds. And all this the superstar gets despite the weight of the vehicle, which is the whole 2.66 tones! Maybah Exelero is a high-performance German luxury sports car that was originally made as a one-off for Fulda Tires back in 2005. However nowadays Maybach decided to manufacture them for the general public. I guess only the rich ones can afford them!

The second place deservedly goes to the Rapper Birdman with his purchase of Bugatti Veyron for the $2 000 000. And although you might think the sum is far less than Jay-Z’s, this car is absolutely worth the price! This European car is one of the most expensive ones in the world, but also is the fastest street legal car in the world! This mid-engine grand touring car has a top speed of 408.00 km/h . In comparison to it, the Super Sport version is much faster with a top speed of 431 km/h (268 mph). The fact you might not know is that it was originally based on the Bentley Hunaudieres concept, and designed and developed by Volkswagen Group. More details about the vehicle is that it features an 8.0 litre quad-turbocharged W16 cylinder engine, which is the equivalent of the two narrow-angle V8 engines.

Not surprisingly probably for anyone, the third place goes again to …. Bugatti Veyron. This time on the driver’s seat is Simon Cowell – the Super Super-Producer, best known for American Idol and X-Factor. Of course, given these facts, we can imagine that the sum of the $1 700 000 wasn’t a heartbreak for Simon. What we haven’t said about the car already is its acceleration, which for only 2.5 seconds goes from 0 to 100 km/h. And not to forget the maximum speed of 431 km/h (268 mph) which makes the car the one of the fastest car in the world (sorry Jay-Z!). And obviously Simon Cowell has a very good taste for cars and likes to collect them, because in his “backyard” you can also see Ferrari, Rolls Royce Phantom, and 100EX Cabriolet.

December 1, 2011

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

The Ducati Streetfighter 848 was the inspiration for the “streetfighter yellow” colour of the SLK 55 AMG. And here the designers definitely got it! This vision ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. The AMG Performance Studio made it possible to bring this design for the customers as an individual optional extra. Not only is the outside look of the car stunningly appealing, but also is the interior of the SLK 55 AMG. Here the contrasting yellow stitching makes a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. You already love it, don’t you! Furthermore the yellow AMG door sill panels feature LED technology, and everything together rounds off the striking effect of the interior.

As it is already well known, AMG Performance Studio is very popular with its special paintwork and leather appointments, but also with its technical solutions and extensive body improvements and transformations. Everything goes around the individual customer requirement, whether it is a stylish upgrade high level of hand-crafted. In the same time everything is made according the highest safety and quality standards, which are very typical for Mercedes-Benz.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 compared to each other are not only similar visually but also technically. In details, both models are the perfect combination of excellent driving dynamics, astonishing design and intense driving pleasure.

Some even may say that the SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. First of all, because of it’s newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system. Hence, this allows an ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 422 hp (310 kW) and maximum toque of 540 Nm (399 lb-ft), the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. In addition its fuel returns 33.6 mpg (14.3 km/l) on the combind cycle and CO₂ emissions of 195 grams per kilometer. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h of the SLK 55 AMG is jus 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited up to 155 mph (249 km/h). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP^®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and Ducati Streetfighter 848

The brand new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its uniqueness even at first sight: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG body styling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions.

On the other hand we have the inspiration for the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG – the new Ducati Streetfighter 848. This amazingly beautiful motorcycle provides unbridled biking pleasure. The reason for this is not only the innovative technology, but also the outstanding appearance that it has. To be more precise, here we speak about a Testastretta 11° engine with 132 hp (97 kW) and an exciting 93.5 Nm (69 lb-ft) of torque as well as a modified frame geometry. All of this is to guarantee a safe, agile handling. In addition all this is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, improved ergonomics and a tuned traction control (DTC) system. And the extremely talented Ducati designers had taken care of the appearance of the Streetfighter.

To match every taste, there are several visual variants of the bike. The first one is in traditional red with red frame, and the second new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. In addition the Dark Stealth colour variant with frame in Racing Black underscores the amazing outlook of the Streetfighter. Definitely we have no choice but to admit that in the new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and astonishing styling in a contemporary design.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2011

2012 VOLVO DRIVe Powershift

Volvo launches automatic DRIVe diesels with the same fuel consumption as manual versions

We have very exciting news form Volvo Car Corporation, which just has announced the latest step in its ‘DRIVe towards Zero’ emissions strategy. This will be made possible with the launch of an automatic gearbox option in four Volvo DRIVe models: the S60 DRIVe, V60 DRIVe, V70 DRIVe and the S80 DRIVe. For the first time, these DRIVe models can be ordered with Volvo’s Powershift dual-clutch automatic gearbox. What needs to be highlighted here is that buyers of these cars won’t compromise on environmental care or economy as the automatic cars deliver exactly the same fuel economy and emissions as the class-leading manual variants.

This only can mean that for the first time in history the fuel consumption in variants with an automatic gearbox is brought down to the same level as in the manual versions.

If you wonder about the fuel consumption (combined cycle) and CO₂ figures, here there are:

Volvo S60 DRIVe Automatic – 65.7mpg (28,7 km/l) & 114g/km
Volvo V60 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km
Volvo V70 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km
Volvo S80 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km

But wait, if you hurry to buy a DRIVe Powershift, you’ll have to do it in early 2012. The production of the car starts mid-February. And if you are curious about the prices they are exactly £25,230 for the S60 DRIVe, £26,405 for the V60 DRIVe, £27,730 for the V70 DRIVe and £26,980 for the S80 DRIVe.

What I like about this DRIVe Powershift is that the low consumption and emission levels result in a number of technological improvements. First of all, there is a reduction of the friction between gearbox components. Second, the engine and gearbox software have been modified. Third, the start/stop system cuts off the diesel engine when the car is still rolling (below 3mph). Next, to create lower energy consumption, all electrical systems have been optimized. And at last, all the S60, V60, V70 and S80 DRIVe are fitted with Volvo’s latest 4 cylinder 8 valve 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine, which delivers low CO₂ while at the same time still delivering a healthy 115hp (84.5 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque.

T go further into DRIVe details, the variants of the vehicle are now available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Powershift automatic gearbox. Next, there is included a brake energy regeneration, a turbo with variable turbine geometry, common rail fuel supply fitted with Piezo injectors. To enhance it more, they have also added a combined catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter, Start/Stop technology with intelligent climate monitoring, Low rolling resistance tires. And at last the details of the Powershift gearbox are the following: wet double clutch, split input shaft (outer hollow shaft encloses the inner shaft), manual gear selection available via the gear selector and hydraulic control.

With the motto ‘DRIVe Towards Zero’, Volvo Car Corporation aims on improvements on the petrol engines. They are made possible by the optimization of the four-cylinder, 1.6-litre T3 engine (150 hp/110 kW), which is available in the Volvo S60 and V60. Moreover Volvo’s engineering specialists have managed to bring fuel consumption down to 49.0mpg (20.8 km/l) in the S60 (previously 42.8mpg /18,2 km/l). Hence, this corresponds to CO₂ emissions of just 135 g/km, which is a reduction of 17g/km!

The Powershift transmission can now be specified with the T3 engine. The reason to do this is that it will reduce an entry level price of an automatic S60 to £24,270. And if you are asking about the figures for the direct-injected T3 engine combined with automatic Powershift in the S60, they are 39.8mpg (16.9 km/l) and 164 g/km.

The S60 and V60 T3 Powershift will be available to order in early 2012. However, they will be firstly delivered in April.

This DRIVe Powershift maybe will make VOLVO Car Corporation a European leader in CO₂ reduction. The corporation has a leading role among European carmakers in terms of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. This is being confirmed in the annual analysis presented by the European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E).

Source: Volvo

December 1, 2011

Mazda TAKERI Saloon Concept

Mazda TAKERI is the new-generation mid-sized saloon concept. The vehicle was firstly presented to the market at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. This concept car is the crystallization of the new ‘KODO — Soul of Motion’ design theme and breakthrough SKYACTIV Technology. The aim is to show future of Mazda’s new-generation mid-sized saloon.

From the vision of Mazda SHINARI, TAKERI has taken the four-door sports coupe. The car is equipped with unique features such as SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, Mazda’s i-stop idling stop system, and a specific regenerative braking system, called ‘i-ELOOP’, which was developed in the pursuit of ultimate energy efficiency. Together, these technologies achieve astonishing improvements in fuel efficiency and driving performance.

Because of the design, the driving characteristics and environmental credentials, Mazda TAKERI is at the core of Mazda vehicle line-up.

What has to be taken into account about the design is that Mazda TAKERI styling reflects the full nature of a Mazda mid-sized saloon – fully balanced and powerful. And if you wonder what the name means, TAKERI is derived from the Japanese word ‘male’. As it is obvious, in the development of TAKERI, Mazda has sought a breakthrough saloon design. The goal was have a balance between the striking emotional appeal and its’ unmistakable saloon styling. This all happens at a level never achieved before. Hence, the result embodies the quality and appeal demanded in the mid-sized saloon segment.

Furthermore, Mazda TAKERI is fully equipped with the breakthrough SKYACTIV Technology which has been previously introduced on the Mazda CX-5. Its engine is the highly efficient SKYACTIV-D diesel, which, in combination with the six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission and i-stop idling stop system, delivers refined performance and more importantly, offers fuel efficiency.

Mazda’s new regenerative braking system i-ELOOP has been used here too. In addition through the combination of regenerative braking, the highly efficient SKYACTIV powertrain and architecture, and i-stop, Mazda TAKERI offers extremely high levels driving pleasure and outstanding environmental performance. And all of this happens without the use of hybrid technologies.

The exterior design of Mazda TAKERI is built on the styling of the previous model – SHINARI. However, here Mazda has put a focus on making the car’s exterior view design even more arresting by visually capturing a sense of coiled animal power. In addition it fits perfectly around the layout and packaging of a mid-sized saloon car. The front fascia has a powerful overhanging front bumper line, sculpted over the wheels. In addition, the designers had put strengths building a powerful axis that runs the full length of the vehicle. Don’t you think that this vision evokes an image of the car’s spine, and moreover portrays a confident, masculine power as well as a sense of speed?

With SKYACTIV Technology Mazda TAKERI has the superior aerodynamic performance. It was achieved by optimally tuning the airflow over the upper body and efficiently managing the airflow beneath the car with the under floor design.

In comparison to Mazda SHINARI, TAKERI’s interior is a high-level balance of the sense of speed and the functionality of the driver-car interface. But don’t worry, because all necessary materials have been used in order to be achieved the overall comfort and ambience of the cabin.

What is really fascinating about the interior is that the instrument panel fascia has a metal base with a clear coating. Thus, when struck by light, the base naturally has a metallic sheen, displaying a sense of depth and quality.

However, the highlights here have to go for Mazda TAKERI’s new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine. The reason for this is that it achieves compression-induced spontaneous ignition at the world’s lowest compression ratio. Hence, the effect is an ideal combustion cycle with highly efficient energy conversion. Moreover, it also results in lower mechanical stress, reducing friction and allowing drastic reductions in the weight of each engine component. Because of these advantages, SKYACTIV-D offers exhilarating acceleration in combination with exceptional fuel economy.

Furthermore TAKERI is also equipped with the specific Mazda’s i-stop system. This system has been developed especially for use with a diesel engine that achieves the world’s first re-ignition with a single compression. The consequences of this are the elimination of the load on the battery and starter motor during restarts and reduction of fuel use to achieve superior environmental performance. This sets i-stop apart from conventional diesel engine idling stop systems, giving smooth, fast restarts and relaxed, stress-free driving.

Check out the specs, below!

Technical Specifications

Body type	Four-door saloon
Seating capacity	4
Overall length x width x height	4,850mm x 1,870mm x 1,430mm
Wheelbase	2,830mm
Engine	SKYACTIV-D 2.2
Transmission	SKYACTIV-Drive (six-speed automatic)
Drive	Front-wheel drive
Major systems	i-stop idling stop system i-ELOOP regenerative braking system
Suspension	Front: MacPherson struts Rear: multi-links
Brakes	Front: ventilated discs Rear: ventilated discs
Steering system	Electric power assisted steering
Tyres	Bridgestone 245/40 R20
Wheels	9.5J x 20-inch

Engine		SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel
Displacement	cc	2 188
Type		Water-cooled, inline 4-cylinder DOHC, 16-valve, direct injection
Compression ratio		14.0:1
Max. power	PS (kW)/RPM	175 (129)/4 500
Max. torque	Nm (lb-ft)/RPM	420 (42.8)/2 000
Fuel tank capacity (FWD/AWD)	L	56/58
Transmission	6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive	automatic transmission
Fuel type	Diesel

Source: Mazda

November 30, 2011

2012 Ssang Yong Korando Price

New for Ssang Yong line up is the Korando crossover. The superbly equipped Korando uses SsangYong’s first monocoque platform and offers a perfect blend of competent off road handling with on road refinement. And can you imagine that the price starts only from £16,995. The benefits of such car are countless. It has the practicality of a 4×4/SUV, the accessibility of a family hatchback, the contemporary looking Korando. Moreover this vehicle has the capability to go from a muddy campsite to the motorway or an icy country lane to the urban school run, and everything is in complete comfort for the convenience of the driver and the passengers.

First of all what is important about Korando is that it has been designed as a towing vehicle. All models are powered by an advanced 173bhp (129 kW) 2.0 litre four cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque with CO₂ emissions from only 157g/km ensuring smooth and strong acceleration no matter what you’re towing.

What is more here is that the four wheel drive Korando EX also has an all wheel drive lock function. It functions when low speed grip and control is needed, such as when driving up a slippery track or off a sodden field dragging a caravan or horsebox.

Korando can pull almost 100% of its own gross vehicle weight. The reason for this is not only the strength of the engine, but also Korando’s inherent stability and grip. This combination leads to solid, dependable pulling power no matter what the conditions are.

The customer can chose between a six speed manual or six speed automatic transmission. In addition, buyers can opt for S or ES trim in their front wheel drive Korando or top of the range EX specification in four wheel drive models. What you’ll love about this vehicle is that it comes entirely equipped with cruise control, ESP with Hill Start Assist and reverse parking sensors as standard. On the other hand the ES comes with a sunroof, climate control, leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats, so that all the needs of the driver and the passenger can be met.

All models are available with a detachable Witter tow bar and electrics at an optional cost of £602.

Korando
Specification	S	ES	ES	EX	EX
Transmission	Manual	Manual	Auto	Manual	Auto
Transmission	2WD	2WD	2WD	4WD	4WD
On the road price	£16,995	£19,495	£20,945	£21,445	£22,995

Source: SsangYong

November 30, 2011

2012 Ssang Yong Rexton Price – £19 995

The enhanced SsangYong Rexton is the perfect vehicle for drivers who dream for twin axle caravans and large trailers. You will be also impressed by its towing capability of 3.2 tonne. Therefore the rugged Rexton is capable of tackling both tough tracks and motorway trips with a boat, horses or track day car in tow.

All Rexton models are hard working 4×4 four wheel drives and are powered by an advanced 2.7 litre five cylinder turbo diesel engine. What is more important is that they deliver a power output of 163bhp (120 kW), and also provide 340Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque from only 1,800rpm. Having in mind these details, and adding the separate chassis construction, you can be sure that Rexton will tackle the toughest terrain even when fully laden with a heavy trailer.

The numbers of 3.2 tonne braked towing limit and 128kg maximum tow ball weight speak only that this SsangYong is nothing but a real towing champion.

And for every specific taste the Rexton is available in a choice of S and EX trim. Here we have to say that even the entry level model comes equipped with ABS, EBD and ESP, as well as automatic climate control and seven seats. But if you choose the EX specification, you will get leather upholstery, heated seats and a Mercedes-Benz 5-speed T-Tronic automatic gearbox.

A robust tow bar is available on all models at a competitive option price of £478.

Rexton
Specification	270 S	270 S	270 EX
Transmission	Manual	Auto	Auto
Transmission	4WD	4WD	4WD
On the road price	£19,995	£21,495	£23,995

Source: SsangYong

November 30, 2011

2012 Ssang Yong Rodius Price – £14 995

Rodius MPV is a member of SsangYong’s towing family which, with its seven seats and generous load area. The vehicle is the perfect complement to caravan towing and its’ price starts at £14 995.

First of all the maximum remote braked towing capacity of Rodius EX is a substantial 2 850kg. Even more, we must highlight that also the other Rodius models are capable of pulling a remote braked trailer of up to 2 500kg. And if you’re still wondering whether you should buy this vehicle or not, you should look at the price again! An entry price of £14 995 for front wheel drive variants and £20 995 for the flagship 4×4 versions underline the SsangYong’s value.

For this surprisingly low price you will have the opportunity to enjoy astonishing equipment. You can have for instance the electric front and rear windows, the fully automatic climate control and the Kenwood audio and Bluetooth system. All of these go as a standard across not only one but all variants of the vehicle. In addition SsangYong has included the vital safety aids of ABS, EBD and ESP.

2012 SsangYong Rodius price list:

Rodius
Specification	270 S	270 ES		270 EX
Transmission	Manual	Manual	Auto	Auto
Transmission	2WD	2WD	2WD	4WD
On the road price	£14,995	£16,995	£18,495	£20,995

Source: Ssang Yong

November 30, 2011

ANDERSON Germany FERRARI 599

Can you imagine that the Ferrari 599 that is already equipped with the nearly spectacular 620 horsepowers (455 kW) can be further enhanced? Well if you do so – you are right. These improvements were made by the Dusseldorf-based ANDERSON Germany Company. It brought its power to the total of 491 kW or 658 HP, with the 6.0 liter capacity and the corresponding torque, by means of optimizing the software. What is interesting as well is that the exhaust system now can be adjusted by a remote control in two sound stages. ANDERSON Germany Company brought to life a nearly-racing edition of the street-legal race car that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h just in 3 seconds and furthermore it has the maximum speed far beyond 300 km/h.

Basically what they have done is to save weight, and that inevitably speaks of high-tech carbon material. Of this lightweight and at the same time high-strength material, are made the outer mirrors and the front bumper hang-on parts, side skirts and the rear bumper, as well as the rear diffuser. In addition the car features the complete varnishing in “ANDERSON Germany Black Diamant Metallic” with glossy black racing stripes and red rims alongside the windows and tail lights toning which definitely makes a statement. And if you wonder how the connection between this luxury car and the unworthy tarmac is made, the answer lies in the size of 9J x 21″ of the three-spike shiny black rims with red trimmings coupled with 245/30-21 tires. And if you are willing you can also choose size 12J x 21″ rims with 345/25-21 tires. Furthermore a bit style is added by the red-varnished brake caliper which is well visible through the wheels.

Further transformations are made in the interior of the car. First of all thee ANDERSON Germany did a complete finishing with the black carbon leather combined with the red perforated leather. You can also see a diamond-shaped stitching and the red rand on the seat upholstery. Because of the weight saving, gearshift, door handles, window lifters, door sills and center console have been manufactured entirely from the carbon fiber.

Source: Anderson Germany

November 29, 2011

ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper

In order to go into details about this ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper, we have to review some history about it. Firstly in 2010 the current owner acquired the Viper presented here. Obviously this Zakspeed racing car is stunningly racing-tuned. This tuning was made possible because the Heurich Classics plant (founded in 2006 in the Bavarian Zeitlofs-Rupboden specializing in custom work) was commissioned to convert this Viper. The aim here was to bring this Viper back to the streets and let it shine on an occasion. This time however, the car should be painted not in white, but in its old colors again.

In order to achieve the first goal and to get the racer back to the streets, a strategy will be developed jointly with the Engineering Supervision, which eventually was implemented in the Heurich Classics workshop. What they decided to do is to cut the spoiler, remove the rear diffuser, rebuild the side channels, put new tires and wheels, change the brake system and install a hand brake system with CNC-machined caliper carriers. Further modifications have been made in the steering angle which was increased. Next the cooling system was changed, additional fans were installed, engine peripherals were modified, exhaust system was adapted, electrics and complete light control were changed, seats as well as harness were renewed, passenger seat were installed, and finally the glazing was also renewed.

Their goal was to recreate the Viper in its original Hasseröder design of 1999.Hence the original colors of its time have to be made by means of platinum wrapping foils. These improvements were made by the company Cam Shaft in Kempen.

And for the curious ones, the Viper GTS-R was the car that won firstly the Zakspeed and then Michael Martin Racing Systems. It is not a surprise if you know that it features a 6.2-liter V8 with 600 horsepower (441 kW). Moreover the car is equipped with a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, KW dampers and a Motec M8 system. And if you take all that into account, you’ll be amazed that it weights only 1350 kg.

Source: ZAKSPEED

November 29, 2011

Subaru BRZ

The new Subaru BRZ is developed as a joint-project between Subaru and Toyota Motor Corporation. Their goal was to bring to the world a sports car with superior steering response and driving pleasure that everyone can experience. Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel drive sports car featuring the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. This engine was positioned even lower than other Subaru models. The reason for this is that the low center of gravity produces astonishing handling character and combined with a light-weight chassis.

“Pure Handling Delight” is what the new Subaru BRZ is all about. As mentioned already the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine has special qualities, because of its low center of gravity, lightweight, and compactness. The Subaru BRZ is a fascinating sports car that we assure you you’ll enjoy to drive!

The specific position of the engine is mounted on a specially designed sub-frame that forms an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. The benefits of this are that the BRZ now achieves a low driving position typical for sports car. Furthermore the overall height of Subaru BRZ is 1,300 mm and it has a wide and low body of a stylish coupe at 1775mm. However, it still allows for 2+2 seating and a trunk with sufficient space. Therefore you can use this stunning BRZ as a sport car, as well as a safe companion for long tours.

The new Subaru’s Exterior aims for a sports car, but of course the design was detailed to be instantly recognizable as a Subaru. For example the front fascia has a low hood design. On the other hand the Subaru’s identity is represented by the Subaru six-star ornament, headlights and hexagon lower grille which are common elements across other new models. The aesthetic beauty of the car is combined with functional one. What I mean is that improvements are made in the aerodynamics through C-pillar shape, rear glass inclination, trunk lid layout. Moreover the front and rear overhangs are shortened to express the Subaru BRZ’s liveliness. In addition the design of the rear fascia is so perfectly that puts more on the beauty of the BRZ’s rear view.

What about the interior? The aim here is under the motto “driver and vehicle as one”. This is made possible through the carefully designed details of the new Subaru BRZ. For instance, the steering wheel is made smaller to achieve sports car maneuverability. Next, a tachometer with digitally displayed speedometer is placed in the center of the gauges. In this way the driver can instantly see information without diverting attention from the road.

What is more important and more interesting here are the innovations made in the newly developed engine. It is not only highly efficient with superior output, but also environmentally friendly. It realizes an exhilarating high revving nature of a naturally aspirated sports engine. The engine of new generation has a square bore and stroke of 86 x 86 mm. Toyota’s direct injection and port injection technology “D-4S” was incorporated in the Subaru BRZ’s power unit (don’t forget that it is a joint-project). The highlight here is put on the achievement of an “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This is made possible because of the compactness of the engine.

The joy of sports car driving is achieved through a transmission that focuses on shift feel and response. The 6-speed MT employs a short stroke shift lever, which is optimized in rigidity, shift quality and weight application in its pursuit of a superb shift feel. And to be more precise the he 6-speed AT has “S mode” for better shifting response and “M mode” for optional shifting. Moreover, with the paddle shift and downshifting blipping control, this model can respond faithfully to the driver’s inputs.

The lightweight yet highly-rigid body is of course developed to maximize the advantages of the “ultra-low center of gravity package”. This has been achieved through a durable frame structure which also works in balance with the vehicle’s light-weight. And for the collision safety the new Subaru BRZ is optimized for high drivability and appropriate durability. The light weight of the body is achieved thank to the tensile steel. This material is also used in the upper structure of the Subaru BRZ, and again this contributes to its low center of gravity.

At last, but not least is to be highlighted the chassis of the car. Excellent maneuverability and stability is what is of importance here. This offers a direct and sharp response to the steering and enhances driver’s connection to the car. At one hand the front suspension employs struts for light-weight and high rigidity. On the other hand the double wishbone layout is adopted at the rear for better shock absorption.

The tires used in the brand new Subaru BRZ are 215/45R17. They are combined with lightweight and highly rigid aluminum wheels.

All models of Subaru BRZ are equipped with electronic stability control in order to provide both driving pleasure and safety.

Source: Subaru

November 29, 2011

Author: Lidia Todorova