Tsvetan Varbanov – Page 36 – Automobiles Review

Carlsson smart ForTwo at Geneva 2012

What is there to tune on a smart ForTwo? It’s 2.70 meters long. There are mufflers longer than that. Well, Carlsson beg to differ. At this moment, in Geneva somewhere on a tiny stand sits this thing – the Carlsson ForTwo Coupe. It excels in aerodynamics (apparently), it benefits from a power boost, it sits on some neat wheels, the interior is refreshed and mainly, it’s black and orange.

It’s amazing how much you can do with so little… on something little: The 84 PS smart 1.0 liter, 3-cylinder engine now has a sports air-filter an ECU tweak that rises the bar to 112 PS. Torque is also up by 38 Nm totalling at 158 which are readily available as early as 2000 rpm. 0 to 60 mph takes 9.9 seconds while top speed is 96 mph.

Looking from behind, we see four oval tailpipes shaping the end of a flow-optimised Carlsson resonator that will send unsuspecting onlookers in shock. The rear bumper accommodates them perfectly while a Carlsson front spoiler houses LED daytime running lights. The suspension at the front is lowered by 15 mm while the back – 30mm. 6.5 and 7.5 17-inch Carlsson light alloy wheels finish the look.

Inside a feast of quilted nappa leather awaits you to rest your head on the Carlsson marked headrests. The same goes for the steering wheel, dashboard, glove box, gearstick and door panels. The hand brake is from aluminum and a set of Carlsson floor mats a boot mat in soft velour with Carlsson logo and high-quality aluminium pedal covers round out the interior refinement.

Source: Carlsson

March 9, 2012

2013 Toyota Venza Teaser

The Geneva Motor Show has not even started yet and some are already looking forward to the New York Auto Show. Toyota announced that they are going to introduce for the first time in the USA, the 2013 Toyota Venza. And what we have now obviously, is a headlight… I mean a teaser. Sounds like a typical facelift – an enhanced exterior styling, more standard equipment. and more options.

Distinctive features that will separate the 2013 model from the previous ones show themselves as a new upper and a lower grille. The fog lights and rear taillights have also been redesigned. 19-inch wheels are set to be ideal for this new Venza that will come with three additional shades: Attitude Black, Cypress Pearl, and Cosmic Gray Mica.

The trim levels will continue to be designated by LE and XLE while there will also be Limited editions. The former two can be ordered in many drivetrain combinations: 4-cylinder or V6, FWD or RWD – every setup is possible. The Limited Venzas will come strictly with a V6 but the freedom to chose where the power goes remains.

Standard features on the LE include the Display Audio, Blind Spot Mirror, puddle lamps and outer mirror turn signals. The XLE has all that and adds a Driver Memory Seat, Reverse Tilt Outer Mirrors and Display Audio with Navigation and Toyota Entune™ multi-media system. The Limited has some LED at the front, a more complicated satnav. Does not sound like a bargain.

It’s quite understandable why the Veneza isn’t at Geneva – it’s specifically designed for the North American Market with its roomishness and flexibility.

Just a quick note: The Veneza is a product of Toyota’s Calty Design studios in Newport Beach, Calif – the place where the Lexus LF-LC Concept was designed. In other words we might be pleasently surprise.

Source: Toyota

March 8, 2012

Lamborghini Aventador and AMG SLS at a Houston Airfield [VIDEO]

Here are two videos that promote an event called the Houston Half Mile Shootout. A familiar figure is in both of them – John Hennessey from Hennessey Performance which are organizing the event. We get a little intro at the beginning of both videos and we witness a half mile run at Ellington Field.

The cars – A Lamborghini Aventador 700-4, ownership to the Houston Texan linebacker Mario Williams. Hennessey is not driving this one but nevertheless, let us enjoy a bit of drama and thunder as we hear the sounds coming out of the 6.5-liter 700bhp V12 engine behind them . That majestic roar might be roughly translated into “Do not leave me behind, I am still mean, bad, serious and extremely cool” – a clear reference to the Aventador J hype that has been going on these days. Or maybe that’s just me talking.

On the second video, Hennessey himself has a go in an AMG SLS Roadster – even more noise and hair shuffling as a bonus. Small wonder. The Roadster has 571bhp 6.2-liter V8 engine that slams your face against the elements.

Everything revolves around the preparation for the Houston Half Mile Shootout event that will take place, along with the 4th annual Aeros & Autos event, at the Ellington Airport, Houston TX on the 12^th of May. Registration is now open with as many as 115 vacancies still open. Let the challenge begin!

httpv://youtu.be/pQtUP-7_HtA

httpv://youtu.be/Nbcc7w_QwMI

Source: Hennessey Performance

Video Source: YouYube.com

March 8, 2012

Lexus RX Revisited at Geneva

Here it is, the new Lexus RX line… sort of. Currently, the models on display at the Geneva Motor Show represent an update of the existing RX line – the MY2013 specimens include minor redesigns, all-new on board technology, greater exterior and interior color schemes, new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). Also, the RX 350h and 450h models will now come in F Sport versions as well. Every single one of these RX models can have a Front-Wheel-Drive setup or an All-Wheel-Drive one.

The newfigure of the RX is already common for all GS cars since April – a spindle grille with chrome surrounds now adorns the front. The headlights are new and are complemented by LED Daytime Running Lamps that take the shape of Lexus’ signature arrowhead design.

The F Sport versions get shadow chrome 19-inch alloys, unique mesh grille inserts and some badges. Also, exclusive for that trim is the black and grey leather-accented interior. Bucket seats, alloy pedals and an LFA derived steering wheel (standard for all RX versions) complete the sporty feel. Exclusively, the 350h F Sport also features paddle shifters neatly mounted behind the fore mentioned steering wheel. Thus, the drivers can exploit the performance potential of the six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) that comes along with the 350h. All RX models will feature an updated, second-generation Lexus Remote Touch system, making activation of on-board systems easier for driver and passenger. There’s a convenient place on the center console where you can plug in your iPod and now iPad as well, USB drive or a 12V adapter

While the engines in the new models remain largely unchanged (270 bhp from the 3.5 liter V6 in the 350h and 295 bhp from the electrically assisted V6 in the 450h), the F Sport chassis do benefit from a re-engineered handling package – suspension tune and lateral performance dampers/braces.

The RX 450h hybrid on the other hand also gets some personality with a new Sport driving mode that completes the set the already existing modes: ECO and EV. That way, drivers can fine tune their style of driving and be capable of great fuel-economy feats. The FWD model of the 450h Lexus Hybrid Drive returns an EPA-estimated 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (30 mpg combined) fuel economy ratings, while the AWD model has EPA ratings of 30 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined. Keep in mind that this is an SUV we are talking about.

Source: Lexus

March 7, 2012

Kia Cee’d at Geneva and More

The new Kia Cee’d premiers to the world at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show. Although South Korean, the Cee’d is quintessentially European – It’s designed, engineered and made in Europe. What we have here, is most definitely a poke in the eye for the big players on the hatchback market.

Building on the success of the old model, this one is longer (4.3 meters in total) and more slippery. Inside, higher quality materials are now being used and the options list is longer than ever.

There will be four engines available through most of Europe – two petrol and two diesel ones among which the most powerful will be a 1.6 GDI (it’s a petrol). The abbreviation stands for “Gasoline Direct Injection” – Kia‘s latest. Power comes in the form of 135 PS and 165 Nm of torque. If you go with Dual Clutch Transmission option you’ll get some additional frugality from the engine.

If economy is what you are after however, a 128 PS diesel version with Kia’s EcoDynamics fuel saving technologies achieves fuel consumption of as low as 3.7 l/100km and CO2 emissions of just 97 g/km.

The Cee’d is not alone at the Geneva stand. There’s an SW (estate) version of it which will go on sale later this year.

Then there’s the Kia Ray EV‘s European premiere – a zero-emission city car with a range of up to 139 km (86 miles) on a single charge. Though developed exclusively for the Korean market, the Ray EV showcases Kia’s technical expertise in developing a battery electric vehicle and highlights its commitment to provide a comprehensive technical solution to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Lastly, the Kia Track’ster Concept with electronic AWD adds some sportiness to the stand. The 1.6 GDI turbocharged engine in that one delivers 38 PS (215 PS) less than the 2.0 Track’ster we saw at the Chicago Auto Show earlier this year. It still is however, a brilliant spin-off of the Kia Soul.

Kia Ceed SW (2012) — Kia Cee'd SW (2012)

Source: Kia

March 7, 2012

Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse Debut at Geneva

The Lamborghini Aventador J that is currently on a stand at the Geneva Motor Show is without question a magnificent looking roadster. Powerful too, with 700 BHP to play with. But, its mad looks and the fact that it has no windshield render it a bit silly. It shouldn’t be taken as a joke in any case, it can still shed your face off, but it’s all a bit of fun, it relies on flamboyancy and spunk. It beats its chest that it is what it is – a Lamborghini titan of hypercars.

However, the Aventador J does not, in any possible way, overshadow that other roadster at the show. I am talking about the god of hypercars (with a haircuts) – Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse.

As far as the figures are concerned, today this is the fastest open-top in the world. The Vitesse builds on the success of the previous Grand Sport that had “mere” 1001 ponies at its disposal. Now, by overhauling the four turbos and intercoolers, Bugatti have made the Vitesse more Super Sport-worthy. Let’s sum it up: a 7.9 liter W16 engine that brings 1,200 BHP and 1500 Nm of torque to all four wheels. The top speed is 410 kph or 255 mph (limited to 375 kph/233 mph). A zero to sixty time – 2.6 seconds. Yikes!

That new-found power has triggered an inevitable chain reaction that jolts trough the whole Veyron construction. Bugatti has promptly reinforced all drivetrain components in order to safely transfer the immense forces at any given moment. The bits within the 7-speed DSG gearbox have been specially modified to cope fairly with the new stresses. The same goes for the airflow that used to run through the components of the previous Grand Sport. It has now been further optimized. Ironically, somehow with the more power, the fuel economy has also been improved.

The chassis has had some work done. New, “quick-responding” dampers have been fitted which literally obliterate the possibility of body roll or pitching during braking or accelerating. The ESP has been revised to “lag” just a little bit after shooting out form a corner so that you can have that millisecond of slipperishness. Additionally, the brakes are now being cooled more efficiently in order for them to cope with the increased power.

Many aerodynamic components from the Super Sport have been picked off, redesigned and stuck to the Grand Sport Vitesse. At the front, bigger air intakes around the center grille, slashed with a line horizontally, give the car some identity. The bottom air vent stretches sideways into the wheel housing and gives this exceptional sports car an extremely masterful appearance. Further down, there is a newly made front spoiler. The Headlights, with their black frames are also new. The rear end also comes from the Super Sport but with two diffusers and two tailpipes clustered in the middle. All-new, lighter 20-inch “Vitesse”-type alloy wheels complete the picture

The two highest points of the car are the air scoops on the engine cover. Familiar from the Grand Sport, these are now again redesigned for the Vitesse and also act as components of an anti-roll protection system. Needless to say, that just like its predecessor, the Vitesse is virtually made all from carbon fiber.

Since you can go your way with the customization process, the end products may vary. That is why at the Geneva Motor Show there are two Vitesse configurations – one is in a strikingly blue, exposed carbon fiber finish and the other in “JetGrey” coating with an orange interior and black rims and grille. For the more conventional Veyron fans there’s also a classic Grand Sport version present just to remind you that it still exists.

Source: Bugatti

March 7, 2012

VW Polo BlueGT

What happens when you cross mad lunacy with refinement and sensibility? Obviously and epic lovechild that has the best of both worlds. In our case that’s the VW Polo BlueGT (no, it’s not a sad GTI). It’s a super fun 140 PS Polo that has the looks and feel of a GTI and the metabolism of a BlueMotion. Today, on a stand at the Geneva Motor Show and within months, on to the European roads.

A system described as “ACT cylinder deactivation” is at the core of the BlueGT ideology. The second and third cylinders are automatically shut down within the 1,250 and 4,000 rpm. range and when torque output is between 25 and 100 Nm. If the driver decides to give it the beans, reactivation of the cylinders happens seamlessly in a matter of milliseconds but the dashboard will tell you nevertheless. That gives the 1.4 turbocharged, 140 PS engine the upper edge in fuel economy. Its combined cycle of fuel consumption amounts to 4.7 litres per 100 km (around 60 mpg). CO2 emissions equal to 108 g/km. Opt for the DSG transmission and you’ll get even more frugality. At the same time the top speed is at 210 kmh (130 mph) and zero to 62 mph takes 7.9 seconds.

For the styling of the BlueGT, Volkswagen have gone the “Frankinstain’s monster” way – GTI strains account for the front and rear bumpers, the rear spoiler, the instruments inside, the sports seasts and the leather steering wheel. The BlueGT is also 15 mm closer to the ground and sits on 17-inch multi-spoked alloys. The side sills and front windscreen rain channels, on the other hand, are from a Polo BlueMotion. This particular model is also the typical BlueMotion shade and the badges are all blue. Unlike the Frankinstain story however, the BlueGT might turn out to be a success rather than a tragedy. In fact, the BlueGT carries the first of Volkswagen‘s EA211 series of engines – a line that will underpin most of the models in the company’s production future.

Hopefully, shipments are going to start in July within mainland Europe. Whether there’s going to be a production for the UK, is still not announced.

Source: Volkswagen

March 6, 2012

2013 Ford Fiesta ST at Geneva

Here’s a preview of Ford’s new Fiesta ST. It’s at Geneva at the moment with plans to go on sale in the UK early next year. It has been four years since the last Fiesta ST and recently the fan base has started feeling uneasy. Now everyone can calm down as this little fellow here is meet their needs.

A four year gap between the two models can only mean one thing: massive improvements in terms of performance. The numbers speak for themselves – 180PS 1.6-litre EcoBoost, 240Nm of torque, 0-62mph in under seven seconds, and top speed of more than 136mph. All the while, CO2 emissions are down by 20 percent in comparison to the old ST.

Hopefully the new Fiesta will have the handling to match the performance. The guys at Team RS have put a lot of their WRC know how in use while working on the chassis which leaves the ST 15 mm lower than a standard Fiesta. The car’s Torque Vectoring Control system and three Electronic Stability Control modes have all been rigorously developed and tested at the Nurburgring.

Inside, Recaro sports seats will provide support for the enthusiastic drive for the first time in a Ford Fiesta. There’s something for the novice drivers as well – the car will be fitted with Ford’s MyKey solution which can limit the car’s power and speed to a certain degree thus effectively preventing your kids to end up in a ditch.

The Fiesta ST is sure to come to Europe, but Ford are considering other markets as well:

“We’re delighted to be bringing a new generation Fiesta ST to our European enthusiasts in 2013 and we’ll have more to say about our plans for other markets in the near future,” said Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles.

Fingers crossed.

Source: Ford

March 6, 2012

Lamborghini Aventador J Revealed

There it is! The Lamborghini Aventador J – J as in FIA’s ‘Appendix J’ regarding the tech spec of race cars. Hope you like wildlife in your hair as this Geneva participant doesn’t really make any use of a roof. Or a windshield for that matter. Why would it? It’s a 700 bhp open top. Isn’t that enough?

Unsurprisingly, the J is based on the Aventador LP 700-4 – An AWD layout with a 6.5-litre 700bhp V12 engine. Imagine the wind resistance one is going to experience on their face whilst closing in on the 300 km/h barrier. They should have called it the Aventador D for Drama.

Obviously, the disposal of otherwise vital components calls for some structural changes. An innovative monocoque construction made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers combines lightness with optimum stiffness and strength. There are two safety bars behind the seats that are made made from a forged composite and reinforced with carbon fiber inserts. The thing about open tops and convertibles is that most people cringe at the sight of them knowing that speed and agility have been compromised. However, that’s not the case with the Aventador J. Because we don’t have a roof or a windshield, we also don’t have air conditioning. There are no distractions inside (if we can call it an inside) – Things like the satellite navigation and audio system have been deemed redundant. The J’s cockpit and parts of the seats are clad in a material called “Carbonskin” – woven carbon fibers that have been soaked in a special epoxy resin that stabilizes the fiber structure and keeps things soft and flexible. All that hi-tech, light weight material and the feature diet make the bull extremely light – 1575 kg of dry weight.

Lamborghini have put to use these materials in the maddest of ways. See that horizontal stabilizer pinned between the two inferior looking wind guards? That is not a horizontal stabilizer but a rear view mirror. The front nose is narrower than the standard one and is dominated by a highly distinctive carbon fiber air scoop. Upward fins on the side complete the look. The wheels are 20 and 21-inch front and back respectively and carry a five-spoke design and an additional carbon fiber fan-like feature that vents air toward the massive brakes. All you need to know for the back end is that it has a carbon-fiber rear diffuser, four huge tail pipes and an enormous fixed spoiler mounted on the bodyshell by two arms.

So far, only one Aventador J has been made (Unica) and at the end of the Geneva Motor Show it will be sold to someone who would be brave enough and strong enough to handle it. This car is not a concept, not a prototype but a fully functional, road legal roadster.

Soruce: Lamborghini

March 6, 2012

Hamann Hawk AMG SLS Roadster

Hamann, have a few treats for us awaiting at the Geneva Auto Show. There, we’ll see their idea of a BMW M5 and also this – the Hamann Hawk AMG SLS Roadster. It’s a hardcore matte-red lacquered open top SLS. Their recipe for it rather common – add some aerodynamic bits, squeeze the engine for more power, make it sound better, big wheels and an interior, more luxurious than a honeymoon suite. The end result is brilliant.

Straight to the point, power is now 636 BHP with maximum torque being 680 Nm at 4,850 rpm. A new, sports exhaust system, an air filter and some fiddling with the electronics are all to blame for that. Set the launch control right and you’ll the 100 km/h threshold in no more than 3.6 seconds. Keep your foot on the throttle and eventually the needle will reach 320 km/h.

The outside additives have been designed in a wind tunnel to get the maximum down force potential from them. The front bumper is new and supposed to reduce lift while the aggressive air inlets and new LED modules on it, give the SLS‘s face some spunk. And while we are at the front, it’s worth mentioning the carbon fiber checkered hood that has equally menacing air outlets. The wheel arches are so flared up, that they’ll even make a hippopotamus green with envy. Side skirts sort of connect the both ends and complement the wheels while the back bumper has a diffuser and housing for four 90mm wide exhaust pipes.

For some exceptional handling, the Hawk has been fitted with four height-adjustable dampers which can lower the whole thing by 30 mm in total. Also, four sticky tires – 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear – are wrapped around single piece, super light “Unique Forged Anodized” 21 inch wheels.

Inside, attention to detail is what it counts. Leather and suede patterns are seen all around while red carbon patches adorn the center console, instruments, door sill protectors and air vents. As an overall product, the Hamann Hawk SLS Roadster does really do honor to its potential owner.

Source: Hamann

March 6, 2012

Hamann BMW M5 at Geneva

Apart from the Hawk SLS AMG Roadster, Hamann have a BMW M5 ready for us at the Geneva Motor Show. That means more style, more dynamics and more fun in a package of quality and exclusiveness.

Hannman focused on expressing the M5 posture. A wide posture in this case – 25 mm over the standard front wings and 30 mm more at the back. Combine that with a lower center of gravity thanks to special springs provided, and you get a fully blown, wide, mean, lean sports saloon that can put to shame even touring cars. An additional down force comes from the custom front and rear aprons, side skirts and roof and trunk spoilers. So there wont be a need for grip we presume

But just to be sure, Hamann have provided some sticky and wide (325/25 ZR 21 at the back just to get an idea of how wide) Continental Sport Contact 5P tires that go on the 9.5Jx21-inch front and 12.0Jx21-inch rear wheels. And the wheels themselves have a sporting pedigree, being all light and “anodized”, fitted with titanium bolts.

Hamann are still working on the power issues. With the addition of a new sports muffler and some crafty engine-management, the M5‘s V8 is expected to deliver 120 PS and 220 Nm of torque more than it normally does.

For the interior, the company has gone the extra mile. The cabin has the feel of a VIP lounge crossed with motorsport accents. Leather wraps around the seats, the wheel and the center console. Aluminum pedals peak at you from the foot well. Alcantra materials are also available as an option for the picky customers.

Source: Hamann

March 6, 2012

Premiere at Geneva: Carlsson Mercedes ML CD35

We can’t get enough of Carlsson and luckily, they seem to be unable to stop churning out projects. So in this latest win-win situation, we welcome the Carlsson ML CD35 – It’s based on the current Mercedes-Benz M-class (W 166) and will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this week. 22-inch wheels, suspension tweaks, an aerodynamic package and a performance package all highlight the Carlsson mark on the luxury SUV.

To start off, we have a new look that can only accent the already aggressive stance of the M-Class. A new front apron and dual headlight modules with LED daytime running lights, give the front a typical Carlssonish feel. The mesh inserts withing the bumper, are from an electro-polished stainless steel and so is the main radiator grille. Some sikdeskirts also complement the whole kit and a rear apron and a set of exhausts adorn the back end. Although, we can’t be sure of that until Carlsson fully reveal the ML CD35.

In terms of performance, the standard W166 that has gone under the knife has a 3.0 liter V6 BlueTEC 4MATIC diesel engine that develops 190 HP 680 Nm of torqe. Carlsson have taken that power up to 310 HP and 700 Nm thanks to a C-Tronic supplementary control unit. It’s not just brute power extraction that violates the engine. Rather, the C-Tronic thing cleverly monitors all temperature, emission and rpm reading and shuts off when it senses that the engine has reached a wear-and-tear zone. Soon enough, there will be even more performance tweaks available for the CD35 from Carlsson.

In order to make you even more dependent on your iPhone, the C-Tronic Carlsson suspension provided is linked to an application that allows remote control. Feel free to rise up or lower the CD35 whenever you like. As long as your phone battery isn’t dead. By default, the Carlsson M-class is around 30 mm lower than standard and sits on 10 x 20-inch, light alloy wheels with Carlsson 1/5 Revo design. At the Geneva Motor Show, five-spoke wheels in the Brilliant Edition and Dark Series surface finish will be installed.

The interior has been delicately altered with the help of illuminated door sill panels imprinted with Carlsson lettering, Carlsson door pins, and a footrest plus pedals made from aluminum.

Source: Carlsson

March 5, 2012

Author: Tsvetan Varbanov