Victor Ivanov – Page 110 – Automobiles Review

2013 Nissan Micra Facelift

Nissan has revealed the new 2013 Micra Facelift, which is scheduled to hit the market in the third quarter of this year.

The exterior features new front end with redesigned grille, front bumper, front hood and different headlights as well as fog light surrounds. The options list includes alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof, different paint jobs and a PDC (park-distance control)

Standard extras include central locking, electric front windows, ESP, ABS, power steering and CD/AUX/USB.

The second trim level (Acenta) adds a set of 15” alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, Bluetooth, front fog lights and some exterior upgrades.

The top-of-range Tekna has 16”, PDC, park assist, automatic climate control, keyless start, folding side mirrors and a 5.8” touchscreen NissanConnect SAT NAV system.

The engine range includes 1.2 liter three-cylinder petrol and a 1.2 liter turbocharged DIG-S petrol capable of returning 57.3 mpg US – 4.1 liters per 100 km with 95g/km CO2. Both are mated to a 5-speed manual or an optional CVT (continuous variable transmission).

Source: Nissan

June 3, 2013

2014 Acura MDX – US Price $42,290

Acura has published the pricing of the new 2014 MDX. The seven-passenger luxury performance SUV is the first to be developed from the ground up using an all-new, purpose-built platform fully optimized for the needs of the potential customers.

It will hit the market in July, this year with pricing starting from $42,290 for the entry-level model and going up to $48,565 for the Entertainment Package.

The engine is a 3.5 liter V6 with 290HP (216 kW) and 362Nm (267 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The power can be put on the road eigher through FWD or an AWD system – for additional $2,000.

Standard equipment includes new audio system, blind spot monitoring, eight-inch multi-function display, 18” wheels and jewel eye LED headlights.

The Technology Package ($46,565) includes 19” alloy wheels, color TFT screen, lane departure warning, forward collision warning and rain-sensing wipers.

The Entertainment Package ($48,565) adds rear seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, 12-speaker ELS sound system, bespoke wheels and remote engine start.

ENGINE COMPARISON
	2013 MDX SH-AWD	2014 MDX
Engine type	Aluminum-alloy V-6	Aluminum-alloy V-6
Displacement, liters	3.7	3.5
Fuel injection	Port	Direct
Valvetrain	Belt drive, SOHC, VTEC^® 24-valve	Belt drive, SOHC, i-VTEC^® 24-valve with VCM^®
Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net)	300 @ 6300	290 @ 6200
Torque @ rpm (lb-ft) (SAE net)	270 @ 4500	267 @ 4500
Compression ratio (:1)	11.2:1	11.5:1
Redline	6700 rpm	6800 rpm
Throttle control	Drive-by-Wire throttle system	Drive-by-Wire throttle system
Ignition	Electronic direct	Electronic direct
Transmission	6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters, Grade Logic and Shift Hold Control	6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters, Sport Mode, Grade Logic and Shift Hold Control
Drive type	SH-AWD	FWD, SH-AWD
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings¹ (city / highway/ combined)	16/21/18	20/28/23 (FWD) 18/27/21 (SH-AWD)
Recommended fuel²	Premium unleaded 91 octane (required)	Premium unleaded 91 octane (recommended)
CARB emissions rating	ULEV-2	ULEV-2
Tune-up interval³	No scheduled tune-ups required for 100,000 +/- miles	No scheduled tune-ups required for 100,000 +/- miles

Powertrain at Glance

Engine

Earth Dreams^™ Technology 3.5-liter, SOHC, V-6 engine produces peak horsepower of 290 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and peak torque of 267 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm
i-VTEC^® (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) for intake valves with Variable Cylinder Management^™ (VCM^®)
Computer-controlled Direct Injection (DI) with multi-hole fuel injectors
11.5:1 compression ratio
High-strength steel crankshaft
Crossflow magnesium intake manifold
Drive-by-Wire throttle system
Direct ignition system
Detonation/knock control system
Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) provides two unique drive-by-wire profiles
Maintenance Minder^™ system optimizes service intervals
100,000 +/- miles tune-up interval

Emissions/Fuel Economy Ratings

High-flow, close-coupled next-generation precious metal catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
High capacity 32-bit RISC processor emissions control unit
ULEV-2 Emissions compliant
20/28/23¹ (city/highway/combined) mpg EPA fuel economy ratings (FWD)
18/27/21¹ (city/highway/combined) mpg EPA fuel economy ratings (SH-AWD)

Noise & Vibration (NV)

60-degree cylinder V-angle for smooth operation
Automatically tensioned, maintenance-free serpentine belt accessory drive
Active Control engine Mount (ACM)
Active Sound Control (ASC)

Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters

Straight-gate style console-mounted shifter
Sequential SportShift automatic transmission allows semi-manual operation
Steering wheel mounted racing-inspired paddle shifters
Sport mode with remapped, more aggressive automatic shift points and more pronounced engine braking during deceleration
Cooperative control between Drive-by-Wire throttle system and transmission makes for quicker, smoother shifts
Advanced shift-hold control limits up shifts during spirited driving
Grade Logic Control System reduces gear “hunting” on steep hills

Source: Acura

May 31, 2013

Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale [video]

Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale was shown at the 2013 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The rare sports car was developed to celebrate Alfa Romeo’s 100^th birthday and is based on Dodge Viper ACR, which was the fastest street legal car around Nurburgring.

Only nine TZ3 Stradale were produced and all of them have a carbon fiber body with a “Kamm-tail” paying tribute to the classic TZ and TZ2. The engine is coming from the well-known 8.4 liter naturally aspirated V10 with 600HP (450 kW) and 760Nm (560 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds and ¼ mile in mid 11-second range. The engine is mated to 6-speed sequential gearbox.

The sound is really sensational (check in the video below)!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9b9-JmTPgzQ

Source: Marchettino via Youtube

May 31, 2013

2014 BMW X5 – The 3rd Generation SAV

BMW has announced the 3^rd generation of X5. The all-new 2014 BMW X5 boasts powerful design, luxurious spaciousness, cutting-edge versatility and efficient driving pleasure.

The exterior boasts powerful, alert front-end look, with twin circular headlight units extending into the BMW kidney grille. The twin circular headlight units extend into the BMW kidney grille and the car’s aerodynamic properties are integrated harmoniously into its overall design language, including Air Curtains, Air Breathers and Aero Blades for the rear window.

Owners can specify new Design Pure Experience and Design Pure Excellence design worlds and M Sport package; exterior and interior features can be ordered in almost any combination.

The interior has increased spaciousness, clarity and luxurious ambience. The seating position is raised and the low-set instrument panel with horizontal lines extends into the door trim and additional trim surface. The rear seat can be split/folded (40:20:40) and the boot capacity is between 650 and whopping 1,870 litres. Automatic tailgate operation is standard, while the rear comfort seats and an additional third row of seats are both available as options.

Commitment to reducing fuel consumption and emissions through weight minimisation, optimised air guidance, engine technology and the standard-fitted – and extremely efficient – 8-speed automatic gearbox with additional BMW EfficientDynamics technology; Auto Start Stop function, ECO PRO mode including coasting function and Proactive Driving Assistant also offered; all models already have the EU6 rating.

Standard BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system (excl. BMW X5 sDrive25d), also available with Dynamic Performance Control as part of the Dynamic and Professional adaptive suspension packages; xDrive status display makes its debut.

Check out the engine range below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdkh5vgckyM

BMW X5 xDrive50i: V8 petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (two turbochargers, direct injection, VALVETRONIC),
Capacity: 4,395 cc, output: 330 kW/450 hp at 5,500 rpm,
max. torque: 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) at 2,000 – 4,500 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 5.0 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph).
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard:
10.4 – 10.5 litres/100 kilometres (27.2 – 26.9 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions according to EU standard: 242 – 244 g/km (figures depend on the tyre format specified), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW X5 xDrive30d: Six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (turbocharger with variable inlet geometry, common rail direct injection),
Capacity: 2,993 cc, output: 190 kW/258 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 1,500 – 3,000 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 6.9 seconds,
top speed: 230 km/h (143 mph).
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 6.2 litres/100 kilometres (45.6 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions according to EU standard: 162 – 164 g/km (figures depend on the tyre format specified), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW X5 M50d: Six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology (three turbochargers, high-pressure, with variable turbine geometry), common rail direct injection with piezo injectors, maximum injection pressure 2,200 bar).
Capacity: 2,993 cc, output: 280 kW/381 hp at 4,000 – 4,400 rpm,
max. torque: 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) at 2,000 – 3,000 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 5.3 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph).
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 6.7 litres/100 kilometres (42.2 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions according to EU standard: 177 g/km, exhaust standard: EU6.

Source: BMW

May 30, 2013

Euro NCAP – 2013 Dacia Sandero – Four Stars

The 2^nd generation of Dacia Sandero (the 2013 model) has received a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. Actually, the result is not bad at all considering the low price of the hatchback.

2013 Dacia Sandero received 80% rating for adult occupants and 79% for child occupants. The car has bad score in pedestrian protection – just 57%. Due to the absence of a rear seatbelt reminder and electronic speed limiter, the Romanian hatchback was given even worse score – 55% rating for safety assistance.

Although the new Sandero has one star more compared to its predecessor, it is still way behind the new Clio, which received full five-star rating from Euro NCAP. It provided 88% adult protection and a 99% for its safety assistance systems.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Asusu4cXcE

Source: Euro NCAP

May 30, 2013

2014 Ford Fiesta ST – 6.7 liters / 100 km

The 2014 Ford Fiesta ST made its official US debut at end of last year at the LA Auto Show. The small hot hatchback is able to return 35 mpg on highway (6.7 liters per 100 km).

The Blue Oval company has officially confirmed the figures for the 2014 Fiesta ST US. The hot hatchback is able to return 26 mpg in city / 35 mpg highway and 29 mpg in the combined cycle. The 1.6 liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine has 197HP (147 kW) and 290Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque.

It rolls 17” alloy wheels and comes with additional equipment like a lip spoiler, different front grille as well as chin spoiler. There are also a rear diffuser and a dual exhaust system. The stance and handling are improved thanks to 15 mm lowering (compared to standard model).

Source: Ford

May 30, 2013

Audi A1 Quattro – XCAR [video]

Audi A1 Quattro has been tested by XCAR.

The A1 Quattro is powered by a direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol with 265HP (195 kW) at 6000RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque from 2500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h (152 mph). The A1 Quattro is able to return 33.2mpg (combined cycle). The engine is mated to a quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.

The electronic stability program (ESP) also includes a sport mode which sets a higher threshold for intervention, and can be switched off entirely for track use.

The chassis of the Audi A1 quattro has been adapted to suit the dynamics of the drivetrain, and the multi-plate clutch has also been positioned on the rear axle in the interest of optimum weight distribution.

The exterior is finished in Glacier White metallic with a high-gloss black roof. It also boasts 18” turbine alloy wheels, redesigned bumpers, grille, red painted ‘wings’ within the headlights, a large two-colour rear spoiler and two 100 mm polished exhaust tailpipes.

A1 Quattro also has tinted LED rear lights, tinted rear windows and a contrasting black colouring for the rear hatch and rear diffuser.

The hot hatchback is limited to just 333 units.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmrvFPFrdJA

Source: XCAR

May 30, 2013

2013 Vauxhall Mokka 1.4 litre Turbo – UK Price £16,719

Vauxhall has announced a new model in Mokka’s range. The 1.4 liter Turbocharged petrol engine is now available to order in front-wheel drive, after being only initially available as an all-wheel drive manual.

The engine has 140HP (103 kW), which is enough to accelerate 0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 193 km/h (120 mph). The small car returns up to 47.9 mpg on combined cycle with 139 g/km CO2. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox (optional automatic is available) and Start/Stop function.

The interior boasts state-of-the-art infotainment systems CD 600 and Navi 950. Intuitive and easy-to-use, the new systems feature a high-resolution, 7” colour display, where the image from the optional rear camera is also displayed. Bluetooth connectivity for both mobile and audio streaming is also available. The Navi 950 comes standard with comprehensive Europe-wide mapping and can be updated by simple download via the USB port. The Navi 950’s premium Bose sound system provides punchy, clear and robust audio with six loudspeakers, a subwoofer and digital amplifier.

Also new to the Mokka range is a new, bold and eye-catching Orange Rock metallic exterior paint colour and optional 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels.

Prices for the new Mokka front-wheel drive model with the 1.4-litre Turbo petrol engine start at £16,719.

Source: Vauxhall

May 30, 2013

2013 BMW 5-Series 518d – UK Price £29,830

BMW is now offering 2013 5-Series 518d available as Saloon and Touring model. The luxurious passenger car minimises buying and operating costs, and will be of particular appeal to UK business drivers.

The engine is a 2.0 liter common rail turbo diesel with 143HP (106 kW) and 360Nm (267 lb-ft) of torque. The fuel consumption is sensational – 62.8 mpg (Saloon) and 58.9 mpg (Touring) – 4.5 to 4.8 liters per 100 km on combined cycle. The emissions are just 119 g/km CO2 (Touring 127g/km). Other important feature is that the 518d already complies with EU6 regulations. 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds for the Saloon and 10.1 seconds for the Touring.

Standard equipment has also been enhanced to include Business Navigation, Xenon headlights, BMW Emergency Call and Teleservices. The Saloon and Touring also have new-style tail lights with slender, elegant LED light strips and along with an additional crease in the rear apron they emphasise the car’s width and sporting stance.

2013 BMW 5-Series 518d SE costs £29,830 and the M Sport is £32,630. The Touring 518d SE is £32,155 and Touring 518d M Sport costs £35,080.

Source: BMW

May 29, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Edition 1

Mercedes-Benz is now offering a limited edition Edition 1 model of the all-new 2014 S-Class. It will be available during the first 12 months of production.

The S-Class Edition 1 follows the announcement of the CLA Edition 1 and A45 AMG Edition 1 coming with additional equipment. The luxurious saloon can be ordered in exclusive blue anthracite or bright diamond white metallic colors. There are intelligent LED headlights offered as standard and panoramic sunroof and “Edition 1” badges on the fender.

The interior has Nappa leather with contrast stitching for the seats and roof lining. There are also leather-covered sun visors, a microfiber dubbed DINAMICA wrap for center armrest, top of the instrument panel and front/rear door panels.

Other highlights include “Mercedes-Benz” illuminated logos on the sill plates, Nappa grab handles with contrasting stitching and an interior theme choice of deep blue sea or satin beige.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Edition 1 comes with ambient lightning, parking, driving assistance and air balance packages – all of which are optional on the regular model.

The price of Edition 1 is just an extra €19,706 over the standard 2014 S-Class. Considering all the additional equipment, the new special edition is a real bargain.

Source: Mercedes

May 29, 2013

2014 GMC Sierra Denali 1500

GMC has unveiled the new special 2014 Sierra 1500 Denali Pick-up Truck. The big vehicle is scheduled to hit the market this fall. It is described as the most luxurious and technologically advanced pickup in company’s history.

The 2014 Sierra Denali boasts a chrome grille, body-color bumpers and a set of 20” alloy wheels. There are also projector-style headlights, LED DRLs and a polished stainless steel exhaust tip.

The interior comes with leather upholstery, aluminum trim and super luxurious heated and cooled front seats. The steering wheel also has a heating function. The “Denali” branded sill plates deliver nice comfort feeling, while the 8” Customizable Driver Display is very handy. Other highlights of the interior include an infotainment system, a Bose premium audio system and a power sliding rear window with a defogger. Customers can also opt for a sunroof and a rear seat entertainment system with screens on the front head rests.

The engine range includes an entry-level 5.3 liter EcoTec3 V8 with 355HP (265 kW) and 518Nm (383 lb-ft) and a powerful 6.2 liter EcoTec3 V8 with 420HP (313 kW) and 609Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. RWD is standard, but there is an optional 4WD.

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

Source: GMC

May 29, 2013

Revozport Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

Revozport has unveiled a new styling program for the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, before the facelift. The tuning package is available for both saloon and estate models.

The exterior boasts an aerodynamics package including a new front splitter, a pair of revised side skirts, a new rear diffuser and a trunk (for saloon) or roof (for estate) spoiler. The components can be ordered separately, but the entire kit is priced at $3,940 (saloon) and $3,980 (estate).

Other tuning parts are carbon fiber mirror covers for $1,190 and a carbon fiber grille ($1,309). The tuning company also offers a carbon fiber rear diffuser ($825) and a carbon fiber trunk spoiler ($750) for non-AMG models.

Source: Revozport

May 29, 2013

Author: Victor Ivanov