Victor Ivanov – Page 140 – Automobiles Review

Qoros will Exhibit First Production Car and Two Concepts in 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Qoros will introduce one production car and two concepts – Cross Hybrid Concept and Estate Concept, at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The Qoros model line-up is characterised by modern, German-influenced design, world-class safety technology, and the highest production quality standards. Each Qoros will feature as standard an advanced infotainment system that is unique in the automotive sector and that includes comprehensive networking, connectivity and guidance functionality.

“Intelligent modular vehicle platform technology allows us to create new vehicle concepts quickly and efficiently,” commented Vice Chairman of Qoros Auto Co. Ltd. Volker Steinwascher.

“The Qoros GQ3 is the first of many models that will be based on this platform, and the technology will allow us to develop a complete model family in a very efficient manner.”, he added.

The production-ready Qoros GQ3 showcases the rapid pace at which the manufacturer is approaching the market launch of its first model. The elegant sedan has a sporty profile with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a coupé-like silhouette, yet allows for unusually generous interior space for a vehicle in the compact segment.

A comprehensive standard specification is also accompanied by safety technology that meets the very highest standards, and the Qoros GQ3 is targeting top scores in both European and Chinese crash tests.

The Qoros GQ3 showcases an advanced infotainment that represents a technological first for the car industry that will be standard across all Qoros models.

Source: Qoros

January 18, 2013

2013 Peugeot RCZ Arlen Ness

Peugeot has announced the new 2013 RCZ Arlen Ness Special Edition, which will make its official debut at the Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy.

The model is named after the custom motorcycle builder – Arlen Ness. It is a one-off model featuring a two-tone exterior paint with matte black accents, leather mirror covers and a set of unique alloy wheels.

Other upgrades include an adjustable sport suspension, Ohlins shock absorbers and high-performance Brembo brake system.

The engine is the well-known 1.6 liter THP equipped with a high-flow air filter and a Termignoni sports exhaust system. The result is over 200HP (147 kW), which is an increase of 44HP (32 kW).

No words about pricing.

Source: Peugeot

January 18, 2013

2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR AMG – Price $1,490,000

We all remember Need For Speed III: Hot Pursuit. There was an interesting bonus car there – Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR AMG and we all played with it. The real version of this super sports car is now available for sale on Jameslist.com. The price is suitable for such type of car – $1,490,000, considering its rareness. Only 25 units were built, with 20 of them being coupes while the other 5 were roadsters. This particular model is #17 and has 2,401 km (1,492) on the clock.The beast is powered by a hand-built 6.9 liter V12 with 612HP (450 kW) and 775Nm (572 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). The engine is mated to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1,440 kg (3,175 lbs).Despite, this is a super sports car designed mostly for track days, it is a Mercedes, after all. It comes with an air conditioning, driver & passenger airbags, adjustable pedals and a premium audio system.So, if you are a fan of Mercedes and you have a spare $1.5 million, this is your vehicle.

January 17, 2013

Hamann Blue MemoR McLaren MP4-12C

Hamann has announced the Blue MemoR McLaren MP4-12C coming with completely new body kit and nice baby blue paint.

The body kit includes a new big front splitter, a pair of redesigned side skirts, upper and side wheel arch ventilation inserts, a bigger rear wing and extended diffuser. There is also a roof air duct and custom rear fender from the rear window to the wheel arches. At the rear, we can see triple exhaust layout.

The interior boasts a new upholstery, which is a combination between Alcantara and leather. There are also carbon fiber or wood elements.

The price for the conversion is serious – 95,000.

No performance modifications are planned. The MP4-12C is powered by a 3.8 liter twin-turbo V8 with 600HP (441 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph). ¼ mile in 10.9 seconds.

Source: Hamann

January 17, 2013

BMW 5-Series F10/F11 – Best-Seller in Its Segment of Business Automobiles

The BMW 5-Series F10/F11 remains the best-selling car in its segment of business automobiles. Totally 359,016 customers worldwide opted for a BMW 5 Series model in previous year. This includes all Sedans, Tourings, Gran Turismos and the high-performance M5 models.

The 2012 5-Series offers everything that driver’s needs – comfort, stability, safety, performance and great fuel economy. The modern four, six and eight cylinder engines offer high output and great efficiency.

Speaking for efficiency, the 520d EfficientDynamics Edition offers unsurpassed fuel consumption of just 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. The powerful 535d has 313HP (230 kW) and 630Nm (467 lb-ft), while returning 100 km for only 5.4 liters of fuel. The new 5-Series also offers world’s most powerful 3.0 liter diesel – the M550d xDrive boasts 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm of torque. All that performance comes with average fuel consumption 6.3 litres per 100 km.

The petrol engines also offers great performance and low fuel consumption. The 520i and 528i feature turbocharging system based on the twin-scroll principle, variable valve control VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control double VANOS.

The top-of-range M5 has a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with 560HP (412 kW) at 5750RPM and 680Nm(502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. The engine features M TwinPower Turbo technology, twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 13 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – limited.

The BMW 5 Series offers the perfect compromise between sporty flair and suspension comfort. Over and above the excellent standard suspension, numerous technologies are optionally available to further enhance Sheer Driving Pleasure.

BMW ConnectedDrive offers interconnection between driver, vehicle and the outside world is becoming increasingly important. The BMW 5 Series offers numerous innovations in this essential and fast-developing area.

RTTI (Real Time Traffic Information) provides traffic information in real time, suggesting appropriate alternative routes in the event of a traffic jam.

BMW Night Vision uses a thermal image camera to detect people and animals from a distance of up to 300 metres, warning the driver of potential collisions.

The full-colour Head-Up Display projects relevant information into the driver’s field of vision such as current speed, speed limits, navigation directions and warnings.

It is difficult to resist to everything that a new 5-Series offers and 359 thousand customers proved it.

Source: BMW

January 17, 2013

Opel’s new engine – 1.6 CDTI with 136HP and 320Nm

Opel has introduced a new four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine. The 1.6-liter CDTI ECOTEC diesels will replace existing 1.7-liter engines. The 1.6 liter CDTI Ecotec boasts nice performance and super-low fuel consumption.

It features closed-loop combustion control and an aluminum block. This is the first diesel from Opel to comply with future EURO 6 emissions requirements. It will be also available in a variety of power outputs across several carlines.

The all-new 1.6 CDTI also boasts class-leading attenuation of noise, vibration and harshness, high power/torque density and low fuel consumption. It has 136HP (100 kW) and 320Nm (237 lb-ft). The fuel consumption is reduced up to 10% compared with similarly powerful 2.0-liter diesels.

Beginning in spring, the 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC will be manufactured at the same “flex plant” as the new 1.6-liter gasoline engine, in Szentgotthard in Hungary.

“The comprehensive renewal of our powertrain portfolio continues at wide-open throttle,” commented Dr. Thomas Sedran, Deputy Chairman of the Opel Management Board.

“Our new 1.6-liter diesel will set benchmarks for refinement, performance and environmental compatibility. By the end of this year we will have launched three all-new generations of gasoline and diesel engines, as part of our roll-out of 23 new models and 13 new powertrains by 2016.” , he finished.

Source: Opel

January 17, 2013

B&B Audi SQ5 TDI – 395HP and 800Nm

Audi SQ5 TDI has received better performance from the German tuner – B&B. The tuning specialists worked on the engine of the cross-over in order to get maximum power without ruining the fuel consumption.

Audi SQ5 TDI is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 with 313HP (230 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque.

B&B Stage 1 includes an increase in boost pressure of 0.15 bar and revised electronics. The result is 340HP (250 kW) and 728Nm (537 lb-ft). The price is just €1,498.

B&B Stage 2 boosts the engine to 365HP (268 kW) and 750Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. The price is €1,698.

B&B Stage 3 includes new injectors, bigger intercooler, air ducts and new intake paths. The result is sensational – 395HP (290 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The price is much higher – €4,950.

The most powerful version accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph). This is 0.5 seconds faster as well as 20 km/h more.

B&B also offers a set of lowering springs -25 mm reducing the body roll – €398. If you want to turn your SQ5 into a real track car – a custom adjustable coilover suspension is available for €1,698 as well as a complete stainless steel sport exhaust system – €1,950.

Source: B&B via Autoblog.nl

January 16, 2013

2014 Acura RLX Flagship Sedan – US Price $48,450

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Acura has announced the new 2014 RLX Flagship Sedan. The luxurious vehicle is priced from $48,450, excluding destination fees.

2014 Acura RLX is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 with 310HP (231 kW) and 368 (272 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission and able to return 20 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.

The new RLX has the most spacious passenger cabin in its class, and the first-ever application of signature Acura technologies including Precision All-Wheel Steer™ and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, the RLX delivers new levels of technology-enhanced performance, safety, and luxury-class comfort to Acura’s range-topping sedan.

“With an array of signature Acura technologies, the 2014 Acura RLX sets a new standard for luxury in the Acura lineup,” commented Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales.

“The feature-rich RLX epitomizes Acura’s ‘Man-Machine Synergy’ product direction, utilizing advanced technology and smart vehicle design to deliver incredible performance, comfort and value on a luxury scale.”, he added.

TRIM	MSRP*
RLX	$48,450
RLX with Navigation	$50,950
RLX with Technology Package	$54,450
RLX with Krell Audio Package	$56,950
RLX with Advance Package	$60,450

Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

Source: Acura

Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

January 16, 2013

Expression Motorsport Mercedes C-Class Coupe Wide Bodykit

Expression Motorsport has introduced a new wide body kit for the C-Class Coupe. The current project is based on the mighty C 63 AMG, which looks just fantastic.

The sports luxurious coupe comes with complete aerodynamics wide body kit including a new front bumper with a carbon fiber front lip spoiler and LED daytime running lights. There are also enlarged hood vents and extended fender flares providing space for bigger rims and wider tires. The rear gets a trunk-mounted lid spoiler and a new rear bumper with a carbon fiber diffuser.

No words about pricing.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is powered by a 6.2 liter V8 with 457HP (336 kW) at 6,800RPM and 600Nm (444 lb-ft) of torque at 5,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The curb weight is 1730kg.

Source: Expression Motorsport

January 16, 2013

Nissan Resonance Concept

Nissan has presented the Resonance Concept at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

The vehicle was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

“When the designers were first working on conceptualizing the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by amazing scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who unabashedly embrace innovation and are optimistic about the future. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride.”, commented Said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning.

The Resonance has a bold exterior with a “V-Motion” front fascia and a tinted acrylic grille. There are also some chrome accents, panoramic sunroof and a set of 22” aluminium wheels.

The interior boasts premium leather upholstery, natural wood trim and metallic accents. There is also a cloud-based telematics system and an interesting instrument panel.

Nissan Resonance is powered by a hybrid powertrain including a 2.5 liter petrol and an electric motor. It is connected to an X-tronic CVT and an AWD system.

Source: Nissan

January 15, 2013

2014 Nissan Versa Note – US Price $13,990

Nissan has presented the 2014 Versa Note at the Detroit Auto Show. The vehicle gets a dramatic new look and nice retail price – only $13,990 (excluding destination charge).

The Versa Note has its own distinctive look, feel and added hatchback utility. It carries the Note designation used in other global Nissan markets, as well as the PURE DRIVE badge, designating it as having low CO2 emissions and exceptional fuel efficiency.

It is powered by a 1.6 liter petrol with 109HP (80 kW) at 6,000RPM and 145Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400RPM. The engine is coupled with a 5-speed manual or a X-tronic CVT. Fuel economy for the front-wheel drive Versa Note is forecast to deliver a best-in-class-level of 40 mpg Highway, 31 mpg City and 35 mpg Combined for CVT-equipped models.

2014 Nissan Versa Note is available in four trim levels: S, S Plus, SV and SL, and can be equipped with the company’s Around View Monitor and the NissanConnectSM with Navigation System.

The long list of features starts with the standard cloth seating, 4-way adjustable front bucket seats (S, S Plus) with 6-way seats available (SV), Fine Vision instrumentation, AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system with 4 speakers, 12-volt power outlet, front door pockets with bottle holders, dual front and rear cupholders and many more amenities. Heated front seats with upgraded seat cloth and stitching are also available, along with leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome/silver accents, USB input with iPod® control and steering wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth® controls. Two interior colors are offered: Charcoal and Wheat Stone.

Source: Nissan

January 15, 2013

2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan – More than a Compact Executive

Lexus has presented the new 2014 IS Sport Sedan at the 2013 NAIAS. The 2014 IS will be available in RWD and AWD versions of the IS 250 and IS 350, a further evolution of F SPORT available across the entire model range, and for Europe, Japan, and select international markets, the IS 300h, the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.

The IS 250 is powered by a 2.5 liter V6, the IS 350 has a 3.5 liter V6 and the IS300h combines a new Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder, 2.5-liter engine combined with a high-torque motor.

The IS 350 RWD version has an 8-speed automatic gearbox, which is the same as in the IS-F model. The new IS comes with the Drive Mode Select system offering up to four switchable driving modes: ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT S+.

The new Lexus IS comes with revised the front double wishbone suspension while at the back it takes the same multi-link system layout from the GS.

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IS F SPORT models not only benefit from exclusive, exterior and interior design features, but also genuine dynamic enhancements. Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned for F SPORT, enhancing handling performance. An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is tuned for F SPORT models, while Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) is also available on IS 350.

F SPORT models announce their presence with an exclusive spindle grille that incorporates a bolder insert design. The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature aerodynamic detailing to provide enhanced brake cooling. Unique 18-inch wheels feature a Y-spoke design inspired by the LFA.

On board, drivers will receive vehicle information from an innovative driver’s meter cluster with a moving center ring, inspired by the LFA. Interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates that include the Lexus logo.

The all-new Lexus IS will go on sale in mid-2013.

Source: Lexus

January 15, 2013

Author: Victor Ivanov