Victor Ivanov – Page 183 – Automobiles Review

2013 Honda Crosstour Concept

Honda will present a new 2013 Crosstour Concept model at this year’s New York Auto Show. It will reveal the exterior styling direction of the updated model. Obviously, Honda are not pleased with the previous 2012 model, which you can see on the picture, that’s why they plan some redesigning probably based on Accord.

However, the manufacturer didn’t release any images, but probably the model will be shortly previewed.

The Crosstour model was launched back in 2009 and features two engines – a 2.4 liter four-cylinder and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 314PS (231 kW). It also earned the distinction of J.D. Power and Associates’ “Highest Ranked Midsize Crossover/SUV in Initial Quality” in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS).

Stay tuned for more information about 2013 Crosstour Concept.

Source: Honda

March 20, 2012

Ferrari F12XX Berlinetta [render]

Here are two renderings of the F12XX Berlinetta – the racing version of the recently presented Ferrari F12Berlinetta. The two images are released by automotive artist Iacoski, who mentioned that “F12Berlinetta is just perfect looking car!”.Originally, the F12Berlinetta is powered by a newly-developed 6.3 liter 65° V12 engine with 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h – 3.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The top speed is over 340 km/h (211 mph). We expect that the racing version will exceed 800PS and to accelerate to 100km/h in under 3.0 seconds and a top speed of around 350 km/h.Nothing is mentioned from Ferrari, that they will develop a race version of F12Berlinetta, but if that happens, it would be great. At least, the staggering 599XX will have its true rival in the name of F12XX.Check out the two renderings below – in black (which by far looks great) and in red.

Source: iacoski

March 20, 2012

AMS Nissan GT-R – Wolrd Record – 1/4 mile in 8.63 seconds [HD video]

A new world record set by the monstrous AMS Nissan GT-R at ¼ mile.

The street legal car with more than 1600HP managed to stop the clock at 8.63 seconds, when crossed the finish line at the 402 meter mark with a terminal speed of 172.15 mph (276.98 km/h). It is just insane to see a “normal” car with normal tyres do that. The parachute is much needed, because the brakes simply won’t manage too well, especially, if the AMS GT-R makes several starts.

What is more, AMS claim that this is not the end and the tuned Nissan will set even better time. As you can see in the end of the start, the rear bumper or parts of it flew away from the car, but this wasn’t the only problem.

Just before the finish line an intercooler pipe popped off, so the car didn’t run all the way on full boost (35 psi) and AMS promises that the next time, there will be more boost. We just can’t wait to see another record. Until then, enjoy the video below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjLB9y4fn3Y

Source: hightechcorvette via Youtube

March 19, 2012

2012 Isuzu D-Max UK – Price £14 499

Isuzu has announced the price list for the all-new D-Max pick-up. The vehicle will be officially unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show (24 – 26 April at NEC, Birmingham). The new D-Max will hit the market from June available with four specification levels and, for the first time for Isuzu in the UK, with an extended cab body configuration – featuring rear-opening side-access panels – joining the single and double cab variants.

The entry-level Isuzu D-Max is priced from £14 499 for the single cab 4×2 derivative. It comes with a generous complement of standard equipment, including air conditioning, daytime running lights, electric windows and front, side and curtain airbags.

The Eiger double cab starts at £18 499 and adds projector headlamps, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, 16” alloy wheels and body-coloured bumpers, while the ‘Yukon’ double cab (from £18,999 CVOTR) also features a leather steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and a six-speaker sound system, chrome exterior detailing and 17” alloys.

The flagship Utah model offers luxurious creature comforts inside, including leather upholstery, heated front seats and automatic climate control. The exterior is enhanced with roof bars and rear parking sensors. The ‘Utah’ double cab automatic is priced from £21 499.

The engine is only one – a highly fuel efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo common rail diesel with 163PS and 400Nm at 1400RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The Isuzu D-Max also introduces a new ‘shift-on-the-fly’ system, allowing the driver to adjust between two- and four-wheel drive modes while travelling at speeds of up to 60 mph.

Isuzu UK expects its all-new pick-up to build on the remarkable success of its predecessor, the Rodeo. Consistent year-on-year sales growth throughout its lifecycle peaked in 2011 with 2,431 units registered, a performance which saw the UK become Isuzu’s biggest European market for the first time.

Source: Isuzu

March 19, 2012

Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tyres – 255/35 and 315/35 ZR20

Michelin has created the new Pilot Super Sport tyres specially for the brand new F12berlinetta, which is the most powerful Ferrari ever. The new tyres are the world’s fastest series-produced tyre on the track. The Italian manufacturer, after its previous successful collaborations related to the development of the tyres for the 599 GTO and the FF, has once more chosen Michelin among the original equipment suppliers for the new F12berlinetta,

The new Ferrari F12berlinetta has a naturally aspirated 65-degree 6.3 liter V12 – 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). To handle all that power, a number of technologies have been developed by Michelin’s Research and Development Center.

Here are some of them:

First is the Twaron Belt. Esentially, it is a high-density fibre which gives the Michelin Pilot Super Sport superior high-speed stability. A key feature of Twaron is that it is very strong, yet light; Twaron is five times stronger than steel of an equivalent weight.

The second is a variable contact patch 2.02 that changes its shape when cornering. That’s why the amount of rubber in contact with the road remains the same.

Last is the Tri-Compound and Bi-compound tread. Used in endurance racing, this innovation uses different rubber compounds on the left and right sides of the tread. On the outside, a unique elastomer specifically developed for racing tyres ensures exceptional endurance. On the inside, a latest-generation, high-grip elastomer enables the tyre (on wet surfaces) to break through the water’s surface and adhere to the road.

The new Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres come in two sizes: 255/35 ZR 20 for the front wheels and 315/35 ZR 20 for the rear axle.

Source: Michelin

March 19, 2012

2012 Renault Megane UK range – Pricing

Renault UK has announced the full price list of the Megane Range. The new 2012 models come with minor styling changes to freshen up their original lines – modified front end, LED daytime running lights, a gloss black bumper and a lot of sets of wheels.

In terms of line-up, from April, a new entry-level Expression+ welcomes the inclusion of Bluetooth™, USB connection and upgraded audio system to 4 x 20W radio CD with fingertip remote control and AUX input, on top of an already high equipment level: 16” alloys, air conditioning and front fog lights.

The top-of-the-range GT-Line TomTom also sees several new additions: auto parking brake with Hill Start Assist, parking camera with rear parking sensors, Arkamys 3D Sound 4x35W audio system – worth £760, but an OTR price only £270 greater than the previous range (dCi 160).

The interior comes with new trims including a leather pack available in a choice of two finishes in the UK. The personality of the specific GT-Line TomTom finishes has also been enhanced inside and out thanks to specific ‘boomerang’-shaped LED lights, visible red upholstery stitching and a sports steering wheel incorporating thumb rests, plus Renault Sport-badged door sill guards and dashboard trim strip, serving as a reminder that it belongs to the Renaultsport family. Last but not least, the list of body colours available for Mégane 2012 has been extended with the addition of Azzurro Blue and Arctic White.

The engine range includes a 1.2 TCe 115 petrol, 1.5 dCi 110 and the 1.6 dCi 130 diesel powered units. All feature Stop & Start technology, which are already available in the Scenic 2012 range.

The new 1.2 TCe 115 retunrs up to 53.3 mpg on combined cycle and 119g/km CO₂. The 1.5 dCi 110 gives class-leading 80.7 mpg and emits only 90 g/km CO₂. The 1.6 dCi 130 boats 70.6 mpg and 104g/km CO₂ emission.

The Megane range now features the Visio System camera, which improves night-time vision by permanently scanning the road ahead. Lane departure warning has also been added to Megane 2012.If lane markings are crossed without the indicators having been being activated (above 44 mph), visible and audible warnings are automatically activated

All radios are now equipped with Bluetooth hands-free telephony, connectivity and audio-streaming, as well as multi-functional TunePoint and USB input which enable music stored on mobile devices to be controlled by the vehicle’s steering wheel-mounted fingertip control. Also available is Carminat TomTom® Live navigation (HD Traffic, real-time traffic information, etc.) on Expression+.

Hill Start Assist prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when pulling away on a slope, while lane change indicators warn other motorists when the driver is about to change lanes by flashing three times following a simple flick of the indicator stalk.

To assist parking manoeuvres, a rear parking cameraprovides a precise image of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings and depicts its trajectory to help drivers adjust their line. Last but not least, the dual-zone automatic climate control is now equipped with a quality sensor which monitors cabin air quality and automatically activates the air-recycling mode whenever necessary.

Renault Megane GT Line TomTom 2012

Full range pricing:

Mégane Hatch 2012

Version	CO₂ Level	CO₂ Band	Combined mpg	Benefit in Kind	OTR PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£16,275
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO	104	B	70.6	13%	£17,525
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£18,125
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£18,800
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£19,425
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£17,275
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£18,325
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£19,125
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£19,800
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£20,425
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£20,300
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£19,825
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£21,300
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£21,800
GT Line TomTom dCi 160	150	F	47.9	23%	£22,490

Mégane Coupé 2012

Version	CO₂ Level	CO₂ Band	Combined mpg	Benefit in Kind	OTR PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£16,775
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO	104	B	70.6	13%	£18,025
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£18,625
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£19,300
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£19,925
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£17,775
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£18,825
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£19,625
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£20,300
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£20,925
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£20,799
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£20,325
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£21,800
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£22,300
GT Line TomTom dCi 160	150	F	47.9	23%	£22,990

Mégane Sport Tourer 2012

Version	CO₂ Level	CO₂ Band	Combined mpg	Benefit in Kind	OTR PRICE
Expression+ 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£17,075
Expression+ dCi 90 ECO	104	B	70.6	13%	£18,325
Expression+ dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£18,925
Expression+ dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£19,600
Expression+ dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£20,225
Dynamique TomTom 1.6 110	159	G	40.9	21%	£18,075
Dynamique TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£19,125
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 ECO	106	B	68.9	13%	£19,925
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£20,600
Dynamique TomTom dCi 110 EDC Auto	110	B	67.3	13%	£21,225
Dynamique TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£21,100
GT Line TomTom TCe 115 Stop and Start	119	C	53.3	10%	£20,625
GT Line TomTom dCi 110 Stop and Start	90	A	80.7	13%	£22,100
GT Line TomTom dCi 130 Stop and Start	104	B	70.6	13%	£22,600
GT Line TomTom dCi 160	150	F	47.9	23%	£23,290

The new Megane 2012 range is available to order ahead of its 1^st April showroom launch, priced from £16 275 (Hatch), £16 775 (Coupé) and £17 075 (Sport Tourer) on-the-road.

Source: Renault

March 19, 2012

2012 Peugeot iOn – Price £21 216

Peugeot UK now offers their EV – iOn with lower OTR price of just £21 216 after the Government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant.

The EV range will be boosted additionally by other all-electric models along with the recently introduced world’s first diesel-electric HYbrid4. The manufacturer displays its commitment to addressing the environmental challenges facing carmakers, communities, businesses and private car owners.

Peugeot has also introduced a lot of technological solutions and services, adapted to an array of customer needs and designed to drive powerful breakthroughs in fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions.

These include the introduction of Stop & Start Systems, diesel-electric hybrids and zero-emission vehicles, enabling Peugeot to increase its leadership in the European low-carbon vehicle segment and extend its expertise to other markets.

The Peugeot iOn has also been included in the development of existing mobility solutions like ‘Mu by Peugeot’, a personalised mobility service, based on a new vision of mobility.

“2011 marked a return of EVs for Peugeot in the UK. We want to continue to develop our EV strategy as the technology becomes more accepted by consumers and the charging infrastructure continues to develop. Peugeot has been at the forefront of the EV market with iOn and this latest development is a key part in our low CO₂ strategy.”, commented Phil Robson, Peugeot UK’s Fleet and Used Car Director.

Source: Peugeot

March 19, 2012

Schmidt Revolution Audi RS6

Schmidt Revolution introduced their tuning program for Audi RS6 (C6).

The powerful touring car comes with astonishing 5.0 liter twin-turbocharged V10 with 580PS (426 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12.7 s and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

However, the tuning specialists from Schmidt Revolution consider these times slow, so they bumped the engine up to whopping 700PS (515 kW) and 790Nm (583 lb-ft), which is an increase of 120PS and 140Nm. The acceleration is not mentioned although it will be a lot faster, especially the 0-200 km/h, but the top speed is approximately 330 km/h (205 mph).

The upgrades don’t stop here and the tuned RS6 also boasts a set of new 10J x 22” CC LINE light alloy wheels with polished external bed. They are wrapped in 265/30 ZR22 tires all around.

Source: Schmidt Revolution

March 19, 2012

2013 Renault Talisman [teaser]

Renault has released a teaser image in Facebook of their 2013 Talisman model. The car will make it official debut at the 2013 Beijing Motor Show. Still, we can’t see much of the car and probably it will share a lot of features from the Samsung SM7.

The luxurious four-door coupe will come with a lot of extras and some efficient engines from a new generation including a 2.5 liter V6 with 190PS (140 kW) and 243Nm (179 lb-ft) and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 258PS (190 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque.

So, the 2013 Talisman is expected to be the new “Safrane” and if it has a connection with SM7, it will have the same platform as the Nissan Teana.

However, Renault does not have huge success in China, so the manufacturer will try to change that with this new premium model.

Stay tuned for more information and pictures about 2013 Renault Talisman.

Source: Renault via Facebook

March 19, 2012

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster [HD video] – 0-327 km/h

Here is a nice video of Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster tested by Sport Auto.

It is powered by a 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 571PS (420 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports gearbox, which shifts in as little as 100 milliseconds. There are also four different driving modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), ”S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) or “M” (Manual).

0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 317 km/h (197 mph). The kerb weight is 1661 kg (3661 lbs).

The exterior boasts full AMG performance package as well as the interior. There is also – leather upholstery, mettalic accents and nice AMG sports seats with AIRSCARF. The options list includes a Bang & Olufsen audio system and an AMG Performance Media system.

It stands on 19” rims at the front fitted with 265/35 ZR19 ultra-performance tires and 20” rims at the rear wrapped in 295/30 ZR20.

Check out the acceleration from 0 to 327 km/h and some other interesting moments in the video below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uRAL_iLnCI

Source: cc8186 via Youtube

March 16, 2012

ABT 2012 Audi AS3

Abt Sportsline has announced their tuning program of the new 2012 Audi A3. The name of the project is ABT AS3, which stands for “happiness in driving, always and everywhere” as Mr. Hans-Jürgen Abt stated.

The engine range includes two powerful power units – a 2.0 liter TFSI and a 2.0 liter TDI engine. The petrol will deliver 250PS (184 kW), instead of factory’s 200PS (147 kW) and the diesel will produce around 200PS (147 kW), instead of 170PS (125 kW). These results will be achieved thanks to ECU re-maps. The additional power will make the car faster and better to drive, because of the additional torque at the low revs.

Besides the performance packages, ABT Sportsline also offers a coil-over adjustable suspension and high-performance brake system with 345 mm discs.

The exterior package includes a new front spoiler, front grille and side skirts. There are also a new rear spoiler, the rear skirt insert and the two double rear mufflers.

The tough vision is completed by a set of DR light alloy wheels , which are available in 18 and 19 inches.

Nothing is mention about the prices though.

Source: ABT Sportsline

March 16, 2012

2012 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack UK – Price £28 475

Volkswagen has announced the UK price list of the new 2012 Passat Alltrack. Esentially, the vehicle features raised ride height, 4MOTION four-wheel drive and rugged body enhancements.

It is based on the popular and versatile Passat Estate, but offers better agility off-road. The vehicle is available in only one trim level in the UK with a choice of two engines: a 2.0 liter 140PS TDI with 6-speed manual gearbox starting at £28 475 OTR and a 2.0 liter 170PS TDI with 6-speed DSG transmission, which is £31 025.

Standard equipment includes Alcantara upholstery, 2Zone electronic climate control, RNS 315 touchscreen satellite navigation, DAB radio, MDI iPod connectivity, Bluetooth telephone preparation, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system and 18” Canyon alloy wheels. A Driver Alert System that monitors the driver’s responses to raise awareness of fatigue is also standard, as is ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme).

The options list can add High Beam Assist, which automatically controls dipping of the headlights; Side Scan Lane Change Assist, which monitors the vehicle’s blind spot; Lane Assist; ACC Adaptive Chassis Control; Automatic Distance Control with City Emergency Braking function; Park Assist (second generation); an interior ambient lighting pack; a rear-view camera; and an electrically deployed towbar.

The 2012 Passat Alltrack boasts a generous towing capacity of 2 000 kg, which is 200 kg more than an equivalent Passat Estate.

Check out the price list below.

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack model line-up and pricing

Model	Engine derivative	CO₂, g/km	Combined mpg	Price, £ RRP OTR

Passat Alltrack	2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6 spd manual	150	49.6	28,475
Passat Alltrack	2.0-litre TDI 170 PS 6 spd DSG	155	47.9	31,025

Source: Volkswagen

March 16, 2012

Author: Victor Ivanov