Victor Ivanov – Page 197 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mercedes SLK 55 AMG Price – £54 950

Mercedes-Benz has released the price list for the new SLK 55 AMG (R173). It is now available in the UK with highly competitive price of £54 950 OTR.

The new version of the roadster is powered by a naturally aspirated, direct-injected 5.5 liter V8 with 421PS (310kW) at 6800RPM and 540Nm (399 lb-ft) at 4500RPM. From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The 2012 SLK 55 AMG features an ECO stop/start system delivering exceptional fuel consumption of 33.6 mpg with CO2 emissions of 195g/km.

The engine is mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.

The SLK 55 AMG is fitted as standard with AMG sports suspension featuring Torque Vectoring Brake and the AMG Direct-Steer system

The interior boasts unique AMG styling and trim inspired by the SLS.

The standard specification includes AMG body kit with exclusive front and rear aprons and side skirts, AMG high-performance internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes, AMG sports suspension, Nappa leather upholstery, 18” five-spoke AMG alloy wheels, the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Light System, COMAND Online with Media Interface, a DAB digital radio, AMG Cylinder Management System and ECO stop-start function. Advanced safety features include PRE-SAFE, NECK-PRO, ATTENTION ASSIST and HEADLAMP ASSIST.

Options list includes the AMG Performance Package – £4 105 and the AMG Driver’s Package, which raises the limited top speed and includes attendance at an AMG Power and Passion driver event – £2 755.

The AMG Performance package includes revised suspension and brakes with a rear differential lock. Nice!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 17, 2012

2012 Mercedes ML 63 AMG Price – €108 885

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG now can be yours for “just” € 108 885. In addition you can order the AMG performance package for € 7 021. If you think that the price is too high, you have to consider this one more time, because…

The new ML 63 AMG comes with an extremely powerful 5.5 litre bi-turbo V8 engine with 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (519 lb-ft). It further can be boosted to to 557PS (410 kW) and 760Nm (563 lb-ft) with the AMG Performance Package. All this power and the four-wheel drive system catapult the heavy SUV from stand still to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited. Last, but not least – the fuel consumption is at decent level 11.8 liters per 100 km.

The engine is mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system. This is a 7-speed automatic gearbox with several functions – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport) and M (Manual).
If you opted for the AMG Performance package, you’ll get not only the power boost package, but an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.

2012 ML 63 AMG stands on enormous five-spoke light-alloy wheels – 9J x 20” with 265/45 R 20 up front and 10J x 21” with 295/35 R 21 at the rear axle. The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 mm – front and 345 x 26 mm – rear.

The interior has electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. There are also aluminium trim elements, leather upholstery and a lot AMG badges. The distinctively designed instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG. The designo Exclusive package features Nappa leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats with an unusual diamond pattern. It is available in designo marron, designo porcelain and designo black.

Check out the full specs HERE!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 16, 2012

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi [video]

Here is the 90 second verdict of the new 2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi from Autocar.co.uk.

There is two versions of the Zetec S – one with a 1.6 liter EcoBoost and the second, which is shown in the video with a 2.0 liter TDCi diesel power unit. It delivers 161PS (118 kW) at 3750RPM and 340Nm (251 lb-ft) at 3250RPM. From 0 to 62 mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 217 km/h (135 mph).

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and returns a nice 56.5 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 129 g/km of CO2. The curb weight is 1412 kg.

The price for this pleasure is £21 345, which is a lot compared to the petrol variant for only £18 745.

“Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit.”, commented Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director.

Is the new Zetec S diesel any good? Check out the video, below!

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

Source: Autocar.co.uk via Youtube

January 16, 2012

2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel Price – £29 950

Jaguar has released a new less powerful version of the famous 2.2 liter four-cylinder diesel engine in XF range. It is set to be launched aimed at delivering greater value than ever before. The lower input version now costs just £29 950 OTR, which is a great value for money.

The XF 2.2D 163 PS returns 52.3 mpg on combined cycle with emission of just 149 g/km of CO2. Still, the performance does not suffer too much – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph).

The standard equipment includes suedecloth and leather seats, a touch-screen centrally mounted display, electronic climate control and an advanced 8-speed gearbox complete with automatic Stop-Start.

However, we think that the more powerful version of the 2.2D will be more likeable, because of its performance and great economy figure – 57 mpg.

Source: Jaguar

January 16, 2012

2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro UK Price – £43 145 OTR

The lastest generation of Audi Allroad is even better than the previous model. It adds more brawn to complement its highly sophisticated electronic “brain” as the 3rd generation A6 Allroad Quattro.

The new model will hit the UK market next month as the prices start at £43 145 OTR for the entry-level model.

As we stated before, the 2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro is expected to have huge success.

The engine range includes one TFSI petrol engine and two TDI units. All of the has turbocharging and direct injection guaranteeing high efficiency and nice dynamics. Their fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 20 per cent compared with the previous model.

The 3.0 liter TFSI delivers 310PS (228 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 62mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155mph) – electronically limited. Its combined economy figure is an impressive 31.7mpg.
There are two 3.0 liter TDI model – one with 204PS and one with 245PS with 450Nm and 580Nm, respectively. The entry-level version achieves a combined economy figure of 46.3mpg, corresponding to 159 g CO2/km. All three engines are paired with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

Distinguishing allroad quattro features include extended side sills, more widely flared wings and vertical slats within the single-frame grille. Stainless steel guards protect the underbody at the front and rear of the car, and the exhaust system ends in two large, flattened tailpipes. The roof rails are mounted on double bars.

The wheel arches, bumpers and sills are painted in a contrasting colour, but can be body-coloured if the optional aluminium exterior package is specified. The colour Java Brown is available exclusively for the new A6 allroad quattro.
The luggage compartment has a capacity of 565 litres with seats up and whopping 1 680 litres with rear seats folded down.

The options list includes a head-up display, ambient lighting, and comfort seats seats with a ventilation and massage function. Additional highlights include four-zone automatic air conditioning, a panoramic glass roof and the advanced key, which enables access, start-up and locking without the need to remove the key from the driver’s pocket.

The HDD SAT NAV MMI features an 8” display. A Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers can also be added for maximum listening pleasure.

Source: Audi

January 16, 2012

Volkswagen with four awards from What Car?

Volkswagen managed to get four awards from the prestigious What Car? contest. The famous 2012 Volkswagen Up! claimed Car of the Year as well as the best City Car award. Other two victories are for Small Family Car – Volkswagen Golf VI and the coveted Safety Award.

“The Volkswagen up! sets new standards for a car at £10,000. It’s a city car that can seat four adults, while offering new levels of refinement, quality and maturity at this price; none of its rivals feels quite so grown-up. Buyers will be looking for even more for their money than ever in 2012, so the up! is a worthy winner of the What Car? Car of the Year.”, said What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett.

The Safety Award was in large part the result of the availability of Volkswagen’s innovative City Emergency Braking system on the Up!. Although safety features are no longer the preserve of larger, more expensive models, the judges were impressed by this particular example of ‘big car’ technology filtering down to a smaller model. The system uses sensors to scan the space ahead, then applies the brakes automatically if it detects that the car is about to hit an object in front. City Emergency Braking costs from just £225.

The Up! is available to order now, with prices starting at £7 995 (RRP OTR) and with the first models arriving in showrooms in March.

Source: Volskwagen

January 13, 2012

BMW has won two awards from What Car?

BMW has earned 1st places in two categories at the What Car? Awards event. The new BMW 3-Series Saloon has topped Best Compact Executive Car category, while the 2012 BMW X3 took home the accolade of Best SUV of the year.

2012 BMW 3-Series F30 with EfficientDynamics package is the most economical car in its class. However, it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering that sheer driving pleasure.

“The new BMW 3 Series is great to drive, with sharp steering and a well judged chassis. But the biggest gains are in efficiency; it delivers 60mpg and CO2 emissions so low that it falls into the cheapest 13 per cent company car tax band for diesels. It’s a convincing winner of our Executive Car of the Year award.”, commented Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief.

“It is a testament to the quality and refinement of the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for seven consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition, across the generations, for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model is a great honour.”, Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK added.

On the other hand, the superb 2012 BMW X3 xDrive20d was awarded the top honour in recognition of its exceptional blend of efficiency, practicality and quality. It has achieved incredible results – 50.4 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 147g/km CO2.

“There’s more competition than ever among SUVs, but the BMW X3 wins the category award by offering lots of space, excellent fuel efficiency and a beautifully finished cabin. It’s a great family car, really – and its running costs are around those of a regular hatchback.”, Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief finished.

Source: BMW

January 13, 2012

GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT

Several interesting Toyota models are showcased at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. The new interpretations of the cars include from off-the-wall concepts to race-tuned specials.

One of the most interesting is the small GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT. It comes with a supercharged 1.33-litre engine delivering 128PS (95 kW) and 180Nm (133 lb-ft). The engine is connected to a 6-speed close ratio transmission.

The sporty iQ also features bigger brake system, a sports tuned suspension and a nice dual exhaust system for more power and incredible sound.

The exterior boasts complete body kit including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of side skirts and a rear spoiler. The stance is completed by a set of 16” Enkei alloy wheels. The interior is also upgraded with sports seats and instruments.

Actually, the model is scheduled for a limited 100 units production run later this year.

Other interesting tuned Toyota cars at the show are – a new Yaris Turbo with 1.5 liter turbocharged engine delivering 180PS (132 kW); the new GT 86 in two styling interpretations from TRD and Modellista and Gazoo Racing FT-86.

Source: Toyota

January 13, 2012

2012 Porsche Boxster Price – £37 589

Porsche has revealed the price list for the new 2012 Boxster , which starts at “just” £37 589 and the price goes all the way up to £45 384 for the top-of-range S model.

The new Boxster has completely different design, an all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, a completely revised chassis. All this promises a good ride, but something is missing…

The 2012 Boxster also has lower curb weight, a longer wheelbase, widened track and larger wheels, which means superb handling and up to 15% greater fuel efficiency.

The engine range includes a new 2.7 liter with 265PS (195 kW) and a 3.4 liter flat-six powering Boxster S with 315PS (232 kW). Both models feature a manual 6-speed gearbox as standard, with the 7-speed dual-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option. Fuel consumption for the Porsche Boxster with PDK is 36.7mpg, and 35.3mpg for the Boxster S. The performance is amazing – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and 5.0 seconds flat for the S model.

To enhance the driving dynamics further, the Sport Chrono Package option is offered on the Boxster, featuring Dynamic Transmission Mounts for the first time. Also new in the Boxster is the option of Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear limited slip differential.

The standard equipment includes an Alcantara interior, 18” alloy wheels, Auto stop/start and Sports mode, remote control hood operation, audio CD with 7-inch colour touch-screen control, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a 3-year warranty.

The Boxster S adds 19” alloy wheels, partial leather interior and Bi-Xenon headlights.

On paper everything is just perfect, but the new style is not typical for Porsche, so many of the fans will not be so happy. Will the technology beat the spirit?

2012 Porsche Boxster S — 2012 Porsche Boxster

Source: Porsche

January 12, 2012

2012 Mitsubishi ASX Price – £16 499

Mitsubishi UK has announced the price list for the new 2012 ASX. The new more stylish and more practical model boasts practicality and versatility. It offers long wheelbase, generous passenger space and flexible seating.

The engine range includes a 1.8-litre DiD with 116PS (85 kW) achieving 54.3mpg and 136g/km on combined cycle. There is also a 1.6-litre petrol engine managing 47.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 139g/km.

The new 2012 ASX comes with BS anti-lock braking, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist an Emergency Stop Signal System and 7 airbags as standard. It has achieved a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating

The ASX comes with three years unlimited mileage warranty, 12 year anti-corrosion perforation warranty, 3 year pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance. The pricing starts at £16 499 for 2012 ASX2 1.6 Petrol.

ASX2 1.6 Petrol	£16,499.00
ASX3 1.6 Petrol	£18,359.00
ASX4 1.6 Petrol	£20,505.00
ASX3 1.8 Diesel	£20,599.00
ASX4 Black 1.6 Petrol	£21,505.00
ASX3 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£22,749.00
ASX4 1.8 Diesel	£22,745.00
ASX4 Black 1.8 Diesel	£23,745.00
ASX4 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£24,895.00
ASX4 Black 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£25,895.00

Source: Mitsubishi

January 11, 2012

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser V8

The new Land Cruiser V8 is one of the best SUVs that you’ll be able to buy this year. It combines superb quality, performance, luxury and unmissable road presence. The 2012 Land Cruiser V8 is expected to hit the UK market later this year.

Outside, it boasts a new front bumper with integrated fog lights and a new grille that pairs chrome and silver-finished vertical bars across its width. The headlamps are also different and now incorporate LED daytime running lights and cylindrical high and low beam High Intensity Discharge bi-xenon headlights. The turn indicators extend outwards, increasing their visibility to the side.

As with the daytime running lights and door mirror turn indicators, power-saving LEDs are used for the rear lights, which have the added benefit of lighting up more quickly than conventional filament bulbs.
Inside, the mighty Land Cruiser has lighter interior colour scheme, matched with high-gloss wood grain trim elements and bright silver-finish details. The driver’s instrument binnacle has white Optitron dials that are backlit with blue illumination and a large, colour TFT multi-information display.

The front seats, upholstered in perforated leather, gain a cool air function in addition to built-in heaters, plus a position memory setting. Active headrests are also introduced to help prevent whiplash injury in a rear-end collision.
In the rear the 40:20:40 seats have a new manual sliding mechanism allowing each section to be moved through a 90mm range. The outer seat headrests have been made larger for extra support and comfort, and the centre seat can be folded forward to create an armrest.

The engine range includes a new 4.5 liter V8 turbodiesel (EURO 5) with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and new G3 piezo injectors in the common rail injection system. The result is 286PS (200 kW) at 3600RPM and 650Nm (480 lb-ft) at just 1600RPM.

The raft of new handling features includes the world-first Turn Assist, which works in conjunction with Land Cruiser V8’s Crawl Control function, plus Multi-terrain Select (MTS), Multi-terrain Monitor and Tyre Angle Display.

Land Cruiser V8 will adopt Toyota Touch Pro, the most sophisticated version of Toyota’s new multimedia and navigation system. It features 8” touch-screen display showing the most relevant navigation, audio and air conditioning information Toyota Touch Pro uses a high-resolution, eight-inch touch screen interface with a home screen display showing the most relevant navigation, audio and air conditioning information.

Toyota Touch Pro can be combined with a 14-speaker JBL premium sound system with GreenEdge energy efficiency technology that reduces power usage by up to 80 per cent compared to conventional audio units.

UK specifications are still to be announced, but the list of items newly available for the model include a heated steering wheel, front seats with cooling and heating functions, a cooled box in the centre console, a powered upper tailgate section, bi-xenon headlamps and a 200V power outlet in the luggage compartment.

Source: Toyota

January 11, 2012

2013 Ford Mondeo [first pictures]

Ford has released first two pictures of the new 2013 Mondeo. The new family-sized car is quite aggressive. It features new restyled headlights with LED turn indicators, big alloys with low-profile tires, two big exhaust pipes and two-colored rear lights.

If you find any similarities to Ford Fusion, you’ll be completely right, because the new Mondeo looks identical to the American car.

Still, nothing is mentioned about the engine range, but probably the new 1.6 liter EcoBoost engine with 181PS (133 kW) and 233Nm (172 lb-ft) will be available as well as the mighty 2.0 liter EcoBoost with 240PS (177 kW) and 339Nm (250 lb-ft).

Stay tuned for more information!

Source: Ford

January 11, 2012

Author: Victor Ivanov