Victor Ivanov – Page 206 – Automobiles Review

CLP Automotive BMW X6 wide-body kit

CLP Automotive has announced their tuning program for BMW X6. It consists of a new wide-track and wide-body kit for the SAC. The name of the program is Bruiser and you can see, why.

CLP adds 50mm to the track of BMW X6 by adding a new front bumper with a large central air vent, wide front fenders, modified side skirts, new door panels, different rear bumper and of course widened quarter panels. To complete the exterior package you can order a rear spoiler, which is also available.

The widened X6 needs bigger wheels and the choice is just perfect – 11J x 23” at the front and brutal 12.5J x 23” at the rear fitted with ultra-low-profile tires. CLP also adds a new sport exhaust system for deeper sound.

The price is not announced, but it will be less than €10 000, which is nice offer for such transformation. Just imagine this tuned vehicle with mighty twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 under the front hood… with appropriate re-map, of course.

Source: CLP Automotive

November 18, 2011

Volkswagen eT!

The eT! research vehicle could someday actually revolutionise the world of lightweight commercial vehicles. Completely reconceptualised, driven with zero emissions, thought through to the last detail and driving semi-automatically if necessary! Just how wide-ranging the significance of this research project could be for sustainability in the transportation field is underscored by the support for the eT! project by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.

“We analysed process flows and customer needs in detail, and from these analyses we derived ideas on how the segment of delivery and courier vehicles could be further developed over the long term. In this context, we focused on zero-emissions driving and available space in urban areas, semiautomatic driving functions that offer relevant support and simplify work processes and the integration of new communication technologies. On top of that, we also set out to design a very emotionally appealing commercial vehicle. To attain these goals, our teams not only looked towards the future from the past, but also worked from a future perspective to implement an advanced development concept based on technologies available today.”, commented Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold, Director of Volkswagen Group Research.

“The eT! research vehicle unifies a whole gamut of innovative functions, which will gain in future importance, specifically for logistics businesses. In particular, the possibility of driving the car semi-automatically – and electrically – in downtown areas unifies economical and environmental aspects more systematically than ever. As a vision of the future, the eT! Is showcasing what is the maximum feasible technology for electric vehicles in the commercial market today with a special design that systematically addresses future customer needs.”
explains Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, spokesperson for the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Variants of this lightweight transport vehicle could be implemented for all conceivable business uses. And these derived concepts are also the focus of research activities. Meanwhile, the eT! concept shown in a world premiere at the Design Centre of Potsdam was specially designed for delivery of mail shipments of all types. The research vehicle will now be integrated in a driving test study and further analysed.

Source: Volkswagen

November 18, 2011

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

Ford has introduced another special Mustang at the LA Auto Show. 2013 Shelby GT500 – raises the bar high on performance with the introduction of the new 2013 model that goes on sale next year delivering 650 horsepower and a top speed of more than 200 mph.

The road-legal Shelby GT500 is powered by a 5.8 liter supercharged V8 with 659PS (485 kW) and 813Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. The gearbox is 6-speed manual, which sends the power to a torsen LSD on the rear wheels. Nothing is said about the acceleration, but the top speed is 322 km/h (200 mph).

The 2013 Shelby GT500 offers two new sets of forged-aluminum wheels including a unique wheel for cars with the optional packages. The 19” front and 20” rear wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires on all vehicle configurations.

The new Shelby GT500 can be ordered with Performance Package includes Bilstein electronically-adjusted dampers, while the Track Package features an external engine-oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler to prevent over-heating on the track.

Other keys for improved traction management include:

Torsen limited-slip differential:When customers order the optional Performance Package, they will get a Torsen limited-slip differential that helps the rear suspension deliver maximum torque and traction better and longer under track conditions

Launch control: A new launch control system lets drivers set the desired launch rpm depending on tire temperature, street surface or other conditions. Unique to SVT’s launch control is that it is integrated with both the engine control and traction control

Brembo braking system: A new Brembo brake system offers drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, both on the road and the track. New six-piston calipers in front along with larger front and rear rotors help improve brake fade. New brake pads that are more aggressive also help the car achieve high deceleration and further robustness for more driver confidence

Source: Ford

November 18, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Price – $54 995

2012 Chevrolet Camaro is one of the most beautiful and stunning cars available on the market. It comes with unique aggressive exterior, brutal engine and nice characteristics even for everyday driving.

“From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” commented Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing.

“The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”, he added.

2012 ZL1 is powered by a supercharged 6.2 liter V8 with whopping 588PS (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft), which is enough to pool several carriages. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic. All that power is sent to the rear wheels, so the handling and fun are insane.

The performance – 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with automatic gearbox and 4.0 seconds with the manual. The top speed is 296 km/h (184 mph) – automatic and 290 km/h (180 mph) – manual.

“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, and a top speed in excess of 180 mph, the power and acceleration of the Camaro ZL1 rivals many supercars,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

“And, horsepower is only half of the story, as the most significant measurement of the ZL1’s potential is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That is a great testament to the power, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1, and to the well-rounded performance of the ZL1 that sets the bar for the sports-car segment.”, he added.

All this pleasure comes at decent price – $54 995, including destination charges, so if you consider buying a sports car, ZL1 is one of the best options available on the market.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 options:

Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185

20”, bright aluminum wheel package is $470

Power sunroof is $900

Stripe package is $470

Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600

The suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500

Source: Chevrolet

November 18, 2011

2013 Ford Mustang GT facelift

Ford has introduced the new 2013 Mustang GT facelift. It is currently exhibited at the Los Angeles Motor Show as well as the 2013 Mustang.

“The new Mustang is the perfect example of continuing to build on excellence. It takes the greatness of the 5.0-liter and V6 and pushes the refinement to the next level,” commented Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer.

“The car has been spot-on functionally and now we’re adding more features and technology to further improve the driver’s experience.”, he added.

2013 Mustang GT is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 with 426PS (313 kW), which is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and 6-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission is available as an option. The shifter has been upgraded for 2013 with more modern style and improved accessibility.

The standard 18” painted aluminum wheel on both GT and premium GT is an evolution of the five-spoke design. The 19” optional GT wheel comes with a gloss-black finish with machined face for a more sinister look.

The 2013 Mustang GT features xenon headlights, a new 4.2” LCD productivity screen, Shaker audio system with 8 speakers – 370 WATTS. The upgraded Shaker Pro offers 9 speakers and delivers 550 WATTS of power. You can also order leather-trimmed or cloth Recaro sports seats.

The 2013 Ford Mustang will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. First sales will start next spring.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeK6tZbQ5TI

Source: Ford

November 18, 2011

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

Jaguar has brought the 2012 XKR-S Convertible at the Los Angeles Motor Show. This is the most powerful and fastest open-topped GT Jaguar has ever built. It comes with unique supercharged AJ-V8 GENIII petrol, revised suspension, uprated Adaptive Dynamics and many other upgrades.

The XKR-S Convertible is powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 550PS (405 kW) and 680Nm (501 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

The sound is incredible, too, because of the performance Active exhaust, which enables higher power and torque and gives the XKR-S its own distinctive soundtrack.

The XKR-S Convertible also features lightweight aluminium architecture providing high torsional rigidity meaning that the vehicle has superb handling. There are also revised front and rear suspension, uprated Adaptive Dynamics system, styling changes including new front bumper design with wider, lower air intake, carbon fibre splitter and twin side nacelles.

The aerodynamics package also includes new sills smooth resulting in 10mm reduction in ride height, unique rear wing with carbon fibre insert and apron.

A very important feature for convertible maniacs is that the roof opens or closes in just 18 seconds with a single touch of a button.

2012 XKR-S Convertible stands on huge 20” alloys fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres – 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 295/30 ZR20 at the rear.
The interior boasts 16-way adjustable Performance seats trimmed in carbon leather, a multifunction three-spoke steering wheel wrapped in leather and stainless steel pedals. Other premium surfaces include soft-feel paint for the switches and a gloss black centre console. An exclusive dark aluminium finish is available as standard with an optional Piano Black finish also available.

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is priced at £103 000 and the first deliveries will start in the beginning of the next year.

Source: Jaguar

November 18, 2011

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US is being currently exhibited at the LA Motor Show.

“Bringing the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth to the U.S. enables us to reach out to driving enthusiasts who want Italian performance at an attainable price,” commented Olivier Francois, Head of FIAT Brand and Chief Marketing Officer – Chrysler Group LLC.

“With its lightweight, track-tuned handling and purpose-built design, the Fiat 500 Abarth brings to life the legendary racing heritage of the brand and becomes the Italian high-performance car for everyday driving.”, he added.

The small city car will be powered by an all-new 1.4 liter MultiAir Turbo engine. There are no exact numbers, but probably the US 500 Abarth will be slightly more powerful than the EU model. The European model boasts 140PS (103 kW) and 206Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque.

Other goodies include Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally included on a small car. The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes the brand’s legendary performance heritage to American streets.

The exterior boasts complete aerodynamics body kit and 16” alloy wheels as standard and possibility for 17” as an option.

The interior comes with Abarth-designed steering wheel with perforated leather and flat bottom. There are also cruise, audio and BLUE&ME^TM Handsfree Communication technology controls on the steering wheel. The instrument cluster has 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer. For a touch of sophistication, the instrument-panel cluster brow is wrapped in Nero leather with Rosso accent stitching. There are Unique Abarth-styled front performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass through, accent stitching around the perimeter and integrated side-thorax air bags.

For a contemporary and technical look, the Fiat 500 Abarth features the center stack, radio and climate control system, as well as the headliner and pillars finished in Nero, while the four-passenger seating is available in Nero (cloth or leather) or Rosso/Nero (leather) color combinations.

Source: Fiat

November 17, 2011

2013 Ford Escape

Ford exhibits 2013 Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this month. The vehicle is based on Vertrek Concept and it is practically the same.

“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” commented Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.

“Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.”, he added.

The exterior of the new Escape boasts a sloping roofline and a tailgate-mounted spoiler, which bring better aerodynamics. There are also a new hood and a prominent grille, power liftgate and 17” alloy wheels. The interior now features better materials and restyled switchgear.

2013 Escape is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 175PS (129 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft, a 2.5 liter with 170PS (125 kW) and 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) and a powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240PS (177 kW) and 338 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque. All engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of FWD and AWD, which is available as an option for EcoBoost variants.

2013 Ford Escape can be ordered with MyFord Touch SAT NAV system, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot Information System.

“This all-new Ford model opens a new chapter in the world of SUVs,” Mr. Kuzak said.

“By being smarter, this utility vehicle will help customers around the globe find better, easier ways to connect with technology, maximize fuel efficiency and find the versatility and capability they need and want.”, he finished.

Source: Ford

November 17, 2011

Subaru BRZ STi Concept

Subaru has unveiled the BRZ STI Concept at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. The sports vehicle come with RWD and it is co-developed with Toyota Motor Corporation.

The car is designed for “Pure Handling Delight” and features horizontally-opposed Boxer engine. The exterior boasts aggressive headlights, a carbon fiber roof and an enormous rear wing. The package also includes a front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a 4-tailpipe exhaust system.

The performance is further boosted by a special sport-tuned suspension and Brembo brake system. BRZ STI sits on 18” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

Subaru BRZ STI Concept is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter Boxer engine with direct injection technology. It is designed with a square bore and stroke of 86 X 86 mm for high output and high environmental standards, which were both attained.

Styling

• By installing the Boxer engine as low as possible, the low hood and sleek roofline together compose a sophisticated form. This is also blended with STI performance touches for a Subaru sporting profile.
• A hexagonal lower front grille, hawk eye headlights and fin-shaped fog lamps make the front face instantly recognizable as Subaru.
• STI-made lower front spoiler and rear wing magnify down-force and aerodynamics performance. They allow stable straight driving and excellent handling at high speeds.
• The rear design with bold rear fender flares, large rear-diffuser, and twin dual tailpipes intensifies the STI performance feel.
• A carbon-fiber roof, already installed in a WRX STI model and highly acclaimed, has been employed by the concept car. With it, extra weight reduction and an even lower center of gravity were achieved, contributing considerably to the ultimate handling performance this concept model aims to offer.

Engine

• The Boxer engine has inherent qualities of light weight, compactness, low center of gravity, and high rigidity – all pointing toward its great potential as a sports car engine. Taking full advantage of these features, a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder direct fuel-injection gasoline engine has been developed exclusively for BRZ.
• The engine has been designed with a square bore and stroke of 86 X 86 mm. Combined with Toyota’s D-4S direct injection technology (fuel injection system), high output and high environmental standards were both attained, both expected of a new generation sports car.

Chassis and Body

• Compared with other Subaru models, the engine in SUBARU BRZ CONCEPT – STI – sits an impressive 120 mm lower and is positioned 240 mm closer to the center of the chassis. As a result, this car has achieved one of the lowest possible center of gravity in cars on the market today.
• By incorporating lightweight parts such as a carbon-fiber roof, the overall weight has been reduced. Subaru has also succeeded in attaining a body structure that is both lightweight and highly rigid in a striking balance. The concept car is the embodiment of pure driving enjoyment only obtainable with a “Boxer sports car”.
• Its unique handling performance has been remarkably refined by adopting STI’s lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires and STI tuned suspension with excellent lateral stiffness.
• Brembo brakes enhance braking performance.

Major Specifications

Overall Length × Width × Height (mm): 4,230 × 1,800 × 1,280
Wheelbase (mm): 2,570
Engine Type: 2.0-liter direct fuel injection naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder
Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine
Tires: 215/45R18 (Front), 225/45R18 (Rear)

Source: Subaru

November 17, 2011

2012 Hyundai Azera

Hyundai Motor America has introduced the new 2012 Azera, which is the fifth vehicle to adopt the company’s signature Fluidic Sculpture design language. The 2012 Azera represents a modern approach to the traditional large sedan segment by using an advanced powertrain, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. This approach has been successful for the other Fluidic Sculpture vehicles.

Azera is the model sitting between Sonata and Genesis. It comes with exclusive exterior design featuring xenon headlights, LED taillights and big 18” alloy wheels. The elegant look continues in the interior, too. Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance, thanks to a flow-through center fascia and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers. The cabin comes with heated leather seats and SAT NAV, but you can also order premium 12-speaker Infinity audio system, ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Among the standard equipment, you’ll find dual automatic climate control, second row air vents and cooled glove box.

2012 Azera is powered by Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI V6 with 297PS (218 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual control. The fuel consumption is satisfying – 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

The vehicle sits on 245/45 R18 tires on 18” Hyper silver alloy wheels – standard. There is an optional 19” Hyper silver alloy wheel fitted with 245/40 R19 tire.

Azera has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).

The colour range includes Black Onyx Pearl, Porcelain White Pearl, Silver Frost Metallic, Smoke Gray Metallic, Hyper Silver Metallic, Venetian Red Pearl, Bronze Mist Metallic and Midnight Blue Pearl. Interior color choices are Camel, Graphite Black and Chestnut Brown.

2012 Hyundai Azera:

All-new second generation Azera with Fluidic Sculpture design
Powered by a new Lambda II 3.3-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission
Horsepower: 293 at 6400 RPM
Best-in-class combined 23 mpg
Better combined fuel efficiency than Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Lexus ES350 and Buick LaCrosse V6
Best-in-class specific output
Nine standard airbags – includes knee airbag
Impact-reducing front seat system
Standard VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD
Best-in-class head and leg room for front-seat passengers
Standard 18-inch alloy wheels and optional 19-inch alloy wheels
HID Xenon headlights with LED accents
Segment-exclusive standard navigation system with rearview camera
Standard leather interior with heated front and rear seats
Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with voice recognition
Standard Blue Link telematics platform
Segment-first manual side window sunshades
Ventilated front seats

Source: Hyundai

November 17, 2011

Volkswagen Beetle R Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show

Volkswagen will exhibit the Beetle R Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The car made its official debut in Frankfurt earlier this year. The US was the biggest market for the previous New Beetle, and that’s likely to remain the same with the new vehicle.

Beetle R comes with redesigned front and rear bumpers. The front has three air intakes in a black high-gloss finish and the rear has a diffuser and four tail-pipes – two either side. Above this sits a large spoiler with a gloss black finish on top and body-coloured finish beneath.

Along the sides flashes of gloss black give the Beetle R a distinctive look: it can be found on the door mirror caps (just as on the Golf R and Scirocco R), the door handles, the 15 mm wider side sills and also on the roof.

The Concept stands on 5-spoke Talladega 20” alloy wheels, which will be familiar to drivers of the Golf R or Scirocco R.

The interior comes with racing seats covered in black Nappa leather and dashboard accented in high gloss black. The instrument panel highlights the Beetle R’s sporting intent: the tachometer is in the middle and the speedometer to the side, while atop the dashboard are three auxiliary instruments: an oil temperature gauge, chronometer and turbo boost pressure indicator, all with distinctive blue needles.

There is no data about the engine, but Golf R and Scirocco R, use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit with 270PS and 265PS, so the power will be around that number.

Source: Volkswagen

November 16, 2011

2012 Bentley Continental GTC US Price – $212 800

Bentley Motors will offer the new Continental GTC to the North American market.

“Los Angeles is the ideal location for Bentley to launch the luxurious and powerful GTC convertible,” commented Alasdair Stewart, Bentley’s Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing.

“Southern California remains the most successful market for Bentley in the US, and the US remains the largest market in the world for the Company. New model introductions, such as the GTC convertible – which will reach US customers later this year – and the new GT coupe – which went on sale in the spring – have helped Bentley global sales grow by a third in 2011.”, he added.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC is powered by a brutal twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine with 567PS (417 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and top speed of 322 km/h (200 mph). The engine is mated to a Quickshift transmission that improves acceleration response times and cuts shift times to only 200 milliseconds.

The GTC’s chassis, the stiffest of any convertible in the world, provides a firm foundation for suspension control, minimising scuttle shake and contributing to the GTC’s refined handling.

The GTC interior comes with luxurious wood and leather. There are also 8” touch-screen infotainment system, and zip-code entry navigation, all supported by a 30GB HDD. To ensure drivers and passengers alike enjoy an extended top-down driving season, the GTC now features neck warmers in the rear headrests of its cobra-head designed slim-line seats. With the top up, acoustics have improved thanks to the addition of acoustically-sensitive undersheet, wheel liners, front and side glass and a three-layer roof with a rubber-film middle layer.

The new Bentley GTC convertible will enter the US market in late 2011. The price tag is as stunning as the car itself – $212 800.

Source: Bentley

November 16, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov