Victor Ivanov – Page 209 – Automobiles Review

BMW 7-Series Luxury Edition Price – £58 920

BMW has announced a special enhanced package, worth £7 785, which is available for an additional £1 500, making the 7-Series Luxury Edition available from just £58 920 OTR. It is really a great price for such premium vehicle.

The BMW 7 Series Luxury Edition offers customers an enhanced specification and is available on all diesel powered 7-Series models. The Luxury Edition adds 19” light alloy multi-spoke wheels, powered bootlid operation, comfort seats, BMW Professional loudspeaker system, rear seat heating, soft-close doors, sports leather steering wheel, exclusive Nappa Leather upholstery and a choice of Azurite or Moonstone BMW Individual metallic paintwork.

Check out the additional equipment featured, below!

Non M Sport models:

19″ light alloy wheels Multi-spoke style 235
Exclusive Azurite or Moonstone BMW Individual metallic paintwork
Bootlid operation, powered
Comfort seats, front
Exclusive extended Nappa Leather upholstery
Loudspeaker system – BMW Professional
Seat heating, rear
Soft-close doors
Sport leather steering wheel, three spoke

M Sport models:

20″ light alloy wheels Double-spoke style 303 M
Exclusive Azurite or Moonstone BMW Individual metallic paintwork
Bootlid operation, powered
Comfort seats, front
Exclusive extended Nappa Leather upholstery
Loudspeaker system – BMW Professional
Seat heating, rear
Soft-close doors

Source: BMW

November 9, 2011

Fleet News – 2010 BMW 3-Series is the most reliable car

The most reliable car is the BMW 3-Series, according to the survey, retaining its number one position from 2010, while the Honda Accord retains its second place from 2010. What is more, German brands have caught up with Japanese cars when it comes to reliability. In other words – six German brands appear in the top 10 as three of them in the top five.

The final two places in the table are taken by two cars absent from the top 10 last year, with the Mazda6 taking ninth place and the BMW 5 Series securing 10^th place. BMW also takes the top spot as the most reliable car manufacturer, with Audi taking second place.

“We are delighted to have won the overall honour in the FN50 reliability survey. The outgoing BMW 3 Series Saloon and the 3 Series range overall has been and continues to be an outstanding success for us.”, commented Tim Abbott, managing director at BMW UK.

“Awards such as this ensure customers can buy a class-leading vehicle safe in the knowledge that only years of enjoyable, hassle free motoring in a premium car await.”, he added.

The annual analysis is commissioned by Fleet News.

Check out all rankings, below!

Most reliable cars

BMW 3 Series
Honda Accord
Volkswagen Golf
Audi A3
Toyota Avensis
Nissan Qashqai
Volkswagen Passat
Audi A4
Mazda6
BMW 5 Series

Most reliable car manufacturers

BMW
Audi
Honda
Volkswagen
Toyota
Nissan
Mercedes-Benz
Ford
Lexus
Skoda

Most reliable vans

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Ford Transit Connect
Volkswagen Caddy
Ford Transit
Volkswagen Transporter

Most reliable van manufacturers

Volkswagen
Ford
Mercedes-Benz
Fiat
Renault

November 9, 2011

Pivo 3 Concept

Nissan will reveal the PIVO 3 EV Concept at the 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show. More interesting is that, this is not just a show car – PIVO 3 is what Nissan envisions to be a more “realistic” EV of the near future.

“PIVO is one of the answers for active urbanists living in mature markets. Through the three PIVO proposals, we have gained a deep understanding of their needs in such large, metropolitan areas.”, said Francois Bancon, Deputy Division General Manager of Product Strategy and Product Planning Division.

Each of the eight concepts that we have created address different needs, different communities, different lifestyles for different markets. That makes zero emission mobility an ambitious statement for the company… At Nissan, we believe that the world is changing and mobility has a role to play to make it better.”, he added.

As part of Nissan’s long-term commitment to lead the way in mass-marketed zero-emission mobility, PIVO 3 stands alongside the Nissan LEAF as a practical approach to sustainability for the real world. Nissan LEAF is a compact hatchback; PIVO is an ultra-compact city commuter targeting singles and couples living in and enjoying an urban lifestyle.

PIVO 3 is a remarkably compact package, measuring just under 3m in length and seating three in a 1+2 layout. The most remarkable about the car is a legal U-turn in a road only 4m wide. Considering that most public roads around the world are at least 4m in width, this means that a U-turn is almost always possible because of its 2m minimum turning radius.

Here, once again, Nissan demonstrates its commitment as a responsible corporate citizen to zero emission mobility with an inspired vision of the way we will live and drive in the near future.

Source: Nissan

November 9, 2011

Lorinser Infiniti FX

Lorinser has announced tuning package for Infiniti FX. The specialist of vibrant refinements of Mercedes-Benz vehicles provides the SUV with a spectacular body design. The tuned Infiniti FX is developed initially exclusively for the Russian market, but the mization programme is also considered to be sold in other markets. We hope so, because Lorinser Infiniti FX look fantastic.

The body kit includes new front and rear bumpers, modified side skirts and nice LED daytime running lights. There are also a roof spoiler and special quad sport exhaust system.

The SUV stands on enormous Lorinser monoblock 22” alloys fitted with high-performance tires Continental CROSS CONTACT in size 285/35 R22.

The interior can be entirely reworked to customer demands. As a supplement to the existing production-type interior features, there is everything your heart’s desire – from personalized floor mats to complete leather furnishings.

No words about pricing or performance modifications.

Source: Lorinser

November 8, 2011

2012 BMW E92 M3 Competition Edition

BMW of North America has announced the 2012 M3 Competition Edition with Frozen Silver exterior paint and other nice upgrades. The vehicles is specially created to celebrate 40 years of the M division. As you may suggest, only 40 units of the special E92 M3 will be created and sold to U.S. customers.

The unique exterior treatment also includes black hood intakes and dark chrome exterior trim, including the kidney grills, the M side gills and the exhaust tips. Black 19” M3 GTS wheels complete the striking exterior.

The interior comes with black Extended Novillo Leather with unique palladium silver accents and palladium silver-contrast stitching on front seats, headrests, door trim panels / handles, center console, and center armrest. There is also an Alcantara-covered multi-function M steering wheel with M3 Checkered Flag logo inlay. Finally, genuine Carbon Fiber trims the dash and center console are added.

2012 BMW E92 M3 Competition Edition Interior

The E92 M3 Competition Edition is powered by a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated hi-revving V8 with 420PS (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft). It is mated to a M-DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission). The acceleration to 60 mph is in 4.5 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

The included Competition Package consists of lowered suspension -by 10mm, M3 GTS 19″ wheels in black with wider offset for enhanced stability, standard Electronic Damping Control with enhanced programming, and higher-threshold programming for the M Dynamic Mode.

The 2012 BMW M3 Competition Edition is priced at $81 060 including destination and handling.

Check out the full specs, below!

2012 BMW M3 Competition Edition

Exterior

• Frozen Silver exterior paint
• Black hood intakes
• Dark Chrome exterior trim
o Kidney Grills
o M side gill elements
o Exhaust tips
• Black M3 GTS 19-inch wheels

Interior

• Extended Black Novillo leather upholstery with Palladium Silver accents
• Palladium Silver stitching on front seats, headrests, door trim panels / handles, center console, and center armrest
• Alcantara multi-function M steering wheel with M3 Checkered Flag logo inlay
• Carbon Fiber interior trim, including dashboard and center console.
• Door sill finishers with M3 Checkered Flag logo.
• Handbrake lever with embroidered M Power logo.

Packages

• Competition Package
o Dynamic Damper Control
o M3 GTS 19-inch light alloy Y-spoke wheels (black)
o Competition package suspension with 10mm lower ride height
o Modified programming for the M Dynamic Mode
• Cold Weather Package
o Ski-bag
o Heated front seats
o Retractable headlight washers
• Premium Package
o Power folding auto-dimming mirrors
o Universal garage-door opener
o Comfort Access keyless entry
o Power rear sunshade
o Power front seats with driver seat memory
o Interior rearview mirror with compass
o Rear Park Distance Control

Options

• M Dual-Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic
• Navigation System with Real-time Traffic Info.
• Bluetooth connectivity
• iPod and USB Adapter
• BMW Apps iPhone integration

Source: BMW

November 8, 2011

2013 Ford Flex

Ford has unveiled the 2013 Flex, which will have its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month. The SUV has a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.

2013 Ford Flex has seven-seats, new generation of MyFord Touch, rear inflatable belts, collision-avoidance technologies, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, first-row heated and cooled seats, power-fold mirrors, an optional new Appearance Package and updated engine range.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter Ti-VCT V6 petrol with 289PS (213 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque, which has 20PS more than the previous version and is more fuel efficient. There is also a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 360PS (265 kW) and 474Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. Both power units are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission, a sequential gearbox with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

MyFord Touch includes two 4.2” screens in the instrument cluster and an 8″ screen in the center stack. The feature pairs with the latest version of SYNC.

The base SYNC package includes:

•   Hands-free, voice-activated calling via a Bluetooth®-connected mobile phone or USB-connected digital music player
•   911 AssistTM, the automated emergency calling service that is free for the life of the vehicle
•   Vehicle Health Report, the on-demand diagnostic and maintenance information service
•   Enhanced safety and driver-aid technology
•   The new Flex is equipped with the automotive world’s first production rear inflatable belts to offer improved comfort and protection for rear seat passengers. Last month, this safety innovation was named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics, part of the magazine’s seventh annual Breakthrough Awards.

2013 Ford Flex - My Ford Touch(R) — 2013 Ford Flex – My Ford Touch(R)

Also new is an Appearance Package on Limited and SEL models that includes an available two-tone roof and mirrors, 20” machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, leather seats, unique door trim panels and other interior upgrades for a truly distinctive, premium look and feel.

There are also nine exterior colors: Ruby Red, Deep Impact Blue and Kodiak Brown. Customers also can choose from body-color roofs, or two-tone with white, gray or black available on the Appearance Package.

2013 Ford Flex is built at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada.

Source: Ford

November 8, 2011

Startech Range Rover Evoque

Range Rover Evoque is one of the sexiest vehicles on the market, especially the 3-door version. It’s unique style is way ahead of time and the vehicle is extremely well appreciated by the motor fans all over the world. To do an even more spectacular Evoque, Startech will reveal their tuning program for the model at the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

The exterior comes with complete aggressive body kit, custom-tailored 9J x 21” forged wheels fitted with size 265/40 R 21 Continental tires, a lowered suspension by 35 mm, a sports exhaust system and high-class interior options. . All body components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.

The interior boasts an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and aluminum pedals, foot rest and shifter. There are also finest leather and Alcantara in any desired color, wood or carbon-fiber trim sets in any desired color and with a wide variety of surface finishes.

Last, but not least, a performance kit for the 2.0-liter SI4 gasoline engine that normally produces 240PS (177 kW) is already in the final stages of development.

Source: Startech

November 8, 2011

2012 Audi A4 1.8 TFSI 120PS Price – £24 000

Audi has priced the all-new 2012 A4 for the UK. The A4 range are already available and the prices start at under £24 000.

2012 Audi A4 has entirely new exterior boasting a new front fascia with modified grille, new headlights and restyled front hood. At the rear, there are a new diffuser, a pair of new taillights and a dual exhaust system. The sport package – S line includes lowered suspension and 18” alloy wheels and an option for 19”.

The interior is also revised and now comes with selection of new steering wheels with chrome and high-gloss inlays. The steering arm and the ignition key have been also modified. There are high-gloss applications and some chrome trim at the controls. The MMI Navigation Plus is further revised as well as the automatic transmission, the efficient air conditioning systems, Audi drive select and the multifunction steering wheel.

The engine range includes six diesel and four petrol power units.

The diesel range includes a 2.0 liter TDI with either 136PS (100 kW) or 163PS (120 kW). There are also options for 120PS (88 kW), 143PS (105 kW) and 177PS (130 kW). The V6 3.0 TDI has either 204PS (150 kW) or 245PS (180kW). All engines come with improved fuel efficiency ranging from 4.2 liters to 4.8 liters of fuel per 100 km.

The petrol variants are a new 1.8 liter TFSI with 170PS (125 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft), a 1.8 TFSI with 120PS (88 kW) and a 2.0 liter TFSI with 211PS (155 kW). The mighty 3.0 liter petrol has 272PS (200 kW). The average consumption in the A4 Sedan is limited to 5.6 liters per 100 km.

The top-of-range S4 has supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with 333 PS (245 kW) and 440Nm (324 lb-ft). The performance is superb – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds flat and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Furthermore, it need just 8.0 litres per 100 km.

New generation Saloon and Avant versions of the accomplished A4 premium compact executive Saloon, Avant and allroad quattro models combine an even more sharply tailored look and an expanded line-up of engines bringing economy gains of up to 21 per cent. Due in March 2012, the new generation A4 ranges will be priced from just under £24 000.

Check out the full price list, below!

2012 Audi A4 and S4 range – UK OTR Pricelist:

A4 Saloon SE
1.8 TFSI 120PS six-speed manual	£sub-24K (from early 2012)
1.8 TFSI 170PS six-speed manual	£25,240
1.8 TFSI 170PS eight-speed multitronic	£26,720
2.0 TFSI 211PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,170
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS six-speed manual	£29,170
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS seven-speed S tronic	£30,650
2.0 TDIe 136PS six-speed manual	£26,555
2.0 TDI 143PS six-speed manual	£26,555
2.0 TDI 143PS eight-speed multitronic	£28,035
2.0 TDIe 163PS six-speed manual	£27,575
2.0 TDI 177PS six-speed manual	£27,575
2.0 TDI 177PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,055
2.0 TDI quattro 177PS six-speed manual	£29,120
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,490
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS six-speed manual	£TBC
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS seven-speed S tronic	£34,600

S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS six-speed manual	£38,665
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS seven-speed S tronic	£39,915

Premium for SE Technik specification – £1,100
Premium for S line specification – £2,555
Premium for Black Edition specification – £1,250

A4 Avant SE
1.8 TFSI 120PS six-speed manual	£TBC (available early 2012)
1.8 TFSI 170PS six-speed manual	£26,455
1.8 TFSI 170PS eight-speed multitronic	£27,920
2.0 TFSI 211PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,385
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS six-speed manual	£30,370
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS seven-speed S tronic	£31,850
2.0 TDIe 136PS six-speed manual	£27,755
2.0 TDI 143PS six-speed manual	£27,755
2.0 TDI 143PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,235
2.0 TDIe 163PS six-speed manual	£28,775
2.0 TDI 177PS six-speed manual	£28,775
2.0 TDI 177PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,255
2.0 TDI quattro 177PS six-speed manual	£30,320
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed multitronic	£31,805
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS six-speed manual	£TBC
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS seven-speed S tronic	£35,825
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS six-speed manual	£39,865
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS seven-speed S tronic	£41,115

Premium for SE Technik specification – £1,100
Premium for S line specification – £2,555
Premium for Black Edition specification – £1,250

Source: Audi

November 8, 2011

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription

Volvo UK has announced the new special edition C70 Inscription, which is the world’s first four-seater convertible car with a three-piece folding hard top as standard.

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription also comes with painted grille and black 18” wheels with exclusive interior features, including Sovereign Hide upholstery and a leather-covered dashboard.

The new C70 Inscription will be limited to just 2 000 units a year as each starts at £33 855 OTR for the D3 SE Inscription and can be ordered from mid-November with first deliveries in February 2012

“The Inscription is based on our human-centric Designed Around You philosophy, offering those customers who love convertibles and coupés a beautifully detailed version with a lot of kerb appeal,” commented Doug Speck, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Corporation.

The engine range includes both five-cylinder 2.0 litre diesel engines: the D4 with 177PS (130 kW) and 400 Nm (296 lb-ft) and D3 with 150PS (110 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft). It is available in three colours: Black Stone (Solid), Black Sapphire (Metallic) and Ice White (Solid) and also benefits from exclusive 18” black Midir alloy wheels with black detailing and polished spokes and outer rim.

At the front of the Inscription edition, the high-gloss paint on the grille and the LED Daytime Running Lights are both surrounded by contrasting chrome, giving this C70 a distinctive “face”.

The Volvo C70 Inscription will debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show that opens on November 16^th.

Exclusive interior
The interior also features a distinctive new look that echoes the unique exterior, including:

An exclusive leather-covered dashboard with contrasting stitching
Sovereign Hide upholstery in Off Black or Calcite with the same contrasting stitching as on the dashboard, handbrake lever and carpets
“Inscription” embroidered on the front headrests
Special Inscription carpets and handbrake lever
Steering wheel and gear shift knob with aluminium inlays
Sports pedals with aluminium inlay
Aluminium inlay in the iconic ultra-slim centre stack is standard, Black or Nordic Light Oak as an option

Source: Volvo

November 8, 2011

2012 Nissan GT-R

Here is a little, but important lesson: How to improve perfection? It is not so simply, because firstly you need 2011 Nissan GT-R, then you’ll have to add some more horsepower and torque, after that you have to set-up the chassis and transmission, and finally to add some more comfort inside the vehicle. The result is 2012 MY GT-R.

2012 Nissan GT-R is powered by the famous 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, which now delivers 550PS (404 kW) at 6400RPM and 652Nm (483 lb-ft) at just 3200RPM.

Engine response and torque at mid and low-speeds, and power at high revolutions, has been significantly improved, mainly due to:

Improved intake efficiency
Better air flow resistance, which has been reduced by the addition of an intake manifold fitted to the head of each unit and the use of resin in the enlarged air intake duct for the intercooler.
Improved exhaust emissions efficiency and enhanced control.
Reduced air flow resistance thanks to a more compact under floor catalyser which improves emissions efficiency and reduces weight.
Improved exhaust valve cooling performance by the adoption of a newly-designed metallic sodium-filled valve. At the same time, valve control timing, the air mixture ratio and ignition timing have been improved.

The gearbox received better shift fork arm and a firmer fixing bearing for the flywheel housing. A special differential oil R35 COMPETITION Type 2189E (75W140), which was developed for competition is now used in every version of GT-R.

The body has also received some modifications – reinforcing of certain areas and improved inter-vehicle detection capability. This was achieved by changes in the positioning of the sensor and more rigid, highly-damped vehicle body, and by adding a more accurate acceleration sensor in areas with higher sensitivity in the vibration testing of each vehicle body.

More power needs better suspension with improved responsiveness, smoothness and steering feel, as well as enhanced cornering stability and riding comfort.

Inside, 2012 GT-R has blue lighting inside the tachometer ring to match the shift position indicator light, Rear View Camera device (standard) and Bose sound system woofers.

With the latest 2012MY version, the legend that is the Nissan GT-R continues to evolve.

Source: Nissan

November 7, 2011

Senner Opel Astra

Senner Tuning has announced a new tuning package for the latest Opel Astra, which is just astonishing even without any modifications. However, the tuning specialists have developed both styling and performance upgrades.

The 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol gets a performance upgrade boosting the engine from 140PS (103 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) to 165PS (121 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft). The engine control system was adapted by SENNER, and the BMC sport air filter was installed. The stainless steel muffler with a 140×90 mm pipe on the right and left side is custom made. Furthermore, there is a power converter – tuning for the electric acceleration pedal.

The exterior package includes a matte black Steinmetz front grille, a roof spoiler, a front spoiler lip with a sword, a set of side shafts in two-color design and a rear skirt insert.

The tuned vehicle stands on nice Alutec rims in dimensions 8J x 19” fitted with 235/35R 19 Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta. Last, but not least, the suspension can be adjusted to your own taste.

All in all, this conversion costs approximately € 11 900.

Source: Senner

November 7, 2011

2012 Toyota Avensis Price – £18 450

Toyota has revealed the full price list for the new 2012 Avensis. It comes in three different trim levels – T₂, TR and T Spirit with range starting at £18 450 for the 1.8 Valvematic T₂ saloon with 6-speed manual transmission.

“This is great news for Burnaston, we are proud to be starting work on the new Avensis, a car that is central to Toyota’s European strategy and a key model for the UK. British-built, and with petrol engines sourced from Toyota’s Deeside factory plus ultra-efficient diesels, it is a stronger market contender than ever before.”, said Tony Walker, Toyota Manufacturing UK Deputy Managing Director.

Every grade in the new Avensis range is revised to deliver greater value for money through higher levels of standard equipment and quality.

All models have integral daytime running light, cabin trims and upholstery have been upgraded with new finishes, designs and colour choices.

Check out the full price list, below!

GRADE	BODY	ENGINE & TRANSMISSION	OTR PRICE
T₂	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£18,450
T₂	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£19,470
T₂	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£19,485
T₂	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£20,505
T₂	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£19,445
T₂	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£20,480
TR	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£20,545
TR	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£21,565
TR	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£21,580
TR	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£22,600
TR	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£21,525
TR	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£22,560
TR	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£22,485
TR	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£23,520
TR	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£23,875
TR	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£24,910
T₄	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£22,320
T₄	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£23,340
T₄	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£23,355
T₄	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£24,375
T₄	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£23,300
T₄	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£24,355
T₄	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£24,260
T₄	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£25,295
T₄	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£25,365
T₄	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£26,400
T Spirit	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£25,145
T Spirit	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£26,825
T Spirit	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£26,105
T Spirit	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£27,785
T Spirit	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£27,210
T Spirit	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£28,885

Source: Toyota

November 7, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov