Automobiles Review

Author: Victor Ivanov

  • 2012 BMW X3

    BMW extends the range of superbly successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) – X3. BMW X3 xDrive20i and the BMW X3 xDrive35d will join the line-up in the Autumn of 2011. Both engines boast BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and have a further optimised performance and fuel consumption.

    2012 BMW X3 Drive20i is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The result in numbers is 184PS (135 kW) at 4800RPM and 270Nm of torque at just … 1250RPM. Seriously, this 2.0 liter engine pulls way better than enormous V8. Furthermore, it is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides ultimate shifting.

    2012 BMW X3 Rear
    2012 BMW X3 Rear

    The standard range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes, among other features, the Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches the engine off when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in congestion in order to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption when idling.

    The world’s sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine fitted in BMW X3 xDrive35d is also revised. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line also features twin-scroll turbocharger. The power bumps to 313PS (230 kW) at 4400RPM and the maximum torque is 630Nm between 1500RPM and 2500RPM. The injection system features precision solenoid injectors and maximum pressure of 1 800 bar to guarantee particularly efficient and clean combustion. The BMW X3 xDrive35d comes equipped as standard with the 8-speed automatic transmission including Auto Start-Stop.

    2012 BMW X3 is the only model in the segment, which offers the option of a Head-Up Display and in-car internet access. It also boasts luggage compartment between 550 and 1 600 litres of space.

    So, what is the conclusion? The new X3 is not the best looking car, but it offers supreme extras and driving pleasure, especially with these engine masterpieces.

    2012 BMW X3 FrontSide
    2012 BMW X3 FrontSide
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3
    2012 BMW X3

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson

    Ford has announced the 2012 F-150 Harley-Davidson Edition. The pick-up truck comes with staggering 6.2 liter V8 engine, snakeskin leather interior accents, a new stylized bodyside graphic and a new wheel and premium paint color.

    “This is a great pairing of two icons of the open road: Ford and Harley-Davidson. Both brands appeal to truck owners and motorcycle enthusiasts alike,” said Marc Lapine, Ford F-150 marketing manager.

    “For 2012 we worked with Harley-Davidson to continue to push the styling envelope while still delivering the durability and power that F-150 is known for and that our collective customers expect. It perfectly captures both brands.”, he added.

    2012 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson Edition is available two main colours – Tuxedo Black or White Platinum Tri-Coat. The vehicle also comes with a exterior graphics, huge 22” alloy wheels, darkened headlights and a six-bar grille.

    The interior boasts superb heated leather seats, snakeskin leather interior accents, a Harley-Davidson badge on the center console and 8” touch-screen GPS SAT NAV system.

    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Interior
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Interior

    The massive 6.2 liter V8 engine produces 417PS (306 kW) and 588Nm (434 lb-ft). It is mated to a 6-speed  automatic gearbox. The power is put on the road through RWD or an optional four-wheel-drive.

    • SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing
    • Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel efficiency and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions
    • Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle
    • Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Side
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Side
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition

    2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150:

    • Power moonroof
    • Rear view camera
    • Second-row heated seats
    • Ambient lighting
    • Remote Start System
    • 110-volt power inverter
    • Power-adjustable performance pedals

    F-Series firsts:

    • 20″ wheels
    • 22″ wheels
    • Wet-on-wet paint
    • Superchargers
    • Badges as interior ornamentation
    • All-wheel drive
    • Power deployable running boards
    • High-gloss painted interior

    Source: Ford

  • 2012 Opel Insignia

    Opel has announced the new 2012 Insignia coming with best-in-class new 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX engine, new 2.0 turbo petrol, Start/Stop system and added value.

    The exterior remains the same, but the vehicle gets a new “Luxor” metallic paint and new alloy wheels. Still, the interior boasts “Indian Night” Nappa leather seats, new infotainment systems – Navi 600 and Navi 900 Europa, an improved front camera system with Forward Collision Alert system.

    The interesting updates are the two new engines – 1.4 liter turbo ecoFLEX with 140 PS (103 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque, which replaces the old 1.8 liter unit. The powerplant is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. It manages to achieve 5.7 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km. The performance is satisfying – 0 to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h (128 mph).

    The powerful 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol develops 250PS (185 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual enabling the vehicle to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Average fuel consumption – 8.4 liters per 100 km and 197 g/km of CO2.

    The 220PS 2.0 turbo with FWD and 6-speed manual transmission will soon be available with the intelligent fuel-saving technology – including aerodynamic underbody paneling and rolling-resistance-optimized tires.

    2012 Opel Insignia Engine - Ecotec
    2012 Opel Insignia Engine – Ecotec

    Source: Opel

  • Renault Clio Gordini – 1.6 VVT 128 and 1.5 dCi 106

    Renault has announced two new models in the line-up of Clio Gordini.

    The Gordini range starts with the 1.6 VVT 128, which is 1.6 liter four-cylinder petrol with 128PS, which is taken from Twingo Renaultsport 133, but it is slightly de-tuned. However, it offers 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and an impressive 42.2 mpg on the combined cycle.

    Renault Clio Gordini 128 is priced at £14 000 on-the-road.

    The second new model is 1.5 dCi 106, which has 106PS 1.5 turbo-diesel engine returning up to 62.8 mpg on combined cycle and just 110g/km of C02. Still, the car is capable of doing 191 km/h (119mph ). It is also free from road fund licence and only £20 in the second year.

    Renault Clio Gordini 106 is priced at £14 950 on-the-road.

    Renault Clio Gordini boasts twin white racing stripes across the bonnet, roof and tailgate. There are also white electric folding door mirrors and front bumper strip, Gordini badges, 16” Turini alloy wheels, body colour rear spoiler and twin tailpipe exhausts.

    The interior comes with grey cloth upholstery with Gordini logo, leather Gordini steering wheel with grey detail and white stripe, Gordini satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and black surround with satin chrome gaiter lever.

    Standard are also 4x20W radio CD with aux input and fingertip remote controls, auto lights and wipers, climate control, cruise control, front curtain airbags and speed limiter.

    Renault Clio Gordini 128/106
    Renault Clio Gordini 128/106
    Renault Clio Gordini 200
    Renault Clio Gordini 200
    Renault Clio Gordini 200
    Renault Clio Gordini 200
    Renault Clio Gordini 200
    Renault Clio Gordini 200

    Source: Renault

  • 2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S

    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S is priced at £11 150 and it will hit the market on 1st September. The new DIG-S engine boasts low-emission technology and good performance without sacrificing the fuel economy.

    The new 1.2 litre three cylinder supercharged petrol engine DIG-S boasts 98PS and returns 65.7 mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of just 95g/km of CO2 for the Visia version. The engine is mated to 5-speed manual or an optional advanced CVT automatic for additional £1 000.

    The new DIG-S boasts direct injection, valve timing control with eco mode, improved exhaust gas recirculation, specially shaped pistons and a higher compression ratio.

    A Stop/Start function also helps to reduce emissions and fuel consumption by automatically turning off the engine whilst stationary and restarts again when you are ready to move off.

    Competitive insurance group ratings for the DIG-S has been set at 8E for the Visia and 9E for the Acenta and Tekna grades, based on the Association of British Insurers (ABI) 50 group rating system.

    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S
    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S
    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S
    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S
    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S
    2011 Nissan Micra DIG-S

    Source: Nissan

  • 2011 Ford Fiesta Centura

    Ford has announced a new special edition Fiesta – the Centura. The vehicle builds on the most popular model and engine choice in the UK, which means £600 of customer value with extras including LED daytime running lights.

    The model is released to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ford in Britain, and, available exclusively in black. There will be 1000 units to go on sale at the end of August, priced at £13 395.

    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura comes with metallic Panther Black paint, chrome mirror and door caps, LED daylight running lights, 16” 7-spoke alloy wheels,  automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers,  reverse parking sensors and a parking camera mounted in the rear view mirror.

    The vehicle is powered by a 1.25-litre 82PS petrol engine, which delivers great fuel economy and decent performance.

    “Fiesta has been a UK favourite its entire lifetime and it was a natural choice to use this great icon to help mark our centenary. With a unique specification and affordable price, the Centura will appeal to thousands of customers, and we anticipate strong demand – who knows it might even become a collector’s car one day!”, commented Anthony Ireson, marketing director, Ford of Britain.

    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura Front
    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura Front
    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura
    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura
    2011 Ford Fiesta Centura

    Source: Ford

  • FPV GT Black Special Edition

    FPV (Ford Performance Vehicles) has today announced the launch the GT Black. The vehicle is practically the same as FPV Concept, which was recently introduced.

    The exterior boasts a Silhouette black paint with matte decals on the bonnet, rear wing and bodyside. There is also a big rear spoiler, darkened headlights and enormous 19” five-spoke alloy wheels fitted with low profile performance tires.

    The interior comes with black leather trim throughout, a black finish around the Interior Command Centre (ICC) unit, tissue box and door spears, and a unique black gear shift badge on manual transmission models.

    “We were totally blown away by the positive feedback received from fans and show-goers on our Concept”, said FPV General Manager Rod Barrett.

    “We knew we had a winner with the black paintwork and we wanted to action something immediately. The public spoke and we listened and I am just thrilled we have been able to put the GT BLACK into production so quickly”, he added.

    “All the feedback received has been collated and the results present exciting possibilities for the FPV brand in the future. The GT BLACK is the beginning of some exciting times ahead as we continue to work on new product and design enhancements to reflect the needs and wants of the market”, Mr. Barrett finished.

    FPV GT Black is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 supercharged V8 with 455PS (335 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. The power is put on the road through rear-wheel drive with LSD.

    Production will be limited to 125 units. The performance vehicle is priced $74 290 AUD.

    FPV GT Black Special Edition FrontSide
    FPV GT Black Special Edition FrontSide
    FPV GT Black Special Edition RearSide
    FPV GT Black Special Edition RearSide
    FPV GT Black Special Edition Side
    FPV GT Black Special Edition Side

    Source: Ford

  • Skoda Octavia Greenline II achieves 74.3 mpg

    Skoda Octavia Hatch Greenline II achieved incredible 74.3 mpg, which secured the top honour in the “Small Family Car” category in the Next Green Car Awards 2011.

    Octavia GreenLine II is available in both hatchback and estate models.

    The cleanest and most fuel efficient Octavia ever made, the GreenLine II is powered by a 1.6 TDI CR 105PS engine that features common rail technology. It returns 74.3 mpg (hatch) and 67.3 mpg (estate), and CO2 emissions of only 99 g/km (hatch) and 109 g/km (estate). Furthermore, the vehicle costs £0 a year to tax.

    “We are delighted to win this award.  ŠKODA’s second generation GreenLine product range has been developed to showcase cutting-edge technologies that reduce emissions and keep running costs to a minimum without compromising on the exceptional value for money and high quality for which ŠKODA has become famous.”, said Chris Horrell, ŠKODA UK Product Marketing Manager.

    Skoda Octavia Greenline II FrontSide
    Skoda Octavia Greenline II FrontSide

    Source: Skoda

  • Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition

    Hyundai-Genesis-Coupe-GT-Limited-Edition-thumbHyundai will hit the German market with limited edition Genesis Coupe GT. The vehicle was inspired by the Hyundai Schuhmann Motor Sport Team. They have recently raced at the 24-hr endurance race at the Nurburgring.

    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT is powered by the well-known 3.8 liter V6 with 303 PS (223 kW) and 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). Really, not impressive results, but the car is fast enough to make you smile behind the steering wheel.

    The sound of the engine is brutal, because of the stainless-steel sport exhaust system with quad pipes at the rear.

    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition sits 30 mm lower to the ground on 19” light-alloy OZ Ultraleggera alloys in Matt Graphite Silver fitted with Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tires.

    Only 50 units will be produced exclusively for the German market. The price tag is €41 990.

    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition FrontSide
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition FrontSide
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition FrontSide 2
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition FrontSide 2
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition RearSide
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition RearSide
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition Side
    Hyundai Genesis Coupe GT Limited Edition Side

    Source: Hyundai

  • Irmscher Opel Astra GTC

    Irmscher are ready with their tuning package for Opel Astra GTC. The tuning company offer both styling and performance upgrades.

    The aerodynamics kit includes a new grille, front spoiler lip, roof spoiler and a rear diffuser, which houses quad exhaust tips. Irmscher also offers complete sports exhaust system with oval tips.

    Furthermore, the stance is improved by lowering the vehicle with 30mm. Irmscher Astra GTC stands on enormous 21” alloy wheels fitted with low profile 245 tires.

    The interior boasts leather upholstery and a set of Irmscher pedals.

    The 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol engine is boosted to 220PS (162 kW) and 274Nm (202 lb-ft), which is an improvement of 40PS (30 kW).

    Irmscher Opel Astra GTC FrontSide
    Irmscher Opel Astra GTC FrontSide
    Irmscher Opel Astra GTC
    Irmscher Opel Astra GTC
    Irmscher Opel Astra GTC

    Source: Irmscher

  • Twin charging points in Lincoln

    Nissan will fund the installation of Lincoln’s first public electric vehicle charging point. The main reason is the latest Top Gear show, where the presenters Jeremy Clarkson and James May drove a pair of electric vehicles, including the Nissan LEAF, into the centre of Lincoln in an attempt to find somewhere to charge their cars.

    Of course, they made fun on electric cars, because you simply cannot find a place to charge them and if you got lucky to plug your car in, you’ll have to wait … 9 or 10 hours to charge the battery 100%.

    Should the presenters choose to attempt the journey again in future, they will discover a newly-installed PodPoint charging unit dedicated to them. With two sockets, it would allow both Jeremy and James to recharge their batteries at the same time. Charging will be free of charge to electric vehicle owners. Good!

    “The Top Gear programme highlighted the fact that Lincoln does not currently provide for electric cars and we’re really pleased that Nissan is now funding a charging point.  We’re committed to reducing the city’s carbon footprint, but know that we can’t do it alone, so it’s great that private businesses like Nissan are getting behind this and putting in the infrastructure.”, commented Councillor Fay Smith, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services and Public Protection at the City of Lincoln Council.

    “This is excellent news for the electric car community of Lincoln. If the charging point had existed when Top Gear were there, James wouldn’t now be walking around with Jeremy’s name tattooed on his bottom. Still, better late than never.”, commented Top Gear Executive Producer Andy Wilman.

    “Research tells us that most LEAF owners will charge their car at home or at their place of work, but drivers like having the ability to ‘top up’ their charge when they are out and about, especially if they are making longer journeys. With its new charging points and the fame generated by Top Gear, Lincoln could find itself becoming a tourist destination for Nissan LEAF owners.”, finished Nissan’s Executive Vice President Andy Palmer.

    Twin charging points in Lincoln Test Vehicle
    Twin charging points in Lincoln Test Vehicle
    Twin charging points in Lincoln Plug
    Twin charging points in Lincoln Plug
    Twin charging points in Lincoln Plug 02
    Twin charging points in Lincoln Plug 02

    Source: Nissan

  • BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172

    Brabus has announced their tuning program for the latest Mercedes-Benz SLK – the R172 model.

    The roadster received aerodynamics package consisting of two front spoiler lips, rear fenders, rear diffuser and a rear spoiler on the trunk lid. All aerodynamic-enhancement elements also serve more than just a visual function; they reduce lift in the rear as well.

    Brabus R172 stands on Monoblock wheels available in various one-piece or multi-piece designs with diameters ranging from 17” to 20”.

    In the gallery you will find BRABUS Monoblock F wheels painted the new exclusive Liquid Titanium color. The dimensions are 8.5J x 20” in front and in size 9.5J x 20” on the rear fitted with high-performance tires – Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 275/25 ZR 20, respectively.

    The tuner also offers custom-developed sport springs. They are calibrated to work with the production shocks, and lower the ride height of the two-seater by some 30 mm.

    BRABUS also offers various versions of its high-performance brake systems for the new SLK.

    The performance upgrades include: the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra B20 CGI, BRABUS ECO PowerXtra B25 CGI and BRABUS ECO PowerXtra B25S CGI.

    Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system comes with four tailpipes.

    The interior boasts high-gloss polished stainless-steel scuff plates with BRABUS logo and sporty elements such as aluminum foot pedals and shifter. The seats can be upholstered in BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172 FrontSide
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172 FrontSide
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172
    BRABUS Mercedes SLK R172

    Source: Brabus