Victor Ivanov – Page 255 – Automobiles Review

Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0

Here are some pictures from TeamSpeed of Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 . The super sports car will be produced in limited series of just 500 units.

The exterior boasts a race-inspired GT3 rear wing, painted front and rear carbon fiber fascias.

Inside, the new GT3 4.0 has racing seats with RS 4.0 badges, rear-seat rollcage, Alcantara shift knob and steering wheel, and weight-saving door release handles. The bad news is that the SAT NAV will be romoved for saving weight.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 is powered by a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated flat six with 500PS (368 kW), which is 50HP more than the standard production GT3 RS which comes with a 3.8 liter engine.

Stay tuned for more information and some better pictures of this astonishing car!

Porsche 911 GT3 RS 40

Source: Porsche

April 27, 2011

BMW 1-Series M is faster than E92 M3 at Hockenheimring

BMW 1-Series M once again proved, that it is amazing small sports car. It managed to outrun the bigger and more powerful E92 M3 around Hockenheimring circuit in Germany. Sport Auto took a stock 1 Series M Coupe and let it race against a current-generation (E92) M3 with ZCP competition package and dual-clutch transmission.

1-Series M is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder with 340PS (250 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission. The E92 M3 has mighty 4.0 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 420PS (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

Despite the more power, E92 M3 achieved a best lap – 1:14.1 and the 1-Series M finished around the track in 1:14.2. The difference is insignificant, but the both Motorsport BMWs are a lot faster than Audi RS5 with 1:15.3 and TT-RS with 1:14.3.

Still, Cayman S made a lap around the track for 1:13.9 with automatic gearbox and 1:14.0 with manual transmission.

However, 1-Series M is not only a great sports car, but it reminds to the old BMW, which were made for pure driving pleasure.

2011 BMW 1-Series M

Source: BMW

April 27, 2011

Caterham Seven Team Lotus Special Edition

Caterham has announced a new Team Lotus Special Edition Seven model. The vehicle is created specially to celebrated the company’s new ownership. The upgrade package will be limited to just 25 units and can be applied to any variant up to the top-of-the-range Superlight R500 with 263BHP.

For £3 000 more, your car can be painted in the famous green and yellow colours of Lotus and will come with a raft of bespoke Team Lotus additions. The upgrade package will also include an invitation to a customised tour of the Team Lotus F1 factory in Hingham, Norfolk.

“Caterham Cars is starting an exciting and hugely important chapter, so it’s entirely fitting that we celebrate our opportunity to take Colin Chapman’s ‘less is more’ philosophy global, with this special car.” Commented Caterham managing director, Ansar Ali.

“Owners of the Special Edition Sevens will have not only a fabulous British sportscar, but a genuine piece of automotive history in their garage.”, he added

Caterham Seven is priced at £13 650, excluding the upgrade package.
Caterham Seven Team Lotus Special Edition

Source: Caterham

April 27, 2011

RENM Audi R8 V10 RMS Spyder

RENM Performance has unveiled the tuned version of Audi R8 V10 Spyder. The new RMS is lighter, faster and exclusive version featuring carbon kevlar materials and revised aerodynamics.

The exterior package includes a revised front grille, brake cooling chambers, front splitter, redesigned front and rear side grilles and rear diffuser.

Audi R8 V10 RMS Spyder stands on enormous Racelight 20” wheels with Sportcup tyres and Superlight 19” wheels with race specification tires. The rims have dimensions 9J at the front and 11J at the rear and are fitted with 245/30 and 305/30 or 235/35 and 305/25.

The interior boasts lightweight sport seats and additional carbon fiber trim – steering wheel, complete center console, instrument gauge, shift gate, hand brake, arm rests and door trims.

R8 V10 RMS Spyder is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 with 600PS and 585Nm (431 lb-ft). The power is improved thanks to a carbon fiber air intake, a high performance exhaust system and an ECU re-map. The tuner also installed race hydraulic height-adjustable suspension and modified ceramic brakes for excellent performance.

RENM Audi R8 V10 RMS Spyder

Source: RENM Performance

April 27, 2011

BMW Motorsport – M3 GT

BMW Motorsport is preparing their cars for the very important endurance race – 24-hour Le Mans. Together with 52 other cars, the two BMW M3 GTs with car numbers 55 and 56 took to the “Circuit de la Sarthe” on Sunday, completing a total of 147 laps.

The team collected very useful data, which will be used for the settings of the M3 GT race cars. The 24h Le Mans race will be held on 11^th/12^th June 2011, so the team has a month and a half to prepare the two BMWs.

The No.55 BMW M3 GT, with Augusto Farfus (BR), Jörg Müller (DE) and Dirk Werner (DE) at the wheel, came third in the GTE Pro class after two four-hour test sessions with a lap time of 4:01.631 minutes. Andy Priaulx (GB), Dirk Müller (DE) and Joey Hand (US) shared driving duties in the second BMW M3 GT, finishing seventh after clocking a time of 4:03.856 minutes.

This test ahead of the 24-hour race definitely was an important one for us,” commented Team Manager Charly Lamm following the test day.

“Le Mans is such a unique and mighty venue that every single lap of this track helps. The team used the occasion to reacquaint itself with the special demands and workings asked for by this classic circuit. The test was of particular importance for Joey Hand. He was a Le Mans rookie and successfully qualified for the race held in June. Conditions were excellent, all six drivers managed to put in many laps and collected a lot of data.”, he added.

BMW Motorsport - M3 GT

Source: BMW Motorsport

April 26, 2011

2012 Vauxhall Astra GTC

Vauxhall has announced the new 2012 Astra GTC. The vehicle will actually go in production and it will have its official debut on September 15 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. For now, the company has released a few pictures, where the hot hatch races down an imaginary road.

Full details about the new GTC like pricing, technology, equipment and powertrains will be revealed closer to the release date.

2012 Astra GTC is based on the last year’s GTC Paris Concept Car. The production Astra GTC will include a 3-door body with dramatic proportions, yet will be capable of carrying five adults. It will also feature the latest safety technologies as well as nice equipment and good materials.

Stay tuned for more information!

2012 Vauxhall Astra GTC

Source: Vauxhall

April 26, 2011

Luxgen Neora at the Auto Shanghai 2011

Luxgen has exhibited several vehicles at the Auto Shanghai 2011: LUXGEN7 SUV, LUXGEN7 CEO and LUXGEN7 MPV EV⁺. However, the „rear deal” is the intelligent electric concept – Neora.

“Neora perfectly represents LUXGEN’s brand spirit of Think Ahead, and the new form of appearance will be the design cues for LUXGEN’s upcoming models in the future. Its streamline flow, and the innovation of lightweight, as well as fuel economy, represent the novelty of LUXGEN’s energy saving future technologies. ” commented Mr. James Shyr, Executive Vice President of HAITEC from Yulon Group.

Luxgen Neora is a FWD intelligent electric vehicle with 245PS (180kW) electric motor, which receives power from the 48 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The range is up to 400km, when it is fully charged and the performance is awesome – 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h. The curb weight of Neora is 1 600kg. It also features PDLC electric glass sunroof, infotainment system with an LED screen, ergonomic seating and head-up display.

The exterior is staggering, mainly because of the headlights, which create the hi-tech visual effect and the minimum intake area decreasing the drag coefficient and achieving both aesthetics and energy-efficiency.

“Genius” is the beginning of all the initiatives of LUXGEN, and “Luxury” enjoyment is the means to fulfill all the needs. “Genius” means to Think Ahead before our customers, and to think for our customers; the intelligent technology of LUXGEN provides a brand new inspiration to everyone. “Luxury” means to Think Ahead on the numerous details, and to care on the humane demands with respect. And a better prospect that LUXGEN is committed to, is becoming a greater reality in the near future.

Luxgen Neora Concept

Source: Luxgen

April 26, 2011

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

Jeep has introduced the new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the 2011 New York Auto Show (NAIAS). It is the most powerful SUV, which the manufacturer has ever made.

The power comes from a enormous 6.4 liter HEMI V8 with 465HP (342 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft), which is available from just 2800RPM and up to 6000RPM. 0 to 100 km/h is reached in 4.8 seconds and the top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). With such performance, the big SUV is a real rival to the mighty BMW X5M, ML63 AMG and Cayenne Turbo.

2012 Cherokee SRT8 is able to pull up to 0.9 G on the skid pad, so it is not fast only in straight line, but the big SUV is able to turn very well. The reason is a new adaptive damping suspension managed by new Selec-Track system.

The new Cherokee SRT8 offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel, better interior quality and brutal exterior. It also comes with a mind-blowing 19-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio surround-sound system with total power of 825 Watts and a 10” subwoofer.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is scheduled to hit the market in the third quarter 2011. Price list is not announced, yet.

Safety and security:

Active head restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger’s head
Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for one second to indicate a lane change
Adaptive cruise control (ACC): The system decreases the vehicle’s pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. ACC will maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic without having to continuously adjust settings
Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
Anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection: Anti-lock brake system capable of detecting if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. When rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses
BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes, or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance
Brake Override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the car
Brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning
during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)
Child seat anchor system: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
Constant-force Retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt, and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
Electronic roll mitigation (ERM): An extension of electronic stability control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path
Energy-absorbing steering column: The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine
Express Up/Down Windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent the vehicle from a collision
High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
Hill-start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released
Keyless Enter-N-Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively
Navigation system: Voice-activated navigation system available with real-time traffic to provide precise guidance to destination through the use of global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology
ParkSense® rear park assist system: Assists at low speeds in reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster
ParkView® rear back-up camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid line to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle’s trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
Power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with memory: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed
Rain Brake Support: Uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
Rain-sensing wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
Ready Alert Braking: Anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
Rear Cross Path (RCP): In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
Remote (fob) operated windows (front windows – down only): Enable an individual to cool down the vehicle passively by opening front windows remotely
Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
Rollover crash sensing: Senses a rollover and deploys seat belt pretensioners and/or standard full-length side-curtain air bags as needed
Seat belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso
Sentry Key® engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after a few seconds
Signal mirrors: Signal lamp built into the housing of exterior mirrors allows turn signals to be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
SmartBeam® headlamps: Headlamp system adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
Standard full-length side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows
Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to thedriver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat
Three-point seat belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system
Trailer-sway control (TSC): Reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle’s movement relative to the driver’s intended path, then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and then increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer

Uconnect® Phone: In-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows customers to talk on their Bluetooth compatible phone with your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The built-in phonebook sync feature automatically downloads as many as 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones, which can then be selected by simply saying contact name

Source: Jeep

April 26, 2011

Scion FR-S Sports Coupe Concept

Scion has introduced a new staggering model FR-S Concept. The rear wheel drive sports coupe was presented at the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle will be on display through May 1. Still, FR-S is practically a Toyota FT-86 with the emblem of Scion.

“Scion is always experimenting with new things,” commented Jack Hollis, Scion vice president.

“The brand is iconic with the xB, adrenalized by the tC, and groundbreaking with the iQ. The FR-S will expand the brand into yet another new dimension that I know it is truly destined for.”, he added.

Scion FR-S is powered by a 2.0 liter boxer engine at the front and all power is send to the rear wheels. The engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

FR-S features aggressive exterior looks with lowered stance and huge 20” alloy wheels. They come from Five Axis and have dimensions – 8.5J x 20” at the front and 10.5J x 20” at the rear. The concept features four-piston-caliper front brakes that clamp down on monstrous 18” annular carbon ceramic matrix rotors that are fixed to the wheels in a motorcycle-fashion.

The FR-S Concept is layered in rich coats of Code Red, the appropriately named color that consists of a custom blend of candy and a developmental additive from BASF called Mearlite SSQ.

Scion FR-S Sports Coupe Concept dimensions:

Length – 168.2”
Width – 71.5”
Height – 47.4”
Front Track – 61.8”
Rear Track – 59.9”
Wheelbase – 101.2”

Scion FR-S Sports Coupe Concept

Source: Scion

April 25, 2011

FAB Design Mercedes-Benz SLS Gullstream

Fab Design has introduced the special tuning package for the new Mercedes SLS AMG. The Swiss tuner has developed a widebody kit for the sports car, which includes a modified front bumper with LED daylights, extended fenders, huge side skirts and widened quarter panels. At the rear, FAB installed a modified rear bumper featuring new diffuser made from carbon fiber.

The performance package boosts the mighty 6.2 liter V8 to 615PS (452 kW) and 690Nm (511 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and to 200 km/h in just 11.0 seconds. The top speed is 325 km/h (202 mph).

FAB Design SLS Gullstream stands on huge 3-piece alloy wheels in dimensions 10J x 20” at the front and 12J x 22” at the rear fitted with ultra-performance tires. For perfect stance, the SLS Gullstream received a Koni coilover suspension from the SLS GT3 racing car. The stainless steel sports exhaust system features an integrated valve control and four round endpipes.

The price list is not announced, yet!

FAB Design Mercedes-Benz SLS Gullstream

Source: FAB Design

April 25, 2011

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE

Mitsubishi Motors Company has introduced a 2012 Special Edition Coupe and Spyder variants of the iconic Eclipse. However, the manufacturer is planning to end Eclipse production after the 2012 model year.

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE boasts HID headlights, “SE” side decaling, black side mirrors and nice 18” alloy wheels finished in matt black. All these goodies come along with the huge list of high-end standard features that can be found on the Eclipse GS-Sport.

The interior includes leather seating with heated front seats and a power driver’s seat, rearview camera, Bluetooth® hands-free phone access, heated side mirrors and a brutal Rockford Fosgate® premium audio system with SIRIUS® satellite radio with 9 speakers having a total power of 650 Watts. The Coupe model also comes with a sunroof.

The engine range has two engines – a 2.4 liter four-cylinder with 164PS (121 kW) and 219Nm (162 lb-ft) and a powerful 3.8 liter V6 developing 269PS (198 kW) and 355Nm (262 lb-ft) of torque.

The smaller engine comes with a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic available as an option and the bigger V6 comes with a 5-speed automatic gearbox.

Standard safety equipment on all Eclipse models includes:

4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS)

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Active Stability Control (ASC)

Traction Control Logic (TCL

advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) and side air bags.

Side curtain air bags are included on the Eclipse Coupe

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE

Source: Mitsubishi

April 25, 2011

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

Ford has revealed the new 2012 Mustang Shelby GTS at the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle is a successor to the staggering 2007-2008 GT model.

The engine range includes 3.7 liter V6 and 5.0 liter V8. There is no performance data for both engines, but the mighty V8 will have at least 500HP to play with.

The development of the Ford Shelby GTS started when the 2011 Mustang was first launched, and involved Ford Racing, Borla, Baer and Shelby American. Practically, this is a sport version of Ford Mustang and includes stiffened suspension, bigger brake system and of course, more horsepower.

Still, the company priced Ford Shelby GTS post-title package $9 995, but the options list is huge.

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS is expected to go in production in the end of this year, but they has already begun taking orders.

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

Source: Ford

April 22, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov