Author: Victor Ivanov

  • 2011 Toyota Auris Edition

    Toyota has introduced a new Auris Edition, which will replace the previous T2. Auris Edition will keep the low price, but the extras will be significantly more. TR and SR grades have also been revised, so they will offer more features as standard. New exterior colours have been introduced, together with new-look interior trim details.

    Toyota Auris Edition includes 16” alloy wheels, heated, retractable door mirrors that are colour-matched to the car’s bodywork and similarly colour-keyed doorhandles as standard. All this specs come in addition to the AC and a four-speaker sound system with USB port. Island Blue is a new metallic paint option for Edition models, and owners can also specific Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRC) and a Protection Pack for the five-door version – floor mats, mudflaps, boot liner and scuff plates.

    The engine is 1.33 litre VVT-i petrol with Stop & Start system and 6-speed manual transmission. It returns awesome 48.7mpg on combined cycle and 135g/km CO2 emissions.

    Auris TR includes rear parking sensors, Bluetooth with voice control and cruise control. The interior received sporty trim in dark grey with silver detailing and analogue meters. The exterior features a set of new five-spoke 16” alloys and a new metallic colour choice – Deep Titanium. All this come in addition to the AC, six-speaker audio with USB, electric windows and front fog lamps.

    Auris SR is powered by a 1.6 Valvematic engine and 6-speed manual gearbox. It also adopts cruise control and Bluetooth as standard for 2011, plus the new Deep Titanium metallic paint option. This spec includes 17” alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, dark-tinted rear privacy glass and darkened headlamp lenses.
    2011 Toyota Auris Edition

    2011 Toyota Auris:

    MODEL OTRPRICE
    Edition 1.33 VVT-i 6MT 3dr £15,225
    Edition 1.33 VVT-i 6MT 5dr £15,730
    TR 1.33 VVT-i 6MT 3dr £16,055
    TR 1.33 VVT-i 6MT 5dr £16,560
    TR 1.4 D-4D 6MT 5dr £18,025
    TR 1.4 D-4D M/M 5dr £18,580
    TR 1.6 Valvematic 6MT 5dr £16,935
    TR 1.6 Valvematic M/M 5dr £17,775
    SR 1.6 Valvematic 6MT £17,435

    Source: Toyota

  • Audi A3 e-Tron at the Auto Shanghai 2011

    Audi is currently exhibiting A3 e-Tron Concept at the Auto Shanghai 2011. It is a four-seat sedan, which is not full electric, but features a plug-in hybrid system. A3 e-Tron Concept is based on the A3 sedan Concept, which was recently introduced at the Geneva Auto Show.

    The plug-in hybrid drivetrain includes a highly-efficient 1.4 liter TFSI four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 211PS (155 kW) coupled to an electric motor with 27PS (20 kW). The total maximum power is 238PS (175 kW). All power is put on the road through 7-speed S-tronic transmission, wihch grants smooth gear-changing and perfect response.

    The performance is grat – 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and top speed of 231 km/h (144 mph). Furthermore, the A3 e-Tron features the intelligent Audi thermal management system, a start-stop system and an energy recovery system.

    Audi A3 e-Tron plug-in hybrid can go only on electricity with the help of the 12 kWh lithium-ion batteries located behind the rear seats. The range is perfect for everyday driving – up to 54 km (34 miles).

    The chassis is derived from the current RS3 Sportback, so it is capable of handling the power from the drive system at all times. The front suspension has a MacPherson construction with a separate axle support. The four-link rear suspension is likewise fixed to a subframe. The shock absorbers and coil springs are mounted separately from each other. The ESP stabilization system has a Sport mode and can be completely deactivated, if desired.

    A3 e-Tron stands on enormous 20” light alloy wheels fitted with 245/30 ZR20 tires at the front and rear.

    Audi A3 e-Tron Concept is amazing on paper, but whether it will go in production?
    Auto Shanghai 2011 Audi A3 e-Tron

    Source: Audi

  • Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 at Auto Shanghai 2011

    Lamborghini has introduced Aventador LP 700-4 to the Asian market at the Auto Shanghai 2011. The manufacturer has also revealed Gallardo LP 550-2 Tricolore at a special off-site event held in the Shanghai Expo.

    Lamborghini has achieved over 150% sales growth in 2010 compared to 2009, so the Chinese market is very important for the company. The plans of the brand are to expand its dealership network to 20 dealers from fourteen, nowadays.

    “Our presence at Auto Shanghai 2011 reflects the importance of the Chinese market, which is now our second most significant after the USA. The appeal of the Lamborghini brand in China is illustrated by the launch here of the Gallardo LP 550-2 Tricolore: definitively Italian, and with all the performance and handling a Lamborghini Gallardo promises. Demand for our cars continues to grow: our worldwide order book for the Lamborghini LP 700-4 Aventador is already eighteen months ahead of production.”, commented Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

    “The Lamborghini brand has very strong appeal in China, so it is fitting we should launch our new show stand here,” added Mr. Winkelmann.

    “Lamborghini also runs regular events in China, including at least one track day every month, Winter and Track Academies, which allows our clients to explore the Lamborghini brand and lifestyle alongside the cars.”, he finished.

    Aventador LP 700-4 is powered by a 6.5 liter V12 with 700PS (515 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 7-speed ISR gearbox. 0 to 100 km/h – 2.9 seconds and Vmax – 350 km/h (217 mph).

    Gallardo LP 550-2 Tricolore has a 5.2 liter liter V10 with 550PS (404 kW) and 540Nm (400 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and Vmax – 320 km/h (199 mph).

    Auto Shanghai 2011 Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

    Source: Lamborghini

  • 2011 Porsche Cayenne II Diesel

    2011 Porsche Cayenne II DieselPorsche has introduced a new engine for Cayenne II Diesel. The SUV is now more powerful and more efficient.

    The 3.0 liter V6 Diesel develops 245HP, which is a gain of 5HP and the fuel economy rises to 39 mpg from 38.2mpg. However, the CO2 emission have dropped to 189 g/km. The performance is better, too. 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and top speed of 220 km/h (136 mph).

    The results are achieved thanks to use of new materials to reduce weight and lower internal friction and resistance. The engine received a new turbocharger, a revamp of the injection system and enhanced thermal management. The weight of Cayenne II Diesel has dropped to 2080kg.
    2011 Porsche Cayenne II Diesel

    Along with the revised diesel, Cayenne II Turbo has received a new Powerkit, which boosts the mighty twin-turbo V8 to 540HP and 750Nm of torque. The acceleration is astonishing – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and top speed of 283 km/h (176 mph). The overall result is a gain of 40HP, 50Nm, 0.1 s quicker to 62 mph and 3 mph better top speed. Furthermore, the Powerkit didn’t harm the fuel consumption – 24.6mpg on combined cycle and 270 g/km of CO2.

    The Powerkit includes two new turbochargers and adjustments to the engine electronics. The cooling of the brakes has been also improved. Furthermore, you can order Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), which is available as an option. An optional 20” collapsible spare wheel is available for vehicles equipped with this system.

    2011 Porsche Cayenne II Turbo Powerkit

    Porsche extended the options list for Cayenne II, which now can come with tinted LED rear lights, Bi-Xenon headlights in black including Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and quad sports exhaust tailpipes.

    The interior can also be improved by new decorative stitching and leather packages as well as the distinctive Yachting Mahogany wood treatment. A milled aluminium Tiptronic-S gear selector lever and new stainless steel and carbon door sill guards are also available.

    The opportunity for customization Cayenne II is just awesome, because every single SUV can be unique!

    Source: Porsche

    snimka na turboto

    Along with the revised diesel, Cayenne II Turbo has received a new Powerkit, which boosts the mighty twin-turbo V8 to 540HP and 750Nm of torque. The acceleration is astonishing – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and top speed of 283 km/h (176 mph). The overall result is a gain of 40HP, 50Nm, 0.1 s quicker to 62 mph and 3 mph better top speed. Furthermore, the Powerkit didn’t harm the fuel consumption – 24.6mpg on combined cycle and 270 g/km of CO2.

    The Powerkit includes two new turbochargers and adjustments to the engine electronics. The cooling of the brakes has been also improved. Furthermore, you can order Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), which is available as an option. An optional 20” collapsible spare wheel is available for vehicles equipped with this system.

    Porsche extended the options list for Cayenne II, which now can come with tinted LED rear lights, Bi-Xenon headlights in black including Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and quad sports exhaust tailpipes.The interior can also be improved by new decorative stitching and leather packages as well as the distinctive Yachting Mahogany wood treatment. A milled aluminium Tiptronic-S gear selector lever and new stainless steel and carbon door sill guards are also available.

    The opportunity for customization Cayenne II is just awesome, because every single SUV can be unique!

  • Infiniti JX [teaser]

    Infiniti has teased the new JX model, which is expected to hit the market in spring 2012 as a 2013 model. The vehicle is a luxury crossover, which features dynamic and elegant line treatments inspired by nature.

    “The all-new Infiniti JX crossover will allow us to continue to expand the Infiniti brand’s presence in the Americas,” commented Carlos Tavares, chairman, Nissan Americas.

    “In 2010, Infiniti was one of the fastest-growing luxury brands in the United States, and this year we will expand our presence further to Mexico and Panama, followed by Chile in the first half of 2012.”, said Mr. Tavares.

    “There aren’t a lot of choices for luxury families today. The all-new Infiniti JX is the 7-passenger antidote to the ho-hum luxury crossovers that are out there right now,” added Ben Poore, vice president of Infiniti Americas.

    “The Infiniti JX will have a stunning interior, while offering exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy third row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology – including next-generation telematics. A fitting addition to our line, it will challenge the status quo in its class.”, finished Ben Poore.

    However, the company didn’t release any further information of technical characteristics of JX. Still, the official debut of the model will be at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August, this year and the production version is expected to be exhibited at the 2011 LA Auto Show in November.


    Infiniti JX

    Source: Infiniti

  • Aznom Fiat 500

    Aznom is a tuning company, which is based in Italia. They have revealed a high-performance vehicle based on Fiat 500. The car features 1.4 litre turbo petrol engine from Abarth, which develops 240PS and 330Nm. The interesting about the small city car is that the power is sent to the rear wheels. The engine is positioned in the middle of the car and it is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

    Aznom Fiat 500 Motore Centrale also features a LSD for perfect traction at every conditions. Upgraded supespension, which features a McPherson at the front and a fully adjustable A-Arm rear with Bilstein shock absorbers. The brake system is also improved including vented brake discs for both the front and the rear axles, and with 4-piston calipers.

    The curb weight of Aznom Fiat 500 is just 1050 kg, so the acceleration is staggering. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h, which is kind of funny… All in all, this is „just” Fiat 500. However, thanks to the position of the engine, the small car has a perfect balance and it will be a great to drive at the race track.

    The price of the project is not announced by the Tuner.

    Aznom Fiat 500

    Source: Aznom via Facebook

  • 2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    Volkswagen has introduced a new version of the super popular Beetle. The company revived one of the most popular models in its history in 1998. The new model is inspired by the Beetle Ragster concept shown in Detroit in 2005.

    2012 Bettle is bigger and has more masculine and dynamic appearance Its dimensions are: 4 278 mm in length, 1 808 mm in width and 1 486 in height.  The wheelbase is 2 537 mm, which is also increased. The boot capacity is 310 litres, which is a more than 100 litres than a 1998 model.  The Beetle has four seats, with a split-fold rear seat for added versatility.

    The interior features good quality materials, distinctive appearance with easy to identify and ergonomic controls.

    There are three trim levels: Beetle, Design and Sport. The options list is huge, too. It includens Keyless Access, SAT NAV systems, a panoramic sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, etc.

    The engine range consists of three petrol and one diesel power plants. The petrols are a 1.2 litre TSI 105PS, a 1.4 litre TSI with 160PS and a mighty 2.0 litre TSI developing 200PS. The diesel is a 1.6 litre TDI with 105PS with BlueMotion Technology. Thanks to the addition of Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems the Beetle 1.6-litre 105 PS is estimated to have a combined fuel consumption of 65.7 mpg and CO2 emissions of 112 g/km.

    The safety is at very high level, because of the laser-welded and galvanised body structure which has one of the highest torsional rigidity values in the segment at 26,000 Nm/˚.  The car also has six airbags and ESP as standard. The 2.0-litre 200 PS, will feature standard XDS electronic differential lock as fitted to the Golf GTI.

    The new Beetle will hit the market in early 2012. Price list is not announced, yet!

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    Source: Volkswagen

  • BTCC: Donington Park race

    James Nash is the new leader in Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. Droitwich’s Neal won yesterday’s first race with his turbocharged Team Honda Racing Civic. . Second and third were the Vauxhall Vectras of Pirtek Racing’s Jordan and 888 Racing with Collins Contractors’ Nash.

    Jason Plato crashed his Chevrolet Cruze, when he went off the track at 193 km/h (120mph). The car stroke a barrier and rolled three times. It is a pure miracles for Plato, who got out of the car unharmed. However, the Cruze was destroyed in seconds.

    “It was amazing. It looked an impossible task and the car looked like a Transformer. But the lads were just amazing – you could see the passion in everybody.” commented Jason.

    “They’re the best racing team in the world, forget F1. That was teamwork. I had tears in my eyes, they had tears in their eyes and to see their commitment makes up for all the bad weekends we’ll ever have. There was real emotion out there today.”, he added.

    Still, in just 90 minutes, RML crew had repaired the car and Jason Plato rewarded them with an emotional 6th place.

    There were a lot of punishments, too.

    – Race 1, Andy Neate, officially reprimanded and 2 penalty points on his competition licence;
    – Race 2, Tom Chilton and Gordon Shedden, both officially reprimanded and 2 penalty points;
    – Race 3, Dave Newsham, fined £500 and 3 penalty points & James Nash, 2 penalty points.

    Check out the results, below!

    2011 Dunlop BTCC Donington Park round 2



    2011 Dunlop BTCC Drivers’ Points after Donington Park (round 2 of 10):

    1. James Nash, 59
    2. Matt Neal, 55
    3. Mat Jackson, 54
    4. Andrew Jordan, 45
    5. Jason Plato, 43
    6. Tom Chilton, 32
    7. Gordon Shedden, 30
    8. Paul O’Neill, 26
    9. Alex MacDowall, 19
    10. Robert Collard, 17

    Manufacturers/Constructors’ Points:

    1. Honda/Dynamics, 107
    2. Chevrolet/RML, 106
    3. Arena/Ford, 83

    HiQ Teams’ Points:

    1. Honda Racing Team, 78
    2. 888 Racing with Collins Contractors, 66
    3. Silverline Chevrolet, 59
    4. Airwaves Racing, 54
    5. Pirtek Racing, 53
    6. Team Aon, 32

    Independent Drivers’ Points:

    1. James Nash, 71
    2. Mat Jackson, 67
    3. Andrew Jordan, 50
    4. Tom Chilton, 44
    5. Paul O’Neill, 40
    6. Robert Collard, 27

    Independent Teams’ Points:

    1. 888 Racing with Collins Contractors, 71
    2. Airwaves Racing, 68
    3. GoMobileUK.com with tech-speed, 46
    4. Team Aon, 44
    5. WSR, 37
    6. Geoff Steel Racing, 15


    *All points remain provisional

    Source: BTCC

  • Citroen DS5

    Citroen has introduced the new DS5, which will join the innovative and distinctive DS line-up. The vehicle is specially designed to express the full extent of Citroen’s „Créative Technologie”.

    DS5 is based on the C-SportLounge concept. It features staggering style, awesome driving dynamics and perfect refinement with innovative engineering solutions.

    Citroen DS5 is powered by „HYbrid4” diesel hybrid technology, which develops 200BHP and emits just 99 g/km of CO2. DS5 also offers four-wheel drive capability and emission-free electric power for the city.

    The car features enormous air intake, a large chrome-finished grille and a new LED light. At the rear, there are two tail pipes built into the rear bumper and highlighted by a rear signature featuring six light guides. DS5 stands on 16” to 19” alloy wheels.

    The interior boats ebony-coloured full-grain leather, contrasting subtly with silver-flecked overstitching. There are also decorative inserts in Markassa ebony and a highly reflective fascia, created by applying several layers of lacquer.|

    DS5 will be a true rival to the other Gran Turismo Coupe cars!

    Citroen DS5:

    • A sleek, compact body (4.52m long, 1.85m wide) and a driving position worthy of a Gran Turismo coupé.
    • A roomy boot (up to 465 litres VDA) reminiscent of a Sportwagon.
    • Five real seats, four doors and all the access and modularity of a hatchback.

    Citroen DS5



    Source: Citroen DS5

  • Seat Ibiza SC SE Copa

    Seat has introduced Ibiza SC SE Copa – a perfect value for money. Copa is the Spanish word for „cup” and the model features more than £1 000-worth of desirable goodies.

    The new trim level will be available for all three Ibiza bodystyles – 3-door SC, 5-door and ST estate. The engine range includes 1.4 16V petrol and 1.2 TDI CR turbodiesel.

    Ibiza SE has superb equipment including cruise control, six-speaker MP3 compatible radio/CD with AUX-in and steering column-mounted controls, alarm, immobiliser and electric windows.

    The „Copa” adds:

    • 16” ‘Fabula’ alloy wheels (1.4 only)
    • Climate control (including refrigerated glovebox)
    • Rain and light sensors for automatic wipers and lights
    • Dark tinted rear windows
    • Leather steering wheel and gearknob
    • Auto-dimming rear view mirror
    • Bespoke Copa upholstery

    Seat Ibiza SE Copa is priced at £11,995 RRP for the SC version.

    All Copa models are currently available with £1 000 off the RRP, with the option of two years’ 0% finance as well as a variety of enticing Personal Contract Plan offers. Which means that Ibiza SC 1.4 SE Copa is currently available for just £10 995 RRP.

    „Our new Copa models could not have come at a more significant time for SEAT in the UK.” commented SEAT UK’s Head of Marketing, Steve Robertson.

    „We’ve just notched up our best ever single month of sales as well as recording our largest-ever share of the UK market, and I’m convinced that the debut of these new models will see even more buyers heading for SEAT showrooms.”, Mr. Robertson added.

    SEAT Ibiza SC 1.4 SE Copa, 10 000 mile per annum SEAT Solutions representative finance example:

    Deposit £597
    35 monthly payments of £199
    Duration 42 months
    Retail cash price £10,995
    Acceptance Fee* £125
    Optional final payment £4,165.75
    Option to purchase fee** £60
    Total amount payable £13,106.75
    Amount of credit £10,398
    Representative APR 8.9% APR
    Rate of interest 7.7 fixed

    Seat Ibiza SC SE Copa

    Source: Seat

  • Radical SR3 RS Limited

    Radical has introduced SR3 RS Limited special edition. The vehicle is created to celebrate the “Great British Summertime”. The brand specializes in track focused sports cars, which are not suitable for everyday driving.

    So, the Radical SR3 RS Limited is powered by a “tiny” 1340cc engine sourced from Suzuki. However, it is boosted to 210BHP at 10 500RPM and it is mated to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The power is put on the road with a Quaife ATB differential  through the rear wheels. It delivers perfect traction even in super high cornering speeds.

    The braking system is not something phemonenal – 260x25mm ventilated brake discs for both the front and the rear axle, but it works just perfectly for the super lightweight car.

    SR3 RS Limited also features a trackday silencing kit and a high-downforce rear diffuser.

    The car will be produced in just 25 units, but the manufacturer didn’t announce any price lists, yet.

    Check out the car data, below!


    Radical SR3 RS Limited

    Radical SR3 RS Limited:

    • 1340cc RPE-Suzuki engine, 210bhp @ 10,500rpm
    • Six-speed sequential gearbox and gear drive system
    • Quaife ATB differential
    • 260x25mm 30-vane ventilated discs front and rear
    • High-downforce rear diffuser
    • Passenger seat belts
    • Trackday silencing kit
    • Limited edition run of 25 cars with special edition numbered plate
    • Spares ‘starter pack’ including spare wheels/wet-weather tyres, filters and accessories

    Source: Radicalsportscars

  • Motion Phase III 427-SC Camaro Supercar

    A new powerful 2011 Chevrolet Camaro was introduced at the Super Chevy Show at the Palm Beach, Florida International Raceway. The project name is 2011 MOTION Camaro Phase III 427-SC and it is a result of the hard work of Joel Rosen and Howard Tanner of Redline Motorsports.

    The vehicle is powered by GM LS7 427 aluminum-block engine fitted with an enormous 2.8 liter Twin-Screw Supercharger System. In case you don’t remember, 427 cubic inches are almost 7.0 liters of displacement, which is enough for 811PS (597 kW).

    The 2011 MOTION Camaro Phase III 427-SC will be limited and the price is “just” $150 000.

    “Back in the day we built record-setting 500-horsepower big-block Camaros and backed them up with warranties. My new 427-SC delivers 300 more horsepower, imported Supercar handling and braking, plus incredible comfort and convenience features. And, it has a one-year, 12,000-mile warranty,” commented Joel Rosen.

    Check out the specs, below!

    Motion Phase III 427-SC Camaro Supercar

    MOTION PHASE III 427-SC CAMARO SUPERCAR – 800HP SUPERCHARGED

    • Supercharged GM LS7 427 Aluminum Engine
    • 2.8-Liter Twin-Screw Supercharger System
    • Eight-Rib supercharger drive assembly
    • Unique block, 4.125-inch bore, pressed-in liners
    • Forged 2618 Aluminum 9.3-to-1 pistons
    • Forged 6.125-inch H-Beam Steel connecting rods
    • Forged 4.00-inch stroke steel crankshaft
    • Race-prepped CNC-ported Aluminum heads
    • Custom Redline R3-SC Blower camshaft
    • ATI/Redline damper
    • American Racing High-Efficiency tubular exhaust system
    • MBRP Stainless Steel mufflers, dual outlets
    • High-Capacity air intake system
    • 160-degree high-flow thermostat
    • Custom calibrated Engine Management System
    • High-Capacity fuel system
    • Upgraded TR6060 Six-Speed manual transmission (ONLY)
    • ZR1 Corvette dual disc clutch system
    • MGW short throw shifter
    • 1,000 Horsepower axles
    • Pfadt Billet rear cradle mounts
    • Pfadt differential bushings
    • Pfadt trailing arms & tie rods
    • Pfadt Coil-Over F&R Suspension
    • Pfadt F&R sway bars
    • Brembo Six-Piston Monoblock front brakes with 380-mm two-piece rotors
    • Brembo Four-Piston Monoblock rear brakes with 380-mm two-piece rotors
    • Custom MOTION painted striping
    • Custom MOTION wheels with painted accents
    • Custom Phase III-SC Hood with glass window
    • Aggressive front fascia with air intake inlets
    • Phase III-SC Rear Spoiler
    • MOTION badges & VIN plates
    • Accented front and rear seats with embroidered headrests with Carbon Fiber finish
    • 1-Year/12,000-Mile Warranty

    Source: Official Baldwin Motion