Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Seat Altea Freetreack

    Seat Altea FreetreackAt the upcoming Barcelona Motor Show from 7 to 17 June, SEAT will be presenting its first all-road vehicle – the Altea freetrack. After unveiling the prototype version in Geneva, which hinted at the new model’s silhouette, the definitive version can be seen in Barcelona and goes on sale this summer.

    With this model, SEAT is making its debut in the SUV segment, an area of the market which has grown considerably in recent years. The new Altea freetrack is one of the few compact monospace cars on the market featuring clear off-road styling, as well as engines that deliver up to 200 hp. This factor proves the dynamic character of SEAT’s new all-road model, whose slogan “auto emoción” works just as well on- as well as off-road.

    Exclusive off-road looks

    Based on the Altea XL, the visual enhancements on the new freetrack include protective moulding below the waistline, as well as the specific plastic front and rear bumpers. These elements lend a rugged and robust image to the new model while also protecting the body when driving off-road.

    The exterior stands out with new, exclusive design 17-inch wheels and larger diameter tyres. The Altea freetrack also has 40 mm more ground clearance than the Altea XL, making it easier for the new model to tackle any kind of terrain.

    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack

    Top level performance

    The Altea freetrack is available with four-wheel drive via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control, to ensure that the tractive force is distributed permanently in a progressive and precise manner. Under normal use, power is fully transferred to the front wheels, with up to 50% being distributed to the rear wheels when the need arises.

    One of the most outstanding features of the new Altea freetrack is its engine range, with performance levels that make the new SEAT model the market’s most dynamic family-sized SUV. A 200 hp 2.0 TFSI petrol and a 170 hp 2.0 TDI diesel engine are responsible for taking the Altea freetrack over all types of terrain.

    The 2.0 TFSI engine enables the newcomer to reach a top speed of 214 km/h, with 0 to 100 km/h taking just 7.5 seconds – yet it can still average fuel consumption of 9.4 litres. On the other hand, the freetrack 2.0 TDI reaches a top speed of 204 km/h, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and consumes an average of 6.8 litres for every 100 km of driving.

    Besides these performance figures, the new Altea freetrack matches the Altea XL in terms of impressive interior space and generous load capacity. With its 593 litre boot, the freetrack can carry everything needed for the entire family’s hobbies and leisure activities.

    The rear seats are exceptionally roomy and flexible, as they can slide back by up to 16 centimetres for added legroom while still allowing more than enough boot space.

    Multimedia system as standard

    The Altea freetrack will be sold with just one trim level featuring a complete set of standard equipment.

    The most outstanding feature is a new multimedia system, which comprises a 7-inch TFT screen hinged on the ceiling and an RCA connection that allows connection to a DVD player, videogames, laptops and even MP3 players. This way the sound is transmitted over the car’s own sound system.

    The Altea freetrack also features new rear window shades as standard, that are hidden inside the doors when not in use, leaving the view unobstructed for rear seat passengers.

    Further standard-fit elements on the Altea freetrack include dual climatise control, rain sensor wipers, light sensor, parking sensors, cruise control, trip computer, plus CD MP3 radio and steering wheel mounted controls, among others. Safety highlights include standard ESP (Electronic Stability Control), six airbags, EPS electro-mechanical steering and tyre pressure warning.

    Designed, developed and manufactured in Spain

    The new Altea freetrack has been wholly designed and developed at the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell, where over 1,000 highly qualified staff work daily to develop new models.

    It will be exclusively made at the SEAT facilities in Martorell, one of Europe’s most modern and most flexible automotive factories, where the Ibiza, Córdoba, Altea, Altea XL, Toledo and León models are also produced.

  • JE Design Seat Leon Cupra

    2007 Je Design Seat Leon CupraFollowing modifications for the newly launched Leon FR, JE DESIGN German Leingarten tuners, well-known refiners for SEAT, now resolve to take on the Spanish in the completion of the „CUPRA”.

    While the “old” Seat Leon Cupra R (Typ 1M) has differed through its sporty and independent front and rear aprons from the Leon-vesions with less power, the new „CUPRA” threatens the driver into danger of confusion.

    The SEAT specialist JE DESIGN recognised this and offers help in form of an individualized grand entrance. Specially developed for the CUPRA from the Leingarten, Germany, based tuners, is a downforcer insert for the centre of the series-produced front apron and which at the same time minimizes buoyancy. The same function is fulfilled with a diffuser insert that is applied to the series-produced rear apron. More sportiness is procured through a new front grille minus Logo including grid insert. Headlight covers gives the Spanish car a serious glance.

    Sporty front spoiler corners complete with additional air channels provide the JE DESIGNed Leon CUPRA with more passing-lane prestige. The sides are optimised with a side sills set through JE DESIGN. The tuners create another attractive addition through the rear apron set. Last but not least a rear wing provides more downforce on the rear axle especially during higher speeds. Furthermore, a self-adhering JE DESIGN roof fin “Shark attack” is available in black matt.

    For an extra charge, JE DESIGN laminates individual parts for example the radiator grill or mirror cover in Carbon-Look.

    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra
    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra
    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra

    Pure Performance!

    The core of modification is the performance increase of the 2.0 T-FSI Motor . Instead of just 177 kW (240 HP), it now renders an attention getting value of 210 kW (285 HP). The torque increases from 85 to 385 Nm. The change in motor management creates a better driving performance: 261 km/h top speed (series-produced: 247 km/h) and 5,9 seconds from 0 to 100 (series-produced: 6,4) placing pressure on many other sports cars. For that reason, JE DESIGN Leon „CUPRA” with its 250 km/h easily shakes off the electronic regular BMW M5 and Audi RS4. The power enhancement comes with TÜV parts endorsement. Included in the price is a 1-year guarantee on motor, transmission and gearbox. On request for additional price is the possibility to add a further year of guarantee.

    Whoever wants acustical improvement for their Leon CUPRA, can order a 4-pipe end exhaust made of stainless steel with chromed end pipes additionally. This promises not only a sonor sound, but also optimises the motor performance through optimized exhaust flow.

    JE DESIGN’s wheel expertise

    Four wheel sets are provided for customer choice. A highpoint offered in 18 and 19-inch is the complete wheel set „Multispoke” in chrome-look with the sizes of 8.0 x 19 ET 45 with tires 225/35 R 19 Y.

    Optionally, the complete wheel set „Multispoke” can be ordered in matt black with polished rim flange in dimensions 7.5 x 18″ ET 45 or 8 x 19″ ET 45.

    The Leon CUPRA of this press release – please take a look at the provided pictures (on CD) – rolls on wheel rims in sporty matt black with lacquered nearly complete white ring having a small gap tha includes the JE DESIGN logo.

    JE DESIGN concerns itself that the Seat Leon power doesn’t toss itself from the street. For this reason, a sporty spring set brings the Leon CUPRA approx. 30mm closer to the street, lowering the center of gravity for clearly improved handling and driving ability. Alternatively, the tuners offer a sportier driving performance through a coilover suspension that alters the fiery Spaniard providing a freedom from street between 35 and 65 mm.

    A further technical as well as optically pleasing configuration level of the CUPRA with over 300 HP in a wide body version is currently in preparation for a world exclusive presentation at the SEAT Event from 24 – 26 August 2007 at the Technik Museum in Speyer, Germany.

  • Oettinger A3 Sportback

    In the 60th. year since its Founding, the tuning house OETTINGER will be presenting in the coming days the new aerodynamic package for the Audi A3 Sportback. The complete package is sporty yet elegant and consists of a grille insert (in two versions – brushed aluminium or matt black, EUR 395.00), a complete front apron (EUR 695.00), sill extensions (Set: EUR 425.00), a rear skirt for all tailpipe variations (EUR 375.00) and a rear spoiler. All components are manufactured in RIM and demonstrate a perfect fit and an impressive OEM finish and quality.

    (more…)

  • Hamann Ferrari F430 Black Miracle

    hamann ferrari f430 black miracle frontThe Ferrari F430 already is a brilliant, eye-catching vehicle. The “look“ as well as engineering technology presents many similarities to motor sports racing. In the latter instance, most vehicles here feature a catchy paint finish in “warrior look”. HAMANN MOTORSPORT now offers the mid-engine Ferrari a special outstanding design that equally provides a racing car look standing out from the crowd. It’s called “Black Miracle“ and will be responsible for great deal of turned heads. (more…)

  • Audi TT Clubsport Quattro

    Every Audi TT is noted for its clear lines, unmistakable dynamism and the driving characteristics of a sports car. Audi now presents the TT in its most purist form: the clubsport quattro study.

    The Audi TT clubsport quattro study reduces the TT Roadster to a pure driving machine. A powerful engine, state-of-the-art technology and numerous traits borrowed from the world of motorsport are the dominant features of the TT clubsport quattro. (more…)

  • Nissan Lafesta

    Nissan LafestaNissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the nationwide sales release of the new Lafesta minivan in Japan. Lafesta, originally introduced in 2004, receives a number of significant refinements, including new grille, bumper and light designs; revised seat shape, seat fabric and gauge designs; and availability of an advanced HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system.

    The Lafesta model lineup has also been revised. The Highway Star model again provides customers with a more sporty derivative, while the Playful model has been discontinued.

    Easy to drive

    The new Lafesta continues to offer an easy-to-drive combination of agile maneuverability and superior outward visibility, as well as excellent acceleration, quietness and fuel economy.

    For those spending time in the city, Lafesta offers a class-leading 5.1-meter minimum turning radius and large windows that provide outstanding visibility to all corners of the vehicle.

    Also contributing to Lafesta’s reputation as one of the best-driving minivans on the market is its standard MR20DE 2.0-liter engine. Mated to the XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Lafesta delivers class-leading*1 fuel economy, quick throttle response, smooth acceleration and quiet overall operation.

    A Refined exterior and high quality interior

    The new Lafesta’s exterior and interior enhancements have been designed with quality in mind.. On the outside, the grille, headlamps, front and rear bumpers and rear lamps have been redesigned, giving the standard models a more refined form, while the Highway Star model projects a crisper, sportier impression. An available panoramic glass roof*2, – measuring 1,500 mm in length and 800 mm in width – provides an open, airy feeling to the interior.

    The new Lafesta is offered in a selection of seven body colors, including four all-new: Champagne Topaz titanium metallic, Sapphire Blue pearl metallic, Cerulean Blue metallic and Blade Silver metallic.

    Inside, new seat fabric and other refinements give an upscale, modern feeling to the standard models and a sporty ambience to the Highway Star model. The redesigned seat shape, new seat and door trim fabric and increased head restraint size for the front and second-row seats add to Lafesta’s enhanced level of craftsmanship.

    Nissan Lafesta Interior

    Lafesta’s low instrument panel height and vehicle waistline combine with the large windows to provide a superb outward view from all seating positions. Silver-ringed gauges (with exclusive blue metallic-ringed gauges on the Highway Star) feature an elegant design and offer excellent legibility. Lafesta also adopts liquid-crystal-display odometer/twin trip meters showing real-time fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, range for remaining fuel and additional information. Nissan’s HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system, with improved functionality, operating ease and fundamental performance, is available as a factory-installed option.

    Nissan Lafesta
    Nissan Lafesta
    Nissan Lafesta
    Nissan Lafesta
    Nissan Lafesta
    Nissan Lafesta

  • Saab 9-3

    Inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car, the new Saab 9-3 range will feature bold styling and cutting edge technology for greater driving appeal.With all-new front bodywork, ‘signature’ lighting, new door panels and rear styling features, the latest generation 9-3 acquires a more focused, assertive stance, reflecting the introduction of technical advances aimed at delivering an even more rewarding experience behind the wheel. (more…)

  • Brabus SV12 S Biturbo Coupe with 730 hp

    Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 S Biturbo Coupe730 hp / 537 kW of power, 1,320 Nm of top and a top speed of 340 km/h: With the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo coupe based on the latest Mercedes CL 600 model BRABUS presents the world’s fastest and most powerful coupe.

    At the heart of this exclusive automobile is the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine. It is based on the turbocharged Mercedes 600 twelve-cylinder engine and represents the most powerful street-legal V12 engine in the world. Installing a special BRABUS crankshaft with longer stroke, combined with a bigger bore and correspondingly sized forged pistons, increases displacement from 5.5 to 6.3 liters. Further engine modifications also include precision-machining the cylinder heads and fitting them with four special camshafts.

    In addition the engine peripherals are also modified extensively. The modifications include special exhaust manifolds, two larger turbochargers, a high-efficiency intercooler and a high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts and low back pressure. Extensive bench tests determined the new programming for the engine electronics that not only maximizes power yield but also ensures that the engine meets stringent Euro IV emission limits.

    Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 S Biturbo Coupe
    Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 S Biturbo Coupe
    Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 S Biturbo Coupe
    Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 S Biturbo Coupe

    Performance figures of the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo displacement engine speak volumes: A rated power output of 730 hp / 537 kW at 5,100 rpm is just as extraordinary as a peak torque of 1,320 Nm at just 2,100 rpm. In the car peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm.

    Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a modified five-speed automatic transmission. The optionally available BRABUS locking differential optimizes traction. All BRABUS drivetrain elements are operated with ARAL high-performance lubricants.

    The BRABUS S V12 S Biturbo coupe is not just the most powerful; it is also the fastest street-legal of its kind. 0 – 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, 200 km/h after just 11.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 340 km/h are all without equal.

    The enormous performance of the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo coupe places exceptionally high demands on the aerodynamic-enhancement parts that were developed in the wind tunnel. The sophisticated shape of the BRABUS front apron reduces lift on the front axle and improves engine and front brake cooling due to its large air inlet. Integrated fog lamps and high beams lend the car a characteristic appearance and further improve active safety by optimizing illumination of the road.

    The BRABUS rocker panels optimize the airflow along the sides and feature integrated entrance lights for safe entering and exiting of the vehicle in the dark.

    The BRABUS rear apron sports custom-tailored cutouts for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust. Three LED lights integrated into the apron are also activated via the keyless fob. An understated rear spoiler rounds out the sophisticated BRABUS aerodynamics concept, and reduces lift on the rear axle for further improved directional stability at high speeds.

    The enormous performance of the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo coupe is kept safely in check at all times thanks to custom-tailored solutions for tires, suspension and brakes. Among them are BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels with diameters of 18, 19, 20 or 21 inches. The largest tire/wheel combination features BRABUS Monoblock VI and E wheels in sizes 9Jx21 in front and 10.5Jx21 on the rear axle. The largest corresponding tires are size 265/30 ZR 21 in front and size 295/30 ZR 21 in the rear. BRABUS recommends Pirelli and YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.

    The BRABUS module for the standard ABC suspension is specifically calibrated to these high-performance tires, and lowers the ride height of the two-door by some 25 millimeters. For further optimized active safety the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo coupe can be equipped with the BRABUS high-performance brake system. Maximum fade-free stopping power is provided on the front axle by 380 x 36 millimeter discs and 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers. The rear features 355 x 28 millimeter discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers.

    BRABUS also fulfills any requests imaginable when it comes to exclusive interior options. The list of products ranges from scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo or an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel to an exclusive customized interior crafted from soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and the finest Alcantara.

  • Opel Agila

    Opel AgilaWhen it comes to the lifestyle of active women today, the watchword is balance. Job, fitness, shopping, meeting friends and getting around – a car makes everything easier to manage, and preferably one that is as versatile as its owner. This is precisely what designers and engineers had in mind when developing the latest generation Opel Agila. The result is a stylish urban car which is compact and maneuverable for tight parking spaces, yet boasts an interior that is spacious enough even for bulky sport and hobby gear. It also has enough seats to ensure comfort for family and friends.

    Even with its compact length of 3.74 meters, the new Agila offers room for five occupants and provides them with easy entry through the four doors. The quality of the materials, a fresh interior and exterior color collection, versatile storage compartments and ample headroom project a feel-good ambience right from the word go. The enjoyable driving experience is enhanced by details such as the separate rev counter on the instrument panel, high placed gear stick and remote controls on the steering wheel for the radio.

    The high seating position makes getting into and out of the Agila easier and ensures good visibility even in heavy urban traffic. The rear seat backs can be folded down at a flick of the wrist to create a completely flat load floor, with a compartment beneath providing additional storage space. In total, the Agila has a luggage capacity of more than 1100 liters accessible through its large trunk lid – the top figure in this segment. The new Agila also comes with a safety package comprising four airbags, as well as optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and head curtain airbags.

    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Array
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila
    Opel Agila

    New engines with up to 86 hp (two lively gasoline engines and a top-of-the-line common-rail diesel for high pulling power) combine performance with low emissions. As an alternative to the standard manual transmission, an automatic gearbox is also available – a distinctive feature in this class. The second-generation Opel Agila makes its world premiere at the IAA Frankfurt (September 13 – 23, 2007) and will be available at dealerships as of next spring.

    Opinions on new Agila

    Hans Demant, Opel Managing Director: “The new Agila cuts a fine figure in all situations. Its agile chassis and lively engines make it fun to drive – with low consumption and CO2 levels.”

    Belinda Müller, Designer: “The boring days are over. Who says a nimble urban car can’t also look cool? A wide selection of fresh colors and bold styles create an ambience that’s enhanced even more by the spacious headroom.”

    Sara Nicholson, Opel European Marketing Manager: “The Agila, the new Baby-Opel, is a clever package of fun and versatility for the girl about town.”

  • Mercedes-Benz R-Class

    Even greater interior adaptability, two wheelbase lengths, rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive and new engine variants – the Mercedes-Benz R-Class now opens up even more possibilities, especially when it comes to seating arrangements. The line-up, which includes the familiar configurations with up to six individual seats, has been augmented to include a five-seat version and a seven-seat variant. Plus new, distinctive bodystyling at the front and rear end lends the SUV Tourer added appeal. (more…)

  • ABT Volkswagen Touareg

    ABT Volkswagen TouaregFollowing the release of the updated 2008 Touareg back in January this year, German based, tuner Abt presented their revised versions of VW’s luxury SUV. The Abt Touareg stands out optically thanks to the full bodykit consisting of a front spoiler lip, side skirts, fender extensions, a rear wing, rear skirts and the 4-pipe exhaust system. Abt also equips the Touareg with 19, 20 or 22-inch alloys. Under the skin, Abt’s Touareg receives a revised suspension and brake system. For the moment, Abt offers three diesel and one petrol version, all of which come with a power increase: 2.5 TDI with 195hp (+21hp), 3.0 TDI with 270hp (+45hp), 5.0 V10 TDI with 360hp (+47hp) and finally the petrol 4.2 V8 with an output of 500hp (+150hp). (more…)

  • Autodelta GT 3.7 Super

    Autodelta GT37 SuperAutodelta is pleased to present for its world première the most dynamic and powerful version of the Alfa GT Coupe yet – the 405 bhp supercharged Autodelta GT 3.7 Super. With its top speed of 293 km/h (182 mph) and a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 4.9 seconds the Autodelta GT 3.7 Super offers the driver supercar level performance coupled with the car’s famous driveability and practicality.

    Introduced four years ago, the Alfa Romeo GT Coupe, styled by famed historic Italian design house Bertone, is a gorgeous, sleek and very agile, yet at the same time truly practical, four-seat coupé which immediately won plaudits and awards as well as a loyal following worldwide: a true Alfa Romeo in every sense of the word. Now the new Autodelta GT 3.7 Super takes the GT Coupe theme to the ultimate performance level. It follows on from the market success of the firm’s previous work with the 3.2-litre Alfa GT model: the 320 bhp Autodelta GT 3.2 Super (2004) and the 341 bhp Autodelta GT 3.2 Super Evo version (2005), by raising the Alfa V6 engine and chassis package to even more extreme performance levels.

    Autodelta GT 3.7 Super
    Autodelta GT 3.7 Super
    Autodelta GT 3.7 Super
    Autodelta GT 3.7 Super
    Autodelta GT 3.7 Super

    “Our customers continually push us forward, demanding ever more performance from Alfa Romeo models, and following the 3.2 Super and Evo versions we have had many requests to maximise the Alfa GT’s potential with a 3.7-litre supercharged version,” says Autodelta Managing Director Jano Djelalian. “We have a vast experience with the chassis of this car, and knew it was more than capable of handling the serious power and torque increases that would result from this project – and then transmitting them to the road in a useable and effective manner.”

    The new car sees the Alfa GT’s 3.2-litre engine’s capacity increased to 3,750cc, and harnessed with the space-efficient Rotrex C38-81 centrifugal supercharger. The engine development includes extensive cylinder head improvements, new larger fuel injectors with revised spray patterns to optimise combustion and emissions, and a Ferrari-derived throttle body. The car also receives new tubular exhaust manifolds and a complete exhaust system specially designed for the requirements of this upgrade. The result, combined with further chassis, transmission and aerodynamic developments is earth shattering. The Autodelta GT 3.7 Super boasts maximum power of 405 bhp at 6,800 rpm and 508 Nm (375 lb/ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The standard Alfa GT 3.2 V6 by comparison offers 240 bhp and 300 Nm (221 lb/ft).

    The new Autodelta GT 3.7 Super can reach a maximum speed of 293 km/h (182 mph) and boasts a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 4.9 seconds – blistering performance from what is a perfectly sorted car. (Standard Alfa GT Coupe V6 top speed is 243 km/h while the 0-100 km/h time is 6.7 seconds). The torque availability of the Alfa V6 engine – one of the most famous units in the brand’s almost century long history – is truly impressive, the power curve running smoothly from tickover to the redline at 7,400 rpm.

    “The Arese-built Alfa V6 is an excellent engine,” says Jano, “we have more than twenty years of experience developing it to the maximum, and it quite simply responds to everything we want to do to it. The Alfa GT Coupe provides us with all the right ingredients to work with – in the engine and chassis area – and we are all delighted with the results we have achieved with the Autodelta GT 3.7 Super.”

    The improvements made to the engine are complimented by extensive remapping to the ECU, while the front-wheel-drive car is able to effectively put the additional power down on the road through the incorporation of an Autodelta-developed and specially manufactured Limited Slip Differential (LSD). Autodelta also fit different gearbox ratios, depending on the customer’s specific requirements.

    This is not just a very powerful machine for trackdays or special occasions, but an effective, practical car ready for day-to-day use, fully able to use all its 405 bhp and 508 Nm to enhance the owner’s sensory experience under all driving scenarios. Most Autodelta customers’ demand a high performance Alfa Romeo which is suitable every use, and Autodelta’s engineers regard it as their priority to fulfil this demand.

    The Autodelta GT 3.7 Super comes with the enhanced aerodynamic package of the GT Super, including a deeper spoiler that supplies and optimises airflow to the intercooler. The rear bumper assembly incorporates a ‘diffuser’. Interior trim upgrades are optional, including Alcantara trim on the dashboard and panels, as well as bespoke leather packages.

    The full Autodelta GT 3.7 Super package is now available for immediate ordering from the London factory or from our worldwide network of authorised dealers.