Category: Auto News

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

  • Ford Racing EcoBoost Prototype – Overall Speed Record 359 km/h

    Ford Racing EcoBoost Prototype managed to average more than 354 km/h (220 mph) around the venerable 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway tri-oval in a special record run session.

    Colin Braun behind the steering wheel achieved overall speed record for one lap around Daytona of 358.84 km/h (222.971 mph). This is way faster than the previous record established in 1987 by Bill Elliot who hit 338.55 km/h (210.364 mph) in NASCAR cup car during the Daytona 500 qualifying session.

    Ford EcoBoost engine provides both performance and fuel economy, on and off the track. The powerplant includes all the newest technologies – direct injection, turbocharging and high efficiency. Moreover, the engine will power a new Ford-inspired Riley Technologies Daytona Prototype car.

    Source: Ford

  • 2014 BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo – Price £49,950

    Alpina has announced full details and pricing for the 2013 D3 Bi-Turbo based on BMW 3-Series F30/F31 335d. The saloon is priced from £46,950, while the touring model costs £49,950.

    2013 Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged diesel with 350HP (257 kW) at 4,000RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at just 1,500RPM. The engine is connected to an 8-speed ZF Sport-Automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 278 km/h (173 mph). The fuel consumption is extremely low – 6.0 liters / 100 km in city; 4.9 liters / 100 on highway and 5.3 liters / 100 in combined cycle. The curb weight is 1585kg (3487 lbs).

    Standard equipment includes an 8-speed automatic gearbox, Adaptive M Sport Suspension, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable heated sports seats, climate control and Bi-Xenon headlights. Inside, there are luxury carpet overmats and subtle ALPINA logos on the seat backs and door sills. The instruments are in ALPINA Blue and the steering wheel is covered in finest-quality, hand-stitched Lavalina leather.

    Outside, the new D3 Bi-Turbo receives subtle aerodynamic enhancements developed in BMW’s wind tunnel, a four outlet exhaust with an ‘intelligent’ acoustic valve, and 19” ALPINA alloy wheels in the company’s famous Classic design. Every car is finished with a model plaque displayed on the centre console, showing the car’s unique build number.

    In addition to being available with all BMW options including those from BMW Individual, the D3 Bi-Turbo can receive almost limitless personalisation from ALPINA’s craftsmen. Alongside the famous ALPINA Blue and ALPINA Green signature paintwork, choices include hand-stitched full leather interiors of superb quality and a wide range of hand-finished woods for the dashboard and doors.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    Saloon Touring
    Weight (kg unladen) 1,585 1,655
    Length (mm) 4,628 4,628
    Cylinder 6 in line 6 in line
    Displacement (cm3) 2993 2993
    Bore (mm) 84.0 84.0
    Stroke (mm) 90.0 90.0
    Maximum output (kW / hp) 257 / 350 257 / 350 at 4000 rpm
    Max. torque (Nm) 700 700  from 1500 to 3000 rpm
    Front wheels and tyres 8 x 19“ 245/35 ZR19
    Rear wheels and tyres 9 x 19“ 265/35 ZR19
    Emissions classification Euro 6 Euro 6
    Acceleration 0-62 mph (sec) 4.6 4.6
    Top speed (mph) 173 172
    Fuel consumption Urban (mpg) 47.1 46.3
    Extra-urban (mpg) 57.7 56.5
    Combined (mpg) 53.3 52.3
    CO2 emissions (g/km) 139 142
    Efficiency category B B

    Source: Alpina

  • Novitec Rosso Ferrari F12 N-LARGO – 781HP and 722Nm

    Novitec Rosso has announced their latest project called F12 N-LARGO based on the superfast Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. It comes with styling and performance modifications as well.

    The exterior boasts an entire wide body kit including modified front and rear bumpers, a pair of revised side skirts and extended fenders. Other highlights include a front lip spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, 9.5J x 21” and 12J x 22” forged alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli P ZERO high-performance tires – 255/30 ZR21 and 335/25 ZR22, respectively. Last, but not least, NOVITEC fitted the F12 N-Largo with a big rear wing and tinted taillights.

    The ride height is reduced by 40mm thanks to new sport springs. There is also an optional front lift system that raises the front axle by approximately 40mm to ease with going over speed humps.

    The 6.3 liter naturally aspirated V12 is boosted to 781HP (574 kW) at 8,600RPM and 722Nm (532 lb-ft) of torque at 6,400RPM – an increase of 41HP (30 kW) and 32Nm (23 lb-ft). The result is thanks to an optimized ECU and a sports exhaust system.

    Novitec Rosso also offers custom exclusivity for the interior. The cockpit can be designed in leather and Alcantara in any desired color.

    Source: NOVITEC

  • 2014 BMW 4-Series Convertible [leak images]

    BMWBlog has published several official images of the 2014 BMW 4-Series Convertible. The manufacturer didn’t release any technical details, but we expect the same engines, which are offered for the coupe: 420d, 428i, 435i.The exterior doesn’t come with any big changes. After all, the 4-Series Convertible will be exactly the same as the Coupe, except a retractable metal roof and some reinforcement for the chassis. Still, BMW is going to use lightweight materials in order to keep the total weight as low as possible.The 2014 BMW 4-series Convertible will make its official debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.Stay tuned!

  • 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S – Top Speed 333 km/h [video]

    SportAuto has published a nice video showing a speed test of the all-new 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S. Behind the steering wheel is Christian Gebhardt, who had enough courage to take the sports car all the way to 333 km/h (207 mph).

    2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S is powered by a 3.8 liter flat-six turbocharged engine with 560HP (412 kW) at 6500RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a DCT 7-speed gearbox.

    0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 318 km/h (198 mph). However, during the test Christian Gebhardt managed to do 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 10.0 seconds and a top speed of 333 km/h (207 mph).

    2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S is available on the market with pricing starting from €195,256.

    Enjoy the video!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoKst5KKtdQ

    Source: SportAuto via Youtube

  • Tata Nano CNG emax Launched

    Tata-Nano-CNG-emaxTHUMBTata has launch of the new Tata Nano CNG emax. The vehicle is powered by a fuel efficient engine with CNG and Petrol bi-fuel system options. The car is extremely fuel efficient and has CO2 emissions of 75.6 g/km and it is also one of the most fuel efficient cars in India having a combined fuel consumption of just 36 km/kg.

    In fact, Nano CNG emax is the first of the five cars in the emax series of CNG cars. It is en eco-friendly vehicle which takes the Nano’s efficiency prowess even further. For instance, its sequential gas injection system is thoroughly calibrated with an intelligent advanced Engine Management System (EMS). The latter allows smart switching between CNG and Gasoline fuel systems and to automatically shifts to gasoline mode.

    Switching between the two driving models – petrol and CNG, is made effortless thanks to the push-button fuel type selector. Another important highlight here is that this Nano model can be started on CNG and not on petrol like other conventional CNG systems.

    Some of the features and technologies included in the Nano CNG emax are the following: air conditioning, turning radius, passenger space and comfort, leak detection sensors and interlock sensor. The last two technologies automatically ensure that the engine is switched off during CNG gas filling.

    There is no need to worry about the luggage space in the case if this Tata model, because car’s CNG system is intelligently packaged and cylinders are smartly fitted under the front seats. In addition, the CNG technology delivers a touring range of more than 150 km (in CNG), next to the existing touring range of 375 km (in petrol),

    Source: Tata

  • Mazda CX-5 SE-L Lux Models Join The CX-5 Line-Up

    2014-Mazda-CX-5-SE-L-Lux-THUMBThe SE L Lux and SE-L Lux Nav new trim levels are currently joining the Mazda CX-5 compact SUV line-up. Both vehicles are fitted with the Brand’s innovative fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology, and utilize as a basis the 2.2-litre diesel 150 hp 2WD SE-L model with manual transmission.

    However, they add on the top of it tilt-and-slide glass sunroof, full leather trim in Black or Stone, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats with three-stage temperature settings.

    In addition, the 2014 Mazda CX-5 SE-L Lux will also offer to its customers 17-inch Alloy wheels, push button start, USB, iPod and AUX jack connectivity, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, front fog lights, privacy glass, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing front wipers, dusk-sensing headlights, Integrated Bluetooth system, 5.8-inch colour touch screen, Mazda Multimedia Commander, Smart City Brake Support, Cruise control, Black leather trim, six-way power adjustable driver’s seat and Integrated Navigation (only in SE-L Lux Nav models).

    As a matter of fact, recently Mazda CX-5 had won the SUV category in the 2013 Women’s World Car of the Year Awards as well as in Auto Express, WhatCar?, Total 4×4 and Fleet World magazines.

    The SUV will be offered with a range of petrol or diesel engines, manual or automatic transmissions, and 2-wheel drive (2WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The CX-5 is incredibly efficient – with fuel economy up to 61.4mpg., and emits just 119g/km CO2.

    Mazda CX-5 Performance & Economy:

    2WD Diesel Power
    (ps)
    Torque
    (Nm)
    0-62mph
    (sec)
    Top Speed
    (mph)
    Combined
    (mpg)
    2.2 SE-L Lux 150 380 9.2 126 61.4
    2.2 SE-L Lux NAV 150 380 9.2 126 61.4

    Mazda CX-5 Pricing:

    2WD Diesel ‘On the road’
    Retail
    CO2
    (g/km)
    RFL
    Band
    Insurance
    Group
    2.2 SE-L Lux £24,495 119 C 20 E
    2.2 SE-L Lux NAV £25,195 119 C 20 E

    Source: Mazda

  • 2013 Renault Scenic Lounge Limited Edition

    Renault has announced the new 2013 Lounge Limited Edition available for the Scenic and Grand Scenic Facelift models.

    The upper-spec model is based on the ZEN trim level and includes , cruise control with speed-limiter, dual-zone climate control, electronic parking brake, automatic rain and light sensors, in-dash connected Renault R-Link multimedia tablet complete with European mapping, video system built into the back of the front head rests (DVD, USB port, SD card port, two seven-inch screens with headsets and remote controls), front and rear parking assist, reversing camera, key card for hands-free entry and starting, electrically-folding door mirrors, family Pack (sun blinds, aviation-style folding tables for rear passengers, under-seat drawers, front and rear reading lights, child surveillance mirror, forward-tipping front seat for carrying long items, etc.).

    The engine range includes TCe 130 petrol and three diesels: dCi 110, dCi 110 EDC and dCi 130.

    2013 Renault Scenic Lounge Limited Edition will be available until January 2014.

    RENAULT SCENIC LOUNGE

    RENAULT GRAND SCENIC LOUNGE

    Energy TCe 130 €27,200 Energy TCe 130 €28,300
    Energy dCi 110 €29,300 Energy dCi 110 €30,400
    dCi 110 EDC €30,100 dCi 110 EDC €31,200
    Energy dCi 130 €30,100 Energy dCi 130 €31,200

    Options (tax-paid prices in France)

    • Spare wheel: €120
    • Metallic paint: €570

    Source: Renault

  • Mitsubishi To Premiere Three Concept Vehicles In Tokyo

    Mitsubishi-TMSH-THUMBMitsubishi is going to make a triple premiere of concept vehicles at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show. The vehicles will express innovative design identity, which symbolizes the sense of security and functionality of an SUV. The three concepts are going to include brand’s new advanced technologies which offer environmental responsibility, driving pleasure, toughness and safety.

    The first concept Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV which is a full-size SUV that utilizes a high out-put PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) system, and offers both the dynamic drivability of an SUV and class-leading environmental performance.

    In addition, the vehicle will be equipped with Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) that delivers superior handling, stability as well as the all-terrain capability. The GC-PHEV will also include the next-generation preventive safety technology and driver support technology through wireless connectivity.

    The second vehicle is the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV, which again is an SUV in compact form. It will be equipped with lightweight and highly efficient PHEV system. The latter has dramatically enhanced environmental performance. In addition, the Concept XR-PHEV is promised to offer nimble drivability and a body style resembling a sport coupe.

    At last, the Mitsubishi Concept AR is a next-generation compact MPV (multi-purpose vehicle). This special car combines the mobility of an SUV and the occupant space of an MPV. Of course, the specialists at the brand have equipped with the latest fuel efficiency technologies.

    As a result the vehicle utilizes a down-sized direct-injection turbocharged engine. In addition, the AR Concept delivers relaxing space for occupants through its enveloping interior design and a range of seat arrangements that offer comfort for everybody inside.

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • TEASER: Chrysler Releases Sketches Of Mopar Modified Vehicles Ahead Of SEMA

    Mopar-Chrysler-THUMBMopar-Chrysler-651-1Chrysler has just released the first sketches of select Mopar-modified vehicles, which are currently in preparation for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. The event will take place between 5th and 8th of November.

    The developed Mopar-modified vehicles for SEMA show aim to inspire ultimate customization. In addition, to this the company will display 20 Mopar-modified Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Fiat and SRT vehicles and will highlight Jeep Performance Parts developed by its newly created Mopar Off-Road Division.

    Some of the Mopar-first features that are going to be present at the show include vehicle-information apps, for which Mopar was the first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications; electronic owner manuals – again the brand was the first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format; Wi-Fi – Mopar was the first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot; Wireless charging; Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS); wiAdvisor; wiTech and many more.

    With the 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak, the brand was again the first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car. No additional information about the vehicles has been released so far. It is expected to be unveiled prior official reveal.

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2014 Opel Meriva Facelift [video]

    Opel has announced the 2014 Meriva Facelift coming with minor changes. The new Meriva is more sophisticated, more efficient and more functional than ever. It will celebrate its world premiere at the Brussels’ motor show in mid-January, next year.

    The exterior features a new front grille, updated headlamps and more chrome accents around the fog lights. Other highlights include LED DRLs and LED taillights as well.

    The most important modification is the 1.6 liter CDTI diesel engine. It complies with EURO 6 regulations. The 1.6 liter CDTI has 136 HP (100 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The average fuel consumption is just 4.4 liters / 100 km (53.4 mpg US or 64.2 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 116 g/km. It replaces the old 1.7 liter CDTI with 130HP.

    The new Meriva also receives a new, state-of-the-art IntelliLink infotainment system with embedded, fast and user-friendly navigation and voice control. The large, high-definition, seven-inch color monitor affords great readability and easy operation. It also displays the image from the rear-view camera. Making calls and audiostreaming via Bluetooth are also possible. The Navi 950 IntelliLink comes standard with comprehensive map information covering the whole of Europe, and further updates can easily be downloaded via USB.

    Stay tuned for full details and pricing!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L84PtNGIiAo

    Source: Opel

  • 2015 Cadillac Escalade Unveiled!

    2015-Cadillac-Escalade-THUMBCadillac has just introduced its latest 2015 Cadillac Escalade – sophisticated luxury SUV which offers exclusive craftsmanship and technology. The fourth-generation Escalade has a brand new design strongly visible throughout the interior.

    This SUV has bold design, powerful capability and luxurious accommodations for up to eight occupants. The production of the 2015 Escalade will begin next spring in Arlington, Texas. The product line will comprise of the standard Escalade model, as well as the extended-length ESV edition. The latter will be with 14-inch-longer (355 mm) wheelbase and approximately 20 inches (508 mm) more in overall length.

    In addition, the Escalade will be offered with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains. The vehicle will be equipped as a standard with a new 6.2L V-8 engine that and brand’s Magnetic Ride Control, which is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension system.

    Other exterior highlights are the crisp sophisticated surfaces, accented by dramatic light-emitting diode, or LED, lighting. On the other hand, the interior includes cut-and-sewn and wrapped materials, with wood trim options. In addition, the interior is dramatically quieter due to a stronger new body structure, new and enhanced acoustic material, and Bose Active Noise Cancellation technology.

    CUE is Cadillac’s advanced system for connectivity and control, which also comes as a standard here and includes voice recognition with touch controls. Also standard is the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, while as an option there is available Blu-Ray DVD rear entertainment system that features a nine-inch, roof-mounted screen on Escalade and two nine-inch screens on Escalade ESV.

    The safety features included here are the Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Front Seat Center-Mounted air bag, Driver Awareness package which includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, and the patented Safety Alert Seat, Driver Assist package that adds Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Automatic Collision Preparation and Automatic Safety Belt Tightening. Additionally there are offered Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert, which are standard on Luxury and Premium models.

    Real wood combined with premium cut-and-sewn materials and sueded accents, along with ambient lighting, were designed to add elegance to the interior design. Tight tolerances of the instrument panel and door panels, precision controls and triple-sealed doors were engineered and designed to reinforce a feeling of quality.

    The seats there were designed to be more comfortable and sculpted and incorporate dual-firmness foam that ensures long-trip comfort and helps retain appearance over time. Heated and cooled seats are standard in front and second-row bucket seats have standard heat.

    New enhanced technologies are featured here for the first time, such as the standard CUE infotainment system and high-resolution 12.3-inch digital driver information center display

    The new Escalade’s exterior adds full LED lighting. The headlamps incorporate the industry’s first Total Internal Reflection LED high-beam function, which consists of four vertically stacked crystal lenses and LEDs.

    On the other hand, the low beam comprises of five crystal lenses and LEDs, while the tall and thin vertical LED taillamps reach to the top of the Escalade and feature the brand’s wreath-and-crest insignia, which illuminates in the dark. Escalade also features LED-illuminated door handles on the Premium Collection.

    Going further into details, the vehicle is equipped with the 6.2L V-8 engine which is capable of producing 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 460 lb-ft of torque (623 Nm). The new technologies featured here include direct injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system. The unit is coupled with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission with enhanced TapShift control.

    The performance of Escalade is channeled to a more sophisticated chassis and suspension system. For instance the shear-style body mounts help reduce vibrations transmitted into the vehicle. The additional chassis and suspension highlights include:

    • Coil-over-shock front suspension and five-link/coil-spring rear suspension
    • Wider rear track that contributes to a more planted stance
    • Standard 20-inch wheels and available 22-inch wheels
    • New, electric variable-assist power steering system that enhances fuel economy and tailors steering assist to vehicle speed
    • New 9.5-inch rear axle and standard automatic locking rear differential
    • StabiliTrak electronic stability control, incorporating tow/haul mode, auto grade braking and hill start assist
    • New four-wheel-disc brake system with Duralife brake rotors that offer up to double the service life, along with brake pedal revisions engineered to improve pedal feel for more confident braking performance
    • Third-generation magnetic ride control is standard with Tour and Sport modes.

    Next, the Magnetic Ride Control is in fact a real-time damping system. It delivers more precise body motion control by managing the road every millisecond. This new technology substitutes the conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of a magnetic field, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

    The security features of 2015 Cadillac Escalade has been created in order to deliver greater safet to theft attempts. They include intrusion sensor, inclination sensor and glass breakage sensors. Along with triggering the vehicle’s alarm systems, these features shut down key control systems to make it almost impossible to start or move the vehicle. OnStar Stolen Vehicle Assistance is what helps the police locate the vehicle.

    Source: Cadillac