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Frankfurt Motor Show: Audi nanuk quattro concept

Audi is currently showing the Audi nanuk quattro concept in Frankfurt. The car was in collaboration with the designers from Italdesign Giugiaro. The result is a sports car that can stand out equally at home on the race track.

This concept mixes the dynamics of a mid-engine sports car with the versatility of a sporty recreational vehicle. Born as a two-seater, it is powered by the V10 TDI engine installed longitudinally in front of the rear axle.

It has the capability to produce over 400 kW (544 hp) and 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft from just 1,500 rpm. Its twin-turbo register charging unit is controlled via the Audi valvelift system (AVS). The engine is matched with a seven-speed S tronic transmission, which is positioned behind the powertrain.

Nanuk quattro concept has a dry weight of circa 1,900 kilograms (4,188.78 lb). Thanks to this and to the powerful engine it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 305 km/h (189.52 mph).

The car runs on 22-inch wheels which are coupled with 235/50 tires at the front and 295/45 at the rear. The carbon fiber-ceramic brake discs are also used here and they can withstand high temperatures.

A technological highlight of the show car is the integral steering, which combines the proven Audi dynamic steering at the front axle. In this way it can intervene at the cornering limit for enhanced stability, with additional steering for the rear wheels.

The new quattro concept has a wheelbase of 2,710 millimeters (106.69 in). It is 4,541 millimeters (178.78 in) long, 1,990 millimeters (78.35 in) wide and 1,337 milli-meters (52.64 in) high. Its body is made of lightweight aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) and there are also included components made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) that are painted in Extreme Red.

At the front one can see a very flat version of a hexagonal single-frame grille and a narrow aluminum frame which is around its insert. The dynamic daytime running lights used here also serve as dynamic turn signals. The headlights also incorporate the new Audi Matrix LED technology.

From the side, the one sees that the contours of the fenders dominate. The front contour forms a sharp blister edge, while the rear one extends like a wave over the wheel. In addition, the upper and lower sections of the door stick out while the center section is slightly recessed. The doors open upward. Instead of exterior mirrors there are wing-shaped cameras used.

At the rear of the car can be seen a concave section that extends across the entire width and incorporates the Audi rings. The third brake light here runs as a flat strip between the tail-lights. In addition, the diffuser includes two large and round tailpipes of the exhaust system.

Furthermore, at the rear is a large rear window through which the TDI engine can be viewed.

Next, the interior of the Audi nanuk quattro concept includes a design which focuses on the instrument cluster. A carbon island accentuates the cockpit. The instrument panel highlights the horizontal lines and the width of the car and it is supported by aluminum stirrups at the center console.

The center tunnel console and the steering wheel house all of the control elements, the electronically controlled air suspension, the touchwheel for navigation and multimedia functions and the turn signals.

What is more, the show car is equipped with a freely programmable instrument cluster. This means that the driver can evoke a range of displays and information. Two small monitors in the area of the A-pillars serve as digital exterior mirrors and display the images from the cameras on the doors. The rearview mirror is replaced by the center display mounted on the headlining.

The instrument panel, the seats, the arm rests and door panels are covered in fine mineral gray leather. Another material used in the interior of the Audi nanuk quattro concept is CFRP.

Source: Audi

September 10, 2013

Rolls-Royce Unveils Celestial Phantom Model In Frankfurt

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has just unveiled the Celestial Phantom vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The car comes to celebrate the ten years anniversary of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ renaissance under BMW Group custodianship and the production of the first Phantom in Goodwood, England.

This model evokes the spirit of elegance and lightness of touch. Its exterior color resembles the night sky and includes fine glass particles into the paint. This in turn effects as the alluring sense of depth and light. The theme continues when one opens the coach doors of this very special Phantom Extended Wheelbase.

Inside, the occupants are welcomed with a new take on Starlight Headliner. The constellations, exactly as they were at midnight on that historic evening are represented by over a thousand fibre optic lights incorporated into Celestial Phantom’s headlining.

Of course, the finest leathers in a ‘Dusk’ hue were used to continue the theme of the inky quality of a cloudless night sky. Exclusive glassware and an exquisitely appointed picnic set highlight additionally the luxury lifestyle that car offers.

Attention to the details can be seen throughout the interior. For example, finer detail still with hand-stitching to the headliner subtly maps out the constellations. In addition, the rear privacy divider’s clock replete is made with four diamonds.

Source: Rolls-Royce

September 10, 2013

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse Makes Frankfurt Debut

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse was unveiled in the beginning of August and now makes its official world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. As a true Lamborghini this vehicle offers high levels of performance and at the same time brings the thrills of the motorsport to the street-legal world.

As a matter of fact, this model is the most extreme one in the Gallardo line-up and it is based on the Gallardo Super Trofeo. Its name refers to the recently-founded department within Automobili Lamborghini that is associated with all motorsport activities from GT3 to the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo championships in Europe, Asia and America.

The new Lamborghini is derived directly from the race car and is equipped with the same V10 engine. In addition, it also keeps the same rear wing for greater aerodynamic load. Another element taken directly from the racing version is the removable engine hood equipped with a quick-release system. Both elements are made of carbon composite material.

The lightweight construction of the supersports car is achieved through consistent use of carbon fiber. Together with aluminum, the carbon fiber builds the basis for the construction of extremely lightweight vehicle. The dry weight of the car is just 1340 kilograms, which gives the Squadra Corse a stunning power-to-weight ratio of 2.35 kilograms per hp.

This of course results in a breathtaking performance. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in just 10.4 seconds. The top speed here is 320 km/h. The production-standard carbon-ceramic brake system on the other hand is what makes sure one of the best stopping powers.

Squadra Corse’s V10 engine generates 570 hp (419 kW) fully available at 8,000 rpm. In addition, V10’s unique firing order delivers the striking sound. The supersports car comes as standard with the robotized e-gear six-speed transmission operated by steering wheel paddles. What is more, the vehicle features all-wheel drive race cars.

Gallardo Squadra Corse’s has stunning exterior design. A decal strip along the sides is decided in green, white and red, the colors. The car will be available in Giallo Midas (yellow), Bianco Monocerus (white), Grigio Thalasso (grey) and Rosso Mars (red).

The visual stance of the vehicle is further enhanced by the matte black finish on the large rear wing, which contrasts with the body paint work. The hood, front air intakes, rear diffuser and 19-inch forged wheels are painted in high-gloss black, while the brake callipers are offered in red, black or yellow.

Going inside, one can see an extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber and Alcantara. The latter material graces the underside of the dashboard, the central panel of the seat cushion and the backrest. On the other hand, the door panels, the racing seats and the center console cover are made from carbon fiber.

The same material is utilized for the handbrake frame, the middle of the center console, the lower rim of the steering wheel, the trim around the main and secondary instrument panels, the door handles and the handle for opening the glove box.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse will be a limited production model and its starting price is €191 100.

Source: Lamborghini

September 10, 2013

Brabus 850 6.0 Bi-Turbo iBusiness based on Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Brabus will exhibit its super-fast and super-powerful 850 6.0 Bi-Turbo iBusiness based on the new Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in few days. Brabus iBusiness comes with styling and performance upgrades, especially under the hood.

The 6.0 liter twin-turbo V8 is boosted to whopping 850HP (625 kW) at 5,400RPM and 1,150Nm (848 lb-ft) of torque at 2,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The result is thanks to enlarged displacement (by 0.5 liters), two bigger turbochargers, forged pistons, a billet crankshaft, a larger air filter box, a stainless steel sports exhaust system and an optimized ECU.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of modified side skirts, carbon fiber fender vents and a rear diffuser. There are also carbon-ceramic brakes and an electronic lowering module, which can reduce the ride height by 15mm. The big saloon rolls tailor-made BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters of 19”, 20”, 21” or even 22”.

The BRABUS Monoblock G “Platinum Edition” forged wheels feature a combination of size 9J x 22” wheels and size 255/30 ZR 22 tires on the front axle with size 10J x 22” wheels and size 295/25 ZR 22 tires in back, and make full use of the available space below the wheel arches.

The interior features an iPad mini, an iPod touch, a Mac mini and an Apple TV (iBusiness). Other highlights include premium leather upholstery, a mobile hotspot and a custom rear center console. There are also a 15.2” TFT display, a rear seat entertainment system and fiber optic lights that are mounted in the leather headliner.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo “iBusiness” is built to order. The multimedia system and all other BRABUS tuning components are available for all current S-Class models. BRABUS engine tuning is also available for all other engine variants.

Source: Brabus

September 9, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hits the US Market

Mercedes-Benz US has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 S-Class. The luxurious saloon is expected to hit the US market next month with pricing starting from $92,900 for the entry level S550.

With its beautiful interior craftsmanship that features heated armrests and hot stone seating massage, ionized air purification via the Air Balance Package, First Class rear-seat luxury, and a Burmester sound system, its character and overall presence is unmatched. Its fresh, confident, and sophisticated exterior design goes hand-in-hand with an intelligent suspension system called Magic Body Control, which sees the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly.

“The S-Class is the embodiment of the four words which have served as the inspiration for our company since its inception – The Best or Nothing. Every time we introduce a new generation, we have the opportunity to deliver more power, greater efficiency and unmatched safety, backed with an improved value proposition. Not only is the new S-Class the most intelligent car on the road, it’s also a smart choice”, commented Steve Cannon, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.

A month later, the manufacturer will receive orders for the S550 4MATIC priced at $95,900 and the top-of-range S63 AMG 4MATIC – $139,500.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 9, 2013

2014 Dacia Duster Facelift

Dacia has announced the 2014 Duster Facelift, which will make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The compact crossover boasts new engine, styling changes for the exterior and better materials for the interior.

The biggest innovation is the 1.2 liter TCe with 125HP (92 kW) mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The fuel consumption is just 6 liters / 100 km (47 mpg UK).

2014 Duster comes with new equipment and features, all at classic Dacia prices. The upgraded model gets multimedia technology and even more practical customer features. Multimedia comes on board – Dacia MEDIA NAV, a complete multimedia system including Bluetooth connectivity and SAT NAV, is now available on New Dacia Duster (depending on the trim level).

Dacia Plug&Radio, the essential multimedia system, is a simple and effective technology comprising a radio, an MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, and integrated jack and USB sockets.

Useful equipment in a well-thought out interior New Dacia Duster features new, useful equipment, including a cruise control/speed limiter, rear parking sensors (on some versions), motion auto-lock, and an exterior temperature display.

The electric window controls, now located on the doors, are equipped with one-touch mode on the driver’s side.

New Dacia Duster has even more cabin space and trunk volume, the latter measuring 475 liters (depending on the version). The new model can carry objects of up to 2.70 meters long with the rear bench folded down and boasts as much as 3.3 liters of extra interior storage space. A new removable luggage shelf offers easy access to the contents of the trunk and helps to better organize storage.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is fitted as standard on New Dacia Duster (Euro 5 models). Also fitted as standard, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) rounds out the ABS anti-lock braking system. The back seats are fitted with Isofix anchor points for the simple and safe attachment of baby and child seats.

New Dacia Duster comes with a cruise control/speed limiter (depending on the version), controlled via the central fascia (system activation) and steering wheel (speed setting).

Source: Dacia

September 9, 2013

2014 Opel Ampera – Price €38,300

2014 Opel Ampera is priced from €38,300, which is a massive price cut of €7,600.

“The Opel Ampera was the first electric car on the market from a European manufacturer. With our new pricing, we show our straightforwardness and continue to pursue our strategy for sustainable mobility. We at Opel remain committed to investing in electric propulsion and believe in an emission-free automotive future – not in the future, but today.”, commented Opel CEO. Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

The Ampera is powered by an electric motor and a 1.4 liter range-extender petrol engine. The combined power is 152HP (111 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft), which is more than enough for everyday driving. 0-100 km/h in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h (100 mph). The electric motor is powered by a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery.

The car can go up to 80 km (50 miles) on electric power and more than 500 km (311 miles) on hybrid mode.

Source: Opel

September 9, 2013

2014 Buick Regal – US Price $30,615

Buick has announced the pricing of the 2014 Regal. The car was presented earlier this year at the 2013 New York Auto Show. The entry level model is priced from $30,615.

Standard equipment includes next-generation IntelliLink connectivity with an eight-inch color touch display, 18” alloy wheels, rear vision camera, leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated front seats and a new 2.0L I-4 Turbo delivering better power, refinement and fuel economy. The engine delivers 259HP (193 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and is able to return 21 mpg US city / 30 mpg on the highway.

Also new for 2014 is an advanced all-wheel-drive system that incorporates electronic limited-slip differential to help make the most of traction in all driving conditions and comes standard with HiPer Strut front suspension. Regal AWD is available starting at $32,790.

A new Regal GS also goes on sale later this year with a suggested retail price of $37,830, including a $925 destination charge. In addition to standard Regal content, GS includes high- intensity discharge head lamps; sport seats with leather seating surfaces; eight-inch full color reconfigurable driver information cluster and display; navigation; Bose premium audio; HiPer Strut front suspension; Computer Damping Control; Interactive Drive Control with Sport and GS modes; Brembo four-piston front brake calipers; and 19-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires. Also available are 20” polished aluminum wheels with summer rated tires.

Source: Buick

September 9, 2013

TEASER: Bugatti Legend To Be Revealed At Frankfurt Motor Show

Bugatti has just released an image on their official Facebook page, which shows the next Bugatti Legend that is to be revealed at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Since the show has already started, we are eagerly anticipating seeing the new vehicle, given that the brand hasn’t disclosed any details around it so far.

What has been written below the image in Facebook is: “The next Bugatti Legend is about to be revealed at the Frankfurt Motorshow. Who could it be?”. Many of the fans of the luxury sports car company are proposing that it could be the Bugatti Galibier 16C or the Super Veyron. Whether they are right, is a matter of time to understand.

In fact, last month the automaker revealed the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Jean-Pierre Wimille Edition at Pebble Beach which was the in the special edition Legend series. Now it is time for the second one to be unveiled, which will probably be based on the Vitesse model. Stay tuned!

Source: Bugatti via Facebook

September 9, 2013

Production Start For 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid

The first models of the new 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid are currently rolling out from the factory and will carry an EPA fuel economy rating of 50 mpg in city driving. This will make them the new leader in gasoline fuel-economy ratings among 4-door sedans.

The new Honda Hybrid model will go on sale later this year. Its calculated driving range is 673 miles which is more than 46 miles farther than any vehicle in its segment.

To go further into details, the EPA fuel-economy ratings of the car are of 50 mpg city / 45 mpg highway / 47 mpg combined. The model will also offer to customers sophisticated exterior styling and spacious interior.

The main advantage it has however is the highly efficient two-motor hybrid system from Honda’s Earth Dreams™ Technology advanced powertrain series. The 2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine delivers a powerful 169 hp (124 kW) with a traction electric motor that also functions as an electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), while the electric motor adds 143hp (105 kW).

In fact, the Accord Hybrid will join the already fuel-efficient Accord lineup which features the EPA-rated 36 mpg highway 4-cylinder Accord Sedan and the Accord Plug-in Hybrid. The latter is EPA-rated at 115 MPGe combined in electric-only mode.

Source: Honda

September 9, 2013

Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan Concept Debuts In Frankfurt

Volkswagen has revealed the Golf Sportsvan Concept, which is the successor to the Golf Plus. The car will make official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show tomorrow.

The new Golf model is based on the MQB platform and is equipped with advanced technology. The exterior design follows the look of Golf, but has a wheel base of 2,685 mm. This generates more interior space. Inside, the rear seats (60:40 split bench) can slide forwards and backwards by up to 180 mm, which enhances the passenger or luggage space.

The boot capacity is also increased by 74 litres to 498 litres. Moving the rear seats forwards enhances the luggage capacity to 585 litres, while folding the rear seats delivers up to 1,512 litres of room. In addition, it the front passenger seat is also folded, the load space goes up to 2,484 mm.

The new Sportsvan concept has a stronger and safer body structure. It will be also equipped with a range of standard and optional passive and active safety systems. For instance, the automatic post-collision braking system automatically brakes the vehicle after a impact, while the PreCrash system detects the possibility of an accident, pre-tensions seatbelts and closes the windows and sunroof.

Moreover, the Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist and City Emergency Braking can reduce or eliminate the chance of accidents. There are also available Driver Alert System, a camera-operated Lane Assist system and a Dynamic Light Assist system. Highlight here is the Blind Spot Monitor, which helps the driver find existing parking spaces. It works by monitoring the area behind and to the sides of the vehicle.

What is more, the Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan Concept will be powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which incorporate Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems. There are available four turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engines with 85, 110, 125 and 150 hp (63, 80, 92, 110 kW) and three turbodiesels: a 2.0-litre 150 hp (110 kW), a 1.6-litre 90 hp (66 kW) and a 1.6-litre 110 hp (80 kW) for the Sportsvan BlueMotion. All engines except for the 85 hp one are also available with a DSG gearbox.

Source: Volkswagen

September 9, 2013

Frankfurt Motor Show: 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet Makes World Debut

2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet makes its world public premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. What makes this model different from the Saloon version is that its dimensions have grown in order to achieve sleeker profile and provide the capacity for complete soft-top concealment in open mode.

To be more precise its length has increased from 4.24 to 4.42 metres, its wheelbase from 2.58 to 2.60 metres and its width from 1.77 to 1.79 metres. Only its height of 1.41 metres is down on its predecessor, by 15 millimetres. The luggage capacity has also been increased to 60 litres (2.12 cubic ft).

When looked from the front, this Audi model is characterised by the single frame radiator grille, which is flanked by flat headlamps. They consist of either halogen or xenon bulbs, or can be optionally equipped LED headlamp technology.

The two-door car is harmonized additionally by the rear overhang, while the windscreen frame is made of aluminium. On the sides of the A3 Cabrio is featured a taut tornado line and contoured surfaces.

More importantly, for the soft top the designers have utilized soft fabric roof that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel. With just a push of a button the top opens or closes electro-hydraulically in less than 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The acoustic soft top has a glass rear window and will be offered in black, grey and brown color, while its roof liner can be specified in black or lunar silver. As an option the brand also offers here a wind deflector and head-level heating. An active rollover protection system which comprises of two spring-loaded plates that are recessed into the body protects the occupants in case of a rollover accident.

Next, the interior of the car retains the elegant design philosophy of the exterior. Elegant lines, clean surfaces and high quality can be seen throughout it. Highlight here is the electrically retractable 5.8-inch colour monitor which features Driver’s Information System. For the first time here is also included an optional lighting package with a touch-sensitive switch for the reading lights.

As one can see the steering wheel and seats have brand new design. Depending on the trim levels – SE, Sport and S line, the seats can be finished in either cloth or a combination of cloth and leather, with full leather and an Alcantara/leather mix.

The assistance systems featured in this model include adaptive cruise control, Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist, camera-based traffic sign/speed limit recognition, park assist with selective display and the Audi pre sense safety system. On the other hand, the line-up of infotainment components includes Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI Navigation plus.

To go further, three newly developed engines will be available for the Audi A3 Cabriolet: the two TFSI engines which generate 140 hp (103 kW) and 180 hp (132 kW) from 1.4 and 1.8 litres of engine displacement, as well as the 2.0 TDI which produces 150 hp (110 kW). The other engines offered range from the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp (80 kW) to the 2.0 TFSI with 300 hp (220 kW). All of the powertrains, use direct injection and turbocharging and are backed up by a start-stop-system.

The chassis of the 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet utilizes MacPherson strut front and four-link rear setup which includes lightweight aluminium elements. The sports suspension has bee lowered by 15mm. S line versions will offer three choices – standard suspension, sports suspension and S line sports suspension lowered by a further 10mm over the sports set-up.

The driving experience is further enhanced by the power steering, S tronic transmission and air conditioning, the optional adaptive suspension control system Audi magnetic ride, adaptive cruise control, adaptive light and progressive steering.

The power steering system for instance includes an efficient electromechanical drive, and ESC stabilisation control system. In support of this, powerful and durable brakes can be seen behind wheels, which range in size from 16 to 19 inches.

Source: Volkswagen

September 9, 2013

Category: Auto News