Auto News – Page 666 – Automobiles Review

DEBUT: Citroen Grand C4 Picasso

The first images and specifications details of the new Citroen Grand C4 Picasso have just been disclosed. The French brand created a uniquely styled car which now stands apart from the already impressive five-seat C4 Picasso with improved design and premium balance between interior space and engaging exterior styling.

In the new Citroen model is included the new EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2) which delivers the prefect combination of versatility, cabin space and accessibility. The main highlight here however is the three rows of seats.

This model retains the same length as its predecessor (4.59 m), while the EMP2 platform allowed and extended wheelbase of 2.84 m. The new EMP2 platform also enables the engine bay and floor to be lowered by 50 mm for the engine and 20 mm for the floor, and in addition the tracks to be widened by 82 mm at the front and 31 mm at the rear.

In addition, the vehicle offers enhanced access, especially to row three through improved door apertures. There are also added 69-litres of useable load space (645-litres VDA) and over 700-litres with row two seats in their forward position.

Furthermore, the new Grand C4 Picasso emits only 98 g/km of CO2, being equipped with the BlueHDi 150 engine. Grand C4 Picasso is fitted with the internal combustion engines e-HDi 90 and e-HDi 115, which deliver sub-100g/km of CO2emissions. They are matched with 6-speed clutchless manual gearbox – ETG6 – (6-speed Efficient Tronic Gearbox).

The seven-seater “Technospace” is powered by a new BlueHDi 150 engine equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that reduces emissions. The unit is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. All diesel-powered models are also fitted with Stop & Start technology as a standard.

What is more, the new Grand C4 Picasso now has new specific exterior design, including unique high-tech front end, attractive side profile with special roof bars and innovative 3D effect LED lights at the rear. All versions of the new model are equipped with stylish alloy wheels ranging from 16 to 18-inch.

At the same time, the interior space is also impressive. It is characterized by a loft-inspired and comfortable interior, 7-inch touchscreen driving interface combined with a high-definition 12-inch panoramic screen, an all-new 360˚ Vision system.

As a standard there is fitted panoramic windscreen while as an option the customers can chose a large glass roof. To make the interior more ambient, Citroen designers included LED lighting on the ceiling, backlit storage spaces, trays on the front seat backs, and inner door handles.

Next, what brings the attention is the asymmetrically designed dashboard in different colors and materials. Satin chrome and gloss inserts are what additionally improves the stylish touches as well as the door panels which now feature laser-engraved pattern on the trim inserts.

The new-generation vehicle is now even easier to handle and is more manoeuvrable than its predecessor. It now has lower weight and centre of gravity and features design elements like the vertically positioned shock absorbers. They deliver the perfect balance between comfort and roadholding, thus resulting in and enhanced driveability, greater safety and unequalled comfort on board. The new electric power steering system that reduces the vibrations transmitted from the road to the steering column, damping of the front subframe and limits the road noise.

The safety features included in this Citroen are the following: Radar guided active cruise control fitted in the front bumper, An anti-collision warning system, Intelligent traction control, active, LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System), an image processing function, Ultrasonic blind spot, eTouch system.

Alongside functions such as keyless entry and start, reversing camera and electric tailgate, the new Citroen includes wide range of innovations that aim to deliver easier and more relaxing driving.

For example, the 360 Vision is an exclusive feature, which is utilizes four cameras placed around the car to give the driver a bird’s eye view, a rear view or a panoramic front view. There is also available a Park Assist feature, which automatically assists when manoeuvring into a tight parking space.

Source: Citroen

June 27, 2013

The 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO

NISMO (Nissan Motorsport International Limited) represents one of the most beloved types of sport cars nowadays that is widely popular worldwide. NISMO in particular has managed to deliver for customers some of the very best, diverse and well-performing at the market cars in the history of the Nissan series. The NISMO type has successfully mingled in the past with some already established famous models and this tendency of Nissan-the redesigning of an existing model through the NISMO type has been going on ever since NISMO was created. The newest NISMO-Nissan vehicle was released in 2013 and it represents a mix of NISMO and the highly acclaimed Nissan Juke. This new creation is an example of sheer style, vivid imagination in detail and technology in all the good and familiar Nissan ways.

We spoke to Sheridan Nissan in DE, our local Nissan store, to get the details of this model. Specific features to the NISMO model include a turbo engine which is 4-cylinder and has 1.6-liter capacity. The torque is specific with the fact that it can reach 184 lb-ft and its maximum availability ranges up to 5200 revolutions per minute. When it comes down to the output the car has 197 horsepower at 6000 revolutions per minute. Other technical specifications include the improved steering wheel and the tires which are probably the most updated assets in comparison to the original car. Other changes are for example the shock absorbers which were altered in order to adapt more of a sport style. Additionally, you will need to make a slightly harder steering effort which will provide the driver with an even greater sports feeling.

The components and features acquired from the original Juke are respectively the manual which is as usual six-speed or the other option in the car is a drive of an all-wheel type alongside a soft CVT which in all likelihood you should find quite comfortable.

The features in the interior of the car are many. There are little toys including various effects and comforts. The kit includes bumper stripes, side sills, LED accent lights, NISMO badges, spoilers with fascinating outlook, a brand new looking front fascia and mirror caps of screaming scarlet. The new NISMO Juke model has been described by the company to be much more comfortable in a state of downforce. The company offers official colors that vary between white, gray, silver and black and these are more or less, the perfect colors for a serious car bearing an aggressive and sports-like charisma. The original Juke has really nothing on the 2013 NISMO Juke model in terms of its sports outlook and its wild dynamic aura. In short, if you are looking for the family-feel vehicle, you need to go for the original. If you are looking for an “I want to be a champion” car, you need to go for the NISMO Juke.

June 27, 2013

The New Dodge Durango

The next generation Dodge Durango has debuted in New York. The American SUV has a classical facelift change and LED lights built into the headlights. The company reported that the reworked model both offers unprecedented-for-this-class characteristics and represents a work of art in technology.

During the Auto Show in New York, the American manufacturer Dodge officially disclosed in front of the large audience the Durango SUV from the 2014 model year. Completely in the typical style of the brand, facelift of the version Durango could be recognize by the refreshed front part, including a new grille and front lights with different shapes, as an option will be diode lights for daytime driving. Moving to the rear, where we see a new bumper and a redesigned rear lights.

The size of the aluminum rims do varies from 18 – to 20-inches. However, the major differences made could be found in the interior of the redesigned Durango. For example, SUV model comes with a new dashboard and center console along with a 5 – or 8.4-inch display and the ability for USB / AUX / SD cards. We can easily notice the new steering wheel, digital instrumental panel and optional Blu-ray entertainment system with two 9-inch displays.

We got some details from the staff over at Deery Brothers dealership of IA. According to them the facelift version of Dodge Durango is offered with two powertrain options. The base model comes with a 3.6-liter V6 (290 hp), while the 5.7-liter V8 generates 360 hp. The company reported that thanks to the optimized 8-degree automatic transmission, the new Durango will lower your average fuel consumption. The model is equipped with an economical mode called Eco Mode, which concerns the transmission, as well as the cylinders deactivation in V8 specification to “maximum fuel economy.”

June 27, 2013

Audi A4 SE Technik Offers Premium Features

Audi A4 SE Technik now comes to offer more premium features, valuable power and efficiency gains. The Technik specification is available for all A4 Saloon and Avant models that are equipped with a four-cylinder engine.

The new trim level, offered by Audi, is based on the more familiar SE but adds additional equipment to it. For example, it includes Milano leather upholstery, hard disk-based MMI navigation plus, Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection and the Audi parking system plus with front and rear visual and acoustic guidance.

Furthermore, it also features an exterior upgrade in means of the new 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with exclusive design, and of the new metallic paint. To go even further into details, the underlying SE specification for the A4 also includes three-zone climate control, cruise control, a Bluetooth phone interface, the Audi Concert audio system incorporating digital radio reception linked to a 6.5-inch colour display, sensors for headlights, wipers and reverse parking and split/folding rear seats. The Avant variants also come with powered tailgate operation.

The SE Technik specification can be combined with a choice of three turbo charged petrol units and three TDI diesels ones found in the A4 Saloon and Avant range. The petrol line-up features the 120 hp (88 kW) and 170 hp (kW) versions of the 1.8-litre TFSI, as well as the 2.0-litre TFSI. The latter is capable of generating 225 hp (165 kW).

Moreover, the A4 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic now utilizes an improved version of the 2.0-litre engine. Hence, it is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only of 6.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph, which is electronically limited. The CO2 emissions are estimated at 155 g/km, while the combined fuel economy is impressive – 42.2 mpg.

For those keen on diesel variants, there are available three versions of the 2.0-litre TDI engine, which are capable of producing respectively 150 hp (110 kW), the 136 hp (100 kW) and 177 hp (130 kW).

Audi A4 SE Technik OTR Prices:

A4 SE Technik 1.8 TFSI 120PS six-speed manual	£24,960
A4 SE Technik 1.8 TFSI 170PS six-speed manual	£26,575
A4 SE Technik 1.8 TFSI 170PS eight-speed multitronic	£28,055
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TFSI quattro 225PS seven-speed S tronic	£32,220
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TDIe 136 PS six-speed manual	£27,880
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TDI 150PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,435
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TDI 177PS six-speed manual	£30,380
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TDI quattro 177PS six-speed manual	£30,455
A4 SE Technik 2.0 TDI quattro 177PS seven-speed S tronic	£31,935

Source: Audi

June 27, 2013

2014 Mazda3 – Improved Design and Fuel Efficiency

Mazda has officially unveiled the 2014 Mazda3 looking quite sleek and sporty. The model boasts Kobo design philosophy which has already been used on the CX-5 and Mazda6.

Lower and leaner than its predecessor, this third generation Mazda3 shares almost nothing with its older siblings other than a name. All new from the ground up, the 2014 Mazda3 sits on a wheelbase of 106.3 inches, which is 2.4 inches longer than the previous generation, yet the hatchback is 1.8 inches shorter in length at 175.6 inches. With a height of 57.3 inches and a width of 70.7 inches, the Mazda3 reduces its ceiling by 0.6 inches and gains 1.6 inches in the hips while retaining similar headroom space and offering rear legroom at 35.8 inches. The rear seatbacks are nearly 2.0 inches taller for added passenger comfort. Front and rear shoulder room also has increased to 57.2 and 54.4 inches, respectively. This efficient use of space is wrapped in the increasingly striking dimensions of KODO, Mazda’s “Soul of Motion” approach to designs that exude emotional proportions and refined strength.

The interior boasts higher quality materials and improved design. There are new instrument cluster, satin chrome trim, piano black accents and more comfortable seats which can be upholstered in cloth, leatherette or leather.

Other interior highlights include a new infotainment system with Bluetooth/USB/AUX connectivity as well as the ability to access the internet via a smartphone.

The engine range includes 2.0 liter SKYACTIV-G with 155HP (115 kW) and 203Nm (150 lb-ft) and a 2.5 liter SKYACTIV-G with 184HP (137 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft). They can be mated to a SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic.

To improve fuel efficiency, the Mazda3 has i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration and a SKYACTIV-Body that uses high-strength steel for “significant weight savings.”

The safety systems are High Beam Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Obstruction Warning, Smart City Brake Support and Radar Cruise Control.

Source: Mazda

June 26, 2013

2013 Honda CR-V – 5 Stars in Euro NCAP Crash Test

EURO NCAP has published a video showing the new 2013 Honda CR-V earning a full 5 Starts rating. The system considers occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and the availability of driver aids. Since the introduction of Euro NCAP‘s current rating scheme all Honda models tested have achieved 5 stars – Accord, Insight, Jazz, CR-Z and Civic.

The new CR-V’s top safety rating reflects Honda’s commitment to overall vehicle safety. Honda’s commitment to safety is embodied by the term ‘Safety for Everyone; safety for drivers, but also safety for passengers, pedestrians and occupants of all vehicles. Honda’s car-to-car crash test facility at the Tochigi R&D plant analyses impacts between models of different sizes and weights and develops solutions to mitigate injuries for both passengers and pedestrians.

2013 Honda CR-V will get Earth Dreams Technology 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine. The CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC is available in 2WD with manual gearbox and will feature 300Nm of torque and 120HP with CO₂ emissions of only 119g/km to provide an exceptional balance of performance and economy.

This new derivative will go on sale in autumn 2013.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwyQp29bB3U

Source: Honda

June 26, 2013

TAG Motorsports 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

TAG Motorsports has announced their latest project based on the powerful 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor pick-up truck.

TAG Motorsports 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is powered by a 6.2 liter V8 boosted to 600HP (447 kW). The result is thanks to a Roush Stage 2 supercharger system. Other upgrades include Corsa exhaust system with QTP electronic exhaust cut-out valve, a Roush boost gauge, Kooks header system and high flow catalytic converters.

Other modifications include red-coated lock rings, custom embroidered headrests and a Pace Edwards electronic bed cover.

No words about pricing.

Source: TAG Motorsports

June 26, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – UK Price £62,650

Mercedes-Benz UK has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 S-Class. The super-luxurious saloon starts from £62,650 OTR for the entry level model – S 350 BlueTEC SE. The price can go up to £88,130 for the top-of-range S 500 L AMG. There are also rumors that the S-Class Pullman will replace Maybach and the pricing will start from more than £170,000.

Additional new equipment for the S-Class includes Magic Vision Control, the innovative wash/wipe system that applies washer fluid directly in front of the wiper blades to minimise waste and obstruction to the driver, enhanced AirMATIC full air suspension system with continuously adaptive damping control delivering a composed ride while retaining the ability to lower at speed (by 10 mm at 70 mph and a further 10 mm at over 100 mph) or rise by 30mm should it be required during low speed manoeuvres, and COMAND Online NTG 5 – the latest generation of telematics – all as standard.

The Magic Body Control suspension system debuts on the new S-Class – an option on the S 500 (£4,340). Linked to the new Road Surface Scan system, Magic Body Control uses a stereo camera located on the top edge of the windscreen to scan the road up to 15-metres ahead, allowing it to model a precise image of the road surface.

Three different seat packages are available in the rear – ranging from three seats finished in high quality leather to two individual seats complete with the ability seats to recline to an angle of 43.5 degrees. Furthermore, the seats can, if desired, simulate a hot stone massage for even greater comfort and the armrests can be heated.

The options list also include Burmester 1,540 WATT 3D surround sound system with 24 speakers for £6,430 and Air-Balance Package for an additional £360.

Technical Specifications

		S 350 BlueTEC	S 350 BlueTEC L	S 400 Hybrid L	S 500 L
Capacity	cc	2,987	2,987	3,498	4,663
Arrangement/cylinders/valves		V/6/24	V/6/24	V/6/24	V/8/32
Power	hp at rpm	258/3,600	258/3,600	306 + 27/6,500	455/5, 250-5,500
Torque	Nm at rpm	620/1, 600-2,400	620/1, 600-2,400	370/3, 500-5,250	700/1, 800-3,500
Acceleration 0-62 mph	sec	6.8	6.8	6.8	4.8
Top speed (electronically limited)	mph	155	155	155	155
Kerb weight	kg	1,955	1,975	1,945	2,015
Perm. gross vehicle weight	kg	2,655	2,690	2,630	2,730
Boot capacity	l	510	510	510	530
Turning circle	m	11.9	12.3	12.3	12.3
Combined fuel consumption	mpg	51.4	50.4	44.8	31.7
CO₂ 18” alloy wheels	g/km	146	148	147	–
CO₂ 19” alloy wheels	g/km	151	154	153	–
CO₂ 19” AMG alloy wheels	g/km	151	154	153	207
CO₂ 20” AMG alloy wheels	g/km	155	158	159	213

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 26, 2013

D2Forged Mercedes-Benz CLS-550 FMS08

D2Forged Mercedes-Benz CLS-550 FMS08 comes to show its new appearance. The four dour CLS-550 coupe is powered by a 4.6 liter direct-injected twin-turbo V8 engine. The unit produces 402 hp (296 kW) and is capable of generating 600Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque.

This powerful beast has been caught under the attention of the specialists at D2Forged Wheels, which had the goal to make it more distinctive than ever. They have been working on creating builds with their Fixed Modular Spec (FMS) entry level forged wheels, thus delivering this Mercedes-Benz with a real-eye catching feature.

To be more precise, they have secured for this Mercedes-Benz one-of-a-kind set of D2Forged FMS08 wheels which were installed in Brushed Brilliant Clear Center and include Chrome Lip and are in Gloss Black Inner Barrel color.

For the front, the professionals have utilized wheels in size 20×9.0” and for the rear – 20×11”. They undoubtedly take bring the car to the next level, thus securing it a prominent place on the road and securing it with many glances and admirations.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

June 26, 2013

Radical RXC To Debut At Salon Prive [VIDEO]

At this year’s Salon Prive which will happen in September, there will be an important debut. The visitors there will have the opportunity of seeing for the first time the new Radical RXC vehicle.

The model is Radical’s first ever enclosed car which signals for the evolution of the brand. It brings the true Le Mans engineering and aerodynamics to the road within a package which delivers astounding performance.

The RXC is equipped with a V6 engine which is mated to a seven-speed gearbox. This configuration has been developed especially for this car, and the engineering process was conducted under the guidance of Radical’s MD Phil Abbott and Chief Designer Nick Walford.

The engine is a 3.7-litre 24-valve V6 unit and has twin-independent variable cam timing and sequential multi-port electronic injection. The latter is controlled by a bespoke Radical/AER Life engine management system, which was previously used in the SR3 SL roadster.

The exterior credentials of the Radical RXC vehicle include stunning gullwing doors and carbon fibre sections. More details around the car will be announced near debut. 2013 Salon Prive will take place from the 4th to 6th of September at West London’s Syon Park.

httpv://youtu.be/4sturS3uuOs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Radical

June 26, 2013

2014 Infiniti Q50 Goes On Sale

The pricing of the new 2014 Infiniti Q50 sports sedan has been announced and the model will go on sale at Infiniti retailers in the beginning of July. 2014 Q50 is created and designed with the aim of appealing to the young customers who are looking for unique blend of inspired performance and hospitality.

The Q50 offers unique design in addition to the engaging performance, world’s first technologies and unmatched levels of connectivity and personalization. Under its hood the vehicle is equipped with 3.7-liter V6 engine or a 3.5-liter one (for Hybrid models only), depending on the model. The Q50 Hybrid for instance includes one of the fastest accelerating hybrid engines and additionally it is one of the most fuel-efficient powertrains in the segment.

Both models are available with a choice of rear-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. They are also equipped with features such as sport brakes and sport suspension tuning in order to deliver enhanced performance and engaging driving.

Furthermore, there are three new world’s first production performance technologies which are making their debuts in the Q50. These are the Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering technology, Active Lane Control and Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW).

The first one allows advanced control of the Q50’s tire angle and steering inputs by simply transmitting the driver’s intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. Ste second system – Active Lane Control, utilizes a camera-based lane marker detection system and Direct Active Steering system to additionally improve the lane-keeping capability of the vehicle and its straightability.

At last, the Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) system informs the driver of risks that lie beyond the their field of view. It can sense a vehicle in the vicinity, one which is directly ahead, and one – in front of the preceding one.

2014 Infiniti Q50 also comes with Infiniti InTuition, which is a fully customizable digital environment for linking various driver settings and driving characteristics to their Infiniti Intelligent Key, and Infiniti InTouch next-generation smart connectivity, featuring dual touch-screens and wide range of functions, features and custom applications.

2014 Infiniti Q50 US Pricing:

Model	Engine/Drive	MSRP
Q50 3.7	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$36,700 USD
Q50 3.7 AWD	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$38,500 USD
Q50 3.7 Premium	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$39,550 USD
Q50 3.7 AWD Premium	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$41,350 USD
Q50S 3.7	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$43,200 USD
Q50S 3.7 AWD	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$45,000 USD
Q50 Hybrid Premium	3.5-liter V6 Hybrid / RWD	$43,950 USD
Q50 Hybrid AWD Premium	3.5-liter V6 Hybrid / AWD	$45,750 USD
Q50S Hybrid	3.5-liter V6 Hybrid / RWD	$46,350 USD
Q50S Hybrid AWD	3.5-liter V6 Hybrid / AWD	$48,150 USD

Source: Infiniti

June 26, 2013

Renault Announces The New Twizy Cargo

The French brand Renault has just unveiled its new Renault Twizy Cargo model. It is based on the shape and style of the standard Twizy, but it includes on the place of the rear tandem seat a large boot with an opening and lockable door.

The single seat version of the Twizy now comes with 180-litre storage area and it was specifically designed for business use. The integrated load area is capable of accepting loads weighing up to 75 kilos and in addition it opens out to 90 degrees. In fact, this vehicle is the perfect solution for companies, which offer callout or support services. The load area can also be reached directly via the cabin’s lockable door.

Twizy Cargo runs perfectly in all conditions: urban, suburban, rural or even large depot sites. It has a range of around 50 miles. And when it arrives at its destination it can be topped up with charge simply by using a standard plug, by way of the in-built charging cable.

The full charge of the car takes only three and a half hours and moreover – it costs less than $2. Of course, being and all-electric vehicle, it is showcases its green credentials having zero-emission. Additionally, Renault Twizy Cargo has very low running and charging costs.

In terms of appearance, Twizy Cargo comes with unmistakable lines offered in three hues. It’s also very easy to get in and out of it, especially as the driver can get in from either side and get on the move, shaving even more time off multi-drop stops. It can also be parked simply and in the tightest of spots.

The starting price of Renault Twizy Cargo is around US $9 625.

Renault Twizy Cargo Technical Characteristics

Top speed	56 mph
Range	62 miles (NEDC). Real world conditions circa 50 miles
Power	17hp
Boot capacity	180 litres
Boot dimensions	550mm (d) x 500mm (l) x 950mm (h)
Max load	75 kg
Vehicle dimensions	2338 x 1237 x 1454mm
Unladen weight	375kg
Kerb weight	474kg

Source: Renault

June 26, 2013

Category: Auto News