Auto News – Page 672 – Automobiles Review

2014 Lexus IS Shows Brilliance And Style In Two New Ads

The brand new 2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan is having an exclusive launch via two new television spots. They are stylish and visually designed to be nothing less but provocative. The IS is going to be available in showrooms next month, is the latest vehicle in the Lexus lineup and it embodies company’s commitment to bold and dynamic design.

To be more precise, this is the third-generation IS and it comes offering bold new styling and dynamic driving characteristics. This is exactly what the TV spots capture and even more, they challenge the customers with ‘It’s Your Move’ appeal.

The two new general market spots are created by Team One agency and include everything that makes more purposeful statement: music, fashion, and contrasting colors. The emotions in the two ads are entirely different as they preview the serious yet playful faces of the IS.

In the first advertisement named “Crowd” the bold and distinctive white IS F SPORT is revealed. In it this particular Lexus model heads to the open desert, the antithesis of the crowd, where it gains complete freedom and independence reign. The aim of the commercial is to highlight that things designed to draw a crowd are good, but leaving the crowd behind is more rewarding.

The second spot is called “Color Shift” and it aims to show more fun and excitement to blend out than blend in. It dares the customers to exquisitely stand out and to be different. In it the cars become characters themselves and undoubtedly showcase the exquisite experience of driving the new IS.

“Crowd” and “Color Shift” are going to be officially aired during this year’s U.S. Open Championship.

Source: Lexus

June 14, 2013

TEASER: Nissan To Debut New Vehicle For Le Mans [VIDEO]

Nissan is going to return to Le Mans next year in the Garage 56 with a brand new vehicle. This news was announced by the brand’s CEO Carlos Ghosn announced in February. Back then was also disclosed that the car will focus on innovation and excitement.

Now, the new car unveil is only a week away and its reveal will be available to see exclusively and live on Nismo.TV. The official debut of the 2014 Garage 56 entry will be on Friday, 21st of June at 10:30am. With this vehicle Nissan hopes for an LMP1 future.

Below you can view a teaser video, which is called “Electrifying future” and hints that probably the new race car will be all-electric. It is possible of course, that the new car is equipped with hybrid drivetrian. However, the logo revealed by the end of the video teaser suggests a zero emissions vehicle, which was once used to promote the racing version of the Nissan Leaf.

httpv://youtu.be/pn9ZZ-iT6wc

Video And News Source: YouTube

June 14, 2013

Porsche LMP1 To Compete In 2014 WEC And Le Mans

New Porsche LMP1 Sports Prototype is going to compete in the sports car World Endurance Championship (WEC) and in the 24 Hours of Le Mans from next year. The car has successfully completed its first rollout today on the Porsche test track in Weissach.

As a matter of fact, LMP1 turned its first laps several weeks earlier than planned, this allows few additional weeks for more testing and further development. The regulations for next year are mainly based on efficiency, which makes the competition amongst engineers more interesting and hides new challenges.

In addition, it was announced that from the 2014 season, the Porsche LMP1 racer will be fielded by a Weissach-based works squad. The first person to drive the vehicle on the race track was Timo Bernhard, who said that the car feels great and impatiently looks forward to testing it in the coming weeks and months with his colleague Romain Dumas.

The main aim of the development of this Porsche was to achieve the best possible efficiency without compromising on performance. The engineers started with a blank sheet of paper in the design of the new LMP1 race car.

Therefore they were able to apply many new technologies within the framework of the regulations necessary for the racings. These technologies will be applied to brand’s road legal automobiles in the future. After all, there’s a race car in every Porsche.

Source: Porsche

June 14, 2013

Stylish: Kahn Land Rover Discovery 3.0 TDV6 XS RS300

Land Rover Discovery has always been an important part of the stylish off-road vehicles, and has established a prominent place in its own market segment thus becoming an international success.

Now, the designers at A. Kahn Design are presenting to us a modified version of this iconic model, and consequently what we can expect is nothing less than luxury, style and class. The exterior of the vehicle is decided in voluptuous diamond pearl white and in addition the visual attributes of this Land Rover are further complemented by Kahn’s styling package.

To go further into details, the styling package for this particular vehicle comprises of RS front grille with 3D mesh, RS pair of vented front and rear air dams, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, exterior Kahn enamel tailgate logo, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, front wheel arch LED light strips, Kahn enamel wing shields, 9.5 x 22” RS600 wheels and privacy tinted glass.

Of course, being a true A. Kahn Design masterpiece, the Discovery didn’t go without various enhancements throughout the interior. It has been upholstered in an exceedingly fine material, which underwent rigorous process that accentuates the natural look and smoothness of quilted and perforated leather.

What is more, one can see inside a diamond quilted glove box with contrast stitching and four door armrest that again include stitching. Additional interior improvements include coloured rev counter dial, floor mats, time clock facia insert, vented foot pedals in machined aluminium and a red enamel Kahn keyring.

Source: A. Kahn Design

June 14, 2013

2014 Ford Focus Electric To Be Built And Distributed In Europe

Ford has already begun the production of the 2014 Ford Focus Electric, which is the first full-electric vehicle. In addition, this car will be the firs EV built by the company and distributed in Europe.

Of course, the Focus Electric emits zero CO2 emissions, adding to brand’s line-up of electrified and highly fuel-efficient vehicles. The launch of the model will be joined in Europe by the Ford C MAX Energi plug-in hybrid electric and followed by the Ford Mondeo Hybrid next year.

The car was developed as a “One Ford” global vehicle. It includes an advanced electric motor and lithium-ion battery powertrain. They both produce 145 hp (107 kW) and thanks to this the car achieves a Vmax of 84 mph.

Furthermore, the charging system of the Focus Electric includes a 6.6kW fully integrated onboard charger. The latter is capable of achieving a driving range of around 60 miles with 2-3 hours charging from a 32 A power supply. A full charge of the EV’s battery is in 3-4 hours and offers a 100-mile range.

Adding to this, this Ford EV is equipped with new user interface which is named SmartGauge. The latter calculates and displays the driving range based on remaining energy. In addition, the car also features unique braking and acceleration inputs, and wide range of accessories such as climate control and audio systems.

Focus Electric’s powertrain utilizes regenerative braking. This technology was developed with the aim of capturing up to 95 per cent of kinetic energy, which is usually lost during the braking process. On the other hand the innovative Brake Coach feature delivers gradual braking in order to aid the return of more energy to the battery.

First 2014 Ford Focus Electric vehicles will reach the customers in Europe from July this year.

Source: Ford

June 14, 2013

2014 Cadillac CTS – US Price $46,025

Cadillac has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 CTS, which starts from $46,025 including a $925 destination charge. This is around $6,000 more than its predecessor, but there is a significant reason for that.

The 3^rd generation CTS sedan grows, ascending into the heart of the midsize luxury market, with an all-new design that is longer, lower and leaner. The new CTS is five inches longer, expanding interior space, but also 244 lbs lighter than the previous model. It is expected to be the lightest car in its segment.

The standard equipment includes a CUE Infotainment system, an 11-speaker Bose premium audio system, Brembo brake system, Magnetic Ride Control and 18” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The engine range includes a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 272HP (203 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, a naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6 with 321HP (239 kW) and 373 Nm (275 lb-ft) and a turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 with 420HP (313 kW) and 583Nm (430 lb-ft).

The top-of-range CTS V Sport model is priced at $59,955, and comes equipped with an electronic limited slip differential and 8-speed automatic transmission in RWD only.

Source: Cadillac

June 13, 2013

2013 Volkswagen Golf VI R Cabriolet – UK Price £33,170

Volkswagen UK has announced that the all-new 2013 Golf VI R Cabriolet will have a massive 5,600 price cut, which means that the convertible is now available for just 33,170.

“The price and premise were wrong, and with the benefit of independent perspective we pushed very hard to get the pricing modified”, commented VW UK chief Robert Hazelwood.

What is more the manufacturer promised to return the difference to all current 6 clients who ordered the car before the price cut.

The 2013 Volkswagen Golf VI R Cabriolet is powered by the well-known 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 270HP (200 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed DSG available as an option.

Source: Volkswagen

June 13, 2013

2013 Chevrolet Captiva – UK Price £21,295

Chevrolet has announced the new 2013 Captiva, which was presented to the public at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The new Captiva introduces several changes to the rear and front of the vehicle, including new LED tail lamps, angular chrome exhaust tips and a remodelled bumper. Up front, it sports a lower bumper, a new grille mesh as well as restyled fog lamps. New 18” alloy wheels further enhance Captiva’s road presence.

The interior boasts fresh seat colors, new fabrics (leather seats), and restyled trims in the instrument panel. A dual-zone climate system, an ambient lighting package and heated rear seats provide even more comfort on select specifications.

Offering up to seven seats, along with additional convenience features, the restyled Captiva is a typical SUV for the family.

The new Captiva is available in three trim levels – LS starting at £21,295, LT starting at £26,995 and top-of-range level spec LTZ starting at £29,995. It is available in 2.2VCDi both automatic and manual.

Source: Chevrolet

June 13, 2013

The Sportiest Cars of 2013 – Three BMWs in the Lead

Three BMW models lead in three different classes for “The sportiest cars of 2013“. The manufacturer shows once again its preference for pure driving pleasure.

In the diesel category, the BMW M550d xDrive was voted into first place again, continuing the trend it set the previous year. Two more first-in-class awards were won by the BMW F30 335i Sedan and the BMW E92 335i LCI Coupe.

The “Sport Auto” Awards 2013 was presented on 12^th June 2013 at the Kunstmuseum Stuttgart.

As a reminder, the BMW M550d xDrive is powered by N57D30 with three turbocharges, high pressure piezo injectors and a lot of aluminum elements. The result is 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a Vmax of 250 km/h (155 mph). The fuel economy is 6.3 l/100km with 165 g/km of CO2. The power is put on the road through a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox and the world’s most intelligent AWD system.

The E92 335i LCI and F30 335i share the same old 3.0 liter in-line six-cylinder twin-turbocharged petrol developing 300HP (224 kW) and 407Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to the new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, which sends all that power to the rear wheels, where electronically controlled differential takes care about the traction in every road conditions.

The curb weight of the car is 1627 kg (3586 lbs), which is not so much, so the performance is staggering. 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.7 seconds. The 335i covers ¼ mile in 13.3 seconds with terminal speed of 167 km/h.

So when we mention “sport” in the world of cars, the first thing we have in mind is BMW!

Source: BMW

June 13, 2013

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar Goes On Sale [VIDEO]

Only 500 examples of 2013 Dodge Dart Mopar will reach dealers with their limited-edition attitude. Prepared for this summer, the Mopar ’13 Dart wears a signature Pitch Black exterior with offset Mopar blue racing stripe running from nose to tail. The similar color theme was used in the Mopar editions for Dodge Charger, Challenger and Chrysler 300.

The interior of the car features seats which are covered in Katzkin leather. The driver’s seat is Mopar blue with black accents while the rest of the seats are black with blue accents. In addition, the steering wheel and shift knob are also wrapped in black leather but this time there is present a contrast blue stitching.

All in all, black is the dominant color throughout the interior. However, there are some color accents such as the Mopar blue lighting accenting the instrument panel.

Moreover, the engine under the hood of this special edition Dart is the turbocharged and intercooled 1.4-liter four-cylinder one. It generates 160 hp (118 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is matched with a six-speed manual transmission.

What is more, the car will include also a Mopar sport-tuned exhaust. In addition, the height of the car is lowered by 7 millimeters when compared with the base Dart. Its looks are further accentuated via the Mopar ground effects kit which comprises of chin spoiler, deck-lid spoiler, rear diffuser, and low-profile 225/40R18 tires mounted on gloss-black 18-inch wheels and premium disc brakes with slotted rotors and a revised calibration.

Some of the additional features in this limited edition Mopar vehicle additional features include an 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, wireless charging for smartphones, bright sport-pedal kit, door-sill guards and premium Mopar floor mats.

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar Limited Edition has a starting price of $25 485.

httpv://youtu.be/u–E9wQ-s4A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Dodge

June 13, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel With Featured Overboost

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel will now offer to its customers quick off-the-line acceleration and at the same time which is combined with great fuel efficiency. This is possible thanks to the utilization of a turbocharging feature called “overboost”.

The vehicle uses a diesel turbocharged 2.0L engine which generates 151 horsepower (113 kW) and 264 lb-ft of torque (358 Nm). However, the afore mentioned overboost enhances the torque up to 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) for about 10 seconds of stronger acceleration. That’s the equivalent torque generated by the 1972 Camaro Z28’s heavier 5.7L V8.

Despite the performance and unlike the muscle car era, the new Cruze Diesel has impressive fuel economy of a 46 mpg highway, and demonstrates a range of 717 miles on one tank of fuel. As a matter of fact, the overboost provides increased performance and thanks to it this Chevrolet sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.6 seconds.

The fuel economy on the other hand is achieved via greater thermal efficiency, a higher compression ratio and an unthrottled combustion process, as well as iron cylinder block and a forged steel crankshaft. The last two features are designed to stand up to the greater cylinder pressures that come with a turbo-diesel engine.

A lightweight aluminum cylinder head and aluminum intake manifold are responsible for unit’s ability to offer balanced ride and handling. All in all, Cruze‘s turbo-diesel engine is powerful, efficient and clean and it aims to change the perceptions of what a diesel car can be.

Source: Chevrolet

June 13, 2013

MG Unveiles 2013 MG3 Urban Vehicle

MG3 was officially unveiled in all its glamour at the Birmingham-based European Design Centre. It showed its inherent visual attributes which aim to grab the attention of the young and style buyers.

MG3 is all about personal style, because it offers the ability for individualization. It is going to be offered with three trim levels, 10 colours and a range of at least 10 graphic packs, making the combinations almost endless.

Some of the exterior highlights feature 6” Diamond cut alloy wheels, unique LED ‘hockey stick’ daytime running lights, sport-design bumper, side sill extensions, rear spoiler, sports-design rear valance, chrome exhaust finishers and MG insert headlamps.

To go even further into details, from the front of the car there is an immediate flash of style hanks to the impressive ‘hockey stick’ LED daytime running lights, full width black mesh grille, black A-Pillar and ‘visor’ wraparound style windscreen.

The side of the car is also striking with its dual color side skirts, lowering the stance, diamond-cut, dual colour wheels. At the rear is visible the rear valance insert inspired by generations of MG racing cars, a unique superelliptic tail pipe finished in chrome and a body coloured tail spoiler.

Depending on the chosen trim level, the interior of the MG3 includes air conditioning system, six-speaker audio, Bluetooth with audio streaming, DAB radio, USB/Aux input, automatic lights, automatic wipers, rear parking sensors, ‘ZERO’ design fabric seats and part-leather trim.

In addition, inside the car the occupants will experience comfortability, ambience and spaciousness. For instance, MG3’s ‘rolled and raised’ front dashboard design delivers an airy forward cabin space and increased legroom. In addition, in the rear of the car, the front seats are sculpted to allow rear passengers excellent space to travel in comfort.

One of the main strategies used in the design of the MG3 was to bring about real fun of driving. Here the MG chassis engineers have delivered footed handling and impressive ride comfort.

The other main strategy was to offer customers the opportunity to optimally personalize the vehicle. The available options here are roof, side and bonnet graphics, interior trims, wheels, vents, surrounds and mats in a choice of designs, colors and finishes.

More importantly, the car will be powered by a VTi-TECH petrol engine, which produces 105 hp (77 kW). The dynamic and responsive unit is matched with a five-speed manual transmission. In addition, the model offers compact dimensions. It is just 4-metres long and thus it is really easy to drive and park and additionally it is very practical.

Full specifications and prices of the MG3 will be announced nearer to the public launch by the beginning of September.

MG3 Early Specification Information:

Engine and Chassis
Type			SOHC VTI-TECH
Output			105PS TBC
Aspiration			Naturally Aspirated
Delivery			Multipoint injection
Fuel			UNLEADED 95 RON
Cylinders			4
Valves			16
Camshaft drive			Chain
Front suspension			MacPherson struts
Rear suspension			Twist Beam
Steering system			HPAS
Throttle			Drive by wire

Fuel Consumption
Emission Standard
Dimensions (Exterior)			EU5 plus
Overall Length
Width		mm	4015
Height			1728
Wheelbase (mm)			1520
Dimensions (Interior)			2520
Front
Rear	Legroom (max)	mm	1063
	Headroom (max)		954
	Shoulder room (max)		1365
	Legroom rear (max)		875
	Headroom rear (max)		972
			1318

Source: MG

June 13, 2013

Category: Auto News