Category: Auto News

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

  • Peugeot RCZ R Concept Makes International Debut At Goodwood

    Peugeot-RCZ-R-Concept-Sketch-THUMBPeugeot RCZ R Concept is going to make its international debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 12th of July. The car was previewed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show and in Paris in a matt black and copper livery that heralds the spiritual stance of a road-going RCZ R.

    As a matter of fact, the RCZ R is the peak of the evolution of the original RCZ Concept, the production version of which was three-time class-winning Nürburgring race car. The latter was the inspiration behind the road-going RCZ R.

    RCZ R uses 1.6-litre THP unit capable of developing 260 hp (191 kW). This number makes the vehicle the most powerful production Peugeot in brand’s history. In addition, its efficiency will be a benchmark with power/capacity of over 160hp/litre and with CO2 emissions at just 155g/km.

    The concept also offers race-bred driving experience thanks to its bespoke suspension set-up, a specific and distinctive wheel design, combined with a Torsen®limited slip differential and masterful torque.

    At Goodwood two red RCZ Rs will be showcased for the first time in public. As a matter of fact, this first look at the new Peugeot concept happens ahead of its official launch at the end of the year.

    The French brand always aims at the production of vehicles which are compact, durable and have highly-efficient engines. This design strategy always results in the production of successful cars and competition vehicles, and culminates in brand’s most powerful road car – the Peugeot RCZ R Concept.

    Source: Peugeot

  • BMW E46 M3 CSL – 10th Anniversary [video]

    BMW has published a new video to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the famous E46 M3 CSL. The sports car is designed to be the ultimate driving machine… and it is!

    Essentially, this is the lightweight version of the E46 M3 with some additional power, of course. The interior is a little stripped, there is a lighter rear window and some other lightweight components like a carbon fiber reinforced plastic roof, center console and trunk.

    The curb weight is pretty decent 1,385 kg (3,054 lbs), which is over 110kg (243 lbs) less than a standard E46 M3. Remember that the CSL also comes with 19” alloy wheels with performance tires and improved braking and traction.

    The heart of E46 M3 CSL is a 3.2 liter naturally aspirated I-6 with 360HP (265 kW) at 7,900RPM and 370Nm (270 lb-ft) of torque at 4,900RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 308 km/h (191 mph). ¼ mile in 13.0 seconds with 170 km/h (106 mph). A lap around Nurburgring is done within 7 minutes and 50 seconds.

    Totally 1,383 units were produced.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qW1ID6Zd6Q0

    Source: BMW

  • Debut Of Toyota Camatte57s Concept

    Toyota-Camatte-57s-concept-THUMBToyota Motor Corporation is planning to showcase a sporty open-top and family-oriented concept vehicle at the International Tokyo Toy Show 2013. The event will take place from 13th till 16th of June.

    The concept car is named “Camatte57s” and through it the brand aims to bring parents and children closer together in their collaboration on building their ideal car. It also provides the opportunity of both parents and children to gather experience in the fun of driving, car customization and car enthusiasm.

    When compared to the previous model – “Camatte” (exhibited last year), the new “Camatte57s” allows an even greater ease and range of customization possibilities. Some of its major features include detachable body panels that enable easy and extensive customization. To be more precise, the car’s body exterior comprises of 57 detachable small lightweight panels. This of course results in more opportunities of various design customizations.

    Next, it is important to mention, that this car features an open-top roadster styling with compact and intimate interior. For instance, the roofless design always contributes for more liberating driving experience and enhancement in the visibility.

    Furthermore, the seats are in a closely arranged triangular form: there is only one front seat and two rear seats. This puts highlight on the family intimacy and facilitate communication.

    The third radical innovation in the design of the “Camatte57s” is that it can be driven even by children. For example, the acceleration and braking pedals and seats can be adjusted in such way that they can be operated by children. In this case, an adult seats in the rear-right seat and assists steering and braking.

    Camatte57s Main Specifications

    Length 3,000 mm
    Width 1,440 mm
    Height 1,000 mm
    Wheelbase 1,800 mm
    Seating capacity 3
    Propulsion Electric motor

    Source: Toyota

  • 2014 Jaguar XF 2.2 ECO Diesel – 163HP and 400Nm

    Jaguar has announced the new 2014 XF 2.2-liter ECO diesel, which comes with improved fuel consumption at lower price.

    The engine is available for the Saloon and Sportbrake versions. It delivers 163HP (120 kW) at 3,500RPM and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) at 2,000RPM. The fuel consumption is just 4.9 liters / 100 km – 57.7 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 129 g/km. 0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph).

    Aside from the revised engine, the Jaguar  XF also benefits from an updated SAT NAV system which packs one-way road visualization, smart keyboard and more intuitive mapping.

    “The 2014 XF with this revised engine calibration opens up the unique Jaguar ownership experience to a whole new segment. Cost-conscious drivers, business users and fleet managers will be able to enjoy the refinement, luxury and seductive design of a Jaguar while benefiting from its low emissions and high fuel efficiency.”, commented Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover UK.

    XF MY14 ECO 2.2-litre diesel technical specification*

    XF 2.2 ECO Diesel
    Engine 2.2-litre in-line 4cyl diesel
    Capacity (cc) 2179
    Peak Power (PS@rpm) 163@3500
    Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 400@2000-5500
    Transmission Eight-speed automatic
    Intelligent Stop/Start Yes
    0-60mph (secs) 9.8
    0-100km/h (secs) 10.5
    Top Speed (mph | km/h) 130 | 209
    Combined Economy Saloon

    (UK mpg)

    57.7 w/ 17” tyre

    55.4 w/ 20” tyre

    CO2 Emissions Saloon (g/km) 129 w/ 17” tyre

    135 w/ 20” tyre

    Source: Jaguar

  • Star On Wheels: XXX-Performance Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

    XXX-Performance-Audi-R8-Quattro-THUMBXXX-Performance is already familiar to the automotive world with their interpretation of the bright-green Audi R8. Now the tuning specialists are releasing their second project: an extravagant and exclusive wide body Audi R8.

    To be more precise, the wide-body kit it was equipped with is the aggressive GT-X650 which features broad mudguard, stone deflectors and sill-board. Some of the unique elements in the kit include air inlets in the front and rear mudguards and huge openings of the exhaust pipe-end.

    Optionally, for this project there are available attached parts such as external rear-view mirrors, roof scoops, side blades and rear diffusers made of carbon fibre. This Audi was entirely wrapped in blue CFC chrome wrapping.

    Furthermore, the XXX-Performance has added Audi-Plus full LED headlamps and tail-lamps which also contribute towards the aggressive and sporty stance of the car. In addition, the H&R coilover kit was converted by the tuners from steel springs to air bellows. This simply results in lowering.

    The transformed R8 runs on three-part GTR Forgiato forged wheels in the dimensions 9×20 inches and 13×20 respectively for the front and the rear. They are matched with barrel-type 235/30 and 325/25 Hankook tyres.

    What is more, the tuning of this vehicle also includes performance-boosting. Via chip-tuning and carbon air-box and also other additional modifications, the V10 gets an end performance output of 650 hp (478 kW). The loudness of the acoustics of the exhaust system can be regulated with the utilization of a valve control system. When the valves are open, the V10 roars out loud.

    Going further to the interior, this sportscar is wrapped in real leather and feature some carbon elements and high-grade Alcantara. For instance, with the latter material are covered the centre console, instrument panel, door sheathing and roof liner.

    Source: XXX-Performance

  • 2013 Nissan Juke 1.5 dCi – Improved Fuel Economy

    Nissan has announced the new improved 2013 Juke 1.5 dCi coming with lower emissions, greater fuel economy, reduced noise and more torque.

    The changes include revised piezo-electric fuel injection nozzles, low-inertia variable geometry turbocharger and more efficient air intake path. In addition, a closed-loop low-pressure exhaust gas recycling (EGR) system, in which the exhaust gas is cooled before being re-introduced to the intake system, has helped ensure the unit is compatible with forthcoming EURO 6 emission regulations. Other changes include a new thermostatically-controlled variable displacement oil pump which reduces internal friction by adapting automatically to the engine’s needs and oil viscosity.

    The new diesel features low friction enhancements including diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings for the tappets and now also features Nissan’s automatic Start/Stop system. With highly efficient smart management technology the engine restarts within 0.5sec of the clutch being engaged. Reduced combustion noise further enhances the unit’s overall refinement.

    Over the official combined cycle, the new Juke 1.5-litre dCi returns 67.3mpg as opposed to the previous unit’s 58.9mpg, a 14 % improvement. CO2 emissions fall from 124g/km to 109g/km.

    Fuel efficiency is also helped by the use of the Nissan Dynamic Control system, which enables the driver to select from three engine settings – Eco, Normal and Sport. This system now not only selects appropriate pedal sensitivity settings in Eco and Sport modes, but also limits maximum engine torque in Eco mode to 220Nm. In Normal and Sport, the full 260Nm is available. The unit’s overall power output remains at 110HP while performance figures (109mph maximum speed, 0-62mph in 11.2sec) are also unchanged. The new generation engine will be available across all Juke grades excluding the NISMO.

    Source: Nissan

  • Vorsteiner Bentley Continental GT – Could Only be Described as Art

    Vorsteiner has introduced their latest project based on the luxurious Bentley Continental GT.

    Art is defined as the expression of human creative skill and imagination producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. The latest tuning program for the Bentley Continental GT from Vorsteiner could only be described as art.

    The exterior comes with a carbon fiber front bumper that improves downforce and engine cooling. There is also a pair of new carbon fiber side skirts and a new rear bumper with with air vents and an integrated diffuser with six aerodynamic fin extensions. Last, but not least is the carbon fiber rear spoiler completing the aerodynamics improvement.

    The tuning company also offers different sets of 20”, 21” and 22” forged alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • 2014 Chevrolet Camaro – UK Price £35,320

    The 2014 Camaro will go on sale across Europe towards the end of this year. The pricing in the UK starts from £35,320 for the coupe with manual gearbox. The convertible with manual transmission is priced from £40,320.

    2014 Chevrolet Camaro boasts revised exterior appearance that integrates high-performance aerodynamics, allowing for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The front fascia has a wider lower grille and a narrower upper grille, while the functional hood vent helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. At the rear, a sculptural deck lid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete the facelift.

    The powerful 6.2 liter engine has 432HP (318 kW) with manual gearbox and 405HP (298 kW) with the automatic transmission, which has TAP shift functionality.

    Remote keyless entry is standard, and customers can opt for remote engine start functionality on the automatic variants.

    Chevrolet MyLink technology comes as standard, with a 7” touch-screen, rear-view camera and a voice recognition system that, together with the new colour heads-up display, helps drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel. An optional navigation system, with Europe wide coverage is also available.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • 2014 Ford Fusion 1.5 liter EcoBoost – 181HP and 240Nm

    Ford has announced a new 1.5 liter EcoBoost engine, which will power the 2014 Fusion model.

    The four-cylinder turbocharged 1.5 liter EcoBoost has 181HP (133 kW) at 6,000RPM and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1,500RPM. The result is thanks to an aluminum block and head with twin independent variable camshaft timing. Fuel economy figures are not available, yet.

    The transmission variants are either a 6-speed automatic (standard) or a 6-speed manual (option).

    The 2014 Ford Fusion can also be ordered with a 2.5 liter four-cylinder with 177HP (130 kW) at 6,000RPM and 240Nm (170 lb-ft) at 4,500RPM and a 2.0 liter four-cylinder EcoBoost with 243HP (179 kW) at 5,500RPM and 365Nm (270 lb-ft) at 3,000RPM.

    Remember, that the 1.0 liter EcoBoost won “Engine of the Year” for second time, so obviously the EcoBoost power units are quite good.

    Source: Ford

  • Lexus IS Coupe [render]

    TopSpeed has released a render image of the upcoming Lexus IS Coupe. The premium mid-sized coupe is inspired by the LF-CC Concept and looks just stunning.However, the image is based on the IS Sedan, but with some modifications to the doors, roofline and greenhouse. Still, the result is pretty good and the IS Coupe could go on production sometime during the next year.The engine range will include a 2.5 liter V6 with 207HP (152 kW) and a 3.5 liter V6 with 310HP (228 kW). A Hybrid version will also be available with a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor with combined power of 223HP (164 kW).The rendering was created by David Kiss.

  • Holden VF Commodore – Styling Accessories

    Holden has introduced a new range of styling accessories for the VF Commodore. It will allow customers to personalise their vehicles more than ever before.

    The new range of Genuine Holden Accessories are available in modular kits called “Design Packs” that allow customers to choose from subtle sports decorative highlights through to the ultimate sports performance styling package, and everything in between.

    VF Commodore Design Packs start with the stage one exterior appearance package, which includes colour-matched upper and lower grille surrounds in red or black, black daylight running lamp surrounds (SS V-Series models) and black fender vents.

    Customers can add Holden’s stage two Design Pack including track stripes, alloy sports pedals, sports carpet floor mats, colour-matched mirror caps, sports engine cover with red accents (V8 models only) and black lip spoiler (sedan only). Stage three adds four HF-20 20” forged alloy wheels in Midnight Dark Grey or a machine faced Gunmetal Gloss and 245/35 ZR20 High Performance tyres.

    Source: Holden

  • Vencer Sarthe – The Dutch Supercar

    The Dutch super car manufacturer Vencer will reveal the Sarthe to the UK for the first time in the stunning grounds of Syon House. The company was established in 2012 by Robert Cobben and is based in Vriezenveen. The first Vencer is the Sarthe, which had its world premiere in Monaco in April and Salon Privé is delighted to host it’s UK reveal.

    The Sarthe is a low volume exclusively handmade mid-engine sports car which utilises a hybrid space frame chassis, made of high grade tubular steel, with chrome-molybdenum safety structure and rear sub-frame with the floor made up of an aluminium honeycomb structure. This combination of materials and techniques results in a lightweight, super strong and rigid chassis.

    The power is coming from a V8 engine behind the driver, which is directly bolted onto the 6-speed MT gearbox. Due to this configuration the car has a very balanced weight distribution of 45% front and 55% at the rear.

    The Vencer “double wishbone” ensures a pure and direct vehicle control without additional electronic interference. Only ABS and EBD are present to properly support the driver in difficult and unsafe situations.

    Among the extras, you will find an efficient climate control system, electric windows, in-car entertainment, central locking, and alarm as standard.



    Source: Vencer