Category: Auto News

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

  • Iron Man And Audi DTM Racing Team [VIDEO]

    audi-dtm-iron-man-THUMBIf you are a fan of both Audi and Iron Man Movies, than lately you’ll be probably the happiest person in the world. Not only does the movie include the new Audi R8, but also it is the driven by the emblematic character driven Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr.

    What is more, the same special touch of Hollywood could be felt in the air of the DTM paddock at Hockenheim last weekend. The occasion was the premiere of “Iron Man 3” in Germany, when Adrien Tambay advertised the latest Marvel action film on his Audi RS 5 DTM.

    In addition, Alpinestars (brand’s sports partner) produced special overalls for the youngster and his pit crew featuring an Iron Man look and Uvex supplied the matching helmets. And if you missed this event, Adrien Tambay will be on the grid sporting the Iron Man look once more in the race at Brands Hatch (in Great Britain) on May 19.

    httpv://youtu.be/N13G9Dii18w

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Audi

  • Chevrolet Camaro SS Joins Dubai Police Force

    Chevrolet-Camaro-SS-Police-Car-THUMBChevrolet Camaro SS is the first Camaro model that is going to be utilized as a Police car in the Middle East. The vehicle will join the Dubai Police fleet of vehicles contributing with its powerful performance characteristics.

    This Chevrolet is powered by a 6.2L V8 engine thus delivering output of 426 horsepower (313 kW) and a maximum torque of 567 Nm (419 lb-ft). On its way to a top speed of 250 km/h it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h only in 4.7 seconds. This makes the Camaro SS one of the best cars of the Dubai Police force.

    As a matter of fact, the Camaro is one of the highly regarded vehicles around the globe. It is the ideal car for Dubai Police as will serve as an upgrade to the cars used by the legal forces in Emirate’s world, renowned for their standards in safety and security.

    The addition of high performance patrol car to the fleet of the police will bring about more safety and trust in the people living in the city. In addition, Camaro’s ability to respond rapidly, by virtue of its high performance V8 engine, coupled with its practical suitability for Dubai’s roads and ease of servicing, will make it an ideal patrol car for years to come.

    Chevrolet Camaro was named Best Muscle Car in four consecutive years from 2009 to 2012. It has been also a great success in the Middle East sports car market. Camaro ZL1 was awarded “Muscle Car of the Year 2012” by Evo Middle East magazine in February this year.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • 2015 Lexus IS Undergoing Dynamic Evaluation

    2015-lexus-is-THUMBThe new 2015 Lexus IS currently has undergone over 1.6 million kilometres of testing and development in order to ensure that all new models have excellent dynamic capabilities while offering space and comfort.

    The testing of the 2015 IS took place on the road, track and laboratory including conditions on ice and snow of the southern hemisphere, the heat of the northern hemisphere, along with the gruelling test bed of circuits such as the Nurburgring in Germany and Fuji Speedway in Japan.

    In fact, the driving dynamics was the higher priority in these tests. The goal – to attain the “fun to drive” characteristics of the IS. The conventional approach to its development would involve developing each of the individual aspects of the car. The engineers have built it by first constructing the foundation and then proceeding to build up from there.

    The end result is that the new Lexus model will have new body strengthening techniques, including laser screw weld and body bonding, suspension system that delivers. The latter delivers 20 per cent increase in roll rigidity.

    Source: Lexus

  • 2013 Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited Edition

    Volkswagen has announced a new limited edition Beetle. The 2013 Beetle GSR has a unique design and powerful turbocharged petrol engine. Only 3,500 units will be created and 100 of them are being offered to UK customers.

    The exterior boasts yellow and matt black accents, GSR lettering, R-Line designed bumpers and black rear spoiler complete the GSR look. The attractive hatchback rolls 19” Tornado alloy wheels fitted with 235/40 tyres.

    The interior also comes with black and yellow theme. There is also a leather sports steering wheel and R-Line sports seats (with fabric covers and contrasting yellow stitching). The car also boasts an R-Line dash pad, GSR gear stick, leather handbrake lever gaiter and black floor mats with contrasting yellow embroidery. Last, but not least is a badge with the car’s special-edition number (1 to 3,500).

    The 2.0 liter TSI has 210HP (154 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) – 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and expected fuel consumption of 38.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of 169 g/km.

    The new 2013 Beetle GSR can be ordered with either a 6-speed manual or DSG gearbox.  The manual Beetle GSR costs £24,900 (OTR RRP) with a £1,500 premium for DSG.  The car is available to order now with first deliveries expected in September.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Hennessey Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 – 1/4 mile 12.6 seconds

    Hennessey has published a new video showing the mighty tuned Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 running a ¼ mile drag race.

    The big SUV is equipped with HPE 650 package meaning 650HP (485 kW), instead of factory’s 470HP (350 kW). The result is thanks to ported cylinder heads, a custom air intake, a TVS2300 supercharger, stainless steel long headers and upgraded fuel system. Of course everything is carefully tuned on dyno to work perfectly.

    0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and ¼ mile run in just 12.6 seconds with 177 km/h (110 mph). The ¼ mile time is same as the spectacularly fast BMW X5 M.

    Other highlights of Hennessey’s package for the Grand Cherokee SRT8 include branded floor mats, special badging and individually-numbered plaques. Upon request the interior can be upgraded as well as the alloy wheels and tires.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fm1Z3kz6bQU

    Source: Hennessey

  • Sebastien Loeb with Peugeot 208 T16 hits Pikes Peak

    Peugeot has published a new footage on Youtube showing Sebastien Loeb testing the super-fast 208 T16 Pikes Peak.

    The Loeb’s Red Bull-sponsored 208 T16 will take place in the Unlimited Class, which means that it will be astonishingly fast. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.2 liter V6 with whopping 875HP (652 kW), the small racer is able to accelerate 0-100 km/h in an almost unbelievable 1.8 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The 240 km/h mark is reached in 7 seconds.

    “I’ve never driven anything that accelerates so fast!”, commented Loeb.

    “In the lower gears, a Formula 1 car doesn’t deliver maximum power. With the Peugeot, though, it’s bang, bang, bang as you move up the box from standstill. Thanks to its four-wheel drive transmission and turbocharged engine, its pull-away performance is phenomenal! You find yourself in sixth gear at 240kph in no time at all!”, said the professional race driver

    Check out the full specs below!

    httpж://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDcGROY51ZA

    Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak – Technical Specification

    • ENGINE

    Type V6 bi-turbo
    Cubic capacity 3.2-litre petrol engine
    Number of valves 24
    Position Mid-rear
    Number of cylinders V6 (60°)
    Maximum power 875hp
    Torque 90mkg
    Maximum revs 7,800rpm
    Top speed 240kph / 150mph
    0-100kph / 0-62mph 1.8s
    0-200kph / 125mph 4.8s
    0-240kph / 150mph 7.0s

    • TRANSMISSION

    Type Four-wheel drive
    Gearbox Longitudinally-mounted six-speed sequential gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift

    • CHASSIS

    Frame Tubular steel
    Bodywork Carbon

    • SUSPENSION / BRAKES / STEERING

    Suspension Double wishbones & pushrod/rocker arm actuation at all corners
    Springs Torsion bars
    Dampers Pressurised dampers
    Anti-roll bars Front and rear
    Steering Hydraulic power steering
    Brakes Hydraulic double circuit brake system with one-piece light alloy callipers
    Brake discs Vented carbon discs front and rear
    Diameter (front): 380mm / Diameter (rear): 355mm
    Wheels Specific 18×13 magnesium alloy wheels derived from F1 technology
    Tyres Michelin (31/71×18)

    • DIMENSIONS

    Length 4,500mm
    Width 2,000mm
    Height 1,300mm
    Front / rear overhang 1,690mm
    Wheelbase 2,695mm
    Wing 2,000mm (based on the rear wing of the Peugeot 908)
    Fuel tank 40 litres
    Weight 875kg

    Source: Peugeot

  • Audi A1 R18 Competition Package

    Audi has introduced a new competition package for the A1 at the 2013 Worthersee Motor Show. The small hatchback received the R18 competition package and is named after the famous R18 e-Tron Quattro.

    The 2013 Audi A1 Competition Package comes with only styling modifications such as red and gray accents, “378” badges and a tailgate spoiler. Other highlights include a front lip spoiler and a set of new alloy wheels with black accents.

    The interior boasts a set of new floor mats and a unique center console with red and gray accents.

    Nothing is mentioned about the price.

    Source: Audi

  • Kahn Ferrari 458 Spider Shows Powerful Presence

    Kahn-Ferrari-458-Spider-THUMBKahn Ferrari 458 Spider is the perfect car. First of all it is convertible Ferrari model, and secondly – what makes it even more exceptional is the fact that it is enhanced by the luxury tuning specialists at A. Kahn Design.

    The car’s naturally-aspirated, direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 engine produces 578 horsepower (425 kW) at 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque, making it easy for it to reach its maximum speed of 320 km/h (198 mph). Another important number here is the acceleration time which is under 3.4 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

    To be more precise, this enhanced Ferrari 458 Spider is shrouded in voluptuous Grigio Alloy couture, and includes Kahn’s styling package. This means that this particular vehicle comes equpped with a lowered suspension, front sections, matt rear styling detail, black painted calipers and state of the art Monza forged alloy wheels and the majestic 180 number plate.

    Undoubtedly, this super-special cabrio is the right choice for those individuals who want to be seen and heard. It has discarded the fabric roof in favor of a folding hardtop. The roof folds in 14 seconds, and is 25 kg lighter than its equivalent.

    The interior of the sportscar is adorned by Kahn’s luxurious Nero interior. It is black and perfectly contrasts the exterior. A contrast also makes the white stitching and several accents included.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • 2013 Audi R18 e-tron quattro To Compete At Le Mans 24 Hours

    2013-Audi-R18-e-tron-quattro-THUMbLe Mans 24 Hours will celebrate this year its 90th anniversary. In it the race, Audi has achieved eleven victories in 14 events. Now, the brand introduces its new model for Le Mans – namely, the 2013 Audi R18 e-tron quattro.

    It will include some important enhancements in terms of efficiency and innovative technologies. The TFSI gasoline direct injection and the TDI engine, for instance, feature VTG (Variable Turbine Geometry) turbocharger. Other highlights are quattro four-wheel drive, e-tron hybrid technology, ultra-lightweight design, and LED lighting technology.

    On 22d and 23d of June, on its 15th run at Le Mans, with three Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars, the brand will be competing with the goal to make another victory run. The focus on the new e-tron quarto is placed on its ultra-lightweight design, optimized aerodynamics, driver assistance systems, the matrix-beam headlight system and reliability as well as efficiency.

    Source: Audi

  • Officially Revealed: Volkswagen Design Vision GTI Concept

    Volkswagen-Design-Vision-GTI-Concept-THUMBOne of the biggest tuning events this year is the Austrian Wörthersee festival, where the race car Volkswagen Design Vision GTI Concept was just revealed. The model is based on the seventh-generation GTI, but has substantially wider front and rear tracks, as well as runs on specially developed 20-inch wheels coupled with 235 tires in the front and 275s at the rear.

    This concept is able of achieving a top speed of 186 mph thanks to the 503 hp (370 kW) developed at 6500 rpm by its engine. Namely, it is the turbocharged and direct injection TSI® 3.0-liter V6 engine that utilizes twin turbochargers. Two three-way catalytic converters are arranged close to the engine in order to reduce the emissions.

    The torque here is estimated at 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 2000 rpm and at 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm. All this power and torque is distributed to the wheels via a DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. These numbers allow effortless acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds.

    Furthermore, this Volkswagen is fitted with large carbon-ceramic brake discs in size 15.0 inches up front and 14.0 inches at the back. They and the red-painted brake calipers peek through the spokes of the 20-inch alloy wheels, which are 8.5J wide at the front and 9.5J at the back.

    Design Vision GTI looks radical, because it’s shorter, wider, and lower than a regular GTI. It is no less than 2.2 inches lower, at 54.5 inches, and it is 2.8 inches wider (73.6 inches). The track has also increased: at the rear it is now 62.2 inches (59.7 for the production GTI) and 62 .8 inches at the front (versus 60.6).

    The color scheme for the model is in traditional GTI triad of black-white-red. The paint is white (in particular in White Club), the add-on parts are black (piano paint black), and the GTI insignia as well as the strip integrated in the front are red.

    The C-pillar is drawn outward as an autonomous design element, while the main part of the body narrows strongly towards the rear. This process starts right behind the front wheel with a vertical air outlet that highlights the waisted doors. On the other hand, the sill grows continually outward until its upper edge merges with the C pillar.

    What is more, the front end is also sculptural. Here the radiator grille, the bottom air inlet, and the brake cooling vents are combined with the headlights and framed by the front fenders and the hood.

    At the same time, an all-round sharp edge is present at the rear. The taillights straddle the space between the C-pillars and the rear deck, while the integrated rear spoiler has the same position as the production GTI’s. At the bottom of the car, the dominant elements are the aerodynamically conceived ribs of the rear diffuser and the exhaust tips that frame the assembly.

    The interior of the Volkswagen Design Vision GTI Concept brings about the philosophy of “reduced design. This basically means – as few switches as necessary. For instance, the steering wheel here features an ergonomically optimized DSG paddle shifters.

    In addition, there are number of controls integrated into the upper section of the center console such as the switches and rugged turn knobs for climate control, the hazard light switch, and the activation for the on-board camera. An electrical kill switch, a push-button for the fire extinguisher and the ESP deactivation are housed underneath. The car has three drive modes: “Street,” “Sport” and “Track”.

    Another highlight here is that the race-car-feel is further enhanced by the partial use of carbon fiber. The latter is combined with “Anthracite” and “Titan Black” Alcantara as well as “Black” and “Flash Red” Nappa leather. The rear seats have gone, their space taken by an X-shaped cross member that additionally reinforces body stiffness.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Bentley Introduces Mulsanne and Continental Le Mans Limited Edition Models

    Bentley-Continental-Le-Mans-Edition-THUMBBentley just introduced their Le Mans Limited Edition Mulsanne and Continental model specifications, which will be distributed across North America. Each model is inspired by a driver from Bentley’s six victories at the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours race.

    These special models celebrate brands significant achievements at the race. In fact, 48 examples of each Le Mans Limited Edition model will be produced, with each car having unique Le Mans Edition numbered badge, Le Mans Edition clock face, embroidered Le Mans badge to each headrest, tread plates with the limited edition name, Le Mans Edition wheels and specific interior veneers and exterior colours.

    To go further into details, the Mulsanne model, which is one of the most exclusive cars of the British luxury motoring, sprints form 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 184 mph. This is possible thanks to its drivetrain which delivers 505 hp (371 kW).

    In addition, the limited edition specification here offers highlights such as diamond-quilted hide seat covering, diamond-quilted hide door panels, Le Mans Edition illuminated treadplates, drilled alloy foot pedals, sports tuned suspension and steering, ‘Quad’ Effect Tailpipe Finishers, and two-piece five spoke dark tint alloy wheels.

    On the other hand, the 4-seat Continental GT Speed Le Mans Edition coupe delivers the highest standards of design, engineering, luxury and performance. Under the hood is hidden the renowned 6.0-litre W12 engine, that generates 616 hp (453 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) available from 2000 rpm. This means that the GT Speed sprints to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and is the fastest production Bentley ever with a top speed of 205 mph.

    Bentley Continental and Mulsanne Le Mans Edition Specifications:

    John Duff Specifications:

    John Duff was the one, who back in 1924 gave Bentley the first win at Le Mans 24 Hours.

    • Exterior: Moonbeam
    • Interior: Two-tone Linen and Beluga
    • Stitching: Contrast
    • Veneer: Piano Black and Bright Aluminium

    Dudley Benjafield Specifications:

    Dudley Benjafield drove at numerous events and took first place at Le Mans in 1927.

    • Exterior: Verdant – the same colour of the victorious Bentley Speed 8 in 2003
    • Interior: Two-tone Linen and Cumbrian Green
    • Stitching: Contrast
    • Veneer: Dark Stain Burr Walnut and Bright Aluminium

    Woolf Barnato Specifications:

    Woolf Barnato is considered “the best driver we ever had” by W.O. Bentley. He remains the only driver to have won on each occasion of entering the race recording wins at Le Mans in 1928, 1929 and 1930.

    • Exterior: Granite
    • Interior: Hotspur
    • Stitching: Beluga
    • Veneer: Carbon Fiber in Continental series
    • Dark Stain Burr Walnut with Dark Aluminium in Mulsanne

    Tim Birkin Specifications:

    Tim Birkin was an ex-fighter pilot who was renowned for his willingness to be utterly ruthless with his car to achieve a winning result.

    • Exterior: Glacier White
    • Interior: Beluga
    • Stitching: White
    • Veneer: Piano Black and Bright Aluminium

    Glen Kidston Specifications:

    Glen Kidston won first place at Le Mans in 1930.

    • Exterior: Dark Sapphire
    • Interior: Two-tone Newmarket Tan and Imperial Blue
    • Stitching: Contrast
    • Veneer: Dark Stain Burr Walnut and Dark Aluminium
    • Continental GT Convertible models are finished with a Blue hued exterior roof.

    Guy Smith Specifications:

    Guy Smith was a central figure for Team Bentley’s at both the Sebring 12-Hours and the Le Mans 24 Hours. He secured his place in racing legend at the 2003 Le Mans 24 Hours.

    • Exterior: Beluga
    • Interior: Beluga
    • Stitching: Hotspur
    • Veneer: Piano Black and Dark Aluminium

    The Continental GT models will be available in the second quarter of this year, while Mulsanne Le Mans Edition models – in the beginning in the third quarter.

    Source: Bentley

  • Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabrio Austria Concept

    Volkswagen has officially unveiled the Golf GTI Cabrio Austria Concept.

    It boasts an Oryx White exterior with Flash Red stripes and numerous red accents. Other highlights include a new front spoiler, different rear apron and a set of 19” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    The interior comes with tri-color Recaro sport seats, red trim elements and powerful 2,250 WATT audio system. There is also a new flat-bottom steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and distinctive air vents with red accents.

    The power is 333HP (245 kW) coming from 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine equipped with a stainless steel sports exhaust system. Other performance parts are a strut tower brace and Brembo brake system.

    Projects such as the Golf GTI Cabrio Austria allow Volkswagen to give its best apprentices an opportunity to extend their knowledge. The “Austria” is the sixth “Apprentices’ GTI” to celebrate its world premiere in Reifnitz at the Wörthersee Lake. Previous models drew large crowds at public events, for example at the “IdeenExpo” exhibition in Hanover.

    Source: Volkswagen