Auto News – Page 696 – Automobiles Review

Premiere For The Buick Riviera Concept Vehicle

A brand new version of the Buick Riviera Concept vehicle made a world debut in Shanghai, showing off its avant-garde aesthetics and range of advanced technology. The concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid electric motor which comes in a single package.

The Rivera Concept retains the sweeping design cues of the previous versions, but is more athletic in terms of shape and exudes elegance and deeply sculpted lines. The concept’s silhouette has a three-dimensional effect that resembles waves in the ocean coming to a standstill for a split second.

In addition, here are featured Buick‘s one-of-a-kind gull-wing doors that add more to the sportiness of the model. The new Riviera has an ice celadon exterior finish inspired by jade. What is more, the updated concept vehicle has a new waterfall grille and wing-shaped daytime running lights.

The balance between style and performance is kept thanks to the inclusion of its raked windshield, 14-degree fastback design and metallic fiber spoiler, active grille shutters and diffusers, and active pneumatic wheels.

Next, the interior of the car is based on the 360-degree integrated design strategy. Inside the coupe, the eaglewood tone predominates and features extensive use of refined materials like sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava suede and ebony. The luxury feel is further enhanced, thanks to the new center console, front floating seats, adaptive seating system and noise-absorbing head restraint system.

In terms of technologies included in this project, this Buick includes BIP (Buick Intelligent Performance) and dual-mode W-PHEV (wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) propulsion system. This basically means that the driver can choose to go on green power in electric mode and enjoy the exhilarating handling and performance of a sports car while driving “green” in hybrid mode.

The Rivera can be charged with a traditional cable or wirelessly via a sensory recharge panel on the car’s chassis. Another highlight here is that this concept is also given an intelligent four-wheel steering, an electromagnetic-controlled suspension and an air spring package.

The safety and security features here include a forward-looking active safety system that gathers traffic information through 10 high-resolution cameras and 18 micro high-precision sensors. Then the information is being integrated and afterwards projected in a holographic image on the windshield.

Furthermore, the intelligent driver assist system delivers high level of active safety and security, because it incorporates some versatile technologies such as an eagle view record system, night view assist, side blind-zone alert system, lane departure warning system, full-speed range-adaptive cruise control system, lane change assist system, parking assist system, rear cross-traffic alert system, autopilot system and “transparent” A pillars.

Source: Buick

April 23, 2013

Honda Concept M And Jade Models Revealed In Shanghai

Next to Honda Cider Concept, the Japanese brand made a world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2013 of another exclusive concept – the Honda Concept M. The vehicle’s production version is going to enter the market next year.

The new Concept M is a vehicle for the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment and was developed especially for the Chinese market. The new model offers the attributes of a passenger car while adding new value through the combination of a comfortable and spacious cabin space.

Of course, it will include a wide range of technologies and will deliver nothing less but fun of driving. Concept M was designed by the design studio at the Automobile R&D Center of Honda R&D Coin Japan.

In addition, Honda introduced the Jade model, which is based on the Concept S. The latter was officially introduced at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. However, Jade comes with innovative design which is based on an image of a jade stone, thus delivering beautiful exterior stance and sense of quality.

Honda Jade is planned to go on sale in September.

Source: Honda

April 23, 2013

TEASER: Bentley Continental GT by Vilner [VIDEO]

We have received extremely exciting news from the Bulgarian luxury tuning specialists at Vilner, who have just sent us a teaser video that reveals what will be their next exquisite project.

Studio Vilner have already established a very prominent position in the creation of superior interiors on different kind of automobiles of versatile classes. In addition, in their portfolio is evident that they have made some exterior finishes as well.

And now it is the time that they are also about to showcase their first entirely reworked automobile, which in addition is among the vehicles in luxury class. Namely, they have completely transformed a first generation Bentley Continental GT.

Of course, Vilner has paid great respect to the majestic and imposing design of this Continental GT, and on this sound basis they have created a project that is fully produced in Bulgaria.

All that is disclosed so far (besides the three designer’s images of the project) is that the tuning is accomplished in three directions. First of all, the exterior was changed with the aim to bring about more aggressive and unique stance. Secondly, this Bentley is equipped with entirely new interior. And at last, but not least – the power output of the car is enhanced.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TviFOtry_6g

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vilner

April 22, 2013

2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Live Limited Edition

Alfa Romeo has announced the MiTo Live, which is a new limited edition of just 250 units. The MiTo Live combines safety and technology with a passion for music.

The small hatchback has achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, has been created for drivers who love to stay connected and entertained on the move. It comes fitted with a high fidelity BOSE sound system and Pioneer’s innovative AppRadio system which lets users connect and access their smartphone’s apps through a 7” multi-touch screen.

It is powered by the multi-award-winning TwinAir Turbo petrol engine. It boasts impressive fuel economy of 67.3 mpg with low (98g/km) CO₂ emissions.

The Alfa MiTo Live is priced from just £16,590 OTR with extras including stylish 17” alloy wheels and rear tinted windows. Competitive financing packages on Hire Purchase start from 0% Hire Purchase with 45% deposit required.

Source: Alfa Romeo

April 22, 2013

2013 Subaru Forester XT – UK Price £24,995

Subaru has announced the pricing for the new 2013 Forester XT. The SUV-C vehicle is starting from £24,995 for the 2.0D X model and climbs to £30,995 for the range-topping 2.0i XT.

There are 6 trim levels for buyers to choose from, all with a generous level of standard equipment: XE and XE Premium is available on all naturally-aspirated petrol models; X, XC and XC Premium on all diesel models; and XT, the highest specification, is standard on 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol versions of the new Forester.

Lineartronic is available on XE and XE Premium models and is fitted as standard to XT versions.

All Forester buyers will have the peace-of-mind of a five-year, 100,000 mile warranty, plus a 12-year anti-corrosion guarantee.

The new Forester is also an exceptionally safe vehicle and was recently awarded the full 5-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating. Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) electronic stability control system has been upgraded for superior stability, while a new Trailer Stability Control also improves safety during towing. Greater use of ultra-high tensile steel reinforces the vehicle, making it exceptionally strong yet light.

All safety equipment is fitted as standard to every model in the Forester range, including twin front, side, curtain and knee airbags, upholding Subaru’s commitment to improving crash safety performance.

Every Forester is equipped with two core Subaru technologies: Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, affording surefootedness in all conditions, and the latest generation Boxer engines, contributing to a low centre of gravity which is beneficial to balance, road holding and handling.

The New Forester is on sale from May 1.

Model	Price OTR (£)	CO₂ (g/km)	VED Band	Insurance Group
2.0i XE	25,495	160	G	23E
2.0i XE CVT	26,995	150	F	23E
2.0i XE Premium	27,495	160	G	23E
2.0i XE Premium CVT	28,995	150	F	23E
2.0i XT CVT	30,995	197	J	23E
2.0D X	24,995	150	F	24E
2.0D XC	26,995	156	G	25E
2.0D XC Premium	28,995	156	G	25E

Source: Subaru

April 22, 2013

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Long-Wheelbase

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the E-Class Long-Wheelbase at 2013 Auto Shanghai. The luxurious saloon will be sold exclusively in China. It boasts an overall length of 5019 mm and its wheelbase has been extended by 140 mm to 3014 mm. In other words, this means 14 cm of additional legroom for the rear passengers.The long version of the E-Class is being launched in China as the E 260 L, E 300 L and E 400 L. There is a choice of two variants: the luxurious Sedan and the Sport Sedan. The latter features a powerful AMG front and rear apron, new AMG side skirts and AMG wheels. Typical of the AMG brand is the lavish scope of equipment and appointments. Starting with the E 260 L, features include LED headlamps, an electric sunroof, two-zone automatic climate control, PARKTRONIC and COMAND DVD.New items of equipment are additionally available for other models:

The 360° camera comprises a close-range system of several cameras to assist in parking and manoeuvring. In addition to the functions of the backup camera, it also enables monitoring of the areas to the side of the vehicle and directly in front of the vehicle, thus helping to avoid inadvertent collisions during manoeuvring.
All the headlamp functions of the Intelligent Light System (ILS) feature energy-efficient LED technology. These functions adapt the light distribution to the given driving situation, thereby making an important contribution to safe driving.
The ECO start/stop system reduces fuel consumption and emissions by shutting down the engine automatically when the vehicle is stationary.

April 22, 2013

Suzuki Authentics Concept at 2013 Auto Shanghai

Suzuki has presented the Authentics Concept in Shanghai. “AUTHENTICS” is a concept model of the authentic sedan presented to the C-segment sedan class, which has the largest volume in the Chinese automobile market

Design

– By keeping its overall height low and adopting a long wheelbase, it realizes a stable authentic sedan style.
– The main characteristics are its sharp and sporty character lines and an inflected body shape with an elegant curved surface.

Suzuki plans to produce and distribute the production model based on “AUTHENTICS” by the end of 2014.

Source: Suzuki

April 22, 2013

MG CS Concept at 2013 Auto Shanghai

MG has revealed the new CS Concept at the 2013 Auto Shanghai. The concept car is designed to slot into the compact SUV sector, one of the fastest growing areas of the global automotive market where style and sports utility dominate fashion trends.

The MG CS has many strikingly unique features, including the headlights which have a multi-faceted ‘shard’ structure which refract light in different colours and shape from the side, but coalesce to form the iconic MG’s trademark octagon from the front.

A strong horizontal emphasis gives the side profile of the MG CS a distinctive, sporty style and youthful appearance. Creative design, style and charisma dominate the look of this latest MG.

The manufacturer is planning to introduce the production version in 2015 with starting price of around $23,000.

Source: MG

April 22, 2013

Hyundai Unveils a Preview of Mistra Model

Another concept vehicle has been unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, namely Hyundai Mistra Concept. The model is a preview of upcoming China-exclusive mid-sized family sedan.

The company will launch the production vehicle later this year. The Mistra is positioned between the Sonata and Elantra. The mid-sized sedan concept has the following dimensions: 4,710 mm length, 1,820 mm width and 1,470 mm height, as well as a 2,770 mm-long wheelbase. It is equipped with 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

Furthermore, Hyundai’s new concept has an exterior design qualified as “Grand”. This means that it consists of three sub-concepts: Modern Simplicity, Understated Sportiness and Smart Luxury. The body color it exudes is named “Frost Jade” and it further adds to the captivative appeal of the car.

The bold image of the vehicle is due to the wide radiator grille, while the fog lamps and a wide intake hole contribute to a stable image. The harmony among the long hood, sleek daylight opening side window and sloping side character lines contributes towards a sportier stance.

In addition, the rear bumper is in two-tone colour, which additionally enhances the sporty image of the car. At the same time, the futuristic full-LED rear combination lamps give it a sophisticated look.

The production version of Hyundai Mistra Concept is scheduled to go on sale later this year.

Source: Hyundai

April 22, 2013

Nissan Friend-ME Concept With Official Première

Nissan Friend-ME Concept finally made its official premiere in Shanghai offering a distinctive and very different outlook. Thanks to its assertive and imposing exterior and flowing sculpted lines, this Nissan concept vehicle delivers on-road solidity and edgy muscularity.

Nissan Friend-ME Concept has a design based on an existing Nissan sedan architecture. It includes the ecologically efficient PureDrive hybrid powertrain.

The exterior design of the Friend-ME addresses a fine balance and refined essence. The result adds an entirely new and youthful dimension to the sedan category. Furthermore, the concept offers low and wide stance with short front and rear overhangs. This eventually gives the car aggressive and sporty impression.

The design’s energy flows from the V-motion shaped grille. The same energy continues streaming through the bonnet and shoulder lines while the headlamps and rear combination lamps are further highlighted by the unique boomerang-shaped lighting signature.

The profile of the Friend-Me accentuates the thin and light floating roof. In addition, the Neon Grey exterior colour was especially created to appeal to tech-savvy tastes and puts more emphasis on the lines of the car.

Inside the coupe, the front and back seats are separated with high-tech style. Everyone that is inside the car can access the same information as the driver: speed, navigation, fuel remaining.

The unique centre console stretches from the dash to between the rear seats – an iconic monolith in an onyx-black finish.

Source: Nissan

April 22, 2013

Lexus Debuts GS 300h In China

Lexus GS 300h has just been unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai International Auto Show. The rear-wheel vehicle is equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The latter will make its official debut in the IS 300h later this year.

The power that the engine generates is estimated at 223 hp (164kW). The drivetrain also includes D-4S direct injection technology that adds power delivery and helps improve the fuel economy. The efficient petrol-electric unit is expected to deliver a fuel consumption figure as low as 6.0-litres per 100km while emitting 110 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In this vehicle, Lexus also debuts the new full-colour head-up display (HUD). Here all the needed information is being displayed such as road speed, gear position, radio station, navigation and pre-collision safety system warnings on the windscreen. GS 300h also features new LED fog lamps.

Lexus GS 300h will have its launch in late 2013.

Lexus GS 300h Specifications:

Engine
Engine Type	2AR-FSE
Cylinders and arrangement	4 cylinders, in-line
Valve mechanism	16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i
Displacement	2494 cm3
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Fuel injection system	EFI, D-4S
Max. output	133kW/6000rpm (178hp/6000rpm)*
Max. torque	221Nm/4200-5400rpm*
Fuel consumption	Below 6.0L/100km
CO2 emissions	Below 110 g/km (Europe spec)
Motor generator
Motor type	Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (1KM)
Hybrid battery
Battery type	Nickel-Metal hydride
Nominal voltage	230.4V
Total combined output	164kW*
Measurements
Overall length	4850mm
Overall width	1840mm
Overall heights	1455mm
Wheelbase	2850mm
Seating capacity	5

Source: Lexus

April 22, 2013

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible With GT Aerodynamic Package

Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible is now being equipped with a special aerodynamic and technology package especially created to enhance its GT capabilities. Gemballa is staying behind this project.

The face of the Gemballa GT aerodynamic package consists of a strongly contoured front bumper, whose three large cooling air intakes and carbon-fibre spoiler lip give the Porsche more aggressive stance. Moreover, the curvaceous lines of the 991 Carrera S Cabriolet are further accentuated by the more heavily contoured side skirts that lead the eyes to the re-imagined rear.

At the rear we have dark painted recess in the bumper, carbon-fibre strip between the lights, diffuser with cutouts for the exhaust pipes and Gurney lip spoiler. All of these components are made of carbon-fibre and can be delivered in either natural look or painted body colour.

What is more, here is also included the dual triple-tail pipe exhaust system with throttle activated sound control. This is an interpretation of company’s six-pipe exhaust first seen on the Gemballa Avalanche. What is important to mention here is that this system has a lower backpressure worth up to 10 horsepower.

The height of the car is decreased by 20 mm, thanks tot the shorter, uprated sport springs that work with the factory PASM active damping system. They are combined with the Gemballa-21-inch GForged-one wheels, which are available in “black magic” or “gunmetal” color choices with or without a glossy turned “diamond cut” finish. Another unique feature here is the high performance brake system which was created in collaboration with Brembo and provides shorter stopping distances.

In terms of interior, the palette of materials and colours utilized include the finest Alcantara, carbon-fibre or aluminium. Here can also be found the latest multi-media equipment, delivering state-of-the-art in-car entertainment.

Source: Gemballa

April 22, 2013

Category: Auto News