Auto News – Page 717 – Automobiles Review

Geneva Motor Show: Range Rover Evoque With Black Design Pack

A centre stage on Land Rover’s Geneva Motor Show stand takes the absolutely astonishing Fuji White Range Rover Evoque equipped with the striking new Black Design Pack. Both coupé and 5-door models already deliver wide options for choice and personalisation options across three design themes: Pure, Prestige and Dynamic.

Now, the Black Design Pack emphasizes the confident stance of the Range Rover Evoque ‘Dynamic’, with a host of striking black exterior detailing. A good example is the 20-inch, 9-spoke forged wheels painted in gloss black.

The entire amount of exterior bright finishes has been removed in order to create the Black Design Pack. For instance, a dark exhaust finishers painted in Santorini Black are complemented by a gloss black rear bumper and inner and outer sump guard, which is carried through on the front.

In addition, there are also visible the darkened front headlights and fog lamps – they of course continue the black theme. On the other hand the rear lamps have been transformed to give a clear effect so that they do not visually appear permanently red. Santorini Black painted ‘RANGE ROVER’ lettering across both the bonnet and tailgate and a rear sport spoiler finish the look.

The same Black Design Pack made its debut earlier this year. We have seen it on the Evoque Special Edition model, which is currently still on sale and available in both coupé and 5-door body styles. In this case, the customers have the choice of two exterior colour schemes: Sicilian Yellow exterior body finish with a Santorini Black contrast roof, and a Santorini Black exterior body finish with a Sicilian Yellow contrast roof and door mirrors.

The model also includes one-of-a-kind interior finishes complemented by yellow contrast stitching on seats, central storage area, door trims and fascia mid-section, plus an anodised yellow horizontal finisher.

More importantly, the Range Rover Evoque is powered by a choice of four Engines: the 2.2 litre diesel engine, in both TD4 150PS and SD4 190PS guise, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive; the two-wheel drive eD4, powered by the 150PS TD4 version of the engine combined with a six-speed manual gearbox; and the lightweight 240PS Si4 petrol engine matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Source: Land Rover

March 6, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Gumpert Apollo S

Gumpert has introduced Apollo S at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The manufacturer has a lot of issues, but now everything is alright and this is their latest creation.

The Apollo S is powered by a twin-turbo 4.2 liter V8 engine with 750HP (552 kW) at 6,000RPM and 900Nm (664 lb-ft) at 4,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of more than 322 km/h (200 mph). The more difficult 0-200 km/h is covered in just 8.8 seconds.

Gumpert offers three gearbox variants: a 6-speed fully-synchronized, a sequential with manual gear shift lever and an automatic electronic gear system with paddle shift.

Some of the highlights are chromium-molybdenum steel tube frame and a carbon/Kevlar monocoque with a carbon body shell and carbon/aluminum underbody. All this means superb strength and body rigidity and low weight.

The car rolls 19” or 20” alloy wheels with central locking and fitted with ultra-performance tires. Behind the wheels, there are 6-piston calipers front/ rear with 378mm ventilated discs.

There is a removable steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, carbon fiber rear wing, double wishbone suspension for both axles, front anti roll bar, adjustable ground clearance and a high-performance ABS system.

In pure “Gumpert spirit”, the Apollo S is built with one and only purpose – PURE PERFORMANCE!

Source: Gumpert

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: European Debut For 2014 Lexus IS 300h

2014 Lexus IS 300h makes its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The model is equipped with 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain posting CO2 emissions from 99g/km and has a rear-wheel drive.

As a matter of fact, the key sub-100g/km CO2 figure is achieved by the IS 300h SE model, fitted with 16-inch wheels. IS 300h’s powertrain delivers a total output of 220 hp (164kW) and gives the new Lexus a dynamic drive with quick and smooth acceleration.

The hybrid system included in this Lexus model features a 141 hp (105kW) electric motor and a newly developed 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The latter generates a maximum 178 hp (133kW) and in addition it benefits from a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.

In addition, rear wheels of the IS 300h are driven through the hybrid powertrain’s E-CVT transmission. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is measured at just 8.3 seconds on the way to a Vmax of 125 mph.

Furthermore, the driver can select the style of driving through different modes: EV all-electric running, with the petrol engine switched off; Eco, for optimum fuel efficiency; Normal, and Sport, for sharper throttle response and a sportier steering setting.

In the new IS range is included the F Sport model as well, which comes with sports-tuned suspension and electric power steering. It is also distinguished by a dedicated exterior and interior design features.

2014 Lexus IS 300h Details:

IS 300h engine specifications (figures based on pre-production model)
Engine type	2AR-FSE
Cylinders and arrangement	4 cylinders, in-line
Valve mechanism	16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i
Bore x stroke (mm)	90.0 x 98.0
Displacement (cm³)	2,494
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Fuel injection system	EFI, D-4S with direct and port injection
Emission certification**	EURO 5+ (WVTA countries and ECO grade in non-WVTA countries) Euro 5 (other grades in non-WVTA countries)
Fuel type	Petrol
Combined max output (petrol electric) kW	164
Max power (petrol only) kW/rpm (electric only) kW	133 / 6,000 105
Max torque (petrol only) Nm/rpm (electric only) Nm	221 / 4,200-5,400 300

Source: Lexus

March 6, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Audi A3 Sportback g-Tron

Audi is currently exhibiting the new A3 Sportback g-Tron at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The ultra-efficient hatchback boasts incredibly low fuel consumption and awesome range.

The A3 Sportback g-Tron has two gas tanks which can carry up to 7 kg (15.3 lbs) of compressed natural gas (CNG) at a maximum pressure of 200 bar. Despite the huge pressure, the car is perfectly safe, because the tanks are manufactured from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). What is more, they weight only 27 kg (59.5 lbs) – each, when they are full.

The engine is a 1.4 liter TFSI with 110HP (81 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). Although the performance is not great, the car consumes 3.5 kg / 100 km and provides a range of around 400 km (242 miles) on CNG and another 900 km (559 miles) on gasoline. This means an impressive range of 1,300 km.

Source: Audi

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Unveils RAV4 Premium Concept And RAV4 Adventure

At the Geneva Motor Show Toyota is revealing two new concept vehicles based on the stylish RAV4 model. Both of them were created to reinforce different aspects of the styling and capabilities of the latest RAV4.

The fist one is called RAV4 Premium and it comes to underline the compact SUV’s high quality while the second one – the RAV4 Adventure, builds on the vehicle’s rugged off-road character. RAV4 Premium brings about more sophistication.

Its bodywork and bumpers are finished in Deep Bronze. This enhances the sense of harmony in the design. In addition, at the front, there is a central grille with horizontal lines and air intakes, while the LED lights are further accentuated by a stylish chrome-finished spoiler.

On the other hand, at the rear one can see a redesigned bumper which now comes with chrome inserts, brushed aluminium skid plates and an integrated tailpipe design. The Premium Concept runs on 20-inch alloys that are matched to the aluminium roof rails.

The interior of the model exudes nothing but luxury, thanks to the premium leather upholstery. New black piping and a V-shaped outline reinforce the design of the seats, and the use of two-tone double stitching in several areas expresses both robustness and quality. Grey and black leather wrapping can be seen on the instrument and door panels.

Secondly, the RAV4 Adventure brings about more enhanced off-road capabilities. First thing that grabs the attention is the striking dark red paint that evokes the strong, athletic qualities of the fourth-generation RAV4’s exterior.

The aggressive presence of the morel is further enhanced via the addition of extended wheel arches that accommodate larger 20-inch alloy wheels. Here, the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned and finished with matt paint.

The front bumper is integrated with a new under-run while the rear includes fully integrated twin exhaust pipes and a reworked skid plate. At last, what has to be mentioned are the included here machined roof rails and dark-tinted privacy glass.

Source: Toyota

March 6, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: BMW 335i Gran Turismo

BMW has officially unveiled the new 3-Series GT (Gran Turismo) at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle combines practicality and performance with its super-powerful, economical engines and superb load space.

The 3-Series GT is 200 mm longer, 81 mm taller and the wheel base is extended by 110 mm compared to 3-Series Touring. This means an additional 70 mm of rear seat legroom as well as 1600 liters (56.5 cubic feet) of luggage capacity when the rear seats are folded down.

The engine range includes a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel with 143 HP (105 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque; a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel with 184 HP (135 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft); 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder with 184 HP (135 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft); a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder with 245 HP (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) and a mighty 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six cylinder with 306 HP (225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

In addition to its enviable practicality and sporting dynamics, the outstanding fuel economy of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo also serves the cause of driving pleasure. The key here is the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, whose influence can be seen in virtually every area of the new model. Building on the good work of the ultra-frugal petrol and diesel engines, the intelligent lightweight construction concept of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo and its optimised aerodynamics (including Air Curtains, Air Breathers and the active rear spoiler) do their bit to maximise efficiency and dynamics.

And other measures, such as the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Shift Indicator and on-demand operation of ancillary components join the campaign to ensure the powerful BMW 3 Series Gran Turismoboasts impressively low fuel consumption and emissions. The economy drive doesn’t stop there, either; the car still has the potential to cut fuel use by as much as another 20 per cent using ECO PRO mode and the new ECO PRO Route function.

Source: BMW

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Premiere For Audi RS 5 DTM

At the Geneva Motor Show was just presented the racecar for the DTM 2013 – the exceptional Audi RS 5 DTM. Model’s technical specifications are matching all of the regulations demanded.

Although the car’s specifications for the 2012 season were perfect, there were also made some additional development, butt only in limited form. Over the winter, the Audi Sport DTM team put its attention on identifying if any of the 4,000 components in the racecar from the 2012 season offered any potential for optimization.

The name of the model is also new. This Audi motorsport car also establishes a direct reference in the DTM to the company’s successful production models. In addition the abbreviation ‘RS’ stands for the sportiest Audi models. In fact, the performance data of the current RS 5 and RS 5 DTM are very similar, hence the Audi RS 5 DTM was born.

To go further into detail, eight examples of th RS 5 DTM will take part in the grid for the 2013 DTM. They are fielded by the three proven Audi Sport squads Abt Sportsline, Phoenix and Rosberg. The drivers have been also selected. Among them is one newcomer – Jamie Green from Great Britain, who will join DTM Champion Mattias Ekström (Sweden) at Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline.

The most successful driver combination in the entire DTM 2013 field were Ekström and Green, who achieved 25 race wins and two championship titles. Additionally, nine DTM race wins are attributed to the other Audi driver teams which have remained almost identical since the 2012 season: the double DTM Champion Timo Scheider (Germany) and Adrien Tambay (France) compete for Audi Sport Team Abt, Miguel Molina (Spain) and Mike Rockenfeller (Germany) for Audi Sport Team Phoenix, Filipe Albuquerque (Portugal) and Edoardo Mortara (Italy/France) for Audi Sport Team Rosberg.

On 5th of May is when the new DTM season starts, and here are already known ten events, six of which are in Germany. The other will be held in Austria, Great Britain and the Netherlands and in Moscow. Audi RS 5 DTM will appear officially in public for the first time at the DTM test between 19th and 26th of April 26 and 29 in Barcelona and from 9th to 12th of April in Hockenheim, where a grandstand is open for spectators on the first day.

Source: Audi

March 6, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: KTM X-BOW GT

KTM has exhibited the new 2013 X-BOW GT at the Geneva Motor Show. The “Supersportscar of the 21^st century” comes with a road-legal soft-top, a wide range of colors and different performance parts available as options.

The GT model is based on KTM X-BOW R. It is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 285HP (210 kW) at 6,400RPM and 420Nm (310 lb-ft) at 3,200RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 231 km/h (144 mph).

The dimensions are: 3788 mm length, 1915 mm width, 1202 mm height and 2430 mm wheelbase. The curb weight is 847 kg (1,867 lbs). KTM X-BOW GT rolls 17” front wheels with 205/40 tires and 18” rears with 255/35 tires. It can average 8.3 liters / 100 km (28.3 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 189 g/km.

The price for this toy starts at €72,500.

Source: KTM

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Chevrolet Unveils Corvette Stingray Convertible [VIDEO]

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible has just been unveiled by the brand at the start of this year’s Geneva Motor Show. It has an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm), which makes it the most powerful standard Corvette in history.

Of course, everything we have seen in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe we are to find in its cabrio sibling. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. The highlight in both models is the new and more rigid aluminum frame structure, which is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the current steel frame.

All models are powered by the LT1 6.2L V-8 which delivers 450 horsepower (335 kW). The unit combines several advanced technologies such as direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency.

In addition, what is new here is the fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds up to 50 km/h. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance.

When the top is down, Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Here the exterior color is brought into the interior as well and complements it perfectly.

What is more, it has to be mentioned that this Chevrolet model has a sculptured exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for enhanced stability and track capability.

Furthermore, the interior includes a carbon fibre and aluminium trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices. Some of the advanced driver technologies featured in the model are the five-position Drive Mode Selector and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching.

Lightweight materials such as carbon fibre hood and carbon fibre removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminium frame are improving the weight for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

In addition, the model is equipped with track-capable Z51 Performance Package, which comes with an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further enhances the high-speed stability.

Both 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe and Convertible will be available at dealerships in the end of this year.

Source: Chevrolet

March 5, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: Pininfarina Sergio Concept Revealed [VIDEO]

Pininfarina Sergio Concept which has been shown as a sketch few days ago is now making a debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The name Sergio is inspired by the man who led Pininfarina for 40 years and conceived some of the greatest car legends.

The new concept car celebrates the Life of Senator Sergio Pininfarina. The model is a two-seater barchetta with very compact, very sporty, racy, pure and sensual qualities. It is an exercise that Pininfarina decided to undertake on Ferrari 458 Spider mechanicals.

The revisited volumes and surface treatments emerge through the Sergio, which evokes the spirit of Pininfarina’s best achievements for Ferrari of the ‘60s and ‘70s. In addition, this is a real open air car, and it doesn’t have a cupola fitted to protect occupants. Therefore there are provided two helmets.

Furthermore, the Sergio is charactarized by a very simple and clear style. As one sees it, its proportions are pushed to the extreme, its dynamic front volume penetrates into a rear that is projected forward. The design principle here can be seen through the composition of the two body masses through a longitudinal black insert.

The aesthetics of the model are enhanced through the front semi-floating development with the spoiler under the front. This at the same time serves as a functional for the stabilization of the aerodynamic load and the heat exchange.

A virtual windscreen is also created by the aerodynamic deflector in front of the cockpit. In addition, the roll bar which is made like a wing surface is tuned excellently to the evolution of the flow coming from the front, adding a further down force effect.

At last, the rear holder and the extractor finish the design in a very functional manner. Here even the rear-view mirror takes on a fluid form that helps to divert air from the heads of the passengers.

Some important numbers for the Pininfarina Sergio Concept:

Maximum length: 4550 mm
Maximum width: 1940 mm
Maximum height: 1140 mm
Boot capacity: 110 litres
Power train (original Ferrari 458 Spider): 4499cc V8; Sequential gearbox 7M + RM
Package: 2 doors, 2 seats
Chassis: original 458 Spider
Cx XS: about 5% lower than the original car
Weight: about 1280 kg
Maximum speed: approx 320 km/h
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: less than 3.4 seconds

httpv://youtu.be/O8w6tsTEXv8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Pininfarina

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Suzuki SX4 Crossover

Suzuki SX4 Crossover is the C-Segment Crossover which makes a first world appearance at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The new SX4 is a production model which is based on the S-Cross Concept showcased at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The new model is a successor to the current production SX4. However, it has an increased size and includes four-wheel drive. The company created the new SX4 Crossover by mixing its compact car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles.

The result is the exceptional new distinctive styling of this Suzuki Crossover, its class leading space for passengers and luggage, its generation 4WD performance and its excellent low CO2 emission figures. In other words this is a model which offers great driving enjoyment and versatile family utilization.

Some of the key features of the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover include the following:

Distinctive crossover styling: bold, sporty crossover shape, strong lines, a refined, distinctive character and excellent aerodynamics;
More space for people and luggage: C segment dimensions with increased passenger space and luggage capacity (430 litres);
Next generation 4WD with ALLGRIP technology: the new 4WD system has four driver-selectable driving modes for better performance and safety under diverse conditions;
One of the lowest CO2 emissions in its category: engine refinements, superior aerodynamics, and the high tensile steel used in the bodywork;
World’s first double sliding glass sunroof.

The new SX4 Crossover’s design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. The latter enhance the fuel economy, and the highly distinctive look is ensured by the characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches. A sharp body line, wheel arch mouldings, skid plates and integrated roof rails underline the crossover styling. Furthermore, the model will be offered in a range of 10 exterior colours, where two of them are new: Crystal Lime Metallic and Amethyst Grey Pearl Metallic.

On the other hand, the interior of the model include exceptional features such as an instrument panel which is shaped to give a sense of width and dynamism. Its contours overlap the doors and the soft padding. The seats are shaped and stitched in order to emphasize a sense of sophistication, while the silver decorations create a sporty look against the black interior.

In terms of performance, the SX4 Crossover blends all-terrain crossover capability and on road performance. The powertrain delivers environmental compatibility and great performance. The performance results of the model come from the combination of exceptional attributes: 4WD SUV capability; great handling – derived from the Swift; pleasant, straight runningstability thanks to a long wheelbase; low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – fulfilling the global needs for environmental compatibility.

To be more precise the engine options are 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel. The first one is based on the current M16A. Lower friction and lower weight in the engine and related parts heighten fuel economy without detracting from the high power and torque of the M16A. The second one, the 1.6-litre diesel engine offers superior fuel economy.

Both engines can be mated to either the standard five-speed and six-speed manual transmission system (for petrol and diesel engines respectively), or to a CVT transmission. The latter is the continuously variable transmission that has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill climbing performance and fuel economy.

Furthermore, the included Engine Auto Start Stop (EASS) system additionally increases fuel economy, limits exhaust emissions, and makes driving more pleasurable by limiting noise and vibration.

The CO2 emissions target for the new SX4Crossover petrol models are:

125g/km* with two wheel drive (2WD) manual transmission;
125g/km with 2WD CVT;
136g/km* with 4WD manual transmission;
136g/km with 4WD CVT.

The CO2 emissions for the diesel models are:

110g/km* with 2WD manual transmission;
115g/km* with 4WD manual transmission.

Dimensions Of Suzuki SX4 Crossover

	New SX4	Current SX4
Overall length	4,300mm	4,135mm
Overall width	1,765mm	1,755mm
Overall height	1,575mm (16”wheels) 1,570mm (17” wheels)	1,565mm
Wheelbase	2,600mm	2,500mm
Treads	Front 1,535mm	Front 1,500mm
	Rear 1,505mm	Rear 1,495mm
Luggage capacity (VDA)	430L	270L
Tyre size	205/60R16 205/50R17	205/60R16

Source: Suzuki

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Spyker B6 Venator Concept

The Dutch sports car maker Spyker is debuting its B6 Venator Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. After the model has been teased two weeks ago it now comes to show an exceptional attitude at the Auto Show.

Spyker B6 Venator Concept is a compact, 2-door mid-engine sports car which delivers a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity. The concept makes a defiantly contemporary statement whilst paying homage to its past. It includes extremely detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements.

The name “Venator” comes from the ancient language Latin and it means literally “Hunter”. The name it carries undoubtedly conveys its high sports luxury presence and its bold beauty. But to go further into details and to reveal some of the highlights, the rear lights of this Concept are stunning 3D LED lights akin to the iris-type propelling nozzle of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.

Secondly, the Radiator Grille, which is the trademark, references to Spyker models of the previous century. Here, the 1903 Spyker logo harkens back to an era when Spyker

built racers such as the amazing Spyker 60 HP.

Another exceptional element here is the aerodynamically shaped glass aircraft canopy which extends rearwards in order to minimize drag and to enhance performance. Next, the air intakes are aerodynamically sculpted and are integrated into the contemporary design of the car.

The new headlights are also instantly eye-catching because they are equipped with LED light rails, which add further to the aggressive stance of the model. What is more, the highly detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements are a core part Spyker’s DNA.

The brake light has been sculpted into the Spyker B6 Venator’s rear panel design to ensure smooth, flowing design lines. And the wheels – 19” Turbofan™ are in mirror polish finish. The contemporary profile and the overall design of the B6 pays homage to its past whilst making a defiantly contemporary statement with a lineage that can be traced back many years.

Source: Spyker

March 5, 2013

Category: Auto News