Auto News – Page 723 – Automobiles Review

FAB Design McLaren MP4-12C Chimera in Geneva

FAB Design will exhibit their tuned version of the high-performance McLaren MP4-12C in Geneva. It boasts fresh new design at the usual quality. There are styling and performance upgrades as well. The name of the project is Chimera and you can see, why?!

Outside, the Chimera is finished in aggressive orange paint. It features a complete styling package including dynamic front spoiler, a hood mounted wind splitter and 4-component side skirts made of visible carbon-fibre. The air intakes are also made from exposed carbon fiber. The last touches are a triple-flow exhaust pipe and a new rear apron. The price of the body styling kit is € 16,900 net, plus shipping costs.

FAB Design Chimer sits on FAB Evoline wheels 9.0J x 20“ and 10.5J x 21“ fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres – 235/35 R20 and 305/25 R21.

The interior boasts several orange carbon components, rative orange stitching, as well as many upholstery options available upon request. A set of new floor mats are also part of the package.

The twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine is boosted to 640HP (471 kW). It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 329 km/h (204 mph).

Source: FAB Design

February 21, 2013

Vilner Teases The Resurgence Of Alfa Romeo Zagato Roadster [VIDEO]

It’s definitely becoming hotter but not because the winter time slowly passes away, but because the Bulgarian luxurious tuning specialists from Vilner have just released their latest teaser footage. And with it we aren’t to see an “ordinary” car that has just come out of the factory, but instead – a very classy collectible.

We are speaking here about the extraordinary Alfa Romeo Zagato Roadster. The two-seater convertible was produced from 1992 until December 1994. More interesting however is the fact that only 350 units were planned for production, but eventually only 284 cars were made.

This makes the RZ the lowest production Alfa Romeo in automotive history. Now, the owner of this unique car is seeking help at Vilner’s studio. Despite that details weren’t revealed so far, it is rumored that the vehicle has received full treatment.

Still, ahead of its official reveal which we are expecting next week, we can enjoy this exclusive video:

httpv://youtu.be/2rVEsALBtFs

Video Source: YouTube

February 21, 2013

2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger Revealed

Toyota Racing has just revealed the revised TS030 Hybrid which carries the name 2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger. The latter will participate in the Le Mans 24 Hours and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) this Motor-sport season.

The racing team has begun the first full test of the new 2013 TS030 Hybrid at Paul Ricard in southern France. Last year, the team achieved great success which includes three victories in just six races. The same hopes are expected for the new season and there is the ambition to win both the Le Mans 24 Hours and the WEC title.

Toyota Racing team will again use Toyota Hybrid System – to be more precise the Racing powertrain, which was created especially by company’s motorsport division in Higashifuji. To go even further into details, the unique super capacitor-based hybrid system generates 300 hp (224kW) of boost automatically, on top of the 530hp (395kW) generated by a 3.4-litre normally aspirated V8 petrol unit.

In addition, it was revealed that Toyota’s motorsport division has fine-tuned the new powertrain in order to improve power, efficiency, management of component usage and reliability. Furthermore, the race-winning TS030 Hybrid chassis has also been updated, thus delivering enhanced performance.

2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger includes also a revised aerodynamic package. In it is featured an updated monocoque, which will offer better performance and at the same time will reduce the weight of the car by circa 15 kg.

The complete WEC schedule is the following:

Silverstone, UK (14 April)
Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium (4 May)
Le Mans, France (22 June)
Sao Paulo, Brazil (1 September)
Austin, US (22 September)
Fuji, Japan (20 October)
Shanghai, China (10 November)
Bahrain (30 November)

Source: Toyota

February 21, 2013

Upcoming 2014 Range Rover To Be Offered With New Engine

2013 Range Rover was launched in the summer of 2012 and did a major success. Now Land Rover is opening orders for the new 2014 Range Rover, which will be available in showrooms this summer.

Furthermore the upcoming 2014 Range Rover will be offered with a new and more efficient 340 hp (250 kW) supercharged V6 engine. This unit of course delivers exceptional performance and refinement with enhanced fuel efficiency.

The supercharged V6 engine will be available alongside the 510 hp (375 kW) supercharged V8. Both units will be matched with an eight-speed ZF 8HP70 automatic transmission. Thanks to the new engine however, the new Range Rover will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.1 seconds.

The peak output of 340 hp is at 6,500rpm, producing maximum torque between 3,500 and 5,000rpm. In particular, the engine’s accessory drive is waterproofed, as are the alternator, air conditioning compressor, and starter motor.

What is more, the four-cam V6 shares include a lightweight die-cast aluminum block with cross-bolted main bearing caps. They offer more strength. The valves here are managed by a dual independent variable cam timing system (DIVCT). The latter is activated by the positive and negative torques produced by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves.

In addition, the fuel consumption is enhanced, thanks to Land Rover’s Intelligent Stop/Start. In fact, it reduces engine idling under certain conditions which saves fuel and decreases emissions. Another interesting technology featured here is the Spray-guided direct injection (SGDI).

SGDI offers precise quantities of fuel directly into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 150 bar (2175 PSI). This creates more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion. Additionally, a brand new Bosch engine management system manages all functions of the unit.

Source: Land Rover

February 21, 2013

McLaren P1 To Deliver The Staggering 903 Horsepower

It is official! McLaren P1 is going to deliver the staggering 903 horsepower! The model will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants: a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and a highly effective electric motor.

Both will offer a combined output of 903 hp (664 kW) and a maximum torque figure of 900Nm (664 lb-ft), ensuring instantaneous throttle response through the rev range, more akin to a naturally aspirated engine.

Furthermore, the emissions here are rated to be less than 200g/km on the combined cycle and are reduced to zero in full electric drive mode. On the other hand the Formula 1-derived DRS and IPAS technologies offer enhancement in straight-line speed and an instant boost of power.

But to go into details, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine in P1 is a new version of the familiar M838T unit. This engine block has a unique casting in order to feature the electric motor.

Here, the petrol engine produces 727 hp (535 kW) at 7,500rpm, and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque from 4,000rpm, while the lightweight electric motor produces 76 bhp (130 kW) and a maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft).

What is more, in this McLaren model is featured also a “boost” system called IPAS which provides up to 179 hp instantly. The instant response of the electric motor provides a sharper throttle response more associated with a normally aspirated engine, and the significantly enhanced air-charging system enables the McLaren P1 to have more top-end power.

The electric motor is mounted directly onto the engine. The power of both units is channeled through the dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox to drive the rear wheels. Another advantage here is that the e-motor can provide faster upshifts through the application of instant negative torque at the point of shift, making the engine revs drop as quickly and efficiently as possible to the required engine speed for the upshift.

What also has been revealed for the P1 is that it can be driven in a variety of modes, powered by the engine and electric motor together, or solely by the electric motor. Of course, the maximum power is delivered when both powerplants are utilized together together.

However, even in E-mode the performance is strong enough. E-mode is the most economical mode available with zero tailpipe emissions, in which the vehicle can travel more than 10 km with electric-only power. When the battery is empty, the petrol engine will automatically start to maintain drive and charge the battery.

Additional technology highlights featured in this new McLaren model are the DRS (Drag Reduction System) and IPAS (Instant Power Assist System)., which enhance the power available via the petrol engine and electric motor.

The first system is a technology similar to that employed on Formula 1 cars. Speed is increased by reducing the amount of drag on the rear wing and, where the MP4-28 has a moveable flap on the rear wing, the McLaren P1™ has a wing that reduces in angle to lower drag by 23%. The system immediately deactivates when the button is released, or if the driver touches the brake pedal.

The other system – IPAS, is designed in order to offer power rapidly for high performance acceleration, and provides 179 hp of instant additional power. In addition, in this system the power delivery was prioritized over energy storage, through a groundbreaking, lightweight battery pack, which offers greater power density.

The latter has been achieved through high power cells, low pack weight and an innovative cooling system all working together. The battery weighs only 96kg, and is mounted onto the underbody of the high-strength Formula 1-grade carbon fibre MonoCage chassis. The battery can be charged via the engine or via a plug-in charger that can recharge it from empty in only two hours.

Additional details for the McLaren P1 will be released in the coming weeks before its official world debut in Geneva next month.

Source: McLaren

February 21, 2013

MINI Clubman Bond Street To Be Revealed In Geneva

MINI Clubman Bond Street is set to debut at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show being generously equipped and including exquisitely details. In addition at the Show, MINI will also welcome the arrival of MINI John Cooper Works Paceman, MINI Hyde Park.

The first thing that has to be mentioned about the Clubman Bond Street is that is tailor-made. Exclusive design and equipment features deliver the premium quality of the typical MINI-style. Its Midnight Black metallic paintwork matches perfectly the Cool Champagne contrast color for the roof, exterior mirror caps, lower sections of the C-pillars and bonnet stripes to offer dynamically flowing body lines and extended wheelbase.

In addition the interior color is also striking, and complements perfectly the exclusively designed sports seats and a leather-covered instrument panel. Additional details around the new MINI Clubman Bond Street will be revealed at its debbut.

Next to the new model, the visitors of Geneva Motor Show will also see the MINI Hyde Park available in either MINI or MINI Clubman form. It is now being offered in combination of Pepper White exterior paintwork and the new contrast color Cool Champagne.

The other star at MINI’s stand is the MINI Highgate Convertible, which is a four-seater soft-top vehicle that embodies an aura of exclusivity and undeniable individuality. What is more, there also will be the ultra-sporty MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.

This one has an imposing figure with its powerfully formed front end, the elegantly sporty, stretched lines of the flanks, the coupé-style roof swooping downwards towards the rear, and a broad tail end.

The standard aerodynamic kit features lowered sports suspension and 18-inch light-alloy wheels in Twin Spoke Black Burnished Design. And in addition what propels this model is the four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control that generates 208 hp (153 kW). The unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic with Steptronic and steering wheel paddles is available as an option.

What is more the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman is kitted out as standard with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. The latter allows the power of the turbocharged engine to lay on extreme driving fun both on the road and over rough terrain.

Source: MINI

February 21, 2013

2013 TechArt Porsche Cayenne S Diesel

TechArt has announced a full tuning program for the new 2013 Porsche Cayenne S Diesel. Efficiency meets extravagance. The SUV will be presented at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show in March.

TechArt Caynne S Diesel is finished in deep black metallic paint. It also boasts adapted black leather interior, light green applications and 23” TECHART Formula light alloy wheels in black with outer rim in light green. Other highlights include a carbon fiber ventilated hood, three-part front spoiler, LED or halogen twin headlights with high beam or fog lights, new front apron and side skirts as well as a custom roof spoiler, rear apron with integrated diffuser and two reflectors.

Premium types of leather, decorative stitching in individual colours and trims in exotic woods or carbon are just a few possible highlights to choose. The multifunctional sport steering wheel with paddle shifters looks very sporty and ergonomic. The TECHART Entertainment Kit W2 with two 7” displays located at the front seats, folding single rear sports seats and a centre console unit, equipped with 12-volt power supply, refrigerator and storage compartments can be ordered optionally.

The power is coming from a 4.2 liter V8 twin-turbo diesel boosted to 382HP (281 kW) and 850Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque. The tuning specialists are working on a power boost module, which will raise the power with around 50HP.

Source: TechArt

February 20, 2013

Wheelsandmore Aston Martin Vanquish AM 310

Wheelsandmore has announced their tuning program for the all-new 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish AM 310. The sports luxurious vehicle gets both styling and performance modifications.The exterior boasts a black stripe running across the body. There are also different sets of wheels in various styles, colors, sizes and materials. The dimensions are between 20” and 21” fitted with proper tires. The stance can be further improved by a custom sports suspension kit including coilovers, which can be adjusted – height and stiffness.The engine is a naturally aspirated 6.0 liter V12 with 573HP (421 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft). It is connected to a 6-speed Touchtronic 2 gearbox. 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 295 km/h (183 mph).Wheelsandmore offers an ECU upgrade boosting the engine to 600HP (441 kW) and 640Nm (472 lb-ft) – €3,100.Stage 2 boosts the engine to 613HP (451 kW) and 710Nm (524 lb-ft) – €6,303.Check out the link below for full details about the performance parts!

February 20, 2013

2013 Toyota Camry XLE – Interior Upgrades

Toyota has announced the new 2013 Camry and Camry Hybrid. The midsize sedans enter the 2013 model year gaining enhancements to interior design and comfort and safety technology. The Blind Spot Monitor system, with availability expanded to the Camry SE grade, adds a rear cross traffic alert function.

The model is among the best-selling vehicles in USA for 14 of the past 15 years. It boasts a bold, sophisticated new design with a more spacious interior, improved driving dynamics and an even quieter ride than before when it debuted for 2012.

The engine range includes a 2.5 liter petrol with 178HP (131 kW) and 230Nm (170 lb-ft), a 3.5 liter V6 petrol delivering 268HP (197 kW) and 335Nm (248 lb-ft) and the Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The 2.5 liter engine is mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission and returns 25 MPG city / 35 MPG highway EPA fuel economy ratings. The fuel economy of the V6 is 21 MPG city and 31 MPG on the highway.The 2013 Camry Hybrid, which achieves 43 city MPG, also gains the interior enhancements of the gasoline Camry.

The gasoline Camry is offered in entry-level L, value-driven LE, premium XLE and sporty SE grades, with a four-cylinder engine on L and LE and a choice of four-cylinder or V6 on SE and XLE. The Camry Hybrid is offered in LE and XLE grades.

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.

Source: Toyota

February 20, 2013

Audi RS Q3 SUV With World Debut At Geneva Motor Show

Audi RS Q3 will be one of the main stars at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. In addition, it will be the first ever Audi SUV to be handed over to the specialists at quattro GmbH for full, no-holds-barred RS transformation.

At the core of this RS pioneer is the 2.5-litre TFSI engine mated to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. It has a 2,480 cc of engine displacement thanks to which the SUV generates 310 hp (228 kW) peak at between 5,200 and 6,700 rpm, and maximum torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm .

This means that the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in only 5.5 seconds. The top speed here is electronically limited to 155mph. The five-cylinder engine is also complemented by a standard start-stop system which contributes to fuel economy. In fact Audi RS Q3 has up to 32.1mpg combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 206 g/km.

As a standard here comes the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system. It can influence the flap control for the exhaust system and the accelerator characteristic. It also offers auto, comfort and dynamic modes.

What is more the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is also featured, in this case the version based on an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch positioned on the rear axle. The system provides swift and proportionate distribution of torque between the front and rear axles for optimum power management in all weathers.

In addition, there is a specially tailored electronic stabilisation control (ESC). An electromechanical parking brake and hill hold assist are also standard.

What is also very impressive about the RS Q3 is the RS-specific body detailing, including a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers, the front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and the rear a distinctive diffuser and large elliptical tailpipes.

Furthermore, a roof spoiler, roof rails in matt aluminium and special door sill plates and door trim strips also add to the impressive visual stance. This Audi model has a 4,410 mm length, and it weigh circa 1,730 kg.

The RS accents can also be seen inside the car. The instrument cluster has grey gauges with white scales and red needles. Contrasting stitching in rock grey trims the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with its flat bottom as well as the gear selector lever.

Black headlining is apparent on all standard models, but there is lunar silver headlining as an option. The contrast is made by the pedals and foot support which are finished in bright aluminium.

Next, the luggage area has a base capacity of 356 litres. It can be enhanced up to 1,261 litres by folding down the split rear seat backs.

RS Q3 comes equipped with wide range of innovative technologies: navigation system, MMI Navigation plus, BOSE surround sound system driving 14 loudspeakers, Audi connect that brings the Internet to the car. Highly advanced driver assistance systems can also be incorporated.

Audi RS Q3 SUV will make its world first appearance next month at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Audi

February 20, 2013

Promiz Customs Transforms Infiniti FX35

Promiz Customs Infiniti FX35 is a project of the designer Nobert Gold. He visually created this special transformation for Promiz Customs which makes the fourth project he has done for them.

The tuning is on the Infiniti FX35 model and is going to equip it with unique bodykit modifications featuring the hood, the bumpers and the grill. The wheels – Vossen CV3 are to be bigger than the original ones in sizes 22’’.

The original Infiniti model has RWD, and a five speed automatic transmission matched with a 3.5-liter V6 unit under the hood. The latter generates 390 (287 kW) horsepower.

Source: Promiz Customs

February 20, 2013

Spyker B6 Concept Car Debuts In Geneva [TEASER]

The flowing lines of the Spyker B6 Concept Car has just been unveiled with a teaser image. The brand’s global resurgence with this concept vehicle will happen of course at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show on 5th of March.

More details are promised to be announced near the reveal date, because the Dutch sports car maker Spyker is keeping them in secret. However it is rumored that the new model will be priced under $300 000 and will have as a potential target the customers of Porsche 911.

In addition from the image we can conclude that it will be probably a coupe with elegant lines, will have short hood and pronounced wheel arches. And how about a hybrid or an electric motor placed under the hood?

Source: Spyker

February 20, 2013

Category: Auto News