Category: Auto News

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

  • 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Revealed [VIDEO]

    2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur has just been officially revealed after it has been teased two weeks ago. The new luxury performance sedan delivers sculpted design and state-of-the-art technology. This is Bentley’s most powerful four-door model ever created and it will make its word debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5th March.

    The design of the new Flying Spur combines traditional Bentley styling cues with a sporting stance and contemporary details. Sharp feature lines complement muscular rear haunches, while LED day-time running lights, dipped headlights and taillights characterise the front and rear profiles.

    The interior of course is more than luxurious and in addition the cabin is spacious and includes advanced acoustic and electronic technologies in exquisite hand-crafted leather hides and wood veneers. The occupants will enjoy connectivity including Wi-Fi, a Rear Seat Entertainment suite and a new hand-held Touch Screen Remote which allows rear-cabin occupants to control an extensive range of features.

    Furthermore, for the acoustic experience inside is outstanding thanks to the eight-channel, eight-speaker audio system with Balanced Mode Radiators.

    2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur hides under its hood a 6.0-litre, twin turbo W12 engine, coupled to a ZF eight-speed transmission. It generates 625 hp (460 kW) and 800 Nm (580 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it the most powerful model in brand’s history.

    The acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in only 4.3 seconds on the way to the top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). The power is delivered to the road via all-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for a sure-footed, engaging drive in all road and weather conditions.

    To go further into details about the exterior of this new Bentley model, the front fenders include a striking new wing vent complete with an elegant Bentley “B” motif. From here, an additional feature line creates a sharply defined edge running from the front wheel all the way to the rear bumper.

    A more upright chrome grille sits between the pairs of LED headlamps. At the rear one can see a longer and lower boot lid and horizontal single ellipse LED tail lamps combine with a new interpretation of the Bentley “Horse Shoe” feature line.

    As a matter of fact, the interior of the new Flying Spur includes 600 new parts, with only the sun visors, grab handles, armrests and some of the front console and controls carried over from the previous generation. The model is available in both four- and five-seat configurations, and includes redesigned front and rear seats trimmed in natural premium-quality leather.

    The interior designers have applied the finest wood veneers to finish the cabin of the new Flying Spur. They have used almost ten square metres of sustainably sourced natural wood per car. To enhance the “wrap-around” feel of the forward cabin, the veneer of the dashboard meets that of the doors in a perfectly aligned curve, giving the impression of an unbroken arc of wood around the interior.

    Furthermore, the new model will now run on 19” tyres, which have been specifically developed in order to deliver optimum balance between refinement and handling performance.

    More importantly, in it is featured Bentley’s most powerful engine – the 6.0-litre, twin turbocharged, 48-valve W12. It generates 625 hp (460 kW) at 6,000 rev/min and a staggering 800 Nm (580 lb ft) of torque from only 2000 rev/min. Other important details are that the new Flying Spur delivers a combined cycle fuel economy of 19.2 mpg (14.7 litres/100 km), and CO2emissions of 343 g/km.

    In terms of aerodynamism, there is something interesting around the car. As the new Flying Spur approaches 200 mph (322 km/h) top speed, the ride height is automatically lowered via the air suspension system. This enhances vehicle stability and optimises aerodynamic balance.

    In addition, the new car has a two-stage lowering strategy, firstly lowering by 5 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear at 121 mph (195 km/h) and then by a further 8 mm and 13 mm respectively at 149 mph (240 km/h). The multiple-mode Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is recalibrated to work in combination with the new chassis specification.

    Flying Spur will be offered in range of seventeen standard exterior paint colours including Dark Cashmere (a new color added to the palette). The extended paint range of over 100 colours is joined by Damson.

    2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Technical Specifications:

    Engine
    Type 6-litre twin-turbocharged W12
    Max Power 616 bhp / 460 kW / 625 PS @6000 rev/min
    Max Torque 800 Nm / 590 lb.ft @ 2000 rev/min
    Transmission
    Type ZF 8-speed automatic with Quickshift, Block Shifting and wheel-mounted paddleshift
    Driveline Continuous all-wheel drive (40:60 rear bias)
    Ratios 1st : 4.71; 2nd: 3.14; 3rd: 2.1; 4th: 1.67; 5th: 1.29; 6th: 1.00; 7th: 0.839; 8th: 0.667
    Final Drive 2.85
    Brakes
    Front 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
    Rear 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm, Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
    Wheels and Tyres
    Wheels New 19″ (2 finishes), opt 9.5J x 20″, opt 9.5J x 21″ (3 designs)
    Tyres 275/45 ZR19, 275/40 ZR20, 275/35 ZR21
    Steering
    Type Rack & pinion, power assisted, speed-sensitive ZF servotronic
    Turns lock-to-lock 2.8
    Turning circle 11.7 m / 38.4 feet
    Suspension
    Front Four link double wishbones, computer controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
    Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
    Damping Continuous Damping Control
    Dimensions
    Wheelbase 3065 mm / 120.7 in
    Overall length 5295 mm / 208.5 in
    Width (across body) 1976 mm / 77.8 in
    Width (inc. mirrors) 2208 mm / 86.9 in
    Overall height 1488 mm / 58.6 in
    Fuel tank 90 litres / 20 UK gallons / 24 US gallons
    Boot volume 475 litres / 16.8 cu ft
    Kerb weight (EU) 2475 kg / 5451 lb
    Gross vehicle weight 2972 kg / 6546 lb
    Performance
    Top speed 200 mph / 322 km/h
    0-60 mph 4.3 secs
    0-100 mph 9.5 secs
    0-100 km/h 4.6 secs
    0-160 km/h 9.5 secs
    Fuel Consumption (EU cycle)*
    Urban 12.6 mpg (22.4 litres/100 km)
    Extra Urban 27.8 mpg (10.2 litres/100 km)
    Combined 19.2 mpg (14.7 litres/100 km)
    CO2 emissions 343 g /km
    Fuel Consumption (EPA cycle)**
    City (US mpg) 12
    Highway (US mpg) 20
    Combined (US mpg) 15
    Emissions Controls EU 5 and US LEV IISource: Bentley
  • 2013 Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI – 136HP and 320Nm

    After the announcet of the powerful Zafira Tourer 2.0 CDTI, Opel will present the new 2013 Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next month. The super-efficient diesel van offers good performance and low fuel consumption.

    What is more, this is the cleanest diesel engine in the company’s history. It is equipped with Opel “BlueInjection” SCR (selective catalytic reduction) technology. This means that the new 1.6 CDTI already meets future stringent Euro 6 emissions limits.

    The 1.6 liter CDTI ECOTEC has 136HP (100 kW) and 320Nm (237 lb-ft) of torque. The combined cycle is sensational – 4.1 liters / 100 km with emissions of just 109 g/km CO2. No other monocab on the market place offers such a great combination of high torque and performance and fuel economy. The top speed is 193 km/h (120 mph), but no words about 0-100 km/h acceleration.

    The new 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC does not only set benchmarks for performance with its high power and torque density but also for refinement with an outstandingly low level of noise, vibration and harshness.

    This new generation engine and its innovative engine control unit have been entirely developed in-house by a global team of engineers in Turin, Rüsselsheim and the USA.

    Source: Opel

  • 2013 Opel Cascada – Glamorous Mid-size Convertible

    Opel will exhibit the all-new 2013 Cascada at the Geneva Motor Show. This is an elegant four-seater convertible with nice silhouette and a sophisticated, high quality soft-top.

    The mid-size convertible has a length of 4,700 mm, which means enough space for four occupants. It also boasts many premium technologies and features. The sharp driving experience is granted by a super-rigid body, advanced HiPerStrut front suspension and adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis system.

    All occupants can enjoy the pleasures of open-air driving thanks to the premium quality soft-top which opens at the touch of a button in 17 seconds while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. It can also be activated by remote control when the car is stationary.

    Other interesting feature is the load capacity of 380 liters (top closed). To increase load volume, the Opel Cascada benefits from the FlexFold system which electrically releases and folds down the 50:50 split rear seat-back rests – a feature that cannot be offered in hard-top convertibles.

    The equipment boasts automatic seatbelt presenters, exclusive Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated ergonomic seats, as well as a host of safety systems, enhance interior comfort and provide greater safety for relaxed driving pleasure..

    2013 Opel Cascada is priced from €25,945. It will be available in the dealerships in April.

    Source: Opel

  • Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition To Debut In Geneva

    Irmscher-Opel-Astra-GTC-THUMBIrmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition is going to be unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show was just announced by the tuning company. Only 45 units of this special vehicle will be made in order to celebrate the 45th birthday of Irmscher in 2013.

    The customization here was created with the aim to enhance the distinctively sporty design of the Opel Astra GTC. Under the hood of the latter works an improved Astra 1.6 Turbo engine, which develops 200 hp (147 kW).

    With a lowering of 30 mm with progressive spring rate, in conjunction with 20-inch alloy wheels this Opel is full of power on the road and in addition in grabs the attention of the viewers immediately.

    Balance in proportions is also an aim here and is an attribute which Irmscher clearly emphasizes with its design ideas and their development. Seen from the front, the radiator grille with Irmscher Carbon bar, the harmoniously integrated front spoiler lip and the track width of 20-inch wheels in Evo Star design perfectly contribute to a new more dramatical visual stance.

    Observed from the rear, one can see that the sporty ambitions are also evident there. In fact, the striking roof spoiler, the diffuser insert and the left and right ellipsoidal tailpipes contribute to more agile and dynamic look. In addition, at the tail one can also notice the “Sport 45” signature.

    On the other hand the interior of the car includes original Irmscher seats, door panels and center armrest, which were trimmed with fine leather and correspond to the exterior color with a yellow stitching. Moreover, the tuning company refined the interior further by adding door pins and pedals in aluminum. At last, the floor mats include Irmscher logo and the “Sport 45” signature.

    Source: Irmscher

  • 2013 Skoda Octavia Combi – A Good Family Touring Car

    Skoda has announced the new 2013 Octavia Combi, which will be showcased in Geneva, next month. AWD version will be also shown at the famous Motor Show. Earlier this year, Skoda has revealed the Saloon version of the practical family car.

    The new Skoda Octavia Combi has grown significantly, boasting dynamic and elegant design. Skoda chief designer – Jozef Kaba, and his team have redesigned the car from head to toe. Never before has a Skoda Octavia Combi been so dynamic and yet timelessly elegant, distinctive, sophisticated and confident on the road as the third generation of this bestseller. An outstanding amount of space, fuel efficiency, innovative safety and comfort systems as well as many ‘Simply Clever’ ideas make up the Skoda genes that distinguish the new Octavia.

    Compared to the previous Octavia Combi, the new one is 45 mm wider, 90 mm longer and with 110 mm longer wheelbase delivering excellent comfort. There is an extra 73mm of rear legroom and 610 liters of cargo space with the rear seats up. With folded seats, the Octavia Combi boasts 1740 liters of cargo space.

    The newly developed engines of the third-generation Skoda Octavia Combi are up to 17 % more economical than the previous generation. The engines currently on offer comprise four petrol and four diesel engines, the fuel efficient GreenLine reaches a consumption of only 3.4 l/100km and CO2 emissions of only 89 g/km.

    Also to be seen first at Geneva 2013: the Skoda Octavia Combi 4×4 with a newly developed all-wheel drive and 5th-generation Haldex clutch.

    Source: Skoda

  • Rinspeed microMAX Concept To Be Unveiled In Geneva [VIDEO]

    Rinspeed-microMAX-THUMBAt the end of the last year it was announced that Rinspeed microMAX Concept will make its first official world reveal at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This comprehensive mobility concept is developed by the joint efforts of Rinspeed and Harman.

    As a matter of fact they call the microMAX – the networked swarm car. With this concept Frank M. Rinderknecht, the boss of Rinspeed, transfers the idea of swarm intelligence to urban traffic and sets out to do nothing less than bring it to higher level.

    The ingenious commuter vehicle combines personal and public transportation. Here Harman supplied it with “urbanSWARM” community concept based on the Harman Cloud platform, which involves company’s individual technical features that are already available commercially today with a comprehensive Cloud-based mobility concept.

    To be more precise, this allows effortless access to navigation functions in real time. Based on the information from all vehicles connected to the swarm, the system can modify the routes dynamically to account for current traffic.

    More importantly, the microMAX owners are part of modern mobility community that allows all vehicles to be utilized with maximum flexibility. A special app custom-developed by Harman for this purpose gives all road users who are looking for a transport option and are part of the selected community access to the new mobility concept.

    How it works: potential riders only need to enter their destination, and then the “urbanSWARM” community steps in by using Cloud technology to access the collective information and experience of the entire swarm of vehicles to do the rest. Because the system has information about routes, destinations, traveling speeds and occupancy of all vehicles in the swarm, it calculates potential ride opportunities in real time.

    The concept has a length of 3.7 meters, but offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and an unfolded stroller or shopping cart. Its height is of 2.2 meters and permits the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with a custom-developed safety belt system from TRW, a top vendor in the vehicle safety sector.

    Moreover, the modern interior was made by the specialist Hornschuch and the special textiles were delivered by Strähle&Hess. In the cabin, all occupants enjoy such amenities as a coffee maker, refrigerator for refreshments and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or they can even work while on the move.

    Something that impressed me a lot is that the spacious interior has an airy and light feeling. You can receive the same impression by the video below which shows all of the assets of this concept vehicle. The clearly arranged VDO instrument panel dominates the area in front of the driver. It includes a central control unit which has been custom-programmed by software service provider Noser.

    Furthermore, the command center for the “urbanSWARM” community platform is the 19-inch HD touchscreen from Harman, which includes a multi-dimensional HMI (Human Machine Interface) and offers expanded display functions.

    Of course, microMAX is an all-electric vehicle powered by a forklift drive system from world market leader Linde Material Handling. The system is recharged at intelligent charging stations.

    Behind the unusual design of the microMAX stays an aim for a change in a long-term attitudes to short-distance transport by cleverly bringing together private and public use in individual travel. The idea is to encourage potential passengers to join the driver for the ride. This would slash carbon dioxide emissions and travel costs at a stroke while radically reducing traffic congestion. A choice of models and extras make the microMAX incredibly adaptable, and it can be fitted out

    We are to see the new microMAX Concept debuting on 7th of March in Geneva. Until then, a great impression of what this vehicle is like leaves the video below. Enjoy!

    httpv://youtu.be/pR8FopEu5vQ

     

    Video Source: YouTube

     

    Source: Rinspeed

  • 2013 Cadillac XTS To Be Equipped With W20 Livery Package

    2013-Cadillac-XTS-THUMBThe new 2013 Cadillac XTS is now outfitted with a special W20 Livery Package that redefines luxury. With it to the XTS-based limousines are included elements of the XTS Platinum Edition.

    In fact, the special XTS model is at the higher-end of the product range, including 19-inch wheels, exterior door handles with LED illumination, safety technology like rear vision camera, and a micro-fiber suede headliner included in the XTS Platinum Edition.

    In the package are also included heated rear seats, window sun shades, a power inverter to charge mobile devices, and navigation from Cadillac‘s CUE system for connectivity and control.

    The new sedans are aimed towards professional services and are going to be produced I only 150 units. They represent the perfect combination of power, luxury, technology and sophistication that the customers desire and demand.

    In particular, Cadillac’s Professional Vehicles program features a select number of coachbuilders authorized by Cadillac to convert vehicles for utilization in commercial or fleet duties according to a specific set of standards.

    Source: Cadillac

  • Interior Elements Of Rolls-Royce Wraith Revealed [TEASER]

    The 2013 Geneva Motor Show is near and hence more and more companies are revealing their upcoming new vehicles. We have been already introduced to some teasers of Rolls-Royce Wraith showing its front and profile.

    Now the luxury brand is unveiling the third official image of its newest model. The car will include a luxurious, contemporary interior which will complement the dynamic poise of its exterior styling.

    This Rolls-Royce has nothing else but luxury and hand-craftsmanship work inside. Furthermore, thanks to the inclusion of softest ‘Phantom-grade’ leathers and expanses of open pore wood named Canadel Panelling, the model will add even more individualism.

    In fact, the interior theme looks so contemporary that it hints of an ultra-luxury yacht. The horseshoe sweep of Wraith’s cabin also echoes the cove at Le Canadel in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design team spent their winters.

    In addition, it is important to mention that every possible interior detail has been carefully considered. The result is a beautiful execution even of the tiniest details. The clock, for instance, is presented with Blood Orange needle tips that point to the car’s dynamic potential, while paying tribute to brand’s aviation heritage.

    Of course, Rolls-Royce Wraith is entirely built by hand. The model which will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Steel Grey Stealth Fighter: Schwabenfolia Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X

    Schwabenfolia-Mitsubishi-Lancer-Evo-X-THUMBSchwabenfolia Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X or the Steel Grey Stealth Fighter is an exceptional tuning! Originally the Evo X has a two liters displacement which generates 295 horsepower equal to 217 kW.

    The tuned Mitsubishi now has an enhanced performance to wide-awake 390 horsepower (287 kW) and 520 Nm (384 kW) of maximum torque. They are possible thanks to the Turbo – back installed 3” exhaust system from Invidia, named Q300.

    In addition, this incredible amount of power is forwarded on the road by means of Yamato-rims in 18 inch by Enkei, on which Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Semi-Slicks are installed.

    But the customization does not stop here. The original white exterior color of the Evo X was foiled with painstaking work theme foliation. Hence it got the nick-name the Stealth Fighter. In addition, the front grid frames, the air intake of the bonnet and the sides of the impressive rear spoiler shine in Toxic Orange Metallic.

    On the other hand, the middle part spanning the trunk lid and the roof with indicated emergency hatch in matt red are kept in Black Brushed Steel. What is more, in the middle of the vertical part of the tailgate a raised Hello-Kitty-AK47 can be seen.

    Above and behind the headlamps one can see notes, as well as additional labelling on the doors. Additionally, there is also added an advice on the fuel cap and on the back „corners” of the vehicle, and “warning” next to the exhaust. At last the 300 adhered „screw heads” is what catches the attention immediately.

    Source: Miranda Media

  • 2013 Nissan Note EU – Design and Technology Connected

    Nissan has presented the all-new Note for Europe, which will make its official appearance at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in March. Nissan’s commitment to innovation, style and excitement has produced some of the most talked-about cars in recent years. And now, following in the tracks of the ground-breaking Qashqai and Juke, the new Note sets the standard for advanced, relevant technology in an affordable small car package.

    The engine range includes a 1.2 liter petrol with 80HP (59 kW) and 110Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque. It returns 60 mpg UK – 4.7 liters per 100 km with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. There is also a 1.2-liter DIG-S engine with 98 HP (72 kW) and 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. It has not only more power but better mpg – 65.7 UK with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km when equipped with manual gearbox. The last variant is a 1.5 liter turbo-diesel with 90HP (66 kW) and 219Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. It boasts superb fuel consumption of 3.6 liters per 100 km – 78.4 mpg UK.

    “New Note fulfils a really important role in our line-up, combining really smart design with technology that has never been offered in the B-segment before. We’ve used design and engineering innovation to make premium technologies accessible and affordable.”, commented Geraldine Ingham, Chief Marketing Manager for Nissan in Europe.

    Prices and specifications will be unveiled closer to the new Note’s European on-sale date in the autumn of 2013.

    Source: Nissan

  • Aston Martin AM 310 Vanquish – 573HP and 620Nm

    Aston Martin has released a promo video on their Youtube channel of the new AM 310 Vanquish. The car is just sensational and described as “a masterful blend of art, technology, craftsmanship and pure adrenalin.

    The video emphasizes on the carbon fiber body, the chassis, the staggering and powerful V12 engine. Some details from the luxurious interior are also shown.

    The naturally aspirated 6.0 liter V12 produces 573HP (421 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque. 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). The engine is the same like in Vanquish DBS.

    The AM 310 Vanquish Special Edition is already available to buy in the UK and in other European Markets.

    No words about pricing.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqXKB2BSYtM

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG Sport Edition – UK Price £69,995

    Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the S 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport Edition for the UK. The luxurious saloon is priced from £69,995. It offers significantly enhanced specification including styling changes for the exterior and the interior.

    Based on the already comprehensive specification of the standard S-Class, the new S 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport Edition adds AMG body styling with front and rear aprons plus subtle sill extensions; elegant 20” AMG alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design; painted brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering; an electric panoramic glass sunroof and illuminated door sills.

    The interior boasts Black Ash Wood trim, a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel, studded sports pedals finished in stainless steel, and AMG-branded floor mats. There is also Keyless Go, Harmon Kardon Front Seat Entertainment, Split View and COMAND multimedia system. Providing aural entertainment are 14 high-performance speakers and additional amplifiers, a set of headphones and remote control, and DAB digital radio.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz