Auto News – Page 738 – Automobiles Review

Kia Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Kia will present its latest Concept Car at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The provocative and racy new urban concept car has the company’s signature tiger-nose morphing into a mischievous yet friendly grille and headlight arrangement, coupled with strong styling lines that exude speed and energy from every angle.

The new Concept by Kia definitely will catch the eyes of the visitors.

Still, no information about performance or engines are available.

However, it could turn out to be a preview concept of a future Nissan Juke rival.

Source: Kia

January 23, 2013

World Debut: Aston Martin Rapide S

Absolutely exclusive and with stunning visual characteristics the new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut and it is showing off more luxury and power-related enhancements. The new GT has been redesigned and re-engineered which makes it one of the most beautiful cars on the market nowadays.

Rapide S will replace the outgoing Rapide, has an assertive new “face” with the instantly eye catching new full grille. In addition to this, to make it even more aggressive the designers matched the revised front end’s design with a new rear deck profile, which includes a more pronounced boot lid “flip”.

More importantly there are some comprehensive changes in the new Aston Martin model regarding its engine. It is powered by an AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented force and enhanced in-gear acceleration.

Thanks to it the Rapide can now produce the stunning 558 hp (410 kW) at 6,750 rpm. The peak torque is 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm. This amazing results lead to only one thing: great acceleration time.

The car needs only 4.9 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h on its way to the top speed of 190 mph. Despite the powerful performance, the vehicle shows great efficiency. CO2 emissions are 332 g/km – while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

Aston Martin engineers also paid attention to the car’s dynamic stability control (DSC) in line with its significant increases in both power and torque. The car also benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin’s hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’.

The ADS automatically manages the suspension thus ensuring drivers greater sense of control at all times. The damper settings here are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

Furthermore, Rapide S has unique approach to pedestrian impact protection through its lowered engine, new bonnet, new front bumper construction and new grille. The grille moves rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and support achievement of the leg impact regulations.

In terms of interior Aston Martin stands only for luxury. In addition, there is a new optional Carbon Exterior Pack which adds more sporting attitude. Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills are all made from carbon fibre.

The piano black interior pack adds mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles. A darker surround in the instrument binnacle and steering wheel with black horn-push surround round off the pack’s sumptuous additions. Luxurious blend headlinings in either tan or grey are also present and reinforce the luxury treatment of the coupe.

Even more, the Rapide S now comes with improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics thanks to the new bonnet lining and revised windscreen cowl. Optionally there is a choice of a reversing camera and twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control and six-disc DVD changer.

Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order worldwide next month with prices announced closer to the on-sale date.

Source: Aston Martin

January 23, 2013

2014 Bentley Mulsanne With Enhanced Specifications [VIDEO]

The next-generation 2014 Bentley Mulsanne has just been exclusively unveiled. It will make an official first appearance at the Geneva International Salon d’Auto in March and will be available for ordering from April.

The facelifted includes new Comfort Specification which is featuring comfort headrests, footrests, duck down filled loose cushions and privacy curtains. Furthermore the design incorporates Bentley Winged Emblems, but also bespoke stitching or piping.

As a standard in this specification is now featured a new rear door armrest storage compartment, which can conveniently serve as a place for mobile phones, personal items or Bluetooth headphones for Rear Seat Entertainment.

There is also available an Entertainment Specification which in turn includes the latest in technological developments, picnic tables designed for an iPad and wireless keyboard. This means that the cabin of the Mulsanne will literally become a Wi-Fi Hotspot.

The rear cabin’s privacy can be attained through the touch of a button, with new privacy curtains offered as a Crewe-fitted option. Speaking about the cabin, here Bentley has offered two coor options: either Black or Ivory.

In addition, the Entertainment Specification is further enhanced with twin, eight inch LCD headrest screens, incorporating a 20 GB hard drive and DVD player, played through a ‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system, while two sets of Bluetooth headphones and a remote control.

In terms of exterior, there are three new additions to the palette: Dark Cashmere, Portofino and Damson. Dark Cashmere is a warm grey color, while Portofino is a new take on Pale Sapphire. The Damson is a rich color with subtle sparkle of rare purple diamonds.

What is more is that there are also three additional hide colors: Damson, Saffron and Brunel, which all complement the luxurious stance that the main colors deliver.

As an option, there is offered a range of bespoke Mulsanne luggage pieces which were hand made by the renowned Italian luggage specialists Schedoni. The full package comprises of six pieces, two large cases, two small cases and two foldable garment bags. All six pieces here include monogram Bentley lining and embossed Bentley logos on the main panels.

httpv://youtu.be/06Ivu-QPM-U

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bentley

January 23, 2013

Optimized: Polestar Volvo V40 T4

Polestar Volvo V40 T4 is the latest model which adds to the Polestar Performance range. The car includes optimization thanks to which its power is increased to 200 hp (147 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft).

The aspiring chassis of the Volvo makes it one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive. With this transformation, Polestar is opting to deliver even more driving fun. Furthermore, the same optimization can be also done for the S60, V60, S80 and V70 T4 models and it will increase their power with 20 hp (15 kW) and 45 Nm (33 lb-ft).

In the present case, the Polestar V40 T4 delivers not only optimized power and torque, but also more fun in driving, and at the same time as it enhances the safety in risky situations. In addition to this, although the power output has been increased this doesn’t affect the fuel consumption which is equal to the one of the standard model.

Source: Polestar

January 23, 2013

Teaser: Rolls-Royce Wraith In Profile

Rolls-Royce Wraith is being teased once again. The luxury brand has just revealed the profile of its upcoming new model, which is going to make an official debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

In fact, this is the official first image of the Wraith and as we can see it shows a graceful silhouette which gives expression to a bold and thoroughly contemporary luxury vehicle. And just to remind you, this unique car is promised to be most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.

It also highlights design cues that can be seen in Phantom and Ghost models. Furthermore, Rolls-Royce Wraith pays tribute to the pioneering and adventurous spirit of the company’s forefather Charles Rolls.

Source: Rolls-Royce

January 23, 2013

Audi Automatic Driving for Parking

Here is an interesting video clip of Audi’s latest automatic parking system. It operates with the help of ultrasound or cameras, which display images via the onboard monitor.

This is a very convenient solution for parking and saves a lot of time. Furthermore, you can pick up your car from the destination you left it. Audi’s Automatic Driving for Parking seeks for suitable spot and performs performs all the necessary steering movements; it can handle both parallel parking and parking perpendicular to the street.

Park assist can perform multi-point parking maneuvers and also offers support in leaving parallel parking spaces.

Another technology from Audi is the parking system plus with surround view cameras. Four small cameras – in the single-frame grille, at the rear and in the side mirror housings – record the vehicle’s immediate surroundings. The driver can call up a variety of views on the large onboard monitor, including a top-down virtual view. On corners or junctions with an obstructed view, the system can analyze cross-traffic otherwise invisible to the driver in front of or behind the vehicle.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_m8DqTlOLE

Source: YouCarPress via Youtube

January 22, 2013

Subaru BRZ – “Best of 2013” Winner

2013 Subaru BRZ Sport has been named “Best of 2013” by Cars.com. The RWD sports car delivers pinpoint handling precision and an unmatched driving experience for sports car enthusiasts of all skill levels.

“As the first sports car to win our top honor, that says as much about the American car market as it does about our criteria. We look for value, quality and innovation,” commented Patrick Olsen, Editor in Chief, Cars.com.

The one and only purpose of the BRZ is to bring driving pleasure, that’s why the manufacturer has created a light car with an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering. The naturally aspirated 2.0 liter BOXER engine with 200HP is powerful enough to satisfy even the most demanding customers. Furthermore, the BRZ is a sports car that does not sacrifice everyday comfort and practicality.

It features 2+2 layout with a folding rear seat, so there is sufficient cargo space to transport four race tires and tools to track days. Combined with the Subaru brand’s renowned safety and quality, the BRZ is a sports car with practicality as well as performance.

The BRZ went on sale in Spring 2012 to strong media reviews and contributed to Subaru’s fourth consecutive year of sales records.

The Subaru BRZ was co-developed with Toyota Motor Cars and the Scion-branded FR-S also received the Best of 2013 award.

Source: Subaru

January 22, 2013

Porsche 918 Spyder – Price $845,000

Porsche announced the pricing of the 2014 918 Spyder. The sports car will be sold in the US with a starting price of $845,000 excluding destination and handling fees.

The 2014 Porsche 918 Spyder is powered by a 4.6 liter V8 with 580HP (432 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The petrol engine will be paired with an electric motor generating 245HP (183 kW) more, so the overall power will be around 795HP (593 kW) and 780Nm (575 lb-ft).

0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).

Still, if this isn’t faster enough, you can opt for the Weissach package for additional – $84,000. It reduces the curb weight with 34 kg (77 lbs) by removing the audio system, air conditioning, door storage and armrest, while the regular paint is removed to be change with an exterior foil.

In other words, you’ll have to pay $84,000 to the manufacturer to strip your car. Definitely, not a good idea!

Source: Porsche

January 22, 2013

2013 Nissan 370Z Nismo

Nissan has announced a new 2013 370Z Nismo, which will hit the market this summer. The sports car comes with increased power and a new body kit.

The 3.7 liter naturally aspirated V6 is boosted from 328HP to 344HP (253 kW) at 7,400RPM. The torque is also higher – 370Nm (273 lb-ft) at 5,200RPM. The throttle response has been improved so more of the power should be available from 2,000 RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox – 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds – 0.1 second faster.

The body kit includes a bigger diffuser with integrated twin exhausts, wider side skirts, fixed rear wing and a revised front end featuring a splitter. The result is more down-force.

2013 370Z Nismo rolls 19” alloy wheels fitted with 245/40 front and 285/35 rear Bridgestone Potenza tires.

The ride height has been lowered and the dampers, springs and brakes – revised.

The interior boasts an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, a pair of Nismo seats and some red and black trim.

Source: Nissan

January 22, 2013

Exclusive: Mansory Bentley Continental GT in Candy Red by Print Tech

Mansory Bentley Continental GT in Candy Red has been exclusively unveiled, showing-off its premium visual status and enhanced qualities. Powered by a V12 BiTurbo unit, the performance of this Bentley shows enviable figures.

It is capable of covering the 0-100 km/h sprint for less than 5 seconds on its way to the Vmax of 180 mph. In addition, according to the figures given, the Continental GT generates 575 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm of torque within the 1700rpm – 5000rpm range.

However, the tuning specialists from Print Tech were those who managed to make the car look even more outstanding! It was fully wrapped in Candy Red.

What is more, they added the special Mansory bodykit, which here consists of the astounding carbon hood, the 22 inch wheels and the lowered suspension by “db-avantgarde”. In addition, there was added a Mansory exhaust system.

At last the interior was entirely redesigned the db-avantgarde team. Unfortunately, no additional details were disclosed regarding it, it was only confirmed that there was included a Hi-Fi music system.

Source: Print Tech via Facebook

January 22, 2013

Spiced Up: SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo PUR 3HREE

SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo PUR 3HREE is simply perfect. The simplicity and natural design of this super car makes it even more desirable for the tuning specialist. They seem to always aim to transform this unique vehicle but eventually end up by adding just a little bit spice to it.

The team from SR Auto Group team has also stuck to the basics and opted for the quality over quantity. They have added to this Lamborghini unique new set of wheels carrying the name PUR 3HREE with a classic nine spoke straight edged styling and modern black finish. They are in sizes 20×8.5” and 20×11” at the front and the rear respectively.

Originally the Gallardo accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and to 200 km/h in 11.8 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 325 km/h (202 mph). The great results are due to its 5.2L V10 engine which generates exactly 562 hp (419 kW) at 8,000 rpm.

Source: SR Auto Group

January 22, 2013

2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Offers Improved Dynamics and Safety

The next generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV made its official debut at last years Los Angeles Auto Show in November after being “teased” several times. Now it is time for this Toyota SUV to hit the market and offer to the customers great enhancements in terms of performance, handling and safety.

First of all, RAV4 comes with selectable Sport mode which delivers more dynamic, sporting drive experience. This is achieved by decreasing the power-steering assistance, sharpening the throttle response and adapting the automatic and CVT gearbox management for more responsive gearshifts.

In those models with featured AWD there is also available a new Dynamic Torque Control system. This one provides better stability and agility in any driving conditions – for instance wet or dry roads. In addition, the torque transfer to the rear wheels will now occur when the system detects understeer during cornering.

Next, the new RAV4 will also offer improved fuel efficiency thanks to the fact that the front-wheel drive is automatically engaged in normal driving conditions. The system uses information from speed, steering, throttle and yaw sensors to monitor and control torque transfer.

The Sport mode in the AWD models also activates torque transfer to the rear wheels from the moment the steering wheel is turned. This means that it automatically distributes 10 percent of torque to the rear wheels and will optimize torque transfer up to 50 per cent if actual understeer is detected.

What is also new here is the Eco mode which maximizes the fuel efficiency by regulating the engine’s output and air-conditioner’s operation. In terms of passive and active safety, the 2013 RAV4 steps in with highly rigid body that has been engineered to achieve a five-star NCAP safety rating.

Source: Toyota

January 22, 2013

Category: Auto News