Auto News – Page 741 – Automobiles Review

BMW 5-Series F10/F11 – Best-Seller in Its Segment of Business Automobiles

The BMW 5-Series F10/F11 remains the best-selling car in its segment of business automobiles. Totally 359,016 customers worldwide opted for a BMW 5 Series model in previous year. This includes all Sedans, Tourings, Gran Turismos and the high-performance M5 models.

The 2012 5-Series offers everything that driver’s needs – comfort, stability, safety, performance and great fuel economy. The modern four, six and eight cylinder engines offer high output and great efficiency.

Speaking for efficiency, the 520d EfficientDynamics Edition offers unsurpassed fuel consumption of just 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. The powerful 535d has 313HP (230 kW) and 630Nm (467 lb-ft), while returning 100 km for only 5.4 liters of fuel. The new 5-Series also offers world’s most powerful 3.0 liter diesel – the M550d xDrive boasts 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm of torque. All that performance comes with average fuel consumption 6.3 litres per 100 km.

The petrol engines also offers great performance and low fuel consumption. The 520i and 528i feature turbocharging system based on the twin-scroll principle, variable valve control VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control double VANOS.

The top-of-range M5 has a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with 560HP (412 kW) at 5750RPM and 680Nm(502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. The engine features M TwinPower Turbo technology, twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 13 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – limited.

The BMW 5 Series offers the perfect compromise between sporty flair and suspension comfort. Over and above the excellent standard suspension, numerous technologies are optionally available to further enhance Sheer Driving Pleasure.

BMW ConnectedDrive offers interconnection between driver, vehicle and the outside world is becoming increasingly important. The BMW 5 Series offers numerous innovations in this essential and fast-developing area.

RTTI (Real Time Traffic Information) provides traffic information in real time, suggesting appropriate alternative routes in the event of a traffic jam.

BMW Night Vision uses a thermal image camera to detect people and animals from a distance of up to 300 metres, warning the driver of potential collisions.

The full-colour Head-Up Display projects relevant information into the driver’s field of vision such as current speed, speed limits, navigation directions and warnings.

It is difficult to resist to everything that a new 5-Series offers and 359 thousand customers proved it.

Source: BMW

January 17, 2013

Opel’s new engine – 1.6 CDTI with 136HP and 320Nm

Opel has introduced a new four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine. The 1.6-liter CDTI ECOTEC diesels will replace existing 1.7-liter engines. The 1.6 liter CDTI Ecotec boasts nice performance and super-low fuel consumption.

It features closed-loop combustion control and an aluminum block. This is the first diesel from Opel to comply with future EURO 6 emissions requirements. It will be also available in a variety of power outputs across several carlines.

The all-new 1.6 CDTI also boasts class-leading attenuation of noise, vibration and harshness, high power/torque density and low fuel consumption. It has 136HP (100 kW) and 320Nm (237 lb-ft). The fuel consumption is reduced up to 10% compared with similarly powerful 2.0-liter diesels.

Beginning in spring, the 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC will be manufactured at the same “flex plant” as the new 1.6-liter gasoline engine, in Szentgotthard in Hungary.

“The comprehensive renewal of our powertrain portfolio continues at wide-open throttle,” commented Dr. Thomas Sedran, Deputy Chairman of the Opel Management Board.

“Our new 1.6-liter diesel will set benchmarks for refinement, performance and environmental compatibility. By the end of this year we will have launched three all-new generations of gasoline and diesel engines, as part of our roll-out of 23 new models and 13 new powertrains by 2016.” , he finished.

Source: Opel

January 17, 2013

Kahn Design Transforms Lamborghini Aventador

Kahn Lamborghini Aventador is an ongoing project that we are definitely eager to look upon in the future. The flagship vehicle of the Italian brand pushes supercar boundaries and is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic vehicles nowadays.

The designers at A. Kahn Design have just transformed the look of this vehicle and are they are set to refine this amazing vehicle further. Although the transformation of such car is at least challenging, the British designers are capable of doing magic!

The work has already begun with the intention of “stripping” the entire vehicle and refining it further. Kahn team has released by now two images of the ongoing process and promises to reveal more on its official site, as well as on its Facebook and Twitter pages.

Source: A. Kahn Design

January 17, 2013

2013 NAIAS: Debut of Shelby GT500 Super Snake and Shelby Focus ST

2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake Wide Body and Ford Shelby Focus ST were just unveiled at this year’s North American Auto Show in Detroit. The two vehicles are with enhanced performance and visual characteristics.

First of all, the stock 662 horsepower of the GT500 were increased up to the street-legal 850 horsepower (625 kW). The vehicle is equipped 13 inch rear and 10 inch front wheels that are wrapped in rubber, so that the car handles like a supercar.

Furthermore, there is an optional wide body package which gives the Super Snake much more traction and makes it with racing characteristics. Customers can choose between Satin Black, Gloss White, Silver, Blue and Red stripes. Offered now for the first time, wheel options include a rear-only or front and rear “wide body” packages.

2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake Specifications:

850 Horsepower Wide Body Street Edition
Shelby/Ford Racing Whipple 850 HP Supercharger – Black Finish (850 HP Package)
Shelby Performance Radiator
Shelby Performance Heat Exchanger
Shelby Performance Cooling Tanks
Shelby/Wilwood Front & Rear Brake Kit
Shelby Front Brake Duct Cooling Kit
20” Shelby Super Snake 3 Piece Billet Forged Wheels
Michelin Performance Tires
Shelby Upgraded Suspension Package
Shelby Rear Panhard Bar
Shelby Caster Camber Plate Kit
Shelby White Ball Short Throw Shifter
Shelby/Borla Axle-Back Muffler Kit
Shelby Super Snake Hood
Shelby Carbon Fiber Front Splitter
CSM Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Plate
Super Snake Billet Aluminum Badging
Shelby Super Snake Fender Emblems
Shelby Faux Rear Cap
Shelby Deck Lid Lettering
Super Snake Stripe Kit (available in Gloss White, Matte Black, Silver or Azure Blue)
Shelby Super Snake Upper Mesh Grille Insert
Rear Quarter Window Side Scoops or Paint Matched Block-Offs
Billet Fluid Engine Cap Kit & Dip Stick
Interior A-Pillar Pod & Gauges
Super Snake Embroidered Headrest Covers (for non Recaro Seats)
Super Snake Lit Door Sill Plates
Shelby Wide Body Kit Conversion Kit (optional)
Shelby Wide Body Kit Rear Only Conversion (optional)
Shelby Aluminum Watts Link Rear Suspension (optional)
Shelby/Ford Racing Suspension Sway Bar Kit (optional)
Museum Delivery Program (Optional)

Secondly, the Ford Shelby Focus ST includes a front wheel drive turbo four cylinder. This makes the Focus a driver-focused masterpiece of performance. What is more, Ford Racing suspension pieces lower the car while the wheels and tires improve grip and traction.

In addition, Shelby spec brakes with drilled rotors improve the stopping power, while new exhaust makes a true sound of the Shelby/Borla. The interior of the car has a complete Shelby branded custom interior, Shelby shifter and finished off with the unique Shelby CSM badge.

The exterior of this Shelby’s Focus is characterized by hood vents, hydro-carbon front and rear grille inserts, Shelby lettering and rear Hydro-carbon spoiler. Three visual graphics packages are offered, ranging from “traditional” Shelby stripes to more edgy Shelby checkered flag splash or competition graphics.

Ford Shelby Focus ST Specifications:

Shelby Spec Front Brake Upgrade
Shelby Spec Rear Rotor Upgrade
Shelby Wheels & Tires
Shelby Short Throw Shifter
Shelby/Ford Racing Suspension Package
Shelby/Borla Cat Back Exhaust
Shelby Engine Appearance Package
Shelby Premium Interior Package
Shelby CSM Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Plate
Shelby Center Cap Emblems
Shelby Rear Lettering
Shelby Custom Hood with Heat Extractors
Hydro-carbon Accents
Shelby Exterior Graphics
NOTE – Additional Exterior Graphics Packages Available
Museum Delivery Program (Optional)
Shelby Performance Tune Option Coming Soon
Carbon Fiber Hood Option Coming Soon

Source: Shelby

January 17, 2013

First 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Offered at Barrett-Jackson

The first 2014 Chevroelt Corvette Stingray has already been offered at Barrett-Jackson with the Vehicle Identification Number ending in 0001. The famous collector’s auction will take place this weekend and the proceeds will be bestowed on the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, which is renowned for its automotive design program.

The new Stingray which just debuted at the 2013 NAIAS includes a modern, dramatic design that will change the automotive world. In fact, it is the most powerful standard model ever created by the Chevrolet and can generate 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm).

These inspiring numbers are due to the new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine, which propels the vehicle. It comes with advanced technologies: Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system.

What make it even more aerodynamically enhanced is the carbon fibre hood and removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminium frame. All of the mentioned components contribute to a stunning acceleration time: this Chevrolet model needs less than 4 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

More importantly however, is the fact that the proceeds of the new Stingray going to the CCS will help cultivate the next generation of designers who may work on modern, dramatic Chevrolets in the future.

The sale is scheduled for 19th of January and bids can be submitted in person at the auction or online at Barrett-Jackson’s official web page.

Source: Chevrolet

January 17, 2013

2013 NAIAS: Acura Reveals MDX Prototype [VIDEOS]

2014 Acura MDX Prototype has just made its first world appearance at 2013 North American International Auto Show, providing a glimpse of the future design direction of the third generation seven-passenger MDX performance luxury SUV.

The vehicle will be launched in the middle of the year and will include all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts. The new Acura SUV model features the specific “Aero Sculpture” styling which results in smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions.

Furthermore, the clean and efficient design includes some premium detailing, such as the signature Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights. And if one wonders why it is called an “Aero Sculpture”, well the answer lies in the fact that the new structure of the car delivers significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency – up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX.

What is more, the arcing roofline is now 1.5-inches lower. In addition to this the SUV features a longer wheelbase that enhances ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access.

Exclusively, for the first time Acura is including in the model a front-wheel drive version. 2014 MDX will also include an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis with new front and rear suspension designs that deliver a more refined, confidence-inspiring, and sporty driving.

More importantly, the SUV will be equipped with direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The unit will deliver enhanced torque and performance but at the same time will offer increase in fuel efficiency.

In terms of safety technologies included in the MDX Prototype there will be present Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow.

Of course full array of advanced information technologies will be also included: AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system with Pandora® connectivity, SiriusXM™ radio, SMS text messaging, and cloud-based Aha™ by Harman connectivity, and Acura/ELS® audio system as an option.

httpv://youtu.be/fieoujINGFA

httpv://youtu.be/L0MOn6uV4HM

Videos Source: YouTube

Source: Acura

January 17, 2013

B&B Audi SQ5 TDI – 395HP and 800Nm

Audi SQ5 TDI has received better performance from the German tuner – B&B. The tuning specialists worked on the engine of the cross-over in order to get maximum power without ruining the fuel consumption.

Audi SQ5 TDI is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 with 313HP (230 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque.

B&B Stage 1 includes an increase in boost pressure of 0.15 bar and revised electronics. The result is 340HP (250 kW) and 728Nm (537 lb-ft). The price is just €1,498.

B&B Stage 2 boosts the engine to 365HP (268 kW) and 750Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. The price is €1,698.

B&B Stage 3 includes new injectors, bigger intercooler, air ducts and new intake paths. The result is sensational – 395HP (290 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The price is much higher – €4,950.

The most powerful version accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph). This is 0.5 seconds faster as well as 20 km/h more.

B&B also offers a set of lowering springs -25 mm reducing the body roll – €398. If you want to turn your SQ5 into a real track car – a custom adjustable coilover suspension is available for €1,698 as well as a complete stainless steel sport exhaust system – €1,950.

Source: B&B via Autoblog.nl

January 16, 2013

2014 Acura RLX Flagship Sedan – US Price $48,450

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Acura has announced the new 2014 RLX Flagship Sedan. The luxurious vehicle is priced from $48,450, excluding destination fees.

2014 Acura RLX is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 with 310HP (231 kW) and 368 (272 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission and able to return 20 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.

The new RLX has the most spacious passenger cabin in its class, and the first-ever application of signature Acura technologies including Precision All-Wheel Steer™ and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, the RLX delivers new levels of technology-enhanced performance, safety, and luxury-class comfort to Acura’s range-topping sedan.

“With an array of signature Acura technologies, the 2014 Acura RLX sets a new standard for luxury in the Acura lineup,” commented Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales.

“The feature-rich RLX epitomizes Acura’s ‘Man-Machine Synergy’ product direction, utilizing advanced technology and smart vehicle design to deliver incredible performance, comfort and value on a luxury scale.”, he added.

TRIM	MSRP*
RLX	$48,450
RLX with Navigation	$50,950
RLX with Technology Package	$54,450
RLX with Krell Audio Package	$56,950
RLX with Advance Package	$60,450

Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

Source: Acura

Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

January 16, 2013

Expression Motorsport Mercedes C-Class Coupe Wide Bodykit

Expression Motorsport has introduced a new wide body kit for the C-Class Coupe. The current project is based on the mighty C 63 AMG, which looks just fantastic.

The sports luxurious coupe comes with complete aerodynamics wide body kit including a new front bumper with a carbon fiber front lip spoiler and LED daytime running lights. There are also enlarged hood vents and extended fender flares providing space for bigger rims and wider tires. The rear gets a trunk-mounted lid spoiler and a new rear bumper with a carbon fiber diffuser.

No words about pricing.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is powered by a 6.2 liter V8 with 457HP (336 kW) at 6,800RPM and 600Nm (444 lb-ft) of torque at 5,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The curb weight is 1730kg.

Source: Expression Motorsport

January 16, 2013

Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition Marks the Birthday of the Brand

Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition is a very special vehicle. First of all – it comes to mark the start of the birthday of the brand. And secondly, because it will be available worldwide on just 100 examples of each of the car maker’s model lines: V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide and Vanquish.

To go further into details the car includes unique graduated paint finish, solid sterling silver Aston Martin wing badges with tailored ‘trans flux’ enamel inlay and a special Aston Martin hallmark. In short, the exterior represents an exclusive celebration of the company’s 100-year history.

The process of creating the astonishing paint finish added an average of 18 hours to a paint process. This means that it took more than 50 hours to complete. The unique graduated finish is meticulously built by adding special ‘tinters’ to create the darker inner colour. This custom-made mixture is then applied to each panel by hand, utilizing a special mini-jet spray gun.

Furthermore, the interior of the car is more luxurious than one can imagine. Deep Soft black leather has been used and in addition, to make it even more perfect contrasting silver stitching has been added. What is more – special silver thread embroidery of the Aston Martin wings in the head restraints and solid sterling silver sill plaques individually numbered with an Aston Martin hallmark are among the features one-of-a-kind to the car.

To make it even more individual, each Centenary Edition model will also come with unique presentation box. The latter will feature some special gifts especially made for the anniversary: two glass keys, two bespoke key pouches made from leather, solid silver cufflinks, solid silver Rollerball pen and high quality Bang & Olufsen headphones.

Source: Aston Martin

January 16, 2013

2013 NAIAS: Honda reveals NSX Concept [VIDEO]

Honda NSX Concept was just revealed at the 2013 North American International Auto Show which in Detroit. The new NSX Concept is an evolution of the next-generation supercar in terms if styling and design.

Its design philosophy will be possibly used in other vehicles produced by the brand. The original concept styling, the low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions are now even more highlighted. The clean, modern and simple surfacing, and edgy details show perfectly the attitude and a high-tech feel of this Honda concept.

The interior package offers outstanding visibility, a strong driving position, and an intuitive “Simple Sports Interface”. The latter makes minimal the interior clutter thus allowing the driver to put their attention on the driving experience.

By creating this supercar, the designers have aimed to delivering more of the driving experience by combining vehicle’s dynamic capabilities with advanced environmental performance. More importantly, the NSX will be powered by a mid-mounted, direct-injected V-6 engine mated to Honda’s Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system.

European debut, the Honda NSX Concept will make in March during the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

httpv://youtu.be/IBb2RnvySxo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

January 16, 2013

Prior-Design Releases New Images of the BMW 1er PDM1

Prior-Design BMW 1er PDM1 is a tuning we are already familiar with. However, the Prior-Design team has made a brand new photo session with the exceptional BMW model and has just released the exclusive images. The vehicle is equipped with PDM1 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit, which in addition offers huge range of options.

In particular, all parts are made from high-quality PU-RIM material, except for the Rear Widenigns which are made from DURA-FLEX. It fits all BMW 1-Series E82/E88. And to be even more precise, the BMW 1er PDM1 [E82/E88] Prior-Design Aerodynamik-Kit (BME82PDM1-WB) conist of the following:

Prior-Design PDM1-WB front bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M)
Prior-Design PDM1-WB side skirts (2X) (fits all bmw 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M)
Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M)
Prior-Design PDM1-WB front fenders (fits all bmw 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M)
Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear widenings (fits all bmw 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M)
Mounting material

Here as an otional element is featured the Prior-Design PDM1 rear trunk spoiler, which perfectly fits all BMW 1-Series E82/E88 models except 1M.