Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Teased Ahead of Debut [VIDEO]

    2013-Toyota-RAV4-THUMBTeaser image and video of the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV has just been released ahead of the global premiere of the all-new fourth generation crossover at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

    Although the image does not show much, we can firmly say that the new SUV has a completely redesigned exterior and definitely more striking and athletic stance. It is more than certain that Toyota is facing a new automotive era, where it will collaborate with other automakers and industries to adapt to new conditions.

    The last RAV4 model was equipped with 2.5 four-cylinder engine or either a 3.5 V6 one. The latter generates 269 hp (198 kW). Even further, both engines were paired with a front-wheel drive. No details however have been released about the power output of the new model and we are definitely eager to know more!

    httpv://youtu.be/JRldeNfoUrA

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Toyota

  • Lingenfelter Chevrolet Camaro LTA Convertible Generates 655 Horsepower

    Lingenfelter-Camaro-LTA-Convertible-THUMBLingenfelter Chevrolet Camaro LTA Convertible is powered by a 455 CID Lingenfelter all aluminum LSx engine. Tit utilizes the LPE LS7 CNC ported cylinder heads, Callies 4340 forged steel crankshaft, Oliver billet rods, JE forged aluminum pistons, with 11.5:1 compression.

    This incredible combination makes possible for the tuned Chevrolet to generate staggering power of 655 hp (481 kW) and 827 Nm (610 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, it is equipped with functional shaker hood and squared off headlights, 20 inch honey-comb wheels, factory six-speed manual transmission, Lingenfelter Billet steel flywheel and ZR1 twin disk clutch assembly, and Corsa stainless steel cat back exhaust.

    This incredible car made already its debut at this year’s SEMA and is the production Camaro LTA built by Lingenfelter.

    Source: Lingenfelter

  • Project Eternal: SR Auto Lamborghini Aventador LP-700 Nero Nemesis

    SR-Auto-Lamborghini-Aventador-LP-700-Nero-Nemesis-THUMBSR Auto Lamborghini Aventador LP-700 Nero Nemesis got brand new wheels that match perfectly the aggressive and powerful stance. The tuners from SR Auto decide to name this project “Eternal” and we are not even asking the reason for this, because this vehicle undoubtedly will stay in history.

    But to go further into details this Lamborghini is powered by 6.5 liter V12 engine, which generates the staggering 700 hp (515kW) and has a 690Nm (509 lb-ft) of torque. It is matched to a seven-speed single clutch gearbox with independent shifting rods (ISR), which means that the process of shifting needs just 50 milliseconds.

    The mentioned numbers speak only for fast acceleration, which here for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is covered in 2.9 seconds, and the top speed is 350 km/h (217 mph). The weight distribution ratio is 43:57, so the handling is perfect.

    Furthermore, what the specialists from the tuning company have done is to equip this beautiful machine with a set of modern black PUR 4OUR Monoblock wheels in sizes 19×9.5+30 (for the front) and 20×12+45 (for the back), which are paired with the stunning nero nemesis exterior for an eternal look.

    In addition the wide rear end of the LP-700 allowed the engineering of the astonishing concave profile to happen. Precise offsets give Project Eternal a flush stance without compromising any of its remarkable handling.

    Source: SR Auto

  • 2013 Volkswagen Beetle and Beetle Cabriolet Exclusive Added to the Range

    2013-Volkswagen-Beetle-Cabriolet-THUMBThe latest addition in the range of the famous Volkswagen Beetle model is the Exclusive one, which is characterized by elegance, stylish design, and is optionally available as Exclusive Design or Exclusive Sport.

    This means that Volkswagen is offering two new models, which have design that focuses on uniqueness, and are based on the equipment lines Design and Sport. However, the exterior here includes four black 18-inch alloy wheels of the model model “Twister” with polished surface and wheel lock with extended anti-theft protection, as well as tire pressure monitoring display.

    The afore mentioned model is a standard. The optional extra is the 19-inch alloy wheels of the “Tornado” model. Unique features regard the interior: three different colored leather seating systems are available. Namely they are in Pepper Beige, Amber Brown and Black, and each comes with an exquisite diamond stitching.

    As a standard equipment in the Exclusive line is included the following: dash panel in “Black Uni”, door sills in stainless steel, with lettering “Volkswagen Exclusive”, three-spoke leather steering wheel, gearshift knob, handbrake lever and centre armrest in leather, with same stitching colour as centre seat, sports seats front, centre seat panels and seat lateral supports in “Nappa” Cool Leather, front and rear textile floor mats with coloured edging, door and side trim in leather look.

    The starting price of the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Exclusive Design is € 22 650.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Mazda MX-5 Facelift Offers Better Look and Advanced Agility

    Mazda-MX-5-THUMBThe new Mazda MX-5 has just been revealed and it is destined to offer to its drivers extra-satisfying handling and linear responsiveness. The facelifted roadster has more aggressive road stance and is equipped with new and innovative safety technology.

    The latest version of the best selling Mazda roadster is in addition more responsive in terms of acceleration and braking. The first one has been done via fine-tuning of the acceleration management program on manual shift models.

    On the other hand, by optimizing the vacuum brake booster, the specialists also enhanced brake return control. The upshot here is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. Those two factors in general result in more faithful reaction.

    Another highlight here concerns the technologies, which prevent pedestrian injuries. Here, the new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or minimize the severity of injuries.

    In addition, the lower section of the front bumper was also been reinforced in order to protect people’s legs better. Adding these features however, resulted in the changes needed to be made. They concerned the front-end design of the MX-5.

    The legendary two-seater has now a deeper grille and new bumper design and expresses a lower, wider stance. At the same time the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler enhance the aerodynamics of the car.

    MX-5 will be available as a retractable hardtop coupe or soft-top convertible. It will be offered in a choice of eight body colours. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a luxury feel and comfortability.

    Last but not least, the Roadster is powere either by a 126 hp (93 kW) MZR 1.8-litre mated to a five-speed manual transmission or the 160 hp (118 kW) MZR 2.0-litre with, matched to either automatic or manual six-speed transmissions.

    Source: Mazda

  • D2Forged Ferrari F430 Scuderia MB1

    D2Forged-Ferrari-F430-Scuderia-MB1-THUMBD2Forged Ferrari F430 Scuderia MB1 is the ultimate sportscar which will take your breath away and you’ll get all warm and fuzzy at the sight and sound of it. It is equipped in a 4.3L V8 petrol engine, which has a powerful output.

    In particular, its powerful unit generates 483 hp (360 kW) at 8500 rpm and has 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque at 5250 rpm. The Scuderia has a top speed of 196 mph (315 km/h) and can effortlessly accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.0 seconds

    The tuned Ferrari model is equipped with OEM+ spec of the wheels – nothing overly aggressive, with fender rolling and tire stretch. In other words the weight is lighter but the tire contact patch is bigger and this only means an improved performance.

    D2Forged MB1 Monoblock Forged Wheel in Titanium Graphite in sizes 19×8.5 / 20×11 inch was the perfect choice therefore. They were complemented ideally with the Michellin Super Sport tires.

    Source: D2Forged

  • Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports Baby Doll VI Comes Back

    Morgan-Plus-4-Super-Sports-THUMBMorgan Plus 4 Super Sports Baby Doll VI comes to pay tribute to the Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports model, which was introduced for the first time in the distant 1961. Back then it was one of the few cars which offered the best price-for-performance value.

    Its lightweight aluminum body delivered crisp handling in a design reminiscent of the great, fully fendered sports cars of the 1930s. During the years between 1961 and 1968 only 104 examples of the aluminium-bodied Super Sports were produced with Triumph TR4A-engines.

    In those times appeared the original Baby Doll V, which was ordered in the spring of 1962 by Lew Spencer, a well-known Southern California Sports Car Club of America member and local Morgan dealer. His dream was to have the ultimate racecar with sleek and low-body.

    Now Morgan is introducing the next step in the evolution of this emblematic model, which is the Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports Baby Doll VI. It is offered in two colour options: Kingfisher Blue white stripes and Westminster Green yellow stripes.

    Under the hood can be found the 260 hp (191 kW) Omex engine mated to a Mazda gearbox. Other highlights included here are the oil cooler, sports exhaust system (repackable silencer, 200 cell cat), gaz adjustable dampers, 4.1 LSD ratio axle, Frt & Rear disc brakes (including anti tramp bars), brake re-action bars, Panhard rod, Fire Extinguisher (electric), Foot rest (over extinguisher), Inertia bypass (on bulkhead), Roll bar, Battery Cut off switch, rain light, Ali floor pans, Harnesses (4 POINT) and more.

    The exquisite model rides on Yokohama A048 wheels in size 205/60/15 which are perfectly mated to the Roadster Alloy wheels. The interior exudes style thanks to the Tillett carbon race seats with Aero Racing logo on headrest, removable steering wheel, the new dash, dials and switches, two Aero Screens, Baby Doll badge on back panel, etc.

    Morgan-Plus-4-Super-Sports-651-2

    Source: Morgan

  • Honda Unveils Micro Commuter Prototype EV

    Honda-Micro-Commuter-THUMBWhat I like very much about Honda is that the brand is constantly putting efforts in developing environmentally friendly technologies. The latest such innovation revealed is the Honda Micro Commuter Prototype, which is a micro-sized short distance EV commuter vehicle.

    This prototype was engineered in consideration of the vehicle categories for micro-sized mobility products. In fact, this model will serve as a demonstration unit, which is aimed to verify the potential of the vehicle in different utilizations. Some of them might include for support of everyday short-distance transportation for families with small children and for senior citizens, home delivery services, commuting and car sharing.

    In addition, the prototype was introduced initially as a concept model back in 2011 at the Tokyo Motor Show, where it had a cabin space to seat one driver and two children in the micro-sized body.

    Here the Variable Design Platform is very convenient because it positions components such as the battery, motor and control unit under the floor and in the rear space to concentrate the vehicle driving functions into a compact space.

    Other interesting features on this model include the tablet device for the application of functions such as meter display, navigation, audio and back-up camera display, and the ability to charge the battery of the tablet using solar cells mounted on the vehicle roof.

    Furthermore, Honda is going on with the development processes in order to bring onboard solar cells, which are going to provide solar energy to assist the driving. Another technology featured is the Honda Smart Home System (HSHS).

    Of course, an interesting aspect here is when this model hopefully goes to mass production, which will be the auto part supplier for ordinary customers and how much it will cost to maintain the EV. But if we are looking positively towards the future we will hope to see the prices of those new technologies getting more affordable.

    The optimized energy management results in CO2 reduction, which can be applied to the everyday life. Therefore this vehicle can provide for customers when it is used not only as an EV but also as a household battery.

    Key Specifications of Honda Micro Commuter Prototype

    Vehicle size (length × width × height) 2,500 × 1,250 × 1,445 (mm)
    Maximum speed 80 km/h
    Maximum range Approximately 60 km
    Charging time Less than 3 hours
    Battery type Lithium-ion battery
    Maximum output 15 kW (20 hp)

    Source: Honda

  • Rolls-Royce One Thousand and One Nights Bespoke Ghost

    Rolls-Royce One Thousand and One Nights Bespoke Ghost Collection model is inspired by the famous tales of “The Arabian Nights Entertainment” and it targets the customers in the Midle East. This special edition is designed as part of the Bespoke collection of Ghost family cars.

    The series were created in Goodwood, England, where the home of the brand lies. The two-tone paint vehicle draws on a warm colour palette that serves as the perfect backdrop for hand-painted coachlines.

    Of course, Rolls-Royce is all about luxury and it isn’t a surprise when one finds intricately applied detail touches, expressing the Arabic words “One Thousand and One Night”. These eventually culminate in an elaborate design that elegantly frames the car’s door handles.

    Furthermore, the limited edition vehicle will have an intriguing launch – it will happen in three chapters. The first one will be unveiled at the Sharjah International Automobile Show on 28 November. The next two chapters will follow in the first and third quarter of next year.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Wheelsandmore Lamborghini Aventador LP777-4

    German tuner Wheelsandmore has introduced their latest project. It is based on the hyper car – Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4. The tuning company offers both styling and performance modifications.

    The power package include a new carbon fiber airbox, an ECU re-map and complete stainless steel sport exhaust system with adjustable valves. The result is whopping 777HP (571 kW) and 750Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. The mighty 6.5 liter V12 originally produces 700HP (515 kW).

    The exterior is enhanced by adding a set of enormous 6-Sporz 2 forged alloy wheels fitted with proper high-performance tires. The dimensions of the rims are 20” at the front and 21”at the rear.

    Other exterior upgrade is a black stripe running across car’s length.

    Source: Wheelsandmore

  • 2013 Suzuki Jimny – New Face and Better Equipment

    Suzuki GB PLC has announced the 2013 Jimny. The small off-road vehicle receives a number of exterior and interior design updates to help modernise appearance whilst maintaining its long established tough and capable reputation.

    The front of the vehicle gets a new front bumper and grille design, new design bonnet shape incorporating central air intake as well as repositioning of the front fog lamps.

    The interior gets a new seat fabric trim has been adopted for the SZ3; both SZ3 and SZ4 models have new design front and rear headrests as well as ISOFIX child seat mountings fitted as standard to the rear seats.

    The engine is a 1.3 liter 16V with VV-T delivering 85HP (63 kW) and 109Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque at 4100RPM. In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2013 Jimny achieves 39.8 mpg in combined cycle driving with manual gearbox and CO2 levels of just 162 g/km.

    Source: Suzuki

  • 2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 [video]

    2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3Nissan has revealed the specially prepared GT-R Nismo GT3, which conforms to FIA GT3 regulations.

    Entered by NDDP RACING (Nismo) as well as customer racing teams, the GT-3 has outperformed the competition at this year’s SUPER GT series (GT 300 class), Super Taikyu (GT3 class), British GT Championship and GT Cup. Nismo has developed the 2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 using all the valuable data brought back from these races, in addition to the dyno, track tests, and customer feedback, to enhance its competitiveness and performance.

    GT-R Nismo GT3 is powered by the same twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 with 543HP (405 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft). The power is not signifactly boosted, but the weight reducing is impressive – the curb weight of this GT3 car is just 1300 kg (2866 lbs).

    If you are a racing driver or a millionare liking high speeds and adrenaline, you can now buy the 2013 Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3. It is priced at £270,000.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pu1Bwmj76YA

    Specifications of the 2013 Model, Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3

    Length 4,780mm
    Width 2,036mm
    Weight 1,300kg?
    Engine Model VR38DETT
    Displacement 3,799cc
    Power 405kw (550HP) at 6,500rpm
    Torque 637Nm (470 lb-ft)
    Wheels (Fr/Rr) 13.0J X 18

    Subject to Balance of Performance defined by the FIA

    This Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 is a racing car. It can not be used on public roads or be registered for such a license.

    Price

    Customer’s Area Price (without tax)?
    Japan, Asia, North America, South America, and Oceania ¥ 35,000,000
    Europe, including Russia and Middle East £270,000

    The sales price is EXW (ex works) and does not include shipping or delivery.

    Source: Nissan