Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Ford Transit Connect Wagon – 7.8 l / 100 km

    Ford has unveiled the new 2013 Transit Connect Wagon offering 7-seats and impressive fuel economy of over 30 mpg US corresponding to 7.8 liters per 100 km.

    “Transit Connect Wagon gives young families and people on the go the fun-to-drive and efficient vehicle they’ve been looking for,” commented Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas.

    “It’s an all-new, smaller seven-seater that has better mileage than larger vans and creates a segment of its own. Customers also will love the unique combination of style, adaptability and affordability this wagon brings.”, he added.

    The MPV is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5 liter petrol engine or an 1.6 liter EcoBoost. Both power units are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

    Transit Connect Wagon offers a choice of two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, two wheelbase lengths and three series models – XL, XLT and range-topping Titanium Transit Connect Wagon takes adaptability to a new level with the convenience of sliding side doors, fold-flat second- and third-row seating, a 1,200-pound-plus payload, and choice of a rear liftgate or symmetrical, side-hinged cargo doors.

    Ford Transit Connect Wagon will hit the US market in the end of next year.

    Source: Ford

  • McLaren P1 Hypercar Concept [RENDER]

    What else can be expected from the new McLaren P1 Hypercar Concept than the best possible aerodynamic performance? In fact, the new concept was designed in the windtunnel and thus it is no surprise that it has this very organic, alien-like body, which pulls a mindblowing downforce of 600kg.

    McLaren showed the P1 back in September at the Paris Auto Show and stunned the audience with its inspiring and breath-taking appearance. Although the exacts details around the engine and performance aren’t announced yet, it is rumored that the P1 will be powered by the same 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine from MP4-12C, but with a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS).

    This means that the combined power will be absolutely outstanding: 963 hp (718 kW) and will allow the McLaren P1 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. Here the top speed is of 384 km/h (239 mph).

    All of the above mentioned details will undoubtedly make the new P1 part of a new generation of iconic automotive superhero’s. The production version of the concept model will be made available within a year and the next release with figures and information will be at the anticipated Geneva Motor Show in March 2013.

    Below you can find renders of McLaren P1 roaring through the city streets:

    Source:wild-speed.com

  • 2013 Jeep Patriot Freedom Edition Pays Tribute to U.S. Military members

    2013-Jeep-Patriot-Freedom-THUMB2013 Jeep Patriot Freedom Edition will join Wrangler Freedom Edition and both will pay tribute to United States military members of past and present. The vehicle is offered in three colors – Deep Cherry Red crystal pearl coat, Bright White clear coat or True Blue pearl coat.

    Of course this limited edition Jeep includes the segment-leading 4×4 system and has an impressive fuel economy up to 30 miles per gallon. Worth mentioning is also the unique inspiring appearance of the Patriot Freedom Edition.

    The model has as a basis the 2013 Patriot Latitude and is available in two- or four-wheel drive configurations. The exterior of the car is military-inspired and features a star on the hood, as well as on the rear quarter panel.

    The visual stance of the vehicle is additionally complemented by exclusive 17-inch high-gloss Mineral Gray painted aluminum wheels with bright lug nuts, a bright lower front fascia and an “Oscar Mike” badge on the lower front door.

    Some of the standard features on this Patriot model include those of the 2013 Jeep Patriot Latitude model plus a sunroof, Security and Cargo Group, all-season floor mats and on 4×4 models the All-weather Capability Group. What is more here however is the Dark Gray “Cubic” cloth interior with vinyl bolsters and silver accent stitching, and a black fabric “star” logo patch on the front seats.

    2013 Jeep Patriot Freedom Edition has a starting price of $21 445, where $250 will be donated from each one to charities that benefit U.S. Military members.

    Source: Jeep

  • 2013 Honda Civic Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

    2013-Honda-Civic-THUMBOne of the hottest news recently is the new look of the much appraised Civic. Honda has just revealed the 2013 model which will make its debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

    The new Honda Sedan includes refined styling, host of safety features, comfort, chassis and interior styling enhancements. To be more precise the front end here features a new open-mouth lower bumper with a horizontal chrome accent and a sportier, black honeycomb mesh grille, anchored by new integrated fog lights on upper trims.

    Furthermore, the more premium look of the Sedan is achieved via the grille which is flanked by new clear-lens corner lights. The front end therefore is more sculptured and as a natural continuation it flows into a more deeply faceted hood, complemented by a collection of sharp new wheel designs.

    How about the rear end? There can be found a new rear bumper design and new rear trunk lid, which are capped by a clean, horizontal chrome trim piece. A highlight here is that the taillights include all-new design resembling a jewel. In addition they provide more finished and upscale look.

    Next, the rear bumper includes integrated reflector treatments and a new lower diffuser panel finished with a honeycomb mesh vent. All of the mentioned exterior refinements contribute to a more youthful, premium Civic.

    What is also important to mention is that Civic’s emblematic fun-to-drive nature and safety features, spaciousness and fuel efficiency remain intact.

    Source: Honda

  • Seat Mii Miinx Adds More Colour to the Urban Life

    SEAT-Mii-Miinx-THUMBSeat Mii Miinx in bright pink color is definitely a car that draws the attention. It seems like the designers have created something opposite to the Mii Vibora Negra, which was unveiled by the brand in July.

    To create “something different” was the goal of the engineers. The working process began with choosing the Mii Sport in Deep Black metallic for a basis. Then the body of this Seat was covered in a pink gloss vinyl wrap, while the lights were tinted with a translucent film, resulting in a more pronounced, contrasting look.

    But the wrap isn’t the whole car. Miinx is a standard three-door Mii Sport, which draws its power from a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine with 75 hp (55 kW). The vehicle is equipped with wide range of standard equipment, which features 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, leather steering wheel and gear knob, dark tinted rear windows, front fog lights, and sports suspension.

    No doubt that it will catch the attention of the soft sex. Seat Mii Miinx is priced at £11 500 and is already available in dealerships.

    Source: Seat

  • 2013 MINI Paceman – Sports Activity Coupe

    MINI has added another interesting vehicle to their line-up – the Paceman is the first Sports Activity Coupe in the premium small and compact segment. The small car is has nice presence with its powerful and dynamically stretched lines. th its two doors and large tailgate, plus two full-size individual rear seats, the seventh model in the MINI family complements the elegant sportiness of its proportions with a new rendering of the familiar MINI interior.

    The car is designed squarely as a four-seater, which means sports seats for the driver and front passenger are included as standard, and the pair of individual seats in the rear offer impressive shoulder room and headroom, outstanding lateral support and exceptional comfort.

    Still, the Paceman offers decent load capacity of 330 litres and 1080 with rear seats folded down.

    The drivetrain of the new Paceman includes powerful BMW-sourced engines and optional ALL4 AWD system. The petrol range starts with MINI Cooper Paceman with 122HP (90 kW) and ends with MINI Cooper S Paceman with 184HP (135 kW), while the diesel options are MINI Cooper D Paceman with 112HP (82 kW) and MINI Cooper SD Paceman – 143HP (105 kW).

    The Sports Activity Coupe is the second model – after the MINI Countryman –which customers can order with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as an option.

    The standard equipment of 2013 MINI Paceman includes: air conditioning, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, the Centre Rail and the radio MINI CD with AUX-IN socket.

    The options list can add: a sports leather steering wheel with optional multifunction buttons and cruise control, heated seats, an electrically operated glass roof, Comfort Access, xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and Park Distance Control.

    Source: MINI

  • 2013 Nissan Titan US – Price $28,820

    Nissan US has announced the 2013 Titan Pick-up truck, which is already available on the market. The pricing start from $28,820. The powerful, rugged, highly functional Titan is offered in King Cab and Crew Cab body styles with a choice of 4×4 and 4×2 drive configurations, two wheelbases and three bed lengths.

    The 2013 Titan comes with new restyled front and a new tailgate featuring an aerodynamic rear spoiler. The side steps, which are standard on SV and SL models are also different as well as the colour range including seven new options: Pearl White, Espresso Black, Glacier White, Gun Metallic, Graphite Blue, Java Metallic and Cayenne Red.

    The interior is also revised. The pick-up has a new four-spoke steering wheel and a standard 120V outlet on PRO-4X and SL models. Leather seats and Sattelite Navigation are available as options.

    2013 Nissan Titan is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 317HP (236 kW) and 521Nm (385 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The power is put on the road through the rear wheels or an optional four-wheel drive system including different driving modes.

    For 2013, the Titan is offered in S, SV, PRO-4X and SL trim levels, along with a range of special equipment packages.

    Source: Nissan

  • Wald International Infiniti M Black Bison

    Wald International has announced their latest project from the Black Bison series. The tuning company offers complete restyling for Infiniti M series as well as Nissan Fuga and Mitsubishi Proudia.

    The package starts from $3900 (around €3000) and includes a new sive front bumper with large air intakes and integrated LED DRLs. The kit also features a pair of extended side skirts and a restyled rear bumper with an integrated diffuser giving prominent look at the back.

    Other goodies from Wald are a new roof spoiler priced at $605, a trunk lid spoiler for $730 and sets of different wheel combinations.

    For the tuners, who prefer performance, Wald will offer a coilover adjustable suspension and two different sports exhaust systems giving more horsepower and nice deep sound.

    Source: Wald International

  • Trailer: 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series [VIDEO]

    A video worth watching is this of the super-hot 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series, which has just been revealed. The super sports car gull-wing model has an outstanding design and delivers the ultimate driving experience.

    In this video on can see how actually this new Mercedes-Benz reaches its 315 km/h top speed, all happening in desert scenery. The powerful SLS AMG Black Series as mentioned already today is an exquisite model, which produces 631 horsepower (464 kW) and has a maximum torque of 635 Nm (470 lb-ft).

    Then it is not a surprise for anyone to hear that its acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated of only 3.6 second (however this number isn’t enough to beat the new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster which needs only 3 seconds for the same sprint).

    Another highlight in the model is the outstanding driving dynamics and the uncompromised lightweight construction. The SLS weighs only 1550 kilograms which contributes to great aerodynamics.

    httpv://youtu.be/wlwWURg6pkM

    Video Source: YouTube

  • Tata Nano Special Edition Adds More Style

    Tata-Nano-SE-THUMBTata Nano Special Edition has just came out of the dark with its new stylish exteriors, utilities and infotainment. The car focuses on the young generation and brings about more sportiness and individuality.

    New Alloy Wheels and sportier brand new decals immediately capture one’s attention regarding the exterior. For the first time in a hatchback class, in the interior are featured two glove boxes, one on the passenger side and the other on the driver’s side, giving more space for all utilities. New technologies are also features: MP3, USB, Aux-in and front two door speakers.

    More importantly, the car is equipped with 624cc engine which generates 38 horsepower (28 kW) and 51 Nm of torque (38 lb-ft). This is absolutely enough for a city dweller, who in addition is environmentally minded. The fuel efficiency here is 25.4 kmpl and the CO2 emissions are estimated at 92.7 gm/km.

    In addition, the new Tata model is enhanced with a revised suspension set-up, including an anti-roll bar at the front. The cabin is quieter, but a racier sounding exhaust note gives the Tata Nano a more agressive road presence.

    The interior can be in either beige color (Nano LX), rich black (Nano CX) and stunning medium graphite (Standard version). The exterior colors available are then. Eight oof them are nw: Pearl White, Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Neon Rush, Serene White, Meteor Silver, Mojito Green, Papaya Orange, Sunshine Yellow, and Champagne Gold.

    Tata Nano Special Edition Features
    Features: LX CX
    Alloy Wheels Yes Yes
    Music System Yes Yes
    Glove Box (Both Side) Yes Yes
    Body Graphics Yes No

    Source: Tata

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series Revealed

    2014-Mercedes-Benz-SLS-AMG-THUMBAfter there had been released a teaser picture on Friday via the official Facebook page of Mercedes-AMG, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Black Series had been eventually revealed over the weekend. The high-end super sports car version of the gull-wing model was inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version and it makes the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

    As expected, it delivers breath-taking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction. The overall weight of the SLS-AMG Black Series is 1550 kilograms, thus the power/weight ratio is 2.45 kg/hp.

    Furthermore, the car is equipped with AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which produces 631 hp (464 kW) at 7400 rpm and 635 Newton metres (470 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it possible for it to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.6 seconds. In fact this makes the model the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine. The top speed here is of 315 km/h.

    The coil-over AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension, the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the weight-optimized forged AMG light-alloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres, the electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission are some of the highlights featured here as a standard. Optionally, customers can be supplied with the AMG Aerodynamics package.

    The key data of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine at a glance:

    SLS AMG Coupé Black Series
    Displacement 6208 cc
    Bore x stroke 102.2 x 94.6 mm
    Compression ratio 11.3 : 1
    Output 631 hp at 7400 rpm
    Max. torque 635 Nm at 5500 rpm
    Maximum engine speed 8000 rpm
    Engine weight (dry) 205 kg
    Fuel consumption, NEDC combined 20.6 mpg
    CO2 emissions 321 g/km
    Efficiency class G
    Acceleration 0-62 mph 3.6 s
    Top speed 196 mph (315 km/h)

    The chassis and suspension of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series are also new. The basic layout with double wishbones all-round in aluminium is still unchanged. However, all the components have been “touched” somehow in the interests of much enhanced race track performance.

    The new developments in details:

    • AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension with tauter basic tuning and electronically controlled two-stage damping (Sport, Sport +) for individual adjustment to the preferred personal driving style
    • Coil-over spring retainers to enable adjustment of wheel loads for personal race track set-ups
    • Elastokinematics 50 / 42% more rigid (front/rear axle) for greater stability in fast double bends
    • Track width increased by 20 / 24 millimetres (front/rear axle) for added grip in fast bends
    • New hubs on front axle and new front stabiliser tuning for added grip, reduced roll angle in fast cornering
    • AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, in particularly light forged design with optimised strength, painted matt black with high-sheen finish, dimensions: 10×19 at front; 12×20 at rear. Weight saving: 4.0 kilograms
    • Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tyres. Dimensions 275/35 R 19 at front and 325/30 R 20 at rear, for added grip and sporty cornering limit
    • AMG speed-sensitive steering with newly defined power steering characteristic for optimum steering precision and outstanding control of the vehicle

    The next feature that comes as a standard here is the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system, which boasts excellent deceleration performance and outstanding stability. In particular, the ceramic brake discs measuring 402 x 39 millimetres at the front and 360 x 32 millimetres at the rear include enhanced hardness for enhanced thermal stability, accompanied by a weight reduction of around 40 percent. The result is reduced unsprung masses, optimized comfort and grip.

    Another interesting fact here is that the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series design was inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car. The new model however, differentiates with darkened headlamps and black surrounds for the rear lights, which gives it more muscular and aggressive look.

    Furthermore, the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance is enhanced by the front apron and rear apron with diffusor along with side sill panels in Black Series-specific design featuring carbon fibre-reinforced plastic front splitter, carbon inserts in the side sills and the rear apron made of carbon fibre. The car also includes the carbon-fibre bonnet with a central air outlet.

    The aggressive look of the vehicle is additionally enhanced by AMG forged wheels in a series-specific 10 spoke design, painted in matt black with a high sheen finish, provide glimpses of the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

    The rear of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series shows-off wide wings and striking rear diffuser. It extends beyond the profile of the rear apron and generates additional downforce at the rear axle, which results in greater driving stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles serve to control the dischrage of hot air in the area of the AMG titanium sports exhaust system.

    In addition, there are two sets of twin chrome tailpipes with a square cross-section. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black also adds to the exclusiveness of the exterior.

    What has been already mentioned as optional equipment is the AMG Aerodynamics package with carbon-fibre components. This package includes a static, adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil and additional carbon-fibre flics on the front apron.

    In addition what is also optionally available is the exterior color AMG Solar Beam. Six other exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range are available, including the matt paint designo Magno Alanite Grey.

    What has remained not discussed here is the interior, which is made with great attention to the detail and precise craftsmanship. High-quality materials demonstrating luxury and prestige. There is a choice of two colour variants: Alcantara® black or Alcantara® black/red.

    A highlight among the optional equipment and appointments is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. It comes with Dolby Digital 5.1 which delivers unforgettable music experience thanks to its 1000 W amplifier and 11 loudspeakers in conjunction with precise distribution of the music signal. The 250 W sub-woofer is accommodated in the rear shelf.

    Further individualization options are also available via the AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirror, AMG carbon-fibre engine cover, AMG Interior Carbon-Fibre package, AMG infotainment system (including COMAND APS, AMG Performance Media and reversing camera), Media Interface.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series will have a market launch in June 2013. Prices will be confirmed prior launch.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Ultimate open-air experience: Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

    Lamborghini-Aventador-THUMBOne of the most exciting open-top luxury super sports cars has just been unveiled and it is the new Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster. Since the coupe version gained many appraises with over 1300 units already delivered to customers, the brand is now offering a convertible version of it.

    The new Lamborghini Roadster has unique profile of its upper area, which extends along newly designed geometric lines from the removable roof to the engine hood. The design shows the best combination of performance, elegant presence and delivers ultimate driving pleasure.

    To go further into details, the two-piece roof is made entirely from carbon fiber with the help of RTM and Forged Composite® technologies, which ensure optimum aesthetic performance and stiffness.

    Additionally, they are easily removable and attachable, and can be stored in the front luggage compartment. The rear pillar here got a new design and offers maximum support for the removable roof. Furthermore it has an automatic protection system for passengers, and provides the engine compartment with ample ventilation.

    The central “spinal column” with two pairs of hexagonal windows connected at the sides is what differentiates this convertible from the coupe model. Moreover, the powered rear windshield not only influences the flow of air in the vehicle, but also controls the experience of the sound from the twelve-cylinder engine.

    Next, the wind deflector delivers complete calm inside the car, no matter the speed. It is positioned on the front windshield frame and can likewise be stored in the luggage compartment when not in use.

    The exterior here is finished in two tones, while the windshield pillar and the two roof sections and the rear window area up to the “fins” are painted in gloss black. In particular, color available is the metallic blue color Azzuro Thetis, whose tone varies with the angle of the light.

    How about the interior? Here one can find the leather Sabbia Nefertem wrapped saloon and a great attention to the detail. At last, the Roadster includes Dione 20”/21” rims, crafted in light forged aluminum.

    But what is the Aventador all about? Speed of course! LP700-4 Roadster accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3 seconds flat and has a maximum speed of 350 km/h. These numbers a possible thanks to its great aerodynamics and the 6.5 liter aspirated V12.

    The latter produces 700 hp (515 kW), and is mated to an ISR 7-speed gearbox. The V12 also includes a cylinder deactivation system when the engine is working at partial capacity. On the other hand the Stop & Start system features high-performance capacitors known as supercaps to awaken the engine.

    Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster has a starting price of 300,000 euro.

    Source: Lamborghini