Auto News – Page 767 – Automobiles Review

Jaguar XJ_e Experimental Plug-in Hybrid

Jaguar XJ_e is an experimental plug-in hybrid which recently was announced to be the “Most Energy Efficient Luxury Car Prototype” and received the “Technical Panel’s Award of Merit”. In fact the vehicle uses only 1.2 liters of petrol and 11 kWh of electricity for over 63 mile course.

Jaguar XJ_e PHEV is a project part of the strategy of both Jaguar and Land Rover to develop best-in-class low-carbon premium products. To be more precise this vehicle utilise a specially developed 2-litre turbocharged engine coupled with a 69kW electric motor and a 12.3kWh lithium-ion battery.

This replaces the 5-litre V8 of the standard XJ. To go even further into details, the Jaguar XJ_e can achieve a range of about 25 miles in all-electric mode and a maximum electric mode top speed of 75mph. Performance estimates for the Jaguar XJ_e are fuel economy of 87 miles per gallon and a top speed of 150mph.

Here the tailpipe emissions are 75g/km and this means that the brand have achieved up to 70 per cent improvement compared to the standard XJ model. As a matter of fact experimental vehicles like the XJ_e Hybrids and electrification technologies are key elements of Jaguar Land Rover’s plan to reduce our carbon footprint.

Source: Jaguar

November 6, 2012

2012 BMW 1-Series 116d – 2.7 l / 100 km

The new 2012 BMW 1-Series 116d has achieved sensational fuel economy. The 116d EfficientDynamics five-door Hatchback entered into the RAC Future Car Challenge 2012. The small BMW has achieved an outstanding103mpg over the 64-mile Brighton to London route, winning the Best Internal Combustion Engine class in the process.

The route included a lot of miles of uphill section and busy London traffic. Still, the organisers measured staggering 39% improvement over the official 3.8 liters per 100 km (74.3mpg) combined economy figure. The interesting challenge was first introduced in 2010 to showcase low energy use vehicles, which includes electric, hybrid, hydrogen and low-emission conventional petrol and diesel cars.

The reason for such results is a suite of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies, which are designed to maximise fuel economy and lower emissions.

Although the 116d EfficientDynamics is so economical, it boasts decent performance and driving pleasure. It is powered by a 1.6 liter diesel with 114HP (84kW). 0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph).

The 2012 BMW 116d EfficientDynamics is priced from £20,885.

Source: BMW

November 5, 2012

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra – 180HP and 250Nm

Seat has officially revealed the new 2013 Ibiza Cupra. The top-of-range model is practically the same as the concept, which was introduced earlier. The hot hatchback boasts superb performance and nice low fuel consumption of just 47.9 mpg.

The new 2013 Ibiza Cupra is scheduled to arrive in dealerships from January, next year. The price list start from £18,825, which is good value for money.

“The Ibiza Cupra is one of the icons of the Seat brand,” commented James Muir, President of Seat S.A.

“Its stunning design and refined dynamics promise driving fun mile-for-mile. With its innovative technologies, upgraded interior and further improved quality, the new Ibiza Cupra clearly shows how quickly and consistently our brand is continuing to develop.”, he added.

The new Ibiza Cupra is powered by the famous 1.4 liter TSI engine boosted to 180HP (132 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) – 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. The engine is mated to the new 7-speed DSG twin-clutch automatic transmission coming with paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

The chassis of the Ibiza Cupra has been tuned for maximum agility and precision. The ride height has been lowered compared to the standard car, and an optional AP Performance braking system is available, offering remarkable stopping power.

An XDS electronic differential lock reduces the tendency to understeer and improves handling through fast corners, and an ESP electronic stability system incorporating hill start is part of the safety package that comes as standard on the Ibiza Cupra; the car has been awarded the maximum five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test.

The standard equipment of Cupra includes Climate control, rain-sensing automatic windscreen wipers, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and 17” alloy wheels are standard fit, as well as the aforementioned Cupra styling and performance-enhancing accoutrements, including signature gloss black mirrors, Cupra front and rear bumpers, matte black rear diffuser incorporating a large trapezoidal central tailpipe, and a pair of unique front sports seats.

Source: Seat

November 5, 2012

2012 Volkswagen Amarok UK 2.0 BiTDI – Price £19,795

Volkswagen has announced the new updated 2012 Amarok coming with a power upgrade for the 163 HP BiTDI engine to 180 HP, and the introduction of BlueMotion Technology models to offer improved efficiency and dynamics.

2012 Amarok UK can be ordered with a lot of nice extras like Bluetooth, front and rear parking sensors, heated washer jets, tachograph preparation, cornering fog lights and 19” alloy wheels.

To improve the fuel efficiency and lowering harmful emissions, the manufacturer fitted the pick-up truck with low rolling resistance tyres, Stop/Start and regenerative braking. All these features come with the BlueMotion Technology, so the more powerful 180HP 2.0 BiTDI engine is 3.9% more economical, with a combined fuel economy of 37.2 mpg compared to 35.8 mpg. Better still, emissions drop by 10 g/km to 199 g/km.

The torque of the engine is also improved with 20Nm to a total of 420Nm at just 1,750RPM. The 8-speed automatic gearbox transmits all that power to the road through 4MOTION AWD system.

The 180HP BiTDI engine can be coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox and selectable 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The pricing start at just £19,795 including VAT.

“The new 180 PS engine and automatic transmission make the Amarok even more refined, plus with BlueMotion Technology also now available, it can offer more efficiency, too.”, commented Alex Smith, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

“The Amaroks from Germany are now arriving in Van Centre showrooms, with demonstrators available for test drives,”, he finished.

Check out the price list and the specs below.

Amarok performance and technical specifications:

	Combined MPG	0-62 mph (seconds)	CO₂ (g/km)	Payload (kg)
Previous163 PS 4MOTION Selectable	35.8	11.1	209	1,064 to 1,108
Previous163 PS 4MOTION Permanent	35.8	11.1	209	750
New 180 PS 4MOTION Selectable	35.3	11.0	211	1,091 to 1,145
New 180 PS 4MOTION Permanent BlueMotion Technology	37.2	11.0	199	772
New 180 PS 4MOTION Permanent BlueMotion Technology automatic	35.3	11.3	211	1,077

Amarok retail and on the road (OTR) prices:

	Retail £ (ex VAT)	OTR £ (inc VAT)
Startline 2.0 TDI 122 PS 4MOTION Selectable 2.0 BiTDI 180 PS 4MOTION Selectable	£18,795 £19,795	£23,526 £24,726
Trendline 2.0 BiTDI 180 PS 4MOTION Selectable	£20,795	£25,926
Highline 2.0 BiTDI 180 PS 4MOTION Selectable 2.0 BiTDI 180 PS 4MOTION Permanent BlueMotion Technology 2.0 BiTDI 180 PS 4MOTION Permanent BlueMotion Technology auto	£23,375 £23,375 £25,105	£29,022 £29,022 £31,098

Note: Insurance groups – TBC

Source: Volkswagen

November 5, 2012

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition Marries Musical And Automotive World

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition has just been released. This is a very special edition of the popular car which will excite all musical enthusiasts and especially the guitarists. The Beetle Fender Edition with its style and charm will match perfectly for all those keen on the both brands.

Furthermore, they will benefits from either the 170-horsepower (125 kW) 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine mated to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission; or the turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI® four-cylinder engine that’s matched to a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

First of all, the 2.5L version of this iconic Volkswagen features all of the equipment found on the 2.5L Beetle with Sunroof model. On the other hand the 2.0T Beetle Fender Edition takes the Beetle Turbo with Sunroof and Sound as its starting point.

The unique exterior appearance of this car is due to the Deep Black Pearl Metallic paint, brushed chrome mirrors, Fender badging on the sides of the car, 18-inch “Disc” aluminum-alloy wheels, and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights.

The interior shows high-quality as well. Inside, there’s a striking dashboard that incorporates the Fender badge and was inspired by the iconic Fender sunburst design. The Turbo models also have sport seats upholstered in V-Tex leatherette with unique cloth inserts.

But what distinguishes the most this edition from other Beetles is that it includes the high-performance, award-winning Fender Premium Audio System. The concert-quality audio is the result of proprietary Panasonic speaker technology, which cuts through noise and dual-voice coil speakers that reproduce the sound of a live performance.

In particular, the sound system comprises of a 10-channel amplifier that delivers 400 watts of system power to four Fender Deluxe tweeters, two Fender Twin speakers, two Fender rear speakers, and one Fender Bassman subwoofer.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition is on sale now with a starting price of $24 440.

Source: Volkswagen

November 5, 2012

Lexus LS Campaign: Highest Level of Performance and Luxury [VIDEO]

2015 Lexus LS already has its campaign which exudes nothing less than luxury, performance and the highest lifestyle. The new Lexus model got a new face and more than 3000 new parts.

The promo video follows the day of a couple, showing series of moments – high-end and exclusive experiences. Some of them include front-row seats at a fashion show, a passport stamp leading to an exotic vacation, a modern home in the hills, a swanky jazz club and a glamorous red carpet arrival.

When the flashlight of the camera appears, then a transition happens and the video goes to the next exciting scene. In addition, it captures each photo-worthy experience. In fact, the LS is considered to be one of the world’s quietest cars, still having comfortable interior and exuding powerful stance.

We are still waiting to see the second spot, called “Paddle Shifters”, which will show-off all of the benefits of the new Lexus LS F Sport. Here it will present to the audience, people who don’t go quietly and always seek bigger, better experiences.

httpv://youtu.be/cwJbH_wJv0g

Source: Lexus

November 5, 2012

2013 Honda N-One: Variety in Action

2013 Honda N-One is currently being launched on the market, being a third of the new N Series mini-vehicles (including N-Box and N-Box+). The model was created with the help of the motif of the N360 series, which was the first mass-produced Honda mini passenger car introduced to the market in 1967.

With N-One the engineers aimed to make a new basic car which will be a new type of vehicle for the new era in Japan. Key features of the N-One include a spacious cabin for four adults, and an improved acceleration performance.

Furthermore, stable driving performance and excellent quietness even during highway driving were achieved via lightweight and highly-rigid body and an exclusively-developed suspension. Here the engineers made the car with excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L. In addition, for the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the N-One will include Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system as standard equipment on all types.

Another highlight is the higher grade model – N-One Premium, which includes a high-quality exterior and interior. In addition to this Honda has supplied the customers with great variety of exterior colors, offered with total 11 body colors and a 2-tone color style, which has different colors for the body and roof.

2013 Honda N-One Key Specifications:

Body Colors:

・Premium White Pearl

・Alabaster Silver Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl

・Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Milano Red

・Innocent Blue Metallic (new color)

・Premium Deep Mocha Pearl

・Cherry Shell Pink Metallic

・Premium Blue Moon Pearl (new color)

・Polished Metal Metallic

・Premium Deep Rosso Pearl

2-tone Color Style:

・Taffeta White × Innocent Blue Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium White Pearl

・Crystal Black Pearl × Milano Red

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Starry Silver Metallic × Premium Blue Moon Pearl

Interior Colors :

Beige × Mocha Gray, Black

Black × Burgundy

Timeless N design which is friendly and impressive:

• Individuality and innovativeness are expressed with the friendly and timeless hatchback style which was designed in the motif of the N360.

• There are five color combinations for the 2-tone color style which more effectively highlights the individual tastes of customers.

• The Interior design is simple and yet great attention was paid to ensure the quality feel of materials in every detail. Comfort and a sense of security were pursued with the large-size bench seat. With these factors, a comfortable cabin space was achieved that people will not grow tired of even after prolonged use.

• A flat and cleanly fit audio system display was adopted. By connecting a smart phone using “InterNavi Pocket,” a genuine navigation system application developed by Honda, the navigation screen can be displayed on the screen of the audio system (manufacturer’s option).

High performance power unit which realizes top class driving performance and fuel economy:

• The DOHC Turbo engine equipped with a high-performance turbo charger is made available for all grades and realizes driving performance equivalent to a vehicle in the 1.3L class.

• Both smooth and powerful driving and excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L*2 were realized through the combination of the DOHC engine, which realizes top class output and torque, and optimally-tuned CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Enhanced safety features which realize excellent safety performance:

• For the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system, which responds to sudden braking and quickly blinks hazard lamps automatically to alert the drivers of trailing vehicles, is featured as standard equipment on all types.

• VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system is standard equipment on all types.

• HSA (Hill Start Assist) system that temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an upward incline is standard equipment on all types.

• The side curtain airbag system which helps mitigate head impacts in a side collision and the front seat i-side airbag system are standard equipment on select model types.

• The Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Body, which features structures that absorb the impact of a collision on a pedestrian’s head and legs in case of a collision, was adopted.

• Class-leading omni-directional collision safety performance was realized with the newly-designed engine and new load distribution structure.

Environmental performance:

• All types are certified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as complying with the 2005 – 75% emissions standard.

• NA (natural aspiration) engine types achieve fuel economy of 20% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard. Turbo engine types*6 achieve fuel economy 10% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard.

Source: Honda

November 5, 2012

G-Power BMW G1 V8 Hurricane RS – 314 km/h [video]

The mighty BMW 1-Series tuned from G-Power boasts 600HP and 580Nm of torque.

The power comes from a V8 4.0-liter supercharged engine. This is enough for reaching a top speed of over 330 km/h (205 mph) and staggering acceleration. 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. However, the test driver Christian Gebhardt from sportauto.de managed to it “just” 314 km/h (195 mph), because he drove a prototype with a top speed limiter in the ECU.

Besides the engine swap, the G1 V8 comes with a set of huge 20” alloy wheels, stainless sports exhaust system, a full coilover suspension and some weight reduction thanks to a carbon fiber hood and a trunk lid.

The car also has brutal carbon ceramic brakes in order to handle all that power coming from the engine.

Check out the full specs below.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbvsJZy4ZBE

G1 V8 HURRICANE RS

600 hp / 441 kW at 7.800 rpm (+ 240 hp / 176 kW)
580 Nm at 3.900 rpm (+ 80 Nm)
V-max: >330 km/h
0-100 km/h: 4,4s
0-200 km/h: 12,7s
G-POWER conversion to M3 V8 engine incl. stainless steel exhaust system
G-POWER conversion to DCT gear box
G-POWER M3 S65 supercharger system SK II
G-POWER 20’’ SILVERSTONE DIAMOND wheel set
G-POWER bonnet and boot lid made from Carbon fibre
G-POWER coil-over suspension GM1-RS Clubsport
G-POWER Ceramic braking system

Source: G-Power

November 3, 2012

Dodge Challenger, Charger and Avenger Blacktop Series

Dodge will introduce their Blacktop range, which includes Avenger, Charger and Challenger models. The Blacktop package is built to give customers a sporty, distinct look at a great value. The package features unique Gloss Black wheels, select exterior paint colors, Gloss Black-painted “split-crosshair” grilles with Gloss Black matching grille surround, darkened headlamp bezels and body-color spoilers, as well as some unique Blacktop interior touches.

“The Blacktop package on the Dodge Charger has proven to be a resounding success by combining a customized one-of-a-kind appearance with great value – a trademark of the Dodge Brand,” commented Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand.

“Now we’re expanding this successful formula to the Avenger, Challenger and Charger R/T, making great style and performance even more accessible, starting at just $595.”, he added.

Talking about prices, the Avenger Blacktop package is really just $595. It includes a gloss black grille, a rear spoiler and 18” aluminum wheels with a gloss black finish. This is a good value for money, but if you want leather upholstery and heated front seats, another $400 must be paid.

The Blacktop package for the Charger R/T is a lot more – $1,795, but it comes with a lot more upgrades – the typical gloss black grille, the rear spoiler and a set of big 20” gloss black aluminum wheels. Other upgrades include steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a 3.06 rear axle and a Beats Audio system with ten speakers and a subwoofer.

Last is the Challenger R/T for which the Blacktop package is most expensive – $1,955. Again, it features a gloss black grille and a set of 20” alloy wheels. Other upgrades include a matte graphite body stripe and the Super Track Pak. It is specially designed for better handling and comfort. The Super Track Pak a high-performance-steering gear, brake linings, and monotube-shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode ESC with “full off” mode.

Source: Dodge

November 3, 2012

Holman Moody TdF Ford Mustang

Holman & Moody has revealed their project for the 50th anniversary of their Tour de France Automobile Rally. The name of the project is 2014 TdF Mustang, based on the mighty mighty 5.0 liter Ford Mustang,

The sports car comes with a lot upgrades including a high-flow K&N air filter, a custom sport exhaust system including stainless steel headers, a stainless steel X-pipe and Ford Racing sport mufflers.

Amongh the upgrades, there will be a complete adjustable suspension with hmPerformance adjustable sway bars, a set of SVT adjustable struts and shocks as well as progressive lowering springs. The LSD (limited slip differential) grants perfect traction at all conditions and the unique 19” alloy wheels fitted with high-performance tires complete the aggressive exterior of the vehicle.

The interior also features some interesting upgrades like embroidered carpeting and a unique serial number plate.

The customers will also get a Holman & Moody license plate, a 1-year membership to the SVT Owners Association and access to the company’s tech and support forums, where they will find all information they need about cars, events, etc.

Check out the full specs below!

Specifications:

5.0 liter 4 valve Ti-VCT V8

Ford Racing horsepower upgrade

Race Red exterior paint color

3.73:1 limited slip differential

Track Pack electronics

hmPerformance fully adjustable front and rear splined sway bars

SVT adjustable struts/shocks

Progressive lowering springs

Short shifter assembly

Stainless steel tubular headers

Ford Racing sport mufflers

Ford Racing stainless steel X-pipe

High-flow K&N/Ford Racing air filter

Uprated radiator for extra cooling

Oil cooler

19″ custom wheels designed and manufactured specifically for this car

Additional Features:

Fully adjustable suspension allowing adjustments for road race, rally, autocross or commute without changing any components. Also gives the ability to corner balance the vehicle to accommodate passengers or cargo

Hand held ProCal OBD2 calibration tool for reprogramming PCM or reading codes

Improved exhaust note and engine breathing

Commemorative body stripe and badging

Holman & Moody embroidered carpeting

Customized Holman & Moody TdF Mustang serial number plate

Commemorative Holman & Moody license plate

Complimentary one-year membership to SVT Owners Association

Exclusive access to tech support and forums, including access to the designers and engineers.

Optional equipment available:

Roller bearing upgrades to replace urethane on sway bars

Custom Holman & Moody embroidered Recaro seats

Source: Holman Moody

November 3, 2012

2013 Nissan GT-R: Elevated Performance

The new 2013 Nissan GT-R now has enhanced response, better stability and sharper handling. The model will go on sale in the spring next year, showing-off its new four-wheel drive and great responsiveness.

In fact, this Nissan model has received a round of improvements, which complement perfectly the “beast” which seeps under its good: the 550 horsepower (405 kW) 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Here the lessons, that the brand have learned after this year’s Nürburgring 24-Hour, are applied by the engineers thus effecting in enhanced response in both the mid- and upper-rpm rev ranges.

Other changes include increased body rigidity and modifications to the dampers, springs and front anti-roll bar. As a consequence, the GT-R is now more responsive, has better high-speed stability and a more refined ride.

Details around this model are still scarce and the brand will reveal full prices and exact performance specifications closer to car’s launch. Nevertheless, some technical changes were disclosed.

The engine for instance has new high-output injectors, which more concisely control fuel injection in order to enhance mid-range and high-rpm response. Furthermore, new relief valve for the turbocharger bypass suppresses the rapid decrease of forced injection pressure, again helping to sustain response. Next, a brand new oil pan baffle helps maintain more stable oil pressure and reduces rotational friction especially during high-performance driving.

The chassis has been updated as well, after measuring the roll centre of the GT-R when cornering and taking deflection of the bushes and tyres into account. The updated suspension includes revised dampers, springs and front anti-roll bar to lower the centre of gravity.

Moreover, new cam bolts have been installed on the front suspension to enhance camber accuracy and stability when cornering. The torque has been increased as well thus carrying capacity of the driveshafts to the hub bearings and improving the reliability in high-stress situations.

At last but not least, some changes have been made to the body as well. Reinforcements have been added to the dash panel bar and instrument panel member effecting in extended body rigidity and better suspension control.

Source: Nissan

November 2, 2012

Dunham’s Dodge Challenger SRT8 Project UltraViolet is no Laughing Matter

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Project UltraViolet has been revealed at SEMA as part of Mopar’s 75th anniversary celebration. The collaboration between Mopar, Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team, and comedian Jeff Dunham resulted in a custom Dodge Challenger SRT8.

Dunham speaks about it honestly: “It’s a major understatement to say that I’ve been looking forward to the SEMA show this year, as we’ve had an awesome time creating this one-of-a-kind Challenger”, who also says that the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda “as my favorite muscle car of all time”.

Project UltraViolet takes its name from the two-tone paint scheme chosen for the Dodge. It combines an ‘ultra’-violet body color with a black upper half. Furthermore, under the hood is the new Mopar 426 crate engine, which is able to generate 515 horsepower (380 kW) and 490 lb.-ft. (665 Nm) of torque. In addition, the project also benefits from the new engine tuning capabilities performed by Arrington Engines.

To go even further into detail, the Dodge is lowered with 1 inch and equipped with 22-inch HRE brand performance wheels sporting a matte and semigloss black finish. The rear end is wider, and larger more dramatic wheels flares are added to both front and rear to widen the body with 4 inches and create a muscular stance.

A lot of hand-made parts were utilized in this project: new rear diffuser, dive-planes, new front splitter, all-new rocker panels, new lower-rear spoilers, new deck-lid spoiler and custom aluminum side sills with the exhaust exiting in front of the rear wheels. Bumpers are changed as well, and the grille is now slightly larger. Headlamp lenses are added along with tinted taillights.

How about the interior? It includes premium materials and craftsmanship: handcrafted full-grain Nappa leather with color-keyed accent panels, premium-grade color-keyed accent stitching, computer-controlled custom embroidery, custom-built seats supplied by Lear, tuned exhaust with stainless steel tips by Palmer, and a Hurst brand short-throw shifter.

All of these elements combined together create an old-school muscle-car look, and contribute to the machine’s more aggressive appearance.

Source: Dodge

November 2, 2012

Category: Auto News