Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

  • Lexus IS 250C F Sport Adds More Style to the Line-Up

    Lexus-IS-250C-F-Sport-THUMBLexus IS 250C F Sport is in fact the eleventh sport model which the brand will launch. However, it isn’t going to be in a coupe disguise, but in an exciting convertible one.

    The IS 250C F Sport will include a range of visual and dynamic enhancements over the standard trim. Some of them will feature unique suspension calibration, wheel package and revised interior and exterior styling.

    First, the suspension upgrades concern the overall handling dynamics of the vehicle. This means that the Lexus will now have even better front and rear suspension, which will deliver more precise handling. Here the changes made include in particular new bushings, revised damping characteristics, unique rear stabilizer bar and enhanced spring rates.

    Next to the improved driving dynamics of the car are the exterior and interior styling packages. For instance, exterior-wise the cabrio comes with 10-spoke graphite-look 18-inch alloy wheels, unique mesh grille and lower lip spoiler with F Sport fog lamps.

    On the other hand, what’s new around the interior is the black leather accented seats with contrasting perforations and stitching, F Sport steering wheel and gear lever, scuff plates and a black roof lining.

    Some of the optional features here include Pre-Collision safety System, Active Cruise Control and Mark Levinson Audio. In addition to the introduction of IS 250C F Sport, the entire IS convertible range will get enhancements in terms of navigation, audio, voice control and Bluetooth systems.

    The addition of our eleventh F Sport model reinforces the strength of the line-up. Just as a reminder, Lexus have featured F Sport models across the CT, IS, GS and RX lines, and is going to launch such in the LS 460 and LS 600h.

    Lexus IS 250C F Sport
    Lexus IS 250C F Sport
    Lexus IS 250C F Sport
    Lexus IS 250C F Sport

    Source: Lexus

  • Seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf with Market Launch

    Volkswagen-Golf-VII-THUMBThe strongly awaited seventh-generation of the emblematic Volkswagen Golf now marks its market launch. The Golf model is lighter, safer, more advanced, more spacious, more efficient and better equipped than any other previous generation.

    The iconic car is going to be available in three trim levels from the launch, namely: S, SE and GT, which later in 2013 will be joined by GTI and BlueMotion models. All are in either three- or five-door form. Four petrol engines and two diesel engines will be available.

    To be more precise, the petrol engine range starts with a four-cylinder 1.2-litre TSI unit producing 85 hp (63 kW), rising via a 1.2-litre TSI 105 hp (77 kW) and a 1.4-litre TSI 122 hp (90 kW) motor to the 1.4-litre TSI 140 hp (103 kW) with Active Cylinder Technology, which is capable of 60.1 mpg (combined cycle) and 110 g/km (with DSG gearbox).

    On the other hand the diesel engines available at launch are the 1.6-litre TDI 105 hp (77 kW) and the brand-new 2.0-litre TDI 150 hp (110 kW) unit. Both of them include the latest common rail diesel technology for maximum efficiency.

    No matter the engine or the trim level, the new Volkswagen model will come equipped with Stop/Start system as standard, along with battery regeneration. The engines will be equipped with either five- and six-speed manuals, or six- and seven-speed DSG units.

    The engineers have thought carefully for the safety and security of the occupants and thus making the car with seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, five three-point seatbelts, ABS with ESP, XDS electronic differential lock and Isofix preparation for two rear child seats.

    Some great technology features are also at hand as a standard: Composition Media system includes a 5.8-inch colour touchscreen, DAB digital radio, a CD player, MDI interface (for connecting iPod or MP3 player), Bluetooth telephone preparation and audio streaming, eight speakers, ‘Climatic’ semi-automatic air conditioning.

    Next, the SE trim is equipped with (adding to the previous mentioned) ADC Automatic Distance Control with Front Assist and City Emergency Braking, a Driver Alert System, PreCrash preventative occupant protection, Driver Profile Selection, rain-sensitive wipers, an automatically dimming rear-view mirror and dusk sensor (automatic driving lights).

    And the sport GT model features with 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, ‘Cherry Red’ rear light clusters, heat-insulating dark-tinted rear glass, electrically foldable door mirrors with puddle lights, and front and rear parking sensors with visual display.

    The GT model also includes premium interior equipment: gloss black inserts, Alcantara and cloth sports seats, LED reading lights, ambient lighting and the Discover Navigation media system with 5.8-inch colour touchscreen.

    As an option for all trim levels there are the following features: beam assist, lane assist, park assist, ACC adaptive chassis control, a rear-view camera, Discover Pro navigation system with eight-inch colour touchscreen, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.

    The new Golf has a starting price of £16 285, and the its first deliveries will be in the beginning of the year.

    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII
    Volkswagen Golf VII

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Maruti Suzuki revved up for the Alto 800 launch on October 16, 2012

    Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is all geared up for the Alto 800 launch in the country’s entry-level passenger car market on October 16, 2012. The domestic car enthusiasts are in for a delight as the company has termed the upcoming car to be its next fuel efficient and economically priced crowd puller. Most industry experts believe that the new Alto 800 holds immense promise and will be the most apt product to fill in the shoes of iconic Maruti 800.

    The country’s largest passenger car maker is expected to introduce its new car with less than Rs. 3 lacs retail value. The aggressive Alto 800 price tag devised by MSIL will enable it to compete directly against the likes of Hyundai Eon and the top-most model of the Tata Nano. MSIL offers the current generation of Alto in the price bracket between Rs. 2.41 lacs and Rs. 3.4 lacs (in ex-showrooms of New Delhi). The company is aspiring to offset the stiff competition in entry-level car market, the ever increasing petrol prices and the high interest rates, which have been keeping the prospective buyers away from Maruti Suzuki showrooms during the last few months.

    The Alto 800 features are believed to be designed while keeping in mind the usual requirements of the domestic entry-level car buyers. The yet-to-be launched car will come laced with an Air Conditioning (AC) system, power steering and power windows. Coming to under the hood specifications, the new Alto 800 incorporates a 796 cc petrol engine that delivers a nominal power output around 47 bhp and a peak torque of 70 Nm. Further, MSIL has declared that its brand new product will churn out more power, superior fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions as compared to the current generation of entry-level Alto car.

    The upcoming Alto 800 is yet to see the day light in the domestic auto market and most concerned buyers are eager to get behind the wheels of the most awaited car of the year. Not a great deal of information is available at the moment regarding the Alto 800 reviews, but the company has announced that the car is more than capable for delivering a superb fuel economy. According to MSIL, the new Alto 800 can run 22.7 km on every litre and its CNG model gives an astounding mileage of 30 km per litre.

  • Kepler Motion Supercar – 800HP Hybrid [video]

    Kepler Motors has officially announced the Motion Hybrid Super car at the 2009 Dubai Motor Show. The first deliveries of this monster were scheduled for the end of 2011, but that not happened. Still, the manufacturer has released a new promo video of their model.

    Kepler Motion Super car is powered by a modified twin-turbo 3.5 liter V6 EcoBoost engine with 550HP (410 kW) driving the rear wheels and the front wheels are driven by a mighty 250HP (186 kW) electric motor. This means a combined power of 800HP (597 kW), so the performance is exceptional – 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and a top speed of over 322 km/h (200 mph).

    Motion is a real hyper car like Zonda R and Veyron. It features a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, active aerodynamics and active suspension. There are also StopTech Continuous Carbon Ceramic AeroRotors and a programmable track assistant system.

    Check out the video below!

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

    Source: Kepler via Youtube

  • ARK Performance Hyundai Veloster Alpine Concept at the 2012 SEMA

    ARK Performance will present a special tuned version of Hyundai Veloster. The name of the project is Alpine Concept which includes upgrades to the exterior and the 1.6 liter engine.

    Some of the goodies are an ARK oil cooler, a Nitrous Oxide system, &N intake system and BTRcc custom engine bay parts and tuning. All these upgrades lead to a power of 232HP (173 kW) at 5500RPM and 325Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque at 1700RPM.

    The exterior features a complete ARK Performance body kit including a new front and rear bumpers, a new rear wing, modified fenders and a pair of side skirts. The rally wing is also new as well as the 180 Customs headlights and taillights.

    The car is finished in custom pearl white paint created by Beyond Coachworks.

    Powertrain

    • Custom Tuning by BTRcc
    • Horsepower: 232 HP @ 5500 RPM
    • Torque: 240 lb.-ft. @ 1700 RPM
    • ARK Performance Veloster Turbo DTS exhaust system, test pipe and turbo up-pipes
    • K&N Intake System
    • Nitrous Express Proton Kit
    • ARK Oil Cooler
    • BTRcc Custom Engine Bay parts
    • Koyo Radiator
    • NRG Oil Catch Tank
    • NRG Fuel Pressure Tank
    • NRG Washer Mods

    Exterior

    • Custom Pearl White Paint by Beyond Coachworks
    • Custom soft-touch interior materials by HEXIS
    • 2013 ARK / Adro body kit: bumpers, side skirts, rear wing, fenders
    • ARK CF Rally Wing
    • 180 Customs Headlights and Taillights
    • Seibon Carbon hood and deck lid
    • NRG front and rear tow hooks

    Exterior Accessories

    • ROME SDS Snowboard, bindings and boots
    • Reverb Rockers Snowboards
    • Gold Snowboards
    • Folsom Boots
    • Memphis Boots
    • Targa G3 Bindings
    • Strut G1 Bindings
    • Yakima Snowboard Rack and custom wind guard
    • Yakima Fatcat 6
    • Rally Armor Mudflaps

    Interior

    • JPM Coachworks “Alpine Edition” interior
      • Custom Seats, Instrument Panel, Shift knob and boot, Armrest, Headliner, Visors and Steering Wheel
      • NRG short hub and quick release

    Suspension/Wheels

    • ARK PERFORMANCE DTP Coilover System
    • ARK Big Brake Kit
    • Air Motion Cup Suspension kit
    • ARK Performance Upper Strut Bar
    • GP Knuckles and Arms
    • Rays Gramlight 57Xtreme Wheels (Silver)
    • Muteki Lug Nuts
    • Nitto INVO Tires

    Source: Hyundai

  • Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Generates 750 Horsepower

    Lingenfelter-Chevrolet-Corvette-ZR1-THUMBOriginally Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 generates 647 horsepower (476 kW). This mighty result is due to its 6.2 liter supercharged V8 engine. The torque number here is 818 Nm (604 lb-ft). Matched to the six-speed manual gearbox, this emblematic Chevrolet model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.4 seconds on its way to the top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph).

    However, these impressive numbers weren’t enough for the tuners from Lingenfelter. They wanted more from this ZR1, so they decided to make a comprehensive ZR1 Package, which will boost Chevy’s power even more.

    Due to it the car now generates the impressive number of 750 horsepower (552 kW)! The torque here is 989 Nm (730 lb-ft). This package includes the addition of GT9 ZR1 supercharger camshaft and Lingenfelter CNC ported LS9 cylinder heads.

    And although it adds additional power it still maintains a safe level of boost and supercharger RPM. The GT9 camshaft has an excellent sound quality and will not degrade the vehicles drivability or reliability.

    And to go even further into details, this unique package includes the following: Lingenfelter CNC porting and polishing of LS9 cylinder heads for optimal flow, Lingenfelter multi-angle valve job, cc chambers, surfacing and spring height adjustment, Competition Cams valve springs, LS9 retainers and locks, and Lingenfelter GT9 camshaft by Competition Cams.

    In addition there is also featured GM Head gaskets and head studs, 160 degree thermostat, Lingenfelter cast aluminum supercharger front cover assembly, 2.38 inch diameter steel supercharger 10 bolt drive pulley – powder coated black – 11 rib, 100 mm aluminum double bearing idler assembly, Lingenfelter LS9 solid supercharger isolator coupling, Lingenfelter ZR1 air intake system, increased boost level 12 – 13 psi.

    Source: Lingenfelter

  • Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited Adds More Sportiness to the Range

    Jeep_GrCHSL-THUMB2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited is a Sports Line continuation of the remarkable Jeep range of 4×4 vehicles. The new Grand Cherokee S-Limited offers muscular styling and assertive yet attractive sports appearance.

    It takes a lot of the styling cues from the recent SRT version. However, it offers other desirable highlights such as fuel economy, 4×4 capability, safety, technology and comfort. In addition, real carbon fibre trim surrounds passengers with style and craftsmanship, demonstrating S-Limited’s greater style and equipment.

    Furthermore, the interior of the new Jeep model includes a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather seats, and bright, racing style pedal pads.

    Other standard features include Quadra-Lift air suspension, Quadra-Trac II four wheel drive system, cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, Uconnect navigation, black gloss 20-inch alloy wheels, 825-watt Harman-Kardon audio system with 19 speakers and three sub-woofers, power tailgate, and distinctive black grille and rear light bar.

    More importantly, this sports SUV is draws its power from the mighty 237 hp (174 kW) 2987cc V6 CRD diesel engine with new-generation,1.8-bar injectors and MultiJet II technology developed by Fiat Powertrain.

    2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited has a starting price of £44 59 and will go on sale later this month.

    Source: Jeep

  • Nissan Juke-R Gets New Look and More Power [VIDEO]

    2013-Nissan-Juke-R-THUMB2013 Nissan Juke-R is a vehicle that made a phenomenal leap from being one-off concept to becoming a road car we see on the streets every day. It was revealed in January this year in Dubai, only as a concept however, it offered modified underpinnings of a GT-R under a muscular, re-sculpted Juke bodyshell.

    Then the story continues with the aim to bring the concept into the real road, because of the great interest it evoked. Here, Juke-R used the Nissan GT-R supercar’s drivetrain and suspension along with an FIA-specification roll-cage.

    Furthermore, due to the expertise of NTC-E, the production version of this Nissan is more powerful than the concept, and it generates 545 hp (400 kW) from its 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engine. And now, pay attention, because the acceleration time here is almost unbelievable. Juke needs only 3.0 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, on the way to its maximum speed of 170mph.

    Another highlight is that the new Juke-R has new visual look due to the input from the experts at Nissan Design Europe. Some of the design refinements feature new definition for the front bumper and new carbon trim on the front and rear cooling vents and the rear aero diffuser.

    httpv://youtu.be/aRwgDfz8w7Y

    httpv://youtu.be/2UsOhVXGiY4

    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001
    2013 Nissan Juke-R #001

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Nissan

  • What makes the BMW 3 Series Saloon right for your business?

    When you start shopping around for contract hire deals to offer to your staff, there are several things you need to bear in mind, in addition to the cost of the package you choose. One option open to you is the BMW 3 Series Saloon, which ticks a number of boxes.

    If you’re not convinced of the merits of this model, maybe the following points will sway your decision.

    Image

    Although the main purpose of having a company car is to get from A to B, these vehicles can do more than just transport your employees between meetings. They can make a statement about your firm – good or bad – depending on the model you choose and the condition it’s in.

    Imagine what you would think if you saw someone arrive for a business meeting with you in a shabby, uncared for car. You may well form the opinion that this person – or their firm – does not take pride in their appearance, and therefore may not put the effort in for you.

    Put this in contrast to how you would view someone pulling up in a sleek, polished motor. It’s vital to present a professional image at all times. With that in mind, take a look at the BMW 3 Series Saloon – it really does look the part and, as it’s one of the most popular executive cars around, you can rest assured you won’t be the only person who thinks it makes a good impression.

    Cost effective

    While looking great is all well and good, most companies have their eyes firmly on their bottom line, especially with all the economic problems in the UK at present. However, the BMW 3 Series can deliver here too, with a range of BMW contract hire offers available at affordable prices – particularly if you are prepared to take out a slightly longer lease or don’t have high annual mileage.

    Business owners also need to factor in the cost of fuel, as it is common to pay employees mileage for any driving they do for work. It therefore makes sense to give them cars that are fuel efficient.

    Take the BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d EfficientDynamics model as an example – it boasts combined fuel consumption of 68.9 mpg and up to 80.7 mpg for extra-urban use. This vehicle features innovative technology designed to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel usage, such as an auto start-stop function and a brake energy regeneration system.

    Reliability and safety

    As company cars need to get employees from one place to another, you need to be confident that the vehicles you provide your workers with are safe and reliable. BMW has long been associated with high-quality engineering, so you can be confident the technology under the bonnet of a 3 Series Saloon won’t let you down.

  • 2013 Toyota Corolla: A Cat’s Love Affair [VIDEO]

    While I was browsing today in order to find some exciting news from the automotive world, I accidentally came across a video which was hilarious and at the same time very original. The main character here is a cute tom-cat, who has a love affair with the new 2013 Toyota Corolla.

    However, this affair seems to be a bit wicked and the cat is that much attached to the Corolla that he wants to stay in it all the time. And in this case what a cat would do rather than some trick?

    Yes, the little “guy” gets himself involved in series of accidents, so that he can get injured, and as a consequence his owner puts him in the Toyota and drives him to the animal hospital.

    Being a true cat fan, I was a bit skeptic when I saw this video until I didn’t watch it to the very end. Although the cat did have only seven lives, it miraculously survives. And all you need to do is to watch the video to know how he does it.

    All in all, a great new advertisement for Toyota and we are definitely eagerly looking forward to the release of the new Corolla which in turn is going to keep is excited in a great love affair with itself!

    httpv://youtu.be/dZfkSAQWz9E

    Video Source: YouTube

  • Lamborghini unveils Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo

    2013-Lamborghini-Gallardo-THUMB2013 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo is a special supersportscar that have been teased in the last couple of day throughout the social networks. Now the unique model is officially unveiled by Lamborghini.

    The Gallardo is based on the proven chassis and mechanical platform of its predecessor, but takes a significant step forward following extensive aerodynamic re-profiling of the surface geometries and the addition of adjustable aerodynamic devices, including an all-new ten-position rear wing.

    Furthermore improvements are made in terms of aerodynamics (they have been enhanced by %120), of thermal performance (here Trofeo achieves a 50% improvement), of balance and dynamic performance. The latter is achieved through increasing downforce by 128kg in low downforce set up and 160kg in high downforce trim.

    While the racing technology advances, the Gallardo provides an efficient and cost-effective platform for customer racing. In fact, Lamborghini has taken a significant step forward with the aerodynamic performance of the new Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo. However, the car stays faithful to the core principles of the brand.

    Stephan Winkelmann, the president of the brand, confirmed that they are planning to expand the Super Trofeo series into other markets, such as the USA.

    2013 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo
    2013 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition – €79,707

    A special edition Porsche Panamera will be offered from the end of next month. The Platinum Edition will be available for the Panamera 4 and Panamera Diesel and it features unique design and some interesting upgrades.

    The exterior boasts a platinum silver finish to the lower half of the side view mirrors, the air-inlet grille lamellas, the air vent grille, the trim on the trunk lid, on the rear diffuser and on the side for the Turbo models.

    The interplay with one of the Edition’s five exterior finish colours results in an especially harmonious and elegant appearance. Solid exterior colours are offered in black or white as well as the options of metallic basalt black, metallic carbon grey and metallic mahogany lacquer finishes. The black glossy finish used for the side window strips creates a convincing overall exterior appearance.

    The standard equipment of the Platinum Edition boasts front PDC, bi-xenon dynamic headlights, automatic dimming interior and exterior mirrors and a set of nice 19” Panamera Turbo alloy wheels with the red, black and gold Porsche crest highlight the sporty elegance of the vehicle.

    The interior features a new bi-color – black and luxor combination creating nice interior ambience. Other highlights include the standard sport design steering wheel and the distinctive Porsche crest on the front and rear headrests as well as the insignia “Platinum Edition” on the front door trim strips.

    Among the standard equipment, you will find a 7” TFT touchscreen and 11 loudspeakers with a combined output of 235 WATTs.

    The price for the Panamera Platinum Edition in Germany starts from EUR 79,707 including VAT. The diesel variant is slightly more expensive – EUR 82,206 and the Panamera 4 Platinum Edition will be EUR 87,323.

    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
    Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition

    Source: Porsche