Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Acura ZDX Facelift US – Price $50,920

    The innovative and stylish Acura ZDX crossover vehicle, introduced in 2009, will receive numerous styling and technology enhancements for the 2013 model year, which will be the final year on the market for ZDX as the Acura brand sharpens its focus on new models and core products, the company announced today.

    The 2013 ZDX will receive several new features, including a redesigned front grille, front and rear parking sensors, power folding side mirrors and safety features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The 2013 Acura ZDX will go on sale October 19, 2012, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $50,920*.

    “People shopping for a luxury crossover vehicle will find the Acura ZDX an even more attractive product,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of the Acura Division. “Moving forward, we will continue to advance the Acura lineup with a focus on new core models, like the recently redesigned RDX and the upcoming all-new RLX flagship sedan, that provide the ideal balance of performance and fuel efficiency that is right for each product and a driving experience that is dynamic and emotional.”

    The ZDX is built in the same Alliston, Ontario plant as the Acura MDX, which shares the platform with ZDX. As a result, ZDX production will be discontinued in conjunction with the transfer of the popular MDX to the company’s Lincoln, Alabama plant in early 2013 (as previously announced).

    For 2013, the Acura ZDX will be sold as a single, valued-added package offering clients greater value on a luxury scale. Robust features now standard on the 2013 ZDX include the 435-watt Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker audio system with 15 GB hard disk drive (HDD) memory, Acura Navigation System with Voice RecognitionTM, 8-inch high-resolution VGA display, multi-view rear view camera, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface, ventilated and heated front seats with perforated premium Milano leather seating surfaces, Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition) and dual-zone automatic climate control system.

    The ZDX will receive several new exterior features for 2013, such as a redesigned front grille, front and rear bumpers with integrated parking sensors, power-folding auto-dimming side mirrors and a dark accent on the wheels for a sportier finish. The interior receives a new trim finish on the center console and a high contrast interior option.

    Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) are two new safety features for the 2013 ZDX. The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system can detect vehicles ahead of the ZDX. If the FCW system determines that a collision is possible with a detected vehicle, it provides the driver with visual and audio alerts to encourage avoidance actions. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses a camera mounted between the windshield and the rear-view mirror to detect lane lines on the road. If the driver begins to drift out of a detected lane without using the turn indicator, the system will provide the driver with visual and audible alerts.

    The 2013 ZDX is equipped with an all-aluminum 3.7-liter V-6 engine that develops 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Performance is further enhanced by the ZDX’s Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission that is designed to satisfy the most discerning enthusiast drivers. The 2013 ZDX EPA city/highway/combined fuel mileage is rated at 16/23/19 mpg**.

    For customers seeking a great balance of utility and performance Acura will continue to offer vehicles in the luxury crossover space with the 5-passenger RDX and the TSX Sport Wagon. Acura also will continue to provide ZDX customers with a high-level of service and parts support throughout the life of their vehicles.

    U.S. sales of Acura models increased 43.5 percent in September and rose nearly 30 percent to 115,773 units for the first nine-months of 2012, the Acura brand’s best nine-month sales results since 2008. The Acura TL sedan, along with the MDX, RDX and TSX Sport Wagon crossover vehicles, have each posted double-digit gains for the year to date, including an 85.7-percent rise in sales of the redesigned RDX and a 25.2-percent gain for the TSX Sport Wagon. The all-new Acura ILX continues to gain momentum, posting its fifth consecutive monthly increase on September sales of 1,737 units.

    Acura will debut its all-new 2014 Acura RLX luxury sedan on November 28, 2012, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The new Acura flagship sedan will employ an array of new technologies unique to Acura, including the Precision All Wheel SteerTM system, the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, and the all-new Jewel EyeTM LED headlamps to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.

    Equipped with new features and safety technologies, the 2013 Acura ZDX Facelift is priced at $50,920.

    Source: Acura

  • Ford Fusion range at the 2012 SEMA

    The Tjin Edition Ford Fusion

    Why it’s cool: The Tjin Edition Ford Fusion is the perfect blend between performance and luxury, modified with some of the best aftermarket products available. The exterior features a custom DuPont Beige paint job, 3dCarbon lip kit, Webasto sunroof, and LightWurkZ headlights and fog lights. The interior has been highly modified by Katzkin interiors, featuring a complete sound system by Scosche Audio. Performance has been upgraded by a Unique Fabrication/ Vibrant turbo kit and custom side-exit MagnaFlow exhaust. Finishing off the Tjin Edition Fusion are a custom set of 21″ iForged Concave wheels, Falken tires, Baer big brakes and Pedders coil-over suspension upgrades.

    2013 Ford Fusion, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic, AWD – Built by MRT Performance

    Why it’s cool: Building on the sporty style of the 2013 Ford Fusion, MRT has prepared a fun and stylish street performer that will catch your eye, while the performance stance and sounds from the Eco-Flow exhaust will keep your attention. When it comes to street performance, MRT will balance styling, chassis, and powertrain to remove any questions that the new Ford Fusion is top choice for sedan customers.

    2013 Ford Fusion, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic, AWD - Built by MRT Performance

    2013 Ford Fusion, 1.6L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission – Built by Ice Nine Group

    Why it’s cool: Inspired by the V8 Supercar Series, Ice Nine Group’s 2013 Fusion features road race styling and performance for the street. From the slammed race car stance to the cutting edge color and graphics package, Ice Nine’s Fusion not only looks the part it also performs. Drive it to the track, rip some laps and drive home in style!

    2013 Ford Fusion, 1.6L EcoBoost, Six-Speed Manual Transmission - Built by Ice Nine Group

    2013 Ford Fusion, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic, AWD – Built by 3dCarbon – Air Design

    Why it’s cool: 3dCarbon – Air Design – all new 2013 “Euro Series” Fusion is a perfect amalgamation of style and performance. Inspired by the elegant, sophisticated styling of classic European sedans, the all-new 3dCarbon body kit accentuates the all-new Fusion’s elegant, new silhouette, visually lowering, and transforming it into a striking sedan that would be a head turner on the Autobahn, or any road.

    2013 Ford Fusion, 2.0L EcoBoost, Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic, AWD - Built by 3dCarbon - Air Design

    Source: Ford

  • Suzuki Swift Sport Concept at 2012 AIMS

    Suzuki Australia will be celebrating the depth and heritage of its entire brand offering at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show with products from Suzuki Cars, Motorcycles and Marine on display.

    The headlining act of the Suzuki stand will definitely be a vehicle though with a one-off Suzuki Swift from its chief engineer Naoyuki Takeuchi taking centre stage and giving an insight into the future design and engineering for Suzuki‘s number one vehicle globally.

    Joining the one-off Swift on stand will be Suzuki’s current range of best-selling automobiles including the full SX4 and Grand Vitara ranges as well as some of its popular motorcycles and a 7m bowrider boat outfitted with a 175hp Suzuki engine.

    Suzuki will be the only exhibitor at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show with offerings from its full contingent of transport options on display.

    What prompted the idea of a shared stand for 2012 was the success of the advertising campaign celebrating the engineering partnership between its legendary Hayabusa motorcycle and its new luxury sports sedan, the Kizashi – with both on display.

    “It’s great what Suzuki Australia will be doing at this year’s Motor Show. We find some visitors to the Show are extremely interested in what particular exhibitors offer in all of their fields, not just in automotive,” said Russ Tyrie, Event Director.

    “Visitors to the Motor Show will be able to see the full range of Suzuki vehicles including an exciting one-off concept Swift, but also examples of what else the company offers in the motorcycle and marine markets.”

    Alongside the Hayabusa, Suzuki Motorcycles will also have on display the championship-winning GSX-R1000 sportsbike from Josh Waters who recently claimed the 2012 Australian Superbike Championship as well as its versatile V-Strom 650 adventure tourer.

    The 2012 Australian International Motor Show will be held at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour and will open daily at 10am from October 19 to 28.

    Source: Suzuki

  • 2013 Nissan Pathfinder with Announced Pricing

    2013-nissan-pathfinder-THUMB2013 Nissan Pathfinder was revealed in the beginning of August conveying entirely new design philosophy and purposeful style. We have seen that the popular family adventure-ready SUV is now going to deliver more comfort, fuel economy and thoughtful technology.

    In addition, this Nissan model is available in 4WD and 2WD drive configurations and in four models: S, SV, SL and Platinum. In fact, the Pathfinder made the switch from body-on-frame to unibody construction, and still keeping the highest standard towing rating in its class (5000-lb.).

    What’s also prominent for this vehicle is that it also delivers best-in-class passenger volume and fuel economy rated at 26 mpg Highway / 20 mpg City and 22 mpg Combined for the 2WD model and 25 mpg Highway / 19 mpg City and 21 mpg Combined for the 4WD model.

    The new model also includes wide range of equipment featuring the EZ Flex Seating System™ with LATCH AND GLIDE™, an industry first 2nd row tip-up seat which allows easy 3rd row access with a child safety seat still installed, along with Easy Fill Tire Alert and Around View Monitor.

    More importantly, the unit under the hood is the advanced 260 horsepower (191 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine matched with a next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

    It is also the only vehicle in its class with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes from the available intuitive ALL-MODE 4×4-i system. In addition, the independent strut front/multi-link rear design with hydraulic electric power-assisted steering offers quiet and comfortable riding.

    What come also as a standard here are the 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The one-of-a-kind 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offered with the Platinum model.

    Furthermore, the interior is all-new as well. It includes comfortable seating for seven and people (in all three rows), including available leather-appointed seating. Next, the new Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display, positioned in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, includes a 4.0-inch color display.

    There is also available an 8.0-inch touch-screen monitor that offers intuitive interaction and control. It features as a standard Nissan’s Navigation System, along with a variety of driver-selectable vehicle systems and settings.

    Other elements of the equipment include leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, RearView Monitor, remote engine start, tri-zone entertainment system and Dual Panorama Moonroof.

    2013 Nissan Pathfinder Pricing Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices:

    Pathfinder S 2WD $28,270 USD
    Pathfinder SV 2WD $31,530 USD
    Pathfinder SL 2WD $34,470 USD
    Pathfinder Platinum 2WD $39,170 USD
    Pathfinder S 4WD $29,870 USD
    Pathfinder SV 4WD $33,130 USD
    Pathfinder SL 4WD $36,070 USD
    Pathfinder Platinum 4WD $40,770 USD

    Source: Nissan

  • Nissan Micra Range – Pricing Announced

    2012-Nissan-Micra-DIG-S-THUMBNissan Micra DIG-S is the new trim level in the Micra range which is affordable and yet very well equipped. The supermini Nissan model has a starting price of £7 995.

    Nevertheless, despite the price the car features as a standard Bluetooth, auxiliary input for MP3 players, etc. Going up the range, the Acenta model has a starting price of £9 995 and adds the additional 15-inch alloys, air conditioning, front fog lamps and a leather steering wheel.

    The Acenta Connect model adds to the previous equipment, the following: the award-winning Connect touchscreen satnav system combined with Bluetooth for hands-free telephone calls and music streaming. This one’s price begins at £10 495.

    The most stylish model of the range – the new Micra ELLE – a special edition produced with the world’s leading women’s magazine, adds to the Acenta Connect specification climate control, a glass roof, painted 15-inch alloy wheels and ELLE badging as standard. The price it starts at £11 195.

    At the top of the range – the Tekna model adds a glass roof, parking space measurement, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers and climate control to the specification of the Acenta Connect. Despite the wide range of equipment, the price tag starts at £11 545.

    The Micra range is equipped with either 80 hp (57 kW) 1.2-litre unit or a 98 hp (72 kW) 1.2-litre supercharged DIG-S unit. Both engines are three-cylinder petrol one, mated to a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission.

    Source: Nissan

  • Lamborghini Perdigón Concept – Simply Breathtaking!

    Lamborghini Perdigón Concept is an inspirational design worthy of carrying the Lamborghini badge, made by an independent designer working outside the brand. His name is Ondrej Jirec and surprisingly he is a final year Transport Design student at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.

    He decided to name his vision Lamborghini Perdigón, the latter word of which in Spanish stands for Pellet. In fact, Perdigón is actually named after a famous fighting bull. The concept obviously is stealth jet inspired and includes sharp angles and polygonal surfaces reminiscent of aircraft like the F117 Nighthawk and F22 Raptor.

    One of the untypical design elements which the young student included is for example the large air intake mounted just below the windscreen. In particular, this features a fan-like design on the inside which gives it the appearance of a jet engine.

    But take a look at the interior of the car! It is literally breathtaking! On the inside the Lamborghini Perdigón concept features a sharply styled and futuristic cabin which perfectly compliments the exterior.

    The steering wheel is high-tech and multi-functional. There are positioned the digital display showing the gear selection, and couple of buttons and switches. The instrument cluster is envisioned small with the gauges deeply inset into their housings.

    Furthermore, the high center console not only gives opportunity to the air to be funneled from the front air intake to the mid-mounted engine, but also is the place where what looks like i-Drive inspired control knobs are positioned. In addition it leads up to the central infotainment screen mounted towards the front of the dashboard.

    News and Pictures Source: Ondrej Jirec via diseno-art.com

  • Tesla Model S vs BMW M5 F10 Drag Race [video]

    BMW M5 F10 is currently one of the fastest four-door cars in the world. It crosses the finish line at ¼ mile in 11.9 seconds with 122 mph (196 km/h) terminal speed.

    F10 M5 is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 12.1 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package. The M5 F10 is 1990kg (4387 lbs).

    On the other hand, the Tesla Model S is powered by a 416HP (310 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque rear mounted electric motor. It is interesting that the electric motor has its full torque (600Nm) from the 1st RPM. The car weighs 2105 kg (4640 lbs).

    Although the Tesla S is underpowered, it manages to win this race. Still, we do not believe that, because the M5 driver made terrible start.

    Check out the video below to see what happens!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvHTN0Yi1t4

    Source: Automobile Magazine via Youtube

  • Wheelsandmore Bentley Continental GT – 680 HP and 850Nm

    Wheelsandmore has announced their latest project, which includes a number of special accessories for Bentley Continental GT, GTC and superfast GT Speed model.

    The exterior boasts set of new huge wheels in dimensions from 21” to 22” fitted with Continental Sport Contact 5P tires. The ride can be put closer to the ground with the help of an electronic lowering module.

    Wheelsandmore also offers a handcrafted stainless steel sports exhaust. Giving not only a nice deep sound, but additional power – 15HP and around 18Nm of torque. For further joy, you can also order sport catalysts giving another 15HP and 25Nm or a combined power only from the complete exhaust system – 30HP and 43Nm of torque.

    The tuning company can boost the mighty engine in Continental GT via an ECU re-map giving 565HP and 750Nm of torque for the GT V8 model. The Continental GT W12 is boosted to whopping 635HP and 760Nm and the GT Speed boasts 680HP and 850Nm of torque.

    Source: Wheelsandmore

  • Neiman Marcus McLaren 12C Spider – Price $354,000

    Neiman Marcus has presented the annual Christmas Book, which will feature a special edition McLaren 12C Spider.

    The car is finished in Volcano Red. It is powered by the same engine – a 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 625HP (460 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 328 km/h (204 mph). The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

    The customers will also get a special luggage set and a business-class trip to England for a tour of the McLaren Technology Center and a VIP dinner with McLaren Chairman Ron Dennis. Indeed, it is very good value for money, especially when you will eventually pay whopping $354,000 for Neiman Marcus McLaren 12C Spider.

    However, only 12 units will be available, so don’t worry. There will be a unit for every customer considering that people estimate their money.

    Source: McLaren

  • Walter Rohrl driving the 918 Spyder at the Nurburgring

    Porsche has released another interesting video clip of the 918 Spyder, which has lapped the Nurburgring in just 7 minutes and 14 seconds. This time behind the steering wheel is the world famous Walter Rohrl, who was driving in Group B (World Rally Championship) during the 1980’s, which was the most dangerous competition in the world. You can also see him climbing Pikes Peak with highly tuned Peugeot 405 Coupe.

    Back to 918 Spyder – the car is powered by a 4.6 liter V8 engine and two electric motors. The combined power 770HP (566 kW). 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

    The car is fitted with street-legal tires and had the optional Weissach Package which will be offered for the production model.

    Röhrl commented that the 918 Spyder is easier to take to the limit in comparison to the astonishing Carrera GT.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URA15FCZHBM

    Source: Porsche

  • The Unexpected Ones: Jeremy Lin and the Volvo XC60

    jeremy-lin-volvo-THUMBVolvo is currently airing a national TV commercial which puts emphasis on the values that drove Lin towards his success. The relation is the commitment and values that make Volvo a unique luxury brand with an unmatched legacy of safety leadership.

    The 30-second commercial carries the name “The Unexpected Ones”. In the spot, Lin is seen leaving a celebrity event in a Volvo XC60. To be more precise this is the model that got 5-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, which makes it the only European SUV with so high rating.

    In the video below you’ll see how this incredible Volvo SUV is standing out in passion red among a procession of dull, black limos. Lin at first puts on the left turn indicator then unexpectedly activates the right turn indicator instead and drives away from the crowd.

    Lin, who is a Harvard grad, is expected to help Volvo expand its reach in emerging markets and with younger customers. The bran has recently announced a two-year, global endorsement deal, which focuses on markets in China, the United States and other countries in Asia.

    httpv://youtu.be/X9ebc-wKoZk

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Volvo

  • Petrolicious: When Outrageous Was Possible

    Petrolicious-THUMBThe new project Petrolicious is gaining more popularity because the crew is working hard to deliver to all fans of vintage cars excellent footages of some of the rarest model. Such one is Lamborghini Countach, the story of which you can hear in the first seconds of the video below.

    This model of Lamborghini debuted back in the distant 1971 and as the owner James Chen admits it was an “outrageous” car. Because it is not very organic, and in fact it has origami-like forms, it looks very aggressively on the road.

    Back in those years the art form known as coachbuilding existed. Back then, the coach builder did not have to compromise his vision due to government regulations. And this is how the Lamborghini Countach was born.

    If you are curious to want more about this Lamborghini and to know the true meaning of the word “exotic” then what you need to do is to take a look on this exciting footage:

    httpv://vimeo.com/50406912

    Video Source: Vimeo

    Source: Petrolicious