Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Buick Encore – Pricing Announced

    2013-buick-encore-Thumb2013 Buick Encore Luxury Crossover will be available at dealerships in the first quarter of the next year with a starting price of $24 950. Some of the standard features include QuietTuning with Bose Active Noise Cancellation, 18-inch wheels, a rearview camera and a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color display radio with IntelliLink connectivity.

    In addition, four trim levels of this Buick crossover will be offered. The base model will be equipped as standard with all of the features listed above. The next version, named Convenience Group, will add dual-zone climate control, a 120-volt outlet, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote start and fog lights.

    Next, the Encore with the Leather Group will add further leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power passenger seat and driver’s seat memory functions.

    The top of the trim levels is the Premium Group, which features all content from the Leather and Convenience Packages, along with front and rear park assist, Forward Collision Alert with Lane Departure Warning, a seven-speaker Bose premium audio system with a subwoofer, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a cargo net and area cargo mat.

    Furthermore, there is also optional equipment, which includes the following: Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, All-Wheel Drive, 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, sunroof and Bose premium audio system.

    At last to be highlighted is that Encore is promised to be the most fuel-efficient crossover produced by Buick, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for front-drive models.

    Source: Buick

  • Kahn Porsche 911 with Wide Body Styling Package is Coming Soon

    Kahn-Porsche-911-Wide-Body-THUMBKahn-Porsche-911-Wide-BodyKahn Porsche 911 is going t be equipped with Kahn’s unique Wide Body Styling Package. The car vehicle is not ready yet, but the designer promises it is set to be revealed very soon.

    This Porsche model is definitely a car which has left its imprint on the automotive world. However, the aim of the tuners is to deliver more evolved version of the current one and to excite more Porsche enthusiasts. And they definitely will!

    Afzal Kahn himself said that the car will retain its classic look but will add more adventurous spirit: “We believe all Porsche 911’s and 991’s should look like this,” he adds.

    Kahn Porsche 911 Wide Body is set to release in the coming weeks ahead. Then we are to be delighted to see the car equipped with a wide arch kit including front and rear wide track arches, front and rear sections, the Kahn cross hair exhaust system and the unique paint job.

    Of course, a tuning that carries the name Kahn, cannot go without the transformation of the interior. Inside will be of course the bespoke touch, but no other details are left in secret for now.

    In addition, the 911 will run on Kahn Monza wheels, perfectly conveying its essence. With simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces on the edge of the spoke and a purposeful mechanical centre, the Monza wheels are synonymous with elegance and innovation.

    What’s left is only to add that we are eagerly looking forward to the completion and release of this project!

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    Source: A.Kahn Design

  • SR Auto Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG – Project Cyphur

    SR Auto Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Project Cyphur is a unique vision of how a wagon should look like. In fact this long bodied machine has been transformed into a high powered heavy Mercedes-Benz.

    The tuners from SR Auto have done a lot of exquisite work on the E63. The exterior, for instance, been upgraded with the help of carbon fiber. In particular, the front bumper includes a full carbon fiber Brabus front lip, along side with a pair of carbon fiber Brabus air vents.

    Furthermore, the front fenders were replaced with a set of two piece Brabus ones. The fenders have a built in carbon fiber vent, as well as signature LED Brabus side markers. At the rear the Brabus theme continues with carbon fiber diffuser.

    Of course, given that these tuning group works closely with PUR Wheels, it is no surprise then on what exactly this machine runs. Namely, it sits on the Design 6IX Depth in “Rose Gold” wheels.

    Source: SR Auto Group

  • Lamborghini Murcielago LP2000-2 SV Twin Turbo [video]

    Here is one of the most powerful street legal vehicles in the world – a staggering twin-turbocharged Lamborghini Murcielago. As you know, the number behind the model in Lambo range means amount of HP and this is LP2000-2. That’s right, it has over two thousand horsepower at the rear wheels, which is bad… very bad. There is not chance to put this amount of power on the asphalt, but who cares?

    The upgrades are countless, but some of the most interesting are a custom throttle body, a custom 12-inch exhaust system, custom billet aluminum plenum, 5” cold air intakes, as well as a custom Garrett GTX-4294 twin-turbo conversion.

    The conversion is made by Covert Tuning Dynamics and took more than 3,000 hours of build time, along with no less than four years of R&D.

    Other upgrades include a strut brace, six point roll-cage, custom sound system, custom battery, intercooler and NASA heat shielding. We are curious, what exactly is that, but probably nobody will tell…

    The exterior features nice satin and matt finish and some carbon elements – side mirrors, carbon fuel door and brakes. The tuned Mucielago stands on a set of ADV.1 wheels. There were also some weight reduction, which is significant – 250 kg (550 lbs) less than the factory version of the car.

    In other words, this is a fantastic car, but useless on the roads.

    Check out the video, where you will see a lot talking and no action, just like the car itself.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bb23xqGbm40

    Source: DoctaM3 via Youtube

  • Brabus 2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

    Brabus don’t waste their time, at all. Here is their latest project based on the newest generation of Mercedes-Benz A-Class MY2013. The small car is going to get a full styling program turning it into a real eye-catcher. The premium hatchback will also receive some performance, but the tuning company is not ready with the testing, yet.

    The exterior boasts a lowered sports suspension and a set of new big Brabus 19” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    Brabus will develop a complete aerodynamics package, additional wheel choices, a custom sports exhaust system and interior upgrades, so stay tuned and do not miss this hot hatchback.

    The A-Class is equipped with powerful engines ranging from 109HP (80kW) to 211HP (155 kW), so we expect the most powerful Brabus version of it to be over 300HP.

    Source: Brabus

  • Peugeot 208 Type R5 Teased

    Peugeot-208-Type-R5-THUMBPeugeot-208-Type-R5-651Peugeot 208 Type R5 is a true “competition wildcat”. It will make its world debut in Paris later this month, which means that we have to be satisfied with the teaser image that has just leaked.

    In fact the 208 Type R5 is set to compete in its first rallies and then go on sale in the second half of the next year. The new Peugeot will benefit from all the expertise and experience of Peugeot Sport.

    It has been announced already that the sportscar will be equipped with four-wheel drive, five-speed sequential gearbox, no central differential and long travel suspension. In addition it comes with widened tracks, a spoiler, and increased wheel arches of 18 inch. The weight of the car is 1200 kg for the gravel (loose-surface), the asphalt (tarmac) and for the WRC versions.

    The engine here is the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit. Moreover, the 208 Type R5 adopts the EP6 CDT as standard. The engine develops exactly 280 hp (205 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 Nm (294 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm

    The price for the ‘R5s’ begins at €180 000. A 208 Type R5 video and photos will be officially revealed on 27th September 2012.

    208 Peugeot Type R5 Technical Specifications:

    ENGINE
    Type EP6 CDT
    Location Transverse Front
    Capacity 1598 cc
    Number of cylinders 4
    Power (bhp.DIN) 280 hp at 6,000rpm
    Torque (Nm) 400 Nm at 2,500rpm
    Max engine speed 7,500rpm
    Injection Magneti Marelli High Pressure Direct
    Intake Single throttle
    Number of valves 16
    TRANSMISSION
    Mode Four-wheel drive
    Clutch Dual disc
    Gearbox Five-speed with sequential control
    Differential Two self-locking differentials
    CHASSIS
    Structure and materials Shell + Tubular roll-over bar
    Front suspension Pseudo MacPherson
    Rear suspension Pseudo MacPherson
    BRAKES / STEERING
    Front brakes Alcon 4 pistons
    Diameter 300 (gravel) 355 (asphalt)
    Rear brakes Alcon 4 pistons
    Diameter 300 (gravel) 355 (asphalt)
    Steering Direct with hydraulic assistance
    Wheels Aluminium monoblock 8″x18” (asphalt) / 7″x15″ (gravel)
    Asphalt wheels 225x40x18
    Loose surface/gravel wheels 215x65x15
    DIMENSIONS
    Length 3,962mm
    Width 1,820mm
    Wheelbase 2,560mm
    Minimum weight 1,200 kg (asphalt & gravel)

    Source: Peugeot

  • Jaguar F-Type Finally Leaked!

    Jaguar-F-Type-THUMBThe first image of the strongly anticipated Jaguar F-Type has just leaked! As it was expected it is now obvious the visual resemblance between this model and the C-X16 Concept. The photograph of the new F-Type model was originally published in photographers’ Chris Doane Facebook profile.

    Expected technical specifications of the car however aren’t announced. However, it is also not a secret that they will be very similar to those of afore mentioned concept by Jaguar. In addition, in contrast to the latter, the F-Type will be available as an open top only.

    It is rumored that the F-Type will be available in two variants, one which generates 340 hp (250 kW) or 380 hp (280 kW). Both figures are coming from Jaguar’s all-new 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine. Then, there will be the derivative of the exciting supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. Stop/Start system is expected as well.

    More detailed information around this unique vehicle is to come around the 2012 Paris Auto Show, where it will make its first official world appearance. So stay tuned!

    News and Picture Source: motorauthority.com

  • 2013 Audi A3 Sportback – €22,500

    Audi has released full details about the new 2013 A3 Sportback. The compact five-door model with the spacious luggage compartment breaks new ground in terms of vehicle weight thanks to ultra-lightweight construction technology. The engines are powerful and efficient. The infotainment and driver assistance systems available in the new A3 Sportback set new standards in the premium compact segment.

    The new Audi A3 Sportback is long and lean – length 4,310 mm, width 1,780 mm and height 1,425 mm. This  are only slightly greater than on the previous model, the wheelbase now measures 2,636 mm (8.65 ft), an increase of 58 millimeters (2.28 in). This makes the five-door model 35 mm (1.38 in) longer between the axles than the three-door version.

    As a result of these dimensions, the passengers get some more legroom, a boot space of 380 liters and 1220 liters, when rear seats folded down.

    The design with the three side windows is taut and concentrated, with every detail precise and expressive. The distinguishing element at the front of the vehicle is the distinctive, stone gray single-frame grille with the angled upper corners. The lower edges of the flat headlights taper off at an angle. Audi offers optional xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, with LED headlights to follow somewhat later. Large air intakes up front hint at the power of the engines.

    The new A3 Sportbck is coming with a choice of one TDI and two TFSI engines.

    The 1.6 TDI is the most efficient engine in the model lineup. It can average just 3.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (61.90 US mpg) when paired with the manual transmission. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 99 g/km (159.33 g/mile). 0-100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 194 km/h (121 mph).

    The other more powerful diesel will be available later next year, the 2.0 TDI has 184HP (135 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 232 km/h (144 mph). The average fuel consumption is 4.3 liters per 100 km (54.70 US mpg) and 111 grams CO2 per km.

    The petrol range includes a new 1.4 TFSI – 122HP (90 kW) and 200Nm (148 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 203 km/h (126 mph). The average fuel consumption is excellent – 5.3 liters / 100 km with 123 grams of CO2/km.

    The same engine has a second more powerful version – 140HP (103 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft). It features the innovative cylinder on demand (COD) system, which deactivates the second and third cylinders at low to intermediate loads and while coasting. Average fuel consumption is 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg) with CO2 emissions are just 110 grams per. Performance is sporty, with a time of 8.4 seconds for the standard sprint (with manual transmission) and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph).

    The new 1.8 TFSI, the most powerful gasoline engine in the lineup, produces 180HP (132 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It combines FSI direct injection with indirect injection and uses the Audi valvelift system to vary valve lift as required. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head – a similar solution is also used in the two smaller TFSI engines. Key performance data with S tronic and front-wheel drive: from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.3 seconds, top speed of 232 km/h (144.16 mph) and average fuel consumption of 5.6 liters per 100 km (42.00 US mpg) corresponding to 130 grams CO2 per km.

    The 2013 Audi A3 Sportback is scheduled to hit the German market in February next year. The base model with the 1.2-liter TFSI starts at 22,500 EURO.

    Source: Audi

  • 2013 Toyota Auris at the Paris Motor Show

    Toyota has announced the new 2013 Auris. The compact family car is in C-segment and offers a wide range of capabilities. The model that has stronger styling, better dynamic performance, higher equipment levels and lower running costs than its predecessor.

    The new Auris is designed to reflect Toyota’s determination to produce cars that are more appealing to own and engaging to drive, while building on its long-established reputation for  quality, durability and reliability. It will be presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

    The exterior features LED-infused headlights, a trapezoidal intake and an aggressive rear end. The model will be available in 10 different exterior colors and can be equipped with 15”, 16” or 17” alloy wheels fitted with proper tire sizes. The colour range include: Avant-Garde Bronze, Dark Steel and Blue. Pearl White will be exclusive the new Auris Hybrid.

    The interior boasts high quality materials and nice design. There is a new three-spoke steering wheel, satin silver trim and a leather-wrapped dashboard on high level variants.

    The new front seats have longer fore and aft travel and an increase in height adjustment range. A new front sports seat design has also been introduced, with extra lateral support.

    Entry level and mid-range models feature seats with a new fabric covering; sports grade models add contrasting red panels, and on higher grade models a combination of black velour with leather bolsters is used. An Ice Grey leather option will be exclusive to Auris Hybrid.

    The engine range includes four different power units – a 1.33 liter petrol with 98HP (73 kW) and 128Nm (94 lb-ft). It averages 5.4 liters / 100 km (43.5 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 125 g/km. The bigger 1.6 liter Valvematic petrol has 130HP (97 kW) and 160Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The average fuel consumption of the 1.6 liter Valvematic is 5.9 liter per 100 km (39.9 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 138 g/km. The diesel variant is a 1.4 liter D-4D with 89HP (66 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Last is the hybrid version, which has a 1.8-liter VVT-i petrol engine and an electric motor for a combined output of 136HP (100 kW) and 142Nm (105 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). This model can go up to 2 km (1.2 miles) on electricity alone, which is superb, when you have very short city trips.

    Toyota Stop & Start technology is available with the 1.33 Dual VVT-i petrol and 1.4 D-4D diesel engines. It automatically switches the engine off when the vehicle is stopped, and provides an immediate restart with virtually no engine sound or vibration.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2013 Honda Civic Ti Limited Edition Launched in UK

    2013-Honda-Civic-Ti-Limited-Edition-THUMBThe new version of Honda Civic Ti is going to be launched as Limited Edition model in the UK. The car will include exclusive extra kit for customers which will convey sportier stance.

    This 5-door sports-inspired Honda is based on the 1.8 SE model. However, it comes with additional equipment. The exterior appearance of the car is enhanced by color coded wheel arches and unique 17-inch Team Dynamics “Le Mans” alloy wheels.

    The interior of this Civic is also complemented by extra equipment, which adds more luxurious feeling to the driving experience. One can see there leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob on top of the high specification. There are also included climate control, AUX and USB for an iPod, steering wheel audio controls, electric rear windows, Hands Free Bluetooth.

    Furthermore this limited edition will be offered in three colors: Milano Red, White Orchid Pearl and Alabaster Silver Metallic. The combination of high spec interior treatment and an exterior upgrade adds to the premium sporty style.

    2013 Honda Civic Ti Limited Edition has a starting price of £16 995 and will be produced in only 1000 examples.

    Source: Honda

  • Volvo V40 Cross Country Unveiled!

    2013-Volvo-V40-Cross-Country-THUMB2013 Volvo V40 Cross Country brings the unique blend of capable ruggedness and expressive elegance in the premium C-segment. The new Volvo model mixes class-leading driving dynamics, interior convenience and a powerful stance, impressive fuel economy and pioneering safety technology.

    Standard in this new model line-up is the Start/Stop function. Also standard is the Bluetooth hands-free communication and wireless music playing, plus City Safety auto-braking technology, pedestrian airbag and Pedestrian Detection technology.

    In fact the V40 Cross Country is the third variant of the V40 family. It includes a number of unique details such as sleek silver roof rails, alloy wheels available up to 19-inch, contrasting front bumper, honeycomb mesh grille and upright day-running lights, sculpted, contrasting sills, contrasting rear bumper with integrated skid plate. In addition, the interior of this crossover is in contrast with the Raw Copper exterior via the stitching.

    The D2 version of the V40 Cross Country has class-leading CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km. This is possible thanks to the unique 1.6-litre diesel engine which has 115 hp (85 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. The D2 unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and start/stop function.

    Furthermore, the other units featured in the line-up are the five-cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbo-diesel and the 2.0-litre D3. The first one has been optimized and hence is now more fuel efficient. It generates 177 hp (130 kW) and has torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) across a wide rpm range.

    This means that the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is possible in 7.9 seconds, when equipped with the automatic gearbox. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 64 mpg (117 g/km) with a manual gearbox and 54 mpg (137 g/km) with the automatic.

    The other engine produces 150 hp (110 kW) and has 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Both turbo-diesels can be either matched to a six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearbox.

    Furthermore V40 Cross Country includes class-leading driving dynamics the standard All-Wheel-Drive on the T5 petrol turbo model. Its five-cylinder 2.5-litre T5 engine generates 254 hp (187 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The model is available only with automatic transmission and has an acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h of 6.0 seconds. The fuel consumption here is 34 mpg.

    Another engine option is in the T4 petrol model, namely the 1.6-litre GTDi engine. It generates 180 hp (132 kW) and has a maximum torque of 270 Nm (200 lb-ft). Its fuel consumption is 51 mpg, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 129 g/km.

    Another unique feature here is the Hill Descent Control (only standard on the T5 AWD version). It controls the car’s speed automatically when driving down steep inclines. The V40 T5 AWD Cross Country also has a practical Hill Hold function which makes starting on a hill easier.

    The T5 version comes with an automatic six-speed Geartronic gearbox only, while the T4 is available with the automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The Powershift operates as two parallel manual gearboxes with separate clutches. This system provides quick and fuel-saving gear changes.

    Wide range of accessories is included as well. Some of them feature: Parcel Shelf Net that keeps smaller items secure and in order, Load Organiser that includes a load compartment divider, load belt and two floor rails, smart storage compartment below the armrest, two cup-holders and a 12V power outlet integrated in the console in front of the armrest.

    Unique feature regarding the interior is the lighting, which is designed to give a “theatre lighting experience”. Here LED lamps are utilized in order to lighten up important areas. The occupants can enjoy a red-to-blue setting that adapts the light to the interior temperature, for example. They can also choose between another seven mood themes.

    As an option, V40 Cross Country can also be equipped with a TFT digital instrument cluster. Here the driver can choose one of three modes – Elegance, Performance or Eco – depending on what information they prefer to see while driving.

    Source: Volvo

  • 2013 Shelby GT500 Super Snake – 662HP and 855Nm

    Shelby now offers the 2013 GT500 Super Snake in either a 662HP or 850HP version 2013MY GT500 Super Snake offers optional “wide body” for the first time in history.

    With a base model rated at 662HP and an optional 850HP version, the limited edition 2013 Shelby GT500 Super Snake also features new styling cues, color options and optional performance upgrades at a lower base price. Only 500 total 2013 Super Snakes will be built; the car is available as a coupe or convertible in the entire color palette offered by Ford Motor Company on the Shelby GT500.

    The special edition comes with a sport-tuned suspension, Wilwood brakes and an upgraded cooling system. The options list include 13” wide rear tire and wheel package which was featured on the Caroll Shelby Tribute car, that debuted at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

    “When Ford launched the 2013 Shelby GT500, we were bombarded with requests for Shelby American to offer a Super Snake package for the car,” said John Luft, president of Shelby American.

    “Our team worked closely with Ford Racing and other key partners to develop our new fire breathing snake. The result is the most powerful base model Super Snake ever at 662 horsepower, which is available at prices lower than previous models. By checking off a few boxes in the series of optional equipment, you can take home a street-legal 850 horsepower version that runs on pump gas.”, he added.

    The interior features embroidered headrests and floor mats and some Shelby special edition elements.

    The base version of Shelby GT500 Super Snake is powered by a 5.8 liter supercharged V8 with astonishing 662HP (494 kW) and 855Nm (631 lb-ft) of torque. The more powerful option is the same engine, but with a Whipple or Kenne Bell supercharger. The result is whopping 850HP (634 kW) and more than a 1000Nm (740 lb-ft) of torque.

    The 2013 Shelby GT500 Super Snake post-title package starts at $28,995.00 for the 662 HP version and $39,995 for the 850 HP model, not including the base car. Only 500 of these cars will be built, all at the Shelby American factory in Las Vegas.

    The Shelby GT500 Super Snake is a post-title program based on the Ford Shelby GT500. The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake post title package includes:

    • Standard base tune is 662 HP and 631 ft./lbs. of torque
    • 6-speed manual transmission with 3.31:1 rear axle ratio and short-throw shifter with optional 3.73:1
    • Upgraded suspension package
    • Shelby Performance cooling package with a new radiator, heat exchanger and aluminum cooling tanks
    • New spoked Shelby-designed 20-inch wheels and performance tires
    • Shelby / Borla exhaust system
    • Optional Shelby / Ford Racing 850 hp Whipple supercharger or 850 hp Kenne Bell supercharger
    • Forged Shelby / Wildwood brakes with 6 piston fronts and 4 piston rear calipers and cross drilled / vented rotors
    • Front brake cooling ducts and behind the door side scoops
    • Unique fiberglass hood featuring classic Shelby Super Snake design
    • Shelby signature Super Snake stripes in either matte black, matte white, silver or blue
    • “Super Snake” vehicle badges, and unique CSM number interior and engine plates
    • “Shelby” lettering across the rear deck lid
    • Optional two tone leather interior
    • Shelby signature embroidered headrests, floor mats and other Shelby designed components

    Source: Ford