Auto News – Page 788 – Automobiles Review

2013 Mazda CX-9 Debuts at Australian International Motor Show

2013 Mazda CX-9 is being given the core elements of the new design philosophy of the brand, named KODO design. The SUV is to be revealed at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show on 18th of October this year.

The new Mazda model is a crossover sport-utility SUV including a distinctive sporty appearance, a high-quality cabin, the flexibility of three-rows, and Mazda’s exciting “Zoom-Zoom” driving dynamics.

Furthermore, the new 2013 Mazda CX-9 retains the great utility and dynamics of the current model, but incorporates the new “KODO – Soul of Motion” design theme at the front and rear. This of course contributes to sportier styling and stronger presence.

Many improvements have been done onto the new CX-9. The craftsmanship in the interior design expands further the feeling of quality and refinement. In addition to this, the passengers and the driver will benefit from wide range of standard equipment such as a new infotainment system.

It includes the latest audio, navigation and speech-recognition systems based on the Human Machine Interface (HMI). Moreover, advanced active-safety features, such as Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and High Beam Control System, help drivers recognize and avoid danger.

What is more, the new crossover will draw its power from the MZI 3.7-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle will also adopt the full range of SKYACTIV technologies. In fact, this is the first model to be equipped with Mazda’s unique brake energy regeneration system, called i-ELOOP.

Source: Mazda

September 18, 2012

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept to be Revealed in Paris

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept is the newest addition to Mercedes-Benz‘s family of electric vehicles. It is going to make its first world appearance at the Paris Motor Show, showing that it is a battery-powered electric variant of the B-Class.

Being in just a concept stage of development, this vehicle is one of the first models to incorporate the term “Electric Drive” into its model designation. In future, the lettering will adorn the boot lids of all battery-powered electric passenger cars from the brand.

B-Class Electric Drive offers comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The difference with the common B-Class is the so-called Energy Space in the floor. It is positioned in front of the rear axle and ensures that the concept vehicle offers the same amount of space inside.

In addition to this, the Energy Space ensures safe and space-saving means of accommodating the powerful lithium-ion battery. The latter also has a beneficial effect on the vehicle’s centre of gravity.

In particular the car is equipped with a 100 kW electric motor whose powerful 310 Newton meters of torque provide for attractive driving dynamics over a range of 200 kilometres. The battery can be charged at any standard domestic 230 V power outlet or at a 400 V high-voltage terminal.

The family-friendly electric car is nearly ready for series production, with the market launch already planned for 2014. The Paris Motor Show will also feature the world premieres of the production versions of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive and the smart BRABUS electric drive.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 18, 2012

Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid – 4.2 l/100 km and 109 g/km of CO2

Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has been put on a challenge in order to test the theory in the real-world. The very first example of the car to arrive in the UK set out on an economy run – with a twist – to prove that driving fun and efficiency can be combined. The stated data is sensational – 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph). What is more, the big family saloon can achieve a fuel consumption of just 4.2 liters per 100 km with emission of 109 g/km of CO2.

First, driving duties were handed over to ex-rally driver Mick Linford. Next, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID started its economy run in the unlikely surroundings of the main runway at Newquay Cornwall Airport – the most southern active airport in mainland Britain. Here the car accelerated from rest to 62 mph in a little over seven seconds before achieving a peak speed of 136 mph.

The car was then driven entirely normally the 830-miles north to its counterpart in Scotland – Wick Airport – the most northern airport in mainland Britain. Over the course of the two-day journey it encountered real-world driving conditions, including heavy traffic, diversions and challenging weather.

On arrival at Wick Airport the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID achieved a maximum speed of 120 mph down the runway, which was 911 metres shorter than at Newquay.

The engineering team behind the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID aimed to strike a balance between delivering everyday economy and performance, when required. Over a distance of 830-miles and two days, the car achieved a peak speed of 136 mph. It returned economy of 67.3 mpg.

The entire trip was carried out on a single tank of fuel – of which a quarter remained on its arrival in Wick. Had the car carried on driving it would have achieved a theoretical range in excess of 1,100-miles.

This extraordinary economy is made possible through a hybrid system linked to the efficient four-cylinder diesel engine – an electric motor is mounted within the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The gearbox substitutes a torque converter for a wet clutch system, therefore allowing for the internal combustion engine to be disengaged entirely via the clutch and for electric-only drive to be maintained for short periods, boosting economy. The system is intricately packaged within the vehicle so as not to impact on the load capacity of the E-Class in any way.

The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is now available on the market in both saloon and estate models. Prices start at £39,645 OTR for the saloon and £41,435 OTR for the estate.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 17, 2012

Lexus LF-CC Concept at the Paris Motor Show

After the unveiling of Lexus‘ award-winning hybrid 2+2 sports coupe concept, the LF-LC at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show and its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show, a new, mid-sized coupe concept, the LF-CC makes its World Premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The manufacturer is actually trying to take a huge part of the market with its innovative and interesting model.

The more compact, rear-wheel drive, full hybrid LF-CC already integrates various design cues from the LF-LC; a first illustration of how concept cars are truly influencing future Lexus models and, in this instance, future D-Segment derivatives.

Announcing the launch of a premium mid-sized coupe in the more accessible D-segment in the near future, the LF-CC reinforces Lexus‘ commitment to create more engaging, inspirational vehicles through attractive design, a superior driving experience and advanced technologies.

The exterior is just spectacular. It boasts the signature Lexus ‘spindle’ grille, which is framed by the bonnet lip, deep lower spoiler and powerfully projecting front fender tips. A unique, 3 LED-projector headlamp design is housed in the narrow gap between the lower and upper fender surfaces, without a conventional, one-piece cover. Independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are fully integrated into the upper bumper surface to complete this unique new design.

The interior is also exceptional. There are two distinct zones of the dashboard called “Display Zone” and “Operation Zone”.

The first one has a multi-display screen installed on the upper side while below the second zone provides access to the shift lever and also for the touch tracer display for the remote system control.

Representing a new Lexus powertrain for future production, the LF-CC is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient, 2.5 litre full hybrid powertrain delivering a combination of the engaging performance appropriate to a sporting, D-segment coupe and low CO2 emissions, targeted below 100 g/km. This powertrain will achieve class-leading energy efficiency, with more than 2 hp produced per gram of CO2.

This Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain features an all-new, ultra-smooth running, 2.5 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor.

Adapted specifically for the hybrid powertrain, the all-new 2.5 litre, DOHC, 4-cylinder petrol engine benefits from several technical improvements. It adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise both the power and fuel-efficiency benefits of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Lexus will introduce this new hybrid powertrain into its model range in the near future.

Source: Lexus

September 17, 2012

Citroen DS3 Electrum Concept at the Paris Motor Show

Citroen is going to present the new DS3 Electrum Concept at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The technology used on the ‘plugged-in’ and ‘electrifying’ DS3 Electrum city car ensures performance consistent with the current DS3 together with zero emissions, a range of up to 75miles (120 km) and optimum on-board comfort with zero noise. Fully respecting the spirit of DS3, the Electrum concept shows that a full-electric car can be a thrill to drive and that being environmentally considerate doesn’t have to be boring.

DS3 Electrum’s electric drivetrain has an innovative and non-intrusive design. It has two 65kW electric motors on the front axle. This development makes it possible to ‘electrify’ existing internal-combustion vehicles. DS3 Electrum also includes a Panasonic 17.5kWh lithium-ion battery and a charging socket located under the fuel flap for connecting to quick charging stations. An 80% charge can be achieved in just 30 minutes.

Still, there are no pictures of the vehicle, so we expect the official premiere at this year’s Paris Motor Show to take a glimpse to the interesting vehicle.

Stay tuned!

Source: Citroen

September 17, 2012

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door to Debut in Paris

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door is set to debut at this year’s Paris Motor Show in the end of the month. The new generation i30 is the third member of the i30 family, which up until now consisted only of its siblings – the five-door hatchback and the Tourer.

What’s different here is that the three doors give this Hyundai more sporty styling. The exterior of course incorporating Hyundai’s “fluidic sculpture” and shows sharply-raked beltline, more angular glasshouse silhouette and longer front doors. All this gives more dynamic profile.

What’s new here is the black-finished mesh insert and central bar, which accentuate the hexagonal grille, now flanked by new, sportier fog lamp clusters consisting of the spots connected to LED daytime running light strips. The same design approach is continued in the clusters, and the front-end design is completed by a newly-profiled lower bumper.

At the rear, one can see an updated lower bumper area with new horizontal, sculpted fog lamps. They contrast the upright units of the five-door. These lights combined with the new black insert at the bottom of the bumper create the impression of a wider, sportier rear design. Exclusive 16-inch alloy wheels complete the visual appearance.

In addition to this the new i30 includes a wide range of standard equipment. The ride and handling were updated as well, and in addition to this the settings of the FLEX STEER system will help them change the steering assistance depending on their preference and prevailing conditions.

More importantly, the new generation i30 is offered with a choice of four engines and five power outputs, mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. At the top of the powertrain range is the ‘U-II’ 1.6-litre diesel engine, generating 128 hp (94 kW).

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door will be officially unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show on 27th of September.

Source: Hyundai

September 17, 2012

Dodge Charger Pursuit Equipped with Advanced All-Wheel-Drive System

2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit will now offer an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. The system includes a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system. This helps in improving the balance performance and fuel economy.

This special edition of Dodge will meet all police pursuit durability cycle set for RWD models. This in fact ensures that the car can reliably handle the extreme conditions seen in police use.

Charger Pursuit includes two high-performance engines which deliver great levels of power, refinement, technology and fuel efficiency. Equipped with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine it generates 370 horsepower (272kW), 390 lb.-ft. (528 Nm) of torque.

This basically results in acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds and up to 25 highway mpg thanks to the innovative four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology.

In addition, the car has a superior ride and handling. It includes the second-generation large car rear-wheel-drive architecture with performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling NIVOMAT shocks, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

In fact, the Dodge was developed with the guidance of the brand’s Police Advisory Board. Therefore it is no surprise that it includes a mobile-command interior with unique features such as Vehicle Systems Interface Module for easy equipment integration, heavy-duty police-duty front seats and column-mounted shifter with Auto Stick.

In terms of safety and security, the Charger offers uncompromised equipment, which features the following: standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers and driver’s knee bag.

At last, the Dodge Charger Pursuit can also be equipped with Mopar’s police equipment packages as a standard. Police fleet customers will be able to start ordering the new model featuring AWD for the 2014 model year.

Source: Dodge

September 17, 2012

2013 Buick Enclave Priced at $39 270

2013 Buick Enclave is going to offer its new customers modern luxury style and advanced technology. The vehicle got upgraded with new styling, more standard equipment, added safety technologies and IntelliLink connectivity.

The new Buick is being offered in three different equipment groups. They all include wide range of standard content including a seven-inch Color Touch radio with IntelliLink, high-intensity discharge headlamps, Rear Parking Assist, a Rear Vision Camera, remote start, a power liftgate, front-center air bag other luxury features.

When purchased the Enclave with the Leather Group, the customer gets additionally the following equipment: leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, memory seat settings and Side Blind Zone Alert with Cross Traffic Alert.

Next, the Premium Group includes all standard and leather group equipment, but also adds the following: 19-inch chrome clad wheels, articulating headlamps, a Bose premium audio system, cooled front seats, power-folding side mirrors and a power tilting/telescoping steering column.

As an option, the 7- or 8-passenger SUV can be equipped with all-wheel drive, navigation and a trailering package. In addition to this the new LED daytime running lamps and LED-accented taillights add design and technology to the exterior, while new ambient interior lighting adds a cool Ice Blue glow to the cabin.

For smoother ride and improved handling, there were added dual-flow dampers at the front of the vehicle. They control the suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions.

The starting price of the 2013 Buick Enclave is $39 270.

Source: GM

September 17, 2012

2013 Smart Forstars makes world premiere at Paris Motor Show

The exclusive and indescribably beautiful 2013 Smart ForStars is going to make its first world appearance in Paris later this month. The electrically driven vehicle is a coupé with room for two people and plenty of storage space.

But why it carries this new name? It is because the newly developed glass roof above the passengers that gives a clear view of the starry sky. At the same time it hints at the integration of a video projector in the front bonnet.

The colour of the expressive coupé is painted in the “alubeam rouge” color. This creates an outstanding contrast to the matt metallic titanium colou of the tridion safety cell. Furthermore the 60 kW magneto-electric motor delivered by smart BRABUS electric drive makes the zero-emission smart forstars agile and lively. The new Smart model also retains the compact dimensions which are typical for the brand; it is exactly 3550/1710/1505 mm in length/width/height.

The wide range of technologies is also featured in the car. The media player of the projector integrated in the front bonnet is operated via Bluetooth® from an iPhone®. A high-quality sound system with additional loudspeakers in the ventilation openings behind the doors enables the drive-in cinema experience.

It is obvious that the new Smart model has striking new appearance and in fact its silhouette offers a look at brand’s future design philosophy. The rhombic design of the front and rear lamps is grabs the attention immediately.

A newly created detail is the “eyebrows” with new U-shaped look above the front headlamps. The charging socket for the high-voltage battery is found inside the right-hand tail light, whilst the left-hand one has space for a beverage can.

One of the most striking design features here is the glass roof above the passengers’ heads. It joins seamlessly with the glass cover over the cargo area which opens upwards.

Shiny black trims that continue below the side skirts draw the attention to the wheel cutouts. The new vehicle runs on Michelin sports tyres in 245/35 ZR 21 size.

And if one takes the look at the interior, one should have the feeling as if they are in a spaceshoip from the future. Sleek, taut surfaces in mother-of-pearl white combined with precisely designed technical functional elements in brushed aluminium are all around the cabin. The “alubeam rouge” creates the link with the exterior.

Very stylish and functional, Smart ForStars has seat shells, which are open in the middle and are covered with a soft fabric throw giving them a hammock-like seating feel. The graphic elements and different red tones of the covers show a progression and thus underline the dynamism and the very trendy aspect of the vehicle.

The seats are wrapped with high-quality white bag leather with exquisite white piping. Another sophisticated contrast here is the featured perforated leather in the door paneling.

Undeniably, the cockpit boasts aerodynamic styling. The control and display elements are oriented to the driver. An interesting element is that the two-spoke steering wheel is open at the top.

The rear-view mirror is replaced by a smartphone. It is placed in a holder at the top of the windscreen. The driver can see the road condition behind with the help of an integrated video camera. The smartphone also serves as a media source and controls the projector.

At last but not least, the new 2013 Start ForStars Electric drive brings more driving excitement to a new level and moreover has a zero local emissions. The electric drive of the car is based on the innovative drive concept of the smart fortwo BRABUS electric drive.

The output of the magneto-electric motor here has been increased to 82 kW (60 kW). With 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque it boasts powerful, lag-free acceleration, agility and driving excitement. The vehicle has a top speed of around 80 mph and the lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 17.6 kWh.

Source: Smart

September 15, 2012

2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept to Make Official Debut in Paris

2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept is the limited edition model of the popular Audi SUV. The vehicle will make its official first appearance in Paris later this month and is envisioned only as a limited 50-car production run.

Furthermore, the Sq5 is equipped with 3.0-litre bi-turbo TDI engine, which generates 313 hp (230 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) between 1,450 and 2,800rpm. This means that the Audi model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds on its way to the top speed of 155mph.

In fact, the Audi SQ5 TDI is the new top model in the Q5 model series and also the first S model in the history of Audi with a diesel engine.

In addition to this, the performance SUV will showcase new design features in the interior and an exclusive exterior finish as a limited production run. As you can see this exclusive concept is colored in stunning Aral Blue crystal effect shade, which conveys feeling of depth.

The exterior mirrors here are in aluminium look, and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights come as a standard. The four exhaust tailpipes dominate the rear of the vehicle.

On the other hand, the interior of the SQ5 TDI Audi is equipped with leather multifunction sports steering wheel, gear lever gaiter in black Fine Nappa leather with accents of contrasting stitching in snow white, black sport seats covered in Fine Nappa leather with contrasting stitching in snow white and black, and woven leather in the centre section of the seats.

In addition to that the designers have also added finished in snow white Alcantara headlining, blind for the sunroof and inlays, and applications in the doors. At last, the open-pored veneer has been specifically treated in order to bring the attention at the grain. The door trims and the entry sills carry Audi exclusive badges.

The starting price of the new limited edition 2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept is €92 000.

Source: Audi

September 15, 2012

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet Brings More Driving Excitement

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet is the latest “air-cooled” 911 equipped with its familiar flat-six soundtrack. In addition, the featured Gemballa GT package compliments the excitement on the driving experience.

At the core of this tuning is of course Gemballa’s GT aerodynamic package. The transformation here begins with new, front bumper/spoiler section with three large cooling air intakes, and large lip spoilers. This results in more stabilizing downforce at speed.

The connection between the new front and the rear is emphasized through the organic lines of the front spoiler, which extend into the deep side skirts of the Porsche. The new rear bumper/valance includes a recessed panel. It has a strong top and bottom horizontal lines, which visually put emphasis to the width of the car.

Other exclusive features contributing to the new visual appearance of the car is the upright reflector lights, which are positioned at each end of the panel and give a functional meaning to its extremities. In fact the new composition gives the Porsche more three-dimensional stance.

A diffuser here sits between Gemballa’s stainless steel exhaust system made from stainless steel. The latter has a deep voice thanks to its valve-operated sound control feature and gives the car the soundtrack to match its looks.

All of the featured in the package aerodynamic components are made from top grade carbon-fibre. However, no additional upgrade was made on the motor. Still, even with the standard motor, the Cabriolet is faster from point to point thanks to the improved sports suspension and brakes.

The 30mm shorter springs are calibrated in order to operate with the factory PASM (Porsche electronic damping control system), while the brake system is highly resistant to fade and allows to set later braking points.

At last, this car runs on GForged-one alloy wheels with their choice of “diamond cut” or “gunmetal” finishes in the eye-catching 21-inch diameter size. Thanks to modern forged, lightweight construction, they weigh less than the factory 20-inch wheels, whci results in improved ride and handling.

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet Details:

Displacement: 3,800 cc
Power: 400 hp at 7,400rpm
Maximum torque: 440 Nm at 5600rpm
V Max: 301 km/h (299 km/h with PDK)
0-100 km/h: 4.7 s (4.5 s with PDK)
Elasticity (80-120 km/h): 6.2 s
Car body: GEMBALLA GT aerodynamic package
Exhaust system: GEMBALLA sport exhaust system with valve control (choice between three or two tailpipes)
Brakes: GEMBALLA high performance brake system (by Brembo)
Wheels: 21-inch “GForged-one” -one-piece forged alloy in diamond cut or gunmetal finish.
Tyre size: (f) 245/30ZR21, (r) 305/25ZR21 (GEMBALLA recommends Michelin tyres)

Source: Gemballa

September 15, 2012

Kahn LE Range Rover Sport 3.0 SDV6 RSE

If you want to experience driving a uniquely styled vehicle: A Kahn Design’s latest innovation features a seductive mix of triple pearl white livery and invigorating performance.

Having successfully passed rigorous tests at Kahn Design H.Q, the Kahn LE Range Rover Sport 3.0 SDV6 RSE boasts an imperious driving position which would not look out of place in L.A, London or Shanghai.

Featuring the kind of treatment that makes A Kahn Design’s bespoke vehicles a favourite amongst discerning clients; the Kahn LE Range Rover Sport looks immaculate.

Ensuring the Range Rover’s already flawless lines continue: an aerodynamic kit consists the extended front lower lip spoiler, front bumper A-frame in matt pearl grey, front wheel arch led strips, RS front grille surround insert in carbon, RS front grille with 3D mesh, RS vented front wheel arches with integrated front and rear air dams, brake calipers finished in liquid gold, carbon tailgate trim, door handles in matt pearl grey, exhaust side vents, anti reflective privacy tinted glass, Kahn branding and a quad oval exhaust system all draw you in like a guiding light.

Inside is the ‘bespoke touch’, and this particular vehicle is available with an RS style diamond quilted, perforated leather interior with carbon inserts and contrast silver stitch, centre glove box (diamond quilted with carbon stripe), clock bezel surround finished with Swarovski diamonds, diamond gear selector, floor mats (black charcoal finish), Kahn illuminated door entry sill plates in stainless steel, speedo & rev counter facia in silver, vented foot pedals in machined aluminum, churchill time clock facia in silver, dashboard cross stitching and door panel tops in quilted and perforated leather with silver stitching.

Inside is the ‘bespoke touch’, this particular vehicle comes with an RS leather interior in black with grey insert panels, quilted glove box, door tops and instrumental binnacle, blue and yellow speedo and rev counter, blue time clock with black Swarovski bezel, Kahn billet steering wheel finished with grey top and bottom sections.

However, we always provide our customers with what they want. And Afzal Kahn could, for example, design for you a vehicle with an exterior the colour of your jeans and an interior with seats akin to the shade of, let’s say, a grey t-shirt. Customers could also change the colour of the clock, or ask for anything else, the world is their oyster, so to speak.
Kahn wheels sit perfectly, on any vehicle, conveying the essence of the vehicle’s identity.

Created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology, the Kahn RS 600 wheels are available in 22″ and finished in matt pearl grey. With simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces on the edge of the spoke and a purposeful mechanical centre, the RS-R wheels are synonymous with elegance and innovation.

A. Kahn Design is for the individual who will not submit to a life of uniformity and who will only accept perfection. Dedicated to the creation of luxury bespoke vehicles, we redesign the ordered monotony of mass produced vehicles and rebuild them into individually tailored creations.

Source: Kahn Design

September 14, 2012

Category: Auto News