Auto News – Page 790 – Automobiles Review

2013 Nissan Patrol for Australia

The all-new Nissan Patrol is a technological tour de force, even more capable, even more advanced, and even better equipped to challenge the largest and most luxurious SUVs.

It introduces a new platform, a radical design direction, significantly enhanced interior comfort and luxury, a powerful new V8 engine with exceptional driveability, a new 7-speed automatic transmission, as well as a new ALL-MODE 4×4 system.

The all-new 2013 Nissan Patrol boasts the power of an efficient and muscular 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine, driving through an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated, electronically controlled, ALL MODE 4X4 system.

Suspension is now independent all round, a departure from the rigid axles of the previous generations; yet off-road traction has been enhanced.

The all-new Nissan Patrol body is larger than before by some measure, offering sumptuously luxurious accommodation for up to eight passengers.

Even with the third row of seats occupied there remains ample space to stow a full-size cooler box in the load bay, which is accessed by via a single piece lift-up tailgate. With the second and third rows of seats folded to form an almost flat floor, more than 3100-litres of cargo space are released.

The impressive V8 power train package is available with three trim levels: ST-L, Ti and Ti-L. A raft of class-leading performance features and advanced, intelligent technologies act to transform the Nissan Patrol from utilitarian to thoroughbred.

This is the most luxurious and advanced Nissan ever offered in Australia.

Major improvements have been made in fuel efficiency, comfort, luxury, overall quality and technology, for an improved drive on- and off-road.

The new Nissan Patrol has been designed to cope with all types of terrain, and to be able to tow up to 3500 kg with ease.

The new generation V8 engine delivers 298 kW of power and 560 Nm of torque, with 90 percent, or more than 500 Nm of torque, available from just 2500 rpm.

Yet despite significantly increasing power and torque over the Y61 generation petrol model, the new V8 engine is substantially more efficient, using only 14.5-litres per 100 km (Y61 4.8-litre six-cylinder 17.2-l/100km).

The new automatic transmission offers a wider range of gear ratios giving smoother acceleration from rest, improved ride comfort, and better economy.

The new ALL MODE 4X4 drive system is controlled via a circular electronic switch cluster located behind the gear selector, allowing the driver easy mode selection for: sand, rock, snow or on-road driving, activation of the rear differential lock, VDC on/off and Hill Descent Control. The ALL MODE 4X4 controller also allows the driver to select between 4H and 4L.

The new Nissan Patrol also features Hill Start Assist and a helical limited slip differential.

A notable addition to the chassis is the arrival of Nissan’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control on suspension systems of Ti and Ti-L models. This reduces body roll in high-speed corners on sealed surfaces and maximises suspension travel in extreme off-road driving conditions.

The HBMC system’s cylinders replace traditional shock absorbers and anti-roll bars. The technology was developed for world rallying and this is the first application of the technology for the road.

The new Nissan Patrol also offers Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.

Immediately noticeable is the class-leading style and class-leading space on offer.

The new Nissan Patrol is appreciably larger in every dimension than its predecessor, and its nearest rival.

Interior accommodation has also been improved to a noticeable degree, especially for second and third row occupants who gain more leg and shoulder room.

The new Nissan Patrol features a wide array of luxury accessories and features as standard on all models, including Bluetooth hands-free phone, large format front DVD player, 2GB music server with 6 speakers, iPod connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, intelligent key access, 8-way power assisted driver’s seat, a full complement of active and passive safety systems, drive computer, dual zone climate control, front, side and curtain airbags, active front headrests, and front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera.

The Ti model adds the new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system along with leather upholstery and 4-way electric adjustment for the front passenger seat, auto headlights, sunroof and rain sensing wipers.

The top-of-the-range Ti-L adds memory function for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and door mirrors, a voluminous centre console coolbox, hard drive navigation system, premium BOSE audio with 13 speakers, dual 7-inch DVD screens in the rear of the front seat headrests, Around View Monitor, intelligent cruise control, xenon projector headlamps with auto levelling and washers, puddle lamps and a power operated tailgate. A tyre pressure monitoring system is also added along with Blind Spot Warning and a vehicle alarm.

The new Nissan Patrol is expected on sale in January 2013, priced below $85,000 for the ST-L, under $95,000 for the Ti and less than $115,000 for the Ti-L

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2012

2013 Porsche Cayenne S Diesel – €77,684

Porsche has announced that they will offer Cayenne S Diesel coming with a mighty 4.2 liter twin-turbocharged V8. This is a bold move from the German manufacturer, because most of the people, who like fast vehicles choose the petrol variants and this is not everything. The true Porsche fans also like the petrol engines, instead of diesel variants. Still, this can be an interesting combination.

The twin-turbo V8 4.2-liter engine has 382HP (284 kW) and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 252 km/h (157 mph). Porsche claims that the big SAV will actually achieve a fuel consumption of 8.3 liters per 100 km, which is extremely hard for a big AWD SAV. That means that the 100-liter fuel tank it should be able to provide a range of more than 1200 km (750 miles).

The very special character of the Cayenne S Diesel is further underlined by the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive. This system delivers the dynamic qualities of a rear-wheel drive car, together with its inherent benefits in terms of handling and precision. Torque is directed to the front wheels precisely according to the driving situation to improve stability and traction. The optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) further hones this dynamic performance.

Other standard features include a dual-zone automatic climate control, leather interior, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, 7” touchscreen display and 18” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

The price for the big toy is €77,684 in Germany – including 19% VAT.

Source: Porsche

September 12, 2012

USAF X1 Ford Mustang GT by Galpin Auto Sports

What would you think will happen when a talented tuning company joins forces with United States Air Force? I didn’t believe such union was possible, until I’ve seen the breathtaking USAF X-1 Ford Mustang GT by Galpin Auto Sports.

Yes, GAS and USAF have gathered together in order to produce something never seen before – a muscle car which has a jet-plane interior. This is in fact a modification which is worthy of acting in a movie like, isn’t it?

The ultra hi-tech USAF X1 Ford Mustang GT is destined to be even more than a super car. Just take a look at the images below and you’ll be reassured for yourself. The jet cockpit here includes single-driver ejection seat, short shifter and flight stick.

The dash on the other hand features a touch screen monitor displaying night and thermal vision. In addition, there is a concealed motorized steering wheel, custom food pedals, GPS transponder and GAS fabricated seats.

One is sure, when you enter the cockpit, you’ll definitely get the impression of a jet-like feeling. This means that the fellows from GAS have performed their work flawlessly. In short, the X-1 Mustang is a combination of form, function, and futuristic entertainment.

The super car producing the outstanding 500 hp (368 kW), thanks to its surcharged kit, 3-valve Ford Racing heads and cold air intake.

Also included in the modification and worth mentioning are the vertical doors, Wildwood super brake lights, carbon fiber rear deck, HRE Performance Wheels, Eibach Springs coil-over suspension, Watts Link rear suspension and the APR wide body kit with carbon fiber accents.

Source: Galpin Auto Sports via Facebook

September 12, 2012

Peugeot 2008 Concept Revealed

It is a big day for all fans of Peugeot, because the brand is coming out with another exciting concept – this time the Peugeot 2008 Concept. The car will in fact go in production in 2013 and it is designed to appeal to the young-minded generation who seek practicality.

The new concept is going to be unveiled in Paris later this month. Although not a big vehicle it combines agility, compactness, versatility and a striking style perfectly suitable for the city as well as for the countryside. In particular, the 2008 Concept has compact dimensions: 4.14 m long and 1.74 m wide.

Being a true Peugeot, it has all the unique design features which are emblematic for the brand. It has athletic and sleek lines and imposes bold posture. It grabs the attention immediately because it is painted fluorescent yellow with Velvet matt varnish. The car’s presence is further emphasized by its Dark Chrome details.

Furthermore, the front face of the concept is refined. The bonnet and wings give a reassuring impression of protection and strength. This perception is identical at the rear where the shape combines solidity with dynamism.

Of course a lot of attention is paid to the details. The “floating grille” has a design cut into the metal, combined with a sophisticated dual-aspect treatment following the instance of the new Peugeot emblem.

The new concept runs on large Michelin wheel. The design of their wheel arches and the ground clearance represents an active life without restraint and give a perfect sense of agility, versatility and lightweight.

More importantly, a 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine is going to give power to this Peugeot. The new generation engine perfectly fits the dynamism and power exuded by this concept car.

In particular, the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine has a turbo and direct injection. It generates power of 110 hp (81 kW) and offers low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Source: Peugeot

September 12, 2012

Peugeot Onyx Concept Unveiled Ahead of Paris [VIDEO]

The new Peugeot Onyx Concept has just leaked ahead its official debut in Paris. With its V8 engine in a central rear position, the new Peugeot concept targets the high performance vehicle fans around the globe.

The Onyx has been made from innovative materials and shows outstanding sculpture. The sharp bodywork is emphasized additionally by striking contrast of materials and colors.

For instance the wings and doors are pure copper sheet, while the panels of the bodywork are pure carbon fibre painted in matt black. The front fascia of the car combines the vertical grille and full LED lamps.

The double-bubble roof is also something impressive. At the rear, the exterior of the car is finished by the unique rear lamps, which adopt a light signature with three claws.

Furthermore, the windows and roof are made of PMMA, which stands for Poly Methyl MethAcrylate. Enclosing the cocoon, this guarantees the occupants great sense of protection due to the ultra-resistant structure.

Another highlight among the others is the chassis, which is an innovative component. Made from monolithic carbon, this central structure consists of only 12 parts. It incorporates the front and rear chassis legs, which makes it possible to eliminate the connected plates. This results in weight optimization with 100kg.

More importantly the extraordinary Peugeot concept is propelled by its 3.7-litre V8 hybrid HDi FAP engine. In particular the V8 generates 600 hp (442 kW) and it’s mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The HYbrid4 technology recovers the kinetic energy which is usually lost during braking. This energy is kept in lithium-ion batteries and then delivered automatically on acceleration, boosting the power by an additional 80 hp (59 kW).

The dimensions of the car are exactly 4.65 m in length, 2.20 m in width and 1.13 m of height. Surprisingly it weighs only 1100kg. Moreover, the great aerodynamics is complemented by the tyres especially developed by Michelin – 275/30 at the front and 345/30 at the rear, 20 inches in size.

In terms of interior this car is astonishing. The passenger compartment is bathed with natural light, from floor to roof. Made of felt, compressed and stretched, the passenger compartment is formed as a one-piece pod, with no stitching or joins.

The feeling is as is it creates a real cocoon around the occupants and fitted into the carbon structure, fulfils the functions carried out in the past by several components: soundproofing, floor, upper console, roof, bucket seats.

The material used for the compartment is obtained from boiled wool, with intertwined fibres. It is in fact fully recyclable and provides excellent thermal insulation. In addition, it improves the quality of the surrounding air by dehumidifying it.

The dashboard here is made of a new type of “wood” – Newspaper Wood. It is created with the help of used newspapers, assembled and compressed to create new “logs” from which the parts are made.

The dashboard also is the place where the driver can find the instrument panel in a head up position. On the instrument panel in turn he or she can see all the information needed such as engine and vehicle speed.

In addition, there is also a panel of aluminium toggle switches mounted in the roof, where the engine starting switch is positioned. Immediately behind this, a strip displays the images from the two rear view cameras (in the mirrors) and the third, panoramic one – in the rear capping.

The console is also made from Newspaper Wood. Here one can see one-of-a-kind fuel indicator, shaped from blown-glass. Here is where the level of fuel is displayed. At last, the console houses the dual-zone air conditioning controls, with an aluminium bar with a milled detail finish.

httpv://youtu.be/ug4auobYEn4

Source: Peugeot

September 12, 2012

Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept debuts in Paris

Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept is going to be unveiled the Paris Motor Show in the end of this month. The new concept vehicle is going to show the visitors that it is a perfect combination of an SUV and EV.

In addition it has an innovative 4×4 fuel-cell electric powertrain and an athletic exterior. This Nissan is designed as a functional and flexible choice in order to bring eco-friendliness along with a secure driving feel under any road conditions.

The new SUV comes in pack with big tyres, high belt-line, thick pillars and thin side windows. However, it also retains the slender waist and a sculptured bonnet of brands popular design philosophy.

For example, the sharp corners, short overhangs and sculptured lamps lead to a clean and confident presence. An aerodynamically flat body pan in addition is what grabs the attention immediately.

Nevertheless, the tough exterior isn’t continued as a theme in the interior. The door panel is a sculpted fusion of blond wood trim and colored acrylic, layered in an intriguing pattern.

At shoulder height one can see a metal frame. The wood-metal contrast continues across the dashboard, a beechwood-acrylic fusion that exudes soft warmth.

One of the most eye-catching features in this concept is the unique instrument cluster, which consists of electronic tablet. The latter is utilized as an “intelligent key”, which the driver docks when entering the car and removes it when leaving.

TeRRA’s driver seat is positioned almost in the centre in a unique diagonal layout. This positions the rear passengers over the shoulders of those in front, rather than directly behind.

A hexagonal motif can be seen carried through various aspects of the inteiror design. Another impressive innovation here is that when the passenger seats are folded down, the boot floor is completely flat, presenting no obstacles to carrying bikes, kayaks.

The TeRRA also is envisioned with another unique feature – a 4×4 fuel cell electric powertrain. The front wheels are powered by an electric propulsion system currently featured in the Nissan LEAF.

In each back wheel on the other hand, is an in-wheel electric motor, based on the working prototypes featured in three successive PIVO concepts. Given that no drive shafts are required to power the rear wheels, there is no hump in the floor or on the underbody.

More importantly, the concept SUV is powered by Nissan’s hydrogen fuel cell stack: a flat, highly compact unit that includes world-leading power density of 2.5kW/L. And although a purely concept car, we are definitely excited to see it as a mass-production vehicle!

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2012

2013 Audi RS5: Naturally Aspirational

Motor Trend has released a full video review of one of the best sports coupes on the market – the new 2013 Audi RS5.

It features LED-infused headlights, nice matt aluminum trim and enormous 19” forged aluminum wheels fitted with low-profile tires. There is also a new rear diffuser, a dual sports exhaust system with nice deep sound and the final touch is a carbon fiber rear spoiler.

The interior features a sports steering wheel, leather and Alcantara heated sport seats, some metallic accents and of course – carbon fiber trim.

The Audi RS 5 is delivered with an extensive set of standard extras. They include the parking system plus, driver and front passenger seat heating, automatic belt feeder, wind deflector, lighting package, driver information system with rest recommendation and a comprehensive package of restraint systems. In case of an impending roll-over accident, strong aluminum plates deploy upwards behind the rear head restraints. Sporty and luxurious options include three-stage head-level heating, convenience key, high-beam assistant, adaptive light and three-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning.

The engine is a 4.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 450HP (331 kW) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox sending all that power to Quattro AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. However, upon request, Audi can increase it to 280 km/h (174 mph).

September 11, 2012

2012 Kia Cee’d Sportswagon – UK Price £16,895

KIA has announced the new 2012 Cee’d Sportswagon, which is already available on the UK market. The price start from £16,895 OTR for the entry level model – the 1.4 CRDi with 89HP (66 kW) and 220Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. The price can go up to £24,795 for the top-of-range vehicle.

The engine range also includes 1.6 CRDi with 126HP (93 kW) and 260Nm (193 lb-ft) from only 1900rpm. Both transmissions, including the automatic offered with the 1.6-litre engine, are six-speed units, while manual-gearbox models are fitted with Kia’s Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) fuel-saving, emissions-reducing engine stop/start technology.

The 1.4 CRDi is capable of returning 67.3 mpg UK and with CO2 emissions standing at 109 g/km.

The standard equipment includes automatic lights and wipers, heated steering wheel, electronic parking brake, dual zone climate control and a 10-way adjustable driver’s memory seat. Standard safety equipment includes electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, vehicle stability management and six airbags.
As with every Kia, the new Cee’d Sportswagon comes with a fully transferable seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

UK Cee’d Sportswagon line-up:

Model	Power bhp	Torque Nm	0-60 sec	Max speed mph	Average mpg	CO₂ g/km
‘1’ 1.4 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	89	220	13.4	106	67.3	109
‘1’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	10.8	120	64.2	116
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	10.8	120	64.2	116
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed auto	126	260	11.7	115	50.4	149
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	10.8	120	64.2	116
‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	10.8	120	64.2	116
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	10.8	120	64.2	116

cee’d Sportswagon pricing

Engine	On The Road Price
‘1’ 1.4 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£16,895
‘1’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£17,695
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£19,295
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed auto	£20,395
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£21,095
‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£22,895
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	£24,795

On The Road Price includes Delivery, Number Plates, 12 months Vehicle Excise Duty and Vehicle First Registration Fee.

Metallic paint is £445 option

Insurance groups

Engine	Group (1- 50)
‘1’ 1.4 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	6
‘1’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	12
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	13
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed auto	13
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	13
‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	14
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi 6 speed manual ISG	15

Source: Kia

September 11, 2012

Nissan e-NV200 Panel Van Concept at the Hanover Motor Show

Nissan will exhibit the e-NV200 Panel Van concept at the 2012 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, Germany. The manufacturer didn’t release any certain information, about their new electric car.

However, it is likely to have an electric motor with 109HP (80 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque, and a lithium-ion battery for the charge.

The company has already announced that the new 2013 e-NV200 Panel Van will actually hit the market in the end of this year. They also claim, that it will have similar driving range to the LEAF.

Stay tuned!

Source: Nissan

September 11, 2012

Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ vs Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R

Usually we know that the motorcycles are extremely fast and especially, when matched to ordinary cars. However, the highly tuned Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ is not an ordinary car and it manages to beat a lot of superfast bikes including this brand new Kawasaki ZX-14R, which also has minor upgrades.

The GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ is running on regular 93 octane gasoline, but still has more than 1000WHP (1200+ HP). It rolls Toyo 888R tires, which hardly can get any traction at low speeds.

The Kawasaki ZX-14R comes with modified sports exhaust system boosting the engine to 220HP (195 WHP), which is also a lot, because the bike is superlight.

Still, the GT-R is way faster than the mighty ZX-14R as you will see in the video below.

Enjoy!

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

Source: Dragtimesinfo

September 11, 2012

2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman – Pricing Announced

MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is the latest model by the adored MINI brand which is receiving the badge of John Cooper Works sub-brand. This in fact is a performance model of the range and the first to come with MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive.

In addition, this model is for those who seek racing passion on the road with extreme driving fun on rough terrain. The JCW Countryman is powered by the newly developed four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 1.6-litre displacement.

In fact the latter has a maximum output of 160 kW (218 hp) and a peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft). These numbers makes the model the most powerful drive unit in the MINI model range.

Furthermore, this vehicle is designed by construction principles and with the help of materials adapted specially from race-trim cars. Thanks to the featured valvetronic technology, the car has a compelling performance and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.0 seconds.

Additionally, the engineers didn’t forget about the efficiency factor, for this purpose they have equipped the car with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology, including Brake Energy Regeneration, Gear Shift Indicator, Auto Start-Stop function and Electric Power Steering.

Six-speed manual gearbox is fitted here as standard. The six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function and steering wheel shift paddles can be optionally chosen.

The innovation here however is the MINI ALL4 permanent all-wheel drive. As a matter of fact, it makes its debut in a John Cooper Works model. In particular, the distribution of power varies seamlessly between the front and rear axles by an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive.

The car is exactly 4,133-millimetre-long, 1,789-millimetre-wide and 1,549-millimetre-tall. This means that it gets generous levels of space and seating comfort, which encourage the driver and passengers to admire the qualities of this versatile performance athlete over longer journeys as well.

The MINI is also equipped with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) linked up to ALL4 all-wheel drive. And this is as a standard!

Sophisticated chassis technology is provided of course from MacPherson in the form of struts at the front axle and a central-arm rear axle. Extra-lightweight 18-inch Twin Spoke light-alloy wheels are also to be enjoyed by the customers who opt for the standard equipment.

Moreover, the customers can choose between seven exterior paint shades. Of course, contrast paint finishes are included for the roof and exterior mirror caps in white and black. The interior has an exclusive John Cooper Works cockpit design with sports seats, sports steering wheel, interior trim strips in Piano Black, anthracite-colored roof liner and dark speedometer and rev counter dials.

2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will cost £28 595 in the UK.

Source: MINI

September 11, 2012

Vilner completes Carlsson Mercedes-Benz S500

I am always excited to announce a whenever there’s something new going on around the Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. Now, the fellows have made a major commitment in transforming three emblematic vehicles.

Namely the cars are Mercedes-Benz S500 by Carlsson, Audi S8 and Mercedes-Benz S63 by Brabus. In fact the last one is the only fully completed by Brabus Mercedes commissioned by Bulgarian.

Today, Vilner has given more details on the work done on the S500 Carlsson. More information around the other cars is expected very soon.

But to go further into details, the exceptional work on the S500 started with light touches on the back lights of the car. In addition, the front lights were further developed in order to keep the masterful presence. They are finished in matte black, black from and red accents.

Next, the tuners have given this Mercedes-Benz an alcantara roof, black shades and black alcanatra accent on the rearview mirror. The steering wheel has been also tweaked and now it looks more like one of S65.

Furthermore, they have installed a monitor on the center console and a digital TV tuner with MPEG4. The interior enhancements continue with the alcantara ceiling. In fact it was accentuated even more with black nappa leather with light gray stitching.

Source: Vilner

September 11, 2012

Category: Auto News