Auto News – Page 801 – Automobiles Review

Depth Of Speed: Something From Nothing [VIDEO]

Josh Clason form Depth of Speed had the opportunity to swing by TBC Hot Rods and Bikes in Fayetteville, NC. He not only checked out their shop, but made an excellent video about one of the most inspiring professions on Earth.

In the video below, you will find out why Tim Bradham loves his work so much, what inspires him to keep doing it, and you will eventually enjoy the view of some of the cars the shop has made so far.

Tim Bradham is a master fabricator, who creates a lot of things out of raw materials and it is amazing to see something start from nothing. And this is the secret behind the title of this video.

http://vimeo.com/47573685

Video Source: Vimeo

August 16, 2012

Tushek Renovatio T500 debuts at Salon Prive

The Slovenian super sports car Tushek Renovatio T500 will make its UK debut at Salon Privé Tour d’Elégance on 5th of September. The super car is never-seen-before and will inspire everyone lucky to see it with its lean and light appearance and technologically advancements included in it.

In fact, the Renovatio was hand-built and includes Audi-sourced 4.2-litre 444 hp (327 kW) V8 engine. This means that the acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h sis only 3.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 193mph.

The car was built from only the most advanced race-specification componentry. The Tushek’s car-making philosophy aims pure, direct, sensual driving experience and user-friendly performance and handling.

Source: Tushek Supercars

August 16, 2012

2012 SsangYong Korando Sports to be launched this autumn

2012 SsangYong Korando Sports is going to be launched in October. For the first time it was presented as a concept at international motor shows last year. Now Korando Sports is ready to bring new level of refinement to the market.

The new SsangYong model is going to combine the suspension, engine and cabin finesse of a passenger car, the silhouette, space and seating for five that’s typical of a double cab, and the rugged workmanlike ability of a commercial pick-up.

This Korando is the prefect practical vehicle which has the capability to haul up to 2.3 tonnes and yet also to be used as a family car. It meets a range of different demands from towing a work trailer or horsebox to ferrying the crew to site or the children to school.

Furthermore, the SUV will deliver its driver both great performance and economy, thanks to its e-XDi active diesel engine. This new 2 litre engine generates maximum power of 155 hp (114 kW) and has a peak torque of 360 Nm (266 lb-ft) delivered between 1,500rpm and 2,800rpm.

The fresh and modern exterior design is also a highlight here. It has a dynamic and sophisticated appearance, including a mesh grille, trapezoidal bumper and stylish black headlight bezels to provide a premium touch.

The sharp belt line runs to the rear bumper contributing to a sleek and sporty stance. The wide glass area at the rear affords excellent rearward visibility.

In terms of interior, the Korando Sports provides a spacious cabin. One can also experience there the light and airy environment thanks to the large front, side and rear windows. At the same time the careful blending of black and metallic finishes along with an LED illuminated instrument cluster give the interior design a feel of luxury and refinement.

In the model range are to be two versions. The firs one – the SX, is already comprehensively equipped, while the EX comes with the luxury touch of leather upholstery with seat warmers, powered driver’s seat, distinctive 18” alloy wheels, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors, and rear parking sensors.

In terms pf practicality this SUV offers everything that one might need. For instance, the large, flat rear deck delivers a 2.04m2 load area completed with load deck liner and anchor points. An optional rigid hard top is available to provide weather protection and security to the load area, and comes with a hinged rear window that closes behind the tailgate so that the car’s central locking secures and protects the contents.

The price of the new pick-up will be announced at its launch in October.

2012 SsangYong Korando Sports Equipment:

Mechanical: 155PS 2.0-litre active diesel engine with CDPF, Part time 4WD system, 6 speed manual transmission, Double wishbone front suspension, 5 link rear suspension, Hydraulic power steering
Seats: Woven cloth upholstery, 2nd row seats with folding centre armrest, Front tilt headrest, Height adjustable driver’s seat, Climate control, Manual air conditioning, Rear heating duct
Appearance: 16” alloy wheels with 225/75 tyres, Full size spare tyre, Chrome and black grille, Black bezel headlight surround, Tinted glass all round, Body colour exterior door handles, Waist line moulding with stainless steel insert, Roof mounted aerial
Convenience: Leather gear knob, Leather covered steering wheel, Dual Remote Keyless System (REKES), Kenwood MP3 CD & RDS Radio, USB & aux. port, 4 speakers, Bluetooth hands-free, Steering wheel mounted audio controls, Windscreen de-icer, Headlamp leveling, Trip computer, Load deck liner, Shopping bag hook, Heated rear screen with timer, Overhead console, Digital clock, Handy centre storage console, Front cup holder
Safety: Ultra-rigid frame for greater strength, less vibration and noise, Door impact beams for optimal protection from side collisions, Airbags for driver and front passenger, Seatbelt load limiters and pre-tensioners, 4-channel anti-lock braking system, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Active Roll-over Protection (ARP) and Hill Start Assist (HSA), Disc brakes on all 4 wheels, Front ventilated disc brakes, Door courtesy lamps, Front and rear fog lamps, Alarm and immobilizer system, Childproof safety locks, Speed sensitive door locks, Collapsible steering column & rake adjustable, ISOFIX and tether anchorage for baby car seat, Seatbelt reminder for driver, Safety power window on driver’s side, Visual VIN plate
Additional Equipment on EX: Leather upholstery, 8-way power driver’s seat, Heated front seats, Heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, Automatic power folding door mirrors, 18” alloy wheels with 255/60 tyres (no flange), Rear parking sensors, 6 speed automatic transmission, Electronic cruise control – included with the above option

2012 SsangYong Korando Sports Technical Specifications:

Engine				e-XDi active diesel engine
Driven Wheels				Part Time 4WD
Transmission				6MT	6AT
Dimensions	Overall length		mm	4,990
	Overall width		mm	1,910
	Overall height		mm	1,790
	Wheelbase		mm	3,060
	Overhang	Front	mm	860
		Rear	mm	1,070
	Approach angle		degree	25.0
	Departure angle		degree	25.0
	Ramp angle		degree	20.0
	Min. clearance	Front	mm	188
		Rear	mm	212
	Min. turning radius		m	6.2
Weight	Gross vehicle weight		Kg	2,740
	Kerb weight		Kg	2097	2110
	Payload		Kg	643	630
	Gross trailer weight	Braked	Kg	2,300
		Unbraked	Kg	750
Engine	Fuel		–	Diesel
	Capacity		cc	1,998
	Bore x stroke		mm	86.2 X 85.6
	Compression ratio		–	16.5 : 1
	Number of cylinder		–	In-line 4
Performance	Max. power		PS/rpm	155 / 4,000
	Max. torque		Nm/rpm	360 / 1,500 ~ 2,800
	Max. speed		mph (Km/h)	107 (171.6)	106 (170.4)
	Hill start ability		degree	22.6	30.9
Fuel Consumption	CO2 (combined)		g/km	199	212
	Combined		mpg (l/100km)	31.4 (7.5)	29.4 (8.0)
	Urban mpg		mpg (l/100km)	24.5 (9.6)	23.1 (10.2)
	Extra urban mpg		mpg (l/100km)	36.8 (6.4)	34.5 (6.8)

Source: SsangYong

August 16, 2012

Bentley Embiricos 4¼ -Litre at Crewe Factory

One of the most appealing things in the automotive world is the rare, old and iconic luxury cars, which almost have dreamt to drive. Bentley Embiricos 4¼ -Litre is undoubtedly one of them. Looking like a vehicle that has just came out of the first Batman movies, it captures the heart with effortless ease.

In fact, this Bentley is one of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world. One example of this model will make historic appearance at the marque’s home in Crewe.

The car has just participated in the Louis Vuitton ‘Serenissima Run’ in Venice and has been featured at the Le Mans Classic as part of the Bentley lineup. Now, the magnificent car takes pride of place in the Lineage Showroom at the firm’s Pyms Lane factory until September.

Going back in time, throughout the 1930’s Bentley Motors was owned by Rolls-Royce. At that moment it was producing fast, refined and well-built Grand Tourers from its Derby factory.

Back then many Bentley owners sent their chassis to traditional coachbuilders in order their car to receive elegant bodywork. However, some enthusiasts from across the Channel were eager to explore the new world of aerodynamics.

One such owner – André Embiricos, had taken the step and decided to investigate the possibility of a streamlined high-performance Bentley. The result was the most famous Bentley of the Derby era.

Georges Paulin, a designer working for coachbuilders Pourtout Carrossier was assigned to do the work around it. The effect was that Pourtout produced a strikingly sleek, aerodynamic body for a 4¼-Litre Derby Bentley that would be suitable for fast touring and track records alike.

In fact, an age-hardenable aluminium alloy was utilized in order to keep the weight down the fastback body with split rear window. This made it possible for the “Embiricos” Bentley to achieve all the criteria for a Bentley high performance grand tourer.

After the war, the Embiricos Bentley served as an inspiration for the glorious 1952 Bentley Continental R Type. In fact, you can still see the resemblance of the iconic shape of today’s Bentley Continental GT coupe.

Source: Bentley

August 16, 2012

2012 Vorsteiner Bentley Continental GT BR-10 With New Outdoor Photoshoot

2012 Vorsteiner Bentley Continental GT BR-10 is something we have seen before. However, what we haven’t witnessed yet is the new outdoor photoshoot of this one-of-a-kind Bentley. Vorsteiner has just released the newest outdoor images they have made of the Continental GT BR-10 edition.

As a reminder, the BR-10 Package comprises of 5-piece lightweight carbon fiber aerodynamic package, which is constructed with state-of-the-art pre-preg autoclave technology. The highly exclusive coupe has now more aerodynamic body than ever, and in addition it has received the Vorsteiner’s wheel package of Vorsteiner 22″ VS-130 1-piece forged aluminum wheels.

In details the Vorsteiner BR-10 components include in this project are: Carbon Fiber Front Spoiler with GT Style Chin Splitter, Carbon Fiber Full Length 2-Piece Add-on Side Skirts, Carbon Fiber Deck Lid Spoiler, Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser with Integrated Aero Fins.

Here are the latest images of the BR-10 Continental GT in its recent outdoor photoshoot.

Source: Vorsteiner

August 16, 2012

SR Auto Come up with an Acura TL

SR-Auto-Acura-TL-medium This one is worth the attention. Not because SR Auto have outdone themselves with it or something like that but because we are talking about an Acura TL – a relatively rare aftermarket favorite. Yes, it is one of the best selling cars in the US as a model, but it is essentially an overpriced Honda.

So SR Auto bought one, and then had enough money to do just a black paint job and to add PUR 4OUR DEPTH 20-inch rims in a “Gunmetal” gray finish, complemented by a gray again touch on the edges. Add a “Shadow Black” grille and some badges… oh, and suspension-lowering springs from H&R and there you go. A plain job which is actually appealing to the eye. In essence, the TL is cool and sleek, and mean and even more so with those delicate touches.

The base stock Acura TL is front-wheel driven with a power of 280 hp that comes from a 3.5-liter V6 in the engine bay. A 3.7-liter version offers 305 hp. Either way, the SH-AWD layout would be much more appreciated for the sake of handling and safety even (280 hp to the front wheels is dangerous enough already).

Source: SR Auto

August 16, 2012

Chevrolet Trax Debut at Paris

2013-Chevrolet-Trax-medium The latest Chevrolet Trax – due to debut at this year’s Paris motor show – will hopefully establish the brand in the “small SUV” niche. Mind you, to their understanding, being 4.2 meters long and 1.8 m wide is small. It’s a perfectly suitable vehicle for five, it’s high-seated and supposedly, it delivers a car-like handling on the tarmac.

The engines however (the ones for the European markets) do suggest the Trax‘s smallishness. There will be three options:

A 1.6L naturally aspirated petrol engine (not interesting enough apparently, to know the precise power output)

A 1.4L turbocharged petrol unit with 140 hp on paper. With the help of a six-speed manual, this engine transfers 200 Nm of torque to the wheels. Depending on the trim, you can also get an AWD system.

The same is true for the 1.7L doesel which produces 10 hp less but ends up with 300 Nm of torque. All powertrains that are mated to a manual (as opposed to the available six-speed automatic) also get a Start/Stop function.

Inside, a 358-liter storage space that can come in handy on a grocery run. That includes the various compartments on the sides and under the rear seats and under the cargo floor. If one is willing to spend a bit more money, you can get technological as well – Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a touch-screen display and a flexible navigation programme.

In terms of safety, the LT trim Trax offers an array of standard passive and active systems. Six-airbaxs, ESC, Hill Start and Descent Assist/Control, traction control, ABS.

The Paris motor show is due to start on the 27th of September when the world’s leading automotive companies will debut and showcase their latest products to the world. The 2013 Chevrolet Trax will hit the markets sometime in 2013.

Source: Chevrolet

August 15, 2012

FPV Ford Falcon GT RSPEC Limited Edition Series

Ford Performance Vehicles, or mainly known only as FPV, has just launched the new FPV Ford Falcon GT RSPEC Limited Edition Series. The vehicle is based on Ford Falcon GT and has been developed to deliver racetrack-inspired handling.

The limited edition FPV includes considerably recalibrated suspension package, new wider 9inch rear wheels with 275/35 R19 Dunlop Sports Maxx tyres and Launch Control.

The exterior styling of the car is undoubtedly inspired by the legendary 1969 Boss Mustang judging by its unique stripe package and paint treatment. Despite the inspiring new outlook of the car, under the bonnet the new GT RSPEC is unchanged. It stays powered by FPV’s all-aluminium ‘Miami’ BOSS 335 5.0-litre supercharged engine.

This new model was created with the aim to optimize the amazing performance of its now legendary 335kW 5.0Lt supercharged V8 engine by the means of improving the chassis’ capabilities, to deliver the ultimate driving package.

In details, what has been done here is that the rear suspension of the GT RSPEC is now modified and has higher spring rates, re-tuned dampers, larger anti-roll bar, and reinforced rear lower control arms. At the same time the front suspension has stiffer upper control arm bushes, stiffer front upper suspension strut mounts, and re-tuned dampers.

The cornering grip is now improved due to the new 9″ rear wheels in combination with the 275 tyre. Also to this adds the improved traction during launch and when exiting corners. A modified toe setting on the rear wheel alignment also delivers bettered turn-in response.

Furthermore, the stiffer transmission and driveline movement under load make the perfect driving quality, while the addition of Launch Control delivers consistent performance when accelerating from rest, reducing the amount of wheel slip.

One-of-a-kind exterior features here are the lower and upper grille surrounds, fog lamp bezels, mirrors scalps, high performance spoiler with GT decal, and black painted exhaust tips. A distinctive GT RSPEC badge can be seen on the lower left hand side boot lid.

How about the interior? Here one can see shadow leather sports seats with GT logo embroidery, which are complemented by a piano black finish around the ICC unit, tissue box and door spears.

FPV Ford Falcon GT RSPEC Limited Edition Series is limited up to only 350 units and will be available in four color combinations. Exactly 175 of those committed to the “hero” color scheme of Silhouette (black) with Vixen (red) accents. The other 175 units will be made up of Winter White, Vixen (red) and Kinetic (blue) with Silhouette (black) accents. The starting price of this FPV model will begin at $76 990.

Source: FPV

August 15, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz E400 Hybrid priced from $56 705

Mercedes-Benz has just announced the price of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E400 Hybrid, which will begin at $56 705. The price includes a $905 destination charge. The Hybrid car is currently on sale.

It will delight its customers, because no changes have been made to the exterior appearance of the regular E-Class, and at the same time it includes an entire compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept.

In addition, no compromises were made in terms of space, safety and comfort. In fact, significant increase in comfort has been achieved thank to the start/stop operation which allows a noiseless start.

What is more important here is that the combined consumption of this hybrid is estimated of 27 mpg. In addition, part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz that was implemented here is the increase in the engine output of the E 400 HYBRID by some 20 kW and 250 Nm thanks to the electric motor.

Furthermore, the customers will enjoy the impressive hybrid driving experience thanks to the start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and “sailing” function.

The E400 Hybrid gets is power from the electric motor which is mated to a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine. The latter generates 302 horsepower (222 kW) and 273 pound-feet of torque.

The E400 Hybrid made its first world appearance at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show earlier this year as an US version of the European E300 BlueTEC HYBRID.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 15, 2012

McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept debuts at Pebble Beach

McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept is a dramatic track-focused concept, which will participate at the Pebble Beach Concours. The new McLaren concept is in historic McLaren Orange and satin black.

The exterior of the car is all about contrasts. The emblematic orange hue stands out as an opposite t the satin black, which one can see on the roof, door and bumper sections. At the same time the carbon fibre also includes on the side radiator vanes, wing mirrors and engine cover.

Other details finished in carbon fibre are the McLaren badges on the front and rear. In addition, beneath the surface, the 12C Can-Am Edition shares the same carbon fibre MonoCell chassis as the 12C road car.

Nevertheless the 12C Can-Am Edition is not subject to the regular racing regulations, because it is only in concept stage. It includes however, the revised version of the popular 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and features a one-of-a-kind engine calibration and optimized cooling system.

Basically this means that the power output can reach up to 630 hp (463 kW), making it the most powerful 12C derivative ever shown. The overall weight of the car is just 1,200kg (2645.5lbs).

Given these facts, combined with the unique aerodynamics of the 12C Can-Am Edition, lead to the conclusion of unique and sports driving experience. In addition, this concept will also feature McLaren Racing using Formula 1 technology and simulation in order to optimize downforce. This unique package delivers an enhancement in downforce of 30 percent.

To go further into details, the optimized aerodynamic package comprises of carbon fibre front splitter, carbon fibre dive planes, and a carbon fibre wing which dominates the rear of the car.

Furthermore, the wing is held in place by polished aluminium mounts. An imposing carbon fibre diffuser helps to additionally improve the aerodynamic package, fitted beneath the two-tone rear bumper.

Given that this model has an extra power output, the car is kept in check with a braking system developed by Akebono. In fact, this is a highly efficient braking system which is positioned behind a set of black satin-finished forged lightweight racing alloy wheels, shod with Pirelli racing slick tyres.

The interior of this McLaren is stunning. The cockpit includes ywo black race seats, complete with full six-point harnesses are mounted within the cabin. At the same time a full race-specification rollcage has also been fitted.

The steering wheel however, is something we have already seen in the 12C GT3, with the shape and grip derived from that of Lewis Hamilton’s MP4-24 Formula 1 car. Here one can see the carbon fibre theme in continuation. It goes throughout the cabin, across the dashboard and sill panels. An integrated air conditioning system is also included.

Source: McLaren

August 15, 2012

2013 Range Rover Brings New Levels of Luxury and Refinement

2013 Range Rover is going to bring new levels of luxury and refinement too the automotive world. It is now lighter, stronger and has so many modifications which lead to improvement of the driving experience.

This is the fourth generation of the emblematic vehicle and in fact it has been developed from the ground up, combining the innovative spirit and iconic design of the original model. For example, could you believe that this Rover is almost 40 percent lighter than its predecessor?

This is due to its revolutionary lightweight all-aluminium monocoque body structure. In other words, or to be more precise – in numbers, this means that there are total vehicle weight savings of up to 420kg. Furthermore, the reduced weight has brought about significant improvements in performance, agility, fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

What the designers have added to the strong and rigid lightweight body is aluminum front and rear chassis architecture. It has been created with entirely re-engineered four-corner air suspension.

Moreover, the vehicle’s handling and agility have been greatly enhanced. The new suspension architecture for instance now offers flatter and more confident cornering, with natural and intuitive steering feel.

This new Range Rover still preserves the iconic exterior design. However, some of the design cues received fresh interpretation and thus becomes the most refined Range Rover ever.

Amongst the industry-leading innovations included is the next-generation version of Land Rover’s Terrain Response® system, which analyses the current driving conditions and automatically selects the most suitable vehicle settings for the terrain.

There of course have been modifications made to the interior as well. Within the cabin, the all-new Rover delivers serene isolation and experience of luxury. For instance, what contributes to the reduced noise levels are the rigorously optimized body structure and acoustic lamination of the windscreen and side door glass.

On the other hand the luxurious interior has received a modern take on Range Rover design cues. Clean and elegant surfaces are flawlessly presented using the finest leathers and veneers. In addition, rear passengers will have additional 118mm of legroom.

More importantly, the engine range included in this line up is the following: a refined supercharged V8 petrol engine, TDV6 and TDV8 diesel engines. They all combine responsive performance with outstanding CO2 emissions.

Further technical specification and pricing will be released in early September ahead of the Paris Motor Show.

Source: Land Rover

August 15, 2012

2013 Nissan Juke Midnight Edition exclusively for US

Nissan will run special Midnight Edition on the US market. It features unique 17” Black Wheels, a Sapphire Black rear roof spoiler, and Sapphire Black mirror caps. It is available at Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,200 USD, a savings of $500 USD over the cost of items if purchased separately.

“The Midnight Edition JUKE stands out by its subtlety,” commented Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

“The combination of black-on-black-on-black wheels, spoiler and mirrors gives JUKE a dramatic new look, which we think enhances its already bold styling. We expect it to be a very popular addition to the JUKE lineup for 2013.”, he added.

Other upgrades include: SV models with the Navigation Package gain a RearView Monitor and a revised Rockford Fosgate ecoPUNCH audio system.

And three new colors, Atomic Gold, Brilliant Silver and Pearl White, join the JUKE color palette.

The 2013 Nissan JUKE with the new Midnight Edition will be available at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning in September.

Source: Nissan US

August 14, 2012

Category: Auto News