Auto News – Page 815 – Automobiles Review

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster spotted on the streets [VIDEO]

Few days after the official release of Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, it has been already spotted on the narrow streets of London. The new sports car by the famous British brand looks even better than on the pictures. And just wait to hear the roaring sound at the end of the video.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster on the streets of London

Being a limited edition model, the V12 Vantage Roadster has one of the coolest interiors I’ve ever seen: a red indulgence of carbon fiber material. This undoubtedly will give the lucky one driving the car the feeling of luxury and uniqueness.

In particular, this Aston Martin’s power comes from the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it generates the stunning 517 horsepower (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

Given these facts, I am sure it will be no surprise for you to read that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched by it in just 4.5 seconds.

httpv://youtu.be/K2YVH7FLkP8

Video Source: YouTube

July 13, 2012

2013 Skoda Rapid: the new class of Skoda

2013 Skoda Rapid is the new compact saloon offered by Skoda which is going to be seen at dealerships in the beginning of the autumn this year.

At first sight, one gets a great impression by the new vehicle: it delivers a lot of spaciousness, has an expressive design, an excellent price, a comprehensive safety offering and efficient engines. Again this model is expected to grab the attention of many.

First of all, thanks to the exterior dimensions that the Rapid has: 4.48 m in length, 1.71 m in length, 1.46 m in height, the vehicle can comfortably accommodate up to five persons. In addition, in this amount of space inside of the car, are also included practical holder for the warning vest underneath the driver’s seat, storage for the ice scraper, refuse bin in the side door.

Furthermore, the Rapid is the first Skoda to entirely include the brand’s new design philosophy. It has perfect proportions, clear and cleanly modeled surfaces and sharply drawn lines. The front end shows a new take on Skoda’s typical design elements.

For instance, the new brand logo confidently stands out front edge of the bonnet. In addition, the grille shows a finely drawn chrome frame and is formed by vertical slats. The headlight ensemble is grouped at the front of the Skoda Rapid to form a cloverleaf shape. Not only the front of the car looks so inviting, but also its body side conveys pure emotion. Thanks to it, being a long wheelbase, the car has a coupé-like silhouette.

In fact, the Rapid is going to be the new class of the brand, because it takes the place exactly between the Fabia and the Octavia, making it through to the so-called A segment.

Next, the vehicle also will offer its customers wide range of active and passive safety features such as ABS and ESP systems (which are a standard option), tire pressure monitoring, fog lamps with ‘corner function’,‘hill-hold control’ assistant, front, side and head airbags, adjustable-height 3-point safety belts with tighteners, headrests.

More importantly, the Rapid will be available with four petrol and two diesel engines. The petrol entry-level engine is the 1.2 l MPI three-cylinder producing 55 kW (75 hp). The other petrol engines are the 1.2 l 63 kW (86 hp) TSI, the 1.2 l 77 kW (105 hp) TSI and the 1.4 l 90 kW (122 hp) TSI.

On the other hand the 1.6 litre diesel engine comes with direct common rail injection. The basic diesel generates 66 kW (90 hp) and may be combined with the optional seven-speed DSG (double-clutch transmission). The 1.6 l TDI CR version is more powerful, putting out 77 kW (105 hp).

Source: Skoda

July 13, 2012

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series offers unique driving experience

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series will be “unleashed” on the circuits at Mercedes-Benz World with the aim to bring the driving experiences to another dimension. In fact, this is the most powerful C-Class up to date, which was designed especially for those keen on bringing the adrenaline levels higher ad higher.

Did you know that only 600 units from the Black Series will be produced? This means hat during this event many people will have the chance to experience dynamism and driving excitement of this stunning Mercedes-Benz.

But let’s talk in details. The full power of the special edition C 63 comes from the AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine. Therefore it is no surprise that it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h for only 4.2 seconds. Furthermore, the vehicle comes equipped with track-honed aerodynamics which further improve the driving experience.

During the exclusive experience at the Mercedes-Benz World, which will happen after the 14th of July, the drivers will have the opportunity to develop their circuit craft behind the wheel of a Mercedes AMG.

Next, with the circuit ingrained on the mind and a professional Mercedes-Benz Driving Specialist in the passenger seat, the next 30 minutes the driver will spent in the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series, where he or she will indulge fully, driving one of the most powerful cars in the world.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 13, 2012

2013 Ford Focus ST shows impressive efficiency

2013 Ford Focus ST turns out to be highly efficient, because of its new 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine. Thanks to it the Ford achieves incredible fuel economy numbers: 32 mpg highway, 23 mpg city and 26 mpg combined.

This means that the Focus ST, which is six-speed manual only, has better fuel efficiency performance compared to its rivals in the same class, for example such as Volkswagen GTI and MazdaSpeed3.

If we have to make a comparison between this and the current version of the 2013 Ford Focus ST with the previous-generation Ford Focus, well the latter produced only 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 136 lb.-ft. (184 Nm) of torque. Now, the Focus ST gives up only 3 mpg on the highway but gains 112 horsepower (82 kW) and 134 lb.-ft. (182 Nm) of torque, this means a total of 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm).

The main reason for the great economy results is the special engine that the car has. In fact, the Focus ST is the first that has the four-cylinder performance EcoBoost engine. Now, the fuel-efficient EcoBoost powertrains are a mainstay in Ford’s lineup.

Source: Ford

July 13, 2012

McLaren MP4-12C Spider at the track [video]

McLaren Automotive has released a new interesting promotional video for their latest model – the MP4-12C Spider. The sports drop-top car is based on the famous MP4-12C. As a basis of this model served the same super stiff carbon fibre MonoCell chassis as its hardtop sibling and this means that it will be nothing else but exciting and dynamic to drive.

The MP4-12C Spider is powered by the same twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine that produces 625HP (460 kW). It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 329 km/h (204 mph). In terms of efficiency, the MP4-12C Spider will average 11.7 L/100km (24.2 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 279 g/km.

The footage was shot using cinema-quality RED cameras and shows the car on the track as well as the mountain roads of southern Spain.

Enjoy the video!

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

July 12, 2012

/Drive’s Matt Farah Test Drives Venom GT Spyder [VIDEO]

Watch this neat video of the Hennessey Venom GT Spyder being reviewed by Matt Farah – web series “/Drive” presenter who mainly focuses on the sub-category of highly modified vehicles (/Tuned). Simply being in a Venom GT (especially with the wind in your hair) is scary enough so kudos to him for actually letting us in the ecitement.

To the keen observer, the Venom GT is just a mere Lotus Exige that looks like as if it has had some intimate moments with a Porsche Carrera GT. But the truth is that under the carbon fiber hood (every bit of the Venom body is carbon fiber) there is space for 7.0-liters of twin turbo V8 goodness that produces 1244 bhp. The gear box is lifted up from a Ford GT so no faults there as well.

You don’t really want to read all about it. Here, watch the video and share the experience:

httpv://youtu.be/8hDDBN_pIUQ

Video Source: drive via YouTube

July 12, 2012

Kelleners Sport Package for BMW 3-Series F30

Kelleners Sport have been dealing with BMW‘s for 25 years now. Ever since the first 3-series came out, they have been providing various tuning products for it. Now, it only feels right to go ahead and work on the F30. Welcome then, to the Kelleners Sport Package for the BMW 3-Series, both diesel and petrol.

Virtually every engine in the range can undergo the Kellener‘s power boost. The 320d goes from 184 hp to 218 hp and from 380 Nm to 435 Nm of torque. The 328i petrol on the other hand goes from the generous 242 hp to 291 hp. The torque here goes up to 430 Nm.

Subtle elements have been glued to the exterior as well – all, a front spoiler lip, a rear skirt extension and a trunk spoiler, add a sense of character at the least. The road stance is lower by 30mm thanks to the Kelleners Sport coilover suspension system. A bit of M-ishness comes from the four-pipe exhaust system that comes fort both the petrol and the diesel.

The wheel choice ranges between 19-inch and 20-inch in size. Thoroughly light, these titanium alloys bare a “Hamburg” design and come in 9 different colors. Then there are the “Berlin” type wheels which are all matte polished gray.

By request, Kelleners will trim the interior with lots of leather, carbon and wood. All shades and types of leather as well: 60 different colors, Napa or ostrich leather. The only non-leather features that stick out are and aluminum pedals and velour floor mats.

Source: Kelleners Sport

July 12, 2012

2012 Fiat Panda Van – Price €8 850

Fiat has revealed their 2012 Panda Van. The vehicle combines performance, handling and car-like comfort with generous, easy loading, and the reliability and low operating costs, typical of a commercial vehicle.

Produced at the Giambattista Vico plant in Pomigliano d’Arco (Naples), the most compact commercial vehicle for Fiat Professional is the perfect answer for those who spend long hours driving or need to make deliveries, such as postal services, maintenance, service companies, craftsmen, etcetera.

The vehicle can be ordered without a rear bench to enable the cargo compartment to hold more than 1000 liters of luggage. An “easy floor” feature des a flat loading surface and under floor storage.

The engine range includes a 1.2-liter Fire with 69HP (51 kW) and 102Nm of torque. There is also a 1.3 liter Multijet diesel with 75HP (55 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft), which is not only faster, but more efficient.

The safety includes an excellent performance braking system with ABS complete with BAS (Brake Assist System), four standard airbags (front and side), an front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters load.

Furthermore, depending on the market and version, is available as standard or optional ESC (Electronic Stability Control) including hill-holder system that helps the driver on hill starts keeping locked the brakes for about 2 seconds, thus facilitating the re-start .

2012 Fiat Panda Van will hit the market in the next months at a competitive price of €8 850 for the entry level vehicle.

Source: Fiat

July 12, 2012

Hartmann Vansports Volkswagen T5 Prime

Hartmann Vansports Volkswagen T5 Prime is powerful and stylish, and although it is based on a van, it looks better, sportier and more luxurious.

Hartman has added more power and dynamic to the Volkswagen by upgrading the engine. In details, the Vansports electronic Diesel-Performance-Kit pushes the 2.0 TDI from 103 kW (140 hp) up to 122 kW (165 hp), and the torque from 340 Nm (460 lb-ft) up to 395 Nm (535 lb-ft). If the bus is equipped with the 2.0 BiTDI then the transformation is from 132 kW (180 hp) up to 156 kW (212 hp), torque from 400 Nm (542 lb-ft) up to 460 Nm (623 lb-ft).

The driving fun is further enhanced thanks to the Hartmann’s sport-exhaust-system and an electronic accelerator pedal kit. What they do is basically to optimize the standard signal in the T5, which allows a significantly shorter reaction response during acceleration.

Furthermore, the sports suspension which has been added is giving a better visual outlook to the van. In addition it enhances the road handling for all steering, acceleration and braking maneuvers without sacrificing any comfort.

In particular, the sport suspension brings the T5 30 mm closer to the road. Additional visual highlights are the front spoilers, the side-skirts and the rear skirt extension, as well as the light alloy wheel program.

The wheel design here is created by VEST 3 and the size is 9 x 20 inches coming along with 275/35 R20 Tires. At last, the interior styling of this vehicle offers velour carpeting with an embroidered Hartmann emblem, antiskid rubber-knobs and interior parts in carbon optic.

Source: Hartmann

July 12, 2012

Nissan Leaf starts patrolling Portuguese streets

Nissan Leaf Blue Light will be used by the police in Portugal. Not only one example of the Leaf will support the local patrolmen but a whole fleet of eight units.

In fact this Nissan model is famous with its multi-awards for being one of the best zero-emission cars currently on the market. The car will be also utilized in a Safe School Program, and thanks to the flashing blue lights, sirens and clear ‘Polícia’ markings, the students will be called upon to perform thier police duties.

Of course, no other car but Nissan Leaf has been chosen to reduce the ecological footprint in Portugal. The great example given by the local officers is expected to be followed by other people in the country.

This makes Portugal an EV pioneer in Europe. And did you know that it was one of the first countries to install a network of EV chargers in its big cities and was the first to sell Nissan Leaf to the European public.

Nissan Leaf is the world’s most selling electric vehicle. Its AC motor generates 80 kW (108 hp) of power and 280 Nm (380 lb-ft) of torque. This means that it has a maximum speed of 145 km/h.

The electric motor is powered by a Nissan-developed laminated lithium-ion battery with an output of more than 90 kW (122 hp). And one of the most convenient facts is that the recharging time is only eight hours, of course we are speaking here for 100% recharging. However, it takes only 30 minutes to “refill” the battery’s power from 0 to 80% thanks to the quick charger in optimal conditions.

European production of Nissan Leaf will start in early 2013.

Source: Nissan

July 12, 2012

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG with 624 horsepower

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is an interesting project which deserves some attention. It stays under the guiding principle of AMG’s handmade engineering art and luxury philosophy, and in addition is able to produce the great amount of 624 horsepower (460 kW).

However, before the tuning from Wimmer Rennsporttechnik, the Mercedes-Benz got only 487 hp (358 kW). The professionals from Wimmer achieve this enhancement of power through various means such as the upgrade of the cylinder heads, the sport cam shafts, throttle and the optimization of the intake manifolds.

Furthermore, they have added a larger fuel pump, which additionally works very efficiently. Next, onto the C 63 AMG were added also especially crafted headers from Wimmer and special sport catalysts from HJS Company, as well as sport exhaust system made from stainless steel, again by Wimmer. The wider audience can enjoy the sound of the engine thanks to the 84-mm- wide Y-pipes.

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

The Mercedes runs on 19 inch BBS rims fitted with Dunlop tires. A club sport suspension from KW, spacers from H & R, plus limited slip differential of Drexler Company, must also be recognized in this tuning.

The exterior color of the vehicle has been modified by the tuners from Kempener. They have covered a Mercedes with material of the film manufacturer BRUXSAFOL in shiny “electrical- yellow”. The floor mats Ronsdorf of the interior stress the origin of this powercar by Wimmer logo.

Source: Wimmer Rennsporttechnik

July 12, 2012

Vorsteiner BMW E9X M3 GTS5 with new Front Bumper

Vorsteiner BMW E9X M3 GTS5 is a unique combination between the retiring E9X M3 and Vorsteiner’s GTS5 Front Bumper. The car will be produced only in limited 88 units so that it keeps the one-of-a-kindness of the driving experience to only a few people.

The GTS5 front bumper adds little details that first improve the overall appearance of the BMW. Furthermore it is important to mention the quality with which it is made.

Secondly an accent is put on the eyebrow over the bumper vent, thanks to a refinement which makes this Vorsteiner vehicle extraordinary. It is this very small element that will set anyone apart from the crowd.

In addition, the tuning company added also vertical vents which give more aesthetic outlook to the front bumper and also serve as a functional air flow for brake cooling.

What’s more here are some of the same features that are on the GTS3 Front Bumper. The integrated carbon fiber front lip detaches from the bumper for easy replacement in the event of road damage. Its strength, durability and reliability are also enhanced thanks to the latest innovations in carbon fiber technology.

Source: Vorsteiner

July 12, 2012

Category: Auto News