Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

  • Evolution of F1 [VIDEO]

    We’ve come a long way from 1950 until now. Think about it. From having no satellites orbiting the Earth whatsoever, to actually shrouding the planet with them. Color TV, mobile phones, computers, nanotechnology, medicine: everything leaped within just 62 years. The whole concept of how fast the technological evolution is is a bit hard to grasp. Now, we have stumbled upon something that gives us the automotive, high-octane point of view. It’s the evolution of the F1 car.

    It’s all there since the first season of 1950 where a 1938 Alfa Romeo 158 dominated every track it competed on despite being essentially an 8-cylinder, front engined bathtub. In the 60s, engineers took things more seriously and started experimenting with the aerodynamics and with the weight distribution (the engine was usually mid-mounted). By the 70s, the F1 cars started assuming a familiar shape. Also in the same decade the cylinder count in cars saw it’s peak when V12 engines were used. In the late 70s turbocharging made a brief appearance that would last around ten years.

    F1 Evolution Infograph
    F1 Evolution Infograph – Click On Image For Full Size

    In 1991 V12 engines were again a fact and traction control was introduced by some of the teams because the power was simply too much to handle. By the year 1994, regulations forbade the use of traction control but then in 2001 it was back in the game.

    F1 did bring innovation to common cars and we all experienced change. Active suspension, traction control, engine refinement; All serve as an example of how design and technology bring constant change in shape and function. The only invention that has held it’s ground through the years, seems to be the wheel – it is still round


    Source: Ruf Blacklock via Vimeo

  • London Philharmonic Orchestra Plays the MINI [VIDEO]

    MINI-Anthem-Orchestra-thumbIt’s nice attend a cultural event every now and then… so we’ve been told. So here’s a performance we found particularly entertaining. It’s the London Philharmonic Orchestra‘s way to send a good luck card to Team GB for the London 2012 Games – the God Save the Queen anthem in car horns. MINI provided the instruments.

    Nine musicians in total were involved in this sonorous piece which, when not performing behind the wheel, play wind and brass instruments including the clarinet, trumpet and trombone. Respectively, in the video we can see nine red, white and blue MINI London 2012 edition cars that vaguely represent the Union Jack.

    The London Philharmonic Orchestra in MINIs
    The London Philharmonic Orchestra in MINIs

    Jochen Goller, Director, MINI UK said, “MINI is best known for highly tuned, sweet sounding engines, so we are delighted to discover that a patriotic harmony can be created with the car’s horn. We hope that this rendition of God Save the Queen will help rally Team GB to victory.”

    MINI is closely connected with Team GB and ParalympicsGB and over the last year and a half the company has organized inspirational events and fun activities with the aim of encouraging the nation to backup the home team’s athletes and to demonstrate support.

    httpv://youtu.be/ik9AtJQXaHQ

    Source: MINI

    Video source: MINI UK via YouTube

  • Suzuki Splash – Mini-MPV?

    2012-Suzuki-Splash-thumbRemember talking about the crossbreeding of car segments? Now comes the question, since when is the Suzuki Splash an MPV? Especially the latest one which is 60mm longer than the previous ones, solely because of it’s bumpers. That’s not the MPV way. Yes, the Splash has folding rear seats which provide 573 liters of luggage space but so does a Polo.

    Still, at Suzuki claim that the 2012 model has space for five inside and legroom won’t be an issue. As we mentioned, the bumpers are new, the hood and grille are restyled but the price stays the same. ($12,104 for the 1.0l SZ2 model) Inside you also get some refinement thanks to the newly designed seat fabric, the Piano Black finish for the center console and other stylish touches.

    The Splash comes with two engines. The one to go for is the 94 PS 1.2l petrol unit. It has Dual VVT (Variable DOHC) and it made a good reputation for itself in the Swift. 55.4 mpg on the combined cycle (choose manual). The 1.0l, three cylinder petrol is for the ultra-eco-minded who will get 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle. But if you plan to carry around 5 people inside and/or luggage (that’s what MPVs do) you’ll find that 68 PS will leave you rather frustrated in real world.

    No matter what trim you choose (SZ2, SZ3 or SZ4) for whichever engine, you get four airbags, CD tuner with MP3 player and steering wheel-mounted audio controls; leather-trimmed steering wheel; remote central locking; front electric windows with driver’s auto-down; electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors; height-adjustable front seats; tilt adjustable steering wheel and an information display as standard. SZ3 models get air conditioning as well while SZ4 models with the 1.2l engine get ESP, more airbags, 15 inch wheels, fog lights, kelyess entry and start and tinted windows at the back.

    Suzuki Splash (2012)
    Suzuki Splash (2012)
    2012 Suzuki Splash
    2012 Suzuki Splash
    2012 Suzuki Splash
    2012 Suzuki Splash
    2012 Suzuki Splash

    Source: Suzuki

  • Review of Audi A3

    German car manufacturer Audi has released a new version of their A3 model in 2012 with their idiosyncratic style and panache. The badge itself will stir interest from their diehard fans but how well equipped is the model for the run of the mill car owner?

    First of all let’s look at the price; the newest model comes in at around upward of £20,000. When visiting the Audi website, you may be inclined to add a couple of their added extras, whilst the manufacturer has always offered the most luxurious of extras, adding on just a couple could see the price soar.

    Fortunately for buyers, a new model always means used car prices fall. This is not, though, good news for those looking to sell a used Audi A3. If you are looking to buy or sell, make sure you do so through legitimate sales platforms, used car reviews are always thorough enough to paint a fairly detailed portrait of what’s on sale.

    2012 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI S-Line
    2012 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI S-Line

    The exterior design is as sleek and stylish as ever with a sharper body and slimmer headlights. Although a little wider, the new model is substantially lighter than its predecessor making it far more energy efficient.

    The Multi Media Interface comes as standard with all new Audi models and the A3 is no exception. A slim touch screen appears from within the dashboard that allows the user to control anything from music to air conditioning.

    With regards to room there is a lot to give in the front seat of the new Audi. A little less can be said about the back seats but there shouldn’t be too much discomfort, even for adults. The boot space in the new hatch back has grown to 365 cubic litres from the previous 350. It may not seem like much, but it can really make the difference if you are part of a large family.

    All in all, the new A3 is a very smooth ride, although some test drivers have claimed its gear change to be a little sticky as well as the steering to be somewhat heavy handed for a small family car. Its CO2 emissions make it a lot more economical in terms of car tax and its agronomical design and weight loss add to reduced running costs.

    The new A3 comes only in a 3 door model for now, so despite a large boot capacity, the family car owner may want to wait to see if a 5 door option is offered in the future.

  • RENM Lamborghini Aventador LE-C

    Lamborghini Aventador is really an exceptional car. It comes with brutal 6.5 liter V12 delivering 700PS (515 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed ISR gearbox specially supplied by Graziano Trasmissioni Group, which shifts in just 50 milliseconds, which guarantees perfect performance.

    The kerb weight is just 1575 kg (3 472 lbs), thanks to a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) monocoque structure with total weight of only 147.5 kg.

    To make it even better, RENM performance has created a full optic package for the staggering Aventador.

    “We wanted to retain the original design lines while enhancing and making improvements across the entire platform. Some aspects of the design were influenced by the Aventador J concept, but only those sections we considered were improvements. For instance, the upper rear grille is similar to the J concept, although the lower rear section is a total redesign.”, commented from the tuning studio.

    The design specifications were also developed in consultation with Aventador owners scheduled for the LE-C upgrade.

    Replacement body parts are made from light-weight carbon fiber composites that provide significant weight savings. The interior also blends alcantara and carbon fiber elements. Both standard and light-weight race seats are upholstered in alcantara with LE-C inscription.

    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C
    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C

    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C
    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C
    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C
    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C
    RENM Performance Lamborghini Aventador LE-C


    LE-C program     include:

    • Extensively redesigned aerodynamic carbon fiber body sections with electronically operated rear wing;

    • Road and race specification valve-controlled inconel and titanium exhaust systems, re-designed air intake chambers, ECU recalibration resulting in a 9-11% increase in engine output;

    • Individual suspension, chassis adjustments and modifications, with adjustable vehicle ride height;

    • Exclusive LE-C light weight center-lock race specification wheels, fitted with optional race specification tyres;

    • LE-C race brake kits with air flow inlets, revised engine and brake cooling chambers;

    • LE-C interior with alcantara and carbon fiber accents, including steering wheel with optional light weight race seats and harness section.

  • Honda has announced MUGEN CR-Z GT featuring racing hybrid system

    Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced its intent to provide technical support to Team Mugen, operated by M-TEC Co., Ltd., for its competition with the MUGEN CR-Z GT in the GT300 class of SUPER GT Series.

    Honda will supply a 2.8-liter V6 twin-turbo engine and the racing hybrid system developed exclusively for this Team Mugen racing machine and will start actual test runs.

    Team Mugen’s first race with the MUGEN CR-Z GT featuring the Honda racing hybrid system will be the 2012 SUPER GT Series Round 4 SUGO GT 300km Race, which will be held on July 28 and 29, 2012.

    Stay tuned for more information about this project!

    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car
    MUGEN Honda CR-Z GT racing car

    Source: Honda

  • 2012 Mitsubishi L200 Trojan – price £17 999

    Mitsubishi has announced the new 2012 L200 Trojan Double Cab. The 12MY Trojan hits the market and is already available in 113 Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide. Competitively priced, the Trojan offers a great combination of comprehensive specification, striking good looks and excellent value for money.

    2012 L200 Trojan is available in two colours; Aztec Red (Solid) and Cosmos Black (Pearlescent). The prices start at £17,999 for L200 2.5 DI-D Trojan Double Cab Manual and go up to £19 324 for L200 2.5 DI-D Trojan Double Cab Manual (Leather). Metallic paint will cost an additional £410 excluding VAT.

    The 12MY Trojan Double Cab is powered by a 175bhp and 400Nm 2.5 liter diesel.

    The vehicle has a 12-month / 9,000 mile service interval programme, includes pan-European breakdown and accident management service. The Mitsubishi Service Plan (MSP) is available at £562.50 Excluding VAT.

    L200 Trojan Specification:

    The 12MY Trojan arrives as a standard bed derivative and will feature the following high level of equipment as standard:

    • 16” Alloy Wheels
    • Rear Diff Lock
    • Super Select 4WD
    • CD Player with MP3
    • Multifunction Trip Computer
    • Climate Control
    • Rear Electric Windows
    • Chrome Electric Door Mirrors with Heater / Folding Function
    • Colour Coded Wheel Arch Extensions
    • Privacy Glass
    • Chrome Outer Door Handles
    • CAT 1 Alarm System
    2012 Mitsubishi L200 Trojan
    2012 Mitsubishi L200 Trojan

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • CHEVROLET SPARK by KBR Motorsport

    KBR-Chevrolet-Spark-thumbEvery know and then, tuners run out of ideas and start searching for possibilities in places where no one would think of. Here we have such a case. It’s hard to say that the Chevrolet Spark is the best looking supermini out there, nor it is the most thrilling. But the guys at KBR Motorsport have given it a shot anyways.

    They started off with with a set of matte black Barracuda Voltex T6 rims, They sound kind of menacing but in real life, the figures speak for themselves: 7 x 17-inch wheels with 185/35R17 tires on them – cute. KBR also added their home made silencer for that extra growl. Also at the tail gate, the badging, wiper and lock have been simply removed because that’s somehow considered customization. Some foil has been applied to for color orientation courtesy to CoverEFX. Really that’s about it. Kind of superficial, we couldn’t help but thinking.

    To own a KBR Motorsport Cehvrolet Spark one needs to cough up 5000 Euros which makes things sound even more ridiculous. If we wanted some glamor in the first place, we wouldn’t go for the Spark in the first place. Invest in a MiTo instead.

    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark
    KBR Motorsport Chevrolet Spark

    Source: KBR Motorsport

  • Affordable Infiniti M35h GT

    Infiniti-M35h-GT-thumbThe acclaimed fastest accelerating hybrid V6 saloon – the Infiniti M line – gets a new version model. It’s the M35h GT: a notch cheaper than the M35h GT Premium. Quite a notch actually, with £3970 in savings.

    It is actually cleaner and more economical as an entry level version. It’s bellow the 160 g/km CO2 emission threshold. Nevertheless, you still get 302 hp from the 3.5 V6 power plant and 67 bhp from the electric motor that sends its power through a second clutch to the back axle.

    Also, recent customer feedback have prompted the Infiniti people to offer separately the Connectiviti+ navigation system and the 16-speaker Bose surround sound system. Two entities that usually went as a package previously. As an option, you can also get a climate control system which Infiniti have named Forest Air. The seats will also be heated or ventilated, the lights will be bi-Xenon and will veer left and right depending on the steering input and the interior will be garnished with a white ash wood trim that’s been sprinkled with real silver powder.

    What you don’t get on the GT but on the Premium GT is Blind Spot Intervention, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Prevention (LDP).

    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT
    Infiniti M35h GT

    Source: Infiniti

  • How to find the perfect offer for a used car?

    Volkswagen is one of the biggest car manufacturer in the world. The brand is owned by VAG, which also has Porsche, Audi and some more. One of the best-selling vehicles in the 20th century is Volkswagen Beetle followed by all series of VW Golf, which has been run since 1974. Until now, there are six series of the legendary Golf model with hundreds different sub-models and engines.

    The used car market is huge and nowadays people always search for the best offer – low mileage car with a lot of extras and good condition. One of the good opportunities is to search for a volkswagen. They have a huge database with up to date offers, so the customers are able to choose carefully and to find the best possible car, which will suit to their needs.

    Of course, Volkswagen and especially the Golf V model is a very good choice. Used vehicle on low mileage can be found as low as £3 000, which compared to a new vehicle costing five times more is superb offer.

    Still, customers should be careful and always triple check their future cars. So, if you decide that a certain Volkswagen will suit to your needs, you have to check it’s history, repairs and recent updates.

    And remember, try to avoid cars with over 100 thousand miles on the clock, because not always, but most of the times these cars are very “tired”.

  • Fourth Generation Renault Clio Debut

    The neat and sexy Renault Clio is back for a fourth generation which will add even more versatility and style to the family. Despite being packed with new and exciting features and looking curvy as a maxi model, the 2013 Clio weighs around 100 kg less than it’s predecessor.

    It’s also lower and with a wider track. That way, Renault have added aggression to an already impish hatch. The Clio’s face also looks menacing while the strictly 5-door policy emits a certain degree of seriousness. Inside, a predominantly minimalist dashboard appears in the form of an “aircraft wing”. As standard, from the Dynamicque trim and upwards, the 2013 Clio gets a seven-inch wide touchscreen R-Link system that connects you to the outside world. That includes a TomTom sat nav and a software that gives insight to the car’s electronic systems. Through it, one can access to an advanced eco-driving function which analyzes and aids the user’s driving style.

    Renault Clio (2013)

    2013 Renault Clio
    2013 Renault Clio
    2013 Renault Clio
    2013 Renault Clio
    2013 Renault Clio
    2013 Renault Clio

    And if it’s eco what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the two new engines that come with the fourth-gen Renault Clio. One is an Energy TCe 90 Petrol unit that has three cylinders and 0.9-liters of displacement. But because it’s turbocharged it develops 90 hp and still manages to average 65.7 mpg when taking into account the economy-optimised gearbox and the Stop&Start system. The second engine is a 1.5-liter Energy dCi 90 unit which also has 90 hp to play with but because it’s a diesel it returns even more economy – 88 mpg and even less CO2 emissions per kilometer. You get quite a lot of torque as well: 220 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.

    For the more dynamic individuals, there will be the TCe 120 which will be available during the first half of 2013. We are talking about a 1.2-liter, 120 bhp engine that packs a 190 Nm punch at 1,750 rpm as well. The power will be transmitted through a six-speed EDC automatic transmission (EDC stands for Efficient Dual Clutch) – technology that has been unknown to the Clio range up until know. The dCi 90 engine will also have this gearbox as an option.

    Further details of New Renault Clio will be provided at the international media road tests in September and at the Paris Motor Show.

    Source: Renault

  • Lamborghini Mark 45 Years of Presence in Japan

    Lamorghini-Gallardo-LP560-4-Bianco-Rosso-thumbLamborghini are celebrating their 45th year in Japan by launching a rather limited number of only 10 specially designed Gallardo LP560-4s. They will be cleverly named Bianco Rosso which basically means white and red.

    A predominantly white car with elements such as the engine lid, side mirrors and brake calipers which are all red. A specially designed interior is also a part of the festive program and incorporates lots of red leather.

    No words on any power enhancements so we’ll have to assume that the white and red Lamborghini Gallardo stays true to it’s name and develops 560 bhp from it’s 5.2-liter V10 engine. That’s enough power to do the 0-60 mph run in no more than 3.7 seconds. Also the “4” at the back of it’s name means that it’s AWD so no Balboni action for Japan.

    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso
    Lamorghini Gallardo LP560-4 Bianco Rosso

    Source: response.jp