Auto News – Page 819 – Automobiles Review

Audi R8 Spyder GT by Wheelsandmore

There are only 333 Audi R8 Spyder models in the world. Now the German guys at Wheelsandmore have gotten their hands on not one, but three of them. They have a special program for them that focuses mainly on weight reduction and enhancing power. It’s the Wheelsandmore Audi R8 Spyder GT

Yes, it’s the standard treatment for the engine – an ECU tweak and carbon-framed sport’s filters make sure you get 620 hp and 590 Nm of torque from the R8‘s V8 mid-mounted power plant. A KW-Automotive suspension pack on the other hand, ensure you make good use of that power and still be able to hoover over the speed humps (thanks to a level-control-system that can lift the nose of the R8 with up to 40mm.)

The weight has been kept down partly because of the hand-crafted exhaust system, which is 40 percent lighter than the conventional one and partly because of the lightweight 6Sportz2 wheels that measure up to 11,0×20 and carry a tire size of 295/25/20.

For your money, you also get a dyno test certificate as an assurance and a remote-controlled valve flaps for the exhaust so that the Wheelsandmore Audi R8 Spyder GT is as sonorous as possible.

Source: Wheelsandmore

July 4, 2012

Audi S Competition Package for the TT Coupe

Your regular Audi TT can now be one step closer to the gods (the gods being the TTS and the TT RS) with the special edition Audi TT Coupe S line competition. Quite a mouthful but it might just be what makes the difference between mediocrity and exclusivity.

On the outside, a TT S line can be recognized by it’s distinctive bumpers and air inlets and side sills. There are also S line badges, specially designed tailpipes and a rear diffuser. Even more downforce can be generated by the RS-style fixed rear wing. The colors in which the TT S line comes sound rather sophisticated and pompous – Samoa Orange, Glacier White and Misano Red (the one here) just to name a few. As a contrast high-gloss black frames the front grille while matte black is used for the license plate, the radiator grille. Again high-gloss black adorns the mirror caps, the blade bellow the front bumper, the diffuser insert, the tailpipe trims and the rear wing spoiler. And the 5-spoked, 19-inch wheels are, you guessed it, also black. The whole stance is lowered by 10 mm so the 255/35 tires look even more impressive.

Inside, you get special door sill trims, an extended aluminum look trim, a leather package (there’s Alcantra involved as well, sports seats and a short traveling gear lever for the manual version. Even the steering wheel has an RS feel to it with it’s flat bottom and it’s leathery trim.

The Audi TT Coupe S line competition special edition is now available on the global market and one has the freedom to throw in any other options and trim lines at free will. The S line package is priced at 4,300 Euros ($5,422) and is applicable to all the models until the 211 bhp TT.

Source: Audi

July 4, 2012

2013 Puritalia 427 – first images released

The first images of the exciting 2013 Puritalia 427 have just been released and they convey the message that the car was inspired by the classic body shapes of the iconic 1965 Shelby Cobra. Of course, the Puritalia has an updated modern style and enhanced by the distinctive Italian design fingerprint.

The Puritalia 427 is a light and powerful 2-seater roadster, which will offer the lucky customers the best driving experience, great levels of comfort and daily driving use.

The car will be officially revealed to the world in the next year and will be produced in limited run of 100 units. It will be made available for those who are interested in purchasing through direct factory orders and a selected network of international dealerships.

Puritalia Automobili builds only exclusive Italian sport cars, which are designed for purist drivers and car enthusiasts. The cars are only handmade and in limited series, and are embodiment the Italian traditional craftsmanship.

2013 Puritalia 427 Specifications:

DIMENSIONS	L.171.259 in – W.76.850 in – H.49.409 in Front Track 62.598 in – Rear Track 62.992 in Wheelbase: 102.401 in – Weight: ~ 2403 Lbs (50/50)
CHASSIS	Aluminum semi-monocoque with Chromoly steel tubular subframes.
BODY	Roadster 2 seats – composite and carbon fiber body panels
ENGINE	Front mounted V8 5.0L 32V DOHC Ti-VCT Aspirated: 445Hp @ 6500rpm – 530Nm @ 4250rpm Supercharged: 605Hp @ 7000rpm – 640Nm @ 4500rpm
TRASMISSION	Rear wheel drive – 6 speeds manual transmission – Twin disc hydraulic clutch Limited Slip Differential – Aluminum driveshaft
SUSPENSIONS	Four-wheel Independent – Unequal length double wishbones with anti-dive and anti-squat geometry – two-way adjustable mono-tube shock absorbers – adjustable stabilizer bars
BREAKES	Hydraulically powered brake booster Front: Brembo 380mm/32 6 pistons Rear: Brembo 345mm/28 4 pistons
TIRES	Pirelli Pzero – Front: 275/35R19 – Rear: 335/30R20

Souce: Puritalia

July 3, 2012

Possible cooperation between BMW and Toyota

BMW and Toyota have discussed an interesting opportunity to work together in order to create unique sports car. The jointly developed model could be a way for Toyota to leap back into a performance segment it has abandoned or possibly provide a high-priced sports model for Toyota’s Lexus brand.

The two of the biggest car manufacturers agreed to work together on an “environmentally friendly” sports car as well as on fuel-cell, electric vehicle components and lightweight materials.

“BMW’s strength is in developing sports cars,” commented Toyota President Akio Toyoda, a racing fan who repeatedly has said he wants to add zest to Toyota’s lineup.

“I am excited to think of the cars that will result from this relationship.”, he added.

Toyoda and BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer signed the agreement in Munich.

Further details have not been discussed, but the sports car will not be identical or share a common exterior design like the jointly developed Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S coupes.

There are speculations of returning the Supra model, possibly using the BMW 6-series architecture. However, this is only a rumor.

“Anything is possible,” said the senior BMW manager.

“The key factor is that the products of both companies retain their own individual character, despite jointly developed technologies.”, he added.

Jim Hall, principal of 2953 Analytics Inc. in suburban Detroit, said Toyota could use technology from the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car.

“It would be an expensive car,” Jim Hall said.

“There is an argument that Lexus needs it and that is the logical place for them to do it.”, he added.

In March, BMW agreed to supply Toyota with its diesel engines starting in 2014 in exchange for collaboration on lithium-ion battery research.

Stay tuned for more information about this interesting cooperation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tdZU-7K2bs

July 3, 2012

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Concept by Slimane Toubal

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is an incredible Gullwing vehicle which is a design creation by Slimane Toubal. Exactly with this project the designer won the Design !ndex Awards Contest 3rd Edition. And if you take a look at the pictures below you will definitely know why!

Undoubtedly, the model of Mercedes-Benz 300SL is one of the most beautiful cars in the whole world. Since the first version, which was presented to the world in the distant 1954, this car became a dream car for millions of people around the globe.

2015 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Concept by Slimane Toubal

It is amazing how after 58 years, this Mercedes-Benz is still a big legend and has captured the minds and hearts of so many. Obviously, a lot of designers are keen on working over design concepts on this particular model.

2015 Mercedes 300SL Roadster by Slimane is one of the best that we have ever seen. Slimane is an automotive design modeler, which has an experience of over 20 years in the different cars company as clay modeler or digital modeler. This definitely gave hime the freedom to effortlessly design this version of the popular Roadster.

The 300 SL Gullwing is one of his favorite car and this is why he decided to enter the contest with and interpretation on it. In fact, he didn’t use any sketch to build the car, just the blueprint of the actual Mercedes SLS as package.

Some pictures of the original one Slimane used to keep the DNA of the car. We can see how he preserved the three stripes on the body side, which are symbol for the 300. The wheels have a vintage outlook and give the supercar a special character. This could be a nice 60 years anniversary version for 2014, what do you think?

July 3, 2012

McLaren MP4-12C Spider revealed

McLaren has just announced that McLaren MP4-12C Spider is now officially launched. The new 12C Spider has a lightweight, high powered engine which develops the incredible 625 horsepower (460 kW), has a RHT folding roof system and a carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis which is identical to that of the groundbreaking 12C.

The impressive output of the McLaren comes from the bespoke 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine which is mated to the 7 Speed SSG dual-clutch transmission. Spiders dynamics technology including Brake Steer, ProActive Chassis Control and the unique McLaren Airbrake. The latter delivers comfort in all driving conditions, and at the same time a great race car performance and handling on track.

The Retractable Hard Top is unique system of the 12C Spider which is operating utilizing a switch in the lower section of the centre console inside the cabin. In fact, it takes less than 17 seconds to raise or lower. And of course, the roof can be opened while 12C Spider is moving at speeds of up to 30 kph (19mph).

The 12C Spider also includes a passive Roll Over Protection System which optimizes passengers and drivers safety. Each buttress contains a steel structure, which was made to absorb impact energy and protect the occupants.

Furthermore, this amazing sportscar will be launched in Volcano Red. However, there are also 17 more exterior paint finishes which are going to be available.

The interior of the car includes an exclusive new trim, which has been developed for the 2013 model year 12C and new 12C Spider. High quality semi-aniline perforated leather and Alcantara are optional choices for the customers. Moreover, there is a new wheel design in Diamond Cut, Standard Silver or Stealth finishes.

As an optional choice will be also available the Vehicle Lift system, which allows the 12C Spider to be raised front and rear for improved ground clearance

McLaren 12C Spider is now available to order worldwide, its starting price begins from £195 500 and the first deliveries to customers are planned for November this year.

A short comparison between 12C Spider’s performance and 12C is below:

	MP4-12C Spider* (625 PS/616 bhp)	MP4-12C * (625 PS/616 bhp)
0-62 mph (0-100 kph)	3.1 sec	3.1 sec
0-100mph (0-161kph)	6.1	6.0
0-124 mph(0-200 kph)	9.0 sec	8.8 sec
¼ mile (400m)	10.8 sec @ 134 mph (216 kph)	10.6 sec @ 136 mph (219 kph)
V Max	204 mph (329 kph)	207 mph (333 kph)
Fuel efficiency, EU MPG (litres/100km)	24.2 (11.7)	24.2 (11.7)
CO2 g/km	279	279

McLaren MP4-12C Spider technical specifications:

Drivetrain layout	Longitudinal mid-engine, RWD
Engine configuration	V8 twin turbo
Engine material	Aluminium block and cylinder heads
Oiling	Dry sump
Compression ratio	8.7:1
Valvetrain	32-valve, DOHC, dual VVT
Redline ( rpm)	8,500
Bore x Stroke (mm)	93 x 69.9
Engine displacement (cc)	3799
PS / rpm	625 / 7500
Torque Nm / rpm	600 / 3000-7000
PS per litre	164
Transmission	7 Speed SSG
Body structure	Carbon fibre MonoCell with aluminum front and rear frames
Wheelbase (mm)	2670
Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Length (mm)	4509
Width (mm) @ widest point	2093
Height (mm)	1203
DIN weight (kg / lbs)	1474 / 3249
Dry weight (kg / lbs)	1376 / 3033
Dry weight with lightweight options (kg / lbs)	1341 / 2956
Weight distribution at DIN F / R %	42 / 58
Active aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
ProActive Chassis Control modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Powertrain modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Brakes	Cast iron discs with forged aluminum hubs (F 370mm / R 350 mm)
Wheel sizes (F / R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J
Tyres (F / R)	Pirelli PZero 235/35 R19 / 305/30 R20

Source: McLaren

July 3, 2012

Kia Release Top-Of-The-Range Sportage KX-4

From today on, if you’re looking for the top-of-the-range Kia Sportage, the KX-4 should answer your call. It’s the most powerful version of the established crossover with over 180 bhp under its hood and a bag full of technology which is supposed to make your life easier.

Let’s start with the engine, which is a turbocharged diesel. It has 2.0-liters of displacement, a cool abbreviation of CRD and it sends its power to all the four wheels through a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual – your choice. Peak torque (383 Nm) can be found at 1,800 rpm and it will stay with you until the 2,500 rpm mark. The automatic works with the even more 392 Nm of torque. The extra 47 bhp over the previous version of the engine is courtesy to the variable geometry turbocharger, the higher pressure injectors and the ECU remapping. In real life, that means 0-60 mph in 9.4 seconds, a top speed of 120 mph, 46.3 mpg and 158 g/km of CO2 emissions. The automatic falls behind a little with the economy – 39.2 mpg – but it’s out there. Especially when you think that the Sportage KX-4 is strictly All-Wheel-Drive. The system is clever enough to send all the power to the front wheels on flat roads and then start playing with the ratio depending on the terrain (up to 60:40 front-to-rear power distribution is achievable).

In terms of equipment, we can safely say that it is based on the “KX-3 Sat Nav” with the addition of a Parallel Parking Assist System, a keyless smart entry system and an engine stop/start button. The leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon automatic lights, automatic wipers, dual zone climate control, heated front and rear seats, cruse control, reversing camera amd seven-speaker sound system, account for the other standard luxuries found in the Korean crossover.

Prices in the UK for the Kia Sportage KX-4 start from £27,195 ($42 633) and one can place an order right now.

Source: Kia

July 2, 2012

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

Aston Martin has announced the new V12 Vantage Roadster. The new “Volante” model is planned to make its official debut later this week. The production will be limited to just 101 units and the manufacturer is apparently already taking orders from special clients.

An unknown UK dealer has stated pricing of approximately £150 000.

The modifications include front and rear suspensions as well as a revised luggage lid and rear spoiler. Other new design elements include carbon fiber side strakes, carbon fiber mirror caps, rear lamp black outer trim with carbon fiber inner appliques, new design forged alloy wheels, black exhaust pipes and Aston Martin emblems with black background.

The interior is also revised. It boasts lower center console glass switches (instead of black plastic) and carbon/black trim detailing. A Carbon Interior Pack takes it a step further with the addition of a carbon fiber center console fascia and carbon fiber gearshift base plate.

Stay tuned for more information about the new V12 Vantage Volante.

Source: Aston Martin

July 2, 2012

Infiniti EMERG-E Prototype revealed at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Infiniti has introduced an EMERG-E prototype at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with Red Bull racing F1 driver Mark Webber behind the steeringwheel. The car was previewed by the concept and the prototype is based on the Lotus Evora and uses a range-extended electric powertrain that was “specially developed for [the] EMERG-E.” The latter part is a bit dubious, as the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid also uses the same mechanicals as the EMERG-E.

The engine is from Evora 414E Hybrid delivering 408HP (300 kW). 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph). The car can travel up 48 km (30 miles) on electricity alone

The company hasn’t confirmed plans to build a production model, but hinted the EMERG-E “provides an exciting glimpse into Infiniti’s future.”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59_7XLDlIfo

Source: WCF via Youtube

July 2, 2012

Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake

It’s common knowledge that nowadays, car makers are trying to dominate every segment out there. But some companies are now even changing the rules. With no fields left for dominance, Mercedes-Benz set out to create new categories. The CLS serves to prove that point – a four door coupe. Are you ready for the next step? The Mrecedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (see concept) – a five-door, estate coupe. Sound’s ridiculous right? But it looks just as good as it is mad.

It may not be a full blown estate but it is actually bigger than the current E-Class wagon. Still, boot space at the back is inferior to the one of the E-Class, but you can opt to have it all covered in a cherry tree wooden trim… which will not help at all in terms of practically bit it will “underscore the hand-finished nature of the interior”. Most of all, by doing so, you won’t put much strain on the engine since the Shooting Brake engineers have kept it light by installing frameless, completely aluminum doors which are 24 kg lighter than they would be if steel was used. The tailgate, hood, front fenders and other elements of the suspension and engine are aluminum as well.

Another coupe feature of the CLS Shooting Brake is it’s shape. Besides soothing the eye, the design also has an aerodynamic perk – a Cd value figure of 0.29. Good news then for the efficiently oriented engine options. Two diesels: One being a four cylinder and the other, a CLS 350 CDI 3.0-liter V6 that develops 265 bhp and returns 47 mpg . Zero to sixty acceleration for that latter one takes 6.6 seconds while the top speed is limited at 155 mph. Both of the engines make use of a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and both have an ECO start/stop system as standard. Another feature that increases the distance between gas station stops is the Electric Power Steering system which is also said to be superior in feedback.

No word on the pricing but our guess is that the end figure will be perfectly sensible with traces of lunacy and dynamism. When AMG get their hands on a CLS Shooting Brake expect full on lunacy and dynamism.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 2, 2012

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition is the newest transformation delivered by the talented Afzal Kahn. Here he combined the mechanical perfection of the Jeep with an exterior beauty in copper.

It is obvious that he is keen on working with Jeep Wranglers, we have seen some great transformations by him done on this model. The current one however, is probably the most expressive one.

This Copper Edition is characterized by new front grille industrial mesh, brake calipers finished in copper, mud flaps, side wing blades in carbon, xenon crosshair headlamps, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, Kahn enamel wing shields, fuel filler cap (smoked black), privacy glass, heated seats, floor mats, split level targa roof, aluminum machined foot pedals, Kahn enamel tailgate logo and rear wheel cover.

More cutting edge technologies can be seen on the blank rear window sections and LED lights, which can be made in bullet-proof glass according to customers wish.

Furthermore, Kahn’s cross hair exhausts in stainless steel reflects an attraction to a pluto-matic lifestyle. This means that the vehicle now is more silent than ever.

The interior of the Jeep is made exquisitely well with the craftsmanship of the tuner. This vehicle comes with front and rear seats in quilted black leather with copper stitching and a centre console, also in a copper finish. Just look at the picture below and you can get a sense of how perfect they look.

2012 Kahn Jeep Wrangler Military Copper Edition Interior

At last, the model runs on special Kahn wheels, which go along perfectly with the vehicle and even further enhance its essence. They were created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology, and are in 9 x 20 size, in smoked black color.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 2, 2012

2012 Suzuki Alto: available for purchase

2012 Suzuki Alto is now available for purchase and will delight its customers with both low CO2 emissions and low price. The model will be available in three versions: five door body style SZ, SZ3 and SZ4.

This Suzuki is popular for its outstanding performance in terms of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. Hence, this makes it perfect for urban driving. The vehicle also meets the pressing need for a reduced impact on the environment.

Some of the recently made changes on the Alto Minor Change model include Dual VVT (Variable Valve Timing) for greater engine flexibility and response. Thanks to this modification the CO2 emissions were further reduced. This of course led to improvements to fuel economy as well.

The latest model of the Alto embodies new design interior colour and fabric trim, new full wheel covers for SZ and SZ3 models and dipping rear view mirror. The range of exterior colors has been extended as well: it now includes Glistening Grey metallic.

When equipped with manual transmission, the Alto emits just 99g/km CO2. The engine of the vehicle achieves a maximum torque of 90Nm/66lbft at 3,400 rpm, and combined fuel consumption of 65.7mpg. These number make the Alto one of the cleanest petrol-powered City cars in the world.

2012 Suzuki Alto has a starting price of £5 995.

Source: Suzuki

July 2, 2012

Category: Auto News