Auto News – Page 842 – Automobiles Review

Superchips Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DCi – 130HP and 275Nm

Superchips now offer a performance program for the best-selling Nissan Qashqai – the 1.5 DCi model delivering 110HP and 248Nm.

Thanks to an ECU re-map, the small turbo-diesel is boosted to 130HP and 275Nm of torque. This is an increase of 20HP and 27Nm.

On the road the extra power and torque from the Superchips enhanced Nissan Qashqai brings the excitement back to daily driving. The 1.5 DCi unit pulls harder throughout the rev range, feeling considerably more responsive, urgent and willing, making overtaking, fast cruising and towing a pleasurable experience. As are visits to the fuel pumps. Independent consumption tests on Superchip equipped vehicles have proven that by optimising the ECU’s settings and increasing the low speed torque output, fuel consumption improves by up to 7% – meaning that the Qashqai’s 54mpg quoted standard figure should be improved upon, even with a power increase of over 18%.

No technical skills are required as Superchips’ customers plug the bluefin handset into the Qashqai’s OBDII diagnostic port and then follow the simple on-screen instructions, a process which takes a matter of minutes.

Customers can be assured the Superchips Nissan Qashqai conversion is covered by a full Customer Service Guarantee and an industry-leading 12 month / 30,000 supplementary full vehicle warranty.

The price is £399 including VAT @ 20%. The upgrade will fit the any vehicles produced September 2010 onwards.

Source: Superchips

May 9, 2012

Ferrari 599 GTO vs Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and Nissan GT-R [HD video]

Another great video has been released by Dragtimesinfo. This time the mighty 599 GTO Fiorano meets two tuned beasts – GTR Mk2 Ecutek Stage 2 with 670HP and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Lingenfelter with 730HP.

The 599 GTO Fiorano is powered by a naturally aspirated all-aluminum 6.0 liter V12 with 670HP (493 kW) at 8250RPM and 620 Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque at 6500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.35 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph). The overall weight is 1 605 kg (3 540 lbs), which is almost 100 kg (220 lbs) less than the standard GTB.

In the first start, the GTO meets the GT-R. The Ferrari is doomed, because of the rainy surface. The GT-R ran ¼ mile in just 11.606 seconds with 210 km/h and crossed the finish line with 300 km/h for just 28.156 seconds.

The battle against the ZR1 was much more interesting, because both cars are RWD. Still, the Corvette manage to beat the 599 crossing the finish line with 309 km/h with time of 29.356 seconds.

Enjoy the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtVVF601HmE

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

May 9, 2012

World Record: Volkswagen Passat Covers 1626 Miles on a Single Tank of Fuel

We often get figures from car makers that, from time to time beggar belief. Especially when we are talking about estimated mpg data. It goes without saying then, that nothing beats a real life test to see exactly what’s what. That’s exactly what record breaking duo John and Helen Taylor have done – travel 1626.1 miles on a single tank of fuel (a record breaking distance). The car of choice was a 2012, manual Volkswagen Passat TDI SE Clean Diesel.

It was a three day journey with a starting point at Houston Texas. The tank was brimmed up with a batch of ultra-low sulfur diesel and the fuel cap was then sealed by officials. And when we are talking real life, we mean real life – 120 pounds of luggage was stuffed at the back and the driving was done only during daytime hours so that the traffic could also contribute as a factor. On the third day of the journey, after 1626.1 miles, the couple reached Sterling, Virginia where the world record was confirmed – 99.5 miles better than the previous record holder (a Volkswagen Passat 1.6 BlueMotion diesel). The average consumption of the TDI Clean Diesel turned out to be 84.1 mpg.

That’s pretty impressive when we take into account that the 2.0-liter engine inside it generates 140 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. The given EPA estimated fuel economy for it stands at 43 mpg at the highway. Every single state is quite happy about the Passat’s emissions as it has been fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction System (SCR) – some sort of which craft that makes rainbows and butterflies come out from the exhaust.

“The Passat was engineered and designed to be a comfortable yet fun to drive alternative in the midsize segment. The TDI Clean Diesel version unites driving dynamics and fuel efficiency that isn’t found in the competitive set,” said Rainer Michel, Vice President of Product Strategy, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re honored that the Taylors chose the 2012 Passat TDI as the vehicle to set this outstanding distance record. Their record shows just how economical the Passat TDI can be in the right hands.”

This is not Taylor’s first efficiency venture. They are in fact renown for independently researching various ways of efficient driving, holding workshops globally. Their collected data from drivers around the globe is as vast as their ambitions.

John and Helen Taylor next to the Volkswagen Passat TDI SE Clean Diesel

Source: Volkwsagen

May 9, 2012

McLaren P12 – the F1 successor [render]

Jacek Kolodziejczyk a.k.a. Iacoski has released a render of the successor of the legendary McLaren F1. The new super sports car will be named P12.

The artist has created a speculative effort as to what the final model will look like and we like it very much. Of course, it reminds a lot of MP4-12C. The front end is practically the same, but the car is much wider and more aggressive than MP4.

Probably, the engine will be a tuned version of the 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V8 that will be coupled with the Formula 1 derived kinetic energy recovery system (KERS). The expected overall power is around 900HP (671 kW). The P12 will be a direct rival to the successor of Ferrari Enzo.

Stay tuned for more information about this interesting vehicle. Of course, the McLaren F1 will remain our all times favourite sports car, but it will be interesting to see something new and … fast!

Source: iacoski via Facebook

May 9, 2012

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 takes place at Indy 500

Chevrolet has announced the 2013 Corvette ZR1, which will take place at the Indianapolis 500. The competition will start Sunday, May 27 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The race car is designed to celebrate the model’s 60th anniversary and final year of production.

Additional content includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers and the “60th” logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat headrests. An optional graphics package adds full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top, extending the graphic theme over the roof.

“Corvette embodies pure performance, so the ZR1 is a perfect car to pace the most prestigious auto race in the world,” commented Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation president and chief executive officer.

“Chevrolet is a great partner of the Speedway, and we share in the excitement of the upcoming 60th anniversary of the iconic Corvette brand. It’s even more meaningful to see a Chevrolet pacing the field at Indy since Chevy has returned as an engine supplier for the IZOD IndyCar Series for the first time since 2005.”, he added.

Chevy Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 with 647HP (476 kW) and 818Nm (604 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph). The overall weight of the car is just 1520 kg (3353 lbs.).

The ZR1 lapped the famed Nurburgring’ Nordschleife (“north loop”) in 7:19.63.

Source: Chevrolet

May 9, 2012

Prior Mercedes-Benz M-Class Aerodynamic Kit

prior-mercedes-benz-m-class-w164 Prior Design seem to be in a very SUV mood considering the fact that they have released yet another program for an old-ish titan. Nor really that old actually – the Mercedes-Benz M Class W164 (the one made from 2005 to 2011). Does it look any different from yesterday’s Range Rover? Well, granted that it is a Mercedes, it does but the Prior Design formula on it is basically the same.

Yes, you know it – a front bumper, side skirts a rear bumper and… mounting material. Not what we call thrilling. Okay, there’s also a hood that comes along. Mind you, that’s how things sound on paper. A quick glance at the gallery and we find that the end result is not that gray (it’s white). Despite the add-on side skirts, the M-class has managed to retain a bit of it’s ground clearance. The rear bumper blends seamlessly with the back fenders and wheel-arches while the front looks simply mean (this being an SUV, it should). There are of course LED daytime running lights. But they are optional. At the price of 329 Euros ($428), we recommend they stay that way.

As usual, all materials are made up of Dura-Flex Fiber Reinforced Plastic which is, as one might suspect, durable and flexible. No modifications on the stock Mercedes M-class whatsoever are needed.

Source: Prior Design

May 8, 2012

2012 Toyota RAV4 EV Revealed

As promised, Toyota have unveiled the RAV4 EV. The event took place at the 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles. The hopes are high as some expect it to be no less impressive than the current petrol RAV4 V6 in terms of “driving performance, dynamics and cargo capacity. That’s amibtious.

The drivetrain inside it can provide power for 160 km once every charge. After that, you find a 240V/40A charger and “brim it up” fir six hours. Pretty much all the bits underneath have been made by Tesla. It took both companies 22 months to achieve this but eventually, we end up with the “only all-electric SUV on the market”

The torquey electricity powers goes to the front wheels in two manners – Sport and Normal. While on the former, the RAV4 can go from 0 to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) in 7 seconds dead while the top speed climbs up to 160 km. A more leisurely way to drive up to the grocer’s can be the Normal mode – 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds and 137 km/h at best.

The maximum output of power has been estimated to be 115kW @ 2,800 rpm. The heavy battery pack buried deep down inside the car benefits the center of gravity while the electric motor purrs in a very serene way. Surrisingly, the RAV4 body is also slippery – a 0.30 drag coefficient is the very best among SUV’s apparently.

In terms of body design, there are some slight deviations from the standard look of the Toyota RAV4. The front bumper, upper and lower grille, side mirrors, rear spoiler and under body shape have all been restyled in favor of aerodynamics. Sales are expected to start somewhere around during the late summer of 2012. Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota in the United States, hopes that:

“…the RAV4 EV will attract sophisticated early technology adopters, much like the first-generation Prius,”

We’ll have to see about that.

Source: Toyota

May 8, 2012

Subaru Legacy and Outback – Facelifted and Updated

Subaru are letting loose the latest Legacy and Outback models: For Japan, that means not mere MY releases but proper revisions – minor facelifting, chassis and body changes and new engines. The company likes to sum up their actions by using “concepts” which can be articulated in simple phrases. This one is called an “All Performance Enhancement” – the focus falls on fuel efficiency, driveablity and safety.

One of the two new engines (both of them are flat) is an improved version of the familiar, naturally aspirated 2.5-liter one. The Legacies and Outbacks designated with 2.5i usually develop 168 hp and 229 Nm of torque. Now, low to mid speed torque comes even easier. That on the other hand, called for a better CVT so a new Lineatronic transmission was also introduced. It improves fuel-efficiency and tackles the incoming torque more smoothly. Further improvement on the frugality is courtesy to the Impreza derived auto start/stop system.

The Legacy gets a new bumper and revised headlights plus grille thus making it look more wide and sharp. The Outback receives also gets similar optics in its own way. A way that is supposed to convey the image of a flagship SUV. Both of the cars get a 3.5-inch color LCD display at the center of the speedometer. There, the driver can monitor the fuel consumption and the operational situation of the “EyeSight” feature (the camera at the front that monitors the road for obstacles and eventual collisions). Convenient and safe stuff.

What one probably won’t notice is the enhanced rigidity of the Legacy’s body and chassis. By adding a support sub frame at the back and tweaking the spring settings on both ends, one gets a comfortable ride with superior on-the-road stability.

The other engine goes on the Legacy (wagon or sedan) and the designation will be 2.0GT DIT – Direct Injection Turbo that is. With 2.0-liters of displacement, DOHC and 16 valves, this is a new breed of engines that will hopefully sperad out. By injecting fuel directly into the cylinders, Subaru have made it possible to up the efficiency by 20%. The bore/stroke inside the pots is equally proportioned – 86mm x 86mm. That’s what’s known as a square engine which is ideal for direct fuel injecting. The twin scroll type turbocharger is said to be lively on low speeds and to have helped in extracting 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque.

Add to that the same Lineartronic transmission mentioned above and you get yourself a perfectly decent family car that’s capable of putting a smile on your face trough lively response. What makes it so suitable for a family car – it’s stability, safety and refinement – 18-inch aluminum wheels as standard, minimized vehicle sway and an enlarged stabilizer diameter which in turn offers great stability when changing lanes and cornering.

Source: Subaru

May 8, 2012

Epic battle: GT3 RS 4.0 vs M3 GTS vs C63 AMG Black Series

Here is an epic battle between three awesome sports cars – Porsche GT3 RS 4.0, BMW M3 GTS and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series.

The Porsche is powered by a naturally aspirated flat-six with 125HP (92 kW) hp/liter. This means 500HP (368 kW) and 460Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque from the 4.0 liter six-cylinder. It is mated to a 6-speed sport gearbox. The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1370 kg (3000 lbs). 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and top speed of 311 km/h (193 mph).

The BMW has an updated version of the M3 engine – a hi-revving 4.4 liter V8 with 450HP (331 kW) at 8300RPM and 475Nm (325 lb-ft) at 3750RPM. The engine is mated to a re-tuned 7-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h (190 mph). The total weight is 1530kg.

The Mercedes has a 6.2 liter V8 AMG engine with 517HP (380 kW) and 620Nm (460 lb-ft). It is coupled to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four driving modes. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

Which is best? Check out in the video below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSaN8FS-GV8

Source: drive via Youtube

May 8, 2012

Gallardo Twin Turbo UGR vs Corvette ZR1 LPE and GT-R Switzer R850 [HD video]

Another great video with extremely fast street legal vehicles by Dragtimesinfo. In this clip you’ll see Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 LPE, Lamborghini Gallardo Twin Turbo UGR and Nissan GT-R Switzer R850.

The Lambo UGR makes two starts – first against the GT-R Switzer and second versus Corvette ZR1. The twin-turbo UGR has more than 1500HP, but because of the rainy surface, it has huge problems with traction. As you will see in the first start, it crosses the finish line with terminal speed of 339 km/h, which alarms for a lot of wheelspin.

In the second start the Gallardo is going against Corvette ZR1 Lingenfelter, which has half of Lambo’s power – 730HP. Obviously, it won’t be an interesting race, but everything happens on a drag race!

Enjoy the video!

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

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

May 8, 2012

Audi Sport Quattro – KEMRacing in the Isle of Man [video]

Audi Sport Quattro is a legendary car produced in limited series of just 224 units. It was introduced back in 1985. The brutal car is still known as the most powerful rally car ever competed in an international competition – 600HP (441 kW).

However, the officially stated power of the inline 2.1 liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine was 480PS (350 kW). A recirculating air system helping the turbocharger spinning at high RPM, when the driver does not apply the throttle allowed the engine to resume full power immediately after the resumption of full throttle. This was extremely good move, because it reduced the turbo lag a lot and boosted the engine to 507PS (373 kW) at 8000RPM.

Here is a nice video of an original Quattro which was converted by UK firm Dialynx into a short wheelbase Sport Quattro competing at the Isle of Man Manx Classic Hillclimb and Sprint Series in April.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pr3VXBVk0cg

Source: Thatclicks via Youtube

May 8, 2012

Cadillac ATS Price: $33,990

The latest Cadillac ATS RWD sedan, gets a price tag which makes its future look good. Starting from $33,990, the 2.5-liter/30+ mpg model even comes with destination charges. It’s a small poke in the eye for Mercedes-Benz and Audi. Their own compact-sedans (the C250 and A4 respectfully) have a significantly higher price.

Besides the 2.5, for one can get the mid-range power train ($35,795) which is 2.0 but it is turbocharged thus more powerful and less thirsty. Manual and Automatic transmissions are available as is the choice between RWD and AWD. The top of the range model that costs $42,090, incorporates a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 320 horsepower. The transmission is strictly automatic and the standard equipment includes leather 8-way power seats with memory for settings storage, adaptive start, CUE tech and much more. Full specifications are due to came later on.

The CUE technology represents Caddilac’s user interface. It’s akin to that used in many smartphones and tablets. The idea is that it uses electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger – in other words… a touchscreen.

The handling is also expected to be top-notch since the Nürburgring in Germany, among other tracks has been a favorite of Cadillac testing engineers for quite a while. The ATS is also lighter than the aforementioned A4 and C250 by around 100 pounds. The top-of-the-line 3.6 is expected to do 0 to 100 kph in less than 6 seconds.

Source: Cadillac

May 7, 2012

Category: Auto News