Category: Auto News

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

  • 2013 Dodge Dart Compact Sedan – a groundbreaking revelation

    2013-dodge-dart-THUMB2013 Dodge Dart is the vehicle which comes to change everything. It is a mixture of Alfa Romeo DNA, fuel-efficient powertrains and Dodge’s passion for performance. It is truly fuel efficient, makes you fall in love at first sight (just see how it looks) and offers excitement and agility in driving.

    It comes equipped with innovative technologies, class-leading safety features and clever functionality. In other words – it comes to redefine the compact car segment by offering one-of-a-kind personalization, spaciousness, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.

    First of all let’s review the exceptional exterior of this car. 2013 Dodge Dart’s designers definitely created it with this vision of the design becoming timeless. This means at least that it is stylish and distinctive and grabs immediately the attention. It has sportish look, athletic lines and aesthetically agile appearance.

    In addition, the front of the Dart carries the specific and unmistakable Dodge split crosshair grille. However, it is now with modern and sleek look that “floats” in the front fascia, giving the Dart a full-width mask. You can definitely recognize that it is a Dodge, thank to this.

    Moreover, front of the Dart has been designed for smooth airflow around, above and below the car without compromising styling or engine cooling requirements. Next, below the front fascia there is positioned a lower radiator close-out pane, which contributes to the Dart’s lower front-end look.

    2013 Dodge Dart
    2013 Dodge Dart

    On the other hand the rear view of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart includes an available Charger-inspired “racetrack” full-width taillamp with 152 indirect glow LEDs, and class-exclusive available dual exhausts mounted in the rear fascia.

    Another highlight is that the designers of the car put a lot of attention on the details. For instance, have included these eye-capturing elements: standard laser-braised roof welds, high-quality metal Daylight Opening (DLO) moldings painted piano black and standard projector headlamps.

    All in all everything that has been made around the design leads to more dramatic aero-dynamical appearance and exceptional proportions, world-class craftsmanship and modern technology.

    Next comes the interior of the car. Dodge’s interior is crafted with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. In it is included innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features.

    The interior of the Dart is “driver-centric”. All of the controls are put within easy reach of the driver. It might surprise you but the vehicle is really comfortable and spacious inside, and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room.

    The high-tech highlight of the 2013 Dodge Dart is the 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LED customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround. This one also houses the available class-exclusive Uconnect® Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen Media Center, which is the largest touchscreen in its class.

    Furthermore, the center console features auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices. It also includes inventive storage solutions, like center console side pockets.

    The warm atmosphere in the vehicle is provided of course by the lightning. The available “racetrack” lighting surrounds the floating island bezel. In addition, there is the ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders.

    2013 Dodge Dart Interior
    2013 Dodge Dart Interior

    More importantly of course are the engines by which this beauty is powered. Drivers can select from a new 160 horsepower (118 kW) Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 160 horsepower (118 kW) 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir® Intercooled Turbo engine and a new 184 horsepower (135 kW) Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine.

    Those engine can be combined with a choice of three different transmissions: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual dry clutch (DDCT) transmission one.

    Furthermore, it is necessary to mention the fact that the Dart is based on the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The latter is offers road-holding agility and safety, and exceptional driving dynamics.

    In addition, the 2013 Dodge Dart includes lightweight MacPherson strut front suspension,. They were specifically tuned in order to minimize camber loss, resulting in more responsive steering and handling characteristics. The also deliver enhanced ride quality and a reduction in road noise.

    Another highlight here is that the 2013 Dart is the first Dodge vehicle to utilize an active grille shutter system. The latter automatically stops airflow through the lower intake at highway speeds when less engine cooling is required and aerodynamic drag is most significant.

    When the shutter system is closed it improves aerodynamic performance by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides. The active grille shutter system will open or close automatically based upon engine coolant temperature and vehicle speed.

    2013 Dodge Dart comes equipped with more than 60 safety and security features. The body foundation of the car is sound and strong: it is a high-strength steel content of 68 percent.

    Next, driver’s and passenger’s safety features include 10 standard airbags: dual-stage adaptive venting front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted driver and passenger pelvic and thorax air bags, two rear-seat-mounted pelvic air bags, front driver and passenger knee air bags and all-row side-curtain air bags.

    The Dart also comes equipped with a reactive head-restraint system; available Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, three-point safety belts in all five seating positions; front driver and passenger dual seat belt pretensioners at the anchor and retractor positions and active load limiters. The three rear seat positions include Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH).

    Additional standard safety features on the 2013 Dodge Dart include:

    • Four-wheel, four-channel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution and traction control system on all models

    • Brake Assist

    • Brake-lock differential

    • Ready Alert Braking

    • Rainy Brake Support

    • Hydraulic boost compensation

    • Electronic stability control (four-channel active handling system ESC)

    • Electronic Roll Mitigation

    • Hill-start Assist

    • Trailer-sway Control

    • ParkView® rear back-up camera

    • ParkSense® rear park assist

    2013 Dodge Dart will be available in 12 exterior colors: Redline Red Pearl Coat, Header Orange Pearl Coat, Blue Streak Pearl Coat, True Blue Pearl Coat, Winter Chill Pearl Coat, Laguna Blue Clear Coat, Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Citrus Peel Pearl Coat, Pitch Black Clear Coat and Bright White Clear Coat.

    In addition, customers can choose among 14 interior color and trim combinations with seven interior color environments in cloth or leather fabric: Black denim, Black/Light Diesel Grey, Black/Light Frost Beige, Black/Ruby Red, Diesel Grey/Citrus Peel, Diesel Grey/Light Diesel Grey and Ceramic White/Light Diesel Grey.

    Additionally, 2013 Dodge Dart will offer six wheel options, three engine options and three six-speed transmissions, as well as a wide range of outstanding segment-leading features, including:

    • World-class aerodynamics

    • Class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust

    • Class-exclusive “racetrack” LED taillamps

    • Class-exclusive choice of either Hyper Black or polished wheels

    • Class-exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen Uconnect Touch Media Center with built-in radio, navigation, iPod control, climate controls, voice-activated Bluetooth®, SiriusXM Travel Link, weather updates and points of interest

    • Class-exclusive 7-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster display that is easily customizable to the driver’s taste. Choices include: digital and analog gauges, navigation turn-by-turn display, eco-meter, fuel economy, audio, phone, compass and temperature read outs

    • Class-exclusive floating island bezel

    • Class-exclusive heated steering wheel

    • Class-exclusive in-seat front passenger seat storage

    • Available 506-watt sound system

    • Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start

    • High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps

    • Dual-zone automatic temperature control with humidity sensor

    • Unsurpassed 10 standard airbags

    • ParkView® rear back-up camera

    • Blind-spot Monitoring

    • Class-exclusive Rear Cross Path Detection

    • Best-in-class hip room and shoulder room

    The most diverse lineup of gasoline powertrains in the segment – three new engines and three six-speed transmissions:

    • New Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates an estimated 160 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission

    • The technologically advanced Fiat 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo producing an estimated 160 horsepower and an impressive 184 lb.-ft. of torque mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DDCT transmission

    • New powerful 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine that produces an estimated 184 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission

    • Dodge also is giving drivers the opportunity to customize their vehicles, as Mopar will offer more than 150 customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.

    The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available on the market in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T (available 3rd quarter 2012) with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $15 995.

    Source: Dodge

  • 3D Design BMW F10 M5 offers more aerodynamism

    3D Design BMW F10 M5 is a vehicle which will definitely grab the attention of anyone who’s into tuning. As exceptional as BMW, this car now can show off some really cool style.
    This is happening thanks to the outstanding work of the professionals from 3D Design. They have managed to embellish the boisterous E39 M5 model of the German brand.
    In details, the 3D Design program for the F10 M5 includes wide range of carbon fiber aerodynamic accessories which feature front lip, low splitters, side skirts, rear diffuser, and trunk spoiler. Additionally, there is also a roof spoiler from the existing F10 line available.
    Furthermore, there is additional work to be done in terms of aerodynamic improvements. In facts, 3D Design will have their trademark exhaust system created with their technology partner Arqray.
    In details, the exhaust will be made of stainless steel with quad 100mm tips. Of course, this will delivers aggressiveness that perfectly matches this tuning. The exhaust will be made available in both a JASMA spec as well as Export spec.
    Moreover, the work on the car will include another partnership – this time with Ohlins, where both companies will collaborate to bring about full suspension components line and external reservoir race application.
    What is more to add here is that the already great BMW interior will be further enhanced by 3D Designs trademark pedal set, floor mats, and a gauge pod for more serious applications.
    Source: IND

    3D-Design-BMW-F10-M5-THUMB3D Design BMW F10 M5 is a vehicle which will definitely grab the attention of anyone who’s into tuning. As exceptional as BMW, this car now can show off some really cool style.

    This is happening thanks to the outstanding work of the professionals from 3D Design. They have managed to embellish the boisterous E39 M5 model of the German brand.

    In details, the 3D Design program for the F10 M5 includes wide range of carbon fiber aerodynamic accessories which feature front lip, low splitters, side skirts, rear diffuser, and trunk spoiler. Additionally, there is also a roof spoiler from the existing F10 line available.

    Furthermore, there is additional work to be done in terms of aerodynamic improvements. In facts, 3D Design will have their trademark exhaust system created with their technology partner Arqray.

    In details, the exhaust will be made of stainless steel with quad 100mm tips. Of course, this will delivers aggressiveness that perfectly matches this tuning. The exhaust will be made available in both a JASMA spec as well as Export spec.

    Moreover, the work on the car will include another partnership – this time with Ohlins, where both companies will collaborate to bring about full suspension components line and external reservoir race application.

    What is more to add here is that the already great BMW interior will be further enhanced by 3D Designs trademark pedal set, floor mats, and a gauge pod for more serious applications.

    3D Design BMW F10 M5
    3D Design BMW F10 M5

    Source: IND

  • Are hydrogen cars the alternative vehicle of the future?

    This weeks “fresh and clean” topic will put more attention on hydrogen vehicles as many of us might not be completely aware about them. I’m going to discuss how they work and are they beneficial for the environment, and in addition – I will resume some of their disadvantages.

    Nowadays many people become more conscious how vitally important is to lead a healthy lifestyle and thus to save the environment around us. Hence, it is more and more often to encounter people who are interested in using alternative fuels and contributing to saving our planet’s ecosystem.

    In fact there is already a boom in the automotive market in the production of electric and hybrid vehicles. And this can consequently lead to the thought that the world is in need of paying more attention to what really matters – keeping alive and clean the home we call “Mother Earth”.

    BMW Hydrogen 7's Tank
    BMW Hydrogen 7's Tank

    But let’s go straight to the point and find out how hydrogen cars can contribute in our environmental efforts.

    First of all, I must tell you more about what really a hydrogen vehicle is. As you already know probably, it uses hydrogen for power. What you might not know however is how this hydrogen transforms into power.

    The vehicle can be powered by hydrogen in two different ways. The first one is through a modified internal combustion engine, which has to be designed especially for this purpose, so that it can transform the chemical energy coming from the hydrogen in electricity.

    The second one is through a hydrogen fuel cell which works like batteries. The principle, which lies behind the creation of the power, is that the hydrogen and oxygen are combined with a cell in order to generate the needed electricity and water, they in turn run the electric motor.

    Both methods effectively produce energy from the compound. Nevertheless, the latter method seems to be more beneficial in terms of eco-friendliness.

    What is also important to mention is the way hydrogen is being obtained. In fact, it isn’t a natural energy source (like fossil fuels for instance). Its main characteristic is that it is an energy carrier.

    Hydrogen is made mainly after chemical reactions in which methane or fossil fuels take part, or it can be created from energy sources such as solar energy source or wind ones. In other words – this compound is to be found almost everywhere and this is the reason which makes it so attractive to the different companies.

    For that reason lately many automotive companies put a lot of effort and attention on the ways this can happen. They are developing technologies which can be successfully utilized to exploit the potential of hydrogen energy for vehicles.

    In addition to this another important advantage of the hydrogen is that it is prepared without utilizing fossil fuel inputs. But what does this mean? Well, basically the vehicle’s propulsion won’t contribute to carbon dioxide emissions.

    On the other hand, hydrogen might have some drawbacks that have to be reviewed. First of all, the storage of hydrogen is a challenge, because it is a low density gas. Secondly, it appears that the additional leakages of hydrogen might harm the stratosphere. Third – a large amount of investments should take place in order to make an infrastructure in alignment with such cars.

    Furthermore, if the gas is used in fuel cells, those vehicles require a special catalyst. The latter requires in turn a metal component, which very often is made of platinum. And as we all know: this metal is very rare and extremely expensive.

    Honda FCX Clarity
    Honda FCX Clarity

    And to go back to the initial question: are hydrogen cars the alternative vehicle of the future? It is indeed very tough to answer such question, as you consider the advantages and drawbacks of these types of cars have. Nonetheless, many companies are investing in the research of the feasibility of building hydrogen cars.

    For example, on the market you can see those models: BMW Hydrogen 7, Nissan Hydrogen Tour, Honda FCX Clarity, Mazda RX 8 Hydrogen RE.

    In summary, vehicles which offer alternative ways of propulsion and emit less harmful gases are significantly needed nowadays. Hydrogen cars are one of the option, which although is a bit more expensive, can also contribute for the reduction of greenhouse gases and reliance on oil. The vision which stays behind the development of such vehicles is to deliver cleaner and greener ways for everyone to travel without producing harmful emissions.

  • 2012 Volkswagen Polo R-Line – Price £15 815

    Volkswagen Polo R-Line is based on the Match model and adds a lot of nice upgrades to make the small city car even more exclusive.

    The unique styling packa includes new front and rear bumpers, a black gloss radiator grille with R Line badging, deeper side sills and 16-inch ‘Mallory’ alloy wheels.  From the B-pillars back, the glass is dark-tinted and 65%  light-absorbing, while the standard front foglights also include a static cornering function.

    There are also scuff plates with R Line logos, sports seats with ‘Kyalami’ cloth upholstery and an R Line logo on the headrests, along with a leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel with R Line logo and aluminium-capped pedals, while the roof lining is finished in black cloth.

    The Polo R-Line is powered by a 1.2 liter 105HP TSI petrol mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). Fuel consumption is 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, and CO2emissions are 124 g/km.

    The standard equipment includes an RCD 310 radio/CD player with six speakers and multi-device interface, for plugging in an iPod or other compatible device, ‘Climatic’ semi-automatic air conditioning, a multifunction trip computer, electric windows (including in the rear on five-door models), height-adjustable front seats, a split-folding rear-seat backrest, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, illuminated vanity mirrors, front and rear reading lights, a tyre pressure monitor and, of course, remote central locking.

    2012 Volkswagen Polo R-Line is priced at £15 815.

    Polo R-line
    Polo R-line

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Bugatti 16C Galibier Four Door Concept Car [video]

    Bugatti has announced the Galibier 16C Concept before three years, but a production car still hasn’t been released. However, the manufacturer continues to tease the model with a new video, which was released in the official Youtube channel of the brand.

    The video highlights the comfort of the vehicle, which is granted by superb nicely crafted elements.

    “Four-door vehicles open up a whole new market for exotic-car makers,” commented Kevin Tynan, an automotive analyst for Bloomberg Industries.

    “It makes good sense for Bugatti to get in there. Those cars are loyal to design language and brand heritage.”, he added.

    16C Galibier is powered by the same engine as Veyron – 8.0 liter sixteen-cylinder engine, but the power will be between 800PS (588 kW) and 1 000PS (735 kW).

    The price tag of the saloon will be more than £1.5 million, if the model eventually hits the market.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKj3QvdZtzY

    Source: Bugatti via Youtube

  • Ford Shelby GT500 with “the World’s Most Powerful V8”

    Ford-Shelby-GT500-thumbThe topic at Ford today apparently is fuel economy. The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 they say, is 1 mpg more efficient than the 2012 model despite the fact that it has 112 more horsepower. Not only that, but there’s also a claim that the 5.8-liter engine under its hood is now the “world’s most powerful production V8” rated at 662 horsepower. Maybe they haven’t heard of the Gumpert Apollo or the Koenigsegg Agera R. But I guess they are in a class of their own.

    The 5.8-liter in the GT500 is a typical, lazy rumbling muscle. 395 lb-ft of torque are already at disposal when the rev needle reaches 1000 rpm. More than 90 percent of the peak torque comes in between 2,200 and 5,800 rpm. That thrust availability might be mainly due to the fact that the supercharger alone is 2.3-liters

    “Our goal is to create outstanding all-around performance cars, not just stoplight-to-stoplight sprinters,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief engineer. “We’ve backed up this amazing powerplant with a more refined chassis tuning that helps keep the rubber on the pavement without punishing the driver’s spine and six-pot Brembo brakes that dissipate speed with ease stop after stop.”

    Indeed, the chassis has been tuned to absorb the road imperfection that can cause instability at high speeds (200+ mph). As a 2013 model, the Ford Shelby GT500 gets a revised front fascia and splitter which improve aerodynamics at 160 mph with around 33 percent over the ones in the 2011 model.

    As a result of all that refinement, the Shelby has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in combined. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is underpowered and 5 mpg less efficient. Checkmate.

    The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich

    Ford Shelby GT500 (2013)
    Ford Shelby GT500 (2013)

    Source: Ford

  • 2013 Porsche Cayenne GTS Promo [video]

    Porsche has released a new promo video of the 2013 Cayenne GTS, which is expected to hit the European market this July.

    The GTS model is not the top of range, but it boasts a lot of nice upgrades. It is based on the Cayenne S and comes with lowered sports suspension and full aerodynamics package including front bumper, a pair of modified side skirts and extended wheel arches.

    2013 Cayenne GTS is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.8 liter V8 with 420HP (309 kW) and 516Nm (381 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission delivering the power to an all-wheel-drive system. The SUV is not as heavy as the new ML or X5 and boasts superb acceleration – 5.7 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 260 km/h (162 mph). The kerb weight is 2085 kg (4597 lbs).

    It is priced from €90 774.

    Enjoy the video.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfHdtOHgc7M

    Source: Porsche

  • Original accessories for the Mercedes-Benz SL

    Mercedes-Benz-Accessories-thumbNot that a Mercedes-Benz SL is a very common sight on the streets but it’s owners will eventually become wary about the possibility of blending in. That’s not what Mercedeses are for. Loosing that character of exclusivity may be the worst thing that can happen to an SL. Luckily however, there is a solution… coming directly from Daimler’s cellar in Stuttgart – introducing the Mercedes-Benz original accessories.

    The variety of things that can go on your SL is extensive. Extensive is the wheel selection – eleven stylish alloy wheels. Then there are the various docking stations and ports so you can plug-in just about any smoartphone that has ever been produced. A COMAND Online multimedia system includes a DVD changer and a media interface and is compatible with again numerous mobile devices.

    Leaving functionality and entering style we find the elegant door sill made from brushed stainless steel that reads an illuminated “Mercedes-Benz”. Or how about taking a part of the SL wherever you go with the key ring which is a replica of the SL symbol on the boot lid?

    AMG also contributes to the goody bag – aprons for the back and front, side skirts and a choice of three 19-inch five-spoke wheels.

    Mercedes-Benz SL with incenio 19-inch multi-spoke wheel
    Mercedes-Benz SL with incenio 19-inch multi-spoke wheel

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Ford Escape Doing 33 MPG EPA Estimated

    Ford announced today that the all-new Ford Escape EcoBoost has been EPA-Certified and returns 33 mpg (at best). If that turns out to be true, the competition will have a hard time shining through it. Mind you, we are talking about the smallest engine mated to an automatic in a small SUV. The other two engines that come with the Escape boast 30 or above mpg.

    “The fuel economy of the all-new Escape showcases the continued success of Ford’s development of smaller, yet more powerful engines, “ said Raj Nair, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development. “Ford understands people want fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing power and space requirements.”

    The base EcoBoost then: its displacement stands at 1.6-liters, power output amounts to 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. That’s 20 more hp and 30 more torque than the Mazda CX-5. A mid-range choice offers a 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240 horsepwer and 270 lb-ft. of torque. Estimated highway economy: 30 mpg. Urban: 22 mpg. The third one is a 2.5-liter iVCT unit. It develops 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft. of torque. Fuel economy remains around the same (31 on the highway) when compared to the 2.0 EcoBoost.

    EcoBoost engines are standard in the SE, SEL and Titanium editions. The SE and SEL models come with the 1.6L standard and the Titanium comes with the 2.0-liter. The 2.5-liter is available in the S edition.

    Partly responsible for these reasonable figures, is the engine tech. Within the two EcoBoosts, direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) all contribute to adding power and frugality. They are then mated to a specially calibrated, six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission which come as standard.

    Further improving on the economy are the aerodynamics. The new Escape is helped by a new Active Grille Shutter System. Right between the radiator and the grille, this mechanism acts as a valve which monitors the engine’s running temperature and decides whether it should close or open. Thus, an ideal operating temperature is maintained at all times.

    Ford Escape (2013)
    Ford Escape (2013)

    Source: Ford

  • 2013 Honda Fit EV and Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan to be charged by Leviton’s technologies

    2013-Honda-Fit-EV-THUMB2013 Honda Fit EV and Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan are going literally to take charge from Leviton Manufacturing Company. Leviton is a global leader in connectivity solutions and recently was selected as Honda’s preferred Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment provider for customer and dealer EV charging.

    In fact, the company is leader in the fields of advanced technology for mobility and energy solutions. In addition to this it is important to mention that this is the largest privately held global provider of electrical wiring devices, data center connectivity solutions and lighting energy management systems. Combined with any Honda vehicle, the result will be oriented towards more sustainable future.

    Furthermore, Honda will be introducing these two battery-electric vehicles: starting with 2013 Honda Fit EV this summer, and the Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan next winter.

    The first Honda vehicle is a battery-electric commuter car. And as you can guess yourself, it is based on the famous Fit model. The car is able to deliver an estimated 123 city-mile range per charge (76 mile range combined adjusted city/highway) and can fully recharge its battery in just three hours when connected to a 240-volt circuit.

    On the other hand Honda Plug-In Hybrid Sedan utilizes two-motor hybrid system. The latter continuously moves through three different modes: all-electric, with up to a 15 mile per charge range; gasoline-electric; and direct-drive. Thanks to these modes is further possible an optimization of driving and fuel efficiency, especially during city driving.

    2013 Honda Fit EV
    2013 Honda Fit EV

    Source: Honda

  • 2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius – Exceptional and “Screaming” for Attention

    2012-Kahn-Range-Rover-Evoque-Vesuvius-THUMB2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius is the latest creation by the exceptional UK-based tuning company Kahn Design. Since its last modification on Range Rover Evoque became highly appreciated and received much acclaim, the designers have decided to make another exceptional tuning on the same model.

    What we can effortlessly see is that the so called “Vesuvius” tuning brings even more style and charisma to the Evoque model. This visual appearance will undoubtedly satisfy any customer, who wants to be unique.

    Kahn’s Evoque Vesuvius is entirely colour coded, in terms of interior and exterior. The visual appearance is striking and “screams” for attention. I am pretty sure it receives it whenever it runs through the streets.

    As you can see this modification is made with the outstanding craftsmanship of Kahn Design’s tuners. A lot of attention has been put on every detail thus giving it more elegance, styling and charismatic stance.

    2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius
    2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius

    In particular in the exterior modifications are included: Front Bumper Section in Matt Pearl Grey, Front Bumper Section in Matt Pearl Grey, Rear Diffuser in Matt Pearl Grey, Side Vents in Matt Pearl Grey, Vented Foot Pedals in Machined Aluminum, Brake Calipers Finished in Vesuvius Orange, Carbon Tailgate Trim, Diamond Gear Selector, Door Entry Sill Plates in Stainless Steel, Lowered Sports Suspension.

    Furthermore, an additional twin Crosshair Exhaust System in Stainless Steel has been centered on a radical design. It captures and reflects an attraction to a Pluto-matic lifestyle.

    On the other hand the interior of this tuned Evoque is no less exceptional and unique. In fact, this model has astonishing interior through which anyone can recognize high-quality of craftsmanship.

    In short- the interior has been upgraded to a magnificent level with the help of: door panel tops in quilted and perforated leather with orange stitching interior; floor mats – black charcoal finish; piano black trim to gear surround; red rev counter; red speedo; black quilted and perforated leather with alcantara inserts and Vesuvius orange leather detailing.

    2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius Interior
    2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius Interior

    At last but not least there has to be mentioned the wheels that this Evoque sits on – namely the unique RSXF wheels. They are a product of the evolution of artistic innovation and state-of-the art manufacturing and are available in 9×21 inch size.

    2012 Kahn Range Rover Evoque Vesuvius is available for £ £48 875.

    Source: Kahn Design

  • 2012 Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R Special Edition With Extended Production

    Mazda-RX-8-SPIRIT-R-THUMB2012 Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R Special Edition is the vehicle which was decided to get an extended production by 1000 units, due to increase in interest.

    The initial plan of the brand was to produce only thousand examples of this special edition four-door, four-seat rotary engine sports car. However, the production of it will be extended due to a large number of orders, since the launch of the car in November last year.

    RX-8 SPIRIT R comes equipped with six-speed manual transmission, aero parts and Bilstein dampers as well as RECARO bucket seats and 19-inch bronze-painted forged aluminum wheels. Therefore it is no wonder why the number of orders has increased and demanded extended production.

    Furthermore, this Mazda sports vehicle comes in three trim levels in terms pf exterior colors: Aluminum Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica, and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

    2012 Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R Special Edition
    2012 Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R Special Edition

    The main features of the limited edition 2012 Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R series include:

    Special equipment for RX-8 SPIRIT R for both manual and automatic transmission models:

    • Exclusive ornament
    • Front headlights, front fog lights and rear combination lights (with black bezels)
    • Front and rear brake calipers (red)
    • Larger brake rotors
    • Transmission tunnel trim (piano-black)
    • Curtain and front side SRS airbag system
    • Driving Stability Control and Traction Control System
    • Leather-wrapped steering wheel (black with red stitching)
    • Leather-wrapped parking brake lever (with red stitching)
    • Center console box with front seat armrest (synthetic leather with red stitching)
    • Rear console box with a lid (with synthetic leather)

    Exclusive to the 6-speed manual transmission model:

    • Bucket seats from RECARO (red and black leather* and fabric)
    • Hard suspension (with Bilstein dampers)
    • 225/40R19 89W tires and 19-inch forged aluminum wheels (bronze)
    • Aero parts
    • Aluminum pedal set
    • Leather-wrapped shift knob (black with red stitching)

    Exclusive to the 6-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission model:

    • Black leather seats (with red stitching) and 8-way power seat with memory function
    • Sports suspension
    • 225/45R18 91W tires and 18-inch alloy wheels (gun metallic)
    • Heated front seats
    • Leather-wrapped shift knob (black)

    Source: Mazda