Category: Auto News

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

  • Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe

    Mercedes-Benz-CSC-thumbIsn’t that a looker?! It’s the latest concept-to-be-reality thing from Mercedes-Benz. At the moment it’s called the Concept Style Coupé (CSC) and it looks like the love child of a CLS and an A-Class if they were ever to mate. Sleek and curvy, this fluidic piece of art is to be exhibited next week at the Beijing Motor Show as it makes its world debut. It’s smart as well, no doubt, with Mercedes’ latest turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit, a 4MATIC drive and a set of fancy blinkers…apparently.

    Let’s start off with the exterior, shall we? It certainly has the face of an A-class (the latest one) with that dotted grille. Then again, with a length of 4637 mm, it is almost as long as the current CLS (give it or take 300 mm). And that slopey profile is rather unmistakable – it has “four-door coupe” all over it. There’s a glass roof at the top which is only separated from the rear window by a roll-bar-like beam. The 21-inch wheels on the CSC are meant to look like turbines and supposedly, they do channel air to those massive disk brakes. Then there are the headlights – even when they are off, a red glare throws daggers at you in a particularity devilish manner. The indicators resemble a set of LEDs that light up in succession much like the ones you find on an airstrip.

    Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe
    Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe

    Inside, things are just as Mercedish – a blend of leather and Alcantra wrap around you with an ergonomic nature. The carbon-trimmed dashboard is meant to represent a wingspan while the air vents on it use a jet engine for inspiration (quite a lot of aircraft themes so far). There’s a light behind each one of them so they tend to change their color, depending on the temperature of the air that’s being thrown at your face – red suggests scorching hot, blue offers Arctic whirlwinds and yellow indicates a mildly breeze (we just like to think so). The neon green lining touch is rather neat as well – it gives you that sporty training shoe feel. Computer buffs will love this as well – the car’s COMAND Online gives you access to the world wide web at all times and that the software (all the apps and interface) is hosted directly at Dimler’s. That way you can get the most current updates “over-the-air” (OTA) through, let’s say, a mobile phone connection.

    But enough about silly stuff. Let’s talk numbers and fumes… which aren’t that much. Sure, 211 bhp sound reasonable enough. But we suspect that an engine, normally found in the A-Class, won’t be at it’s best in the CSC (remember that the world wide web is in it?). Still, a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder top of the range engine (from that family), mated to a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and a 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission sounds like a nimble setup. It might just be for show, something to put inside this gorgeous body for the time being. When can we expect a production version? Next year, the year after that? We don’t know.

    For now, look forward to the Beijing Motor Show which kicks off at the 23th of April where we’ll have that and much more.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG deliver expressive design and enhanced fuel efficiency

    2012-Mercedes-Benz-G-63-AMG-THUMBMercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG are vehicles which are delivering outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel”.

    The design of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is reworked, and now features spray-controlled petrol direct injection, ECO start/stop function and generator management.

    It is equipped with AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine which effortlessly develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 Nm (561 lb-ft).

    Therefore it is no surprise that this exceptional vehicle is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. Its new top speed is 210 km/h.

    Although this vehicle delivers a powerful performance, its fuel consumption is also impressive: just 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. This is 2.1 litres less than its predecessor model produced. The reduction is a result of the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function.

    First, the seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting. Whan it is in “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. In addition, the AMG instrument cluster also includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.

    There are also two other modes: the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes. Whan they are on, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays enhanced agility.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG
    2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG

    The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is improved with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

    Furthermore, AMG sports exhaust system includes twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear. The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been modified for the more dynamic handling characteristics.

    In addition to these modifications, the wheels and brakes are also completely new. This powerful Mercedes-Benz machine runs on new AMG 5×2 spoke light alloy wheels. They come as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with

    275/50 R 20 tyres.

    As an option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges.

    Moreover, this Mercedes-Benz vehicle comes equipped with a new AMG high-performance brakes. They deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance.

    The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator Mercedes-Benz grille now comes with four chrome inserts. This actuallt makes it AMG recognizable.

    Another new feature is the AMG bumper. In particular it has three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. The vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts give the G63 AMG powerful stance.

    Of course, the interior was also completely transgormed and now includes more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. There is a new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems. In addition to them, G 63 AMG comes with an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors.

    The cabin looks even more comfortable, thank to the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. There are also other options available for an even more stylish interior.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG Interior
    2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG Interior

    G 63 AMG key specifications:

    G 63 AMG
    Displacement 5461 cc
    Bore x stroke 98.0 x 90.5 mm
    Compression ratio 10.0 : 1
    Output 400 kW (544 hp) at 5500 rpm
    Max. torque 760 Nm at 2000–5000 rpm*
    Fuel consumption, NEDC combined 13.8 l/100 km
    CO2 emissions 322 g/km
    Efficiency class G
    Acceleration 0–100 km/h 5.4
    Top speed 210 km/h


    2012 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG
    has an autstading performance, it has maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) thank to the V12 engine. Hence, the G 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h.

    In fact, this is the first G-Class vehicle which is equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine. The latter includes new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit.

    As a result, the combustion is improved and this leads to smoother running and power delivery. As in the G 63 AMG, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G TRONIC automatic transmission system is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.

    G 65 AMG key specifications:

    G 65 AMG
    Displacement 5980 cc
    Bore x stroke 82.6 x 93.0 mm
    Compression ratio 9.0:1
    Output 450 kW (612 hp) at 4300–5600 rpm
    Max. torque 1000 Nm at 2300–4300 rpm*
    Fuel consumption, NEDC combined 17.0 l/100 km
    CO2 emissions 397 g/km
    Efficiency class G
    Acceleration 0–100 km/h 5.3
    Top speed 230 km/h*

    The exterior of the G 65 AMG is distinguished by its high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards.

    The interior of the vehicle includes designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. What is especially made for this mode is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This theme is repeated on the door central panels.

    A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo Mercedes-Benz mats with a V12 badge.

    The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG will be launched in june with the following starting prices:

    • G 63 AMG 137,504.50 Euros

    • G 65 AMG 264,180 Euros

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park and MINI Green Park offer style and excitement

    Mini-Clubman-Hyde-Park-and-Mini-Green-PArk-THUMBThe new design models 2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park and MINI Green Park are going to deliver even more style and excitement in the MINI fleet. They come with exclusive colour combinations and trim levels, which give them classic and sporty stance.

    What is more, these two MINI models are going to offer their customers harmoniously combined design and trim features for the exterior and interior.

    Both design models are available all around the world in MINI and MINI Clubman body styles.

    More importantly, the customers can choose up to four engine variants:

    • MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Clubman with 90 kW/122 hp
    • MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper D Clubman with 82 kW/112 hp
    • MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Clubman with 135 kW/184 hp
    • MINI Cooper SD and MINI Cooper SD Clubman with 105 kW/143 hp

    All of the above mentioned engines come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optional.

    MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park
    MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park

    2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park embodies the classic British lifestyle. It has a discreet Pepper White body color which is combined with Hot Chocolate contrasting paintwork on the roof and exterior mirror caps.

    In addition, regarding the MINI Clubman color scheme there are included the lower sections of the C-pillar in body color. And in order to match the contrasting paintwork, the MINI Hyde Park also sports bonnet and side stripes in Hot Chocolate. Another highlight is the indicator lenses in transparent white.

    The interior of the MINI Hyde Park is as special as the interior. The surfaces are in Pepper White, and the seat upholstery and optional Color Line draw on the entire range available to the MINI and MINI Clubman. Furthermore, to make the interior even more stylish, the seats are in cloth/leather or Leather Gravity with the Carbon Black or Polar Beige Color Line. The MINI Yours dashboard lined comes in leather in a Black/Polar Beige combination.

    2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park
    2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park

    On the other hand 2012 MINI Green Park comes offering sporting heritage. Its design embodies the traditional British passion for sporting competition.

    British Racing Green paintwork is featured in the roof and exterior mirror caps display. The bonnet stripes are in British Racing Green as well. Additionally, the transparent white lenses for the direction indicators heighten the distinctly classic-sporty look. The lower C-pillars of the MINI Clubman are in body color.

    Here too, the interior surfaces are in Pepper White, reflecting a cabin design that takes its cue from the exterior. Aging, the seats in Black or Polar Beige and the MINI Yours leather-lined dashboard in a combination of Black/Polar Beige.

    2012 MINI Green Park
    2012 MINI Green Park

    Source: MINI

  • 2012 Ford Kuga Compact SUV shows style in Milan

    2012-Ford-Kuga-THUMB2012 Ford Kuga is being exhibited today on show at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan.

    In this event the vehicle will showcase the evolution of Ford’s Kinetic design on the popular Ford SUV platform. The aim here is to highlight the new spaciousness of the Kuga and the high quality interior that it has.

    The people who are going to attend the show will have the chance to see the latest technical advances included in the SUV. For instance, such innovation is the hands-free automatic tailgate, which can be opened and closed simply by kicking a foot under the rear bumper.

    In addition, what distinguishes the all-new 2012 Ford Kuga is that it brings more spaciousness to the everyday driving. Additionally, it offers dynamic driving and capability.

    This Ford crossover vehicle will also get the voice-activated in-car connectivity system, known as SYNC. It includes Emergency Assistance, which enables SYNC to help occupants place a call to the emergency services in the event of an accident.

    2012 Ford Kuga
    2012 Ford Kuga

    But this is not all; a range of driver assistance technologies will also included in the Kuga. Some of which are the parallel parking aid Active Park Assist and the sensor-based Blind Spot Information System. The latter informs the driver with a warning light in the door mirror that a potential hazard is in the driver’s blind spot.

    2012 Kuga is all about spaciousness. It features boot-space with an enhanced capacity of 82-litres, while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button.

    Furthermore, the new Kuga was designed to be as visually appealing up close as it is from a distance with spaces between panels no wider than 0.5mm.

    There is nothing else but craftsmanship that you can find in the Kuga. The interior emphasizes feel and touch through use of a soft instrument panel and soft door upper roll. A lot of attention was put on deleting exposed fasteners on moving parts like tailgate, sun visors and glove box.

    Moreover, some great technologies are also included in the crossover vehicle, such as the Sony branded audio system with premium speakers and surround sound.

    In addition, Kuga’s all-wheel drive (AWD) system assesses road conditions twenty times faster. It readjusts the AWD power split to the wheels to give the driver the best combination of handling and traction. Improvement in the driving dynamics also took place through the introduction of the Torque Vectoring Control system.

    What is important to be mentioned here is that the engines available on 2012 Kuga are 140PS (103 kW) and 163PS (120 kW) versions of Ford’s popular 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine. Both can come with Ford PowerShift automatic gearbox as an option. Moreover, there also will be offered the powerful yet fuel efficient 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which we have seen in Ford Focus and C-MAX.

    Source: Ford

  • Peugeot 208 Ready for Orders

    Peugeot-208-thumbThe greatly anticipated Peugeot 208 is ready for ordering. Shipments are expected to start at June the 28th. There’s a wide range for you to choose from (3 or 5 doors, petrol or diesel, grunty or frugal Prices start at just under £10,000 ($16,031).

    The cheapest one, the one bellow 10,000 pounds, has 3 doors and a 3-cylinder petrol Vti engine that develops 63 bhp and returns just 99 g/km in CO2. Every diesel engine out there remains sub-100 g/km. The most powerful of which is the 1.6 e-HDi Stop & Start Feline edition – 115 bhp. Did we mention that there are 6 editions? Because there are. Access, Access+, Active, Allure, Feline and the special edition Ice Velvet. The engines make up a total eight – 5 petrol and 3 diesel.

    The most powerful petrol (and most powerful overall) is the 1.6 THP offered in the 3-door 208 – 156 Bhp at your disposal. The price? £16,895 ($27,084).

    Equipment is expected to be abundant throughout the whole range with a touch screen control panel as standard on more than 80% of the models.

    Peugeot 208 (2013)
    Peugeot 208 (2012)

    Source: Peugeot

  • Range Rover “red ranger” by A. Kahn

    Kahn-Range-Rover-Red-Ranger-thumbIt is true that somehow colors do have a connection with mood and character. Maybe it’s their undisputed connection to style preference. So with that cleared up (not really), what would you say a man in a red Range Rover would be like? According to Afzal Kahn, red signifies haste, energy, dynamism and sex appeal… apparently. So, if you happen to be the person described above, you are Kahn design’s target audience for this one – It’s the Land Rover Range Rover “red ranger” by A. Kahn. That sexiness however, will cost you £71,875 ($114,885)

    So for that kind of money, what do you get in return? (except the redness). Add some Extended front and lower lip spoilers, front wheel arch LED light strips, vented front and rear arch spats with integrated air dams and there you have it. The brake calipers are all so very red and an RS front grille surround insert in carbon.

    The Kahn stainless steel twin RS autobiography quad oval exhaust system fits perfectly as a complement feature to the whole bodywork. 9.5×22-inch at the front and 11×22-inch at the back, the Kahn RS600 wheels are equally impressive. Their coating is entirely up to you.

    The same goes for the interior – Kahn are well known for offering their customer’s flexibility when it comes to the internal style. This particular “red ranger” however, bares inside an RS Vesuvius style diamond quilted claret and perforated leather with carbon trim. The speedo and rev counter are in red and cream, the clock is riddled with Swarovski stones. There are entry sill plates in stainless steel that are illuminated for that extra chic feel.

    That pretty much rounds it up really. Need we remind you that an “A. Kahn Design is for the individual who will not submit to a life of uniformity and who will only accept perfection” … against monotony and what not. Truth be told, one can break the shackles of mediocrity trough much cheaper means but then again, why not go all the way an get a Range Rover turned into a red ranger?

    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"
    Kahn Range Rover "red ranger"

    Sourve: Kahn Design

  • Vorsteiner 599-VX Custom Ferrari 599 Coupe

    Vorsteiner-599-VX-Ferrari-thumbWe’ve seen this (or something like it) before, but Vorsteiner say it’s a completely new project – It’s the 599-VX custom Ferrari 599. New or old, we couldn’t say no to it. We really liked the fact that Vorsteiner have dropped the racing stripe and the numbering. The front grille also looks new (more meshy now).

    They say that the aftermarket components act as a 70 percent lighter alternative to the original. That’s supposedly due to the fact that all the body elements from Vorsteiner are made from carbon fiber at its best. The air-intakes, slashes and vents and so on are made to complement the Ferrari 599’s Italian curves but they also strive for functionality. Then there are the 1-Piece Forged Monoblock wheels which are exclusively made for the 599. The type of coating and color is up to the client.

    The unorthodox looking tailpipes at the back only hint that the whole exhaust system has been hand-crafted with performance and sound in mind. And a standard Ferrari 599 no doubt has what it takes to walk the talk – a 6.0 liter V12 aluminum engine body that produces 612 hp at the staggering 7600 rpm. Torque is almost just as much in Nm. It’s quite understandable why Vorsteiner got only to the hood (those overt-the-top vents) and gave up there. There’s simply no need to alter or add power.

    Here’s what the complete 599-VX program from Vorsteiner looks like:

    • Front Bumper Integrated with Optical Carbon Fiber Chin Spoiler

    • Louvered Race Hood with Carbon Fiber Optic Vents

    • Carbon Fiber Side Sill Extension Blades

    • Rear Bumper with Integrated Rear Diffuser Carbon Fiber

    • Aerodynamic Deck Lid Spoiler Carbon Fiber

    • 20, 21, or 22 inch Special Edition Forged Aluminum Multi Spoke Wheel

    • Stainless Steel Race Exhaust System with Dual Race Tips Brushed

    Vorsteiner 599-VX Ferrari
    Vorsteiner 599-VX Ferrari

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup Pricing Announced

    2013-Chevrolet-Silverado-HD-THUMB 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup is going to be available for order in just one day, starting from tomorrow.

    This amazing vehicle runs on compressed natural gas and gasoline. It is equipped with a Vortec 6.0L V8 engine that effortlessly transitions between the two fuel systems.

    In addition, there is also a single light-weight Type 3 tank in the bed, which maximizes the available payload and bed space, thus delivering more usable space than competitors.

    Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup offers customers fueling flexibility with a combined CNG and gasoline range of more than 650 miles. In fact, this is the longest range available in the bi-fuel truck market.

    The pickup is available in standard and long-box, two-or-four-wheel drive in the extended cab models, offering customization for specific needs.

    But what is really appealing to those types of vehicles is that they have outstanding fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

    Moreover, General Motors is the only manufacturer to offer a single-source option for its gaseous fuel vehicles. In details, the bi-fuel trucks are built with a specially designed engine. Then the fuel system is installed by GM’s Tier One supplier and the completed vehicle is delivered directly to the customer.

    Chevrolet‘s Bi-Fuel option will be available for the additional price of $11 000.

    2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup
    2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup

    Source: GMC

  • 2012 Ford Transit Custom Offers Style and Functionality

    2012-Ford-Transit-Custom-THUMB2012 Ford Transit Custom is going to make its world debut at the Birmingham CV Show. The vehicle is going to show the new design philosophy that it incorporates. It will bring new levels of style, driver appeal and functionality.

    Transit Custom represents completely new generation of Ford one-tonne vehicles. First of all it comes with a bold new design. Secondly it “embodies” car-like interior and thirdly offers nothing less than exceptional driving dynamics.

    Transit is famous for its toughness and value; however the new model adds to this combining class-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractive best-in-class fuel economy.

    The full range of van, kombi, and double-cab-in-van models of the new the dynamic Transit Custom are expected to go on sale later this year.

    The unique design of this commercial vehicle is emphasized by the signature kinetic design features, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line and prominent wheel lips.

    2012 Transit Custom will be available in choice of short wheelbase (SWB – overall length 4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (LWB – overall length 5.34 metres) versions, so that customers can select the amount of load space.

    Next to the stylish exterior, this Transit model offers class-leading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features.

    More importantly, the load area of the van has been carefully optimized to offer more space and more convenience. Key features and innovations include:

    • Optimised bulkhead and loadspace design enables SWB model to carry three Euro pallets loaded to at least one metre high

    • Load-through hatch in bulkhead enables loads up to three metres in length, such as pipes or ladders, to be safely carried inside the vehicle

    • Class-leading width between wheelarches allows wide loads, such as 8 feet x 4 feet (2440mm x 1220mm) boards to be easily accommodated flat on the floor (or stored vertically if required)

    • Class-leading height and width of sliding side load doors for ease of loading

    • Deployable integrated roof rack system seamlessly integrated into the roof, and can be deployed when required. When not in use, the cross bars can be quickly folded down, reducing drag and fuel consumption, as well as keeping the vehicle height under two metres (with the exception of the 330 series)

    • Repositioned tie-down hooks and fixing points located on the body sides, leaving the floor clear for easier loading and cleaning

    • Easy clean load floor liner offers enhanced durability and simple cleaning

    2012 Ford Transit Custom
    2012 Ford Transit Custom

    In addition, the Transit Custom comes to offer car-like interior, advanced technologies and outstanding driving dynamics.

    Its new modern, driver-focused cockpit includes a sculpted instrument panel which combines stylish looks with smart stowage solutions for bottles, phones and papers. Driver comfort is significantly enhanced through a highly adjustable driving position which features increased seat travel – including 30mm more rear travel for taller drivers – and the addition of an adjustable steering column.

    The technologies included in the vehicle are:

    • SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and operated by voice control

    • Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this award-winning new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information

    • Rear-view camera – display integrated into the rear view mirror

    • Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel

    The dynamics and the performance of the Transit have also been carefully tuned and now reflect the easy-to-drive character of the van.

    The suspension components and steering system have been carefully tuned. As a result, the ride comfort is significantly improved and the handling is mode agile and precise. Transit Custom also features the latest Electronic Stability Program technology with Torque Vectoring Control for enhanced traction and stability.

    In terms of safety features, this business van has an optimized body structure which includes ultra-high-strength Boron steel. Almost half of the body of the van is made from high-strength or ultra-high-strength steels. This results in a strong and light body which is designed to offer high levels of crash protection.

    More importantly, the 2012 Transit offers class-leading fuel economy, thanks to 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. The latter is available in 100PS (74 kW), 125PS (92 kW) and 155PS (114 kW) power ratings. Thus power unit now features Auto-Start-Stop as standard on Stage V vehicles, delivering combined fuel consumption of 6.6l100km (42.8mpg) and 174g/km CO2 emissions.

    Sourcce: Ford

  • Eisenmann BMW F10 M5 delivers impressive sound

    Eisenmann_BMW_F10-M5_THUMBEisenmann BMW F10 M5 is the latest conversion made from the German tuning company Eisenmann. In fact, the tuners specialize in high-end sports car exhaust systems.

    What they have done on this inclredible machine is that they are delivering the right fit for its growling engine.

    Eisenmann has modified and redesigned the system of the vehicle, which now comes in Sport model for highway and the Race model for the racetrack.

    They have done this with the help of their rear mufflers, which are known for their charismatic sound. In addition to this they also offer four tailpipe design, each with a diameter of 90mm or 102mm (3½ or 4 inches).

    Eisenmann BMW F10 M5
    Eisenmann BMW F10 M5

    Not only do they have this gleaming brilliance, but also the tailpipes set themselves apart with the full-throttle roar of the typical Eisenmann sound. Hence, the new BMW M5 sport exhaus system is able to produce more than impressive sound. Furthermore, the racetrack model Race enhances the limits of sound even further.

    Of course, the entire system is hand-crafted in high-quality, double-walled stainless steel. The design is puts high value on a streamlined appearance for the exhaust of the car.

    More modifications can be made on the rear muffler whic can be expanded with an optional center exhaust box to make it a complete system.

    Eismann has confirmed that the system will soon be available in Inconel alloy as well. Inconel has excellent characteristics such as heat resistance and a lower weight. For this reason it is often used in Formula 1.

    Eisenmann BMW F10 M5 Exhaust System
    Eisenmann BMW F10 M5 Exhaust System

    Source: Eisenmann

  • MINI Inspired by Goodwood Behind a Glass Window

    MINI-Goodwood-Harrods-thumbA tribute MINI Cooper to the Rolls Royce brand, the Goodwood one, is currently being on a display at Bumpton Road’s iconic Harrods store. It’s been out there since the 8th of April. Showcased behind the shop window, with a picturesque British scene as a background, this Diamond Black MINI might just turn out to be a profitable ad campaign. Display screens offer information, representatives will further guide you trough it upon request and a projector casts on the pavement the MINI logo and the reading “1 out of 1000”.

    First revealed at last April’s Shanghai Motor Show, this MINI takes a Cooper S hatch and mashes it with a dollop of Rolls Royce-like indulgences. That means 184 hp of power from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder, Twin Scrolled petrol unit. Add direct petrol injection and variable valve control and things get very 21st Century.

    What does bring you back to the 19th Century however, is the cosmetic appeal inside – the dashboard, center console, air vents, carpets, heated leather seats, roof lining, doors and interior cladding are all finished in the exclusive Rolls-Royce Cornsilk color. The dashboard and door handle surfaces are of Walnut Burr. The roof linings, sun visors and rear storage tray are all made of luxurious cashmere, with deep-pile lambs wool used to make the floor mats.

    But then again, the standard equipment balances things out with the Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights and Park Distance Control, and climate control, the an onboard computer and navigation. There’s also a Radio Visual Boost audio system that comes with a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker setup. To top it all off we have 17-inch light alloy multispoke wheels.

    For all of that, one does need to pay a hefty price tag – £41,005 ($65,341). Mind you, that does include a comprehensive five-year servicing package.

    MINI inspired by Goodwood at Harrods
    MINI inspired by Goodwood at Harrods

    Source: MINI

  • Chevrolet Cruze 1.7 VCDi

    Chevrolet-Cruze-VCDi-thumbLately, Chevrolet have showns signs of going green. The latest proof of that is the Cruze and its new fuel-efficient, low CO2 engine. Initially available only in the five-door Cruze, this 1.7 VCDi unit is bound to give you reasonable amounts of fun with extra frugality in return.

    62.7 mpg on the combined cycle and 117g/km of CO2 (tax friendly in the UK). This is what’s supposed to make the Chevrolet Cruze standout among the other hatchbacks on the market today. For that kind of cleanliness, you are allowed to play with up to 130PS and 300Nm of torque. Zero to sixty is done in 9.4 seconds and the top speed stands at 124 mph.

    That’s pretty impressive, given the fact that the base trim (LS) will include air conditioning, ESC, remote central locking, follow-me-home headlamps, electrically-adjustable mirrors and electric front windows. Cough up some more money and get you’ll get the LTZ version which adds to the LS cruise control, 17-inch alloys, auto-dimming mirror, automatic headlights, climate control, rain-sensing wipers and aluminium-effect interior detailing.

    Deliveries are expected to start in May while, later this year, a Station Wagon will also join the 1.7 VCDi family.

    Chevrolet Cruze 1.7 VCDi
    Chevrolet Cruze 1.7 VCDi

    Souce: Chevrolet