Auto News – Page 856 – Automobiles Review

2013 Nissan Altima – $21 500

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Nissan has released full details for the 2013 Altima mid-size sedan. This is the 5^th generation of Altima, which is the second best-selling car in the United States, previous year.

The engine range includes a 2.5-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder with 185HP (136 kW), which returns up to 38mpg. There is also a powerful 3.5 liter V6 with 274HP (201 kW) capable of doing 30 mpg on the highway.

2013 Nissan Altima is offered in four 2.5-liter engine equipped models, 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL, along with three 3.5-liter V6 equipped models, 3.5 S, 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL.

The standard equipment of 2.5 S includes a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, Advanced Drive-Assist^TM Display, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, Nissan Intelligent Key®, six speakers, auto on/off headlights, in-cabin microfilter, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure readouts. The 3.5 S adds 18” wheels and tires, plus paddle shifters with manual mode.

The Altime SV has Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Remote Engine Start System, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy wheels, RearView Monitor, NissanConnectSM with Pandora® radio capability, SiriusXM^TM Satellite Radio, 5.0” color audio display, USB port with iPod® connectivity and Hands-Free Messaging Assistant.

The top-of-range SL includes leather upholstery, BOSE Premium Audio System with 9 speakers (including woofers), 8-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, heated outside mirrors, LED taillights, LED outside mirror turn signals, premium interior trim, power sliding moonroof, auto dimming rearview mirror, and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver.

Just three options packages are available: a Convenience Package (2.5 SV), Navigation Package (SV) and Technology Package (SL) – along with the optional Remote Start and Rear Spoiler.

2013 Nissan Altima is priced from just $21 500 for the entry level and the range-topping 3.5 SL CVT trim level will start at $30 080.

See the full press release below.

Source: Nissan

April 6, 2012

2013 BMW 3-Series Li at Auto China 2012

BMW has introduced the long version of the new 3-Series F30. It will be presented at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The model is specially created for Chinese market and probably will not be available in Europe or USA.

The range will include – 320Li with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 184HP (135 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. The 328Li will have the 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine that boasts 245HP (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. And the top-of-range 335Li will have the twin-turbo 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder with 306HP (225 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

The extended wheelbase model will be longer by 110 mm.

Also presented at Auto China will be the new BMW 3 Series sedan with the normal wheelbase and the full hybrid model BMW ActiveHybrid 3.

Source: BMW

April 6, 2012

2013 BMW F10 M5 US – Price $90 695

The Fifth Generation of BMW M5 – the 2013 F10 model is priced at $90 695. It is joined by the new M6 Convertible, which will be the first of the three new M cars to arrive in US BMW Center showrooms. The new M6 Convertible will hit the US market in June at $113 995 – including $895 Destination and Handling.

The sports family saloon is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 13 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package.

Still, this a car to bring your family to vacation, so the fuel consumption is good enough – 9.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle (28.5 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.

The Active M Differential which optimizes power transfer between the rear wheels ensuring the engine’s performance is transferred to the ground.

The M6 Convertible has the same engine, gearbox and other equipment as always.

Source: BMW

April 6, 2012

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe US – Price $76 895

BMW has released the price list of the new four-door coupe at a press conference during the New York International Auto Show.

The 2013 640i Gran Coupe comes with revised 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder petrol engine. It delivers 315HP (232 kW) at 6000RPM and 448Nm (331 lb-ft) at just 1300RPM. The engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox.

The 640i Gran Coupe goes on sale in late June with an M.S.R.P. of $76 895. Later in the summer, the TwinPower Turbo V-8 powered 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel drive 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will join the range.

The 650i will be $87 395 and and the 650i xDrive – $90 395 – all prices include the $895 Handling and Destination charge.

The new 6-Series Gran Coupe boasts stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to five passengers.

Harmonious proportions, precise lines and sleekly contoured surfaces give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury.

Source: BMW

April 6, 2012

Porsche 911 – Best Performance Car of 2012

A bit of trivia from the New York International Auto Show: the Porsche 911, the seventh one, has been named the 2012 World Performance Car. The news came at a press conference held by Bridgestone Corporation. There were other 33 contenders involved.

This annual award is usually presented after a careful assessment of the participants by 66 top-level automotive journalists from 25 countries around the world A.K.A an international jury. Each juror is typycally experienced in test driving, reviewing and evaluating outgoing models and are quite renown for it basically.

“We are honored that the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S was chosen by this distinguished group of jurors as the 2012 World Performance Car,” said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “For just the seventh time in almost 50 years the iconic 911 has been revised to the point of being a new-generation, and winning this award from a global team of world-class journalists is excellent validation for the work and dedication of everyone at Porsche.”

The 2012 Porsche 911 is naturally, longer, wider, lower, more powerful and more efficient than its predecessor. Two variations of it deliver different amounts of power – the Carrera’s 3.5-liter boxer engine leaves you with 350 hp while the Carrera S gets 400 hp from its 3.8-liter unit. The choice of transmission for both cars, leaves you with two options – A seven-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed dual-clutch Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) automatic. With the latter one, the Carrera gets from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds while the S needs only 3.9 seconds.

The interior is mainly driver oriented – no distractions and no needless features. Well, there is a radio. Leg room is now up the priority ladder as well and the center console is elevated so that its on an easy reach distance from the driver.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the 2012 Carrera stands at $82,100 and for the S is $96,400 (base models, $950 destination charge not included)

P.S. – News about this latest award come shortly after the passing of Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche – a mournful day for the automotive industry. Grandson of Porsche’s found, Prof. Ferdinand was head of the Porsche design studio in the early sixties when and where the iconic profile of the 911 was born. At the time of his death he was 76 but his contribution to the world is to remain timeless. Our hearts go out to his friends and relatives.

Source: Porsche

April 6, 2012

Toyota Avalon Revealed at New York

Let the mid-sized sedan showdown begin! As promised, the 2013 Toyota Avalon makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show…in its own way. What we mean is that everything is official, the car will go on sale before the end of the year, there’s a lot of talk about where on the center console the USB port is and how the stitching inside is hand-sewn but…where’s the good stuff? Other than the fact that it will be powered by a V6, we know nothing. Is Toyota embarrassed about it or is there a surprise coming? Keeping in mind that the Avalon is pretty much an intentional jab in face of Nissan’s Altima, one must assume that whatever’s inside the Toyota’s engine bay, must be at least 3-liters.

Let’s talk about the things that have been revealed. Designed at the Calty Design Research Inc centers in California and Michigan, engineered at the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich and set to be assembled at Toyota’s plant in Georgetown, Ky, the 2013 Avalon is a pure American-bred sedan. To set itself apart from its ancestors, this one is a bit shorter, a bit narrower and a bit lower. Essentially, the wheelbase remains the same. It’s the overhangs that have been trimmed. As a result it’s also lighter – 3,497 lbs as opposed to 3,616 lbs. Some neat design features include those LED lights at the back, the sloping roofline and the flaring wheel arches. At the front, the headlights are described as “square Double-eyed” that use a “Projector Ellipsoid System” (sounds like a bad day in geometry class). Then there’s the lower front grille which to us, looks big enough to suck in orangutangs.

The more technical stuff that we know about is the suspension. MacPherson struts and rebound springs. Less body roll is the result of stiffer sway bars and an overall increased rigidity of the body thanks to additional and strategically placed welds. The power steering is electric which goes easy on the fuel economy and yet it supposedly provides crisp feedback

As we have established, the 2013 Avalon is a bit more compact from the outside but does not prevent it from being, or feeling, more roomy inside. Due to some clever design tricks the occupants actually get some more headroom. Also the luggage space has been increased to 16.0 cubic feet – a 1.6 mark more voluminous when compared to the old one. Leather wrapped around the steering wheel, shift knob and seats creates a justified sense of luxury while the center console and instruments are treated with some chrome. In terms of equipment you get three color screens that read out the multi-information display, the audio/navigation interface and the climate control panel. By the way, the climate control, as an option, can be three zoned. Who needs three different temperatures in the same car?! Other options include the JBL Synthesis Premium Audio system, a 7-inch HDD Premium Navigation, a clever cruise control and heated seats that can cool themselves as well.

Much like the Altima, the Avalon also gets a Blind Spot Monitoring system along with a rear view camera. Then there’s the standard stuff you’d find in every car these days – ABS, traction control, stability control, brake assist etc. You know the story.

Source: Toyota

April 6, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport now upgraded

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport compact crossover now receives numerous new styling improvements and design features.

The compact crossover comes to offer composed handling and a comfortable and enjoyable ride. It has spacious interior with roomy seating for 5 adults. It is now equipped with wide array of welcome standard amenities and delivers an exemplary degree of both performance and fuel-efficiency In fact, this stylish crossover is currently the best-selling car in Mitsubishi Motors‘ North American model lineup.

In details, the vehicle is propelled by a powerful 148 horsepower (109 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which is equipped with Mitsubishi’s advanced MIVEC variable valve-timing technology. Thank to it the 2013 Outlander Sport garners an impressive EPA fuel mileage rating of 31 mpg highway.

Other technologies which add further to the fuel-efficiency are the following: the advanced Electric Power Steering (EPS), gear shift indicator (5-speed manual transmission-equipped cars) or an Eco indicator (CVT-equipped vehicles) light, a higher-efficiency alternator and a wind tunnel-tested body design for wind-cheating aerodynamic performance.

Furthermore, the entry-level front-wheel drive 2013 Outlander Sport ES model includes the following features: air conditioning with micron filter; cruise control; power windows, mirrors and door locks; a 4 speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with the FUSE Handsfree Link System™ that allows voice-activated operation of an iPod® and a cell phone; intermittent rear wiper; rear LED combination tail lights; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; anti-theft security system and a helpful multi-information monitor.

The standard safety features, which are inherent for any model include: Active Stability Control (ASC) with Hill Start Assist (HSA); anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; Traction Control Logic (TCL); and an advanced front air bag SRS with passenger weight and driver’s seat position sensors, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and curtain side air bags with roll-over sensors.

However, the 5-speed manual transmission which is included on the ES trim level as a standard, for other trim levels comes as an option. It features high-tech Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

More to be offered from the The 2013 Outlander Sport ES is the 4WD. It also adds sumptuous amenities including; Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights; One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch; automatic climate control; FAST-key passive entry system; heated front seats; rain-sensing wipers and a dynamic 6 speaker audio system with SiriusXM™ satellite radio.

The Outlander Sport SE is available with either 2WD or with a driver-selected, electronically-controlled 4WD system – the same all-wheel drive system found on the Mitsubishi Outlander SE mid-sized crossover vehicle.

Changes to the 2013 Outlander Sport include the following:

Exterior

Front Fascia – Redesigned front bumper section; New grille styling; New fog lamp design.
Rear Bumper – New rear bumper design.
Side Sills – Side sills now black in color to match the lower sections of the redesigned front & rear bumpers.
Handsome 18-in. alloy wheels now standard on all on all trim levels for the 2013 model.

Interior

New interior fabrics; New chrome accent molding for the front doors; New All Wheel Control (AWC) push button switch.

Chassis

Revised rear multi-link suspension for improved handling and ride comfort.

Drivetrain

Improved Continuously-Variable transmission (CVT) calibration for improved acceleration performance and smoother shifting feeling.

Exterior Color Availability

New hues White Pearl and Quick Silver join Laguna Blue, Labrador Black Pearl, Mercury Gray and Rally Red.

Key Specifications

Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 169.1 in.
Height: 64.2 in.
Width: 69.7 in.
Engine: DOHC MIVEC 2.0-liter l4
Horsepower: 148 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 145 lb.-ft. @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or Sportronic® continuously-variable transmission (CVT) with steering column mounted paddle shifters
Dynamics: Anti-Lock Brake System w/ Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) & Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) and Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Wheels: 18 x 7 in. aluminum alloy
Maximum Tires: 225/55R18 (SE) all-season radials

Fuel Economy: 31 mpg highway

Major Standard Features:

Air conditioning with pollen filter
Steering column mounted paddle shifters (CVT only)
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Chrome grille surround
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Active Stability Control (ASC)
Heated outside mirrors
Advanced front air bag SRS with passenger weight and driver’s seat position sensors, front seat mounted side-impact air bags and curtain side air bags with roll-over sensors
Driver knee airbag
Electric Power Steering (EPS)
60/40 split folding and reclining high-back rear seats with armrest and cupholder
Remote keyless entry with panic feature
Center room lamp
High-contrast gauge meters with full-color LCD Multi-Information Display
FUSE Handsfree Link System™ that allows voice-activated operation of an iPod® and a cell phone
Rear LED combination tail lamps
Cruise control with steering-wheel mounted controls
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
Power door locks and side view mirrors
Power windows with driver’s one-touch up/down
Steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise control
Two 12-volt power outlets

SE adds over ES:

Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights 6 speaker premium audio system with SiriusXM™ satellite radio with free 3-months subscription
FAST-key passive entry system
One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch Large center console with sliding armrest
Heated front seats
Rain-sensing wipers
Fog lamps with chrome bezel
Chrome exterior beltline molding
Climate control system with full-auto air conditioning

Outlander Sport Options:

Navigation w/Rearview Camera adds: 40GB HDD Navigation with Music server and Real-Time Traffic (RDS), rearview camera monitor.
Premium Package adds: Panoramic glass roof with adjustable LED mood lighting, roof rails, 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® audio system with 9 speakers including 10-inch dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch® control, In-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 compatible changer, digital signal processor, 3-band equalization and speed compensated volume, auto dimming rearview mirror, rear camera system.
Exterior Sport Package adds: Rear spoiler, front corner extensions with LED daytime running lights, rear garnish, front lower garnish and aluminum-alloy fuel door.
Interior Package adds: Gloss black audio and shift panel overlay, aluminum and leather combination shift knob.
Illumination LED Package adds: LED interior room lamps, LED floor and tailgate lamps.
Protection Package adds: Aluminum scuff plates, tailgate protector, rear bumper guard and front and rear mudguards.
Cargo Package adds: Reversible carpet/rubber cargo mat, cargo net, cargo shelf board.

Source: Mitsubishi

April 6, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Spark – Pricing Announced

The pricing for the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Spark has been recently announced and start at $12,995. The mini car that will undeniably capture the heart of many, will go on sale later this year.

In short 2013 Spark is a sporty, fuel-efficient, four-passenger, five-door hatch. It s designed to excite first-time car buyers and city dwellers, thank to its bold styling, fresh colors, egaging driving dynamics, and a lot of personalized features.

Speaking about the body colors, the vehicle is going to be offered in wide range of them, including the following: Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink.

Moreover, the driver and the passengers will enjoy the ride with a lot of peace in mind, given that in the Spark are included ten standard air bags.

Furthermore, Spark also offers more passenger and cargo room.

The exterior of the new 2013 Chevrolet Spark includes some additional enhancements, which are: silver painted roof rails; chrome lift gate handle, exhaust outlet and beltline molding; body-color lower rocker molding; front and rear body-color sport fascias with unique front upper and lower grille inserts

On the other hand, the interior features leatherette seats and heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Spark LS starting at $12 995 includes:

Standard 1.2L Ecotec engine and five-speed manual transmission
Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, rear window wiper, auxiliary input jack, outside temperature display and trip computer
15-inch alloy wheels
60/40 split flip-and-fold rear seat
Comprehensive safety package including 10 air bags, electronic stability control with traction control and brake assist
OnStar Directions & Connections plan standard with six-month introductory subscription

Spark 1LT starting at $14 495 includes LS standard content and adds:

Standard 7-inch color touch radio with Chevrolet MyLink, Bluetooth connectivity for select phones, steering wheel audio controls, USB port and Sirius XM Radio with three-month trial subscription
Other standard convenience features include power door locks with remote keyless entry, theft deterent system, outside power mirrors, floor mats, visor mirrors, and cruise control

Spark 2LT starting at $15,795 includes all 1LT standard content and adds:

Unique 15-inch alloy wheels
Fog lamps

Source: Chevrolet

April 6, 2012

2013 Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan – pricing announced

Cadillac’s most technologically advanced and latest luxury sedan, named 2013 Cadillac XTS is going to be available at U.S. dealerships later this spring with a starting price of $44 995.

This vehicle is unique in its class, because is the only one to include Magnetic Ride Control as a standard. And if you aren’t already familiar with what this is, well in short – it is the world’s-fastest reacting suspension technology. Now, you can imagine how exciting this car should be.

Additionally, Cadillac’s breakthrough in-vehicle user experience for control and connectivity named CUE is featured as a standard. This technology is making its debut n the 2013 XTS as well.

Furthermore, the customers are going to be offered three option collections: Luxury, Premium and Platinum. The XTS Platinum model includes the highest level of technology and luxury. It comes to offer one of a kind front appearance, wheels and interior colors, materials and trim. Moreover, it is equipped with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, using Haldex technology to transfer power front-to-back, and side-to-side along the rear axle. Actually, this will be offered in all three trim levels, above the standard model.

The all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan combines advanced technology, astonishing design and confident performance. The will be equipped with 3.6-liter V6 engine with 322PS (237 kW) and 372Nm (275 lb-ft).

What is more, Cadillac is preparing for the debut of CUE first automotive use of capacitive touch. It features a new CUE iPad Application, which replicates the center screen that is the hub of the system. It will provide the necessary videos and information.

Another technology to be used in the Cadillac is the OnStar, which provides live assistance to XTS owners for CUE questions.

Source: GMC

April 6, 2012

2013 ROUSH Staged Ford Mustang

Update on ROUSH‘s Staged Ford Mustangs. And by “Staged” I don’t mean fake. No, it’s 2012 so the time is right to roll out the 2013 MY product – more style, more aggression and, it goes without saying, more muscle.

Three Stages are available with number three being sort of the full program. Stage 1 works on the visuals and Stage 2 deals with the handling bits. With a Stage 3, the Mustang’s 5.0L-4v Coyote powertrain comes along with a supercharger. That means a power output of 565 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque. People move planets with that sort of power. It’s not just any supercharger but ROUSH’s own R2300 unit that features Eaton’s TVS (Twin Vortices Series) patented technology. It’s thermally more efficient produces higher volumetric capacity and helps up the RPMs of the turbine.

Evidently, the overhaul does not consist solely of protein shakes. The handling has been improved as well thanks to a larger, stiffer front stabilizer bar (counters body roll) a unique ROUSH designed anti-wheel hop kit, twin-tube shocks, increased rate springs as well as upgraded bushings and jounce bumpers. The company engineers have spent countless nights working on the perfect calibration of all of that so that the final product can start, stop and corner the way a gearhead would want it to. The aluminum, five spoke, chrome ROUSH wheels are also considered as a handling improvement as they measure up to 18×10. (20-inch ones are an option)

Even at the very first stage, Stage 1, the Mustangs get a 6th generation ROUSH Aerobody called the R6. It consists of an upper and lower grille, corner fascia aero-pockets with driving lamps and front a chin splitter. The ROUSH hood scoop, rocker panel and rear fascia side splitters, the three-piece rear decklid spoiler and the new ROUSH rear aero-valance featuring race-inspired diffusers are also parts of it. As a finishing touch, someone at ROUSH had the nice idea of planting a set of newly designed, integrated dual chambered, chrome exhaust tips.

Inside, the Stage 3 comes with a custom dial cluster, ROUSH embroidered floor mats, a ROUSH center console button and a Stage 3 dash medallion. Other than that, one can further the customization process with some optional packages. Fancy a suede jungle inside your personal ROUSH Mustang? Well, great! They have just that in stock – suede inserts in the leather seats, suede door panels and a suede shift boot and steering wheel.

The ROUSH program for the Mustang is available for both convertibles and coupes. It doesn’t matter of its a stick or an automatic and all is, most definitely, street legal. Whichever choice you make, you will get a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This April, be on the lookout for these ROUSH Mustangs in the local dealrs.

Source: ROUSH

April 5, 2012

2013 Subaru BRZ US – Price $25 495

2013 Subaru BRZ US spec is priced from just $25 495, which is sensational price for such type of vehicle.

The new BRZ is $1 295 more than the Scion FR-S, but comes with a lot of extras including a 6-speed manual transmission. However, the slightly more expensive Premium models feature touch-screen GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity and HID headlamps. Above the well-appointed Premium model, Limited models add Alcantara seat inserts with leather bolsters, heated seats and mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control system, fog lights, Keyless Access & Start and body-color decklid spoiler.

Limited models come equipped with leather seats and start at $27 495 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and $28 595 for automatic versions.

2013 BRZ is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine with 200HP (149 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft).

Prices are MSRP before $750 destination charge.

Check out the specs below.

2013 Subaru BRZ

Key Facts/Performance

All-new Subaru-developed vehicle-specific platform.
New 2.0-liter Subaru Boxer engine features “square” configuration (bore and stroke dimensions identical) for high-revving performance; double overhead camshafts and dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS); fuel injection system combines direct injection and port injection technologies; very high compression ratio; high specific engine output: 100 hp/liter.
Choice of 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions; optional automatic has steering wheel paddle shifters, Sport mode, winter mode and downshift blipping control.
Torsen® limited-slip differential.
Double-wishbone rear suspension.
Electric power steering.
4-wheel vented disc brakes.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control system (TCS) with 5 modes, including Sport mode and TCS Off for track driving.
17 x 7-in. aluminum alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 summer performance tires.
Aluminum hood.

Premium and Limited trim lines.

2+2 seating with enough trunk and interior room to transport four tires and tools for track driving.
Standard navigation system with voice control and comprehensive infotainment capabilities (see standard equipment).

Key Safety Features

Ring Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure provides outstanding occupant protection.
3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters.
Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System; dual-stage deployment driver and front passenger airbags; front seat side pelvis/torso air bags and side-curtain air bags (SRS).
4-channel/4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and Brake Override system.
Safety pedal system.
Whiplash protection front seats.

Standard Features, BRZ Premium

12v power outlets: one in glove box and one in center console
24-hour roadside assistance for vehicle limited warranty period
3-spoke leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with red stitching.
Fold-down rear seatback
Aluminum-alloy pedal covers (including driver’s footrest)
Auto on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, low and high beam
Touch-screen GPS navigation system with:
6.1-inch LCD screen
AM/FM stereo with HD radio
Single-disc in-dash CD player
196-watt amplifier
8 speakers
MP3/WMA capability
Voice activated controls
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
Bluetooth audio streaming connectivity
iPod® control capability
iTunes® tagging capability
USB port
XM® Satellite Radio (subscription required)
XM NavTraffic (subscription required)
SMS text messaging capability
3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack
Manual climate control system with cabin air filtration
Carpeted floor mats
Chrome interior door handles
Cruise control
Cup holders integrated into door panels and two in center console
Digital clock
Digital dual-mode trip odometer
Digital outside temperature gauge
Dome light with off-delay
Driver’s footrest
Sport design instrument panel gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, digital speedometer integrated within tachometer, coolant temperature gauge, fuel gauge
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
Illuminated ignition switch ring
Dual visor vanity mirrors
Leather-wrapped shift handle and parking brake handle
Multi function display with current and average fuel economy
Performance-design front seats with height-adjustable head restraints
Power door locks
Power side mirrors
Power windows with driver’s and passenger’s auto up/down with pinch protection
Rear window defroster with timer
Remote fuel door release
Remote keyless entry system with engine immobilizer system
Seatback pocket on front passenger seat
Variable intermittent windshield wipers

BRZ Limited adds:

Alcantara seat inserts with leather bolsters All-Weather Package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors)
Dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors
Dual-zone automatic climate control system
Fog lights
Front door courtesy lights
Keyless Access and Start with illuminated engine start/stop button
Rear trunk spoiler (body color)
Security system

Optional for Premium and Limited: 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, downshift blipping control, steering wheel paddle shift control switches, sport shift mode and snow shift mode.

Source: Subaru

April 5, 2012

2013 Dodge Ram 1500 – full details

2013 Dodge Ram 1500
Dodge has unveiled the 2013 Ram 1500 at the New York Auto Show. The lightweight truck comes with restyled exterior, interior and some engine modifications.

The exterior features a front bumper, a bigger front grille and LED-infused headlights, of course. The taillights are also featuring LED technology.

The interior is also revised. It boasts center console, some more soft-touch plastics and switchgear in the form of wheel. Other extras include a Uconnect infotainment system and a revised instrument cluster with an integrated 3.5” display.

The engine range features a 3.7 liter V6 with 309HP (227 kW) and 364Nm (269 lb-ft). It replaces the old Pentastar V6. There is a powerful 5.7 liter HEMI V8 with 400HP (295 kW) and 551Nm (407 lb-ft) of torque. Both engines can be connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The truck boasts superb Best-in-class fuel efficiency achieved by installing some technologies: a thermal management system, an electric power steering system and an engine Start/Stop system.

The Ram 1500 also features improved ride thanks to a redesigned frame, which uses more high-strength steel and box floor cross-members. For further comfort, the model can be equipped with an air suspension coming with five height settings.

There is no doubt that the Ram 1500 will be one of the best-selling trucks on the US market.

Source: Dodge

April 5, 2012

Category: Auto News