Auto News – Page 863 – Automobiles Review

2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE

Various Camaros have gone under the 1LE label since 1988. It’s an upgrade package inspired by the car’s involvement in Pro-Am road racing. Now it is on the horizon again for the 2013 SS coupe versions – the 1SS and 2SS that carry a V8 under their bonnets and a manual transmission as standard. Actually, the whole makeover is intentionally reminiscent of the ZL1 spec.

“The Camaro 1LE combines the best elements of the SS and ZL1 to take road-racing performance to a whole new level,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

Power levels will be pretty much the same as the ones in the SS – 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm). The transmission is an exclusive one however – Tremec TR6060-MM6: a close ratio setup tuned for road-racing performance.

The suspension gets new monotube rear dampers as opposed to the twin-tube ones previously used. That way, drivers have more flexibility in terms of adjusting the road behavior while preserving respectable comfort.

Other goodies for track days include the:

Larger, 27-mm solid front stabilizer bar, and 28-mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control
Higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts to cope with increased levels of traction
Strut tower brace for improved steering feel and response
ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 11-inch aluminum wheels
285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires front and rear (identical to the front tires for ZL1)
ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved on-track performance
ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump and additional fuel pickups for improved fuel delivery during high-cornering

At first glance, it would be hard for you to notice all of that but worry not. The 1LE gets some distinctive exterior features as well – a matte-black hood, a front splitter and a rear spoiler. The aforementioned wheels also come in black and have 10-spokes. Can’t miss that.

Inside, suede microfiber material covers the flat-bottomed steering wheel and the stubby shifter stick. Most importantly, Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment is available on all 2013 Camaro LT, SS and ZL1 models – a complex interactive system that has Bluetooth, SmartRadio, Pandora and the lot.

A smart electric power steering can sense whether we are at cruising speed or trying to park and adjust the firmness appropriately. Also new for 2013 is an available dual-mode exhaust system, available on Camaro SS models. Again all ZL1 derivatives.

Prices for the 1LE model will start at under $40 000

Source: Chevrolet

March 28, 2012

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby 1000

The New York International Auto Show will be the venue where Shelby American Inc. will debut their most powerful project yet – the GT Ford Shelby 1000 which started life as a more “standard” 2012 GT 500. And no, the 1000 does not consist of two GT 500s. It’s only one of them, with handling, power and breaking performance all beefed up.

Although it’s called the Shelby 1000, both of the versions in which it will be offered do not develop 1000 bhp. A street legal one has the “mere” 950 ponies while a track spec. called the Shelby 1000 S/C delivers 1100 bhp. In a strange world we live in.

For that kind of power one would expect a nuclear bomb under the hood. Well, it’s actually an overhauled Ford 5.4-liter V8 unit that has new rods, crank and pistons. Also, the heads have been flown, the cooling and exhaust upgraded and the supercharger replaced.

The stopping power on the other hand, is provided by four massive disc brakes – six-piston callipers at the front and four-piston ones at the back. The suspension includes new struts, sway bars and bushings. There are some aerodynamic tweaks as well for the sake of downforce.

A limited production of Shelby 1000s will be built, each numbered and documented. The upgrade packages alone are expected to cost up to $154,995. That’s almost as expensive as three “normal” GT 500s.

More updates will be coming soon.

Source: Shelby

March 28, 2012

New Toyota Sedan Teased

Nissan won’t be the only company that shows back ends as teasers for the New York International Auto Show. Here’s something from Toyota as well. Supposedly it will be a “stunning” sedan that has been U.S.-designed. The global premiere will take place in the Galleria room within the Jacob Javits Center at 10:30 a.m. EDT on April 5, 2012.

Toyota are being quite quiet about it so we’ll just have to guess. “Elegant yet athletic” they say. Well, this sketch here does suggest the latter. Obviously, those wheel arches won’t be that full in real life, or will they? Whichever the case, the teaser does seem to work. We are deeply interested now of what this might be. That further works for the argument that one doesn’t need silly 8-second videos that show passing florescent lights over something, in order to inspire curiosity.

On the day of the reveal a live-streaming video chat with the designers is being scheduled. The public and the media can forward direct inquiries about this sedan via Facebook or Twitter.

Source: Toyota

March 28, 2012

Volvo C30 Electric Warm and Fuzzy

I have a beef with today’s hybrids and electric vehicles. Its their batteries that get me. One does not even have to own a hybrid. Instead, simply observe how your cell phone acts throughout the years – the charge capacity is getting lower and lower, cold weather doesn’t help at all and neither do the summer days. Now, imagine that in a car – driving along with 2 or more “bars” on the dials, no worry in the world, and then it all suddenly goes bust. Nerve wrecking.

Happily however, Volvo are aware of the situation, aware of my frustration obviously. That’s why with the C30 Electric, the company is working towards providing relief to the dying batteries around the world. Essentially they are aiming at a vehicle that is available and drivable at all conditions – scorching hot, arctic cold or lukewarm if you will.

For the former two conditions, one needs a cabin that comes with climate-control. It would be plainly silly to use the precious battery charge on heating or cooling the insides of the car. That’s why the C30 Electric is is equipped with a sophisticated climate system that can be activated both during charging and driving. It works for the passengers, it works for the drivetrain and most importantly, it works for the battery pack.

Whilst charging a C30 Electric (people tend to do it at home with a standard power socket), you can precondition it. Let’s say that the outside temperature is -19 degrees Celsius: no worries. Even if not plugged in, the car’s automatic battery heating will kick in to prevent the charge from going bust. Otherwise, if plugged in, an immersion heater (6 kW) uses power from the wall socket for warming up the coolant in the climate system.

So, should you ever decide on buying an electric car and the seasons are a bit extreme at your place, why not get a Volvo C30? It’s like literally having someone to warm up the bed for you.

Source: Volvo

March 28, 2012

2012 Toyota Prius in Australia

In a bid to attract even more buyers, Toyota have turned up, in Australia, with a bag of updates for the 2012 Prius. It now has a new face, some extra equipment, its suspension has been tweaked and is cheaper than ever.

Visually, the front lower end sees a new bumper and a larger, trapezoidal lower grille. LED daytime running lights find their place right beneath the indicators within the bumper while the fog lights have moved on the sides of the lower grille. Elsewhere, one would find that the taillight cluster has been changed, the mirrors are now heated and power-folding. The wheels remain 15 inches (17 for the i-Tech trim) but the design is new. Overall the 2012 Prius is 20 mm longer than the previous ones but that length seems to have gone to the overhangs as the wheelbase stays the same.

Inside we get new seats and more quality upholstery, the multi-information display is now more vivid than ever and even the entry level gets a rear view camera. There are some less useful features as well – an “ECO calculator” that apparently allows you to do math and estimate how much money you are dreadfully spending on fuel. Wasn’t it the whole purpose of buying a Prius to set yourself free from consumption worries? Why would I want to preoccupy my mind with that? Anyway, Toyota have also added a HUD readout on the screen and a touch pad sort of thing on the steering wheel so that you, or anyone else who might be driving, can remain focused on the road. In case you get lost however you can always refer to the HDD navigation system (i-Tech again). Other standard safety features include seven airbags, stability and traction control, active front head restraints and anti-skid brakes.

Sounds unimaginable when talking about a Prius, but, assuming you won’t be always driving around in ECO mode, performance and comfort may actually benefit from a now stiffer, better welded together body. The improve rigidity allows the installment of a softer and kinder suspension.

Underneath it all hides a hybrid system as usual – 100 kW of combined power coming from an 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle petrol unit and a 650-volt electric motor/generator powered by a 201.6-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack. In return you get 89 g/km of CO2 emissions and 3.9 liters per 100 km of fuel economy. In EV mode, the Prius is capable of covering road stretches of 1-2 km solely on a battery charge.

For the whole package, you have to pay $33,990 – almost $6000 less than the price of the first ever Prius. The i-Teck on the other hand, sticks to its price tag – $45,990. What do you think? A good buy? 17,000 in Australia alone seem to approve.

Source: Toyota

March 28, 2012

Jeep SRT-8 vs Mustang, 911 Turbo, Cayenne and X6M

Here are several starts of a brutal Jeep Cherokee SRT-8 Supercharged with 700HP against some powerful, tuned vehicles – BMW X6M Hamann Stage 2 670HP, Porsche Cayenne Turbo Gemballa GT600 with 600HP, Ford Mustang GT500 612hp and Porsche 911 Turbo Stage 2 580HP.

As you can see, all these SAVs and cars are underpowered, but as we know – power is nothing without control. Although the BMW starts first with reaction time of only 0.310 seconds, it is quickly overtaken by the Jeep. The X6 M crosses the finish line with 248.31 km/h terminal speed against 246.74 km/h for the Cherokee.

In the second start versus the Cayenne Turbo the scenario is the same. Better reaction from the Porsche driver, but worse 60ft and overall performance – 236.43 km/h at 1 mile for the Cayenne and 262.49 km/h for the Cherokee.

The third start is versus the mighty Mustang having 612 HP, a lot less weight and way better cD (drag coefficient). At the start the Mustang is dominated, because it is RWD against the AWD in Cherokee. The Mustang’s 60ft time is bad – 2.198 seconds against just 1.699 seconds for the Cherokee. However, the car crosses the finish line with 284.27 km/h, which is more than enough for a win.

In the last start, the Cherokee is against Porsche 911 Turbo with 580HP. The SUV didn’t have any difficulties, because it started first, with better 60 ft time and overall performance – 260.05 km/h and 29.820 seconds at 1 mile.

Check out the video below for all starts.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Weh5dXat3Ec

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

March 27, 2012

Falken ZIEX ZE914 Premium tyre

Falken is one of the biggest tyre manufacturers in the world. Until now, tyre engineers have struggled to offer lower rolling resistance and the highest levels of wet weather grip, finding attributes to be usually mutually exclusive. However, the Japanese tyre maker has achieved this challenging balance by taking alternative ways to reduce the heat and therefore the energy required to deliver the desired grip performance required for a European premium tyre.

By using silica in combination with long, modified polymer chains, a new rubber compound has been developed which reduces excess heat generation and therefore, rolling resistance. The result is a 3.8% fuel saving compared with a non-optimised tyre.

Other advantage is the extended operating life of the new tyres affecting the running costs.

The engineers in Falken also looked closely at using the tread pattern to get better wet weather performance. The result was a total of four wide tread grooves in the tyre cap design to allow for efficient water deflection and achieve superb hydroplaning resistance.

The new ZIEX ZE914 comes with tread wear indicators to precisely monitor tyre wear. It is available in 10 sizes with speed ratings of V, W and H at launch. By 2013, Falken will expand the range to include 70 versions. The ZIEX ZE914 is the third tyre launched in Europe by Falken in as many months and aims to compliment the significant growth the firm achieved in Europe in 2011.

Tyre dimensions available as of spring 2012

From spring 2012 the new Falken ZIEX ZE914 will be offered in ten different dimensions with V, W and H speed ratings. Two new sizes will be available:

205/55R 16 91W	Ford Mondeo, Mazda 5, Skoda Octavia, VW Golf
215/55R16 93W	Peugeot 308, Volvo V60, VW Eos/Passat

Source: Falken

March 27, 2012

BMW recalls 1 300 000 cars

Usually, we don’t report anything related to manufacturers, but this is very important and potentially dangerous. BMW AG is the world’s largest premium car manufacturer and one of the most expensive brands in the world. It is reccaling around 1.3 million cars for repair due to a possible problem with a battery cable cover in the trunk. Because of this, the car can catch fire, which is extremely dangerous and hard to cope with.

This can happen with all models from 5- and 6-Series BMWs built between 2003 and 2010. This includes all E60, E61, F10 and F11 from the 5-Series and E63 and E64 from the 6-Series.

BMW stated: “In some remote cases, the battery cable cover inside the boot of these vehicles may be incorrectly mounted, This can result in the electrical system malfunctioning, the vehicle failing to start and, in some cases, to charring or fire.”

Still, less than 1% of the problematic vehicles have exhibited the problem and there are no reports of fires. The repairing procedure is really easy and would take around 30 minutes to an hour. Of course, It would be free of charge to customers.

However, the recall affects more than 368 000 car in the US, 293 000 cars in Germany and another 109 000 cars in UK.

So, if you have such car, be hurry and check your local dealer to eliminate possible problem.

Source: Reuters

March 27, 2012

Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 at the race track [HD video]

Nissan has revealed the GT-R Nismo GT3 race car, which is prepared by JR Motorsports, the official partner for this major project. GT-R GT3 has been developed since 2011 and now it is put on series of extensive tests – which have included three competitive outings.

The GT-R Nismo GT3 is powered by a 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 with 530 PS (390 kW / 523 hp) and 612 Nm (451 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels. It is interesting, because originally the GT-R is AWD car, but the racing version will be a lot faster with only one drive axle.

The racing car was displayed in the UK at Autosport International (Europe’s biggest motorsport exhibition) in January, but since then nothing special is mentioned about it, until now.

However, JRM and NISMO offer the racecar in Japan, Asia, North America, South America, Oceania, Europe, Russia and the Middle East. The price starts from 298 000 Euro.

Enjoy the video!

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

Source: Clashproduction via Youtube

March 27, 2012

Master Maserati Driving Courses 2012

Master Italian Lifestyle Experience is a 5 star “lifestyle” programme combining circuit and road driving, together with a tour of one of the most emblematic Italian cities: Florence. The event offered by Maserati is one of a kind. It blends together all the most representative elements of the Made in Italy: art, fashion, luxury, bespoke craftsmanship and of course, racing performance.

The Master Maserati programme offers a complete range of experiences, all completely exclusive, with that all-Italian style and elegance which has always characterised Maserati’s activities.

In detail, the Master Maserati 2012 initiative offers the following range of programmes:

Master GT 2 days – 23rd and 24th of April

Two days to improve circuit driving techniques. It includes telemetry and driving exercises on a slippery, low grip surface.

Prices
Driver: €3 680
Companion: €350

Master GT 1 day – 14th of May

A whole day dedicated to improve circuit driving techniques. It includes telemetry and exercises to control oversteer.

Prices
Driver: €1 990
Companion: €250

Master Italian Lifestyle Experience – 29th and 30th May

Exclusive luxury cars, fashion, beauty and art: a two-day package to experience the best that Italy has to offer. The package includes a day at the circuit and a road test in the Tuscan countryside, combined with an exclusive sightseeing tour of Florence and a visit to Italian artisans’ boutiques.

Prices

Driver: €4 890
Companion: €1 250

All of the Master Maserati Courses are run by highly qualified staff, including professional driving instructors, to ensure an unforgettable and highly educational experience.

Courses are open to all Maserati aficionados and take place at the Autodromo Riccardo Paletti in Varano de’ Melegari, approximately 20 km from Parma. The Riccardo Paletti circuit is ideal to develop driving skills, and combines excellent track characteristics with professional services to ensure that track sessions take place in maximum safety.

Source: Maserati

March 27, 2012

2012 Vorsteiner BMW GTRS3 E93 M3

It is black, it is has an outstanding performance, it is BMW M3 and in addition to all this it is tuned by Vorsteiner.

Yes, the new latest project of the tuning company is equipped with some exceptional features, which makes it look unique.

More importantly, it now carries all those boutique qualities, which will create the feeling of “being special” in any customer.

The Wheels Boutique had taken further the image of the BMW E93 M3, by converting it into a Vorsteiner BMW GTRS3 E93 M3 with the help of Vorsteiner Aero Package, which includes:

GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Bumper
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Side Skirts
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Rear Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Boot Lid
GTS3 Carbon Fiber Vented Hood
E93 Aero Boot Lid Double Carbon Fiber

Furthermore, we can’t go without mentioning the state-of-the-art Vorsteiner Wheels. In particular, they are VS-350 Forged Concave wheels 20X10.5 for the front, and 20X12.5 for the rear. Of course, this project has to have some exceptional tires as well. For the front are used 285/25/20 Michelin PS2 Tires and for the rear 325/25/20 Michelin PS2 Tires.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 27, 2012

Jeep launches Altitude Limited-Edition Models

Jeep brand has just introduced the launch of the new limited-edition series of 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude, 2012 Jeep Compass Altitude and 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude.

In January, Jeep introduced a distinctive, “blacked-out” production-intent concept Grand Cherokee. With this introduction, the brand decided to leave an important part to the customers themselves. They had to give a name to the model. With more than 100,000 entries from enthusiasts, what emerged as a name was “Altitude”.

Both three new models will be at dealerships in beginning of May.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude limited edition combines a variety of exterior design changes, which result in a unique model with an aggressive chrome and “blacked-out” look.

The vehicle’s grille surround appears in black gloss, and mesh grille texture in platinum chrome. The front-end appearance is completed by a platinum chrome lower fascia appliqué.

In addition the “blacked-out” theme throughout the vehicle’s exterior is continued by a black headlamp bezels and a black liftgate light bar. The SUV sits on 20-inch tires which surround black-gloss aluminum wheels.

Furthermore the interior of this model features standard leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 9-speaker 506-watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview™ rear back-up camera, ParkSense® rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Chrysler Group’s Uconnect hands-free communications system.

Additionally, over 50 advanced safety and security features are also included.

The model is available in several different colours: Deep Cherry Red, Brilliant Black, Mineral Gray, Bright Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic and Stone White.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude has a starting price of $35,595 for 4×2 models and $37,595 for 4×4 models.

2012 Jeep Compass Altitude is one of the two newly developed limited edition models. It is a continuation of the “from-the-factory” customized look first seen in the Grand Cherokee concept.

What is typical about it is that it has a distinctive black gloss finish which surrounds Compass’ trademark seven-slot Jeep grille and headlamps.

The same style continues with black roof rails and a black step pad. In addition the 2012 Jeep Compass Altitude rides on the outstanding 18-inch black gloss aluminum wheels wearing Firestone BSW all-season performance tires.

To go further into details this model is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages).

Additionally, in it’s interior it features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, remote start, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

What is more here is that the Compass Altitude will be offered in several body colors: Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White.

2012 Jeep Compass Altitude comes with a starting price of $22,190 for 4×2 models and $23,940 for 4×4 models.

Next, the last limited edition model carrying the name Altitude is the 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude. Of course, as the previous two versions, it continues the “blacked-out” theme.

However, it includes even more chrome and polished steel than its Compass sibling.

What is specific here is that it rides on 17-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels and Firestone BSW all-season touring tires.

The 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude boasts a bright chrome lower fascia and rear step pad appliques, and bright polished steel roof rails.

Here as well, the Patriot Altitude edition is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages). In the interior package if this SUV are included: power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, power windows (driver one-touch) and locks, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.

Additionally, it includes a wide range of safety and security features: electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

The model will be available in versatile color themes: Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White.

2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude’s starting price is $20,240 for 4×2 models and $23,275 for 4×4 models.

Source: Jeep

March 27, 2012

Category: Auto News