Ford has revealed a teaser video of the new performance model, which will join the Explorer line-up. Actually, the video shows very little details from the SUV – speedometer, wheels, sports exhaust system, headlights.
The performance model Ford Explorer will be powered by a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 365PS (268 kW) at 5000RPM and 569Nm (420 lb-ft) at 2500RPM. The model will be announced on facebook, of course tomorrow (March 28th).
Among the standard equipment of the new Explorer you’ll find MyForddriver connect technology including 4.2” LCD screen, MyKey™ owner control feature, Air filtration system, Media hub, Easy Fuel® capless fuel filler system, Cruise control, Power windows, with one-touch down for driver, Power door locks with child safety rear door locks, Tilt/telescoping steering column, Four 12-volt power points, Cargo hooks.
The XLT trim level adds: Automatic headlamps, 6-speed SelectShift Automatic™,Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps, SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, Reverse sensing system, Perimeter alarm.
The limited trim level also features: PowerFold® sideview mirrors with driver’s side memory, Ambient lighting, Adjustable pedals with memory functionality, Cargo net, Dual-zone electronic temperature control, 10-way power driver’s seat, with power recline and lumbar, Electrochromic interior mirror, Rear view camera, Remote start system, 110-volt outlet, MyFord Touchdriver connect technology, Intelligent Access with push-button start, Universal garage door opener.
The newly redesigned 2012 CITROËN C1 will soon go on sale on the UK market in the beginning of April. The prices of the restyled model will begin from just £7,995. And more importantly, in orede to celebrate the New C1’s launch, the brand has announced that all New C1 models will have a £1,000 Citroën Reward, which means that the price will be even more attractive and will start at just £6,995.
The first highlight about CITROËN C1 is that, as it is obvious, it is a compact, economical and ecological city car. Moreover the new 2012 model includes new features and optimizations, such as CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, LED daytime running lights, a CD audio system with the brand’s Connecting Box and an electronic gearbox system with steering wheel mounted paddles. It will be launched in both 3-door and 5-door guises. In addition boot volume can be adjusted thanks to a folding rear bench and ranges from 139 liters to over 700 liters.
The next thing to be highlighted here is that it spends just 4.3l/100km and does it with just 99 g/km of CO2! The new model is powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine which develops 68 bhp (92 kW). Moreover to bring more excitement to the driving experience, it is equipped with a manual gearbox which boasts improved fuel consumption and emissions performance and sets a new standard on environmental protection with 4.3 l/100 km over a combined cycle and 99 g/km of CO2. It is good to be noted that it is the first CITROËN petrol-engine car to emit less than 100 g/km of CO2. And for enhanced handling and driving comfort the new model is also available with an electronic gearbox system for enhanced handling and driving comfort. However, here the C1 1.0i EGS consumes 4.5 l/100 km and emits 104 g/km of CO2.
2012 Citroën C1
VTR versions add day-time running LEDs, air conditioning and electric front windows. Furthermore, VTR+ trim also includes 14” alloy wheels, Connecting Box (Bluetooth® & USB socket), front fog lights, leather steering wheel and dark tinted windows. The range-topping 5-door 2012 Citroën C1 VTR+, featuring Citroën’s efficient Electronic Gearbox System with steering-mounted paddle controls, is priced at £10,545.
The original Jaguar E-type is more than just an oil burning two-seater back from the 60s. Much more than that. It’s the epitome of British engineering and a symbol of world renown beauty. Even today, many motoring enthusiasts tremble before it as if it were the Holy Grail. It was one of the first cars that came with disc brakes as standard, it had a 3.8 liter engine that produced 265 hp and, according to Enzo Ferarri, at the time, it was “The most beautiful car ever made“. Today, the British place the Jag next to the Union Jack, Penicillin and the sausage in terms of national value.
What I am trying to stress here, is that undertaking a project which even vaguely relates to the original E-type is an audacious feat. So without further a due, meet Laszlo Varga – a college student from Budapest studying industrial design and his work – The Jaguar E-type Concept.
By the looks of things (renderings), Mr. Varga has pretty much managed to capture the spirit of the original. At the very first glance we notice the typical elliptic grill which serves as an assurance – “I am a Jaguar”. Other design traits seem to come directly from the Series 1 E-type. Namely, the glass covers of the headlights. It was with them, that the first E-types distinguished themselves from anything else that would come out later on. As a profile, this 2011 Concept looks a bit beefy, but the side window frame is significantly smaller than the original one and that puts even more light over the extended front end of the car. At the back, the lights are presumably LED but in essence, the arrangement is pretty much the same.
The overall idea, the modern interpretation of the E-type is fresh and daring. At the very least, Mr Varga has offered a tribute to a true motoring icon and we thank him for it.
New Fiestas have started rolling out from Ford Europe’s production line just in time to save the world from the petrol-price situation. Well, it’s not that the Fiestas are new but rather what’s inside them. Ford call it the ECOnetic Technology.
And how eco exactly is the new batch? 3.3l/100km (86.5mpg) on the EU cycle if you ask Ford. We are talking serious penny saving here – CO2 emissions stand at just 87g/km.
With figures like this, one might suspect the involvement of some ghastly plug in hybrid gizmos but that’s not the case here:
“Fiesta is already hugely successful across Europe and the ECOnetic Technology model takes its fuel efficiency and low-CO2 offering to another level,” said Stephen Odell, CEO and chairman, Ford of Europe. “Customers can be assured these significant gains have been achieved without compromising the great driving quality for which Ford is famous.”
Evidently, you get a 95PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel that provides 205Nm of torque. The frugality comes form some pretty clever, yet rather standard features – Auto-Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Eco Mode and a light that tells you when’s the best time to shift gears. The engine and gearbox have also been fine-tuned for fuel-friendly driving. Throw in some low-rolling resistance tires, wheel deflectors, a general lower stance and you’re done – the most economical Fiesta ever made.
The ECOnetic Technology is at the core of the company’s plan to make Europe greener. By the end of 2012, half of Ford’s fleet is expected to carry that very same tech.
Dodge has announced the special edition Challenger called Rallye Redline. With its powerful and efficient 305 horsepower engine, paddle-shifting transmission, performance suspension designed to maximize the muscle car’s near 50/50 weight distribution for improved handling, and all-new red hot styling enhancements – this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.
The car is based on the Challenger SXT Plus and comes with all its standard equipment plus some more including a full-length body stripe, a rear spoiler and 20” alloy wheels with red accents fitted with 245/45 R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires. The interior baosts leather sport seats, a new steering wheel and a Mopar shift handle. Other extras are the automatic air conditioning and a Boston Acoustics audio system.
“Infused with Dodge DNA, the new Challenger Rallye Redline adds even more excitement to our iconic muscle car, and to show our appreciation to our most hard-core enthusiasts, we revealed this new model at Spring Fest,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand – Chrysler Group LLC.
“With its unique Redline Red accented exterior details, available Radar Red leather, performance suspension and brakes, and 305 horsepower V-6 with paddle shifters getting 27 mpg – this new Challenger fuses the nameplate’s iconic heritage with modern Dodge styling and performance.”
The Challenger Rallye Redline is powered by a 3.6 liter V6 with 309PS (227 kW) and 363Nm (268 lb-ft). It is mated toa 5-speed automatic gearbox. The engine is really economical achieving 27 mpg on the highway.
Among the standard equipment you’ll find: UconnectTM hands-free phone, six Boston Acoustic Speakers with 276-watt amplifier, premium Nappa leather faced seats, heated front seats, SIRIUS/XM satellite radio with 12-month subscription, fog lamps, dual exhausts, automatic temperature control, power 10-way driver’s seat, cruise control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Keyless Enter ‘n Go, and six standard airbags.
The Challenger Rallye Redline is priced from just $28 745 (excluding a $925 destination charge).
Autocar.co.uk has revealed a video review of the new 2012 Panamera GTS. The four-door coupe car come with some nice updates: better efficiency, more power, nicer sound and lowered air suspension as standard.
It is powered by a 4.8 liter V8 with 430PS (316 kW) at 6700RPM and 520Nm (385 lb-ft) at 3500RPM. The engine is mated to a 7-speed Porsche DKG gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and Vmax – 288 km/h (179 mph). The fuel consumption is very good too – 21.6 mpg US with 256 g/km CO2. The kerb weight is 1920 kg.
The improved chassis features aptive air suspension combined with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). The comfort and driving dynamics are boosted by adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system, combined with a self-levelling height adjustment function. Panamera GTS sits 10 mm lower than the other models in the range. Dynamic performance is further enhanced by the combination of 19” diameter Panamera Turbo wheels, 5 mm rear wheel spacers and larger brake discs from the Turbo – recognisable by their red brake callipers.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jozAsl_MVlE
The Sound Symposer, which can be activated or deactivated by the Sport button directs intake noise into the interior by an acoustic channel picking up the intake vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter.
Other interesting feature is the standard Sport Chrono package including Sport Plus programme. In the ultimate Sport Plus mode, the adaptive air suspension lowers the vehicle to the low setting and switches to a harder spring rate. The rear spoiler angle of attack also changes to the performance-oriented setting.
The interior of the new Panamera GTS can be styled according to customer’s taste. There are leather and Alcantara – with a choice of five interior colours. The centre panels of the adaptive 18-way adjustable sports seats, the upper sections of the door armrests and front centre console armrest and roof lining are in Alcantara.
2012 Porsche Panamera GTS will be priced from around $144 100.
BMW US will introduce the M6 Convertible and X1 SAV at the 2012 New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 4th. Both cars will be showcased at the BMW Stand from 10:15 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center (655 West 34th Street at 11th Avenue) in Manhattan.
The third generation of M6 is powered by the newly developed M TwinPower Turbo 4.4 liter V8 mated to a 7-speed M-DCT transmission. The power is 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.
Other premiere is the X1 SAV, which has already enjoying the EU success. The engine line-up includes a TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol in xDrive28i model with 245PS. The 2012 X1 features distinctive headlights and L-shaped taillights, It will be available in showrooms, this summer.
BMW will also exhibit M6 Coupe and X6 M, which will debut at the New York show. They will be also joined by the 6 Series Gran Coupe alongside the two famous concepts – i3 and i8.
BMW will also bring the M6 Coupe and X6 M for their North American debuts at the New York show and they will be joined by the 6 Series Gran Coupe (US show debut) and the i3 and i8 concepts.
The Gran Coupe has stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to 5 passengers. Its 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.
Great Wall Motor Company is one of the market leaders for pick-ups and SUVs in China nowadays, building total assets of £2.7 billion and an employee base of over 42,000 people worldwide. The brand already exports its range of small and large family cars, SUVs and pick-up trucks to over 120 countries around the world. However, this month become the first, when the Chinese automobile manufacturer is commencing the volume sales in the UK. The launch of the 2012 Great Wall Steed Pick-Up then will follow and will be at the Commercial Vehicle Show, which will take place on 24th pf April in Birmingham.
In details the Steed is a robust and highly practical pick-up. It offers unrivalled value for and more importantly its value is exceptional: it will go on sale with a starting proce of an only £13 998. In this price is included a generous equipment as well. Moreover, the vehicle has 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to a six-speed gearbox and selectable-on-the-move two/four-wheel drive. Additionally what has to be highlighted here us that the Steed also delivers class-leading urban fuel economy.
The all-new 2012 Ford Focus will make its first ASEAN appearance at Bangkok International Motor Show. The launch of the vehicle on this market is of utmost importance because it is set to make a new standard there. It is going to deliver unmatched combination of smart technologies, outstanding fuel economy, expressive design, responsive performance and high levels of craftsmanship and occupant safety. The 2012 Ford Focus will go on sale later in the year and will be produced at Ford’s new manufacturing facility in Rayong. Its production there will supply the entire ASEAN region as well as other export markets.
The all-new Focus will include the new high-series Titanium+ and Sport+ variants, which offer luxury levels of convenience and comfort. The Candy Red five-door hatchback and the Ingot Silver four-door sedan on the Ford stand will give customers a close-up look at this top-notch series. The vehicle is characterized by sleek and sporty design, new smart technologies and features. These exceptional technologies will offer customers an exciting spread of advanced features generally found only in larger, more expensive vehicles. First to be mentioned is the Ford SYNC® technology which provides hands-free, voice-activated in-car connectivity. The system allows customers to connect almost any mobile phone or digital media player to their all-new Focus via Bluetooth® and USB connection respectively. Moreover, the all-new 2012 Ford Focus also offers a wide range of smart features, such as Active Park Assist (the system uses sensors around the Focus to help identify a feasible spot then steer the car into the space; the driver controls the accelerator, brake and gears); Active City Stop (collision-mitigation system, which monitors the road ahead for stationary traffic and then brakes automatically if its sensors detect the car in front has stopped unexpectedly); Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) (when a vehicle enters the all-new Focus’ blind spot, an orange light appears in the corresponding side mirror as a caution; when backing out of a parking spot with limited visibility, BLIS warns the driver of impending traffic); Smart Keyless Entry (enables customer to lock or unlock the driver’s door without taking the key out of a bag or a pocket); Ford Power Start (the engine can be turned on simply by pushing the Ford Power Start button while holding the clutch down). In addition to all this, the Focus comes with dual-zone electronic air-conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control, powered sunroof and an innovative auto-dimming rear view mirror that automatically detects headlight glare and switches to a dimmed setting.
2012 Ford Focus Sedan
What has to be highlighted here as well is that the new Focus features a completely new Duratec 2.0-litre Ti-VCT GDi engine. The latter combines high-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDi) and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. It delivers 170PS (125 hp) of power and 200Nm (147 lb.-ft.) of torque and improved fuel economy. This 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is mated with the latest six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission, which has a high-efficiency dual dry-clutch design. This advanced transmission is also offered with SelectShift Automatic™ functionality. A second powertrain comes in the form of a Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine that serves up 125PS (92 kW) of power and 159Nm (177 lb.-ft.) of torque at excellent fuel efficiency. Again the engine can be mated to either the six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.
Both the all-new Focus four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models has the same sporty character. They have striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance. The exterior of the vehicle is influenced by the distinctive design inside, featuring a modern, cockpit-style interior with a stylish centre console. First of all it is bold and contemporary, and in addition the materials used are high-quality ones. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels have been minimized and the driving dynamics improved by the increased stiffness of the body structure. All this results in optimal riding quality. The chassis design is complemented by a new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system which has been carefully tuned to deliver precise response at highway speeds while remaining light and manoeuvrable at lower speeds for ease of parking.
Furthermore, the 2012 Focus, offers outstanding safety standards for occupant and pedestrian protection. The used advanced materials help Focus meet crash regulations across world markets. In addition, they help minimizing the vehicle’s weight and contributing to fuel economy. Moreover, the passive safety features include new advanced airbag restraint systems. It features driver and front passenger airbags, side front airbags and segment-exclusive side curtain airbags for front- and rear-seat occupants. Additionally, there is also included an advanced active safety technologies, which help the driver maintain safe control of the vehicle and avoid collision situations. Next, the Electronic Stability Program system utilizes intelligent logic to monitor the car’s progress and apply effective intervention when required. The system incorporates Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Launch Assist and Anti-Lock Brake System which includes Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
The new generation 2012 Peugeot 408 will enrich the Russian markets soon. The new model of 408 is the perfect combination of allure, reference road holding, spacious interior and a high level of passive safety. In addition, 2012 Peugeot 408 is a unique model which embodies both elegance and practicality – the main philosophy of the brand. What you need to know further about this vehicle is that it is a combination of dynamism and sportiness. Of course, this is typical fro every Peugeot model, but at the same time the new 408 delivers high level of comfort, because of its spacious interior. In fact the cabin is the most spacious one of the segment.
The new sedan has a unique set of features, which will undoubtedly satisfy any need of the owner. First of all, the new Peugeot 408 saloon benefits from Peugeot’s design expertise in the field of road holding and drivability. What is more specific here however is that in order to meet the needs of the Russian customer, Peugeot engineers took into account the Russian market and road specificities. Next, this model underwent profound climate adaptation through repeated testing in the Urals and beyond the Arctic Circle. These tests come in to ensure the ability of the car to withstand harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, Peugeot Russia aims at taking a lead position in the segment and setting new standards amongst sedans within the C-Segment car market.
2012 Peugeot 408
Production of the new 2012 Peugeot 408 will start later this year at the PCMA RUS production facilities in the Kaluga region.
Last week marked the end of the 82nd Geneva Motor Show – one of the biggest automotive exhibitions in the world.
More than 700,000 visitors feasted their eyes upon the creations of some 260 manufacturers while 11,500 media representatives channeled all there was to channel directly to your screens. It was a vibrant two week marathon of motoring nirvana.
There were ups and downs (mostly ups really), there was music, there was dancing…oh, and cars also.
The scale of the whole event does not allow to sum up everything in a single go and yet, we at Automobilesreview.com decided to give our humble opinion about some of the good, the bad and the ugly.
The Lamborghini Aventador Speedster J
HOT: It’s the lunacy that gets you. Gravely controversial, this topless model caused quite a stir among enthusiasts and observers.
Why wouldn’t it? It’s an Avenatador without a windscreen – first class go-kart experience, an Ariel Atom on steroids.
Despite the fact that any human being would look ridiculous inside (more so after a good trashing), nobody would dare to make a joke about it – the person inside should be, by all accounts, a man of steel.
Lamborghini Aventador J
Tata Megapixel
NOT: It’s got all the right features by the look of things: modern and round and crisp. But, even the name suggests, that it is essentially a big square.
Part of the reason why this is not getting too much attention might be because of the brand. Tata have yet to produce a car that has some aesthetic value.
We get that the idea behind the affordability and the fact that it is ideal for the streets of India but that’s just about it.
It’s too soulless and by looking at those side-sliding doors, original as they might be, we can’t help but thinking of a convenience store.
Tata Megapixel
Peugeot GTI Concept
HOT: You didn’t think we would miss a chance to include a hot hatch, did you? And hot it is this one. Peugeot 208 GTI – an audacious take on an almost thirty year old legend: Peugeot 205 GTI.
How do you stand up to the car that was claimed to be the embodiment of the hot hatch concept? How do you challenge Genesis?
At Peugeot think that an RCZ 200bhp 1.6 turbo engine, a wider-than-standard track and a multitude of handling smarts should do the trick.
We would really like to see that on the streets and chances are, we are not alone in this.
Peugeot GTI Concept
Carlsson Smart forTwo
NOT: Bringing a Smart to an autoshow is like bringing a knife to a gunfight.
Carlsson have made an effort to give this little critter some character but at best, they have given it an orange interior.
Power is up by a few figures – thanks to an ECU upgrade we get 110 bhp which is a lot, considering that the ForTwo weighs less than a lady’s handbag.
But unless you stick to driving it in a straight line, all is in vain we suspect as the ForTwo just doesn’t have the wheelbase for the job. It’s too short and understeery.
Carlsson ForTwo Smart
Touring Disco Volante
HOT: No. This is not hot. Hot is too much of a vulgar word to describe it.
It’s a celebration of aesthetics, a cobweb of passion and style and curves a blissful incarnation of beauty itself. It’s a history lesson as well – Conceived in the 50s, the 1900 C52 Alfa Romeo “Flying Saucer” had a profile made to last and today, the Carrozzeria Touring Disco Volante is the living proof of that.
It’s a genuine car this and not just a pretty body with no engine in it. The world would be a better place with this on the streets so peace’s sake, let’s hope the motoring future looks like this.
Touring Disco Volante
Hyundai i20
NOT: Bland, gray and consumer oriented, this ok family car, with an ok engine and ok quality inside and outside might be the right purchase to make…if one does not care about cars in general and is only interested in going from A to B safely.
You know, Hyundai have a perfectly sensible guarantee policies and… not interested?
No… Understandably you are not, because the i20 will never make your hair on your back stand up.
That is of course, you don’t find yourself driving it on the wrong side of the road with oncoming traffic…while being on fire.
Hyundai i20
The Geneva Girls
HOT:…definitely.
Let’s face it. What would the show be without some models…next to the models?
A big gear-head convention with people mooning about, calculating power-to-weight ratios and arguing over naught to sixty times.
We are not saying, that the 2012 Geneva Motor Show wasn’t like that, but at the very least, the girls were there to balance things out.
We also like how this particular model is thematically coordinated with the car represented – the Bertone Nuccio concept. All Seems legitimate.
The Geneva Girls
Mia Electric
NOT: Don’t get us wrong. It’s an interesting idea this – a tubular sort of, 3 seated van.
And anything that can offer a McLaren F1 type of driving position makes us tingle with excitement. It’s called the Mia and it looks like a Smart stretch which by itself sounds ironic.
Sadly, this is where the similarities with the F1 end. Strictly for the urban environment, this French-made “Microbus” gets its power from a 13 bhp electric, but hardly electrifying, engine that has a range of around 80 miles.
True, it weighs no more than 810 kg with the batteries on board but that’s courtesy to its plastic body. Label it “hot” and it might melt.
Mia Electric
Pininfarina Cambiano Concept
HOT: Much like the Disco Volante, this concept deserves an admirable batch of flattering adjectives.
It’s beautifully styled with clean and simple lines, it has some daring features like that roof over there – no doubt eye candy for all present at the unveiling.
But while the Disco Volante is basically an Alfa 8C Competizione underneath, the Cambiano is an ultra complex plug in hybrid that has electric motors on each wheel and a small diesel turbine that can charge the batteries or provide power by itself.
The overall maximum power output reaches 600 kW with torque being 640 Nm and constantly available. Take it out for a spin and by the time the juice runs out, you’d be 800 km away from home. So, clever and sleek – certainly a pageant winner.
Pininfarina Cambiano Concept
Bentley EXP 9 F Concept
NOT: We are gravely sorry, but Bentley should stick to what they do best – making Continentals.
Just because the world has gone mad-crazy about SUV‘s does not mean that there’s a place for everybody on the market table.
Besides, its not really a looker is it? It looks like a Continental with the aerodynamics taken out – anguliar, upright and awkward.
Also, with those overcomplicated headlights and ridiculous wheels, certainly the EXP 9 F is not doing too much to win our hearts. It may appeal a footballer’s heart but that’s as far as it will go.
Bentley EXP 9 F
Gumpert Apollo Enraged
HOT: This Gumpert Apollo in particuliar is not the melt-my-heart kind of hot (the sheer size of that rear wing is hardly endearing).
It’s more like heartburn type of hot – What you are looking at is a V8 lunatic on the loose, angry and out to get you.
If underestimated, this Griffin will trample over your ego with 780 horses (from a V8!!). But you can guess that by yourself, can’t you? The clues are pretty much in how they called it – the Enraged.
What’s more, you most certainly won’t be looking too hot stuck on a speed bump, but when a ride goes that low, chances are you are going to grind over half the streets in your town. On the plus side, it’s quite probable to be an absolute hit on trackdays, leaving behind Porsches and BMW‘s trailing behind.
Audi has finally announced that the new Audi A8 Hybrid will hit the showrooms this spring. The luxury vehicle is the only European car in this segment. Furthermore, it is the world’s most efficient luxury-class hybrid sedan.
2012 A8 Hybrid is powered by a 2.0 liter TFSI and an electric motor with combined power of 245PS (180 kW) and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). It returns whopping 37.3 mpg (US), which is 6.3 liters per 100 km on combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 144 g/km.
The 2.0 liter TFSI engine features two balancer shafts offset second-order inertial forces to ensure virtually vibration-free and pleasantly quiet operation that goes well with the luxurious character of the A8. All other components are optimized to minimize friction ensuring smooth run. The flow-rate-regulated, pressure-controlled oil pump further reduces fuel consumption.
The electric motor has 45PS (33 kW) of power and 211Nm (156 lb-ft) of torque. Its full power is available practically right from standstill and contributes to a sportily powerful start-up.
The power is put on the road through an 8-speed tip-tronic gearbox.The propulsive power of both drive systems is applied to the road through the front wheels.
The A8 Hybrid comes with state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery mounted in the rear section of the vehicle. It is lighter and substantially more powerful than the previous version. It has a high-strength housing, and a ventilation module ensuring that it always operate within the ideal temperature range.
However, the luggage compartment doesn’t suffer at all – the capacity is 400 liters.
The hybrid drive is designed for fully electric-powered driving up to 65 km/h (40 mph) and for a distance exceeding two kilometers – especially well-suited for driving in the city or residential suburbs.
So everything on paper is just perfect and have to wait a while to see, how the new A8 Hybrid handles the real conditions.
Ford has revealed a teaser video of the new performance model, which will join the Explorer line-up. Actually, the video shows very little details from the SUV – speedometer, wheels, sports exhaust system, headlights.
The original 
New Fiestas have started rolling out from 
Dodge has announced the special edition Challenger called Rallye Redline. With its powerful and efficient 305 horsepower engine, paddle-shifting transmission, performance suspension designed to maximize the muscle car’s near 50/50 weight distribution for improved handling, and all-new red hot styling enhancements – this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.
Autocar.co.uk has revealed a video review of the new 2012 Panamera GTS. The four-door coupe car come with some nice updates: better efficiency, more power, nicer sound and lowered air suspension as standard.
BMW US will introduce the M6 Convertible and X1 SAV at the 2012 New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 4th. Both cars will be showcased at the BMW Stand from 10:15 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center (655 West 34th Street at 11th Avenue) in Manhattan.
