Auto News – Page 868 – Automobiles Review

All-new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG

Soon after the release of the new Mercedes-Benz SL, and the SL 63 AMG, comes the SL 65 AMG – lighter, faster, smarter and more economical than ever. Roadster wise, this one is the top of the top by AMG at this point.

The first thing, the company wants to brag about, is the “intelligent, weight-saving construction” – Not much different from the new standard SL, the SL 65 has an aluminum body. There are also bits and pieces of carbon fiber scattered around but one would have to look hard to them. The underside of the boot lid would be a good place to start. Many pieces of the front and rear suspension are also made up of aluminum. As an end result, the new AMG roadster weighs 170 kg less than its predecessor. Mind you, that still means a total unsprung weight of 1950 kg – a cosmic figure for today’s performance open tops. Nobody sounds worried though.

This could be due to the fact that, under the hood, the SL 65 hides a 6.0 liter biturbo V12 bomb. They used the same one in the previous SL? Well this one is better. 18 hp better to be exact. Thanks to the new, larger turbochargers, new manifolds and optimised flow wastegate ducts, there is a 630 hp figure awaiting for you in the spec list. Torque stands at 1000 Nm and thus the time from zero to a hundred is reduced to 4 seconds. Top speed remains 155 mph – bound not by the restrictions of the laws of physics but rather by road law.

It’s not all raw power though. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC is clever enough to increase the fuel economy of this top-of-the-range stallion. 7 long-ratio speeds will let the V12 do its thing at lower revs while a new fuel economy torque converter, bearings designed for reduced friction loss and the transmission-oil thermal management system further increase the efficiency. Also, because it’s so modern these days, the whole drivetran comes with an ECO start/stop system that will save you pennies, especially in urban environments.

The SL 65’s manners on the road will be greatly dependant on the AMG rear differential, the AMG brakes and the Active Body Control, which surprisingly has only two settings and not ten – “Sport” and “Comfort”. They are quite self explanatory really. Apply the former on track days and switch to the latter upon returning from track days.

For the interior, much inspiration was drawn by the AMG SLS which is the definitive product of the Daimler subsidiary. The list of options alone, is big enough to render the 170 kg loss rather useless but at least you can be picky. Price tags have not yet been issued but time is all we have, as the SL 65 AMG will hit the markets somewhere around the second half of this year. Until then, feel free to check out our gallery.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 21, 2012

Vorsteiner V-RT 911 Twin Turbo Cabriolet

Lately, a lot of Vorsteiner dealers tend to showcase exotic cars with kits and wheels from the source. This one is from Wheels Boutique in Florida. Vorsteiner VR-T components expose themselves here and there on this Porsche 911 Twin Turbo Cabriolet.

The VR-T line front bumper seems just about right for the job. It houses bigger carbon fiber air intakes and throws away the factory fog lights and headlight washer bezzles. The VR-T rear bumper works on the wide aspects of the Porsche – the flaring side vents also benefit the intercooler. The back end also gets a molded carbon diffuser with twin fins and enough space for the quad sport exhaust tips. For the overall complete feel, a VR-T rear deck lid and wing had to be heavily modified to fit on the convertible version.

At the end of the day, we have a perfectly decent roadster with a bit of character added that is ready to take you out under the blazing sun Florida. Hope it comes with sunscreen as well.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 21, 2012

Danny Domenech’s FD Mazda RX-7 [HD video]

Here is a very nice video of a tuned Mazda RX-7 specially prepared for drifting. As you may aware of this sport, you need to have a RWD (rear wheel drive) car with a powerful engine, limited slip differential, good suspension and exceptional driving skills to make things happen.

Of course, the RX-7 is just the right car to compete in drift challenges, because it is not only well-made, but it comes from the motherland of drifting – Japan. Danny Domenech’s RX-7 is finished in black and stands on poison green Volk wheels.

In the video you’ll see some interesting moments like spectacular burnouts, some donuts and of course a lot of smoke. The music is just perfect for this video and the editing is very good.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3msJ2PjIso

Source: jaredbhouston

March 20, 2012

DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900 Molto Veloce

DMC has released more details about their latest project based on the staggering Lamborghini Aventador. The name of the project is LP900 Molto Veloce and as you may suggest the number after “LP” is the amount of horsepower that the hyper car develops. On the other hand, “Molto Veloce” comes from Italian and means “very fast” and we are sure that is right!

“The Molto Veloce aims at Aventador owners that seek to add a little more exclusivity to their LP700. The LP900 engine upgrade clearly targets speed enthusiasts.”, commented Thorsten Grebers, Marketing Manager at DMC Germany.

The prices are as staggering as the car itself. The complete package cost whopping €125 000, which is a lot more than a complete BMW F10 M5. Still, if somebody doesn’t want the full package, he or she can order separate components.

The body kit costs €19 500 and includes a new front spoiler, a pair of modified side skirts, a new rear diffuser and a nice wing replacing the original. The exterior also got a new stripe in the middle of the front, top and rear. All components are made from carbon fiber of course.

The wheel tire set is also very expensive – €7 800. And we get to the interior package , which is €17 700.

The performance package is the real deal – priced at €80 000, it includes a complete rebuild of the 6.5 liter V12, which gets a lot of upgrades to deliver the staggering 900HP (662 kW), instead of the factory’s 700HP (515 kW).

Everything is available to order, so if you have a “slow” Aventador, you can always call DMC and spend some money on making it fast… really fast!

Source: DMC

March 20, 2012

2012 Volkswagen CC UK – Price £24 200

Volkswagen UK has released full price list of their latest four-door coupe – CC model. It starts at just £24 200 OTR for the entry-level with 1.8 liter TSI engine and goes up to £30 100 OTR for the top-of-range GT 2.0 liter TDI equipped with DSG and BlueMotion Technology.

The standard equipment is very generous though. That includes RNS 315 touchscreen satellite navigation system, DAB digital radio, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, 2Zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights and brake energy recuperation.

Safety features are also at good level – a driver alert system, ESP electronic stabilisation programme and four-way adjustable front head restraints, to reduce the risk of whiplash.

The top of range GT trim adds heated front seats, full Nappa leather upholstery, three-mode adaptive chassis control, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and heat insulating tinted glass from the B-pillar back.

The options list can make you CC unique. It includes High Beam Assist, which automatically controls dipping of the headlights; Side Assist, which monitors the vehicle’s blind spot; Lane Assist and adaptive cruise control with City Emergency Braking function; a rear-view camera; front climate seats with massage function; and an electrically deployed towbar.

There is no doubt that the new 2012 CC is a good choice, if you seek something different on the car market.

Check out the price list below!

Volkswagen CC model line-up and pricing

Trim level	Engine derivative	CO₂, g/km	Combined mpg	Price, £ RRP OTR

CC	1.8-litre TSI 160 PS 6 spd manual	165	39.8	24,200
CC	1.8-litre TSI 160 PS 7 spd DSG	167	39.2	25,760
CC	2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6 spd manual BMT*	125	60.1	25,345
CC	2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6 spd DSG BMT	139	53.3	26,810

GT	2.0-litre TSI 210 PS 6 spd manual	171	38.7	28,285
GT	2.0-litre TSI 210 PS 6 spd DSG	182	36.2	29,685
GT	2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6 spd manual BMT	125	60.1	27,570
GT	2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6 spd DSG BMT	139	53.3	29,035
GT	2.0-litre TDI 170 PS 6 spd manual BMT	129	57.6	28,620
GT	2.0-litre TDI 170 PS 6 spd DSG BMT	144	51.4	30,100

* BMT denotes BlueMotion Technology
Source: Volkswagen

March 20, 2012

2013 Honda Crosstour Concept

Honda will present a new 2013 Crosstour Concept model at this year’s New York Auto Show. It will reveal the exterior styling direction of the updated model. Obviously, Honda are not pleased with the previous 2012 model, which you can see on the picture, that’s why they plan some redesigning probably based on Accord.

However, the manufacturer didn’t release any images, but probably the model will be shortly previewed.

The Crosstour model was launched back in 2009 and features two engines – a 2.4 liter four-cylinder and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 314PS (231 kW). It also earned the distinction of J.D. Power and Associates’ “Highest Ranked Midsize Crossover/SUV in Initial Quality” in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS).

Stay tuned for more information about 2013 Crosstour Concept.

Source: Honda

March 20, 2012

Ferrari F12XX Berlinetta [render]

Here are two renderings of the F12XX Berlinetta – the racing version of the recently presented Ferrari F12Berlinetta. The two images are released by automotive artist Iacoski, who mentioned that “F12Berlinetta is just perfect looking car!”.Originally, the F12Berlinetta is powered by a newly-developed 6.3 liter 65° V12 engine with 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h – 3.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The top speed is over 340 km/h (211 mph). We expect that the racing version will exceed 800PS and to accelerate to 100km/h in under 3.0 seconds and a top speed of around 350 km/h.Nothing is mentioned from Ferrari, that they will develop a race version of F12Berlinetta, but if that happens, it would be great. At least, the staggering 599XX will have its true rival in the name of F12XX.Check out the two renderings below – in black (which by far looks great) and in red.

Source: iacoski

March 20, 2012

2013 Acura RDX Crossover SUV already in production

The mass production of the all-new 2013 Acura RDX has already started in the United States, in particular in Ohio. The popular luxury crossover SUV is expected to go on sale at Acura dealerships in a month. The new 2013 RDX has improved comfort and power, which come in combination with class-leading fuel economy. In addition, the all-new 2013 Acura RDX Crossover SUV got a significant new looks and features innovative technologies. It comes a new 3.5L V-6 engine mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmission and a new all-wheel-drive system.

Undoubtedly, Acura is a brand for luxury customers who want to have highest levels of quality and value in their lives. The plant in Ohio will produce the second-generation Acura RDX for the U.S. and export markets, using domestic and globally sourced parts. The plant has already launched successfully the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V, which is America’s most popular SUV at the very moment. The associates at the plant are definitely looking forward to be in compliance with the expectations of every customer, and are committed to producing the best products. In fact, the engines and automatic transmissions for the Acura RDX and Honda CR-V also are made in Ohio. To go back in history, in 1989 the East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio began producing automobiles in 1989 and currently employs approximately 2,500 associates. Moreover, the 1.9-million-square-foot plant also produces the Honda Crosstour for the U.S. and export markets.

The all-new 2013 Acura RDX Crossover SUV will be launched for sale in dealerships in April with a starting price (MSRP) of $34 320.

Source: Honda

March 20, 2012

Opel Ampera to Debut at Rally Monte Carlo

The Car of the Year 2012 – Opel Ampera, will take part in one of the most exciting rallies this year – nmely Monte Carlo Alternative Energy Rally. This happens for the first time in Opel’s history. The brand is providing award-winning electric car model for the prestigious international Rally Monte Carlo. Exactly six examples of Opel Ampera will make their debut in the “Alternative Energy” rally. The racing will take place in Annecy-le-Vieux, Clermont-Ferrand and Lugano on March 22 and will finish three days later in the capital of Monaco -Monte Carlo. The premise to take part in the rally is the following: the competing vehicles must have a maximum of 115g/km CO2 emissions. Te goal set for the racing is for the vehicles to cover a certain distance, maintain a constant speed and use as little energy as possible.

By taking participation, Opel is once again showing that it is a global leader in the field of e-mobility. In fact, the Opel Ampera is the first electric vehicle which can go anywhere anytime. What do I mean by that? Well, the vehicle has a 16 kWh lithium ion battery, which powers the 111kW/150 hp electric motor. The distance of between 40 and 80 kilometers can be easily covered in the purely battery-operated mode, depending on the style of driving and road conditions. Of course, you get conclusion that all driving will be completely free of emissions. Moreover, the wheels of the Ampera are always powered electrically. In extended-range mode, which activates whenever the battery has reached its minimum state of charge, the gasoline engine drives a generator that supplies the electric drive unit. Thus it is possible for the car to cover 500 km, thank to the range extender, which enables this operating radius. At last, being on the road, the Ampera’s Voltec electric propulsion system provides torque of 370 Nm (273 lb-ft). This allows acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h.

Source: Opel

March 20, 2012

2013 Mazda CX-5 with high-tech safety features

2013 Mazda CX-5 is the all new production vehicle offered by Mazda Motor Corporation. The compact crossover SUV will arrive this spring in dealerships and moreover will be equipped with a range of breakthrough technologies. The SUC was designed to appeal to the corporate sector and some of the technologies included in it for the first time. Such are safety features as Smart City Brake Support, state-of-the-art passive safety structures, lightweight yet highly-rigid SKYACTIV-Body and various impact-absorbing structural innovations.

First, the Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) helps the driver to avoid or minimise the impact of a frontal collision when driving at low speeds, for instance when in traffic. The technology is standard across the Mazda CX-5 range. In particular it uses a laser sensor mounted at the top of the windscreen to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front. And in case the driver fails to slow their vehicle appropriately, the SCBS automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. Thus, the system helps avoiding collision or mitigating the damage from rear-end collisions at low speeds.

Secondly, Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology is featured for the first time on the vehicle. In fact, it is the first sixth generation model, and promises major total cost of ownership due to major fuel savings and low emissions.

Next, Mazda has developed a straighter and more continuous frame and an extremely efficient multi-load path structure for the SKYACTIV-Body of the vehicle in the event of a crash. The structure efficiently absorbs the load at the time of a crash by dispersing it in multiple directions.

Additionally, there are other standard safety equipment highlights on the new 2013 Mazda CX-5, which include front and rear parking sensors, Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control System, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, dual front and front side airbags and front and rear curtain airbags; driver, passenger and rear-seat audible seatbelt reminder warning and a reversing camera. Furthermore, there are also some optional safety features (CX-5 Safety Pack) such as: Rear Vehicle Monitoring via a door mirror-mounted warning light and audible alert; lane departure warning via an audible warning, which uses a camera on the windscreen to monitor the position of the white lane markings at speeds of 40mph and higher, and if the system detects a risk of an unintentional lane change, it warns the driver with a sound through the speakers originating from the applicable side of the vehicl; and High Beam Control System (HBCS), which automatically switches between low and high beams to ensure good night visibility for everyone.

The starting price of 2012 Mazda CX-5 is £21 395. The customers can choose between four equipment levels – SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav with manual and automatic options – a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 165ps (121 kW) 2-wheel drive (2WD) petrol engine and SKYACYTIV-D 2.2-litre 150ps (110 kW) and 2.2-litre 175ps (129 kW) diesel engines with two and all-wheel drive choices.

Source: Mazda

March 20, 2012

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Altitude Special Edition

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Altitude Special Edition is the latest development Toyota has been up to, and more importantly has included in it more than $10 000 of added multimedia, technology, comfort and family-friendly features. First of all this special edition has seven seats and now gets satellite navigation, a seven-inch touch-screen display and a rear-seat entertainment system. Additionally, to the expanded list of innovative technologies are included a tilt-and-slide moonroof, leather-accented seat trim, privacy glass and easy-to-read Optitron instruments.

Moreover, the Prado Altitude’s sound system has been upgraded to 14 speakers and has a six-disc in-dash CD/DVD changer with remote control. There is also featured a rear-seat entertainment system, which comes with a nine-inch monitor mounted from the ceiling, a DVD player, 5.1-channel surround sound and three wireless headphones.

Furthermore, in the safety ride some technologies are taking part: a back-guide monitor provides added guidance, while the reverse camera is being used. In addition, four sonar parking sensors have been added at the front. There are also seven airbags, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, hill-assist control and downhill assist control.

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Altitude Special Edition

Important note here is that the vehicle is going to be produced only till the end of April this year. Prado Altitude is being offered with two engines: 4.0-litre quad cam V6 petrol or 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and gated shift.

The Toyota is offered in four exterior colors: Crystal Pearl, Ebony, Silver Pearl and Graphite; which of course can be matched with black interior trim, while Crystal Pearl and Ebony also come with the choice of ivory trim.

Prado Altitude embodies other Toyota Land Cruiser GXL features such as three-zone climate-controlled air-conditioning, audio controls on the steering wheel, smart entry and start, cruise control and long-range fuel tanks (87-litre main and 63-litre sub).

Prices for the 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Altitude Special Edition start from $68 490 for the petrol V6 model and $69,490 for the diesel model.

Source: Toyota

March 20, 2012

Dodge Durango Special Service

If you are contemplating a local bank robbery, make sure the police force at your area still hasn’t received its batch of specially made Dodge Durangos. They will be designated by the term “Special Service” and, much like the Dodge Charger Pursuit, will serve the law enforcement or, by choice, the fire department or any other fleet out there. Either way, we are looking at a lean, mean machine, designed to rule over all sorts of terrains and offer as much versatility as possible.

A standard Dodge Durango comes with two engine choices: A 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivers 290 bhp and a range of 550 miles on a single tank. Then there’s the upper edge HEMI V8 with 360 bhp and the healthy 390 lb.-ft. of torque. The former has a towing capacity of 6200 lbs while the latter – 7400 lbs. And that load will cling on as standard equipment includes Trailer-sway Control.

The Special Service Durangos come with this very same engine choice with the possibility of being either RWD or AWD. But because the cargo area here is custom made to fit the needs of whomever might be using it, several performance components had to be beefed up – the breaks are new, there’s a heavy-duty battery now and a larger alternator. The water pump and engine oil cooler have also been replaced.

Standard Durangos already have 30 storage areas scattered around but the Special Service vehichles offer even more diversity – under-floor storage compartments and additional storage in the side compartments. Also, one might find service interior dome lamp and headliner and spot lamp wiring prep as additional extras. The otherwise commonly present third row of seats has been sacrificed, but it is all for the better good.

Since Servicepeople already put their lives at great risks, why not offer them some sense of security inside at the very least. That’s why these Durangos come with a full package of safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM) and Hill-start Assist/ There are seat-mounted and side-curtain air bags in the front row. The side one reaches out for the second row as well, and the third, non-existent one.

Chrysler Group fleet operations will start taking orders now, with deliveries expected to begin in the second quarter of 2012 so fugitives for now will still have some room to breathe. However, just by looking at the gallery here, I already feel discouragement of indulging myself into a life of crime.

Source: Chrysler LLC

March 20, 2012

Category: Auto News