Auto News – Page 872 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is ready to hit the market. The vehicle is put on tough, practical testing, which focuses on the key customer requirements of safety, economy and comfort.

Some of the innovations include a 7-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. So, the new Sprinter is the first van in the world to be available with it. The fuel consumption is reduced even further by the BlueEFFICIENCY package and a higher axle ratio. Other very important technology is the standard fitted ESP – stability control program.

Like all new components of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, these new features have to demonstrate their ability to withstand extreme testing in unforgiving conditions near the Arctic Circle.
The testing program includes starting and running at minus 30 degrees Celsius and even lower. Everything is tested, from the cold-start of the engine equipped with the BlueEFFICIENCY package through the new 7-speed automatic gearbox and other control systems. Their sensors have to be tuned with absolute precision to ensure that the systems are always ready to intervene with corrective measures – regardless of how hostile the operating conditions may be.

The fuel consumption is one of the most important features for the working vehicles. So the new Sprinter can be equipped with BlueEFFICIENCY package, which cuts it with 0.5 liters per 100 km. It comprises of the ECO start/stop function, tyres with reduced rolling resistance, the ECO power steering pump, alternator management and an electrically controlled fuel pump. The result is excellent – 7.4 liters per 100 km.

Stay tuned for full specs and prices.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 14, 2012

2012 Dacia Lodgy – Price €9900

Dacia Lodgy is priced from just €9 900 in France. The family MPV can be equipped with up to seven seats and combines a high standard of comfort with a roomy cabin and a spacious boot.

The engine range includes: a 1.6 liter MPI with 85PS, a 1.5 liter dCi with 90PS and with 110PS. The new 1.2 liter TCe will be available later this year. It will develop 115PS and return very good mileage.

The impression of quality exuded by Dacia Lodgy’s occupant-friendly cabin is optimised by a long list of features:

a new dashboard design incorporating a new centre fascia-mounted radio and multimedia MEDIA NAV system with seven-inch (18cm) wide-screen display,

new status-enhancing upholsteries,

chrome trim details: air vent surrounds (depending on version), centre console surround, door handles, gear lever knob insert, logo surround, plus gloss black details for centre fascia and steering wheel (depending on version),

driver-friendly controls: door-mounted front/rear electric window controls, door mirror adjustment control on the left-hand side of the dashboard and heater/climate controls towards the top of the centre console,

a practical, safe and driver-friendly high-up driving position.

Check out the specs and prices below.

Dimensions
Length	4,498mm
Overall height (without roof bars):	1,682mm (five seats) / 1,679mm (seven seats)
Width	1,751mm
Wheelbase	2,810mm
Front/rear overhang	822mm / 866mm
Front/rear track	1,492mm / 1,478mm
Front/second row/third row elbow room	1,408mm / 1,466mm / 1,370mm
Second row/third row knee room	177mm / 144mm
Boot volume with seven seats/five seats/two seats in place	207dm3 / 827dm3 / 2 617dm3
Load sill height	605mm
Maximum load length	1,230mm to 1,500mm
Prices	Lodgy	Ambiance	Lauréate	Prestige
1.6 MPI 85	€9 900	€10 900
1.5 dCi 90		€13 900	€14 900	€15 900
1.5 dCi 110		€14 500	€15 500	€16 500

Options list:

• Seven seats: €490
• Metallic paint: €460
• ESC: €300
• Spare wheel: €120
• MEDIA NAV (standard for Prestige versions): €430
• Rear parking sensors (standard for Prestige versions): €200
• Dacia Plug & Radio (Ambiance and Lauréate versions): €200
• Manual climate control (Ambiance version): €900
• Electric rear windows (Lauréate version): €150

Source: Dacia

March 14, 2012

2012 CFC Volkswagen GTI LeitGolf

This Volkswagen GTI Golf has been optimized by the company CFC Styling Station Neuss and now carries proudly the name LeitGolf. In it the tuner has applied their craftsmanship and had the aim to show the direct connection between the car and the street through the means of wheel and tyre combination. To accomplish this goal they have even equipped the car with two variations of different wheel designs – pink ASA GT1 8,5×19 inch wheels on the one side and red ASA GT3 wheels identical in size on the other side. Both were provided with Hankook EvoS1 225/35R19 tyres. At the front, one can see the Eibach spacers, while at the rear – the 5–mm H&R wheel disks. Furthermore, there has been also added APX AP coilovers, which in combination with H&R set of stabilizers, provide support for better dynamics. In addition, the car is supplied with the Kerscher carbon-lip and a 2,5 cm wide front fender. The new design of the car body is taken from the Golf VI’s R-variant, where side sills, rear diffuser, mirror caps and engine cover triumph as carbon-parts in Black-Gold-Design. Next, MR Car Design supplied the vehicle with down-pipe to the turbo exhaust system. The latter is equipped with a black end pipe as in R-Design. More importantly, this engine can develop 270 hp (199 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Additionally, the car features unique braking system with TÜV certificate, aluminum 4-piston brake calipers, carbon-steel two-piece grooved brake discs and also an ultra light floating aluminum hub. A car racing feel while driving, is delivered thank to the high-performance brake pads.

The car is covered with matt gray foiling and also has fender’s matt Sticker Bombing and parts for black and white spoiler. The top of the car is painted in High Gloss Carbon Black (, while the fog-lights are in Pink Tint Lights. A significant contrast is made by the anthracitic colored tinted glass sets. Another highlight that has to be made is the unique audio systems featured in this project: the Hi-Fi Device, which is delivered by MK SoundStyle, while the radio set is supplied by Pioneer, the amplifiers are by Mosconi and the dynamics by Rainbow. The car tuning costs 12 900 Euro, additional 10 000 Euro go for the HiFi.

Source: CFC Styling Station Neuss

March 14, 2012

2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.6 JTDm – 48 x £299

Alfa Romeo has launched a superb offer for the new 2012 Giulietta 1.6 JTDm Lusso. It is available until 31 March and includes a £1500 deposit contribution from Alfa Romeo UK, and 3 years complimentary servicing, with just £299 deposit and 47 x £299 monthly repayments.

At the end of the contract, the customer have a choice of either part exchanging, handing the car back, or if they wish to own the vehicle, an optional final payment would be required.

The buyer also benefit from an exclusive after-sales support package:

3 years complimentary servicing**
3 years unlimited mileage warranty
3 years AA roadside assistance
3 years paintwork warranty
8 year anti-perforation warranty

The standard equipment of Alfa Giulietta Lusso includes D.N.A selectable drive mode system, rear parking sensors, visibility pack, cruise control, dual zone automatic climate control, and exclusive Blue&Me™ hands free technology including USB & Aux –in.

The highly efficient 1.6 liter JTDm diesel returns an impressive 64.2 mpg on combined cycle and produces just 114 g/km CO2. It develops 105PS (77 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque.

So, if you like Alfa Rome be hurry and arrange a test drive of the Giulietta 1.6 JTDm 105 bhp Lusso. The offer is available throughout March.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 14, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rinspeed Dock+Go Mobility System

What is “Dock+GO”? Basically it is the innovative mind of the Rinspeed designers coming into manifestation. In fact, it is backpacks on wheels for electric vehicles. This concept vehicle was is a main attraction at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It is specifically this third on-demand axle that is the crucial point of the innovative modular mobility system the Rinspeed has developed. The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary. What is so special about this concept is that any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go”: for example – a two seated smart. In Geneva Rinspeed showcased a rolling “sound pack” equipped with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.

In addition, the vehicle includes a unique “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or a combustion engine. They provide the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. In details, the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. In addition, when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not utilized, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid.

And how about the exterior of this amazing and mindful project? What catches the eye immediately is the silver paint with a finish that resembles sparkling ice crystals. In addition, the car rides on Goodyear low-rolling-resistance tires in size 205/40-17 mounted on 7.5-inch AEZ rims, whose decorative silver covers are attached to red fasteners with rubber bands. On the other hand the interior is as superb as the exterior. It is all in red and black premium upholstery, which in addition includes strong natural thermoregulation, good insulation and a high capacity for absorbing moisture. Furthermore, the transparent roof and its distinctive grass inlays – as well as a number of other interior materials contribute to the comfort f the vehicle. The view ahead is dominated by a 12.1-inch monitor. It belongs to the multimedia equipment and is part of the intelligent infotainment system developed from Harman. Of course, the platform features the latest integration technologies. The steering wheel is also wrapped in red and black upholstery. In addition, in the concept vehicle are included a recently newly developed high-strength, lightweight door frames. No compromises were made regarding the handling. There is also no need to recharge the car through plugs. Instead the vehicle simply rolls onto an induction field from SEW Eurodrive for non-contact charging.

The project “Dock+Go” is definitely a different concept vehicle. First, the size of the battery and therefore the costs are depend on several factors, drive with high power, or operating range, and the Battery charging strategies. Although it has a small Battery, it has enough power to cover all the daily trips. Secondly, three instead of two axles means six instead of four wheels. No other car includes this. The AEZ engineers’ technical goal was to make the rims as light as possible, in order to set high standards for the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. Third, it is fascinating adaptable vehicle with improved range size. It also offers technical solution for the functioning of interfaces accounts not only for coupling the e-vehicle’s mechanical and electrical equipment by means of energy, space and accessory ‘Packs’, but also connecting to existing infrastructure. Furthermore, a number of innovative business models have been developed for “Dock+Go”. Hence, this concept has the unique potential to significantly reduce existing e-vehicle drawbacks in terms of range and space. In fact, what is more important is that Rinspeed’s “Dock+Go” approach relies on an existing product line – like the Smart for instance – and establishes the best conditions for profitable production in the shortest possible time. This delivers the opportunity to literally “add” the project to any present EV.

Source: Rinspeed

March 14, 2012

2012 RENNtech Mercedes-Benz S 65

RENNtech featured 21″ Forged Wheels on the absolutely astonishing Mercedes-Benz S 65 model. The wheels have a brushed finish and in addition are combined with the RENNtech digital lowering module (DLM). Thus the S Class now has even more aggressive stance and sporty look. RENNtech Signature wheels include a single barrel design. They have been manufactured with some unique state-of-the-art processes. As you can see they are elegant and refined thank to the forged design, which includes much tighter tolerances than spun multi-piece wheels. Of course, only highest quality materials were used to ensure that the wheels are superior overall to any 3-piece design. Moreover, this multi-spoke forged wheel offers an ultra lightweight wheel with unmatched strength for the most demanding of performance driven enthusiasts.

	Front Specifications	Rear Specifications
Wheel Size	21″ x 9.0″	21″ x 10.5″
Offset	ET 36	ET 40
Weight	28.0 lbs	29.1 lbs
Lip	1.5″	2.5″
Recommended Tire Size	245/35/21	285/30/21

Source: RENNTech

March 14, 2012

2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6

The all-new 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6 package is developed with the aim to be one of the most affordable and powerful mid-size sedans. This aim is achieved by the great performance the car delivers and the favorable price it has. The vehicle is powered by a standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. What is more the 3.6-liter Pentastar engine delivers the whole 283 horsepower (208 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft) of torque while. In addition to all this it achieves an EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon (mpg) highway, which in fact is the best-in-class for a V-6-powered mid-size sedan. Furthermore, the vehicle rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels, has rear decklid spoiler, and dual exhaust with bright tips. 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V-6 models also include grat equipment list, which comes as a standard on all Avenger SE models and includes: LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control with traction control and electronic roll mitigation, advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain and front seat-mounted side airbags, laminated front windshield and front-row side glass, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, premium cloth seats, speed control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and speed controls, outside temperature display in gauge cluster, CD with four speakers, 60/40 rear seat with trunk pass through, fold flat front passenger seat and a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2012 Dodge Avenger is the perfect car for customers who are looking a sedan with more style, personality and performance, and in addition to all this – a great value for their dollar. To sum up, the car delivers best in class V-6 Power with fuel efficiency and price of a four-cylinder midsize sedan. The Avenger is available in five trim levels: SE – starting at $18 995 MSRP, the new SE V-6 starting at $21 495 MSRP, SXT, SXT Plus R/T, and eight exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic, Black Clear Coat, Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Copperhead Pearl Coat or Blue Streak Pearl Coat.

Source: Dodge

March 14, 2012

Morgan Lineup at Geneva 2012

Morgan company is a frequent participant at the Geneva Motor Show. They see it as an important venue for debuts of production cars or flamboyant concepts. For this year, the 2012 Geneva Show is the company’s first major event. They have a wide arrangement of classic looking, boldly designed modern machines on display. Some of the newcomers include the Aero Coupe, Plus 8, the new 3.7l Roadster and the fully electric Plus E.

Two, well known, production Morgan 3 Wheelers and a 75th anniversary 4/4 edition are also present. As a whole Morgan have three main platforms on which they can work on: There’s the Classic Morgan, the 3 Wheeler and the Aero range. All of them encapsulate a radiance of pure motoring history.

Which car on the colorful stand causes most stir is debatable. Some feel overly excited about the 3 Wheelers being on display while others find the aluminum-chassied, V8 Plus 8, most awe inspiring. The dramatic Aero Coupe is also a looker while the all-electric Plus E concept seems to be getting much media attention.

The show continues until the 18th march with a team of Morgan designers, directors, engineers and salespeople present at all times to answer any questions visitors may have.

The Morgan Stand at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Source: Morgan

March 14, 2012

Ford B-MAX Safety Tech

Avoiding minor city incidents and bumps one Ford B-Max at a time. It’s a collision prevention system first in a compact Ford vehicle. Whether you are trailing behind someone in traffic while being rather absent minded or you are about to have an unavoidable crash, the company’s Active City Stop will be there for you to help out.

Each year more than half-a-million people are injured in car crashes in cities in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain alone. Supposedly, the Active City Stop can be useful in one out of eight of these incidents thus reducing the number significantly.

“Low speed front to rear end collisions are one of the most common accidents in urban traffic,” said Roland Schaefer, safety analyst, Ford of Europe. “They can happen at traffic lights, intersections, roundabouts and other stop-start driving situations. You don’t have to be travelling fast to get injured. Even at speeds of just 15 km/h you can suffer soft tissue neck injury.”

We saw the system first last year in the Ford Focus. It constantly scans the road ahead for obstacles and decides whether or not to apply the breaks when needed. The B-Max can go from 15 km/h to a full stop on its own. At the same time, collisions happening within the 30 km/h range will be greatly relieved.

The subcompact MPV is also equipped with Ford’s Hill Launch Assist that prevents you from rolling back upon departure up a slope. A rear view camera and an overall compact structure with a great turning circle make it easy for parking as well. So, car for novice drivers or is that the future? According to Joerg Beyer, Ford Vehicle Line Director, this is the 21 century way.

“Features such as Active City Stop are new to this sector. These technologies, coupled with “B-Max‘s compact chassis, and tight turning circle supported by carefully tuned electronic power-assisted steering, enable B-Max to be far greater prepared for the demands of even the most congested city.” he comments.

Source: Ford

March 14, 2012

Pagani Huayra in the Making [VIDEO]

Here’s a Pagani Huayra. Beautiful isn’t it? However, when it goes on sale in 2013, prices will start from $1,150,000. I think “Huayra” is the sound one makes upon signing a deal. This is roughly the price of four Lamborghini Aventadors. What are Pagani‘s arguments on that? Yes, it has an AMG V12, 6.0-liter engine that develops above 700 hp and 1000Nm of torque, it’s clever enough to operate, by itself, a set of flaps that can either reduce drag or increase downforce and it will most probably do 230 mph when pressed. But, because it is such an engineering perfection, it will be horrible to live with – Imagine this: You get in it, start the ignition and an oil well in Sahara evaporates. Whenever you see a speed hump, you’ll have to spend precious time in looking for an alternative route and how are you going to take the children to school in it? A BMW M5 suddenly seems much more “sensible” and fit for the job.

So in an attempt to justify the Huayra‘s cosmic price, Pagani have released a documentary about the process of building one. It’s rather good and it accents on the fact that the people making it are painfully striving towards attention to detail perfection. The rear emblem starts as a block of aluminum which is due to undergo a 24h carving procedure. The design process of the whole car took 5 years of research and inspiration (partly drawn from Leonardo da Vinci, obviously).

Set aside 15 minutes to watch the clip and afterward, you’ll close the browser with a sense of awe. You still might not get convinced to sell your house, sell your other house and the yacht in order to order one, but you’ll leave home knowing something about a great car, from a great car manufacturer. And that is always useful in the pub.

httpv://youtu.be/VNuiDEoRgqs

Source: Pagani via YouTube

March 14, 2012

Porsche Cayenne II by Schmidt Revolution

Here is a Porsche Cayenne II. It has been around for 2 years now and has proven to be a very decent SUV. It’s 180 kg lighter than the first one, the front of it goes easy on the grilles and the headlights plus the interior design have some Panamera in them. So why are we even talking about it? Well, if you have an eye for that kind of things, the wheels are kind of custom and the ride is lowered.

Bad Segeberg based Schmidt Revolution house have fitted on this Cayenne four 10×22-inch one-piece five spoke summer rims. Its a set from their CC-Line. At the front, the tires size up to 295/30R22 while at the back they measure 335/25R22. They can be finished in silver, black (glossy or matte) and in exquisite black chrome. The last variant has a cover, made from a stainless steel, which doesn’t allow any dirt sticking on it. Also, because of an H&R-suspension lowering module, the Cayenne now sits lower than usual. As a result, the center of gravity is lower and drag is now a bit lower.

Otherwise, things remain pretty standard – with a base model, under the hood you should find a 3.6 L V6 engine that produces 300 PS. The power goes trough a 6-speed manual to all four wheels. Just think of it as a second generation VW Touareg and you”ll get the picture.

Source: Miranda Media

March 14, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon

Chevrolet has introduced the new Cruze Station Wagon at the 82nd International Geneva Motor Show. It was exhibited alongside two youth concept cars – the Code 130R and Tru 140S. The manufacturer also displayed their latest on-board infotainment – Chevrolet MyLink.

The new Cruze Station Wagon will be offered with a five power units – a 1.6 liter and a 1.8 liter petrol engines and a new 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol. The diesel range includes an improved 2.0 liter, which is currently available for the saloon version and a new 1.7 liter VCDi featuring start-stop technology – 132PS (97 kW) and CO2 emission of 119 g/km.

The exterior features new front fascia, modified headlights and some new sets of alloy wheels. The interior boasts different center console and a better choice of seat fabrics and colors.

The vehicle has another great advantage – an incredible load space of almost 1500 liters with rear seats fold down.

Option list include keyless entry and start, a rearview camera and Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system.

Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon Geneva 2012

Source: Chevrolet

March 13, 2012

Category: Auto News