Auto News – Page 879 – Automobiles Review

Lamborghini Aventador J Revealed

There it is! The Lamborghini Aventador J – J as in FIA’s ‘Appendix J’ regarding the tech spec of race cars. Hope you like wildlife in your hair as this Geneva participant doesn’t really make any use of a roof. Or a windshield for that matter. Why would it? It’s a 700 bhp open top. Isn’t that enough?

Unsurprisingly, the J is based on the Aventador LP 700-4 – An AWD layout with a 6.5-litre 700bhp V12 engine. Imagine the wind resistance one is going to experience on their face whilst closing in on the 300 km/h barrier. They should have called it the Aventador D for Drama.

Obviously, the disposal of otherwise vital components calls for some structural changes. An innovative monocoque construction made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers combines lightness with optimum stiffness and strength. There are two safety bars behind the seats that are made made from a forged composite and reinforced with carbon fiber inserts. The thing about open tops and convertibles is that most people cringe at the sight of them knowing that speed and agility have been compromised. However, that’s not the case with the Aventador J. Because we don’t have a roof or a windshield, we also don’t have air conditioning. There are no distractions inside (if we can call it an inside) – Things like the satellite navigation and audio system have been deemed redundant. The J’s cockpit and parts of the seats are clad in a material called “Carbonskin” – woven carbon fibers that have been soaked in a special epoxy resin that stabilizes the fiber structure and keeps things soft and flexible. All that hi-tech, light weight material and the feature diet make the bull extremely light – 1575 kg of dry weight.

Lamborghini have put to use these materials in the maddest of ways. See that horizontal stabilizer pinned between the two inferior looking wind guards? That is not a horizontal stabilizer but a rear view mirror. The front nose is narrower than the standard one and is dominated by a highly distinctive carbon fiber air scoop. Upward fins on the side complete the look. The wheels are 20 and 21-inch front and back respectively and carry a five-spoke design and an additional carbon fiber fan-like feature that vents air toward the massive brakes. All you need to know for the back end is that it has a carbon-fiber rear diffuser, four huge tail pipes and an enormous fixed spoiler mounted on the bodyshell by two arms.

So far, only one Aventador J has been made (Unica) and at the end of the Geneva Motor Show it will be sold to someone who would be brave enough and strong enough to handle it. This car is not a concept, not a prototype but a fully functional, road legal roadster.

Soruce: Lamborghini

March 6, 2012

2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept to be revealed in Geneva

Bentley brand is offering a vision of the future with its all new concept SUV: 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept. The vehicle will be showcased at the Geneva International Salon. It is a representation of company’s new take on the Grand Touring Bentley. The new all-wheel drive SUV combines a spacious, versatile cabin and commanding driving position. All this comes in combination with Bentley’s power, performance, advanced technology and hand crafted luxury.

The exterior of the new 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept features innovative detailing: flowing surfaces which emphasize power, muscularity and robustness. The exterior is a bold and dynamic. Key Bentley cues were also used in the design philosophy – for example the matrix grille, round lamps and the strong power-line. In addition, the luxury look is complemented by the 23-inch alloy wheels with multiple. At the rear, the swooping lines of the tailgate contributes for a distinctly sporting profile, while the ultra-wide, two-part split tailgate offers a high level of versatility. The bold design language of EXP 9 F is complemented by twin exhaust tailpipes with ‘rifled’ inner surfaces, their elliptical shapes echoing those of the rear light clusters.

The interior of the vehicle is all about luxury. Of course, this is the only option, since the brand is Bentley. It is light, airy and contemporary. The cockpit is made by ‘sporting’ luxury craft detailing and includes touchscreen and tailored interface technologies. Al the materials used are of course of high quality and best craftsmanship. In addition there are also included, the traditional handcrafted elements such as wood, leather and polished metals such as aluminum, bronze and gunmetal. The soft-touch leather contrasts with highly durable surfaces with the concept car design experimenting with the use of saddle leather for the seat backs, top roll and loadspace – while analogue bezels and dials are paired with TFT ‘virtual’ instrumentation. The EXP 9 F seating is 4+1, with a rear armrest lifting. In addition, the seats feature a diamond-quilted “shoulder line” in soft-touch leather.

2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept Interior

Of course, the vehicle includes the latest innovations in terms of technologies featured: 3D navigation in a central TFT panel for example, shows directly in the driver’s line of sight, where it is flanked by two analogue reverse-read dials. In addition, controls that are shared between driver and front seat passenger, such as cabin temperature, air vents and entertainment are presented in the central touchscreen and console. In the SUV are featured three different driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Off-Road, which are selectable according to the road environment and type of journey.

More importantly, the EXP 9 F Concept is based around the Bentley 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine with an 8-speed transmission. The W12 6.0 litre powertrain, for instance, could develop 600 hp (441 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. Wonder what the top speed and the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h would be.

2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept represents all Bentley values in terms of design, craftsmanship and engineering excellence. The concept vehicle will be revealed at 2012 Geneva Motor Show, with the aim of refining the concept further, according t the customers’ reaction.

Source: Bentley

March 6, 2012

The redesigned 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class debuts in Geneva

One of the leaders in the automotive world Mercedes-Benz, will make a world debut of its all-new refreshed and remastered 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class at the Geneva Motor (8 to 18 March 2012). The model is so significantly remade that no one could possibly think that this is a previous A-Class. In addition to innovative design, the car now comes with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), and extremely efficient, with emissions from just 99 g/CO2/km. Design and dynamism are characteristics seen at first sight on the new A-Class. It sits up to 18 centimetres closer to the road than its predecessor. Moreover, Mercedes designers have created an emotive exterior with a pronounced sporty flair.

In the A-Class range are also featured new petrol and diesel-powered engines, which will demonste the current state of the art in terms of efficiency. For the first time, a Mercedes-Benz will produce emissions of just 99 g of CO2 per kilometre. First, the petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres, produse from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 and 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 through to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Common to all is the combination of direct injection and exhaust gas turbocharging, a more advanced combustion process and an extended stratification range for lean-burn operation that uses fast-acting injectors for the multiple injection of the fuel as well as on-demand multi-spark ignition. An innovative fearute is the new CAMTRONIC, which in addition will make its world premiere in the 1.6-litre engine. It adjusts the valve lift on the intake side and restricts the amount of fresh mixture used in the partial load range, thus reducing consumption. Secondly, the diesel engines also offer a high level of efficiency and environmental compatibility, thanks to sophisticated injection technology and turbocharging. For instance, the A 180 CDI offers an output of 80 kW (109 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while the A 200 CDI has a maximum output of 100 kW (136 hp) and torque that rises to 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres, an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and torque of 350 Nm, delivering absolutely exceptional performance in the A-Class. Another important highlight here is that all of the engines in the new A-Class include the ECO start/stop function as a standard. The engines can be combined either with the new six-speed manual transmission or, as an option, with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Furthermore, the dynamism promised by the design and drive system is realised by the suspension. A noticeably lower centre of gravity and a new 4-link rear axle provide the basis for this; and would also make the installation of 4MATIC all-wheel drive possible. What is more important here is that the electromechanical steering in the A-Class has been completely redesigned, so that the electric motor for the power assistance now sits directly on the steering gear in the form of a compact and extremely precise Dual Pinion EPS.

The A-Class is the only vehicle in its class which features the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system. The latter gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise braking response possible. Another protection system is the PRE-SAFE® one, which is preventive occupant protection system. It includes reversible belt tensioning, the closing of side windows and sliding sunroof in case of critical lateral dynamics and adjustment of the fully electric front passenger seat with memory function to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraint systems. Other assistance systems which can be found in the newe A-Class are: ATTENTION ASSIST, Brake HOLD function, Hill-Start Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Assist, Active Parking Assist, LINGUATRONIC, Reversing camera.

The absolutely new exterior design of the A-Class range includes typical features of the long, sporty front with a pronounced V-shape. It also has separate headlamps, radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, additional air intakes on the sides. The design of the headlamps in combination with the configuration of the light functions within them is a key element of the design concept. Furthermore, the light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

How about the interior? Of course, it includes only high quality premium interior, which aims to deliver more luxury. In addition, the high-quality feel and sportiness of the car are achieved through electroplated finish, resulting in real metal surfaces with “cool touch” effect. The work has been executed with considerable care and attention to detail, so that they appear to have been moulded in one piece. The instrument panel is divided into a wing profile-type upper section and a lower section. It also incorporates five round vents, the outer rings of which have a high-quality electroplated finish. Furthermore, an aextensive range of seat coverings has been used. A wide range of materials, for example leather, fabric, Artico/fabric with a combination of a specific, provides scope for a broad range of individualisation options. At last, there is a choice of design and equipment lines that have been put together with the requirements of customers in mind. Namely, they are: “Urban”, “Style” and “AMG Sport”.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 6, 2012

Hamann Hawk AMG SLS Roadster

Hamann, have a few treats for us awaiting at the Geneva Auto Show. There, we’ll see their idea of a BMW M5 and also this – the Hamann Hawk AMG SLS Roadster. It’s a hardcore matte-red lacquered open top SLS. Their recipe for it rather common – add some aerodynamic bits, squeeze the engine for more power, make it sound better, big wheels and an interior, more luxurious than a honeymoon suite. The end result is brilliant.

Straight to the point, power is now 636 BHP with maximum torque being 680 Nm at 4,850 rpm. A new, sports exhaust system, an air filter and some fiddling with the electronics are all to blame for that. Set the launch control right and you’ll the 100 km/h threshold in no more than 3.6 seconds. Keep your foot on the throttle and eventually the needle will reach 320 km/h.

The outside additives have been designed in a wind tunnel to get the maximum down force potential from them. The front bumper is new and supposed to reduce lift while the aggressive air inlets and new LED modules on it, give the SLS‘s face some spunk. And while we are at the front, it’s worth mentioning the carbon fiber checkered hood that has equally menacing air outlets. The wheel arches are so flared up, that they’ll even make a hippopotamus green with envy. Side skirts sort of connect the both ends and complement the wheels while the back bumper has a diffuser and housing for four 90mm wide exhaust pipes.

For some exceptional handling, the Hawk has been fitted with four height-adjustable dampers which can lower the whole thing by 30 mm in total. Also, four sticky tires – 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear – are wrapped around single piece, super light “Unique Forged Anodized” 21 inch wheels.

Inside, attention to detail is what it counts. Leather and suede patterns are seen all around while red carbon patches adorn the center console, instruments, door sill protectors and air vents. As an overall product, the Hamann Hawk SLS Roadster does really do honor to its potential owner.

Source: Hamann

March 6, 2012

Hamann BMW M5 at Geneva

Apart from the Hawk SLS AMG Roadster, Hamann have a BMW M5 ready for us at the Geneva Motor Show. That means more style, more dynamics and more fun in a package of quality and exclusiveness.

Hannman focused on expressing the M5 posture. A wide posture in this case – 25 mm over the standard front wings and 30 mm more at the back. Combine that with a lower center of gravity thanks to special springs provided, and you get a fully blown, wide, mean, lean sports saloon that can put to shame even touring cars. An additional down force comes from the custom front and rear aprons, side skirts and roof and trunk spoilers. So there wont be a need for grip we presume

But just to be sure, Hamann have provided some sticky and wide (325/25 ZR 21 at the back just to get an idea of how wide) Continental Sport Contact 5P tires that go on the 9.5Jx21-inch front and 12.0Jx21-inch rear wheels. And the wheels themselves have a sporting pedigree, being all light and “anodized”, fitted with titanium bolts.

Hamann are still working on the power issues. With the addition of a new sports muffler and some crafty engine-management, the M5‘s V8 is expected to deliver 120 PS and 220 Nm of torque more than it normally does.

For the interior, the company has gone the extra mile. The cabin has the feel of a VIP lounge crossed with motorsport accents. Leather wraps around the seats, the wheel and the center console. Aluminum pedals peak at you from the foot well. Alcantra materials are also available as an option for the picky customers.

Source: Hamann

March 6, 2012

Premiere at Geneva: Carlsson Mercedes ML CD35

We can’t get enough of Carlsson and luckily, they seem to be unable to stop churning out projects. So in this latest win-win situation, we welcome the Carlsson ML CD35 – It’s based on the current Mercedes-Benz M-class (W 166) and will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this week. 22-inch wheels, suspension tweaks, an aerodynamic package and a performance package all highlight the Carlsson mark on the luxury SUV.

To start off, we have a new look that can only accent the already aggressive stance of the M-Class. A new front apron and dual headlight modules with LED daytime running lights, give the front a typical Carlssonish feel. The mesh inserts withing the bumper, are from an electro-polished stainless steel and so is the main radiator grille. Some sikdeskirts also complement the whole kit and a rear apron and a set of exhausts adorn the back end. Although, we can’t be sure of that until Carlsson fully reveal the ML CD35.

In terms of performance, the standard W166 that has gone under the knife has a 3.0 liter V6 BlueTEC 4MATIC diesel engine that develops 190 HP 680 Nm of torqe. Carlsson have taken that power up to 310 HP and 700 Nm thanks to a C-Tronic supplementary control unit. It’s not just brute power extraction that violates the engine. Rather, the C-Tronic thing cleverly monitors all temperature, emission and rpm reading and shuts off when it senses that the engine has reached a wear-and-tear zone. Soon enough, there will be even more performance tweaks available for the CD35 from Carlsson.

In order to make you even more dependent on your iPhone, the C-Tronic Carlsson suspension provided is linked to an application that allows remote control. Feel free to rise up or lower the CD35 whenever you like. As long as your phone battery isn’t dead. By default, the Carlsson M-class is around 30 mm lower than standard and sits on 10 x 20-inch, light alloy wheels with Carlsson 1/5 Revo design. At the Geneva Motor Show, five-spoke wheels in the Brilliant Edition and Dark Series surface finish will be installed.

The interior has been delicately altered with the help of illuminated door sill panels imprinted with Carlsson lettering, Carlsson door pins, and a footrest plus pedals made from aluminum.

Source: Carlsson

March 5, 2012

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800

The exceptional Brabus Bullit Coupe 800 is a powerful and ultrafast vehicle based on the two-door Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG model. It will make its’ first appearance at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, where the public will have the opportunity to take a close look at it. Instead of the 6.3-liter V8 engine, which powers the production car, a twelve-cylinder engine in BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo specification dwells beneath the matte-black exterior. It delivers the breathtaking 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and has a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft). This makes possible for the 2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800 to accelerate in 3.7 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph), and in 23.8 seconds from 0 – 300 km/h (186 mph). The top speed is 370 km/h (230 mph). The supercar is also equipped with 20-inch BRABUS Monoblock R wheels, a sport suspension with customer-selectable ride height and damper rates, a high-performance brake system and exclusive cockpit design.

Numerous modifications to the reinforced C-Class body of the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG were necessary to implant the turbocharged V12 into the engine bay. The BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine is derived directly from the BRABUS E V12 one of ten. For this purpose an up-to-date Mercedes S 600 engine Motor is completely reengineered in the company engine building shop. The three-valve engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.) with the help of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger, forged pistons and an increase in cylinder bore. Intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads are optimized for mixture flow, and fitted with sports camshafts. The increase of the horsepower was achieved thank to the newly configured exhaust side. In addition, the BRABUS 800 Biturbo system includes two special exhaust manifolds with integrated high-performance turbochargers, and four water-to-air intercoolers. Furthermore, especially for this version was created the stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and driver-controlled butterfly valve. The end result is that the engine now produces 800 PS (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and has a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), which of course is electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). In the car is also mounted a seven-speed automatic transmission, which is shifted either automatically or manually via shift paddles on the steering wheel. Therefore, it is no surprise that the acceleration time of the car from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) is just in 3.7 seconds. The top speed is more than 370 km/h (230 mph).

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800

The extraordinary looks of the BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 is accompanied by the new BRABUS Monoblock R wheels. Their design includes two times five double spokes arranged on two different plains. While the posterior plain has a titanium paint finish, the anterior surfaces are polished and coated with a smoke-colored clear lacquer, which lends the wheel a highly individual character. They come in sizes of 8.5Jx20 in front and 9.5Jx20. In addition, the high-performance tires are in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 275/25 ZR 20 and are supplied Pirelli.

Furthermore, the BRABUS high-performance brake system comprises of vented and grooved steel brake discs that measure 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.45 in.) and 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the front. They are combined with vented and grooved steel discs (360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 in.)) and six-piston fixed aluminum calipers on the rear axle.

The interior in the cockpit of the Brabus Bullit Coupe 800 is sporty and exquisite. The upholstery is a combination of black leather and Alcantara, which of course matches the outer skin. Red contrasting seams add discrete sporty highlights. The final look is made by the genuine carbon-fiber components on the dashboard, center console and door trim. The steering wheel as well as aluminum pedals and shifter also add to the sporty look of the car.

Technical Data:

Body:

2-door coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe; steel unibody welded to floorpan;

BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 aerodynamic-enhancement kit for reduced lift on front and rear axle and reduced drag, consists of:

front spoiler, air routers for the lateral air inlets and outlets, air vents in the front fenders, rear wing and rear diffuser;
BRABUS hood with integrated ram-air intake system.

Dimensions:

Length	4,707 mm (185.3 in.)
Width	1,795 mm (70.7 in.)
Height	1,361 mm (53.6 in.)
Curb weight	1,820 kg (4,012 lbs.)
Gross vehicle weight	2,160 kg (4,762 lbs.)
Tank capacity/reserve	66 l / 14.0 l (17.4 / 3.7 gal.)

Engine:

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo high-capacity engine based on Mercedes 600;

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine conversion consisting of:

displacement increase to 6.3 liters (384 cu. in.) by means of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and corresponding larger pistons;
mixture-flow-optimized intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads, including installation of high-performance camshafts;
BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo system with two high-performance turbochargers with optimized exhaust manifolds and integrated turbine housings;
more efficient intercooling system with four water-to-air intercoolers;
ram-air intake integrated into hood;
BRABUS stainless-steel twin exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and butterfly valve;
newly programmed mapping for engine and on-board diagnostics.

V12-cylinder three-valve alloy engine with two turbochargers:

Displacement	6.233 cc (380.4 cu. in)
Compression ratio	9.0 : 1
Rated power output	800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm
Peak torque	1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm / 811 lb- ft)
max. CO2 emissions	372 g/km (595 g/mile)
Fuel type:	Super plus (98 ROZ)
Motor oil:	MOTUL

Power Transfer:

Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential and ESP; Reinforced seven-speed quick-shift automatic gearbox

Gear ratios:

1st gear	4.38
2nd gear	2.86
3rd gear	1.92
4th gear	1.37
5th gear	1.00
6th gear	0.82
7th gear	0.73
1st reverse gear	3.42
2nd reverse gear	2.2

Suspension:

independent front and rear suspension with height-adjustable BRABUS coilover sport suspension developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN;|

Front axle:

three-link suspension, anti-dive geometry, Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar;

Rear axle:

multi-link suspension, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar;

Wheels:

one-piece BRABUS Monoblock R alloy wheels with Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.
Front: 8.5J x 20 H2 with 235/30 ZR 20
Rear: 9.5J x 20 H2 with 275/25 ZR 20

Brake System:

dual circuit brake system with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system:

Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 mm (15.0 x 1.45 in.)
Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.)

Performance

0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)	3.7 sec.
0 – 200 km/h (124 mph)	9.8 sec.
0 – 300 km/h (186 mph)	23.8 sec.
Top speed	more than 370 km/h / 230 mph

Fuel Economy

Max. city	23.4 l / 100 km (10.0 mpg)
Max. highway	10.4 l / 100 km (22.6 mpg)
Max. combined	15.1 l / 100 km (15.6 mpg)

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800 has an MSRP starting at EUR 378 000.

Source: Brabus

March 5, 2012

2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio

This limited-edition city sports car is based on the latest evolution of the Smart Fortwo Cabrio and is a successor of the limited-edition models Ultimate 101, Ultimate 112, Ultimate R and Ultimate Style. It carries the name Brabus Ultimate 120, which indicates that this two seater cabrio is a supercar with 120 hp (118 bhp) / 88.3 kW. Moreover, it has a top speed of 170 km/h (112 mph), which will be built in a small-series production run limited to just 120 consecutively numbered cars. The exclusive examples are in different color according to customers specifications and also include WIDESTAR wide-body version with forged BRABUS Monoblock F 18-inch wheels and an all-leather interior. At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Brabus will showcase an intense metallic red ULTIMATE 120. It immediately catches the eye with its muscular BRABUS WIDESTAR body kit with front spoiler, side sills and BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares front and back. In addition, the large wheel wells offers space for a tire/wheel combination that is highly unusual in this vehicle class and design: the new BRABUS Monoblock F “Platinum Edition” forged wheels are mounted on the front axle in size 7Jx18 with size 205/35 R 18 high-performance tires. Size 8.5Jx18 wheels with size 235/30 R 18 tires in the rear provide plenty of grip for transferring the power of 120 horses to the asphalt with no slip. Further transformations are delivered by the height-adjustable BRABUS coilover suspension. It has been custom-calibrated to the ultra-low-profile tires and the wider track. Additionally, it combines direct and safe handling with great ride comfort. And the excellent stopping power and optimum durability is provided by the BRABUS high-performance brake system with cross-drilled discs and four-piston fixed calipers painted in body color on the front axle. The engine is a powerful BRABUS three-cylinder turbocharged one. As I already mentioned, it develops maximum power output of 120 hp (118 bhp) / 88.3 kW at 6,000 rpm with peak torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft), available between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm.

The gears in the 2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio are shifted either automatically or manually – with shift paddles on the ergonomically shaped BRABUS steering wheel that has a diameter of just 34 centimeters (13.4 inches). The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 8.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). And to make the driving experience even more enjoyable, the performance is accompanied acoustically by the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system with two chrome-plated tailpipes.

Furthermore, the tuned vehicle includes a spectacular interior: it is entirely wrapped in especially soft and breathable black BRABUS Mastik leather with red contrasting seams which match the exterior. For the perfect comfort, it is equipped with Recaro Sportster seats, which are also wrapped in the finest BRABUS leather and their seat shells are painted in the same color of the exterior. A great attention is put on the details too, some of which were painted in the body color: the speedometer, the tach and clock including the instrument bezels, dashboard molding, turn signal stalks and door handles. In addition, BRABUS stainless-steel pedals as well as an aluminum shifter and emergency-brake lever create pure balance in the interior.

The MSRP for a 2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio starts at EUR 45 900.

Source: BRABUS

March 5, 2012

Unica Lamborghini Teaser

Here’s a video from Lamborghini of two quite brisk headlights. It’s actually a teaser video from the Bologna company regarding the upcoming reveal of… something. Most likely, it’ll be called the the Lamborghini Unica. But, there’s a lot speculation going around. Some say it will be the Aventador J Speedster – a Spyder version/concept of the Aventador. Recently some photos have also been circulating the web showing a completely topless Aventador rendering.

In any case, if the the Unica/J Speedster has anything to do with the current Aventador LP 700-4, we should be expecting at the very least a V12, 6.5 liter engine developing 700 units of horsepower and nearly 700 Nm of torque. Hope you like windy weather.

A premiere at the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow will most likely substitute speculation with awe (we hope so). Obviously you can also follow the events on Twitter.

On a side note, Unica roughly translets from Italian into “the one and only” or ‘unique’ if you will.

httpv://youtu.be/LgRfGVDDswU

Source: Lamborghini via YouTube

March 5, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup

General Motors Corporation and Chevrolet have just unveiled the bi-fuel 2013 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD extended cab pickup trucks. The vehicles include a compressed natural gas (CNG) capable Vortec 6.0L V8 engine that seamlessly transitions between CNG and gasoline fuel systems. When combined, the trucks offer a range of more than 650 miles.

The Silverado and Sierra will be on the marked in standard and long box, with either two- or four-wheel drive. This is a great step undertaken by the brands because in this way they are pffering customers with choices in advanced propulsion technology. Furthermore, CNG is a clean-burning, domestically produced fuel and hence – this is making it very appealing. Moreover, General Motors is the only manufacturer to offer a single-source option for its gaseous fuel vehicles.

In details, the bi-fuel trucks are built with a specially designed engine. Then the fuel system is installed by GM’s Tier One supplier and the completed vehicle is delivered directly to the customer. Furthermore, the vehicles are contributing for the reduction of emissions. The trucks were built in Fort Wayne, Ind., and then sent to the Tier One supplier for installation of the CNG bi-fuel delivery and storage system.

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup — Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup (2013)

Source: Chevrolet

March 5, 2012

First official video of the new Fiat 500L released

The first official video of the new 2012 Fiat 500L has just been released as a preparation of its world debut – tomorrow at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. In the name of the vehicle L stands for “Large” and of course 500 signifies that the car is part of the Fiat 500 range. The model shows a 500 version which is bigger in size and can accommodate new experiences and needs. For example, the new 2012 Fiat 500L is the first car of the range which is perfect for the family. In addition, the 500L expresses all of the taste of Italian style with a distinctive and catchy look and interprets the totally Fiat capability of conceiving and designing cars which are innovative in substance and in form. What distinguishes this model from the others is that it is “space-efficient”. Furthermore, the vehicle is designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, which drew inspiration from the modern reinterpretation of a car concept designed to achieve better external visibility and a large amount of internal light. This is achieved thank to the glass roof, which is the largest in its category. What is record braking for the segment here is that the model has a colour range of 30 body colours. The spaciousness of the interior offers lots of levels of comfort and it is the best in its category in relation to the external dimensions – 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high. In addition, there is a boot with a capacity of almost 400 litres that is able to hold up to 5 roller suitcases or a full-size push chair.

The new 2012 Fiat 500L will be launched on the European market in the last quarter of 2012. It will include an engine range of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II). Standing out amongst the petrol engines is the new 0.9-litre TwinAir, which is a new developmental result of the multi-award-winning Fiat two-cylinder engine, which in turn is famous with setting the world fuel consumption and emissions record thanks to its low displacement and inclusion of a high-efficiency turbocharger.

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Source: FIAT

March 5, 2012

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Teaser [VIDEO]

The Japanese auto-maker Nissan has finally revealed a significant teaser of their new version of the Best-Selling Sedan – 2013 Nissan Altima. The vehicle is going to make its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The brand however, didn’t release much information about their upcoming product. What it has done until the present moment is to disclose an exclusive video clip of the new car. Therefore the fans of the brand and its customers can have a glimpse on the bold design of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima sedan. All this is of course in advance of its world premiere at the 2012 New York Auto Show, which is going to take place in April. Additional information unveiled is that the Altima is built at Nissan’s assembly plants in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss. On the other hand, the engines for Altima were built at the company’s Decherd, Tenn. plant. Of course, the brand expects great success for the 2013 version of Altima, because until now the model is the second best-selling car in the United States.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzYRJ3pbyCM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2012

Category: Auto News