Auto News – Page 896 – Automobiles Review

2013 Nissan 370Z at 2012 Chicago Auto Show

We spoke yesterday about Nissan‘s planned presence on the 2012 Chicago Auto Show and how every model will offer a special edition or a revision. Well, the Nissan 370Z wont be an exception. It will be an even leaner, meaner machine designed to carve out the tarmac. With several updates, the 2013 model intends to keep it fresh and hip and hopefully it will be out for sale in June this year. Again, three configurations will be available – Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z

“Since the original 1970 Z® was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The updates for the new model year are as follows:

Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights (does not apply to Nismo configurations)

Red reflector added to rear fascia (replaces previous black center cover, does not apply to Nismo configurations)

Revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models)

New 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe

Red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models)

Dark-finish fuel gauge trim

Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)

Two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue (Midnight Blue does not apply to Nismo configurations)

The 2013 370Z Coupe and 370Z Coupe Touring will both be sold with the same 2012 engine – a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 and customers will have a choice between a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic. The same goes for the 370Z Roadster and Roadster Touring with the exception that the former won’t offer a six-speed manual.

Regardless, the Nismo Z remains the top of the range, motoring nirvana that comes with premium super-light, dark-finish 19-inch wheels and an exclusive Bose® Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers. A more technical oriented innovation comes from the GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid. The exterior, as well as the interior, is sporty and aggressive while the suspension is tuned to match the looks. Power is up to 350 horsepower thanks to the H-configured exhaust system design, muffler tuning and optimized ECM (Engine Computer Module) control. Only one gearbox seems appropriate for the Nismo Z – a close-ratio 6-speed manual with SynchroRev Match® as standard, which allows rev-matched heel-toe-like downshifting.

Soruce: Nissan

February 8, 2012

20 Years of SVT and 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible

SVT is to Ford as AMG and M are to Mercedes and BMW respectively – a performance arm focused mainly on shredding track times and delivering the ultimate driving experience. SVT was first heard of at the 1992 Chicago Auto Show with the unveiling of the 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra and SVT F-150 Lightning. This year, the Chicago Auto Show will be the site of SVT‘s 20^th anniversary and a 2013 Shelby GT500 Convertible will be there mark the occasion.

The GT500 is equipped with a V8, 650-horsepower engine that shows how much exactly things have moved on since the 235-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra. Also on the 2013 convertible one can find a commemorative lighted sill plate to set it apart as an anniversary edition.

An optional performance package adds to the GT500‘s grunt and sheds 3.5 seconds off the car’s lap time at Sebring International Raceway compared to the 2011 and 2012 models. That racetrack behaavior is partly courtesy to the 5.8 V8 Supercharged engine but, the SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers (from the performance package) and an all-new chassis tuning are also to be taken into consideration. The brakes have also been replaced with a new set of Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers at the front and overall bigger rotors at the back and front. The pads are also heavy duty for that extra, eye-popping braking power.

One button, to modes – normal, for everyday road going activities and Sport, for firming up the suspension, reducing body roll and pitch under braking. The SVT dampers allow greater customization for the perfect adaptation whether on the track or in the city.

Hardcore racing enthusiasts can opt for a package beyond the performance one – the Track Package which offers an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability.

Ford SVT Shelby GT500 (2013) — Ford SVT Shelby GT500 Convertible (2013)

Ford SVT Shelby GT500 Convertible (2013)

Looking back, SVT have gathered a wide portfolio of all kinds of cars that have managed to become a great success: including the 1993 debuts mentioned above, SVT have also gone through the F-150 SVT Raptor, the SVT Contour sports sedan, SVT Focus and, along side Team RS, SVT introduced to Europe the magnificent Focus ST. It goes without saying that the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (non-convertible) also deserves some credit for the company’s success – power comes from the same 5.7 V8 (probably the most powerful V8 in the world) but it has a top speed of over 200 mph due to it’s main focus on speed, lightness and agility. The 2013 model sees a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a new carbon fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle. Hopes are high that this one will make most use of the torque bomb that hides under the hood.

Source: Ford

February 8, 2012

The Stig in Hennessey ZR1 HPE750 [VIDEO]

Here is a video of The Stig thrashing a Corvette ZR750 (from Hennessey Performance) and setting a new record Power Lap time without breaking sweat. If you are not familiar, The Stig is the mysterious Top Gear driver who handles the scariest performance cars out there and sets time laps in whatever is given to him. Top Gear is a motoring series franchise with separate shows for Britain, Australia and the US. This one here is the American Stig going through the American Top Gear test track.

The second time round, the ZR750 sets a time of 1.21.4 which “unofficially” surpasses the current Power Lap score-board leader – the Dodge Viper SRT-10 ACR (1.22.0). That is close. So close in fact, that if it were a real time race, to the common spectator that would have been a neck-a-neck finish. Nevertheless the Corvette has the moral supremacy here. Will they do an official Power Lap, we’ll just have to wait and see.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqq_ZTdHL94&feature=relmfu

In the mean time here are some specifications of the HPE 750 Vette:

Power:
755 bhp @ 6,600 rpm
728 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm

Performance:
0-60 mph: 2.8 sec.*
1/4 mile: 10.3 @ 139 mph*
Top Speed: 224 mph

*With optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires

The Hennessey upgrade for the ZR1 includes:

A new pulley for the supercharger (up from 9 psi to 13 psi)

High Flow Supercharger Snout Upgrade

HPE High Flow Air Induction System

High Flow Cylinder Heads

Extreme Duty Valve Springs

ZR750 Camshaft Upgrade

Stainless Steel Long Tube Headers

High Flow Catalytic Converters

Professional Installation

HPE Engine Management Calibration

6,700 rpm Rev Limiter (200 rpm over stock)

Chassis Dyno Tuning & Road Testing

Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques

Hennessey Exterior Badging

Hennessey Premium Floormats

Hennessey Carbon Fiber Door Sills

Source: Hennessey

February 8, 2012

Buick Regal Lineup with Drivetrain Changes

On the new Buick Regal GS will be new automatic transmission and eAssist as a standard, thus making the evolution of Buicks’ Sport Sedan happening. More importantly, the vehicle with the new automatic transmission is already in dealerships. The famous eAssist fuel efficiency technology is also included and as you already understood, it also comes as a standard. The Regal was recently named by the U.S. News and World Report as the “Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families” and as the “Best Car for the Money”.

But what about the other changes included in the 2013 Regal GS Model. The 270 hp (198 kW) of the car come from the powerful turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine, which was by the way one of WardsAuto World’s 2012 “10 Best Engines” for North America. More importantly, it now can be controlled through a second transmission, which is a six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control. It also comes as a standard choice.

In addition the new Aisin AF40 automatic is calibrated specifically for the model. It includes the car’s Interactive Drive Control System set to “GS” mode. Hence, the transmission delivers firmer shifts and aids performance. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is in only 6.7 seconds. Furthermore the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway. This is due to the standard performance components like Buick’s innovative HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo front brake calipers.

What is more, the eAssist will be a standard on all 2013 Regal vehicles. More importantly the eAssist uses a compact lithium-ion battery pack and a small electric motor to aid the performance of a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter gas engine. The system provides an electrical boost to aid the engine at low speeds and on inclines where fuel efficiency can suffer most. Therefore it is possible for the Regal with eAssist to achieve the EPA-estimated 36 highway mpg, which is equal to the performance of some hybrid vehicles. In addition, the eAssist became standard for the larger LaCrosse luxury sedan and at the same price as the V6, thus gathering even more popularity.

Pricing and an on-sale date for the 2013 Regal with eAssist will be announced later this year.

Source: Buick

February 8, 2012

Vauxhall at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

At this years Geneva Motor Show, the brand Vauxhall is going to unveil stunning new models. The long awaited Astra VXR and Vauxhall Mokka are going to enter the market with their sharp design.

Firstly, the most powerful Astra ever made will make its show debut. The vehicle is based on the GTC’s platform and powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine. Hence, the Astra VXR produces 280PS (206 kW) of power and a mighty 400Nm of torque, achieving the top speed of 155mph. In addition it has been improved with some substantial chassis modifications, transforming it into a focused, high-performance coupe. Furthermore there was specially developed a mechanical limited slip differential, which works on the front wheels. In combination with the GTC’s sophisticated HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut), the LSD provides the Astra VXR with exceptional lateral grip and traction through bends. Further changes to the chassis feature brakes developed by Brembo, and an adaptive FlexRide system. The latte features not only a Sport button, but also a VXR button, offering drivers the choice of two, more focused stages of damper, throttle and steering control.

Next comes the Vauxhall’s Mokka entry which will break new ground for the company. This is Vauxhall’s new small SUV which will be unveiled in Geneva. The Mokka will be available with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system automatically transfers power to the wheels that need it most when grip levels are tested to the extreme. It is offered with three efficient engines, all equipped with fuel saving Start/Stop technology: the petrol 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine, another petrol 1.4-litre Turbo, and a diesel one – 1.7 CDTI turbo. All engines can be combined either with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. Moreover the Vauxhall Mokka brings cutting-edge technologies to the SUV B-segment. The first reason for this is the Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+). It increases driving safety based on the third-generation bi-xenon lighting system that includes High Beam Assist (HBA). There is also available a front camera system which gives the driver access to a number of functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and second generation Traffic Sign Recognition. Undeniably, the Mokka model is very attractive. The Mokka’s rugged character is reinforced by its higher ground clearance as well as a 1540mm track. In addition, its appeal is further enhanced by the 18-inch alloy wheels which are standard on most models.

At the Geneva Show as well will be the debut of Vauxhall’s most powerful diesel car., which produces 195PS (143 kW), 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque and emissions as low as 129g/km. The car is known under the name Insignia BiTurbo and it is available with a choice of five-door Hatch and Sports Tourer bodies in SRi, SRi Vx-line and Elite trims. This turbocharged diesel is based on the existing 1956cc unit which powers key models in the Insignia, Astra and new Zafira Tourer range. Nevrtheless, the BiTurbo engine produces up to 35PS more power and a significant 50Nm of extra torque, reducing the 0-100 km/h time by nearly one second to 8.2 seconds (Insignia FWD Hatch). In addition, due to the package of eco features, the FWD Hatch achieves a combined 57.6mpg, 2.2mpg better than the single-turbo 2.0 CDTi 160PS model. Furthermore there is also included the clever FlexRide adaptive damping as a standard. The system reacts within milliseconds to driver inputs and can ‘learn’ how the car is being driven and adapt damper settings accordingly. Drivers can also select Tour and Sport buttons, and configure the throttle, steering and damper settings in Sport mode separately. Moreover the FlexRide is integrated with the car’s Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and the rear axle’s electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD). All this allows the torque to be automatically transferred between front and rear wheels, and between left and right wheels on the rear axle, offering exceptional levels of traction, grip and control. For the safety of the passenger is featured the option of Vauxhall’s new Front Camera System, with traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Source: Vauxhall

February 8, 2012

2013 Hyundai Elantra Sport Coupe

2013 Hyundai Elantra Sport Coupe Hyundai has just introduced a new sport coupe variant based on the successful Elantra line-up at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. In particular, it is a two-door coupe model of the Elantra sedan and it will be available for purchase this spring. The new 2013 Elantra Sport Coupe has fluidic design theme which is a characteristic of Hyundai, and brings to live the sporty design language. At the same time it has the eco-efficient powertrain, generous convenience features, exceptional roominess and plenty of safety features.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe is Hyundai’s modern approach to the sporty coupe segment. The “Fluidic Sculpture” design language replicates the interaction of wind with rigid surfaces to create a perception of fluid in motion. The hexagonal front fascia gives Elantra Coupe even sportier look. Looked from the side, Elantra Coupe has a sport coupe silhouette with deeply sculpted surfaces. It sits on five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with dark spoke insert, which add even more dynamic presence. On the other hand the fast A- and C-pillar angles frame a sharply tapered greenhouse accentuates the wedge profile.

Below the belt line, a prominent character line carries from the door through to the rear deck. Wheel arch creases give a subtle flared appearance around front and rear wheels. Observed from the behind, a blacked-out rear diffuser valance contrasts with dual chrome-tipped exhaust tips. The body is undeniably highly aerodynamic: the drag coefficient for the Elantra Coupe is an exceptionally low 0.28 Cd, which results in minimal cabin noise intrusion and optimal fuel economy.

Elantra Coupe is powered by 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower (109 kW) and 131 lb-ft of torque (178 Nm). Moreover the Elantra Coupe is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, without the extra technological complexity and cost. To go further into details, the Nu engine features an aluminum block with a cast-iron cylinder liner, cylinder head and crank. This results in a block that is 30 percent lighter than an iron block, while at the same time still providing equivalent strength. Moreover, the 1.8-liter Nu also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts.

This gives the vehicle optimum power, efficiency and refinement. The result is 2 percent improvement in performance, 2 percent improvement in fuel economy and 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve-driven friction to improve fuel economy. The Nu engine also features a maintenance-free silent timing chain to enhance durability and reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Furthermore there is also included a plastic two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS), which enables intake air to be directed between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a 4 percent improvement in performance, a 15 percent reduction in cost and 30 percent reduction in weight.

The electronic throttle control is the technology which replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with instantaneous computerized control. This advanced system precisely regulates air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy. To even further improve fuel economy, Elantra Coupe features double-pipe plumbing technology to the internal heat exchanger, thus improving cabin cooling efficiency, while minimizing compressor size and reducing fuel consumption. The Nu four-cylinder engine also includes an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction and pressure between the piston and cylinder wall. The estimated fuel economy of this vehicle is 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission, and 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway for the six-speed automatic transmission.

As an option, Elantra Coupe can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC^® manual control. This six-speed automatic is to the 1.8-liter Nu engine and helps Elantra Coupe to deliver improved fuel efficiency. Moreover, the Elantra Coupe’s six-speed manual transmission offers positive shift feel and further optimizes powertrain performance.

The Elantra Coupe has 106.3-inch wheelbase, an overall length of 178.7 inches, 69.9-inch width, and 56.5 inch height for uncompromised headroom. Elantra’s total interior volume is 110.2 cubic feet. Therefore the Coupe’s long wheelbase delivers even more comfort levels. More importantly, the Elantra Coupe is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is a lightweight coupled torsion beam rear design for improved steering stability and monotube shock absorbers.

This delivers more driving comfort. In addition to this, Elantra Coupe offers a sportier SE model suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire. Furthermore on all Elantra Coupes is mounted motor-driven electric power steering (MDPS). Its function is to adjust instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a hydraulic steering system. Elantra Coupe offers world-class weight by weighing only 2687 lbs.
How about the interior? There is of course included a premium interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship.

For the construction of the seats is used lightweight materials and environmentally-friendly foam. The design of the seats in addition provides deeper side bolsters. Heated seats are standard equipment on all Elantra Coupes, while the SE model offers sporty aluminum pedals. Moreover, Elantra Coupe is being offered with two interior color choices: gray and black. Elantra Coupe also offers seven exterior colors, three of which are unique and newly developed: Monaco White, Black Noir Pearl and Volcanic Red.

Elantra Coupe is available with two audio systems. As a standard comes the 172-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod^®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. On the other hand the 360-watt system with external amplifier is an optional one. There is also included a touch-screen navigation, which is available on SE trim and includes a high-resolution 7.0-inch screen and voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone. Elantra Coupe owners can also get unique features, such as proximity key with push-button start, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power sunroof, and dual automatic temperature control with Clean Air Ionizer and auto-defogger.

Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) takes the safety features of Elantra Coupe to the next level. It optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS). In addition VSM works to control two effects. Firstly, when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) the VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. Then the VSM counters the pull and automatically provides eight Newton meters of counter steering force.

VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering. In addition the safety features include as well six airbags and state-of-the-art braking package, which includes four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). At last, in terms of passive safety, the Elantra Coupe has strong body construction, which will effectively absorb and dissipate any impact energy away from cabin occupants.

Source: Hyundai

February 8, 2012

Fiat Punto MY2012

The MY2012 Fiat Punto range offers unrivaled diversity that is intended to fit every need a customer might have. New trim levels, exterior revisions, paint finishes and ten engine choices among which the brilliant TwinAir “International Engine of the Year 2011” are all in store for us in the coming year.

Yes, the legendary 2 cylinder TwinAir drivetrain is set to join the lineup that Spring. Despite being only 0.9L big it develops 85 hp (supercharged) and 145 Nm of torque. The cost in carbon dioxide emissions for all of that stands at 98 g/km. But it’s not green just because it’s small. A clever button on the dashboard (it says Eco on it, It must be clever) allows the driver to change the switch the engine’s mode of working between normal and Eco with the latter one restricting torque output and thus becoming super economical. Stop&Start with Gear Shift Indicator technology is used in every single EURO5 engine throughout the Punto range. With it one can save up to 15% fuel in an urban area. Even more feats of greenness can be seen in the 85 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 unit where two innovative systems (Intelligent Alternator and Intelligent Flow) work together along with the use of low-viscosity transmission oil to achieve stunning emission figures ( 90 g/km of Carbon Dioxide). The Intelligent Alternator system optimises the battery recharging strategy during the “engine cut-off” phases, while the Intelligent Flow represents an oil pump with variable displacement and it also does optimisation of the cooling circuit. Other than these, the list of engines goes on and one is unlikely to make a mistake no matter the choice:

Petrol

69 HP 1.2 8v E5 (with and without Start&Stop)

77 HP 1.4 8v E5 Start&Stop (mechanical or Dualogic gearbox)

105 HP 1.4 MultiAir 16v E5 Start&Stop

135 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo 16v E5 Start&Stop

Diesel

75 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 16v E5 (with and without Start&Stop)

95 HP 1.3 MultiJet 2 16v E5 Start&Stop

Bi-Fuel

70 HP 1.4 8v petrol-methane E5

77 HP 1.4 8v petrol-LPG E5

In Italy, the Fiat Punto is sold in three lines: Comfort, Sport and Fun to Drive. Those lines have sub-levels. The Comfort splits into Pop, Easy and Lounge trim levels – dedicated to the traditional customer focused on comfort and style. The Sport line has the Racing and Sport trim levels – the Puntos are more dynamic and performance oriented. Then there’s the Fun to Drive which has the TwinAir trim level that is a sort of a tribute to the TwinAir engine. The trim is distinguishable by the glossy black pillars and mirror covers, special alloy wheels, 13 exterior colours, one of which is dedicated, Energetico Green, the exclusive glossy black roof option and special “Sportex” seat fabrics.

Further on, throw in some revised front and rear bumpers with body coordinated finishes. Reposition the turning signals, refurbish the interior in some new upholstery and add to that two pairs of 15” alloy wheels and you have a MY2012. It still gets the heart pumping as if it is an absolute debut. We want one please.

Source: Fiat

February 8, 2012

B&B Audi A7 3.0 BiTDI Sport – 390 PS and 760 Nm

After the performance packages for the mighty 3.0 TFSI engine in the A7, B&B are ready with some power ups for the super economical 3.0 BiTDI diesel.

The Audi A7 3.0 BiTDI originally produces 313PS and 650Nm, but just with an ECU re-map and slight increase in boost pressure of 0.15 bar, the power is 340PS and 690Nm. The price for Stage I is not low – €1498.

Stage II is priced at €1698 and adds 52PS and 70Nm (overall 365PS and 720Nm), while with some more upgrades like special injection elements, work on intake paths, air ducts and intercooler lead to Stage III – 390PS and 760Nm – €4950.

Furthermore, you can optimize the suspension with a set of sports springs for €398 reducing the ride height by 30 mm. There is also an adjustable coilover suspension – €1498. For Audi A7 models with air suspension is an electronically lowering by 30 mm for €1298.

The B&B sport exhaust system made of solid stainless steel greatly improves the sound (€ 998) and also causes an additional power increase of about 5PS.

For the increased performance corresponding delay, B&B provides a special 6-piston high performance brake system for € 5 995. It gives the Audi A7 drivers always a comforting feeling of superior security.

Exclusive wheels in 19″ / 20″ / 21″ complete the exterior of the sport-Audi.

Source: B&B

February 7, 2012

Brabus B-class project

There’s a new Brabus exterior program for the new Mercedes B-Class. All alterations made on the body are not only visual but purposeful as well – aerodynamic enhancements thanks to the OEM quality high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastic components.

The Brabus provided front spoiler is an attachment for the standard bumper and deals with the prevention of front axle lift. There’s also an attachment for the rear fascia which has been thoughtfully cut out in order to house the Brabus quad sport exhaust system.

There’s a lot to choose when it comes to wheels. The B-Class can come with 8.5Jx19 Monoblock E, F, Q and S versions. In the gallery provided, the car actually uses two different pairs of wheels on each side – Monoblock F, cross-spoke wheels on the right and Monoblock Q, five double-spoke ones on the left. The best tires one can wrap around those wheels are in sizes 225/35 R 19 at the front and 255/30 R 19 at the rear axle.

Brabus have also introduced new springs to the suspension which are specifically designed to work with the standards dampers, yet the ride height is reduced by 30 mm.

Power tweaks for all versions of the B-Class come from the already applied Brabus sport rear muffler with four chrome-plated tailpipes. The Brabus ECO PowerXtra performance kits for the direct-injection gasoline and diesel engines are in the final stages of development.

Bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with Brabus logos on them and aluminum door lock pins and pedal pads add to the exclusivity inside. Also the upholstery is akin to a that in a lounge. Upon request a multimedia equipment can also be fitted which comes with an iPad

Source: Brabus

February 7, 2012

2012 Fiat Panda – Price £8900 OTR

2012 Fiat Panda - Side Angle Fiat has announced the price list for the new 2012 5-door Panda. It starts at just £8900 OTR as the price goes up to £12 250 for the top-of-range Fiat Panda Lounge 1.3 Multijet 75PS that includes air conditioning, roof rails, Start&Stop and alloy wheels as standard.

The engine range includes 69PS 1.2-litre petrol, 85PS 0.9-litre TwinAir, and 75PS 1.3-litre MultiJet 2 turbodiesel, the new Fiat Panda can be ordered in three different trim levels – Pop, Easy and Lounge.

Standard equipment in the entry level Pop includes electric windows, central locking, Dualdrive electric power steering, four airbags and body colour bumpers. The extensive options list includes ESP, roof rails and black pastel paint.

Easy trim versions add remote central locking, air conditioning, roof rails and a higher grade audio system, while Lounge additionally receives heated electric mirrors, 15” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, body coloured mirrors and door handles, and side mouldings.

Safety is of course top of the agenda with up to six airbags, double seatbelt pretensioners, an active anti-whiplash head restraint system, and available ESP. In addition, a new Low Speed Collision Mitigation system will become available for the first time. This uses a laser sensor on the windscreen to scan a space a short distance in front of the vehicle to determine the risk of a collision. It is capable of automatically activating emergency braking at speeds less than 30km/h (18.6mph).

A vast list of available options will allow customers to specify a car to suit their own needs and, with a huge choice of 10 exterior colours and six interior/dashboard combinations, everyone will be able to create their own special Panda.

“I’m delighted that we remain highly competitive against our key rivals in this small car sector,” says Elena Bernardelli, marketing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “We are particularly good value when you take into consideration the levels of equipment offered in standard specification across the range.”

OTR pricing:

Model	Basic Price (£)	Total OTR (£)
POP 1.2 8v 69 CV	6996.62	8900.00
POP 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	8829.95	11,100.00
EASY 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV	8538.28	10,750.00
EASY 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV DUALOGIC	9163.28	11,500.00
EASY 1.2 8V 69 CV	7538.28	9550.00
EASY 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	9371.62	11,750.00
LOUNGE 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV	8954.95	11,250.00
LOUNGE 0.9 TWINAIR 85 CV DUALOGIC	9579.95	12,000.00
LOUNGE 1.2 8V 69 CV	7954.95	10,050.00
LOUNGE 1.3 MULTIJET 75 CV	9788.28	12,250.00

Source: Fiat

February 7, 2012

Nissan at Geneva – What’s in store?

Nissan is offering some insight of what they have in store for us, the people at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. Among the many production vehicles that will take part next month in the show, are also four premiering concepts – first seen in Europe are the e-NV200 and Juke Nismo concepts while first ever are the INVITIATION, on which we had news recently here, and another concept that is still a hard kept secret and a surprise, Nissan say.

The e-NV200 is based on the already successful NV200 which the small difference of being 100% electric. The e-NV200 is the next phase of Nissan‘s dominance on the EV market which began with the multi-award winning LEAF.

The Juke NISMO concept was fist seen on the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show back in December and now it will be in Europe for the first time. NISMO is Nissan’s motorsport branch which has taken up enhancing everyday mainstream production vehicles to give them that unmistakable feel of a NISMO performance car. They have certainly went the extra mile with the Juke and left it with with an outstanding character and plenty of grunt.

Production vehicles that will be making an appearance at the Nissan booth in Geneva represent a versatile bunch: From Pixos and Micras to Jukes and Qashqais and even Pathfinders and Navaras. The LEAF and the mighty GT-R will also be there to enchant the public. The common thing however, is that all participants will feature a minor MY2012 Innovation or a special edition.

The other thing that can be found in every single model is the shared Nissan DNA which is the reason for the company’s success – despite the economic downturn, Nissan in Europe enjoyed its best year in 2011. Sales were up by 25 percent in comparison to 2010. Who knows how much is that number going to climb this year.

Source: Nissan

February 7, 2012

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S in the US Showrooms

Porsche Cars North America have just released for sale the new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S models across all showrooms in the United States. The latest 911 is probably the best of all 911 models ever made. The 911 Carrera and Carrera S are excellent choices for customers who want to experience driving fun and excitement of a true benchmark.

The 2012 the 911 has been completely redesigned. It preserves the classical 911 lines, but yet is improved in power and fuel economy. Although it is instantly recognizable Porsche 911, it hides a major secret: the new 2012 models have 90 percent of components are either new or fundamentally revised. First of all, the new Carreras are longer, lower and wider. In addition, they are 100 lbs. (43 kg) lighter, which make them faster and more efficient than previous models. Hence the new 911 is the ultimate blend of modern design, innovative and intelligent engineering and performance. Furthermore, both of the models as expected offer no less than excellent performance, due to some enhancements made. The 2012 911 Carrera includes brand new 350-horsepower (261 kW), 3.4-liter boxer engine which provides five more horsepower (HP) than the outgoing 3.6-liter engine. On the other hand the new 2012 Porsche Carrera S features a 400 HP (298 kW), 3.8-liter boxer engine. This makes improvement of 15 horsepower compared to its predecessor. The 911 Carrera with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds, while the Carrera S sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. The time for acceleration is further reduced to 3.9 seconds when 911 is equipped with the Sports Chrono Package Plus. Top-track-speeds for the 911 Carrera and Carrera S are 179 mph (288 km/h) and 188 mph (303 km/h), respectively.

The performance and efficiency are even further improved through systems such as the Automatic Start/Stop function, engine and transmission thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and the ability to ‘sail’ or coast. At last but not least the new electro-mechanical power steering offers the ultimate Porsche precision and helps to increase the efficiency and reduce the fuel consumption. The new 911 Carrera Coupe has a base MSRP of $82 100, and the 911 Carrera S Coupe starts at $96 400.

Source: Porsche

February 7, 2012

Category: Auto News