Nissan has revealed the e-NV200 Concept, which will makes its official debut at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicle is based on the popular Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle and features a full electric drivetrain.
“With its ‘no gas, no tailpipe, no emissions’ powertrain, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept combines a quiet, comfortable driving experience with a large, highly versatile, functional interior space within a compact overall body length,” commented Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
“A potential game changing vehicle in its segment, the battery capacity will support a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions.”, he added.
The Nissan e-NV200 Concept shares its major drivetrain components with the innovative Nissan LEAF. The e-NV200 includes an 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 280Nm of torque.
Silent, zero emission power is supplied by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 109 PS (80kW) AC synchronous motor that generates 280Nm of torque. Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, the motor delivers 100% of its torque from start with immediate response bringing excellent acceleration and smooth, comfortable driving feel.
And, like the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. In line with the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers excellent projected fuel economy – a critical factor for commercial vehicle operators.
Today two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and thus will making their world premiere. What is new around those “beauties” os the new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector. In case you’ve forgotten, the new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. It has 8-speed automatic transmission and can go into a 0-100 km/h in only 4.8 seconds for the GT coupe. The top speed is 303 km/h!
What needs to be highlighted here is that the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. Moreover they are capable of traveling over 500 miles (800 km) on a single tank of fuel. The new V8 engine will be available in two models: the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre, 12‑cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC.
2012 Bentley CONTINENTAL V8 Range
Furthermore both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21‑inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes. The interior features Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme. The new Continental V8 Models deliver distinctive sporting style through several features they include: gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider, three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers, dark rear lower valance, distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes,Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres, seven exterior colours offered in standard range. Moreover now the interior is even sportier than ever. This Is due to the New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models, Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim, short centre console in place of W12 through-console, four hide colours offered in standard range, unique two-tone leather color split and the three hood colours (Continental GTC).
Today the brand Cadillac has just introduced the new 2013 Cadillac ATS. This is an all-new compact luxury sports sedan which has the aim to challenge the world’s best premium cars. It was developed with lightweight vehicle architecture and will go on sale this summer. What is so special about this vehicle is that the rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design. Its sophisticated driving experience is improved with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data. This new Cadillac ATS is an expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy. Moreover it was built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg).
In order to make the best out of the vehicle, contributing components and features include nearly 50/50 weight balance; cadillac’s first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs; a multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar; driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping; underbody aerodynamic shields; premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems; four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes; available all-wheel drive.
2013 Cadillac ATS
The first of the engines used, is the two four-cylinders and a V-6 (for North America) which delivers a strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 318 horsepower (237 kW). To go into details the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry. In addition ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg.
ATS is significantly lighter than other cars in the same segment. Thus there is refined driving experience. The low weight gives the ATS a more nimble and controllable feel, while also optimizing the performance and efficiency of the powertrains. In order to make the weight less the designers have included an aluminum hood, magnesium engine mount brackets and even lightweight, natural-fiber door trim panels. They all contribute to the ATS’s low overall mass. Moreover engineers found they could improve fuel economy with a cast iron differential rather than a lighter aluminum version. This focus on load management and straight links gave the opportunity of huge weight savings without using alternate materials. This helps offset the weight of the engine and transmission at the front of the vehicle, helping the ATS deliver its near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, while also contributing to lower noise and vibration. A similar approach was taken on the wheels, where extra structural aluminum was strategically added to further reduce vibration.
Furthermore another highlight about 2013 Cadillac ATS is that it is an absolute embodiment of Cadillac’s Art & Science design language. A long, 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS’s firmly planted stance, which is enhanced by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and 18-inch wheels are available. In addition vertical lighting elements are included. For example there is new LED front signature lighting detail, as well as illuminating door handles and active grille shutters. The grille shutters close at certain highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance fuel economy.
And what about the interior: it is all driver-focused. It features integrated technology and crafted materials which complements the exterior elements and supports the ATS’s driving experience. Available performance seats have power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral support during high-load cornering. Another improvement in the interior is an instrument panel that wraps into the doors and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel that flows into the center console. LED lighting for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a-glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while ambient lighting accents functional elements of the console and doors. There is also used real wood, plated metal plating and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac’s cut-and-sew instrument panel, console and doors. To make it perfect for the customer, there is the choice of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim material.
2013 Cadillac ATS Interior
The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE. This is a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience which merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. Here everything is developed to be unique for each consumer. To go further into details CUE (Cadillac User Experience) pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons. However the heart of the CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, mounted into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The LCD screen displays CUE’s home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Additionally to the CUE, the ATS has other technologies included: bluetooth phone connectivity with voice recognition; USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports; SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription; Keyless access and keyless push-button start; reconfigurable 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display; full-color reconfigurable heads-up display. The ATS is offered as a standard model or in Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections. A Bose® Cabin Surround audio system is offered on the standard model, as well as Luxury and Performance Collections. It is standard with the Premium Collection. A navigation system is also available with Luxury and Performance Collections and standard with the Premium Collection. According to safety issues, the ATS is based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” which features radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors. Moreover the safety features put more attention to road hazards, and intervenes to help the driver avert potential crashes. For example Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems will act without the driver, such as automatic braking, which will activate based on information indicating potential hazards.
2013 Cadillac ATS
However one of the most sophisticated features in the vehicle is the Front and Rear Automatic Brakes. It relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary. On the other hand there are some optional advanced safety features, which include: full speed range adaptive cruise control, intelligent brake assist, forward collision alert, brake pre-fill automatic collision preparation, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear vision camera with dynamic guidelines, adaptive forward lighting, hill hold/start assist (standard, manual transmission). These advanced technology safety features complement the ATS’s roster of other safety features, including eight standard air bags (10 with optional features), safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS.
four-wheel disc with sliding calipers on base; four-channel ABS/TCS w/ DRP; Brembo brakes with fixed calipers on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections
Rotor type and thickness (in / mm):
Standard front: 11.8 x 1.02 (300 x 26) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistanceStandard rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel front: 12.6 x 1.18 (321 x 30) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
2012 Peugeot 208 Ice Velvet is the new limited edition form the brand which has the exclusive paint finish and a strong personality. Only 650 cars of the edition will be released across 18 European countries. 208 Ice Velvet delivers a great driving experience of controlling a unique 3 door vehicle. Moreover if you are interested in purchasing it, you can do it on the Brand’s website, starting from today.
What is so special about this limited edition is that it has been with satin paint finish, thank to which the vehicle got its name: 208 Ice Velvet. Moreover it is also characterized by its abundant level of equipment that underlines both its sensual and technological appearance. Innovative, with a fine mix of technology and sensuality, the Ice Velvet paint finish is sublime with its silky sparkle and it sensual appearance. You can only win with such car, and what you’ll get is lightness and agility, sensuality and new inventive style of this paint finish. This paint marries naturally with the chrome detail on the bodywork (radiator grill, fog lights, panoramic glass roof and rear view mirrors in dark chrome; exhaust pipe and window surrounds in bright chrome) and with the 17’’ ‘Technical Grey’ alloy wheels as with the innovative and luminous signature that re-invents the feline look of the Brand. Even more the distinctive allure of 208 Ice Velvet is enhanced by the rich specification of its technological equipment: large touch screen, satellite navigation, directional static lights, front lights with LED signature and DRL function, automatic air conditioning, panoramic glass roof with blue guide lights, sports seats, new generation Stop&Start on the Diesel 1.6 e-HDi engine. Moreover the interior is fitted with a Peugeot Techno TEP trim and high quality stitching, a steering wheel made from the finest quality leather. Furthermore 208 Ice Velvet is equipped with either a petrol 1.6 VTi 120 engine, linked to a manual 5 speed gearbox or with a Diesel 1.6 e-HDi 115 engine, linked to a manual 6 speed gearbox with a satin chrome gear knob.
2012 Peugeot 208 Ice Velvet
The 208 Ice Velvet will be offered at the price of 23 500 € in France.
The new 2012 Peugeot 107 is now renewed, refreshed and even more modern and urban than ever. It shows subtle and sophisticated style, and it will undeniably attract more attention. The reasons for this are several. Firstly, the designers have put a lot of attention on its appeal without making any sacrifices in terms of its advantages when facing the constraints of city driving. Next, the car has become even more practical and fuel-efficient. Moreover the new 2012 Peugeot 107 is enriched with a regularly renewed range, special editions and new equipment, in order to keep up with customer expectations. Furthermore it will offer a great satisfaction above all through its maneuverability, driving pleasure and economy. The aim of the designers was to develop its advantages in an increasingly competitive segment.
As you can see they have featured new exterior style, which is subtle and sophisticated. For instance it is with completely redesigned front face but unchanged in dimensions, thus making the 107 adopt the new style of the Peugeot brand, cut as closely as possible to the mechanics, while retaining its compactness. Moreover the new and more curved bonnet incorporates the new identity of the brand, so the rib of the bonnet which frames the two-tone lion and the number plate repositioned in the centre of the lower front panel hint at its relationship with the 208.
2012 Peugeot 107
Furthermore the light units are more refined. At the front, they are extended and adopt a two-tone mask, echoing the color of the brand emblem situated on the bonnet. On the other hand at the rear they are adorned with a dark mask thus framing the lamps with a deep ruby color. In addition there is a new radiator grille, which is composed of honeycomb cells specific to the 107. It forms a fine and distinguished mouth, suspended by the body color that surrounds it. Next, the new lower front panel has contact cappings (one on the front face and the other two at the side). This makes it aesthetic and protective, particularly useful in city driving.
Adding further to its new style, the 2012 Peugeot 107 adopts a new visual signature at the lower front panel by means of LED day running lamps which emphasize the side protectors, and fog lamps animated by a chromed bead. Of course all of these style components were designed with the utmost care. Moreover the range of colors sees the addition of an exclusive and provocative new “Plum” color. The interior has new equipment and color schemes: “Mistral” interior color scheme, the new “Manhattan” seat upholstery and the two material door and dashboard trims. Furthermore there is also new comfort equipment which features CD audio system with two additional speakers as standard or as an option according to the level of finish; new PC Bluetooth CD audio system available as an option, combined with two additional speakers; USB, MP3 and Bluetooth connections; new steering wheel combined with a new gear lever knob, both leather trimmed, available as standard or as an option.
The 2012 Peugeot 107 is available in 3 and 5 door versions and with 2 different engines: 1.0i 5-speed manual and 1.0i 5-speed two-tronic manual. Last but not least, the car is designed to be environmentally efficient. The 107 lowers its levels of CO2 emissions still further to 99 and 104 g/km respectively for the manual and two-tronic gearboxes. Its running costs are also improved with fuel consumption reduced to 4.3 and 4.5 l per 100km (respectively for the manual and two-tronic gearboxes).
2012 Peugeot 107
In addition to the good news for this new 2012 Peugeot 107 there are more and they are concerning a new very feminine special edition of the version called ENVY, which will be available at the launch in March 2012. This awesome, modern and glamorous version is adorned with either the new “Plum” color or “Caldera Black” and bears special decorations with a cherry blossom branch motif. In details there are stickers on the rear door, the bonnet and the tailgate, a “Plum” color embroidered and braided mat and a rev counter central decoration. Moreover aluminum door sills and a badge give a further touch of refinement. A style line taking up the cherry blossom branch motif is also available. Additionally it has a clever handbag pocket, ideal for organizing your belongings and changing handbag without forgetting anything, as well as a very practical handbag hook, which is extremely useful for keeping your. There are several accessories developed especially for the ENVY 107: alloy wheels, a brushed aluminum gear lever knob, chromed effect door sills or mats embroidered with “107” give a touch of elegance and a distinctive character, a retractable navigation system (which has a connection for an iPhone or iPod), side moldings, which can protect the bodywork against urban impacts. For leisure pursuits, the 107 offers various roof boxes and roof bars for transporting bicycles, skis and numerous other accessories.
Chrysler Group and Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ announced at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas today the next level in their bold new partnership. It will bring about the studio quality sound experience of Beats™ Audio into the new 2012 Dodge Charger. The goal is to integrate a recording-studio quality audio experience for everyone who wants to feel and hear their favorite music as it was intended. In addition the project will debut at the same time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where audiophiles will be able to experience for the first time demonstrations of the Beats by Dr. Dre audio system. The two companies have worked together in order to design and tune the 10-speaker audio system. Thus the effect is a unique combination of high performance car and a high performance audio experience.
Chrysler Group is the first automaker which has integrated the Beats by Dr. Dre audio system in its vehicles. It was firstly introduced less than a year ago at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. The system currently is standard with the 2012 Chrysler 300S and available as an audio upgrade in additional Chrysler 300 models. Now the Beats Audio system will also be standard equipment on the new 2012 Dodge Charger R/T Max and included with the Blacktop Package or Rallye Appearance Group on Dodge Charger SXT models. The Beats Audio system is also included with the Sound Group and Wheels and Tunes Group on Dodge Charger R/T models.
2012 Dodge Charger RT
But let’s look up into the details of the vehicle and the audio system included. First of all there is featured state-of-the-art Uconnect®Touch 8.4, which provides 2012 Dodge Charger passengers with the segment’s largest touchscreen display (8.4-inch), and next-generation mobile connectivity, convenience and multimedia features. Moreover the Uconnect Touch also controls the 12-channel amplifier that integrates the heart of the Beats proprietary equalizer algorithm, creating the high-definition sound Beats Audio founders Dr. Dre, and Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records. Next to be highlighted is that the integration of Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ audio system delivers the mid- to high-range needed for studio-quality sound. The system includes three 3.5-inch speakers located in the instrument panel, two 3.5-inch speakers located in the rear doors, two 6 x 9-inch front-door woofers provide bass, two 6 x 9-inch speakers and a center-mounted 8-inch speaker located in the rear-shelf area provide full-range audio, maximizing how music genres from hip hop to Motown should sound and feel, an 8-inch Beats Audio trunk-mounted dual-voice coil subwoofer with sealed enclosure delivers tight, powerful, punchy bass.
2012 Dodge Charger Blacktop
With this unique system, the Dodge Charger will be even more appealing. However the vehicle provides the ultimate combination of dramatic Dodge heritage styling, award-winning premium interior, the reassurance of an IIHS Top Safety Pick and full-size spaciousness with the fuel efficiency of a mid-size car. The new feature for 2012 is a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission paired with the award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers an impressive 292 horsepower (215 kW) and a best-in-class 31 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. In fact, that fuel economy not only surpasses any full-size V-6 sedan but any mid-size V-6 sedan, while offering all of the driving dynamics and distinctive style for which Charger is renowned. Moreover the new eight-speed transmission delivers the astonishing 15 percent increase in fuel economy and 10 percent improvement in acceleration! Additionally, new for 2012 are die-cast paddle shifters, available with the Pentastar V-6 and HEMI® V-8 engines. Furthermore the Charger’s available legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and variable valve timing delivers best-in-class power with 370 horsepower (272 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. (292 Nm) of torque. It has to be highlighted that the starting price is thousands of dollars less than the competition. In addition Charger’s all-wheel-drive system is the most advanced in its class, with segment exclusive active transfer case with front-axle disconnect to maximize fuel economy of up to 27 mpg highway while delivering outstanding performance and handling inherent to a rear-wheel drive car.
To sum up, Dodge Charger proudly delivers premium, world-class sedan precision at an incredible value, starting at a U.S. MSRP of only $25,495.
The 2012 Dodge Charger models powered by Beats by Dr. Dre audio system will arrive at Dodge dealerships in the U.S. in the first-quarter of 2012.
With a total of 730,000 units sold, Renaultis betting on their affordable and hugely popular Megane when it comes to sales. So keeping up on the quality, refinement and reliability is crucial for the annual revenue. The MY 2012 Megane receives minor changes on the outside and inside and it also debuts three new start/stop engines which return stunning fuel economy figures.
The exterior changes are pretty standard with the LED daytime running lights, a black glossy bumper with chrome lining and a complete revision on wheel selection. Inside new trim levels are available including a two-toned leather pack available for customers in the UK.
Newly F1-engineer-developed engines are now being employed in the fresh lineup of MY 2012 Meganes. We have two downsized diesels – a 1.5 dCi with 260 Nm of torque, 110 hp and a whopping figure of 80.7 mpg (combined). Carbon dioxide emissions are down to 90g/km. Then there’s the 1.6 dCi with 130 hp, 320 Nm of torque and a combined fuel range of 70 mpg. That fuel efficiency is courtesy to the Stop & Start and brake energy recuperation systems that come with the diesels.
Renault Megane Sport Tourer (2012)
Th engine that takes the spotlight however, is the TCe 115 – this is the first petrol engine in a Renault that incorporates direct injection and a turbocharger at the same time. The engine block is 400 cubic centimetres smaller than the previous 1.6 16-valved one but overall power is up by 5 hp making a total of 115 hp. In fact, it is said to be the most powerful 1.2 engine in the world. And as it turns out it may be the most economical as well for it too makes use of the Start & Stop system usually reserved for diesels. Therefore we have 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle and 119 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions.
Worry not because, cleverness goes beyond the engine bay as the Megane has some neat driver aids like the Hill Start Assist function which holds down the brakes for a while on attempting to start off on a steep hill. The decision to let in air from outside or cycle the one inside is left to a computer which measures the air quality of the surrounding air. The Renault Visio System on the other hand is basically a camera attached to the rear-view mirror, scanning the road ahead and alarming for things like lane changing etc. It also analyses the visibility conditions outside and decides alone when to put on high-beams or low-beams.
The R.S. Line also gets an update with new a new leathery interior sewn by red stitching, a sportier steering wheel, branded door sill guards and a distinctive dashboard trim strip – the genetic code of the Renaultsport dynasty. On the outside, the R.S. gets specially designed, curvy LED lights which further assert the MY 2012 Megane’s aggressive stance.
2012 Renault Megane Renaultsport 265
And now there’s an anniversary model called the Renaultsport 265 and as the name suggests it develops 265 hp (15 more than the previous one). Further down the road, for a more complete sporty feel, the engineers at Renault have fiddled with the exhaust system with the result being a more satisfying tone. Distinctive features of the 265 include an F1 styled front blade garnished with rows of LED’s, and fresh 18 inch wheels as well as the 19 inch ones now incorporate R.S branding at their centres. Customers can op for redlining on the diffuser, front blade and the side sills while inside a two tone leather upholstery can be added consisting of light grey and charcoal.
Brace yourselves as Subaru is about to unveil the latest 2013 rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car. Day and place – as soon as the NAIAS in Detroit kicks off. Baring the typical Subaru pedigree, the BRZ spirit will be all about handling. Sales are expected to start late at Spring.
So why not AWD like most Subarus out there? Well, to achieve exceptional handling, Subaru engineers have figured that they need the lowest center of gravity achievable. Therefore an AWD system was deemed too complex and restrictive while with a RWD system the engine can be mounted pretty low. The whole car weights no more than 2,700 lbs and it will be powered by a 2.0 liter, 200 horsepower, 7400 rpm doomsday device. And because it is a compact flat (boxer) engine, technicians have the freedom to put it where they want it to in order to achieve perfect weight distribution and center of gravity.
The slippery looks scream of racing genes all around – 50.6 inches of height, a sloping roof line, miss maxi type fenders and short overhangs. Don’t despair though, because Subaru promise everyday practicality to go along with the lunacy – seating for four, handy boot space and generic passenger safeness.
It’s an ambitious project this but we are definitely ready to fall in love. For we play the waiting game.
If you want an SUV for the sake of safety and mobility, get a Suzuki Grand Vitara. If you want exclusivity added to that get the new special edition SZ-T. Based on the widely popular 5-door 1.9 DdiS, this limited edition will hit the showrooms this week with only 500 units for sale.
Prices start at £22,315 if we count the metallic body finish (Quasar Grey, Silky Silver, Blueish Black Pearl, Phoenix Red Pearl and Nocturne Blue Pearl). The standard equipment list is pretty lengthy including the keyless entry and start. Visually we get a new front grille, new 18-inch wheels, Silver painted roof rails and Silver painted bonnet vents, turn signals embedded in the side-view mirrors, colour contrasting trimmings and a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate.
The engine remains the same 1.9 DDiS Euro 5 emission class with power up to 130 PS and 300 Nm of torque at your disposal at 2.000 rpm which gives great confidence when overtaking someone on the open road. In return you get absolutely respectable 41.5 mpg and 179g/km of carbon dioxide chum.
Do not for a minute think however, that the SZ-T has gone soft. It still is a torquey mountain goat that can tackle some rough terrains without breaking a sweat.
Land Cruiser, the ultra luxurious SUV from Toyota, has received some enhancements for the 2013 model year. Both the interior and the exterior have been revised and a bag full of features, formally optional, are now standard.
On the outside we get an updated front grille, headlights with HID low-beams, chromed side moldings and restyled side view mirrors and taillights. To further affirm the rigid image of the Cruiser, the front and rear fenders have also been enlarged. The A-pillars are specially filled with foam and the molding between the windscreen and the body is “bifacial”. Because of that wind noise is significantly reduced. A new Pearl White paint finish is available for the MY 2013, making a total of 7 color options. Under the chassis, guards extend throughout the engine bay and also behind the rear axle to provide extra protection from rocky terrains. The wheels that carry the Cruiser measure at 18 inches and are wrapped with P285/60 R18 heavy duty tires. The 13.4 inch ventilated brake disks are equally impressive with their four-piston brake calipers.
Inside small tweaks complement the overall redesign – a perforated leather trim on the ventilated front seats, an even more glossy wood grain finish and enhanced meter-cluster lighting. Additional technology includes a Multi-terrain Monitor which allows pretty much a 360-degree view around the vehicle, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, a heated steering wheel and even a DC 12V power socket at the end of the central console along with the 120 AC one back at the cargo deck. DVD screens behind the front seat headrests will pacify rear-seat passengers. Sixteen JBL speakers can tear shatter glass from a mile as Toyota’s Premium Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation with Entune multimedia system can keep keep people occupied for hours should they decide to fiddle with it. The gauge instruments are accompanied by a screen showing gear selection, fuel economy, tire pressure, and cruising range. The center console on the other hand, houses a gate-type shifter with a sequential shift mode, a parking brake, a cooler box , a USB port and cup holders.
Toyota Land Cruiser (2013)
Power still comes from the state of the art 5.7-liter, 381 horsepower V8 DOHC. Peak torque is at 3.600 rpm, measuring up to 401 lb-ft. Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) operates both intake and exhaust valves in such a way, so that power, fuel efficiency and emissions are fully optimized. For a more precise toque delivery, The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) decides how long should a valve stay open, depending on rpm and throttle angle. The exhaust system, along with the exhaust manifolds, enjoys a stainless steel build. The six-speed automatic transmission handles the demanding job of processing ginormous amounts of power while remaining smooth and subtle.
Along with the ten airbags, there is also a handful of blisteringly complex array of systems that work together to keep all four wheels on the ground, ensure the safety of the biological unit inside (driver really), and deliver traction whenever and wherever needed. Just to give you a clue of what the Cruiser employes we can talk about the pre-collision detection system which can further restrain seat-belts should it detect a forthcoming impact.
This car truly is an off-road going palace riddled with luxury and technology and with prices starting at $68.000 it should be.
The luxury brand Mercedes-Benz has worked in collaboration with Pioneer GB. The result is the Project-X which is the ultimate DJ van with Pioneer’s world record holding Sound Pressure Level in-car entertainment products. The so called Project-X vehicle is based on a Mercedes-Benz Vito 122CDI Sport-XDualiner model. The car is powered by a range-topping turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine and produces 224 hp (165 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft), reaching 100km/h in just 8.3 seconds with a maximum speed of 196 km/h!
The astonishing machine features almost £25,000 worth of Pioneer kit. In details there are two 15” competition class SPL subs and four 10” Champion Series subs which ensure a consistently clear, powerful and wide-ranging bass response. The vehicle also comes with two Pioneer CDJs and unique mixer. In combination both offer the perfect party set-up. The total system features no less than eight independent amplifiers using four batteries and a 300amp power supply, with a speaker power handling capability at a staggering 30,050 watts! Perfect for loud parties, isn’t it?
This special edition Vito Sport-X includes also a Brabus sport steering wheel, gear lever in black leather (with Brabus emblem on it) and lowering springs, chrome sidebars, Sports exhaust, metallic paint, tinted glass, colour coded bumpers and chrome grille and tailgate trim. Hence all this makes the Project-X not only perfect in sound, but also in appearance. Simply breath-taking!
Another debut today at the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo has made the Land Rover’s Defender Concept 100 and Defender Concept 100 Sport. These concepts are an attempt for a possible replacement of the iconic model. Moreover they are intended to showcase the potential breath of capability for the future Defender family, capturing the rugged, dependable and adventurous spirit of the original.
Furthermore Defender Concept 100 represents the essential Defender design cues for the 21st century, but a bit modified ad optimized. Such optimizations and modifications include short overhangs for extreme approach and departure angles, vertical panels, an upright windscreen and strong shoulder line for visibility and ease of positioning and Defenders frontal image with its signature round lamps and prominent grille, incorporating a winch. Improvements have been made with the optimised off-road 20-inch alloy wheels shod with Cooper all-terrain tyres. On the other hand the Defender Concept 100 Sport takes all these key design cues and adds to them the spirit of freedom with their fold-down windscreens.
The first and foremost highlight here is the next generation of Land Rover’s Terrain Response System which will optimise the car for any conditions without driver’s pre-selection. Moreover a new Terrain-i System shows an intelligent map of the topography in front of the car and displays it as a 3D visualisation. It also automatically identifies potential difficulties on the road and of course suggests alternative routes. And while driving in urban environments, the same system identifies pedestrians and hazards with great accuracy. Another innovation is the new Wade Aid System which uses sonar sensors mounted in the bumpers and wing mirrors to measure water depth. Additionally Wade Aid will optimise the car for water crossings by closing body vents, raising the ride height, selecting a low gear and advising on the safest speed.
The Land Rover brand is also concerned about the environment and extends the commitment to develop new technologies which will reduce the environmental impact. First of all there is an intelligent Twin-Solenoid Stop/Start System mated to the latest eight-speed automatic gearbox, both of which have been designed with future hybridisation in mind. Secondly, there is the one-of-a-kind Driveline Disconnect System, which sends power to the front-axle only unless conditions demand all-wheel drive. Hence, this systems physically, rather than electronically, decouples the rear-axle to reduce friction losses but can reengage drive almost instantaneously.
Nissan has revealed the e-NV200 Concept, which will makes its official debut at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicle is based on the popular Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle and features a full electric drivetrain.
With a total of 730,000 units sold, 
Brace yourselves as Subaru is about to unveil the latest 2013 rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car. Day and place – as soon as the NAIAS in Detroit kicks off. Baring the typical Subaru pedigree, the BRZ spirit will be all about handling. Sales are expected to start late at Spring.
If you want an SUV for the sake of safety and mobility, get a Suzuki Grand Vitara. If you want exclusivity added to that get the new special edition SZ-T. Based on the widely popular 5-door 1.9 DdiS, this limited edition will hit the showrooms this week with only 500 units for sale.
Land Cruiser, the ultra luxurious SUV from Toyota, has received some enhancements for the 2013 model year. Both the interior and the exterior have been revised and a bag full of features, formally optional, are now standard.
