Auto News – Page 921 – Automobiles Review

Nissan Pathfinder Concept Teaser

We came across this teaser for the forthcoming Nissan Pathfinder Concept. It will be revealed on the North American International Auto Show in Detroid which will be open to the public on the 14th of January 2012.

It is said that this concept, while preserving the typical Pathfinder spirit, is to introduce a new highly modern platform coated with a striking aerodynamic body, Supposedly It will be clever, it will have seating for seven and it will be cargo friendly.

The debut precedes the appointed release of the new Nissan Pathfinder which hopefully will bare as much resemblance as possible to the concept.

Source: Nissan

December 20, 2011

Prices For The Toyota RAV4 and Prius

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. have released their manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2012 RAV4 and the Prius Liftback. They will both hit the showrooms today and on the in January 2012 respectively.

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 SUVs can be ordered in three different trim levels – RAV 4 (base), Sport and top-of-the-range Limited. Whatever the class, all vehicles can carry a 2.5 four-cylinder engine or a 3.5 V6 which develops 269 hp. Even further, either engine can be paired with a front-wheel drive or an electronic on-demand four-wheel drive. That makes a total of 12 possible combinations and thus 12 price listings. When compared to the old model, the RAV4 MY 2012 differs little in price which will preserve Toyota’s rock-solid image on the market – the base and Sport editions get an overall 0.7% increase while the Limited RAVs actually get a decrease in price by 0.5%. The cheapest of all is the 2.5 liter, front-wheel drive, 4 ratio automatic gearbox base model standing at $22,650 as the Limited V6 4WD model with a five-speed automatic transmission receives a price tag of $28,650.

All models include as standard equipment hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. RAVs from the Limited range get an extra Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™. Optional extras come in the form of a 6.1-inch touch-screen CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility, six speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio™ with iTunes ® Tagging, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port with iPod® connectivity and control.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius segment has managed to stay on top of it’s competition in terms of hybrid technology mainly because of the midsized Prius Liftback. Up until know it has been shipped to over a million environmentally conscious customers. And now the 2012 MY has received a minor update – revised front fascia and tail lights, freshly styled 15 inch wheel covers and LED Daytime Running Lights with an on/off function.

There will be four available trim grades in the U.S. (the Two, Three, Four and Five) all of which have overall increased MSRP listings with around 3.3%. with the cheapest one standing at $24 000 while the Prius Five $29 805. You still get your money’s worth though because whatever you choose, it will be packed full of technology.

All models come with a 6.1-inch Display Audio system including a USB port for iPod® connectivity and control, Bluetooth® with phone book access for hands-free calling and a more advanced Multi-Information Display. Owners of the previous Prius model will be able to recognize some carryover technology as well. There’s a Touch Tracer Display, driver door Smart Key with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry, Star Safety System and an adjustable steering wheel with controls on it for the audio and climate systems as well as controls for the phone.

The Prius Three has its Display Audio system enhanced by the EntuneTM and Navigation pack. It also gets an integrated backup camera and three-door Smart Key.

The Prius Four implements a more powerful audio system consisting of eight JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers and an amplifier. SofTex-trimmed seats, headlamps with auto on/off feature and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar power support are also included.

As optional extras the Four and Five can be equipped with Toyota’s Premium HDD Navigation with EntuneTM and JBL®, which features an exclusive seven-inch touch-screen with split-screen capability. These two models are also the first of their kind to be offering a Head-up Display (HUD) which projects information such as speed, fuel etc. on the windscreen.

Here is the complete list of the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices in comparison to the previous 2011 model year counterparts:

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	4430	RAV4	Base 2WD 4AT	$22,475	$175	0.8%	$22,650
2012	4431	RAV4	Base V6 2WD 5AT	$24,510	$175	0.7%	$24,685
2012	4440	RAV4	Sport 2WD 4AT	$24,175	$175	0.7%	$24,350
2012	4441	RAV4	Sport V6 2WD 5AT	$26,105	$175	0.7%	$26,280
2012	4450	RAV4	Limited 2WD 4AT	$25,465	($135)	-0.5%	$25,330
2012	4451	RAV4	Limited V6 2WD 5AT	$27,385	($135)	-0.5%	$27,250
2012	4432	RAV4	Base 4WD 4AT	$23,875	$175	0.7%	$24,050
2012	4433	RAV4	Base V6 4WD 5AT	$25,910	$175	0.7%	$26,085
2012	4442	RAV4	Sport 4WD 4AT	$25,575	$175	0.7%	$25,750
2012	4443	RAV4	Sport V6 4WD 5AT	$27,505	$175	0.6%	$27,680
2012	4452	RAV4	Limited 4WD 4AT	$26,855	($135)	-0.5%	$26,720
2012	4453	RAV4	Limited V6 4WD 5AT	$28,785	($135)	-0.5%	$28,650

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	1221	Prius One (fleet only)	Five-door Liftback	$22,120	$895	4.0%	$23,015
2012	1223	Prius Two	Five-door Liftback	$23,520	$480	2.0%	$24,000
2012	1225	Prius Three	Five-door Liftback	$24,520	$1,045	4.3%	$25,565
2012	1227	Prius Four	Five-door Liftback	$27,320	$915	3.3%	$28,235
2012	1229	Prius Five	Five-door Liftback	$28,790	$1,015	3.5%	$29,805

*Prices do not include the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee on neither of the cars. The fee comes as an additional expense standing at $810 for the RAV and $760 for the Prius.

Source: Toyota

December 20, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor

A real beast is going to be released in the forthcoming 2012, namely the brand new Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor! It comes with the astonishing 568 kW PS/418 from a powerful 6.2-liter V8 with a supercharger kit under the hood! This upgraded Camaro Convertible 2SS with Geiger Kompressort Kit delivers unique mix of power and freedom. Moreover it now offers V8 sound created by the Munich American car specialists. The new and improved vehicle is, in comparison to its ancestors, with significant power increase as well as extensive additional equipment – all of course TÜV. For superior performance regardless of high revs, high torque of the tuned by Geiger Camaro 2SS: min Legendary 779 Nm at 4,100 rpm/.

The whole 568 horsepower (405 kW) you can get at the price of 90,000 euros for the 2SS. In addition the model is characterized by a unique violinist compressor price-performance. Moreover this high-quality equipment version of the Geiger-compressor-kit includes: Geiger wheels in 10 x 22 inch with tires in size 265/30/22 and 295/25/ZR22 rear, an adjustable sport suspension with stabilizers on front Geiger and rear axles, Geiger sport exhaust system, Geiger aerodynamic-enhancement kit with front spoiler, side skirts and rear diffuser as well as special paint. All this comes with an ample standard equipment including leather, xenon headlights, parking assistance, rear camera, head-up display, on-board computer, extra ads (oil and transmission temperature, battery voltage, oil pressure) , dimming exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable and foldable, and Boston Premium Hi-Fi sound system (MP3, CD, Bluetooth-enabled).

The prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible start from 43990 Euro. Moreover there is being offered Geiger individual finishes such as: decorative design of your choice (price from 500 Euro), metallic paint (for 800 Euro), additional premium paint (for 1000 Euro), numerous individual special leather interior, sports seat, navigation and sound system.

Specifications 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor:
Engine: 6.2-liter V8 with Geiger-compressor kit
Power: 568 kW at 6250 rpm PS/418 kW / 772 HP/ 568 HP
Torque: 779 Nm at 4,100 U / 575 lb-ft /
Consumption (combined): 12.8 l/100 km
Price: From € 84 900

Source: Chevrolet

December 20, 2011

New 2012 Lexus Concept

As we have already announced – Lexus has revealed last week a new concept for a new vehicle that will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit at 13:25 PST (22:25 CET) on 9^th of January, 2012. Today the company has released a second teaser, this time giving a sneak peak at the interior of the new Lexus design concept. The interior was created by Calty, which is Lexus’ design studio in Newport Beach, California. As you can see, design is more than luxurious with smooth lines and curves, and fine leather all around. It is definitely eye-catching and breathtaking.

And having in mind the first teaser (an image of the exterior), this concept vehicle will surely be a sports car with sharp and aggressive lines.

Source: Lexus

December 20, 2011

Chevrolet Sonic RS 2013

NAIAS, year 2010 – Chevrolet showed that they too want to be taken seriously in the hot hatch world with their, then concept, Sonic RS. Well, now that concept is a reality and it will be revealed at the 2012 NAIAS with production starting near the end of the same year. To set itself apart from its standard counterparts, the RS has employed some distinguishing alterations which start at the exterior and reach all the way under the hood.

Available solely with five doors, the Sonic RS is undoubtedly dressed to impress. The front, racing styled fascia is patched on both ends with typical RS inlets which in turn have redesigned fog lights nestled in them. The front grille is also in a specific RS honeycomb design and new rocker moldings are applied as well. At the back new fascia, new spoiler and chromed outlets of the already tuned exhaust system give the Sonic a new character. For an overall look, Chevrolet have put on RS badges here and there along with four conspicuous 17-inch five spoke styled wheels. The paint finishes will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic depending on customer preference.

Inside the RS symptoms continue as we make ourselves comfortable in the black leather sport seats with red stitching all around. A specially designed steering wheel with a thicker rim and a flat bottom feels nice to the touch. Strange and futuristic instrument clusters, which can only be found in the RS, flash back at you. The gear stick is freshly styled while the pedals are made from aluminum.

IT enthusiasts will be glad to know that Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system comes as standard. It is a seven-inch color touch screen radio which can be connected to various smart phones via Bluetooth in order to access Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio. Navigation directions, originally downloaded on the user’s smart phones can be displayed on that screen. Other forms of multimedia (like photos and videos) will also be available to display provided that the car is not in motion.

There are high hopes for the RS’s performance as this will be the first car in its segment to employ a turbocharged powertrain. It is an Ecotec 1.4l engine that develops 138 units of horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm). Chevrolet say this power will be available trough the whole range of the rev. counter so even at low rounds per minute the sporty presence should be preserved. The gearbox is be a six-speed manual which comes as standard while a six-speed automatic is optional.

There are some technological advances dedicated to handle the newfound power as well. The front wheels are attached to a MacPherson strut suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar while at the back we have a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound, link-type rear suspension – including a robust, tubular V-shape beam – with gas-charged shocks. Both, the front track and the back one are identical when it comes to width – 59.4 inches (1,509 mm) aimed to achieve a good planted stance and stability. Being an RS version, the car also has a set of four disk brakes complete with a four channel ABS system. It also has a clever nervous system in the form of four load sensors (one on each wheel) which take into account the road conditions and the weight of passengers and cargo so that the braking force is distributed more evenly and efficiently.

All and all it has been a long wait and now we’ll have to wait even more to see if it was worth it.

Source: Chevrolet

December 19, 2011

Donkervoort GTO: 340HP, 450 Nm and 750kg

Donkervoort Automobielen in Lelystad and Audi Quattro GmbH announce the next generation of open sports cars: the Donkervoort GTO. The project took two and a half years of development, but it worth it.

GTO is powered by a five-cylinder 340PS and 450Nm 2.5 liter TFSI Audi motor. The weight of the open sports car is around 750kg, so the power-to-weight will be amazing. Compared to the old D8 270RS, the new GTO is about 35 cm longer and 15 cm wider. The GTO is therefore a brand-new designed car. Only sharing 5% of the parts with the D8 270RS and about 30% with the much more recent GT. A milestone in the 34-year history of Donkervoort.

“This weight savings is obtained by redesigning several accessory parts of the motor together with the Audi technicians. For example, amongst others a new intake manifold was developed. Because the intake follows a more favourable route through the motor area it is not only lighter, but has a favourable effect on the achievements of the motor as well. The dashboard in this design of the GTO is equipped with a special race module switch, which can increase the capacity from 340 to 400 HP at once. Connected to this is another Donkervoort novelty: the first car from Lelystad that has ‘traction control’ on board. Only for when it is raining of course.”, commented Joop Donkervoort.

The production of the Donkervoort GTO starts in 2012, whereby it is expected that the first specially designed units will be delivered in the summer. The price of the new GTO is between € 100 000 and € 150 000 excluding taxes.

Source: Donkervoort

December 19, 2011

Nissan Micra with two new editions

In the UK, Nissan has decided to add two new trim levels to an already colourful lineup of Micras. Called Kuro (black from Japanese) and Shiro (white), the two editions are now ready to order with a price starting at £11,550 for the 1.2 liter naturally aspired engine coupled with a manual transmission. However the new supercharged DIG-S power plant and the CVT automatic gearbox are also available as options.

One can tell from a distance if a Micra is either of these two trimmings. The Kuro is coated in a metallic Sapphire Black while Shiro is available in two white shades – Pearl or Alabaster. Inside the dashboard has an ivory feel to it and the light seat trimmings all in the name of luxury.

The equipment level resembles the one of the mid range Acenta trimline with several additions which are usually reserved for the Tekna top of the range: We have parking sensors with parking space measurement, heated front seats and climate control. For the extra £400, the Nissan Connect satellite navigation will also be included.

As a final touch, the back sides of the Kuro and the Shiro are branded with a definitive badge to let people know that the person inside values sensibility with a slight dash of glamour.

Source: Nissan

December 19, 2011

All-New Global Vehicle by Ford at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

Ford is going to present an all-new vehicle at the 11th Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi. The vehicle is planned to be introduced in India and other global markets in the near future. The Ford’s high-tech and interactive stand will cover roughly 1,400 square meters, where the planned highlights will be presented by the company. For instance such include comprehensive safety and quality displays, a 3D theater, live shows and a crowd-sourced, interactive driving game.

The exclusive news is that the new vehicle will be the latest One Ford global product, which is designed to help expand Ford’s footprint in the world’s fastest-growing auto markets, including India. The expansion in the country will include eight more products to be introduced in the future.

More to be seen at Ford Stand is the Ford Figo, the All-New Fiesta, the Ford Classic and the Ford Endeavour. To go further into details Figo has already sold around 130,000 units since its launch in March 2010. Although it has only been in the Indian market for not so long time, it has become the country’s most awarded car ever. Moreover it has garnered industry-wide recognition as a great value-for-money vehicle, which is exported to close to 30 international markets. Next, the Ford Classic, has made an impressive footprint on the Indian market by winning more than 120,000 customers, thank to its on-road dynamics and best-in-class fuel efficiency. On the other hand there is Ford Endeavour, which is a popular all-action SUV. At last the All-New Ford Fiesta four-door sedan will also be on display. Additional detail here is that the car soon will be available with the new best-in-class PowerShift automatic transmission. Compared to the traditional four-speed automatics, the PowerShift transmission can improve fuel economy by up to 9 percent.

All-New Global Vehicle by Ford at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

In addition if you happen to be at the Ford stand, you will experience the advantage of the latest technology. A major highlight will be allowing the audience to take virtual control of a vehicle on a large LED screen. With the help of a motion-sensing camera, the crowd will collectively control the vehicle as it rolls along the road, and unlock information at each bend. The display will prompt the crowd to lean left and right during a short drive as it shows highlights of the route. Furthermore Ford also will have a Figo Theatre which will allow customers to sit inside the car and watch a film played on a plasma television in front of the windscreen. The video of course will explain the Figo’s Smart technologies. Another theatre – this time in 3D will present the improvements in technology, design and development of Ford’s vehicles. Here visitors will navigate a virtual car interior under the guidance of a Ford engineer. In addition a Quality Touch Table will provide guests with a hands-on opportunity to feel the quality of the materials used in Ford vehicles. On the other hand there is a Green Touch Table as well. It will demonstrate the long-term value of Ford’s green technology, delivering on Ford’s commitment to provide customers with low total cost of ownership. Next a Fiesta body shell will also be on display, giving visitors an opportunity to discover the engineering features that make the Fiesta safe and secure on the road. And to make the best out of their experience, guests will be entertained by a local magician who will perform on the stand.

Auto Expo 2012 runs from January 7-11 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Source: FORD

December 19, 2011

STILLEN R35 Nissan GT-R Scale Slot Car

Christmas is just in one week and if you still haven’t bought anything for your beloved ones or if you consider making yourself a gift, we have a good idea for you. This present is perfect for the slot car enthusiasts and will add to their vehicle fleet.

If you still haven’t got it, we are talking about the Scalextric recreation of STILLEN R35 Nissan GT-R into a slot car. The fans of the Slot Car Racing, undeniably have heard the name Scalextric. But for those who are unfamiliar, they specialize in bringing realistic vehicles to the slot car world! The great news for this year is that they have recreated the STILLEN R35 Nissan GT-R. Moreover it is done in striking details in a 1:32 scale. Another good feature about this “mini” car is that it can be modified just like the real one. For example you can change anything starting with the tires or gears, or you can even swap the motor! Check out the picture below and you will definitely see for yourself how great this slot car is!

This little STILLEN R35 Nissan GT-R will make the excellent present under the Christmas tree! And we are sure that you have already imagined it beautifully packed under the lights of the holiday tree!

And for those who are more interested, additionally STILLEN also did the STILLEN Ford GT a couple of years ago. Check it out:

Source: Stillen

December 19, 2011

Startech Range Rover Evoque 3-door

Startech has announced the tuned version of Range Rover Evoque 3-door, which is turned from nice to amazing SUV. The vehicle was exhibited at the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

Startech Evoque 3-door comes with complete aggressive body, a set of huge 9J x 21” forged alloy wheels wrapped in 265/40 R 21 Continental tires. The stance is further improved by a lowered suspension by 35 mm. Other touches to the exterior include a sports exhaust system and roof-mounted rear spoiler. All body components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.

The interior is also revised by installing an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and aluminum pedals. There are also a new foot rest and a gear shifter. The finest leather and Alcantara in any desired color are used for the seats and door panels. The trim is from wood or carbon-fiber also in any desired color and with a wide variety of surface finishes.

The mighty 2.0 liter SI4 turbocharged petrol has received a performance package, but there is not data about the new power. Originally, it produces 240PS (177 kW).

Source: Startech

December 19, 2011

2011 Wheelsandmore Mc Laren Mercedes SLR 722 Epochal

The luxurious german car tuning company Wheelsandmore has prepared for us today an incredible tuning of Mc Laren Mercedes SLR 722 Epochal. The aim of the company is to deliver more style with the fine and exclusive tuning upgrades, starting with the enhancement of the whole 650 hp (478 kW), which seem to be not enough. This was made through the installation of a handcrafted exhaustsystem with sports catalysts and remote-able flaps. Moreover they were adapted to remapped ecu software and a new pulley, thus delivering the amazing 727 hp (535 kW) and 950 Nm (701 lb-ft). We are speaking about real beast here, aren’t we!

But in order to handle these grandorous changes in the power, Wheelsandmore has required a revision in suspension. This was made possible thank to the specialists of KW, who have dedeveloped a compression and rebounded the adjustable and full race approved system for this Mc Laren Mercedes SLR722.

2011 Wheelsandmore Mc Laren Mercedes SLR 722 Epochal

Of course they have considered the optimization of the weight of the vehicle. For example we have here fully handcrafted, multi-piece forged wheels of the type 6Sporz² which undeniably make a significant change and have a huge effect over the improvement of the acceleration. Furthermore those high-end rims are the perfect fill for the carbon fiber body. Specifically their size is 9.0 x20″ at the front and 11.5 x 20 inches at the rear axle. In this Mc Laren Mercedes SLR722 there is nothing but high quality and standard. Another proof for this fact is the 255/30/20 and 305/25/20 Sportmaxx tires from Dunlop.

At last the nappaleather, carbon parts, the new steering wheel, the stepped alcantara and the detailed red stitchings are making the Mercedes Mc Laren SLR 722 even more unique and are adding to its individual appearance! Just see the gallery below!

Source: Wheelsandmore

December 16, 2011

Wheelsandmore Revitalise a Hypercar God – The McLaren SLR 707

Rarely someone expresses discontent with the iconic Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. It is true however that besides being exotic it is also old. 10 years old in fact. So now the already acclaimed German tuning house Wheelsandmore have left various AMG’s behind and went the extra mile to revise the ageing hypercar. Welcome to the SLR Wheelsandmore 7o7 edition.

Even at the start was well aware that the standard car has a 626 hp monstrosity under the bonnet which churns out mesmerizing 780 Nm of torque. They believe that this power can now be utilized more efficiently by completely upgrading the suspension set up. And so, with the help of the suspension whizzes at KW Automotive, this is exactly what they have done. We are talking about a compression and rebound adjustable, racing grade aluminium coilover and aluminium damper housings. And, because of the new suspension kit and the SLR’s now lower centre of gravity, Wheelsandmore have seized the opportunity to increase power output to 707 hp (hence the edition 7o7) and 970 Nm of torque. That new figure is courtesy to the company’s performance pack which upgrades the ECU and uses a larger pulley for the compressor. The end result is a time of 3.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph (100km/h) – Impressive!

Wheelsandmore Mercedes SLR 7o7 Edition (2011)

Naturally, to stand up to its name, Wheelsandmore, have introduced lightweight, handcrafted, multi-piece forged wheels – 9,5×20″ for the front axle with 255/30/20 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires on them and 11,5×20″ ones at the back again fitted with 305/25/20 Dunlops. The red line on the rim edges is a fine touch if I may say.

Inside changes are sublime, modest and tasteful: a grippy AMG Performance steering wheel a center console garnished with carbon fibre patches and and entirely carbon shift paddles.

Source: Wheelsandmore

December 16, 2011

Category: Auto News