This just in: Audi’s 3.0 L TFSI supercharged V6 engine appears on Ward’s 10 Best Engines 2012 list for a third consecutive year. WardsAuto is an automotive technology watchdog which has been gathering data and conducting analysis of engineering advancements for 85 years now.
For Ward’s 2012 engine list, 36 “contenders” were probed for their power, technology, fuel economy, noise, vibration and harshness. Additional criteria required each engine to be in a regular-production U.S.-specification model on sale no later than first-quarter 2012 and that vehicle that carries the engine should not exceed 55 000$.
“With so many engines featuring gasoline direct-injection and forced induction, we’re pleased to have a list that is rich in technology,” says Drew Winter, editor-in-chief of WardsAuto World (the company’s monthly magazine). “Plus, every engine reinforces the idea that even fuel-efficient vehicles must be fun to drive.”
Audi A7 Sportback (2011)
The TFSI provides 310 units of horsepower and the respectable 325 lb.-ft. of torque. Because of the all-aluminium structure of the engine and four vane Roots-style supercharger, the TFSI is able to impersonate V8 behaviour while remaining an economical V6.
In 2012, you’ll be able to find the 3.0 TFSI in cars such as the 2012 A6 sedan, 2012 Audi A7, the Audi Q7 and also in the S4 and S5.
The annual North American International Auto Show is an event of unparalleled importance. Set to be open to the public on the 14th of January 2012, it will act as the New Year’s Day for the automotive industry. More than 150 companies will showcase their products, innovations and plans for the whole year ahead. 5000 media representatives will provide extensive coverage while around 750 000 members of the public will have the pleasure to moon about amidst lush automotive pieces of art.
And now MINI has announced that on that event, they will try to fascinate the American public with the new MINI Cooper Roadster – a car that relies on a complex chassis technology to stay on the road and yet implements a classic, manually operated soft-top all in the name of pure fun. Although it is the sixth addition to the company’s line up it still bares the MINI hallmark universal features such as large circular headlights, hexagonal radiator grille, side indicator surrounds and vertically stacked rear lights. That of course does not make it a characterless clone of the previous ones. The low-slung silhouette, smooth curves and elegantly extended (separate from the cabin) boot give this urban 2-seater a fresh and playful image.
MINI Roadster (2012)
In terms of dimensions, the basic Roadster model largely mimics its MINI Convertible counterpart with an exterior length of 3,728 mm (wheelbase of 2,467 mm) and a width which stands at 1,683 mm. It is however lower than the Convertible by more than 20 mm thus the fore mentioned low-slung sporty silhouette.
In the US three engine line-ups will be available that go in three different trim levels of the Roadster:
The standard MINI Roadster has a 121 hp, 1.6 litre engine with a fully variable valve control system – based on the VALVETRONIC technology which can be seen in BMW engines.
The MINI Cooper S Roadster houses again the VALVETRONIC 1.6 litre engine but thanks to BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology and direct fuel injection the power is now up to 181 hp. The Cooper S is claimed to be one of the most successful embodiment of power and economy with just 6.0 litres of petrol consumption on a 100km run.
The top of the range MINI John Cooper Works Roadster is powered by a hardcore version of the 1.6 TwinPower Turbo found in the MINI Cooper S. It is a 208 hp hornet that delivers 192 lb-ft (260 Newton metres) of torque at 1,850 rpm. You’ll need no more than 6.3 seconds to reach 100km/h (62 mph) from a standsill while top speed stands at 237 km/h (147 mph). All models come as standard with a six speed manual gearbox that channels the revvy power of the engines to the front wheels. Optionally, the Cooper Roadster and Cooper S Roadster can be ordered with a six speed automatic.
Agile handling and a timely response, emblematic for the MINI brand, come from the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system and the active rear spoiler, which extends automatically when the car reaches 80 km/h (50 mph).
The company is counting on the Roadster range to be a fine compliment to the other five, already successful MINI, MINI Countryman, MINI Clubman, MINI convertible and the MINI Coupé.
Jeep has announced the new 2012 Grand Cherokee Overland Summit model. It delivers new levels of luxury and refinement in the premium sport-utility vehicle sector at decent price – £44 795.
The model features Rugged Brown paint scheme, with a unique fully chromed grille and fog lamp bezels. The exterior also boasts huge 20” polished alloy wheels. The special model is based on the current top-of-the-range Overland and adds even more refinement and equipment.
It is powered by a 3.0 liter V6 CRD diesel engine with 237BHP (177 kW) at 4000RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) between 1800 and 2800RPM. This is up to 10% more power and 8% more torque than the engine, it replaces.
The new CRD achieves 8.3 litres per 100 km (34 mpg) on combined cycle and 218 g/km of CO2.
The interior comes with real wood and distinctive polished trim. Wood trim is also used on the leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel. There are also saddle-coloured Nappa heated and ventilated leather seats – with perforated inserts, accent piping and unique stitching – and Berber floor mats with black and chestnut accent binding.
The standard equipment also features he Advanced Warning System and Adaptive Cruise Control group, which consists of Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-path detection systems.
Volkswagen has announced a stylish special edition model for its luxury, executive Caravelle passenger carrying van – Edition 25. It will be available in the UK as just 225 units will be produced. The van is offered all exclusively finished in Candy White, or optional Reflex Silver metallic paint.
The exterior boasts a new front bumper with black accents, xenon headlights with LED running lights and black highlights the length of the vehicle and on the roof, side sills and tailgate. There is also a set of black 18” Edition 25 design alloy wheels.
The special edition Caravelle is based on SE specification and adds 3-zone Climatronic air conditioning, voice activated SAT NAV and Bluetooth telephone preparation, parking sensors with reversing camera, and Volkswagen’s Lane Change Assist system which monitors the vehicle’s blind spots.
The Caravelle Edition 25 offers exclusive interior environment – two-tone leather seats and electric sliding doors with power-latching on each side of the vehicle.
The van is powered by a 2.0 litre Bi-Turbo common rail diesel with 180PS (132 kW) mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox as standard. The standard model has FWD, but there is an option for 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. From 0 to 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds (12.1 4MOTION) and a top speed of 191 km/h (119 mph) or 188 km/h (117 mph) for the 4MOTION variant. The fuel consumption is very goo – 34.9 mpg (32.1mpg) with CO2 of 214 g/km (232).
2012 Volkswagen Caravelle Edition 25 is priced at £44 995 OTR.
The Kia Sorento is Total 4×4’s Best SUV for the second year in a row. It is a huge success, because the competition is very tough.
“The Sorento was our reigning champion in the full-size SUV class, and it impressed us every bit as much this year as last. Its style, poise, kit and practicality all score heavily in its favour.”, commented Editor Alan Kidd.
“Make no mistake, this award wasn’t about just being cheap. The Sorento beat a long list of premium opponents because it’s very good at everything that matters. Its bargain price and unbeatable seven year warranty merely seal the deal.”, he added.
2011 Kia Sorento was launched in the UK in February, last year. It is the flagship of the Kia range and is available in 2WD and 4WD versions – but it is the full-time four wheel drive model that again impressed the Total 4×4 judges to retain its Best SUV crown.
“From the day of its launch we knew that the latest Sorento continued the car’s impressive record of delivering excellent go-anywhere ability coupled with on-road sophistication at a great value price. Sorento has been a long-time favourite in the Kia range and its popularity amongst a wide variety of customers – from those who want on-road towing security or all-weather ability to the more adventurous owner who needs to head away from the main roads.”, said Michael Cole, Managing Director of Kia Motors (UK) Ltd.
“I am delighted that Total 4×4 has again awarded Sorento its Best SUV accolade – especially in the face of so much impressive competition in what remains a hard-fought sector of the market,” he added.”, he added.
The engine range includes 2.0D 16V CRDi, 2.2D 16V CRDi, 2.4 MPI DOHC 16V with Dual CVVT and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 273PS (201 kW).
The Sorento is available in three trim levels – LX, EX and SX.
The LX is standard and features an MP3 audio system with SIRIUS SAT Radio, auxiliary and USB audio input, Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls and 17” alloy wheels.
The EX adds the UVO infotainment system, push button-start with smart key and rear sonar back-up sensors, rear view back-up cameras, air ionization purification and 18” 5-spoke alloy wheels.
The top-of-range SX trim boasts a voice-activated SAT NAV system with SiriusXM Traffic, an upgraded Infinity surround sound system with 10 speakers and 18” 10-spoke alloy wheels.
Wheelsandmore has announced a tuning program for Ferrari 599 GTO. The sports car is finished in black and yellow color.
Wheelsandmore Ferrari 599 GTO stands on enormous 3-piece handcrafted 6Sporz² ultralight forged alloys. They are also finished in black and yellow powder paint with dimensions – 9J x 21“ for the front and 12.5J x 21“ at the rear axle fitted with 245/30 ZR21 and 345/25 ZR21 Hankook S1Evo tires, respectively.
Ferrari 599 GTO is powered by a 6.0 liter naturally aspirated V12 with whopping 670PS (493 kW) at 8250RPM and 620Nm (460 lb-ft) at 6500RPM. From 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.35 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph). However, Wheelsandmore boosted the engine to 715PS (526 kW) and 665Nm (491 lb-ft). These results are thanks to a two upgrades – an ECU re-map and stainless steel sport exhaust system with remote valve flaps.
Last, but not least, the tuner has installed a hydraulic liftable suspension, which can lift the front of the sports car up to 30mm (1.18“).
We have very special news from Hyundai, which has presented a sneak peak at its all-new I-oniq concept car. This concept car moreover is a preview of the next evolution of the brand’s ‘Fluidic sculpture’, which will bring new “language” in the design of the cars. Moreover the car is going to be one of the main highlights from Hyundai at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2012.
Hyundai has only released a single picture of the car which adds to the overall curiosity around it! What we can see here and firmly state about the new I-oniq concept vehicle is that it has two strong arched curves, which define the silhouette of i-oniq. In addition they create a playful contrast between the sharp character lines and soft but muscular features. And if you analyze it further you will definitely see the long front, which gives a sporty look to the car. And the rear end appears to be with a hatchback design.
Unfortunately Hyundai hasn’t released more details about the new concept car. However more information about I-oniq will be revealed ahead of its world premiere at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
The i-oniq concept was designed and developed at the company’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany.
The finalist at the 2012 North American Truck of the Year – namely the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V is going to make a debut today at all United States dealers. More importantly the manufacturer has suggested a retail price (MSRP) ranging from $22,295 for the value-oriented CR-V LX 2WD to $28,295 for the luxurious CR-V EX-L AWD, plus a destination and handling charge of $810 per vehicle.
Undeniably the CR-V keeps the great pricing, adding between $400 and $1000 worth of standard features and technologies to each trim. And compared to the last model it replaces the increase of the price is maximum $181 and this is for the vehicle loaded with feature content. It is really great news, almost unbelievable, that the models equipped with navigation has a decrease of $300 in the price (compared to the models from 2011).
2012 CR-V’s have exciting upgrades. Not only it has this excellent value, but also it has new features, improved fuel economy and enhanced utility. To be more precise the all-new CR-V features more efficient engine design with improved horsepower and torque. Furthermore an innovation that has been added in the model is the all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System™. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower (136 kw) and 163 lb-ft (221 Nm) of torque. And all this comes with the standard 5-speed automatic transmission. Another highlight is the EPA: the estimated fuel economy is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (2WD) (an increase of +2/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V), and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined (AWD) (an increase of +1/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V).
2012 Honda CR-V
Brand new for 2012 features is the Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat. Moreover it has a lower cargo floor and a range of standard technology features. Additional high-tech features are also included as a standard on all models: For example they will include a Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone interface, a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. The absolute innovation for Honda is the SMS text messaging function. This function can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Speaking about the “firsts”, there has also been included an introduction of standard Pandora® Internet Radio interface, which is compatible with the Apple® iPhone®. It works with the vehicle’s audio controls and intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID). Furthermore a new addition is the Rear Entertainment System (RES).
2012 Honda CR-V
To acknowledge the achievements of the model we have to remember that the previous-generation CR-V was recognized as a “Top Recommended Vehicle” and received “Best Retained Value SUV under $25,000” by Edmunds.com. Additionally it was also named Top compact crossover SUV in dependability by J.D. Power and Associates. With the new CR-V we have a continuation of this winning formula: the model has already earned Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value award for the 2012 model year.
The 2012 Honda CR-V is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile Limited Vehicle Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile Corrosion Limited Warranty.
The CR-V is sold globally in more than 160 countries throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. In the U.S., CR-Vs are manufactured at the Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio from domestic and globally sourced parts.
Rolls-Royce Phantom 102EX was firstly introduced at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Since then the electric luxurious sedan has undergone an intensive programme around the world.
The Phantom 102EX is powered by two electric motors and a single-speed transmission with integrated differential. The total power is 389PS (286 kW) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft), which is 64PS less, but 80Nm more than the original 6.8 liter V12.
The battery consists of 96 lithium-ion cells, which means a capacity of 71 kWh and weight – 640 kg (1411 lbs). The performance is satisfying – 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds and a top speed of 159 km/h (99 mph).
Check out the gallery, where you can see amazing sights from all over the world.
Kicherer Mercedes C63 AMG White Edition is based on the previous C-Class with the 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8.
First, the performance of the powerful engine is boosted to 520PS (382 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque, instead of factories 457PS (336 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft). Originally, the C63 AMG accelerates to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited), but there is no data after the tuning.
The exterior comes with a carbon fiber front grille without Mercedes-Benz emblem, restyled front bumper with black accents and round fog lights. There are also black accents on the rearview mirrors and Kicherer logos on the front doors. At the rear you’ll find a new diffuser and a lip spoiler on the trunk. Last, but not least Kicherer C63 AMG features a stainless steel sports exhaust system and huge 20” alloy wheels with low-profile performance tires.
The interior boasts two-tone Nappa leather seats with nice white stitching and some aluminum accents.
Other upgrades include an adjustable coilover suspension, a limited-slip differential for perfect traction at all conditions and a special high-performance brake system.
Just 10 unit will be produced of Kicherer Mercedes C63 AMG White Edition.
General Motors Company has introduced their latest creation – a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which will have its official debut in the 2013 Cadillac ATS next month at the Detroit Motor Show.
“This engine is the perfect match for the new ATS, which will be a refined performance luxury sedan,” commented Don Butler, Cadillac vice president of Global Marketing.
“The 2.0T has an exceptionally smooth and responsive power curve that will make the ATS nimble, quick and fun to drive.”, he added.
The features direct-injection technology, four-valve-per-cylinder with CVVT, twin-scroll turbocharger, forged-steel crankshaft, and a two-stage variable-displacement oil pump with jet-spray piston cooling. It boasts 273PS (201 kW) and 353Nm (260 lb-ft) of toque at just 1500RPM, which is an impressive 136PS per liter.
Overall engine friction is reduced by up to 16 percent. The low-friction design means engine power is delivered more efficiently.
Proprietary computational fluid dynamics analysis techniques were used to develop an all-new combustion system with a higher compression ratio, which also helped boost efficiency.
Additional details on the ATS will be announced at the 2012 NAIAS. The ATS will be built at the Lansing Grand River plant alongside the Cadillac CTS Sedan, Coupe and Sport Wagon and V-Series performance cars.
GMC 2.0 liter turbo petrol engineGMC 2.0 liter turbo petrol engine
With the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit dangerously close, BMW have kindly offered a glimpse of what their exhibit will look like. So here is a quick summary of what you should be excited about.
BMW 3-Series Sedan – The sixth generation of the compact executive vehicle will be showcased there with an improved design and a new engine lineup. The company is eager to announce that now the new 3 series is around 45 mm wider and 93 mm longer than its predecessor. Despite these stretchy dimensions the sedan has actually managed to lose some weight (40 kg lighter). The trim and equipment level comes in three different categories: Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line.
Initially, customers will have the opportunity to chose from two petrol engines with two diesels coming later the same year. It is important to mention that all power plants will utilize the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo technology
The BMW 328i will carry the new generation 2.0 liter, four-cylinder petrol engine. It will produce 180kW/245 hp and a peak torque of 350Nm (258lb-ft) from as early as 1.250 rpm. That sort of power will give the luxury sedan a 0 to 100km/h (62mph) sprint time of just bellow six seconds. Amazingly enough the stated fuel economy is a generous 44 mpg figure. Keep in mind that all of the trim levels will come with an Auto Start-Stop system as standard.
BMW 3-Series Sedan F30 (2012)
The more power hungry can go for the BMW 335i. It will house a renown 3.0 liter straight-six which develops 225 kW/306 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at just 1,200 rpm. Thus in every single respect the 3 series will outperform their predecessors.
Upon request an 8 gear automatic box can be paired to whichever engine you might chose. This option is claimed to bring benefits in terms of economy and driving experience.
In true BMW spirit the cabin is full with neat gadgets such as a sharp Head-up Display, Active Cruise Control, the Lane Change Warning System and Lane Departure Warning System. A new Driving Experience Control switch not only offers Comfort, Sport and Sport + options, but also ECO PRO mode which will allow drivers to fully optimize their driving in order to achieve stunning fuel economy.
BMW ActiveHybrid 5 – This is something that will make it’s debut on the NAIAS as
the most powerful and efficient full hybrid in its segment. Fuel efficiency and power output are targeted
To provide power, the same engine which can be found in the 335i and 535i is used. However, here it has a co-worker: a 40 kW/55 hp electric motor supplied with energy by a high-performance lithium-ion battery integrated into the luggage area. So that is 250 kW/340 hp overall power which thrusts the ActiveHybrid from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds, limits average fuel consumption to between 6.4 and 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres (44 – 40 mpg imp) and puffs CO2 emissions of just 149 – 163 g/km.
BMW Active Hybrid 5 (2012)
Not surprisingly, it is a very clever this hybrid. When the car is coasting or braking, the motor acts like a generator which in turn charges the high-performance battery pack. However, if you put your foot down, the motor will assist the straight-six petrol powerhouse to give the sort of dynamic boost you do not experience in ordinary cars. Then when you have reached a respectable amount of speed (up to 100 mph) what you can do is to shut down the engine and disengage it from the wheels so that you are back to coasting, using that gathered potential energy as efficiently as possible. You’ll be able to do that with no regrets as all safety features will be fully operational.
BMW M5 – Yes, this sensational performance miracle will also be there. BMW boast about how their new engine (as opposed to the old one) has a 10 percent increase in power and 30 percent increase in torque and that consumption has dropped by 30 percent. This is the first time the company gives a chance to the turbo technology to prove itself better than the pure, naturally-aspired, brute force that was in the previous generations of M5s. As a result now the engine is a V8 rather than a V10 and the displacement is only 4.4 liters but the power is up – 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 – 7,000 rpm, while its maximum torque of 680 Newton meters (502 lb-ft).
BMW M5 F10 (2012)
To handle that massive lump of power, the M5 makes use of a very clever rear axle differential with a variable locking function. It works alongside with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system to ensure the best rear-wheel drive experience there is. The suspension is also notable for its electronically controlled dampers. Dynamic Damper Control uses electro-hydraulic damping force adjustment to provide a set-up suited to the driving situation or the wishes of the driver.
Here is a full list of it’s specifications:
V8 petrol engine, M TwinPower Turbo technology with Twin Scroll Twin Turbo, cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve control.
Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 4.4 seconds, acceleration 0–200 km/h (124 mph): 13.0 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h / 155 mph (305 km/h / 190 mph with M Driver’s Package)
Average fuel consumption: 9.9 litres/100 kilometres (28.5 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions: 232 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5
The i3 and the i8 – No, those are not the latest Apple products although they do have similar visionary ambitions. We are talking about two new concepts which will embody the BMW technological know-how.
The i3 is a fully electric vehicle which is a result of BMW’s commitment to the environment. Suitable for the urban area, the i3 sets new standards for efficient use of materials, light weight technology and long-distance electricity runs. It has a 125 kW/170 hp electric motor which delivers an impressive amount of torque (250 Nm (184 lb-ft) to the rear wheels. It will take you under four seconds to reach 60km/h (37mph) from a standsill and around 8 seconds to reach 100km/h (62mph).
BMW i3 Concept
BMW say it will be spacious and practical too with a boot capacity of 200 liters, and enough space to breathe freely in the cabin.
The more driver oriented i8 is a daring one with some innovative plug-in hybrid technology inside. Along with the electric wizardry that can be find in the i3, the i8 has a rear-mounted, high-performance three-cylinder combustion engine producing 164 kW/220 hp which delivers 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is under five seconds while economy is stated to be three liters per 100 km (approx. 94 mpg imp). It can travel up to 35 kilometres (approx. 20 miles) on electricity alone and it has seating for four. Because of the two motors (the electric one at the front and the petrol one at the back) it has perfect weight distribution and a low center of gravity which is all beneficial to the driving experience.
BMW i8 Concept
For more technological nirvana, be careful not to miss out on anything at NAIAS in Detroit which starts next year, January the 9th.