Auto News – Page 923 – Automobiles Review

Afzal Kahn’s creation – the Wrangler Jeep Military edition

Fed up with the monotony of ordinary life? Unwilling to subdue to the general norms? Well, Afzal Kahn is a leading British designer and recently he has released a masterpiece which might interest you – a Wrangler Jeep Military edition. Being true to his tradition, Afzal has tried to blend mechanical perfection and aesthetic brilliance.

The end result is a lush, gray military beast which will gather attention wherever it goes. As you can see it does look like something taken out from a Terminator movie. Traces of Kahn‘s touch can be seen all around. The brake calipers for example are gold plated while the petrol flat cap is in billet mat black. The number of the exhaust pipes is now a “modest” four and so is the number of the massive mudflaps. Inside the pedals are made from aluminum, there is a sat-navigation and a reverse-view camera. The dashboard resembles a cluster of elegant clocks. Non-surprising additions are the LED driving lights at the front and the branded spare-wheel cover at the back.

If customers feel the need for greater security, the blank rear window sections and LED lights can be made out of bullet-proof glass. And if that is not satisfying enough there’s a higher grade of bullet-proof material that cannot even be found on cars of politicians and other important people.

The interior upholstery is also custom made. What we have here are red quilted leather seats but in general options are limitless – from the darkest of colors to the most extravagant tones, Afzal Kahn does it all.

To complement the flamboyant look, the Wrangler utilizes specially designed Kahn RS wheels. Made using the most up-to-date technology, forged by modern composites, these 20 inch alloys come in black or silver and fit all original center caps. With their fine lines and purposeful design those wheels radiate a sense of style matched by no other.

You can have this mechanical piece of art for the sum of 35,875.00 GBP with either diesel or petrol under the hood and both hand drives as well.

2011 Kahn Wrangler Jeep Military edition

Source: Kahn

December 15, 2011

ASMA Mercedes G55 AMG

ASTHMA? No, Google… It’s ASMA – the German design company which focuses on providing sporty kits to numerous Mercedes-Benz icons. Today, it is the emblematic G-klasse that has went under the knife.

A new bonnet has been introduced with a sublime air-scooping inlet. A front bumper naturally with two daytime LED lights has been installed and the fenders (all of them) have been enhanced for a more menacing look. I fail to see the need for a roof spoiler but they have applied one anyway. The interior looks comfy but I cant get around the fact that as you step in there is a great plush feast waiting for you. Let us hope you do not have any respiratory allergies or asthma even.

Other than that there seem to be no other changes. What do you think?

Source: ASMA Design

December 15, 2011

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Price – £71 449

The new 2012 Porsche 911 will be available in UK showrooms from this weekend (December 17). One lucky participant’s 911 will be turned from virtual dream into reality. You have just to specify your ideal new 911 using the on-line Porsche car configurator and enter your details before midnight on January 31 2012.

The winner will be invited to the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone to drive their perfect 911 on a half-day programme next summer.

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera has superb standard equipment including leather interior, sports seats, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, 4.6” colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and a 3-year warranty.

That’s why the price is not less than £71 449 for a standard car with the least powerful engine.

The Carrera S adds 20” alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear LSD (limited slip differential). You can enjoy all these extra plus a mighty 3.8 liter flat six engine.

The engine range includes 3.4-litre flat-six with 350PS (257 kW), direct injection and optional PDK. It returns astonishing 34.4mpg on combined cycle. The mighty 3.8 liter flat-six for Carrera S boasts 400PS (294 KW). It also can be mated to the optional PDK and returns 32.4 mpg on combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 205 g/km.

The performance is brutal – 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h for Carrera and just 4.3 seconds for Carrera S. These times can be cut 0.2sec with the optional Sport Chrono Pack.

Don’t forget to build you unique 911!

Source: Porsche

December 15, 2011

2012 New Fiat Panda

2012 Fiat Panda - Front Angle
The new 2012 Fiat Panda is a continuation of an invention has its 31-year successful history. Now the third generation of the Panda model springs forth from this heritage. It offers more quality in terms of space, comfort, functionality, technology and safety features. In addition it combines the best features of the first- and second-generation cars. The car will definitely bring satisfaction to customers who want to combine the practical handling of a city car with the space and comfort of a five-door compact car. All this is further improved by the modern and harmonious appearance of the Panda.

Now the third generation Panda has enhanced each of its elements both functionally and with attention to every detail. The result is of great overall harmony, due to applying signs consistent with one another that increase its usability and pleasing design values. First of all, the new car makes maximum use of the interior space, rationalising the dimensions. Nevertheless the car continues to be a very compact one but with slight grow with a few centimetres. This will unquestioningly ensure the attainment of the highest standards of safety and improve the generous level of passenger room.

We are speaking here about a length of 365 centimetres, a width of 164 and a height of 155, and with five doors. In this way the new Panda can comfortably accommodate up to five people. Moreover it has one of the most spacious boots in its segment: 225 litres which become 260 with the sliding rear seat in the fully forward position up to the point of reaching 870 litres with the backrest of the rear seats folded down. The new Fiat Panda conveys freshness and appeal in addition to a strong “Italian style” that makes it instantly recognisable from the very first glance: the slightly convex bonnet joins with the elegant horizontal grille and the new front headlamps with are made this time with rounded shape. Additionally to the interior has been added few graphic patterns which are decorating the door panels and roof of the car.

The Fiat Panda offers maximum freedom of use with its roomy, functional and comfortable passenger compartment that is in no way inferior to that of cars of a higher class. Besides, flexibility has always been one of the model’s strong points, as the new dashboard, various seat configurations and large number of storage compartments. First of all, the new dashboard is designed as a practical multipurpose shell containing a roomy storage “pocket”. Additionally there is a classic glovebox stored in the lower part of the dashboard. To be more precise the dashboard is wrapped up in a colourful frame, radio and main controls. Furthermore is something new around the seats, which make the model more flexible. Firstly, the driver’s seat is available with height adjustment, whereas the front passenger seat can be fitted with a backrest that folds down to form a table. Next, the rear seat is available in the standard 2-seater version with fold-down split backrest or, upon request, in the configurations: 2 seats sliding longitudinally with fold-down 50/50 split backrest, 3 seats with fold-down backrest and 3 seats with fold-down 60/40 split backrest.

The new Panda includes innovative features that simplify and improve life on-board accessible to everyone. Specifically, the vehicle offers sophisticated technological solutions: the “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” braking system and the “Blue&Me TomTom 2 LIVE” navigation system. Furthermore it also includes features such as Start&Stop, Gear Shift Indicator (GSI), ecoDrive and ECO mode of the TwinAir Turbo engine.

What has to be highlighted in this new Panda are the brand new two-cylinder engines equipped with the Start&Stop system as standard: 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo, named “International Engine of the Year 2011”, and the brand new 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir, adopted for the first time. The renewed 69 HP 1.2 Fire petrol engine and the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, also with Start&Stop supplied standard, complete the range of engines.
2012 Fiat Panda - Front View

To go further into details, the 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo is the first of a new family of two-cylinder engines developed by Fiat Powertrain This 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine develops 85 HP (63 kW) at 5500 rpm of full power and a torque of 145 Nm/107 lb-fr at 1900 rpm (constant up to 3000 rpm). Moreover, if you prefer to be “eco” friendy and lower the fuel consumption, you can press the ECO key on the dashboard to limit torque to 100 Nm/74 lb-ft at 2000 rpm. This engine records 4.2 litres/100 km and CO₂emission equal to 99 g/km in the combined cycle. No surprise it was the “International Engine of the Year 2011”. Next is the 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir. Interesting here is that this is Fiats world debut in the “aspirated” version of the TwinAir engine that delivers maximum power of 65 HP (48 kW) at 6250 rpm and a torque of 88 Nm/65 lb-ft at 3500 rpm. All with a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions – the values recorded in the combined cycle are 4.2 l/100 km and 99 g/km, respectively. What is more important is that the performance is comparable to engines of the same power. The thid version is 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, which is the latest evolution of the FIRE family that boasts over 10 million units produced. Thanks to the continuous updates and its flexible architecture, this family of engines remains a point of reference in the category as use of the continuously variable valve timing unit shows, able as it is to optimize valve timing (opening and closing) at all engine speeds. Hence not only the fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are reduced (5.2 litres/100 km and 120 g/km, respectively), but also the performance is increased to ensure torque availability at low rpm (102 Nm/75 lb-ft at 3000 g/min) and power at high rpm (69 HP/51 kW at 5500 g/min). At last comes the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, which has been made with a respect to the environment! The all-new Panda offers the 1.3 MultiJet II (Euro5) with DPF standard will also deliver a driving satisfaction with its maximum output of 75 HP/ 55 kW at 4000 rpm and a torque of 190 Nm/140 lb-ft at just 1500 rpm.

The new model of the car will be available with front-wheel drive. Next, the Panda 4×4 will make a debut offering 3 trim levels – Pop, Easy and Lounge – 10 body colours, 9 interior environments, 2 hub caps and 2 14″ and 15″ alloy wheels. Of course, the new contents will include the “Blue&Me TomTom LIVE”. The innovative optional LSCM (Low Speed Collision Mitigation) braking system will become also available. In details, this system can detect an obstacle present nearby and automatically brake at speeds slower than 30 km/h.

Fiat has though for the safety and security of the driver and the passengers too. To guarantee them, the new Panda combines a body designed according to the most modern criteria with active and passive safety content that ensures its optimum performance. The safety performance was designed by the designers and the Fiat Safety Centre after examining all possible types of collisions: front and side impacts, roll-over, pile-up and collisions with pedestrians. Various speeds at which impact may occur were also taken into consideration as well as different types of obstacles and different types of occupants with greatly varying physical characteristics. And to guarantee the protection of the occupants, the new Panda offers 4 airbags standar, ABS complete with B.A.S. (Brake Assist System), front seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter. Depending on the markets and versions, the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) complete with Hill Holder system. At last, the new “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” system is an innovative active safety feature, which is capable of recognising obstacles in front of the car and of braking automatically when the driver fails to avoid the collision. The control unit of this LSCM system is designed to activate automatic braking, following a request by the laser sensor, in addition to being designed to request a reduction in the torque from the engine control unit if the accelerator pedal has not been released. The aim of Fiat is with the help of this LSCM system to guarantee maximum safety in all conditions of use!

2012 Fiat Panda - Side Angle

	Pop / Easy / Lounge
	1.2 8v 69 HP	1.3 MultiJet 75 HP Stop&Start	0.9 85 HP TwinAir Stop&Start	0.9 65 HP TwinAir Stop&Start
ENGINE
No. of cylinders and arrangement	4L	4L	2L	2L
Diameter x stroke (mm)	70.8 x 78.9	69.6 x 82	80.5 x 86	83.5×88.0
Displacement (cm³)	1242	1248	875	964
Compression ratio	11.1	16.8	10	11.2
Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm	51 (69) at 5500 rpm	55 (75) at 4000 rpm	63 (85) at 5500 rpm	65 (48) at 6250 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm	102 at 3000 rpm	190 at 1500 rpm	145 at 1900 rpm	88 at 3500 rpm
Timing system (drive)	Belt	Chain	Chain	Chain
Power supply	P	DS	P	P
Ignition	Controlled	Through compression	Controlled	Controlled
TRANSMISSION
Drive	C514 MT	C510 DS MT	C514 MT	C514 MT
Clutch	Mechanical	Hydraulically operated	Hydraulically operated	Mechanical
Transmission: 1^st	4.100	4.273	4.100	4.100
2^nd	2.158	2.238	2.158	2,158
3^rd	1.480	1.444	1.345	1.345
4^th	1.121	1.029	0.974	0.974
5^th	0.897	0.767	0.766	0.766
6^th	–	–	–	–
Reverse	3.818	3.909	3.818	3.818
Final reduction ratio	3.438	3.150	3.867	4.500
STEERING SYSTEM
Type	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering
Turning circle (m)	9.3	9.3	9.3	9.3
BRAKES – D (disc) – T (drum)
Front: mm	D257X12	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X12
Rear: mm	T203	T203	T203	T203
SUSPENSION
Front	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember
Rear	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (mm)	2300	2300	2300	2300
Front/rear track (mm)	1409	1409	1409	1409
Front/rear track (mm)	1407	1407	1407	1407
Length / Width / Height (m)	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1553
VDA luggage capacity (litres)(standard – rear sliding seat forward – backrest folded down)	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870
WHEELS
Tyres	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T
(*) = Optional	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T
Space-saver wheel opt. 803	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M
ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT (12 V)
Battery capacity (Ah)	40 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)
WEIGHT – CAPACITIES
*(TYPE-APPROVED WEIGHTS)*
Service weight DIN (kg)	940	1035	975	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Fuel tank capacity (litres)	37	37	37	37
Payload including driver	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Payload including driver	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Max towing weight	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	900 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed (km/h)	164	168	177	159
Acceleration (sec.): 0 – 100 km/h	14.2	12.8	11.2	15.7
CONSUMPTION EEC (l/100km)
According to Directive 1999/100/EC
Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle	6.7/4.3/5.2	4.7/3.5/3.9	5.0/3.8/4.2 (2)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
CO₂(g/km)	120	104	99	99

1) Only for TwinAir with ECO button pressed:

Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm			57 (77.5) at 5500 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm			100 at 2000 rpm

2) MTA version:

Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle			4.8/3.7/4.1
CO₂(g/km)			95

Source: FIAT

December 15, 2011

Gta Spano At The Madrid Supersportcars Exhibit

From November the 16^th till the 8^th of January a great event will take place. Yes, we are talking about the exhibit “Supersportscars, the best cars in the world”! More importantly here is that super car GTA Spano will be presented at this exhibition. After the great success it achieved last month at Top Marques Macau, which is one of the most luxury trade fairs worldwide, now the GTA Spano is ready to conquer Madrid. This event will be held in the IFEMA trade fair, where we can assure you you have the possibility to see of the best supersporcars of all times!

The exhibit will cover the huge area of more than 5,000 m² in order to host 45 supersportscars. The latter will be distributed according to countries – Spain, Italy, the UK, Germany, the USA and France). Of course GTA Spano will be the Spanish representative at IFEMA, along with Pegaso Z102. To make it more exciting, the event will offer activities such as F1 simulators, scalextric models and single-seater cars.

And to make a better difference in the world, a percentage of the amount of money collected at this trade fair will be given to the Theodora Fundation, which attempts to make childrens’ stays in hospital more human.

Source: GTA Motor

December 15, 2011

2013 Encore Crossover to Join Buick

Today is a big day for all Buick fans! If you wonder why and you still haven’t heard the news, well it is the confirmation of Buick of the introduction of the 2013 Encore. The debut of the all-new, five-passenger crossover will take place at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicle named Encore joins the growing family of Buick, which has recently has expanded with the additions of the Verano compact luxury sedan, the Regal GS sport sedan, and fuel-efficient eAssist “light electrification” technology on both LaCrosse and Regal.

Concerning the details we have about the all-new 2013 Encore, there just a few shared. All we know for now is that the vehicle will offer contemporary styling, signature QuietTuning technology, and a lot of exciting features. If you want to have additional information, you will have to wait till the 10^th of January when Encore will be revealed.

And for the fans there will be little teaser every week. To be more precise for the interested, this week, a new Encore tab on www.facebook.com/buick will feature a covered photograph of the vehicle. Moreover each week leading up to the reveal, Buick will uncover a section of the photo. Eventually the final photograph will be revealed the same morning Encore takes the stage at the Cobo Center in Detroit.

Undeniably the expectations are great, because we are familiar with Buick, which is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive and efficient performance. Stay tuned at www.facebook.com/buick.

Souce: Buick

December 15, 2011

2012 Audi Q7 3.0 TDI S Line Plus – 204PS

Audi has made a strong move to take a large percent from the SUV market. The release of the new 2012 Q7 3.0 TDI S line Plus with 204PS is right on target. Usually the big SUVs suffer from high fuel consumption, but the new Q7 3.0 TDI boasts whopping 7.2 liters / 100 km (39mpg) on combined cycle.

The price of Q7 3.0 TDI equipped with 8-speed tiptronic gearbox starts at £39 995 OTR and the top of range S Line Plus is priced at £49 120.

The newly developed 3.0 TDI delivers 204PS (150 kW) at 3200RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) at just 1250RPM. The performance is very good – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 204 km/h (127 mph). The results are thanks to revised camshafts, turbocharger and advanced common-rail system with an injection pressure of 2 000 bar.

The power is put on the road through Quattro AWD system channeling a 40% of the torque to the front and 60% to the rear wheels.

2012 Audi Q7 is available in four trim levels – Standard, SE, S line and the new S line Plus.

The S line Plus includes 21” alloy wheels, metallic paint, tinted privacy glass from the B-pillar rearwards, running boards and powered tailgate.

The interior boasts Verano leather upholstery, 7-seats, HDD-based SAT NAV system, Bluetooth phone preparation with online services giving access to Google Earth navigation mapping and creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for in-car internet access, Audi Music Interface iPod connection linked to an upgraded speaker system and the Audi Parking System Advanced with reversing camera.
Check out the price list, below!

The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro 204PS – UK OTR pricing

3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic Standard	£39,995 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic SE	£42,960 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic S line	£44,620 OTR
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed tiptronic S line Plus	£49,120 OTR

Source: Audi

December 14, 2011

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new 2013 SL-class. The sports car features an all-aluminum bodyshell, which means more rigidity and less weight. Furthermore, the folding metal roof has a magnesium frame cutting more weight compared to the previous model. The new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor, sacrificing some of the weight saved through the aluminum bodyshell as a result.

The exterior of 2013 SL is entirely reworked and looks kind of … different. It features a ventilated hood and a single bar grille. The Bi-xenon headlamps come with active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps as a standard feature. There is also an Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The striking sidelights and the horizontal line of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology. At the rear, the new SL features LED taillights and a dual exhaust system.

Aerodynamics – new standards

The design of the new SL is not only aesthetically beautiful, it also boasts outstanding aerodynamic characteristics, giving the roadster top marks in its segment in three crucial areas:

• the lowest wind noise, virtually on par with a closed sedan;
• the best comfort during open-air driving, meaning the roof can stay down evenat high speed;
• virtually no accumulation of dirt on the side windows.

The interior boasts finest leather upholstery, a choice of two wood trims and metallic accents. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car. The dashboard features round air vents and a new FrontBass audio system.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque, which grants 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and exceptional fuel consumption of just 6.8 liters per 100 km (41.5 mpg). The top-of-range SL500 has a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 delivering 435PS (320 kW) and astonishing 699Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The SL is the world’s safest roadster, thanks to the collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard equipment that includes PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST, plus further assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 14, 2011

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car Price – $98 995

Here is a nice offer – 2012 Ford Focus for $98 995. Is it impossible to spend all that money to tune a 2012 Ford Focus ST? Actually, the answer is yes, you can. If you check the full specifications below, you’ll get the idea, why the new Ford Focus ST-R Race Car is so expensive.

The vehicle is specially developed to comply with FIA regulations and it will take place at the Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series.

The Focus ST-R is currently available for order and deliveries are scheduled to begin late next year.

There is no performance data, but the 2.0 liter turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine will deliver a serious amount of power. The factory power is 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Ford Focus ST-R features a FIA-compliant roll cage, an LSD (limited slip differential), stripped interior with one Recaro front seat, racing steering wheel, racing instrument panel, start console and 18” BBS light alloy wheels fitted with Hoosier racing tires.

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car - Front Angle

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car

Powertrain

Ford Racing custom exhaust
Ford Racing engine calibration
Ford Racing high capacity radiator
Ford Racing clutch
Ford Racing oil to air oil cooler
Remote oil filter
6-speed manual transmission with Ford Racing limited-slip differential

Chassis

Seam-welded steel unibody with integrated FIA certified safety cage.
Structural perofrmance: over 20,000 lb.-ft/degree (torsional)

Front Suspension

AST performance coilover adjustable dampers
Adjustable camber plates
Ford Racing upgraded sway bar with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Rear Suspension

AST performance adjustable dampers
Control-blade multilink rear suspension
Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Brakes

Front brakes 320 mm with 2-piece rotors and race pads
Production rear brakes with race pads
Ford ABS with unique Ford Racing calibration

Wheels & Tires

18″ BBS CF 1 piece cast alloy wheel (Anthracite)
Hoosier 225/40-18 R6 race tires

Fuel System

ATL 18 gallon fuel cell with custom single dry break system

Exterior

2012 Focus ST body kit
Brake cooling ducts
Hood pins

Interior

Ford Racing lightweight wiring harnesses
Recaro Pro Racer HANS racing Seat
AIM MXL Pista GPS based data system
Ford Racing short throw shifter
Ford Racing fire suppression system
Ford Racing 6-point safety harness
Ford Racing driver safety nets
Ford Racing steering wheel with quick release
Custom carbon fiber center panel with switches

Source: Ford via Car & Driver

December 14, 2011

STARTECH Adds Caviar To An Already Seasoned Meal

STARTECH, which is a subsidiary to BRABUS (and we all know them), have been toying with the new Jaguar XJ and the results are rather sublime and tasteful.

The makeover is mainly cosmetic which includes a finely designed aerodynamic kit, bulky 21 inched forged rims and a custom made interior.

The XJ is already striking enough as it is, with that sloping, gentle roof line which seems as if it is blending with the taillights. So STARTECH has decided that it only needs a few alterations for the ultimate aesthetic nirvana. Now at the very end of the trunk, an elegant lip spoiler can be seen. All aerodynamic-enhancement components are manufactured in OEM quality.

The front of the car for example receives a minor addition (not a replacement) for the bumper. It is an curvy, meshed apron which reduces air-lift and with its constantly luminous LEDs one can say that improves day to day safety. The fenders are audaciously garnished with strikingly big air outlets on which one can spot the STARTECH logos (the first solid proof of the company’s involvement). At the opposite end of the side sills small elegant details, just before the rear wheel arches, finish the sporty look that has been started by the outlets. In turn the back end is garnished with a new fascia which houses a diffuser and two integrated panels with a typical STARTECH design. There can also be found the stainless-steel, company provided, rear mufflers.

2012 STARTECH Jaguar XJ — STARTECH Jaguar XJ (2011)

Since there is a lot of space under the wheel arches, STARTECH has gone the extra mile by fitting their Monostar J Diamond Edition wheels – three-piece forged monstrosities which come in sizes 9.0Jx21 and 10.5Jx21. They bare a mirror-polish shine with patches of titanium-look which complete the overall exterior of the Jag. Because of their lightness and durability and the extra wide tires on them (255/35 ZR 21 at the front and 295/30 ZR 21 at the back), they offer greater stability and control.

STARTECH also excels in different Alcantra and leather design. In this case, because of the XJ’s black exterior, they have gone for the cream-colored interior made from the soft and breathable Mastik type of leather.

The two independent seats at the back are electrically heated and the legroom in front of them is bathed in light which comes from the sides of the elegant, compartment riddled, center console.

More than 5 000 meters of thread has gone for the stitching of the seams on the dashboard, the leather flooring and the seat upholstery design. Great effort has been made by the STARTECH refinement team when it comes to the elaborate wood trim for the interior – Black, glossy polished piano wood was meticulously adorned by hand with ship-veneer-type inlays.

It is not all 19^th century appeal though. Inside there is an integrated Apple iPad docking station with a bluetooth keyboard for it. Internet is not a problem as well – A 20 MBit/s GSM modem provides a high-speed internet connection via EDGE, HSDPA or HSPA+ protocols. Several passengers can communicate online at any time using a WLAN network available in and around the car. This car is more of a command center than it is a vehicle – in times of war I think I’ll give STARTECH a call.

Source: STARTECH

December 14, 2011

Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in and C-MAX Hybrid to Freshen Up the Market

Ford has announced that two new, super economy MAVs (Multi Activity Vehicles) are set to go on sale during the second half of 2012: So welcome to the C-MAX Energi (spelled correctly) plug-in hybrid and the C-MAX Hybrid. They are both expected to trash their counterparts in terms of economy – The Toyota Prius plug in hybrid and the Toyota Prius v respectively

It is not so much of a surprise that this is the next phase of the company’s plan to target more fuel-efficiency-minded customers. Here is what Amy Machesney, the C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi Marketing manager had to say:

“The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi are designed to meet the needs of customers looking to ‘plus-up’ and optimize their hybrid car experience. These customers are living more environmentally responsible lives and may have bought a hybrid in the past. They are now ready for more hybrid choice, combined with style, better performance and additional versatility.”

See, Ford’s goal for 2012 is to have a third of it’s whole lineup to consist of 40 mpg and above capable vehicles. For that to happen they need to triple production capacity of its electrified vehicle range. In North America, the C-MAX Energi and Hybrid will be only two out of five scheduled electrified debuts.

With many years of experience behind, Ford is not banging rocks together here. They have around 500 patents all relating to hybrid technology and hundreds more waiting in line. They have an abundant stock of data gathered from their Ford Espace plug-in hybrid test fleet. The software and hardware which represent the C-MAX nervous system has had more than 20 years of research and innovation. Everything is done in-house to ensure a perfect, synchronized efficiency system. And now the vessels of that technology are the C-MAX platforms which have been a major success on the European market since their launch in 2010 with over 100 000 units sold. Even the place where they will be making them is a high-tech utopia – Ford’s assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan which is partially powered by the state’s larges solar system.

The C-MAX Hybrid should hit better urban and extra urban mpg than its equivalent, the Toyota Prius v. while the C-MAX Plug-in hybrid will have a driving range of more than 500 miles, more than the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid or Chevrolet Volt. And it is also claimed that the driving experience will remain exciting.

“With C-MAX, you get road-holding capability, sportiness and performance in addition to leading fuel economy, great versatility, great features and great technology in a package designed to exceed customer expectations.” says John Davis, C-MAX chief nameplate engineer. If all that turns out to be true, no doubt that Ford will skyrocket to the leading position of the fuel economy race.

So what wizardry will they employ to achieve this? As expected from hybrids, the power for both of the C-MAX MAVs comes from a combination of a petrol engine and an electric motor. The gasoline unit is an already efficient yet powerful 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine. It is one of Ford’s cleverest naturally aspirated engines ever. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs which can be up to 50 percent lighter and 30 percent smaller than the nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) ones used in previous generation hybrids.

The C-MAX hybrids utilize Ford’s next generation powersplit system which allows the engine and the motor to work separately or at the same time. Alternatively, the petrol unit can be left to idle independently in order to charge the driving electric motor. Under proper conditions (light load, low speeds), the electric motor alone will be capable to bring power to the wheels.

The C-MAX Hybrid’s battery pack can be recharged while the engine is running and while braking. 95% of the energy, that is usually wasted upon braking, is now channeled towards the battery and hence the difference between the Hybrid and the Energi plug-in. The Energi needs charging in a standard 120-volt outlet or at a 240-volt charging station.

All that technology needs to be converted in figures for the driver to see. This is where gadgets like SYNC® and MyFord Touch® com into place. It is a complex interface system that allows the smooth and efficient operation of things such as climate control, navigation, the entertainment system. It is all very accessible too as the driver can manage all that with voice commands as well as controls on the steering wheel and touch screens and buttons and knobs etc. To further inform abut the mode of driving and economy there is the thing called SmartGauge® which employes EcoGuide – a thingamajig on the dashboard that offers instant fuel economy while there are also indications about average economy. Efficient braking advisory system called Brake Coach helps you optimize the use of the regenerative units by braking as efficiently as possible. In the C-MAX Energi you can even utilize your smartphone or your computer which will then tell you all kinds of information about the remaining charge and distance so you never run out of juice prematurely. Then there’s the standard stuff like active park assist, start button and AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony® Audio, HD Radio™.

The appeal grows even more as we keep mind that the C-MAXes are practical as well. We get loads of space inside (slightly less in the C-MAX Energi), an overall height of 64 inches for each vehicle so that good for headroom, and seating for five including the split, fold-flat second-row seat. Access to the cargo area is made easy because of an innovative hands-free liftgate. All you need is a key fob to be somewhere near the car (ideally your pocket) so that the cars knows it is okay to open and than a gentle kick under the rear bumper will trigger the door.

Let us not forget to mention that safety has also been addressed with numerous features that come as standard. Seven airbags and a direct line with 911 emergency services vie the SYNC 911 Assist™

program can be very handy in an accident. Should you lend your car to your rebellious teenage kid but worry about speeding. Well worry no more because the MyKey® system allows parents to set a speed limit and restrict radio stations with explicit content. There is also a constant nag system that can tell if someone in the car is not wearing a seat belt. What comes as standard also are the Curve Control, that is designed to slow the vehicle when it’s cornering too fast, the Torque Vectoring Control, which helps accelerate through a turn when necessary. AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC) and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) are also included.

Source: Ford

December 14, 2011

Canada to Get Electrified by Nissan

Nissan Canada has announced that now it will be possible for the Canadian people to pre-order the 2012 Nissan LEAF MY12 online. Earlier on only the registered at www.nissan.ca/leaf had the privilege to do so. However reservations are now open to all Canadians who live within the vicinity (65 km) of a certified Nissan LEAF dealer. There are 27 dealers across Canada so quite a few people will have the chance to snatch one.

The first shipment of 40 MY11 LEAFs was ravaged within minutes last summer and the trend has remained as the following 350 units of MY12 LEAFs being reserved this fall. And now numbers are sure to go up as even more people will have the opportunity to order those all-electric rascals .

Here’s what Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing, Nissan Canada had to say:

“The feedback we’ve received from Nissan LEAF owners in Canada has been incredible with many sharing their journey and experience through social media.” She continues: “As more people live with and share their experience of all-electric mobility, particularly with the Nissan LEAF, more and more Canadians will consider this as an exciting option for their next vehicle. Opening reservations to the broader public is an important step in the roll-out of the car in Canada.”

As of the end of November over 110 Nissan LEAFs have been delivered to customers in Canada and globally, over 20,000 Nissan LEAFs have been sold. Their price starts at $38,395 but buyers will be eligible for tax return which varies depending on their area: $8,500 in Ontario, $8,000 in Quebec and $5,000 in British Columbia

This is how to make a reservation online:

On December 12th online reservations opened to those living within the vicinity of a Nissan LEAF certified dealer at leaf.nissan.ca.
A $99 reservation fee (fully refundable) is required to secure a reservation.
After booking a home-charging assessment, customers will receive an invitation to order a Nissan LEAF.
Customers request a quote from a local Nissan LEAF-certified dealer and will continue through the sales process until they drive away in their own Nissan LEAF.

Source: Nissan

December 14, 2011

Category: Auto News