Auto News – Page 924 – Automobiles Review

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Goodies For Your VW Amarok

Ever felt that your VW Amarok is not practical enough nor it is as impressive as you want it to be. Or maybe you are simply gearing up for a safari. Either way you shouldn’t panic because Cobra Technology & Lifestyle are here to offer you a neat array of accessories which will give your pickup truck that extra something to complete the picture.

Let us start with the Aeroklas camper shell which is manufactured from high-grade ABS plastics. It is a perfect fit for the bed of the Amarok (it also comes with a certificate that makes individual technical inspections redundant) and basically what it does is to fend off the elements from the things you value the most. It is also very practical – easy to install, upward swing glass at the back for easy access, roof rails and a spoiler. The shell is leveled with the cabin to prevent any wind noises and provide maximum loading capacity. Usually these rigid tops come in silver or black but other colors are also available upon request.

Additionally, now you can install a Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless-steel front tube guard with a thickness diameter of 60 milometers. Because it has its own crumple zones all crash tests have resulted in a 100% positive green light (it too has a certificate of approval).

On the other hand you can go with the more subtle option of the Cobra CITYGUARD® which is a single stainless-steel tube that runs along the standard front bumper. This will give you just about enough character on the streets and you wont be afraid of minor collisions anymore.

The Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless-steel bumper grille complements whichever guard you might choose.

There is some protection for the sides as well. The rocker panels can be suited with special, company tailored rocker panel guards 80 millimeters thick each. Quite thoughtfully these guards come with steps right beneath the place where the doors should be for easy access. Alternatively, you might prefer the aluminum or stainless steel running boards option.

When the camper shell is not in use, it would be nice to have some sort of a roll bar to protect the cabin should the truck ends up upside down. From Cobra, the engineers have thought about that as well – Tubes with 60 millimeters of diameter lends the German pickup not only more attractive looks but also offers additional options for securing cargo.

For an all round complete feel one must consider placing massive light-alloy wheels. Cobra offers two types of alloys coming in three sizes the biggest of which is the one-piece, eight double-spoked COBRA N+ Sahara 10Jx20 with size 275/45 R 20 tires (TÜV tested)

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle are ready to offer you 2 full years of guarantee with no limit on the distance traveled. Now that is dedication!

Source: Cobra Technology

December 14, 2011

2013 SRT VIPER to be built in Chrysler Group’s Conner Avenue Assembly Plant

More news from Chrysler Group LLC is coming today. Chrysler has announced that it will reopen its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit for the production of the next generation SRT Viper. The Conner facility was vacant since the end of the production of the Dodge Viper in July 2010. The good news is that from Chrysler has also confirmed that in the late 2012 a next generation Viper will return on the market as a 2013 model. To be more precise Conner Avenue will begin the manufacturing of the new Viper in late 2012. Of course Current Chrysler Group will employ firstly the people who previously worked at Conner. And the balance of the positions will be filled by hourly employees volunteering to transfer to the Conner Avenue plant. The aim of the facility is to implement a World Class Manufacturing (WCM). This is a system that is focused on reducing waste and making continuous improvements throughout the assembly process to improve quality and productivity.

To go back in history, Viper production began at first in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant. Then in October 1995 it moved to the Conner Avenue site. What is interesting here is that all Vipers that rolled off the line were hand-built in a low-volume, modular process. Over the range of 15 years, Conner Avenue employees built about 12 vehicles a day for a total of 22,070 Vipers. On the other hand, the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant was built back in the distant 1966 and purchased by Chrysler in 1995. The production of Prowler began in May 1997 and finished in February 2002. Another interesting detail about the factory is that the Viper V-10 engine production was transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Assembly in May 2001. Next comes the year 2003, in which the newly engineered SRT10 Roadster hit the market. In 2005 the production of SRT10 Coupe followed. With a production run of 28,056, the Viper production ended on 2d of July 2010 and as an effect the facility was idled.

Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 with the aim to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A. It produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. In addition with the resources, technology and world-wide distribution network they reach a global scale, using Chrysler Group’s aim for constant innovation. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world’s most recognizable vehicles, such as Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Durango, Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Fiat 500. On the other hand Fiat contributes with a world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including eco-friendly vehicles.

Source: Chrysler

December 14, 2011

VATH V63 SUPERCHARGED 10/10 Test Drive

Most surely you don’t get the chance to test drive a C63 AMG Coupe every day. And more importantly, if such vehicle comes from the factory VATH, you must definitely go with what the moment offers. Here is the attempt to reproduce at least some impressions: having in mind a Porsche, Lamborghini and Ferrari as a stereotype of fast sports cars, lets see what impressions has Vath V63 Supercharged left.

Without a doubt this car has a surplus power according to its operating capabilities. There’s a V8 engine with a compressor system, thank to which you can here a mesmerizing and fascinating sound! And if you want to buy it you will definitely have to consider the neighbors and their high noise tolerance! But I am sure that when you get in the car, you won’t care anymore about such details. This is because the cockpit of a C63 AMG Coupe was subject to additional power increase by VATH. More importantly it comes along with the irresistible power of 680 hp / 500 kW, 840 Nm / 620 lb-ft of torque. And to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h you will have to wait only 4 seconds. The name V63 Supercharged comes from the tuning kit which includes the individual fine-tuning of engine electroincs as well as a compressor system with VATH water intercooling system. Furthermore the oil in the engine and the gearbox is protected by a special cooling system against possible overheating. With this power, it goes almost impeccably given that there is a high-performance brake system with 380-mm rotors at VA installed essentially. There is of course the Castrol SRF brake oil which is being used for maximum braking efficiency. Furthermore the exhaust system along with its manifold is made out of VA stainless steel and consists of a sport end muffler at a throttle control.

To go further into details there is a visible carbon front spoiler and a visible carbon-fiber rear diffuser with enlarged fins, thus resulting in improved aerodynamics and sporty and elegant look. To optimize the stability of the car at high speeds, VATH developed carbon fender for the rear axle which allows widening the track by 80mm.

Considering the traction between the car and the asphalt – there has been included a three-spike 9×20 inch VATH forged rims with 255/30-20 tires at VA or 11×20 inch rims with 295/25-20 tires at the rear. Furthermore the coupe has smooth curves and there is also a Clubsport – coilover suspension, which allows lowering within 20-65 mm. When installed, it is possible to adjust the height and hardness resulting in an optimal and safe handling while maintaining comfort.

What is optional in this modification first is the sports steering wheel covered in leather, which can optionally be installed with wood or carbon applications. Another improvement is the speedometer’s extension which can reach up to 360 km/h. The highest processing precision and perfect fitting by VATH are of course the indispensable must-be option!

Another benefit to be mentioned is that you can drive the V63 Supercharged in city traffic, because it acts like a “normal” car. Moreover it sneaks slightly angry from one traffic light to another one. On the other hand on the highway the things are absolutely different: the car turns into a street legal racing machine which makes the above-mentioned sports cars characteristics utilizable!

The complete tuning price is 64, 308 EUR.

Source: VATH

December 14, 2011

2013 Dodge Dart Interior

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart Interior will undeniably set a brand new high level standard for compact cars. First of all it is a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and Safety. Secondly it amazes with exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes. And at last all mentioned above will allow the highly customizable interior to become reality. Here we can have a sneak peak into the high-tech, precisely crafted and highly customizable interior of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. The vehicle is scheduled to be introduced on 9^th of January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

To keep the interest high enough Dodge designers focused on what is modern nowadays. For example the interior was made with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is going to provide lot of pleasure and delight for both drivers and passengers. For instance the Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is made to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Furthermore there are a customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats, which are packaged in a spacious interior.

The key to this development was the customization in the all-new Dodge Dart. It is being offered with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, six wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions. The good news is that each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every client, in order to match their individuality.

Moreover a class-leading has being used in the all-new Dodge-Dart. The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive UConnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia center. In addition the glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad. In the center console there are as a feature auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as console map pockets, which are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pen and paper. Further optimizations are the ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders. They are definitely useful, and moreover they also provide a good warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.

At last the security and safety of the car is unmatched in its class. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was built on a strong foundation: in the construction is included 68 percent high-strength steel. Moreover engineers have added both active and passive safety features such as 10 standard airbag, blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.

Source: Chrysler

December 14, 2011

2012 Gas-Free Ford Focus Electric

Another huge manufacturer to go “green” is no surprise – FORD. The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is the first Ford model which is all-electric passenger car with zero-CO₂-emissions. This version of Ford’s popular small car has the ability to achieve the equivalent of 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five persons. In addition the vehicle is also a pioneer in the class of all-electric cars which is going to feature a faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours. In comparison the Nissan Leaf charges for a double time! Hence, this technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging numerous times. Another advantage of the above mentioned improvement is that it can help clients save money! A benefit to be seriously considered, isn’t it?

For the 2012 Ford Focus Electric orders have already being taken. They have started in November through Certified Electric Vehicle Dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets. But don’t worry if you want to purchase it, because in the forthcoming 2012 the availability of the vehicle will expand to another 15 markets.

Ford had put 20 years of research of the innovations in electrified cars, some of which can be seen in the presented one. The aim of the manufacturers however, is to bring the customers fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or dynamic driving experience. Moreover Ford Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.

First to be highlighted here is Focus Electric’s advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery system with an advanced active liquid cooling and heating system to precondition and regulate the temperature in its larger, more complex battery system. To be more precise the active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. What this loop does is to regulate the temperature throughout the system against the external conditions. For instance on hot days, chilled liquid absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On the other hand, on cold days, heated liquid warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system’s temperature number, which allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for the car’s performance. Another innovation that is to be mentioned is the endurance and the long life of the batteries. Interesting is that exactly around this feature Ford has made numerous tests and developments since 1980s. Up to nowadays, among the nearly 43 million battery cells Ford has tested or seen put to work in customer vehicles, only five issues have been documented.

To keep up with the trend, which is to go green and be more fuel efficient, Ford has developed Focus Electric. Moreover it has a unique option “set it and forget it”, which concerns the value charging and is powered by Microsoft. What it does is to notify owners to charge their cars when the utility rates are lower. The goal here is to help customers avoid unnecessary expenses by providing an improved charging solution. The highlight here is that Ford Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle which offers a faster charging technology, allowing a full recharge in three to four hours with the 240-volt charge station! Next innovation that has been included in the vehicle is a result of the collaboration between Ford and SunPower Corp. They offer customers a rooftop solar system that can provide enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the car. No doubt that this brand new technology is going to be very appealing to all concerned about the environment! Furthermore the car’s charge port, which is located on the left front fender, activates a light ring that illuminates the port twice when plugged in. Then the light ring illuminates in quadrants as the car charges, where each quadrant represents 25 percent of the maximum battery charge. You can plug off the car when the entire ring is solidly lit, then the car is fully charged and ready to be driven.

Another benefit comes from Focus Electric’s SYNC^®with MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology, which was specifically developed for electric car owners and shows important information. Next, the system’s MyView feature allows the accessibility of more vehicle data. Drivers can also enter destinations, including their next charge point, into the car’s MyFord Touch map-based navigation system. In this way the car will instruct drivers on the perfect way to access the desired range, or will give an advice if travel plans need to be changed. Furthermore the on-board navigation system provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient electric vehicle driving. Going further into the innovations, we have to mention the Focus Electric’s next-generation SmartGauge^® with EcoGuide fuel economy coaching system. It features a cluster display that uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond the driver’s charge point destination. For example, the more butterflies there are, the more surplus you have to get to your final destination. An easy and fun way to be reminded, isn’t it? And at the end of each trip, a display screen provides the distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings.

As every up-to-date car, Ford Focus Electric has a remote control with which the owners will have constant contact with the car anywhere they have a mobile phone signal. This is going to be possible through the use Ford-developed MyFord^® Mobile application, which enables access via a smartphone or Web-based interface. For example, with this feature you can receive instant vehicle status information or perform key functions remotely, monitor the car’s state of charge and current range or get alerts when the car requires charging or has finished charging. You can even locate charge stations and plan routes to find them! Furthermore the feature also allows the owner to program the car to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the cabin while plugged in. As an instance, during hot days, the car can be programmed the evening before to be fully charged and fully cooled to a particular temperature by a specific time the next morning. Using the MapQuest^®, MyFord Mobile can access charge station information and other points of interest to Focus Electric.

And if you wonder about the driving experience here are some details you need to know. First of all, the all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration. The maximum speed you can achieve is 84 mph (136 kmh). Furthermore the steering, handling and braking feel is shared with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered five-door hatchback Focus model upon which it’s based. Having all this in mind and along with it, the vehicle’s absence of gasoline or diesel engine and its outstanding aerodynamics result to a quiet, comfortable driving experience. Ford of course have thought about the safety, and has featured in the vehicle six airbags, electronic traction control and MyKey^®for North America. Moreover the vehicle is a pioneer in the100 percent sustainable clean technologies, used in interior materials. They include seat fabrics with REPREVE^®–branded fiber made from recycled plastic bottles in the seat fabric. Another feature that comes as a standard are the 15-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels, a 60/40 split rear bench seat, push-button start, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony^® Audio with nine speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio^™. There is a free, three-year subscription to SYNC Services as well. They will provide every driver with the access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings, along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.

Source: FORD

December 14, 2011

Techart 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera

The new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and S models have received a full tuning package from TechArt. The modifications include exterior modification and individualization of the interior.

The tuned 2012 Porsche 911 features TechArt styling packages in carbon fibre or custom colour as well as TechArt sport tailpipes made of polished stainless steel. There are also sets of wheels in dimensions from 20 to 21” in two styles – TechArt Formula light alloy wheels and TechArt Formula III forged light alloys.

Inside, the stylish sports car boasts full leather interior with decorative stitching in custom colour. There are also custom floor mats, illuminated door entry guards with illuminated TECHART logotype or individual personalized logotype, 3-spokes sport steering wheel with paddles shifters, instrument dials in custom colour, a set of aluminum sport pedals and styling packages in carbon fibre or custom colour.

Techart 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera with TECHART Aerodynamic Kit I will be exhibited at the the Geneva Motor Show.

Check out the specs, below!

TECHART 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S

Exterior

TECHART styling packages in carbon fibre or custom colour

TECHART sport tailpipes, dual oval tube, made of polished stainless steel, with TECHART logotype

TECHART sport tailpipes, dual round tube, made of polished stainless steel, with TECHART logotype

Wheels

TECHART Formula light alloy wheels in 20- and 21-inch

TECHART Formula III forged light alloy wheels in 20- und 21-inch

Interior

TECHART full leather interior

Decorative stitching in custom colour

TECHART floor mats

TECHART illuminated door entry guards with illuminated TECHART logotype or individual personalized logotype

TECHART 3-spokes sport steering wheel

TECHART paddles shifters

TECHART instrument dials in custom colour

TECHART aluminum sport pedals

TECHART aluminum foot rest

TECHART styling packages in carbon fibre or custom colour

Source: TechArt

December 14, 2011

TopCar Porsche Cayenne II Vantage Carbon Edition

TopCar has released Porsche Cayenne Vantage 2 Carbon Edition. It is based on Porsche Cayenne II Turbo.

The SUV is entirely reworked in order to get unique exterior and interior. Outside the vehicle boasts complete body kit including front and rear bumpers, fender flairs, a pair of side skirts, modified hood, roof spoiler and liftgate spoiler. Everything is finished in carbon fiber gray giving the big vehicle a unique aggressive look. The stance is further improved by lowering the vehicle and adding a new set of wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior is also staggering with the carbon fiber trim all over the place – door panels, steering wheel, gear lever, center console, dashboard, seats, etc. There is also a set of TopCar pedals.

Last, but not least, Cayenne Vantage 2 Carbon Edition has some engine modifications – an ECU re-map, a new high-flow air filter, sport exhaust system. There is no data for the result, but originally the mighty 4.8 liter twin-turbo V8 has 500PS (368 kW) and accelerates to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds.

The vehicle will be exhibited in Moscow from 16^th to 19^th December.

TopCar Porsche Cayenne II Vantage Carbon Edition

TopCar Porsche Cayenne II Vantage Carbon Edition (Interior)

Source: TopCar

December 13, 2011

Anderson S8 Venom Edition

Audi has been a major player in the luxury class for over sixteen years now. It all started with the arrival of the A8 which carried some image-defining technology such as permanent all-wheel-drive and a body made from aluminium. Today it is a worthy adversary against the giants from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Now the Audi S8 (the performance edition of A8) has undergone an impressive makeover supervised by the capable ANDERSON Germany. Say hello to the S8 Venom Edition. Let us start with the paint – the overall body is in satin grey matte while various bits and pieces such as the radiator grill, the logos, the door handles and the panels are in glossy black. The added body kit consists of a front apron which has LED lights, a rear one as well and also a pair of side skirts. The fenders now house two striking air intakes while the tinted windows and tail lights in turn, give a certain menacing look to the car. Noticeably lowered, the S8 sits on four massive 265 tires with shiny black callipers peaking out from the 22 inch rims. Carbon fibre is applied on the side view mirrors, tail flapper and the grille frame.

Anderson Germany Audi A8 Venom Edition (2011)

The carbon trend continues inside as well as the exclusive sports steering wheel, door panels and the centre consoles are all deliciously garnished with fibres. Otherwise the interior is a feast of grey leather and light grey Alcantra (a unique and innovative covering material). There is also something for the teenager in all of us (or our kids I suppose) – A neat sound system complimented with headrest monitors and a Playstation 3.

ANDERSON is not all about style and glamour. Yes, now you can adjust the sounding of the exhaust pipes with a remote control but they have also fiddled with their weight and thus increased the power by 16hp. Not only that but they have also tuned the engine management system, fitted a sports filter and a racing catalyst and the result is 442bhp as opposed to 350bhp.

Undeniably, ANDERSON Germany is working for the image of the A8 which already is underneath the spotlight thanks to a number of appearances in the media and politics.

Source: Anderson Germany

December 13, 2011

RIEGER makeover for Audi TT

German auto-design and tuning house RIEGER is preparing for its 25^th anniversary next year so we decided it is worth gaining a bit of insight on their works.

In the beginning it was only a man named Tony Rieger and his garage. 25 years later Rieger Tuning is a corporation with more than 40 employees. It’s main focus is production of body accessories and aerodynamic parts for cars from the European market.

And now they have an abundant array of body parts for your Audi TT S-line. The front spoiler comes with two black honeycomb mesh air-intakes and an air splitter which can either be shipped in ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or in a specially ordered carbon fibre look (but not really in carbon fibre). In fact almost all the other parts of the body kit have this carbon look option. The side skirts look very sporty with an air duct at their back end. The same goes for the rear valance which looks like an extension to the side skirts because of the similar ducts at it’s ends. As we move on to the rear bumper, which by the way can house park distance control sensors upon order, we can notice another two distinctive vents.

Trunk and rooftop spoilers can be added for a sportier look and it goes without saying that low profile tires wrapped around 20 inch rims can only enhance the appeal. The cherry on top is the vertical lift door conversion kit but it will set you back with $ 2666.

Everything is all very cosmetic but the end result does stir up the little boy inside each and every one of us. So one can easily be tempted to review their price list (It is revised to celebrate the anniversary!)

Source: RIEGER

December 13, 2011

Lexus Has New Concept In Mind

Lexus has announced (teased) that a new concept will be unveiled on the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. One thing is for sure – it is styled by Calty which is the company’s design studio in Newport Beach, California. Also Lexus has released this teaser pick on which we can only guess. It certainly looks like a sports car.

Needless to remind you that back in 2010, the company tried to break away from its comfort and luxury image by stunning the world with the Lexus LFA. It was very impressive with a 4.8 litre engine developing more than 550bhp. So small wonder that now Lexus is planning to continue the trend.

What we see here are some sharp, aggressive lines that form a low, extended nose. Naturally there is some carbon fibre visible right along a massive opening which supposedly will cool down the brakes. Just a patch of the front grille can be seen but enough to assume that it will provide proper airflow to the engine

Lexus Concept (teased) — Lexus Concept (teaser)

Speculators see resemblance to the Toyota GT-86, while others predict this will be the replacement of the Lexus SC. Whatever it is, if it turns out to be nearly as good as the LFA, Lexus will be one step closer to the performance Valhalla.

More information is expected next week.

Source: Lexus

December 13, 2011

Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel – World Record

An epic journey was completed by Rainer Zietlow and his team driving Volkswagen Touareg 3.0-litre V6 TDI Clean Diesel. The Carretera Panamericana race took 11 days, 17 hours and 22 minutes and a total of 22 750 kilometres on the route between Tierra del Fuego and Alaska.

Zietlow and his team passed through 17 countries as well as most of the Earth’s climate and vegetation zones in the record drive, which has been certified by the TÜV Nord testing organisation.

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Clean Diesel SUV proved its efficiency in extreme conditions of heat, heavy rain, sandstorms or snow. The Eco-friendly vehicle has a 3.0 liter V6 TDI with 225PS (165 kW) at 3500RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque at just 1750RPM. The power is put on the road through 4MOTION AWD system. Besides the heavyweight and the all-wheel-drive system, the SUV offers class leading fuel economy 8.4 liters per 100 km (28 MPG) on highway and 12.4 l /100 km (19MPG) in city.

In order to account for the demands of the TDI-Panamericana Endurance Challenge, this Touareg has been modified to include:

Innovative Inmarsat satellite technology for live communication even in the most remote areas
The largest tires that fit the Touareg to better address bumpy roads through South America
An additional 300 liter fuel tank to extend the distance the vehicle can travel between fuelings

Check out the pictures from the journey, below!

Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel - World Record — Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel – World Record

Source: Volkswagen

December 13, 2011

2012 Suzuki Swift Sport Price – £13 500

Suzuki has announced the new 2012 Swift Sport, which is the flagship of the model. It comes with high level equipment, tuned steering, braking and suspension. The new Swift Sport offers better handling, driving performance, environmental compatibility and an uncompromising focus on quality. Overall, it offers a rewarding experience of Suzuki’s sporting DNA.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package with improved airflow. The car also has a High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with a metallic-grey coating as well as new design rear lamps.

The interior is also focused in sport. It features sport seats in an exclusive fabric and a five-dial meter cluster.

The suspension boasts greater toe and camber rigidity for the torsion beam, greater lateral rigidity in the torsion-beam bushings and larger rear wheel bearings. All this improvements enhance stability at the rear under hard cornering. The springs are also revised as well as the steering-gearbox member and suspension-frame member.

The small car is powered by a new M16A petrol engine featuring VVT and increased valve lift. The result is 136PS (100 kW) and 160Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The fuel economy is superb – 6.4 liters per 100 km on combined cycle with emissions of 147 g/km CO2. The engine is mated to a newly developed 6-speed manual gearbox.

The safety is at high level, too. It includes seven airbags and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) as standard.

2012 Swift Sport is available in five metallic / pearlescent colours which are as follows:

Silky Silver metallic

Kashmir Blue Pearl metallic

Cosmic Black Pearl metallic

Cool White pearl metallic

Ablaze Red Pearl metallic

In line with other models in the Suzuki range, new Swift Sport models are covered by a three-year/60 000-mile new vehicle warranty. Service intervals are every 9 000 miles. 2012 Suzuki Swift Sport is priced at £13 500 OTR.

2012 Suzuki Swift Sport Equipment List:

COMFORT
Electric windows with drivers side auto-down
Heated electric and folding door mirrors
Remote central door locking
Keyless entry and push button start
Front Sport seats
Automatic Air Conditioning
Pollen filter
MP3 / WMA compatible Radio/CD with USB port + 6 speakers
Bluetooth integrated audio unit with voice activation and music streaming facility
Audio controls on steering wheel
Cruise control
Tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel
Tinted glass
Rear privacy glass
INSTRUMENT PANEL
Lights-on/key-in reminder
Digital clock
Outside temperature display
Fuel consumption display (average / instantaneous / tank range
Driver’s seat belt warning lamp & alarm
Door ajar warning lamp
INTERIOR
Boot light (2 positions)
Sun visor/vanity mirror (both sides)
Front map light
Centre console storage
Cup holders x 3
Front seat height adjuster (driver’s side)
60/40 split rear seat backs
Accessory socket
EXTERIOR
High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with headlamp washers
Automatic headlamp levelling
2 speed & intermittent windscreen wipers
Rear wash/wipe with intermittent facility
17” Alloy wheels
Black coloured A & B pillars
Body coloured door mirrors & handles
Electromagnetic tailgate opener
Body coloured side sill covers
Body coloured Tailgate mounted rear roof spoiler
Front fog lamps
Towing eye
SAFETY & SECURITY
Driver and front passenger airbags
Side curtain airbags
Curtain Shield Airbags
Drivers knee airbag
Front passenger airbag deactivation system
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
ABS with EBD
Automatic headlamps
3-point ELR seatbelts for all seats
ISOFIX child seat restraint system with top tether anchors
Remote fuel lid opener
Side impact protection beams
Visible VIN
Freewheeling key cylinders
Deadlocks
Flat tyre repair system (in place of spare wheel)

NEW SWIFT SPORT 1.6 VVT TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE
Engine type		M16A with VVT
No. of cylinders		4
No. of valves		16
Fuel distribution		Multipoint injection
EU emission standard compliance		Euro 5
Bore x stroke (mm)		78.0 x 83.0
Capacity (cc)		1,586
Compression ratio		11.0:1
Max output (kW/hp @ rpm)		100/136 @ 7,000
Max torque (Nm/lbft @ rpm)		160/118 @ 4,400
TRANSMISSION
Type		6-speed manual
Gear ratios	1^st	3.615
	2^nd	2.047
	3^rd	1.518
	4^th	1.156
	5^th	0.918
	6th	0.794
	Reverse	3.481
	Final drive	3.944
CHASSIS
Brakes – front		Ventilated discs
Brakes – rear		Discs
Suspension – front		MacPherson strut & coil springs
Suspension – rear		Torsion beam & coil springs
Steering		Rack and pinion
Turning circle (m)		10.4
Tyre size		195/45R17
WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS
Kerb weight kg		1,045
Gross vehicle weight kg		1,480
Towing capacity – braked kg		1,000
Towing capacity – unbraked kg		400
Overall length – mm		3,890
Overall width – mm		1,695
Overall height – mm		1,510
Wheelbase – mm		2,430
Track Front – mm		1,470
Track Rear – mm		1,475
Ground clearance – mm		130
Seats		4
Luggage capacity – rear seatback raised (l)		211
Luggage capacity – rear seatback folded (l)		512
Fuel tank capacity (l)		42
PERFORMANCE & ECONOMY
Urban cycle mpg (l/100 km)		33.6 (8.4)
Extra urban mpg (l/100 km)		54.3 (5.2)
Combined mpg (l/100 km)		44.1 (6.4)
CO₂ emissions (g/km)		147
Max. speed (mph)		121
Acceleration 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) secs		8.7

Source: Suzuki

December 13, 2011

Category: Auto News