Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • TopCar Porsche 911

    TopCar is preparing a special tuning package for the latest Porsche 911. The renderings show much about the car.

    It will come with carbon clothing and Kevlar elements such as new front bumper, restyled hood, modified side skirts and nice sports rear bumper with integrated diffuser. Of course, the LEDs are coming on default as well as ADV.1 rims.

    9ff prepares the modification program of mechanical engineering assemblies of this car. The program includes higher engine capacity and suspension adjustment.

    Actually, the new Porsche is not on the market, yet, but TopCar have been already taking orders.

    TopCar Porsche 911
    TopCar Porsche 911

    Source: TopCar

  • 2012 Hyundai i30 at the Frankfurt

    2012 Hyundai i30 is currently exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

    The hatchback can be ordered with one of six different engines with outputs between 90PS (66 kW) and 135PS (99 kW). The engines can be mated to either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. This guarantees nice performance and low fuel consumption.

    The suspension includes independent subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers at the front and independent subframe-mounted multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers at the rear.

    The stopping power is guaranteed thanks to a 15” or 16” ventilated discs up front and 14” solid discs at the rear.

    The wheel choice includes 15”,16” and 17” alloy wheels fitted with 195 / 65 R15, 205 / 55 R16 and 225 / 45 R17, respectively.

    2012 Hyundai i30
    2012 Hyundai i30

    Technical specifications: 2012 Hyundai i30

    Diesel engines

    1,4-litre 90 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, WGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
    Power / torque 90 ps (66.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 220 Nm @1500~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 75 x 79
    Compression ratio 17.0

    1,6-litre 110 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
    Power / torque 110 ps (81.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
    Compression ratio 17.3

    New 1,6-litre 128 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
    Power / torque 128 ps (94.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
    Compression ratio 17.3

    Gasoline engines

    1,4-litre 100 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma 1.4, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
    Power / torque 100 ps (73.2 kW) @ 5500 rpm / 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 74.99
    Compression ratio 10.5

    1,6-litre 120 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma 1.6 MPI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
    Power / torque 120 ps (88 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 156Nm @ 4850 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 85.44
    Compression ratio 10.5

    1,6-litre 135 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma GDI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
    Power / torque 135 ps (99 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 164 Nm @ 4850 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77×85.44
    Compression ratio 11

    Transmissions

    6-speed manual and automatic

    Suspension and damping

    Front Fully independent subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
    Rear Fully independent subframe-mounted multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers.

    Steering

    Type Motor-driven power steering, with Flex SteerTM
    Steering wheel turn 2,85 Turning circle 10,6 metres

    Brakes

    Front 15 / 16 inch ventilated discs
    Rear 14 inch solid discs

    Wheels and tyres

    Standard 15 inch steel / 15 inch alloy 195 / 65 R15 tyres
    16 inch alloy 205 / 55 R16 tyres
    17 inch alloy 225 / 45 R17 tyres

    Exterior

    Overall length 4300
    Overall width 1780 (excluding door mirrors)
    Overall height 1470
    Wheelbase 2650
    Front overhang 880
    Rear overhang 770

    Interior Front Rear

    Leg room 1067 880
    Head room 1018 963
    Shoulder room 1420 1395
    Capacities (litres)
    Fuel tank 53 litre
    Luggage 378 with rear seats upright

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2012 Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Price – £21 000

    Vauxhall has introduced the new 2012 Zafira Tourer at the Frakfurt Motor Show. The vehicle will be positioned above the current Zafira model in Vauxhall’s line-up and is set to raise the bar for design, luxury, flexibility and innovation in the MPV sector.

    There are four trim levels: Exclusiv, SRi, SE and Elite.

    The base model is priced at just £21 000 and it comes with an air conditioning, DAB, cruise control, MP3/Aux In connections, 6 airbags, 7-speaker sound system, active headrests, and Flex7 seating.

    There are also two new engines – a 1.4 Turbo petrol and a 2.0 CDTi diesel with three outputs, including a 119g ecoFLEX version – join a 1.8-litre petrol unit. This means that you’ll be able to choose from 110PS to 165PS.

    A great emphasis has been placed on safety in the Zafira Tourer, with a plethora of driver-assist systems making a first appearance in the new model. Traffic Sign Recognition, Side Blind Spot Alert and Advance Park Assist – which helps drivers find an adequate parking space and guides them in to it – are among the option highlights.

    2012 Vauxhall Zafira Tourer RearSide
    2012 Vauxhall Zafira Tourer RearSide

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Brabus vs G-Power (part 2)

    To continue the epic battle between the two of the most brutal tuning companies on the market -G-Power and Brabus, now we will compare BMW M3 E92 SK II and BULLIT. Both cars are extremely powerful and expensive, of course, especially the Mercedes.

    Let’s start with the less powerful G-Power BMW M3 E92 SK II, which is based on the sports compact executive M3 Coupe. It is powered by the well-known high-revving 4.0 liter V8, which is now boosted to the exquisite 570PS (419 kW) and 565Nm (417 lb-ft) of torque.

    The performance is awesome – 4.4 seconds to 100 km/h and just 12.9 seconds to 200 km/h. The top speed is somewhere around 333 km/h. Actually, you can check the tuned M3 doing that in the video below.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pXrWx2CV3g

    Besides the incredible acceleration, G-Power SK II also has incredible deceleration system consisting of 396 mm diameter discs on the front axle with 6-piston calipers and 380mm discs at the rear axle with 4-piston calipers. The high-performance brake system alloys decellerations beyond 1.0g.

    Other upgrade is the GM3 RS coilover suspension and Silverstone alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport road tires.

    The overall price is not calculated, but BMW M3 E92 starts at €68 750 and the “Sporty Drive” supercharger kit is priced at €11 500.

    Continuing with Brabus Bullit based on the mighty Mercedes AMG C 63 AMG originally producing 457PS and 600Nm of torque from the most powerful naturally aspirated 6.2 liter V8 in the world. However, Brabus decided that this engine is not good enough and they fitted the small C-Class with enormous bi-turbo V12. It develops 730PS (540 kW) at 5100RPM and 1320Nm (970 lb-ft) of torque from 2100RPM.

    The performance – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, to 200 km/h in 10.5 seconds and top speed of more than 362 km/h (225 mph). The car is way more powerful and faster than the G-Power SK II and still it is street-legal.

    Brabus Bullit also features a modified 5-speed transmission, a LSD, full aerodynamic body kit, huge brakes and an adjustable rear suspension. The car also has an aluminum hood with ventilation slots and Brabus wheels fitted with high-performance tires.

    The interior boasts custom sports seats with carbon fiber covers and carbon fiber elements.

    The price for this pleasure is no less than €348 000.

    The conclusion is easy – Brabus Bullit rocks!

    G-Power BMW M3 E92 SK II
    G-Power BMW M3 E92 SK II
    Brabus Bullit Black Arrow
    Brabus Bullit Black Arrow
  • 2012 Lotus Exige S

    2012 Lotus Exige S is exhibited at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The manufacturer has also introduced Exige R-GT.

    Lotus Exige is probably the best handling car in the world and now comes with superbly powered 3.5 liter supercharged V6 from Evora S. The output is no less than 350PS (257 kW) at 7000RPM and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4500RPM. Evora S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 276 km/h (172 mph). The staggering figures are based on total weight of 1437kg. So, you can make the maths, when this engine is fitted to the ultra-low weight Exige S – 1080kg. This means a power-to-weight ratio of 3.08 kilos per horsepower.

    There are two new interior package options available: Premium and Premium Sport. The Premium Pack provides added comfort and style where as the Premium Sport option focuses on creating an internal space optimised for ultimate driver involvement.

    “Anyone who has ever driven an Exige will tell you that it’s not for the faint-hearted. The new Exige S skips a few rungs on the ladder to give the driver the ultimate Lotus experience. Quite simply you can’t get more Lotus than the Exige S.”, said Lotus Chief Executive Officer Dany Bahar.

    2012 Lotus Exige S Front
    2012 Lotus Exige S Front

    Source: Lotus

  • Audi A8 L W12 Exclusive Concept

    Audi has introduced A8 L W12 Exclusive Concept at the current Frankfurt Motor Show. The luxury sedan presents an exclusively finished interior – with leather of the prestigious Poltrona Frau brand and olive ash natural inlays.

    It is powered by the famous W12 6.3 liter petrol engine with whopping 500PS (368 kW) and 625Nm (461 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of of 250 km/h (155 mph), electronically limited of course.

    The seats are upholstered in Cognac-colored leather by the exclusive Italian manufacturer Poltrona Frau – a grade with an exceptionally soft, even, natural finish. There are highlights of granite gray piping on the center sections of the seat and seat backs. Leather elements on numerous parts of the interior – such as the dashboard, the center console, the tunnel, the door trims and seat consoles – round out the equipment; even the car key is trimmed in leather.

    Audi A8 L W12 Exclusive Concept will be available in limited series of just 50 units as each will receive a number plate.

    2011 Audi A8 L W12 Quattro RearSide
    2011 Audi A8 L W12 Quattro RearSide

    Source: Audi

  • SsangYong XIV-1 Concept

    XIV-1 Concept showcases dynamic, strong yet smooth lines, typifying the true creative qualities of SsangYong Motor design. The vehicle features the perfect proportions of the compact SUV. It has continuous glass area, a wide C-pillar and slim roof combined with fast and strong stance.

    At the front you’ll see modern LED headlamps with an integral design. The rear is quite nice, too. It boasts integrated third light in the huge rear diffuser and small sporty rear lights.

    The interior boasts freely rotating seats with ability of moving forwards and backwards. This enables the passengers to adjust the seats to their specific needs.

    The user interface embraces the concept of an extended living space rather than providing just a means of transport. Control of many of XIV-1 functions is via the interaction of Smart mobile devices and the vehicle itself. Using the kind of devices that the driver and passengers are likely to be carrying at all times, they can control everything from the audio system, the display of information on the dashboard and online communications.

    SsangYong XIV-1 Concept
    SsangYong XIV-1 Concept

    TECHNICAL DATA

    Model

    XIV-1

    Driven Wheels

    2WD/AWD

    2WD/AWD

    Transmission

    6MT

    6AT

    6MT

    6AT

    Dimensions Overall length mm

    4,140

    Overall width mm

    1,830

    Overall height mm

    1,590

    Wheelbase mm

    2,600

    Engine Fuel & Displacement –

    Petrol 1.6L

    Diesel 1.6L

    Number of cylinders –

    4 in-line

    4 in-line

    Source: SsangYong

  • Volkswagen Caddy Edition 30

    Volkswagen Caddy Edition 30 boasts a roof painted in brilliant gloss black, roof railing also in high-gloss black and high-end machine-polished 17” alloy wheels.

    The vehicle has signatures on the sliding doors, the back of the vehicle and the door sills. There are five bodywork colours available, all going well with the black roof – Candy White, Reflex Silver, Salsa Red, Primavera Green or Sunny Yellow.

    The interior features either 5-seat or 7-seat configuration. Caddy Edition 30 boasts Alcantara upholstery, multi-function steering wheel, leather-trimmed gear stick and handbrake lever, semi-automatic (Climatic) climate control and tinted windows combining to create a pleasant ambience.

    It is available with four different engine specifications: three diesels from 75 to 125 kW and as a petrol (TSI) version with 77 kW.

    At the 2011 IAA in Frankfurt you can see Caddy Edition 30 with the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Caddy: the 170 PS (125 kW) and 350Nm 2.0 TDI with DSG.

    Volkswagen Caddy Edition 30
    Volkswagen Caddy Edition 30

    Source: Volkswagen

  • BMW Alpina D5 Bi-Turbo

    Alpina has introduced one more vehicle – D5 Bi-Turbo based on 535d. It comes with one of the most powerful diesel engines in the world.

    In other words – 350PS (257 kW) coming from a 3.0 liter twin-turbo straight-six diesel, which has the same fuel-economy rating as the 530d with 245PS (180 kW) – 6.2 liters per 100 km on combined cycle. Not bad for such amount of power, not bad at all! 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph). That is the reason why 535d is called ///M diesel.

    The mighty engine is mated to the new ZF SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed Sport Automatic gearbox. It is further improved to handle all new torque.

    The stance is improved by adding a set of lowering springs. There are also a set of 20” Alpina alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires in dimensions – 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear.

    BMW Alpina D5 Bi-Turbo
    BMW Alpina D5 Bi-Turbo

    Source: Alpina

  • Maybach 57 S Edition 125

    Maybach has created a special Edition 125 limited edition model based on 57 S to celebrate the manufacturer’s 125th anniversary. For sure, 125 years is a lot of time and the company managed to keep up creating high-end saloons.

    Edition 125 comes in either Tahiti Black or Patagonia Silver and matte-black 20” wheels. There are modified bonnet and given it sharply defined contours. It has a contoured edge and appears distinctly arrow-shaped. A restyled, horizontally structured bumper trim gives the Maybach saloons an even broader look. Daytime driving lights featuring LED technology and bordered with a chrome insert have been integrated into the outer air intakes.

    The interior boasts SWAROVSKI® ELEMENTS, “MAYBACH MANUFAKTUR” lettering, , high-resolution cinema screen with a 19” diagonal, 9.5” monitors in the rear, an overview camera and many more.

    The power is also increased with 18PS (13 kW) to 630PS (463 kW). The fuel consumption is decent for such heavyweight car – 15.0 liters per 100 km and 350 g/km of CO2. All the Maybach twelve-cylinder engines meet the EU5 standard/LEV2.

    Maybach Edition 125 Front
    Maybach Edition 125 Front

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible

    One of the most interesting and eagerly awaited cars was revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible is based on the well known 650i model.

    The all-aluminium bi-turbo V8 power plant boasts 507PS (373 kW) and staggering 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 100PS (74 kW) and 100Nm (74 lb-ft). So, there is no coincidence. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a Vmax of 311 km/h (193 mph). Still, the vehicle manages to achieve an average 10.9 litres per 100 km and 255 g/km of CO2.

    Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible also comes with complete aerodynamic package including front and rear bumpers and side skirts. There are also a four-tailpipe Akrapovic sports exhaust system and huge 20” alloy wheels in the well-known design fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

    The B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible features an extensive range of standard equipment, including leather upholstery, fully adjustable comfort seats with heating system, navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights and LED fog lights.

    BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible
    BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible

    Source: Alpina

  • SsangYong SUT-1

    Offering all the robust, high value, high quality attributes of SsangYong vehicles in a new pick-up opens up the brand’s strengths to a whole new area of the global new vehicle market.

    Making its world debut at the IAA International Motor Show, Frankfurt 2011, SsangYong’s SUT-1 is ready to enter mass production. Having debuted in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011, the truck has now evolved into a showroom ready model.

    Applying modern design techniques to the traditional pick-up body has resulted in a stylish Sports Utility Truck that perfectly presents the dynamism and strength of SsangYong Motor. Balancing the needs of load volume with attractive lines, SUT-1 is the ideal vehicle for a wide variety of drivers, whether they enjoy leisure activities such as camping, skiing and cycling or they just need a hard working truck.

    Far from being a stripped out commercial model, SUT-1 offers the cabin comfort and luxury of a premium SUV. Equipment includes a sunroof, RDS & Bluetooth audio, rear view camera, hinge sprung tailgate and a trip computer. Safety equipment hasn’t been forgotten either, with functions such as ESP and dual airbags fitted to make SUT-1 a genuine alternative to a conventional 4×4.

    Efficiency has also been at the forefront of SUT-1’s engineering, with the 2.0 Active Diesel Engine complying with Euro 5 emissions standards and offering highly competitive economy. CO2 emissions have been reduced to 186g/km, representing a nine per cent improvement over the engine’s previous performance.

    SsangYong SUT-1
    SsangYong SUT-1

    This impressive efficiency is achieved without any compromise in performance. Peak torque of 360Nm is maintained across a wide range of 1,500 to 2,800rpm, while 190Nm is delivered at a near-idle 1,000rpm.

    Styling

    When penning the SUT-1’s distinctive lines, designers had in mind SsangYong’s corporate product development philosophy, ‘Robust, Specialist, Premium’. Expressing the company’s latest design language, SUT-1 takes on a dynamic appearance displayed through the bird-wing shaped radiator grille and headlamp silhouette.

    The SsangYong’s stylish body houses a spacious five-seat cabin, enabling both the driver and passengers to travel in comfort en route to their chosen activity. A large 2m2 deck provides ample space for all types of extreme sports equipment, making SUT-1 the ideal companion for anyone with a growing sense of adventure.

    New eco-friendly powertrain

    Drivers have the option of either rear wheel drive or on demand four wheel drive in their SUT-1, coupled to six speed manual or automatic transmissions. The 2.0 Active Diesel Engine fitted to all variants is impressively efficient despite its 155ps power output. Buyers of the automatic model also benefit from a sixth cruising gear for maximum comfort and economy at motorway speeds.

    Strong safety specifications

    The ultra-rigid frame body is equipped with front seat dual airbags and seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters. Passenger safety is further prioritised through the installation of ISOFIX attachments for a child seat and ESP (Electronic Stability Program), including various functions such as Active Rollover Protection and Brake Assist System (ABS).

    Comfort and handling

    SsangYong has engineered SUT-1 to offer all the dynamic appeal of a premium SUV. The truck’s combination of double wishbone and five-link suspension is more commonly found on full-sized SUV models, while the optimal tuning of engine mounts has minimised vibration in all driving conditions.

    EQUIPMENT

    Mechanical

    • 155ps 2.0-litre diesel engine with particulate filter
    • Part-time 4WD
    • 6 speed manual transmission
    • 6 speed automatic transmission
    • Double wishbone front suspension
    • 5 link rear suspension

    Seats

    • Electric driver’s seat
    • Electric passenger seat
    • Leather upholstery
    • Heated front seats

    Climate control

    • Manual air conditioning
    • Fully automatic air conditioning

    Appearance

    • 16” alloy wheel
    • 18” alloy wheel
    • Leather steering wheel
    • Sunroof

    Convenience

    • Cruise control
    • Power folding rear view mirrors
    • Electro chromatic inside rear view mirror
    • Steering wheel audio systems controls
    • 2DIN MP3 CDP with RDS function
    • Bluetooth system
    • Trip computer

    Safety

    • Ultra-rigid frame
    • Dual airbags
    • Immobiliser
    • Reversing warning system
    • Disc brakes on all 4 wheels
    • Front and rear fog lamps
    • Daytime running lights
    • ISOFIX child seat attachments
    • Electric windows
    • Electronic stability program (ESP)

    TECHNICAL DATA

    Engine FR 2.0 Active Diesel Engine
    Driven Wheels RWD Part Time 4WD
    Transmission 6MT 6AT 6MT 6AT
    Dimensions Overall length mm 4,990
    Overall width mm 1,910
    Overall height mm 1,790
    Wheelbase mm 3,060
    Min. turning radius m 6.2
    Weight Gross vehicle weight Kg 2,640 ~ 2,740
    Kerb weight Kg 1,873 ~ 1,995
    Engine Fuel – Diesel
    Capacity cc 1,998
    Bore X Stroke mm 86.2 X 85.6
    Compression ratio – 16.5 : 1
    Number of cylinder – In-line 4
    Performance Max. power kW/rpm 114 / 3,400 ~ 4,000
    ps/rpm 155 / 3,400 ~ 4,000
    Max. torque Nm/rpm 360 / 1,500 ~ 2,800
    Low end torque Nm/rpm 190 / 1,000
    Max. speed Km/h 171* 170* 171* 170*
    Fuel Consumption CO2 (combined) g/km 186* 201* 195* 211*
    Combined L/100km 7.1* 7.6* 7.4* 8.0*

    * Target data (Actual Certification data can vary depending on conditions)

    Source: SsangYong