Category: Auto News

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

  • 2011 Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi – 65.6mpg and 114g CO2/km

    Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi is named greenest family car at this year’s What Car? Green Awards.

    “Ford has done great things to the Mondeo.  The award-winning 1.6 TDCi is the best green family car, being both a brilliant all-rounder and remarkably eco-friendly with its low CO2 rating of 114g/km.”, commented What Car? editor in chief Chas Hallett.

    “The judging team praised its supple and controlled ride, lively chassis and perfectly weighted steering.”, he added.

    The 1.6 liter TDCi develops 115BHP (85 kW) and 270Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). The engine retunrs 65.6 mpg on combined cycle and only 114g CO2/km.

    The Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi has a price tag of £19 895 with Bluetooth, cruise control and Easy Fuel.

    2011 Ford Mondeo
    2011 Ford Mondeo

    Source: Ford

  • 2011 Renault Scenic 1.6 dCi – 64.2mpg and 115g/km of CO2

    Renault Grand Scenic 1.6 dCi Stop & Start is one of the best MPVs currently available on the market. The vehicle offers seven seats, superb comfort, extremely efficient diesel engine and a lot of goodies to satisfy even the most demanding customers.

    The state-of-the-art 1.6 liter common-rail diesel produces 130BHP (96 kW) and 300Nm (220 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph) and all that performance at low price. The vehicle achieves 64.2mpg on combined cycle with emission as low as 115 g/km CO2.

    This is enough reason for wining first place in its category in the What Car? Green Awards.

    2012 Renault Grand Scenic
    2012 Renault Grand Scenic

    There are five trim levels:

    Extreme: ABS & ESP for safety, Air conditioning, 4 x 15W RDS radio CD MP3 with fingertip remote control, Tunepoint to connect your MP3 player

    Expression: ‘Child minder’ mirror, Automatic parking brake, Front fog lamps, TFT dashboard screen (Thin Film Technology), Rear electric windows

    I-Music Special Edition: 17″ ‘Sari’ alloy wheels, Parking proximity sensors – rear, Multi-functional Tunepoint, Arkamys 4 x 30W RDS radio CD with Bluetooth, Brushed aluminium effect door mirrors

    Dynamic TOMTOM: Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation with joystick, Leather steering wheel, Hands Free Renault card, Automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, Multifunctional tunepoint and Bluetooth

    Privilege TOMTOM: Part leather upholstery with a choice of two colours, Electrochrome rear view mirror, Rear parking sensors, Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation with joystick, Sliding centre storage unit.

    Source: Renault

  • 2011 Mini Cooper D

    MINI Cooper D is one of the best options on the market, when it comes to fuel saving and good comfort at decent price.

    The small city car is powered by a 1.6 liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel with 112PS (82 kW) at 4000RPM and 270Nm (200 lb-ft) at just 1750RPM. It is not astonishingly fast, but it is superbly efficient – 74.3 mpg on combined cycle and just 99g g/km of CO2. That’s why, the Cooper D was named What Car?’s ‘Fun Green Car’ at the publication’s 2011 Green Awards.

    “The Cooper D is without question the most fun way to go green and keep a bit more cash in your pocket.”

    The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which guarantees perfect gear choice at every conditions.

    Fun and cheap is now not a science fiction with Mini Cooper D.

    MINI Cooper D FrontSide
    MINI Cooper D FrontSide

    Source: MINI

  • 2012 Hyundai i30

    2012 Hyundai i30 will be exhibited at the IAA Frankfurt. Hyundai expects the new-generation i30 to build on the remarkable success of the original model – the company’s first car to be launched with the ‘i’ prefix, introducing a new nomenclature and heralding a new era for Hyundai in Europe.

    “The new-generation i30 is recognisable thanks to the Hyundai family face with its signature hexagonal-shaped front grille and the jewel-like design of the headlamps, together with distinctive daytime running lights. These lights present an angular shape within a more softly-edged recess, adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury.”, said Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre.

    It is one of the best-selling C-segment hatchbacks in Europe. It’s main rivalry is against Opel Astra, Ford Focus and of course Volkswagen Golf. However, the i30 passed over 115 000 units sold across the old continent.

    The award-winning Five Year Triple Care package provides five years of unlimited-mileage warranty, five years of roadside assistance, and five years of vehicle health checks.

    The company’s press conference will take place in Hall 6 at 12:00 (CET) on Tuesday 13th September 2011.

    2012 Hyundai i30 FrontSide
    2012 Hyundai i30 FrontSide

    Source: Hyundai

  • Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 2.2

    The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN debuted in 2010 to near-universal acclaim, and a 20-strong limited edition production run of the hand-built, motorsport-derived machines went on sale to UK enthusiasts.

    Now technicians at Northampton-based MUGEN Euro have worked their magic again, producing a unique version with even more power and torque.

    The cylinder bore and stroke have been increased to create an overall capacity of 2,156cc, so the car has been christened the Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 2.2.

    The result of the change is a boost in engine output from 240 to 260PS, and additional torque is available throughout the rev range. Peak torque is now 240Nm at 6,000rpm. Compared to a standard Honda Civic Type R, both power and torque are up 30 per cent.

    When coupled to the host of motorsport-derived components created exclusively by MUGEN – including sports suspension, uprated brakes and a stunning performance bodykit – the MUGEN 2.2 represents the ultimate expression of the Honda Civic Type R philosophy.

    Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 2.2
    Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 2.2

    It has been created as a fitting tribute to the highly successful Honda K20 2.0-litre petrol engine, which has ceased production in Japan. Homologated by MUGEN as an FIA Group N race series engine, the K20 has long been the powerplant of choice with tuners and motorsports competitors who want the very best in naturally aspirated performance.

    Moreover, it has been at the very heart of everything MUGEN Euro has achieved since the company was formed in 2006. Its skilled engineers have built or tuned almost 400 examples for race and rally competitors around the world.

    The Honda K20 engine has also powered the only two complete road cars produced by MUGEN; the Honda Civic MUGEN RR four-door saloon sold in Japan, plus the limited Honda Civic Type R MUGEN sold in the UK.

    Hiro Toyoda, vice-president of MUGEN Euro, commented: “Environmental pressures mean naturally aspirated engines are rapidly being superseded by other engine architectures and technologies. We may never see the like of the K20 in a mainstream production car again, so felt it only fitting we mark the occasion with this special 2.2 version of the Honda Civic Type R”.

    Plans for the 2.2 car have yet to be finalised. Of the 20 limited edition 2.0-litre cars launched in 2010, four remain unsold and it’s possible MUGEN Euro may offer them with the reworked engine. Existing owners could also be invited to return their cars for an upgrade. A decision on these two proposals is expected to be made shortly.

    Source: Honda

  • Smart ForTwo WeSC

    Smart WeSC is completed thanks to the cooperation of the famous street fashion brand. The showcar will be exhibited at the IAA Frankfurt.

    The small city car is finished in gold shades, partly matt, partly high-gloss, and all the colours have been created for the Swedish label by the car tuner BRABUS.

    It is powered by a small turbocharged petrol engine with 102PS (75 kW). It also comes with full aerodynamics body kit and black alloy wheels.

    The interior boasts leather upholstered seats and a sport steering wheel.

    Smart took care of the design of the 32-ohm headphones from WeSC, giving a nod to the car’s look, as can be seen in the perforated black ear pads and high-gloss golden highlights. The headphones will be available from spring 2012 as well as the car itself.

    Smart ForTwo WeSC FrontSide
    Smart ForTwo WeSC FrontSide

    Source: Smart

  • BMW 1-Series Performance Upgrades

    BMW will exhibit a number of Performance Accesorries for the new 2012 1-Series at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The newly developed range for the interior includes a variety of products the design of which perfectly adapts to the character of the BMW Lines. These features are exclusive available for 1-Series for the first time.

    The Performance Package includes a new front and rear bumpers, modified side skirts and carbon fiber mirrors. The suspension is also improved and lowered for perfect stance and handling.

    Last, but not least, M GmbH added nice 19” alloy wheels and big performance brakes behind them.

    The interior boasts a sports steering wheel, some carbon fiber and Alcantara and new floor mats. The changes are more likely to catch your attention, instead of helping the car to move faster.

    Still, BMW Performance power kit for the BMW 135i will be available. It will boost the 3.0 liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with 20PS (15 kW) to 326PS (240 kW). The power unit is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission or 7-speed double-clutch sports automatic transmission.

    There is no price list for the products, yet!

    BMW 1-Series Performance FrontSide
    BMW 1-Series Performance FrontSide

    Source: BMW

  • CLP BMW M3 GT

    BMW M3, designed at the Bavarian engine works, a sports car of high power, in the road traffic or on the race circuit, currently convinces in its fourth generation. The high level of perfection and attention to the parts from the supplier plant make the M3 a Brocken powerful mountain in relation to the modification topic.

    CLP Automotive, the company specializing in the body kits, from the city of Georgensgmünd, Germany, responds to this challenge and is proud to provide BMW M3 GT, the top-class car.The long set of CLP, called, the “Interceptor”, which transmits its name to the BMW M3 GT, and which should be paid 8880 euro for, is responsible for the optics.

    In a set you will receive:

    • the forebody section carbon facing
    • the motor hood
    • the front wing
    • the side channel bar
    • the sidewall jet
    • the rear apron
    • the rear spoiler

    CLP BMW M3 GT - Front Angle

    The solid 9 and 12×19 inch sports disks shine not only because of its white color, adapted to the rest of the car, but also due to the optical adapter plugs of the delayed firing, which gives the wheel a central attachment optics.

    The power increase, based on the compressor, the responsibility for which lies on the 600 hp, can be found under the bonnet along with the optimized Bilstein-thread of the running gear, which monitors the binding driving pleasure. The Akrapovic titanium exhaust system – naturally with the suitable modified exhaust pipe – completes the set and contributes to the acoustic link.
    There are the Recaro bucket seats and the modified fixture in the CLP-M3 GT saloon for the overtaking from Wiechers for the binding security. Naturally, the weight optimization is taken into consideration and is persistently carried out.

    The total cost of the reconstruction is 69.000 euro.

    Source: CLP Automotive

  • Cam Shaft Ferrari 458 Italia

    As the follower of the model F430 Ferrari presented the model F458 in September, 2009. V8 engine with the direct injection was offered with 7 gears dual clutch transmission. Automatic control of the vehicle dynamics features the ABS, electronic differential and automatic traction control system. There is nothing else to say here.
    The desire to get closer to a thin stranger, inevitably involves the background as well as objective self-esteem: referring to the skin. Cam Shaft Company from Steinbach, Hessen specialized in fine-finishing using the foil of the “best” cars. And with a stunning success which is undoubtedly proved by the Ferrari presented here. Treatment with foil of various things helps to achieve the results that people could not imagine a few years ago.

    Cam Shaft Ferrari 458 Italia
    Cam Shaft Ferrari 458 Italia

    On the one hand Cam Shaft guarantees the possibility to eliminate the process of foil treatment at a competitive price. On the other hand, a technically correct process of treatment will bring much more benefits to the vehicle. In this case the roof is treated with the chrome foil as well as the upper parts of the side wings while the rear lights, fog lights and a third stop light are adequately dimmed. Dimming of the lights, by the way, can always be reversed. Stock disks are covered with black lacquer, allowing yellow cramps of the disk brake mechanism to look even brighter. It is also worth mentioning that Solingen company Wimmer Rennsporttechnik added some extra horse power to the initial 570 hp and endowed the car with 588 hp and 562 Nm. Optimization of the software costs 2.999 euros.

    Source: Cam Shaft

  • MR Car Design Renault Clio RS

    Everything is already said with a considerable certainty, notably written about the Renault 5 – P5 for the experts, which was being produced from the spring of the 1972 till the end of the 1996. Renault Clio with a little bit bulky in-plant description of the 57 type replaced the second generation of this P5 somewhere in the middle of the 1990s. There are also 3 and 5-door Clio from the third generation as the station wagon (Kombi), but in the version of the one with the trunk behind the rear body named Thalia. The additional abbreviation RS for Renault Sport (Renault Sport) is typical for the French, as well as the legendary concept of a large number of turns, despite the fact that the other competitors have been using the turbo-charger for a long time.

    This Renault Clio RS – originally equipped with not the weakest motor – the MR Car Design company from Erftstadt gave the additional “life” in spite of or because of the fact that the professional press has already confirmed in 2009 that the experimental model has a purely designed framework, targeted and reliable brake system, the easily switched gearbox and the excellent seats. The reworked wheel-tire combination of discs of 8×18 inch size with the Michelin tires of the 225/35-18 size along in the combination with the thread of the running gear of the 3 version can instill confidence. The welded collector, the 200-cell metallic catalyst, as well as the Akrapovic-Evolution-System Kat device are also worth of mentioning.

    MR Car Design Renault Clio RS
    MR Car Design Renault Clio RS

    The total capacity increase due to the removal of the exhaust gases, welded collector, the metallic catalyst and MP software optimization on the stand for the determination of the serial capacity increases the capacity up to 220 hp.
    By the way, you can always contact Marcel Reil and his team for the information. The www.MRPerformance.de site contains a lot of preliminary information for those, who are in a hurry.

    Source: MR Car Design

  • Jaguar C-X16 concept

    Jaguar has released details of the C-X16 concept ahead of its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

    Looking firmly to the future, the C-X16 marks a new chapter for Jaguar.  The two-seater concept has inspired new advances in design, in engineering and in vehicle technology to create the most compact and responsive Jaguar in a generation.  A hybrid, the C-X16 combines searing performance with beautifully realised styling.

    Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars: “The C-X16 embodies the established Jaguar strengths of sensual design, animal-like agility and inspirational performance and combines these with attributes that set us on a course to create sustainable sports cars of the future.”

    Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars: “Jaguars have always been dramatically different. With the C-X16 we have moved the current award-winning design language on to the next generation, creating a car that is the very essence of future Jaguar performance.”

    Jaguar C-X16 Concept

    Under the muscular clamshell bonnet is a next-generation supercharged V6 petrol engine producing 380 PS (280kW) and 332 lb ft (450 Nm) of torque. Already boasting a high specific power output of 126 PS-per-litre, the performance of the C-X16 is further supplemented by a Formula 1-inspired hybrid boost system with a steering-wheel mounted button for on-demand acceleration.

    Integrated into the eight-speed gearbox is a motor generator which draws power from a 1.6kWh battery pack mounted behind the seats for ideal 50:50 weight distribution. Charged through a brake energy regeneration system, the batteries allow the motor to provide an additional 95 PS (70 kW) and173 lb ft (235 Nm).

    Mounted in an aluminium chassis structure, the result is 0-62 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 186 mph and acceleration from 50-75 mph of 2.1 seconds. The  C-X16 is also able to travel at speeds of up to 50 mph under electric power alone and has CO2 emissions of 165 g/km.

    The C-X16 measures 4,445 mm in length, 2,048 mm in width and 1,297 mm in height and has a wheelbase measuring 2,622 mm.  In terms of overall length, the C-X16 is the smallest Jaguar created since 1954 and the XK120.

    Source: Jaguar

  • Skoda MissionL Concept

    SKODA will present a world-premier design concept called MissionL at this year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show. Close to the final production-ready design, this concept car reveals the look of SKODA’s upcoming model line that is to become symbolic of the Czech carmaker’s planned model offensive.

    The new compact five-door vehicle will be launched in Europe, Russia and China. In line with the brand’s internationalisation principles, this compact ‘liftback’ will feature specific modifications in each of these regions. In addition, the Indian market will have its own version, a compact sedan. These steps are in line with the goals of SKODA’s 2018 growth strategy that was set last year in which the brand intends to increase its sales to 1.5 million vehicles by 2018.

    “Revealing the look of our new compact model, the MissionL shows exactly the direction our brand is going to take,” says SKODA Board Chairman Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “The world premiere in Frankfurt gives a clear signal that SKODA is going full steam ahead now. We are going to present a new vehicle every six months over the next two or three years.”

    Skoda MissionL Concept
    Skoda MissionL Concept

    In line with its 2018 growth strategy, the brand is gearing up, investing heavily in new models, markets and production capacities. Starting in mid 2013, the Yeti will be launched in the Chinese market and will be produced locally. Furthermore, SKODA, in cooperation with Shanghai Volkswagen, will produce a new compact model for this market from 2013, increasing the number of models produced in China to five.

    The brand will also expand production in Russia through the Volkswagen Group’s partnership with the Russian-based car manufacturer GAZ Group. The GAZ plant in Nizhny Novgorod will start producing the Yeti in the fourth quarter of 2012. In India, SKODA will start production of a brand new compact sedan this year. The brand also remains focused on its traditional markets – Europe and the Czech Republic, its home market. Beside the Fabia and Octavia, SKODA’s main plant in Mladá Boleslav will produce a third model; the brand is already increasing the capacity of its production lines. Starting in late 2012, SKODA will also manufacture the automatic twin-clutch gearbox DQ200 in its plant in Vrchlabí.

    Source: Skoda