Auto News – Page 972 – Automobiles Review

BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition

BMW will hit the market with the new 520d EfficientDynamics Edition, this autumn. The car is specially designed for drivers, who has to travel long distances and care about the planet as well as their comfort.

520d EDE is powered by a four-cylinder 2.0 liter turbo-charged diesel with 184PS (135 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque available at very low engine speeds. If you think that a big saloon with four-cylinder engine is not something special, check this out! 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and the top speed is 231 km/h (144 mph). The staggering about the car is its fuel consumption – 4.5 litres per 100 km (62.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km. Nice, A?

The amazing result are thanks to an Auto Start-Stop, an Optimum Shift Indicator, Brake Energy Regeneration and active cooling flap control, plus a longer final drive ratio and special aero rims with “Streamline” styling.

The manufacturer will also introduce a new 2.0-liter petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo technology. The 2012 520i has the same power as the diesel 184PS (135 kW), but less torque – 270Nm (199 lb-ft). Still, the acceleration is way better – 7.9 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph). The better acceleration comes with lower mileage – 41.5mpg (6.8 litres per 100 km) and CO2 emissions of 157 g/km.

The more powerful 528i has 245PS (180 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Source: BMW

July 6, 2011

Ford Capri – The Legend Is Back

After the Scirocco, the Beetle and the Mini, it is time for another legend to comeback on stage. Ford has announced that for the 40^th anniversary of the Capri, a new model will be launched on the market both to revive the legend and to compete the Megane coupe and the Scirocco.

The design of the car is expected to follow the lines of Iosis Max, a concept first revealed in 2009. Many people will wonder, if we have a sporty Focus, what’s the use of another Capri? The answer is simple: This will not be a hot hatch, but more a coupe, what is more it will be the new face of Ford and will have the responsibility to show the world Ford’s new vision and design concepts.

Of course sooner or later it will come down to power – and Ford has definitely something to offer – up-to-date with modern tendencies, the engines used will be turbocharged. Unlike the ancestors the new Capri will also be offered with diesel engines 130HP-197HP (expected). The petrol engines will be a 1.6 liter with either 148HP or 178HP and a 2.0 liter with about 200HP. The set up is expected to propel the coupe to 100 km/h (62mph) in about 6 seconds and reach 250 km/h (155 mph).

To be honest this is a pity. Remember, the top versions back then were 6 cylinders, I do not think anyone needs to be reminded what is the sound of a well balanced 6 cylinder engine. At least in terms of power, things seem to be on the right track. I don’t know if you have ever driven a Capri, but let me tell you something, being too hard on the throttle would make the car drift and smoke would come out of the rear tires. If you are too hard on the new Capri, well, you will definitely feel the G force violently pushing you to the seat, but, there is always a “but”, the plans for the new Capri is to make it FWD. On the one hand this is what car manufacturers tend to do nowadays, but on the other, can you imagine a FWD Mustang or Camaro? This is not how a legend is brought back to life.

So this car is expected to cost some $30 000. Is it worth it? Yes and no to be honest. It is indeed a well shaped car with a lot of sports elements on the body, turbocharged engine and the Capri badge in the back. Which is in my opinion its greatest drawback? No 6 cylinders, no RWD fun, no Capri. You cannot put a “chocolate” badge on cereal and convince your kid it’s made of cocoa, can you?

July 5, 2011

Volvo S60 Performance Project

Volvo Car Australia introduces S60 Performance Project, which is co-developed with Polestar and Heico.

The unique model is based on the T6 R-Design and has some upgrades like a sport exhaust system and 19” Heico alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli performance tires.

The tuned S60 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter petrol engine with 330PS (242 kW) and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. These results are thanks to an ECU re-map, which boosts the engine with 25PS (18 kW) and 40Nm (29 lb-ft) over the factory power.

Like the R Design models the S60 Performance Project has been lowered by 15mm and features sports suspension that includes monotube damping at the rear, 15 per cent stiffer springs and the bushings that are 20 percent stiffer compared with the dynamic chassis in the regular S60 models.

The interior boasts sports seats with firmer side bolstering, leather clad three spoke steering wheel, dials with blue surrounds and aluminium ridged pedals.

Volvo Car Australia is currently evaluating S60 Performance Project. Depending on customer demand there may be the option to build the S60 show car in limited numbers.

“Volvo is not traditionally recognized for performance in Australia but that is changing,” comments Volvo Car Australia Managing Director Matt Braid.

Source: Volvo

July 5, 2011

2011 Chevrolet Volt Price – £28 545

Chevrolet has announced 2011 Volt for the UK market and the price is just £28 545. The car a range of 30 to 50 miles only on electricity and can achieve an impressive result of 127 mpg, which is 1.85 liters per 100 km.

Chevy Volt suffered a huge criticism, because of the ridiculous statements of GM. Firstly, they claimed that the car will go with only 1 liter per 100km (230mpg) and after that, Volt was named an EV (electric vehicle), but in fact it is a plug-in hybrid since the gasoline engine it carries turns on to help with acceleration.

2011 Chevrolet Volt is powered by an electric motor with maximum power of 150PS (111 kW) and 368Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. The car has 16 kWh (10.4 kWh usable) lithium-ion battery pack and, when it is depleted, a small naturally aspirated 1.4 liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 80HP powers a 55kW generator to extend the Volt’s range.

Still, Volt is expected to have huge success, because of its efficiency and performance.

Source: Chevrolet

July 5, 2011

Sprint Series Toyota Celica GT4 – fastest at the 2011 GoodWood

The fastest car at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed is staggering Sprint Series Toyota Celica GT4, which took to course of 1.16 miles in just 48.07 seconds.

In fact, the Celica had to beat many famous racing cars, including recent Formula 1 cars. The car was driven and built by former British Rally Champion, Jonny Milner. M

The racing car is based on the sixth generation Celica. It is super-lightweight – 1 050kg. Furthermore, for better weight distribution, the driver’s position has moved back 30cm (12 inches) and the car’s centre of gravity has been lowered by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension mounts. A flat floor and rear diffuser add a degree of ground effect.

The engine is a 2.0 liter turbocharged from Corolla WRC – 700BHP at 5700RPM at 2bar boost and over 800BHP with nitrous oxide boost. Nice!

Super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tyres also played an important role in getting all that horsepower to the ground.

Sprint Series Toyota Celica GT4 Technical Specs:

Engine type	Corolla WRC four-cylinder, 16-valve
Displacement (cc)	1,998
Turbocharger	Garrett GT35/42
Supercharger	Rotrex, belt-driven
Engine management	Motec
Compression ratio	9.7:1
Max. power (DIN hp @ rpm)	700 @ 5,700 at 2bar boost >800 with nitrous oxide boost
Fuel tank capacity (l)	15
Weight (kg)	1,050
Transmission	Mactrack 5-speed manual with Fensport triple-plate clutch
Suspension (front & rear)	Reiger Corolla WRC 3-way adjustable dampers,
Brakes	Front 343mm and rear 295mm Corolla WRC ventilated discs with Alcon callipers
Wheels	18in

Source: Toyota

July 5, 2011

BMW 6-Series F12 M-package

BMW has officially introduced the 6-Series Individual and 6-Series M-package. These packages will further underline the unique style of the new 6er and also will grant extra comfort and driving pleasure.

The Individual includes several exclusive paint finishes, unique alloy wheels and some interior touches like spoke wood trim and premium leather upholstery.

The M-package includes aerodynamic body kit consisting of new front bumper, new rear bumper and a pair of side skirts. The exterior also get LED fog lights as well as 19” alloy wheels. The package enhances the interior, too – revised trim, leather and Alcantara sports seats and an ///M multi-function steering wheel.

Other interesting moments are the introducing of the whole new 3.0 liter six-cylinder diesel with TwinPower Turbo technology. The power is awesome – 313PS (230 kW) and 630Nm (464 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h takes 5.5 seconds and the fuel consumption – 51.4mpg (5.5 liters per 100 km) and CO2 emissions of just 147g/km.

The 650i coupe and convertible will be offered with xDrive. These variant accelerates the car to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

BMW ConnectedDrive now has more functions – Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. This system also comprises Collision Warning with braking function, which automatically brakes the car for some 1.2 seconds, if required.

There will be also Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System with staggering 1200 watts of power from 16 speakers for the Coupe and 1 000 watts and 12 speakers in the BMW 6 Series Convertible.

6-Series Individual and 6-Series M-package will hit the market in autumn.

Source: BMW

July 5, 2011

2012 BMW 3-Series – Edition Exclusive and M Sport Edition packages

BMW has introduced two new styling packages for the latest 3-Series Coupe and Convertible. Edition Exclusive and M Sport Edition packages will be both available this fall.

The M Sport Edition comes with black mirrors, a rear diffuser, a ///M sport suspension and 18” alloy wheels finished in Ferric Grey paint. The interior boasts Dakota leather sport seats, an M steering wheel, Aluminum Glacier trim and unique floor mats with blue stitches.

The Edition Exclusive package includes Oxide Silver mirrors and 18” Space Grey alloy wheels. Inside, there are Dakota leather seats, special floor mats and Bamboo Grain Anthracite wood trim.

The new packages give the 3er better value for money, more comfort and individuality. Still, you will be able to order additional extras to make your Bimmer unique.

Source: BMW

July 5, 2011

Vorsteiner Porsche V-PT Panamera

Vorsteiner has also released Porsche V-PT Panamera. The project is based on Porsche Panamera Turbo powered by a 4.8 liter twin-turbo V8 with 500 PS (368 kW) and 700 Nm (516 ft-lbf) between 2250 and 4500RPM.

The package of Porsche V-PT Panamera includes a front bumper package, a pair of side skirts, a rear bumper package, a ductail spoiler. There are also V-PT Titanium sports exhaust system.

Porsche V-PT Panamera stands on three-piece Concave forged wheels fitted with Michelin PS2 ultra-performance tires.

There is no doubt, that this is the ultimate sports saloon!

V-PT

V-PT Front Bumper Package
V-PT Side Skirts
V-PT Rear Bumper Package
V-PT Ducktail Spoiler
V-PT Titanium sport Exhaust
V-309 3-Piece Concave Forged Wheels
Michelin PS2 Performance Tires

Source: Vorsteiner

July 4, 2011

2012 Range Rover Evoque US Price – $43 995

2012 Range Rover Evoque is set to hit the US market and the price starts at just $43 995 for the five-door variant. However, if you want the three-door configuration, the price is a bit higher -$44 995.

2012 Range Rover Evoque US is powered by a a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine from Ford delivering 240PS (177 kW) and 340Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and the power is sent to the road through Haldex AWD system. The performance is great – 0 to 96 km/h (60mph) in just 7.1 seconds and the top speed is 217 km/h (135 mph). Still, the fuel consumption is 28 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city.

The vehicle boasts LED lighting , premium leather upholstery and nice alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The first deliveries will start in the fall.

Source: Land Rover

July 4, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody

Vorsteiner has finally realeased M3 GTRS3, which is just staggering. The car is based on BMW M3 E92, but it is completely rebuilt.

The package of BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody includes carbon fiber front bumper, carbon fiber wide arch front fenders, carbon fiber extended side skirts, carbon fiber wide arch rear quarter panels, carbon fiber wide arch rear bumper.

There are also clubsport carbon fiber vented hood, VRS aero carbon fiber boot lid, VTS type II Titanium sport exhaust system.

BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody stands on V-309 three-piece Concave forged wheels fitted with Michelin PS2 ultra-performance tires.

GTRS3

GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with replacement splitter
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Front Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Extended Side skirts
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Rear Quarter Panels
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Rear Bumper
GTS3 Clubsport Carbon Fiber Vented Hood
VRS Aero Carbon Fiber Boot Lid
VTS Type II Titanium Sport Exhaust System
V-309 3-Piece Concave Forged Wheels
Michelin PS2 Performance Tires

Source: Vorsteiner

July 4, 2011

Edo BMW M5 E60 Dark Edition

Edo Competition has announced BMW M5 E60 Dark Edition. The tuned vehicle comes with styling and performance upgrades.

The exterior package includes new rear skirt housing four chromed exhaust tips. There are also rear wing and new 20” light alloy wheels with painted centers and Dunlop tires in dimensions 255/35 R20 front and 285/30 R20 rear.

The performance upgrade consists of a sport exhaust system, ECU re-map, high-flow air filters and catalytic converters. The overall power is boosted to 555PS (408 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft). Furthermore, the top speed limiter has been removed, so the new top speed is 305 km/h (190 mph). 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.2 seconds and 100 to 200 km/h takes just 10 seconds. Very good results for a family touring car.

The interior boasts a lot of carbon fiber and precious leather. The high-performance wagon had its speedometer extended to 360 km/h and white dials with a backlit logo were installed as a finishing touch.

All modifications are carried out exclusively at edo competition Motorsport GmbH in Ahlen.

Source: Edo Competition

July 4, 2011

Holden SV Black Edition

Holden Special Vehicles has introduced the SV Black Edition, which is based on the E Series 3 range launched last September. SV Black Edition will be available in ClubSport R8, Maloo R8 and ClubSport R8 Tourer guise.

The exterior is finished in matte black and features nice Vector hood scoops and side vents. The car stands on enormous 20” forged SV Performance alloy wheel finished in gloss black. Performance suspension is also fitted as well as sports exhaust system.

SV Black Edition is powered by a 6.2 liter LS3 V8 with 430PS (318 kW) and a lot of torque.

The interior boasts a unique finish on the console, instrument panel and steering wheel, while special edition sill plates, Onyx leather trim, matte black badging and a subtle lip spoiler on the ClubSport R8 complete the package.

“The SV Black Edition is an exceptional offer. I believe this is one of the best looking limited edition vehicle’s we have ever produced at HSV. The matte black paint outs combined with an all new, forged alloy wheel and subtle badging gives these vehicles a truly unique HSV look. I am confident these limited edition models will become true collectors items. Our Dealer network is excited about the SV Black Edition and will be taking pre-orders from July 1” commented HSV’s General Manager of Sales, Darren Bowler.

Available in Alto Grey, Nitrate, Sting, Heron and, of course, Phantom Black, the build of the SV Black Edition is limited to just 100 ClubSport R8’s, 100 Maloo R8’s and 25 ClubSport R8 Tourer’s. The SV Black Edition is officially on-sale in September.

Source: HSV

July 4, 2011

Category: Auto News