Auto News – Page 981 – Automobiles Review

CFC VW NEW Beetle

The foil specialist CFC from upper Bavarian Weilheim city created a nice version of the New Beetle to show car, according to the rules of the art.

CFC has focused on visible details of the car, starting with the front apron and the front wings and ending with the rear wings, including side sills and the rear car area. They has also applied sticker bombing, as well as velvet foil. Sticker bombing with its high quality digital printings and high quality cottonized polyamide fibers “velvet” has been provided for individual vehicle design.

The price of this pleasure is 2200 Euro for foil, including the mounting.

Furhtermnore, the new Beetle can be fitted with nice 8.5J x 19” oxygen rims in sparrow black full polish for only 339 Euros each. This kind of oxygen rim rings is available as self-colored or as matching the CFC foil color for 11.90 euros each.

The tires for the new rims are Kumho Ecsta SPT in 225/45 ZR19 for 159 Euro each. So, the whole set is 2039.60 Euro.

For an adjustable wheel spacer from SCC by 15 mm disk thickness in LK 5×100 (57.1 mm center hole / 66.5 mm center hole rim) for 167 Euro per axle.

Last, but not least, there is a stainless steel coilover version 1 from KW for 919 Euro with a stabilizers tuning kit for 179 Euro.

CFC VW NEW Beetle

Source: CFC

May 27, 2011

AHG Sports Infiniti FX 30dS

The AHG Sports tuner of Infiniti Centre in Hamburg has installed some modifications to the FX. They managed to create a spectacular appearance for the crossover, which was just impressive. Although FX is not a direct competitor to the big SUVs like BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne, it is very close to them, because of the mighty engines and superb luxury.

However, the tuned FX 30dS by AHG Sports is even better. The crossover stands on enormous three-piece wheels from CC line of Schmidt Revolution from Bad Segeberg. The dimensions are 11J x 21” fitted with 295/40 ZR21 tires. The set is priced at 7900 EURO.

The suspension is upgraded by installing a new lowering spring kit, which removes 25mm from ride’s height. The set is priced at 1495 Euro.

Last, but not least, the diesel engine is boosted to the hefty 280HP (instead of the factory’s 238HP) and 600Nm of torque. The ECU re-map is priced at 1250 Euro.

AHG Sports Infiniti FX 30dS

Source: Infiniti

May 27, 2011

KW Variant 3 for Porsche Cayenne II

KW has developed a new coilover suspension – Variant 3, which will improve both comfort and handling for Porsche Cayenne II. The KW coilover suspension is factory-delivered with Cayenne II tuned damper characteristics.

Variant 3 have all settings that you need to adjust the stiffness and ride height. The lowering ranges from 35 to 70mm according to your taste.

Thanks to the production in stainless steel technology “inox-line”, the individual components of the KW coilover remain permanently flexible, even at a very sporty driving style or in winter conditions.

KW coilover suspension Version 3 is priced at 2699 Euro including VAT for all Porsche Cayenne Turbo II models except for the Turbo models. A complete pre-assembled chassis with pre-mounted struts, adjustable spring seats, mechanical stop, and dust protection system are part of the delivery program.

So, if you have Cayenne II and you are not pleased with your suspension, KW offers the perfect solution. It improves handling and comfort on both high and low speeds. The SUV starts to act like a proper sports car, instead of a big heavy truck.

KW Variant 3 Porsche Cayenne II

Source: KW

May 27, 2011

2012 Volkswagen Passat US Price – $19 995

The new 2012 Passat US is priced at just $19 995, which is more than $7000 less compared to the EU equivalent. This is the base price for the 2.5 liter petrol with 170PS.

The vehicle will be avialable in several levels and it will come with automatic dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls as standard. There is also the Volkswagen’s no-charge three-year/36 000 mile scheduled Carefree Maintenance Program.

The 2.5 liter S model has a price tag of $22 690 and comes with a 6-speed automatic gerabox, 16” alloys and a rear center armrest with storage.

Passat SE is priced at $23 725. This trim level adds 17” alloy wheels, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, touchscreen Premium VIII audio system and a multi-function steering wheel with leather upholstery.The sunroof and SAT NAV system will boost the price to $26 795.

The 2.5 litre SEL is priced at $29 895 and comes with Fender Premium Audio System, Homelink, interior chrome touches, wood grain interior décor, comfort seats and exterior chrome accents.

2012 Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium will add leather upholstery, keyless entry and remote start, fog lights, driver seat memory and 8-way power passenger seat.

The 2.0 liter TDI variant will be available in just three trim levels and the price is a lot higher – $25 995 for the entry version and the SEL Premium comes at $32 195.

The new Volkswagen Passat is definitely a great value for money and it is highly competitive to its rivals, especially at this price. There is no doubt, that it will become a best-seller, not only in Europe, but in the US, too.

2011-Volkswagen-Passat-US

Source: Volkswagen US

May 27, 2011

Best looking 6 concepts that never reached the market

As you know what you driving is a result of serious R&D, drafts and arguments. For many reasons your car was(is) available in the showroom. However there are many examples of cars that did not manage to go further than the draft or clay. Here are the best looking 6 concepts that never reached the market.

Number 6

Toyota FT-HS Concept

This beauty was introduced in 2007 in North America. It was quite up to date with the current tendencies, so speed and power were not the only thing the car was focusing on. Safety and ecology have definitely been taken into consideration. That’s why the idea of the car is to have a hybrid powertrain. Despite this the car would still remain light and a great fun to drive. Being a fast RWD car it takes Toyota back to the golden years of the AE86 Corolla and would definitely be a total hit both for teenagers and grown-up boys that once dreamed of having AE86 Corolla.

Number 5

Nissan Intima

Nissan’s luxurious sedan concept was seen for the first time in 2007. Two things came into sight right away. First of all the rear doors were to be opened towards the back of the car instead of the conventional opening – parallel to the front door. Also the windshield would go all the way to the back of the roof creating incredible atmosphere for the passengers. Surprisingly for Nissan, the Intima is constructed to have an efficient, environmental friendly 6 cylinder diesel engine. Last but not least , the Intima is equipped with a 4-zone air conditioning system that would make sure all of the passengers feel comfortable.

Number 4

Honda Accord Coupe Concept

In the beginning of 2007 Honda showed this coupe in Detroit and this was for a reason – Accord is the best-selling Honda in USA. The accent when presenting the car was the fuel economy and safety features. In terms of design, the Accord coupe looks aggressive due to the long hood and the headlamps that go deep behind to reach almost the middle of the fenders. The four exhaust pipes in the back promise to also touch the heart of the driver giving out the 6 cylinder engine at the touch of the throttle.

Number 3

BMW Concept CS

This Gran Turismo masterpiece was first to be seen in Shanghai and it did look stunning. A 4-door coupe with sleek curves and very low profile. Definitely something Mercedes need to be careful with when developing the CSL. Looking at the car you almost feel Bangle’s shade in it. The return to the “shark shape” is obvious, magical and… I love it! Is this going to be the positioned above the 7^th series and benefit from the 6.0 V12.

Number 2

Mazda Nagare

This car definitely deserves its place here. It is undoubtedly something unique that cannot be seen every day. The name of the car means “Flow” and indeed even when standing still it looks like it’s moving. The “doors” are a flashback to the Mercedes Gull-wing – they open not sideways but from the roof and give an overview to the whole interior. The Recaro seats and the plane-like steering wheel finish the sporty feeling of the car. Despite the fact no details have been disclosed about engine or specifications, the Nagare is expected to use a rotary engine well known for it’s high revs and great response.

Number 1

Audi RSQ concept

This car has been designed and created especially for the movie “I robot”, where Will Smith would use it to fight some “evil machines”. Indeed, it shares a lot with the TT, but it is so much different at the same time. The door are hinging back to open up like the wings of a butterfly. It is also mid-engined which is great prerequisite for it to be a pleasure to drive. Now the sweetest part – as this was Audi’s vision for the future, it definitely needed something indeed futuristic, and there it was, the wheels are… spheres and as you can figure, the side panels are shaped accordingly to make the car more and more resemble a sculpture. The interior of the car is really close to a plane cockpit. The steering wheel, the instrument cluster, all this aluminium and a windshield to go over the driver’s head create intoxicating atmosphere once you sit in the bucket seat. How likely is this car to show on the streets? Not really huge it seems. However a lot of it could be used for the Audi TT.

May 27, 2011

Dacia Duster No Limit Rally Car

Dacia has officially unveiled the Duster No Limit Rally Car, which will compete at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The vehicle is developed specially for this race and features some very interesting components. It is an exceptional, extremely powerful car. Duster No Limit was constructed by Tork Engineering and Renault Sport Technologies.

Dacia Duster No Limit complies with the specific regulations of the American competition’s Unlimited class which sets no upper limit on the size or power output of the engine. There is also no minimum weight and any tyres can be used. Furthermore, the transmission system or aerodynamics have no limits, too.

So, first of all, Duster No Limit is powered by the brutal 3.8 liter bi-turbo V6 from Nissan GT-R. Of course, it is highly tuned – 862PS (634 kW) and mated to a 6-speed sequential Sadev transmission.

The aerodynamics package for Duster No Limit includes massive rear wing, brutal extensions and a large front lip spoiler. Everything is developed in the wind tunnel for maximum performance.

The car will be driven by Jean-Philippe Dayraut, a three-time winner of the Trophée Andros.

“The Pikes Peak Hill Climb is the only event where you get to keep a monster like this in check while drifting at speeds of 200kph on a course which features a mix of asphalt and dirt,” commented Jean-Philippe Dayraut.

“I can’t think of any other form of motorsport where such cars are authorised.”, he finished

Dacia Duster No Limit Rally Car

PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB:

Location: Colorado (USA)

Course length: 20km

Start altitude: 2,860 metres

Finish altitude: 4,300 metres

Surface type: half-asphalt/half-dirt

Course record (‘Unlimited’ class): 10m 1.42s

Record established by Japan’s Tajima Nobuhiro (Suzuki) in 2007

Source: Dacia

May 27, 2011

The evolution of BMW M3 series

The ultimate driving machine. This is how they call BMW M3 series. And it is for a reason. The MOTORSPORT division of BMW did their best to deliver the best possible experience from a BMW .

How it all began

In 1986 the first M3(1986-1992) was introduced. It was on the basis of E30 and had a 2,3 4 cylinder engine with 195 hp. The reason why the first M3 was actually produced was to homologate the car for the tourist car championship where it would compete with the Mercedes 190 EVO. Two more engines were used for the first M3. A 2 litre, 4 cylinder engine and also a 2,5 delivering the massive 250 hp, still naturally aspirated. The 2,0 version could be easily recognized, it lacked the curves of the wide arches. It seems like the M3 version does not have much in common with the regular e30. Besides the hood, roof panel, and sunroof it did not have much in common. These 4 cylinder engines were only reserved for the M3, and so was the firm suspension.

The 6 cylinders(E36)

Although nowadays 6 cylinders in a row is almost dead as conception, when the E36 M3 showed on the market, things seemed a little different. 1992 – the new M3 was introduced. With a 3 litre engine, 6 cylinders and output of 286hp. At first all M3s were based on coupe, but later the sedan and convertible models could also carry the M3 badge. Later in the production a more powerful engine was to be used – a 3,2 with 321hp . What is interesting, models sold in North America had 240 hp, regardless 3,0 or 3,2. Also, the 6 speed gearbox was never available in North America.

A special version – the M3 CSL is definitely worth mentioning. This model was sold with a trunk full of goodies to improve the performance of the car. Why they were not put directly into the car? Very simple, buying this version, the customer would sign a legal paper that they were aware installation of the latter would void the warranty of the car.

The production of E36 M3 seized in December 1999 with the convertibles being produced last.

The E46 M3

The next M3 came in October 2000. The engine is a 3,2 liter with code S54 – 343 hp available. What is new is the SMG II drivelogic transmission. It is basically the standard 6 speed manual but with electrohydraulically actuated clutch pedal. The E46 also had a CSL version, which is a real sports car that one could drive home. This version is cut off in terms of all unnecessary gadgets you do not need for the track, it does not even come with AC, stereo or navigation system.

What’s on the market now?

Well, it is the E90/92/93. First introduced in 2007 it did have a thing or two to show. The new M3 was a totally different car compared to its predecessors. First of all it has two more cylinders. Despite the return of the turbo mania, the new M3 is naturally aspirated. To be more precise it is a 4,0 litre v8 engine with 420 hp available at 8300 rpm. The latest M3 comes with a 6 speed manual or the optional M-DKG transmission which reduces the 0-100 time with 2 tenths of a second. The E92 M3 also has a light weight carbon-fiber roof to reduce the weight and lower the centre of gravity. At first the new M3 was supposed to be called… M4, but BMW realized this might not be well perceived by the customers and people who liked the traditions created more than 20 years ago. Many people say that market researchers and accountants are more and more involved in the build of cars. It seems like this has had some impact on the ultimate driving machine. The convertible suffers from the heavy mechanics that take care of the roof and the result is 1880 kg curb weight – not a good prerequisite for agility and speed.

A special model is also available(A special M3, ironic right). It is called the GTS. The 4,0 litre engine has been further developed to become 4,4 and to provide 450hp. What is more, it weighs about 150 kg less than the regular M3 making it a true beast on the road… or track. The production of GTS started in May 2010. Today all 250 GTS M3s have been sold.

To be continued…

May 27, 2011

2012 Hyundai Genesis Price – $34 200

Hyundai has priced the new 2012 Genesis for the US. The luxury saloon is tagged at $34 200 for the entry level powered by a 3.8 liter V6 with 338PS (248 kW) and 394Nm (291 lb-ft) of torque.

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis powered by the 4.6-liter V8 with 390PS and 439Nm (324 lb-ft) will carry a price tag of $44 500.

The top-of-range R-Spec with 5.0 liter V8 with whopping 435PS and 509Nm (376 lb-ft) will be priced at $46 500.

2012 Hyundai Genesis is extremely well equipped and comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual capability, big brakes, and a retuned suspension with a larger rear stabilizer bar.
The R-Spec model also has a sport-tuned suspension, a recalibrated steering system, dark chrome exterior accents, and exclusive 19″ alloy wheels.

2012 Hyundai Genesis was introduced at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. It features some modifications like revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille, aggressive side skirts, and brushed aluminum window trim. There are also new headlights, LED daytime running lights, and restyled taillights. It is a complete facelift ot the previous model.

The 5.0 R-Spec with the mighty V8 returns satisfying 17mpg in the city and 26mpg on the highway. The smaller 4.6 liter V8 has the same fuel consumption and the “tiny” 3.8 liter V6 returns up to 29mpg on the highway.

2012 Hyundai Genesis offers great luxury and comfort at decent price compared to the expensive BMW 7 series and Mercedes-Benz S class.

2012 Hyundai Genesis

Source: Hyundai

May 26, 2011

Aznom Abarth 500 – Drifting and Burnout

Aznom Fiat 500 Abarth features a mid-mounted 1.4 liter turbocharged engine with 230PS (169 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque. The car is rear-wheel drive, which means awesome handling and extraordinary fun. The performance characteristics are great, too. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h.

Here is a video from Marchettino, where the R230 makes some donuts and drifts. Note that, it is extremely hard to control a RWD car with such small wheelbase and so much power. R230 is very nervous and unstable, especially, when it is driven to the limit.

The curb weight of the car is just 1050kg, but thanks to the position of the engine, the small car has a perfect balance and it will be a great to drive at the race track.
Last, but not least, the R230 also gets Tar-Ox brakes system, Bilstein B14 race suspensions, new Turbo and some more modifications.

Check out the video, below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGhL3pra9OQ

aznom-fiat-500

Source: Marchettino via Youtube

May 26, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW 5er F10

Vorsteiner are developing special aerodynamics package for the latest BMW 5-Series.

Vorsteiner F10 will be officially released later this summer, so we have to wait a while to see, what will be the modifications, besides the obvious from the pictures.

The styling package includes modified side skirts, a carbon fiber front lip spoiler, a trunk lip spoiler and a new rear diffuser, also from carbon fiber, which houses the dual exhaust system.

Last, but not least, there will be a roof wing spoiler, again from carbon fiber.

The tuning company didn’t release any further information about performance packages or any price lists.

Check out the pictures below and stay tuned for more information about Vorsteiner BMW 5-Series F10.

Vorsteiner BMW 5er F10

Source: Vorsteiner

May 26, 2011

2011 Lancia Ypsilon

Lancia has unveiled the new Ypsilon at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and now the manufacturer released full information about the 5-door hatchback. The car has a nice design with interesting grille, LED rearlights and hidden rear door handles. The dimensions are 384 cm long, 167 cm wide and 152 cm high, with a wheelbase of 239 cm. Although, it is not from the big ones in the segment, Ypsilon offers great comfort and enough interior room.

The interior boasts a center-mounted instrument cluster and metallic accents. There are also three trim levels – Silver, Gold and Platinum as the most expensive features leather upholstery, a premium audio system and Blue&Me-TomTom. The customization is practically unlimited.

The engine range includes a 1.2 liter EVO with 69PS (51 kW) and 102Nm (75 lb-ft) of torque. The performance is poor – 0 to 100 km/h in 14.5 seconds and a top speed of 163 km/h (101 mph). However, the power unit is extremely efficient 62.8mpg (4.5 litres per 100 km) with just 115 g/km of CO2.

The second power unit is the 0.9 liter TwinAir two-cylinder, which powers Fiat 500. It develops 85PS (63 kW) and 145Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h takes 11.9 seconds and the top speed is 176 mph (109 km/h). The average fuel consumption is 4.2 liters per 100 km (67.3mpg) and it goes sub 100 g/km of CO2 (99 g/km, exactly).

2011 Lancia Ypsilon

The third engine is a powerful 1.3 liter MultiJet II with 95PS (70 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 11.4 seconds and top speed of 183 km/h (114 mph). The fuel consumption is amazing 3.8 liters for 100 km (74.3 mpg) and CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.

Afterwards also the 1.2 Fire EVO II Bi-fuel engine (petrol and LPG) will be available.

The safety is at very decent level: electronic stability control complete with ASR and Hill Holder, ABS with EBD, from 4 to 6 airbags (front, window-bags and side), in addition to the ISOFIX attachments.

Price list is not announced, yet. 2011 Lancia Ypsilon will hit the market in June.

Pricing information hasn’t been released, but the new Ypsilon will be launched in June. A Chrysler variant will follow in September for the United Kingdom.
2011 Lancia Ypsilon

Source: Lancia

May 26, 2011

2011 Suzuki Swift DDiS Price – £12 890

Suzuki has announced the new Swift DDiS, which features the new 1.3 litre turbocharged diesel engine with extremely low emissions – 109 g/km of CO2 and returns staggering 67.3mpg. This means a driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with a single tank of fuel.

The new 1.3 litre DdiS develops 75PS (55 kW) at 4000RPM and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque at just 1750RPM. The performance is satisfying – 0 to 100 km/h in 12.7 seconds, top speed is 103 mph (165 km/h).

2011 Suzuki Swift DdiS is priced at £12 890 for a 5-door SZ3 variant including seven airbags, air conditioning, 16” alloy wheels, USB port and heated electric door mirrors as standard equipment.

There is also a choice for petrol power unit – Dual VVT 1.2 litre, which starts at just £10 210 for the SZ2 Three door up to £13 525 for the SZ4 Five door with automatic transmission.

2011 Suzuki Swift DDiS

2011 Suzuki Swift DDiS:

Engine type	D13A
Number of Cylinders	4
Number of valves	16
Cubic capacity	1,248
Maximum output PS (kW) / rpm	75(55) / 4,000
Maximum torque Nm (lbft)	190 (140) / 1,750
EU Emissions compliance	5
Transmission type	5 M/T
Tyre size	185/55/R16
Kerb weight with full options (kg)	1,125
Gross vehicle weight (kg)	1,560
Maximum towing weight – braked (kg)	900
Maximum towing weight – unbraked (kg)	400
Maximum speed (mph)	103
0-62mph (secs)	12.7
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)	109
Urban fuel consumption (l/100km)	55.4 (5.1)
Extra Urban (l/100km)	78.5 (3.6)
Combined (l/100km)	67.3 (4.2)

Source: Suzuki

May 26, 2011

Category: Auto News