Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • 2013 Geneva Motor Show: Audi A3 Sportback g-Tron

    Audi is currently exhibiting the new A3 Sportback g-Tron at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The ultra-efficient hatchback boasts incredibly low fuel consumption and awesome range.

    The A3 Sportback g-Tron has two gas tanks which can carry up to 7 kg (15.3 lbs) of compressed natural gas (CNG) at a maximum pressure of 200 bar. Despite the huge pressure, the car is perfectly safe, because the tanks are manufactured from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). What is more, they weight only 27 kg (59.5 lbs) – each, when they are full.

    The engine is a 1.4 liter TFSI with 110HP (81 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). Although the performance is not great, the car consumes 3.5 kg / 100 km and provides a range of around 400 km (242 miles) on CNG and another 900 km (559 miles) on gasoline. This means an impressive range of 1,300 km.

    Source: Audi

  • Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Unveils RAV4 Premium Concept And RAV4 Adventure

    Toyota-RAV4-Adventure-THUMBAt the Geneva Motor Show Toyota is revealing two new concept vehicles based on the stylish RAV4 model. Both of them were created to reinforce different aspects of the styling and capabilities of the latest RAV4.

    The fist one is called RAV4 Premium and it comes to underline the compact SUV’s high quality while the second one – the RAV4 Adventure, builds on the vehicle’s rugged off-road character. RAV4 Premium brings about more sophistication.

    Its bodywork and bumpers are finished in Deep Bronze. This enhances the sense of harmony in the design. In addition, at the front, there is a central grille with horizontal lines and air intakes, while the LED lights are further accentuated by a stylish chrome-finished spoiler.

    On the other hand, at the rear one can see a redesigned bumper which now comes with chrome inserts, brushed aluminium skid plates and an integrated tailpipe design. The Premium Concept runs on 20-inch alloys that are matched to the aluminium roof rails.

    The interior of the model exudes nothing but luxury, thanks to the premium leather upholstery. New black piping and a V-shaped outline reinforce the design of the seats, and the use of two-tone double stitching in several areas expresses both robustness and quality. Grey and black leather wrapping can be seen on the instrument and door panels.

    Secondly, the RAV4 Adventure brings about more enhanced off-road capabilities. First thing that grabs the attention is the striking dark red paint that evokes the strong, athletic qualities of the fourth-generation RAV4’s exterior.

    The aggressive presence of the morel is further enhanced via the addition of extended wheel arches that accommodate larger 20-inch alloy wheels. Here, the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned and finished with matt paint.

    The front bumper is integrated with a new under-run while the rear includes fully integrated twin exhaust pipes and a reworked skid plate. At last, what has to be mentioned are the included here machined roof rails and dark-tinted privacy glass.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2013 Geneva Motor Show: BMW 335i Gran Turismo

    BMW has officially unveiled the new 3-Series GT (Gran Turismo) at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle combines practicality and performance with its super-powerful, economical engines and superb load space.

    The 3-Series GT is 200 mm longer, 81 mm taller and the wheel base is extended by 110 mm compared to 3-Series Touring. This means an additional 70 mm of rear seat legroom as well as 1600 liters (56.5 cubic feet) of luggage capacity when the rear seats are folded down.

    The engine range includes a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel with 143 HP (105 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque; a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel with 184 HP (135 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft); 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder with 184 HP (135 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft); a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder with 245 HP (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) and a mighty 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six cylinder with 306 HP (225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

    In addition to its enviable practicality and sporting dynamics, the outstanding fuel economy of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo also serves the cause of driving pleasure. The key here is the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, whose influence can be seen in virtually every area of the new model. Building on the good work of the ultra-frugal petrol and diesel engines, the intelligent lightweight construction concept of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo and its optimised aerodynamics (including Air Curtains, Air Breathers and the active rear spoiler) do their bit to maximise efficiency and dynamics.

    And other measures, such as the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Shift Indicator and on-demand operation of ancillary components join the campaign to ensure the powerful BMW 3 Series Gran Turismoboasts impressively low fuel consumption and emissions. The economy drive doesn’t stop there, either; the car still has the potential to cut fuel use by as much as another 20 per cent using ECO PRO mode and the new ECO PRO Route function.

    Source: BMW

  • Geneva Motor Show: Premiere For Audi RS 5 DTM

    Audi-RS-5-DTM-THUMBAt the Geneva Motor Show was just presented the racecar for the DTM 2013 – the exceptional Audi RS 5 DTM. Model’s technical specifications are matching all of the regulations demanded.

    Although the car’s specifications for the 2012 season were perfect, there were also made some additional development, butt only in limited form. Over the winter, the Audi Sport DTM team put its attention on identifying if any of the 4,000 components in the racecar from the 2012 season offered any potential for optimization.

    The name of the model is also new. This Audi motorsport car also establishes a direct reference in the DTM to the company’s successful production models. In addition the abbreviation ‘RS’ stands for the sportiest Audi models. In fact, the performance data of the current RS 5 and RS 5 DTM are very similar, hence the Audi RS 5 DTM was born.

    To go further into detail, eight examples of th RS 5 DTM will take part in the grid for the 2013 DTM. They are fielded by the three proven Audi Sport squads Abt Sportsline, Phoenix and Rosberg. The drivers have been also selected. Among them is one newcomer – Jamie Green from Great Britain, who will join DTM Champion Mattias Ekström (Sweden) at Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline.

    The most successful driver combination in the entire DTM 2013 field were Ekström and Green, who achieved 25 race wins and two championship titles. Additionally, nine DTM race wins are attributed to the other Audi driver teams which have remained almost identical since the 2012 season: the double DTM Champion Timo Scheider (Germany) and Adrien Tambay (France) compete for Audi Sport Team Abt, Miguel Molina (Spain) and Mike Rockenfeller (Germany) for Audi Sport Team Phoenix, Filipe Albuquerque (Portugal) and Edoardo Mortara (Italy/France) for Audi Sport Team Rosberg.

    On 5th of May is when the new DTM season starts, and here are already known ten events, six of which are in Germany. The other will be held in Austria, Great Britain and the Netherlands and in Moscow. Audi RS 5 DTM will appear officially in public for the first time at the DTM test between 19th and 26th of April 26 and 29 in Barcelona and from 9th to 12th of April in Hockenheim, where a grandstand is open for spectators on the first day.

    Source: Audi

  • 2013 Geneva Motor Show: KTM X-BOW GT

    KTM has exhibited the new 2013 X-BOW GT at the Geneva Motor Show. The “Supersportscar of the 21st century” comes with a road-legal soft-top, a wide range of colors and different performance parts available as options.

    The GT model is based on KTM X-BOW R. It is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 285HP (210 kW) at 6,400RPM and 420Nm (310 lb-ft) at 3,200RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 231 km/h (144 mph).

    The dimensions are: 3788 mm length, 1915 mm width, 1202 mm height and 2430 mm wheelbase. The curb weight is 847 kg (1,867 lbs). KTM X-BOW GT rolls 17” front wheels with 205/40 tires and 18” rears with 255/35 tires. It can average 8.3 liters / 100 km (28.3 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 189 g/km.

    The price for this toy starts at €72,500.

    Source: KTM

  • Geneva Motor Show: Chevrolet Unveils Corvette Stingray Convertible [VIDEO]

    2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible has just been unveiled by the brand at the start of this year’s Geneva Motor Show. It has an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm), which makes it the most powerful standard Corvette in history.

    Of course, everything we have seen in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe we are to find in its cabrio sibling. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. The highlight in both models is the new and more rigid aluminum frame structure, which is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the current steel frame.

    All models are powered by the LT1 6.2L V-8 which delivers 450 horsepower (335 kW). The unit combines several advanced technologies such as direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency.

    In addition, what is new here is the fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds up to 50 km/h. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance.

    When the top is down, Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Here the exterior color is brought into the interior as well and complements it perfectly.

    What is more, it has to be mentioned that this Chevrolet model has a sculptured exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for enhanced stability and track capability.

    Furthermore, the interior includes a carbon fibre and aluminium trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices. Some of the advanced driver technologies featured in the model are the five-position Drive Mode Selector and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching.

    Lightweight materials such as carbon fibre hood and carbon fibre removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminium frame are improving the weight for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

    In addition, the model is equipped with track-capable Z51 Performance Package, which comes with an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further enhances the high-speed stability.

    Both 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe and Convertible will be available at dealerships in the end of this year.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • EXCLUSIVE: Pininfarina Sergio Concept Revealed [VIDEO]

    Pininfarina-Sergio-Concept-THUMBPininfarina Sergio Concept which has been shown as a sketch few days ago is now making a debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The name Sergio is inspired by the man who led Pininfarina for 40 years and conceived some of the greatest car legends.

    The new concept car celebrates the Life of Senator Sergio Pininfarina. The model is a two-seater barchetta with very compact, very sporty, racy, pure and sensual qualities. It is an exercise that Pininfarina decided to undertake on Ferrari 458 Spider mechanicals.

    The revisited volumes and surface treatments emerge through the Sergio, which evokes the spirit of Pininfarina’s best achievements for Ferrari of the ‘60s and ‘70s. In addition, this is a real open air car, and it doesn’t have a cupola fitted to protect occupants. Therefore there are provided two helmets.

    Furthermore, the Sergio is charactarized by a very simple and clear style. As one sees it, its proportions are pushed to the extreme, its dynamic front volume penetrates into a rear that is projected forward. The design principle here can be seen through the composition of the two body masses through a longitudinal black insert.

    The aesthetics of the model are enhanced through the front semi-floating development with the spoiler under the front. This at the same time serves as a functional for the stabilization of the aerodynamic load and the heat exchange.

    A virtual windscreen is also created by the aerodynamic deflector in front of the cockpit. In addition, the roll bar which is made like a wing surface is tuned excellently to the evolution of the flow coming from the front, adding a further down force effect.

    At last, the rear holder and the extractor finish the design in a very functional manner. Here even the rear-view mirror takes on a fluid form that helps to divert air from the heads of the passengers.

    Some important numbers for the Pininfarina Sergio Concept:

    • Maximum length: 4550 mm
    • Maximum width: 1940 mm
    • Maximum height: 1140 mm
    • Boot capacity: 110 litres
    • Power train (original Ferrari 458 Spider): 4499cc V8; Sequential gearbox 7M + RM
    • Package: 2 doors, 2 seats
    • Chassis: original 458 Spider
    • Cx XS: about 5% lower than the original car
    • Weight: about 1280 kg
    • Maximum speed: approx 320 km/h
    • Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: less than 3.4 seconds

    httpv://youtu.be/O8w6tsTEXv8

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Pininfarina

  • Geneva Motor Show: Suzuki SX4 Crossover

    Suzuki-SX4-Crossover-THUMBSuzuki SX4 Crossover is the C-Segment Crossover which makes a first world appearance at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The new SX4 is a production model which is based on the S-Cross Concept showcased at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

    The new model is a successor to the current production SX4. However, it has an increased size and includes four-wheel drive. The company created the new SX4 Crossover by mixing its compact car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles.

    The result is the exceptional new distinctive styling of this Suzuki Crossover, its class leading space for passengers and luggage, its generation 4WD performance and its excellent low CO2 emission figures. In other words this is a model which offers great driving enjoyment and versatile family utilization.

    Some of the key features of the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover include the following:

    • Distinctive crossover styling: bold, sporty crossover shape, strong lines, a refined, distinctive character and excellent aerodynamics;
    • More space for people and luggage: C segment dimensions with increased passenger space and luggage capacity (430 litres);
    • Next generation 4WD with ALLGRIP technology: the new 4WD system has four driver-selectable driving modes for better performance and safety under diverse conditions;
    • One of the lowest CO2 emissions in its category: engine refinements, superior aerodynamics, and the high tensile steel used in the bodywork;
    • World’s first double sliding glass sunroof.

    The new SX4 Crossover’s design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. The latter enhance the fuel economy, and the highly distinctive look is ensured by the characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches. A sharp body line, wheel arch mouldings, skid plates and integrated roof rails underline the crossover styling. Furthermore, the model will be offered in a range of 10 exterior colours, where two of them are new: Crystal Lime Metallic and Amethyst Grey Pearl Metallic.

    On the other hand, the interior of the model include exceptional features such as an instrument panel which is shaped to give a sense of width and dynamism. Its contours overlap the doors and the soft padding. The seats are shaped and stitched in order to emphasize a sense of sophistication, while the silver decorations create a sporty look against the black interior.

    In terms of performance, the SX4 Crossover blends all-terrain crossover capability and on road performance. The powertrain delivers environmental compatibility and great performance. The performance results of the model come from the combination of exceptional attributes: 4WD SUV capability; great handling – derived from the Swift; pleasant, straight runningstability thanks to a long wheelbase; low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – fulfilling the global needs for environmental compatibility.

    To be more precise the engine options are 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel. The first one is based on the current M16A. Lower friction and lower weight in the engine and related parts heighten fuel economy without detracting from the high power and torque of the M16A. The second one, the 1.6-litre diesel engine offers superior fuel economy.

    Both engines can be mated to either the standard five-speed and six-speed manual transmission system (for petrol and diesel engines respectively), or to a CVT transmission. The latter is the continuously variable transmission that has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill climbing performance and fuel economy.

    Furthermore, the included Engine Auto Start Stop (EASS) system additionally increases fuel economy, limits exhaust emissions, and makes driving more pleasurable by limiting noise and vibration.

    The CO2 emissions target for the new SX4Crossover petrol models are:

    • 125g/km* with two wheel drive (2WD) manual transmission;
    • 125g/km with 2WD CVT;
    • 136g/km* with 4WD manual transmission;
    • 136g/km with 4WD CVT.

    The CO2 emissions for the diesel models are:

    • 110g/km* with 2WD manual transmission;
    • 115g/km* with 4WD manual transmission.

    Dimensions Of Suzuki SX4 Crossover

    New SX4 Current SX4
    Overall length 4,300mm 4,135mm
    Overall width 1,765mm 1,755mm
    Overall height 1,575mm (16”wheels)
    1,570mm (17” wheels)
    1,565mm
    Wheelbase 2,600mm 2,500mm
    Treads Front 1,535mm Front 1,500mm
    Rear 1,505mm Rear 1,495mm
    Luggage capacity (VDA) 430L 270L
    Tyre size 205/60R16
    205/50R17
    205/60R16

    Source: Suzuki

  • Geneva Motor Show: Spyker B6 Venator Concept

    Spyker-B6-Venator-Concept-THUMBThe Dutch sports car maker Spyker is debuting its B6 Venator Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. After the model has been teased two weeks ago it now comes to show an exceptional attitude at the Auto Show.

    Spyker B6 Venator Concept is a compact, 2-door mid-engine sports car which delivers a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity. The concept makes a defiantly contemporary statement whilst paying homage to its past. It includes extremely detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements.

    The name “Venator” comes from the ancient language Latin and it means literally “Hunter”. The name it carries undoubtedly conveys its high sports luxury presence and its bold beauty. But to go further into details and to reveal some of the highlights, the rear lights of this Concept are stunning 3D LED lights akin to the iris-type propelling nozzle of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.

    Secondly, the Radiator Grille, which is the trademark, references to Spyker models of the previous century. Here, the 1903 Spyker logo harkens back to an era when Spyker

    built racers such as the amazing Spyker 60 HP.

    Another exceptional element here is the aerodynamically shaped glass aircraft canopy which extends rearwards in order to minimize drag and to enhance performance. Next, the air intakes are aerodynamically sculpted and are integrated into the contemporary design of the car.

    The new headlights are also instantly eye-catching because they are equipped with LED light rails, which add further to the aggressive stance of the model. What is more, the highly detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements are a core part Spyker’s DNA.

    The brake light has been sculpted into the Spyker B6 Venator’s rear panel design to ensure smooth, flowing design lines. And the wheels – 19” Turbofan™ are in mirror polish finish. The contemporary profile and the overall design of the B6 pays homage to its past whilst making a defiantly contemporary statement with a lineage that can be traced back many years.

    Source: Spyker

  • 2013 Geneva Motor Show: LaFerrari

    Ferrari has announced LaFerrari Limited Series Special at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Only 499 will be built of this spectacular sports car.

    The model introduces the hybrid system which, making full use of the Scuderia Ferrari’s F1 KERS know-how, has resulted in a solution that exalts Ferrari’s fundamental values – performance and driving thrills.

    The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO2 but without resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission of this model.

    The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively electric power for a few kilometres and, during development testing, a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of CO2 emissions on the combined cycle.

    The engine is a 6.3 liter V12 with 800HP (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. With the help of HY-KERS, the overall power is whopping 963HP and over 900Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7 seconds and 0-300 in breath-taking 15 seconds.

    A lap time at Fiorano of under 1’20” – 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta. LaFerrari is thus the fastest road car in Maranello’s long history.

    Check out the full technical specs, below!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRsV6YpLsKA

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

    HY-KERS system

    Total maximum power 963 CV
    Total maximum torque >900 Nm
    V12 maximum power* 800 CV @9000 rpm
    Maximum revs 9250 rpm
    V12 maximum torque 700 Nm @6750 rpm
    Electric motor output 120 Kw (163 CV)
    CO2 emissions** 330 g/km

    Performance

    Maximum speed over 350 km/h
    0-100 km/h <3 sec
    0-200 km/h <7 sec
    0-300 km/h 15 sec

    ICE

    Type 65-deg. V12
    Bore and stroke 94 x 752 mm
    Total displacement 6262 cc
    Compression ratio 13.5:1
    Specific power 128 CV/l

    Dimensions

    Length 4702 mm
    Width 1992 mm
    Height 1116 mm
    Wheelbase 2650 mm
    Weight distribution 41% fr, 59% r
    Gearbox
    7-speed DCT

    Suspension

    Front double wishbones
    Rear multi-link
    Tyres (Pirelli P-Zero)
    Front 265/30 – 19
    Rear 345/30 – 20
    Carbon ceramic brakes (Brembo)
    Front 398 x 223 x 36 mm
    Rear 380 x 253 x 34 mm

    Electronic controls

    ESC stability control
    High perf ABS/EBD Performance anti blockage system/electronic brake balance
    EF1-Trac F1 electronic traction control integrated with the hybrid system
    E-Diff 3 third generation electronic differential
    SCM-E Frs magnetorheological damping with twin solenoids (Al-Ni tube)
    Aerodynamics active

    * with dynamic ram effect
    **Undergoing homologation

    Source: Ferrari

  • Geneva Motor Show: Honda Civic Tourer Concept

    Honda-Civic-Tourer-Concept-THUMBHonda Civic Tourer Concept is another concept unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This Concept vehicle delivers strong hints to the exterior design of the Civic Tourer production model. The latter will make a debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

    This Honda Concept has many of the same attributes as the ninth generation 2011 Civic hatchback. It has a sophisticated, aerodynamic body that creates a clean, dynamic look. Its distinctive profile and low and wide stance giving the concept a sporty appearance, which is further enhanced by a sleek cabin style.

    As a matter of fact, the Civic Tourer Concept follows the same design as Honda Tourer derivatives such as the Accord Tourer and Civic Aero deck. However, it offers smoother design combined with practical and class leading cargo space. The production Civic Tourer will be seen in showrooms in early 2014.

    Source: Honda

  • 2013 Geneva Motor Show: Renault Clio GT – 120HP and 190Nm

    Renault is bringing a new special version of Clio at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The 2013 Clio GT features aggressive styling and additional power.

    The exterior boasts a new front bumper with bigger air vents and LED DRLs. There is also a modified front grille, new mirror and door trims, tinted headlamps, a set of 17” alloy wheels fitted with 205/45 R17 tires, twin chrome tail-pipes and a new rear diffuser.

    The power is coming from an all-new 1.2 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 120HP (88 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 199 km/h (123 mph).

    The small car boasts nice fuel consumption of just 5.2 liters / 100 km (45.2 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 120 g/km.

    Source: Renault