Car Makes – Page 700 – Automobiles Review

The Factory Life: Nissan Kyushu [VIDEO]

Parts_Assembly_THUMB Have you ever wondered how exactly the cars are being manufactured or asked yourself the question “what happens “behind-the-scenes” at a car-factory”? For those who have, Nissan is offering a glimpse of their Kyushu production factory in Japan.

The video below follows the production line and how it from steel rolls to shipping vessel. This in fact is a five-hour process that ultimately will take vehicles all over Japan and the world. Further details disclosed lead to the secrets of car production various stages, including pressing, body assembly, painting and parts assembly.

Here are also featured robots with names inspired by anime characters: “Anpanman” and “Dokin-chan” – they also weld two shifts a day. As a matter of fact, Kyushu is one of Nissan’s largest and most cost-efficient manufacturing sites, where the brand produces a number of models.

Here are also being made the Nissan Note, Rogue and X-Trail SUVs, with a production capacity of approximately 430,000 units per year. Another interesting fact here is that this factory is the sectret of Nissan’s success of maintaining an output level of over 1 million units in Japan annually.

httpv://youtu.be/El5vpA8wdAs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

January 24, 2013

Project Grand Walker: SR Auto BMW 750Li CV1

Under the name “Project Grand Walker” hides the SR Auto BMW 750Li CV1 because of its grand and executive appearance and aggressive stance. The forceful image of the car is reinforced by its 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine.

The V8 generates 407 hp (300 kW) at engine speeds of between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. It mobilizes a maximum torque of 600 Nm (441 lb-ft) that is maintained between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. The effortless acceleration of this BMW from 0 to 100 km/h is delivered within 7.9 seconds.

More importantly, Project Grand Walker include a more refined persona thanks to its classy pearl white exterior which is paired with an elegant set of Vossen CV1 in a matte graphite finish. At the front SR Auto Group used 22×9 inch wheels and at the rear – 22×10.5 ones. In addition, some black accents on them are also present but they only highlight the beautiful lines of the Project.

Source: SR Auto Group

January 24, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Raises Over One Million at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

2014-Chevrolet-Corvette-Stingray-THUMB The first retail production model of 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has been sold for the incredible amount $1.05 million at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auctions that concluded Sunday. The vehicle was among five other Chevrolet high performance cars, which raised a combined $2.14 million.

As promised by the brand, the proceeds will go to the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, as well as to the Habitat for Humanity Detroit, the American Heart Association, the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination and the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans.

2014 Corvette Stingray 0001 was sold in Saturday to the businessman and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick. He gave over one million just few days after Stingray made its official debut at the North American International Auto Show. The model is powered by a 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine, which can generate 450 horsepower (335 kW) and has 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm).

The other Chevys at the auction were the 1958 Corvette sold for $270,000 (£170,500); the 2012 COPO Camaro Convertible sold for $400,000; the 69 COPO Camaro in Inferno Orange Metallic factory drag-race cars built for 2012; the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition sold for $270,000. The latter is powered by a 505 hp (371 kW) LS7 engine, and is painted in black with custom yellow stripes.

The last one sold was the 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible – the first Convertible off the assembly line – sold for $150,000. The vehicle is powered by a 580 hp (427 kW) supercharged 6.2L LSA small-block engine.

Source: Chevrolet

January 24, 2013

Ferrari 458 Italia Spider – “Best Cabriolet” Award

Without any hesitation, we can say that Ferrari 458 Spider is the best convertible in the world. The car incorporates everything that a “drop-top driver” needs – extremely powerful engine, sensational noise from the exhaust and beautiful exterior lines.

That’s why, the readers of Auto Motor und Sport have crowned the 458 Spider “Best Imported Cabriolet” in the traditional “Best cars” poll.

This is second award for the 458 Spider in this category and it’s the 15^th time that a convertible Ferrari has received this award, demonstrating the esteem with which the marque is held in Germany.

The trophy was presented by Auto Motor und Sport Editor-in-Chief, Ralph Alex, to Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa at the prize-giving ceremony held in Stuttgart today.

The 458 Spider is powered by the same engine as the coupe – a naturally aspirated 4.5 liter V8 with 570HP (419 kW) at 9,000RPM and 540Nm (399 lb-ft) at 6,000RPM. This means the incredible 127 PS/liter from a naturally aspirated engine. Furthermore, the sports car is 1380 kg, so it has power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/hp. 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

The engine powering the car has also been in the spotlight, having won the International Engine of the Year award for two consecutive years in 2011 and 2012.

Overall the 458 – in both the Italia coupé and the Spider versions – has received over 50 awards worldwide to date and is one of the most recognised and successful models in the history of Ferrari.

Source: Ferrari

January 24, 2013

Seat Mii And Ibiza Offered in Toca Editions

Seat Mii Toca and Seat Ibiza Toca Editions are now being introduced to the market delivering more desirable equipment and special features. In Spanish “Toca” means “touch” and as you can conclude this name gives a fairly obvious clue to the bonuses included in those two new models.

In particular, Toca Editions come with the very useful Seat Portable System (including a touch-screen), which was firstly introduced to the Seat range with the Mii city car. First of all, the Mii Toca is based on the 1.0 60 PS SE version, but adds the Seat Portable System and rear parking sensors.

Secondly, by committing to the Ibiza Toca (which is based on the SE version), the drivers will get a set of 16-inch “Stratos” alloy wheel. These were previously 15-inch. In addition, the Seat Portable System is also featured.

Both Ibiza and Mii are loaded with equipment which features the following: air conditioning, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, electric front windows, electronic stability control (ESC), remote central locking. The only difference that the Ibiza adds is that it includes front fog lights with cornering function.

Furthermore, the aforementioned Seat Portable System includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming, a MicroSD card slot for music storage, and trip computer functions, all controlled via a fool-proof interface on a five-inch touchscreen.

Seat Mii Toca

Doors	Model	Engine	PS	CO2 g/km
3dr	Toca	1.0 12V	60	105
5dr	Toca	1.0 12V	60	105

Seat Ibiza Toca

Doors	Model	Engine	PS	CO2 g/km
SC	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139
5dr	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139
ST	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139

Source: Seat

January 24, 2013

2013 Volkswagen CC – Better Value for Money

2013 Volkswagen CC features modified radiator grille, new bi-xenon headlights and topped with a reprofiled bonnet. The bumper is different, too, with a new extra air intake, and silver-coloured winglets that frame the fog lights.

The price of every CC model in the range is now at least £470 lower than last year, meaning you can get behind the wheel of a CC from just £24,050.

The best-selling model – CC GT 2.0-litre TDI 140HP with either manual or automatic DSG gearbox will now get even better value for money, too. The price is wn by a total of £1,320, thanks to the removal of ACC (Adaptive Chassis Control), which now becomes a £850 option.

ACC remains standard on the CC GT 2.0-litre TDI 170HP and CC GT 2.0-litre TSI 210HP, and is optional on all other models.

The engine range includes 1.8 liter TSI with 160HP and 2.0 litre TSI with 210HP. The diesel range includes 2.0 liter engine with either 140HP or 170HP. All models with 170HP or more also now get a standard XDS differential, an electronic cross-axle traction control system for improved traction and handling.

Source: Volkswagen

January 24, 2013

2013 Ford Fiesta ST – 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds

2013 Ford Fiesta ST is an affordable performance car, which is suitable for everyday drive. It has a mighty four-cylinder engine and some nice additional extras over the standard Fiesta.

The European model is available only in 3-door variant, while the US-spec 2014 Fiesta ST in exclusively sold as a 5-door model. We can’t tell the purpose of this marketing move, but the three-door variant is a lot more stylish and nice. The European version will be available in the UK in march with price starting from £16,995.

For £1,000 more, you can order the ST-2 trim adding LED DRL’s, Sony DAB radio, half-leather Recaro Sport seats and keyless entry. This is definitely a good bargain.

The Fiesta ST gets a revised suspension with lowering springs (-15 mm) and stiffened dampers. The brake system has also been improved compared to the stock Fiesta. Last is a three-stage electronic stability control system and enhanced torque vectoring control.

The 2013 Fiesta ST is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 180HP (132 kW) and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph).

Source: Ford

January 23, 2013

Carlsson Mercedes-Benz SLK Race Car

Carlsson has developed a unique race car based on Mercedes-Benz SLK. The name of the project is Carlsson SLK 340 JUDD.

The curb weight of the sports car is just 780kg, which is achieved thanks to an ultra-lightweight body kit made of carbon fiber. The aerodynamic components have been tested extensively, even in a wind tunnel, to connect a spectacular look with a perfect downforce.

“We developed the design over a long period of time and with lots of feeling. We are proud of the awesome look. As an engineer, it is a pleasure to contribute to such a project, and we can show everything that is technically possible in the vehicle in cooperation with Carlsson”, commented Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Markus Schuster, Managing Director of Carlsson Germany.

The engine is a 3.4 liter V8 with 610HP (449 kW) and 430Nm (319 lb-ft) of torque. The engine weighs just 120kg. The gearbox is a Hewland with a paddle shift.

A 3-way adjustable KW competition suspension ensures optimum road holding for the race car on BBS racing wheels – 10J x 18” front and 13J x 18” rear fitted with AVON tires. The brake system of ultralight materials saves additional weight. Maximum support and maximum safety are guaranteed by newly developed racing seats from Fibreworks.

Last, but not least a complex safety cage has been installed which meets all relevant international requirements.

Source: Carlsson

January 23, 2013

Hartge BMW M5 F10 – 642HP and 810Nm

Hartge has announced their tuning program for BMW M5 F10. It was about time for the tuner to make the high-performance saloon faster and more aggressive, so the program includes both styling and engine mods.

The exterior gets a new front lip spoiler, carbon fiber mirror housings and different sets of 21” HARTGE wheels. There is also a set of lowering springs reducing the ride height by 25mm at the front and 20mm at the rear. HARTGE also offers a complete stainless steel sports exhaust system.

The interior received only aluminum pedals, velour floor mats and some Hartge badging.

The biggest modification comes for the mighty twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V8, which is boosted to 642HP (472 kW) and 810Nm (597 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 82HP and 130Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h(190 mph) – electronically limited.

Source: Hartge

January 23, 2013

Kia Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Kia will present its latest Concept Car at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The provocative and racy new urban concept car has the company’s signature tiger-nose morphing into a mischievous yet friendly grille and headlight arrangement, coupled with strong styling lines that exude speed and energy from every angle.

The new Concept by Kia definitely will catch the eyes of the visitors.

Still, no information about performance or engines are available.

However, it could turn out to be a preview concept of a future Nissan Juke rival.

Source: Kia

January 23, 2013

World Debut: Aston Martin Rapide S

Absolutely exclusive and with stunning visual characteristics the new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut and it is showing off more luxury and power-related enhancements. The new GT has been redesigned and re-engineered which makes it one of the most beautiful cars on the market nowadays.

Rapide S will replace the outgoing Rapide, has an assertive new “face” with the instantly eye catching new full grille. In addition to this, to make it even more aggressive the designers matched the revised front end’s design with a new rear deck profile, which includes a more pronounced boot lid “flip”.

More importantly there are some comprehensive changes in the new Aston Martin model regarding its engine. It is powered by an AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented force and enhanced in-gear acceleration.

Thanks to it the Rapide can now produce the stunning 558 hp (410 kW) at 6,750 rpm. The peak torque is 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm. This amazing results lead to only one thing: great acceleration time.

The car needs only 4.9 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h on its way to the top speed of 190 mph. Despite the powerful performance, the vehicle shows great efficiency. CO2 emissions are 332 g/km – while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

Aston Martin engineers also paid attention to the car’s dynamic stability control (DSC) in line with its significant increases in both power and torque. The car also benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin’s hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’.

The ADS automatically manages the suspension thus ensuring drivers greater sense of control at all times. The damper settings here are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

Furthermore, Rapide S has unique approach to pedestrian impact protection through its lowered engine, new bonnet, new front bumper construction and new grille. The grille moves rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and support achievement of the leg impact regulations.

In terms of interior Aston Martin stands only for luxury. In addition, there is a new optional Carbon Exterior Pack which adds more sporting attitude. Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills are all made from carbon fibre.

The piano black interior pack adds mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles. A darker surround in the instrument binnacle and steering wheel with black horn-push surround round off the pack’s sumptuous additions. Luxurious blend headlinings in either tan or grey are also present and reinforce the luxury treatment of the coupe.

Even more, the Rapide S now comes with improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics thanks to the new bonnet lining and revised windscreen cowl. Optionally there is a choice of a reversing camera and twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control and six-disc DVD changer.

Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order worldwide next month with prices announced closer to the on-sale date.

Source: Aston Martin

January 23, 2013

2014 Bentley Mulsanne With Enhanced Specifications [VIDEO]

The next-generation 2014 Bentley Mulsanne has just been exclusively unveiled. It will make an official first appearance at the Geneva International Salon d’Auto in March and will be available for ordering from April.

The facelifted includes new Comfort Specification which is featuring comfort headrests, footrests, duck down filled loose cushions and privacy curtains. Furthermore the design incorporates Bentley Winged Emblems, but also bespoke stitching or piping.

As a standard in this specification is now featured a new rear door armrest storage compartment, which can conveniently serve as a place for mobile phones, personal items or Bluetooth headphones for Rear Seat Entertainment.

There is also available an Entertainment Specification which in turn includes the latest in technological developments, picnic tables designed for an iPad and wireless keyboard. This means that the cabin of the Mulsanne will literally become a Wi-Fi Hotspot.

The rear cabin’s privacy can be attained through the touch of a button, with new privacy curtains offered as a Crewe-fitted option. Speaking about the cabin, here Bentley has offered two coor options: either Black or Ivory.

In addition, the Entertainment Specification is further enhanced with twin, eight inch LCD headrest screens, incorporating a 20 GB hard drive and DVD player, played through a ‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system, while two sets of Bluetooth headphones and a remote control.

In terms of exterior, there are three new additions to the palette: Dark Cashmere, Portofino and Damson. Dark Cashmere is a warm grey color, while Portofino is a new take on Pale Sapphire. The Damson is a rich color with subtle sparkle of rare purple diamonds.

What is more is that there are also three additional hide colors: Damson, Saffron and Brunel, which all complement the luxurious stance that the main colors deliver.

As an option, there is offered a range of bespoke Mulsanne luggage pieces which were hand made by the renowned Italian luggage specialists Schedoni. The full package comprises of six pieces, two large cases, two small cases and two foldable garment bags. All six pieces here include monogram Bentley lining and embossed Bentley logos on the main panels.

httpv://youtu.be/06Ivu-QPM-U

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bentley

January 23, 2013

Category: Car Makes