Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • The Seventh Volkswagen Golf is Out

    Volkswagen-Golf-VII-thumbVolkswagen-Golf-VII-mediumTime to get excited since the seventh chapter of a 38-year-old legend is at our doorstep. The Volkswagen Golf VII made its debut in Berlin. More spunk and less fat for this one. Back to the primitive then!

    Well, not really. The latest incarnation of the best seller will be still as complicated as a car can be – a new Modular Transverse Matrix body (which is supposedly roomier), a new information and entertainment system and even more interfering assistance software. Nevertheless, the Wolfsburg boffins have managed to trim off 100 kg of weight.

    The 140 PS petrol engine is also now 23 percent more fuel efficient thanks to an already developed and tested cylinder deactivation system (remember the Polo Blue GT?). Additionaly, throughout the engine range, a stop/start system comes and standard and battery regeneration as well. Subsequently, we get figures that feel more at home with today’s diesel engines – 4.8 l / 100 km. Speaking of diesels, the 105 PS TDI in the Golf VII happens to sip just 3.8 l per 100 km. Add to that a BlueMotion trim and you get 3.2 l and less than 86 g/km of CO2 emissions.

    Do not for a minute think however, that the seventh Golf will slip through without newly installed plants. There are two entirely new generations of engines, designed to offer power from 85 PS to 150 PS.

    Be on the lookout for a full specification list.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Entry model from BMW – The 2013 1-Series 114d

    BMW has announced their new entry level of 1-Series hatchback. The 114d model is going to be one of the cheapest BMWs on the market, but still offering sheer driving pleasure.

    The 2013 BMW 1-Series 114d is powered by a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine featuring Twin Power Turbo technology. It produces 95 HP (70 kW) at 4,000 RPM and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) of torque available at 1,500 RPM. 0-100 km/h in 12.2 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph).

    Average fuel consumption is between 4.1 and 4.3 litres/100 km, with respective CO2 emissions being between 109 and 112 grams per km (levels as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

    Like all other model variants of the new BMW 1-Series, the new BMW 114d is also equipped as standard with comprehensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. The package comprises among other things brake energy regeneration, shift point indicator, Auto Start Stop function, electronic power steering, on-demand ancillary components and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.

    Moreover, the new BMW 114d features the ECO PRO mode, which can be activated by means of the Driver Experience Control switch fitted as standard, facilitating both a relaxed and economical driving style.

    Source: BMW

  • Peugeot 208 XY at the 2012 Paris Motor Show

    Peugeot has recently introduced the 208 XY Concept car at the Geneva Motor Show, this year. The manufacturer will actually run production version of the small vehicle, which will be exhibited at the end of this month during the Paris Motor Show, when the company will also bring the new 208 GTi.

    The XY is actually a more premium version of the 208. It features chromed mirror caps, front grille, fog lamp surrounds, window trim and rear apron trim. There are also special decals for the roof, which are available as an option.

    The interior boasts leather wrapped surfaces with contrasting stitching. There is also Alcantara on the center parts of the sport seats. The final touch of the interior are sets of new bespoke mats and aluminum pedals.

    The car rolls 17” multi-spoke Diamond Anthra Mercure rims fitted with low-profile tires.

    The engine range includes a 1.6 liter e-HDi diesel with 92HP. It is available with 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed piloted transmission. There is also a more powerful 1.6 liter e-HDi with 115HP, which comes only with 6-speed manual gearbox. The petrol variants are two – 1.6 liter VTi with 120HP and 5-speed manual transmission and a powerful 1.6 liter turbocharged THP engine with 155HP and 6-speed manual gearbox.

    The options list for 208 XY includes full interior leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, automatic parking system and a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation.

    Source: Peugeot

  • BMW F10 M5 Police Car exhibited in Munich

    BMW has unveiled a special edition of the new 5-Series F10 M5. The Police Car model is exhibited at the Welt Museum in Munich, Germany. It looks exactly like a cop car – traditional livery, a black grille and a light bar.

    However, this is just a prototype and luckily for street racers, the police won’t use this car … for now!

    Everything else remains unchanged – a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560HP (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). The gearbox is 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 13 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package.

    The fuel consumption is 9.9 liters/100 km on combined cycle (28.5 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.

    The Active M Differential optimizes power transfer between the rear wheels ensuring the engine’s performance is transferred to the ground.

    Obviously, this is perfect car for highway chases.

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition – Pricing Announced

    2012-Infiniti-M35h-Hybrid-Business-Edition-THUMB2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition is a luxury performance vehicle which has reached new heights by being more optimized than ever. It has been created especially for the business users of the brand.

    The Infiniti meets all requirements, being efficient, powerful and balanced. The acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is covered here for only 5.5 seconds, which makes the M35h the world’s fastest-accelerating hybrid saloon in 2011 by Guinness World Records.

    The fuel consumption is also impressive. That’s 40.9mpg on the combined cycle, but with zero consumption, and zero CO2emissions, when the innovative hybrid system employs silent all-electric power for driving in congested city streets.

    A lot of standard equipment is featured in the car: Connectiviti+ navigation, Bi-xenon Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), rear-view camera, parking sensors and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline leather seat trim, Forest Air® climate control, HDD Music Box and voice-recognition navigation, Bluetooth and USB connector.

    The new M35h Business Edition is based on the M35h GT model. This means that it has the same 3.5-litre V6 hybrid drivetrain, mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. The power generated from it is 364 hp (268 kW) and the CO2 emissions are estimated of 159g/km.

    Moreover, thanks to its 68 hp (50 kW) electric motor, lithium ion batteries and innovative twin-clutch layout, the M35h Business Edition is able to go even faster, further and for longer in silent, emissions-free electric mode than other hybrids.

    In addition, the engine stop-start and regenerative braking system which is included here, ensures the car enters eco mode as often as possible.

    2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition has a starting price of £42 020.

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2013 Tata Xenon Pick-Up Unveiled

    2013-Tata-Xenon-Pick-Up-THUMBTata has just launched the new 2013 Tata Xenon Pick-up. The vehicle will be offered in both single cab and dual cab versions, conveying it’s with best-in-class visual appearance and at the same time operating fuel efficiently.

    The power of this Pick-Up comes from its 3.0 Litre Common Rail or Turbo Direct-Injection engine, which deliver respectively a top speed of 120 km/h with peak power of 72 hp (53 kW) in the single cab and 115 hp (85 kW) in the dual cab, with a peak torque of 223 Nm (164 kW) and 300 Nm (220 kW).

    Furthermore, the new Tata vehicle will deliver its customers best-in-class fuel efficiency because of its exquisitely engineered drive train. The Tata Xenon’s engines has a flat torque characteristics, and overdrive gearbox, radial tyres and the aerodynamic shape, which all contribute to high fuel efficiency.

    To go further into details, the Tata Xenon single cab variant offers the longest-in-class body length of 8’4 inches. In addition to this it offers considerable loading height, 3-side drop load body which makes ease day-to-day operations.

    The pick-up comes with 2-stage semi elliptical leaf in the rear suspension, which delivers good load carrying ability, with better ride comfort and handling. The single cab is also equipped with power steering, adjustable steering column and cushioned bucket seats in the front with adjustable lumbar support.

    Next, the Tata Xenon dual pick-up model with fully-loaded features like HVAC, power windows, central locking, seats with lumber support, high-end cab trims as standard fitment. In addition, it is equipped with limited slip differential, which resists wheel spin on gravel or muddy roads.

    All this contributes to a better control of the vehicle and makes it perfect for off-track usage. The stylized load body further enhances its visual appeal. The vehicle is targeted for applications involving both crew and cargo movement in a comfortable and safe manner.

    Some of the safety features included here are the unique 3-layered body construction, crumple zones, a collapsible steering column, central locking, retractable seatbelts and side intrusion beams. They protect occupants in an event of a side impact collision.

    For this range of pick-ups there are four trim colors available: Arizona Blue, Mineral Red, Arctic Silver, Arctic White.

    Source: Tata

  • 2012 Kahn Ferrari 458 Spider

    2012-Kahn-Ferrari-458-Spider-THUMB2012 Kahn Ferrari 458 Spider is the latest conversion of the talented Afzal Kahn. This exquisite supercar is made even more exciting thanks to the superior craftsmanship of the tuner.

    The Ferrari 458 Spider is shrouded in voluptuous silver couture. The modification here includes front and rear sections, ceramic brakes, wing shields, upgraded F1 gearbox and yellow brake calipers, which ensures a mightier presence on the road.

    Hence, this convertible is the perfect choice for those who want to be seen and heard. Ferrari has ditched the fabric roof in favour of a sublime folding hardtop. In particular the roof folds in 14 seconds, and more importantly is 25kg lighter than its equivalent.

    It has two moving parts that slot neatly into a gap between the engine and the seats. Furthermore, it needs relatively compact space to house the folding hardtop. This however means that there’s a small rear luggage bench.

    The interior of course is more than outstanding. Inside is the “bespoke touch” of Kahn Design can be seen. In details, this particular vehicle comes with leather electric sports seats.

    Next, the Ferrari rides on Kahn wheels, which sit perfectly on it. They convey the essence of the vehicle’s identity. Moreover, they were created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials forged technology. The 9×21 inch front and 12×22 inch Monza forged wheels are finished in silver color and fitting all original centre caps.

    Source: A.Kahn Design

  • 2012 SR Auto Infiniti FX35 Shows Extraordinary Stance

    2012-SR-Auto-Infiniti-FX35-THUMB2012 SR Auto Infiniti FX35 is something we do not see in our everyday life. Extraordinary therefore is the most appropriate word to describe this very unique SUV.

    This FX35 has a powerful output being equipped with 5.0 liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift). Hence it is absolutely effortlessly for it to develop 390 hp (287 kW).

    This vigorous engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox and includes Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The FX is also equipped with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®), Rear Active Steer, and Intelligent Brake Assist.

    However, the tuners from SR Auto weren’t satisfied with these configurations and gave their best to enhance this Infiniti model! When it comes to lowering a vehicle, a coilover system is the best option available as one has the ability to control the height and dampening to the exact needs

    BC Racing provided exactly what they were searching for. This means that they have adapted their BR series technology and developed a fully adjustable coilover system for the Infiniti FX35.

    However unilke most coilover systems, nothing of the comfort of the FX35 was lost. Instead it was just adjusted. The effect was of course unmatched. This SR Auto Infiniti now has one-of-a-kind powerful stance never seen before.

    In addition, the SR Auto Group added HRE 648R Wheels, which are twenty-two inch Satin Black Face Gloss Black Lips.

    Source: SR Auto

  • Audi RS6 Evotech vs BMW X6M PP-Performance and Porsche Panamera Turbo

    Dragtimesinfo has released a new video with more astonishing tuned cars going against each other on 1 mile drag race. This time the competitors are Audi RS6 Evotech Stage 2 with 750HP, Porsche Panamera Turbo Evotech Stage 2 and a mighty BMW X6M PP-Performance with 680HP.

    The RS6 goes against the powerful Panamera in the first start and wins with just a tip – 29.442 seconds for the Audi versus 29.468 seconds for the Porsche. Although the Panamera is a lot faster on ¼ mile, the RS6 manages to get in front of it on the full 1 mile race.

    In the second start, the RS6 is versus BMW X6 M, which is also extremely fast car, when tuned. However, the car is always with better Cd than a SUV and the result is 29.123 seconds on 1 mile for the RS6 versus 30.150 seconds for the X6 M.

    Enjoy the video!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LcObplzGHI

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • 2013 Land Rover Defender UK – excellent value for money

    Land Rover has announced the new 2013 Defender. It will feature a higher level of specification, three additional options and a choice of two new exterior body colours, Barolo Black and Havana.

    Options of a new premium seat design, upgraded in-car entertainment and a choice of four new contrast roof colours are now available to Defender customers.

    Substantial improvements were made to the specification last year, including the introduction of the EU5 2.2-litre diesel engine, ventilated discs and detail improvements to the three speed-limiting options were also added for fleet users wanting to benefit from effective control of fuel costs. The 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 122HP at 3,500rpm and torque of 360Nm at 2,000rpm, giving a 0-60mph time of 14.7 seconds and a top speed of 90mph.

    “The appeal of the Land Rover Defender has been strengthened with the opportunity for customers to enhance their driving comfort and also to personalise their vehicle with a range of contrast roof colours. Underpinned by the powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine and its go anywhere capability, the iconic Defender retains the rugged appeal that it’s always been famous for but now with even greater customer choice,” commented John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

    The 2013 Land Rover Defender hits the market priced at just £22,350.

    Land Rover Defender four option packs:

    Cold Climate Pack

    • Heated front seats
    • Heated windscreen

    Comfort Pack

    • Air Conditioning
    • Audio System – Single Slot CD & Radio with MP3/AUX

    Convenience Pack

    • Electric Front Windows
    • Remote Central Locking

    Off Road Pack

    • All terrain Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Traction Control (ETC)
    • Heavy Duty Steel Wheel – Goodyear MT/R Tubeless Tyre
    • Tow Ball, Drop Plate and Electrics
    • Under Ride Protection Bar

    Roof Appointment Pack

    • Glass – Rear 1/4 Windows
    • Roof – Station Wagon

    Exterior Pack

    • Mudflaps – Front
    • Roof Appointment Pack
    • Roof – Body colour
    • Sidesteps
    • Step – Rear Folding
    • Wheel Arches – Body colour

    Style Pack

    • Boost Alloy Wheel & Continental ContiCrossContact AT Tyre
    • Front & rear antiroll bar
    • Locking Wheel Nuts
    • Metallic Paint
    • Tow Ball, Drop Plate and Electrics
  • 2013 Mercedes SL-Class refined by MEC Design

    MEC Design has announced their new tuning program for the latest Mercedes Benz SL-Class – the R231 model.

    The 2013 Mercedes SL550 is powered by a new 4.7 liter twin-turbocharged V8 with 435HP (320 kW) at 5,250RPM and 699Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,800RPM.

    0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine is mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. The total weight is 3,947 pounds.

    The tuning package of MEC Design includes a new front and rear AMG-inspired bumpers and a nice four-tailpipe sports exhaust system with two different sound types: “Daytona” and “Earthquake”.

    The car rolls 20” MecxtremeI wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires. The rims have satin finish, which completes the aggressive exterior of the roadster.

    Last is an electric lowering module, which can reduce the ride height up to 55 mm giving better stance and handling.

  • 2012 Graf Weckerle Mercedes-Benz SL 500 – Athletic Elegance Meets Maritime Attitude

    2012 Graf Weckerle Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is a great example how exquisite and outstanding a car tuning might be. This Mercedes-Benz conveys entirely the competence and passion of the Graf Weckerle team when it comes to the absolute individual and classy refinement.

    As an inspiration the tuners used the maritime theme for both the exterior and interior of the car. For instance many precious design details recite the sophisticated atmosphere found in marinas all over the world, giving the car an incomparable sporty and athletic yet noble appearance.

    In order to bring the maritime design idea to life, the team decided to create a one-of-a-kind version of the Collection Sport forged performance wheels. A special white coating of the wheel disc was joined by polished aluminum wheel rims and chrome-plated wheel fasteners which match perfectly the polished wheel center cap.

    Furthermore, the SL 500 was equipped with 9.0 x 20 inch wheels on the front axle and 10.5 x 20 inch on the rear axle. The tires fitted here are the 255/30 R 20 and 295/25 R 20 respectively.

    In order to enhance the exterior of the German car they have finished it with a final maritime touch. This includes a hand-painted Graf Weckerle Coachline with an integrated Graf Weckerle brand logo. The color of the Coachline was navy blue.

    Attention to the interior design has also been paid. It continues the maritime theme with the special leather color in navy blue. In fact, it covers almost the complete interior. The blue leather is further accented by contrasting white stitching and piping.

    Graf Weckerle brand emblems have been additionally integrated into the original seat design. In fact, they were made of pure 750 white gold. To be more precise, the emblems were finished with white enamel which is carefully applied also by hand.

    But this is not all that has been done on this 2012 SL 500. It was also equipped with progressive lowering coil springs which enhance both visual appearance and handling. An engine performance kit was included in order to optimize the performance of the car.

    Source: Graf Weckerle