Car Makes – Page 792 – Automobiles Review

Gemballa’s Diamond Finish: Sparkle, Sparkle

Gemballa which are known for this and this, have now taken up a somewhat bonkers project. As far as we know, the first of April was a long time ago but, lo and behold, it’s the “world’s first diamond coating for the interior and exterior finish of vehicles”. So there you go. Now you can have soulless Hyundai look like a backstage prop from the Wizzard of Oz. And yes, we are talking about actual diamonds:

“When GEMBALLA speaks of diamonds, we really mean it”, explains CEO Andreas Schwarz. “Our complex process uses genuine diamonds as its key ingredient – not metal pigments, glass fragments, or crystals.”

We are dumbfounded in the search of what one might gain from that. As an argument, Gemballa suggest that diamonds have the strongest light refraction properties which in layman terms means sparkly. Very sparkly. We hate to think what happens when the car form the oncoming traffic bathes you in high-beams. Also, you wouldn’t want to leave your diamond-coated car in front of the grocer’s, would you? Of course not, shopping at the grocer’s is for mortals. A private helicopter supplies you with organic caviar from Spain.

Gemballa continue on saying that the diamond is one of the hardest naturally occurring substances known to man which is a comforting thought. Knowing that my interior is now seasoned with thousands of pieces of diamond, I would love to scrape off my face on them should an accident occur.

The tuners are confident that that is the right finish for their already carbon fiber abundant cars. We, on the other hand, are not.

Source: Gemballa

May 21, 2012

2013 Lexus RX 450h Range – Pricing Announced

2013 Lexus RX 450h full hybrid luxury SUV comes with new sharper lines which contribute to its powerful stance and new looks. It also will enchant its customers with higher equipment specifications and an attention-grabbing new F Sport model.

The styling changes in the Lexus RX 450h resolve around the spindle-shaped grille. The latter is in fact the new trademark element in new Lexus design. The result is that now the RX 450h has much stronger and individual presence.

And this presence in addition is further accentuated by the new F Sport model. To the rear there are redesigned tail lamps. This sporty version of the RX range stands out with a deeper, more vertical front bumper and a mesh treatment for the upper and lower grilles. It runs on dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels.

Of course, it has F Sport badging on the exterior, while in the interior continues the sportier design philosophy of the interior. Take for instance the aluminium-effect sports pedals and trim inserts, F Sport smooth leather upholstery and scuff plates with the Lexus logo in black.

Other equipment features include a head-up display, and LED headlights with the I-AFSadaptive system, black roof lining and a bespoke steering wheel with a stitched leather trim.

2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport also comes to offer sharper driving dynamics. This is possible thanks to a lateral damper system it has. The latter enhances the stability and improves ride comfort by absorbing small vibrations.

More importantly, the RX 450h gains an additional Sport mode for its Lexus Hybrid Drivesystem. This means that when the driver selects the Sport mode, the throttle and electric power steering settings are transformed, thus gaining faster responses. Furthermore the Vehicle Stability Control and traction control contribute to the overall driving-pleasure and dynamic experience of the driver.

2012 Lexus RX 450h F Sport — 2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport

What is more in the new RX 450h SE model are: LED daytime running lights, a new perforated leather upholstery and re-designed steering wheel.

The Luxury grade model adds to the aforementioned base model the following: dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels and 12-speaker audio system with aDABdigital tuner and single-discDVDplayer.

RX 450h Premier stays on the top of the range and comes as a standard with a tilt/slide sunroof and head-up display.

2013 Lexus RX 450h key specifications:

Moreover, the customers can choose among several exterior colors, three of which are introduced here for the first time: Satin Silver, Burgundy Red and Atlantic Blue. They are going to be available for the entire range.

At last, there are a lot of new accessories added to this Lexus, which will contribute even more to the practicality and the style of the car. For example, the Lifestyle Pack offers front and rear under-run protective plates and roof rails. On the other hand the Protection Pack provides rubber floor mats, protective bumper film, mudflaps and a cargo net.

2013 Lexus RX 450h pricing:

2013 Lexus RX 450h SE	₤ 44 495
2013 Lexus RX 450h Luxury	₤ 48 495
2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport	₤ 51 995
2013 Lexus RX 450h Premier	₤ 55 495

Source: Lexus

May 21, 2012

Pricing Announced for the 2012 Kia Cee’d Range

2012 Kia Cee’d is a second-generation of the famous model. It is soon going to go on sale thus bringing to its customers enhanced quality, refinement and efficiency. It also will provide impressive levels of comfort, safety and luxury.

New Cee’d is now offered for the first time with direct-injection petrol engine. In addition to that it is the first Kia to offer a dual-clutch automated manual transmission.

2012 Cee’d has different proportions from its predecessor, which contribute to its sportier stance and a more appealing appearance. In particular, it is narrower and lower: down 10mm each to 1,780mm and 1,470mm respectively.

Front passengers are also in an advantageous position, because they benefit from enhanced headroom, legroom and shoulder room.

The aerodynamics has also been improved thus making the cee’d more efficiently at speed. The co-efficient of drag here is is 0.30, which consequently leads to improvement in the fuel economy as well.

2012 Kia Cee’d Front Angle

The athletic appearance of the vehicle is further emphasised by the wider front and rear track measurements. Adding to this are the 17-inches wheels.

The interior is entirely ruled by soft-touch surfaces. Of course it was made only with high-quality materials, and includes: damped sun visors and lidded storage areas, subtle red ambient lighting, tactile door grab handles and precise panel gaps.

More importantly however, is that the new Cee’d now offers improved fuel efficiency. Its average fuel consumption is lowered by 4 per cent. The CO2 emissions it produces are 97g/km for the 1.6-litre diesel model.

Four engines will be at the disposal of the customers of this Kia model: 1.4- and 1.6-litre diesels and petrol engines of similar capacity.

The 1.6-litre petrol engine for example includes efficiency-enhancing direct fuel injection. It can produce 133 hp (98 kW) and 164Nm (121 lb-ft) of torque, and is the only Cee’d available with the dual-clutch gearbox.

All 1.6-litre manual versions come equipped with ISG (Intelligent Stop & Go) which further contributes to the efficiency improvements. The 1.6-litre diesel with ISG has a combined cycle of fuel economy of more than 76mpg, with CO2 emissions from 97g/km.

This engine is able to develop 126 hp (93 kW) and 260Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque and comes mated to a conventional six-speed automatic gearbox.

Next, the 1.4-litre petrol version engine develops 98 hp (72 kW) and 137Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque and is capable of more than 47mpg, with CO2 emissions from 139g/km. On the other hand the diesel version produces 89 hp (65 kW) and 220Nm (162 lb-ft), and manages almost 69mpg, with CO2emissions down to 109g/km.

In terms of safety and security the Cee’d comes with stiffer bodyshell, 57 per cent of which is from high-tensile steel, with ultra-high-tensile steel in the B-pillar structures.

The extensive standard and passive safety equipment of the Cee’d include: Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and six airbags, Emergency Stop Signalling (ESS), Parallel Parking Assist System, Lane Departure Warning System, Motor Driven Power Steering.

2012 Kia Cee’d Interior

2012 Kia Cee’d is available in five trim levels, named ‘1’, ‘2’, ‘3’, ‘4’ and ‘4 Tech’. All will include a comprehensive list of standard equipment. In it are included electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment and a height-adjustable driver’s seat, air conditioning, steering wheel-mounted controls, front electric windows, projection headlights, daytime running lights, remote central locking, a cooled glovebox, a flat-folding 60:40 split rear seat, ambient front lighting, an iPod-compatible audio system with radio and CD player, USB port and Bluetooth connectivity, ESP and VSM, HAC (Hill-start Assist Control), six airbags and speed-sensitive auto door locking.

2012 Kia Cee’d range ‘2’ adds to the standard equipment 16-inch alloy wheels, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights and rear combination lamps, electrically folding and heated door mirrors, leather trim on the steering wheel, gearshifter and handbrake, greater use of chrome highlights, a rear centre armrest, all-round electric windows, cruise control with speed limiter, reversing sensors and the Flex Steer function.

2012 Kia Cee’d range ‘3’ has in addition privacy glass, automatic headlights with a ‘follow-me-home’ function, rain-sensing front wipers with de-icing elements, a height-adjustable front passenger’s seat, electric lumbar support on both front seats, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with two-step air-flow control and a seven-inch touchscreen satellite navigation, built-in colour reversing camera system.

2012 Kia Cee’d range ‘4’ comes equipped additionally with 17-inch alloys, exterior illumination on the front door handles, black leather front seats with contrasting grey inserts and three-stage heating, a heated steering wheel, electronic parking brake, an engine stop/start button with smart entry system, rear air ventilation system, a premium centre console with sliding cover and a TFT LCD multi-function high-definition colour display.

2012 Kia Cee’d ‘4 Tech’ is characterized by its panoramic sunroof, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, Parallel Parking Assist System – including front parking sensors, Lane Departure Warning System and Xenon adaptive front lighting system with automatic levelling.

2012 Kia Cee’d is going to go on sale in the United Kingdom on 1 June with a starting price of £14 395.

2012 Kia Cee’d range specifications

Model	Power bhp	Torque Nm	0-60 sec	Max speed mph	Combined mpg
‘1’ 1.4 6-speed manual	98	137	12.4	113	47.1
‘1’ 1.4 CRDi 6-speed manual	89	220	13.0	106	68.9
‘1’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	11.5	122	76.3
‘2’ 1.4 6-speed manual	98	137	12.4	113	46.3
‘2’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	133	164	9.8	118	52.3
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	11.5	122	74.3
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed auto	126	260	11.3	116	51.4
‘3’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	133	164	9.8	118	52.3
‘3’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	133	164	10.4	121	46.3
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	11.5	122	74.3
‘4’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	133	164	TBC	TBC	TBC
‘4’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	133	164	10.4	121	46.3
‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	TBC	TBC	TBC
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	133	164	9.8	118	TBC
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	133	164	10.4	121	46.3
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	126	260	TBC	TBC	TBC

2012 Kia Cee’d range – emissions and costs

Model	CO2 g/km	VED Band	BIK Band	Ins. Group	Price OTR
‘1’ 1.4 6-speed manual	139	E	18%	TBC	£14,395
‘1’ 1.4 CRDi 6-speed manual	109	B	15%	TBC	£15,695
‘1’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	97	A	13%	TBC	£16,295
‘2’ 1.4 6-speed manual	143	F	18%	TBC	£16,395
‘2’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	124	D	15%	TBC	£17,195
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	100	A	13%	TBC	£18,295
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed auto	145	F	23%	TBC	£19,395
‘3’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	124	D	15%	TBC	£18,995
‘3’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	140	E	19%	TBC	£20,295
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	100	A	13%	TBC	£20,095
‘4’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	TBC	TBC	15%	TBC	£20,595
‘4’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	140	E	19%	TBC	£21,895
‘4’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	TBC	TBC	13%	TBC	£21,695
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed manual ISG	TBC	TBC	13%	TBC	£22,495
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 GDI 6-speed DCT	140	E	19%	TBC	£23,795
‘4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG	TBC	TBC	13%	TBC	£23,595

Source: Kia

May 21, 2012

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani – an inspiring design

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani is the special car, designed by Franca Sozzani (chief editor of Vogue). This exquisite MINI car was made to mark the 20th anniversary of the Life Ball charity event in Vienna.

MINI Roadster served as a base model for this inspiring floral design of the vehicle. In fact, the Roadster is the first open-top two-seater in the brand’s history. It comes with 184 horsepower (135 kW) and has a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).

Franca Sozzani decorated the roof of the Roadster in a stylishly intricate floral design. All those floral motives are harmoniously combined with the trendiest color of all the Deepest Purple. It was applied as a matt paintwork over the car, and in addition is complemented by gold hallmark MINI rally stripes.

As you can see the overall appearance of the vehicle is more than impressive. In my opinion it is even a work of art.

The interior of the car is as inspiring and exceptional as the exterior itself. For instance, for the instruments and brass-colored touches on the circular elements is used printed leather.

The designer Sozzani spoke about the inspiration behind this unique design, which will stay in the history of the MINI:

“The concept behind the MINI customisation is inspired by the beautiful and elegant women who in the past used to wear a scarf draped around their head when driving a convertible. Flowers are a symbol of joy and life. And the Life Ball is always fighting for life and joy.”

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani Interior

Source: MINI

May 21, 2012

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet – Pricing Announced

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet is in fact the first ever convertible in GTI history, which is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.3 seconds. This is due to its outstanding engine, which is able to produce 210 horsepower and 280 Newton metres of torque from 1,700 rpm.

For decades GTI is considered one of the most original vehicles among compact sports cars. The numbers in sales speak for themselves. Volkswagen has sold over 1.8 million Golf GTI cars, and now is making a further step in the marketing launching the first open-top version of the iconGTI icon.

2012 Volkswagen GTI Cabriolet comes to offer its driver 155 kW (210 hp) of pure power. In addition to that it is perfect for the hot summer days being a true convertible. It includes standard features such as an electric soft-top, air conditioning, electric windows, an audio system and a roll-over protection system. A further advantage of the cabrio is that it is the most economical model in its class.

In details, the driving performance of the GTI, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine (this in fact is the most powerful Golf Cabriolet ever created) accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds. And if you wonder about its top speed, it is 237 km/h. All this power comes with a fuel consumption of just 7.6 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 177 g/km.

The Golf GTI will also be offered with dual clutch gearbox, which makes it the only convertible in its class to include it.

In terms of external appearance, the GTI is characterized by the typical GTI features. They include: red-framed radiator grille with honeycomb structure and GTI signature, the front GTI bumper, a new rear diffuser, chrome tailpipes, LED rear lights, side sill extensions and standard 17-inch ‘Denver’ alloy wheels.

The interior however is more impressive, because it features sport seats upholstered in classic ‘Jacky’ tartan fabric. Moreover, the GTI has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

It is designed with 250 liter boot, which is entirely usable even when the top is down. Further space is provided by the split rear bench backrest, which can be folded.

The soft top of the Golf Cabriolet has a basic construction. It is specifically designed for high speeds and has a standard electro-hydraulic drive, which opens the top in just 9.0 seconds. The top could also be opened when the Golf is running up to 30 km/h.

In terms of safety and security features, the GTI comes equipped with: a roll-over protection system that rapidly deploys in fractions of a second; a reinforced windscreen frame; and numerous other structural modifications (underbody, side parts, sills, rear bulkhead, doors); front and side head/thorax airbags, a knee airbag on the driver’s side; ESP; electronic transverse differential lock (XDS).

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet will be available at dealerships in mid-June with a starting price of 31 350 Euros.

Source: Volkswagen

May 21, 2012

Vorsteiner GTS-V BMW 1M Coupe

It has arrived. Vorsteiner‘s GTS-V program for the BMW 1M Coupe is a fact of life – “Autoclave Pre-Preg” carbon fiber aerodynamic components, some wheels and a sport exhaust system that’s beneficial to the power output.

The finished product is laden with character yet remains subtle. We have a GTS-V add-on spoiler for the front that also flings air to the disk brakes and a rear diffuser with a splitter and jutted fins. For the sake of lightness, the boot lid has been replaced entirely and now weighs only 11.5 lbs. A set of the company’s 20 or 21-inch VS-400, forged, multi spoke wheels also helps keep the unsprung weight down.

Vorsteiner would not leave it to that however. A stainless steel (or titanium optionally) system ups the power output by around 15 hp and 5 lb-ft of torque and will most probably make your ears bleed. So that would be 350 hp and 337 lb·ft of torque from the 1M’s 3.0-litre straight six. We reckon that it will do the naught to sixty run faster than the 4.3 second mark (the stock one’s time) on a drag strip. A real life evidence would be most welcomed.

Source: Vorsteiner

May 19, 2012

Pricing Announced for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class‘ price list has just been announced. The upgraded G-class range is again expected to be an unsurpassed leader among off-road vehicles.

The interior of this Mercedes vehicle is now more luxury than ever, featuring high-quality appointments finished with exquisite materials. The instrument cluster and centre console for instance have been completely redesigned. Additionally, there is also featured a colour screen, between two new round dials.

The car includes as a standard the sophisticated COMAND Online infotainment system, thank to which the driver can be perfectly navigated. It also includes an internet access. Other important highlights in the innovations featured are the LED daytime driving lamps and new exterior mirrors.

Furthermore, the safety and security of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be further enhanced with the optional Blind Spot Assist, the PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS.

What is more, new to the range are the G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and the ECO start/stop system as standard, and the G 65 AMG with twelve-cylinder biturbo engine.

In fact, the G-Class today is regarded as the top model among luxury-class cross-country vehicles. It is a true example for a successful SUV.

This success is due to the comprehensive range of measures which it has as equipment. These measures include new engines, a significantly extended range of appointments, luxurious interior and some exterior modifications.

The modifications done on the exterior feature LED daytime running lamps and new exterior mirrors for all engine variants, as already mentioned. What is more, the AMG versions will come with new, characteristic AMG radiator grille with double louvers. Additionally new bumpers with large air intakes were also added.

For the first time on this vehicle will be featured red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels. They will eventually finish the overall impressive look of the exterior.

How about the modifications made in the interior. First, the instrument panel and centre console have been entirely transformed and now include new controls and new trim elements.

Moreover, drivers can now enjoy the TFT colour display in the instrument cluster between the two round dials. Another large colour screen can be found in the centre and will serve as a part of the COMAND Online system. It also includes a DVD changer and the COMAND Controller, which come as a standard on all G-Class models.

This infotainment system is absolutely new and will deliver its internet access, navigation system with special additional off-road functions, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

In terms of safety and security, to the new G-Class was added (optionally) the following equipment: new DISTRONIC PLUS, Blind Spot Assist, PARKTRONIC with reversing camera, ESP®system, Trailer Stability Assist, HOLD function.

At last but not least, being a true Mercedes-Benz, the G-models will include a range of sophisticated engines with high power reserves. First, the G 350 BlueTEC and the G 500, both as a long-wheelbase Station Wagon, plus the G 500 as a short-wheelbase Cabriolet model will come equipped with the G 350 BlueTEC V6 diesel engine. Thanks to its four-valve engine output it can produce 155 kW (211 hp) at 3400 rpm and torque of 540 Newton metres (398 kW) across an engine speed range of 1600 to 2400 rpm.

An alternative to the diesel engine is the G 500. In particular it is a 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine, which has an output of 285 kW (387 hp) and offers excellent torque of 530 Newton metres (391 lb-ft). Both the G 350 and the G 500 come with 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard.

What is new to the range is the G 63 AMG which comes with V8 biturbo engine (400 kW/544 hp and 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) of torque). This one also includes ECO start/stop system as standard.

In addition, the G 65 AMG model will be propelled by its V12 biturbo engine (450 kW/612 hp and 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque). In fact, this is the most powerful series-produced cross-country vehicle in the world.

The market launch of the new-generation G-Class is expected in June 2012.

2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Price List:

• 2013 Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC €85,311.10

• 2013 Mercedes-Benz G 500 €99,948.10

• 2013 Mercedes-Benz G 500 Cabriolet €100,900.10

• 2013 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG €137,504.50

• 2013 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG €264,180.00

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 19, 2012

2012 Skoda Citigo Rally Concept with world debut at Woerhersee

2012 Skoda Citigo Rally Concept has just made its first world appearance at Woerthersee. Citigo is Skoda’s new subcompact model line on which the concept vehicle is base.

Skoda Citigo Rally has a design which aims to bring about brings rally successes to the road.

On the other hand Skoda made a second world debut which its car Skoda Citigo DJ Car. This one is an extraordinary showcar. It serves as a turntable and a mixer for DJs appearing at the nighttime concert.

In details, 2012 Skoda Citigo Rally design concept is a white car with a black roof and additional colour accents. It makes the impression on the public thank to its massive bumpers, rear wing, generous air intake in the front apron and forged 18-inch wheels with low-profile tyres.

The consequence is a powerful and stable stance and ample traction. Furthermore, the vehicle includes big fenders and massive door sills. They contribute for the enhanced length of the Citigo.

In addition, there is a centrally mounted exhaust end pipe, which can be easily seen at the rear of the car. Next, the diffusor function is integrated into the rear bumper.

The wing which you see on the roofline in fact extends it and was designed with the aim to increase downforce during driving.

In terms of interior, Skoda Citigo Rallys adds to the street version of the car a roll cage. Moreover, the seats are sporty-race type and the dashboard has reduced weight.

The central console of the Rally Concept vehicle has a lot of functions, which can be manipulated effortlessly, thank to the convenient buttons.

2012 Skoda Citigo Rally Concept at Woerhersee

The other debut at Woerhersee was made by Skoda Citigo Dj car which was specifically designed for the entertainment industry. This special prototype is actually a mixer on four wheels. The car comes with three doors and its rear can be retracted from the B column on back, turning the vehicle into a mobile stage.

Source: Skoda

May 19, 2012

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution and Mitsubishi i all electric vehicle to compete in legendary race

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution and Mitsubishi i all electric vehicle are going to take part in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. These two vehicles were specially prepared for the competition. Nonetheless they will also enter a regular production.

First, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution utilizes the same motor, drive battery and other major components as the production i. Moreover, it was developed in order to showcase Mitsubishi’s advanced EV control and EV component technologies.

It has a racing-specific body which uses a tube-frame chassis and a carbon fiber cowl. Other features of the vehicle also have a reduced weight. The goal here of course is to lessen the overall mass of the car and to improve aerodynamic performance.

More importantly, this car comprises of one motor which drives the front wheels and two – driving the rear wheels. Hence, the EV’s four-wheel-drive system ensures great motive performance and handling.

Mitsubishi will also put in practice their technical knowledge in the development of future EV models with the aim of superior durability and reliability.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution Specifications

L x W x H (mm)		4341 x 1900 x 1339
Occupants		1
Drivetrain		4-wheel drive
Motors	Number	3 (1 front, 2 rear)
	Max. output (kW)	240 (80 kW x 3)
Drive battery	Rated capacity (kWh)	35
Chassis		Specially-designed tube frame
Cowl		Carbon fibre
Tyres		245/40R18

Secondly, for this event the production of Mitsubishi i has been completely transformed with the help of more aerodynamic front bumper, roll bars and other safety equipment.

Mitsubishi i Spcifications

L x W x H (mm)		3675 (+280) x 1585 (+110) x 1615 (+5)
Occupants		4
Drivetrain		Rear wheel drive
Motors	Number	1
	Max. output (kW/rpm)	49 (+2) / 3,000 – 6,000
Drive battery	Rated capacity (kWh)	16
Tyres		F: 145/65/R15 R: 175/60 (+5)/R15

Source: Mitsubishi

May 19, 2012

2013 Cadillac SRX with new Cargo Management System

2013 Cadillac SRX is entirelly ready for the summer vacation thank to its unique Cargo Management System. The latter is designed exactly for long weekends and driving vacations.

Behind the design philosophy of Cadillac‘s special trunk is not only the maximization of space but also its organization. In particular, the rear compartment Cargo Management System utilizes a U-Rail track system with an adjustable cargo fence. This one segments the area in order to kept items which are different in size and also to limit their movement.

Furthermore, the cargo fence can be removed, retracted and conveniently put beneath the load floor when it is not utilized. Additionally there is a cargo net, organizer or area divider which come as an option and can be used in place of the tubular fence.

There also can be found a rear latch positioned on the load floor. It has a waterproof bin 26 by 12 inches by 8 inches deep. On one hand, here the driver or the passengers can conveniently store their waste. On the other hand, this latch can be also used as a cooler or as another storage space for smaller items.

Moreover, the SRX comes with a smaller secondary bin, which holds the vehicle’s tire inflator kit that can be used as a pump.

On the both sides of the main bin are two smaller compartments, which are made in order to stow small tools. And the two-position cargo shade can server in terms of concealing the rear compartment when the hatch is closed.

In the vehicles passenger area can also be found several additional storage places. For instance, each door has upper and lower bins, as does the glove compartment. Additionally, the center console has an upper and lower level, where small items can be put.

Of course, a luxury crossover can’t go without cup holders. They are positioned between the front seats and have a dual-level function. They offer retractable floor that lets the driver or the passenger next to them to go from a small coffee to a big one at the flip of a switch.

Moreover, there is also a secret “false” floor, which can be perfectly utilized to contain important items such as wallet or wristwatch.

But this is not all; in front of the cup holders there is a small bin, which can house for example mobile phones.

At last, it is a necessity to mention that thanks to the rear programmable liftgate and more than 29 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row seating, there is enough space for four rolling suitcases and sports equipment.

In addition to that, if the space is not enough, then the 60/40 split rear seats come in. They fold flat thus making the cargo area grow in 61 cubic feet.

Source: Cadillac

May 19, 2012

Superchips Power Upgrade for Ford EcoBoost Range

Superchips – the guys from Buckingham that deal exclusively with ECU remapping – have come up with “Bluefin Plug-in and go” product for the Ford EcoBoost range – think in terms of Ford C-Max, Grand C-Max, Focus, Galaxy, Mondeo and S-Max.

At a glance, “Bluefin” might sound like it’s something you install on your browser but the fact is, this is one potent piece of technology. Well, it is as easy as installing an add-on on your browser, it’s just that your are doing it on your Ford or more specifically the On Board Diagnostic port in it. Just plug in the the Bluefin handset there and follow the instructions on screen. If you do however experience difficulties with the installation process, you can always turn to one of the approximately 80 UK Superchip centers.

Applicable to the 148bhp, 158bhp and 178bhp variants of the turbocharged petrol EcoBoost, this gadget will increase the power output as following:

150PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost C-Max, Grand C-Max and Focus models Superchips’ Bluefin gains 30bhp @ 5341rpm and 51Nm @ 1923rpm
160PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost Galaxy, S-Max and Mondeo models Superchips’ Bluefin gains 34bhp @ 5341rpm and 59Nm @ 1923rpm
182PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost used in Ford Focus Superchips’s Bluefin gains 20bhp @ 3760rpm and 44Nm @ 1923rpm

Put simply: more power, more torque and more fun. More is always better, right? Supposedly one would also spend more time at gas stations but to assure us, Superchips have given their word that the overridden engines retain “high levels of fuel economy and driveability”. If for some reason, you need the old figures back, the process is completely reversible. The “stock” data is stored in the module and is within your grasp.

To get one, you just have to cough up £445 ($702). For that you also get a Customer Service Guarantee and a 12 month/30,000 miles full vehicle warranty.

Source: Superchips

May 18, 2012

Chevrolet SS Performance Sedan

It’s official: Chevrolet are going to have a V8 RWD performance sedan back in it’s fleet. It will be called the Chevrolet SS and, as a class, will slot right above the Impala. It will also provide the base for Chevrolet’s NASCAR Sprint Cup racecar which is set for a debut at the 2013 Daytona 500.

“As a passionate race fan and performance enthusiast, I am thrilled that Chevrolet will deliver a true rear-wheel-drive NASCAR racecar in the SS that is closely linked to the performance sedan that will be available for sale,” said Mark Reuss, president of GM North America. “The Chevrolet SS is a great example of how GM is able to leverage its global product portfolio to deliver a unique performance experience that extends beyond the track. I am personally looking forward to driving it.”

Not much to think about here, except that name – the SS. Back in the days, Chevrolet used to label their performance edition with a Super Sport designation. First appeared in 1957 on a Corvette prototype race car, it stuck on and became a synonym for power, performance and exclusivity. The firs production car to come with an SS edition was the 1961 Impala – only 453 were ever made and all of them had their chassis and suspension revised, power brakes (big deal back then), a tachometer on the steering wheel column and some flashy wheels. One of the Last SS models to come from Chevrolet is the 2010 Camaro. Now, when the upcoming V8 rear-wheel-driven, sedan is a full-blown SS, one has to wonder if it lives up to it’s name. Also, Chevrolet should consider coming up with a new name if they are going to make a hardcore version of the SS (SS SS) would be kind of redundant.

The production Chevrolet SS will start as a MY 2014 with production starting late in 2013, so there will be more updates to come. In the mean time catch a glimpse of the camouflaged NASCAR Chevrolet SS provided by the company itself.

Chevrolet SS

Source: Chevrolet

May 18, 2012

Category: Car Makes

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