Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • 2012 BMW M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car

    BMW has announced the M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car. It will be presented at this weekend’s M Festival at the 24 Hour Nurburgring Race. The car will also lead the M Corso parade featuring a lot of interesting models.

    The car comes with slightly restyled exterior finished in white, ///M stripes and badges “Safety Car”. The aerodynamics is improved by a new front splitter and a rear wing. The front grille is finished in gloss black.

    The new M6 is powered by the famous twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 560HP (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) powering the M5 F10. It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission.

    0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. Probably, the Safety Car will be slightly more powerful and with removed speed limiter.

    Stay tuned!

    2012 BMW M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car
    2012 BMW M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD offers luxury interior and sportier ride

    2012-Kahn-BMW-X5-5S-THUMB2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD is the latest transformation this time of BMW, made by the exceptional tuners from A. Kahn Design. This is a true design challenge and certainly – very well completed.

    In particular, it includes a interior and exterior enhancement, featuring large number of new parts, such as , Kahn Enamel wing shields, new front and rear bumpers, wider wheel arches, a Kahn Enamel tailgate logo and brake calipers finished in Liquid Red.

    The tuned BMW runs on 22 inch Kahn RSL Alloy wheels in Silver Palladium finish. Combined with the lowered suspension, the SUV is able to provide even sportier ride as well as to look more aggressively and powerfully.

    2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD
    2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD

    This BMW also has the special feature of a tinted glass. Moreover, its interior speaks of luxury and exclusiveness. It was completed with a very special interior package, which comprises of quilted perforated leather interior seats and a Kahn glove box complete with carbon effect inserts.

    Additionally this outstanding interior is further complemented by a steering wheel and dials. This multifunctional steering wheel is wrapped with Black Alcantara. Furthermore, in the cabin can be also seen floor mats with toughened rubber, and Kahn Silver rev counter and a Kahn speedo in red.

    2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD Interior
    2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD Interior

    2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD Tuning Specifications:

    • Brake Calipers Finished in Liquid Red

    • Exterior – Kahn Enamel Tailgate Logo

    • Exterior – Kahn Enamel Wing Shields

    • Front And Rear Bumpers and Wide Wheel Arches

    • Privacy Tinted Glass

    • Sports Lowered Suspension

    • 22″ Kahn RSL Alloy wheels in Silver Palladium Finish

    • Black Alcantara Steering Wheel

    • Sport Style Multi Function Steering Wheel

    • Floor Mats (Toughened Rubber)

    • Kahn Silver Rev Counter

    • Kahn Speedo in Red

    • Quilted perforated leather interior seats (with carbon effect inserts)

    • Kahn glove box (with carbon effect inserts)

    • Steering wheel and dials

    Source: Kahn Design

  • MINI John Cooper Works Family equipped with latest generation engine

    2012-MINI-John-Cooper-Works-Family-THUMBMINI John Cooper Works models will now be equipped with innovations that are designed to provide driving fun combined with fuel economy. The latter will be achieved thank to a new-generation engine and other far-reaching powertrain innovations.

    In particular, although the twin-scroll turbo engine develops the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor, it will now deliver quicker responses and lower fuel consumption and emissions. This and other technologies will help to enhance the efficiency of the John Cooper Works models.

    In addition to that all of the models can be optionally mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. Furthermore, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will now be equipped with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.

    John Cooper MINI-s all carry the inherent perfection and the refinement it name. They deliver sporty driving fun due to the powerful engine, advanced chassis technology, and bespoke exterior and interior design elements that they have.

    Now, all John Cooper Works models are becoming even stronger than ever and with fresh power under the bonnet. Moreover, to John Cooper Works family will joined the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.

    The latter is a five-door model which comes equipped with new-generation engine. Thank to it the MINI vehicle is able to produce 160 kW (218 hp), channeled through an all-wheel-drive system to deliver a new take on outstanding performance. The peak torque here is 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) and is available between 1,900 and 5,600 rpm.

    MINI John Cooper Works Family
    MINI John Cooper Works Family

    MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.0 seconds. It comes as a standard with six-speed manual gearbox, but can be ordered as well with the optional six-speed automatic.

    Top speed it can achieve is 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph). Speaking about the improved fuel economy, the Countryman has one of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometers / 38.2 mpg (automatic: 7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg) and CO2emissions of 172 grams (184 g) per kilometer.

    The aforementioned new-generation engine can also be seen in the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, MINI John Cooper Works Convertible, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster.

    In details, this new-generation engine is based on the one of the MINI Cooper S. As the latter it also utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC system. What this throttle-free load control technology does is simply to optimize the responsiveness of the engine and its efficiency.

    Furthermore, this unit is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, which has cylinder block and bearing mounts made from aluminium joined with reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and low-weight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled. This will help to extra cool the turbocharged engine

    This unique engine delivers a maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm. There is an overboost function, which allows these numbers to be raised to 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) for a short time between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm.

    The new engine comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. However, it can be ordered with the optional six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function.

    Other important highlights next to the improved engine are the enhancements made to the engine’s efficiency, the more extensive use of fuel consumption and emissions-reducing technology.

    For instance, technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, which concentrates power generation for the in-vehicle network during periods under braking and on the overrun, the fuel efficiency is significantly improved.

    Next, there is also included the Auto Start/Stop function, which switches the engine off automatically when the car stops at junctions and in traffic tailbacks. On the other hand the Shift Point Display advises the driver of the most efficiency-enhancing moment to change gear.

    Believe it or not, the electric power steering also contributes for the improved fuel efficiency. This is due to its electric motor which utilizes energy when power assistance is actually needed.

    MINI John Cooper Works Family
    MINI John Cooper Works Family

    MINI John Cooper Works accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) on the way to a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions are circa 153 grams (165 g) per kilometer.

    MINI John Cooper Works Clubman accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds (automatic: 7.0 sec); has a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph) with fuel economy of 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.2 mpg (automatic: 7.2 l/100 km / 39.2 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 155 grams (167 g) per kilometer.

    MINI John Cooper Works Convertible accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds (automatic: 7.1 sec) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h / 146 mph (233 km/h / 145 mph). Its fuel consumption is just 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg) and CO2 emissions are limited to 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.

    MINI John Cooper Works Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.6 sec) and has a top speed of 240 km/h / 149 mph (238 km/h / 148 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions are 153 grams (165 g) per kilometer.

    MINI John Cooper Works Roadster accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) and continues on to a top speed of 237 km/h / 147 mph (235 km/h / 146 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg), with CO2 emissions recorded as 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.

    All John Cooper Works models will come equipped with a wide array of special equipment. Standard specification feature the Sport Button, powerful brakes, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) for the driven axle, plus bespoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: 18-inch) and runflat tyres.

    John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit is also featured as a standard. What it does is to optimize both the airflow over and around the cars, and their visual impact.

    Emblematic of course for all of the models are their paint finishes and roof colours. What is even more here is that all of the MINI-s will come with an ultra-sporty interior with special seat upholstery variants and interior trim elements.

    Source: MINI

  • 2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept with world premiere

    VW-Golf-GTI-Black-Dynamic-THUMB2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept has just made its debut at the 31st GTI Festival in Reifnitz on the Wörthersee in Austria. It comes to show unique black exterior, black-and-red interior, and more importantly – to give us a sense of 360 hp (265 kW).

    This astounding power of the Volkswagen comes from its TSI engine and a lowered sport suspension. What is particularly interesting here is that nine Volkswagen apprentices from four professions have designed and produced this customization of the Golf model. It took them only seven months.

    2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept
    2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept

    A very special feature here is the GTI lettering in the doors and hatch with handmade characters. Next to be mentioned is the 1,800 watt sound system installed in the boot and visible beneath a specially manufactured plexiglas sheet, with nine loudspeakers.

    All of the custom features of the Black Dynamic were produced by the apprentices. Take for example the sport seats upholstered in black-and-red Alcantara and leather, or the interior door trim with decorative red seams.

    Additional custom features made by them are the Deep Black Metallic exterior finish combined with flat anthracite film trim, the engine and gearbox management tuned to produce and transmit an extra 150 hp (110 kW), the oversized exhaust system and the eight-piston brake system.

    A pretty good job they’ve done, haven’t they!

    2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept
    2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Black Dynamic Concept

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Volskwagen Polo WRC Street at Wörthersee

    Volkswagen-Polo-WRC-Street-thumbIt’s been a tradition for over 30 years now – a convention within the convention – The “GTI Meeting at Wörthersee”…. for Volkswagen people. This year a concept “warm” hatch is making an appearance – It’s the Polo WRC Street. And calling it warm is a massive understatement. Surely however, the GTI festival won’t be a party of one. Lot’s of other exciting appearances will be made as almost all of Europe rolls into Austria for the event.

    Literally taken from the track and put on the streets, the Polo WRC Concept is due to become a reality in 2013. It’s mad looks contribute to it’s appeal – a rear spoiler, a diffuser, a sporty and lowered suspension and a bunch of R-WRC logos. It’s not exactly a real WRC car (it wouldn’t be road legal) but it is out there – we are talking 220 spine-snapping PS from a 2.0-liter TSI engine. Want one for sure.

    Volkswagen Polo WRC Street
    Volkswagen Polo WRC Street

    What is the real deal however is the Polo R-WRC – a road-going prototype of the actual FIA World Rally Championship. It’s pretty serious about taking on its WRC rivals next year. At it’s core a 1.6 TSI engine pumps out the 300 PS (that’s the championship limit).

    Other notable appearances at the GTI Meeting will be the Golf GTI Cabriolet – a 210 PS open-top with a DSG transmission as an option and an XDS electronic differential lock on the front axle.

    If you happen to be there, be on the look out for a Volkswagen Golf “GTI Black Dynamic” design concept as well. It’s been styled by a bunch of young men and women for the… young men and women – black and red motives, a low ride, a 1,800 Watt sound system with nine speakers and subsequently hardly any space for luggage.

    The last of the best would be a Golf GTI “White Concept” and as you might imagine, it is white in color. Inside however, again we get that Black Dynamic gene of red and black (it really is a classic this combo). Some contrasting stitches here and there, on the fine Nappa leather, GTI logos. It’s more of a visual feast than anything else.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • BMW has announced 320i EfficientDynamics, 316i and 3-Series xDrive

    The BMW 3-series range will be boosted by several new models including 320i EfficientDynamics and the super-economical 316i.Other very interesting feature is the adoption of xDrive for F30.

    BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition is powered by a 170HP (125 kW) 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo engine. A manual 6-speed transmission takes care of power transmission. The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, with fuel consumption at 5.2/100 km and CO2 emissions at just 124 g/km. The market launch is planned for the end of 2012.

    The entry level 316i has 4-cylinder in-line engine delivering 136HP (100 kW). Power transmission is effected by a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.
    The world’s most intelligent AWD system – BMW xDrive. It will be available as an option for the 320d, 320i, 328i and the top-of-range 335i. The electronically controlled system distributes power between the front and rear axles and each of wheels to give the car the best possible traction depending on the road conditions.

    Last, but not least, the manufacturer will offer an upgraded M Sport package that will be available from July.

    It includes an improved M Sport braking system that features 18” front and 17” rear lightweight brake discs as well as 18” or 19” allow wheels with a star spoke design.

    2013 BMW 3-Series F30 Sedan
    2013 BMW 3-Series F30 Sedan

    Source: BMW

  • Abarth 695 Maserati Edition at the Mille Miglia 2012

    Abarth 695 Maserati Edition will be run in limited series of 499 units. The model will make its official debut on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Mille Miglia, which Enzo Ferrari called “the most beautiful race in the world”.

    Displayed at Piazza della Loggia in Brescia in the midst of the collectors’ automotive jewels and “luxury cars” of today, this glamorous car represents the bond between Abarth and Maserati, based on a host of shared values, including attention to detail, elegance and a passion for performance and sport.

    The new Abarth 695 Maserati Edition is powered by a 1.4 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 180HP (132 kW) at 5500RPM and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque at 3000RPM. The engine is mated to a 5-speed Abarth Competizione gearbox with paddles on the steering wheel.

    0-100 km/h in 7 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).

    The fuel consumption is great – 8.4 l / 100 km in city, 5.4 l on the highway and 6.5 liters per 100 km combined cycle.

    The front suspension features Abarth Koni shock absorbers with FSD valve. At the rear, the small car comes with the same setup. The ride is lowered in order to improve the handling and the traction.

    Speaking for handling, the steering features electric power with “sport mode”.

    The brake system is also new – 305 mm x 22 mm perforated and self-ventilating front discs and 264 mm x 22 perforated rear. There is also a TTC – Torque Transfer Control improving the traction.

    Abarth 695 Maserati Edition rolls 7J x 17” alloy wheels fitted with 205/40 R17 tires.

    Abarth 695 Maserati Edition
    Abarth 695 Maserati Edition

    Additional features:

    SPECIAL “BORDEAUX PONTEVECCHIO” PAINT FROM MASERATI

    XENON HEADLIGHTS

    TITANIUM GREY SOFT TOP

    AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL

    LEATHER STEERING WHEEL WITH RADIO CONTROLS

    BLUE&ME TOMTOM 2 NAVIGATOR

    BEIGE LEATHER SEATS

    DASHBOARD FASCIA AND GEARBOX TRIM IN MATT CARBON

    DOOR PANELS, CONSOLE AND TUNNEL IN “FLOCKED” UV-LUX

    DUAL MODE EXHAUST WITH SPECIAL MASERATI-INSPIRED DESIGN

    JBL HI-FI SYSTEM

    BAG SET by TRAMONTANO



    Source: Abarth

  • 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK Pricing Announced

    2012-Mercedes-Benz-GLK-THUMB2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK has made its world debut in April and now is going officially on sale with a starting price of € 36 235.50.

    The GLK comes with a newly designed exterior, which gives it more dynamic outlook and powerful stance. In the body one can easily see the combination of the classic elements of all-terrain vehicles with the design philosophy of the current Mercedes-Benz models.

    The front and the rear of this unique Mercedes-Benz vehicle are now further emphasized by its stringent lines and expansive surfaces. And in addition to this the designers have thought about the comfort of the driver as well. They have included high seat position as a pivotal point in the interior, for it provides a commanding view of the traffic situation, with the body lines also designed for excellent visibility.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK
    2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK

    Looking further in the interior upgrades, there can be seen that the dashboard is completely transformed. For instance, a wide trim in aluminium or optionally in wood spans the entire width of the dashboard.

    Moreover, the new round vents and additional trim elements in silver shadow also catch the attention. There is also included a three-spoke sports steering wheel, new upholstery colours and seat designs plus indirect ambient lighting featuring LED fibre-optic technology. The latter is offered for the first time on the GLK for the first time.

    More importantly, the range of engines included is conjunction with low emissions and fuel consumption. The customers can choose up to six diesel models and one petrol engine.

    The GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC one for example, features a four-cylinder diesel engine which is able to generate 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 500 Newton metres (370 lb-ft) of torque from a displacement of 2143 cc. The consumption of this model is absolutely amazing: on average, the compression-ignition engine consumes 6.1 to 6.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. The CO2 emissions here are 159 – 169 g CO2/km in NEDC combined mode.

    Furthermore, the two rear-wheel-drive models GLK 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY come equipped with six-speed manual transmission. They also might amaze you, because they are even more fuel efficient.

    What I mean is that both versions has a fuel consumption of 5.5 – 5.6 litres of diesel per hundred kilometers. Their Co2 emissions range between 143 – 147 g CO2/km in NEDC combined mode.

    The top performer among the diesel versions however, is the GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. It comes upgraded with additional 25 kW (35 hp) power increase. Despite this fact, it is still able to perform with 17 percent less fuel, and has a fuel consumption of 6.9 – 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The CO2 emissions here are 179 – 183 g CO2/km in NEDC combined mode.

    The only petrol model offered is the GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-engine. It includes the trailblazing engineering of the leading generation of V-engines which deploy BlueDIRECT technology to make its mark in performance and fuel efficiency.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK Interior
    2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK Interior

    In terms of safety and security a brand such Mercedes-Benz is probably unsurpassed. The GLK comes equipped with innovative technologies. For the first time featured here for instance is the electric steering with STEER CONTROL, which supports the driver in unstable driving conditions by triggering an impulse which can be felt on the steering wheel, prompting countersteering by the driver in the correct direction.

    Moreover, there are also included the Brake Assist (BAS), which offers additional brake power when emergency braking is detected, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE featuring Hill-Start Assist, and HOLD function, the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system, the ESP® Electronic Stability Program with integrated trailer stabilisation and tyre pressure loss warning, permanent all-wheel drive and the 4ETS electronic traction system. All these are featured as a standard in the 2012 GLK.

    What about the optional equipment? Here the customers can choose among many innovations, some of which include: ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system, Active Parking Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, Intelligent Light System (ILS).

    2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK pricing begins at € 36 235.50

    • GLK 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: € 36,235.50

    • GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: € 38,377.50

    • GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: € 42,721.00

    • GLK 220 BlueTEC 4MATIC: € 44,149.00

    • GLK 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: € 46,142.25

    • GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: € 49,742.00

    • GLK 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: € 50,099.00

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Seat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL to conquer Barcelona

    Seat-THUMbSeat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL will be proudly used by the officials at Barcelona City Hall. The latter will be testing these vehicles in its municipal car fleet for an initial six-month trial period.

    The aim of this is to gather information and assess performance prior to mass production of electric vehicles. In fact, Seat e-Altea XL is the first electric car produced by the Spanish brand; hence the data is much needed.

    Seat is developing two different technologies through the hybrid and electric vehicles and by this action is trying to stay in accordance with the demands of the market.

    In addition to this event, Seat has also loaned one e-Altea XL to Endesa, and another to the Catalan Energy Institute (ICAEN). Further two TwinDrive Hybrids will also go to these organisations mentioned.

    It is obvious that the company is immersed in the first stage of the introduction of an electric car. Their vision will include a further loan of vehicles to different governmental departments, institutions, and private companies interested in eco-friendly fleets over the forthcoming months.

    Seat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL
    Seat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL

    To go further into details, Seat Altea XL Electric Ecomotive and Seat Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive are two vehicles with different but complementary technologies.

    The Altea XL has a range of 135 kilometres, a power output of 115 hp (85kW) and engine torque of 270 Nm (200 lb-ft). Its top speed is 135 kph. Furthermore, there are several innovative features that can be found on it. For instance, the battery location is under the rear seats and the boot. This had basically lead to no reduction in passenger compartment space.

    Another interesting technology is the photovoltaic panels on the roof. They serve as means to cut energy requirements for the vehicle’s air-conditioning.

    On the other hand the Seat Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive features the benefits of emission-free driving to the range of a conventional petrol-engine car. Being a true hybrid, this vehicle allows all-electric or hybrid driving. The conclusion is that no change in driving habits or life style is required.

    In particular, it has a range of 52 kilometres in electric mode, with a top speed of 120 kmh. In mixed mode, which is called electric and combustion, the consumption of fuel is 1.7 litres, while the emissions are under 39 g/km. The top speed of the hybrid is 170 kph.

    Seat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL
    Seat Leon TwinDrive Hybrid and Seat e-Altea XL

    Source: Seat

  • 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid with a base price – $25 995

    2013-Ford-C-Max-Hybrid-THMB2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid features innovative and fun-to-drive character shared with well-handling can be now ordered in the United States. The C-Max is in fact the first Ford hybrid vehicle and will be available with a starting price of $25 995.

    What is unique about this car is that it combines fuel economy with performance, and of course delivers no less than best-in-class horsepower and torque.

    In addition to that in this Ford vehicle are featured innovative technologies from which the customers could only benefit. One of them is the famou SYNC® with MyFord Touch®. Thank to it the drivers get features like hands-free liftgate, SmartGauge® with EcoGuide, regenerative braking and an advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery pack.

    Another benefit of the C-MAX Hybrid is the roominess and spaciousness it offers. In particular, the vehicle has a high roofline (63.9 inches) delivering interior space and flexibility. Moreover, there are 99.7 cubic feet of passenger space and greater headroom in both front and rear seats (41/39.4 inches).

    Of course, C-Max is perfect for loading as well thank to its 60/40 split-fold rear seats that can easily fold flat with 54.3 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 24.5 cubic feet behind the second row.

    Important highlight here are the innovations featured. The newest one is the Ford’s hands-free liftgate. What it does basically is to allow quick and easy access to the cargo area without messing with keys.

    How it works? A gentle kicking motion under the rear bumper opens the liftgate when used in combination with a key fob the user keeps in their pocket or purse that tells the car it’s correct to operate. The same motion can close the liftgate.

    2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
    2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid

    2013 Ford C-Max also includes the latest version of MyFord Touch. This one helps the driver stay informed. In addition it also shows multiple ways for customers to operate with their phone, navigation, entertainment and climate functions through voice commands.

    Furthermore, C-MAX Hybrid also comes equipped with the next generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. This one is specifically designed in order to help drivers get the most from the C-MAX Hybrid. This EcoGuide for instans shows important information about fuel economy.

    What is more important here is the technology that makes this car move. C-MAX Hybrid is powered through the combination of a gasoline engine and a battery-driven electric motor.

    When the power comes from the gasoline engine, the hybrid car uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine. On the other hand the electric motor of the C-MAX Hybrid is powered by an advanced li-ion battery system which optimizes the use of common, high-quality components.

    Furthermore, C-MAX Hybrid also has powersplit architecture. This means that it allows the electric motor and gasoline-powered engine to work in collaboration or separately. The aim is to maximize efficiency.

    Of course, the powerful engine unit also can work alone and charge the batteries or deliver power to the wheels as needed. At the same time the motor alone can offer enough power to the wheels in low-speed, low-load conditions and work with the engine at higher speeds.

    2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid has a li-ion battery pack which is recharged when the gasoline engine is in operation. Additionally, the regenerative braking system can recapture more than 95 percent of the braking energy that would be used to help charge the battery. This means that C-MAX Hybrid requires no plug-in charging.

    Source: Ford

  • Vauxhall Combo and Corsavan with an extended range of engines

    Vauxhall-Corsavan-THUMBVauxhall Combo will soon have an expanded range and will include models powered by a fuel-efficient 1.4 petrol engine. In detail, the latter is a brand-new Vauxall 95 hp (70 kW) Euro 5-compliant Combo unit that will be offered in L1H1 and L2H1 body types.

    What is more, this engine also includes Start/Stop technology, thank to which the Vauxhall vehicle is able to achieve CO2 emissions of 163g/km and 40.3mpg combined cycle.

    Vauxhall Combo
    Vauxhall Combo

    Furthermore, the famous Vauxhall Corsavan range will also get an additional engine option – a 1.2 petrol unit also with Start/Stop function. Thank to the latter, the Corsavan engine boasts CO2 of 119g/km, which in fact is a saving of 5g/km over the standard 1.2 engine. It has a 55.4mpg combined cycle.

    Vauxhall Corsavan
    Vauxhall Corsavan

    Source: Vauxhall

  • 2012 Peugeot 207 CC and 308 CC Roland Garros Special Editions

    Peugeot has two highly-specified ‘Roland Garros’ Special Edition Coupé Cabriolet cars – 207 CC and 308 CC.

    The Roland Garros SEs are distinguished by their bespoke Black or White paintwork on both cars.

    The 207 CC Roland Garros is available in either Onyx Black or Bianca White. There is a choice of either the 1.6-litre VTi 120 petrol or 1.6-litre HDi 112 diesel engine.

    The enhanced specification represents a great package with £1 235 worth of features but for just £650 above the Allure trim level, representing an advantage of £585.

    Key features over the 207 CC Allure include Roland Garros luxury trimmed leather seats, Roland Garros branded windstop and Roland Garros embroided carpet mats.

    Other high-level distinguishing features include Aluminium door sills, 17” Melbourne alloy wheels, Bi-Zone air conditioning, an electrochrome rear view mirror, auto headlamps, cruise control and speed limiter, Peugeot Connect with Bluetooth, rear parking aid, electric folding door mirrors and tinted rear windows.

    The 207 CC Roland Garros SE is priced from £18 795.

    The larger 308 CC Roland Garros is also beautifully distinctive and with pearlescent paintwork inNera Black & Pearl White.  Powered with a wider choice of serves, it is available with the 1.6-litre THP 156 or THP 200 petrol, or the 2.0-litre HDi 163 diesel engines.  The specification delivered is again of high value, with £550 worth of features scoring just £300 from the regular Allure model, saving £250.

    The equipment includes Allure model includeRoland Garros Luxury Blue/ Grey leather seats, 18” Dark Storm alloy wheels (as GT Hatchback), Peugeot Connect with Bluetooth, front and rear parking aid, automatic headlamps, rain sensing wipers, Roland Garros embroidered carpet mats and a Roland Garros branded windstop.  The 308 CC Roland Garros is now available to order priced at £25 845.

    All models carry the much sought-after Roland Garros exterior badging.

    2012 Peugeot 308 CC Roland Garros Special Editions
    2012 Peugeot 308 CC Roland Garros Special Editions

    Source: Peugeot