By today’s standards, it’s an antique. A ten-year old dinosaur. A car that uses coal for fuel. Okey, so we got a bit carried over here. It’s the BMW M3 E46 – a generation before the latest one. Don’t be deceived though. G-POWER, the guys who got their hands on it, say it is now more powerful than the current V8 powered M3.
The performance package installed is called the SK I „SPORTY DRIVE“ and if the figures they give are correct, the word “sporty” is a massive understatement – 450 hp and 460 Nm of torque. That’s a straight six engine we are talking about here. None of the pistons have been changed or altered in any way and the exhaust system is pretty standard. It’s not witchcraft either. No, those additional 107 bhp come from a humongous ASA T1-518 centrifugal supercharger – proper racing tech all the way. With it the venerable M3 can get to 200 km/h in 14,7 seconds (a massive improvement over the standard E46 – 18,1 seconds.). Compare that to the 200 km/h time of the E90 and you get a full second in favor of the G-POWERed predecessor.
One would imagine then, that a more iron fisted stopping power is required as a compliment to the supercharger. Something more up to date maybe. That’s why the package also includes a set of 370 mm front and 342 mm back brake disks that get clamped by calipers that nest up to six brake pistons per wheel. The heat from the significantly bigger pads will be dissipated more efficiently once you exit a corner.
And yes, you would be doing a lot corners. Especially with that new bound, rebound and height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension. Just be careful not to destroy those Michelin Pilot Sport tires that can, and will have to, endure speeds of up to 300 km/h. Probably it would be best just to keep the M in a garage and occasionaly marvel at them, wrapped around 20-inch G-POWER “Sileverstone Diamond” alloy wheels – prime example of how a 450 hp monstrosity can stay light on its feet.
As an optional extra, one can go for the G-POWER sports rear muffler – OEM standard product quality and four 76 mm pipes sticking out from the back. A car like that needs the sound to match the performance.
Lotus has exhibited the new Evora GTE China Limited Edition at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show.
The upgrades include more leather and carbon fiber applications for the interior. The car also comes with revised suspension. Only 118 units will be produced , making it all the more exclusive and collectable. Each car features a numbered plaque inside, marked with the China Limited Edition insignia.
The Evora GTE China Limited Edition is powered by the supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 444HP (327 kW) connected to a sequential Automated Manual Transmission powering the rear wheels.
“As the top potential market for sports car brands, China is a vital part of the five-year revival plan we announced 18-months ago. We are committed to bringing our unique products, distinctive style and rich history to China to provide Chinese customers with diversified and personalized product choices.”, commented Dany Bahar, CEO, Group Lotus.
“Within six months of Lotus Cars’ entry into China, orders have exceeded our expectations, which has strengthened our confidence in developing the China market. At the same time, in accordance with the China market’s characteristics and customer requirements, we have developed the Lotus Evora GTE China Limited Edition which we are launching here in Beijing, together with the Evora IPS.”, Lichen Zhang, President & CEO, Lotus China finished.
Honda showed up with two new concepts this year at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition – pointers to the eventual mass production models which Honda will add to the market next year. It’s the Honda Concept C and Concept S. There are other specimens being showcased at the show as the Japanese automaker is launching a medium-sized campaign on the Chinese market
Concept C
Apparently C stands for several things – “Cool”, “Challenge” and “China”. That latter one makes sense as this middle-class sedan is specially developed for the Chinese market. It’s body shape is inspired by an image akin to a…you guessed it – a dragon! Its development was conducted both by Chinese and Japanese engineering teams. A mass-production model based on the Concept C is expected to come out trough the gates of Guangqi Honda Automobile Co., Ltd.
Honda Concept C
Concept S
Another “primarily for the Chinese market” intended product – The Honda Concept S stands behind “Stylishness”, “Smartness” and “Surprise” – is there a toy inside? We don’t know. What we do know however that there’s a hybrid powertrain under the hood. So it goes without saying, that it will be fun to drive and environmentally friendly… as it is with hybrids. The mass-production model is to hit the Chinese dealerships with the help of Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co., Ltd next year. But hey, a global release should follow shortly after that.
Honda Concept S
Currently at Beijing, there are also some familiar faces making their debut on Chinese soil – The AcuraILX and RDX will be available there as soon as this year’s fall. The Acura NSX Concept also shares the stand and the word is that after its launch in the U.S. within the next three years, China will get some piece of the action as well.
Honda’s joint ventures are now even gaining a certain degree of independence if we judge by last year’s release of the Li Nian – Guangqi Honda’s original brand. This year, Dongfeng followed the trend by introducing the CIIMO middle-class sedan.
Dongfeng-Honda CIIMO
Here’s what the President and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd Takanobu Ito had to say:
“What continues to drive Honda forward is our passion to take on new challenges with our technologies without being limited by what came before, and to create products that make our customers say, ‘I wanted this kind of car!’ We will concentrate this driving force here in China and build vehicles tailored to the needs of our Chinese customers. Toward this end, Honda and our joint venture companies will work together to further localize our development, production and parts sourcing in China.”
ABT Sportsline has announced the new tuned Beetle, which comes with full exterior package as well as some performance modifications.
The 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol is boosted to 240HP (176 kW) – an increase of 40HP. The exhaust system includes two oval ABT rear mufflers. An ABT Beetle is an everyday athlete and makes driving a real pleasure. The design elements turn this unusual car into a cheeky and dynamic sports car before you have even started the engine.
The exterior features carbon-look highlighting the car’s charming individuality. The headlight covers make it look more aggressive. Rear light covers and a license plate insert lend the rear end more originality. The front spoiler signals that this beautiful sports car will never get off the ground.
There are also sets of ABT wheels in DR or CR designs. These wheels are available from 18’’ to 20’’ and also in conjunction with the right sport tyres. This visual unit is completed by the ABT brake system, which you can tell by its black painted callipers bearing the ABTLogo.
This turns the Beetle’s base into an eye-catcher, too.
Finally, ABT adds sport springs for better handling and stance.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude is the new limited-edition vehicle which recently has been introduced by the brand. This is the latest Altitude model in the fleet of Jeep, and it comes after the release of the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models last month.
In short the vehicle is based on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara model, however it comes to offer unique exterior styling. As you can see this Wrangler Altitude includes a body-color hardtop combined with a variety of black-gloss exterior appointments, and a distinctive black-and-red interior theme.
There will be production of only 4,500 units of this particular model which are expected to be sold very quickly. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude will be available at dealerships next month.
As already mentioned, the Altitude edition includes a body-color hardtop with matching painted center sections on the front and rear bumpers. What is unique here are the eighteen-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels with black-painted spokes and polished wheel rings. Of course, they were combined in order to give the Wrangler model a one-of-a-kind appearance.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude
Furthermore, Wrangler Unlimited Altitude’s exterior appointments are finished with Mopar® black fuel fill door, a matte black Jeep grille badge and a black tone-on-tone hood graphic. All this makes the appearance of the vehicle more harmonious.
Next to be mentioned is the black-and-red theme which can be found in the interior. In details, red accent stitching adorns black leather seats, door panels, center arm rest, floor mats and steering wheel.
Tp provide more contrast to the cabin, in black color are the vent rings, steering-wheel spokes, door pulls and passenger-side dashboard grab handle and berber floor mats.
Some of the interior highlights here are the redesigned instrument panel and storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials. Additionally, there is a lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas. The center stack is redesigned as well and now it is easier to reach and operate with it.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude Interior
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude models will be available in three trim levels: Deep Cherry Red, Black, Bright White and Bright Silver Metallic.
More importantly, the all-new, more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine with a new automatic transmission is included in this Jeep Limited-Edition vehicle.
In particular, the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is able to produce 285 hp (210 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft.) of torque.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude’s starting price is $33,740.
2013 Nissan Cima has been launched today and will go on sale in less than a month – on 21st of May. The new version of the model delivers excellent driving performance, advanced equipment and latest technologies.
This in fact is the fifth generation of the model, which is going to be released. Although it continues the design language of its predecessor, it also features a lot of distinguish enhancements.
Moreover, it is promised to combine exceptional engine performance with superior environmental performance. Of course, high levels of comfort and safety is its attributes as well.
The exterior design of the vehicle now includes a large grille and bumper, long wheelbase of over 3 meters and flowing side view.
In addition, the Nissan vehicle is providing great ride comfort and quietness thanks to its refined comfort suspension, sound-absorbing tires and Active Noise Control. In the rear seats are featured best-in-class knee room and a range of comfort equipment. This equipment includes 7-inch wide display integrated with the front seat headrest, overhead reading light, vanity mirror and sunshade.
More importantly, the new Cima achieves 20% improvement in terms of fuel economy. The car in addition is based on the two-pillar strategy “zero emissions” and PURE DRIVE, which help reduce the CO2emissions. In fact, the new Cima is one of the PURE DRIVE vehicles equipped with Nissan’s original hybrid system.
Exterior Design of the CIma delivers Premium Feeling and Strong Presence. It includes distinctive front mask featuring a large grille with solid, three-dimensional frame and plating molding bumper. Its flowing silhouette further emphasizes the harmonic exterior and beauty in proportions. The car will be available in five exterior colors, carefully chosen to emphasize the elegant bodylines.
2013 Nissan Cima
Next, the Hybrid System included in the car Utilizes Nissan’s “Intelligent Dual Clutch Control”. This is a one-motor two-clutch parallel hybrid system offering an optimal balance of direct response, superb driving feel and low fuel consumption.
Furthermore, the Cima cmbines a hybrid VQ35HR engine with maximum power of 225kW(306PS)/6800rpm and maximum torque of 350N•m(35.7kgf•m)/5000rpm) with an advanced ‘HM34’ electric motor with maximum power output of 50kW(68PS) and maximum torque of 270N•m(27.5kgf•m)and high-output lithium-ion battery with a quick charge/discharge function, highly-efficient and powerful driving is realized under various driving conditions.
The engine is mated to an electronic 7-speed hybrid transmission with manual shift mode. Next, the Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering system generates hydraulic pressure and the Electric Driven Intelligent Brake comes with applied electric-type booster.
Moreover, the Nissan, come equipped with regenerative braking system, meter display that shows various information, including operating conditions of the hybrid system (Energy Monitor), battery remaining capacity, Accelerator Guide, ECO-drive Indicator and a liquid-crystal odometer/twin trip meter (with an EV mode travel distance display function).
The Advanced Safety Technologies included in the car are: Intelligent Control Assist (Distance Control Assist); Intelligent Cruise Control; Intelligent Brake Assist/Emergency Brake Operated Pre-crash Front Seat Belts; LDP (Lane Departure Prevention)/LDW (Lane Departure Warning)/ FCW (Forward Collision Warning); VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control including Traction Control System).
Next, the key features and enhancements of the interior are the following: the 2013 Cima comes with a long wheelbase of over 3 meters, It delivers comfortable and enhanced luxury feeling which is expressed through the use of soft, premium semi-aniline leather and wood grain panels coated with genuine silver powder.
2013 Nissan Cima Interior
A lot of attention is put on the rear seats where the passengers will find a lot of comfort. First to be mentioned is the Private Theater System powered by a Bose® 5.1 Surround Sound System with 16 strategically placed speakers.
Additionally, there are the high-definition 7-inch VGA display installed in the front seat headrests, providing high-quality clear images and enjoy for the rear passengers. Other features include: overhead reading light for rear seats; rear seat personal light and illuminated vanity mirror; electrically operated rear window sunshade; rear door sunshades; DC 12V power sockets on and inside the center console; front passenger seat control switch for adjusting front passenger power seat;
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is providing the necessary safety for the world’s most popular touring car series. The German Touring Car Masters (DTM) starts on the 29th of April at Hockenheimring.
The vehicle is made in accordance with the DTM rules and is going to be driven by racing driver Jürgen Kastenholz. The car is intended to provide optimal safety for racing drivers, spectators and track marshals if event of dangerous situation occurs.
In fact, this is the most powerful C-Class ever created and next to the spectacular design, includes latest technology enhancements. 2012 C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series features aerodynamically optimised light bar on the roof, energy-efficient, fast-response LEDs in green and orange, which serve to keep the DTM racing drivers informed of the current situation.
In details, the green lights on the front and rear are always active when the car enters the field at the beginning of a Safety Car phase. Continuous green is the signal for all DTM drivers to overtake the Safety Car.
On the other hand the orange color is used when the Safety Car is in position in front of all DTM vehicles. The flashing orange lights indicate that overtaking is absolutely prohibited.
In addition, the stroboscope-like flashing LED lights on the front and rear remain active throughout the Safety Car phase.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is equipped with the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and maximum torque of 620 Nm (458 lb-ft). The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h for this car is possible for just 4.2 seconds. Its top speed is 300 km/h.
Furthermore, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car comes with a modified AMG sports exhaust system. The special rear silencer guarantees a distinctive AMG V8 sound.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive programmes, double-declutching function and RACE START delivers direct and fast gear-shifting.
2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car
Next, the standard-fit AMG rear-axle differential lock with locking effect in acceleration and deceleration mode combines with the 3-stage ESP®. And in cases of extremely short stopping distances the car is equipped with the AMG high-performance braking system.
Moreover, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series DTM Safety Car includes AMG Track package, the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package and forged AMG light-alloy wheels.
First, the AMG Track package features active rear axle gear cooling and sports tyres. The radiator is positioned in front of the diffuser insert in the rear apron to effectively take the air stream. The safety car runs on Dunlop Sport Maxx Race sports tyres in size 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear. Additionally, they are fitted on forged AMG wheels which are painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.
Secondly, the AMG Aerodynamics package comprises of flics and a functionally designed genuine carbon-fibre front splitter on the front apron, plus a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with adjustable blade. These components give the vehicle a sharper profile and optimize its aerodynamic balance.
At last, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package includes exterior mirror housings, the inserts in the side sill panels and a diffuser insert in genuine carbon fibre.
The interior of this Mercedes-Benz sport car is also in harmony with its exterior and corresponds to the series production model. What is new here are the two AMG sports bucket seats, which ensure optimum lateral support for driver and co-driver.
In terms of safety, new four-point seat belts are being utilized. The maximum control is delivered by the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA with flattened top and bottom rim sections and aluminium gearshift paddles.
Another highlight is the two-way radio system and TV monitor which serve for communication with the race organizers. The camera, which is located next to the rear license plate, provides the co-driver with a view of the DTM cars following the Safety Car.
2013 Audi Q5 SUV is all about sportiness and comfort. It is multifunctional and spacious, and now even more efficient. The model comes with updated design, infotainment system, chassis and engines.
For instance, the 2013 Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro is the fist hybrid model which the brand is producing. It draws its power from a powerful V6 engine, which however delivers fuel economy of a four cylinder one.
First, let’s review the engine choice. The upgraded Audi model comes with five engine options: three TDI and two TFSI engines. No matter of the type of the engine, all combine direct fuel injection with charging, and a start-stop system as a standard.
In addition to this it is important to mention that the engines now are with lower fuel consumption in comparison to the previous model.
In fact, the most efficient one is the 2.0 TDI engine, which is offered in two versions: the first one is four-cylinder engine in combination with manual transmission and front-wheel drive, which produces 105 kW (143 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. It has an average fuel consumption of 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg) – and a CO2 equivalent of 139 grams per km (223.70 g/mile).
The second one is with 130 kW (177 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque (with S tronic and quattro drive) and has a fuel consumption value of 6.0 liters per 100 km (39.20 US mpg).
The third available engine is the 3.0 TDI, which delivers 180 kW (245 hp) and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque. It comes with V6 diesel engine and is mounted to a seven-speed S tronic and quattro drive system.
This engine helps the Q5 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). The figure of its combined fuel consumption is just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 US mpg).
Furthermore, in the engine range are also included gasoline engines, which feature the highlight of the TFSI engine line-up. Namely, it is the new two-liter, four-cylinder engine which includes innovations such as in the control of valves and their stroke, innovative thermal management, the fuel injection system, turbocharger and integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head.
Next the new 2.0 TFSI outputs 165 kW (225 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft). Its fuel consumption is 7.6 liters per 100 km (30.95 US mpg).
More impressive in terms of performance is the new 3.0 TFSI – the three-liter V6 engine with supercharging. This one replaces the 3.2-liter engine. It deliver 200 kW (272 hp) of power and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque.
The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) for this one is possible in 5.9 seconds. With it the car has a top speed of 234 km/h (145.40 mph), and combined fuel consumption of 8.5 liters per 100 km (27.67 US mpg).
Important changes in the Audi SUV have been made in terms of transmission as well. Each of the models now comes with an optimal transmission system.
For instance, the four-cylinder engine works with a manual six-speed transmission. This is the standard equipment of the engine.
On the other hand the eight-speed tiptronic is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI with 165 kW (225 hp). This one comes as standard in the 3.0 TFSI.
Next, the sporty seven-speed S tronic is standard transmission in the 3.0 TDI. It is optionally available in the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp).
What comes also as a standard on all versions (except for the 2.0 TDI engine) of the Q5 is the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.
Additional changes have been made to the chassis, which now comes with new refinement and comfort in the characteristics of the springs, shock absorbers and stabilizers. The new electro¬mechanical power steering system gives the driver a better feel for the road with direct gearing.
Furthermore, 2013 Audi Q5 runs on 17-inch aluminum wheels and size 235/65 tires.
Another exceptional feature in the Audi Q5 is the Audi drive select system. It allows the driver vary the characteristic of the accelerator pedal, the shift points of the automatic transmission, amount of power steering assist and operation of the automatic air conditioning system via four modes.
2013 Audi Q5 SUV
As you can clearly see the Audi Q5’s exterior is progressive and sporty, spacious and functional. It has a coupe-like roof line and wrap-around tailgate. The interior design of the headlights has been modified; the LED daytime running lights of the optional xenon plus units are shaped as curved bands that surround the headlights.
The high-gloss black Singleframe grille has beveled upper edges; its vertical chrome struts and the Audi rings have a sculpted look. In addition, bumpers are modified and integrate air inlets with high-gloss black inserts and fog lights with chrome rings.
The new Audi Q5 is available in wide range of fifteen colors, four of which are new.
In terms of upgrades in dimensions, the SUV is now 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) tall. Its drag coefficient is 0.33 and its frontal area is 2.65 m2 (28.52 square feet); the curb weight of the base version is 1,755 kg (3,869.11 lb).
The interior of the Audi Q5 has also been restyled. For example, many of the user controls have narrow chrome trim; the steering column control stalks, ignition key and instruments were as well modified. Additionally, the narrow panels of the center console are high-gloss black.
Other refinements have been made to the controls for the seat heating, air conditioning system, Audi drive select system and the multifunction steering wheel.
Of course, throughout the interior can be seen a lot of efforts put in terms of details. All this has been done with high-quality of craftsmanship and precise selections of materials, colors and upholstery fabrics.
Moreover, the interior now comes in three new interior colors, three fabric and three leather qualities.
Audi delivers a wide selection of infotainment systems in the upgraded Q5: the Bang & Olufsen sound system, MMI navigation plus with a large hard drive, seven-inch color monitor, 3D graphics and DVD player.
2013 Audi Q5 SUV Interior
2013 Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro is a version of the model which in fact is the first hybrid model from Audi. It is highly efficient and yet powerful. It draws its power from the 2.0 TFSI engine which produces 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque as well as an electric motor with a peak output of 40 kW (54 hp) and peak torque of 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft).
Combined, the two power sources can output a system power of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft).
In particular, this make possible for the hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.1 seconds and to reach a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph).
Another important fact is that in pure electric mode, it can cover up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). In this mode, its top speed is 100 km/h (62.14 mph), while its combined fuel consumption is just 6.9 liters per 100 km (34.09 US mpg).
Furthermore, the Q5 hybrid comes equipped with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission which transfers engine power to the drivetrain without requiring a torque converter.
Here, driver switches between the three driving modes with the help of a button and a tiptronic gear selection lever. The EV characteristic map prioritizes the electric drive. The D mode controls both the internal combustion engine and electric motor. At last, the S mode and the manual shift gate of the tiptronic are stand for more sporty style of driving.
The 2013 Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro can be recognized by its siblings by its entirely painted bumpers and by the hybrid-specific ten-arm turbine design of its wheels. It runs on 19-inch wheels are standard.
The new 2013 Audi Q5 SUV will be available at dealerships this summer with a starting price of 39,900 euros.
Here’s a break of the pattern – after the dragon encrusted Ferrari 458 and the “Dragon” Wrangler we finally arrive to a Chinese design concept that does not draw inspiration from the dragon breathing mythical creature. It’s the Chrysler 300 Ruyi based on the standard 300C which is also there at the stand. There’s even a Grand Voyager MPV present, all part of the festive return of the Chrysler company to the Chinese market.
Ruyi means “as one wishes” and is usually represented by an object akin to a scepter. It’s used to signify prosperity as it is usually crafted beautifully from high quality materials. So does the 300 Ruyi is anything like that? Well, the first thing you notice that it’s black… sorry, “Maximum Steel”. Bits like the door handles, grille surround and lower grille tracer are in dark chrome. All of that suggests a very upscale and urban feel to it according to Chrysler but to us it just looks kind of scary. Especially with those tinted windows. Other highlights include the grille itself which is riddled with dark chrome throats, the Chinise character at the back end which reads “ruyi”. To round things up, the Ruyi’s designers have fitted 22-inch 10-spoke concept alloy wheels in, again, dark chrome, with a design reminiscent of a ruyi scepter (an S shape type of rod).
Inside, the dark chrome odyssey continues as we notice the outer dash vents, navigation screen and center dash vent surrounds, gauge rings, steering wheel rim and door handles. The center console, upper floor panels and flanking dashboard are all finished in a brushed patterned trim.
Light, creamy leather wraps around the seats with suede inserts at the center and side bolsters. As a touch of aesthetics, the piping is black. On the head rests, one can see the actual evidence of ruyi inspiration – an embossing in a cloud form that again bares an S-shaped base.
Power, produced by the “Engine of the Year” 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 unit, will go trough Chrysler’s ZF 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s the same setup which will be used in the standard 300C Luxury Series bound to appear in all Chinese dealrships. It’s most fuel-efficient and an excellent choice when it comes to value for money.
Mercedes has exhibited the new Viano Vision Diamond Concept at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show.
The luxurious van comes with exterior enhancements as well as full interior rebuild.
The exterior boasts black radiator grille, chromed grille louvers, and two-tone exterior paint job. A fine, shimmering gold line painted by hand separates the two body colors of black and diamond white, and a painted diamond adorns the B-pillar. The two-tone effect is repeated in the rims of the 5-spoke wheels, and the brakes feature the words “Mercedes-Benz” in gold.
The interior boasts Maybach-inspired rear seats that have integrated footrests as well as heating, cooling and massage functions. The comfort is further enhanced by diamond embedded trim, silver champagne flutes and a refrigerator that holds 5 bottles.
The final touches are a huge 40” flat-screen display, which can be used for watching television, surfing the Internet and participating in video conferences. There is also a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, W-LAN internet connectivity and a Magic Sky Control, which enables passengers to change the interior lighting conditions with just the push of a button. This changes the color of the windows, an effect that is made possible by a liquid in the window glass that reacts to differences in electric current.
Vilner has announced a new tuning program for the rough Land Rover Defender 2, which has been transformed from hard off-roader to luxurious ride suitable for everyday driving.
The interior has been entirely reorganized – 4 individual sport seats upholstered in brown and black, using Nappa and Alcantara. There is also leather on the door panels, the dashboard, the grips on the headliner and the sun visor. It is an interesting decision to cover the sun visor in Alcantara, but it looks very nice. The same applies to the rear view mirror and the third brake light.
The shapes on the leather, the new elbow rest and the bottom of the seats reflect an athletic vigor, and the “piano lacquer” subtlety.
The floor is the another interesting highlight. It features wooden decoration, a motive that embellishes the rear arm rest. The speedometer on the dashboard has the same color as the interior.
Vilner also installed a nice multimedia system with power of 600W and 15” LCD screen connected to the DVD-player has been installed. The car cab has been soundproofed, so you can listen at max volume without disturbing anyone on the road.
Ever considered what would come out from a relationship between a Peugeot 208 and a 3008? Neither have we. But at the moment, in Beijing something just like that is sharing the Peugeot stand . It’s the Urban Crossover Concept – a vehicle that “mixes the elegance and refinement of a saloon, the cheekiness and the mischievousness of an SUV with multi-role capability and unusal spaciousness for this market segment”. We always thought that the mischievousness and cheekiness are qualities best reserved for small cars but what do we know?
Peugeot say that because of the ever growing urbanization momentum, the Urban Crossover Concept fits perfectly into our worldview. Apparently, it somehow stays small on the outside and versatile and spacious on the inside.
The Concept is also the barer of Peugeot’s future styling cues. The front end for example is said to be refined yet full of power. A carefully styled hood and front wings add to the picture. The “smiling” grille with its metallic teeth underpins the new Peugeot badge.
From the side, the Urban Crossover is rather steep thanks to the raked windscreen which overlays with the rooftop and continues the silhouette all the way back to the spoiler. The raised body stance and wide wheels uncover its SUVishness. Peugeot say that it will be mulch-purposeful and yet kind to the environment. No word on any engine lineups though, Nothing technological has been discussed so far. It still is a concept so that’s understandable.
At the back we have a double bubble design an aluminum spoiler that bring the RCZ Sports Coupe to mind. Then we have LED tail lights that bare the signature Peugeot clawed design.
Peugeot Urban Crossover Concept
The Urban Crossover Concept will make its European debut at the Paris Motor Show in September 2012. Until then, our guess is that the urban turf will still be dominated by the Nissan Juke and Ford B-Max.
By today’s standards, it’s an antique. A ten-year old dinosaur. A car that uses coal for fuel. Okey, so we got a bit carried over here. It’s the BMW M3 E46 – a generation before the latest one. Don’t be deceived though. G-POWER, the guys who got their hands on it, say it is now more powerful than the current V8 powered M3.
Lotus has exhibited the new Evora GTE China Limited Edition at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show.
ABT Sportsline has announced the new tuned Beetle, which comes with full exterior package as well as some performance modifications.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude is the new limited-edition vehicle which recently has been introduced by the brand. This is the latest 
2013 Nissan Cima has been launched today and will go on sale in less than a month – on 21st of May. The new version of the model delivers excellent driving performance, advanced equipment and latest technologies.
2013 Audi Q5 SUV is all about sportiness and comfort. It is multifunctional and spacious, and now even more efficient. The model comes with updated design, infotainment system, chassis and engines.
Here’s a break of the pattern – after the dragon encrusted 
Ever considered what would come out from a relationship between a 
