Car Makes – Page 803 – Automobiles Review

Vorsteiner Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

Since there seems to be a lot of fuss around Lamborghini at the moment, Vrosteiner have cunningly decided to make a reference of their own. They too send us back in time but the LM002-back-in-time-type. It’s a tuning program for the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera… sort of. More like wheels for it.

Yes, those two raging bulls down there in the gallery wear the latest shoes from Vorsteiner – 1-piece or 3-piece forged wheels codenamed respectfully VS-110 and VS-310. As if they have been made specifically for the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera with that aftermarket big brake clearances. They both boast a 5 twin spoke design can be custom painted or powder coated depending on customer choice. Functionally, these two series of wheels are supposed to minimize unsprung weight for improved vehicle performance.

That can only mean good news for the Superleggera variety of the Gallardo is already light enough – 1,420 kg. The power to propel that weight comes from a 5-liter V10 that produces 530 PS.

If adding only wheels seems a bit tasteless, Vorsteiner hint that by the end of Fall this year, they would have come up with lightweight pre-preg carbon fiber aerodynamics and performance accessories for the Gallardo as well.

Vorsteiner Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

Source: Vorsteiner

April 24, 2012

2012 Fiat Punto Van brings more elegance in the Van range

2012 Fiat Punto Van comes to replace the Grande Punto Van in the brands Professional range of models. In addition to this it carries a lot of improvements compared to the preceding model.

The new Fiat Van model provides a load capacity of 1.0 m3 and a payload of 520 kg. And in addition it features external design modifications with fully coloured front and rear bumpers which give it more sophisticated look.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that this Van actually successfully combines the exterior style of both the Grande Punto and Punto Evo cars.

Regarding the interior of the Punto, it includes new sportier seat fabrics. On the SX version there can be found a new dashboard with soft touch materials and an elegant design.

As a standard equipment for all versions of this model are include the ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), BAS (Brake Assistance System), remote central locking, electric front windows, electrically adjustable and heated body coloured mirrors, trip computer, driver and passenger airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, electric power steering, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

More importantly, 2012 Fiat Punto Van will come with one diesel engine – the 1.3 MultiJet II diesel, in three levels of power:

• 75hp (55 kW) / 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm)

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 112 g/km CO2 emissions

• 85hp (62 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

80.7 MPG (3.5 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 90 g/km CO2 emissions

• 95hp (70 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 110 g/km CO2 emissions

The Start&Stop function comes as a standard only on the 1.3 MultiJet II 85hp and 95hp versions. With this function the fuel consumption is lowered to 80.7 MPG and the CO2 emissions to 90 g/km.

The Punto Van will be available in three different pastel colours: White, Dark Blue and Red, thus being able to deliver even more style and elegance to the load-bearing range of vehicles.

The starting price of the 2012 Fiat Punto Van is £10,990.

Source: Fiat

April 24, 2012

World debut of 2013 Aston Martin Dragon 88 Limited Edition

2013 Aston Martin Dragon 88 Limited Edition was just showcased in Beijing and it immediately grabbed the attention of the public.

This new Aston Martin model is actually an exceptional personalization. The number 88 in the name, in fact means there will be only 88 examples of Aston Martin models which are going to be available from “dragon” modification.

Some of the most inspiring models of the brand have been already customized, and these include: DBS Volante, Virage Coupe and V8 Vantage S Coupe.

So this means in general that the Dragon 88 concept is reserved only for afore mentioned powerful, elegant and prestigious models.

In particular, each of the 88 cars will include bespoke details, which evolve around the “dragon” symbol. In Chinese folklore this symbol stands for power, strength and good luck.

In addition, 24-carat gold is applied to the signature Aston Martin wing badges on each car. The cars are also finished in one of three special colors.

2013 Aston Martin Dragon 88 Limited Edition

Another exceptional car that is showcased at the brands stand in Beijing is the 2013 Aston Martin One-77. This vehicle is literal expression of Aston Martin’s engineering excellence. It comes equipped with the powerful 7.3-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine and the low mass, high-rigidity properties of a carbon fibre chassis.

Of course the number 77 means that only 77 luck owner will be enjoying driving this powerful machine.

Source: Aston Martin

April 24, 2012

2012 MG Icon Concept Unveiled

2012 MG Icon Concept is an exceptional vehicle which has just been unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show. And as expected it has already captured many hearts.

In fact, this is the first SUV concept car from MG Motor Company. The design of this concept vehicle was inspired by the brands most legendary sports cars MGA and MGB GT.

Indeed, NG Icon represents a vision of a modern vehicle which incorporates progressive design but also cherishes the heritage of the famous brand.

As you can see MG Icon has wide and powerful front end which gives it confident stance and powerful presence. In addition to this the concept shows progressive spirit through its harmonic proportions.

The rear of the SUV was inspired by the design of the MGB GT. This means that it features structural lamps mounted on top of haunched wings, which are undoubtedly highly distinctive feature of the design.

Furthermore, the MG Icon has a four ‘shell’ seat layout, where the rear seats can fold down completely into the floor. This will make the compact SUV more practical and functional.

2012 MG Icon Concept SUV

Source: MG

April 24, 2012

Eternity Artemis Prototype at Beijing

It would seem that Lamborghini won’t be the only company at Beijing to showcase a 600 bhp monstrosity with high ground clearance. Meet London-base Eterniti Motors and their first car ever – The Artemis. They haven’t bothered about fitting in so to speak as they have their own category for it – Super-SUV: “Higher levels of luxury, performance and exclusivity” targeted at wealthy car buyers. We respect honesty.

The Artemis prototype is still in its trial period but Eterniti speculate that it would be out before the ones of Lamborghini, Bentley or Maserati.

Outside every panel is hand-built yet made of carbon-fiber. Well, there are some “crude” patches of chrome here and there but they can’t really ruin the whole thing, can they? Sized 315/25, low profile tires bare the weight of the body and the 23-inch alloy rims that come in several designs.

The engineers at Eterniti have put some extra effort in making the back end of the cabin spacious, luxurious and comfortable. The seats recline, cool or heat themselves, hide a refrigerator and an iPad slot – very executive. The general feel of the whole cabin is self evident – leathers, quilted undercarpets and boot trim, lambswool rugs, veneers of natural wood, piano black and carbon-fiber patterns, state-of-the-art audio system and a choice of several sunroofs for some reason.

Then there’s the real inside. At the center of the Eterniti, beats a 4.8-litre twin-turbo V8 heart that produces 600 bhp and 750Nm of torque. Tests have so far shown that the “Super-SUV” can do a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds. Performance and handling have been developed by a race-bred British engineering team led by Alastair Macqueen. He was responsible for the Jaguar XJ220 so you know they are not kidding.

Eterniti have been kind enough to share a price tag as well – China will get a special deal but for the rest of the world, it’s £210,000. So this is where we start losing touch with reality. That sum of money for something that looks like a tricked out Cayenne?! Hmm…

Source: Eterniti

April 23, 2012

Jaguar XJ Ultimate at the 2012 Beijing

Jaguar has presented the top-of-range XJ Ultimate at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show, yesterday. The luxurious saloon comes with unique details both for the interior and the exterior. It represents the pinnacle of the luxurious, innovative XJ experience with heightened levels of opulence for rear-seat passengers.

2012 Jaguar XJ Ultimate comes with two individually tailored rear seats, which are trimmed in semi-aniline premium natural leather with power adjustment and recline, lumbar support, massage function and climate controls. Furthermore, the comfort is boosted by a rear business table, machined from solid aluminium with piano black trim, powers into position at the touch of a button. That’s not all, the rear passengers also get a pair of bespoke champagne flutes in a dedicated storage area beneath the powered table and a champagne chiller between the rear seats cools the bottle to the perfect temperature and automatically presents it when the cabinet is opened. Each rear-seat passenger is provided with an iPad® and keyboard, housed and charged in dedicated leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats.

Other highlights for the interior include a full-length, leather-trimmed centre console features phosphor blue accent lighting and stowage areas to extend the car’s business usability, a 15-channel, 20-speaker surround sound system engineered specifically for the XJ by British audio specialists Meridian and exclusive interior finishes including Herringbone veneer, machined aluminium and bespoke LED lighting.

The XJ Ultimate comes with new revised suspension optimizing the ride comfort.

The exterior boasts Celestial Black paint, discreet external detailing and badging differentiating the Ultimate from other XJ variants, a set of unique 20” Maroa forged alloy wheels featuring both technical grey and highly polished finishes.

The engine range includes the all-new 3.0-liter V6 supercharged petrol engine and the 5.0 liter V8 supercharged petrol. There will be also a diesel variant – 3.0 liter V6 turbocharged diesel. All engines are mated to the new 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox.

Source: Jaguar

April 23, 2012

Lamborghini Urus at 2012 Beijing

What we see here, is evidence that the world has gone SUV-mad. Lamborghini have brought the heavy artillery to the 2012 Beijing Auto Show with the Urus SUV Concept. We say heavy, but actually, the company claims that the Urus will thrash the other fatties from the segment thanks to their ever-improving craftiness with carbon-fiber composites.

So what’s at the core of this concept? Some might be surprised but this is not Lamborghini’s first venture into the SUV world. It’s their second. Back in 1986 the LM002 was launched which looked like a Hummer on steroids, had 450 bhp and a top speed of 210 km/h. Despite remaining in production until 1992, only 300 units were ever made. Not what you call a commercial success then.

The name behind the new one is in part ironic. Urus (or aurochs) is an extinct species of cattle – a rather majestic and tall looking breed of bulls, ancestors of the modern Spanish Bull. Now, we understand that you can’t name something that looks like a genetically modified Lamborghini Aventador on hoofs after a standard bull but isn’t the fact that the aurochs have been “outdated” sort of a bad sign?

Anyways, Lamborghini are still quiet about what’s under the hood. “Expect something around 600 bhp” is not something we can work with here. Low emission pioneering is also amidst the company’s daring claims, because it will be light they say. But how light can a 5 meter long and 2 meter wide bulk of brawn can be? It sends its power trough trough a permanent AWD system complete with traction control. (which, again, does not sound very light).

Aerodynamics are said to play an important part as well. The suspension is widely adjustable. The front spoiler is also height adjustable so that it can provide a proper ground clearance or add some stability and efficiency on the flat tarmac. The outside features are less than a handful but for a purpose – a minimalist construction. No side view mirrors (cameras inside), no gun turrets and no excess weight. The only thing that sounds too much is the size of the wheels: 24 inches of matte aluminum glory and double spoke design.

Inside the Lamborghini Urus, there is a seating for four (two too many for a Lamborghini to be honest). The carbon fiber diet there is just as relevant as it is for the outside. The center tunnel for example, is an open skeletal carbon fiber structure made from Forged Composite. It’s the backbone of the whole interior and it is only partially clad in leather-upholstered cushioning. The four bucket seats (Forged Composite as well) are also cushioned by a single body. Then, behind the steering wheel, one would find only paddle shifters. So Lamborghini has gone the Ferrari Italia way and placed the indicator storks/buttons somewhere irrelevant. And this is supposed to be an everyday vehicle?

Source: Lamborghini

April 23, 2012

Audi A6 L E-Tron at the 2012 Beijing

Audi is presenting its first luxury-class e-tron concept car – Audi A6 L e-tron at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The manufacturer also presents two other brand new concept vehicles at the auto show, but they won’t be in focus now.

The plug-in hybrid is based on the long-wheel-base version of Audi A6 saloon, which is the best-selling model on the Chinese market. It is typical for the European manufacturers to run LWB versions specially for the Chinese market like the BMW 3-Series F30 LWB. These models are widely appreciated and well sold in China, that’s why Audi decided to run their new hybrid in LWD version.

However, the styling has been updated to differentiate it from the production model. The A6 L E-tron comes with new front grille with horizontal chrome bars giving it better front look and massive appearance. There is also a new rear diffuser and enormous 21” alloy wheels in special e-tron design.

The A6 L e-tron concept is precisely tailored to the requirements of Chinese customers. Plug-in hybrids that can travel long distances electrically – thereby enabling zero emissions driving in local areas – are ideal for use in rapidly growing megacities. Beyond its drive system, the A6 L e-tron concept has all of the qualities that customers value in Audi cars: prestige, comfort and sporty performance.

The powertrain features a 2.0 liter TFSI with 211HP (155 kW) coupled with an electric motor with 95HP (70kW). The electric motor is powered by a special liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which alloys the A6 L to travel up to 80km in all-electric mode if travelling at a constant speed of 60 km/h.

The interior boasts intuitive controls. The powermeter replaces the tachometer; its pointer indicates total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100%. Colored segments indicate the current operating state of the A6 L e-tron concept; an auxiliary instrument visualizes the charge state of the lithium-ion battery.

The Audi A6 L e-tron concept offers a lot of space at all seating positions. It integrates all of the model line’s luxury-class features. The seats offer ventilation and massage functions, the Bose surround system delivers good sound, and the deluxe automatic air conditioning system with air ionizer ensures a pleasant climate in the car. Ambient lighting adds subtle highlights to the interior illumination.

Source: Audi

April 23, 2012

Toyota reveals three new concepts in Beijing

Three new concept vehicles have just been unveiled by Toyota on their stage at the 12th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.

The first one comes in two variant- a compact sedan and hatchback, which carries proudly the name Toyota Dear Qin. This is a global-strategic vehicle which includes attractive design and offers exceptional style.

In particular, the word Qin means “dear” or “intimate”. In the name lies the aim of the brand to make this model cherished by many.

The Dear Qin concept versions have different front end. Although slightly different in appearance, they both share the same name. Maybe in the future we can expect development on the direction of the two design strategies, however under different name.

The red version is standard four-door sedan which has a body design, very typical and familiar in China.

More importantly, both Dear Qin is said to be propelled by gasoline-electric hybrid engines.

The third world debut makes the second concept of Toyota, called Yundong Shuangqing. This is a China-only concept hybrid.

The model suggests “movement upon clouds” and its goal is to deliver innovation, dynamism and eco-friendliness to all customers of the brand.

In addition Shuangqing offers “dual support” and signifies the two power sources of the petrol-electric hybrid system.

Source: Toyota

April 23, 2012

2013 Subaru Legacy unveiled at 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition

2013 Subaru Legacy has just been unveiled at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. What lies beyond this new model is the philosophy of “All performance enhancement”. This refers to improvement made regarding the design, fuel economy, drivability and safety.

In addition to this Subaru Legacy comes with more extensive modifications, which are not only limited in to exterior and interior changes.

The new Subaru model delivers more excitement in driving and more comfort for the passengers. In addition it is equipped with the new generation Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, thanks to which the fuel economy is improved.

The exterior design of the vehicle conveys stability and confidant stance. This is probably due to the headlamps with the motif common with other Subaru vehicles and a hexagon grille.

Other modifications were made on the vehicle’s height which was raised by 60 mm. In addition to this the front bumper, side spoiler and rear bumper were newly designed.

All these original modifications in the exterior design of the legacy result in bolder look and powerful presence.

The front and rear fender design now has massive wheel arches. For this reason the vehicle’s width was extended by 40mm.

2013 Subaru Legacy sits on the new 18 inch-wheels, while the wheel arch designs embodies power running through the symmetrical All-Wheel drive. The high-quality of the car is further highlighted by the chrome parts which can be found on the side sill spoiler and rear bumper.

Furthermore, the interior of the car now expresses luxury and comfort. The color of the center panel, front console and steering switch panel is now black-metal-like color. In addition, electronic parking brake and “SI-DRIVE” switches were relocated for better usability.

The new Legacy is also environmentally “conscious”: the fuel efficiency it provides is now outstanding. This is due to the new generation Boxer engine, which combines the light and compact second-generation Lineartronic (CVT).

Moreover, suspensions were also updated in order to refine the driving experience.

In terms of safety features, the vehicle includes the additional bumper beam reinforcement and the knee airbag for a driver. There is also added the VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) with new control system.

Source: Subaru

April 23, 2012

2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase with a Beijing World Debut

2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase made a global debut at Auto China. The vehicle completes the Phantom Series II family of the brand.

Phantom Series II is an evolution of the Rolls-Royce Phantom model which first appeared back in 2003. What is particularly specific about the extended wheelbase is that it features significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology.

Of course, it carries a striking new front-end design, which is completed with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures. In addition, there are also included fully-LED headlamps as standard. They deliver characteristic whiter light, and encompass technologies that automatically change the shape and direction of light beams according to road orientation and in response to different driving conditions.

Furthermore, there are also featured driver assistance technologies such as a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller, controls a new satellite navigation system with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and composite route planning.

All of the necessary information is displayed on 8.8 inch control centre display. There are also displayed the images provided from the front, rear and top-view camera systems, which in turn help in better manoeuvring.

What is more 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase includes a brand new eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential. They improve the driving dynamics and complement perfectly the V12 direct injection engine.

In fact, this results in improved fuel consumption and less CO2 emissions as well.

Another interesting remark here is that at least five layers of paint and clear lacquer coating are applied to each Phantom model. The number of the layers becomes seven if the car is two-tone.

Any chosen paint color can be specified by the customer. Furthermore, single or double coach-lines can also be added, where each five metre line takes three hours to apply (by hand) using only the finest squirrel and ox hair brushes.

Moreover, there are also wooden features can be seen in the interior. It depends on the specifications whether there how many pieces of wood are being utilized for the construction.

In particular, up to 43 wooden parts can be used. Each of which is constructed from up to 28 layers of wood. In order to improve the strength and to prevent splintering in an impact, these are interspersed with thin sheets of aluminium.

The leather in the interior is drum pigmented. This allows the leather to keep its soft and supple feel, giving a rich, uniform colour while maintaining the natural feel, softness and comfort.

Source: Rolls-Royce

April 23, 2012

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept delivers new level of sensory indulgence

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept is an outstanding luxury model which the richness of experience that comes as standard with any Rolls-Royce vehicle.

When one approaches this exceptional Rolls-Royce their senses are immediately provoked. The delight continues through the experience of the lavish use of soft, sumptuous leathers, finest veneer detailing and special bespoke enhancements.

In fact, the stunning interior was hand-made and maybe it embodies part of every craftsperson involved in the process of creation.

This luxury concept vehicle ignites the sight with its beautiful and elegant appearance. Every Rolls-Royce Ghost model is a sign of exceptional taste. In addition, what pleases the eye is pearlescent Carrara White finish complements new forged alloy wheels.

Another visually enriching experience comes through the interior which includes precision and detailing. The deep lustre of the Walnut Burr veneer complete with diagonally-oriented, brown oak cross-banding, are made to hint at the extraordinary power at the driver’s disposal.

Next, the senses of the ears are provoked by the sound most advanced audio systems included in the Ghost model. In details, Ghost Six Senses audio system fills the spacious rear cabin thanks to its upgraded amplifier and the inclusion of ‘exciter’ speakers housed in the leather headlining that help raise the centre of sound closer to a passenger’s ear.

Furthermore, the finest interior materials create scents that are unique to Rolls-Royce. Take for instance the natural soft grain leather in enveloping, hand-crafted seats, as well as in the car’s leather headlining, with added hints of the woody spice in the walnut veneer.

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept

And in addition to all this the Rolls-Royce comes to offer ultimate experience in terms of taste, because in it is featured a coolbox where any kind of refreshing drinks can be stored.

The tactile sense is provoked through the versatility of materials included in the design of the concept. They range from cool chrome and sumptuous leather to the finest veneers. In fact, Ghost Six Senses includes natural grain leather for the first time.

On the other hand the deep pile lambswool rugs encourage occupants to submerge feet, while opening the boot effortlessly with remote opener, reveals a further lambswool lining to cosset luxury luggage.

Source: Rolls-Royce

April 23, 2012

Category: Car Makes