Car Makes – Page 809 – Automobiles Review

Green Tech With The Chevy Malibu Eco

Recent gas prices causing you headache? The trip between the petrol stations seems too short? Well, if you insist to sticking to a mid-sized saloon, the Chevrolet Malibu Eco might be the car for you. They say it can do 965 km of highway on a single tank of fuel. This is just another example of how a combination of simple yet clever technologies can help bring noticeable relief to your wallet.

Let’s not beat around the bush – The Malibu Eco achieves an EPA-estimated 25 miles per gallon city and 37 mpg highway fuel economy. Numbers would not have been so high if it wasn’t for the all-electric power steering. It’s cleaner, more efficient and smarter than any other hydraulic setup in the world. Thanks to it, Malibu owners can save up to 12 gallons annually, or about 120 gallons in a 10-year life. At $4 per gallon, that saves about $50 per year or $500 in 10 years say Chevrolet.

The Malibu’s power steering is not constantly operational. Instead, it kicks in only when you need it to do so. If you are going down the highway, the only thing it does is to slightly compensate outside factors that may cause directional shifts (think of uneven roads or crosswinds). Wherever you are, the feedback comes with reduced vibrations and, in some of the cars, responsiveness can be adjusted trough two settings – “comfort” and “sport”.

But an electric power steering is not something groundbreaking and it’s going to take more than that for the Eco, to stand up to its name. This is where GM’s fuel-saving eAssist technology comes into place. It shuts of fuel supply to the engine when the car is decelerating. While in fuel shut-off mode, the motor-generator unit continues spinning along with the engine should the accelerator pedal be pressed again. Thus, a smooth and immediate response is ensured. The system also manages to salvage up to 15kW of power that would normally be lost upon breaking, and recharges the Li-ion battery of the Malibu.

At the moment, the Eco version of it is priced at $25,595 but, with a little more patience, we will see the arrival of an all-new, greener 2.5L Ecotec engine to all Malibu models. Not before summer this. Then, sometime later, a new turbo model will be available.

Source: Chevrolet

April 10, 2012

Ford Focus ST Debut at Beijing 2012

Ford Focus ST (2012) We all know the Focus ST, right? It’s not that every market offers it but with the pace Ford has taken up, that problem would soon be a thing of the past. The latest debut for the ST would be the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. Soon, this stunning hothatch will be a reality on the Chinese streets.

“The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers the opportunity to see it Beijing,” said Nigel Harris, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford Motor China. “The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance.”

So, no compromises. Simply pure and exhilarating performance, top of the line handling, growling sounds and an aggressive design – true ST experience. Ford are hoping that by the end of 2012, their latest Focus model range will be available to all global markets. A 250 hp rated, 2.0 EcoBoost engine is to delight anyone in the world, who would fancy some blistering performance and eardrum bursting sounds.

“The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and our design and engineering teams have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort,” said Harris.

April 10, 2012

World Premiere of 2013 Porsche Cayenne GTS in Beijing

The high-performance SUV 2013 Porsche Cayenne GTS is to make a world debut in Beijing. The vehicle delivers 420 hp (309 kW) and now comes with lowered chassis and improved driving dynamics.

The brand will finally unveil the second-generation Cayenne GTS at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in just two weeks. The popular SUV’s design is based on the Cayenne S. However this new model comes with 20 additional horsepower, a 20 mm lower ride height and a lower final drive ratio which equals improved driving dynamics.

The power of the 420 hp comes from the V8 engine (an active All-Wheel-Drive system) coupled to an eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission with integrated Auto Start Stop function. This is unique combination, indeed, because it enables the Cayenne GTS to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.4 seconds and achieve a top-track-speed of 162 mph.

The exterior of the car is no less than unique as well. The 2013 Porsche Cayenne GTS can be effortlessly recognized by its high-gloss black trim, prominent side skirts and wider wheel arches as well as the hood and front fascia from the Cayenne Turbo.

In addition, this SUV rides on 20-inch RS Spyder wheels with a one-of-a-kind offset for the GTS. They come as a standard. What comes also as a standard is the sport exhaust system with matte black twin tailpipes.

Furthermore, two new colors are available for the Cayenne GTS: Peridot Metallic and Carmine Red.
The interior of the Cayenne GTS includes exclusive GTS eight-way adjustable front sports seats with Alcantara accents. What is more here is the new Sport Chrono package, which is now available to monitor the advanced performance offered by this amazing GTS model. A Sound Symposer channels genuine engine intake sounds into the cabin.

The 2013 Cayenne GTS will go on sale in the U.S. in August 2012, with a base price of $82 050.

Source: Porsche

April 10, 2012

Chrysler to Premiere Two Design Concepts at Beijing 2012

More news for later this month’s 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. Chrysler is planning to reestablish itself as a brand on the Chinese market. To show off its determination, the company has plans to unleash these two mean looking fire-breathers as one of them, is to commemorate the year of the dragon. Which, as it turns out, is this year.

The Chrysler 300C is a design concept, compiled specifically with Chinese elements in mind. This is obviously some sort of a teasing game so not much to work with here. We see some sort of an elaborate grille job, some big wheels and a black bodywork. The interior seems to be alright, or at least all-white”. Symbols can be seen, embossed within the leather seats.

The other concept, a Jeep Warngler, is the more flamboyant of the two. It has a giant tattoo of a dragon on the front hood (and underneath as well), Chinese symbols on the fenders and hubcaps and some LED action at the front. All the while, goldish patterns serve as a contrast tool to the overall black finish and the engine cover reads “3.6 VVT”. So, we are betting on an aluminium, variable valve timed V6 that churns out 288 bhp and 359 Nm of torque.

The 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition kicks off on the 23^rd of April. Nothing more can be said until then.

Chrysler 300C Design concept for Beijing 2012

Jeep Wrangler Design concept for Beijing 2012

Source: Chrysler LLC

April 9, 2012

Acura, Best Luxury Campaign from Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards

Last week, Acura‘s advertisement campaign for their TL range, was honored with a Best Luxury Campaign award at the Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards event held at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. The company’s agency of record, rp& (a division of RPA) took the credit thanks to their duo of commercials that feature two well known athletes: Detroit Lions football player Calvin Johnson and 2010 Olympic gold medal winning skier Ashleigh McIvor.

The to 0.30 minute spots do not actually feature the TL. Instead the message is conveyed trough metaphors of how an entity can be physically capable and brutish even while, at the same time, emitting style and refinement. The campaign’s motto says it all really: “aggression in its most elegant form.”

Those ads seem to be on to something here. Provided that we are talking about the TL SH-AWD (and not the FWD base one), we have 3.7-liter V6 that produces 305 hp and 373 Nm of torque. The SH stands for Super Handling and we suspect the multi-vectoring all wheel drive in the TL, might have something to do with that. While cruising, 90 % of the power goes to the front wheels. When one gives it the beans however, the tables turn – 70% to the back from which, 100 % can go to either rear wheel, depending on the circumstances.

The Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards is the only survey that measures the effectiveness of car TV ads. The data comes from around 2.5 million viewers of national television. 24 networks were included and every single commercial that began airing in 2011 was included.

“2012 has been an exciting year for Acura with the launch of the all new Acura ILX and RDX, the long awaited NSX Concept and most recently, the RLX Concept, Acura’s new flagship sedan,” said Mike Accavitti, Vice President of National Marketing Operations. “We are honored to add Nielsen’s award to that list as we continually strive to create campaigns that further Acura’s brand philosophy of innovation and advancement.”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCtKiqOLBcM

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_cGuIO-aP4

Source: Acura

Video Source: AcuraConnected via YouTube

April 9, 2012

Honda NSX Twin Turbo vs Porsche 911 Turbo S [HD video]

“Power is nothing without control”, this is very popular phrase in the world of motorsport and especially in drag racing, where the highly tuned cars have to be driven extremely carefully in order to get maximum traction and perfect times.

In this video by Dragtimesinfo, you’ll see a Honda NSX Twin Turbo prepared by Total Race with 700HP versus Porsche 911 Turbo S (997) Mk.2 Stock with just 530HP. However, the Porsche made a perfect start and set a terminal speed of 282.74 km/h in the first, which was more than enough to beat the mighty Honda.

In the second start, the NSX also had huge troubles with the launch, but after that it managed to get the needed traction and won.

Check out the video below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3rzXN1hTTY

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

April 9, 2012

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2013 Lexus GS 450h, 2013 Lexus RX line-up and 2012 Lexus IS Sedans

Lexus has just announced the prices for number of its models: for the all-new 2013 GS 450h hybrid luxury sport sedan, the complete 2013 RX luxury utility vehicle line, and a price adjustment to the 2012 IS luxury sport sedan.

The first one – 2013 Lexus GS 450h, comes equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, and delivers 338 horsepower (245 kW), while achieving 31 combined city/highway mpg.

The model will arrive at dealerships in a month with a starting price of $58 950.

In details the 2013 Lexus GS 450h will complete the GS lineup comprising of GS 350 and GS 350 F SPORT. As mentioned already it has a total system power output of 338 horsepower (245 kW), delivered from the powerful V8 engine. Although it is a V8, it can exceed most V6 engines in fuel economy with best-in-class EPA estimated ratings of 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. That makes the 2013 Lexus GS 450h a certified as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

Secondly, the new GS hybrid also features Lexus Drive Mode Select which comes additionally to the Normal, Eco, Sport S, Sport S+ modes available on the GS 350. What GS 450h does is that it adds an EV mode, which allows the driver to travel a short distance at low speed using only the hybrid battery pack.

Moreover, the vehicle has impressive available options which help improving the occupant safety. They include:

Pre-Collision System, which uses the radar sensors shared with the Dynamic Cruise Control System to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision as well as to apply braking force in the case of an impending collision;
Night Vision System;
Heads Up Display;
Blind Spot Monitor
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which provide a small amount of active steering torque to help maintain course and alert the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.

There is also included in the GS 450h a Lexus multimedia. It will bring a host of entertainment and connectivity enhancements, including the Lexus Enform® App Suite (one-year trial subscription included) and standard enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.

Next, comes the 2013 Lexus RX line-up, which will set new standards in terms of design, technologies, engineering, and luxury innovation in the SUV segment. The line-up will be available in dealerships this month with a starting price of $39 310.

What has to be additionally highlighted here is that a model from the range – 2013 Lexus RX450h, offers V8-like performance and fuel economy similar to a four-cylinder sedan
On the other hand the 2013 Lexus RX F Sport includes the inspiring eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a sport-tuned suspension with performance dampers. Of course it was designed especially for driving enthusiasts.

In fact, the RX is the top-selling luxury utility vehicle in the U.S. for fourteen years. The 2013 models now come with upgraded and enhanced interior and exterior.

For instance the 2013 Lexus RX 450h comes also with Lexus Hybrid Drive.
In addition, a bold new face of Lexus is applied to the range: the signature spindle grille, is accompanied by a new headlamp design, LED daytime running lights, distinctive fog lamp bezels, and an aggressive new bumper. The taillamps have been also updated and the rear license plate surround complete the exterior enhancements.

How about the interior enhancements, which the luxurious and spacious RX receives? The steering wheel has been transformed and now comes with sportier design and a more comfortable and relaxing grip. Additionally, a metallic accent enhances the look of the glove box. The center console has been redesigned for versatility and easy accessibility.

The interior is now available in Ebony Bird’s-eye Maple wood trim and Saddle leather interior. In those options, rich, detailed contrast stitching is used on the seats, center console and door-mounted armrests.

Furthermore, four new exterior colors are available for the RX range: Silver Lining Metallic, Claret Mica, Deep Sea Mica, and Fire Agate Pearl, Matador Red Mica and Cerulean Blue Metallic.

The special 2013 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT also comes enhanced. In particular the car was designed with the aim to engage driving enthusiasts with performance and styling. Its upgrades include:

Eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters;
Newly designed 19-inch alloy wheels with dark graphite finish with 235/55R19 tires front and rear;
New and unique sport front bumper with mesh grille;
F SPORT tuned suspension with front and rear performance dampers;
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM).

The RX 350 F SPORT is also available with black leather-trimmed seats which have white contrast stitching, black headliner, and aluminum pedals and footrest. What is to be a debut here is the eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Model Year	Model Name	MSRP
2013	RX 350 FWD	$39,310
2013	RX 350 AWD	$40,710
2013	RX 350 F SPORT AWD	$47,000
2013	RX 450h FWD	$45,910
2013	RX 450h AWD	$47,310

At last the 2012 Lexus IS luxury sport sedan range which will come with the initial price of $33 795.

Model Year	Model Name	MSRP
2012	IS 250 (MT)	$33,795
2012	IS 250	$34,965
2012	IS 250 AWD	$37,425
2012	IS 350	$40,220
2012	IS 350 AWD	$42,680

Source: Lexus

April 9, 2012

2013 Dodge Viper will take part in 2012 American Le Mans Series

It has been less than one week since Chrysler Group announced the release of the all new two models of 2013 Dodge Viper SRT and Viper SRT GTS.

Both models were developed by Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) and can offer nothing less than superb performance and excitement!

In fact this is the fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar. And now we can see its evolution, which can be effortlessly seen in the high-quality work of the designer and engineers, as well as through all of the new technologies and ergonomic improvements included in it.

Now, Dodge is to announce even more exciting news around this emblematic vehicle. All fans of model will be delighted to hear that Chrysler Group also announced that SRT Viper Racing team will return to the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) in 2012.

As many might recall, racing has been an important part of the history of the iconic Viper. It has won a lot of wins on the track, but also this led to the improvement and continuation of the development of street cars. And as a matter of fact 2013 Dodge Viper SRT is a result of this evolution.

The new team is preparing for the big event and since the launch if the 2013 Dodge Viper SRT GTS-R model they do disclose their overall excitement. However, the introduction of the SRT GTS-R would not be announced until the racing.
And in addition, what has also been revealed is that Chrysler Group is planning to have two identical Viper SRT GTS-Rs competing in the production-based GT class in the American Le Mans Series this year.

Source: Chrysler

April 9, 2012

2012 Peugeot RCZ Brownstone

Peugeot RCZ Brownstone is now available to order in Europe. The manufacturer will run the special edition car in limited series of just 150 units.

As you may suggest, it features Brown exterior color as well as an exclusive interior. Outside, the RCZ Brownstone also boasts a gloss black grille and brake calipers, and a set of big Magny Cours 19” alloy wheels fitted with low profile run-on-flat tires.

The special interior features Cohiba Leather and Alcantara for the sport seats, the dashboard and door trim panels.

The RCZ Brownstone is powered by the 1.6 liter THP petrol engine with 156HP (115 kW) and 243Nm (180 lb-ft). It is very economical – 6.4 liters / 100 km and CO2 emissions are 149g/km.

The equipment of the special edition RCZ features more than €2 500 of additional goodies – WIP Com 3D telematic system, Sport package including – shorter shifter, leather sport steering wheel and Motorsound-Generator, Comfort package – front PDC (park distance control), automatic low beam switch and rain sensor, and xenon package with dynamic cornering lights and headlamp cleaning system.

A JBL premium sound system with ten-channel amplifier and 240 WATTS of power is available as an option for €500.

2012 Peugeot RCZ Brownstone is priced from €32 650 for the 1.6 THP model.

Source: Peugeot

April 9, 2012

2013 Nissan Altima – $21 500

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Nissan has released full details for the 2013 Altima mid-size sedan. This is the 5^th generation of Altima, which is the second best-selling car in the United States, previous year.

The engine range includes a 2.5-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder with 185HP (136 kW), which returns up to 38mpg. There is also a powerful 3.5 liter V6 with 274HP (201 kW) capable of doing 30 mpg on the highway.

2013 Nissan Altima is offered in four 2.5-liter engine equipped models, 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL, along with three 3.5-liter V6 equipped models, 3.5 S, 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL.

The standard equipment of 2.5 S includes a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, Advanced Drive-Assist^TM Display, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, Nissan Intelligent Key®, six speakers, auto on/off headlights, in-cabin microfilter, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure readouts. The 3.5 S adds 18” wheels and tires, plus paddle shifters with manual mode.

The Altime SV has Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Remote Engine Start System, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy wheels, RearView Monitor, NissanConnectSM with Pandora® radio capability, SiriusXM^TM Satellite Radio, 5.0” color audio display, USB port with iPod® connectivity and Hands-Free Messaging Assistant.

The top-of-range SL includes leather upholstery, BOSE Premium Audio System with 9 speakers (including woofers), 8-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, heated outside mirrors, LED taillights, LED outside mirror turn signals, premium interior trim, power sliding moonroof, auto dimming rearview mirror, and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver.

Just three options packages are available: a Convenience Package (2.5 SV), Navigation Package (SV) and Technology Package (SL) – along with the optional Remote Start and Rear Spoiler.

2013 Nissan Altima is priced from just $21 500 for the entry level and the range-topping 3.5 SL CVT trim level will start at $30 080.

See the full press release below.

Source: Nissan

April 6, 2012

2013 BMW F10 M5 US – Price $90 695

The Fifth Generation of BMW M5 – the 2013 F10 model is priced at $90 695. It is joined by the new M6 Convertible, which will be the first of the three new M cars to arrive in US BMW Center showrooms. The new M6 Convertible will hit the US market in June at $113 995 – including $895 Destination and Handling.

The sports family saloon is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 13 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package.

Still, this a car to bring your family to vacation, so the fuel consumption is good enough – 9.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle (28.5 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.

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

The M6 Convertible has the same engine, gearbox and other equipment as always.

Source: BMW

April 6, 2012

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe US – Price $76 895

BMW has released the price list of the new four-door coupe at a press conference during the New York International Auto Show.

The 2013 640i Gran Coupe comes with revised 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder petrol engine. It delivers 315HP (232 kW) at 6000RPM and 448Nm (331 lb-ft) at just 1300RPM. The engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox.

The 640i Gran Coupe goes on sale in late June with an M.S.R.P. of $76 895. Later in the summer, the TwinPower Turbo V-8 powered 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel drive 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will join the range.

The 650i will be $87 395 and and the 650i xDrive – $90 395 – all prices include the $895 Handling and Destination charge.

The new 6-Series Gran Coupe boasts stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to five passengers.

Harmonious proportions, precise lines and sleekly contoured surfaces give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury.

Source: BMW

April 6, 2012

Category: Car Makes