Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Kahn Porsche Cayenne Wide Track

    Kahn-Porsche-Cayenne-thumbIntroducing the latest product coming from Afzal Kahn – the Porsche Cayenne wide track edition. It’s called that way because of its…erm….width. It’s got some new body panels, exhaust pipes and some wheels.

    First off we have these flaring front and rear wheel arches that have vents in them. LED lining for the front vents, a boot lid spoiler at the back, carbon fiber inserts on the front bumper and red brake calipers. For some extra flash, there’s an LED bed under the chassis that illuminates the road bellow.

    The suspension hasn’t been left behind either – sports springs combined with 22” Kahn RS600 wheels achieve a meaner, leaner look for the Cayenne at the very least. As a rounding detail, a Kahn stainless steel quad exhaust system is added.

    Inside a blend of quilted claret and perforated leather greets the passengers. The driver gazes at the speedometer and rev counter which are in contrasting red and cream and is engulfed by the Kahn style. As usual, choice is what makes the project so desirable. Everything can and will be custom made to fit the needs of picky customers.

    This particular fashion statement is available for $123,805.

    Kahn Porsche Cayenne (2012)
    Kahn Porsche Cayenne (2012)

    Source: Kahn

  • Fisker Atlantic Ahead of NYIAS

    Fisker-Atlantic-thumbOfficial news from Fisker – the Atlantic concept/prototype as seen before its debut at the New York International Auto Show in a few days. It’s design is said to be drawn from nature and there’s some talk about crouching tigers and what not. But to be honest it doesn’t look much different from the Karma, does it? The good news is that it is also as clever as the Karma.

    It will be a four-door saloon aimed at families who “want to drive an impactful, high-end vehicle while making a positive statement about responsibilities”. For a driving force, the Atlantic will be using Fisker’s second generation EVer drivetrain – a plug-in hybrid that’s being charged by a four-cylinder gasoline engine. No words on performance yet.

    In terms of design feats, the Altantic’s glass roof is interesting. It has a ‘spider’ rigid construction designed to withstand great stresses which can come in handy for future safety tests. The door handles of the rear doors are hidden away within the C-pillars so that you or I can fool people into thinking “That’s a coupe we have here. The person inside must be cool and slim and smart”. The taillights are the only other distinctive feature that prevents me for confusing the Atlantic with a Karma – sleek streams of LED clusters. It actually looks kind of nice.

    More information on this will be available within a few days probably.

    Fisker Atlantic Prototype
    Fisker Atlantic Prototype

    Source: Fisker

  • Audi A6 Avant Allroad

    Audi-Allroad-A6-thumbWelcome, to the Audi A6 Allroad. It’s like that beefy relative of yours that’s always around when a pickle jar needs to be opened. The one that also has a degree in geology… anyways. What we have here is a quattro Avant that comes with smart, stop/starting, thermo-efficient engines, a light body and a sturdy look.

    There are four engine choices available – three diesels and a TFSI, all in the V6 category. That last one, the petrol, doesn’t make much sense. It’s 3.0-liter displacement accommodates 310PS and 440Nm of torque. It will get the A6 to 60 mph from a stand still in no more than 5.9 seconds and, supposedly, it will return around 31.7 mpg on the combined cycle. That sounds impressive by itself but when a 3.0-liter BiTDI engine is out there as an alternative, the choice is a no brainer really. “Bi” as in two turbochargers, this one has the same power output as the TFSI (313PS) and almost a third more torque – 650 Nm. 0 to 60 mph is done in 5.6 seconds and the economy amounts to 42.2mpg – better in every way really.

    If it’s economy you’re after however, then the “standard” TDI is the engine for you – respectable power of 205PS and an economy figure of 46.3mpg with a CO2 output rate of 159 g/km – just bellow a taxation threshold in many countries. For those who won’t be comfortable even with that, there will always be a fourth option which is the mid-range TDI that has 40PS more than the base one and a healthy lump of torque that amounts to 580 Nm. The 60 mph run is done in 6.6 seconds and the cost of it won’t be much as the economy figures are the equally impressive 44.8 mpg.

    Except for the BiTDI Allroads, a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission comes as standard. The BiTDI ones get the latest eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission.

    Regardless of what you might choose, know that power will always go trough Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive that splits the incoming torque in a 40:60, front to back manner. Know also that, the engines will have the task to propel the lightest A6 generation so far – 70 kg less then the previous models.

    Audi A6 Allroad Avant
    Audi A6 Allroad Avant

    To affirm itself as an Allroad, the A6 has to flare its wheel arches a bit. The side sills are kind of extended and there are front and rear stainless steel underbody guards that keep rocks out of the sump department.

    It’s not all rough-and-tumble with the Allroad. Inside, there’s cleverness as well – a 6.5 inch display, sat nav, an electromechanical steering, Bluetooth and a drive selector that lets you choose how all the gizmos, as well as the adaptive suspension and the engine, work – Comfort, Dynamic, Automatic, Individual and Efficiency are the modes to chose from.

    So, does it do better than the VW Passat Alltrack? As a bigger brother, it should so.

    Source: Audi

  • 2013 Buick Enclave – full specs

    Buick has released full information about the new 2013 Enclave crossover. The best-selling three-row luxury crossover comes with new styling, new safety technologies, in-vehicle connectivity and a more refined driving experience.

    The exterior boasts LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps complement a more sculpted design

    The interior is more contemporary, with ambient lighting and IntelliLink in-vehicle communications with touch-screen control and navigation. The industry’s first front center air bag system and new dual-flow front struts highlight the safety and performance enhancements.

    “The 2013 Enclave advances the award-winning design, craftsmanship and technology that reintroduced Buick to a new generation of customers,” commented Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing.

    “We evolved the interior and exterior design, increased luxury amenities and materials, and engineered purposeful technologies that will make the Enclave continue to resonate with luxury crossover owners.”, he added.

    The 2013 Enclave will make its public debut at the New York Auto Show, where it will be on display April 6th to 15th. It will hit the market this fall.

    The Enclave is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, and powered by a direct-injected 3.6L V-6 and an updated six-speed automatic transmission that contribute to the more refined driving experience. Buick’s QuietTuning engineering process reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the Enclave’s cabin, making it quieter than a Lexus RX350.

    Check out the full specs below.

    2013 Buick Enclave
    2013 Buick Enclave

    2013 Buick Enclave exterior:

    • New front fascia with LED daytime running lamps
    • New headlamp design, with standard Xenon high-intensity discharge lamps (HID) and LED accent lighting. Articulating headlamps are available
    • New hood and black-chrome waterfall grille
    • New rear fascia design with integrated exhaust outlets
    • New LED taillamps
    • New 19-inch and 20-inch aluminum wheel designs
    • Monochromatic exterior appearance with chrome accents.

    Buick IntelliLink. Highlights:

    • New ice blue LED ambient lighting around the dash highlights Enclave’s flowing lines, emphasizing the cabin’s spaciousness
    • Eight-way power front driver and passenger seats with four-way adjustable head restraints emphasize seat comfort
    • Details including soft touch materials and live stitching throughout the cabin, as well as true chrome accents
    • Four interior color combinations are available with complementing wood tones, including a new Cocoa leather combination
    • A new “center stack” with standard IntelliLink LCD display, tri-zone climate system, capacitive touch controls and available navigation system.

    Additional features:

    • High-resolution color display with touch-screen control
    • Bluetooth with hands-free (for phone calls) and A2DP audio-streaming protocol support
    • Address book download and hands-free calling
    • USB port
    • Auxiliary audio input port
    • Redundant steering wheel controls
    • Enhanced voice recognition powered by Nuance
    • AM/FM/Audio CD/MP3 CD/ HD Radio
    • SiriusXM Satellite Radio and data services
    • Selected Smartphone apps can be controlled through the IntelliLink interface via the touch-screen, steering wheel controls or voice commands. The first apps to be supported are Pandora and Stitcher
    • Supports playback of MP3 files stored on flash memory drives.

    2013 BUICK ENCLAVE SPECIFICATIONS

    Overview

    Models: Buick Enclave FWD/AWD
    Body style / driveline: crossover / front-engine; front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
    Construction: body-frame integral
    EPA vehicle class: sport-utility vehicle
    Manufacturing location: Lansing Delta Township Assy. Plant, Lansing, Mich.
    Key competitors: Acura MDX, Lexus RX350 and Volvo XC90, Audi Q7

    Engines

    Type: 3.6L V-6 VVT DI
    Displacement (cu in / cc): 217 / 3564
    Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
    Block material: cast aluminum with cast-in bore liners
    Cylinder head material: cast aluminum
    Valvetrain: dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing
    Fuel delivery: direct injection
    Compression ratio: 11.3:1
    Horsepower (hp / kW) @ rpm: 288 / 215 @ 6300*
    Torque (lb-ft / Nm) @ rpm: 270 / 366 @ 3400*
    Recommended fuel: regular unleaded
    Max. engine rpm (fuel cutoff): 6700
    EPA fuel economy (city / hwy): 17 / 24 (FWD)
    16 / 22 (AWD)

    Transmission

    Type: Hydra-Matic 6T75 6-speed FWD/AWD automatic transmission
    Gear Ratio (:1)
    First: 4.48
    Second: 2.87
    Third: 1.84
    Fourth: 1.41
    Fifth: 1.0
    Sixth: 0.74
    Reverse: 2.88
    Final drive ratio: 3.16 (FWD)
    2.73 (AWD)

    Chassis/Suspension

    Front: coil-over strut; direct acting stabilizer bar; full perimeter isolated cradle
    Rear: linked H-arm independent suspension; coil springs with twin tube shock absorbers mounted on isolated sub-frame
    Steering type: hydraulic rack-and-pinion; straight ratio and variable effort
    Steering ratio: 16.1
    Steer wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 2.89
    Turning circle, curb-to-curb
    (ft / m):
    40.4 / 12.3

    Brakes

    Type four-wheel disc
    Rotor diameter (in / mm): front: 12.8 x 1.1 / 325 x 29, ventilated
    rear: 13 x 0.8 / 331 x 20, ventilated
    Anti-lock braking system (ABS): Bosch 8.0 Chassis Controls: ABS / ETC / ESC w/rollover mitigation


    Wheels/Tyres

    Wheel size and type: 18 x 7.5-in; painted aluminum (std on 1SD)
    19 x 8-in; machined aluminum (std on 1SL)
    19 x 8-in.; chrome-clad aluminum (opt on 1SL, std on SN)
    20 x 7.5-in; machined aluminum (opt on 1SN)
    Tire size and type: P255/65R18 ALS blackwall
    P255/60R19 ALS blackwall
    P255/55R20 H-rated blackwall

    Dimensions

    Exterior

    Wheelbase (in / mm): 118.9 / 3021
    Overall length (in / mm): 201.9 / 5127
    Overall width (in / mm): 79 / 2006
    Overall height (in / mm): 71.7 / 1822
    Track
    Front (in / mm): 67.3 / 1709
    Rear (in / mm): 67.1 / 1704
    Curb weight (lb / kg): 4715 / 2143 (FWD)
    4913 / 2233 (AWD)
    Min. ground clearance (in / mm): 7.6 / 194

    Interior

    Seating capacity: 7 or 8
    Headroom
    First row (in /mm): 40.4 / 1026 (w/o sunroof); 38.6 / 979
    (w/ sunroof)
    Second row (in / mm): 39.4 / 1000 (w/o sunroof); 38.8 / 984
    (w/ sunroof)
    Third row (in / mm): 37.8 / 959
    Legroom
    First row (in / mm): 41.3 / 1050
    Second row (in / mm): 36.8 / 934
    Third row (in / mm): 33.2 / 843
    Shoulder room
    First row (in / mm): 61.6 / 1564
    Second row (in / mm): 61.3 / 1558
    Third row (in / mm): 57.4 / 1458
    Hip room
    First row (in / mm): 57.2 / 1452
    Second row (in / mm): 57 / 1448
    Third row (in / mm): 48.3 / 1227
    Cargo volume (cu ft / L)
    Behind first row with second seat folded and third-row seat and cargo management system removed: 115.2 / 3263
    Behind second row with third-row seat and cargo management system removed: 68.9 / 1951
    Behind third row with cargo management system removed: 23.3 / 660

    Capacities

    EPA passenger volume
    (cu ft / L):
    151.1 / 4277
    Fuel tank (gal / L): 22 / 83.3
    Engine oil (qt / L): 5.5 / 5.2
    Transmission fluid (qt / L): 9.5 / 9.0 (Dexron VI only)
    Cooling system (qt / L): 11.8 / 11.2
    Max towing capacity (lb / kg): 4500 / 2045
    GCWR (lb / kg): 9500 / 4309 (FWD)
    9700 / 4400 (AWD)
    GVWR (lb / kg): 2908 / 6411 (FWD)
    2930 / 6459.5 (AWD)

    Source: GM

  • 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 – Lap around Nurburgring 8:49 [video]

    The new Jeep Cherokee SRT8 is the most powerful SUV, which the manufacturer has ever made.

    It has a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 with 465HP (342 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) at2800RPM. 0-100 km.h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed is limited of 250 km/h (155 mph). The big SUV is a real rival to the mighty BMW X5M, ML63 AMG and Cayenne Turbo.

    The new Cherokee SRT8 offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel, better interior quality and brutal exterior. It also comes with a mind-blowing 19-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio surround-sound system with total power of 825 Watts and a 10” subwoofer.

    Furthermore, the 2012 Cherokee SRT8 is able to pull up to 0.9 G on the skid pad, so it is not fast only in straight line, but the big SUV is able to turn very well. That’s why, the famous racer Sabine Sabine Schmitz took the big SUV to Nurburgring.

    Check out the video below to see how the 2 336 kg (5 150 lb) SUV manages to do a lap around the Ring in 8 minutes and 49 seconds.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4jqkv-iwDM

    Source: DriveSRT via Youtube

  • 2013 Lincoln MKZ – full details

    2013 Lincoln MKZ
    Lincoln has released full details about the new 2013 MKZ saloon. The concept version was recently showcased in Detroit and the production model is set to arrive in the showrooms in few months. However, the manufacturer didn’t release any price list.

    As we can see the production model looks exactly like the concept. It comes with a large retractable panoramic glass roof, nice stylish interior and a full LCD instrumentation panel with Ford Sync infotainment system with MyLincoln Touch.

    The engine range features two powerful petrol variants – a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 243HP (179 kW) and 366Nm (270 lb-ft) of torque and a mighty 3.7 liter V6 with 304HP (224 kW). Both power units are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a Push Button Shift gear selector. The power can be put on the road through AWD or FWD.

    There is also a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor with overall power of 191HP (140 kW). It is mated to a CVT gearbox and can only be ordered with FWD.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GK3o_Qd9YRI

    Source: Lincoln

  • 2012 Infiniti G37x S

    2012-Infiniti-G37x-S-THUMB2012 Infiniti G37x S is simply a combination of luxury style, dynamic performance and safety of intelligent all-wheel drive. The model is the latest one to be added to the Infiniti G Saloon line-up. What is very peculiar here is that the 2012 Infiniti G37x S is the model from the G range to be available with S grade AWD. Back in the days, only GT was available with AWD.

    Being a true G model, the G37x S is propelled by its 3.7-litre V6 engine, which is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts. This combination delivers 320 hp (235 kW) and acceleration time from 0-62mph in just 6.0 seconds.

    In addition, the car’s top speed is 149mph and the figure of the official combined fuel consumption is 25.7mpg (11.0 l/100km) with CO2 emissions of 255g/km.

    The AWD model in the G line-up – the 2012 Infiniti G37x S can be distinguished by its S hallmarks. For instance, such are the red S badges, 18-inch Sport design alloy wheels and smoked lens headlights.

    The interior features sports seats, with 14-way electric adjustment for the driver, and aluminium pedals and footrest. This special version also comes with the Multimedia pack of hard disk drive (HDD) navigation and music systems, 10-speaker Bose® Premium Sound System, reversing camera and high resolution touch screen.

    2012 Infiniti G37x S
    2012 Infiniti G37x S

    Additionally, 2012 Infiniti G37x S comes as a standard with leather seat facings, Shodo aluminium trim, adaptive bi-Xenon lights, Scratch Shield paint, i-Key smart access, electrically adjustable front seats and steering column, and heated front seats.

    Furthermore, the flagship Infiniti G37 S Premium comes with 4-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS), sports suspension, sports brakes and Viscous Limited Slip Differential. In addition, it also is equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), which are just two of a wide range of electronic safety aids.

    The price for the 2012 Infiniti G37x S starts from £38 979.

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover

    2013-Cadillac-SRX-THUMB2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover comes with improved technology and design. One of the new features included in the 2013 model version is CUE, thein-vehicle user experience which incorporates touch-screen controls.

    Furthermore 2013 SRX’s enhanced technology also brings more safety, tank to the Cadillac’s new Driver Awareness and Driver Assist technology packages, which include: Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Cadillac’s Safety Alert Seat technology, Automatic Front and Rear Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control and more, using radar and other technologies to help avoid collisions.

    Next, some updates can be seen on the interior and exterior design as well. In details, the 2013 SRX has a refined appearance with a new design for the front upper and lower grilles. Additionally, the front fender vents are new and incorporate LED light pipes.

    Moreover, now are available three new exterior colors, namely: Evolution Green Metallic, Glacier Blue Metallic and Silver Coast Metallic.

    What adds more to the modification of the exterior is the new range of 20-inch wheel designs, including new chrome and polished aluminum wheels for the Performance and Premium Collections.

    To go even further into details, the SRX is offered in FWD and Advanced AWD models. Each one of them is powered by a 3.6L Direct Injection V-6 engine, which delivers 308 horsepower (230 kW) and 265 lb.-ft. of torque (358 Nm).

    2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover
    2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover

    As already mentioned, Cadillac CUE (Cadillac User Experience) is one of the new features included in the 2013 SRX, which now comes as a standard. It is the brand’s new design and technical breakthrough for intuitive in-vehicle control and connectivity.

    What it basically does is that it pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system.

    The heart of CUE however, is the vibrant, eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive integrated in the top of the central instrument panel.

    CUE is the foundation for the new 2013 Cadillac SRX. Nevertheless, what is additionally included in the interior are these features and design refinements: Standard HD radio, Bluetooth audio streaming, USB port in the storage bin behind the CUE faceplate, center console now featuring two additional USB ports, SD card slot auxiliary input jack and 12-volt power outlet, new headphone and remote design for the rear-seat entertainment system, new shift knob design, new steering wheel design, new instrument cluster with new driver information center for CUE integration.

    What has to be highlighted for the new model is that it is equipped with unique noise cancellation which creates a quieter driving experience. In particular, this system uses microphones to detect ambient noise, the frequencies of which are processed by a computer that directs counteracting sound waves through the audio system to tailor the sound quality and character inside the cabin.

    Moreover, a new Light Titanium interior color combination comes to go along with the new Raven Sapele wood color accent.

    Additionally, further already well-known interior features are included: keyless access, ambient lighting, power-adjustable pedals, heated front and rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel and the UltraView power sunroof.

    2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover Interior
    2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover Interior

    2013 Cadillac SRX is the latest model from the brand, which incorporates Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy. The latter incorporates advanced technologies such as radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors. They are part of the safety features of Cadillac’s new Driver Awareness and Driver Assist technology packages and include: Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Vision Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, Safety Alert Seat.

    Safety features which come as a standard are: blind zone alert and rear cross traffic alert, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control, and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS, dual-stage frontal and side-impact driver and right-front passenger air bags, head-curtain side-impact air bags, rollover mitigation sensors, front safety belt pretensioners and load limiters.

    2013 Cadillac SRX Luxury Crossover Specifications:

    Overview

    Models: Cadillac SRX
    Body style / driveline: 5-door, 5-passenger front engine transaxle; front-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive midsize luxury crossover
    Construction: steel body frame integral; galvanized steel front fenders, hood, roof, door panels, one-piece body side outer panel, and liftgate
    EPA vehicle class: sport utility vehicle
    Manufacturing location: Ramos Arizpe, Mexico
    Key competitors: Lexus RX; Mercedes-Benz M Class; BMW X3; Audi Q5

    Engines

    3.6L V-6 VVT (LFX)
    Displacement (cu in / cc): 217 / 3564
    Bore x stroke (in / mm): 3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
    Block material: cast aluminum with cast-in bore liners
    Cylinder head material: cast aluminum
    Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing
    Ignition system: coil-on-plug
    Fuel delivery: direct high-pressure fuel injection
    Compression ratio: 11.5:1
    Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 308 / 230 @ 6800 rpm*
    Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 265 / 358 @ 2400 rpm*
    Recommended fuel: regular unleaded
    Max engine speed (fuel cut-off): 7200
    EPA-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy): 17 / 24 (FWD)
    16 / 23 (AWD)

    Transmission

    Type: 6T70 Hydra-Matic six-speed transverse, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transmission
    Gear ratios (:1):
    First: 4.48
    Second: 2.87
    Third: 1.84
    Fourth: 1.41
    Fifth: 1.00
    Sixth: 0.74
    Reverse: 2.88
    Final drive ratio: 3.39

    Chassis/Suspension

    Front suspension: independent, strut-type, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow); hydraulic ride bushings
    Rear suspension: linked H-arm, hollow stabilizer bar; real-time damping available
    Traction control: all-speed using engine torque reduction and brake intervention
    Steering type: hydraulic-power-assisted rack-and-pinion
    Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 2.84
    Turning circle, curb-to-curb
    (ft / m):
    40.3 / 12.2
    Steering ratio: 16.5:1

    Brakes

    Type: four-wheel power-assisted disc with ABS (and ESC); vented front and rear rotors; cast iron front calipers (two-piston) and aluminum rear calipers (single-piston)
    Brake rotor diameter – front (in / mm): 13.6 / 345 x 1.2 / 30
    Brake rotor diameter – rear (in / mm): 12.4 / 315 x 0.9 / 23
    Swept area per rotor cheek
    (sq in / sq cm):
    front: 81.7 / 527.5
    rear: 48.7 / 314.7

    Wheels/Tires

    Wheel size and type: 18-inch aluminum (std. on Base and Luxury)
    20-inch aluminum (opt. on Performance and Premium)
    Tires: P235/65R18 All-season
    P235/55R20 All-season

    Dimensions/Exterior

    Overall length (in / mm): 190.3 / 4834
    Overall width (in / mm): 75.2 / 1910
    Overall height (in / mm): 65.7 / 1669
    Wheelbase (in / mm): 110.5 / 2807
    Front track (in / mm): 63.8 / 1621
    Rear track (in / mm): 63.4 / 1610
    Minimum ground clearance (in / mm): 7 / 178
    Ground to rear load floor ( in / mm): 30.1 / 765
    Curb weight (lb / kg): 4277 / 1940 (FWD)
    4442 / 2015 (AWD)
    Weight distribution (% front / rear): 59 / 41 (FWD)
    57 / 43 (AWD)

    Dimensions/Interior

    Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3
    Headroom (in / mm): front: 39.7 / 1008
    rear: 38.4 / 975
    Legroom (in / mm): front: 41.2 / 1047
    rear: 36.3 / 923
    Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 58.3 / 1481
    rear: 56.3 / 1430
    Hip room (in / mm): front: 55.4 / 1408
    rear: 54.7 / 1391
    EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L) : 100.6 / 2848
    EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): 129.8 / 3675
    Cargo volume behind first-row seats (cu ft / L): 61.1 / 1730
    Cargo volume behind second-row seats
    (cu ft / L):
    29.9 / 844

    Capacities

    GVWR, standard (lb / kg): 5467 / 2480 (FWD)
    5556 / 2520 (AWD)
    Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): 3500 / 1587 (with optional towing pkg.)
    Fuel tank (gal / L): 21 / 79.5
    Engine oil (qt /L): 6 / 5.9
    Cooling system (qt / L): 13.5 / 12.8
    Fuel tank (gal / L): 21 / 79

    Souce: Cadillac

  • 2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid: Prices and Specifications Announced

    2012-Toyota-Yaris-Hybrid-THUMB2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid is a breakthrough in the development of technologies. The reasons for this are several, but probably some of the most prominent ones are the low emissions, refined performance and reliability of full hybrid technology.

    This hybrid model is available to order now and can be seen on the UK roads, starting from 1st of July this year. Its price starts from £14 995, which makes it Britain’s lowest-priced hybrid car.

    What is more important here however is that it is equipped with range of technologies which are significant in terms of improvement on many levels. First, the hybrid system has been made smaller and lighter so that it can be fitted to the Yaris without reducing the space available in both the cabin and the boot.

    Secondly, the new development of Toyota’s smooth, quiet and highly efficient Hybrid Synergy Drive system, uses a 1.5-litre VVT-i petrol engine, nickel-metal hydride battery pack and CVT (continuously variable transmission). This results in CO2 emissions of just 79g/km for the T3and T4 models and 85g/km for the T Spirit. The fuel consumption respectively is estimated 80.7mpg and 76mpg.

    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid
    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid

    Furthermore, the Yaris Hybrid range offers three grades available: T3, T4 and T Spirit, which all come with five doors.

    Key equipment features of each grade:

    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T3: 2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T4 adds: 2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T Spirit adds:
    Dual-zone air conditioning 15-inch alloy wheels 16-inch alloy wheels
    Front electric windows Rear privacy glass Cruise control
    ABS with EBD and brake assist Front fog lams Smart start system
    VSC (switchable) with TRC Toyota touch audio control Electric rear windows
    Seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag Bluetooth Rain-sensing wipers

    Auto dimming rear-view mirror

    Dusk-sensing headlights

    USB port/Aux-in socket Ventilated glove box
    DAB-ready tuner Leather parking brake trim
    Rear-view camera Part-leather upholstery
    Leather steering wheel and gear knob trim Passenger seat height adjustment
    Color-matched door mirrors and door handles Front foot-well illumination

    Rear spoiler

    In addition, four option packs are also at hand for T4 and T Spirit versions of Yaris Hybrid. They give the models more style or enhanced protection. In details, the Protection Pack provides mudflaps, Hybrid-branded floor mats, black side mouldings and a boot liner. Next, the Protection+ Pack provides the same items, plus rear parking sensors and a black rear bumper protector.

    On the other hand, the Style Pack offers Hybrid-branded aluminium scuff plates and chrome-finished side sills and tailpipe trim.

    Additionally, there can be also added the Toyota Touch system which comes with satellite navigation and advanced Bluetooth features, plus the ability to access Google Local Search and connected services (as live parking and fuel price information and local weather forecasts).

    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid is available in great range of colours: Cirrus White, Eclipse Black (mica), Glacier Pearl (pearlescent), Tyrol Silver (metallic), Burning Red (metallic), Decuma Grey (metallic), Sintra Blue (metallic) and Deep Aqua (metallic); which can undoubtedly satisfy any customer.

    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid Interior
    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid Interior

    On-the-road prices for the range are detailed below. All models are in Band A for Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax), which means a zero annual charge; likewise their sub-100g/km emissions gain exemption from the London congestion charge. For company car drivers the benefit-in-kind tax rate is just 10 per cent. Insurance groups are due to be announced in June.

    Model Price
    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T3 £ 14 995
    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T4 £ 15 895
    2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid T Spirit £ 16 995

    Source: Toyota

  • 2012 Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

    2012-Vorsteiner-Mercedes-Benz-C63-AMG-THUMBThe styling and performance expert Vorsteiner has just released its latest project. The work was on the exceptional Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

    The astonishing vehicle comes from the factory with the extra vigor 6.2-liters V8 power unit which renders 451 horsepower (332 kW).

    But thank to the amazing work of the professionals from the Vorsteiner, the stellar Mercedes C63 AMG now becomes even sharper and gets aggressive styling due to the great detailing.

    The new Vorsteiner’s program for the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG includes front add-on spoiler and front vent louver covers, both of which are Carbon Fiber. More Carbon Fiber can be found on the new front hood grill replacement, front fender grill cover and side skirt panels.

    Furthermore, the boot lid replacement with integrated spoiler wing element is again made with the utilization of the same material, as is the new rear vented diffuser element as well.

    This brilliant machine rides on new 19 or 20 inch aluminum forged wheels.

    Moreover the Vorsteiner team has gifted it with Stainless or Titanium Sport Exhaust system, thank to which it looks more appealing and offers more enjoyable ride.

    At last to be mentioned are the Vorsteiner’s custom embroidered floor mats and trunk mats with piping color options, which give the vehicle even more style and unique appearance.

    2012 Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
    2012 Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Mopar, Jeep with Six Models for Moab

    Jeep-Mopar-Moeb-Fleet-thumbWorking together, Jeep and Mopar have prepared themselves to tackle the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah – an event that has already begun and will last until April the 8th. It is being held for the 46th time and is supposed to delight the hardcore off-road enthusiasts with lots of thrills, obstacles and challenges…bumpy challenges. Mopar, being already in the business for 75 years, is now creating a division that will exclusively deal with off-road vehicles:

    “Mopar is tapping into a growing trend among extreme Jeep enthusiasts who want even more power and capability on the trail,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “This year, Mopar is pushing the envelope in this arena by offering our customers new Pro 60 portal axles and a new HEMI conversion kit, which we will showcase in these new vehicles. In addition, to further maximize our presence in the off-road market, we are creating a Mopar Off-Road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.”

    Roll in the subjects then:

    The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept

    The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept
    The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept

    If you are looking for something stacked full of technology, the Cherokee is the way to go. In essence those are features found in many other off-roaders but they, Jeep call them just makes you want to have them in particuliar: Quadra-Lift™ air suspension, Selec-Terrain™ traction control system, Jeep’s Quadra-Drive® II 4×4 layout and a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential. There are also Adventure packages available and tow/recovery hooks that have been rigorously tested with twice the weight of the Cherokee itself.

    However, one does not need to know all of that in order to be convinced about the off-roadishness of the Cherokee. The Trailhawk Concept’s 5-spoke alloy wheels come wrapped with four 18-inch Goodyear Wrangler SilentArmor off-road tires – grippy on the back roads, quiet on the tarmac. Mopar rock rails further add to the off-road security.

    Accessory wise, the Trailhawk showcases a Stone White bodywork with Mineral Grey and Red motives. Specifically, the grille surround, lower front applique, mirror caps and rear light bar join the wheels in Mineral Gray, while contrasting in eye-catching Red are the upper grille mesh, front and rear tow hooks, Jeep logos on wheel center caps and bolt holes in the alloy wheels.

    Other minor changes include black headlamp surrounds, black exterior front and rear badging, Red “Trail Rated” badges on the front fenders and a unique “Trailhawk” badge on the rear tailgate.

    2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar

    2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar
    2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar

    The V8 6.4-liter HEMI engine is the highlight in this one. It’s been specially tweaked by Moper and it now delivers 470 horsepower and just as much lb-ft of torque. Initially, Chrysler Group’s W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission will have to cope with that mountain of power while later on a six-speed manual, taken from the 2012 Wrangler, will also be available.

    Other performance parts on the Jeep Wrangler Apache are the Mopar Pro 60 5.13 front and rear axles, a 4.5-inch Stage 3 long arm lift kit and off-road bead-lock wheels. Aesthetic and functional modifications include high-clearance flat fenders, rock rails, front and rear half-door kits, a Stinger front bumper, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Katzkin leather seats, a locking center console box and a Mopar branded interior.

    Jeep Mighty FC Concept

    Jeep Mighty FC Concept
    Jeep Mighty FC Concept

    The Mighty FC Concept is basically a 2012 Jeep Rubicon that has had its cabin moved to the front and over the front axle. The wheelbase however, has also been extended and a drop-side cargo box has been custom made for it.

    For stunning off-road feats, Moper have installed their latest Portal Axle set supervised by King coil-over assemblies (King shocks as well) and Teraflex control arms and track bars. The tires measure 40-inch each and devour the 17-inch beadlock wheels.

    Other brands have pitched in the making of the Mighty as well – Hanson bumpers, a 16.5 Warn winch and stainless steel exhausts from Corsa.

    Jeep J-12 Concept

    Jeep J-12 Concept
    Jeep J-12 Concept

    The J-12 is a longer JK-8. The JK-8 is a previous project by Mopar that includes a pickup conversion kit for the Jeep Wrangler. For the base, they used a 2012 Wrangler Unlimited and by extending the frame by 18-inches, the tire could be moved under the bed floor thus making room for a six feet long cargo box. The vintage, Jeep Gladiator feel is courtesy to the custom hood and fenders.

    In order to tackle rocky terrains, Mopar have fitted a three-inch suspension lift kit, as well as Teraflex sway bars controlling ARB air-locker equipped Dynatrac D-44 and D-60 axle assemblies. The 36-inch tires burrow deep into the ground, providing as much traction as possible.

    The cabin follows a minimalist build with no carpets, and no bucket seats. You get a bed liner on the floor instead and a bench-like seating for two.

    Mopar Accessorized 2012 Jeep Wrangler

    Mopar Accessorized 2012 Jeep Wrangler
    Mopar Accessorized 2012 Jeep Wrangler

    This one is simply a Wrangler, stacked with Mopar Accessories – a two-inch performance lift kit, 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires mounted on Classic five-hole wheels, front and rear off-road bumpers, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Mopar rock rails, Kicker dash 6.5-inch two-way speakers, Mopar all-weather mats and more.

    Moreover, this particular one has a locking center console box, a rear cargo cubby cover, new windshield-mounted LED lamps, a new hard-top headliner and an “Add-A-Trunk” partition.

    2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept

    2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept
    2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept

    The Traildozer is a joint venture between Mopar, Jeep and the American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) engineering team. It has the same V8 6.4-liter HEMI that the Wrangler Apache uses (470 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque) but the gearbox is a Getrag 238 six-speed manual.

    The ride is 3.5 inches higher than usual thanks to an AEV Dualsport RS suspension lift and thus it provides clearance for the 37-inch tires mounted on the Mopar Classic five-spoke wheels.

    Other attributions by Mopar include a performance heat reduction hood, a half-door kit and a Mopar/Warn 9.5 Cti winch.

    Source: Jeep

  • 2013 BMW X1 [leak image]

    Three production ready leak images of the new 2013 BMW X1 facelift has been released in Autoforum.cz. The small crossover is scheduled to debut at the New York Auto Show later this week, so stay tuned for more information and real images.However, the facelift is almost an entire new car – restyled front bumper with some silver elements, modified headlights, a pair of new side mirrors and redesigned side sills with silver accents. The rear is also restyled – new taillights and a different rear bumper.The interior is also changed – restyled lower center console and dash panel trim pieces.2013 BMW X1 comes with new sets of alloy wheels and a new range of fresh exterior colors.So, it turns out that the 2013 X1 is nothing like the previous model.The engine range will feature the all-new 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with sensational 245HP (180 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft), which accelerates to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Furthermore, it is extremely efficient – less than 9 liters / 100 km in city cycle.The 2013 BMW X1 will hit the market in the end of this year.