Car Makes – Page 828 – Automobiles Review

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Maserati GranTurismo Sport

Maserati GranTurismo Sport will be the successor of the GranTurismo S. It is currently exhibited at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

The sports car is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine with 460 PS (338 kW) and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox or 6-speed electro actuated gearbox, with dry twin-plate clutch.

The new GranTurismo Sport is fitted with the Sport Skyhook system, an evolution of the continuous damping control system that makes the car even more reactive and fun to drive, whilst at the same time increasing passenger comfort. In SPORT mode the car is pin sharp in responding to the driver’s input, while in normal mode it constantly adapts the damping to absorb the roughness of the surface for a smoother ride. All this equates to a superb handling capability that combines sports performance and comfort in all driving conditions.

The exterior comes with minor changes – revised front bumper, new badge and new headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights.

The interior features new seats and a new steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The seats are upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather. There are also some EcoChrome grey accents.

With these characteristics, the new GranTurismo Sport follows in the footsteps of one of the most successful cars in the entire history of Maserati.

Source: Maserati

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Lotus Exige S Roadster

Lotus has unveiled the Exige S Roadster at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle is based on the well-known Elise, but comes with enormous V6 in the middle.

The supercharged 3.5 liter V6 develops 350PS (257 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional SPS (Serial Precision Shift) gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, to 160 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 233 km/h (145 mph). The fuel consumption is good – 10.1 l /100km (28.0 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 236 g/km.

The car comes with two different suspension settings. There’s the standard setting for an active driving experience suited to public roads; and an optional setting as part of the Race Pack for maximum performance, developed for track use. The launch control system can be activated when the car is in Race mode.

Outside, it’s a fine balance of beauty and the beast. The drop-top adds extrovert style to the Exige’s already muscular contours, at the same time it is an elegant machine that keeps its clenched fist under wraps

Inside, the car is a lesson in stylish minimalism and functionality. The customer can specify a comfort enhanced plush interior or go for a more stripped down, sporty option.

2012 Lotus Exige S Roadster will hit the European and the Asian markets, but there are no plans to be introduced in the USA.

Source: Lotus

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition

Pagani has exhibited the special Huayra Carbon Edition at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The bespoke model boats naked carbon fiber body. Furthermore, the interior is also from naked carbon fiber.

It is powered by a 6.0 liter bi-turbo V12 with 710PS (522 kW) and 1000Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an XTRAC 7-speed sequential transmission. The overall weight of the original Huayra is 1 350 kg (2 975 lb), so probably few kilograms will be cut thanks to using carbon fiber in the interior. 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 370 km/h (230 mph).

Pagani Huayra is designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It features four adjustable flaps, which can operate independently to improve downforce as needed. The sleek carbon fiber body incorporates gullwing doors and plenty of openings to for cooling the engine.

The price for regular Huayra starts at €1 000 000, so we couldn’t imagine how much will cost this special edition.

Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition Geneva 2012

Source: Pagani

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: BMW 6-series Gran Coupe

BMW has presented the new 6-series Gran Coupe at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The four-door coupe will compete against Audi A7 and Mercedes CLS.

The engine range includes three power units as the exhibited version is the 640i, which is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter inline-six with 320PS (235 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited.

The price for this toy starts at €79 500.

The more powerful 650i has the famous twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 with 450PS (330 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – limited.

The price list starts at €92 600.

Last is the super-efficient diesel – 640d with a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged engine delivering 313PS (230 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h is the same as the petrol – 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The price is slightly more – €83 000.

Source: BMW

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept

Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept was presented at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. This bold concept builds on the global success of the Evoque and continues Land Rover’s tradition of creating significant vehicles, which deliver luxury and style. In details, the soft-top convertible concept is based on the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. It includes entirely retractable premium roof system with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. Furthermore, the concept combines capability and versatility with a drop down tailgate and a comfortable four seat package. The vehicleretaimns key characteristics from the Land Rover design philosophy, including a command driving position and all-terrain capability. Evoque’s rising waist line and specific shape has been retained. Hence, the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line. Although Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept was already revealed in Geneva 2012 it is only a design and engineering study. Unfortunately, there is no production plans confirmed.

Source: Prindiville Design

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS

2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS is based on the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG and carries the powerful V8-Biturbo with added performance package by Carlsson Autotechnik. First, the AMG eight-cylinder engine with a cylinder capacity of 5.461 cm already produces 557 hp (410 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 800 Nm (588 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm. However, Carlsson engineers additionally improved the engine and increasedits power to the significant 652 hp (480 kW) with a maximum trque of 1000 Nm of 2,000 – 4,500 rpm, the maximum torque lies at 1,000 Nm (735 lb-ft). This power increase allows the Carlsson CK63 RS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.1 seconds. In addtion, a tailor-made, multi-flow, complete stainless steel exhaust system with downpipes, metal catalysts and front and rear silencers supports the power enhancement and is also fitted with an exhaust damper system.

Furthermore, Carlsson has modified the vehicle at the front axle thus making it more agile. The AMG Ride Control sports suspension springs at the front axle have been replaced with Carlsson springs with more progressive spring characteristics. They lower the CLS by 30 millimeters. In addition 1/10-type Carlsson wheels in a stylish star design with single and double spokes embellish the wheel housing of the Carlsson sports sedan. They are with 9 x 20” rims at the front and 10.5 x 20” at the drive axle. More aerodynamic components were featured in the tuning: front spoiler and the RS front spoiler lip, black stainless steel grille inserts, rear spoiler, together with the rear apron insert, integrated Carlsson RS rear diffuser made from real carbon.

The interior of this Carlsson vehicle was made by master-saddlers applying thier traditional hand-craftsmanship. Of course, they have used the finest materials: leather, the finest Alcantara, carbon fiber, natural woods and other exclusive natural materials. A combination of brown Alcantara and mocha-brown Carlsson NAPPA EXCLUSIVE leather wrappes the interior. Moreover, thee interior modification for the Carlsson CK63 RS is eventually finished with details, such as Carlsson foot mats, door sill panels with blue, illuminated Carlsson lettering and door-locking pins made from polished aluminum.

2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS has jus been presented in 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Carlsson

March 8, 2012

2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model

The award-winning Dodge Journey SXT crossover will feature 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as a standard. The four-cylinder Journey models deliver 173 hp (127 kW) and achieve 26 mpg on the highway. Furthermore all 2012 Dodge Journey SXT models are equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels, 4.3-inch Uconnect touch screen, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, push-button start, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, performance fascias with front fog lamps, LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, seven airbags and much more. SXT is also available with the segment-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Screen, in-seat storage and integrated booster seats. The customers of the car can also chose as an option the available award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers a not only power but also fuel economy – 283 hp (208 kW) and 25 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the V-6 models are also available with all-wheel-drive system.

Another highlight is that Dodge is offering the Flexible Seating Group on all 2012 Dodge Journey models. The package offers easy entry second-row 60/40 Tilt ‘n Slide seat, three-zone heating and air conditioning and third-row 50/50 folding and reclining seat. The Journey also includes premium soft-touch materials on the inside, the exclusive second-row in-floor storage bins and hidden storage within the front passenger seat. With more than 40 safety and security features, the 2012 Dodge Journey SXT has been Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for four consecutive years. At last to be mentioned is that the Journey also features high-tech connectivity and customization with the Uconnect® Touch 8.4 radio with an 8.4-inch touchscreen.
The 2012 Dodge Journey SXT with the four-cylinder engine will be available at a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $22 995.

Source: Dodge

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car

2012 EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car is thefirst vehicle to have been specifically designed to meet the needs of the growing car sharing sector. It is designed to include the maximum possible space inside, and also the exterior has resilient surfaces. It is electrically driven and in resonance with Light Car philosophy. In particular, the light is used as a means of communication to indicate the leasing status of the vehicle.

For leasing purposes a car should be practical, robust and self-explanatory. Hence the exterior is of height of 1.90 meters, which makes it easy for the passengers to get in and out. In addition there is very convenient parking system, which is sensitive to spots around the bumper. As the name shows, the light plays crucial role and serves as a communication instrument. When the car is being charged or reserved, or available for hire, the LEDs integrated in the gel pads and “PLEXIGLAS ® LEDs” manufactured by Evonik Industries AG use three different colors to give a highly visible indication of the status. In addition, there is a laser, which when parking the car or opening the doors, projects a safety zone onto the asphalt, ensuring that passengers can get in and out in safety.

Besides the two side doors with simple sliding windows, the “concept vehicle also has twin rear doors. The coupe features six folding seats arranged in two rows of three. A special emphasis has been put on an intuitive operating concept: aside from the accelerator, brake and steering wheel, the only other control is a lever to work the indicators. This means that there is just one display element, which only gives the important data (speed, charge, range, navigation).
Furthermore EDAG Group is also exhibiting a networked mobility concept for booking the future share car fleet. In particular, the operators of future car will use GPS to locate their vehicles and communicate their locations to potential customers. Hence, it will be possible to inform the customer which cars are available, and then guide him to the nearest one by means of the navigation system in his smartphone. Of course, the booking will be made via Internet, and the customer can then access the vehicle through electronic “Bluetooth key”.

In addition, the concept car features the so called “intelligent charger”: besides performing the actual charge process, the “intelligent charger” also sends vehicle information via the power supply system and decides itself when is the perfect time for charging. It does this by taking into account the availability of renewable energies and mobility behavior. More importantly, the operator receives all important information on the status of the vehicle online. The communication between car and user is even further enhanced with new services such as automated legitimation and the selection of individual tariffs or prices per minute. This interconnection brings about considerable added value for the entire mobility system. What it does in details, is that it gives the energy provider the chance to make use of energy storage and in this way reduce load fluctuations in the grid due to electric cars being connected. On the other hand it ensures that there is sufficient resource-saving energy to charge the share vehicles whenever necessary.

Source: Edag

March 8, 2012

2013 Toyota Venza Teaser

The Geneva Motor Show has not even started yet and some are already looking forward to the New York Auto Show. Toyota announced that they are going to introduce for the first time in the USA, the 2013 Toyota Venza. And what we have now obviously, is a headlight… I mean a teaser. Sounds like a typical facelift – an enhanced exterior styling, more standard equipment. and more options.

Distinctive features that will separate the 2013 model from the previous ones show themselves as a new upper and a lower grille. The fog lights and rear taillights have also been redesigned. 19-inch wheels are set to be ideal for this new Venza that will come with three additional shades: Attitude Black, Cypress Pearl, and Cosmic Gray Mica.

The trim levels will continue to be designated by LE and XLE while there will also be Limited editions. The former two can be ordered in many drivetrain combinations: 4-cylinder or V6, FWD or RWD – every setup is possible. The Limited Venzas will come strictly with a V6 but the freedom to chose where the power goes remains.

Standard features on the LE include the Display Audio, Blind Spot Mirror, puddle lamps and outer mirror turn signals. The XLE has all that and adds a Driver Memory Seat, Reverse Tilt Outer Mirrors and Display Audio with Navigation and Toyota Entune™ multi-media system. The Limited has some LED at the front, a more complicated satnav. Does not sound like a bargain.

It’s quite understandable why the Veneza isn’t at Geneva – it’s specifically designed for the North American Market with its roomishness and flexibility.

Just a quick note: The Veneza is a product of Toyota’s Calty Design studios in Newport Beach, Calif – the place where the Lexus LF-LC Concept was designed. In other words we might be pleasently surprise.

Source: Toyota

March 8, 2012

Lamborghini Aventador and AMG SLS at a Houston Airfield [VIDEO]

Here are two videos that promote an event called the Houston Half Mile Shootout. A familiar figure is in both of them – John Hennessey from Hennessey Performance which are organizing the event. We get a little intro at the beginning of both videos and we witness a half mile run at Ellington Field.

The cars – A Lamborghini Aventador 700-4, ownership to the Houston Texan linebacker Mario Williams. Hennessey is not driving this one but nevertheless, let us enjoy a bit of drama and thunder as we hear the sounds coming out of the 6.5-liter 700bhp V12 engine behind them . That majestic roar might be roughly translated into “Do not leave me behind, I am still mean, bad, serious and extremely cool” – a clear reference to the Aventador J hype that has been going on these days. Or maybe that’s just me talking.

On the second video, Hennessey himself has a go in an AMG SLS Roadster – even more noise and hair shuffling as a bonus. Small wonder. The Roadster has 571bhp 6.2-liter V8 engine that slams your face against the elements.

Everything revolves around the preparation for the Houston Half Mile Shootout event that will take place, along with the 4th annual Aeros & Autos event, at the Ellington Airport, Houston TX on the 12^th of May. Registration is now open with as many as 115 vacancies still open. Let the challenge begin!

httpv://youtu.be/pQtUP-7_HtA

httpv://youtu.be/Nbcc7w_QwMI

Source: Hennessey Performance

Video Source: YouYube.com

March 8, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Invitation Concept

Nissan has announced the Invitation Concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The first details of a head-turning hatchback concept which previews the company’s next generation compact car, a mainstream B-segment contender to be sold alongside the Micra city car and innovative JUKE B-segment crossover.

The vehicle is designed to preview a new upcoming production model. The name of the project name is INVITATION. The dynamic concept shows some of the innovation and excitement promised for the new model, which is due to be launched in Europe from 2013.

The interior combines practicality and modernity with impressive levels of quality and purposeful technology features.

“The name we have given to this concept is self-explanatory… the key benefit of this compact car is to be inviting.”, commented François Bancon, Deputy Division General Manager of Product Strategy and Product Planning Division.

“It is inviting thanks to its sensuous exterior design and generous and comfortable interior space, cleverly packaged within compact overall dimensions. It is Nissan’s invitation to buyers in the compact hatchback segment.”, he added.

INVITATION’s combination of energetic exterior style, thoughtful interior, advanced safety features and class-leading emissions, fuel economy and dynamic performance demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to offering innovation and excitement to all car buyers, no matter what type of car they are looking to buy.

“Nissan has always been a key player in the B-segment and INVITATION shows the depth of our commitment to the small car market. The production version of INVITATION will offer buyers a superb combination of advanced technology, driving excitement and practicality in a compact package.”, finished Paul Willcox, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing in Europe.

Source: Nissan

March 7, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Lamborghini Aventador J

Automobili Lamborghini has just unveiled the long awaited Lamborghini Avendator J, which is on of the most uncompromising open super sports car. The Aventador J offers its pilot and co pilot an indescribable experience of power and dynamics. At the same time, the 515 kW / 700 hp two-seater features first class technology, combining innovative solutions and new materials including carbon fiber. Lamborghini Aventador J is an open automobile – the exterior and interior meld into each other. The top speed it achieves is higher than 300 km/h.

The technical basis for the Aventador J is the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 twelve-cylinder model. Its structure is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers which combine systematic lightweight design. Furthermore, the new twelve-cylinder comes with a displacement of 6.5 liters and 515 kW / 700 hp combines the best in high-revving thrills with mighty pulling power. And with a dry weight of 1575 kilograms, the series production Aventador LP 700-4 is extremely light for its performance class. All this, thank to the carbon fiber technology.

Lamborghini Aventador J revealed at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

As you can see, the vehicle is with clear, precise surfaces, which at some parts become sharp. They emphasize the power and the enormous presence of the super sports cars. The definging principle in the design of the exterior was “form follows function”. The result is the clearly defined Aventador J, which carries explosive dynamics, extreme driving fun, and of course delivers one of a kind experience. In addition, every part of the outer chassis was redesigned for the Aventador J. The car’s dimensions for example are extreme: the overall length is 4890 mm, the overall width is 2030 mm, while the height is 1110 mm. Furthermore, the black carbon fiber parts are visible throughout the car: the wide sill elements and the rear diffuser form contrast to the rich red body paintwork. The especially developed red color was created particularly for this car. As you can see it immediately catches the attention: this is a highly intensive red with a slight chrome effect. Next, the wheels – also developed specifically for this car, are with 20-inch rims at the front and 21-inch at the rear. In addition, five-spoke aluminum wheels have a central lock system and an additional carbon fiber insert which functions like a small fan for optimum brake ventilation.

The Lamborghini Aventador J’s exterior and interior forms flow effortlessly into each other. The exterior “flows” through the interior with the red stripe, which runs from the front hood, between the two wind deflectors, over the dashboard, down the console to the center tunnel and back up between the seat backs, and eventually heading for the engine cover panel. This band of color is used in terms to connect the front and the rear of the car. In addition, it also creates a visual separation between the driver and passenger.

Source: Lamborghini

March 7, 2012

Category: Car Makes