Car Makes – Page 834 – Automobiles Review

Volkswagen Up! BlueMotion

One of Volkswagen‘s most practical and fuel-sipping cars is now available with the best possible efficiency setup. Introducing the Up! BlueMotion with two engine variants. However, to prevent the scales from tipping over too much to the “blue” side of things, the company has also introduced two exciting new options – A panoramic sliding sunroof and a thing called the “leatherette pack”

First stop, the engines. We have two 1.0 liter engines that develop 60 bhp and 75 bhp respectively. They already sound frugal enough but now with the introduction of the BlueMotion package it is claimed that they both have a combined fuel consumption of 4,1 l/100 km and 4,2 l/100km. Really? A tenth of a liter more overall consumption for the prize of 15 horsepowers? Who is going to buy the less-powerful version? It’s the same story with the CO2 emissions – 96 g (60 PS) and 98 g (75 PS).

The BlueMotion technology manifests itself through the presence of a Stop/Start function, a battery regeneration system and also, both of the cars are more slippery by being 15 mm lower than usual. It’s not rocket science, I’ll have to admit. But the combination of all these tweaks gives an astonishing end result. And the price for this whole BluePackage is only 400 euros ($537).

The panoramic sliding sunroof on the other side, with its electric adjust ability and overall flexibility allows some fresh air to come in and clear your head from all those economy figures. It is a playful, ambiance inducing feature that costs an additional sum of 880 euros ($1183). In the mean time, the leatherette package provides a leather steering wheel, hand brake lever and gear shift grip also in leather and heated front seats in leather look with white decorative stitching – 760 euros ($1022) if one has the move up! trim line or above.

Source: Volkswagen

February 29, 2012

Ferrari F12berlinetta

Ferrari has announced the F12berlinetta, which is the successor of 599 GTB Fiorano. It is also the fastest car Ferrari has ever built. Its new exceptional V12 engine combined with innovative design that redefines classic themes along with extreme aerodynamics. The vehicle is in preparation for its official debut at the Geneva International Motor Show.

The car is finished in an attractive new Rosso Berlinetta three-layer colour. It represents the very cutting-edge of mid-front-engined sports cars. The F12berlinetta is not only the most powerful Ferrari, but it is extremely efficient – in terms of mechanical, combustion and fluid-dynamics efficiency. Combined with advanced vehicle architecture, aerodynamics, components and electronic controls, guarantee unsurpassed driving involvement whatever the road or track.

The ase has been shortened and the engine, dashboard and seats have been lowered in the chassis, while the new layout of the rear suspension and gearbox enabled Ferrari’s engineers to make the rear volume of the car smaller. The overall result is fantastic looking compact car with a lower centre of gravity that is further back in the chassis, and a level of aerodynamic efficiency that sets new standards.

An all-new spaceframe chassis and bodyshell using 12 different kinds of alloys, some of which have been used here for the first time in the automotive sector, and employing new assembly and joining techniques. The result is 20% increase in structural rigidity while reducing weight to just 1525 kg, which is 70 kg less than GTB. The balance between axles is 46:54.

The F12berlinetta is powered by a 6.3 liter 65° V12 engine with incredible 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). The engine is mated to the F1 dual-clutch transmission, which has closer gear ratios developed specifically for this car’s performance. The power-to-weight ratio is sensational – 2.1 kg/PS. Furthermore, the fuel consumption has been reduced by 30%, with CO₂ emissions of just 350 g/km.

The performance is extreme – 0-100 km/h – 3.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The car also laps Fiorano in 1 minute and 23 seconds dead. Benchmark performance and maximum driving involvement are guaranteed by immediate turn-in, with smaller steering wheel angles, and increased cornering speed. Stopping distances have also been drastically reduced.

The car comes with latest generation CCM3 (carbon-ceramic brakes) and the evolution of the SCM-E (magnetorheological suspension control system). It also features E-Diff, ESP Premium, F1-Trac, and high-performance ABS, which are all fully integrated.

The downforce has been boosted by 76% (123 kg at 200 km/h) while drag has been significantly reduced – the Cd is just 0.299. These results come courtesy of two new solutions. The first of these is the Aero Bridge which uses the bonnet to generate downforce by channelling air away from the upper part of the car to its flanks where it interacts with the wake from the wheel wells to decrease drag. The second is Active Brake Cooling, a system that opens guide vanes to the brake cooling ducts only at high operating temperatures, again reducing drag.

The all-new Frau leather interior highlights the balance of advanced technology and sophisticated, handcrafted detailing. In the middle of the light and lean dashboard, there are new carbon fibre and aluminium air vents clearly inspired by the aeronautic field. The cabin has been optimised to ensure maximum usability of the interior space with additional luggage capacity behind the seats, which can also be easily reached thanks to the large aperture offered by the tail-gate. With the cockpit designed around the driver, typical of all Ferraris, the Human Machine Interface approach is emphasised, grouping all the major commands within immediate reach to guarantee maximum ergonomics for the most involving driving experience.

There is question that this is our new favourite Ferrari.
Check out the full specs below!

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type Total displacement Maximum power output Maximum torque	65-degree V12 6262 cc 740 CV at 8500 rpm 690 Nm at 6000 rpm

Dimensions and weight Length Width Height Dry weight* Weight distribution Weight-power ratio	4618 mm 1942 mm 1273 mm 1525 kg 46% front, 54% rear 2.1 kg/CV

Performance Maximum speed 0-100 km/h	over 340 km/h 3.1 seconds

Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
Consumption CO₂	15l/100 km 350 g/km

*With lightweight options

**With HELE System

Source: Ferrari

February 29, 2012

2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D – 1456 km on a single tank of fuel

Joe Clifford and Andrew Biddle managed to go 1456 km (905 miles) on a single tank of fuel in a brand new Toyota Avensis T-Spirit Tourer D4-D. This is the distance from one end of Britain to the other. This was a long distance economy challenge taken up by two journalists for Banzai magazine.

The superb efficiency of the engine and 6-speed manual transmission, and the pair’s eco-conscious driving style helped the Avensis to achieve whopping 71.5 mpg, which is just 3.95 litres per 100 km. This is just a shade less than the car’s official extra urban consumption figure.

The journey included a stop-off at Toyota’s Burnaston plant – home of the Avensis – where they saw first hand the attention to quality and the commitment to the environment throughout the manufacturing process.

At the beginning, the two drivers filled the Avensis’s 60 litre tank and programmed their route on the car’s Touch & Go navigation system. The on-board computer calculated a driving range of just 580 miles, but that limit was comprehensively smashed: the car covered more than 170 miles on the last bar of the fuel gauge alone, in spite of having to tackle mountain climbs, pouring rain and high winds.

“The Toyota shrugged off the mileage with ease and showed such frugality for fuel that we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it highly. That it is also comfortable, roomy, tax-friendly for business users, bursting with kit and beautifully built are simply bonuses.”, said Joe Clifford.

2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D - 1456 km — 2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D – 1456 km

Source: Toyota

February 29, 2012

Peugeot at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

At 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Peugeot is going to unveil five new models: the new 2012 Peugeot 208, which is expected to reaffirm its strong market positioning; three HYbrid4 diesel-electric hybrid models; and the new 2012Peugeot 4008.

Undeniably the 208 model has already become an icon. From it has been sold more than 15 million examples over 30 years. Now, the new 2012 Peugeot 208 reinvents the dynamics of its segment with the goal to regain leadership of its category in Europe. The new version is architecturally regenerated and combines compactness (length: 3.96 m), reduced weight and enhanced passenger space. In addition it is going to be offered in different body styles – with three or five doors. It is characterized by completely redefining the position of the instruments and controls, the intuitive connectivity of its large touch screen function and a refined interior. Furthermore, the car is designed to be highly-efficient, economical and yet powerful. This is achieved through the extended e-HDi range and the first applications of an all- new family of three-cylinder petrol engines. At last, due to a new roadholding combination reflecting all the expertise of the brand, in it is featured active and passive safety, and innovative equipment such as a Park Assist function. The new 208 will be launched in early spring this year.

Next to the premiere of the new 2012 Peugeot 208, the brand is also going to present for the first time two concept cars: XY Concept and GTi Concept, which are based on the 2012 Peugeot 208 3-door version. The two concept vehicles carry strong but distinct personalities: the XY Concept is intended for urban citizens who appreciate versatility and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept is the remake of a legend. Both cars have distinctive body colors which are achieved through an exclusive process, perfectly integrated stylistic and aerodynamic components, with strong and richly equipped interior environments.

HYbrid4 technology is one of Peugeot’s greatest achievements in terms of innovation and environmentalism. The brand is continuing to reduce the CO2 emissions of the vehicles in its ranges. For instance, the average emissions of the Peugeot models stood at 129g/km in 2011, which is already below the target threshold of 130g/km set by the European Commission for 2015. Furthermore, Peugeot adopts a philosophy which aims the continuous improvement of the internal combustion engine (achieved through downsizing, e-HDi Stop & Start Systems), and typified by the introduction of a new generation of engines (such as the new EB family of petrol engines – three-cylinder 1.0l and 1.2l). More importantly, Peugeot’s technological innovation is the world-first diesel-electric hybrid – the HYbrid4 technology. Thus, the brand is now offering a new range reaching new levels of environmental performance and driving sensation. In details, the unique technology is a hybridation of a 2.0 HDi FAP 163 hp (120 kW) diesel engine driving the front wheels with an electric motor of 37 hp (27 kW) integrated within the rear axle. This of course, results in the combination of a new driving sensation, which offer maximum combined power output of 200 hp (147 kW), “ZEV” (Zero Emissions Vehicle) mode, and fuel consumption 35% lower than that of a vehicle fitted with an internal combustion engine of comparable power and size. In Geneva are going to be showcased three models, demonstrating the potential for application of the HYbrid4 drivetrain across the range: the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4, which is already on sale; 2012 Peugeot 508 RXH, launched soon after the first mentioned, which is also a diesel-electric hybrid but with distinctive and prestige features that offer original view of the world of all-road vehicles with enhanced driving attributes; and at last the Peugeot 508 HYbrid4 saloon, which is going to debut and will be available in dealerships in the summer this year.

The new 2012 Peugeot 4008, is going to be another debut vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show. It carries a distinctive appearance and in addition to this its’ 4×4 SUV capabilities are make it even more attractive. It is born of the PSA Peugeot Citroёn – Mitsubishi partnership, and thus incorporates appealing, strong, identifiable Peugeot personality. The adventurous character of the vehicle is visible at first sight, due to the emphasis of the grille of vertical design, with body sill protectors and functional wheel arch extension trims. The interior of the new 4008 is improved by the choice of materials and the richness of the equipment. It includes glass panoramic roof, which gives the occupants an exclusive ambience. In addition to this it is compact (length: 4.34 m) and has good maneuverability. It is equally suited to everyday use and leisure pursuits. The 4008’s range has the choice of four engines (two diesel and two petrol) and comes with selectable electronic 4×4 transmission. More importantly, it has achieved a record of low CO2 emissions in its category, and thus is capable of operating economically and efficiently in a multitude of different environments and locations.

2012 Peugeot 4008 4x4 — 2012 Peugeot 4008 4×4

Source: Peugeot

February 29, 2012

2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit

The new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is designed and engineered to be a high-performance police vehicle. It is in two models: V-6 and V-8, which will set new levels of performance during the Michigan State Police’s (MSP) 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests. The V-8 model is powered by 5.7-liter HEMI engine, which delivers best-in-class 370 hp (272 kW) and therefore could deliver the fastest lap time ever recorded (1:33.70) during MSP’s 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests last fall. In addition, Charger Pursuit V-6 models with their the 292 hp (215 kW) showcased their world-class performance and precision with the fastest average lap times for naturally aspirated (1:37.71) and E-85 capable (1:37.57) six-cylinder powered police cars.

The 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit V-8 also delivered the police sedan segment’s fastest acceleration times and covered the 0 to 60 mph for just 5.83 seconds.

2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit
The model is also improved in terms of including world-class levels of technology, enhanced safety, handling and efficient power. This of course was possible, thank to Mopar^® which teamed up with industry-equipment leaders to develop six factory-installed police packages.

The aim is the design of the car to provide law-enforcement officers with the best combination of tactical equipment and performance.

Some of these police-equipment packages include:

Base Prep Police Package, which features front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

Patrol Package 1, which includes police floor console, front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

Patrol Package 2, which includes police floor console, push bumper, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker and bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

Patrol Package 3, which includes push bumper, police floor console, front corner LED lamps, rear corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk accessory cooling fan;

Slick Top Police Package 1: includes police floor console, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

Slick Top Police Package 2, which includes front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan. Adding more to the six packages, there are also available for order 24 Mopar tactical accessories, which include light bars, LED lighting systems, push bumper, CAN-control siren system and more.
Furthermore 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is also equipped with Chrysler Group’s second-generation large car rear-wheel-drive architecture with performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling Nivomat shocks, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Moreover, the model also features a mobile-command interior which has Vehicle Systems Interface Module for easy equipment integration, heavy-duty police-duty front seats and column-mounted shifter with Auto Stick. Additionally, it also includes uncompromising safety and security equipment: standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers and driver’s knee bag.

Source: Dodge

February 29, 2012

2012 Subaru XV with Five Star Rating in Euro NCAP Safety Test [VIDEO]

Subaru brand has just announced that its 2012 Subaru XV is awarded with the highest possible rating – five-star – by Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) for its overall safety performance. This year’s rating reflects the performance of the XV according to the latest requirements set by Euro NCAP’s. Additional assessment system has been applied since 2009 by Euro NCAP which evaluates “Adult Occupant Protection”, “Child Occupant Protection”, “Pedestrian Protection” and “Safety Assist”. Another highlight here us that five star rating is being awarded to the Subaru XV model for the second consecutive year.

Subaru further improved its unique “ring-shaped reinforcement frame body” by optimizing the impact energy relay structure. The use of high tensile steel was also increased on the new Subaru XV. All these features actually allow the reduction in weight, higher collision safety performance to impacts from all directions, and improved passenger safety. Furthermore, additional airbags have been installed in the front seats, driver’s knee, and sides. The above features are topped with VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), which now is standard equipment on all models. The new 2012 Subaru XV has already received excellent reviews for its safety performance, SUV functionality and stylish design.

Moreover, Subaru aims to pursue all-around safety with the continuation of its’ active, passive and pre-crash safety technologies. In details, active safety includes safety enhanced by driveability and risk-avoidance technologies; passive safety: safety enhanced by collision safety systems; and at last the pre-crash safety featured safety enhanced by advanced driving assist technologies such as warning alerts and autonomous emergency braking

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuj4mfdroro

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Subaru

February 29, 2012

2013 MINI Countryman John Cooper Works

MINI has introduced the new 2013 Countryman John Cooper Works, which will make its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. This is the most powerful member of the new generation.

The Countryman JCW has a 1.6 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 218PS (160 kW) at 6000RPM and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque at 2000RPM, and 300Nm in overboost mode. The engine sends all that power to 6-speed manual gearbox an ALL4 AWD system to the road. There is an option for 6-speed automatic transmission. The Countryman is heavy, but fast – 0-100 km/h in 7.0 seconds flat and a top speed of 255 km/h (140 mph). Furthermore, it needs 7.2 l / 100km on combined cycle (39.2 mpg UK) with 167 g/km CO2. The automatic version is more thirsty – 8.0 l/ 100km with 187 g/km CO2.

The exterior comes with complete aerodynamics package including front and rear bumpers and a pair of side skirts. Of course, there are also some JCW badges. The ride is lowered by installing a sports suspension and sits 18” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires (19” light-alloy wheels are available as an option). There is also a high performance brake system and a sports exhaust system bringing deeper and sporty sound.

The interior boasts sports leather seats, a sports multifunction steering wheel and piano black or Chili Red trim. The instrument cluster is revised and there are John Cooper Works door sills.

The price list is not announced, yet.

Source: MINI

February 29, 2012

2013 Cadillac XTS Lighting – Luxury and Inspiration

The all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan boasts more than 20 separate light sources that “greet” the driver in a carefully choreographed sequence when the key fob is pressed. It includes embedded in the door handles, Cadillac-signature vertical LEDs in the headlights and taillights and ambient lighting in and around. The lighting provides convenience and helps provide additional security to drivers in parking lots at night. The interior also boasts cooler blue lights for the car’s controls and instrumentation, while warmer lights highlight passenger areas.

“The new LED offerings now provide a new palette of color to bring more dramatic lighting effects that have never been available before. We sketched each phase of the process to carefully choreograph how every important area inside and outside of the vehicle would come up and fade back down, similar to a production crew lighting a theater stage.” said Christos Roustemis, Cadillac interior designer.

“In cars, just as in architecture, lighting defines how we feel about a space. It is both artistry and user experience. For me, the beauty is in the blends, how you layer the affects, mix the light sources, and how you package it into the final product.” said Rosemarie Allaire, a California-based architectural lighting designer.

The 2013 XTS lighting choreography is timed to the fraction of a second by the car’s central control system. It is cued by various triggers, such as the key fob, the doors and ignition switch.

2013 Cadillac XTS Lighting

Source: GM

February 29, 2012

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet

2012 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet will be presented at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. It features four-seats, electrically powered fabric roof, performance and practicality.

The Golf GTI Cabriolet features all performance GTI design cues including radiator grille has a honeycomb structure with red edging and the GTI badge, a new front bumper incorporating incorporates a deep honeycomb air dam and distinctive vertical fog lights. There are also side sill extensions, a bespoke rear diffuser with a chrome tailpipe on either side. Last, but not least, the smoked LED tail lights complete the aggressive look. The ride is lowered and sits on 17” Monza alloy wheels.

The interior boats classic tartan Jacara cloth upholstery, while the Vienna leather is optional. There is a bespoke GTI multifunction steering wheel wrapped in leather as well as the handbrake and gear lever gaiter, all finished with contrasting red stitching. The pedals are in brushed aluminum and the doors and facia have black Edge decorative inlays.

The new GTI Cabrio is powered by the same 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the GTI hatchback. It is mated to a 6-speed manual as standard and there is an option for 6-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox. The engine produces 210PS (154 kW) at 5300RPM and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) at 1700RPM. 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 237 km/h (147 mph).

A standard EDS electronic differential lock and XDS transverse differential lock help to ensure that the power is easily transferred to the road and the driver has maximum traction at every conditions.

Like all Golf Cabriolet models, the GTI comes with automatically deploying rollover protection, front and side head/thorax airbags and a driver’s knee airbag as standard, all of which helped it to achieve a five-star (96%) rating for adult occupancy in Euro NCAP crash tests.

2012 Golf GTI Cabriolet will hit the UK market in the second half of the year.

Source: Volkswagen

February 29, 2012

Kia with an All-new K9 Flagship Sedan in Korea

Kia promised a flagship sedan and they gave a flagship sedan… to Korea. These are the first images of the K9, which is set to go on sale some time this year. And yes, it will be actually called the K9 in Korea while the naming of the batch of cars that are going to go on sale overseas is yet to be done. Euorope won’t get any of that action though.

The K9 will be the first ever RWD Kia sedan and is said to be the ultimate in 2012 design, performance and technology. At the domestic market, the “K” range consists of K5 (widely known as the Optima) and K7 (Cadenza – not seen in Europe again).

One would be surprised for how many thing can the “K” in the range stand for – Kia, obviously, but also Korea and Kratos, apparently – it means dominion, rule and power (from Greek). Some also call it the “Kinetic” which is rather self explanatory.

So then, many names to live up to. Hopefully, the K9 holds something more than a mere “high-tech luxury sedan image”. So far we know that it has a “tiger-nose-radiator grille” and LED headlights at the front, simple lines throughout the body and LED again formations at the back, complemented by some chrome and some mufflers embedded in the rear bumper.

Source: Kia

February 29, 2012

2012 Jaguar XF Sportbrake

Jaguar has unveiled the new 2012 XF Sportbrake, which will have its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in several days. The manufacturer claims that the XF Sportbrake will be the most versatile Jaguar ever created.

The model has the same chassis like the XF saloon, but the overall length grows by just 5mm. Still, the weight is 70kg less, so the Sportbrake can closely match the acclaimed handling of the XF saloon yet offers a large and highly practical load space.

The exterior is entirely new meaning that every panel on the XF Sportbrake, from the B-Pillar rearwards is newly developed. Furthermore, the car’s C-Pillar is finished in gloss black, a trait shared with the XJ saloon. Slim rear light units extend into a strong chrome crossmember that dominates the rear of the car. The result is a car that blends style and function with the rear seat occupants benefitting from 48mm of extra rear headroom. The large, practical tailgate can be specified with power struts, opening to reveal a wide and highly versatile load space. Measuring 550 litres with the rear seats up, the boot is framed by a set of useful cubby compartments. With the seats folded, the total volume grows to whopping 1 675-litres.

The standard equipment includes a lot of practical touches like remote fold levers mounted within the boot to lower the rear seats, powerful LEDs and splitting boot floor into three sections.

Beneath the car there are extensive changes to the rear suspension. Self-levelling air suspension aids driving dynamics and means the Sportbrake can serve as an accomplished tow vehicle.

The 2012 XF Sportbrake is powered by the award-winning 2.2 litre four-cylinder diesel and a 3.0 litre six-cylinder diesel. Both send their power to the rear wheels via an advanced 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Price list and full specs will be announced soon. 2012 Jaguar XF Sportbrake is set to launch in the third quarter of this year.

Source: Jaguar

February 29, 2012

2012 BMW M550d xDrive [new pics]

BMW has released 98 new high resolution pictures of the 2012 M550d xDrive Saloon. The M-performance vehicle is expected to hit the European market in May. It is powered by the new updated tri-turbocharged diesel with staggering 127PS per liter.

The new N57D30 features three turbocharges, high pressure piezo injectors and a lot of aluminum elements. The result is 381PS (280 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a Vmax of 250 km/h (155 mph). The fuel economy is 6.3 l/100km with 165 g/km of CO2. The power is put on the road through a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox and the world’s most intelligent AWD system – BMW xDrive.

The 2012 F10 M550d xDrive is priced from €80 800.

You can check the HD pictures in the gallery. Almost all details of the vehicle are revealed including different gauge illumination, engine bay images, different angel eye lighting and some nice interior images.

Source: BMW

February 28, 2012

Category: Car Makes