Car Makes – Page 841 – Automobiles Review

Peugeot 308 in Brazil

Peugeot is moving forwards in the world’s economy and the latest sign of that is the introduction of the 308 to Brazil which will happen March this year. Brazil will be the second South American country (after Argentina) to acquire the 308 two-box design as a mid-size option. The Brazilian version of the 308 distinguishes itself from the flock of Peugeots with three main characteristics – bald outer lines, abundant equipment trims and a an option of a Flex Fuel 1.6 engine, with the Flex Start® system.

The car itself, destined for Brazil, is made in Argentina and that’s a good thing as there is an internal free trade agreement between the Mercosur countries among which are Brazil and Argentina. There is something made in Brazil however – the clever EC5 Flex Fuel 1.6 engine develops 122 hp which ranks it as the most powerful one in the segment. Flex Start is a piece of technology, developed by BOSCH, that has never been seen in a Peugeot before. It is an alternative to the existing small additional petrol tank located under the bonnet, used for cold starting at low temperatures. Instead the Flex Start uses an electronic system to heat up the Ethanol for maximum efficiency even at the severest of temperatures. That innovation, brought the EC5 driven Brazilian 308 much praise from IBAMA, Brazil’s Federal Ministry of the Environment. They have now stuck a ‘green label’ on the model which indicates their contempt.

Source: Peugeot

February 17, 2012

Toyota Predominant on Dependability Study

The J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study is an annual research based on x amount of problems per 100 vehicles, reported by real life car owners. The lower the x, the higher the rank. It is common knowledge that if today one wants a car that can survive an apocalypse, Toyota is the brand for you. But this year, not only the Toyotas dominate the survey, but the whole Toyota group.

Toyota cars alone have four models ranked as the most dependable non-premium vehicles. The Corolla is ranked second behind The Prius in the compact-car segment while Corolla, Camry and Highlander (Kluger) are in the top three of their segments.

Lexus and Scion (Toyota subsidiaries) also preformed exceptionally well by each scoring two top rankings. Last year it was Lexus that led the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study by winning the most awards than any other premium brand.

Other highlights coming from awards include the 11 awards that got swept by both Toyota and Lexus at the ‘IntelliChoice’ Best Overall Values of the Year ranking. Fifteen Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles were named 2012 “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – Camry, Corolla, Highlander (Kluger), Prius, Prius v, Yaris and Scion xB. Also the 2012 Camry, Camry Hybrid and Prius earned the maximum five stars for overall safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. All that portfolio of awards is just a drop in the sea of Toyota‘s achievements. We just hope they have a big enough trophy cabinet at the factory.

Source: Toyota

February 17, 2012

2012 Chrysler Ypsilon Black&Red

Chrysler has introduced the new special edition Ypsilon Black&Red to the UK market. The styling modifications will attract new and different customers to the model range and also to the Chrysler brand, which has just been relaunched in the UK.

“We’re delighted to be launching this new addition to the popular Ypsilon line-up,” said Nigel Land, brand director, Jeep Chrysler UK.

“With additional equipment worth more than £3000 packed into a car that starts from just £12,750, we believe Black&Red will become a valuable member of the Ypsilon family.”, he added.

The engine range includes – 0.9-litre TwinAir and 1.2-litre petrol, and 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel.

The exterior boasts new paint – black and red, 16” multi-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamps, black glass and body-coloured side skirts.

The interior changes include black and red fabric seat upholstery, dashboard and door linings, air conditioning, Blue&Me Bluetooth, and a 360-degree hi-fi system.

Price list:

2012 Chrysler Ypsilon Black&Red 1.2 Petrol – £12,750
2012 Chrysler Ypsilon Black&Red 0.9 TwinAir – £13,950
2012 Chrysler Ypsilon Black&Red 1.3 MultiJet – £14,950

Source: Chrysler

February 16, 2012

2013 Porsche Macan [sketch]

Porsche has announced that they will put in production a new sports car in the SUV segment. It is called Macan, which is derived from the Indonesian word for tiger. The vehicle combines power, fascination and dynamics – core characteristics of this new all-terrain car.

“The Macan combines all sports car characteristics with the benefits of an SUV and is a genuine Porsche”, commented Bernhard Maier, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing of Porsche AG.

“The name of a new Porsche has to fit with the brand, sound good in very many languages and dialects and evoke positive associations.”, he added.

The new car will start coming off the production lines at the Porsche factory in Leipzig, Saxony, in 2013.

Porsche names have an indelible connection with the corresponding model and its characteristics: the name Boxster describes the combination of ‘boxer’ engine and ‘roadster’, Cayenne stands for sharpness, the Cayman is snappy and agile and a Panamera is more than a Gran Turismo, capable also of winning the Carrera Panamericana long-distance race.

Source: Porsche

February 16, 2012

2012 Hyundai Azera Pricing – $32 000

Hyundai Motor America has just announced the starting price for their completely refreshed version of Azera model. Namely, it is $32 000 for the extremely well-equipped Azera and $36 000 for the range-topping Azera with Technology Package. The new 2012 Hyundai Azera features as a standard: Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine technology, best-in-class combined fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon, 293 horsepower (215 kW), Blue Link telematics system, proximity key with push-button start, heated rear seats,18-inch alloy wheels, SACHS Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) for improved ride comfort without compromising handling. The all-new 2012 model of Azera bears Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design language. It is sleek and has sophisticated style that creates the illusion of constant motion. Azera is a representation of a modern approach to the traditional, large sedan segment by offering an advanced powertrain, bold design, premium features and class-leading safety features. Moreover, the 2012 Azera will be offered in just two simple equipment levels, which will go on sale in April this year.

The vehicle’s standard premium features raise the bar for the large sedan segment. It features navigation with rearview backup camera, heated front and rear seats and LED headlight accents. The 2012Hyundai Azera offers excellent seating and comfort for all passengers with leather interior as a standard, power front passenger seats, optional rear side window, rear sunshade and ventilated front seats. The model offers as well best-in-class total interior volume and leads the segment in front head room and front leg room. To go further inot details, the new 2012 Hyundai Azera is powered by the new, more efficient Lambda II 3.3L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. The powertrain is rated at 293 horsepower (215 kW). More importantly, it delivers best-in-class fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. The powertrain of the new sedan model also has an Active Eco system, which modifies engine and transmission control for improved fuel economy that translates into more than five percent improvement in real-world fuel economy.

Furthermore, there are also included premium technology features such as the standard Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system which combines safety, service and infotainment. Hyundai also has included in the Azera best-in-class standard safety features, including nine airbags and impact-absorbing front seats. The Vehicle Stability Management system links safety features such as ESC, TCS, EBD, and Brake Assist to maximize their effectiveness in potential collision situations.

The new 2012 Hyundai Azera MSRP is $32 000 (excluding transportation price). It includes the following standard equipment: 3.3L GDI DOHC V6 with 293 horsepower (215 kW), six-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC®, Active ECO system, 18-inch alloy wheels and tires (P245/45VR), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist, Impact-absorbing front seats, advanced front airbags, front and rear side airbags, side curtain airbags, and driver’s knee airbag, tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), SACHS ASD suspension, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), automatic headlight control with delay off feature, front fog lights, integrated dual exhaust, chrome insert body side moldings and exterior door handles, heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, solar control windshield and glass, proximity entry with push-button start, leather seating with heated front and rear seats, power driver seat and front passenger seat, manual tilt and telescopic steering column, leather steering wheel and shift knob, AM/FM/HD Radio/XM/CD/MP3 audio with iPod®/USB and auxiliary input jacks, dimension premium speakers with subwoofer and external amplifier, navigation system with touchscreen display, rearview backup camera, Blue Link Telematics, Dual Automatic Temperature Control, floor console-mounted rear vents, cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free phone system with phonebook transfer, electrochromic mirror with compass and HomeLink®, power windows with front auto up/down, interior door panels with bottle holders in all four doors.

The premium Technology Package has an MSRP price of $4 000 and it includes the following 19-inch alloy wheels and tires (P245/40VR), Panoramic Sunroof, HID Xenon headlights, power rear sunshade, manual side window sunshades, infinity premium speakers with subwoofer and external amplifier, power adjustable tilt and telescopic steering column, Integrated Memory System (IMS): Power driver’s seat, exterior mirrors, and steering column, driver’s seat cushion extension, ventilated front seats, rear parking assistance sensors, interior ambient lighting.

Source: Hyundai

February 16, 2012

2012 Fiat 500 is “Best Car” according to “Travel + Leisure” Annual Design Awards

The new 2012 Fiat 500 was named “Best Car” in the eighth annual “Travel + Leisure Design Awards”. To be more precise, the 2012 Travel + Leisure Design Awards award new products, buildings and destinations that improve the travel experience through thoughtful design. The jury of the Design Awards appraised 2012 Fiat 500 for its effortless combination of compact practicality with a real sense of style, speed, and fun. In addition, the vehicle will be featured in the March issue of Travel + Leisure. What is more important here is that the 2012 Fiat 500 will be recognized at the Travel + Leisure Design Awards event on 7^th of March at Department in Berlin, Germany.
2012 Fiat 500 offers a unique combination of Italian design, driving fun and efficiency at an unbeatable value. Hence, this makes it the best model to win this particular award. Moreover, Fiat 500 is offered in several special models, such as the open-air Fiat 500 Cabrio, or the exclusive 500 and 500c by Gucci, or the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth. This means that to every customer is offered the unique opportunity to choose the most appealing one to them, and to drive it with excitement and unmatchable driving pleasure.

Source: Fiat

February 16, 2012

Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV launched in Japan

Mazda Motor Corporation has just announced the launch of the all-new Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV in all dealerships in Japan. The CX-5 is going to become a core model in the Mazda lineup. In addition, the all-new CX-5 is the first model to adopt Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It will also include gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis, offering a predictable and refined driving experience combined with great fuel economy. A lot of attention is put on design, dynamic performance, functionality, environmental and safety performance, thus way providing predictable and responsive driving experience.

To go further into details, the all-new CX-5 has a line-up of two new-generation engines. The first one is the model equipped with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine. It meets Japan’s Post New Long-Term Emissions Regulations without an expensive NOx after-treatment device, while at the same time delivering fuel economy of 18.6km/l, and maximum torque of 420Nm (400 lb-ft). The second model, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L one is equipped with the highly-efficient direct injection gasoline engine, and includes Mazda’s 4-2-1 exhaust system. It delivers great fuel economy of 16.0 km/l.

In addition, Mazda CX-5 features the new design theme, which goes under the slogan KODO – SOUL of MOTION. The exterior design features bold styling that simultaneously expresses SUV-like solidity and functionality with finely-honed vitality and dynamism typical of Mazda. Furthermore, it expresses strength and depth adopting Mazda’s signature wing, seen in the new-generation Mazda design. The side view features the prominent front fenders and the sculptured body sides accentuate a sense of power. While the exterior is sporty and bold, the interior is an inviting space that makes one want to drive it the moment one sees it. For the interior, Mazda’s goal was to make an enjoyable space that is comfortable for everyone in the vehicle in any situation. There are featured 40:20:40 split fold-down seat backs and karakuri folding configuration means that even when carrying long objects, two adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats. This functionality is offered as a standard feature for the XD L Package, the XD and the 20S grades. Other standard features include: door pockets with bottle holder to carry a one-liter bottle, and a function to display in the rearview mirror images from the side monitor, and reverse guiding monitor to aid parking. Next, the new Mazda CX-5 utilizes Mazda’s SKYACTIV-BODY light weight, highly rigid body and all model grades come with curtain and front side airbags, Dynamic Stability Control system and Traction Control System as standard safety equipment Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

Source: Mazda

February 16, 2012

New Audi RS 4 Avant

It has been 3 years since the RS4 got off Audi’s production line but today we can indulge ourselves once again in the roar of a V8, shelled by a familiar body – It’s the new Audi RS4. The resurrection kicks off with an Avant version which is here to show it’s rivalries what’s what.

The RS4 is back with a bang as it gets the powertrain usually found in the RS5 Coupe – a hand-built 4.1 liter plant, producing 450 PS at 8,250 rpm and 430 Nm of torque from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm. In true RS tradition, that power goes trough a permanent Quattro AWD system. The ‘permanent’ term however, should not scare you off as the Quattro in the latest RS4 is exceptionally flexible – it incoroprates a self-locking crown-gear centre differential that allows up to 85 percent of the power to go to the rear axle or up to 70 towards the front wheels. By default, one would find that the power bias ratio is 40:60 in favor of the back wheels. So for the people who like to travel sideways everywhere that is a relief.

The whole power thing translates into a time of 4.7 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph sprint and a top speed of 174 mph (limited to 155 mph). Stunning performance, keeping in mind that this estate returns 25.7mpg on the combined cycle.

Compared to the standard A4, the RS4 is 20 mm lower thanks to the truly complex suspension – a five-link set-up at the front and a self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear assembly. We don’t know what all that means but chances are its beneficial. The power steering is clever too. It has a conscious mind that takes into account the current speed of the car to determine the steering firmness.

The car sits on 19-inch (20-inch optional) wheels wrapped in four 265/35-series tires. The 10-spoke design of the wheels are rather revealing and it’s not like the Audi hasn’t got anything to hide. We are talking about internally vented wave disc brakes – an innovation in stopping power as the brakes are around 3 kg lighter (in total weight) and more heat-efficient due to their “wave” outer, perforated contour.

Inside, black is the predominant finish with occasional carbon inlays and chrome clasps lining the switches and buttons. One would also find that the front sports seats are heated and that the driver information system has an RS menu with a lap timer.

There are tons of other optional extras that might be worthwhile ticking – the Dynamic Ride Control ensures even more stability at high speeds and sharp bends and a sports exhaust system for that kid in everyone of us.

Prices for the Audi RS4 are yet to be released and hopefully we’ll see the arrival of a sedan version so that everyone is happy. In the mean time do not hesitate to look around in the RS4 gallery.

Source: Audi

February 16, 2012

Jaguar XK, XKR Special editions

To say that a Jaguar lacks the successful formula of blending luxury with engineering perfection, would be a mistake. However one could say that the XK and XKR can do even better. That is why now we have the XK and XKR Special Edition models (coming in Coupe or Convertible setups). The focus here is mainly the interior with added a hand-crafted ‘Artisan‘ design.

Let’s talk leather – ‘scraffito‘ finished front seats, instrument binnacle, door and rear quarter casings. All the while two new veneer finishes – Shadow Walnut and Dark Figured Aluminum can complement the Poltrona Frau® leather headlinings. As standard, you get a 525W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, 16 by 16 way adjustable heated Performance seats, a heated steering wheel and keyless entry/start. Unique treadplates and stainless steel pedals also give away the editions as special.

While being improved upon from the inside, the XK and XKR remain exceptional engineering achievements. Jaguar has been familiar with the use of aluminium technology and today that know how is seamlessly transferred onto the riveted and bonded aluminium monocoque construction of the two cars. That means they are light, rigid and stable. Every model from the lineup gets as standard a continuously variable adaptive damping for that extra ride comfort.

The XK harbours a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre direct-injection V8 that churns out 385PS while the XKR gets a 510PS power plant thanks to supercharging. With the MY 2013 XKR, a performance package is available for the coupe and convertible editions (previously only the coupe could get it). It’s called the “Dynamic Pack” and it basically raises the top speed to 174mph, includes the addition of side sill extensions, adds a rear diffuser. Also with it the car stance is 10mm lower and the adaptive dynamics, spring and damper rates are revised.

Source: Jaguar

February 16, 2012

2012 Lexus GS 250 SE – Price £32 995

The new 2012 GS range is already available on the UK market. It starts at £32 995 for the entry-level GS 250 SE and goes up to whopping £44 995 for the Luxury model – full hybrid GS 450h.

The engine range includes a 2.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i petrol with 206PS (154 kW) and a 3.5 litre V6 hybrid with overall power 340PS (253 kW).

The standard equipment includes 17” alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps and windscreen wipers, LED daytime running lights and a rear-view camera with parking guide monitor. Cabin comfort is assured with leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and electrically adjustable front seats (10-way, with memory setting for the driver’s seat) with heating and ventilation functions. The steering wheel is electrically adjustable, too, and incorporates paddle shifts. On-board entertainment is provided by a 12-speaker audio system with CD player, DAB tuner, Bluetooth and USB/Aux ports for connecting personal music players.

Both the GS 250 and full hybrid GS 450h are offered in Luxury and F Sport grade. The former builds on the SE specification with the introduction of 18-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and an HDD satellite navigation system with Remote Touch controller. Luxury grade also provides a new blind spot detection system integrated into the folding/auto-dimming door mirrors.

F Sport versions of GS make a bolder style statement thanks to 19” rims, a boot-lip spoiler and sports-styled bumpers and front grille. In addition to the Luxury specification, the F Sport has bi-xenon headlights with an automatic high beam function, as well Lexus’s Adaptive Front-lighting System, which adjusts the beam direction as the car approaches bends and turns at junctions.

The F Sport look carries through to the cabin with sports pedals and perforated leather-trimmed sports steering wheel and gear knob. The front sports seats gain further adjustment functions – 16-way for the driver, plus four-way lumbar support.

The F Sport benefits from Adaptive Variable Suspension and selectable drive modes plus, on the 450h model, the Lexus Dynamic Handling System, which brings together a comprehensive array of steering and handling features, including Dynamic Rear Steering, electric power steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.

At the top of the range, the GS 450h Premier is fitted with 18-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and the same bi-xenon headlamp system as the F Sport models. The F Sport’s adaptive suspension and selectable drive modes are also part of the Premier’s specification.

In the cabin the seats are upholstered in semi-aniline leather, with both front seats benefiting from 18-way electric adjustment and memory settings. The passenger seat offers extra leg support and a rear easy access function.

The sophisticated climate control system is divided three-ways between the front left and right and rear sections of the cabin, and is equipped with an ioniser to help maintain an ideal environment.

The HDD navigation and premium Mark Levinson sound system are linked to a 12.3-inch central display screen, the largest on the market. Other details include automatic boot closing, sunshades for the rear windows (electrically operated for the back window) and a tyre pressure warning system.

Options list include a premium surround system with 12.3” navigation and multimedia screen, a sun roof, LED headlamps and a preventive safety package featuring Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Crash Safety. Metallic or mica paint is an option across the board, while full-map navigation is available for the GS 250 SE.

Nine exterior colours are available for SE, Luxury and Premier versions of the new GS: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey, Meteor Blue, Crimson Red, Atlantic Blue, Celestial Black and, for GS 450h only, Obsidian Black. The F Sport models have a different range of colours: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey and Crimson Red.

In the cabin SE and Luxury models have gloss black dash inserts, with aluminium used for the F Sport; Walnut, Ebony or Bamboo wood trims are used in the GS450h Premier, according to the choice of leather upholstery shade.

There are six leather colours, with a Garnet red exclusive to the F Sport.

Source: Lexus

February 15, 2012

ASMA Design Lamborghini Aventador

ASMA Design has announced their latest project based on the hypercar – Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4.

The superfast car is powered by a 6.5 liter V12 with 700PS (515 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed ISR gearbox specially supplied by Graziano Trasmissioni Group. It shifts in just 50 milliseconds, which guarantees perfect performance.

The kerb weight is just 1575 kg (3 472 lbs), thanks to a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) monocoque structure with total weight of only 147.5 kg.

The tuning company has released a single picture (rendering) of the tuned Aventador, which will come with complete styling package, new paint and enormous wheels.

Stay tuned for more information about this interesting project.

Source: ASMA Design

February 15, 2012

1968 Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter vs Ferrari 599 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed

Dragtimesinfo has released a new video with two interesting drag battles.

The first one is between a mighty 1968 Chevrolet C-10 powered by huge V8 with 10.0 liters of displacement and 850PS (625 kW) and Porsche 911 Turbo Mk.2 tuned by Rinspeed with 530PS (390 kW). The run covers 1 mile and both cars hit speeds of around 250 km/h (155 mph). Which is best? Check out in the video below.

The C-10 takes part in the second run, too, but this time against a powerful Ferrari 599 GTB powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0 liter V12 with Aluminium Head and Block. The power is 611BHP (456 kW) at 7600RPM and 607Nm (448 lb-ft) at 5600RPM. 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h in 11.0 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph).

Enjoy the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dv9rQjEUYxo

Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed vs Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

February 15, 2012

Category: Car Makes