Car Makes – Page 860 – Automobiles Review

Cambiano Concept by Pininfarina – Beauty Has a Name

While the Detroit NAIAS is running its course, there seems to be a lot of hubbub around the 2012 Geneva Motor Show which is due to start in March this year. Here we have a teaser of Pininfarina‘s future concept, the “luxury environmentally friendly sport sedan”. It will be revealed at their show stand in Geneva and undoubtedly, it will be gorgeous.

Named after Pininfarina‘s home town, the Cambiano is said to have been consciously constructed with a selection of efficient materials and powered by a an eco-friendly power plant.

Pininfarina is a design company which has given the automotive industry some of the finest aesthetically charged profiles out there. The Ferrari 458 Italia, the Enzo, Alfa Romeo GTV, Jaguar XJ6, Alfa Romeo Spider and many, many more – all love children of the Pininfarina company. And this year the small town of Cambiano has two anniversaries to celebrate: 30 years with the Styling Centre (called, back in1982, the “Pininfarina Studi e Ricerche/Pininfarina Study and Research”) and 10 years of development with the Engineering Center which serves to prove that finely crafted technology and design go hand-in-hand. We personally hope to see many more anniversaries to come for Pininfarina as they bring beauty to the eye with every single project.

Pininfirina Cambiano Concept — Pininfarina Cambiano Concept

Source: Pininfarina

January 12, 2012

Tesla Roadster 2012 Limited Availability

Tesla Motors is saying goodbye to their all-electric Roadster with style. A last revision of the sports car will be available in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Exclusivity in the last Tesla Roadster can be found within a range of new body colors – Cosmic Black, Galactic Gray and Magma Orange come with coordinated interior shades. It will also perform better in snowy conditions due to a provided snow cover and improvements on the motor and inverter systems. Because of that update the driver inside will also enjoy improved air conditioning. Other minor tweaks include xenon headlights, soundproofing and better connectivity (in Tesla terms that means that one will be able to plug in their car in almost any socket common for that region).

With a bit over 2000 Roadster units sold, do you think Tesla Motors is gathering pace towards a change in the automotive world and if so, is it for the better?

Source: Tesla Motors

January 12, 2012

2012 Porsche Boxster Price – £37 589

Porsche has revealed the price list for the new 2012 Boxster , which starts at “just” £37 589 and the price goes all the way up to £45 384 for the top-of-range S model.

The new Boxster has completely different design, an all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, a completely revised chassis. All this promises a good ride, but something is missing…

The 2012 Boxster also has lower curb weight, a longer wheelbase, widened track and larger wheels, which means superb handling and up to 15% greater fuel efficiency.

The engine range includes a new 2.7 liter with 265PS (195 kW) and a 3.4 liter flat-six powering Boxster S with 315PS (232 kW). Both models feature a manual 6-speed gearbox as standard, with the 7-speed dual-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option. Fuel consumption for the Porsche Boxster with PDK is 36.7mpg, and 35.3mpg for the Boxster S. The performance is amazing – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and 5.0 seconds flat for the S model.

To enhance the driving dynamics further, the Sport Chrono Package option is offered on the Boxster, featuring Dynamic Transmission Mounts for the first time. Also new in the Boxster is the option of Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear limited slip differential.

The standard equipment includes an Alcantara interior, 18” alloy wheels, Auto stop/start and Sports mode, remote control hood operation, audio CD with 7-inch colour touch-screen control, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a 3-year warranty.

The Boxster S adds 19” alloy wheels, partial leather interior and Bi-Xenon headlights.

On paper everything is just perfect, but the new style is not typical for Porsche, so many of the fans will not be so happy. Will the technology beat the spirit?

2012 Porsche Boxster S — 2012 Porsche Boxster

Source: Porsche

January 12, 2012

Seat Expands in China

Today the brand SEAT has just made its first step to expansion in China. This was made through shipping of the first 250 vehicles. They will be marketed in China in the beginning of the spring this year! The presence of SEAT in this new market, the bran is setting up a new sea link. The latter will operate on a monthly basis between the ports of Barcelona and Guangzhou and Tianjin. More importantly, thank to this first vehicle transport link between Spain and China, SEAT will export around 4,000 vehicles in 2012.

Today’s event was marked also by the presence of the Catalan government Ministers – Lluis Recoder, for Territory and Sustainability, and Francesc Xavier Mena, for Business and Employment, as well as José Alberto Carbonell, Director General of the Port, and Ramón Paredes, Vice-president for Governmental and Institutional Relations at SEAT and the Volkswagen Group in Spain.

Source: SEAT

January 12, 2012

2013 Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT

Brand new technologies, which have been developed on the Lincoln MKS and MKT, will now offer more power, more fuel efficiency an even more engaging driving experience. These full-size luxury sedan and crossover are coming in the spring of this year. Moreover they will deliver now more refined and exciting driving experience.

First of all the new 2013 Lincoln MKS has a significantly updated interior. In addition to that there are several luxury-class options that have to be considered. For instance there is available the Lincoln Drive Control. This is an automatic system which delivers an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling. This is due to the intuitive respond of the system to the driver’s commands and the road itself. Moreover Lincoln Drive Control enables drivers to purposefully change the on-road personality of the MKS. For example the handling performance, ride firmness, throttle response, shift schedule, steering response and traction control/electronic stability control parameters can be shifted automatically when the gear selector is moved from Drive to Sport. Drivers can further personalize the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension settings, including selecting the smoother-riding Comfort setting, with the help of the MyLincoln Touch^™. Furthermore Lincoln MKS is the only vehicle in its segment which has Continuously Controlled Damping. More importantly it comes as standard equipment. By monitoring suspension settings up to 500 times per second, the real-time system adjusts the suspension 20 times per second to deliver more controlled handling with a smoother ride. Another reason to purchase the new 2013 Lincoln MKS is its standard 3.7-liter V6 engine, which delivers more projected horsepower (300 horsepower (220 kW) versus 274 horsepower (201 kW)). In addition it is coupled with improved fuel economy – projected 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway, a 3-mpg highway improvement versus today’s car. There is also an optional EcoBoost^™ 3.5-liter V6 also produces more horsepower, 365 (268 kW) vs. 355 (261 kW). Further optimizations in the new model feature collision warning technologies. We are having in mind here the new Lane Keeping Alert and new Lane Keeping Aid technologies which help warn drivers of potentially dangerous conditions and help them avoid common accidents. At last in the new MKS in included an expanded SYNC^® functionality. It now includes standard Operator Assist and local Wi-Fi^® hotspot capabilities for laptops and tablets.

The second vehicle presented by Lincoln brand today is the new 2013 Lincoln MKT. The new model offers most of the same improvements added to the MKS: Lincoln Drive Control, CCD, more power and improved fuel economy. However, the MKT includes some specific features. First, we have inflatable second-row outboard safety belts. Rear seat passengers can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. Hence the available inflatable second-row, outboard safety belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional safety belts. The effect is the reduction of the pressure on the chest while at the same time helping to control head and neck motion and helping reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally there is a standard collection of driver assist technologies: an array of six airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and AdvanceTrac^® with RSC^® Roll Stability Control^™. Adding to them is the Curve Control, which helps drivers maintain control in the MKT when taking a curve too quickly.

Of course all Lincoln vehicles feature a comprehensive warranty and complimentary maintenance package. It includes four-year, 50,000-mile complimentary maintenance with featured coverage for oil and filter changes, tire rotations and multipoint inspections for up to eight service visits for all 2011 model year and newer vehicles. Next there is also included four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty; five-year, 60,000-mile safety restraint limited warranty; five-year, unlimited mileage corrosion limited warranty. And eventually there is the six-year, 70,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

Both new models are expected to arrive at Lincoln dealers this spring.

Source: Lincoln

January 12, 2012

2013 Dodge Dart with Mopar Accessories and Performance Parts

No surprise is that the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will arrive in the showrooms later this year. However the great news is that it will offer more than 150 different accessories and performance parts all delivered by Mopar®, from which the customers can choose. The aim here is to deliver to the customers even more customization and personalization.

To have a glimpse over what is going to be offered by Mopar, we have made a selection of the most attention catching and performance parts for the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. First, let’s begin with the Performance Styled Hood. This is a carbon fiber scooped hood, designed to give the vehicle an aggressive and sporty appearance. Next comes the Performance Braking Upgrade, which features upgraded calipers, rotors and performance pads to provide increased braking power. In the Unique Grille chrome aluminum, replaces production grille below the bumper to provide a unique appearance. Mopar also offers Grille Cross-hatch Insert – a carbon fiber-style finish, which attaches to Dodge cross hatch over grille area, perfect for enhancing the “tuner” image. Next are the 18-inch Wheels with a unique Mopar design, polished spokes and black-painted pockets. There is also Rear-air Diffuser. It is in Matte Black attached to the rear fascia to provide a unique look to the rear of the vehicle. It was designed to coordinate with Chin Spoiler. A Front Fascia Appliqué includes chrome-plated appliqué slides over front/center bumper area to provide a bright front-end appearance. In addition a Front Chin Spoiler, which is in Matte Black, attaches to front fascia to give more aggressive look to the front end. Of course there are also Side Sills, again in Matte Black, which are attached to side rocker panels to provide a sportier appearance. They have also been designed to coordinate with Front Chin Spoiler and Rear-air Diffuser. All that – only in order to provide unique appearance. The Rear Deck Lid Spoiler is also in Matte Black, and also attaches to rear deck lid for a sporty appearance. Furthermore there is a Chrome Fuel Door, which was made of chrome aluminum and replaces the production fuel door. In details it coordinates with Chrome Mirror Covers and stainless steel B-pillar appliqué. And these Chrome Mirror Covers are also chrome-plated. They replace the production mirror cover. Next, the B-Pillar Appliqué is made from polished stainless steel; it is attached to the b-pillar area and enhances the appearance of the vehicle. The Pedal Kit has the unique bright finish – it has to be attached to gas and brake pedals to enhance driver’s foot well appearance.

An important highlight to be mentioned here is that Moper also offers the unique Industry-first Wireless Charging. In details, battery-powered devices can be now charged with this new system. It also allows driver to set electronic devices in a specified charging zone and charge without wires. This is accomplished by creating a virtually invisible charging zone in the vehicle instrument panel or center stack. Energy is then transferred from the charging pad to the device battery, utilizing a compatible device-specific case. Moreover Mopar also offers Industry-first Wi-Fi. It allows owners to utilize electronic devices as far as 150 feet from the vehicle. In this way each passenger may separately access the Web on the go. On the other hand in the vehicle there is also mounted router which receives 3G broadband Internet.

Another impressive feature offered by Mopar in an Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS). This Mopar system is powered by Guidepoint Systems, the leader in GPS-enabled stolen-vehicle recovery systems. Unlike other vehicle-tracking systems, the Mopar EVTS offers.

Source: Dodge

January 12, 2012

2012 Mitsubishi ASX Price – £16 499

Mitsubishi UK has announced the price list for the new 2012 ASX. The new more stylish and more practical model boasts practicality and versatility. It offers long wheelbase, generous passenger space and flexible seating.

The engine range includes a 1.8-litre DiD with 116PS (85 kW) achieving 54.3mpg and 136g/km on combined cycle. There is also a 1.6-litre petrol engine managing 47.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 139g/km.

The new 2012 ASX comes with BS anti-lock braking, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist an Emergency Stop Signal System and 7 airbags as standard. It has achieved a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating

The ASX comes with three years unlimited mileage warranty, 12 year anti-corrosion perforation warranty, 3 year pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance. The pricing starts at £16 499 for 2012 ASX2 1.6 Petrol.

ASX2 1.6 Petrol	£16,499.00
ASX3 1.6 Petrol	£18,359.00
ASX4 1.6 Petrol	£20,505.00
ASX3 1.8 Diesel	£20,599.00
ASX4 Black 1.6 Petrol	£21,505.00
ASX3 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£22,749.00
ASX4 1.8 Diesel	£22,745.00
ASX4 Black 1.8 Diesel	£23,745.00
ASX4 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£24,895.00
ASX4 Black 1.8 Diesel 4WD	£25,895.00

Source: Mitsubishi

January 11, 2012

2013 Ford Mondeo [first pictures]

Ford has released first two pictures of the new 2013 Mondeo. The new family-sized car is quite aggressive. It features new restyled headlights with LED turn indicators, big alloys with low-profile tires, two big exhaust pipes and two-colored rear lights.

If you find any similarities to Ford Fusion, you’ll be completely right, because the new Mondeo looks identical to the American car.

Still, nothing is mentioned about the engine range, but probably the new 1.6 liter EcoBoost engine with 181PS (133 kW) and 233Nm (172 lb-ft) will be available as well as the mighty 2.0 liter EcoBoost with 240PS (177 kW) and 339Nm (250 lb-ft).

Stay tuned for more information!

Source: Ford

January 11, 2012

Kia Cee’d Fresh in Spring 2012

The hugely popular Kia Cee’d will make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show 2012 with a whole new feel – a sporty, five-door hatchback with attention to detail in every aspect.

New stylish features garnish the exterior such as chrome lining around the windows and edgy curves on the bonnet. Striking new headlights now incorporate daytime LED’s. Inside the story is pretty much the same – ergonomic design feature, higher quality materials and driver oriented controls. No news about the oily bits still but we have high hopes for that

Kia Cee’d has always been the prime C-segment choice of customers with its unparalleled 7-year warranty, affordability and reliability. It is also still used as Top Gear’s “reasonably priced car” which has the novel task to take celebrities around the Top Gear test track.

Sales are expected to start around the second quarter of 2012, after the premier at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Source: Kia

January 11, 2012

Infiniti Hint Their Latest Product

Infiniti intends to pursue the ultimate driving experience delivered from electricity. They have already proven themselves apt in that field with the Infiniti M hybrid but now they are looking towards the Geneva Motor Show 2012. There they will reveal a yet to be named sports concept that will “minimize the traditional compromise between thrilling performance and sustainable mobility”.

Information is scarce really. All we have is Infiniti’s promise that we are talking about an efficient, sharp, low-emission vehicle with an even greater urban mobility. Infiniti say also that, despite an overall truthfulness to the company’s image and spirit, a new mid-ship design will provide better weight distribution. In other words most of the mechanical bits will be placed somewhere where it is least damaging to the performance of the car.

For more information supposedly, we will have to wait for the Geneva Motor Show which kicks off on the 8th of March this year.

Source: Infiniti

January 11, 2012

Lincoln MKZ Concept Debuts at NAIAS

Lincoln have revealed their latest concept (the MKZ) on the NAIAS to give voice to their intentions for the future design path they are willing to take. The MKZ Concept showcases “elegant simplicity” and unconventional luxury.

Looking at the pictures we can see what they mean. First impressions come from the brandy-colored exterior which, Lincoln say, consists of a dense base coating and a multitude of clear-coat varnish. The MKZ‘s superstructure comprises of materials such as baron and aluminum. The overlaying, smooth roofline (which houses a panoramic window trough and trough) sort of conceals the fact that this is in fact a sedan which normally consists of three boxes. The seemingly organic profile takes an aerodynamic feel with ease. Recognizable Lincoln features however, do not go unnoticed – the grille, although very conceptual, still retains the image of a split-wing-like entity first seen on the 1938 Lincoln Zephyr.

Inside, a blend of poplar wood, aluminum and leather complements the bold outer design. The beverage themed hues continue as ‘champagne-colored’ seats show off their ‘champagne perforation patterns’ (something about the stitching that makes them look fizzy with bubbles just like a champagne glass). The four-seated saloon is airy and inviting that makes use of some cleverness – push-button transmission gear selection, a 10-inch MyLincoln Touch screen for the driver as well as an 8-inched one in the middle.

For power, the MKZ will most probably utilize the MKS and MKT EcoBoost engines, which come with Drive Control. The suspension will also make use of Lincoln’s Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system. Drivetrains setups include both FWD and AWD.

Source: Lincoln

January 11, 2012

Maserati Kubang SUV Concept

At the 2012 North American International Auto Show, Maserati has unveiled their new SUV concept vehicle named Kubang. The concept demonstrates the power of the modern Maserati. The idea of this sport luxury SUV is not new to Maserati. To remind you, the first Kubang concept was presented in the distant 2003 again at NAIAS. While the project starts with firm fundamentals and capability, the model eventually produced will unquestionably be a Maserati. All major system components will be fully produced by Maserati in picture-perfect continuity with the brand’s core values of sportiness, elegance, glamour, luxury, performance and craftsmanship. There will also be included a new generation of Maserati high-tech proprietary engines. Interesting information is that they were designed in Modena, Italy at Maserati Headquarters. More importantly the production of the new Maserati engines will be performed by Ferrari in Maranello, Italy and they will be mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission! In addition there are also components with specific performance settings: suspension, brakes, steering and electronics, which will be exclusively developed by Maserati engineers.

As you already know, Maserati brand is a founder of the modern granturismo. Long ago Maserati broke the boundaries of the original GT concept and made it from two to four doors. The result was Quattroporte, which now is considered by many to be the first modern super sedan. Moreover it maintained not only the brands core values of style and luxury, but also delivered genuine performance thanks to components and design.

Nowadays Maserati again provokes with innovation by giving more sportiness and luxury to an SUV and thus giving the form of a very dynamic looking, incredibly elegant and high performing sport luxury vehicle with the capability of getting its passengers through all types of climates over a variety of surfaces on and off the road.

Source: Maserati

January 11, 2012

Category: Car Makes