Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

Subaru BRZ 2013 To Handle Like No Other?

Brace yourselves as Subaru is about to unveil the latest 2013 rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car. Day and place – as soon as the NAIAS in Detroit kicks off. Baring the typical Subaru pedigree, the BRZ spirit will be all about handling. Sales are expected to start late at Spring.

So why not AWD like most Subarus out there? Well, to achieve exceptional handling, Subaru engineers have figured that they need the lowest center of gravity achievable. Therefore an AWD system was deemed too complex and restrictive while with a RWD system the engine can be mounted pretty low. The whole car weights no more than 2,700 lbs and it will be powered by a 2.0 liter, 200 horsepower, 7400 rpm doomsday device. And because it is a compact flat (boxer) engine, technicians have the freedom to put it where they want it to in order to achieve perfect weight distribution and center of gravity.

The slippery looks scream of racing genes all around – 50.6 inches of height, a sloping roof line, miss maxi type fenders and short overhangs. Don’t despair though, because Subaru promise everyday practicality to go along with the lunacy – seating for four, handy boot space and generic passenger safeness.

It’s an ambitious project this but we are definitely ready to fall in love. For we play the waiting game.

Subaru BRZ (2013)

Source: Subaru

January 6, 2012
Suzuki Grand Vitara SZ-T Limited

If you want an SUV for the sake of safety and mobility, get a Suzuki Grand Vitara. If you want exclusivity added to that get the new special edition SZ-T. Based on the widely popular 5-door 1.9 DdiS, this limited edition will hit the showrooms this week with only 500 units for sale.

Prices start at £22,315 if we count the metallic body finish (Quasar Grey, Silky Silver, Blueish Black Pearl, Phoenix Red Pearl and Nocturne Blue Pearl). The standard equipment list is pretty lengthy including the keyless entry and start. Visually we get a new front grille, new 18-inch wheels, Silver painted roof rails and Silver painted bonnet vents, turn signals embedded in the side-view mirrors, colour contrasting trimmings and a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate.

The engine remains the same 1.9 DDiS Euro 5 emission class with power up to 130 PS and 300 Nm of torque at your disposal at 2.000 rpm which gives great confidence when overtaking someone on the open road. In return you get absolutely respectable 41.5 mpg and 179g/km of carbon dioxide chum.

Do not for a minute think however, that the SZ-T has gone soft. It still is a torquey mountain goat that can tackle some rough terrains without breaking a sweat.

Suzuki Grand Vitara SZ-T (2012)

Source: Suzuki

January 6, 2012
Improving on Perfection With the Toyota Land Cruiser MY 2013

Land Cruiser, the ultra luxurious SUV from Toyota, has received some enhancements for the 2013 model year. Both the interior and the exterior have been revised and a bag full of features, formally optional, are now standard.

On the outside we get an updated front grille, headlights with HID low-beams, chromed side moldings and restyled side view mirrors and taillights. To further affirm the rigid image of the Cruiser, the front and rear fenders have also been enlarged. The A-pillars are specially filled with foam and the molding between the windscreen and the body is “bifacial”. Because of that wind noise is significantly reduced. A new Pearl White paint finish is available for the MY 2013, making a total of 7 color options. Under the chassis, guards extend throughout the engine bay and also behind the rear axle to provide extra protection from rocky terrains. The wheels that carry the Cruiser measure at 18 inches and are wrapped with P285/60 R18 heavy duty tires. The 13.4 inch ventilated brake disks are equally impressive with their four-piston brake calipers.

Inside small tweaks complement the overall redesign – a perforated leather trim on the ventilated front seats, an even more glossy wood grain finish and enhanced meter-cluster lighting. Additional technology includes a Multi-terrain Monitor which allows pretty much a 360-degree view around the vehicle, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, a heated steering wheel and even a DC 12V power socket at the end of the central console along with the 120 AC one back at the cargo deck. DVD screens behind the front seat headrests will pacify rear-seat passengers. Sixteen JBL speakers can tear shatter glass from a mile as Toyota’s Premium Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation with Entune multimedia system can keep keep people occupied for hours should they decide to fiddle with it. The gauge instruments are accompanied by a screen showing gear selection, fuel economy, tire pressure, and cruising range. The center console on the other hand, houses a gate-type shifter with a sequential shift mode, a parking brake, a cooler box , a USB port and cup holders.

Toyota Land Cruiser (2013)

Power still comes from the state of the art 5.7-liter, 381 horsepower V8 DOHC. Peak torque is at 3.600 rpm, measuring up to 401 lb-ft. Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) operates both intake and exhaust valves in such a way, so that power, fuel efficiency and emissions are fully optimized. For a more precise toque delivery, The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) decides how long should a valve stay open, depending on rpm and throttle angle. The exhaust system, along with the exhaust manifolds, enjoys a stainless steel build. The six-speed automatic transmission handles the demanding job of processing ginormous amounts of power while remaining smooth and subtle.

Along with the ten airbags, there is also a handful of blisteringly complex array of systems that work together to keep all four wheels on the ground, ensure the safety of the biological unit inside (driver really), and deliver traction whenever and wherever needed. Just to give you a clue of what the Cruiser employes we can talk about the pre-collision detection system which can further restrain seat-belts should it detect a forthcoming impact.

This car truly is an off-road going palace riddled with luxury and technology and with prices starting at $68.000 it should be.

Source: Toyota

January 6, 2012
Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport-X

The luxury brand Mercedes-Benz has worked in collaboration with Pioneer GB. The result is the Project-X which is the ultimate DJ van with Pioneer’s world record holding Sound Pressure Level in-car entertainment products. The so called Project-X vehicle is based on a Mercedes-Benz Vito 122CDI Sport-X Dualiner model. The car is powered by a range-topping turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine and produces 224 hp (165 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft), reaching 100km/h in just 8.3 seconds with a maximum speed of 196 km/h!

The astonishing machine features almost £25,000 worth of Pioneer kit. In details there are two 15” competition class SPL subs and four 10” Champion Series subs which ensure a consistently clear, powerful and wide-ranging bass response. The vehicle also comes with two Pioneer CDJs and unique mixer. In combination both offer the perfect party set-up. The total system features no less than eight independent amplifiers using four batteries and a 300amp power supply, with a speaker power handling capability at a staggering 30,050 watts! Perfect for loud parties, isn’t it?

This special edition Vito Sport-X includes also a Brabus sport steering wheel, gear lever in black leather (with Brabus emblem on it) and lowering springs, chrome sidebars, Sports exhaust, metallic paint, tinted glass, colour coded bumpers and chrome grille and tailgate trim. Hence all this makes the Project-X not only perfect in sound, but also in appearance. Simply breath-taking!

Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport-X

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 6, 2012
Land Rover Defender Concept 100

Another debut today at the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo has made the Land Rover’s Defender Concept 100 and Defender Concept 100 Sport. These concepts are an attempt for a possible replacement of the iconic model. Moreover they are intended to showcase the potential breath of capability for the future Defender family, capturing the rugged, dependable and adventurous spirit of the original.

Furthermore Defender Concept 100 represents the essential Defender design cues for the 21st century, but a bit modified ad optimized. Such optimizations and modifications include short overhangs for extreme approach and departure angles, vertical panels, an upright windscreen and strong shoulder line for visibility and ease of positioning and Defenders frontal image with its signature round lamps and prominent grille, incorporating a winch. Improvements have been made with the optimised off-road 20-inch alloy wheels shod with Cooper all-terrain tyres. On the other hand the Defender Concept 100 Sport takes all these key design cues and adds to them the spirit of freedom with their fold-down windscreens.

The first and foremost highlight here is the next generation of Land Rover’s Terrain Response System which will optimise the car for any conditions without driver’s pre-selection. Moreover a new Terrain-i System shows an intelligent map of the topography in front of the car and displays it as a 3D visualisation. It also automatically identifies potential difficulties on the road and of course suggests alternative routes. And while driving in urban environments, the same system identifies pedestrians and hazards with great accuracy. Another innovation is the new Wade Aid System which uses sonar sensors mounted in the bumpers and wing mirrors to measure water depth. Additionally Wade Aid will optimise the car for water crossings by closing body vents, raising the ride height, selecting a low gear and advising on the safest speed.

The Land Rover brand is also concerned about the environment and extends the commitment to develop new technologies which will reduce the environmental impact. First of all there is an intelligent Twin-Solenoid Stop/Start System mated to the latest eight-speed automatic gearbox, both of which have been designed with future hybridisation in mind. Secondly, there is the one-of-a-kind Driveline Disconnect System, which sends power to the front-axle only unless conditions demand all-wheel drive. Hence, this systems physically, rather than electronically, decouples the rear-axle to reduce friction losses but can reengage drive almost instantaneously.

Source: Land Rover

January 6, 2012
Hyundai Hexa Space Concept

Hyundai has just made a debut of the Hexa Space Concept at the 2012 Auto Expo in New Delhi. The new concept vehicle is innovative in terms of the utilization of interior space. Hexa Space, codenamed HND-7, has all the best of the Hyundai brand characteristics: for instance the “Fluidic Sculpture” design which includes the bold character lines on the side panels; and on the other hand other elements of family design, such as Hyundai’s distinctive hexagonal grille, which now is applied to the seat designs. TO be more precise the vehicle features eight slim hexagonally shaped seats. They all fit together like puzzle pieces in order to maximize the internal space while minimizing vehicle width. Brilliant, isn’t it! Moreover the hexagon is known as an optimum shape for space efficiency.

Hyundai Hexa Space Concept Interior

The target customers of the Hexa Space are the young urban families in their 30s and 40s, or customers who live a practical and dynamic lifestyle in big cities. The unique seat design for example offers multiple configurations for seating. The centre seats fold flat for greater comfort, the second row folds flat to create a limousine function, the back row folds flat for light-cargo use. Additionally the seven seats fold flat for heavy hauling and all eight seats fold flat for camping. The centre seat in the first two rows of Hexa Space is positioned slightly behind the seats on either side, allowing passengers to sit three-abreast without feeling cramped. And can you imagine that all this will come in just one car! Moreover the rear doors are designed in such way that they lift out and slide back, creating wide-open entry on each side. Not forgetting the Hexa Space’s interior, which is made with high-tech features, including a touch-screen centre console, a push-button shifter and a cluster ionizer air purifier. In addition several storage spaces are tucked throughout the interior. However, despite the spaciousness of the interior, the concept vehicle has incredible narrowed width, which makes it perfect for the urban streets. In details, externally, Hexa Space is 4,300 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,647 mm high. The wheelbase is 2,750 mm and runs on 19-inch tires. Furthermore Hexa Space is powered by Hyundai’s Kappa 1.2-liter turbo GDI engine, which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Hyundai Hexa Space Concept

Source: Hyundai

January 6, 2012
2012 Citroen C1

The new CITROËN C1 is sharper and greener than ever before. The new car will make its first appearance at the 2012 Brussels Motor Show on 10 January. Then it will be at showrooms in March. Since 2005 the brands model has gained many fans and customers all over the world. However, this year’s model will be more special then ever. If you wonder why, it will be galvanized by a new image and CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.

The first highlight about CITROËN C1 is that, as it is obvious, it is a compact, economical and ecological city car. Moreover the new 2012 model includes new features and optimizations, such as CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, LED daytime running lights, a CD audio system with the brand’s Connecting Box and an electronic gearbox system with steering wheel mounted paddles. Now the C1 is even more practical and user-friendly city car. Moreover it will be launched in both 3-door and 5-door guises. The car is able to transport four persons with plenty of room in the front and back seats – unlike many cars of the same segment. Nevertheless the 2012 CITROËN C1 keeps its compact dimensions – at 3.44 m long (which makes it one of the shortest cars on the market) – perfect for traffic cases, isn’t it! Furthermore it is a treat to handle – with a turning circle of just 9.63 meters kerb to kerb; and it is user-friendly across the board, with a plethora of storage compartments in the dashboard, central console and door panels. In addition boot volume can be adjusted thanks to a folding rear bench and ranges from 139 liters to over 700 liters.

The next thing to be highlighted about this vehicle is that it spends just 4.3l/100km and does it with just 99 g/km of CO2! The new model is powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine which develops 68 bhp (92 kW). Moreover to bring more excitement to the driving experience, it is equipped with a manual gearbox which boasts improved fuel consumption and emissions performance and sets a new standard on environmental protection (as already stated) with 4.3 l/100 km over a combined cycle and 99 g/km of CO2. It is good to be noted that it is the first CITROËN petrol-engine car to emit less than 100 g/km of CO2. And for enhanced handling and driving comfort the new model is also available with an electronic gearbox system for enhanced handling and driving comfort. However, here the C1 1.0i EGS consumes 4.5 l/100 km and emits 104 g/km of CO2.

In addition the designers have changed the appearance of the car a little bit. The new C1 looks even more appealing through its new front end with a shorter bonnet. The headlights keep their rounded shape, while the entirely redesigned bumper now houses fog lamps and LED daytime running lights. The vertical design light signature (which is specific to CITROËN) strengthens the character of the new version of C1. Furthermore at the back, the car retains its innovative glass tailgate and adopts modernized chevrons and monograms. Another new thing about the C1 is the “Notus” design 14-inch wheel rims. However it is still available with “Rift” alloy wheel rims but with a new touch in the form of a centre sporting the new chevron design. Moreover the new CITROËN C1 comes with several special colours: Botticelli blue, Scarlet red, Tritium yellow, Electra blue, Lipizan white, Caldéra black and two grey tones, one light, Gallium, and one dark, Carlinite. CITROËN has also finished the grille with a chrome-finished strip available from Confort trim level.

2012 Citroen C1

In the inside the designers have made the new CITROËN C1 as attractive as it is outside. They have included cheery cabin with components in the same color as the body. To make it eve more harmonious, the lower part of the dashboard, the central console and door panels change from grey to black and get the same color as the top part of the dashboard. Another modification included is the leather steering wheel for EGS models, which has been redesigned, while manual gearbox versions get a new-look gearstick handle. The Confort and Exclusive models are available in new Orsai Multicolore seat upholstery and the entry-level models come with Nokimat Mistral mesh. The Leather/Alcantara option is still available, adding the final touch to the interior of the car.

Moreover the 2012 CITROËN C1 includes modern and innovative features. For example the LED daytime running lights are an initial visual nod to “Créative Technologie”. In addition for more traveling comfort, the radio offering has been improved. With a fascia matching the styling of the dashboard and featuring a time display, the all-new CD audio system with a Connecting Box (optional from the second trim level and standard on Exclusive models) can read all MP3 formats and is equipped with a Bluetooth function. Additionally it is accompanied by USB and jack hook-ups at the base of the central console. Other new technological features include steering wheel mounted controls for the electronic gearbox system and parking assist, which is available as an accessory.

Of course the new CITROËN C1 has perfect safety features such as power steering settings and shock absorbers. The C1 is also equipped with a range of technologies for safer urban and peri-urban journeys, including ABS, airbags, emergency brake assist, Isofix anchor points, electronic brake force distribution and ESP.

Source: CITROËN

January 6, 2012
Most creative TV Car Commercials for 2011 [VIDEO]

Automobile’s industry is one of the most important industries in the world. Undeniably there is a great contest between brands. All are competing in different areas, such as power, design, comfort and etc. However probably the most entertaining sphere where the brands compete is the one of TV Commercials. Through the years we have seen some of the most creative advertisements ever. However, it’s a good idea to stay up to day. For that reason we have picked up five of the TV Commercials, which had taken our attention. Perhaps advertising is the place where the creativity can take mind-blowing effects on viewers. We haven’t picked ads that are only informative. Instead, we have chosen such, which are rather more amusing and entertaining.

2011 Nissan Sentra Bubble Commercial

This one is most certainly on of the best ads we can see nowadays. Nissan Sentra Bubble creates the right amount of intrigue and cinematic magic. The commercial was shot with TBWA Toronto and directed by Holiday Films visual storyteller Luis Gerard.

The 2011 Nissan Sentra has a spacious interior and delivers a balanced power with fuel economy. Moreover it grabs the drivers’ attention with its intuitive control layout.

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

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Commercial

Lets take a look at another add. This time we have 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Manifesto Commercial from DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula. Here we had the first spot of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is definitely really intriguing, because it puts the attention on pride in American manufacturing and engineering. Moreover it conveys the meaning that what we are going to see from Chrysler from now on is going to be superb! The commercial was developed by Wieden+Kennedy.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is proud to have an added refinement and still-substantial off-road capability. This is a fully redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee which most certainly makes it competitive choice for a midsize crossover. It can intrigue the customer with its strong V6 or V8 power, high tow rating, upscale interior and capable off-road prowess.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi0SbrrGaiw

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee “If It Can” Commercial

Here we have another brilliant advertisement of 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is obvious that the creatives have made a really strong advertising campaign in 2011. Thank to them, we are sure now that if the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee can scale mountain sides, ford rivers, and tow an unsurpassed amount of pounds, then just imagine what it can do in these terrible snowy conditions!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW5jg8KzyZE

2011 Fiat 500 Commercial

From this advertisement we can see that the 2011 Fiat 500 is inspired by the classic 500 that originally went on sale in 1957. This commercial conveys the feeling that the customer should count on history. This is the Italian style which offers an exterior which is retro and cute, small but fun-to-drive. Furthermore 2011 Fiat 500 is another stylish car which is the proof that the small can be also cool! Not only it has adorable styling, but also it delivers the drivers with sport-like capable handling, excellent fuel efficiency and at last but not least spaciousness.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdS1Mgu11vg

2011 BMW M5 Commercial

Probably the most creative advertisement for the last year was presented by BMW’s brand. It’s so strong that it immediately pushes the viewer to go to the nearest dealership and purchase the car. This 2011 BMW M5 is the next generationmodel of the freshly redesigned 5 Series of the brand. It also offers impressive combination of superb performance and daily use. The 2011 BMW M5 uses the S63 biturbo 4.4 Litre V8 with twin scroll turbocharging technology and it is expected to have an output of 560 hp (418 kW) and 502 ft-lb (681 NM) of torque. Perhaps now you understand why the commercial is the way it is.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MYjowQHi28

Source: Youtube

January 5, 2012
Lexus LF-LC Sports Coupe Concept New Pictures

We have had one or two teasers about the Lexus LF-LC but now, a week before its debut, two new official, real-life pictures are on the loose. We still cannot report on any technical data except that it will bring “driving performance and fuel efficiency” to the world because we are talking about a hybrid. Even the branding on the sides suggests so.

Other than that, it just looks amazing, and slippery, and sleek. The front grille is big enough to pass as an industrial fishing net while various air inlets (for cooling the brakes presumably) shyly peak out from the curves of the body. Inside the squiggly lines of the interior are overwhelming and so are the seats which look like leather coated battle droids borrowed from the set of Star Wars.

It’s nice to see Lexus trying to break away from their well established image of boring-luxury-Toyota-producers. With that futuristic piece of art they are sure to freshen up next week’s NAIAS in Detroit.

Lexus LF-LC Sport Coupe Concept (2012)

Source: Lexus

January 5, 2012
Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

At the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volvo Car Corporation will reveal an innovative petrol plug-in hybrid, which is going to be a unique blend of petrol and electric power. The project is called Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept and it is an electric car, a highly economical hybrid and a powerful high-performance car. All this comes in one package! The great news is that the driver can choose which one of the options they want to drive, with only one touch: there is a button, with which the driver decides how the available power from the combination of the high-performance petrol engine and the electric motor is to be used.

This is undeniably world-class petrol plug-in hybrid technology. Moreover it features a state-of-the-art four-cylinder engine from the upcoming Volvo Environmental Architecture engine family. However we will have to wait a couple of years to see it reaching the American showrooms. As we have already stated, the driver chooses the driving mode via three buttons on the instrument panel. Through these buttons the car “receives” three different modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power. In the first one, the vehicle is powered solely by its electric motor. The range according to the European certification driving cycle NEDC is 28 miles. In the next, Hybrid mode (which by the way is the standard setting whenever the car is started), the petrol engine and electric motor co-operate to provide maximum driving pleasure with minimum environmental impact. According to the European certification driving cycle NEDC, CO₂ emissions are 53 g/km (2.3 l/100 km) – which translates into fuel economy of over 100 mpg. The car has a total operating range of up to 600 miles (960 km). The last mode is a technological optimization which creates the optimum possible power. Here the petrol engine with 280 hp (206 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb.-ft.) is combined with the electric motor with 70 hp (52 kW) and 200 Nm (148 lb.-ft.). This results in car’s acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h 6.1 seconds.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept features three Modes

In addition the front wheels of the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept are powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from the forthcoming VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture) engine family. This is the engine which produces 280 horsepower (206 kW) and maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb.-ft.). Power delivery to the wheels comes via a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission. Moreover the concept car carries a “T8” badge, which emphasises the combined 350 horsepower of the high-performance four-cylinder engine and the electric motor. The highlight here is that this moves the car into a range previously occupied solely by eight-cylinder engines.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

In details, VEA is a modular range of diesel and petrol engines. To be more precise, the petrol versions come with direct injection, minimised internal losses and balance shafts for maximised comfort. Several levels of turbocharging open up for flexibility that encompasses the whole range from high power and torque variants to extremely fuel-efficient derivatives. In addition certain engines will have added performance via hybrid drive or other spearhead technology. The modular format is based on a standard of 500cc (30 cubic inches) per cylinder for optimum thermodynamics. Additionally, it could also be used to develop three-cylinder engines. What is more important here is that VEA offers several advantages. The first thing to be mentioned is that the number of unique parts is reduced. Therefore this promotes manufacturing efficiency, quality assurance and efficiency of new development projects. Secondly, the new powertrains are considerably lighter weight than the present engines with similar performance. Next, the fuel economy is improved by up to 35 percent, again in comparison to the engines with similar performance. And at last, the modularity and compact transverse design are also ideal for future electrification developments.

In addition the engine in the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept has no conventional starter motor or alternator. On its place there is an Integrated Starter motor and Generator (ISG) connected to the crankshaft, which is located between the engine and the transmission. In details, the ISG is capable of delivering the additional 34 kW (45 hp) during acceleration. Moreover it also charges the battery during braking. Furthermore the rear axle of the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is driven by an electric motor which produces 70 horsepower (52 kW). It is supplied with power from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

The battery pack can recharged from a regular power outlet, at home or at a parking place. The recharging time varies with the current. If 220V is available, a full charge with 12A takes just 3.5 hours. On the other hand, with the 110V/12A a full charge takes 7.5 hours. In addition it is also possible while recharging the car to heat or cool the passenger compartment. Therefore this also means that more battery power is available to propel the car.

There is no doubt that the car will feature an infotainment system, called Volvo Sensus. It will keep the driver constantly updated on everything that makes the journey simpler, more efficient and more entertaining. For example it can show the best route to a destination depending on whether the driver prioritises low energy consumption, the fastest route or the shortest distance. Moreover it can also show Low Emission Zones where sufficient capacity is needed for running on pure electricity. Next instance is that it provides information about charging stations with access to renewable electricity or locations along the route with access to quick-charging facilities. The driver can also connect to the car via a mobile phone application. Thus way making it possible for the driver to see remotely the battery’s charge level, remaining range, and the location and capacity of the nearest recharging station. Moreover via the app, it is also possible to verify if the charger cable is hooked up and it is also possible to pre-program the car’s interior climate.

The exterior of the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is painted in white colour and the 21-inch wheels enhance the muscular appearance. On the other hand the interior includes unique detailing and colours, such as sober dark-blue leather upholstery and inlays of blue-grey wood. The instruments have been tailored to give the driver all the necessary information about petrol and electricity consumption, battery charge level, remaining range and so on.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

Moreover the electric four-wheel drive in this exceptional concept is activated by pressing the AWD (All Wheel Drive) button. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the petrol-driven front wheels and the electrically driven rear axle. This electric four-wheel drive system has been designed to provide better traction when starting and when driving on slippery roads. The car will be designed in order to give the driver the option to choose to save battery power for later in order to drive on pure electricity later in. For instance while driving in an urban green zone or in the heart of a city. When Save is activated, the generator charges and tops up the battery pack if necessary. The goal is to ensure sufficient battery power for about 12 miles (20 km) of driving on electricity.

Source: Volvo

January 5, 2012
Nissan Cube Fresh in 2012 – Prices Announced

Nissan USA have now put a price tag on the funky 2012 Nissan Cube. Although it has been refined trough three generations, the Cube has preserved its lunacy with the vertically hinged hatch and asymmetrical, oddly pillared rear view window. And now there is a special 1.8 S Indigo edition on the market with added as standard the Nissan Satellite Navigation, a unique Black/Indigo cloth material for the seats, Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition, 15 inch split, six-spoke alloy wheels, a rear view camera and Rockford Fosgate sub woofer and amplifier and many more. New body colors are also available – Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Cayenne Red and Bali Blue

Being based on Nissan’s B platform (Clio and Twingo among many others), the Cube gets its power from a 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine which sends 122 hp trough an automatic Xtronic CVT gearbox. While the SL comes strictly with CVT, the S models have a 6-speed manual with CVT as an option. With the CVT the Cube is said to return 31mpg on a highway.

Nissan Cube (2011)

The interior is as roomy as possible with seating for five – two at the front and three fully-adjustable seats at the back. Asymmetry continues inside with the Fine Vision gauges and the “Water Drop” motives.

Here is a quick price list on all trimmings and their possible transmission combinations:

Model/Transmission

cube 1.8 M/T $14,980 USD

cube 1.8 S M/T $16,420 USD

cube 1.8 S CVT $17,420 USD

cube 1.8 SL CVT $18,520 USD

Source: Nissan

January 5, 2012
2012 Ford EcoSport

The all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport will make its appearance in the heart of Asia’s car market at New Delhi Auto Expo 2012 this week. The new compact SUV will further is another vehicle offered by Ford for India, as well as in many other markets across the world. One is without a doubt that the all-new Ford EcoSport is modern and innovative. Moreover it is designed to combine best-in-class design, technology, quality and safety. Furthermore it is the latest One Ford global product which is going to be a key model for Ford, because of the company’s expanding presence in major worldwide growth markets, including India, Brazil and the ASEAN markets.

The all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport was developed in South America at one of Ford’s product development centers. Of course the work on the vehicle was made in close conjunction with teams from Asia, Europe and North America in order to meet the needs of markets across the globe. Its genuine SUV confidence starts in the stability of the chassis, reinforced by the body’s robust build, high torsional stiffness and high levels of protection for its occupants. On the other hand its innovative design reduces the weight and ensures good fuel efficiency.

2012 Ford EcoSport

The first thing that captures the attention is the modern and innovative look of the vehicle: its contemporary shape conveys confidence while combining refinement and dynamism in an intelligent and fresh-looking package. In addition it sports key SUV cues such as the confident stance, command driving position and signature spare wheel mounted on a swing-gate at the rear of the vehicle. Another benefit of the design is that the EcoSport has the appearance of a larger vehicle, while retaining the agility and practicality of a compact car. It features high ground clearance and integrated lower body cladding for robustness. Furthermore the back of the SUV is marked by a large rear window which wraps around to the sides and oblique shaped taillights. May be this is what gives the vehicle more sporty look.

The all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport was designed in order to offer balanced performance on paved roads and off-road terrain. Hence, this is making the vehicle perfect for the urban customer who wants to escape the city. This next-generation model delivers unique features and options to the future customers. To be more precise, the 2012 Ford Eco Sport offers new technology and features innovative equipment normally not found in this class of vehicle. Furthermore it is fuel efficient, which was the key factor in the development process of the SUV. The all-new Ford EcoSport has been designed to meet all safety standards in the various markets where it will be sold. This includes weight-optimization; highly resistant body, developed with advanced software and design tools; combination of zones aimed to absorb the forces of impact with an extremely rigid cell. Of course, Ford brand wouldn’t forget the quality – the all-new Ford EcoSport will deliver impressive levels of quality and craftsmanship, reflecting its new world-class design and engineering. At last low maintenance costs and great durability were also key objectives in the development process.

2012 Ford EcoSport

The first preview of the 2012 Ford EcoSport will be at the 11th Annual Auto Expo in New Delhi – one of the world’s biggest automotive growth markets. In details, the new EcoSport was developed on Ford’s new global B-segment platform. The EcoSport has been a market phenomenon since it was launched in South America in 2003 as the region’s first affordable SUV, selling 700,000 vehicles in nine years. The success was due to the uniqueness of the segment and the popularization of the features that many consumers wanted. Moreover the all-new EcoSport will be produced at modern assembly plants generally in Brazil and India. The project was led by Ford’s Development Center in Camaçari, Brazil, which is one of the centers most specialized in the development of compact cars. Eventually, the new vehicle will be sold in nearly 100 markets worldwide.

Ford has taken the challenge to conquer the Asian market. For instance, the EcoSport is the second of eight products slated to be launched in India by mid-decade. Moreover the new EcoSport will be produced in the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility which has been modified with an annual production capacity of 200,000 units and is now positioned as a Ford regional centre. Additionally, Ford EcoSport models will be also produced at the plant for export to international markets.

Source: Ford

January 5, 2012

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