Blog

  • 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE

    Mitsubishi Motors Company has introduced a 2012 Special Edition Coupe and Spyder variants of the iconic Eclipse. However, the manufacturer is planning to end Eclipse production after the 2012 model year.

    2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE boasts HID headlights, “SE” side decaling, black side mirrors and nice 18” alloy wheels finished in matt black. All these goodies come along with the huge list of high-end standard features that can be found on the Eclipse GS-Sport.

    The interior includes leather seating with heated front seats and a power driver’s seat, rearview camera, Bluetooth® hands-free phone access, heated side mirrors and a brutal Rockford Fosgate® premium audio system with SIRIUS® satellite radio with 9 speakers having a total power of 650 Watts. The Coupe model also comes with a sunroof.

    The engine range has two engines – a 2.4 liter four-cylinder with 164PS (121 kW) and 219Nm (162 lb-ft) and a powerful 3.8 liter V6 developing 269PS (198 kW) and 355Nm (262 lb-ft) of torque.

    The smaller engine comes with a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic available as an option and the bigger V6 comes with a 5-speed automatic gearbox.

    Standard safety equipment on all Eclipse models includes:

    • 4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS)
    • Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
    • Active Stability Control (ASC)
    • Traction Control Logic (TCL
    • advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) and side air bags.
    • Side curtain air bags are included on the Eclipse Coupe

    2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

    Ford has revealed the new 2012 Mustang Shelby GTS at the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle is a successor to the staggering 2007-2008 GT model.

    The engine range includes 3.7 liter V6 and 5.0 liter V8. There is no performance data for both engines, but the mighty V8 will have at least 500HP to play with.

    The development of the Ford Shelby GTS started when the 2011 Mustang was first launched, and involved Ford Racing, Borla, Baer and Shelby American. Practically, this is a sport version of Ford Mustang and includes stiffened suspension, bigger brake system and of course, more horsepower.

    Still, the company priced Ford Shelby GTS post-title package $9 995, but the options list is huge.

    2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS is expected to go in production in the end of this year, but they has already begun taking orders.

    2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

    Source: Ford

  • Wald Lexus LX570 Sports Line Black Bison Edition

    Wald International now offers a special tuning program for the Lexus LX570 from 2008. The SUV will join to the Black Bison series. Because the LX570 is a US version and it is not offered by the manufacturer in Japan, Wald had import one.

    Lexus LX570 Sports Line Black Bison Edition received a full body kit consisting of a new front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lights, a modified rear bumper with quad sport exhaust system, which is specially developed for the big 5.7 liter engine. The side skirts are not modified.

    The tuned LX570 stands on enormous 24” MAHORA M13 alloy wheels fitted with low profile tires. The stance of the SUV is also improved by the tuned suspension.

    Wald didn’t release any price lists for now.

    Lexus LX570 WALD Sports Line Black Bision Edition

    Source: Wald International

  • 2012 Fiat 500C

    Fiat has introduced the new 2012 500C (Cabrio) at the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle is based on the US version 500 Coupe and features a roof-mounted spoiler and a power-retractable soft top that can be lowered at speeds up to 60 mph (97 km/h).

    “Perfectly timed with the warm weather and excitement of spring, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Cabrio expands our product lineup while paying homage to the brand’s rich heritage of open-air cabrios that deliver style, value and driving enjoyment,” said Laura Soave, Head of FIAT Brand North America.

    “The new Fiat 500c has been intelligently tailored for our market – now with an added dose of sunshine and panoramic views at the push of a button.”, she added.

    2012 Fiat 500C US is powered by a 1.4 liter MultiAir engine with 102PS (75 kW) and 133Nm (98 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is available either with 5-speed manual or an optional 6-speed automatic gearbox. The all-new 6-speed automatic transmission has “Sport” mode, which enables quicker gear changes, a unique throttle map for improved engine responsiveness and allows each gear to be held for longer periods near the redline.

    The interior boasts air conditioning (AC), power windows and locks, a leather-upholstered steering wheel and Bluetooth/USB connectivity. The TomTom Navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication system has an innovative 4.3” (10.9 cm) screen on top of the new 2012 Fiat 500c’s instrument panel.

    500C is a small city car, so it has just 153 liters of luggage compartment, but it can be expanded to 663 liters with the rear seats folded down.

    2012 Fiat 500C will hit the US market this spring with a price tag of $19 500.

    2012 Fiat 500 Cabrio

    Source: Fiat

  • 2012 Mazda3

    The new 2012 Mazda3 made its US debut today at the New York International Auto Show (NAIAS). The facelift version of the popular model features more refined exterior and interior, innovative SKYACTIV fuel-saving and performance-oriented technologies and some other interesting goodies.

    “SKYACTIV is not just an engine; it is the next generation of advanced vehicle performance and efficiency,” commented Jim O’Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).

    “SKYACTIV embodies Mazda’s philosophy of engineering only vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying to own and environmentally responsible; and there is no better vehicle to start with than the Mazda3, one of the most exciting sport compact cars on the road.”, he added.

    The exterior boasts a new front fascia, modified grille, new round fog lights and new models of alloy wheels. The Skyactive models will also include unique headlights, a metallic blue engine cover and the badging, of course.

    The interior features a new instrument cluster, updated trim, and better seat upholstery. The Multi Information Display (MID) and liquid crystal display (LCD) also received color adjustments, so the red text and graphics of the current model are changed to white.

    The engine range will include a new Skuactiv-G petrol with 157PS (116 kW) and 200Nm (148 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and returns – 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. There is also an option for SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic gearbox. Skuactiv-G will join the current MZR 2.0-liter dual-overhead-cam 16-valve four-cylinder engine.

    Standard advanced safety features include 6 airbags – advanced dual front, front-seat mounted and full-length side curtain. with improved double chamber side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with a Traction Control System (TCS), front and rear stabilizer bars, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a “crushable” brake and accelerator pedal assembly and collapsible steering column, three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

    The options list includes a new Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, an Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling bi-xenon headlamps.

    2012 Mazda3 will also come with retuned suspension for maximum comfort and stability.

    Price list is not announced, yet!
    2012 Mazda3

    Source: Mazda

  • Bugatti at Auto Shanghai 2011

    At the display of Auto Shanghai 2011, Bugatti has showcased its latest two extremely-fast, state-of-the-art rides, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport and Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport. (more…)

  • Kicherer SLS 63 Supersport GT

    Kicherer has presented the tuning scene its latest, masterpiece conversion based upon the Mercedes’ stellar SLS 63 AMG. Dubbed Kicherer SLS 63 Supersport GT “Super-Model”, the monstrous ride’s „next-level” look is demonstrated through an extremely stylish photo session partnered by a beautiful super-model, which can be viewed in high-resolution in the image gallery bellow. (more…)

  • 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG

    2011 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is powered by a new 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8, which is replacing the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world – 6.2 liter AMG.

    The new power unit has a code name – M 157, which produces 525PS (386 kW) and 557PS (410 kW) with the AMG Performance Package. The torque is 700Nm (516 lb-ft) and 800Nm (590 lb-ft), respectively. Because of the turbochargers, the new engine has a 22 percent improvement in fuel-economy over the predecessor. 2011 E63 AMG Saloon needs just 9.8 liters per 100 km and the Estate consumes 10 liters / 100km.

    The engine is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports gearbox, which has three driving modes – S, S+ and M.

    The AMG Performance package rises the maximum charge pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. It also includes AMG Performance steering wheel with black Alcantara, red-painted brake calipers, electric rear window blind and genuine carbon fibre AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid for the Saloon.

    2011 E63 AMG stands on a 10-spoke 18” AMG light alloy wheels fitted with 255/R40 R 18 tyres on the front and 285/35 R 18 on the rear.

    2011 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG

    AMG Performance Studio:

    • AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension
    • AMG light-alloy wheels in a new 10-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, with 255/35 R 19 (front) and 285/30 R 19 (rear) tyres
    • AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
    • AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
    • AMG Exterior Carbon package
    • AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
    • Illuminated AMG door sill panels
    • AMG Driver’s Package (includes restriction of top speed to 300 km/h, participation in driver training course at the AMG Driving Academy)

    Pricing:

    • E 63 AMG Saloon: 105,971 euros
    • E 63 AMG Estate: 108,409 euros
    • AMG Performance package: 8,306.20 euros
    • Driver’s package: 3,213 euros

    2011 Mercedes E63 AMG:

    E 63 AMG E 63 AMG Estate
    Displacement 5461 cc 5461 cc
    Bore x stroke 98.0 x 90.5 mm 98.0 x 90.5 mm
    Compression ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
    Output 386 kW (525 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm
    410 kW (557 hp) at 250-5750 rpm*
    386 kW (525 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm
    410 kW (557 hp) at 5250-5750 rpm*
    Max. torque 700 Nm
    at 1750-5000 rpm
    800 Nm
    at 2000-4500 rpm*
    700 Nm
    at 1750-5000 rpm
    800 Nm
    at 2000-4500 rpm*
    Engine weight (dry) 204 kg 204 kg
    Fuel consumption NEDC combined 9.8 l per 100 km 10.0 l per 100 km
    CO2 emissions 230 g/km 234 g/km
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.3 s
    4.2 s*
    4.4 s
    4.3 s*
    Top speed** 250 km/h 250 km/h

    * with AMG Performance package; ** electronically limited

    2011 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG

    Source: Mercedes

  • 2012 Jaguar XK

    2012 Jaguar XK now features an elegant new look with elements from XKR-S, which was unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

    The new XK features revised slimmer headlights with subtle LEDs. They sit above a new larger grille framed in chrome. Apair of small air scoops feeding air to the brakes are mounted on each side of the car. At the rear, 2012 XK also features LED technology built in the taillights.

    The interior boasts new trim finishes and leather sports seats. The luxury is all around the cabin, because of the expensive materials and nice touches.

    The new XK and XKR will be available in both coupe and convertible variant. The sport version – XKR-S will be delivered in coupe form. All models will hit the UK market in September.

    2012 Jaguar XK

    2012 XK range at a glance

    Coupé:

    Engine Power (PS) Torque
    (lbs ft)
    0-62 / max
    speed (mph)
    Comb economy
    (mpg)/CO2 (g/km)
    Price
    (RRP, OTR)
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8 385 380 5.5 / 155 25.2 / 264 £65,000
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8,
    Supercharged
    510 461 4.8 / 155 23.0 / 292 £78,550
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8,
    Supercharged XKR-S
    550 502 4.4 / 186 23.0 / 292 £97,000

    Convertible:

    Engine Power
    (PS)
    Torque
    (lbs ft)
    0-62 / max
    speed (mph)
    Comb economy
    (mpg)/CO2 (g/km)
    Price
    (RRP, OTR)
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8 385 380 5.6 / 155 25.2 / 264 £71,000
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8,
    Supercharged
    510 461 4.8 / 155 23.0 / 292 £84,550

    Source: Jaguar

  • 2012 Jaguar XF and XFR

    Jaguar has introduced several models at the 2011 New York Auto Show. Both XF and XFR feature fresh new look with slim new headlight units set into which are distinctive LED lighting strips sitting either side of a larger, more upright grille.

    The bonnet line is lowered as well as the new look to the lower bumper section complete with a trio of airdams, the outside pair of which are now intersected by twisted chrome fins.

    At the rear, the tail lamp units have been redesigned and now have LEDs. They are also extended further into the boot lid with a new chrome blade sitting below a simple Jaguar leaper badge.

    The interior features a restyled steering wheel, a new switchgear for the ventilation systems and all-new colour central and dial-mounted screens relaying reprogrammed navigation and entertainment software.  The seats are also new and now offer greater support.

    The engine range for XF includes 2.2 litre common rail diesel with 190PS (140 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox. This model also has an innovative Stop-Start system, so the engine returs 50mpg and CO2 emission of just 149 g/km. The more powerful 3.0 litre V6 has 240PS or 275PS for Diesel S. The powerful V8 is developing 385PS.

    2012 Jaguar XFR is powered by a 5.0 liter supercharged V8 with 510PS and 622Nm (461 lb-ft) of torque. It features new sill extensions, a redesigned 20” wheels, adaptive dynamic suspension and full aerodynamic styling.

    2012 XF will hit the market in September. The price is £30 950 for the 2.2-litre diesel engine and the range-topping XFR is priced at £65 350.

    2012 Jaguar XF

    2012 Jaguar XF:

    Diesel engines:

    Engine Power
    (PS)
    Torque
    (lbs ft)
    0-62 / max
    speed (mph)
    Comb economy
    (mpg)/CO2 (g/km)
    Price
    (RRP, OTR)
    2,179 cc, 16-valve, 4cyl,
    turbocharged
    190 332 8.5 / 142 52.3 / 149 £30,950
    2,993 cc, 24-valve, V6,
    twin-turbocharged
    240 369 7.1 / 149 44.8 / 169 £36,950
    2,993 cc, 24-valve, V6,
    twin-turbocharged
    275 442 6.4 / 155 44.8 / 169 £42,950

    Petrol engines:

    Engine Power
    (PS)
    Torque
    (lbs ft)
    0-62 / max
    speed (mph)
    Comb economy
    (mpg)/CO2 (g/km)
    Price
    (RRP, OTR)
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8 385 380 5.7 / 155 25.4 / 264 £49,950
    5,000 cc, 32-valve, V8, supercharged 510 461

    Source: Jaguar

  • 2012 Kia Soul at New York Auto Show

    Kia has announced the new version of one of its most successful models – Soul. The 2012 Kia Soul features better exterior and more power, but the style remains the same, because of the customers appreciation.

    “We have given the new Soul significant improvements in power, style and fuel economy, making this iconic vehicle the perfect package for consumers looking for something a little outside the box,” commented Michael Sprague, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, KMA.

    “The Soul has always stood out from the crowd and is responsible for bringing new customers to the Kia brand.  This mid-life refresh adds even more style and fun-to-drive performance to the vehicle that started our design-led transformation whilst also improving fuel economy by 10 per cent,” he added.

    2012 Soul comes with a new 1.6 litre direct-injected petrol engine (GDI) with 140PS (103 kW) and 163Nm (121 lb-ft). The US market will also receive a new 2.0 litre four-cylinder with 162PS (119 kW) and 193Nm (143 lb-ft). The engine will be available with either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. The small 1.6 litre GDI achieves 34 mpg on the highway and the bigger 2.0 litre returns 33 mpg.

    The exterior boasts new projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights, a redesigned bonnet and new front and rear bumpers.

    The interior boasts in-car hands-free communication and infotainment system, heated front seats, leather seat trim, automatic climate control, navigation system and push-button start. There are also a three-dial instrument cluster, standard USB and auxiliary input jacks, steering wheel-mounted controls and a reversing camera.

    2012 Kia Soul will hit the UK market in the autumn.

    2012 Kia Soul

    Source: KIA

  • Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible ISR

    Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible ISR – Ice Speed Record is limited edition, which will be launched in just 100 units.

    The luxury sports convertible is powered by a 6.0 litre V12 with 640 PS (471 kW) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a Quickshift 6-speed automatic transmission. The performance is brutal – 0-100 km/h in 4.0s, to 160 km/h in 9.4 seconds and top speed of 321.6 km/h (199.83 mph) … on ice!

    “Juha Kankkunen’s drive was a remarkable achievement and worthy of a very special car. The Continental Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ is a true driver’s car that captures that unique Bentley spirit. It offers extreme performance, agility and an extrovert personality, while retaining the refinement, handcrafted luxury and comfort our customers expect.”, commented Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley’s new Chairman and Chief Executive.

    This is the most powerful Bentley, which the company has ever produced. All that additional engine power of the new convertible is the result of fine tuning of the engine to optimise the benefits of the new free-breathing air intake ducts, intercooler system and the exhaust system.

    What is more, it runs on both petrol (gasoline) or E85 bio-ethanol or any combination of the two.

    Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible ISR stands on 20” wheels fitted with Pirelli 275/35ZR20 ultra high performance tyres. Behined them, there are 420 mm front and 356 mm rear, carbon ceramic brake discs, with 8-piston callipers at the front provide fade-resistant stopping power.
    Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible ISR

    Source: Bentley