Automobiles Review – Page 679 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2014 Jaguar US line-up – Pricing

Jaguar has announced the pricing for its most dynamic North American line-up ever for 2014. The XJ flagship sedan range adds the XJR model, also with the 550hp engine, and the line gains numerous refinements. The stunning XFR-S sedan features a 550hp supercharged V8, with production limited to just 100 units for the model year. The XK range, meanwhile, continues to offer a true grand touring Coupe or Convertible, adding the ultra-performance XKR-S GT with just 30 units available for North America, 25 for the United States and five for Canada.

2014 Jaguar F-TYPE
US Models and MSRP1 (Prices do not include $895 destination and delivery):

F-TYPE	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$69,000
F-TYPE S	3-liter supercharged V6, 380hp	$81,000
F-TYPE S V8	5-liter supercharged V8, 495hp	$92,000

2014 Jaguar XJ Sedan
US Models and MSRP1 (Prices do not include $895 destination and delivery):

XJ	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$74,200
XJ AWD	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$77,700
XJL Portfolio	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$81,200
XJL Portfolio AWD	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$84,700
XJ Supercharged	5-liter supercharged V8, 470hp	$90,600
XJL Supercharged	5-liter supercharged V8, 470hp	$93,600
XJR	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$116,000
XJR Long Wheelbase	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$119,000

2014 Jaguar XF Sedan
US Models and MSRP1 (Prices do not include $895 destination and delivery):

XF 2.0	2-liter turbocharged i4, 240hp	$ 46,975
XF 3.0	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$ 50,500
XF 3.0 AWD	3-liter supercharged V6, 340hp	$ 53,000
XF Supercharged	5-liter supercharged V8, 470hp	$ 68,100
XFR	5-liter supercharged V8, 510hp	$ 83,200
XFR-S	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$ 99,000

2014 Jaguar XK Coupe and Convertible
US Models and MSRP1 (Prices do not include $895 destination and delivery):

XK Touring Coupe	5-liter V8, 385hp	$ 79,000
XK Touring Convt.	5-liter V8, 385hp	$ 85,000
XK Coupe	5-liter V8, 385hp	$ 84,500
XK Convt.	5-liter V8, 385hp	$ 90,500
XKR Coupe	5-liter supercharged V8, 510hp	$ 97,500
XKR Convt.	5-liter supercharged V8, 510hp	$ 103,500
XKR-S Coupe	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$ 132,000
XKR-S Convt.	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$ 138,000
XKR-S GT Coupe	5-liter supercharged V8, 550hp	$ 174,000

Source: Jaguar

August 15, 2013

2014 Holden Trax – Price $23,490 AUD

Holden has announced the pricing and details about the new 2014 Trax, which is expected to hit the market next month with pricing starting from $23,490.

Every Trax model will feature as standard on every model, a 7” touch-screen with MyLink embedded apps, rear view camera, rear parking sensors, six airbags and Bluetooth™ phone and audio streaming.

Trax features the same fuel efficient 1.8 litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder petrol engine as the Holden Cruze and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission (LS only) to deliver fuel economy of just 7.0 litres / 100 km. The engine delivers 140HP (103 kW) and 175Nm (129 lb-ft).

A Gen II six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select is standard on the LTZ and available as an option on the LS, delivering very competitive fuel consumption of 7.6 litres / 100 km.

In addition to the rear view camera and rear parking sensors, Holden Trax LS also features 16-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth™, cruise control and auto headlamps.

Trax LTZ adds 18” alloy wheels, Sportec seats, heated front seats, fog lamps, under passenger seat storage tray and trip computer. Trax LTZ is offered standard with the six-speed automatic transmission for a retail price of $27,990.

Holden Trax is available in a wide range of exterior colour choices

Summit White
Velvet Red
Snowflake Pearl*
Carbon Flash*
Boracay Blue*
Orange Rock*
Nitrate*
Satin Steel Grey* *prestige paint at $550 premium

Holden Trax LS Highlights

1.8 litre petrol engine

Five-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select
6 airbags (driver, front passenger, front side and curtain)
ESC, ABS and TCS
Hill Start Assist
Descent Control System
16” alloy wheels (4)
Air conditioning
Rear view camera
Rear parking sensors
ISOFIX child seat anchorage system
Holden MyLink infotainment System with 7” colour touch-screen display
Embedded apps including Pandora®, Stitcher SmartRadio™, TuneIn and BringGo navigation
Siri® Eyes Free Mode
AM/FM Radio with RDS display
USB with iPod connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity
Leather steering wheel with audio controls
Jet black cloth interior
Auto headlamps
Daytime running lamps
Holden Trax LTZ highlights over LS
Six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select
18” alloy wheels (4)
Jet black Sportec trim
Heated front seats
Front Fog Lamps
Trip Computer
Storage Tray Under Front Passenger Seat

Source: Holden

August 15, 2013

Ram Teases Rumble Bee Concept

Dodge Ram Rumble Bee was a truck inspired by the iconic back in the days Dodge Super Bee muscle cars. It was characterized by its special bumble bee stripe. The model was offered in limited edition run in the years of 2004 and 2005.

Back then, the Ram Rumble Bee was being only available in a regular SLT trim with either two or four-wheel drive. The car was powered by a 5.7 liter Hemi V8 which was capable of generating 345 hp (254 kW) and 508 Nm (375 lb•ft) of torque. All in all 8700 examples of this model were built and sold.

Now, Ram Truck is announcing fantastic news about the fans of the Rumble Bee. The brand is going to reveal a new concept version of the model at 13 mile and Woodward during the 2013 Woodward Dream Cruise. This will happen on 17th of August.

Although Ram Brand did not provide any other information about the vehicle, judging from the photos and having in mind the previous models, we can assume that the new concept will be most likely yellow and will run of big black five-spoke wheels.

Pictures Source: Dodge

August 15, 2013

Audi Celebrates Half Million TT Cars With Special Edition TTS Competition Model

Half Million Audi TT models have been built so far. In order to celebrate this, Audi is releasing an exclusive special edition model – the Audi TTS Competition which is in Coupé and Roadster form.

The TTS Competition will be capable of generating 272 horsepower (200 kW) and will begin rolling off the assembly line in October. Only 500 example of the model will be produced. The new model will be available in special paint finishes Imola yellow or Nimbus gray.

In addition, a special highlight of the exterior is the fixed rear wing with bars in a matt aluminum-look finish. The Roadster’s top is available in either Black or Gray. The vehicle runs on 19-inch wheels which include a five-arm “Rotor” design and are matched with 225/35 tires.

The interior of the TTS Competition includes Impulse leather package in steel gray. It also utilizes the characteristic leather bands as decorative elements. Their cut edges are dyed Imola yellow, and the same color is used for the contrasting stitching. To make the model even more special, Aluminum badges on the door trims are embossed with “1 of 500” number.

Furthermore, a leather multifunction steering wheel and the rear parking system, round out the equipment. The other features included in this special edition Audi are those found in the TTS.

As already mentioned, the car is capable of producing 200 kW (272 hp). It also generates 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, thanks to its 2.0 TFSI engine, which underscores the dynamic character of the Audi TTS competition.

This unit is matched with a six-speed S tronic transmission. The vehicle in its Coupe form can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in only 5.3 seconds. The average fuel consumption for the Coupé is 7.7 liters per 100 kilometers (30.55 US mpg).

On the other hand, the Audi TTS Competition Roadster equipped with the six-speed S tronic sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds. The Roadster consumes 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (29.77 US mpg). What is more, the quattro permanent all-while drive is also to be found here. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

Source: Audi

August 15, 2013

Audi A8 To Be Equipped With New Turn Signal Light

Audi has just released the information that the new 2014 A8 model is going to be equipped with brand new turn signal light. The latter will comprise of lighting elements that illuminate in a defined sequence. The aim behind this is to make it easier for others to perceive the driver’s turning intentions.

The new turn signal lights will show the turning direction in an innovative way. In fact, the lights provide a visual signal, which allows a clearer and quicker perception, and even in long distances or in poor visibility.

To be more precise, each headlight contains 18 light-emitting diodes. They in turn are arranged in a strip that is subdivided into seven blocks. On the other hand, each tail light comprises of 24 LEDs in eight segments, which are used to dynamically indicate the turning direction.

How they work: during flashing, the blocks are sequentially activated at 20 millisecond intervals. The direction is from the inside to the outside and in the desired turning direction. All segments turn bright after 150 milliseconds. After another 250 milliseconds they illuminate with full intensity. Then, the turn signals go dark ahead of repeating the lighting sequence again.

Audi Matrix LED headlights are definitely a cutting-edge innovation. In each headlight, 25 light-emitting diodes develop a highly variable high-beam light. Audi A8 is equipped with an on-board camera as well. When it detects other vehicles ahead, the Audi Matrix LED headlights mask the relevant sections of the high-beam by dimming or shutting off individual diodes.

They also include navigation-based cornering lights which work in conjunction with the night vision assistant. The latter is a marker light which signals when pedestrians are in the vicinity in the dark. It also alerts the pedestrians.

The upgraded version of the Audi A8 with the new turn signals will be showcased at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Source: Audi

August 15, 2013

2014 Dodge Durango Goes On Sale

2014 Dodge Durango is the ultimate “No Compromise SUV” and is now ready to go on sale. Each Durango model is equipped with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, projector headlamps and projector fog lamps, floating split crosshair grille, signature LED racetrack taillights, bright chrome or body-color accents.

In addition, the athletic SUV comes with 18-inch or 20-inch aluminum wheels, Bluetooth, 5-inch or 8.4-inch touch screen, rotary shifter with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, 7-inch customizable gauge cluster, Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start, seven airbags, seven passenger seating and much more.

Like no other vehicle in its segment, this Dodge model can offer not only great comfort, but also best-in-class power. It generates up to 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 528 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. It is also necessary to mention its best-in-class towing capacity of up to 7,400 lbs. and best-in-class driving range of 600 miles on a tank of fuel.

2014 Dodge Durango is now being offered in five trim levels: SXT, Rallye, Limited, R/T and Citadel. First, the Durango SXT and Limited models are equipped with the award-winning Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine. It is capable of delivering 290 horsepower (213 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The Rallye and Citadel models on the other hand feature standard dual exhaust, thanks to which the 3.6-liter unit generates an impressive 295 hp (217 kW). The engine is matched with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission equipped with a rotary shifter and standard paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Its towing capacity reaches up to 6,200 pounds.

SXT will offer to customers a wide range of equipment, including bright accents on the exterior and premium interior. As a standard here is featured the following: class-exclusive signature 192 LED racetrack tail lamps, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, electronic stability program (ESP), trailer-sway control, automatic projector-beam headlights, projector fog lamps, deep-tint sunscreen glass, power body-color mirrors, speed-sensitive, variable intermittent wipers, chrome grille surround and split crosshairs with black “Split-Hex” texture and 18-inch Tech-Silver aluminum wheels.

The interior of the 2014 Durango SXT includes three rows of seats with 60/40 split fold and tumble second row, 50/50 split, folding third row, premium cloth seats, fold-flat front passenger seat, new Dodge three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters, 7-inch reconfigurable TFT gauge cluster, 5-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Uconnect AM/FM/MP3, six speakers, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, three 12-volt power outlets, tri-zone automatic temperature control, rear-seat air conditioning, air filtering, and much more.

In terms of safety, this trim level is equipped with seven standard airbags, active front headrests, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, trailer-sway control and much more. The starting price of the model is estimated at US $29,795.

Next, the Rallye builds on the SXT and adds the Durango R/T’s sporty exterior design. It also adds 5 more horsepower to the power output. In addition, there are also to mention dual-exhaust, 20-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels, body-color grille with black “Per-Form” texture, black headlamp bezels, body-color front and rear lower fascias, wheel flares and sill moldings.

Going on the inside of the car, one can find a premium black cloth seats and black headliner, power driver seat, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and leather-wrapped steering wheel. There are also being offered some optional features such as second row captain’s chairs with an available center console, 8.4-inch touch screen with downloadable apps, heated seats and heated steering wheel and much more. The starting price here is US $32,990.

The Limited Durango is a brand new model for 2014 MY and it also builds on the SXT. However, it adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray pockets, LED daytime running lamps, signal repeater mirrors, the new 8.4-inch Uconnect Access Via Mobile touchscreen with SiriusXM Radio with one-year free subscription, Capri leather seating, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated steering wheel, heated first- and second-row seats.

What is also standard for this Limited trim are the 12-way power driver seat with memory and power four-way lumbar adjustment, 10-way power front passenger seat, including power four-way lumbar adjustment, remote start, ParkSense rear park assist, ParkView rear backup camera, tire-pressure monitoring system, vehicle security alarm, power folding auto-dimming mirrors with memory, HomeLink universal transceiver, 115-volt AC, 150-watt power outlet and Limited badge.

More importantly, the vehicle can be equipped with an optional engine: the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. It generates 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 529 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is mated to the standard eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters. Other options here include 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, power sunroof, power rear liftgate, premium 3D navigation and premium Alpine audio system. 2014 Dodge Durango Limited has an initial price tag of US $35,995.

The R/T specification is the high-performance version of the all-new Durango. It comes as a standard equipped with body-color hot-rod looks, HEMI® power, world-class handling and true R/T heritage. Also standard here is theThe 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine.

What is also important to mention for this trim level is that it features a unique sport-tuned suspension, unique performance tuned exhaust, 20-inch performance tires with 20-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels, and a 20 mm lower ride height.

On the other hand, the interior comes as a standard with leather interior with red accent stitching, heated first- and second-row seats, 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Screen and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. Available option here are the premium Nappa Leather seats. In addition, this Durango R/T also includes as a standard 506-watt premium audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer, power liftgate and HID headlamps.

In fact, the R/T builds on the content of the Limited. It adds the following: dual exhaust, body-color grille with black “Per-Form” texture, black HID headlamp bezels with LED daytime running lamps, body-color front and rear lower fascias, wheel flares and sill moldings. The starting price of the R/T specifications is US $38,995.

At last, the Citadel trim level offers the ultimate luxury, premium content and performance capabilities. It builds on the Durango Limited, and adds rich, perforated Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available in Black, Black/Light Frost or Black/Tan.

Other standard features here are: new Uconnect Access 8.4-inch touchscreen with voice command navigation and live streaming internet radio, remote start, unique 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and a unique grille with chrome surround and chrome “Cross-Hex” texture, power sunroof, automatic high-beam headlamps, rain-sensitive front wipers, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and power liftgate. The top of the range 2014 Dodge Durango Citadel has a starting price of US $40,995.

All trim levels of the new 2014 Dodge Durango will be available at dealerships at the end of the third quarter of this year.

Source: Dodge

August 15, 2013

Hennessey Ferrari 458 Spider – 738HP and 720Nm [video]

Hennessey Performance has revealed their latest project based on the best sports car in the world – Ferrari 458 Italia Spider. As you may suggest , the tuner added significant amount of power as well as some styling upgrades.

The 4.5 liter V8 is boosted to 738HP (543 kW) at 8,400RPM and 720Nm (532 lb-ft) of torque at 5,600RPM. This is an increase of 168HP and 180Nm. 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a ¼ mile in 10.5 seconds with terminal speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). The top speed is over 350km/h (218 mph).

The result is thanks to a number of upgrades including two twin ball bearing turbochargers and upgraded the fuel system. There is also an air-to-water intercooler system and stainless steel inlet piping, along with dual wastegates and engine management calibration. Other tweaks include custom oil and transmission lines, stainless steel exhaust system and turbo downpipes.

Other highlights include a carbon fiber exterior body kit, a KW adjustable suspension, a set of monoblock wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires and some carbon fiber elements for the interior.

The performance package is $59,955 and other upgrades pricing is available upon request.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADVyAyz31QA

Power:

• 738 Horsepower @ 8,400 rpm
• 532 lb-ft Torque @ 5,600 rpm

Performance:
• 0-60 mph: 2.8 sec.
• 1/4 mile: 10.5 sec. @ 137 mph

HPE700 Twin Turbo Ferrari 458 Upgrade Includes:
• Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers
• Fuel System Upgrade
• Stainless Steel Inlet Piping
• Dual Wastegates
• Air-to-water Intercooler System
• Dual Air Induction Filters
• Stainless Steel Turbo Downpipes
• Stainless Steel Exhaust System
• Custom Oil & Transmission Lines
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• Hennessey Exterior Badging
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Additional Upgrades Available:
• CarbonAero® Carbon Fiber Exterior Body Upgrades
• Hennessey Monoblock Wheel Upgrade
• Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
• KW Adjustable Suspension Upgrade
• Custom Interior Leather Upgrades
• Carbon Fiber Interior Upgrades

Source: Hennessey

August 14, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA – Efficiency and Practicality

Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the 2014 GLA, which is expected to make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, next month. The compact crossover boasts progressive design, versatility and impressive off-road capability. It aims to set new benchmarks in efficiency as it mixes practicality with surefooted 4MATIC capability.

The first Mercedes-Benz in the fast-growing compact SUV segment is highly manoeuvrable around town (length x width x height 4,417 x 1,804 x 1,494 millimetres), lively on country roads and dynamic and efficient on the motorway (C_d figure 0.29). The high-quality appointments, developed with much love for detail, and the flexible interior clearly position the GLA as a compact premium SUV.

The GLA is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to be optionally available with the new-generation permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC, with fully variable torque distribution in the UK.

The engine range includes a 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol with 156HP (115 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) in GLA 200, the GLA 250 model is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 211HP (155 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft). The diesel range includes GLA 200 CDI with 2.1 liter four-cylinder engine with 136HP (100 kW) and 300Nm (222 lb-ft) and GLA 220 CDI with the same engine, but boosted to 170HP (125 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft) of torque.

The GLA 250 equipped with 4MATIC will do 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 145 mph (233 km/h). The optional all-wheel drive arrangement is also offered for the GLA 220 CDI and both models benefit from a Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) system and an off-road transmission mode.

UK specification and pricing are still to be confirmed.

Model	GLA 200	GLA 250/ GLA 250 4MATIC	GLA 200 CDI	GLA 220 CDI/ GLA 220 CDI 4MATIC
Number of cylinders/arrangement	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line	4 in-line
Displacement (cc)	1,595	1,991	2,143	2,143
Rated output (hp at rpm)	156 at 5300	211 at 5500	136 at 3600-4000	170 at 3600-4000
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	250 at 1250-4000	350 at 1200-4000	300 at 1400-4000	350 at 1600-3200

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 14, 2013

DP Motorsport Porsche 911 3.2 – 270HP and 307Nm

DP Motorsports has rebuilt a classic Porsche 911 left the factory in October of 1986. For this year’s 40^th anniversary, the team at DP Motorsport transformed the car into a feather light Club Sport racing car while retaining the looks of a stock 911.

The 911 has been put on diet and whopping 280kg (618 lbs) were shaved off resulting in a total weight of just 905 kg (1997 lbs). The body was completely stripped and every bit of paint and undercoating has been removed.

The exterior boasts lacquered in metallic rock-green (color code 699) otherwise everything looks just normal.

The 3.2 liter flat-six comes with 288-degree Schrick cams and ported and flowed cylinder heads. The throttle valve was enlarged up to 67 mm and further on you will find a lightened flywheel, two 100-cell catalytic converters from HJS as well as an RSR racing exhaust system made of titanium. The result is 270HP (199 kW) and 307Nm (227 lb-ft). The 5-speed 915 gearbox is equipped with a limited slip differential, an external cooler, and of course a short shift mechanism with extended shift lever.

The suspension also received some performance parts – street/sport Bilstein-shock absorbers, Super Pro polyurethane bushings and Uniballs all around. The 7J x 16” front wheels are fitted with 225/50 R16 Michelin tires, while the 9J x 16” come with 245/45 R16.

The interior boasts 935 style Lollipop-seats with Williams 4-point harnesses, a DP Motorsport Club Sport roll bar, a 350mm sport steering wheel, and RS-lightweight carpet. The car is also equipped with an electrically heated windscreen, a lightweight 25Ah gel battery and last but not least a special manufactured racing cable harness.

The price for the complete conversion is serious – € 89,911.

Source: DP Motorsport

August 14, 2013

2014 Skoda Yeti Facelift

Skoda has announced the facelift version of Yeti. 2014 Skoda Yeti Facelift will make its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

The exterior features a new front bumper, bi-xenon headlights with LED DRLs, modified front hood, different taillights and more prominent badging on the tailgate.

“The Skoda Yeti is one of the most attractive compact SUVs on the market and has far exceeded our sales expectations since its launch four years ago. With this all-new look and being offered for the first time in two variations, we are establishing new benchmarks. We plan to continue our outstanding development in this rapidly growing vehicle class. The Yeti is another cornerstone of the 2018 growth strategy and will strengthen our international position in the markets.” commented Skoda CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland.

The engine range includes a the well-known power units starting with 1.2 liter TSI – 105HP (77 kW) and finishing with the powerful diesel – 2.0 liter TDI with 170HP (125 kW). Depending on engine choice, front- or all-wheel drive system is available, along with si6x-speed manual or six- and 7-speed DSG. The 1.6 liter TDI Greenline is able to return 51.1 mpg US – 4.6 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of only 119 g/km.

UK pricing and specification will be announced nearer to the on sale date.

Source: Skoda

August 14, 2013

2013 Novitec Rosso Ferrari F12 Berlinetta Generates 774 Horsepower

2013 Novitec Rosso Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is ready to be unveiled with its new athletic design. This Ferrari also comes to show a combination of outstanding aerodynamic efficiency, high-tech forged wheels and a power increase up to 569 kW / 774 hp. Of course, all the enhancement in terms of power means also a top speed in excess of 345 km/h.

The leading tuning experts at Novitec Rosso has created this tuning program for the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta in order to give it not only more power and sporty spirit, but also to make its apperance even more athletic. All bodywork components received their finishing touches in the wind tunnel and therefore this maximizes car’s handling stability.

Furthermore, in order to additionally minimize the negative lift on the front axle, the tuners included a three-piece aerodynamics upgrade that comprises of a front spoiler lip with attached air ducts and a central front blade.

The result is and incresed downforce in the front at high speeds. In addition, the spoilers which are combined with the new surrounds for the brake air scoops, the hood insert and the front grille give the Ferrari even more striking nose.

Next, what is also added are new rocker panels. They serve in terms to calm the airstream between the front and rear wheel arches. Additionally, they also enhance the visual muscle to the sports car’s appearance. The carbon-fiber covers for the exterior mirrors and the black side markers stylishly round out the view from the side.

The rear is also transformed. For example, a rear separation edge delivers optimal aerodynamic balance. The rear diffuser attaches to the production rear fascia and can be additionally improved with optional diffuser fins and a fascia cover made from clear-coated carbon fibers. Carbon-fiber surrounds for the rear fog lamps and the tail lights emphasize the spirit of the supersports car.

What also gives an emblematic look to this model is the new wheels that were custom-developed for this car. In order to additionally highlight the wedge shape of the F12ing company has developed two tire/wheel combinations with staggered wheels, 21-inch wheels on the front axle and 22-inch rims in back.

Novitec Rosso NF4 high-tech forged wheels are ightweight and its desig includes five delicate double spokes. They are matched with Pirelli high-performance tires in size 255/30 ZR 2 for the front and 335/25 ZR 22 for the rear.

Morover, the new sports springs are responsible for lowering the ride height of the Ferrari by up to 40 millimeters. The end effect us lowered center of gravity and enhanced handling agility. What is more a hydraulic lift system for the front axle can raise the front of the car with a push of a button. The car also reverts to its normal ride height automatically upon reaching a speed of 80 km/h.

More importanlty, the specialist at the tuning brand has also given this F12 Berlinetta a powerful performance kit. After the power therapy the 6.3-liter V12 engine of the vehicle generates an additional 25 kW / 34 hp. The extra power is due to an upgrade to the engine management system with newly calibrated mapping for injection and ignition. Novitec Rosso’s high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts was also isntalled.

The tuning of the engine not only offers a higher maximum power output of 569 kW / 774 hp at 8,500 rpm but also the peak torque was enhanced up to 716 Nm / 526 lb-ft at 6,300 rpm. As mentioned there is also an increse in the Vmax which now is more than 345 km/h.

What is left is to mention that the interior of the car was also transformed via an extensive use of carbon-fiber. The material is used for example in the shift paddles, while the seats were crafted from leather and Alcantara.

Source: Novitec Rosso

August 14, 2013

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva To Be Officially Unveiled At Concorso Italiano

Fiat has just announced that its new limited edition model 2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva is going to make an official debut at Concorso Italiano. The event will take place on 16th of August at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch in Monterey, California.

In Italian the word “Cattiva” is used when one wants to describe a person or situation that is naughty but yet cool. This was the inspiration which served as a basis of the designers of the new model. The result is a standout, factory-customized Cinquecento with a “blacked out” look and an aggressive demeanor.

Moreover, the new Fiat 500 Cattiva will deliver the 500 Sport and 500 Turbo models with a factory-tuned look. In fact, the vehicle has as a basis the Fiat Design concept which was officially revealed at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. However, the new limited edition model will add more excitement and tuned style to the 2013 Fiat 500 Sport and more powerful Fiat 500 Turbo models.

The aggressive stance of the new model is achieved via the blacked-out headlamp, taillamp and parking lamp bezels and unique 16-inch Hyper Nero painted aluminum wheels with all-season performance tires. Additionally, what enhance the silhouette of the car are the one-of-a-kind Gloss Nero roof and the performance spoiler.

The 500 Cattiva will be offered in a choice of several exterior colors: Rosso (red), Rame (copper), Nero Puro (straight black), Argento (silver), Granito Lucente (granite crystal), Bianco (white) and Luce Blue (light blue, 500 Sport only).

The interior of this new Fiat is also stunning. It continues the exclusive exterior design and includes the following: Nero interior environment paired with Nero/Grigio (black/gray) cloth sport seats with Argento (silver) accent stitching, optional Nero leather-trimmed seats, Matte Nero instrument panel, Nero leather-wrapped shift knob and sport steering wheel hand-stitched with Argento accent thread.

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva which is based on the 500 Sport will be powered by the innovative 1.4-liter MultiAir engine mated to a C514 five-speed manual transmission that deliver an EPA estimated 31 mpg city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy. There is a six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes offered as an option. In addition, the Cattiva also features engaging dynamics, which includes a driver selectable “Sport” mode on the instrument panel.

Fiat 500 Cattiva which is based on the 500 Turbo will be equipped with the MultiAir Turbo engine and sport-tuned exhaust. It is capable of generating 135 hp (100 kW) and 203 Nm (150 lb-ft). The unit is mated as a standard to the track-proven C510 five-speed manual transmission that includes an intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts to mitigate torque steer.

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva is going to be available at dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year and will have a starting price of $18,350.

Source: Fiat

August 14, 2013

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