Blog

  • 2013 Renault Clio GT – UK Price £17,395

    Renault has released the pricing of the new 2013 Clio GT hatchback. It is priced from £17,395 and sits between the entry-level Clio and the top-of-range RS model.

    The 2013 Clio GT is powered by a 1.2 liter turbocharged petrol with 120HP (88 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). The small hatchback is able to return 54.3 mpg UK – 5.2 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 120 g/km.

    The exterior highlights include a new front bumper with larger air vents and LED DRLs. There are also bespoke door and mirror trims, darkened headlamps, rear diffuser, twin chrome pipes and 17” anthracite alloy wheels shod in 205/45 R17 tires.

    The first deliveries will be in September.

    Source: Renault

  • Exclusive: 2014 Toyota Corolla Finally Revealed

    After it has been teased several times so far, 2014 Toyota Corolla has just been revealed in details! The fresh design will offer more style, quality and craftsmanship, while building on the inherent for Corolla reliability, efficiency and function.

    In fact this is the new 11th generation of the model and it makes an immediate visual impression thanks to its more expressive, chiseled exterior design that elaborates on the “Iconic Dynamism” – a theme which we have seen on the Corolla Furia Concept.

    The new Toyota has more athletic proportions and now rides on a longer wheelbase (+ 3.93 inches/ +100 mm compared to current model) thanks to a basic shape that tapers at the front and rear of the vehicle to help emphasize the wheel arches and wheels-to-the-corner stance.

    The new Corolla features an expressive front fascia with sharper, more pronounced details above a large trapezoidal grill that rests beneath a thin intake inlet below the hood.

    Basic Exterior Dimensions Compared to Current model (change in parenthesis)
    Overall length 182.6 in. (+3.90 in.) 183.1 for S-grade 4639 mm (+99), 4650mm for S-grade
    Overall width 69.9 in. (+0.63 in.) 1776 mm (+16)
    Overall height 57.3 in. (-0.39 in.) 1455 mm (-10)
    Wheelbase 106.3 in. (+ 3.93 in.) 2700 mm (+100)
    Front Overhang 37.7 in. (+0.90 in.) 958 mm (+23)
    Rear Overhang 38.6 in. (-0.94 in.) 981 mm (-24)

    The front view of the new Corolla reveals a continuation of the design themes seen in recent Toyota sedans such as Camry and Avalon, and it creates a sleeker, more assertive impression of a Toyota compact sedan with its more precisely sculpted surfaces.

    The sleeker image of the Corolla, the thick structure of conventional headlamps, the compact LED lamp assemblies which now come as a standard, are some of the new elements featured in the design.

    When looked from the side, this Toyota’s athletic profile reveals door handles that have been sculpted into the body to align with a character line that spans the length the door surfaces, using a vertically asymmetrical door handle design. In addition, the new C-pillar features a “faster”, longer sloping angle. The rear is accentuated by large, sharply-sculpted rear taillight assemblies.

    Basic Exterior Dimensions Compared to Current model (change in parenthesis)
    Overall length 182.6 in. (+3.90 in.) 183.1 for S-grade 4639 mm (+99), 4650mm for S-grade
    Overall width 69.9 in. (+0.63 in.) 1776 mm (+16)
    Overall height 57.3 in. (-0.39 in.) 1455 mm (-10)
    Wheelbase 106.3 in. (+ 3.93 in.) 2700 mm (+100)
    Front Overhang 37.7 in. (+0.90 in.) 958 mm (+23)
    Rear Overhang 38.6 in. (-0.94 in.) 981 mm (-24)


    The “Iconic Dynamism” theme is continued as a design philosophy throughout the interior as well. It results in a stylish, highly functional, and inviting interior space made with craftsmanship sophisticated materials and attention to detail.  Moreover, the interior includes a piano-black gloss trim highlighted by metallic ornamentation and trim that conveys an upscale yet sportier image.

    Blue, black or amber pinstriped accents are utilized in conjunction with the dash and door panel ornamentation. Ornamental stitching along the leading edge of the dash pad is also present. And the available decorative boot with ornamental stitching surrounding the shift lever contributes to a sportier and premium look.

    The increase in exterior size, leads to the same in terms of the dimensions of the coupe inside. This results in better comfort for the passengers and a considerable legroom for the rear seat occupants. Additionally, the rear seat comfort is also improved by denser urethane pads and foam inserts within the seats.

    The acoustic glass windscreen, improved floor carpet insulation, an instrument panel seal between the cowl and the windshield, a fender sound insulator, and an inner dash silencer pad all serve in terms of bringing about more quietness. In this way the environmental noise, the road and engine sounds entering the cabin are reduced.

    The new models standard gauge cluster includes three dials with sharp image detail and clear blue illumination, surrounded by chrome trimmed rings. Within the speedometer dial is a multi-information display. It shows information such as the current fuel consumption, the average fuel consumption, the cruising distance and the average vehicle speed. In addition there is a S-grade meter cluster which offers a high technology feel with a 3.5-inch black and white TFT display.

    As expected the new 2014 Toyota Corolla is going to be available in four distinct grades: L, LE, S, and the new LE Eco grade. Although all of them offer versatility, they have also some features as a standard. Such are the LED lowbeam headlamps with LED daytime running lights, an in-glass AM/FM antenna, color-keyed outside door handles, color-keyed outside mirrors, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, power door locks with automatic locking feature, power windows with driver-side one-touch up/down, air conditioning with pollen filter, Bluetooth connectivity and eight airbags.

    On the other hand in the range of optional features are present the Smart Key System on front doors and trunk with Push Button Start, auto air-conditioning with pollen filter, leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters and audio controls, Multi-Information Display, Bluetooth hands-free phone voice-command controls, SofTex™-trimmed heated front seats, and a range of audio capability that will offer navigation and Entune™ apps accessible through the head unit.

    The fuel economy was priority in the development of the engines. 2014 Corolla LE Eco model for instance targets an estimated EPA highway fuel economy rating of over 40 mpg thanks to its 1.8-liter engine with Valvematic technology, low rolling resistance tires on 15-inch wheels and the efficient CVT. The model is also offered with an available 16-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels.

    In addition, the airflow has been refined and now the turbulence over the front and rear edges of the car is reduced. The Corolla’s underbody features a smoother. In fact, both the LE Eco grade and S grade deliver strategically placed vehicle under covers located below the bumper fascia, engine, front floor, rear floor, and fuel tank. This helps managing the airflow under the vehicle for improved efficiency.

    What is more, the new Toyota model is going to be offered with two efficient 1.8-liter, all-aluminum four-cylinder engines. The standard unit is the 1.8-liter with VVT-i and it is available on the L, LE, and S grades. It is rated at 132 horsepower (97 kW).

    On the other hand the LE Eco trim level is equipped with a 1.8-liter engine with Valvematic. The latter is a valve train technology that offers a broader range of continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) in order to deliver optimal intake valve (not on exhaust side) operation relative to engine demands. The output of this engine is estimated at 140 horsepower (103 kW).

    2014 Corolla Engine Specifications
    Engine Type 2ZR-FE 2ZR-FAE
    Number of Cylinders/arrangement 4 cylinders, in-line 4 cylinders, in-line
    Valve Mechanism 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i 16-valve DOHC with Valvematic
    Bore x Stroke mm 80.5 x 88.3 80.5 x 88.3
    Displacement c.c. 1798 1798
    Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.6:1
    Fuel System EFI EFI
    Max Output 132 Hp/ 6000 rpm 140 Hp/6100 rpm
    Max Torque 128 lb-ft/ 4400rpm 126 lb-ft/4000 rpm


    Furthermore, the fuel efficiency is further optimized by the advanced Continuously Variable Transmission. This CVTi-S is going to be available on the LE, S, and LE Eco models. As a matter of fact, with this transmission now the new Corolla has improved drivability.

    All of the models that are to be equipped with the CVTi-S offer the capability of either an ECO or SPORT driving mode. The first one makes accelerator control become non-linear to suppress the vehicle’s response to choppy driving and contain acceleration from standing start to help reduce fuel consumption.

    Next, the SPORT mode delivers a more dynamic driving experience with software tuning that alters shift points, creating transmission behavior during acceleration that enhances the sporty character of the S-grade.

    All of the customers who are going to opt for the 2014 Corolla S equipped with CVTi-S are going to receive steering wheel mounted paddle shifters which are going to make fast, sequential, stepped shifts through “7-speeds” to help enhance the driving experience. The base model Corolla L on the other hand is going to be offered as a standard with a four-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission as an option. The latter is also optional on the Corolla S.

    2014 Corolla offers also enhanced handling and steering thanks to a rigid unibody. The latter also benefits from an improved suspension tuning. The utilization of high tensile-strength steel allows for reduced thickness and maximizes the shape of structural panels while enhancing the strength to help improve collision performance.

    To be more precise, the new Corolla’s suspension utilizes Macpherson strut design for the front with a new, more rigid control-arm design. A rear torsion beam arrangement is used for the rear.

    In addition, the S-model comes as a standard with 17-inch wheels and features unique coil, damper, and bushing tuning to deliver a sportier driving characteristic.

    The new Corolla also includes an electric power steering system. The braking system includes a 10.82-inch (275-mm) ventilated front disc, and either a 10.19-inch (259-mm) solid rear disc (available on S-grade) or nine-inch (229-mm) rear drum (all other grades).

    2014 Corolla is also equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System™ as a standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system and an electronic tire pressure monitoring system.

    The wheels and tyres combination for the different grades is the following. 15-inch wheels with covers can be found on L and LE Eco grades, while the 16-inch steel wheels with covers – on the LE and S trims. The 16 inch aluminum wheels are specifically made for the LE, the 16-inch aluminum design is unique to the Eco grade and the 17-inch alloy wheels – to the S grade.

    Moreover, the 15-inch wheels with covers are matched with the low rolling resistance 195/65R-15 tyres, while the sportiest grade of Corolla S that wears the available 17-inch alloy wheels covers in more performance oriented 215/45R-17 rubbers. The 16-inch wheels found on the LE and the 16-inch aluminum aero-wheel on the LE Eco model use a 205/55R-16 tyres.

    2014 Toyota Corolla’s pricing, final grade content, and option packages will be announced closer to launch.

  • McLaren MP4-12C – 0-96 km/h in 2.8 seconds

    DragTimes has published a video showing the MP4-12C doing some acceleration tests – 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph).

    The sports car manage to complete the discipline in 2.8 seconds, which is a 0.1 seconds faster than previous tests. This means, that the McLaren MP4-12C is as fast as Nissan GT-R Facelift, which also did 2.8 seconds – 0-96 km/h.  However, the MP4-12C is a lot faster than the GT-R from 0-160 km/h (0-100 mph) – 1.0 second.

    The MP4-12C had street-legal Toyo R888 tires featuring the same compound and tread wear rating as the factory-fitted Pirelli Corsa.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhhxptV2bZ8

    Source: Dragtimes

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive Production Car

    2014-Mercedes-Benz-SLS-AMG-Coupe-ED-THUMB2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive Production Car has made a record time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife (“north loop”) circuit of a 7:56.234 minutes. This means that this Mercedes-Benz is at the same time the first electrically-powered series production vehicle, which masters the legendary race track less than eight minutes.

    The record for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive shows the special position of compnay’s innovative and unique drive solution. Thanks to its efficient battery technology deriving from Formula 1, four electric motors positioned close to the wheels, the individual wheel torques “AMG Torque Dynamics”, the SLS eSound and the”AMG Lightweight Performance” design strategy, the vehicle is capable of doing miracles.

    The total output of the four electrical motors of the car is of 552 kW (751 hp) and the maximum torque is of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft). 2014 SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in a less than 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h.

    In addition, the powerful highvoltage battery for this car is an end result of the collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in an aim to deliver more power density and efficiency.

    Furthermore, the car delivers agile response to movements. The reasons for this are the accelerator pedal and the linear power output: unlike with a combustion engine, the build-up of torque is instantaneous with electric motors – maximum torque is effectively available from the beginnig.

    The driving dynamics of this model are ensured by the four motors, four wheels and the intelligent and permanent all-wheel drive. At the same time the latter provides the best possible active safety. Here the AMG Torque Dynamics feature is constantly active and allows for selective distribution of power to each individual wheel.

    Furthermore, the same feature boasts a high degree of versatility by offering three different driving modes: Comfort (C) which delivers comfortable, forgiving driving characteristics, Sport (S) that is dedicated for sportier, balanced driving manner, and Sport plus (S+) which delivers sporty and very agile driving characteristics.

    The production version of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive will be officially launched this month. Its starting price is of 416 500 Euros (circa USD $549 780).

    2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive Production Car Characteristics:

    Max. output 552 kW (751 hp)
    Torque 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft)
    0-100 km/h 3.9 s
    Top speed 250 km/h*
    Range 250 km (according to NEDC)
    Battery energy content 60 kWh
    Battery voltage 400 volts
    CO2 emissions 0 g/km
    *Electronically limited

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Volkswagen 1.4 litre TSI – Engine of the Year for the 7th Consecutive Time

    Volkswagen’s 1.4 liter TSI petrol engine managed to win Engine of the Year in its category (from 1.0 to 1.4 liter) for 7th consecutive time.

    This makes the 1.4-litre TSI the most successful engine in the 15-year history of this international engine technology competition.

    The manufacturer was the world’s first manufacturer to introduce active cylinder management (ACT) in the TSI four-cylinder last year – a technology that until then had been more familiar in large eight- or twelve-cylinder engines. Active cylinder management made its debut in the Polo and Golf 140HP (103 kW) 1.4 TSI. Temporary shutoff of the second and third cylinders – in conjunction with an economical style of driving – reduces fuel consumption by over 0.5 litres per 100 km.

    Even with two cylinders the excellently balanced 1.4 TSI runs just as quietly and with low vibration as with four active combustion chambers. All mechanical switchover processes take place within one camshaft rotation; depending on engine speed this takes just 13 to 36 milliseconds. Accompanying interventions in ignition and throttle valve processes smooth the transitions.

    Altogether, the components of active cylinder management weigh just 3 kg. Their actuators, the camshafts and their bearing frames are integrated in the cylinder head; two low-friction bearings reduce shaft friction. Important to know: only with the TSI concept – petrol direct injection plus turbocharging – is cylinder deactivation even conceivable in the form being implemented today.

    Compared to its predecessor, fuel consumption and CO2 emission values of the TSI engines were reduced to 9% in part also by such measures as reducing internal friction, lowering weight and optimising thermal management. The savings potential is as much as 15%  in conjunction with the innovative active cylinder management (ACT) feature.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Classic MINI and Porsche 911 for 50th Anniversary

    BMW has released a photo gallery showing a nice duo of a classic MINI and Porsche 911 celebrating its 50th anniversary.

    It may be the fundamental differences between the two cars (e.g. the Mini has its engine in the front, the 911 at the rear) that dominate at first glance. But there are also a number of factors – over and above their shared cult status – that lend particular empathy to MINI’s birthday greetings.

    Both models made their name with an eye-catching turn of speed. At the end of the austere 1950s Mini was the ground-breaking new kid on the block, generating sales figures that mimicked the upward curve of its acceleration. The 911, as the successor to the Porsche 356, was born with speed in its blood.

    Only a handful of cars can claim to have endured over such lengthy time spans, retaining their unmistakable identities despite all the nips, tucks and updates along the way.

    It’s tempting to wonder how different history would have been without the creators of these two successful cars. Neither Sir Alec Issigonis nor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche had any inkling that their designs would come to be considered immortal icons of modern times. Indeed, you would have needed a very clear crystal ball to see that Porsche had just dreamt up the most successful sports car of all time and Issigonis the “world’s only cool small car”.

    Source: BMW

  • Bugatti Veyron at the Paul Ricard Circuit

    Bugatti arranged “the ultimate track day” at the Paul Ricard Circuit. The test-drive Pierre-Henri Raphanel helped the participants to drive the most powerful production car in the world.

    The Grand Sport Vitesse is powered by an 8.0 liter W16 quad-turbo engine with 1200HP (883 kW) and 1500Nm (1106 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. It sends all that torque to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 7.1 seconds, 0-300 km/h in 16 seconds. ¼ mile is covered in 10.0 seconds flat and 1 mile in just 25.0 seconds.

    The unique experience is only for the company’s “dearest friends”, but obviously everybody, who has Bugatti Veyron will get the same thrill… or even better.

    Source: Bugatti

  • D2Forged Chevrolet Camaro SS MB1 With Enhanced Looks

    D2Forged-Chevrolet-Camaro-SS-MB1-THUMBIt is no secret that one of the most attractive cars around the globe is the Chevrolet Camaro. Being a true muscle car, it grabs the attention immediately thanks to its powerful stance, exuberance and aggressive attributes.

    Surely, the red color further emphasizes all this attractiveness and brings forth emotions and wishes for an instant touch with this Chevrolet. This is the case with the latest project of the specialists at D2Forged Wheels, who have equipped this Camaro SS with brand new set of shoes.

    They have added to this incredible sports car their D2Forged Monoblock Wheels which features a clean and imposing wheel design, deliver fitment and has an inherent build quality. To be more precise, the sizes of the wheels they have chosen are 20×10 inches for the front and 20×12 inches for the rear. In addition, the wheels include Brilliant Brushed Cleared finish with Chrome Lips.

    Although no enhancement in terms of power has been done on this Chevy, it is still capable of delivering the spectacular 426 horsepower (313 kW) and a maximum torque of 567 Nm (419 lb-ft). These numbers are due to the 6.2L V8 engine it is equip with. The Vmax here is estimated at 250 km/h and the acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h – at 4.7 seconds.

    Source: D2Forged Wheels

  • Audi Q7 Quattro Wide Track by Kahn Design

    Kahn Audi Q7 Quattro Wide Track is the latest creation of the talented luxury designers at A. Kahn Design. In this project they have mixed the club-class quality and the high-tech engineering in order to deliver stance of glamour and individuality.

    The exceptional design language of the carbon black Audi Q7 Quattro is additionally emphasized via Kahn’s Wide Track tuning and in addition the latter ensures that this vehicle is dynamic in proportion and distinctive in appearance.

    In this project has been kept the basic principle of lightweight design. The professionals at the British tuning company have thus included in this Audi a new front replacement wings with air vents (X2), wide wheel arches with rear vented spats, rear vented bumper, S-line front grille, brake calipers, RS-X alloy wheels (9.5 x 22), door entry sill plates in stainless steel, privacy tinted glass and exhaust tailpipes in stainless steel.

    The interior has also been transformed in order to bring about more personalization. A multitude of detailed improvements is present and many details have been restyled. For instance one can see that the speedo and Rev Counter fascia is adorned with red and white livery, vented foot pedals are in machined aluminium and front and rear seats in quilted and perforated black leather with red stitching.

    Nothing in terms of power in this Audi has been changed. Nevertheless, the Audi still delivers an immense force of 245 hp (180 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • Fiat Ducato Receives ESP As Standard

    fiat-ducato-esp-THUMBFiat Professional is now going to equip the versatile Ducato with greater safety and value as a standard. The vehicle receives ESP which will be present on the model from April this year. The Electronic Stability Program is an important safety feature will bring about more confidence and security to its drivers.

    The program utilizes information supplied by various sensors in order to find out whether the vehicle is cornering safely or not. For example, if the ESP computer determines that the Ducato vehicle is going to skid, it brakes the appropriate wheel or reduces the power from the unit.

    In addition to this it is important to mention that the ESP also includes a range of other technologies such as Load Adaptive Control (LAC), Hill Holder, Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) and Motor Schleppmoment Regelung (MSR).

    To be more precise, the LAC identifies the size of the load and the vehicle’s centre of gravity. This in turn enables the systems to operate at peak effectiveness. Next, the Hill Holder makes starts on slopes easier by holding the brake on momentarily after the driver’s foot has released the pedal.

    On the other hand, the HBA enhances the braking pressure when it identifies emergency conditions, while the ASR is utilized in terms of reduction of the engine power. In this way it counteracts the effects of one or both drive wheels skidding. At last, the MSR makes sure that the torque remains at the wheels following a sudden downshift on an incline.

    As an option, customers can chose to include in their Ducato the Traction+ system. This is an innovative traction control system which enhances the handling on difficult terrain with poor grip. It also operates via the ESP computer thus simulating the behavior of a self-locking differential.

    This basically means, that when one of the front wheels spins on a slippery surface or encounters a bad terrain, the brakes are immediately applied to this particular wheel as simultaneously engine torque is transferred to the wheel with better grip. Traction+ delivers the advantage of lower kerb weight and lower loading height.

    Source: Fiat

  • Kia Introduces 2014 Cadenza Ad Campaign [VIDEO]

    kia-cadenza-ad-THUMB2014 Kia Cadenza was recently unveiled on the North American being the the most technologically-advanced vehicle the brand has ever created. The model is powered by a 3.3 liter GDI powerplant which is capable of producing 293 horsepower (215 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 345 Nm (255 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5,200 rpm.

    The powerful unit is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission thus transferring the power to the front wheels. In addition, the automatic transmission includes Sportmatic manual shift mode and paddle shifters.

    Now it is time for the Cadenza to be officially presented to the general public. Kia has just released its new commercial, in which the new model navigates the streets of New York City. Eventually the car confidently delivers its stiletto heel-wearing driver to her 20-year reunion as stunned spectators realize they may have not noticed her in the past, but now she is truly “impossible to ignore.”

    The 2014 Cadenza comes to signal a new era for the Kia brand. It has all of the attributes to take people by surprise, because once they are in the car they will surely experience all of the technology and premium amenities it has to offer.

    The advertisement “Reunion” was created by David&Goliath and you can view it below:

    httpv://youtu.be/WouuNVH9RO8

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Kia

  • Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+: 1 mile Top Speed – 382 km/h

    Dragtimesinfo has released a video showing the GT-R AMS Alpha 12+, who managed to hit whopping 382 km/h (238 mph) at 1 mile drag race.

    Nissan GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ is boosted to 1,700HP (1,267 kW). 0-100 km/h in 2.99 seconds (due to a lot of wheel spin), 0-200 km/h in 6.5 seconds and 0-300 km/h in 12.37 seconds. This is also the fastest GT-R in the famous 1 mile drag race completing the distance in 22.538 seconds. ¼ mile time is only 9.447 seconds with 260 (161 mph) terminal speed.

    In the video you will also see Porsche 911 GT2 4WD 9ff with 1,100HP, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Hennessey with 760HP and BMW M3 ESS VT2 with 750, which compared to GT-R AMS Alpha 12+ are like everyday cars.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MzpaNu74Ts

    Source: Dragtimesinfo