Automobiles Review – Page 732 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Renault Captur – A Better Urban Crossover

Renault has announced the new 2013 Captur – The new supermini crossover.

The vehicle will be available to order in the UK from 1^st May. With keen pricing and a series of life-simplifing features up its sleeve, it will also be looking to make serious inroads in the booming B-segment crossover class. Led by its sister Alliance car, Nissan Juke, the market’s already growing fast on the back of the MINI Countryman and the slightly larger Chevrolet Trax and Vauxhall Mokka. It’s expected to explode even more with the future launches of rivals such as the Fiat 500X, Ford EcoSport and Peugeot 2008.

UK prices are confirmed from £12,495 on-the-road, which undercuts current class top-seller by £500.

There are four trim levels for Renault’s first supermini crossover: Expression, Expression+, Dynamique MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav.

The standard equipment includes 16” alloy wheels, 60/40 split and sliding rear seat bench, body coloured bumpers, cruise control, ECO mode (up to 10% fuel saving), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), ETC (Electronic Traction Control), front and rear electric windows, HSA (Hill Start Assist), speed limiter, trip computer.

The top of range Dynamique S MediaNav offers 17” Explore alloy wheels (choice of coloured inserts), contrasting roof and door mirror colour, Exterior Gloss and Interior Touch Packs, City Pack (electric folding door mirrors and rear parking sensors), heated front seats, extra tinted rear windows.

The options list includes: Renault R-Link (including TomTom sat nav, 4x35W Arkamys 3D Sound) £450, reversing camera (Dynamique MediaNav and above), City Pack (£395), heated front seats (£250), metallic paint £495 (including i.d. Arizona and Tahoe Blue £595), painted roof £300, Interior Touch (£350) and Exterior Gloss Packs (£350)

The engine range features an all-new 1.2 TCe 120 EDC; 0.9 TCe 90 and 1.5 dCi 90. The dCi 90 EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) follows later in 2013. Stop&Start standard on every manual. dCi 90 also sub-100g/km.

Full UK range launch pricing is as follows:

Version	Engine	CO₂ g/km	BIK	Insurance Group	OTR Price
Expression	TCe 90 Stop&Start	115	C	tbc	£12,495
	dCi 90 Stop&Start	95	A	tbc	£13,895
Expression+	TCe 90 Stop&Start	115	C	9E	£14,495
	dCi 90 Stop&Start	95	A	11E	£15,895
Dynamique Media Nav	TCe 90 Stop&Start	115	C	9E	£14,995
	dCi 90 Stop&Start	95	A	12E	£16,395
	TCe 120 Auto EDC	125	D	14E	£17,195
	dCi 90 Auto EDC	tbc	tbc	tbc	£17,395
Dynamique S Media Nav	TCe 90 Stop&Start	115	C	tbc	£16,495
	dCi 90 Stop&Start	95	A	tbc	£17,895
	TCe 120 Auto EDC	125	D	tbc	£18,695
	dCi 90 Auto EDC	tbc	tbc	tbc	£18,895

Source: Renault

April 23, 2013

Volkswagen Gran Lavida at 2013 Auto Shanghai

Volkswagen exhibited the 2013 Gran Lavida at the Auto Shanghai. The vehicle will be produced exclusively for the Chinese market at the firm’s Shanghai-Volkswagen joint venture. It has the same wheelbase as the saloon model, but the overall length has gone down from 4605mm to 4454mm.

The engine range includes a 1.4 liter TSI with 130HP (97 kW) and a 1.6 liter TDI with 105HP (77 kW). Probably, the Gran Lavida will get more powerful engines later.

Gran Lavida is just one of the models Volkswagen is launching in China as part of an objective to have no less than 90 models by 2015.

Source: Volkswagen

April 23, 2013

Saleen 351 Mustang Prototype – 710HP and 887Nm

Saleen has unveiled the 351 Mustang Prototype based on Ford Mustang Convertible. The one-off vehicle was presented at last weekend’s Fabulous Fords at Knott’s Berry Farm in California.

The exterior boasts a specially-made Orange County Orange paint. Under the bonnet, there is a “small-block” 5.7 liter V8 with 710HP (522 kW) and 887Nm (655 lb-ft) of torque. The power is put on the road through a 6-speed gearbox with 3.73:1 final drive ratio and a performance clutch system.

It rolls 20” alloy wheels with high-performance tires. There is also an upgraded brake system including 15” brake discs.

Other highlights include a butterfly hood scoop, along with carbon fiber front and rear splitters and rear diffuser.

Source: Mustangsdaily

April 23, 2013

Debut For Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept In China

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept has just been presented to the public at 2013 Shanghai Auto Show showing it the future design cues intended for Volkswagen SUVs.

The five-seat CrossBlue Coupe is 4,889 mm long, 2,015 mm wide and just 1,679 mm high and for that reason offers distinctive and muscular look. When observed at the front one can see the radiator grille trim that consists of two polished aluminium struts and the VW logo in a 3D form which eventually extends into the headlights.

Moreover, under the C-pillars there can be seen ports for the fuel tank and battery. The fuel filler neck is positioned under a lid on the right side of the vehicle, while the cover for the electrical outlet is located symmetrically on the left side. It consists of one socket for charging the high-voltage battery and another for connecting electric devices. This basically means that the interface (16 A, 230 V) makes the CrossBlue Coupé a generator as well.

One can not go without paying attention to the tailpipes, which are designed in stainless steel, and in addition are integrated into a polished aluminium trim panel that runs horizontally along the back of the coupe.

One of the most important highlights here is the drivetrain that offers an extended range of possibilities. Here we are speaking about a plug-in hybrid system that comprises of a V6 turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and two electric motors (40 kW front and 85 kW rear).

When they work together they are capable of generating 415 hp (305 kW). The power is transmitted via a six-speed DSG gearbox. These horsepower make the car sprint form standstill to 100 km/h in only 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 146 mph.

Despite those inspiring results, the fuel economy is impressive with a combined cycle figure of 3.0 l/100 km, or 94.1 mpg. In hybrid mode, the CrossBlue Coupé returns 6.9 l/100 km (40.9 mpg). What is more, when the vehicle is powered by its battery alone, the CrossBlue can cover up to 33 km/20 miles as an EV.

When the vehicle operates in E-mode, only the rear electric motor propels the vehicle and the TSI engine is shut off. However, it is switched again after 75 mph an then the TSI unit is coupled to the drivetrain again, within fractions of a second. The battery can be charged by external power sources or by the engine while the SUV is moving.

In addition, the TSI drivetrain charges the battery while driving thus storing electrical energy for EV operation. There are also a number of other modes such as Coasting, Battery regeneration, Boosting, Off-road(‘propshaft by wire’), TSI only.

Source: Volkswagen

April 23, 2013

Premiere For The Buick Riviera Concept Vehicle

A brand new version of the Buick Riviera Concept vehicle made a world debut in Shanghai, showing off its avant-garde aesthetics and range of advanced technology. The concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid electric motor which comes in a single package.

The Rivera Concept retains the sweeping design cues of the previous versions, but is more athletic in terms of shape and exudes elegance and deeply sculpted lines. The concept’s silhouette has a three-dimensional effect that resembles waves in the ocean coming to a standstill for a split second.

In addition, here are featured Buick‘s one-of-a-kind gull-wing doors that add more to the sportiness of the model. The new Riviera has an ice celadon exterior finish inspired by jade. What is more, the updated concept vehicle has a new waterfall grille and wing-shaped daytime running lights.

The balance between style and performance is kept thanks to the inclusion of its raked windshield, 14-degree fastback design and metallic fiber spoiler, active grille shutters and diffusers, and active pneumatic wheels.

Next, the interior of the car is based on the 360-degree integrated design strategy. Inside the coupe, the eaglewood tone predominates and features extensive use of refined materials like sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava suede and ebony. The luxury feel is further enhanced, thanks to the new center console, front floating seats, adaptive seating system and noise-absorbing head restraint system.

In terms of technologies included in this project, this Buick includes BIP (Buick Intelligent Performance) and dual-mode W-PHEV (wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) propulsion system. This basically means that the driver can choose to go on green power in electric mode and enjoy the exhilarating handling and performance of a sports car while driving “green” in hybrid mode.

The Rivera can be charged with a traditional cable or wirelessly via a sensory recharge panel on the car’s chassis. Another highlight here is that this concept is also given an intelligent four-wheel steering, an electromagnetic-controlled suspension and an air spring package.

The safety and security features here include a forward-looking active safety system that gathers traffic information through 10 high-resolution cameras and 18 micro high-precision sensors. Then the information is being integrated and afterwards projected in a holographic image on the windshield.

Furthermore, the intelligent driver assist system delivers high level of active safety and security, because it incorporates some versatile technologies such as an eagle view record system, night view assist, side blind-zone alert system, lane departure warning system, full-speed range-adaptive cruise control system, lane change assist system, parking assist system, rear cross-traffic alert system, autopilot system and “transparent” A pillars.

Source: Buick

April 23, 2013

Honda Concept M And Jade Models Revealed In Shanghai

Next to Honda Cider Concept, the Japanese brand made a world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2013 of another exclusive concept – the Honda Concept M. The vehicle’s production version is going to enter the market next year.

The new Concept M is a vehicle for the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment and was developed especially for the Chinese market. The new model offers the attributes of a passenger car while adding new value through the combination of a comfortable and spacious cabin space.

Of course, it will include a wide range of technologies and will deliver nothing less but fun of driving. Concept M was designed by the design studio at the Automobile R&D Center of Honda R&D Coin Japan.

In addition, Honda introduced the Jade model, which is based on the Concept S. The latter was officially introduced at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. However, Jade comes with innovative design which is based on an image of a jade stone, thus delivering beautiful exterior stance and sense of quality.

Honda Jade is planned to go on sale in September.

Source: Honda

April 23, 2013

TEASER: Bentley Continental GT by Vilner [VIDEO]

We have received extremely exciting news from the Bulgarian luxury tuning specialists at Vilner, who have just sent us a teaser video that reveals what will be their next exquisite project.

Studio Vilner have already established a very prominent position in the creation of superior interiors on different kind of automobiles of versatile classes. In addition, in their portfolio is evident that they have made some exterior finishes as well.

And now it is the time that they are also about to showcase their first entirely reworked automobile, which in addition is among the vehicles in luxury class. Namely, they have completely transformed a first generation Bentley Continental GT.

Of course, Vilner has paid great respect to the majestic and imposing design of this Continental GT, and on this sound basis they have created a project that is fully produced in Bulgaria.

All that is disclosed so far (besides the three designer’s images of the project) is that the tuning is accomplished in three directions. First of all, the exterior was changed with the aim to bring about more aggressive and unique stance. Secondly, this Bentley is equipped with entirely new interior. And at last, but not least – the power output of the car is enhanced.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TviFOtry_6g

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vilner

April 22, 2013

2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Live Limited Edition

Alfa Romeo has announced the MiTo Live, which is a new limited edition of just 250 units. The MiTo Live combines safety and technology with a passion for music.

The small hatchback has achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, has been created for drivers who love to stay connected and entertained on the move. It comes fitted with a high fidelity BOSE sound system and Pioneer’s innovative AppRadio system which lets users connect and access their smartphone’s apps through a 7” multi-touch screen.

It is powered by the multi-award-winning TwinAir Turbo petrol engine. It boasts impressive fuel economy of 67.3 mpg with low (98g/km) CO₂ emissions.

The Alfa MiTo Live is priced from just £16,590 OTR with extras including stylish 17” alloy wheels and rear tinted windows. Competitive financing packages on Hire Purchase start from 0% Hire Purchase with 45% deposit required.

Source: Alfa Romeo

April 22, 2013

2013 Subaru Forester XT – UK Price £24,995

Subaru has announced the pricing for the new 2013 Forester XT. The SUV-C vehicle is starting from £24,995 for the 2.0D X model and climbs to £30,995 for the range-topping 2.0i XT.

There are 6 trim levels for buyers to choose from, all with a generous level of standard equipment: XE and XE Premium is available on all naturally-aspirated petrol models; X, XC and XC Premium on all diesel models; and XT, the highest specification, is standard on 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol versions of the new Forester.

Lineartronic is available on XE and XE Premium models and is fitted as standard to XT versions.

All Forester buyers will have the peace-of-mind of a five-year, 100,000 mile warranty, plus a 12-year anti-corrosion guarantee.

The new Forester is also an exceptionally safe vehicle and was recently awarded the full 5-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating. Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) electronic stability control system has been upgraded for superior stability, while a new Trailer Stability Control also improves safety during towing. Greater use of ultra-high tensile steel reinforces the vehicle, making it exceptionally strong yet light.

All safety equipment is fitted as standard to every model in the Forester range, including twin front, side, curtain and knee airbags, upholding Subaru’s commitment to improving crash safety performance.

Every Forester is equipped with two core Subaru technologies: Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, affording surefootedness in all conditions, and the latest generation Boxer engines, contributing to a low centre of gravity which is beneficial to balance, road holding and handling.

The New Forester is on sale from May 1.

Model	Price OTR (£)	CO₂ (g/km)	VED Band	Insurance Group
2.0i XE	25,495	160	G	23E
2.0i XE CVT	26,995	150	F	23E
2.0i XE Premium	27,495	160	G	23E
2.0i XE Premium CVT	28,995	150	F	23E
2.0i XT CVT	30,995	197	J	23E
2.0D X	24,995	150	F	24E
2.0D XC	26,995	156	G	25E
2.0D XC Premium	28,995	156	G	25E

Source: Subaru

April 22, 2013

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Long-Wheelbase

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the E-Class Long-Wheelbase at 2013 Auto Shanghai. The luxurious saloon will be sold exclusively in China. It boasts an overall length of 5019 mm and its wheelbase has been extended by 140 mm to 3014 mm. In other words, this means 14 cm of additional legroom for the rear passengers.The long version of the E-Class is being launched in China as the E 260 L, E 300 L and E 400 L. There is a choice of two variants: the luxurious Sedan and the Sport Sedan. The latter features a powerful AMG front and rear apron, new AMG side skirts and AMG wheels. Typical of the AMG brand is the lavish scope of equipment and appointments. Starting with the E 260 L, features include LED headlamps, an electric sunroof, two-zone automatic climate control, PARKTRONIC and COMAND DVD.New items of equipment are additionally available for other models:

The 360° camera comprises a close-range system of several cameras to assist in parking and manoeuvring. In addition to the functions of the backup camera, it also enables monitoring of the areas to the side of the vehicle and directly in front of the vehicle, thus helping to avoid inadvertent collisions during manoeuvring.
All the headlamp functions of the Intelligent Light System (ILS) feature energy-efficient LED technology. These functions adapt the light distribution to the given driving situation, thereby making an important contribution to safe driving.
The ECO start/stop system reduces fuel consumption and emissions by shutting down the engine automatically when the vehicle is stationary.

April 22, 2013

Suzuki Authentics Concept at 2013 Auto Shanghai

Suzuki has presented the Authentics Concept in Shanghai. “AUTHENTICS” is a concept model of the authentic sedan presented to the C-segment sedan class, which has the largest volume in the Chinese automobile market

Design

– By keeping its overall height low and adopting a long wheelbase, it realizes a stable authentic sedan style.
– The main characteristics are its sharp and sporty character lines and an inflected body shape with an elegant curved surface.

Suzuki plans to produce and distribute the production model based on “AUTHENTICS” by the end of 2014.

Source: Suzuki

April 22, 2013

MG CS Concept at 2013 Auto Shanghai

MG has revealed the new CS Concept at the 2013 Auto Shanghai. The concept car is designed to slot into the compact SUV sector, one of the fastest growing areas of the global automotive market where style and sports utility dominate fashion trends.

The MG CS has many strikingly unique features, including the headlights which have a multi-faceted ‘shard’ structure which refract light in different colours and shape from the side, but coalesce to form the iconic MG’s trademark octagon from the front.

A strong horizontal emphasis gives the side profile of the MG CS a distinctive, sporty style and youthful appearance. Creative design, style and charisma dominate the look of this latest MG.

The manufacturer is planning to introduce the production version in 2015 with starting price of around $23,000.

Source: MG

April 22, 2013

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