Automobiles Review – Page 752 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 and DBRS9

Aston Martin has announced the launch of the new GT3 CUP, a three race series open to competitors in the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 and DBRS9.

The series is an invitational class within the ASTON MARTIN GT4 CHALLENGE OF GREAT BRITAIN, which is now in its fourth season, and the cars will race alongside the Vantage GT4s at the Silverstone, Donington and Brands Hatch rounds. To commemorate Aston Martin’s centenary this year, each of the races will be held over either 100 laps or 100 minutes, with the Brands Hatch round forming part of the ASTON MARTIN CENTENARY FESTIVAL in July.

At each circuit, the series takes prime position in the paddock with separate garages for all competitors and the exclusive Aston Martin VIP Race Centre for drivers and guests to relax between sessions.

Points scored in the GT3 Cup will count towards the ASTON MARTIN RACING GLOBAL CHALLENGE.

Check out the calendar, below!

Calendar:

• 6 April – Silverstone
• 1 June – Donington Park
• 7 July – Brands Hatch GP

Source: Aston Martin

March 8, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: 2014 Infiniti Q50 [VIDEO]

2014 Infiniti Q50 has debuted at the Geneva Motor Show thus making its premiere in Europe. The model will be offered with a choice of diesel or turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine. In addition, the model will introduce world-first technologies, and will deliver great level of dynamic customization. It will also be available in Hybrid variant.

The Q50 was the first Infiniti Q car to take the Geneva spotlight. To go further into details, the hybrid delivers 364 PS (268 kW) and the diesel version – 2.2d powered by a new 2.2-litre diesel engine. Infiniti’s first four-cylinder diesel unit on the other hand generates 170 PS (125 kW) and 400 Nm (295 kW) of torque, and low emissions starting from below 115g/km of CO2.

In addition, this Infiniti model will include emotive styling with distinctive human eyes-like headlight and ‘Double Arch’ grille. What is more it also comes equipped with world-first technologies such as Direct Adaptive Steering, and a digital environment.

2014 Infiniti Q50 in both diesel and hybrid forms will go on sale in Europe from this fall in a range of standard and Sport models.

httpv://youtu.be/l8FyyZXT_bc

httpv://youtu.be/GsJsGWKnPLs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Infiniti

March 8, 2013

2013 Chevrolet COPO Camaro With Additional Engine Choices

2013 Cehvrolet COPO Camaro factory drag-racing car will be produced in limited run and their customer will be identified starting Monday, March 11. Only sixty-nine units will be constructed in 2013.

Last year, for the 2012 COPO Camaros, when only 69 were built, more than 3000 people have shown interest. To remind you, COPO stands for Central Office Production Order and was originally used by dealers in the 1960s. Back then this created special orders, mostly for fleet vehicles.

In addition, some racing-minded dealers utilized this system in order to make higher-performance models such as the 1969 Camaro ZL1. And again, only sixty-nine examples of this Chevrolet were built, hence making the model valuable collector’s car.

To be more precise, the the 2013 production run will be offered with two new engines and a new manual transmission: 350-cubic-inch engine rated at 325 horsepower (240 kW) and the 427-cubic-inch engine rated at 425 horsepower (313 kW).

As a standard on all COPO Camaros comes the high-feature fuel-injection system with engine management directed by an all-new Holley HP EFI electronic control. The latter includes self-tuning fuel table strategies and data logging, and is utilized in conjunction with a Holley Hi-Ram intake manifold.

In addition, there is a brand new manual transmission. Rear axle gearing is optimized for each vehicle, depending on the engine and transmission. Other new and revised production features for 2013 include: a “heritage” grille and standard-production (non-HID) headlamps; new exterior graphics choices with engine-size call-outs; revised interior package with custom carpet and new switch panel; dedicated racing wiring harness; revised front springs that enhance performance; transmission cooler integrated with radiator.

What is more, five exterior colors are being offered as a choice to customers. They are namely: Black, Summit White, Victory Red, Silver Ice Metallic and Ashen Gray Metallic. The starting price for the COPO Camaro is $86 000.

Source: Chevrolet

March 8, 2013

2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 Supported By Bilstein

Aston Martin has confirmed their partnership with leading damping and suspension specialist Bilstein, appointing it as primary technical partner for Aston Martin Racing’s competition programme at the Nürburgring race in May.

The emblematic blue and yellow colours of Bilstein are now featured on the new 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 which will be driven by Darren Turner (GB) and Stefan Mücke (D), alongside Allan Simonsen (DK) and Pedro Lamy (PT) at the race.

In fact, Bilstein has played a crucial role in the success of Aston Martin’s road cars, giving them excellet performance and quality. The Bilstein-liveried V12 Vantage GT3 is going to be firstly presented at the 60. ADAC Westfalenfahrt four-hour race (VLN1) on 23 March and then again at the 55. The other events at which it will be seen are the ADAC ACAS H&R Cup (VLN3) on 27 April in preparation for the ADAC Zurich 24-Hour race on 19/20 May.

Additional details about the racecar, as well as Aston Martin’s full Nürburgring 24 Hours campaign will be disclosed in the coming weeks.

Source: Aston Martin

March 8, 2013

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Delivers Enhanced Efficiency

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid is the updated version of the popular vehicle and includes a more performance-driven and fuel-efficient powertrain as well as more cargo space and premium features.

To be more precise, the powertrain refinements are made to enhance smoothness and drivability, featuring a more robust 47 hp (35 kW) electric traction motor, stronger Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) and more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery.

The car delivers 199 horsepower (147 kW) and has combined 318 Nm (235 lb-ft) of torque. The Optima Hybrid is now being offered in two trim levels – base and EX. The firs one achieves an EPA estimated 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined, while the second trim model delivers an EPA estimated 35/39/371.

What also has been enhanced here is that the new Kia model has greater trunk space. Moreover, the EX model comes with additional equipment: navigation with back-up camera, an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch wheels to the already long list of amenities.

Furthermore, the model is lighter and aerodynamically enhanced. It runs on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, for the base and the EX respectively, and has reduced weight and drag. To be more precise, the enhanced aerodynamics is gained via the Optima Hybrid’s lowered ride height, full belly pan and rear spoiler.

In addition, what also differentiates the model are the satin finished front grille surround and trim on the lower front fascia and side sills, and unique front and rear lighting. In addition, the revised Kia name badge is applied to the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel.

2013 Optima Hybrid includes an impressive array of standard safety equipment: driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Traction Control System (TCS) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also come standard on all models.

Source: Kia

March 8, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Hyundai I20 WRC

Hyundai will take part at the FIA World Rally Championship with its new specification i20 WRC. The model was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show showing-off all its assets. The model embodies remarkable enhancements to the exterior bodywork and suspension.

To be more precise, the upgrades are the result of collaborative work between Hyundai’s R&D facility in Namyang, Koreaand and the newly formed Hyundai Motorsport GmbH in Alzenau,Germany, headed up by veteran WRC man Michel Nandan.

In fact, the Hyundai i20 WRC boasts striking looks due to the redesigned livery which blends a dynamic treatment of brand’s corporate blue together with an innovative use of characters from the native Korean script, Hunminjeongeum. The livery perfectly complements the

excitement and dynamism of WRC with the Korean heritage of the Hyundai brand.

The latest version of the i20 WRC has a design focused on aerodynamics and in addition – improved cooling systems. A new rear wing and front spoiler give the i20 WRC a new external appearance. Under the bodywork, some enhancements are noticeable on the suspension kinematics and chassis stiffness.

Source: Hyundai

March 7, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition

The launch of the Alfa Romeo 4C is already a fact. However, what also needs attention is the new lightweight sports coupe’s Launch Edition version which has just been unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This limited edition Alfa Romeo will be produced in limited run of 400 in Europe and will incorporate exclusive characteristics.

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition is available in two exterior color choices – Carrara White or Alfa Red. In addition, it is marked out by the distinctive badge, inlaid beneath the paintwork. What is more, this Alfa Romeo is enhanced with carbon aerodynamic kit which features spoiler and door mirror covers.

In addition, what also distinguishes this Launch Edition from the standard 4C model is the rear aluminium diffuser with dark finishing, Bi-LED headlights with dark surround and 18″ (front) and 19″ (rear) alloy wheels with burnishing treatment.

Moreover, the sporty appearance is further emphasized with the front air intakes, brake calipers in a specific colour, racing exhaust system with BMC air cleaner and suspension kit with specific calibration for shock absorbers and rear anti-roll bar.

In terms of interior, the same sporty design philosophy is applied. There are present leather/fabric sports seats with parts in Alcantara, as well as the distinctive, numbered carbon badge. On the other hand, if the livery is red, the Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition has red stitching on the steering wheel trim, handbrake, mats, handles and sports seats.

At the heart of the 4C Launch edition lies the same engine as in the standard 4C. We are speaking here of the new direct-injection 240 hp (176 kW) 4-cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol unit. The latter delivers exceptional performance without sacrificing driving fluidity and use in any circumstances, from the racetrack to the city streets. Torque delivery is generous, with a peak of 350 Nm at only 1700 rpm.

Moreover, the all-aluminium power unit incorporates the specific optimized intake and exhaust systems, to improve both response at low speeds and extension. Additional help is provided by the crankshaft with eight counterweights. What also has too be mentioned is that it boasts cutting-edge technical solutions including direct petrol injection, dual (intake and exhaust) continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a scavenging control system that eliminates turbo lag.

The result is an exceptional performance thanks to the applied state-of-the-art technical and technological solutions. The Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition has a top speed of 250 km/h, and needs only 4.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 7, 2013

Misha Designs Porsche Cayenne Wide-body

Porsche Cayenne II has received another tuning package from Misha Designs. The new parts are compatible with Cayenne Type 955, which is produced from 2002 to 2006 and Type 957 (2007-2010).

The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper, a restyled front hood, a pair of new side skirts and a new front fender flare. At the rear, there is a new roof spoiler, modified rear bumper with diffuser and rear fender flares.

Other highlights include LED daytime running lights and huge 22” DPE CSR05 alloy wheels with a five-spoke black concave configuration and ultra-low profile performance tires.

Misha Designs comments that a minimum of bodywork is necessary and the kit will replace the stock parts using factory mounting points. Everything suits perfectly and is made from high quality materials.

Source: BMW

March 7, 2013

Wolf Racing Ford Focus ST – 370HP and 556Nm

Wolf Racing has released another tuned Ford Focus ST. The hot hatchback comes with a number of upgrades including super powerful tuned engine. There is a three-stage performance improvement increasing the power with up to 120HP.

Ford Focus ST is powered by a 2.0 liter EcoBoost with 250HP (184 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

Stage I boosts the engine to 285HP (210 kW) and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The price is €1,290 and it includes a new air filter and ECU re-map.

Stage II offers 300HP (221 kW) and 450Nm (333 lb-ft). The price is a lot – €3,240, which includes a new turbocharger as well as new air filter and ECU re-map.

Stage III has whopping 370HP (272 kW) and 556Nm (409 lb-ft) of torque. The price is €5,900 – a new turbocharger, a complete sports exhaust system, sport air filter, ECU re-map.

Other highlights include a new brake system – €3,350; headlight covers – €95; roof spoiler lips – €165; side skirt – €338; and rear skirt attachments – €395.

Except for the front and rear headlight covers, all the components are available in either the unpainted standard design or with a carbon finish.

The coilover suspension is priced at €1,249. It lowers the car up to 50 mm front and up to 40 mm rear. There is also a spring set for €189.

There is an extensive range of exclusive alloy wheels in sizes 17” to 20”.

All products are now available directly at Wolf Racing and can be ordered online.

Source: Wolf Racing

March 7, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Koenigsegg Agera S Hundra

Koenigsegg has announced the Agera S Hundra. Only one car has been produced to celebrate 10^th anniversary of delivering the first production cars to anticipating customers.

The car is ordered by a car collector in Malaysia. It features artisan hand laid and swirled, 24 carat gold leaf inlays, creating an intriguing mix of traditional and hi-tech craftsmanship. There is also gold on the coil springs, rear deck struts and exhaust. The entire bodywork was handcrafted by an Italian artist. The interior boasts Alcantara with several gold accents, exposed carbon fiber and gold stitching.

The engine remains the same – a 5.0 liter twin-turbo V8 with 1,030HP (768 kW) and a 1,100Nm (811 lb-ft) of torque

Source: Koenigsegg

March 7, 2013

Schwabenfolia Chevrolet Camaro SS

SchwabenFolia has announced their latest project. It is a tuned Chevrolet Camaro SS featuring both – styling and performance modifications.

The 6.2 liter V8 engine has received a compressor TVS2300 Magnuson. The result is spectacular 525HP (386 kW), which is a 120HP increase. There is also a coilover suspension – KW Variant 1 and a set of 20” wheels with five spokes fitted with 245 and 275 tires (front/rear).

The exterior boasts spectacular opening LSD doors, full wrap – mat shade called Anodized Blue, Black Brushed Steel roof, mirrors, hood and rear spoiler. The side pinstripes, which mark the waistline, are white and also mat.

SchwabenFolia has quite rightly received the first „PWF-Award“ for this Camaro with the best PWF foil by Bruxsafol on the most beautiful car, where PWF is well known as Platinum Wrapping Film.

Source: Schwabenfolia

March 7, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: 2013 Volkswagen Golf Estate

2013 Volkswagen Golf Estate is making a first world appearance at this Geneva Motor Show. The model has been present on the automotive market for twenty years. This Volkswagen model resembles the Golf hatchback but is based on the MQB platform and in addition is up to 105 kg lighter than its predecessor.

Furthermore, for the first time the Golf Estate will be available as a full BlueMotion model as well, with a combined fuel consumption of just 85.6 mpg which is equivalent to 87 g/km of CO2.

What also has to be highlighted is that its boot volume has been expanded from the 505 litres of itspredecessor to 605 litres. This means that when it is loaded up to the front seat backrests and under the roof, it delivers a cargo volume of no less than 1,620 litres.

Moreover, in terms of exterior visual attributes, the new Golf Estate closely follows closely the lines of the Golf hatchback model. It has a total length of 4,562 mm, and visually the “third” side window forms a part of the D-pillar. The result is more sporty appearance.

There are also available a variety of engines. First of all, the derivative BlueMotion utilizes a 1.6-litre diesel engine producing 110 PS (80 kW) and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The petrol engine line-up here begins with a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS (77 kW), rising via a 1.4-litre TSI 122 PS (90 kW) unit to a 1.4-litre TSI ACT 140 PS (103 kW) engine with cylinder deactivation.

Additionally, two other diesel-engine models will be offered: a 1.6-litre TDI 105 PS (77 kW) and a 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS (110 kW). Prices and specification will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Source: Volkswagen

March 7, 2013

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