Automobiles Review – Page 754 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Geneva Motor Show: KTM X-BOW GT

KTM has exhibited the new 2013 X-BOW GT at the Geneva Motor Show. The “Supersportscar of the 21^st century” comes with a road-legal soft-top, a wide range of colors and different performance parts available as options.

The GT model is based on KTM X-BOW R. It is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 285HP (210 kW) at 6,400RPM and 420Nm (310 lb-ft) at 3,200RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 231 km/h (144 mph).

The dimensions are: 3788 mm length, 1915 mm width, 1202 mm height and 2430 mm wheelbase. The curb weight is 847 kg (1,867 lbs). KTM X-BOW GT rolls 17” front wheels with 205/40 tires and 18” rears with 255/35 tires. It can average 8.3 liters / 100 km (28.3 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 189 g/km.

The price for this toy starts at €72,500.

Source: KTM

March 6, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Chevrolet Unveils Corvette Stingray Convertible [VIDEO]

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible has just been unveiled by the brand at the start of this year’s Geneva Motor Show. It has an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm), which makes it the most powerful standard Corvette in history.

Of course, everything we have seen in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe we are to find in its cabrio sibling. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. The highlight in both models is the new and more rigid aluminum frame structure, which is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the current steel frame.

All models are powered by the LT1 6.2L V-8 which delivers 450 horsepower (335 kW). The unit combines several advanced technologies such as direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency.

In addition, what is new here is the fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds up to 50 km/h. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance.

When the top is down, Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Here the exterior color is brought into the interior as well and complements it perfectly.

What is more, it has to be mentioned that this Chevrolet model has a sculptured exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for enhanced stability and track capability.

Furthermore, the interior includes a carbon fibre and aluminium trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices. Some of the advanced driver technologies featured in the model are the five-position Drive Mode Selector and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching.

Lightweight materials such as carbon fibre hood and carbon fibre removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminium frame are improving the weight for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

In addition, the model is equipped with track-capable Z51 Performance Package, which comes with an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further enhances the high-speed stability.

Both 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe and Convertible will be available at dealerships in the end of this year.

Source: Chevrolet

March 5, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: Pininfarina Sergio Concept Revealed [VIDEO]

Pininfarina Sergio Concept which has been shown as a sketch few days ago is now making a debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The name Sergio is inspired by the man who led Pininfarina for 40 years and conceived some of the greatest car legends.

The new concept car celebrates the Life of Senator Sergio Pininfarina. The model is a two-seater barchetta with very compact, very sporty, racy, pure and sensual qualities. It is an exercise that Pininfarina decided to undertake on Ferrari 458 Spider mechanicals.

The revisited volumes and surface treatments emerge through the Sergio, which evokes the spirit of Pininfarina’s best achievements for Ferrari of the ‘60s and ‘70s. In addition, this is a real open air car, and it doesn’t have a cupola fitted to protect occupants. Therefore there are provided two helmets.

Furthermore, the Sergio is charactarized by a very simple and clear style. As one sees it, its proportions are pushed to the extreme, its dynamic front volume penetrates into a rear that is projected forward. The design principle here can be seen through the composition of the two body masses through a longitudinal black insert.

The aesthetics of the model are enhanced through the front semi-floating development with the spoiler under the front. This at the same time serves as a functional for the stabilization of the aerodynamic load and the heat exchange.

A virtual windscreen is also created by the aerodynamic deflector in front of the cockpit. In addition, the roll bar which is made like a wing surface is tuned excellently to the evolution of the flow coming from the front, adding a further down force effect.

At last, the rear holder and the extractor finish the design in a very functional manner. Here even the rear-view mirror takes on a fluid form that helps to divert air from the heads of the passengers.

Some important numbers for the Pininfarina Sergio Concept:

Maximum length: 4550 mm
Maximum width: 1940 mm
Maximum height: 1140 mm
Boot capacity: 110 litres
Power train (original Ferrari 458 Spider): 4499cc V8; Sequential gearbox 7M + RM
Package: 2 doors, 2 seats
Chassis: original 458 Spider
Cx XS: about 5% lower than the original car
Weight: about 1280 kg
Maximum speed: approx 320 km/h
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: less than 3.4 seconds

httpv://youtu.be/O8w6tsTEXv8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Pininfarina

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Suzuki SX4 Crossover

Suzuki SX4 Crossover is the C-Segment Crossover which makes a first world appearance at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The new SX4 is a production model which is based on the S-Cross Concept showcased at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The new model is a successor to the current production SX4. However, it has an increased size and includes four-wheel drive. The company created the new SX4 Crossover by mixing its compact car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles.

The result is the exceptional new distinctive styling of this Suzuki Crossover, its class leading space for passengers and luggage, its generation 4WD performance and its excellent low CO2 emission figures. In other words this is a model which offers great driving enjoyment and versatile family utilization.

Some of the key features of the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover include the following:

Distinctive crossover styling: bold, sporty crossover shape, strong lines, a refined, distinctive character and excellent aerodynamics;
More space for people and luggage: C segment dimensions with increased passenger space and luggage capacity (430 litres);
Next generation 4WD with ALLGRIP technology: the new 4WD system has four driver-selectable driving modes for better performance and safety under diverse conditions;
One of the lowest CO2 emissions in its category: engine refinements, superior aerodynamics, and the high tensile steel used in the bodywork;
World’s first double sliding glass sunroof.

The new SX4 Crossover’s design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. The latter enhance the fuel economy, and the highly distinctive look is ensured by the characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches. A sharp body line, wheel arch mouldings, skid plates and integrated roof rails underline the crossover styling. Furthermore, the model will be offered in a range of 10 exterior colours, where two of them are new: Crystal Lime Metallic and Amethyst Grey Pearl Metallic.

On the other hand, the interior of the model include exceptional features such as an instrument panel which is shaped to give a sense of width and dynamism. Its contours overlap the doors and the soft padding. The seats are shaped and stitched in order to emphasize a sense of sophistication, while the silver decorations create a sporty look against the black interior.

In terms of performance, the SX4 Crossover blends all-terrain crossover capability and on road performance. The powertrain delivers environmental compatibility and great performance. The performance results of the model come from the combination of exceptional attributes: 4WD SUV capability; great handling – derived from the Swift; pleasant, straight runningstability thanks to a long wheelbase; low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – fulfilling the global needs for environmental compatibility.

To be more precise the engine options are 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel. The first one is based on the current M16A. Lower friction and lower weight in the engine and related parts heighten fuel economy without detracting from the high power and torque of the M16A. The second one, the 1.6-litre diesel engine offers superior fuel economy.

Both engines can be mated to either the standard five-speed and six-speed manual transmission system (for petrol and diesel engines respectively), or to a CVT transmission. The latter is the continuously variable transmission that has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill climbing performance and fuel economy.

Furthermore, the included Engine Auto Start Stop (EASS) system additionally increases fuel economy, limits exhaust emissions, and makes driving more pleasurable by limiting noise and vibration.

The CO2 emissions target for the new SX4Crossover petrol models are:

125g/km* with two wheel drive (2WD) manual transmission;
125g/km with 2WD CVT;
136g/km* with 4WD manual transmission;
136g/km with 4WD CVT.

The CO2 emissions for the diesel models are:

110g/km* with 2WD manual transmission;
115g/km* with 4WD manual transmission.

Dimensions Of Suzuki SX4 Crossover

	New SX4	Current SX4
Overall length	4,300mm	4,135mm
Overall width	1,765mm	1,755mm
Overall height	1,575mm (16”wheels) 1,570mm (17” wheels)	1,565mm
Wheelbase	2,600mm	2,500mm
Treads	Front 1,535mm	Front 1,500mm
	Rear 1,505mm	Rear 1,495mm
Luggage capacity (VDA)	430L	270L
Tyre size	205/60R16 205/50R17	205/60R16

Source: Suzuki

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Spyker B6 Venator Concept

The Dutch sports car maker Spyker is debuting its B6 Venator Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. After the model has been teased two weeks ago it now comes to show an exceptional attitude at the Auto Show.

Spyker B6 Venator Concept is a compact, 2-door mid-engine sports car which delivers a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity. The concept makes a defiantly contemporary statement whilst paying homage to its past. It includes extremely detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements.

The name “Venator” comes from the ancient language Latin and it means literally “Hunter”. The name it carries undoubtedly conveys its high sports luxury presence and its bold beauty. But to go further into details and to reveal some of the highlights, the rear lights of this Concept are stunning 3D LED lights akin to the iris-type propelling nozzle of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.

Secondly, the Radiator Grille, which is the trademark, references to Spyker models of the previous century. Here, the 1903 Spyker logo harkens back to an era when Spyker

built racers such as the amazing Spyker 60 HP.

Another exceptional element here is the aerodynamically shaped glass aircraft canopy which extends rearwards in order to minimize drag and to enhance performance. Next, the air intakes are aerodynamically sculpted and are integrated into the contemporary design of the car.

The new headlights are also instantly eye-catching because they are equipped with LED light rails, which add further to the aggressive stance of the model. What is more, the highly detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements are a core part Spyker’s DNA.

The brake light has been sculpted into the Spyker B6 Venator’s rear panel design to ensure smooth, flowing design lines. And the wheels – 19” Turbofan™ are in mirror polish finish. The contemporary profile and the overall design of the B6 pays homage to its past whilst making a defiantly contemporary statement with a lineage that can be traced back many years.

Source: Spyker

March 5, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: LaFerrari

Ferrari has announced LaFerrari Limited Series Special at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Only 499 will be built of this spectacular sports car.

The model introduces the hybrid system which, making full use of the Scuderia Ferrari’s F1 KERS know-how, has resulted in a solution that exalts Ferrari’s fundamental values – performance and driving thrills.

The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO₂ but without resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission of this model.

The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively electric power for a few kilometres and, during development testing, a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of CO₂ emissions on the combined cycle.

The engine is a 6.3 liter V12 with 800HP (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. With the help of HY-KERS, the overall power is whopping 963HP and over 900Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7 seconds and 0-300 in breath-taking 15 seconds.

A lap time at Fiorano of under 1’20” – 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta. LaFerrari is thus the fastest road car in Maranello’s long history.

Check out the full technical specs, below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRsV6YpLsKA

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

HY-KERS system

Total maximum power	963 CV
Total maximum torque	>900 Nm
V12 maximum power*	800 CV @9000 rpm
Maximum revs	9250 rpm
V12 maximum torque	700 Nm @6750 rpm
Electric motor output	120 Kw (163 CV)
CO₂ emissions**	330 g/km

Performance

Maximum speed	over 350 km/h
0-100 km/h	<3 sec
0-200 km/h	<7 sec
0-300 km/h	15 sec

ICE

Type	65-deg. V12
Bore and stroke	94 x 752 mm
Total displacement	6262 cc
Compression ratio	13.5:1
Specific power	128 CV/l

Dimensions

Length	4702 mm
Width	1992 mm
Height	1116 mm
Wheelbase	2650 mm
Weight distribution	41% fr, 59% r

Gearbox
7-speed DCT

Suspension

Front	double wishbones
Rear	multi-link

Tyres (Pirelli P-Zero)
Front	265/30 – 19
Rear	345/30 – 20

Carbon ceramic brakes (Brembo)
Front	398 x 223 x 36 mm
Rear	380 x 253 x 34 mm

Electronic controls

ESC	stability control
High perf ABS/EBD	Performance anti blockage system/electronic brake balance
EF1-Trac	F1 electronic traction control integrated with the hybrid system
E-Diff 3	third generation electronic differential
SCM-E Frs	magnetorheological damping with twin solenoids (Al-Ni tube)
Aerodynamics	active

* with dynamic ram effect
**Undergoing homologation

Source: Ferrari

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Honda Civic Tourer Concept

Honda Civic Tourer Concept is another concept unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This Concept vehicle delivers strong hints to the exterior design of the Civic Tourer production model. The latter will make a debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

This Honda Concept has many of the same attributes as the ninth generation 2011 Civic hatchback. It has a sophisticated, aerodynamic body that creates a clean, dynamic look. Its distinctive profile and low and wide stance giving the concept a sporty appearance, which is further enhanced by a sleek cabin style.

As a matter of fact, the Civic Tourer Concept follows the same design as Honda Tourer derivatives such as the Accord Tourer and Civic Aero deck. However, it offers smoother design combined with practical and class leading cargo space. The production Civic Tourer will be seen in showrooms in early 2014.

Source: Honda

March 5, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Renault Clio GT – 120HP and 190Nm

Renault is bringing a new special version of Clio at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The 2013 Clio GT features aggressive styling and additional power.

The exterior boasts a new front bumper with bigger air vents and LED DRLs. There is also a modified front grille, new mirror and door trims, tinted headlamps, a set of 17” alloy wheels fitted with 205/45 R17 tires, twin chrome tail-pipes and a new rear diffuser.

The power is coming from an all-new 1.2 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 120HP (88 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 199 km/h (123 mph).

The small car boasts nice fuel consumption of just 5.2 liters / 100 km (45.2 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 120 g/km.

Source: Renault

March 5, 2013

Geneva Motor Show: Rolls-Royce Wraith Unveiled!

Rolls-Royce Wraith is finally being unveiled with the start of the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show. The model has been teased several times the last couple of weeks and now we are pleased to see its outstanding assets and features.

In fact, Wraith is the most powerful and dynamic Rolls-Royce ever produced. It also exudes luxury, refinement and hand-craftsmanship, alongside its unique character defined by power, style and drama.

When looked in profile, this special Rolls-Royce model, shows sweeping fastback design, bold lines, tension in the panels and a raked rear screen. The dynamic expression is additionally underlined by the deeply recessed grille, wide rear track and dramatic two-tone presentation.

When the doors open, one can see a sumptuous interior complete with softest Phantom-grade leathers and expanses of wood called Canadel Panelling. The model is named after the famous cove in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce. The interior ambiance is complemented by Starlight Headliner, 1,340 fibre optic lamps – hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky.

But more importantly, the power delivery is effortless thanks to the V12 unit coupled with an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission. We are speaking here of 624 bhp (465kW) and 800 Nm of torque from 1500 rpm. This delivers an instant acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h for just 4.4 seconds.

The wide rear track, shorter wheelbase and lower roof height additionally contribute to the most powerful, involving driving experience of any Rolls-Royce in history. The car’s suspension has been constructed in order to minimize body roll and discreetly amplify feedback when cornering; while steering weight is heavier at high speeds and lighter at low speeds adding to the spirited drive.

Moreover, there are also some agility improvements. The Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) technology on the other hand takes the powertrain to a new level of effortless delivery. The latter system utilizes GPS data in order to see beyond what the driver sees. It anticipates his next move based on location and current driving style, and then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead.

Advanced mechanical and electrical technology deliver systems are also included in the Wraith. For instance, the car comes equipped with head-up display, adaptive headlights and Wraith’s keyless opening boot.

Other enhancements in communications come in the design and functionality of the elegant Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller. This allows navigation through on-screen functions using a touch pad that includes pinch and pull functionality to echo smart phone usage.

Rolls-Royce Wraith will have a price around €245 000.

Source: Rolls-Royce

March 5, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Alpina BMW XD3 Bi-turbo

An interesting and powerful BMW X3 is exhibited at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The Alpina version of the small SAV boasts extreme power and some nice upgrades.

The name is Alpina XD3 Bi-turbo and it is powered by a straight-six, full-aluminum 3.0-liter diesel with two turbochargers. The result is spectacular – 350HP (257 kW) at 4,000RPM and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque at 1,500RPM. Despite all that power, the XD3 Bi-Turbo has a a fuel consumption of only 6.8 liters / 100 km (41.5 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 180 g/km. The engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.

0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 21.7 seconds. The top speed is 253 km/h (157 mph). The curb weight of the vehicle is 1910 kg.

Alpina XD3 Bi-Turbo rolls enormous 20” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels fitted with MICHELIN Pilot Super Sport tyres – 255/40 ZR20 front and 285/35 ZR20 rear. There is also an option for 21” ALPINA CLASSIC wheel and tyre set-up.

Other upgrades include electronically-adjustable dampers, a custom sports exhaust system with dual double-ended tailpipes, a sport steering wheel with blue/green stitching, door sills, floor mats, gear indicator and a digital speed read-out.

Source: Alpina

March 5, 2013

2013 Geneva Motor Show: Lamborghini Veneno

Lamborghini has announced the exclusive Veneno at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Only three unique units of the Lamborghini Veneno will be built and sold. Its design is consistently focused on optimum aerodynamics and cornering stability, giving the Veneno the real dynamic experience of a racing prototype.

It is powered by a 6.5 liter V12 from Aventador, but tuned to 750HP (552 kW). The engine is mated to a fast-shifting 7-speed ISR transmission with 5 driving modes and permanent all-wheel drive. The hyper-car, which weighs just 1,450 kg (3,190 lbs) accelerates itself to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and has a top speed of 355 km/h (220 mph).

The Veneno is painted in an all-new, grey metallic-look color with individual parts gleaming in the black of the visible carbon-fiber structure. The exclusive alloy wheels measure 20” at the front and 21” at the rear and are equipped with center mountings. Their design is also determined by aerodynamic functionality – a carbon-fiber ring around the wheel rim works like a turbine to deliver additional cooling air to the carbon-ceramic brake discs.

The bespoke styling carries over to the cabin as the Veneno is equipped with a new instrument cluster, Forged Composite seats and woven carbon-fiber CarbonSkin trim.

Source: Lamborghini

March 5, 2013

Toyota i-Road Concept With World Premiere In Geneva

Toyota i-Road Concept is a personal mobility vehicle (PMV) which is making a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. It aims to bring more flexibility in the urban environment, efficiency and fewer emissions.

i-Road is an electric vehicle with a range of up to 30 miles (50km) on a single charge. It utilizes “Active Lean” technology, and offers intuitive and enjoyable driving with no need for driver or passenger to wear a helmet.

With this PMV, Toyota is paving the way for several types of eco vehicles which are to emerge in the near future, and will adapt brand’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The latter is used in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs).

In fact, people who are using PMVs will be delighted with this model because it is more comfortable, offers better weather protection and is safer than a two-wheel vehicle. In addition, the i-Road has low running costs, easy parking and around-town manoeuvrability.

The three-wheel i-Road is 2,350mm long and 1,445mm high and has a 1,700mm wheelbase. What is more surprisingly however is its width which is only 850mm. First of all this signifies that the vehicle isn’t wider than a conventional two-wheeler and secondly this makes it easier for manoeuvring through congested traffic. Additionally, it also means four can be parked in a single parking bay.

Furthermore, this Toyota model has zero-emissions, thanks to its all-electric powertrain which utilizes a lithium-ion battery to power two 2kW motors mounted in the front wheels, giving brisk acceleration and near-silent running. The driving range here is around 30 miles, after which the battery can be fully recharged from a conventional domestic power supply in only three hours.

The highlight here is the company’s new and entirely intuitive Active Lean technology. It brings to the vehicle high levels of stability, safety, comfort and fun-to-drive character. In particular, the system uses a lean actuator and gearing mounted above the front suspension member, linked via a yoke to the left and right front wheels.

What is more, an ECU calculates the required degree of lean based on steering angle, gyro-sensor and vehicle speed information, with the system automatically moving the wheels up and down in opposite directions, applying lean angle to counteract the centrifugal force of cornering.

The same system also manages when the PMV is being driven in a straight line over stepped surfaces. What happens is that the actuator automatically compensates the changes in the road to keep the body level. Here the minimum turning circle is measured at three meters.

In addition, the i-Road can be equipped with a safer, weatherproof, closed body and so can be driven without wearing a helmet. Of course, this means that the driving experience is more car-like and this is reinforced by features such as lighting, heating, audio and Bluetooth.

Toyota i-ROAD Concept has the goal and the beautiful vision for the future to play a significant role in reducing city traffic congestion and air pollution. Additionally, its compact size, manoeuvrability, easy parking, rapid charging and choice of an open or closed cabin make it the perfect urban vehicle, without compromising individual freedom of mobility.

Source: Toyota

March 4, 2013

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