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2013 Jaguar XFR-S – Officially Unveiled

Jaguar has officially revealed the new 2013 XFR-S high-performance saloon. The car is exhibited at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

It is powered by the same engine as XKR-S – a 5.0 liter supercharged V8 with 550HP (404 kW) and 678Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with Quickshift. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) – electronically limited. Despite all that power, the car is able to return 15 mpg in city – 23 mpg on highway and 18 mpg on combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 270 g/km.

“What we have given the XFR-S is greater handling capacity, greater precision and greater capability. It’s a car for driving purists – it will feel engaging within the first 50 meters but remains accessible and confidence-inspiring at any speed.”, commented Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar

The car is equipped with Electronic Active Differential and Dynamic Stability Control system for perfect handling and traction. It rolls 20” Varuna forged alloys with wide low-profile tires to improve grip.

The exterior features new front bumper, a carbon fiber front splitter and extended side sills. The rear bumper is also different with integrated carbon fiber diffuser. The massive rear wing provides additional downforce.

The price for the high-performance saloon is $99,000 and it will hit the market, next summer.

JAGUAR XFR-S: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 5-liter V8 supercharged with Intelligent Stop/Start

Capacity (cc) 5,000

Bore/Stroke (mm) 92.5/93

Peak Power (hp@rpm) 550@6500

Peak Power (kW@rpm) 405@6500

Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm) 502@2500-5500

Peak Torque (Nm@rpm) 680@2500-5500

Transmission ZF Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic

0-60 mph (seconds) 1 4.4

0-100km/h (seconds) 1 4.6

Top Speed (mph | km/h) 1 186 | 300 (electronically limited)

Fuel Economy2 (US EPA Estimated mpg) 15 city / 23 highway / 18 combined (Same as XFR)

CO2 Emissions (g/km) 270

Source: Jaguar

November 28, 2012

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe – 5 Stars in Euro NCAP Crash Test

Euro NCAP has published a crash test video of the new 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. The SUV managed to earn full five stars safety rating by independent vehicle assessment organization. Its scores on all four test categories make it one of the safest vehicles ever assessed and a leader in its segment.

2012 Santa Fe is the safest vehicle in its category with class-leading 96% in the “adult occupant”. The judges awarded maximum points in the side barrier test thanks to the good protection afforded to all body regions. In the ‘child occupant’ category, the New Generation Santa Fe received a score of 89%, and features such as electronic stability control contributed to the car’s score of 86% in the ‘safety assist’ category.

“The five-star rating for New Generation Santa Fe shows our commitment to developing cars which provide the highest levels of safety to Hyundai customers. The car’s class-leading safety complements the enhanced efficiency that brings low CO₂ and low running costs, to make New Generation Santa Fe a compelling choice for consumers.”, commented Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe.

Every New Generation Santa Fe on sale in Europe comes with Hyundai’s Five Year Triple Care.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fUzOHRFMlA

Source: Euro NCAP

November 28, 2012

Teaser: 2013 Kia pro_cee’d GT

Kia has just exclusively released the first teaser image of their new and aerodynamically empowered Kia pro_cee’d GT. The model will make its official launch in the second half of next year, exuding thirst for speed and adventures.

It is visible that the hot hatch is perfectly aligned with Kia’s sportiness and “fun to drive” positioning. The model of course is based on the all-new pro_cee’d which had its global debut at the Paris Motor Show earlier this year.

The pro_cee’d wiil to go on sale next year, however earlier than the GT model – in the spring. Unfortunately, there’s scarce information around the technical details and specification of the latter. All we know so far is that the 2013 pro_cee’d GT will include the 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Source: Kia

November 28, 2012

2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition is a special edition vehicle which will mark the emblematic moment ten years ago when the first Wrangler Rubicon model was introduced. Back in the days the Rubicon models were the most extreme Wranglers ever produced.

Then, in 2005 model year was introduced the Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited which brought more utility to the Rubicon’s quickly established off-road credentials. And now looking forward to the future, the 2013 model year we will see the introduction of the limited edition 2013 Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition.

The Jeep model will be available in two-door or four-door variant, and according to the brand is the most capable Wrangler ever produced. It is equipped with six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission mated to a Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The latter generates 285 horsepower (210 kW) and 352 Nm (260 ft.-lbs.) of torque.

The one-half inch increase in ride height versus the standard Rubicon model provides the BF Goodrich KM2 265/70R17 tires more room to claw at rugged terrain. The tires are mounted on 17-inch Rubicon aluminum wheels painted satin black with polished faces and a red Jeep Wrangler “icon” logo on the outside lip.

Black front and rear steel off-road bumpers enhance the powerful presence of the vehicle. Here the front bumper includes removable end caps and winch-capable design, which help the vehicle climb obstacles without hindrance, and reduce the damage potential to the bumper system.

On the other hand, the dual-intake Power Dome hood helps aid in engine cooling. Red tow hooks adorn the front and rear, and Mopar rock rails give added protection from trail damage. A “10th Anniversary” badging can be seen on the fenders and a red-silhouette “Rubicon” decal on the sides of the hood.

As a standard the Rubicon will be equipped with Premium Sunrider soft top and as an option ca be purchased with a black three-piece Freedom hard top or body-color hard top. Available exterior colors here are Billet Silver, White and 10th Anniversary Edition-exclusive Anvil.

What about the interior – it has many special touches as well. The first thing that one sees is the striking red leather seats with “Rubicon 10th Anniversary” embroidered into the front seat backs. Of course, red stitching adorns the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the center console, to match the seats.

The final design touches include Mopar slush mats, unique axle locker and sway-bar disconnect switches and a plaque mounted in the dash tray. There is stored the important technical data: axle type and ratio, tire size, transfer case crawl ratio and manufacturer location.

2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicion 10th Anniversary Edition can be seen in showrooms in the spring of next year.

Source: Jeep

November 28, 2012

Hennessey Venom GT2 in Arctic White Delivers 1500 horsepower

Hennessey Venom GT2 in Arctic White is the latest addition in the fleet of vehicles of Hennessey Performance. Thanks to its 7.0L twin turbo V8 engine, this Venom produces the almost incomprehensible 1500 horsepower on E85 pump fuel.

This means that it has 1.2 bhp per kilogram of curb weight (2743 lbs). In addition, the mighty engine requires mighty speed results. Here the projected top speed is of 287 mph. For smoother and effortless driving, the powerful V8 can be mated optionally to a seven-speed paddle shift transmission.

Furthermore, Hennessey has increased the headroom with double bubble roof. Additional enhancements in terms of aerodynamics include the new side mirrors, roof and front airdam.

The first Hennessey Venom GT2 will debut in late 2013 and the production will be limited to 7 vehicles. The price of one is $1.25 Million US Dollars.

Source: Hennessey Performance

November 28, 2012

Vorsteiner V-GT Tuning Program for the Porsche 991 Carrera

Do you remember when the Vorsteiner Porsche Carrera 911 V-GT came out of the dark a month ago? Now, the tuners from Vorsteiner are revealing additional details and more pictures around this incredible car. They have added more style to the Porsche while at the same time enhancing its performance.

First, the V-GT front spoiler was designed by Vorsteiner engineers with functionality at its core with its dual integrated brake duct cooling ducts and GT center splitter made of carbon fiber.

Secondly, the V-GT composite lightweight front spoiler comes at the place of the factory black plastic unit and attaches to the OE front bumper using original factory clips and mounting holes for a simple and clean install. The center GT splitter is also replaceable being separate from the main spoiler unit.

Thirdly, the V-GT side skirt attachments balance the lines of the new front and rear fascia, whili continuing to be functionality purposeful. The side skirts include an optional integrated carbon fiber blade sill extension that further assists with downforce.

The most attention grabbing design element here however, is the V-GT’s rear diffuser. What it does is to attach the original attachment points of the factory black plastic unit. Still, it has integrated fin design that extends all the way underneath the underbody of the vehicle. Here the V-GT front spoiler creates additional downforce and is counter balanced in the rear with this diffuser panel.

At last but not least, the V-GT rear deck lid spoiler is what rounds-off the perfect blend of functional aerodynamics and beauty. It is made of lightweight carbon fiber and is mounted to the factory mechanical wing riser aiding further in downforce.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnAyFy3d6gs&feature=share&list=UUTqMe-abvyNIt_p24-sbsiQ

Vorsteiner Porsche Carrera 991 V-GT tuning program consist of:

• Front Add-On Spoiler with integrated brake duct collectors Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg Autoclave

• Front GT Replaceable Center Splitter for additional downforce in Optical Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg Autoclave

• Side Skirt Panels with Integrated Carbon Fiber Blade Extension Element

• Rear Add-On Diffuser with Integrated Aero Fins Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg Autoclave

• Rear Add-On Ducktail Wing Spoiler Element Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg Autoclave

• 19, 20, or 21 inch forged wheels aluminum

• Vorsteiner custom embroidered floor mats and trunk mats with piping color options

Source: Vorsteiner

November 28, 2012

Lamborghini Murcielago tuned by LB Performance

LB Performance has created a super-wide Lamborghini Murcielago. The car is completely restyled by installing a full body kit, a set of enormous wheels and wrapped in brushed aluminum.

The car was presented at this year’s SEMA show. Everybody take a look at the custom exterior and the huge fender flares. The tuned Murcielago comes also with three-dimensional door sill plates and a set of nice exhaust tips.

The new vision needs new wheels – a set of iForged Equip V3 – 8.5J x 19” at the front and 13J x 20” at the rear fitted with proper-sized tires. Behind them, there is a big brake system by CSD.

The engine remains the same – a naturally aspirated 6.2 liter V12 with 580HP (427 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEEwa-4AOqg

Source: Speedhunters

November 27, 2012

TMG Sports 650 Concept based on Lexus LS

Toyota Motorsport GmbH has announced their latest project. It is based on Lexus LS before the facelift and named Sports 650 Concept. As you may suggest, the number is the amount of the horsepower under the huge front bonnet.

The car also comes with a nice and aggressive body kit including a new front bumper, different front grille and a ventilated hood. Other goodies are a pair of new side skirts and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser and a four-tailpipe exhaust system borrowed front LS-F.

Power is coming from a twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 engine – 650 HP (478 kW) and 710 Nm (524 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). The curb weight of the saloon is 2070 kg (4,563 lbs)

“The Essen Motor Show is a great opportunity to highlight a range of TMG’s current projects, from the very high-end engineering like our race-winning WEC car or the road-going TMG Sports 650 to entry-level competition with the GT86 CS-V3 and Yaris R1A. These vehicles perfectly illustrate the diversity of our company and they also highlight the spirit of TMG; high-performance is part of our DNA and we want to share that passion with fans, drivers and racers. In particular, we are proud to show the TMG Sports 650 super sports car in public for the first time. This is a truly remarkable car with incredible performance; we are looking forward to hearing the reaction of visitors to this showcase of TMG’s engineering capabilities.”, commented Yoshiaki Kinoshita, TMG President.

Source: Toyota

November 27, 2012

2013 Porsche Macan and Cayman Spotted in Germany [VIDEO]

Exclusive news from the streets of Germany! The new Porsche models Macan and Cayman have been spotted and even more – the happening was captured in footages which you can view below.

The first video here is of the luxury SUV Macan, which is going to share the same architecture with the Audi Q5 (in case it does look familiar). This is the first model of the brand with 4-cyllinder aggregate, after the appearance of the 924, 944 и 968 models back in the days.
In addition, the Macan will be wider and shorter than the famous Audi SUV and will get unique styling. Thee model will be probably powered by the turbocharged 2.0-liter four with around 237 hp (174 kW) or the supercharged V-6 engine which produces 288 hp (212 kW).

httpv://youtu.be/O_f2DXqkCpE

The second video gives very clear picture about the interior of the facelifted Cayman. The vehicle has the same panel as the one of the new Boxter Roadster, which was officially launche earlier this year.

The base model of the Cayman is probably going to get the 265-horsepower (195 kW) from ts 2.7-liter flat-six engine. It is also rumored that it is going to include dual center tailpipes and larger front air intakes.

Another option for the engine is the 3.4-liter boxer-six making 315 horsepower (232 kW); but probably it will go on the S variant. 2013 Cayman will make its world debut at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

httpv://youtu.be/vDMxYqV0JZQ
Video Source: YouTube

November 27, 2012

D2Forged Dodge Challenger SRT8 Generates 880 Horsepower

D2Forged Dodge Challenger SRT8 is the latest and probably the coolest transformation by the tuning specialist from D2Forged Wheels. And the reason for this is maybe because it is done on exactly one of the most famous muscle cars – the Challenger SRT8.

Originally this factory Dodge model produces not more than 701 horsepower (515 kW). However, the professionals form this tuning company done their magic and thanks to it the vehicle now generates the almost incomprehensible 880 horsepower (647 kW).

The fire breathing monster got the following additional builds: RT8 426 C.I.D. Motor, Southern Hot Rod transmission, pro-torque Converter, 9″ Ford rear conversion locking diff, stainless works headers and full exhaust system, F1A procharger and at last – full Eibach Race Suspension.

The next step which rounded off the appearance of this mighty car was to equip it with the 20/22″ D2Forged FMS-01 package. Their classic mesh design, bathed in brushed aluminum and chrome finishing matched perfectly and contrasted the bright orange paint of the car.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

November 27, 2012

2013 Chrysler Town & Country S Gets Enhanced

2013 Chrysler Town And Country S will debut at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show as the latest “S” model in the Chrysler line-up. The vehicle will has exterior and interior enhancements as well as some standard equipment commonly associated with top-line models.

First of all the minivan is going to be offered in Brilliant Black, Deep Cherry Red, Stone White or Billet Silver exterior colors. In addition to this it will get revised trim which adds more contrast to the minivan’s typically bright exterior treatment.

Next, the black chrome grille is perfectly matched with black-background Chrysler Winged badges at the front and the rear, black rear fascia step pad, “S” model badging, 17-inch aluminum wheels with polished face and black-painted pockets and blacked-out headlight bezels.

On the inside can be seen the monotone black interior. It starts with the Black Torino leather seats with an “S” logo embroidered in the seat backs and black Ballistic cloth seat inserts. The seats also include grey stitching as do the door armrests.

Furthermore, the black theme is continued by the Piano Black gloss appliqués, which are to be found in the instrument panel and on the spokes of the black leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the Chrysler Winged badge on the wheel matches. The interior is rounded-off with the black headliner and upper consoles, black center console and an “S” logo in the instrument cluster.

This Chrysler model also includes performance suspension that which adds new level of handling dynamics to the driving experience. The minivan is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which generates 283 horsepower (208 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (352 Nm) of torque.

The V-6 is matched to the 62TE six-speed automatic transmission. In addition, there is also a fuel economizer mode, which helps the driver optimize the fuel efficiency, and premium, lower-rolling-resistance tires, and low-drag brake calipers and rear bearings make great fuel economy possible. All in all the Town & Country achieves 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 25 on the highway.

In terms of safety and security, the minivan is equipped with more than forty features such as ParkView rear back up camera, front seat-mounted air bags, a driver-side inflatable knee blocker, advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain air bags for all three rows, and electronic stability control, including Brake Assist and all-speed traction control. All of them come as a standard.

The optional equipment includes SafetyTec Group comprising of rain-sensitive windshield wipers, Smartbeam headlamps, ParkSense rear park assist system, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection.

Source: Chrysler

November 27, 2012

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV Unveiled Ahead of Los Angles Auto Show

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV was just introduced before its official premiere at Los Angeles International Auto Show. The electric vehicle offers smart performance and connectivity technologies into an affordable five-door city mini car.

Spark EV will go on sale next summer, being the first EV to offer SAE Combo DC Fast Charging capability. This enables the car to reach eighty-percent battery charge in just twenty minutes. And when one uses a dedicated 240V outlet, Spark EV recharges in less than seven hours. Owners can manage and monitor the vehicle remotely via computer or with a special Chevrolet Mobile App.

Furthermore, the futuristic feeling that leaves this Chevrolet can be felt inside as well. There a critical vehicle functions are clearly and intuitively displayed on one of the vehicle’s two reconfigurable seven-inch color LCD screens, including a confidence gauge that shows the expected driving range based on driving habits and other conditions.

On the other hand, for the excitement and fun of driving will take care the MyLink radio and safely brings smartphone-based infotainment.

What is more important however is to mention that the Spark EV is powered by an advanced electric motor and battery system. It comprises of coaxial drive unit and electric motor. Both generate 130 hp (110 kW) and 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) of torque for instant acceleration. In addition, the 20-kWh lithium ion battery is said to be one of the best in its segment.

Moreover, the long-life of the battery is designed in such way that it offers safety, durability and reliability. It weighs of a 560-pound (254 kg) and has a volume of 133 liters, comprising 336 prismatic cells.

The exterior design of the Spark EV was created in such way that it conserves as much total energy as possible and this in addition maximizes battery range. One important way to achieve that is by improving the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

The strong presence of the EV is further enhanced by its exterior color. The range here includes the following themes: Electric Blue, Black Granite, Summit White, Silver Ice and Titanium. Inside, designers sought to create a comfortable and spacious cockpit with noise-reduction features and a combination of bright accents in Electric Blue and chrome.

Source: Chevrolet

November 27, 2012

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