Automobiles Review – Page 805 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Hyundai JP Edition Veloster Concept at the 2012 SEMA

Hyundai has revealed a JP Edition Veloster Concept at the 2012 SEMA Motor Show. The JP Edition concept debuts at the 2012 SEMA show under the Hyundai banner. Paint supplier BASF was consulted as the unique supplier of the Mint Green exterior finish for the concept.

“In creating the JP Edition Veloster, we were inspired to take the Veloster’s distinctive design cues and accentuate them with an iris-warping brilliant mint green exterior finish” commented John Pangilinan.

“The JP Edition Veloster concept takes the production car into ultra-exclusive tuner-car territory.”, he added.

The special edition Veloster is powered by a direct-injected 1.6 liter petrol engine fitted with an ARK Performance exhaust. The car also comes with a sports suspension including KW coilovers, Whiteline sway bars, anti-lift caster kit and end links. The car rolls big 19” alloy wheels fitted with 265/30 R19 Toyo tires.

The interior boasts Recaro Cross Sportster CS seats upholstered by Infinite Auto Design. There are also Takata harnesses and premium audio system.

Powertrain

ARK Performance Exhaust
Lucas Oil
Exterior
TS Designs Metal Fender Flares designed by Jon Sibal
BASF Mint Green Paint painted by Auto Explosion
Chassis/Suspension
Brembo big brake kit
KW Coilovers with ARK Performance lowering springs
Whiteline sway bars, anti-lift caster kit and end links
Ray’s Gram Lights Xtreme57 Wheels – 19 x 9.5 inches
Toyo Tires Proxes T1 Sport – 265/30 R19

Interior

Recaro Cross Sportster CS Seats
Takata Harnesses
Re-upholstery by Infinite Auto Design
In-Car Entertainment:
Alpine Electronics System built by BP Auto Sound
MRX-F35 350 watt 4 channel amplifier
(2) MRX-M55 550 watt mono amplifiers
(2) SWS-12D4 12″ subwoofers
SPR-60C 6 1/2″ component speakers
SPR-60 6 1/2″ coaxial speakers
Kinetik Battery and Power Supply
V-LEDs Lighting

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

Source: Hyundai

October 31, 2012

Dodge SRT Viper at the 2012 SEMA

Mopar has introduced a wide range of more than fifty upgrades for the new Dodge SRT Viper.

By itself, our all-new SRT Viper stands out from the crowd,” commented Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand.

“For those owners who want to take the next step in customization and personalization, Mopar stands ready with more than 50 quality-tested performance parts and accessories.”, he added.

The list of accessories is huge, but this is small part of it: Performance Cross Car X-Brace, Carbon Fiber Coil Covers, Industry-first Wireless Charging Pad, Performance Cat-back Exhaust System, Black Leather Shift Knob, Billet Shift Knob, Pedal Kit, Bulkhead Satchel, Door Sill Guards, Six-point Safety Harness, Katzkin Leather Interiors, Stage 3 Coilover Suspension Kit, Racing Exhaust System, Brake Rotors, Performance Headers With J-Pipe, Vehicle covers.

You can find full description and prices of the parts below!

Performance Cross Car X-Brace

With single-piece carbon fiber construction, this hand-made brace has more than 30 layers of carbon fiber optimally aligned to manage driving loads. Brace features topology optimized structurally efficient design, aerospace-grade stainless steel attachment bushings, and significant weight savings over production aluminum engine brace. Polished, exposed carbon fiber weave complements hood inner finish. Front, carbon-fiber cross-car brace.
MSRP: $3,175, part number 82213416

Carbon Fiber Coil Covers

Stamped stainless steel layered with a generous amount of carbon fiber has these engine covers screaming for attention. These covers definitely hold their own, or may be paired with the Mopar Cross Car X-Brace to form a venomous combination.
MSRP: $880, part number 82213419.

Industry-first Wireless Charging Pad

Professionally installed within easy reach, the ultra-convenient wireless charging pad simultaneously powers multiple devices. Just equip your smartphone or player with a flexible cover that integrates wire-free charging technology (sold separately), place anywhere on the charging pad and you’re good to go. No tangled wires, no deciding which device to charge first.
MSRP: $275, part number 82213712

Performance Cat-back Exhaust System

This growl means business. The deeper tone you get from adding this stainless steel exhaust system communicates impressive horsepower and torque gains – and the added perk of improved fuel economy. The system includes two mufflers, mandrel-bent tubing, right and left turn-out assemblies, and four 2.5-inch clamps.
MSRP: $668, part number P4510608

Bulkhead Satchel

Carbon fiber wraps the bulkhead satchel and is designed to be a direct replacement for both the SRT and GTS bulkhead compartments. This feature includes a universal integrated quick-release camera mount. Owners may track their on-track action with the security and convenience of a mounted camera inside of the vehicle.
MSRP: TBD, part number 82213434.

Pedal Kit

A sand-blasted aluminum finish gives the pedal additional stopping power. Features unique race-inspired contoured design and Stryker-engraved footrest pedal. Alloy construction stands up when you step on it. Accelerator, brake and clutch with Viper logo.
MSRP: $255, part number 82213410

Billet Shift Knob

Industrial design cues reflect the heavy-duty inner workings of the machined G5 Billet aluminum shifter. A carbon fiber shift top features gunmetal pattern under a smooth satin clear finish.
MSRP: $163, part number 82213426

Black Leather Shift Knob

Gives a real feel for Viper’s shorter shift throw, the leather-wrapped shift knob is enhanced with a satin chrome and gunmetal cap.
MSRP: $158, part number 82213425

Door Sill Guards

Bright, polished chromed door sill guards emblazoned with the bold Viper logo keep this collector’s car collectible by protecting the vehicle’s entry points from small dings and scratches.
MSRP: $205, part number 82208805AB

Six-point Safety Harness

Keeping up with 640 horses requires a little extra equipment. This race-ready belt system anticipates the Viper’s g forces from every angle and keeps the driver in optimal position to take the beast through its paces.
MSRP: TBD, part number 82213431.

Katzkin Leather Interiors

Katzkin offers a range of seating accessories that let you take the Viper interior to the next level. Premium leather trim packages include embroideries, piping, two-tones, suede and a range of colors. Fully custom leather seats, or four established designs from which to choose.
MSRP: TBD, part number LRZD0131TI

Stage 3 Coilover Suspension Kit

With lightweight aluminum construction, this suspension system is three-way adjustable for compression rebound and ride height. It bridges the gap between street systems and full race systems.
MSRP: $5,995, part number 82213435

Brake Rotors

Keep those 640 horses in check with StopTech® two-piece slotted lightweight rotors that combine with the Viper’s Brembo® calipers to reduce rotating inertia and unsprung mass. A patented curved-fin design contributes to improved brake cooling and significantly reduces fade, even under extreme conditions. The StopTech brake rotors, tires, and lightweight wheels combine to reduce 60 pounds of unsprung, rotating mass. Two-piece front set.
MSRP $1,445, part number P5155125 (front).
MSRP: $1,445, part number P5155126 (rear).

Racing Exhaust System

A low back pressure exhaust system specifically tuned for Mopar race headers (P5155828). Features a pressure drop equal to that of a straight pipe. The four-tube perforated design reduces exhaust noise with minimal size and weight. MSRP: $1,005 , part number P5155831

Performance Headers With J-Pipe

These race headers are constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel and are equipped with a five-tube flange that allows easy installation without removal of the engine. With a primary tube diameter of 1.75 inches, its 5-into-1 collector allows for maximum torque and horsepower gain. The “J” pipe connects race headers to the race exhaust. It may be used when customizing the exhaust system or by itself depending on vehicle tuning requirements.
MSRP: $3,495, part number P5155828

Vehicle covers

For the ultimate in indoor protection, SATIN STRETCH™ Lycra fibers optimally stretch to show off Viper’s curves. The special stitching methods, invisible seams and auto-show quality fit make this the cover of choice. Its inner-liner pampers Viper with fleece. The cover comes in a unique Viper storage case.
Black with Silver Stripes, MSRP: $352, part number 82213248
Red with White Stripes, MSRP: $352, Part Number: 82213240
Blue with White Stripes, MSRP: $352, Part Number: 82213347

Source: SRT

October 31, 2012

2013 MINI Countryman – Refined!

MINI Countryman appeared in the automotive world two years ago. Now it comes back equipped with all-wheel drive and benefiting from an extensive round of modifications. The spacious five-door’s MINI is now additionally improved in terms of ease of use and practicality.

To be more precise some of the modifications include newly designed rings encircling the Centre Speedo and four air vents immediately. They can be found across the board in the colour shade Carbon Black and also have an inner ring in high-gloss black or – as part of the Chrome Line Interior option – in chrome.

Furthermore, the newly designed door inserts also contribute to better comfort and practicality. For instance, remodelled door armrests deliver comfortable support for the arms, and the controls for the electric windows are now also positioned in the door trim. A full control panel is integrated into the door armrest on the driver’s side.

In addition to all these changes, the switches clustered here feature the controls for all the windows, the deactivation facility for the rear window controls and adjustment for the exterior mirrors. Another highlight is that the Countryman will come as standard with a three-seat rear bench.

Additional changes to the model line-up include range of interior colors, interior trim elements and Colour Lines, which will be announced more specifically later this year. Some of them however, include Brilliant Copper metallic and Blazing Red metallic.

An important fact to mention is that the customers are being offered a better choice of engine variants – three petrol and three diesel units. They generate outputs stretching from 66 kW/90 hp to 135 kW/184 hp. Almost all models will be equipped with six-speed automatic gearbox.

And do you remember the sporty MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, powered by the turbocharged 160 kW/218 hp engine? Well, it will go along with ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, which will be fitted as standard. The impressive efficiency of the engines and gearboxes along with extensive MINIMALISM technology will offer to any driver great balance between driving fun and fuel economy.

Source: MINI

October 31, 2012

Ford Mustang Cobra Jet Twin-Turbo Concept Makes First Appearance at SEMA

Ford Mustang Cobra Jet Twin-Turbo Concept was just revealed at SEMA, being equipped with turbocharged engine for the first time. And here’s “the deal” it comes not with one but two turbochargers.

In fact, every internal combustion engine has a plentiful source of energy that normally goes to waste right out the exhaust pipe. Here the two turbochargers put together the thermal and kinetic energy in the exhaust gases so that they drive turbines and compressors that force more air into the engine for a big increase in power without most of the parasitic losses of a supercharger.

Furthermore, the design of the turbocharger design was brought to reality after a substantial work on the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which we have seen on the F-150 model. And the effect is that this concept has been brought to reality.

However, there’s a disadvantage – the lag. Ford has dealt with it by selecting the smallest possible turbos which can give the needed airflow. Other enhancements have been featured as well in order to improve the responsiveness. The result is very low inertia and very low internal friction.

Here the help was offered by Borg-Warner, which has supplied the brand with smaller, more efficient turbochargers based on the units used in the Focus ST for the Cobra Jet concept. They are smaller than those found in most other drag racing applications. In details, the turbine wheels were made from titanium aluminide – a material which reduces the rotational inertia by 50 percent.

Next to be mentioned are the integrated, electronically controlled wastegates, which were utilized on production EcoBoost engines and which enable the turbos continuous spinning. Additionally, they generate the boost pressure needed for low elapsed times and high trap speeds at the strip.

Another advantage here in my opinion is that the Ford Mustang Cobra Jet Twin-Turbo Concept includes unique Racing livery. The white body is accented with an asymmetric black and blue stripe, which runs over the top of the car from bumper to bumper. The Cobra Jet’s flanks blend an upward sweeping version of the stripe with the traditional striking cobra head in black with blue accents.

Source: Ford

October 31, 2012

World Debut For Volkswagen Santana

2013 Volkswagen Santana is a second generation of the model but it has been entirely remade and now shows off more powerful stance. The new Volkswagen model was fully redeveloped with styling that is clear and precise.

Its intelligent space concept and 2,603 mm wheelbase create noticeably more knee room at the rear seats, and the car’s boot is spacious with 480 litres of cargo capacity. In addition, some important points in the development of the car were given to safety, comfort and sophisticated appearance.

Furthermore it is equipped with key features such as ABS, front, side and head airbags, ESC electronic stabilization programme, air conditioning or automatic climate control, electric sliding sunroof, alloy wheels, parking sensors and leather upholstery. The Santana is available in three trim lines: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline versions.

Next, the engines under the hood are naturally-aspirated four-cylinder ones – in particular the newly developed EA 211 petrol engine series. These innovative aluminium engines – with 16-valve technology and integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head – are easily recognized by its high efficiency.

For instance, the 1.4-litre version generates 66 kW / 90 hp and has a combined fuel consumption of just 5.9 l/100 km. On the other hand, the 1.6-litre has 81 kW / 110 hp and fuel consumption of 6.0 l/100 km. Compared to the previous model, fuel economy and CO2 emissions were improved by up to 28 per cent.

Source: Volkswagen

October 31, 2012

Fiat 500 Café Racer Exudes Passion And Love [VIDEO]

An interesting video I have just found over the web space is that of how Fiat 500 is getting ready and customized for 2012 SEMA Show. Interestingly enough, the so called “Cafe Racer” is being stripped down to the bare minimum for maximum performance and speed.

Details around the performance figures are still scarce, but we are eagerly waiting to know them around its official introduction. Furthermore, this particular video caught my attention, because a Fiat 500 is not we are used to see getting customized every day. Nevertheless, according to its designers, it is a really good vehicle to modify.

Another thing that provoked my curiosity is why it is called Café Racer. Well the truth here lies in history. There was a time when people have stripped down their motorcycles in order to get the weight down. The aim of course was to achieve a better performance.

Summed up in three words: attention, passion and love, is what can be seen throughout this car. Indeed, a great craftsmanship was needed to achieve the “Café Racer” effect and to bring forth the true personality of the Fiat.

Tires and wheels were changed, new exhaust system was added and basically the specialists have stripped down the car to the very essence of what one needs to drive. In addition, the seats were made lighter as well and have received a clean, sleek a lower profile. And this is how the Fiat 500 is capturing the imagination because it must be more than just a car, it must be a driving experience!

httpv://youtu.be/AgP5LbhZNmI

Video Source: YouTube

October 31, 2012

2013 MINI Cooper JCW GP – US Price $35,950

MINI US has announced the price of the special edition JCW GP. The hot hatchback, which is able to lap the Nurburgring in just 8 minutes and 23 seconds is priced from $35,950.

The new 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP is powered by a BMW-sourced 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 215HP (160 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. This is good for 6.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. In other words, the MINI JCW GP is insanely fast.

The GP variant is a little more than $5000 more expensive than the regular JCW, but it comes with a nice fully-adjustable suspension and a significant weight reduction of 55 kg (121 lb). If you think that is not very much, check the curb weight of the car – 1235 kg (2722 lb). It is always hard to reduce the weight of a small car, because it doesn’t have too many components, which can be removed or lightened.

The GP model also comes with a big brake system including huge 335 mm front brake discs, so the smallest wheels, which can be fitted, are 18”. Commenting wheels, we have to say that this car comes with special performance tires for maximum traction on the race track.

Other highlight is the GP Racing mode for ESP allowing perfect handling and tire slip, when it is needed in order to be as fast as you want.

The 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP is not just a good car, it is a perfect toy for track days and everyday driving.

Source: MINI

October 30, 2012

2012 SEMA: Chevrolet COPO Camaro Convertible

Chevrolet has revealed an eye-catching Inferno Orange COPO Camaro Convertible at the 2012 SEMA Motor Show. Only 12 units of the COPO Camaro will have this Inferno Orange Metallic paint. The other cars from the model will come in Victory Red, Black, Summit White, Silver Ice Metallic and Ashen Grey Metallic paint.

“The COPO Camaro program has been a special program and there’s not a better way to close out the 2012 racing season than with the final – and most unique – one of the production run,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.

“I am also happy to announce that due to strong customer demand we will produce another run of 69 COPO Camaros for 2013. More than 3,000 hand-raisers expressed interest in buying a COPO after we introduced the car at SEMA last year. We are excited to support these grassroots motorsports enthusiasts in their Stock Eliminator and Super Stock drag racing efforts,” added Mr. Campbell.

Totally 69 COPO Camaros will be built and this is one of them. It also comes with a 327 engine and 4.0L supercharger. The power is 550HP (410 kW). This is also one of the two convertible vehicles, which will be built.

COPO Camaros by the numbers:

67 were coupes and two were convertibles

43 cars were equipped with the 427 naturally aspirated engine – including the original proof of concept show car that debuted at the 2011 SEMA Show

20 cars were equipped with the 327 / 4.0L-supercharged engine

6 cars were equipped with the 327 / 2.9L-supercharged engine

8 customers ordered the collector’s package, which included all three engines number-matched to their car

32 cars were painted Summit White – including the original show car

20 cars were painted Black

12 cars were painted Victory Red

2 cars were painted Ashen Grey Metallic

2 cars were painted Silver Ice Metallic

1 car was painted Inferno Orange Metallic

12 cars were ordered without COPO graphics.

Source: Chevrolet

October 30, 2012

Mazda3 MPS by MR Car Design

MR Car Design Mazda3 MPS exudes power and attitude. Mazda3 MPS is originally being one of the most powerful series production vehicles with front wheel drive. Here however, we have an aim which successfully has given this vehicle even more strength in horsepower.

The people responsible for that are the specialists from MR Car Design. They have taken this hard task to give the sporting dynamicist even more power. Originally the Mazda is equipped with 2.3 L engine, which includes turbo support.

This means that the vehicle can generate 260 hp (191 kW) and has a maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) at 3,000 r / min. The crew from MR Car Design gave the engine boost in terms of performance via software. Thanks to that the car is able to produce 310 horsepower (228 kW).

Furthermore, a downpipe with or without catalytic converter, and an exhaust system from the downpipe can be mounted optionally. In addition to this another highlight here is the Forge Intercooler, which includes all turbo hoses.

At last, this unique Mazda runs on a set of wheels with Qxigin 14-inch rims in 8,5 x19 and has a KW coilover suspension.

Source: Miranda Media

October 30, 2012

2013 Toyota Camry Atara R Special Edition Launched

2013 Toyota Camry Atara R Special Edition has just been launched. The model gains benefits in terms of safety, performance, comfort and visual stance. The Camry Atara R is based on Camry Altis, however gets more added features and technologies.

In fact, many of the additions here were available on the more expensive Atara models. Such are for example the front sports bumper and grille, sports side skirts and a dual exhaust diffuser. The latter boosts maximum power by 2 kW.

In addition, this special edition of Toyota includes also 17-inch alloy wheels instead of the 16-inch, front foglamps and a special-edition badge. Furthermore, the Atara R also gets great interior equipment and design.

Here the driver and occupants can enjoy the premium three-spoke steering wheel (with audio controls), 6.1-inch screen display audio and reversing camera with fixed guidelines.

Another important highlight to this trim is that is goes along with big choice of exterior colours: Diamond White, Silver Pearl, Graphite, Eclipse Black, Wildfire, Magnetic Bronze, and Reflex Blue.

In terms of safety and security, the Atara R is well specified with seven airbags (including driver’s knee airbag) and vehicle stability control and traction control. At last, but not least the new technologies added are the trip computer and eco indicator, six-speaker audio including auxiliary and USB input with iPod connectivity.

Source: Toyota

October 30, 2012

Every Drop Counts: Honda’s Second in a Series of Environmental Film Shorts [VIDEO]

Followed by the first video of environmental series of short films, the second footage named Every Drop Counts continues the purpose of Honda associates to fulfill the company’s vision for reducing Honda‘s environmental impact and creating a more sustainable business.

The new film highlights a project which aims to capture and utilize the energy present in water falling from rooftop cooling towers. In the video you can view the story of how a retired plant engineer’s sketch intrigues a team of associates who seek to generate their own energy with a simple but ingenious device.

The inspiration of Honda’s engineers was big enough so that it resulted in a unique small-scale hydro power generation system. The vehicle was created via spare parts and materials (almost entirelly) in the plant.

Then the specialists converted a simple AC motor for use as an alternator, which generated energy from water as it falls 35 feet to a sump. The results are amazing: the low-cost, low-maintenance system produces 50 000 kilowatt hours of electricity each year and offsets roughly 77 000 pounds of CO2 emissions from the consumption of grid-supplied electricity.

The Honda Environmental Short Film Series puts more light on the environmental innovations across Honda in North America. It puts more attention to the efforts the brand is making in order to create a more fuel-efficient and low emissions vehicles. In addition, it shows their efforts in reducing energy use, emissions and waste in all of the company’s operations.

httpv://youtu.be/DiMJ4JEC2iA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

October 30, 2012

Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Special Edition

Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Special Edition will arrive at dealerships in the beginning of the next year thus making a debut as the first full-size, production Hot Wheels car offered for sale.

The special edition Chevy just debuted at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, showing off its vibrant, graphics-accented metallic paint scheme (Kinetic Blue) and red-lined wheels. The vehicle will be available in both coupe and convertible form, in 2LT (V-6) and 2SS (V-8) trims.

Some of the other exterior highlights here include ZL1 rear spoiler (coupe models), ZL1 front upper grille, Ground effects package, including front splitter and rocker treatment, black 21-inch wheels with red outline stripe, two-tone matte hood graphic and rear taillight panel “blackout” graphic, fender “flame” graphics, Hot Wheels grille and decklid logos.

The interior of this Camaro is as exciting as the exterior. It is black leather-trimmed, accented with red and black seat stitching with the Hot Wheels logo embroidered on the front seats. The instrument panel and door inserts are black as well, with the Hot Wheels-style flame decal on each door. Hot Wheels® Edition sill plates and Camaro-logo premium floor mats with red edging are also included.

More importantly, the SS models include a 6.2L V-8 engine, which is offered in two iterations: the “L99” on automatic-equipped vehicles and the “LS3” on manual-equipped models. In particular, the power generated for the L99 is 400 hp (298 kW) and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm). It also features fuel-saving Active Fuel Management. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm) of torque.

LT-based models feature the “LFX” 3.6L V-6 engine, with dual-overhead camshafts, variable valve timing and direct injection. This one propels 323 horsepower at 6,800 rpm. In addition, there is a dual-mode exhaust system available on the SS models mated to the six-speed manual transmission, as well as LT models with either the manual or automatic transmission.

Source: Chevrolet

October 30, 2012

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