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  • 2013 Honda Fit Twist to be Launched in November

    2013-Honda-Fit-Twist-THUMB2013 Honda Fit Twist is an evolved version of the well known Fit model, which the brand has presented at Sao Paolo’s International Motor Show. In addition, the model is gong to go on sale very soon – just in one month from now.

    As a matter of fact this is a world premiere for the model. This particular Honda is a derivative developed exclusively for the Brazilian market. This basically means that it keeps the ease of use and driving comfort of the original Fit.

    However, there are some key differences, which will contribute for better driving experience of the Brazilian customers. In particular, the Fit twist offers a sportier vehicle image with a bold design realized through adoption of an exclusive front grill and roof rails as well as an exclusive seat surface material.

    The model will have a starting price of $28 600. Honda has also unveiled its lineup of new flex fuel vehicles, including CR-V Flex and Civic 2.0. Both are scheduled to go on sale next year. in 2013.

    Source: Honda

  • Renault DCross Concept Unveiled

    Renault DCross Concept is the next exciting SUV model which was just revealed in Sao Paolo. Next to it the brand unveiled also the Novo Clio and Fluence GT, which are exclusively made for the Brazilian market.

    Novo Clio is the first vehicle in Brazil which is going to include brand’s new identity. The model is in fact an evolution of Clio II and brings to the customers more personalization options and individualization.

    On the other hand, the Fluence GT is the first vehicle to bear the Renault Sport signature. The sporty version of the sedan will be equipped with 180 hp (132 kW) turbo-compressed engine, a sport chassis and a sporty design.

    The new DCross concept however is something we have already seen before and are familiar with it. If you think that it looks exactly like the Dacia Duster, than you are hundred percent right!

    Nonetheless, the fresh green appearance of the concept is something that grabs the attention immediately. And the contrasting matt black paint scheme brings about more aggressiveness to the over outlook of this Renault SUV.

    In addition, compared to the Duster model, this one has a raised height which makes it perfect for off-road enthusiasts. And the main question here is whether we are going to see this concept taking a form of an official production vehicle.

  • Hyundai HB20X Revealed in Brazil

    Hyundai-HB20X-Crossover-THUMBHyundai HB20X Crossover was just revealed at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show. The vehicle is going to be officially launched early next year. It is part of Hyundai’s family of cars exclusively made for Brazil only.

    The crossover is based on the HB20 hatchback – again a car made exclusively for the customers in Brazil. It includes unique details in its design and performance and brings about great experience when being outdoors.

    The front of the car has a totally redesigned bumper with a hexagonal grille which reflects Hyundai’s new family look for SUV’s. Of is a result of the application of the latest design philosophy of the brand, called Fluidic Sculpture.

    Here one can see the headlights which have an eye-catching finish with black bezel and chrome details. All this contributes towards a sportier and more sophisticated image. On the other hand the fog lamps are redesigned in order to give a stronger impression.

    Side-wise, the HB20X keeps the original waistline from HB20, which encompassed a robust and fluidic design. Nevertheless, some innovations are included such as the black molding that wraps the whole body.

    In addition, there are roof bars which now offer more flexibility for carrying extra weekend luggage, while the 15-inch dark gray alloy wheels complete the sporty image of this vehicle. The redesign continues to the rear of the vehicle, where one can see a modified bumper with black moldings.

    The interior of the new HB20X includes high quality craftsmanship and adds exclusive items such as sports pedals, chrome finishing for door handles and air conditioning controls, as well as blue double stitches for the steering wheel and seats.

    At last, but not least, this SUV is going to be equipped with Hyundai’s GAMMA 1.6 16V FLEX engine which produces 128 hp (95 kW). It includes a Continuous Variable Vavle Timing and aluminum block, which is the most powerful in the category.

    Source: Hyundai

  • Hyundai Elantra 2013

    2013 Hyundai ElantraThe 2013 Hyundai Elantra boasts an engine that weighs much less than its predecessor’s and an automatic transmission that makes the car feel light as a feather. The new and improved transmission in the Hyundai Elantra gives the driver a smoother ride and more efficient use of gas. This model also boasts a D-CVVT that lessens the car’s emissions.

    There are several safety features built into this car, including a traction control system, brake assist, a management system that guarantees the car’s stability, side impact beams on both passenger doors, an excellent anti-lock system for the brakes, electronic stability control and brake-force distribution as well as six airbags.

    The Elantra’s traction control system makes the car’s acceleration more stable than it would be otherwise. This means the car is easier to safely control in inclement weather. The brake assist feature can sense when the driver is hitting the break in an emergency and it will allow the car to stop as quickly as possible. Vehicle Stability Management System makes all the car’s safety features work as well as they possible can. It helps the various safety features work together to provide a safe driving experience. The side-impact beams protect the car’s passengers in the event another vehicle slams into the passenger doors. The anti-lock brake system helps the driver control the car better and makes it less likely the wheels will be locked when the brakes are hit quickly.

    The electronic stability control is a feature that cuts down on accidents and deaths. According to the NHTSA cars that have an ESC crash 35% less often than cars that do not have it. It also cuts down on fatalities by 30%. This feature assists the driver in turning safely by ensuring that the correct force is used to brake for the turn.

    The Hyundai Elantra 2013 is a sleek, classy looking car. One unique feature is that unlocking this car is easier than ever. With what is known as a proximity key, the driver can simply push a button located on the driver’s side door handle and the door will unlock right away. This is a great feature when the driver has their hands full or has young children or an elderly person they want to get into the car quickly.

    The Elantra Limited boasts side mirrors that include an indicator to let other drivers know when the turn signal is on. It also comes with a sunroof that is easy to open and close and even has a shade to cover the sunroof. The wheels on the Elantra Limited have seven spokes and are 17 inches, making it easier for the tires to grip the road tightly.

    Classified as a midsized car, the Hyundai Elantra boasts more leg room than other cars made in the same year. There is 14.8 cubic feet of space in the car that makes it ideal for weekend road trips. The interior of this car was designed to reduce the harshness, noise and vibration that comes with driving long distances or over rough terrain.

    For the gadget lover, this Elantra includes a place to plug in an iPod or other USB device. The Elantra Limited also boasts a navigation screen as well as Bluetooth technology. It also includes a camera that gives the driver a view of what is directly behind the car. This assists the driver in backing up safely as well as parking. The Limited also boasts heated seats in both the front and back of the car.

  • Skoda Superb Outdoor Officially Launched

    2013-Skoda-Superb-Outdoor-THUMBThe new Skoda Superb Outdoor, which was announced in June as a new trim to the award-winning Superb Estate, is now officially being launched. The new variant is designed to bring about outstanding grip in the most demanding winter conditions.

    Furthermore, no matter the weather, which we all know is at times very unpredictable, the new Skoda is the ideal vehicle for the colder months. Some factors contribute for this statement. First of all it combines the assertive look of an off-road vehicle with the refinement and practicality.

    Secondly, its presence on the road is improved even more with the durable protective strips at the base of the doors, bumpers and round the wheel arches. In addition, the vehicle rides on 18-inch Luxon alloys, which come as standard.

    However, at the heart of the capability of Superb Outdoor is a permanent all-wheel drive transmission, ensuring exceptional levels of traction in ice, snow or rain.

    Other beneficial factors are the great fuel economy, which is as high as 44.8mpg while the CO2 emissions remain as low as 165g/km. The model is based over and above standard SE trim and adds additional equipment.

    This includes a four-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth for hands-free connectivity, Sunset Glass behind the B-pillar, Hill-Hold Control, Tyre Pressure Monitor, heated windscreen washer nozzles and integrated front headlight washers.

    Superb Outdoor will be available in all standard Superb colors and with the option of three engines: the 1.8 TSI 160 hp (118 kW), the 2.0 TDI CR 140 hp (103 kW) and the 2.0 TDI CR 170 hp (125 kW). It has a starting price of just £26 465.

    Source: Skoda

  • 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Teased

    2014-chevrolet-silverado-THUMBThe next generation 2014 Chevrolet Silverado is going to make its official first world appearance in Detroit. The exact date is thirteenth of December, when we are to see what’s new around this mighty vehicle.

    Chevrolet will take the wraps off the all-new Silverado 1500 full-size pickup on a special event. The exterior design is promised to be bold enough in order to reflect the improved capabilities of the truck.

    In addition, features such as jewel-like projector beam headlamps, as we can see from the teaser image just released, speak about the great and careful attention given to every detail.

    It is rumored that the off-road capabilities of the vehicle is boosted by the aggressive 35 inch tires on 18 inch wheels. We don’t know yet officially whether the horsepower will be changed, but some say that the huge vehicle will be powered by a huge engine – a diesel one, generating 400 hp (296 kW).

    2014 Chevrolet Silverado will be on public display for the first time at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in January, and will start production next year.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Toyota DragQuoia Family Sequoia Dragster Concept Debuts at SEMA

    Toyota-DragQuoia-Family-Sequoia-Dragster-Concept-THUMBToyota DragQuoia Family Sequoia Dragster is SEMA bound concept car. In other words it is a very special vehicle with a little hint of NHRA twisted all the way in it and with a “great deal” of horsepower.

    And to be even more precise this is NHRA’s leader Antron Brown concept for his Sequoia made for the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge. Hence it isn’t a surprise that the DragQuoia family dragster includes massive 21.5-inch wide rear tires, and adds more horsepower resulting in 650 hp.

    This number is achieved thanks to the TRD-supercharged engine with nitrous. In addition, the concept got an extensive custom chassis fabrication. Furthermore, to make it more faster, Brown’s Toyota was lightened with 1600 lbs – everything which wasn’t essential was removed.

    Nevertheless, the initial aim was also to make it more family friendly, which effected in something extraordinary. In particular – the individual racing seats for four, each with its own five-point racing harness, plus a child-size version with harness in the back so kids can get in on the action.

    In terms of safety and security there were additionally mounted a full custom roll cage and a tail-mounted parachute. The final vehicle build will be revealed at a press conference in the Toyota display at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

    Source: Toyota

  • Vorsteiner Porsche 991 Carrera V-GT

    Vorsteiner-Porsche-991-Carrera-THUMBThe new Vorsteiner Porsche 991 Carrera V-GT is something that will take your mind away. Being a true Porsche it doesn’t need a performance boost … or this is in fact the opinion of the tuners from Vorsteiner.

    After all, it has a 340hp 3.4 literflat six power plant that provides an electric enough feel. To go even further into details the 911 Carrera includes a rear-mounted 3.4-litre flat-six engine generating 350 hp (257 kW), and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h only 4.5 seconds.

    However, they have done some incredible work on it so it is now enhanced in terms of driving dynamics. And this is where the specialists from Vorsteiner have stepped in.

    They have given the Carrera a new V-GT tuning program which includes the following: V-GT Front Add-On Spoiler Replacement Carbon Fiber with Center GT Splitter, V-GT Side Rocker Panels Add-On Carbon Fiber with integrated sill blades, V-GT Rear Diffuser Element Replacement with Integrated Aero Fins & Underbody Panel, V-GT Deck Lid Gurney Add-On Spoiler Carbon Fiber.

    In addition they have equipped the car with brand new VS-110 Forged Monoblock Wheels in Bright Liquid Silver color in sizes 21x9J and 21x11J, which in turn perfectly match the Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres in sizes 255x30x21 and 305x25x21.

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Volkswagen Taigun Concept

    Volkswagen has introduced their latest concept vehicle – the Taigun. It is obviously a stranger version of Tiguan, which is one of the best-selling cross-overs in Europe. The new Taigun was announced at the Sao Paulo Motor Show.

    The small Taigun is just 3860mm long, 1730mm wide and has a 2470mm wheelbase. These dimensions give the Taigun short overhangs (708 mm front and 681 mm rear) and purposeful proportions, while the clear, concise exterior styling follows the unmistakable Volkswagen design DNA.

    It is powered by a new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 110HP at 5500RPM and 175Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The engine achieves a combined fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100km (60.1 mpg). 0-100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 186 km/h (115 mph). The curb weight is 985 kg.

    The exterior of Taigun features 17” alloys with 205/50 R17 tyres, rugged side panels, underbody protection and practical roof rails with LED spotlights.

    The interior boasts infotainment system, auxiliary instrument gauges that display oil pressure, coolant temperature and turbo charge pressure and some other nice options.

    Volkswagen will be monitoring public reaction to this vehicle before taking a decision on whether to put the Taigun into production.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Nissan EXTREM Concept

    EXTREM has been created especially for Brazil. The cross-over has been designed for and built in the country and has its world debut at the 27th Sao Paulo International Motor Show.

    “Brazil is a country of great natural beauty and it has a passionate, rich culture. But this is not always reflected in the cars on its streets, especially the more affordable locally produced vehicles which tend to be conservative in design, colour and specification,” commented Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer.

    “EXTREM, with a dynamic, high-character design, is far from conservative. It was created to appeal to the country’s growing band of city-based young professionals who are passionate about design and want to make a personal statement. The lightweight two-door 2+2, has a dynamic stance, fresh surfacing, and a clear rugged ability to tackle the urban jungle everyday,” he added.

    EXTREM will be powered by Nissan’s advanced direct injection and turbocharged (DIG-T) 1.6-litre gasoline engine, which shares its technology concept with the powertrain in the innovative Nissan DeltaWing Le Mans race car. EXTREM could also be offered with a choice of front or four-wheel drive with Torque Vectoring for enhanced handling capabilities.

    The vehicle is designed by Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, in collaboration with Brazilian designers and produced in Brazil, the concept previews a new breed of car. By blending versatility and toughness with the agility of a compact 2+2, EXTREM is a new genre of urban compact sports car.

    Although strictly a concept car with no immediate plans for production, elements of EXTREM‘s styling offers a glimpse into future Nissan products, for Brazil and beyond.

    The exclusive Solar Cortex body color, a deep metallic orange with radiant highlights, pays homage to Brazilian nature. Brightly coloured accents provide ‘pops’ of energy and can also be found on the gas cap, tow hook and the wheels, adding to the urban rally car theme.

    The roof pattern, a mix of gloss and matte textures, is inspired by iconic Brazilian graphics.

    Six-spoke 19” alloy wheels are double layered with a dark inner and brushed metal outer and provide enhanced cooling to the brakes.

    Showcasing the versatility of Nissan’s acclaimed V-platform – used by the Nissan March – dimensionally EXTREM is taller, wider and longer than the global city car.

    EXTREM‘s dimensions are:

    Wheelbase:      2450mm
    Height:             1530mm
    Length:            3850mm
    Width:              1765mm

    Source: Nissan

  • Chevrolet line-up for 2012 SEMA

    Chevrolet has аnnounced their line-up for the upcoming 2012 SEMA event. The manufacturer will present stylized Spark, Sonic and Cruze concepts. The cars demonstrate the possibilities for customers who want a more personalized driving experience. Chevrolet previewed the concept vehicles ahead of the Oct. 30 opening of the SEMA Show, the annual automotive aftermarket extravaganza of styling and performance, along with the multihued “The Color Run” Spark and “Pink Out” Spark – a car for a cause.

    The Cruze Upscale concept comes with a nice Burnished Brandy Metallic exterior, nicely tinted front lights and a set of 19” aluminuim wheels. The interior boasts Loft Brown leather seats, yellow contrast stitching and dark liquid palladium trim. There is also an adjustable coilover suspension.

    The second model, which will be presented is the Malibu Turbo Performance concept. It features a Berlin Blue exterior with a ground effects package. The Malibu rolls 20” aluminum wheels fitted with Pirelli PZero tires. The interior comes with two-tone Recaro sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel and black chrome trim. The car also comes with some performance tweaks like HiPer Strut front suspension, big brakes and a CAI system.

    Several Sparks will join the line-up. These include Sinister, Color Run and Pink Out concepts.




    Cruze Upscale concept:

    • Unique ground effects package with rocker and fascia extensions
    • Black Ice bright-accented exterior trim
    • Tinted headlamp and fog lamp lenses
    • Dark-tinted windows
    • Custom 19×8.5-inch aluminum wheels finished in Black Ice
    • 225/40ZR19 Bridgestone Potenza S-04 tires
    • Seats trimmed in Loft Brown leather
    • Loft Brown and DK Atmosphere leather-wrapped steering wheel
    • Yellow accent stitching on the seats and steering wheel
    • Dark Liquid Palladium high-gloss interior trim plates
    • Door panels and instrument panel with Loft Brown and DK Atmosphere leather wraps and DK Atmosphere paint
    • Adjustable coil-over suspension kit
    • Four-piston front brake calipers with two-piece vented and drilled rotors
    • Two-piston rear brake calipers with vented and drilled rotors.

    Sonic Z-Spec 1 concept:

    • Chevrolet licensed accessories Borla exhaust system
    • Lowered ride height, with Chevrolet Performance concept suspension kit, including lowering sprints and performance dampers
    • Chevrolet Performance concept brake kit, featuring four-piston front disc brake calipers with 16-inch rotors
    • Eighteen-inch split-spoke wheel design with Synergy Green insert
    • Sonic RS rear spoiler in Ashen Grey
    • Ashen Grey Metallic Z-Spec stripe and logos
    • Chevrolet Accessories ground effects kit
    • Mesh-style upper and lower grilles in Piano Black with Ashen Grey surrounds
    • Chevrolet Accessories stainless steel pedals
    • Chevrolet Accessories stainless steel sill plates
    • Jet Black and Titanium interior with Chevrolet Accessories stainless steel pedal covers and sill plates
    • Chevrolet MyLink color touch screen
    • Chevrolet licensed accessories Sub and Amp Kit, with KICKER 200-watt DSP amp and 200-watt powered subwoofer.

    Sonic Z-Spec 2.5 concept:

    • Abalone White Tricoat exterior color with Z-Spec graphics
    • Unique ground effects package and lower fascia extensions
    • Chevrolet Accessories rear spoiler
    • Galvano Silver accents on the grille surround, fog lamp bezels door trim and wheels
    • Tinted headlamps and fog lamps
    • Concept 18×7.5-inch wheels in Galvano Silver with Signal Red edges
    • Jet Black leather-trimmed interior with Orange Crust leather inserts and orange accent stitching
    • Orange anodized and Piano Black interior trim plates
    • Jet Black Leather-, Jet Black Suede- and Orange Suede-wrapped door panels and instrument panel with Orange accent stitching
    • Jet Black perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel
    • Chevrolet Accessories stainless steel pedal covers
    • Chevrolet MyLInk color touch screen
    • Chevrolet licensed accessories Sub and Amp Kit, with KICKER 200-watt DSP amp and 200-watt powered subwoofer
    • Lowered ride height, with Chevrolet Performance concept suspension kit, including lowering sprints and performance dampers
    • Chevrolet Performance concept brake kit, featuring four-piston front disc brake calipers with 16-inch rotors
    • Chevrolet Performance concept single-piston rear brake calipers with Sonic RS rotors
    • Chevrolet Performance concept cold-air intake kit
    • Chevrolet licensed accessories Borla exhaust system.

    Spark Z-Spec concept:

    • Chevrolet Accessories ground effects kit (body color)
    • Chevrolet Accessories Z-spec grille with Carbon Flash-painted surround
    • Grille surrounds, headlamp housings, fog lamp bezels, belt moldings and rear diffuser painted Dark Argent
    • Z-Spec body graphics in matte black
    • Chevrolet Performance licensed front lowering coil-over springs and rear adjustable springs
    • Concept 15×6-inch split-spoke wheels in Dark Argent with Salsa Red inserts and tire stripes
    • Lowered ride height
    • Seats trimmed with Salsa Red inserts
    • Front door and instrument panel inserts in Salsa Red
    • Chevrolet Accessories stainless steel pedal covers and sill plates
    • Chevrolet MyLInk color touch screen.

    Spark Sinister concept:

    • Dramatic body work with bold rocker fairings, a rear diffuser with dual exhaust outlets, rear wing spoiler and a front fascia with large air intakes
    • Prominent fender flares to cover large, 18×6-inch split-spoke wheels – in Bahia Red – and low-profile performance tires: 205/40ZR18 (front) and 225/40ZR18 (rear)
    • Lowered ride height
    • Carbon Flash Metallic exterior with Bahia Red accents and matte-black graphics.

    Source: GM

  • Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Rafale

    Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Rafale is the latest model of the manufacturer. It was  presented at the Sao Paulo Motor Show.

    The car is based on Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse (as you may suggest), but features some interesting upgrades like unique alloy wheels and a two-tone exterior with “Gris Rafale” paint and blue carbon fiber. The interior boasts lake blue leather seats, light grey stitching and blue carbon fiber trim. All details are matched perfectly and the comfort is sensational.

    This strong contrast of colours is found again in the interior but vice-versa: with lake blue leather seats and a stitching in light grey.

    The engine is the same – 8.0 liter W16 quad-turbo – 1200HP (882 kW) and 1500Nm (1106 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and a top speed of over 410 km/h (255 mph).

    Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Rafale is priced at €1,900,000.

    Source: Bugatti