Automobiles Review – Page 815 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BBR Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger Conversion

BBR Cosworth Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger is equipped with additional engine power than the base model. In fact, BBR now offers two distinct stages of supercharger upgrades with power outputs up to a sensational 258 hp (190 kW).

In this particular tuning, BBR uses extensively modified Cosworth developed hardware as the basis for the conversions. In addition the British company has revised the crucial engine management side of the MX-5. In details, they have replaced the ‘piggy back’ Interceptor unit with a Starchip developed remap.

The latter optimizes the Mazda’s OEM ECU to the engine parameters needed for forced induction. Another benefit is that this allows further optimization with PROECU software/hardware bundle for DIY OBDII port ECU programming and data logging.

BBR-Cosworth Stage One Mk3 / Mk 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

Cosworth designed Inlet manifold housing and hardware extensively modified by BBR for optimum efficiency and reliability.
Eaton 4th generation MP62 Supercharger
Intercooler (Air to water)
High flow calibrated injectors
High flow replacement air box
Competition high-grade hoses and fixings throughout
BBR StarChip ECU remap (DIY conversions supplied with ProECu hardware for installation)
BBR Cosworth identification badges
BBR hardware and full DIY instructions

BBR-Cosworth Stage One 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3	235 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+77 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5	241*BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+83 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5	217 BHP / 176 Ib.ft (+93 bhp) / +53 lb.ft compared to standard output)

Basically, the huge hike in mid-range torque, instant response from the supercharger and progressive power delivery mean that a BBR-Cosworth supercharged MX-5 1.8SE or 2.0i offers matchless in-gear acceleration and drivability.

But this is not all of the upgrade that BBR offer. We all know that performance enthusiasts always seek the ultimate upgrade, there is a new BBR-Cosworth Stage Two MX-5 Supercharger conversion.

The stage two offers unmatched peak figures of up to 258 hp (190 kW) and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque, even sharper throttle response and a subtle yet, sporting soundtrack. This conversion is of course perfect for fast road or track day use. It adds on the ‘Stage One’ upgrades proven BBR components which enhance exhaust and intake flow to maximize performance.

BBR-Cosworth Stage Two Mk3 / 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold
BBR 2.5 “stainless steel exhaust centre section with metallic sports cat and centre silencer
BBR stainless steel rear silencer with adjustable 3.5”BBR branded tailpipes
High flow BBR performance air filter
BBR StarChip ECU remapping to suit Stage Two mechanical specification

The eventual outcome is a top quality BBR branded exhaust which manages to produce a pleasant note that’s subtle, sporting and allows MX-5 owners to tackle long distance motorway driving in confidence.

BBR-Cosworth Stage Two 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3	252 BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+94 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5	258*BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+100 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5	231 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+107 bhp) / +67 lb.ft compared to standard output)

Source: BBR

October 9, 2012

Citroen DS5 Hybrid4: More Environmentally Considerate Than Ever

2012 Citroen DS5 Hybrid4 is now more efficient than ever before. The engineers from the popular French brand have made him environmentally considerate and thus appealing even more to customers.

As a matter of fact, all three Hybrid4 200 Airdream EGS6 models in the DS5 range have received technical updates so that they can now deliver CO2 emissions from just 91g/km. In addition, this decrease in CO2 emission goes hand-in-hand with improved fuel economy.

To go further into details, the enhanced fuel efficiency is due to new management software. The latter was developed for the full-hybrid diesel powertrain with a number of technical improvements so that now this Citroen model has optimized efficiency.

Here some important enhancements include improved energy recovery when decelerating and braking, and a new battery management system. This makes the newly re-homologated DS5 Hybrid4 drivetrain reducing the official CO2 emissions for the DSign model from 99g/km to 91g/km (BIK tax band 10%).

Moreover, DStyle and DSport versions see their emissions reduce from 107g/km to 102g/km, with a BIK band change from 12% to 11%. Another feature, which reduces the emissions, is the 17-inch ‘Houston’ alloy wheels.

They are available as a no-cost option on Hybrid4 DStyle and DSport versions. The wheels have smaller diameter thus reducing the cars’ CO2 emissions from 102g/km to 91g/km – the same as the entry-level DSign (giving a further BIK reduction from 11% to 10%).

Source: Citroen

October 9, 2012

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary – Price €446,250

Mercedes-Benz has announced the 45^th Anniversary Edition of the super sports SLS AMG GT3. The car comes with unique matt paint job and nice AMG light alloys in designo magno graphite finish.

The car is powered by the well-known 6.2 liter AMG V8, which is the world’s most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine. It catapults the SLS AMG GT3 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and goes all the way up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

SLS AMG GT3 45^th Anniversary Edition also comes with carbon fiber reinforced plastic doors, boot lid, front hood, mud guards, front and rear aprons. Other elements from CFRP are the rear wings, rear diffuser and front splitter. This material is very strong and in the same time light, so it gives better balance.

The interior is also very interesting. It features a rollcage with the same finish as the exterior. The center console and the dashboard feature a similar matt carbon fiber appearance.

The price of the car is also staggering – 446,250 EURO including VAT.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 8, 2012

Porsche 918 Spyder: Nurburgring Test [video]

Porsche has released a new promotional video of the 918 Spyder, which has lapped the Nordschleife in just 7 minutes and 14 seconds. This is the third video of this performance and obviously the manufacturer is very proud of this achievement of their hybrid sports car.

Talking about hybrid systems, the 918 Spyder is powered by a 4.6 liter V8 engine and two electric motors. The combined power is whopping 770HP (566 kW). This means 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

The car was fitted with street-legal tires and had the optional Weissach Package which will be offered for the production model.

Check out the video below, where you will not see the full lap around Nurburgring, but a lot of interesting highlights and comments.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pukna2PG97c

Source: Porsche

October 8, 2012

Petter Solberg crashes at the 2012 WRC Rallye de France

Petter Solberg had a severe crash at the WRC Rallye de France, which took place this weekend. He lost control of his Ford Fiesta RS and went through a vineyard.

It is very interesting that the driver didn’t try to stop the car, instead he kept stepping on the throttle, which was extremely dangerous and… stupid. Some of the spectators were incredibly lucky to avoid huge accident. Several seconds after Solberg abandoned the road, he crashed into a telephone pole, which had fallen over and hit some of the spectators. Luckily, no one was injured.

The accident happened on the first stage of the day and the footage was recorded not only by the on-board camera but also by helicopter.

Before the accident occurred, Peter Solberg was in 4^th place but he had to leave the race, because of a broken steering arm and other damage to the car.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NnRNah1suY

Source: Gommeblog via Youtube

October 8, 2012

Glimpse into the Future: Mercedes-Benz Sculpture Aesthetic S [VIDEO]

One of the highlight at this year’s Paris Auto Show, was the event where Mercedes-Benz has shown their three dimensional sculpture paired with a multi media projection. The artistic rendering unveiled the design elements of the new S-Class shape.

The sculptural shapes are a classic feature of a Mercedes-Benz design. In the case of the “Aesthetics S” sculpture, the designers decided to present the exterior of a future saloon in artistic way. And as you can see from the video below – they surely did so!

In general what the people behind the design did is to combine together the modern sense of status, sensual shapes and stylish sportiness in one car. In fact, in the eyes of the viewer the aesthetics of the relief-like sculpture of the new car creates a three-dimensional world.

Here we can see how art is becoming an inspiration for car design. The sculpture is an artistic approach to the design of the new S-Class, which we are eagerly expecting next year. Gorden Wagener Head Designer of Mercedes-Benz talks about the sculpture and design by Mercedes-Benz:

httpv://youtu.be/x_GOG6b5Ng8

Video and News Source: YouTube

October 8, 2012

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse in Action [video]

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Special Edition is the most powerful roadster ever created by the luxury brand. It is finished in either Bianco and New Light Blue color scheme.

The new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is powered by the well-known 8.0 liter W16 quad-turbo engine delivering 1200HP (882 kW) and 1500Nm (1111 lb-ft) of torque at just 3000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and a top speed of 410 km/h (255 mph). This means that Vitesse is the fastest production roadster ever.

The supercar has new lighter 20” “Vitesse”-type alloy wheels. Bugatti has adapted the brake-cooling system as well. The brakes are unparalleled in terms of stability and performance and now get larger air intakes.

A significant decrease in wind noise was achieved through the newly developed roof spoiler. Another innovation included in the roadster is the new windbreak, which can be stored away compactly in the luggage compartment.

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Special Edition version costs $2 500 000.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RT-Y25o3IAQ

Source: Bugatti

October 8, 2012

2013 Nissan Latio – Specifications Announced

2013 Nissan Latio has just been launched and is already on sale around the world. The new Nissan global sedan is characterized by environmentally-friendly features, a high-quality exterior and roomy interior.

Latio is going to offer its customers a high quality exterior, where an imposing horizontal side view and front styling with large headlights and grille are visible and contributing towards vehicle’s strong presence.

In terms of interior, this Nissan model offers great cabin spaciousness and comfort. Rear seat passenger comfort for instance is further enhanced by the ample knee room and wide field of vision. In addition, the trunk capacity is improved through the use of uniquely shaped trim, resulting in luggage space of 490L.

Nissan Latio is also offering a best-in-class fuel economy of 22.6 km/L. This is achieved in all the grades which are equipped with HR12DE engine and an Idling Stop System, with XTRONIC CVT.

The HR12DE engine delivers outstanding acceleration performance in city driving. It also contributes to the enhanced fuel efficiency. In fact, the new Latio with HR12DE engine is one of Nissan’s PURE DRIVE models.

2013 Nissan Latio Specifications:

Exterior design:

Sculptured body with a finely developed cross-section, like athlete’s muscles
Spacious interior cabin and horizontal yet flowing side view
Sporty front styling, as if the vehicle is staring straight ahead
A total of six available exterior colors, including Titanium Grey (TM) (TM stands for Titanium Metallic)

Interior design:

Functionally-arranged switches and controls, with silver-colored finishers (standard on X, G)
Surprisingly spacious rear seat space
Premium-feel Fine Vision Meter with attractive illumination (standard on X, G)

Engine and transmission:

All grades equipped with 1.2L HR12DE engine with an Idling Stop System
XTRONIC CVT adopted in all grades

Packaging:

One-class-above spacious interior room is achieved by minimizing mechanical space, including optimization of size and layout of the radiator and fuel tank and locating the accelerator pedal farther forward
Comfortable rear seat space is provided, with spacious knee room and large center armrest (rear center armrest is standard on G)
Short front overhang and engine hood that gives great visibility, helping reduce “invisible” areas for drivers as much as possible by making it easier to see where the vehicle’s front end is
With large rear window and inventive rear pillar shape, visibility when parking a car in a garage or changing lanes is improved
Brighter headlights, using smaller reflectors, cover a longer distance so that road shoulders are easier to see
Simply designed luggage space opening improves ease of loading luggage. Luggage space capacity is 490 liters – capable of storing four 9-inch golf bags

Aerodynamic performance and weight reduction:

Design that reduces air resistance (coefficient of drag of 0.31) is adopted by optimizing shapes of the front bumper, front pillar, side view mirrors and underbody, as well as making a spoiler-shape trunk lid
Weight is reduced by a total of approximately 70kg compared to the previous model by detailed attention to the refinement of shapes and structures, including engine weight reduction and a change in suspension and exhaust parts

Key Safety and Environmental Technologies:

Multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) that help optimize light distribution
Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors
RearView Monitor (available only on vehicles equipped with car navigation system – provided as a dealer option)
High Mount Stop Lamp
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control [TCS functionality included]) (standard on G, factory-installed option on X, S and B)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) + Brake Assist
Front ventilated disc brakes
High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS curtain air bag system (factory-installed option on G, X)
Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts for front seats
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Mileage display function
Achieves “10% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards” in all grades
Achieves SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards in all grades
Reduces interior volatile organic compounds (VOC)

Source: Nissan

October 8, 2012

2013 Dodge Dart Aero: Fuel-Efficient and Powerful

2013 Dodge Dart Aero is the newest, most fuel-efficient Dart model in the line-up. This Dodge comes equipped with advanced 1.4-liter MultiAir intercooled turbo engine combined with several aerodynamic enhancements.

Some of the latter include lightweight aluminum chassis components, active grille shutters, underbody aero kit, a lowered profile and low-rolling resistance tires. Thanks to all of the improvements added, the Aero model achieves an impressive 41 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway when mated to a six-speed manual. The number of 40 mpg is achieved on the highway when the car is equipped with a six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT).

The engineers promise that the new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking vehicle, which will deliver features and benefits never before offered in a compact car. The vehicle is also packed with a great range of standard features including the 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine.

Furthermore, some of the standard equipment here includes the following: 10 standard airbags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control, cruise control, auto headlamps, air conditioning with micron filter, power windows and locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, projector headlamps and class-exclusive LED ‘racetrack’ taillamps.

Some “cool” optionl features are also available. Such are the 8.4-inch touchscreen media center and 7-inch TFT reconfigurable gauge cluster. 2013 Dodge Dart Aero is available at a starting price of $19 295.

Source: Chrysler

October 8, 2012

Superchips Volkswagen Golf MK6 Bluemotion

Superchips Volkswagen Golf MK6 Bluemotion is the latest tuning the Buckingham based firm has been dealing with. This Mk6 Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDi 103 hp (75 kW) has boosted levels and fuelling settings to safely and reliably extract the remarkable increase in terms of power.

The enhancement was made with the utilization of extensive data logging, dyno testing and on-road analysis. In fact, the Superchips ECU remap achieves a proven maximum power gain of 41 hp (30 kW) at 4070 rpm.

Knowing the basic mathematics, this means that the transformed vehicle with its initial 103 hp, it is now capable of generating 144 horsepower. But this is not all: the Superchips ECU remap also modifies the torque output of the Golf.

After the installation that the company has implemented, the peak torque figure adds the remarkable 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) at just 2356 rpm, with serious gains from 2000 rpm onwards. The effect is a maximum torque of 307 Nm (227 lb-ft).

Now the one sitting behind the steering wheel will undoubtedly enjoy a great driving experience, thanks to these impressive power and torque increases. Furthermore, the engine is much keener to pull from all speeds, with the improved flexibility resulting in less gearchanges to manage progress.

At last, the Volkswagen’s fast cruising, towing and load carrying capabilities are additionally enhanced due to Superchips’ work. The optimized Golf TDi’s remap combined with the upgraded engine’s additional low down torque offers potential economy improvements of up to 7%.

Source: Superchips

October 8, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG – Price €236,334

Mercedes-Benz has announced the most powerful roadster they have ever built. The new 2013 SL 65 AMG is powered by the famous AMG V12 6.0-liter bi-turbo. It has 630HP (463 kW) and 1000Nm (737 lb-ft) – electronically limited, because of the gearbox. As we mentioned the transmission, it is a new AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic gearbox that provides four driver-selectable modes: Efficiency, Sport, Sport plus and Manual.

The performance is sensational 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds flat and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited, of course. Without the limiter, the car will easily reach 200 mph (322 km/h).

The new 2013 SL 65 AMG is 17% more economical than the previous version, which means that it will cover 20.2 mpg US – 11.6 liters per 100 km.

Mercedes-AMG also makes systematic use of lightweight construction principles, as well as numerous axle components made of aluminium, for the suspension. As standard, the SL 65 AMG comes fitted with the AMG sports suspension, based on Active Body Control. The design and appointments are also exceptional and exclusive: the “twin blade” radiator grille, with two blade-shaped louvres and stylised “A” positioned underneath – a characteristic feature of AMG vehicles – all complement each other perfectly, along with the front apron’s lower cross strut finished in high-sheen chrome.

In addition to the two special chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, the characteristic V12 features include the “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the front wings and the AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and equipped with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the front and rear respectively.

Particular highlights include the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with single or two-tone upholstery in Exclusive nappa leather, special AMG V12 diamond-design seat upholstery layout and embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests. The designo roof lining in leather with partial AMG V12 diamond-design stitching, AMG carbon-fibre trim elements and IWC-design analogue clock provide the perfect visual and tactile finishing touches.

An attractive highlight among the extensive standard equipment of the SL 65 AMG is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system: Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG have created it in conjunction with famous Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen. The sound system enables an exclusive music experience to be enjoyed at the very highest level. The basis of the system is formed not only by the amplifier with a total output of 900 watts and 12 high-end loudspeakers including Frontbass, but also the precise distribution of the music signals, controlled by the sound processor, to the selectable seating positions of driver, front passenger or the central position.

Thanks to the digital sound processor (DSP), it is also possible to choose between the high-end “reference” studio sound and spacious surround sound. All of the functions are operated using the COMAND system via a special Bang & Olufsen menu. Particular highlights include the illuminated lens tweeters on the dashboard – they help to create the characteristic virtual sound stage in front of the vehicle occupants. High-quality aluminium loudspeaker covers finished in silver chrome with the Bang & Olufsen logo give an indication of the exceptional position enjoyed by this high-end system.

The price of this toy is catastrophic – €236,334. Obviously Mercedes doesn’t know the price of the money and we are eager to see, how many units will be sold worldwide.

The extensive range of standard equipment includes:

COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer
Anti-theft alarm system
Frontbass
Remote-unlocking boot lid incl. power closing for boot lid
Intelligent Light System ILS
KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-? FREE ACCESS system)
MAGIC VISION CONTROL
NECK-PRO head restraints
Panoramic vario-roof

Optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:

AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey and polished
AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted in matt black and with a
high-sheen finish on the rim flange
AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housings and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre)
AMG Performance Media with telemetry function
AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre
Brake callipers, painted red

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 5, 2012

Bentley Continental GT3 – Price £200,000

Bently has announced a street legal variant of the Continental GT3 model. This means that the car will be company’s fastest production model. Key details have yet to be finalised, but Bentley is understood to be looking at a production run of around 300 cars to be built over a 12-month period circa 2014-2015. The GT3 race car was revealed at the Paris motor show and marks the return of Bentley to front-line motorsport.

The 2013 Continental GT3 will be powered by a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine with 700HP (522 kW).

The power will be put on the road through an all-wheel drive system.

Only 300 units will be produced and the price will start from £200,000.

“We now have a chance to look at all these possibilities,” said another senior source.

The race car’s extreme rear wing and the rest of the aerodynamic package would be toned down for road use. A roll cage won’t be present feature, because it’s considered too extreme for Bentley owners.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

October 5, 2012

Blog