Automobiles Review – Page 821 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BMW stops F10 M5 and F12 M6 deliveries – engine oil pump failure

As we know, the old BMW M5 (the E60 model) is one of the most unreliable vehicles on the market. It has a lot of problems with all kind of electrical features. Still, it was a great car.

The new M5 (the F10) and the new M6 (F12/F13) also have big problems and the manufacturer has stopped deliveries of these models, because of an engine oil pump issue. The company also issued a recall on the models produced from July 2012 until September 2012. If the pump driveshaft separates from the pump rotor, the engine will lose oil pressure and that will cause critical damage… usually entirely broken engine.

In the US around 696 units are affected by this recall, which is not too much. The repair is easy and takes about two hours. This includes replacing the engine oil pump with a brand new one. It will be made free of charge and it might take longer in some cases depending on the scheduling and processing of the repair center.

So, it is very important to mention that BMW states that the affected cars should not be driven, until the problem is solved. If the owner of an M5 or M6 does notice a sudden loss of oil pressure, the car should be stopped immediately as well as the engine.

Source: BMW

September 25, 2012

2013 Toyota Auris UK – Price £14,495

Toyota has announced the full price list of the brand new 2013 Auris UK, which will hit the market in December. The prices start from 14,495 GBP for the entry-level Ative model powered by a 1.33 Dual VVT-I with 6-speed manual gearbox.

There are four trim levels – Active, Icon, Sport and Excel (you can check below their full specs).

The new Auris comes with quite good standard equipment including – electric front windows, automatic air conditioning, four-speaker sound system with USB/AUX support and also with heated, electrically adjustable door mirrors.

The second trim level – Icon adds 16” alloy wheels, rear-view camera, six-speaker sound system, leather steering wheel and gear knob, front fog lamps and Bluetooth.

The Sport trim includes 17” alloy wheels, sports front seats, sports grille, rear privacy glass and a rear diffuser.

The top-of-range Excel trim boasts dual-zone climate control, Smart Entry and Start, park assist system, heated front seats, electric folding door mirrors, dusk-sensing headlights.

Check out the full price list below.

New Auris prices

MODEL	ENGINE	TRANSMISSION	OTR PRICE
Active	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£14,495
Active	1.4 D-4D	6MT	£15,845
Icon	1.33 Dual VVT-i	6MT	£17,145
Icon	1.4 D-4D	6MT	£18,495
Icon	1.6 Valvematic	6MT	£17,495
Icon	1.6 Valvematic	Multidrive S	£18,495
Icon	HybridSynergy Drive	E-CVT	£19,995
Sport	1.4 D-4D	6MT	£19,245
Sport	1.6 Valvematic	6MT	£18,245
Sport	1.6 Valvematic	Multidrive S	£19,245
Excel	1.4 D-4D	6MT	£20,245
Excel	1.6 Valvematic	6MT	£19,245
Excel	1.6 Valvematic	Multidrive S	£20,245
Excel	HybridSynergy Drive	E-CVT	£21,745

Active grade will include: –

Automatic air conditioning
Four-speaker audio system with USB and Aux connection and MP3 file player (from disc)
Electrically adjustable, heated, body-coloured door mirrors
Electric front windows

Key features of the Icon grade include: –

16-inch alloy wheels (15-inch for Auris Hybrid)
Six-speaker audio system
DAB tuner
Toyota Touch multimedia control screen
Bluetooth
Rear-view camera
Electric front and rear windows
Leather steering wheel and gear knob trim
Front fog lamps
Push-button start (Auris Hybrid)

Sport grade adds sportier elements inside and out to the Icon specification, including: –

17-inch alloy wheels (16-inch for 1.4 D-4D model)
Sports front seats
Sports grille
Rear diffuser and exhaust trim
Rear privacy glass

At the top of the range, Excel grade provides: –

17-inch alloy wheels (16-inch for 1.4 D-4D model)
Black velour seat upholstery, with leather bolsters
Dual-zone climate control
Smart Entry and Start
Park assist system, with front and rear parking sensors
Cruise control (not available on 1.4 D-4D model)
Rain-sensing wipers
Dusk-sensing headlights
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Electric folding door mirrors
Heated front seats
Driver’s seat lumbar support
Rear privacy glass

Source: Toyota

September 25, 2012

2013 Porsche 911 GT3 [video]

Here is a nice video of the 2013 Porsche 911 GT3 (991 model), which is not on the market, yet. Dani Dominguez Mas made this clip at a gas station in Spain, where several Porsche GT3’s were stop for refilling.

The cars are caught completely undisguised and as we can see, the new GT3 has an aggressive front bumper with a splitter and a huge vent to improve downforce and cooling. Other highlights are the new rear wing and a center-mounted dual exhaust system. There is also big brake system and a set of center-locking wheels, which is very interesting.

Nothing is mentioned about the engine, but it is expected to be the new 3.8 liter naturally aspirated flat-six developing 470HP (346 kW). It will send the power on the road through the new PDK transmission. 0-100 km/h in less than 4 seconds and a top speed of more than 322 km/h (200 mph).

Check out the video below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yz22aSbdwg

Source: Dani Dominguez Mas via Youtube

September 25, 2012

Jaguar F-Type Tested at Nardo and Nuerburgring [VIDEO]

Jaguar-F-Type-THUMB The new 2013 Jaguar F-Type is going to be officially unveiled in several days. And to remind you, nearly a week ago a leak image was published over the web space, which gave everybody the sense of perfection of this amazing new model.

Now, Jaguar is heating up its audience with two exciting videos of the new F-Type, where it shows amazing performance, perfect stance and gives thrills to all watching.

The first footage, carrying the name Fierce, was shot at the Nardo Test Facility in Italy. Here the new model was put through the most rigorous high-speed testing by Jaduar’s engineers. The unique ring shaped track gave the opportunity to the test drivers to not only VMax the car but also to stress test at the most extreme high temperatures. In general, they have pushed the F-Type to its limits to ensure outstanding performance.

httpv://youtu.be/XvDMCnrAsIM

On the other hand, the second video, named Focused was filmed at the North Loop track at Nürburgring. The racing circuit was nicknamed the “Green Hell” by Jackie Stewart, and is considered one of the most demanding purpose built circuits in the world.

Here Jaguar team places the F-Type through a series of sustained high speed laps with rapid changes of direction, gradient, speed, braking, and surface. This helps them refine its set up, damping, and braking systems.

httpv://youtu.be/gT8EAs4dZXw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

September 25, 2012

2013 Dodge Dart iHeart Won by New Yorker

2013 Dodge Dart iHeart which was customized by the international recording artist Pitbull was part of a sweepstakes, where a proud New Your citizen won. His name is Jack Walters and he met Pitbull in order to receive the winning key of the impressive Dodge at iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas.

The unique iHeart Dodge Dart was in fact a collaborative effort by a team of Chrysler Group designers who provided Pitbull with a variety of options for the interior and exterior. He had also at hand advanced concepts so that he could create an aesthetic which communicated the essence of the Pitbull persona.

The inspiration of the final design of course was the tailored suit, classic sunglasses and the contrasting pin stripes of the recording artist. And so the iHeart Dodge Dart was born.

To be more precise, the one-of-a-kind Dodge Dart includes high contrast matte white exterior and black roof, custom liquid graphite 18-inch aluminum wheels, and black and pearl white leather and suede interior, complemented by tasteful metals to evoke a classic yet casual sophistication.

In addition there was also included a hood scoop and rear spoiler. They add an element of mysterious strength of the car. In this way the car undoubtedly conveys class-leading style and within its inherent roominess and technology.

Source: Dodge

September 25, 2012

ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec Track Edition to be revealed at 2012 SEMA Show

ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec Track Edition is in fact a mix of Hyundai’s high performance R-Spec platform Provides and the work of a Super Tuner such as ARK Performance. The ARK super-tuner track edition will debut at the 2012 SEMA show.

The tuning includes impressive enhancements in terms of power. The original 3.8-liter direct-injected engine was boosted to the impressive 395 horsepower (290 kW) at 6800 rpm, with axle-flexing torque of 340 lb.-ft. (461 Nm) at 5400 rpm.

The exterior carries also the touch of ARK Performance. The muscular character lines of the Genesis Coupe have been taken to the extreme, with race-like flared over-fenders, an aggressive front splitter, and carbon-fiber hood with heat-extractor vents.

In general, ARK Genesis Coupe not only offers this unique outlook, but also has significant under-hood performance modifications, a race-like interior environment, racing differential, tires, brakes and suspension.

The comprehensive list of ARK performance enhancements include:

Engine

ARK performance intake system
ARK performance oil cooler
ARK performance lightweight pulley kit
BTRcc Blueprinting
Brian Crower 4.2 Stroker Kit
- JE Pistons
- BC 4340 Crankshaft
- BC 4340 Connecting Rods
- ARK performance R-Spec ceramic-coated headers

Interior

JPM Coachworks custom interior
Sparco® steering wheel L575
Sparco Pro ADV racing seats – red
Cusco 8-point chromoly roll cage

Exterior

ARK-ADRO FL carbon hood
ARK-ADRO rear diffuser
ARK performance SFX rear overfenders
ARK performance CFX carbon deck lid
APR GT300 carbon wing with mount

Transmission

ARK carbon plate clutch kit
ARK dual mass flywheel
Cusco type RS 1.5/2-way limited-slip differential

Wheels and tires

Yokohama ADVAN RS2
Nitto NT05

Brakes

Six-piston Big Brake kit F/R
ARK carbon brake pads
ARK stainless steel brake lines

Suspension

ARK performance DTP coilover system
Cusco suspension bars, arms and control rods

Source: Hyundai

September 25, 2012

The 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser improves the brake-control system

The top-class 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser excels the expectations as promises to be luxurious and unleash its off-road capability.

It comes standard with the 5.7-liter Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 32-valve V8 engine under the hood and produces 381 hp and 401 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2013 Land Cruiser has a six-speed automatic transmission and sends power to the 4-wheel drive system.

The items that used to be optional in the previous Land Cruisers are now standard. It concerns exterior and interior parts as well.

When it comes to safety, the Land Cruiser gives plenty to appreciate. It is equipped with 10 airbags and also includes driver and front passenger knee airbags. The front seats include active headrests that help reduce the severity of whiplash injuries.

The multi-terrain SUV, Toyota Land Cruiser is going to provide as safe and convenient drive as possible. Though it comes with the standard STAR Safety System, the 2013 Land Cruiser will have the all new 5-speed CRAWL Control featuring an Off-Road Turn Assist. The CRAWL Control balances speed and outlet as well. Along with the CRAWL Control, the other brake systems include anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), active traction control (A-TRAC), and finally, VSC (with a cut-off switch).

In block, the brake system helps to adjust to an off-road surface and keep controlling the vehicle. EBD equals braking forces between the front and rear wheels, and the BA serves as an auxiliary in emergency braking. A-TRAC maintains traction and distributes the drive force while accelerating. VSC supplies directional control while cornering and operates engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence in case of tire slippage.

The Smart Stop Technology (SST) is the most prominent 2013 Land Cruiser’s feature concerning safety. It is capable to completely stop the vehicle at the speed over 5 mph and apply brakes firmly for a half second or longer.

The 2013 Land Cruiser’s benefit number one is its brake assist, so that safety is guaranteed always and everywhere, be it a slippery winter highway or an off-road.

September 25, 2012

BMW test driver crashes in a 3-Series F30 Hybrid

Horrible accident happened on the Autobahn in Germany. A BMW 3-Series Hybrid Prototype crashed severely in a truck. The driver of the car had no passengers, but he is not alive. The crash was on September 21 on the A92 near the automaker’s Dingolfing factory.The test driver obviously was running the 3-Series Hybrid at high speeds while passing several trucks and one of them pulled out. Despite the reaction of the driver, he didn’t manage to safe himself and the impact was inevitable. The car went under the rear trailer and he had no chance (check the pictures).The A92 was closed for several hours due to the difficulties of recovering the crashed car.Of course, there is ongoing investigation which will explain how this terrible accident happened.May the driver rest in peace.

September 24, 2012

Dallas Performance Lamborghini Gallardo

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 is simply astonishing vehicle. Superfast, super aggressive and awesome to drive and to look at, but obviously for some people this is not enough. That’s why Dallas Performance boosted the sports car to whopping 1200WHP (wheel-horse-power), which is more than 1500HP (engine horsepower).

Actually, this is Stage 2, which includes a complete twin-turbo system with forged engine internal parts. The tuning company previously has introduced Stage 1, which achieved 650WHP (485 kW) with regular 93 octane fuel and more than 800WHP (597 kW) with special VP C16 race fuel.

Stage 2 is a lot money, but for such power you have to pay a lot… and “a lot” means $65k for the models between 2004 and 2008 and $68k for those from 2009.

Originally, the Gallardo runs 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h in 11.8 seconds and has a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). There is no such data for the highly tuned Stage 2 of DP, but probably the times are cut in half or more.

Check out the pictures below!

Source: Dallas Performance via WCF

September 24, 2012

International Debut for Maserati GranCabrio MC

Maserati GranCabrio MC is destined to complete Maserati’s open-top range adding to it high performance and sports characteristics. The new model in addition is inspired by the racing experience which the brand has but also include its ultimate luxury style, appeal and practicality of a four seater convertible.

After the success of the GranTurismo MC Stradale, the designer decided to bring to manifestation this model. Hence the new GranCabrio MC has a highly sporty and aggressive look, while maintaining the strengths and characteristics of a true grand tourer. This basically means that it is also perfect for long journeys.

In particular, the car is 48 millimetres longer than the GranCabrio and GranCabrio Sport. In addition it has a very distinctive front end which was inspired directly by the MC Stradale. However, it includes a new improved profile in order to optimize the aerodynamic lift and flow.

Other different design elements than those on the GranCabrio can be seen at some aerodynamic elements at the rear end. Furthermore, the rear is characterized by the large spoiler. This makes possible a greater negative lift at high speeds.

Next to be mentioned is that inside the spoiler, which was built into the luggage compartment, is positioned a third brake light. The standard version of Maserati GranCabrio MC comes in the same color as the body and is offered with various car customization packages. Of course it will be also available with a carbon finish.

Source: Maserati

September 24, 2012

Techart Individualizes Porsche 981 Boxster

Techart Porsche 981 Boxster individualization program will turn around the perception of what a sports car would look like. Techart studio is offering the drivers a range of options for making their Boxster into one-of-a-kind vehicle.

A lot of refinement options are included here – from light alloy and forged wheels to the exclusive exterior and interior styling packages. A vary special feature is Techart’s light alloy and forged wheels in 21-inch size. If you wonder for the reason, well this is because they give the Porsche unique and even sportier look.

Two options are available: the classical five spoke design of Formula light alloy wheels or the dynamic double spoke design of the Formula III forged wheels. A weight reduction of about 40 % regarding to alloy wheels in the same size means lower unsprung masses which actually gives the car optimized agility and handling.

Moreover, the Techart twin tailpipes which are made of polished stainless steel in a classic rounded design and the individually colored exterior packages, perfectly complement the Porsche. In addition Techart’s sound muffler and sport exhaust system with valve control guarantee acoustic support in the sporty coupe.

The exterior of the car is rounded off by Techart’s sport spring kit and a lowering of 30 mm at the front and 20 mm at the rear axle. Of course, the tuners haven’t forgotten the interior. Here, a full leather interior with a decorative stitching in combination with the Techart’s styling packages perfectly fit the unique visual stance of the Boxter.

Attention to the detail has been provided, and of course the tuning company couldn’t go without selected carbon fiber packages, which provides sporty and high quality touch. In connection with the ergonomically mounted paddle shifters, the 3-spokes sports steering wheels delivers precision control over the vehicle and allow simple and fast gear changes with maximum driving pleasure.

The tuned Porsche Boxster will make its World premiere at the Essen Motor Show this year, which will take place from the 1st to the 12th of December.

Source: Techart

September 24, 2012

2014 Acura RLX Sedan Debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show

2014 Acura RLX Sedan is finally going to be revealed making its debut at the first day of Los Angeles Motor Show on 28th of November. The new Acura flagship sedan will be equipped with wide range of new technologies some of them exclusively for this model.

For instance, there will be included the Precision All Wheel Steer™ system, the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, and the all-new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, sophistication and increased comfort.

The front-wheel-drive version of the 2014 RLX will use Acura’s new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. The latter automatically makes slight adjustments to the relative rear wheel (toe) angles by employing electrically controlled actuators. This results in an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision.

In addition, the front-wheel-drive model will be powered by all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower (228 kW).

Furthermore, the new sedan will be equipped with the next-generation AcuraLink®, which includes built-in two-way cellular communication and deliver a variety of new convenience features. Some of them for example are airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service.

Next t be highlighted here is also the exclusive Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps use a dual-stacked array of multiple high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim. In fact, this provides great down-the-road illumination and gives the vehicle one-of-a-kind bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.

Typical for Acura, the new model will feature excellent passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Lane Keep Assist System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver’s knee airbag.

A prominent feature here is the second generation of Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further improved frontal crash energy management.

Source: Honda

September 24, 2012

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