Automobiles Review – Page 829 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Formula Ford laps Nurburgring in 7:22 minutes [HD video]

A specially prepared race car by Ford called “Formulla” managed to lap the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 22 seconds. Another spectacular thing about the vehicle is its engine with only 1.0 liter of displacement.

The one-of a-kind, road-legal version of the latest Formula Ford single-seat racer completed the lap in 7 minutes, 22 seconds to register the 11th fastest time ever on the circuit – a performance that puts it ahead of a host of supercars including the 600+ horsepower Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari Enzo and Pagani Zonda.

“This little engine has people rubbing their eyes in disbelief,” commented racing driver and course specialist Nick Tandy, 28, who completed the drive.

“It’s simply astonishing that a 3-cylinder, one-litre engine can deliver that kind of performance.”, he added.

The 1.0 liter EcoBoost engine produces 205HP (151 kW), which is enough for top speed of over 255 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in less than 4 seconds. The car is fitted with a 6-speed manual gearbox and was driven on road-legal tyres.

The vehicle completed the 20.832 km (12.94 mile) Nordschleife circuit at an average speed of 169 km/h (105 mph).

In-house testing also showed the 1.0-litre EcoBoost-powered Formula Ford is capable of extremely frugal fuel economy, delivering 2.4 l/100 km (118 mpg) at 56 km/h (35 mph), and 5 l/100 km (57 mpg) at 120 km/h (75 mph).

Check out the video below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bexyLla5NAE

Source: Fordofeurope

September 5, 2012

GT-R EcuTeck vs 911 Proto 1000 and 911 Switzer

Dragtimesinfo has released a new video with two of the fastest cars in Russia – Porsche 911 Turbo 997 Mk.1 Proto 1000. As you may suggest, the car is boosted to one thousand HP. The second is also a Porsche, but this time a 911 Turbo tuned by Switzer having 950HP.

The first start is between 911 Proto 1000 and a lot underpowered Nissan GT-R Mk.2 Ecutek Stage 2 with “just” 670HP, which is 330HP less than the German beast. The GT-R didn’t stand a chance and finished the 1 mile race for 27.289 seconds with 300.00 km/h terminal speed, while the 911 stopped the clock at 25.377 seconds with 318.66 km/h.

The second start was between the same GT-R and 911 Turbo Switzer. Again, the Nissan is a lot underpowered, but the two cars are in same class, so everything is fair. The GT-R finished the 1 mile race in 26.656 seconds with 302.26 km/h, which is great result, but the 911 stopped the clock at 26.113 seconds with 298.44 km/h. Still, both cars are very close despite the 280HP difference.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1StJaXFUGo

Source: Dragtimesinfo

September 5, 2012

2013 Chrysler 300 Glacier Edition

The 2013 Chrysler 300 series sedans are designed to reward the determination of these individuals with even more luxury, world-class technology, value, and of course the bravado expected from the Motor City’s luxury sedan.

Ensuring that all 2013 Chrysler 300 models deliver the segment’s most luxurious sedan with a surprising array of standard amenities, world-class performance, best-in-class fuel economy and a legendary value – the entire Chrysler flagship portfolio was repositioned. The simplified Chrysler 300 lineup now consists of:

Chrysler 300 – the brand’s most appointed entry-level flagship ever, starting at $29,845
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic transmission for up to 31 mpg highway
- Now includes standard leather seating with heated front seats
- Uconnect 8.4 with voice commands and Bluetooth streaming audio
- The segment’s most advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with best-in-class city and highway fuel economy (18/27 mpg) now available
Chrysler 300S – $32,995 (priced $675 less than 2012, with more than $2,300 of added value)
- Now includes a 300 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with sport-tuned exhaust, cold-air induction and eight-speed automatic transmission with “Sport Mode”
- Now includes standard Black or Radar Red leather seats with heated front seats
- Gloss Black painted roof option for even more athletic style
- Available 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with 363 horsepower and four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and performance-tuned suspension and brakes available
- The segment’s most advanced AWD system is available with both powertrains
Chrysler 300C – the flagship’s “letter series” prestige now delivers 31 mpg highway and more affordable $35,995 MSRP (priced $2,675 less than the previous year’s model)
- Now features the 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with state-of-the-art ZF eight-speed automatic transmission for up to 31 mpg highway
- Standard Uconnect 8.4N with easy-to-use Garmin navigation with improved navigation features
- Available 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with 363 horsepower and four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology
- The segment’s most advanced AWD system is available with both powertrains
Chrysler 300C Luxury Series – the brand’s most fuel-efficient and luxurious sedan ever, starting at $39,995
- Named “Wards 10 Best Interiors” and features exclusive appointments including ultra-premium Poltrona Frau “Foligno” leather wrapped upper door trim, I/P and center console side panes, Nappa Leather wrapped door bolsters, door armrest and center console armrest, hand-sanded matte wood, world-class craftsmanship and refinement
- Now features the 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with state-of-the-art ZF eight-speed automatic transmission for up to 31 mpg highway
- Unique platinum exterior accents including front grille, door handles, exterior mirror caps and fascia accents
- Standard Uconnect 8.4N with easy-to-use Garmin navigation with improved navigation features
- Available 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with 363 horsepower and four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology

The segment’s most advanced AWD system is available with both powertrains

The new 300 Glacier Edition is based on the 300S model and comes with a black chrome grille and gloss black accents. There’s also a set of 19” aluminum wheels with a satin carbon finish.

The interior boasts cloth and leather seats, piano black trim and steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. There is also a set of embroidered floor mats and “matte carbon hydrographic accents.”

The 2013 Chrysler 300 Glacier will hit the market this fall.

Source: Chrysler

September 5, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – The World’s first Plug-in hybrid SUV

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Front Angle Mitsubishi has released more details about the Outlander PHEV, which will make its official debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The Outlander PHEV uses MMC’s own Plug-in Hybrid EV System powertrain derived from 100% electric systems used on the i-MiEV and other MMC all-electric vehicles. The Outlander PHEV is the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, and brings together the environmental performance and quietness that distinguish EVs while delivering the utility and on- and off-road performance associated with 4WD sport utility vehicles and the cruising range of a conventional ICE-powered vehicle.

It is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors. The overall range is up to 880 km (547 miles) and 55 km (34 miles) on electricity alone.

In terms of efficiency, Mitsubishi expects a combined fuel economy rating 1.6 litres per 100km, which is 144 mpg US.

The Outlander PHEV has Three Drive Modes for Optimal Efficiency.

EV Drive Mode

EV Drive Mode is an all-electric mode in which the front and rear motors drive the vehicle using only electricity from the drive battery. With zero on-road gasoline consumption and zero CO2 emissions the driver can enjoy quiet and very eco-friendly performance in this mode.

Series Hybrid Mode

In Series Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine operates as a generator supplying electricity to the electric motors. The system switches to this mode when the remaining charge in the battery falls below a predetermined level and when more powerful performance is required, such as accelerating to pass a vehicle or climbing a steep gradient such as a slope.

Parallel Hybrid Mode

In Parallel Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine provides most of the motive power, assisted by the electric motors as required. The system switches to this mode for higher-speed driving when the gasoline engine operates at peak efficiency.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Hybrid Mode

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Side View

Source: Mitsubishi

September 5, 2012

What does it take to become the 2013 Audi R8 [VIDEO]

The new 2013 Audi R8 range debuted more than two months ago. Now the engineers from Audi decided to reveal what it takes to create such unique sportscar as the R8.

They have integrated in it new seven-speed S tronic transmission, which now delivers outstanding driving excitement, lower CO2 emissions and improved the acceleration time.

The new Audi R8 V10 plus develops 550 hp (405 kW) and maximum torque of 540 Nm (400 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. This version sprints from 0 to 62mph in only 3.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 197mph.

Enough “talking”, have a glimpse of the exclusive video below and find out exactly what it takes to become the new 2013 Audi R8.

httpv://youtu.be/ltwtYi6ZjuY

Source: Audi

September 5, 2012

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab editions are here to enhance the 2013 model line-up. Both vehicles include off-road equipment never before offered on a production Jeep vehicle.

Grand Cherokee Trailhawk was introduced as a concept earlier this year. In addition, the Wrangler Moab delivers rugged off-road features such as winch-ready steel bumpers, upgraded rock rails and an available rear-locker.

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is going to be quipped with a V-6 or V-8 engine and will include the following equipment: 18-inch Goodyear Silent Armor all-terrain tires with Kevlar reinforcement, Solid steel rock rail body protection, Quadra-Lift air suspension, with nearly 11 inches of ground clearance, Selec-Terrain traction control system, a Rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD, V-8), and Quadra-Track II or Quadra-Drive II (V-8) with a two-speed transfer case.

The new Trailhawk model will be recognized by its new red Trailhawk signature and a Trail Rated badging. Furthermore it includes tow hooks, black-surround headlamps and a unique gray on the grille surround, side mirrors, rear light bar, 4×4 badge and five-spoke 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Another innovation included here is the black hood decal with a red accent stripe, which helps reduce glare from the sun which can help the driver in extreme off-road situations.

On the other hand the interior of this Jeep model includes black leather and performance suede seats with red accent stitching and Mopar slush floor mats front and rear.

2013 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will be available on several exterior trim colors: Bright White, Brilliant Black, Mineral Gray, Maximum Steel and Deep Cherry Red.

2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Special Edition is the next exclusive vehicle presented by the brand. The Moab is based on the premium Sahara model and it includes hardware that off-roading enthusiasts will love.

For example, some of the off-road modifications made here include 17-inch Rubicon alloy wheels painted gloss black and wearing new 245/75R17 Goodyear Silent Armor off-road tires with Kevlar reinforcement, a standard Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential with an available electronic rear locking differential, winch-ready steel bumpers and premium rock rails.

In addition to this the Wrangler Moab will come also equipped with one-of-a-kind Mopar power dome hood, black fuel filler door and tail lamp guards. Exclusive are also the new soft top, black wheel arches, matte black Jeep grille badge and “Moab” decals on the hood.

The interior of this vehicle features black or saddle premium leather seating with black stitching, “Moab” embossed instrument panel grab handle, Mopar slush mats and Iron Gray trim on the vent rings, grab handles and steering wheel spokes.

Furthermore, the Jeep Wrangler Moab will be available in two-door or four-door version. It is going to be offered in six exterior trim colors: Crush, Dozer, Rock Lobster, Gecko, Black and Bright White.

The limited-edition 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab models will arrive in showrooms in October.

Source: Jeep

September 5, 2012

2013 Skoda Octavia Limited Edition – Pricing Announced

2013 Skoda Octavia Limited Edition has just been launched by the Czech manufacturer. This model will be offered in two versions – the Octavia SE Connect and Octavia vRS Blackline.

This in fact is one of the best family cars ever created and in addition it delivers great combination of style, reliability, comfort and class-leading interior space.

The firs trim model – the Octavia SE Connect, is based on the already highly popular SE trim. The car is equipped with 1.6 TDI CR 105 hp (77 kW) DPF engine mated to a manual transmission. It has CO2 emissions of just 119g/km.

A generous standard equipment is featured in the SE Connect: 16-inch ‘Crateris’ alloy wheels, rear acoustic parking sensors and GSM II telephone preparation and metallic paint, plus Skoda’s mobile device interface (MDI) connectivity package and Maxidot functionality.

The starting price of SE Connect will begin at £13 990.

On the other hand the Octavia vRS Blackline is going to offer its customers great performance and a host of additional equipment. The new model will be on sale in both hatch and estate body styles.

It includes 18-inch black alloy wheels, acoustic rear parking sensors, Amundsen satellite navigation system, DAB radio and vRS leather upholstery. The exterior trim colors available are: Candy White, Black Magic pearl effect or Race Blue metallic.

The Octavia vRS Blackline draws its power thanks to the vigorous 2.0-litre TDI CR 170 hp (125 kW) DPF engine. The latter can be mated either to a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG automatic transmission.

The starting price of the vRS Blackline is £21 260.

September 5, 2012

2014 Ford Fiesta Unveiled

The new dynamic 2014 Ford Fiesta has just been unveiled, showing exclusively its sharper design and a host of exclusive technology features. Furthermore, the new Ford vehicle is going to offer its customers a wide range of advanced technologies.

For example, some of them include the voice-activated in-car connectivity system Ford SYNC, Active City Stop and the European debut of MyKey. It will also draw its power by the acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and will deliver best-in-class fuel economy.

What the designers did here is to retain the popular and well-known visual appearance of the Fiesta, but at the same time giving it more sophisticated look. Fiesta’s face for instance is dominated by a trapezoidal front grille, bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with daytime running lamps that use LED technology.

In addition it also features a power-dome bonnet design. In addition to this the newly redesigned Fiesta also offers a harmonious and ergonomically enhanced interior. The car will also include advanced features such as Active City Stop system and Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system.

The latter also includes Emergency Assistance, which directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident. In the technology pack is also featured for the first time the MyKey, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk at the wheel.

In fact, this system also allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

Ford will reveal more details about the 2014 Fiesta at the Paris Motor Show.

Source: Ford

September 5, 2012

Aesthetics S or the New Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class carries a sculpture which is entitled “Aesthetics S”. Mercedes-Benz has just provided an artistic glimpse of the future design of the popular luxury saloon.

In the eyes of the viewer the aesthetics of the relief-like sculpture of the new car creates a three-dimensional world. The modern production is envisioned in three acts, which are going to be showcased at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month.

The S-Class in general represents the latest state of the art in design and engineering. Even more, the typical lines of the S-Class have always expressed the peak of the automotive world. Of course, the new S-Class will continue the tradition.

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.

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.

The shape of the new S-Class will be revealed at Paris Motor Show. It will be showcased via projected light reflections, which will create a three-dimensional world. In addition, it will put emphasis on the organic, naturally-occurring flowing forms of the luxury saloon.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 5, 2012

The Seventh Volkswagen Golf is Out

Volkswagen-Golf-VII-medium Time to get excited since the seventh chapter of a 38-year-old legend is at our doorstep. The Volkswagen Golf VII made its debut in Berlin. More spunk and less fat for this one. Back to the primitive then!

Well, not really. The latest incarnation of the best seller will be still as complicated as a car can be – a new Modular Transverse Matrix body (which is supposedly roomier), a new information and entertainment system and even more interfering assistance software. Nevertheless, the Wolfsburg boffins have managed to trim off 100 kg of weight.

The 140 PS petrol engine is also now 23 percent more fuel efficient thanks to an already developed and tested cylinder deactivation system (remember the Polo Blue GT?). Additionaly, throughout the engine range, a stop/start system comes and standard and battery regeneration as well. Subsequently, we get figures that feel more at home with today’s diesel engines – 4.8 l / 100 km. Speaking of diesels, the 105 PS TDI in the Golf VII happens to sip just 3.8 l per 100 km. Add to that a BlueMotion trim and you get 3.2 l and less than 86 g/km of CO2 emissions.

Do not for a minute think however, that the seventh Golf will slip through without newly installed plants. There are two entirely new generations of engines, designed to offer power from 85 PS to 150 PS.

Be on the lookout for a full specification list.

Source: Volkswagen

September 5, 2012

Entry model from BMW – The 2013 1-Series 114d

BMW has announced their new entry level of 1-Series hatchback. The 114d model is going to be one of the cheapest BMWs on the market, but still offering sheer driving pleasure.

The 2013 BMW 1-Series 114d is powered by a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine featuring Twin Power Turbo technology. It produces 95 HP (70 kW) at 4,000 RPM and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) of torque available at 1,500 RPM. 0-100 km/h in 12.2 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph).

Average fuel consumption is between 4.1 and 4.3 litres/100 km, with respective CO2 emissions being between 109 and 112 grams per km (levels as per the EU test cycle, depending on selected tyre format).

Like all other model variants of the new BMW 1-Series, the new BMW 114d is also equipped as standard with comprehensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. The package comprises among other things brake energy regeneration, shift point indicator, Auto Start Stop function, electronic power steering, on-demand ancillary components and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.

Moreover, the new BMW 114d features the ECO PRO mode, which can be activated by means of the Driver Experience Control switch fitted as standard, facilitating both a relaxed and economical driving style.

Source: BMW

September 4, 2012

Peugeot 208 XY at the 2012 Paris Motor Show

Peugeot has recently introduced the 208 XY Concept car at the Geneva Motor Show, this year. The manufacturer will actually run production version of the small vehicle, which will be exhibited at the end of this month during the Paris Motor Show, when the company will also bring the new 208 GTi.

The XY is actually a more premium version of the 208. It features chromed mirror caps, front grille, fog lamp surrounds, window trim and rear apron trim. There are also special decals for the roof, which are available as an option.

The interior boasts leather wrapped surfaces with contrasting stitching. There is also Alcantara on the center parts of the sport seats. The final touch of the interior are sets of new bespoke mats and aluminum pedals.

The car rolls 17” multi-spoke Diamond Anthra Mercure rims fitted with low-profile tires.

The engine range includes a 1.6 liter e-HDi diesel with 92HP. It is available with 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed piloted transmission. There is also a more powerful 1.6 liter e-HDi with 115HP, which comes only with 6-speed manual gearbox. The petrol variants are two – 1.6 liter VTi with 120HP and 5-speed manual transmission and a powerful 1.6 liter turbocharged THP engine with 155HP and 6-speed manual gearbox.

The options list for 208 XY includes full interior leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, automatic parking system and a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation.

Source: Peugeot

September 4, 2012

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