Automobiles Review – Page 844 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

MINI Paceman previewed on Facebook

MINI Paceman Concept debuted back in 2011 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Yesterday, the Mini Paceman Prototype was unveiled on Mini’s Facebook page with four spy photographs, which you can view in the gallery below.

Although there was a slight attempt to hide partially the design of the new MINI model, as you can see not so much is left for the imagination. The car is a two-door powerhouse ready to roar onto streets very soon. It is promised to be powerful and agile, with a most exceptional take on Mini design.

The vehicle is practically a Countryman coupe. It has the same dimensions: length of 4 110 millimetres, width of 1 789 millimetres, and height of 1 541 millimetres. However, one of the most fascinating elements here are the 19″ alloys included. Paceman also boasts bold front fascia and a sloping roofline.

If no changes were made after Detroit, then the MINI Paceman is going to be powered by 1.6 liter four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 211PS (155 kW) and 260Nm (192 lb-ft).

More information will be revealed around the time of official release at the 2012 Paris Auto Show.

Source: Facebook via MINI

August 1, 2012

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo now generates 195 horsepower

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch and Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo Sports Tourer are the new two high performance diesels from the brand. Both are generating 195 horsepower (143 kW) and have 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

Both Vauxhalls are the most powerful cars in their class: they offer blistering performance, high levels of practicality and impressive frugality. Their top speed reaches 135mph and can achieve 0-60mph in less than eight seconds.

Despite the boost in performance, they have excellent economy as well: low CO2 emissions of 134g/km and a combined efficiency of 55.4mpg. The great fuel economy is further enhanced by the Start/Stop technology included in the models.

In fact, the twin turbo technology is rare in this class. The Astra uses a sequential turbocharging system, with the smaller turbo accelerating quickly at lower speeds to eliminate ‘lag’, providing 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from 1,250rpm.

Furthermore, in the mid-range of rpm, both turbochargers operate together, with the larger turbocharger pre-compressing the intake air, before it is fully compressed in the smaller one. A continuous control over the bypass valve is happening, in order to pass on part of the exhaust gases to the larger turbo. The effect of all this is that the driver still enjoys smooth acceleration.

In addition, some stylish changes have been made as well. The new Astra now has more aggressive look thanks to the revised front grille, new front indicators and fog lamps, and refreshed rear-panel styling.

Other unique features are the fresh 18” alloy wheels, twin rear exhausts, exterior styling pack and alloy sports pedals.

The Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch has a starting price of £24,095 and the Sports Tourer – £25,110.

Source: Vauxhall

August 1, 2012

Porsche 918 Spyder at Nurburgring in a Martini Suit

Martini Porsche 918 Spyder The Porsche 918 Spyder has been spotted circling the Nurburgring as a part of development testing. It also has a new suit on which makes us all excited and tingly.

It does so mainly because it’s not that new. Martini was the official partner of the Porsche factory team between 1973 and 1978. It was then when the iconic “Martini Porsche” design came to be. The white, blue and red stripes saw many victories and today the legacy continues in tune with the future.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a plug-in hybrid super sports car that uses two electric motors and a 570 hp V8 engine that can work in unison thus producing a combined power output of around 770 hp. That amount of power is good for a top speed of 325 km/h and an acceleration of less than 3 seconds until the 100 km mark. Astonishing feats when you think about the fuel consumption which is no more than 3.0-liters per 100 km.

Still, the focus is on the sports performance. The goal of the Nurburgring testings is to do a lap time of less than 7 minutes 22 seconds. Considering all the carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) that make up the body and the ceramic brakes, that time is quite feasible.

Source: Porsche

August 1, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Welcomes 1.6 Engine to the Family

Just when you made up your mind on buying the new CLS Shooting Brake, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class pops out to rock your world. It introduces a new petrol engine and comes available with several trims, each ready to satisfy even the pickiest of customers.

The base model will be now known as the Executive SE and it will come in both, Saloon and Estate forms. The engine lineup will consist of the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Standard equipment on any of the Executive SE models includes a sports grille, new 16-inch alloy wheels, Artico upholstery and LED daytime running lights. Optionally, a Luxury Package add an even more sophisticated grille, 17” alloy wheels with a seven twin-spoke design, automatically dimming rear view mirror and folding exterior door mirrors, chrome trim on the side, rear and shoulder line, a storage package and brown Ash wood trim with a matt finish.

The more interesting however, are the AMG Sport and AMG Sport Plus trims. The former adds 17” alloy wheels and halogen headlights while at the same time boast reduced emissions in comparison to the old 2012 C 220 CDI – 123g/CO2 which is 10g less than before. It doesn’t sound much but bares some great tax relief consequences.. The AMG Sport Plus again picks up a notch on the size of the wheels bringing the number to 18” (bi-color AMG ones). You also get a pair of clever bi-Xenon front lights, some sports seats, red seat belts, AMG floor mats and paddles for the automatic models. If your AMG Sport Plus C-Class happens to be a Coupe, you also get an AMG trunk lip spoiler and an option to throw in an AMG Handling Package which enhances the steering, engine, exhaust and transmission response.

Although the name suggests a 1.8 engine, the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY has a downsized 1.6-liter plant as a drivetrain. The focus here is on ultra-efficiency. It’s a turbocharged petrol unit that outputs 154 hp at 5,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 1,250 and 4,000 rpm. All respectable figures but the real kicker is the consumption 47.9 mpg and 139g/km of CO2 emissions (the Coupe returns 44.1 and 149g). All the while, Mercedes are dropping the 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine for the C-Class Saloon and Estate but the Coupe and the C 63 AMG models will still get it.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 1, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible – US Price $60 445

The new 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be offered in the USA with a competitive starting price of just $60 445 including the $900 destination charge. This number is sensational, because you will get a super-powered sports drop-top vehicle at very good value.

ZL1 Convertible is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 588 HP (432 kW) and 754 Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. This is an improvement of just 11 HP and 9 Nm over ZL1 Coupe. 0-60 mph in 4 seconds and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph).

The suspension of the ZL1 convertible uses the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. New, twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners enable faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1 000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.

GM also reported that the 2013 Camaro 1LE is priced from just $37 035 including $900 destination charge.

Source: Chevrolet

July 31, 2012

Mercedes G-Class refined Prior Design

Prior Design has announced their tuning package for the new facelift of Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The luxurious off-road vehicle will get a complete styling package as well as some interior modifications.

Outside Prior G-Class boasts a new front bumper with four fog lights and LED daylights beneath the headlights. The vehicle also comes with a ventilated hood and a roof-mounted air intake. Last, but not least, the tuning company has installed a new rear diffuser.

The big vehicle rolls enormous 23” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior features a complete carbon fiber package.

Nothing is mentioned about performance packages, but probably some will be available.

Source: Prior Design

July 31, 2012

Porsche 997 Carrera S with Emotion Wheels Concave

This Porsche 997 Carrera S is equipped with new Emotion Wheels Concave. Looks fantastic, doesn’t it? The philosophy behind these alloy wheel rims is pure geometry. In addition, the wheel bears the highly promising name “Concave“ and has a characteristic inward bulging rim-star. Yet this is not the only characteristic of the Emotion Wheels Concave.

In particular the Porsche is equipped with Emotion Wheels Concave in the black matt finishing with the upgraded carbon-wrap finishing of the rim wells. The rims measuring 8.5×19 / 11×19 inches bear the original tires of the dimensions 235/35ZR19 and 295/30ZR19.

Another highlight here is that the rims are factory-fitted with fully winterproof light alloy wheel and a replaceable high-grade steel rim-well. This leaves little possibility for scrapes and damages which can happen even to the most experienced of all drivers.

Porsche 997 Carrera S with Emotion Wheels Concave

Source: Emotion Wheels

July 31, 2012

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

The Corvette C6 is indeed emblematic machine. With its unique body work it can be recognized whenever it appears on the streets. And as the outlook speaks, it is fantastic sportscar with great amount of power.

In particular it can generate 400 horsepower (300 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb•ft (542 N•m) of torque at 4400 rpm thanks to its 6.0 L LS2 V8 engine. But this wasn’t enough for the specialists at Inspired Autosport, who have been building this gorgeous C6 Corvette.

With the release of the much anticipated C7 Corvette around the corner, the current platform will be undoubtedly missed. SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47 was in the beginning the regular C6 Corvette Convertible, with the characteristics typical for the production car.

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

However, huge transformations took place. Some of them included modifications on the power plant, the chassis and of course – some cosmetic improvements. For instance, the original set of wheels has been light weight and wide one.

Here the tuners have equipped the Chevrolet with factory wide body kit from the 2012 Corvette Grand Sport model. Furthermore they have installed new front bumper, front and rear fenders installed.

This allowed the professionals from PUR Wheels to step in the creation of the project. They have equipped the Corvette with a 20×13 fitment which would support massive stream roller size 345/25/20 tires out rear.

In fact, the exact design is named PUR design 4OUR, which is in a stealthy high gloss black finish and matches the new gloss black paint job on the car. Other improvements include the addition of many extensive engine bolt-ons, suspension tweaks and full race exhaust front to back.

Source: SR Auto Group

July 31, 2012

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo is the latest project of our talented friends from the Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. Although it is not a car, their exquisite and excellent work has grabbed our attention and as you can see from the pictures, it is high-quality craftsmanship they have showed here.

The main purpose of Studio is minimal optical tuning on the Ducati Monster Evo 1100, which has served as a basis. They didn’t want to exaggerate the details. The reason for this is that the bike had to be more compact in order to maneuver flawlessly through the narrow streets of the city and during traffic.

Moreover the designers have revealed that they had as an inspiration the mantis, because it has such clean lines of its body and elegant movements, which by the way served as a basis for the martial art of Kung Fu.

But what have basically Vilner done here is the following: they have included two side pieces secured with aluminum holders to the frame. They are connected with third detail, which strengthens the construction and tames the vibrations.

Furthermore a new detail is included on the seat as well as new lighthouse. The tuners have taken car the power of the engine as well which now is raised with 10 horsepower. The tail is now shorter with a 10 cm-design.

All parts and details are painted in white pearl color that is not factory offered. Unlike the standard Ducati white pearl, which is with golden tone, this one is with gray tone. The rims are also painted – this time in two colors to make the bike even more exceptional.

Vilner Custom Bike will produce 100 kits.

Source: Vilner

July 31, 2012

Lexus LS reinvented flagship finally revealed

2013 Lexus LS Range has just been unveiled. Since its launch, which dated back in 2007, this flagship has undergone over 2500 improvements. This year, Lexus is to add 3000 improvements and component changes to the vehicle model line-up.

The exterior of the new LS has been significantly redesigned. Every panel, excluding the roof, rear quarter panel and doors, has been transformed in some way. This not only enhances the visual appeal, but also serves in terms of functionality, and reduces wind noise.

Furthermore all LS hybrid models will include three-bulb LED headlamps for low and high beam with i-AFS (Intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System). The new LS 460 models will gain in turn Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with AFS.

In the new range one can see front guards, bumper and bonnet that give LS a wider, lower appearance. In addition, when observed from the rear, all models include resculpted boot lid, tail lamps and bumper.

The LS range is set to run on new wheel rim designs as well. For instance, the F Sport is equipped with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, and Sport Luxury models will come with new 14-spoke hollow rim 19-inch alloys.

What has been even more significantly modified here us the LS interior. The instrument panel is divided into two distinct zones: an upper display zone, with the new-to-LS standard 12.3-inch wide LCD multi-display screen – and a lower operation zone, including Lexus Remote Touch (LRT) and a new Drive Mode Select system.

The centre console is flanked by new aluminum and asymmetric gear shift lever that has been leather-clad for a comfortable grip and the new five-mode Drive Mode Select.

Next, the front seats now have enhanced heating and cooling systems. The cabin is complemented by the world’s first Advanced Illumination System (AIS).

The range is fitted as standard with a 450-Watt, 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System with 7.1 channel surround sound, which will entertain the passengers. The audio system is complemented by a comprehensive rear seat entertainment system, including a separate DVD player and a nine-inch VGA screen for the 5.1-channel home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System.

Furthermore, there are new interior color options: Mellow White, Ivory, Light Grey, Black, and Black and Saddle Tan. The variety of ornamentation has also been expanded and now includes Walnut and matt Ashburl finishes, as well as Shimamoku, bamboo and aluminum on F Sport.

The driving dynamics of the LS flagship has also been improved. A lot of engineering improvements have been done which eventually result in a more rigid platform. It provides a stable base for suspension improvements, while also enhancing overall vehicle safety and comfort, and reducing vibration.

Some important highlights included here are: Adaptive Variable air Suspension (AVS) system, revised Electro Powering Steering (EPS) system calibration, and enhanced braking system.

More importantly, for the first time in the history of the brand, a new F Sport model is featured in the LS range. Here the body height is lowered further by 10 millimeters, which ensures more exciting and sporty driving.

The rear-wheel drive 2013 Lexus LS 460 F Sport is equipped with a torque-sensing, Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, which optimally distributes torque between the rear wheels and Brembo six-piston front brake callipers which offer smooth, highly stable braking performance, Active Stabiliser system for enhanced body control and steering response precision, Sports Program Direct Shift (SPDS).

At last but not least, some important technology and safety features have been also included here: Dubbed Lexus Climate Concierge system, which combines automatic operation of front and rear seat climate control; steering wheel rim heater; LS Climate Control systems with Nanoe® air purifying technology; Pre-Collision Safety System’s (PCS) Driver Alert Monitor, which constantly monitors the movement of the driver’s head when looking from side to side, via two built-in near infra-red LEDs and a CCD camera; Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which plays a significant role in lane changing safety; and Automatic High Beam system, which now comes as a standard.

Source: Lexus

July 31, 2012

PUR Design Lexus LFA – the aggressive beauty

PUR Design has released their tuning package for one of the fastest cars in the world – Lexus LFA. The hyper car is now even more stunning and aggressive. It comes with complete aerodynamics package, but without any performance mods, which are not needed.

The LFA is powered by a 4.8 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine equipped with dual VVT-I. It has 560HP (412 kW) at 8700RPM and 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at 6800RPM. The red line is at whopping 9500RPM. The engine has forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves.

The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1 480kg (3 263 lbs), so the performance is sensational. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 326 km/h (203 mph). Power-to-weight ratio is 2,64kg / hp. The more interesting 0-200 km/h discipline is covered in 11.4 seconds and ¼ mile in 11.6 seconds with 201 km/h (125 mph) terminal speed.

The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida, the LFA set a time of 7:22.85.

Source: PUR Design

July 30, 2012

NLC Porsche Panamera GP – 970

NLC has revealed their latest tuning package based on Porsche Panamera. The name of the project is Concept GP-970. The tuning company aims to create new more aggressive design and overall stance of the mighty Gran Toruismo.

The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper, bonnet, side skirts, roof spoiler and rear bumper. Everything is made from lightweight carbon fiber guaranteeing perfect quality and strength. Of course, all parts are also available individually.

The sound is a sport exhaust system featuring cat back with throttle control in black or polished rounded.

The car rolls enormous 9.5J x 22” wheels at the front fitted with 265/30 ZR22 tires and 11J x 22” with 315/25 ZR22 at the rear axle. The rims are custom manufactured by NLC.

The parts are available for all Panamera models from 2009, for the hybrid, diesel, and S models.

Later, packages for the Turbo and the GTS models will be also available.

Source: NLC

July 30, 2012

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