Automobiles Review – Page 872 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Acura ILX Goes On Sale

2013 Acura ILX has just been released for sale at Acura dealerships with a starting price of $25 900. The all-new ILX will come to offer more luxury, wide array of premium features and premium appeal.

The new Acura ILX can offer its customers a choice of three powertrain options. One of them is Acura’s first-ever gasoline-electric hybrid. The latter has spacious interior and deliver sporty driving experience.

In addition, the ILX will offer a number of new, premium features included as a standard: Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, Pandora® internet radio interface and SMS text message function, power moonroof, aluminium wheels and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®.

The entry-level of the model ILX is powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower (110 kW) mated to a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission.

For the customers who want dynamic driving experience, the ILX engine range includes the 2.4-liter engine ($29 200, includes the Premium Package). It has an output of 201 horsepower (154 kW) and includes a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission.

Next, the ILX Hybrid (with a price starting at $28,900) utilizes 1.5-liter inline engine and an Integrated Motor Assist® electric motor. They are mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). More importantly, the ILX 1.5L Hybrid has an EPA estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 39/38/38 mpg.

In details, the Premium Package includes: leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, an upgraded 360 watt stereo system with XM® radio, HID headlights, foglights, 17-inch aluminium wheels, a multi-view rearview camera and an Active Sound Cancellation system to make for a quieter cabin.

The Technology Package adds further to the Premium one the following: ELS Surround® audio system and a full complement of relevant technologies, including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps and HomeLink®.

Source: Honda

May 23, 2012

Oettinger tuned Audi TT-RS

OETTINGER has announced their tuning package for Audi TT-RS. The car brings pure excitement and is specially created to celebrate 20 years Tuner Grand Prix.

TT-RS S-tronic is powered by a 2.5-litre TFSI engine with 340HP (250kW) and 450Nm (331 lb-ft). The performance is more superb – 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds with new launch-control function. This means a 0.3 seconds faster than the 6-speed model. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The average fuel consumption is just 8.5 litres per 100km and 197 g/km of CO2 emissions.

After the performance modifications, the mighty engine delivers whopping 400HP (295 kW) at 5900RPM and 550Nm (405 lb-ft) at 3800RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 275 km/h (170 mph).

The performance package includes recalibration of the engine management and removing the V-max limiter.

Of course, the fuel consumption remains the same. The price is €2290 including installation.

Source: Oettinger

May 22, 2012

K-Tec Racing Upgrade For Clio 197/200

K-Tec Racing tend specialize in Renault-tweaking. Today, the have a new engine upgrade for the Renault Sport Clio 197 or 200. It sounds dodgy, but it isn’t. They are even offering a 12 month/ 30, 000 miles warranty. Besides, the jump in power is not stunningly drastic.

According to K-Tec, many throttle friendly owners of the Clio 197/200 express minor discontent at the low and mid sectors of the rev counter. Their upgrade is specifically targeted for the car’s F4R 830 engine. It’s called the “KTR215” and you pay for it £1,366 ($2,156) you get. In return you get:

1 x set of Cat Cam 402 high performance billet steel camshafts
1 x genuine Renault cam timing belt
1 x set genuine Renault camshaft caps
Installation by K-Tec Racing’s technicians
Bespoke K-Tec Racing OBDII ECU remap

That means an additional lump of 12lb-ft. of torque at 3600 rpm and 10lb-ft more between 5200-7500 rpm. In terms of horsepower – plus 10 hp more at 5200 rpm and 15 more at 7000 rpm. The end result is a maximum output of 215 bhp and 175lb-ft of torque. These numbers will matter in real life situations and on the track as well.

K-Tec Racing Renault Sport Clio 200 with KTR215 Upgrade

Source: K-Tec Racing

May 22, 2012

Renault Alpine A110-50 in Monaco?

Much like in a pre-earthquake situation, subtle seismic activity is currently jolting the realm of the automotive industry. This is a render of the supposed incoming Alpine A110-50 Renault based concept. We might know for sure however, this weekend at the Monaco F1 round.

As a company, Alpine has been around for more than a half of a century. In 1973 however, Renault acquired what most of it with the idea to introduce a high performance range of cars to the world. Sadly, the last thing ever to come out as an Alpine was the A610 back in 1991. Renault are now using the facilities to built their Megane and Clio Renault Sport models there but, evidently the Alpine badge is not in ashes just yet.

Not much is out yet on the A110-50 Concept but roomer has it that it will be based on the Renault Megane Coupe Trophy and that it will have a 3.5-liter, mid-mounted V6 engine. Expect around 400 bhp and a weight of less than a ton.

This could have been here earlier but the global financial downfall of 2009 tended to freeze ambitious ideas like that.

Source: Motorsport-Magazine via Sport Auto

May 22, 2012

Abarth 695 Maserati Edition – Price and Specs

You remember the Abarth 695 Maserati Edition, right? The one that is based on a Fiat 500c? It now has a price tag and a full list of specs. Both of them are big.

The Abarth 695 Maserati Edition is a followup of the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari project which was a big hit three years ago. There will be only 499 examples of this new one and as the name suggests, it will carry a Gran Turismo feel wherever it goes.

First, the oily bits: under the hood hides a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v engine that sends 180 bhp trough an Abarth Competizione gearbox. Pass the 3000 rpm mark and your years will have the pleasure to endure the aria sung by the variable back-pressure “dual-mode” exhaust pipes. Stomp on the brakes and a set of Brembo monoblock brake calipers will squeeze the front 305 mm floating discs so hard, that afterwards you’ll have to feel your way under the seat in search of your face. All the while, Koni shock absorbers make sure you come home with an intact spine.

As a trademark, the Abarth 695 Maserati comes in a characteristic Pontevecchio Bordeaux – a three-layered shade from Maserati’s catalog that we can only describe as red. The thing that sticks out as gray is the fabric of the soft top. Another mark of Maserati engineering represents the wheels – Neptune design alloy wheels, 17-inches in size and wrapped up in performance tires.

Inside, the predominant theme is beige which sounds a bit tasteless, but the overall effect is quite surprising. A 695 logo is embossed on the headrests, the dashboard and console trim has a lining of carbon fiber and the door panels and rear panels have been treated with UV-LUX for that extra gray “flocking” effect. In front of you, there’s a black-leather steering wheel with patches of beige, flappy paddles for the gearbox, an instrument panel by Jaeger and aluminum pedals in the foot well.

Final summation – £32,000 or $50,553

ENGINE
	4 cylinder in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368cc Power: 180bhp (132 kW) at 5500rpm Maximum torque 250 Nm in sport mode at 3000rpm Supercharged with Garrett 1446 turbo
TRANSMISSION
	Abarth Competizione gearbox with 5 speeds, C510 gearbox family with gear paddles on the steering wheel
SUSPENSION
	Front Abarth Koni shock absorbers with FSD valvesRear Abarth Koni shock absorbers with FSD valves Lowered ride
STEERING
	Electric power steering with sport mode
BRAKES
	Floating, perforated and self-ventilating front discs ø 305mm × 28mm Ventilated rear discs ø 264mm × 22mm TTC – Torque Transfer Control
WHEELS
	Neptune Design 7×17″ alloy wheels Tyres: 205/40 R17″
EMISSIONS
	Euro 5 EEC-F5 Standard
CO₂ EMISSIONS
	151 g/km
FUEL CONSUMPTION
	Urban consumption (mpg): 33.6Combined consumption (mpg): 43.4 Extra-urban consumption (mpg): 52.3
PERFORMANCE
	Max speed >140mph.Acceleration 0–62mph: <7 secs.
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
	Special ‘Pontevecchio Bordeaux’ paint from MaseratiXenon headlights Titanium Grey soft top Automatic climate control Leather steering wheel with radio controls Blue&Me TomTom satnav Beige leather seats Dashboard, fascia and gearbox trim in matt carbon Door panels, console and tunnel in ‘Flocked’ UV-Lux Dual mode exhaust with Maserati-inspired design JBL hi-fi system Bag set by Tramontano

Source: Abarth

May 22, 2012

2012 Buick Regal GS luxury sport sedan at Nevada Open Road Challenge

2012 Buick Regal GS luxury sport sedan just won a second place in the 135-mph class of this month’s Nevada Open Road Challenge. It finished within 0.4 seconds of their 40-minute target time.

The success was achieved by the Buick team – driver Bill Rietow and navigator John Townsend, which have managed it through right balance between low-speed sections of the course with running the Regal at top speed for a period of time.

Of course, the machine has a contribution to this achievement as well. The all-new 2012 Regal GS delivers a 270-horsepower (201 kW) thanks to its Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The car also comes equipped with responsive Interactive Drive Control System suspension technology with exclusive GS-mode, Brembo front calipers and other features which in fact make the Buick one of the most balanced performance sedans ever.

After the finish line Rietow said: “The Regal GS is an incredibly capable performance sedan. In addition to the strong acceleration from the engine, the chassis maintained its composure well while running across these closed public roads at high speeds. Likewise, the Brembo brakes were easy to trust coming hot into a corner.”

2012 Buick Regal GS competing at Nevada Open Road Challenge

Furthermore, the production car comes equipped with Buick’s exclusive Interactive Drive Control System. What it does is that it allows driver to choose from three operating modes – Standard, Sport and GS Mode. They in turn change the suspension settings and steering sensitivity according to driver preferences.

Regal GS also inclues a four-wheel independent suspension with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPer Strut) front suspension design. The latter minimizes torque steer and improves grip and cornering power.

The lower ride height also contributed for the major success. In particular, the Buck runs on 19-inch 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels combined with the four-piston Brembo front calipers also make the car closer to the ground.

2012 Buick Regal GS at Nevada Open Road Challenge

Source: Buick

May 22, 2012

2012 Isuzu D-Max pick-up to be seen on the roads from July

2012 Isuzu D-Max pick-up goes on sale with a starting price for the market in the United Kingdom of £14 499. In addition to that all the customers there will benefit from a unique-in-class five-year / 120 000-mile warranty offered by Isuzu.

The exact date when the new D-Max will be seen on roads is the 1st of July. This is when the first deliveries will take place. And with the amazing warranty it has it will undoubtedly satisfy its customers, by giving them peace of mind for longer than any other pick-up.

Furthermore, the new Isuzu D-Max will be available with four specification levels and three cab configurations – extended cab, single cab and double cab. And even the basic model offers huge array of standard equipment, which includes air conditioning, daytime running lights, electric windows and front, side and curtain airbags.

The pick-up is propelled by a highly fuel efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo common rail diesel engine. This one is mated to a newly-developed six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic one. The unit generates 163 hp (120 kW) and peak torque output of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 1400 rpm. This means that this Isuzu is one of the most comprehensively developed and most efficient Isuzu pick-up ever created.

Source: Isuzu

May 22, 2012

2012 Toyota Prius v – spacious and efficient

2012 Toyota Prius v is the next model to join the Prius family. It comes to offer spaciousness, economy and excellent performance.

If you wonder what the “v” behind the Prius stands for, well it stands for “versatility”. This is because this Toyota model is the first one to offer the flexibility and roominess of seven seats combined with a hybrid powertrain.

What differs the Prius v from a standard Prius model is that it is longer, wider and taller and has an extended wheelbase. This is what makes possible for the vehicle to accommodate adults in all three rows. The latter were successfully added to the car, because its design now saves space from the highly compact, space-saving lithium-ion battery pack, which is placed under the centre console between the front seats.

In particular, the new car’s seven-seat format includes three independent sliding, reclining and split-folding second-row seats and a 50:50 split-folding third tier. This ensures large range of seating and cargo-carrying combinations.

Moreover, Prius v comes equipped with array of advanced features including a 6.1-inch display-screen audio system, automatic air-conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, energy monitor, head-up display, keyless entry and ignition, daytime-sensing headlamps, electric power steering, cruise control and daytime running lamps.

The interior equipment of the car includes multi-information display, four-spoke premium steering wheel with Touch Tracer sensitive controls for audio, air-conditioning temperature and trip display, and a tilt/telescopic-adjustable column.

In terms of safety and security, the future customers will be delighted to hear that this model has seven airbags, a reversing camera, hill-start assist, stability and traction control, and anti-skid brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution are standard.

More importantly, Prius v includes the latest and best generation of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive® powertrain. It uses 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and a powerful 60kW (82 hp) electric motor for a combined system output of 100kW (136 hp).

The Prius v 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle 2ZR-FXE engine delivers alone 73kW (99 hp) of power at 5200rpm and 142Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque at 4000rpm. On the other hand the vehicle’s 650V electric drive motor has 60kW of power and 207Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. This results as already mentioned in combined maximum power of 100kW (136 hp).

In details, the engine uses the Atkinson cycle, which has a higher expansion ratio than a conventional Otto cycle engine. This basically means that it offers improved fuel economy and emissions.

This unique system ensures low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions as well. It is supported by low weight and strong aerodynamic performance, thus offering class-leading fuel economy of 4.4 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 101g/km.

In addition, at the convenience of the drivers is the 6.1 inch display-audio screen, where they can observe the power flow between the engine, motor generators, battery and wheels on an energy monitor.

Being a true Prius, the “v” one includes three “on-demand” drive modes which increase the capabilities of the full hybrid powertrain. The first one – EV mode, runs alone the electric motor ultra-quietly for up to two kilometers. This of course effects in zero fuel consumption and emissions.

The second Eco mode prioritizes fuel economy by slightly damping throttle response and restricting power consumption from the air-conditioning system. The last one, the Power mode boosts system performance.

2012 Toyota Prius v starting price is $ 35 990.

2012 Toyota Prius v Specifications:

ENGINE
Type	Petrol
Capacity (cc)	1798
Code	2ZR-FXE
Description	Four cylinder Atkinson cycle, DOHC, four valves per cylinder with variable intake valve timing and cooled EGR
Bore x stroke (mm)	80.5 x 88.3
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Max. power	73kW @ 5200rpm
Max. torque	142Nm @ 4000rpm
Fuel system (petrol)	Electronic multipoint fuel injection with Electronic Throttle Control System
Fuel type	95 RON or higher
Fuel tank capacity (L)	45
Fuel economy (L/100km)*	4.4 (Combined)
	4.2 (Urban)
	4.3 (Extra urban)
Carbon dioxide (g/km)*	101 (Combined cycle)
HYBRID SYSTEM
Type	Series/parallel
System output	100kW (Combined)
Electric motor	60kW AC synchronous
Maximum voltage (V)	650
High-voltage battery	Lithium-ion
– Voltage (V)	201.6
TRANSMISSION
Driven wheels	Front
Transmission description	Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT)
Transmission code	P410
Final drive	3.703:1
STEERING
Type	Rack and pinion, Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Turns lock to lock (m)	3.31
Minimum turning radius (m)	5.5 (kerb to kerb)
SUSPENSION
Front	Independent, MacPherson struts, L-arms, coil springs, gas dampers and stabiliser bar
Rear	Semi-independent torsion beam, coil springs, gas dampers
FRICTION BRAKES
Front	296mm x 28mm ventilated discs, with sliding callipers
Rear	290mm x 12mm solid discs
Stability control	Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB), ABS with Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Body Control with Torque Demand
WHEELS
Rims	16 x 6.5J aluminium with full size cover
Tyres	P205/60 R16
BODY
Body type	Monocoque 5DR liftback
Length (mm)	4615
Width (mm)	1775
Overall height (mm)	1590
Wheelbase (mm)	2780
Front track (mm)	1540
Rear track (mm)	1545
Coefficient of drag (Cd)	0.29
Running clearance	160mm
WEIGHTS/LOADS
Kerb weight (kg)	1565
Gross vehicle mass (kg)	2115

Source: Toyota

May 22, 2012

Mercedes-Benz and AMG Golden fleet at the Cannes Film Festival

Mercedes-Benz and AMG provided a Golden fleet for the Cannes Film Festivalquality in order to celebrate the awarding of the 65th Palme d’Or (Golden Palm). The vehicles as you can see were all with gold exterior and shining outstandingly next to the stars seen at the International event.

In fact, Mercedes-Benz fleet will serve as an exceptional shuttle service fot the VIP guests at the famous film Festival. These cars were made as a tribute to the 65th anniversary of the Palme d’Or. In addition to that a very special edition of Mercedes-Benz will „attend“ the iconic Cinema Against AIDS Gala evening.

Golden Mercedes-Benz AMG at the Cannes Film Festival

Namely, this one is a gold Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th Anniversary“. This legendary sports car celebrates this year its 60th birthday and at the same time AMG turns 45. All shuttle vehicles provided by Mercedes-Benz will ensure that all the film stars will make a more than spectacular appearance when they arrive on the red carpet.

Furthermore, the new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th Anniversary” will also be exhibited at the “IWC Filmmakers Dinner”. But this is not all, every day throughout the festival, Mercedes-AMG will give their guests and visitors the chance to experience true “Driving Performance” on individual test drives along the French Riviera in various current AMG models.

Golden Mercedes-Benz AMG Fleet at the Cannes Film Festival

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 22, 2012

Anderson Casino Royale Aston Martin DBS

Here’s a treat from Anderson (Düsseldorf, Germany). It’s called the Aston Martin Casino Royale DBS – an evident reference to the James Bond franchise. And it certainly looks exclusive enough to bare that image – shady, sleek and, inside, a bit over the top but don’t worry. That’s why the windows are tinted – it will be your dork secret.

Anderson are quick to announce that because of the ECU tweak, the new manifolds and exhaust system with sports catalysts, the power of the Casino DBS is up by 55 ps. So that’s 572 ps and 569 Nm of torque coming from the Aston’s epic sounding V12. However, for the guys at Düsseldorf, epic is not enough. That’s why there’s a remote controlled valve somewhere down the line so that there are three sound levels. Also, the complete mass of the exhaust system is around 21 kg less than the standard one. Has it been made with tinfoil?

As for the body, we can clearly see that predominant matte gray color. Anderson claim however, that there are two shades of it – various components such as the window borders, tailgates block and radiator case are more “shiny gray”. Right…. As additional components there’s a front lip spoiler and a rear diffuser. All the while, 21-inch Anderson wheels complement the whole look while 255 tires at the front and 295 at the back give the necessary grip.

The brake calipers and some external logos bare a bronze motive which continues inside. Bronze stitching on the Alacantra upholstery and bronze embossing. Otherwise, almost everything else is carbon fiber – black, gray, you name it. If you stare at its patterns long enough your eyes will start to bleed. That being said, we will most definitely not decline an overnight stay inside because at the end of the day – it’s an Aston Martin… with a James Bond feel on it. What more does one need?!

Source: Anderson

May 21, 2012

Gemballa’s Diamond Finish: Sparkle, Sparkle

Gemballa which are known for this and this, have now taken up a somewhat bonkers project. As far as we know, the first of April was a long time ago but, lo and behold, it’s the “world’s first diamond coating for the interior and exterior finish of vehicles”. So there you go. Now you can have soulless Hyundai look like a backstage prop from the Wizzard of Oz. And yes, we are talking about actual diamonds:

“When GEMBALLA speaks of diamonds, we really mean it”, explains CEO Andreas Schwarz. “Our complex process uses genuine diamonds as its key ingredient – not metal pigments, glass fragments, or crystals.”

We are dumbfounded in the search of what one might gain from that. As an argument, Gemballa suggest that diamonds have the strongest light refraction properties which in layman terms means sparkly. Very sparkly. We hate to think what happens when the car form the oncoming traffic bathes you in high-beams. Also, you wouldn’t want to leave your diamond-coated car in front of the grocer’s, would you? Of course not, shopping at the grocer’s is for mortals. A private helicopter supplies you with organic caviar from Spain.

Gemballa continue on saying that the diamond is one of the hardest naturally occurring substances known to man which is a comforting thought. Knowing that my interior is now seasoned with thousands of pieces of diamond, I would love to scrape off my face on them should an accident occur.

The tuners are confident that that is the right finish for their already carbon fiber abundant cars. We, on the other hand, are not.

Source: Gemballa

May 21, 2012

2013 Lexus RX 450h Range – Pricing Announced

2013 Lexus RX 450h full hybrid luxury SUV comes with new sharper lines which contribute to its powerful stance and new looks. It also will enchant its customers with higher equipment specifications and an attention-grabbing new F Sport model.

The styling changes in the Lexus RX 450h resolve around the spindle-shaped grille. The latter is in fact the new trademark element in new Lexus design. The result is that now the RX 450h has much stronger and individual presence.

And this presence in addition is further accentuated by the new F Sport model. To the rear there are redesigned tail lamps. This sporty version of the RX range stands out with a deeper, more vertical front bumper and a mesh treatment for the upper and lower grilles. It runs on dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels.

Of course, it has F Sport badging on the exterior, while in the interior continues the sportier design philosophy of the interior. Take for instance the aluminium-effect sports pedals and trim inserts, F Sport smooth leather upholstery and scuff plates with the Lexus logo in black.

Other equipment features include a head-up display, and LED headlights with the I-AFSadaptive system, black roof lining and a bespoke steering wheel with a stitched leather trim.

2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport also comes to offer sharper driving dynamics. This is possible thanks to a lateral damper system it has. The latter enhances the stability and improves ride comfort by absorbing small vibrations.

More importantly, the RX 450h gains an additional Sport mode for its Lexus Hybrid Drivesystem. This means that when the driver selects the Sport mode, the throttle and electric power steering settings are transformed, thus gaining faster responses. Furthermore the Vehicle Stability Control and traction control contribute to the overall driving-pleasure and dynamic experience of the driver.

2012 Lexus RX 450h F Sport — 2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport

What is more in the new RX 450h SE model are: LED daytime running lights, a new perforated leather upholstery and re-designed steering wheel.

The Luxury grade model adds to the aforementioned base model the following: dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels and 12-speaker audio system with aDABdigital tuner and single-discDVDplayer.

RX 450h Premier stays on the top of the range and comes as a standard with a tilt/slide sunroof and head-up display.

2013 Lexus RX 450h key specifications:

Moreover, the customers can choose among several exterior colors, three of which are introduced here for the first time: Satin Silver, Burgundy Red and Atlantic Blue. They are going to be available for the entire range.

At last, there are a lot of new accessories added to this Lexus, which will contribute even more to the practicality and the style of the car. For example, the Lifestyle Pack offers front and rear under-run protective plates and roof rails. On the other hand the Protection Pack provides rubber floor mats, protective bumper film, mudflaps and a cargo net.

2013 Lexus RX 450h pricing:

2013 Lexus RX 450h SE	₤ 44 495
2013 Lexus RX 450h Luxury	₤ 48 495
2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport	₤ 51 995
2013 Lexus RX 450h Premier	₤ 55 495

Source: Lexus

May 21, 2012

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