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  • 2013 Chevrolet Spark – Pricing Announced

    2013-Chevrolet-Spark-THUMBThe pricing for the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Spark has been recently announced and start at $12,995. The mini car that will undeniably capture the heart of many, will go on sale later this year.

    In short 2013 Spark is a sporty, fuel-efficient, four-passenger, five-door hatch. It s designed to excite first-time car buyers and city dwellers, thank to its bold styling, fresh colors, egaging driving dynamics, and a lot of personalized features.

    Speaking about the body colors, the vehicle is going to be offered in wide range of them, including the following: Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink.

    Moreover, the driver and the passengers will enjoy the ride with a lot of peace in mind, given that in the Spark are included ten standard air bags.

    Furthermore, Spark also offers more passenger and cargo room.

    The exterior of the new 2013 Chevrolet Spark includes some additional enhancements, which are: silver painted roof rails; chrome lift gate handle, exhaust outlet and beltline molding; body-color lower rocker molding; front and rear body-color sport fascias with unique front upper and lower grille inserts

    On the other hand, the interior features leatherette seats and heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

    2013 Chevrolet Spark
    2013 Chevrolet Spark

    Spark LS starting at $12 995 includes:

    • Standard 1.2L Ecotec engine and five-speed manual transmission
    • Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, rear window wiper, auxiliary input jack, outside temperature display and trip computer
    • 15-inch alloy wheels
    • 60/40 split flip-and-fold rear seat
    • Comprehensive safety package including 10 air bags, electronic stability control with traction control and brake assist
    • OnStar Directions & Connections plan standard with six-month introductory subscription

    Spark 1LT starting at $14 495 includes LS standard content and adds:

    • Standard 7-inch color touch radio with Chevrolet MyLink, Bluetooth connectivity for select phones, steering wheel audio controls, USB port and Sirius XM Radio with three-month trial subscription
    • Other standard convenience features include power door locks with remote keyless entry, theft deterent system, outside power mirrors, floor mats, visor mirrors, and cruise control

    Spark 2LT starting at $15,795 includes all 1LT standard content and adds:

    • Unique 15-inch alloy wheels
    • Fog lamps

    Source: Chevrolet

  • 2013 Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan – pricing announced

    2013-Cadillac-XTS-THUMBCadillac’s most technologically advanced and latest luxury sedan, named 2013 Cadillac XTS is going to be available at U.S. dealerships later this spring with a starting price of $44 995.

    This vehicle is unique in its class, because is the only one to include Magnetic Ride Control as a standard. And if you aren’t already familiar with what this is, well in short – it is the world’s-fastest reacting suspension technology. Now, you can imagine how exciting this car should be.

    Additionally, Cadillac’s breakthrough in-vehicle user experience for control and connectivity named CUE is featured as a standard. This technology is making its debut n the 2013 XTS as well.

    Furthermore, the customers are going to be offered three option collections: Luxury, Premium and Platinum. The XTS Platinum model includes the highest level of technology and luxury. It comes to offer one of a kind front appearance, wheels and interior colors, materials and trim. Moreover, it is equipped with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, using Haldex technology to transfer power front-to-back, and side-to-side along the rear axle. Actually, this will be offered in all three trim levels, above the standard model.

    2013 Cadillac XTS
    2013 Cadillac XTS

    The all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan combines advanced technology, astonishing design and confident performance. The will be equipped with 3.6-liter V6 engine with 322PS (237 kW) and 372Nm (275 lb-ft).

    What is more, Cadillac is preparing for the debut of CUE first automotive use of capacitive touch. It features a new CUE iPad Application, which replicates the center screen that is the hub of the system. It will provide the necessary videos and information.

    Another technology to be used in the Cadillac is the OnStar, which provides live assistance to XTS owners for CUE questions.

    Source: GMC

  • 2013 ROUSH Staged Ford Mustang

    ROUSH-Ford-Mustang-thumbUpdate on ROUSH‘s Staged Ford Mustangs. And by “Staged” I don’t mean fake. No, it’s 2012 so the time is right to roll out the 2013 MY product – more style, more aggression and, it goes without saying, more muscle.

    Three Stages are available with number three being sort of the full program. Stage 1 works on the visuals and Stage 2 deals with the handling bits. With a Stage 3, the Mustang’s 5.0L-4v Coyote powertrain comes along with a supercharger. That means a power output of 565 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque. People move planets with that sort of power. It’s not just any supercharger but ROUSH’s own R2300 unit that features Eaton’s TVS (Twin Vortices Series) patented technology. It’s thermally more efficient produces higher volumetric capacity and helps up the RPMs of the turbine.

    Evidently, the overhaul does not consist solely of protein shakes. The handling has been improved as well thanks to a larger, stiffer front stabilizer bar (counters body roll) a unique ROUSH designed anti-wheel hop kit, twin-tube shocks, increased rate springs as well as upgraded bushings and jounce bumpers. The company engineers have spent countless nights working on the perfect calibration of all of that so that the final product can start, stop and corner the way a gearhead would want it to. The aluminum, five spoke, chrome ROUSH wheels are also considered as a handling improvement as they measure up to 18×10. (20-inch ones are an option)

    Even at the very first stage, Stage 1, the Mustangs get a 6th generation ROUSH Aerobody called the R6. It consists of an upper and lower grille, corner fascia aero-pockets with driving lamps and front a chin splitter. The ROUSH hood scoop, rocker panel and rear fascia side splitters, the three-piece rear decklid spoiler and the new ROUSH rear aero-valance featuring race-inspired diffusers are also parts of it. As a finishing touch, someone at ROUSH had the nice idea of planting a set of newly designed, integrated dual chambered, chrome exhaust tips.

    Inside, the Stage 3 comes with a custom dial cluster, ROUSH embroidered floor mats, a ROUSH center console button and a Stage 3 dash medallion. Other than that, one can further the customization process with some optional packages. Fancy a suede jungle inside your personal ROUSH Mustang? Well, great! They have just that in stock – suede inserts in the leather seats, suede door panels and a suede shift boot and steering wheel.

    The ROUSH program for the Mustang is available for both convertibles and coupes. It doesn’t matter of its a stick or an automatic and all is, most definitely, street legal. Whichever choice you make, you will get a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This April, be on the lookout for these ROUSH Mustangs in the local dealrs.

    2013 ROUSH Ford Mustang
    2013 ROUSH Ford Mustang

    Source: ROUSH

  • 2013 Subaru BRZ US – Price $25 495

    2013 Subaru BRZ US spec is priced from just $25 495, which is sensational price for such type of vehicle.

    The new BRZ is $1 295 more than the Scion FR-S, but comes with a lot of extras including a 6-speed manual transmission. However, the slightly more expensive Premium models feature touch-screen GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity and HID headlamps. Above the well-appointed Premium model, Limited models add Alcantara seat inserts with leather bolsters, heated seats and mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control system, fog lights, Keyless Access & Start and body-color decklid spoiler.

    Limited models come equipped with leather seats and start at $27 495 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and $28 595 for automatic versions.

    2013 BRZ is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine with 200HP (149 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft).

    Prices are MSRP before $750 destination charge.

    Check out the specs below.

    2013 Subaru BRZ US
    2013 Subaru BRZ US

    2013 Subaru BRZ

    Key Facts/Performance

    • All-new Subaru-developed vehicle-specific platform.
    • New 2.0-liter Subaru Boxer engine features “square” configuration (bore and stroke dimensions identical) for high-revving performance; double overhead camshafts and dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS); fuel injection system combines direct injection and port injection technologies; very high compression ratio; high specific engine output: 100 hp/liter.
    • Choice of 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions; optional automatic has steering wheel paddle shifters, Sport mode, winter mode and downshift blipping control.
    • Torsen® limited-slip differential.
    • Double-wishbone rear suspension.
    • Electric power steering.
    • 4-wheel vented disc brakes.
    • Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control system (TCS) with 5 modes, including Sport mode and TCS Off for track driving.
    • 17 x 7-in. aluminum alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 summer performance tires.
    • Aluminum hood.

    Premium and Limited trim lines.

    • 2+2 seating with enough trunk and interior room to transport four tires and tools for track driving.
    • Standard navigation system with voice control and comprehensive infotainment capabilities (see standard equipment).

    Key Safety Features

    • Ring Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure provides outstanding occupant protection.
    • 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters.
    • Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System; dual-stage deployment driver and front passenger airbags; front seat side pelvis/torso air bags and side-curtain air bags (SRS).
    • 4-channel/4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and Brake Override system.
    • Safety pedal system.
    • Whiplash protection front seats.

    Standard Features, BRZ Premium

    • 12v power outlets: one in glove box and one in center console
    • 24-hour roadside assistance for vehicle limited warranty period
    • 3-spoke leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with red stitching.
    • Fold-down rear seatback
    • Aluminum-alloy pedal covers (including driver’s footrest)
    • Auto on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, low and high beam
    • Touch-screen GPS navigation system with:
    • 6.1-inch LCD screen
    • AM/FM stereo with HD radio
    • Single-disc in-dash CD player
    • 196-watt amplifier
    • 8 speakers
    • MP3/WMA capability
    • Voice activated controls
    • Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
    • Bluetooth audio streaming connectivity
    • iPod® control capability
    • iTunes® tagging capability
    • USB port
    • XM® Satellite Radio (subscription required)
    • XM NavTraffic (subscription required)
    • SMS text messaging capability
    • 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack
    • Manual climate control system with cabin air filtration
    • Carpeted floor mats
    • Chrome interior door handles
    • Cruise control
    • Cup holders integrated into door panels and two in center console
    • Digital clock
    • Digital dual-mode trip odometer
    • Digital outside temperature gauge
    • Dome light with off-delay
    • Driver’s footrest
    • Sport design instrument panel gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, digital speedometer integrated within tachometer, coolant temperature gauge, fuel gauge
    • Height-adjustable driver’s seat
    • Illuminated ignition switch ring
    • Dual visor vanity mirrors
    • Leather-wrapped shift handle and parking brake handle
    • Multi function display with current and average fuel economy
    • Performance-design front seats with height-adjustable head restraints
    • Power door locks
    • Power side mirrors
    • Power windows with driver’s and passenger’s auto up/down with pinch protection
    • Rear window defroster with timer
    • Remote fuel door release
    • Remote keyless entry system with engine immobilizer system
    • Seatback pocket on front passenger seat
    • Variable intermittent windshield wipers

    BRZ Limited adds:

    • Alcantara seat inserts with leather bolsters All-Weather Package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors)
    • Dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors
    • Dual-zone automatic climate control system
    • Fog lights
    • Front door courtesy lights
    • Keyless Access and Start with illuminated engine start/stop button
    • Rear trunk spoiler (body color)
    • Security system

    Optional for Premium and Limited: 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, downshift blipping control, steering wheel paddle shift control switches, sport shift mode and snow shift mode.

    Source: Subaru

  • 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 – full details

    2013 Dodge Ram 1500
    Dodge has unveiled the 2013 Ram 1500 at the New York Auto Show. The lightweight truck comes with restyled exterior, interior and some engine modifications.

    The exterior features a front bumper, a bigger front grille and LED-infused headlights, of course. The taillights are also featuring LED technology.

    The interior is also revised. It boasts center console, some more soft-touch plastics and switchgear in the form of wheel. Other extras include a Uconnect infotainment system and a revised instrument cluster with an integrated 3.5” display.

    The engine range features a 3.7 liter V6 with 309HP (227 kW) and 364Nm (269 lb-ft). It replaces the old Pentastar V6. There is a powerful 5.7 liter HEMI V8 with 400HP (295 kW) and 551Nm (407 lb-ft) of torque. Both engines can be connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

    The truck boasts superb Best-in-class fuel efficiency achieved by installing some technologies: a thermal management system, an electric power steering system and an engine Start/Stop system.

    The Ram 1500 also features improved ride thanks to a redesigned frame, which uses more high-strength steel and box floor cross-members. For further comfort, the model can be equipped with an air suspension coming with five height settings.

    There is no doubt that the Ram 1500 will be one of the best-selling trucks on the US market.

    Source: Dodge

  • Infiniti LE Concept

    The Infiniti LE Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, is more than just the latest in the series of dramatically styled, technologically advanced concepts from Infiniti.

    It features a sweeping aerodynamic body, an elegantly intelligent interior, inspired driving performance and advanced next-generation

    A production version is expected to reach Infiniti showrooms in near-similar form within the next two years as Infiniti’s first zero emission luxury sedan.

    “In a future that holds an increasing consumption of natural resources, we will advance our sustainable mobility leadership and expand our EV market penetration with new electric vehicles such as the Infiniti LE Concept,” commented Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn.

    “Infiniti is well positioned to deliver the objectives for a sustainable future, relying on our capable, hard-working and motivated team members around the world.  We are a challenger.”, he added.

    Infiniti LE Concept
    Infiniti LE Concept

    Among the key features and innovations of the Infiniti LE Concept are:

    • Luxury sedan style, combining signature Infiniti design cues with EV aerodynamic efficiency
    • Exceptional acceleration and re-acceleration, providing a new level of luxury driving experience
    • Leading-edge compact Lithium-ion battery technology
    • Smart hospitality, featuring a quiet, luxurious Infiniti interior and next-gen Infiniti Connection, Infiniti Personal Assistant and EV connected services
    • Innovative, intuitive home-based Wireless Charging System with Intelligent Park Assist

    “As a ‘production intent’ concept, most of what you see in the LE Concept will become a reality, including its zero emission powertrain, advanced telematics, cutting-edge design, advanced connected services and premium appointments,” said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore.

    “Infiniti believes the future of luxury is sustainable luxury and we intend to continue taking a leadership role, building on the foundation set by our advanced Infiniti M Hybrid and high-mpg Infiniti JX luxury crossover.”, Mr. Poore added.

    The LE Concept has 240 lb-ft of torque instantly available immediately at all times.  The Infiniti LE Concept’s battery system is a proven laminated 24 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) design with a ChaDeMo DC50kW quick charger.

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2012 Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge GB on April 7th and 8th

    Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge will be held this weekend – April 7th and 8th at Snetterton, Norfolk, UK.

    Lining up will be pre-season pace setter James Birch, who previously ran strongly in the Formula Renault BARC Championship. The 22 year-old racer from Amersham set the pace during the recent pre-season test day at Silverstone and his IN2 Racing entry should be right at the head of the action at Snetterton.

    Fresh from the opening races in the Carrera Cup GB at Brands Hatch, Team Parker Racing will field three cars at Snetterton for Steven Liquorish, Neil Houston and Justin Sherwood. Silverstone-based Scotsman Houston will make his Porsche racing debut after previously campaigning Ginettas, while Liquorish already has a year’s experience under his belt in these cars.

    Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
    Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge

    Another team running in both the Carrera Cup GB and the GT3 Cup Challenge is Parr Motorsport and they will be supporting Peter Smallwood as he starts his third season of racing with his 997-model 911 GT3 Cup. Also racing in Class 1 for the 997-model cars is John Ferguson in one of the cars entered by Dublin-based Ask Racing.

    Mark Cowne contests Class 2 for the earlier 996-model cars with a car tended by Silverstone-based Fearn Sport.

    The GT3 Cup Challenge is open to any car from the 2009 model year or earlier. The race is designed to be a perfect stepping stone for drivers aiming to move up to the Porsche Carrera Cup GB in subsequent seasons. It is aimed to younger racers with some sponsorship backing, as well as competitors graduating from track days. The series is open to drivers with a National B race licence.

    In addition, the Class 2 Champion will win two places on the exclusive GT course at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

    The awards are great, so be hurry and check how to participate in the challenge.

    Source: Porsche

  • Toyota Prius+ for a Versatile Summer

    Toyota-Prius-Plus-thumbThis summer a new example of Toyota‘s hybrid know-how is coming to town…or Europe. It’s the Prius+ – Europe’s first full hybrid seven-seat MPV. Two trim levels will be available, the base T4 and T Spirit.

    One can imagine for example, that in the UK, the sub-100 g/km of CO2 T4 version will be hugely popular as this will be the only MPV out on the streets with zero road tax and it can go in and out of London without paying a congestion charge. The T Spirit, which is kind of more equipped (17-inch wheels, 8, instead of 6, JBL speakrs, leather seats) spews out 101 g/km. Official figures for the fuel economy equal to 68.9mpg for the T4 and 64.2mpg for the T Spirit.

    A pack of li-ion batteries lays within the center console so that no passenger or luggage space is compromised. Five separate folding rear seats are provided and with all of these in place there is 200 litres of luggage space. Remove the third row and you get 505 liters.

    Both of the models get various goodies such as rear-view camera, Smart Entry and Start, climate control, electric windows and heated folding mirrors, panoramic roof with aoutmatic shade, rain sensing wipers, LED daytime running lights and more.

    Quite a bundle considering the projected starting price of $41,578 for the T4. The T Spirit stands at $46,814 and it does not sound like a bargain.

    Toyota Prius Plus MPV
    Toyota Prius Plus MPV

    Source: Toyota

  • Nissan Altima Debut at NYIAS

    2013-Nissan-Altima-thumbHere it is. After countless, uninspiring teasers, the latest Nissan Altima finally shows up to the world. And you know what? On paper it sounds pretty good. There’s a lot to work here with but the main points are that it is lighter, more economical then ever, torquey and abundantly equipped.

    At the engine bay, there isn’t much going on. Sure, the Altima comes with a choice between a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6 power plan but neither of these engines are mind blowingly innovative. Rather, they are proven. Carryovers from previous generations. The 2.5 unit, being a bit lighter now and having a cleverer valve timing, produces 7 hp more. That makes an overall power output of 182 hp and just as much lb-ft of torque. The advanced, award-winning VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 remains rated at 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.

    So, on what ground do the Nissan people claim that an Altima will do 38 mpg (provided that it’s the 2.5…on a highway…with proper conditions). That’s the highest economy figure they have to work with but it does make sense. While the engines have not been specifically calibrated to sip fuel, the Xtronic CVT helps the Altima do just that. With friction inside reduced by 40 percent, this shiny new gearbox has also an extended gear ratio range and logic control…whatever that means. The important thing is that with it, the 2.5 Altima achieves 27 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 31 mpg average while the 3.5 V6 gets 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 25 mpg average – class-leading they say.

    The body of the 2013 Altima might also be responsible for that frugal state of mind. We know for a fact that it is 80 pounds lighter (despite the whole car being bigger) than the previous one. It’s stiffer too thanks to the use of ultra high strength steel, the addition of a larger front tower strut brace and the new rear structural support built into the rear pass-through/parcel shelf. Not that anyone’s going to take a mid-sized saloon like the Altima to a track but it’s good to know this.

    Nissan Altima Sedan (2013)
    Nissan Altima Sedan (2013)

    Still, with a multi-link rear suspension, one does get a deserved sense of security. ZF SACHS designed shock absorbers provide comfort and stability at the same time. There’s a thing called Active Understeer Control which, when turning, can use the car’s Traction Control System to brake the inside front wheel so that to prevent the car from going in to a tree. Electronic Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering ensures that wonderful mechanical responsiveness combined with an electronic efficiency. There’s some standard stuff as well – ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution etc.

    Wheels and tires come in different sizes for both the 2.5 and the 3.5 setups. The former one can get the 16-inch steel rims that come with full covers and 215/60R16 tires or the 17-inch aluminum-alloys wrapped in 215/55R17 V-rated all-rounders. 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/45R18 V-rated all-season tires come as standard on the 3.5-liter V6.

    Depending on the trim level pick (there are seven of them), your Altima can be packed full of smart technologies, safety features and driver aids that are supposed to make your life easier. Take for example the Blind Spot Warning, the Lane Departure Warning and the Moving Object Detection systems. They all use the same rear-mounted camera you get with the optional Technology Package. A 7.0-inch touch navigation/interactive multimedia system also comes as an option. The windshield wipers are smart and so are the headlights. The seats are ergonomically designed using NASA derived methods and when filling up the tires at a station, the Altima will honk its horn to tell you when the ideal pressure is achieved – you clever Herbie you.

    So there you go. If you happen to live somewhere near the New York metropolitan area, hop by to the Jacob Javits Center in NY City. Public access will be granted from tomorrow.

    Source: Nissan

  • 2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium

    2012-Ford-Focus-THUMB2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium is to deliver great fuel efficiency and emit low number of CO2 emissions thanks to its groundbreaking 100 PS 1.0-litre EcoBoos engine.

    The new Ford Focus is equipped with the innovative 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which produces 100 hp (74 kW) and thus is able to deliver lower fuel costs than any other Ford before.

    What it does in particular is that the Focus new 100PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine achieves 58.8mpg. However, despite that number, it is still able to deliver great performance, combined with power and even more torque (than previous models of Focus for instance).

    Furthermore, what must be highlighted here is that Ford’s new EcoBoost petrol engine utilizes the latest technology. It includes enhanced and advanced turbocharging and direct injection. The consequence is that it is able to deliver the performance of a traditional 1.6-litre engine with the fuel economy of a 1.0-litre one!

    Another important fact is that thank to all these innovations and modifications, the new engine takes not only fuel economy, but also CO2 emissions to new levels for a petrol family car. As mentioned, it achieves up to 58.8mpg, and the CO2 emissions are 109g/km CO2. Not forgetting that all this comes together with excellent performance and refinement, which makes it the perfect choice especially for city driving.

    Ford’s fuel-efficient new 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine will be also offered in the Ford C-MAX and the all-new Ford B-MAX.

    2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium
    Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium (2012)

    Source: Ford

  • Mazda Demio and Mazda Premacy now upgraded

    Mazda-Demio-13-SKYACTIV-THUMBMazda just launched the upgraded 2012 Mazda Demio compact car and 2012 Mazda Premracy minivan.

    Mazda Demio has gained popularity thank to its outstanding fuel economy due to 13-SKYACTIV model grade system.

    The upgrades here are regarding the 60:40 split rear seat, a three-point seat belt for the second-row center seat and a seat lifter for the driver’s seat are fitted to the 13-SKYACTIV model grade as standard equipment.

    In addition the aluminum wheels are also available, however – as optional equipment. These upgrades will be featured as well in the special edition Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition, which was released on March 1 this year.

    2012 Mazda Demio 13-SKYACTIV
    2012 Mazda Demio 13-SKYACTIV

    2012 Mazda Demio main upgrade features:

    • 13-SKYACTIV
    • Steel wheels as standard equipment
    • The 60:40 split rear seat, a three-point seat belt for the second-row center seat and a seat lifter for the driver’s seat as standard equipment
    • 13C (FWD version with 5-speed manual transmission)
    • The 60:40 split rear seats and a three-point seatbelt for the second-row center seat are added as standard equipment.
    • Door mirrors and door handles painted in the same color as the exterior body color

    Next, some upgrades have been made on 2012 Mazda Premacy models, which now come with enhanced features in terms of safety and security.

    Any model from the Premacy lineup is equipped with Mazda’s unique idling stop system, i-stop. Furthermore, these models feature the side and curtain airbags as standard equipment. At last, the upgrades to the Premacy line-up also include leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob for the 20E model grade as standard equipment.

    2012 Mazda Premacy 20S
    2012 Mazda Premacy 20S

    2012 Mazda Premacy main upgrade features:

    • Any model grade that is equipped with Mazda’s unique idling stop i-stop system comes with side and curtain air bags as standard equipment.
    • 20S (FWD)
    • Side and curtain air bags as standard equipment
    • Special Edition 20S Prestige Style II
    • The previous special edition 20S Prestige Style sales continue as a new model grade, the 20S Prestige Style II with the side and curtain airbags as standard equipment.
    • 20E (FWD)
    • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob as standard equipment
    • Side and curtain airbags as standard equipment
    • New model grade ’20CS Aero’
    • Special edition 20CS Aero Style is now included to the Premacy’s lineup as the 20CS Aero

    Source: Mazda

  • 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition

    2012-Mercedes-Benz-SL-65-AMG-45th-ANNIVERSARY-THUMB2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” edition is a model wich will mark the 45th birthday of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG brand. This exceptional vehicle is a V12 roadster and was exclusively developed for this special anniversary. It is being produced in a limited edition of 45 examples only.

    What is visible at first sight is that the designers have created a new paint finish: designo magno graphite. This is exclusive grey colour with satin look, which in my opinion further emphasize the V12 roadster’s powerful character. The matt finish brings out the contours of the aluminium body in particularly striking guise. An interesting contrast is added from the highlights in the form of high-gloss chrome applications.

    The Exterior of the anniversary model is equipeed with Carbon-Fiber package in matt finish. Genuine carbon fiber with satin finish is applied to the cross strut in the front apron, the exterior mirrors and the spoiler lip. In addition the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine includes the same approach: the high-quality engine cover consists of matt carbon fibre and aluminium.

    Next, the AMG sports exhaust system delivers unmistakable engine sound from the outer surround of the twin tailpipe, which comes in black with chrome plating. The inner insert is finished in high-gloss chrome.

    The perfect look of the vehicle is completed thank to the AMG multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with high-sheen rim flange and matt finish.  The car sits on 255/35 R 19 tires at the front and 285/30 R 20 at the rear.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition
    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition

    We can see the same styling approach in the interior as well. What I mean is that the interior design was carefully coordinated with the special designo magno graphite paint finish. In addition, there has been only used exquisite materials and applied exceptional workmanship combined with a comprehensive scope of standard-fit appointments.

    Furthremore, the upholstery is in designo Exclusive STYLE leather in titanium grey pearl/ginger beige. It includes the AMG-specific V12 layout with a diamond pattern, which adorns both the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats and the door centre panels. Embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests exude the same class as the designo nappa leather roof lining in ginger beige featuring special stitching details in AMG V12 diamond pattern.

    Next, one can see the exquisite AMG Performance steering wheel with an AMG logo in its bottom bezel. It is being offered in a two-tone rim in titanium grey/ginger beige. In addition, the AMG trim elements are also finished in matt carbon fibre to match the matt finish of the Exterior Carbon-Fibre package.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition (Interior)
    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition (Interior)

    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” key data:

    SL 65 AMG

    “45th ANNIVERSARY”

    Displacement 5980 cc
    Bore x stroke 82.6 x 93.0 mm
    Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
    Output 463 kW (630 hp)

    at 4800 – 5400 rpm

    Max. torque 1000 Nm

    at 2300 – 4300 rpm*

    Vehicle weight in acc. with
    EC standard
    1950 kg
    Fuel consumption, NEDC combined 11.6 l/100 km
    CO2 emissions 270 g/km
    Efficiency class G
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.0 s
    Top speed 250 km/h*

    Moreover, the SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” features an exclusive and extensive range of standard-fit appointments: AIRSCARF, Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC, Active Multicontour Seat package, AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer, Driving Assistance package Plus with DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, Frontbass, Intelligent Light System (ILS), Media interface, KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (including remote-closing boot lid
    and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system), MAGIC VISION CONTROL, NECK-PRO head restraints, Panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, PRE-SAFE® system , Door power closing, Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger, Electric draught-stop, AMG Performance Media with telemetry function is additionally available from the AMG Performance Studio as an optional extra.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” will be available on the market in September 2012.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz