Automobiles Review – Page 900 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

BMW recalls 1 300 000 cars

Usually, we don’t report anything related to manufacturers, but this is very important and potentially dangerous. BMW AG is the world’s largest premium car manufacturer and one of the most expensive brands in the world. It is reccaling around 1.3 million cars for repair due to a possible problem with a battery cable cover in the trunk. Because of this, the car can catch fire, which is extremely dangerous and hard to cope with.

This can happen with all models from 5- and 6-Series BMWs built between 2003 and 2010. This includes all E60, E61, F10 and F11 from the 5-Series and E63 and E64 from the 6-Series.

BMW stated: “In some remote cases, the battery cable cover inside the boot of these vehicles may be incorrectly mounted, This can result in the electrical system malfunctioning, the vehicle failing to start and, in some cases, to charring or fire.”

Still, less than 1% of the problematic vehicles have exhibited the problem and there are no reports of fires. The repairing procedure is really easy and would take around 30 minutes to an hour. Of course, It would be free of charge to customers.

However, the recall affects more than 368 000 car in the US, 293 000 cars in Germany and another 109 000 cars in UK.

So, if you have such car, be hurry and check your local dealer to eliminate possible problem.

Source: Reuters

March 27, 2012

Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 at the race track [HD video]

Nissan has revealed the GT-R Nismo GT3 race car, which is prepared by JR Motorsports, the official partner for this major project. GT-R GT3 has been developed since 2011 and now it is put on series of extensive tests – which have included three competitive outings.

The GT-R Nismo GT3 is powered by a 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 with 530 PS (390 kW / 523 hp) and 612 Nm (451 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels. It is interesting, because originally the GT-R is AWD car, but the racing version will be a lot faster with only one drive axle.

The racing car was displayed in the UK at Autosport International (Europe’s biggest motorsport exhibition) in January, but since then nothing special is mentioned about it, until now.

However, JRM and NISMO offer the racecar in Japan, Asia, North America, South America, Oceania, Europe, Russia and the Middle East. The price starts from 298 000 Euro.

Enjoy the video!

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

Source: Clashproduction via Youtube

March 27, 2012

Master Maserati Driving Courses 2012

Master Italian Lifestyle Experience is a 5 star “lifestyle” programme combining circuit and road driving, together with a tour of one of the most emblematic Italian cities: Florence. The event offered by Maserati is one of a kind. It blends together all the most representative elements of the Made in Italy: art, fashion, luxury, bespoke craftsmanship and of course, racing performance.

The Master Maserati programme offers a complete range of experiences, all completely exclusive, with that all-Italian style and elegance which has always characterised Maserati’s activities.

In detail, the Master Maserati 2012 initiative offers the following range of programmes:

Master GT 2 days – 23rd and 24th of April

Two days to improve circuit driving techniques. It includes telemetry and driving exercises on a slippery, low grip surface.

Prices
Driver: €3 680
Companion: €350

Master GT 1 day – 14th of May

A whole day dedicated to improve circuit driving techniques. It includes telemetry and exercises to control oversteer.

Prices
Driver: €1 990
Companion: €250

Master Italian Lifestyle Experience – 29th and 30th May

Exclusive luxury cars, fashion, beauty and art: a two-day package to experience the best that Italy has to offer. The package includes a day at the circuit and a road test in the Tuscan countryside, combined with an exclusive sightseeing tour of Florence and a visit to Italian artisans’ boutiques.

Prices

Driver: €4 890
Companion: €1 250

All of the Master Maserati Courses are run by highly qualified staff, including professional driving instructors, to ensure an unforgettable and highly educational experience.

Courses are open to all Maserati aficionados and take place at the Autodromo Riccardo Paletti in Varano de’ Melegari, approximately 20 km from Parma. The Riccardo Paletti circuit is ideal to develop driving skills, and combines excellent track characteristics with professional services to ensure that track sessions take place in maximum safety.

Source: Maserati

March 27, 2012

2012 Vorsteiner BMW GTRS3 E93 M3

It is black, it is has an outstanding performance, it is BMW M3 and in addition to all this it is tuned by Vorsteiner.

Yes, the new latest project of the tuning company is equipped with some exceptional features, which makes it look unique.

More importantly, it now carries all those boutique qualities, which will create the feeling of “being special” in any customer.

The Wheels Boutique had taken further the image of the BMW E93 M3, by converting it into a Vorsteiner BMW GTRS3 E93 M3 with the help of Vorsteiner Aero Package, which includes:

GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Bumper
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Side Skirts
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Rear Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Boot Lid
GTS3 Carbon Fiber Vented Hood
E93 Aero Boot Lid Double Carbon Fiber

Furthermore, we can’t go without mentioning the state-of-the-art Vorsteiner Wheels. In particular, they are VS-350 Forged Concave wheels 20X10.5 for the front, and 20X12.5 for the rear. Of course, this project has to have some exceptional tires as well. For the front are used 285/25/20 Michelin PS2 Tires and for the rear 325/25/20 Michelin PS2 Tires.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 27, 2012

Jeep launches Altitude Limited-Edition Models

Jeep brand has just introduced the launch of the new limited-edition series of 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude, 2012 Jeep Compass Altitude and 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude.

In January, Jeep introduced a distinctive, “blacked-out” production-intent concept Grand Cherokee. With this introduction, the brand decided to leave an important part to the customers themselves. They had to give a name to the model. With more than 100,000 entries from enthusiasts, what emerged as a name was “Altitude”.

Both three new models will be at dealerships in beginning of May.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude limited edition combines a variety of exterior design changes, which result in a unique model with an aggressive chrome and “blacked-out” look.

The vehicle’s grille surround appears in black gloss, and mesh grille texture in platinum chrome. The front-end appearance is completed by a platinum chrome lower fascia appliqué.

In addition the “blacked-out” theme throughout the vehicle’s exterior is continued by a black headlamp bezels and a black liftgate light bar. The SUV sits on 20-inch tires which surround black-gloss aluminum wheels.

Furthermore the interior of this model features standard leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 9-speaker 506-watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview™ rear back-up camera, ParkSense® rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Chrysler Group’s Uconnect hands-free communications system.

Additionally, over 50 advanced safety and security features are also included.

The model is available in several different colours: Deep Cherry Red, Brilliant Black, Mineral Gray, Bright Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic and Stone White.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude has a starting price of $35,595 for 4×2 models and $37,595 for 4×4 models.

2012 Jeep Compass Altitude is one of the two newly developed limited edition models. It is a continuation of the “from-the-factory” customized look first seen in the Grand Cherokee concept.

What is typical about it is that it has a distinctive black gloss finish which surrounds Compass’ trademark seven-slot Jeep grille and headlamps.

The same style continues with black roof rails and a black step pad. In addition the 2012 Jeep Compass Altitude rides on the outstanding 18-inch black gloss aluminum wheels wearing Firestone BSW all-season performance tires.

To go further into details this model is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages).

Additionally, in it’s interior it features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, remote start, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

What is more here is that the Compass Altitude will be offered in several body colors: Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White.

2012 Jeep Compass Altitude comes with a starting price of $22,190 for 4×2 models and $23,940 for 4×4 models.

Next, the last limited edition model carrying the name Altitude is the 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude. Of course, as the previous two versions, it continues the “blacked-out” theme.

However, it includes even more chrome and polished steel than its Compass sibling.

What is specific here is that it rides on 17-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels and Firestone BSW all-season touring tires.

The 2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude boasts a bright chrome lower fascia and rear step pad appliques, and bright polished steel roof rails.

Here as well, the Patriot Altitude edition is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages). In the interior package if this SUV are included: power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, power windows (driver one-touch) and locks, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.

Additionally, it includes a wide range of safety and security features: electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

The model will be available in versatile color themes: Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White.

2012 Jeep Patriot Altitude’s starting price is $20,240 for 4×2 models and $23,275 for 4×4 models.

Source: Jeep

March 27, 2012

Ford Explorer – performance model [teaser video]

Ford has revealed a teaser video of the new performance model, which will join the Explorer line-up. Actually, the video shows very little details from the SUV – speedometer, wheels, sports exhaust system, headlights.

The performance model Ford Explorer will be powered by a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 365PS (268 kW) at 5000RPM and 569Nm (420 lb-ft) at 2500RPM. The model will be announced on facebook, of course tomorrow (March 28^th).

Among the standard equipment of the new Explorer you’ll find MyForddriver connect technology including 4.2” LCD screen, MyKey^™ owner control feature, Air filtration system, Media hub, Easy Fuel^®capless fuel filler system, Cruise control, Power windows, with one-touch down for driver, Power door locks with child safety rear door locks, Tilt/telescoping steering column, Four 12-volt power points, Cargo hooks.

The XLT trim level adds: Automatic headlamps, 6-speed SelectShift Automatic^™,Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps, SecuriCode^™keyless entry keypad, Reverse sensing system, Perimeter alarm.

The limited trim level also features: PowerFold^®sideview mirrors with driver’s side memory, Ambient lighting, Adjustable pedals with memory functionality, Cargo net, Dual-zone electronic temperature control, 10-way power driver’s seat, with power recline and lumbar, Electrochromic interior mirror, Rear view camera, Remote start system, 110-volt outlet, MyFord Touchdriver connect technology, Intelligent Access with push-button start, Universal garage door opener.

Stay tuned for more details.

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

Source: fordvideo1 via Youtube

March 27, 2012

2012 Citroën C1 pricing announced

The newly redesigned 2012 CITROËN C1 will soon go on sale on the UK market in the beginning of April. The prices of the restyled model will begin from just £7,995. And more importantly, in orede to celebrate the New C1’s launch, the brand has announced that all New C1 models will have a £1,000 Citroën Reward, which means that the price will be even more attractive and will start at just £6,995.

The first highlight about CITROËN C1 is that, as it is obvious, it is a compact, economical and ecological city car. Moreover the new 2012 model includes new features and optimizations, such as CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, LED daytime running lights, a CD audio system with the brand’s Connecting Box and an electronic gearbox system with steering wheel mounted paddles. It will be launched in both 3-door and 5-door guises. In addition boot volume can be adjusted thanks to a folding rear bench and ranges from 139 liters to over 700 liters.

The next thing to be highlighted here is that it spends just 4.3l/100km and does it with just 99 g/km of CO2! The new model is powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine which develops 68 bhp (92 kW). Moreover to bring more excitement to the driving experience, it is equipped with a manual gearbox which boasts improved fuel consumption and emissions performance and sets a new standard on environmental protection with 4.3 l/100 km over a combined cycle and 99 g/km of CO2. It is good to be noted that it is the first CITROËN petrol-engine car to emit less than 100 g/km of CO2. And for enhanced handling and driving comfort the new model is also available with an electronic gearbox system for enhanced handling and driving comfort. However, here the C1 1.0i EGS consumes 4.5 l/100 km and emits 104 g/km of CO2.

VTR versions add day-time running LEDs, air conditioning and electric front windows. Furthermore, VTR+ trim also includes 14” alloy wheels, Connecting Box (Bluetooth® & USB socket), front fog lights, leather steering wheel and dark tinted windows. The range-topping 5-door 2012 Citroën C1 VTR+, featuring Citroën’s efficient Electronic Gearbox System with steering-mounted paddle controls, is priced at £10,545.

MODEL	ECONOMY (COMBINED)	CO2 EMISSIONS	1st YEAR VED	MRR OTR PRICE
1.0i 68 manual 3-door VT	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£7,995
1.0i 68 manual 5-door VT	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£8,345
1.0i 68 manual 3-door VTR	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£8,995
1.0i 68 manual 5-door VTR	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£9,345
1.0i 68 manual 3-door VTR+	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£9,695
1.0i 68 manual 5-door VTR+	65.7mpg	99g/km	£0	£10,045
1.0i 68 EGS 5-door VTR+	62.8mpg	104g/km	£0	£10,545

Source: CITROËN

March 27, 2012

2011 Jaguar E-type Concept

The original Jaguar E-type is more than just an oil burning two-seater back from the 60s. Much more than that. It’s the epitome of British engineering and a symbol of world renown beauty. Even today, many motoring enthusiasts tremble before it as if it were the Holy Grail. It was one of the first cars that came with disc brakes as standard, it had a 3.8 liter engine that produced 265 hp and, according to Enzo Ferarri, at the time, it was “The most beautiful car ever made“. Today, the British place the Jag next to the Union Jack, Penicillin and the sausage in terms of national value.

What I am trying to stress here, is that undertaking a project which even vaguely relates to the original E-type is an audacious feat. So without further a due, meet Laszlo Varga – a college student from Budapest studying industrial design and his work – The Jaguar E-type Concept.

By the looks of things (renderings), Mr. Varga has pretty much managed to capture the spirit of the original. At the very first glance we notice the typical elliptic grill which serves as an assurance – “I am a Jaguar”. Other design traits seem to come directly from the Series 1 E-type. Namely, the glass covers of the headlights. It was with them, that the first E-types distinguished themselves from anything else that would come out later on. As a profile, this 2011 Concept looks a bit beefy, but the side window frame is significantly smaller than the original one and that puts even more light over the extended front end of the car. At the back, the lights are presumably LED but in essence, the arrangement is pretty much the same.

The overall idea, the modern interpretation of the E-type is fresh and daring. At the very least, Mr Varga has offered a tribute to a true motoring icon and we thank him for it.

Source: Laszlo Varga via Behance.net

March 27, 2012

2012 Ford Fiesta ECOnetic

New Fiestas have started rolling out from Ford Europe’s production line just in time to save the world from the petrol-price situation. Well, it’s not that the Fiestas are new but rather what’s inside them. Ford call it the ECOnetic Technology.

And how eco exactly is the new batch? 3.3l/100km (86.5mpg) on the EU cycle if you ask Ford. We are talking serious penny saving here – CO2 emissions stand at just 87g/km.

With figures like this, one might suspect the involvement of some ghastly plug in hybrid gizmos but that’s not the case here:

“Fiesta is already hugely successful across Europe and the ECOnetic Technology model takes its fuel efficiency and low-CO2 offering to another level,” said Stephen Odell, CEO and chairman, Ford of Europe. “Customers can be assured these significant gains have been achieved without compromising the great driving quality for which Ford is famous.”

Evidently, you get a 95PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel that provides 205Nm of torque. The frugality comes form some pretty clever, yet rather standard features – Auto-Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Eco Mode and a light that tells you when’s the best time to shift gears. The engine and gearbox have also been fine-tuned for fuel-friendly driving. Throw in some low-rolling resistance tires, wheel deflectors, a general lower stance and you’re done – the most economical Fiesta ever made.

The ECOnetic Technology is at the core of the company’s plan to make Europe greener. By the end of 2012, half of Ford’s fleet is expected to carry that very same tech.

Source: Ford

March 27, 2012

2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline

Dodge has announced the special edition Challenger called Rallye Redline. With its powerful and efficient 305 horsepower engine, paddle-shifting transmission, performance suspension designed to maximize the muscle car’s near 50/50 weight distribution for improved handling, and all-new red hot styling enhancements – this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.

The car is based on the Challenger SXT Plus and comes with all its standard equipment plus some more including a full-length body stripe, a rear spoiler and 20” alloy wheels with red accents fitted with 245/45 R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires. The interior baosts leather sport seats, a new steering wheel and a Mopar shift handle. Other extras are the automatic air conditioning and a Boston Acoustics audio system.

“Infused with Dodge DNA, the new Challenger Rallye Redline adds even more excitement to our iconic muscle car, and to show our appreciation to our most hard-core enthusiasts, we revealed this new model at Spring Fest,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand – Chrysler Group LLC.

“With its unique Redline Red accented exterior details, available Radar Red leather, performance suspension and brakes, and 305 horsepower V-6 with paddle shifters getting 27 mpg – this new Challenger fuses the nameplate’s iconic heritage with modern Dodge styling and performance.”

The Challenger Rallye Redline is powered by a 3.6 liter V6 with 309PS (227 kW) and 363Nm (268 lb-ft). It is mated toa 5-speed automatic gearbox. The engine is really economical achieving 27 mpg on the highway.

Among the standard equipment you’ll find: Uconnect^TM hands-free phone, six Boston Acoustic Speakers with 276-watt amplifier, premium Nappa leather faced seats, heated front seats, SIRIUS/XM satellite radio with 12-month subscription, fog lamps, dual exhausts, automatic temperature control, power 10-way driver’s seat, cruise control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Keyless Enter ‘n Go, and six standard airbags.

The Challenger Rallye Redline is priced from just $28 745 (excluding a $925 destination charge).

Source: Chrysler

March 26, 2012

2012 Porsche Panamera GTS [HD video]

Autocar.co.uk has revealed a video review of the new 2012 Panamera GTS. The four-door coupe car come with some nice updates: better efficiency, more power, nicer sound and lowered air suspension as standard.

It is powered by a 4.8 liter V8 with 430PS (316 kW) at 6700RPM and 520Nm (385 lb-ft) at 3500RPM. The engine is mated to a 7-speed Porsche DKG gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and Vmax – 288 km/h (179 mph). The fuel consumption is very good too – 21.6 mpg US with 256 g/km CO2. The kerb weight is 1920 kg.

The improved chassis features aptive air suspension combined with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). The comfort and driving dynamics are boosted by adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system, combined with a self-levelling height adjustment function. Panamera GTS sits 10 mm lower than the other models in the range. Dynamic performance is further enhanced by the combination of 19” diameter Panamera Turbo wheels, 5 mm rear wheel spacers and larger brake discs from the Turbo – recognisable by their red brake callipers.

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

The Sound Symposer, which can be activated or deactivated by the Sport button directs intake noise into the interior by an acoustic channel picking up the intake vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter.

Other interesting feature is the standard Sport Chrono package including Sport Plus programme. In the ultimate Sport Plus mode, the adaptive air suspension lowers the vehicle to the low setting and switches to a harder spring rate. The rear spoiler angle of attack also changes to the performance-oriented setting.

The interior of the new Panamera GTS can be styled according to customer’s taste. There are leather and Alcantara – with a choice of five interior colours. The centre panels of the adaptive 18-way adjustable sports seats, the upper sections of the door armrests and front centre console armrest and roof lining are in Alcantara.

2012 Porsche Panamera GTS will be priced from around $144 100.

Source: Autocar.co.uk via Youtube

March 26, 2012

BMW X1 US and M6 Convertible US

BMW US will introduce the M6 Convertible and X1 SAV at the 2012 New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 4^th. Both cars will be showcased at the BMW Stand from 10:15 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center (655 West 34th Street at 11th Avenue) in Manhattan.

The third generation of M6 is powered by the newly developed M TwinPower Turbo 4.4 liter V8 mated to a 7-speed M-DCT transmission. The power is 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

Other premiere is the X1 SAV, which has already enjoying the EU success. The engine line-up includes a TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol in xDrive28i model with 245PS. The 2012 X1 features distinctive headlights and L-shaped taillights, It will be available in showrooms, this summer.

BMW will also exhibit M6 Coupe and X6 M, which will debut at the New York show. They will be also joined by the 6 Series Gran Coupe alongside the two famous concepts – i3 and i8.

BMW will also bring the M6 Coupe and X6 M for their North American debuts at the New York show and they will be joined by the 6 Series Gran Coupe (US show debut) and the i3 and i8 concepts.

The Gran Coupe has stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to 5 passengers. Its unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury.

No word about pricing though.

Source: BMW

March 26, 2012

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