Automobiles Review – Page 908 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Koenigsegg Agera R at Geneva Motor Show

At the 2012 Geneva Auto Salon the brand Koenigsegg have launched the new 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R model, which features the industry first Aircore™ wheel technology, Triplex suspension and the astonishing 1140 horsepower output. An important highlight here is that the 2013 Agera R features the world’s first hollow, one piece, super light carbon fiber wheel. It was made through the method named Aircore™ Technology, which is unique technology developed by the brand. Thank to it, the Aircore™ wheels save close to 20kg in mass, while at the same time providing great integrity and safety. In particular, the only metal part in the wheel is the tire valve; all rest is once piece hollow carbon. Secondly, the Agera and the Agera R include the first production engines in the world which use nano-surfaced cylinder sleeves, which in addition are used for reduction of friction and fuel consumption. Next, it is important to mention that the new in-house developed engine management system provides added functionality and meets all OBD II regulations.

To go further into details, the rev limiter has been raised from 7250rpm to 7500rpm, which allows the power to be raised from 940 (691 kW) to 960hp (706 kW) on 98 Ron (93 din) fuel for the Agera; and from 1115 (820 kW) to 1140hp (838 kW) for the Agera R on E85. In addition, the unique Triplex suspension (which now comes as a standard on 2013 Agera R) was developed by the work of collaboration between Koenigsegg and the Swedish shock manufacturer Öhlins Racing. Furthermore, in the vehicle is also featured as a standard the one of a kind Koenigsegg Electronic Stability (KES). What is more, a new and significantly lighter rear exhaust section has been developed for the Agera R. It improves as well the performance of the rear diffuser. At last, the the new front and side winglets of the Agera R provide 20kg more downforce at 250km/h, as well as reduced drag.

Recent record achieved by 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R:

– 0-300 km/h in 14.53 sec

– 300-0 km/h in 6.66 sec

– 0-200 mph in 17.68 sec

– 200-0 mph in 7.28 sec

– A top speed of approximately 440 km/h (273 mph)

Source: Koenigsegg

March 15, 2012

Pininfarina Cambiano Concept

It’s been a lengthy wait but it was worth it. It’s the Pininfarina Cambiano – the design house’s latest automotive top model. The idea behind it is to sort of celebrate the Pininfarina establishment. 2012 is a dual anniversary for them: 30 years with the Style Centre, set up in Cambiano in 1982 as “Pininfarina Studi e Ricerche”, and 10 years of technological innovation with the Engineering Center that was put in motion in 2002. So this one had to be special. It had to blend genuine good looks with awe inspiring technological advancements. And the end product does exactly that actually: It’s a Plug in hybrid with four electric motors and a turbine. At the same time it is utterly simplistic and elegant, baring fluidic lines and has little to no details in excess on its body. It is all about sustainability, eco-conscious thinking, efficiency, grace and a bit of flash.

By flash I do mean the mad scissor doors on the right side of it, don’t I? There’s no pillar between them and it all seems quite functional but you can’t help but thinking: “Cool”. On the other hand…side, the driver’s door is kind of lonely which creates a sporty coupe feel. Then there’s the panoramic roof – part translucent, part transparent, it supports itself on a rather futuristic frame that resembles a honeycomb structure. The whole car is meant to be slippery as it has spent quite a while in Pininfarina‘s wind tunnel. Weight reduction is also a priority – the cabin cell is from carbon fiber, while the front and rear frames that support all the techy bits are from aluminum. All and all, the Cambiano weighs 1695 kg which is astonishingly light for a hybrid.

Inside, light channels carved trough the ceiling, the doors and the floor remind you of those emergency paths you are supposed to follow upon evacuation in commercial airplanes. The floor itself is made up from recycled wooden pieces – one of the Cambiano‘s many sustainable traits.

Most sustainable of all is the drivetrain. Or should I say drivetrains? It’s got four electric motors (one for each wheel, two at the front frame, two at the rear one). They are a product of the Magnet Marelli company and each one of them provides a continuous supply of 60 kW with peaks of 150 kW. Simple math tells us then, that the Cambiano has an overall maximum power output of 600 kW. Torque is 640 Nm. All motors operate independently and incorporate things such as energy regeneration upon braking, electronic stability control with a Vectoring Stability Program (sends different lumps of torque to each wheel) and ABS. On Sport Mode, zero to a hundred takes 4.2 seconds and the top speed ends up being 250 km/h.

The Cambiano however, doesn’t stop with the electric motors. It also has an APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) which is basically a 50 kW micro turbine made by Bladon Jets. It runs on sips of diesel and charges the batteries when needed. On the flip side, it can also provide power directly to the motors. Although it weights only 40 kg and is Euro 6 complaint, the idea is to avoid running it as much as possible. When the battery charge falls bellow 20%, it automatically kicks in. At speeds of 50 km/h or less it shuts down as it assumes you are in a traffic jam. Of course the driver has the power to override these processes with a fully manual control on the turbine. The whole system is so smart, that it will learn from the GPS system on what kind of road the Cambiano is. After doing so, it will optimize the usage of the APU in what seems the best and most frugal way.

The lithium ion batteries are provided by FAAM and are placed in between the rear seats and rear axle. The pack has a capacity of 50 kW/h and a peak power delivery of 500 kW. At a 6 Kw/h grid, recharging takes 6h while APU recharging takes only 52 minutes. On a single charge, the Cambiano will run for 250 km. With the turbine running, that range goes up to 800 km. The packs are also temperature regulated so no external factors should play a role on the efficiency.

It really is a master piece this car – it has the looks, it has the clever insides, it will soften up even the most skeptical environmentalist while putting a smile on a demanding gear head. If the Cambiano becomes a prime example of future motoring, very soon there won’t be any faults with the mainstream cars and we won’t have anything to talk about with our friends.

Source: Pininfarina

March 15, 2012

EcoBoost for the All-new Ford Escape

The all-new Ford Escape will pamper itself with a clever EcoBoost engine. It develops 237 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque and provides 3,500 pounds of towing capability.

Smaller is better these days. Especially when we take into account the soaring gas prices. That’s why, as an alternative to the 3.0-liter V6 engine in the current Escape, the 2.0 liter EcoBoost seems the logical choice.

Escape’s greater towing capability is roughly equal to two jet skis or a snowmobile on a trailer. And chances are that you are going to link a trailer behind, even if it is only to make use of Ford’s trailer sway control.

Besides the 2.0 EcoBoost, there will be a 1.6 liter unit of the same line that returns 177 horsepower and lastly, a 2.5 naturally aspirated engine with a 171 horsepower ability. All three engines are mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Another good thing for the economy will be the electric power-assist steering.

Interested? Well, the all-new Escape arrives at showrooms sometimes later this spring. Until then, we’ll have to wait and read frugal figures.

Source: Ford

March 15, 2012

2013 Kia Sorento

Kia has released full details about their all new 2013 Sorento CUV (crossover utility vehicle). For 2013, Sorento’s utility and functionality are boosted further by adjusting content to suit consumer needs more than ever before.

Among the upgrades, the 2013 model now features leather upholstery as standard for the EX trim level and standard third-row seat for the LX V6 trim. Furthermore, the entry-level LX now offers the optional UVO powered by Microsoft®4 voice-activated infotainment system based on the Windows®4 Embedded Automotive platform. The LX Convenience Plus Package includes an 8-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a First Aid Kit for family-minded consumers.

The exterior of 2013 Sorento is also changed. It has a new front fascia, some body color accents and 17” alloy wheels fitted with 235/65R17 tires. If the customer opts for the top-of-range SX model, he or she can also enjoy to LED taillights, a set of nice ten-spoke 18” alloy wheels with 235/60R18 tires and a chrome exhaust tip.

The Sorento CUV is available in four trim levels – LX, EX and SX. The engine range includes three different engines – a 2.4 liter MPI four-cylinder petrol with 177PS (131 kW) and 229Nm (169 lb-ft) of torque, a 2.4 liter GDI four-cylinder petrol with 194PS (142 kW) and 245Nm (181 lb-ft) and a mighty 3.5 liter V6 with 280PS (206 kW) and 336Nm (248 lb-ft). All are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission as the FWD is standard and AWD is available as an option.

The safety is at very high level. The 2013 Sorento comes with driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, first and second row side curtain airbags and front active headrests, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC).

2013 Kia Sorento is covered by comprehensive warranty program11, which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value.

Included in this program are a 10-year/100 000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60 000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100 000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60 000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.

Source: Kia

March 14, 2012

Hartge BMW 1-Series M Coupe

Hartge has announced their tuning program for the astonishing BMW 1-Series M Coupe – E82 model. The sports car comes with stayling and performance package.

The 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline-six cylinder petrol engine is boosted to 401PS (295 kW) and 530Nm (391 lb-ft), which is an increase of 61PS and 30Nm of torque. These results are thanks to an ECU re-map and new stainless steel sport exhaust system. 0-100 km/h is not mentioned, but 0 to 200 km/h is in 11.34 seconds, which is ful 2.18 seconds faster than the normal version of 1-Series M.

The exterior upgrades include a new black paint, a set of lowering sport springs, which drop the ride with 30 mm closer to the ground improving not only stance, but the handling of the car. There is also a nice boot lip spoiler, a roof-mounted spoiler and enormous Hartge wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires. The interior boasts a set of aluminium pedals and HARTGE floor mats in black velour.

Source: Hartge

March 14, 2012

2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is ready to hit the market. The vehicle is put on tough, practical testing, which focuses on the key customer requirements of safety, economy and comfort.

Some of the innovations include a 7-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. So, the new Sprinter is the first van in the world to be available with it. The fuel consumption is reduced even further by the BlueEFFICIENCY package and a higher axle ratio. Other very important technology is the standard fitted ESP – stability control program.

Like all new components of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, these new features have to demonstrate their ability to withstand extreme testing in unforgiving conditions near the Arctic Circle.
The testing program includes starting and running at minus 30 degrees Celsius and even lower. Everything is tested, from the cold-start of the engine equipped with the BlueEFFICIENCY package through the new 7-speed automatic gearbox and other control systems. Their sensors have to be tuned with absolute precision to ensure that the systems are always ready to intervene with corrective measures – regardless of how hostile the operating conditions may be.

The fuel consumption is one of the most important features for the working vehicles. So the new Sprinter can be equipped with BlueEFFICIENCY package, which cuts it with 0.5 liters per 100 km. It comprises of the ECO start/stop function, tyres with reduced rolling resistance, the ECO power steering pump, alternator management and an electrically controlled fuel pump. The result is excellent – 7.4 liters per 100 km.

Stay tuned for full specs and prices.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 14, 2012

2012 Dacia Lodgy – Price €9900

Dacia Lodgy is priced from just €9 900 in France. The family MPV can be equipped with up to seven seats and combines a high standard of comfort with a roomy cabin and a spacious boot.

The engine range includes: a 1.6 liter MPI with 85PS, a 1.5 liter dCi with 90PS and with 110PS. The new 1.2 liter TCe will be available later this year. It will develop 115PS and return very good mileage.

The impression of quality exuded by Dacia Lodgy’s occupant-friendly cabin is optimised by a long list of features:

a new dashboard design incorporating a new centre fascia-mounted radio and multimedia MEDIA NAV system with seven-inch (18cm) wide-screen display,

new status-enhancing upholsteries,

chrome trim details: air vent surrounds (depending on version), centre console surround, door handles, gear lever knob insert, logo surround, plus gloss black details for centre fascia and steering wheel (depending on version),

driver-friendly controls: door-mounted front/rear electric window controls, door mirror adjustment control on the left-hand side of the dashboard and heater/climate controls towards the top of the centre console,

a practical, safe and driver-friendly high-up driving position.

Check out the specs and prices below.

Dimensions
Length	4,498mm
Overall height (without roof bars):	1,682mm (five seats) / 1,679mm (seven seats)
Width	1,751mm
Wheelbase	2,810mm
Front/rear overhang	822mm / 866mm
Front/rear track	1,492mm / 1,478mm
Front/second row/third row elbow room	1,408mm / 1,466mm / 1,370mm
Second row/third row knee room	177mm / 144mm
Boot volume with seven seats/five seats/two seats in place	207dm3 / 827dm3 / 2 617dm3
Load sill height	605mm
Maximum load length	1,230mm to 1,500mm
Prices	Lodgy	Ambiance	Lauréate	Prestige
1.6 MPI 85	€9 900	€10 900
1.5 dCi 90		€13 900	€14 900	€15 900
1.5 dCi 110		€14 500	€15 500	€16 500

Options list:

• Seven seats: €490
• Metallic paint: €460
• ESC: €300
• Spare wheel: €120
• MEDIA NAV (standard for Prestige versions): €430
• Rear parking sensors (standard for Prestige versions): €200
• Dacia Plug & Radio (Ambiance and Lauréate versions): €200
• Manual climate control (Ambiance version): €900
• Electric rear windows (Lauréate version): €150

Source: Dacia

March 14, 2012

2012 CFC Volkswagen GTI LeitGolf

This Volkswagen GTI Golf has been optimized by the company CFC Styling Station Neuss and now carries proudly the name LeitGolf. In it the tuner has applied their craftsmanship and had the aim to show the direct connection between the car and the street through the means of wheel and tyre combination. To accomplish this goal they have even equipped the car with two variations of different wheel designs – pink ASA GT1 8,5×19 inch wheels on the one side and red ASA GT3 wheels identical in size on the other side. Both were provided with Hankook EvoS1 225/35R19 tyres. At the front, one can see the Eibach spacers, while at the rear – the 5–mm H&R wheel disks. Furthermore, there has been also added APX AP coilovers, which in combination with H&R set of stabilizers, provide support for better dynamics. In addition, the car is supplied with the Kerscher carbon-lip and a 2,5 cm wide front fender. The new design of the car body is taken from the Golf VI’s R-variant, where side sills, rear diffuser, mirror caps and engine cover triumph as carbon-parts in Black-Gold-Design. Next, MR Car Design supplied the vehicle with down-pipe to the turbo exhaust system. The latter is equipped with a black end pipe as in R-Design. More importantly, this engine can develop 270 hp (199 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Additionally, the car features unique braking system with TÜV certificate, aluminum 4-piston brake calipers, carbon-steel two-piece grooved brake discs and also an ultra light floating aluminum hub. A car racing feel while driving, is delivered thank to the high-performance brake pads.

The car is covered with matt gray foiling and also has fender’s matt Sticker Bombing and parts for black and white spoiler. The top of the car is painted in High Gloss Carbon Black (, while the fog-lights are in Pink Tint Lights. A significant contrast is made by the anthracitic colored tinted glass sets. Another highlight that has to be made is the unique audio systems featured in this project: the Hi-Fi Device, which is delivered by MK SoundStyle, while the radio set is supplied by Pioneer, the amplifiers are by Mosconi and the dynamics by Rainbow. The car tuning costs 12 900 Euro, additional 10 000 Euro go for the HiFi.

Source: CFC Styling Station Neuss

March 14, 2012

2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.6 JTDm – 48 x £299

Alfa Romeo has launched a superb offer for the new 2012 Giulietta 1.6 JTDm Lusso. It is available until 31 March and includes a £1500 deposit contribution from Alfa Romeo UK, and 3 years complimentary servicing, with just £299 deposit and 47 x £299 monthly repayments.

At the end of the contract, the customer have a choice of either part exchanging, handing the car back, or if they wish to own the vehicle, an optional final payment would be required.

The buyer also benefit from an exclusive after-sales support package:

3 years complimentary servicing**
3 years unlimited mileage warranty
3 years AA roadside assistance
3 years paintwork warranty
8 year anti-perforation warranty

The standard equipment of Alfa Giulietta Lusso includes D.N.A selectable drive mode system, rear parking sensors, visibility pack, cruise control, dual zone automatic climate control, and exclusive Blue&Me™ hands free technology including USB & Aux –in.

The highly efficient 1.6 liter JTDm diesel returns an impressive 64.2 mpg on combined cycle and produces just 114 g/km CO2. It develops 105PS (77 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque.

So, if you like Alfa Rome be hurry and arrange a test drive of the Giulietta 1.6 JTDm 105 bhp Lusso. The offer is available throughout March.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 14, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rinspeed Dock+Go Mobility System

What is “Dock+GO”? Basically it is the innovative mind of the Rinspeed designers coming into manifestation. In fact, it is backpacks on wheels for electric vehicles. This concept vehicle was is a main attraction at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It is specifically this third on-demand axle that is the crucial point of the innovative modular mobility system the Rinspeed has developed. The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary. What is so special about this concept is that any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go”: for example – a two seated smart. In Geneva Rinspeed showcased a rolling “sound pack” equipped with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.

In addition, the vehicle includes a unique “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or a combustion engine. They provide the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. In details, the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. In addition, when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not utilized, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid.

And how about the exterior of this amazing and mindful project? What catches the eye immediately is the silver paint with a finish that resembles sparkling ice crystals. In addition, the car rides on Goodyear low-rolling-resistance tires in size 205/40-17 mounted on 7.5-inch AEZ rims, whose decorative silver covers are attached to red fasteners with rubber bands. On the other hand the interior is as superb as the exterior. It is all in red and black premium upholstery, which in addition includes strong natural thermoregulation, good insulation and a high capacity for absorbing moisture. Furthermore, the transparent roof and its distinctive grass inlays – as well as a number of other interior materials contribute to the comfort f the vehicle. The view ahead is dominated by a 12.1-inch monitor. It belongs to the multimedia equipment and is part of the intelligent infotainment system developed from Harman. Of course, the platform features the latest integration technologies. The steering wheel is also wrapped in red and black upholstery. In addition, in the concept vehicle are included a recently newly developed high-strength, lightweight door frames. No compromises were made regarding the handling. There is also no need to recharge the car through plugs. Instead the vehicle simply rolls onto an induction field from SEW Eurodrive for non-contact charging.

The project “Dock+Go” is definitely a different concept vehicle. First, the size of the battery and therefore the costs are depend on several factors, drive with high power, or operating range, and the Battery charging strategies. Although it has a small Battery, it has enough power to cover all the daily trips. Secondly, three instead of two axles means six instead of four wheels. No other car includes this. The AEZ engineers’ technical goal was to make the rims as light as possible, in order to set high standards for the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. Third, it is fascinating adaptable vehicle with improved range size. It also offers technical solution for the functioning of interfaces accounts not only for coupling the e-vehicle’s mechanical and electrical equipment by means of energy, space and accessory ‘Packs’, but also connecting to existing infrastructure. Furthermore, a number of innovative business models have been developed for “Dock+Go”. Hence, this concept has the unique potential to significantly reduce existing e-vehicle drawbacks in terms of range and space. In fact, what is more important is that Rinspeed’s “Dock+Go” approach relies on an existing product line – like the Smart for instance – and establishes the best conditions for profitable production in the shortest possible time. This delivers the opportunity to literally “add” the project to any present EV.

Source: Rinspeed

March 14, 2012

2012 RENNtech Mercedes-Benz S 65

RENNtech featured 21″ Forged Wheels on the absolutely astonishing Mercedes-Benz S 65 model. The wheels have a brushed finish and in addition are combined with the RENNtech digital lowering module (DLM). Thus the S Class now has even more aggressive stance and sporty look. RENNtech Signature wheels include a single barrel design. They have been manufactured with some unique state-of-the-art processes. As you can see they are elegant and refined thank to the forged design, which includes much tighter tolerances than spun multi-piece wheels. Of course, only highest quality materials were used to ensure that the wheels are superior overall to any 3-piece design. Moreover, this multi-spoke forged wheel offers an ultra lightweight wheel with unmatched strength for the most demanding of performance driven enthusiasts.

	Front Specifications	Rear Specifications
Wheel Size	21″ x 9.0″	21″ x 10.5″
Offset	ET 36	ET 40
Weight	28.0 lbs	29.1 lbs
Lip	1.5″	2.5″
Recommended Tire Size	245/35/21	285/30/21

Source: RENNTech

March 14, 2012

2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6

The all-new 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V6 package is developed with the aim to be one of the most affordable and powerful mid-size sedans. This aim is achieved by the great performance the car delivers and the favorable price it has. The vehicle is powered by a standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. What is more the 3.6-liter Pentastar engine delivers the whole 283 horsepower (208 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft) of torque while. In addition to all this it achieves an EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon (mpg) highway, which in fact is the best-in-class for a V-6-powered mid-size sedan. Furthermore, the vehicle rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels, has rear decklid spoiler, and dual exhaust with bright tips. 2012 Dodge Avenger SE V-6 models also include grat equipment list, which comes as a standard on all Avenger SE models and includes: LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control with traction control and electronic roll mitigation, advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain and front seat-mounted side airbags, laminated front windshield and front-row side glass, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, premium cloth seats, speed control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and speed controls, outside temperature display in gauge cluster, CD with four speakers, 60/40 rear seat with trunk pass through, fold flat front passenger seat and a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2012 Dodge Avenger is the perfect car for customers who are looking a sedan with more style, personality and performance, and in addition to all this – a great value for their dollar. To sum up, the car delivers best in class V-6 Power with fuel efficiency and price of a four-cylinder midsize sedan. The Avenger is available in five trim levels: SE – starting at $18 995 MSRP, the new SE V-6 starting at $21 495 MSRP, SXT, SXT Plus R/T, and eight exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic, Black Clear Coat, Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Copperhead Pearl Coat or Blue Streak Pearl Coat.

Source: Dodge

March 14, 2012

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