Maserati plan to make a premiere of their new GranTurismo Sport at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show this year. It will be a replacement for the current GranTurismo S. The thing is, the company wants us to think it’s new but what we actually have here is a restyled interior, a new bumper and a revisited engine.
Supposedly the new front bumper “optimizes” airflow even further by scooping larger amounts of air to cool the brakes and engine. The front lights employ a new style and house DRL LED lights to keep up with the competition while the taillights are a but faded. Interior changes have also been made – redesigned seats and a sporty steering wheel. We just hope that by sporty they mean less buttons and controls and more.. well.. steering wheel.
Most probably the most meaningful update is that of the 4.7l V8 which now develops 10 more (460 bhp) horsepower. It’s not groundbreaking but one can never have enough, right?
Maserati GranTurismo SportMaserati GranTurismo Sport
The Spanish company GTA Motor hasn’t got much street cars to offer. Yet, it will again take part in the 82nd edition of the Geneva Motor Show with the GTA Spano. This time, they say that the car is production ready and will be availble to customers late this year.
Only 99 models will be produced so expect highest levels of exclusivity. It will have its own V10 8.3 liter engine which develops the claimed 820 hp and 980 Nm of torque. A time for 0 to 100 km/h sprints – 2.9, Top speed – 350 km/h or so they say. The chassis is a carbon fiber/titanium/Kevlar mix which sounds really light … and expensive as well.
And if the engine is not a party piece enough, there’s also an innovative panoramic roof with integrated lighting and an opaqueness system. All very interesting stuff. Excited about the show now?
Alfa Romeo might not have much cars to show on the 2012 Geneva Auto Show (they have only two production vehicles at the moment) but they are betting on technology and choice. There will be four Giulietta models and three Mitto cars taking the stand. Some of them will feature the Fiat group 0.9 TwinAir Turbo “International engine of the year 2011”, many will be coupled with the Alfa TCT (double clutched transmission) and will also feature Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde trim levels.
Alfa Giulietta
Thanks to the TCT feature, a 1.4 TB MultiAir 170 HP Giulietta has the best efficiency-performance ratio in its category. It is basically a twin clutch automatic gearbox setup which allows downshifting or upshifting with either a gear lever or paddles behind the wheel. On top of that, one can further optimize the Giulietta’s road manners with Alfa’s DNA dynamic selector – a master switch of all the systems in the car. Have it on Dynamic and get ready to cut some apexes with vigor. Normal mode on the other hand provides you with an everyday driving set up and All-weather mode is for rainy or snowy surfaces with poor grip. Despite being capable of reaching 100km/h in 7.7 seconds, the Giulietta TCT MultiAir returns 5.2 l/100km in the combined cycle and emits 121 g/km of CO2
Props also go to another Giulietta TCT which harbors a 170 HP 2.0 JTDM diesel engine. It does the 100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds but offers even more economy – 4.5 l/100 km and 119 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. To prove highlight the role of the TCT in these figures, Alfa say that the same car with a manual does 4.7 l/100 km and 125 g/km.
A somewhat less powerful 120 HP Giulietta Distinctive 1.4 Turbo will also be present to restore equilibrium after the fury that will be the fourth Giulietta – 235 HP 1750 TBi Quadrifoglio Verde. That flagship trooper can shred its own tires with 340 Nm of torque as early as 1,900 rpm.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta (QV)
Alfa Mitto
The Mitto niche will be represented by three member – the 0.9 TwinAir Turbo that has only two cylinders yet delivers a maximum of 85 HP at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 145 Nm at 2,000 rpm. Basically this drivetrain, thanks to its cleverness, is capable of producing more torque and be cleaner and less thirstier than any other engine rated with that same power. This little bumble bee also comes with the Alfa DNA system and a Stop & Start function which helps with the urban frugality.
The not-so-conscious about fuel economy can find paradise somewhere else. Why not start with the Mitto Quadrifoglio Verde with Alfa Active Suspension? It is all very complicated underneath – The suspension interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain more effective control of the dynamics of the vehicle or in other words it is a damn good fun this car. Only Alfas capable putting a smile on one’s face go under the Quadrifoglio Verde name. Noticeable differences from a stock model hide in and out. For example the rear-view mirror covers, the headlight and light cluster frames and the handles come with an exclusive satinised chrome material; a new sporty seat with a central part made of Alcantara. Things on the options list include 18” alloy wheels and sporty Sabelt seats with carbon fiber woven backrests.
Under the hood, a 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo works its magic while we need to remember that this is the light and nimble Mitto we are talking about – 6.7 kg per a single horsepower, 0 to 100 km/h is done in just over 7 seconds.
Last but not least, there will be a Mitto fitted with the same TCT equipment that comes with the Giulietta models. The engine is still 1.4 but with reduced power output and a Stop & Start system – a well rounded mid-range car with some extraordinary technology inside.
Lancia will be bringing a touch of luxury and elegance to the 82nd Geneva Motor Show with six vehicles at their booth. It is a sort of a reincarnation for the company as it has had a glorious history, then a bit of a decline and now it’s back. Highlights deserve the B segment Ypsilon, the flagship Thema, the Voyager MPV and the not yet released Flavia Cabrio.
Lancia Flavia Cabrio
Yes, the Geneva Show will be a debut for the production version of the Flavia Cabrio – For now the setup destined for this convertible is a 175 HP 2.4 l unit mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It will be generously equipped with an electronic stability control system, traction control, ABS (naturally), climate control and much much more in the sole trim package offered, baring the name “all inclusive”. At the show, the Flavia Cabrio segment will be represented by two models: one distinguished by a sophisticated Bright White body with interiors in two-tone black/white fine leather and the other characterized by an exterior Mineral Grey paint with black leather interiors.
Lancia Flavia Cabrio (2012)
Lancia Thema AWD
The Thema AWD is basically a Chrysler 300C underneath but is that a bat thing? It has a clever four-wheel drive system and is driven by an aluminum, 286 HP Pentastar V6 3.6 engine. Throw in an 8-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF and you have yourself a perfectly good executive saloon. What image does the Thema radiate? That is pretty much up to the buyer – the car can be customized with several exclusive products, among which are the 18” and 20” rims and three grilles having different colors and treatments.
Lancia Thema AWD (2012)
Lancia Ypsilon
A refreshed 2012 Ypsilon will also be present there – we are talking about new equipment and styling enhancements. The now 5th Ypsilon meets the “Blue&Me–TomTomLIVE” and “Smart fuel” system”. Furthermore it has Magic Parking, a 500 W 360° Hi-Fi Music system, Xenon headlights and LED taillights.
As a car and not a Playstation, the Ypsilon will also feature a range of drivetrains which come with TwinAir technology or MultiJet II and Start & Stop. All very green stuff really.
The Ypsilon presentation will also foresee the arriving of the Black&Red trim level in all European markets. Again, we have a wide range of drivetrains – a 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, a 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir and a 95 HP 1.3 Multijet II turbodiesel engine. The Black&Red is targeted to the younger generation which will be enchanted by the 360° Hi-Fi Music system, 15″ alloy rims and the tinted windows. Body colors are said to be four but they are frankly shades of black and red while inside we have one choice…. black and red.
Lancia Ypsilon
Lancia Voyager
At the show, the Lancia Voyager will get two new trim levels – Silver and Platinum. Two new colors (Cashmere Pearl and True Blue) will also be made available. The Premium one displayed at the boot will boas some Alcantra from the inside and it will harbor a 163 HP 2.8L turbo diesel.
This year, at the 2012 edition of Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep brand will make an European premiere for the Jeep Grand CherokeeConcept. The vehicle combines exceptional exterior design and sporty appearance combined with the efficiency of the 3.0-litre V-6 CRD engine with Multijet II. Another car to be showcased to the public in Geneva is the new concept version of Jeep Compass model. Another debut, this time only for the European market, will make the new Jeep Wrangler Mountain, which is the new limited edition model of the iconic Wrangler.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept and the Jeep Compass Concept will show the direction in which the Jeep lineup will evolve in 2012. The first one, the Grand Cherokee Concept offers a unique and aggressive flair with exclusive styling cues. Furthermore, it carries an innovative efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with Multijet II technology and delivers 241 hp of power and 550 Nm of torque (190 hp and 440 Nm of torque with the available low-output version of the 3.0-litre). The new sports concept has unique exterior with distinctive design and a lot of Black accents. This streamlined appearance is achieved thanks to the introduction of new roof molding covers that replace the roof rack. The vehicle’s grille surround is in gloss black, and mesh grille texture is in Platinum Chrome. The vehicle sits on 20-inch tires that surround one-of-a-kind Black-gloss aluminum wheels. In addition, there are also black chrome dual exhaust tips included. The interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept is improved by a leather-wrapped perforated heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather and suede seats. To go further into details, the vehicle is powered by the efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with new-generation, 1.800-bar injectors and Multijet II technology. Thank to it, the car can develop maximum power of 177 kW (241 hp) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm. All this is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). The 3.0-litre CRD powertrain is also offered in a low-output version, with 140 kW (190 hp) of power at 4,000 rpm and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque across 1,600-2,800 rpm. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with the sophisticated Quadra-Trac II® 4×4 system with two-speed transfer case and Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) on both the front and rear axle. This ensures the off-road capability. Ultimate off-road capabilities are accomplished through the assistance of standard Hill Descent Control (for maximum downhill control) and Hill Start Assist (granting a smooth launch on a grade). Furthermore, the equipment for on-board comfort and infotainment offers the latest technology: UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inches touchscreen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port, DVD video and voice activated Bluethooth UConnect Phone, audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®. Next, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept offers a huge array of advanced safety and security features: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM), ABS with off-road calibration, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and 7 airbags (front seat, sidebags, side-curtain front and rear, seat-mounted), Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-path detection.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept
On the second vehicle – Jeep Compass Concept includes unique Black exterior treatment that delivers a different personality to the compact SUV Jeep. This new look on the exterior includes a number of styling cues and functional elements featuring exclusive black-gloss front-end accents, step pad and 18-inch aluminium wheels. Furthermore, the iconic, seven-slot Jeep front grille boasts black-gloss inserts. The roof rails and step pads also received black-gloss treatment. Next, special 18-inch black–gloss aluminium wheels reinforce the look of the vehicle. The interior of the vehicle is equipped with leather seats, which deliver a touch of exclusiveness to the cabin. The four-wheel-drive configuration of the Jeep Compass Concept is matched to a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine. It develops 163 hp (120 kW) of power and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. A system called active Freedom Drive I is designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions as well as slick roads. The Jeep model also includes diverse equipment: 368-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system with 9 speakers, voice-activated Bluetooth UConnect® Phone with UCI interface and UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5” touch screen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port and DVD player. Jeep Compass also includes a lot of safety and security features: advanced multi-stage front airbags, side-curtain front and rear air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist, Brake Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with rough-road detection and the sophisticated Hill Start Assist system.
Jeep Compass Concept
The third exclusive premiere which is expected to be seen in Geneva, is the special edition Jeep Wrangler Mountain. This new limited-edition model of the iconic Wrangler pays tribute to outdoor enthusiasts and it is showcased in an all-new Gecko body-color. It is equipped with unique exterior and interior design improved by exclusive styling cues, 17-inch wheels and authentic accessories by Mopar®. The new Mountain edition pays tribute to those who actively practice the outdoors. To be more precise, Jeep Wrangler Mountain is based on the Wrangler Sport model. It will be available with two-and four-door versions. The exterior is absolutely adorable and includes unique Black decal on the hood, front Mineral Gray grille and painted high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch wheels. Additional features are the ‘Mountain’ decal over part of the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates side steps and black fuel-filler door from Mopar. The interior is as exclusive as the exterior: it features fabric seats with Slate Grey stitching and embroidered ‘Mountain logo’. Mopar treatment in the cabin consists of tread-pattern slush mats. Additional exterior colors to the all-new Gecko are also available: Black, Bright White, Dozer and Black Forrest Green. Further specifications about the vehicle is that it is powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 200 hp (147) at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600-2,600 rpm paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). In addition, the diesel engine can be also equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. More importantly, available on the new special edition model is the new 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine, which delivers 284 horsepower DIN (209 kW) and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque and is matched to the automatic five-speed transaxle with ERS. Furthermore, Jeep Wrangler Mountain includes an enhanced Dana 30 front axle and enhanced Dana 44 rear axle. That which enhances its Jeep off-road capability is the standard Command-Trac® NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. The equipment featured in the car comprises in: leather-wrapped steering-wheel with integrated controls, Dual Top configuration, Uconnect® multimedia infotainment, new Winter & Sound Group package, including front heated seats and 368-watt, 6-speaker Infinity audio system.
Jeep Wrangler Mountain
The Jeep brand aims to offer only styling, functionality, craftsmanship and the highest capability. Every Jeep vehicle delivers an open invitation to all customers, who want to live life to the fullest by offering a feeling of security to handle any journey with confidence.
Volvo will switch to TTA – the Swedish Racing Elite League ahead of 2012 and today the first picture is released of the new racing car.
The new S60 TTA is entirely reworked. It comes with complete aerodynamic package, a new ventilated hood and enormous rear wing. The 18” ultralight wheels are wrapped in race slick tires. There is also a performance brake system.
The race car is powered by a V6 petrol and an electric motor with combined power 426PS (313 kW). The power is put on the road through 6-speed sequential transmission.
“We have had a big pressure on us from many curious Volvo enthusiasts as it is a new championship and a new racing car. That is why we chosen to reveal the car now. Our final team colors are going to be shown later, but this is our S60 in TTA racing specification,” said Alexander Murdzevski, Commercial Director of Volvo Motorsport Sweden.
“We can’t go in to that today. We are negotiating with three drivers, but we have other things that are more time pressing. Polestar and TTA are conducting the final tests at the same time as we are working on the hybrid system, producing the carbon fibre body shells and calibrating the aerodynamics for all cars in our wind tunnel,” said Derek Crabb, Director of Volvo Motorsport.
“Motorsport must be cool, exciting and fair. We must fight our meanest competitors in our best selling models. We must be able to win by doing the best job and it should be easy for importers in the country to change racing car when changing model without the need of a heavy factory programme. We are really looking forward to the TTA – Racing Elite League 2012,” finished Anders Gustafsson, Managing Director of Volvo Cars Sweden.
Length: 470 mm
Width: 1970 mm
Height: 1205 mm
Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Track width: 1660 mm front/1630 mm rear
Suspension: Double wishbone, three-way dampers, etc.
Body: Carbon fibre
Engine: V6 with hybrid system
Drive: RWD
Power: 420 BHP
Gearbox: 6-speed sequential with paddles on steering wheel
Hybrid system: Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)
Rear wing: 1600 mm width/300 mm depth
Brakes: Front: 4-piston calipers, 370 mm ventilated discs
Rear: 4-piston calipers, 360 mm ventilated discs
Rims: 18″ with centre wheel nut
Tyres: Front: 260/660-18 Rear: 280/660-18
Fiat will take part in the 2012 Geneva Motor Show which will take place in less than a month. The brand will present a range of cars, which entirely exude the spirit of “Italian technology and design”. First and foremost, the Motor Show, the new 2012 FIAT 500L will make its world debut. The new 500L is the star of brand. In the name 500L – the L letter stands for ‘Large’. Hence, this large edition of the Fiat 500 will be included in the range of the model. This will expand the 500 lineup will offer customers new experiences and opportunities. Four models of the new car will be on display to give the viewers a good idea of the potential of the new model that will be introduced in Europe during the end of 2012. In details, the engine range of the 500L consists of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4 litres), and one turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II).
2012 Fiat 500L
Furthermore, additional space is also given to the new innovations of the 500 range. The Fiat 500 America numbered edition will also make its debut in Geneva. This model has only 500 numbered saloon units and 500 numbered convertible units produced. Next, the new Fiat 500 Color Therapy is another interpretation of the 500. Of course it will also be on display. This version interprets and expands on the colorful pop-inspired 500 model by revisiting and celebrating a few of the pastel color combinations that made it famous in Italy and around the world in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Fiat 500 America will be available at dealerships from March this year, while Fiat 500 Color Therapy – from June. At last, at the stand will also be on display a boutique version of the 500 – namely the Fiat 500 Gucci Convertible.
The other star in the show will be2012 Fiat Punto, which is the evolution of a best seller. This is Fiat’s best-selling model, with 8.5 million units sold in Europe. Now it has an updated look and two-cylinder 85 HP (63 kW) TwinAir turbo engine. The model is the perfect balance between eco-friendliness (98 g/km CO2) and driving pleasure (85 HP (63 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm of torque). In addition, it will also show a new specific trim level with a unique look, and exclusive color. On display beside this special version will also be a Punto 2012 that joins highly recognizable elements such as the color, Exotica Red, together with the performance of the 135 HP (99 kW) 1.4 MultiAir Turbo S&S engine.
2012 Fiat Punto
Furthermore, at the Geneva Motorshow spotlights will be turned on the Fiat Freemont AWD (All-Wheel Drive). It has all the characteristic of a SUV, the typical handling of a station wagon, and the room of a 7-seater MPV. The new four-wheel drive version is matched with the 170 HP (125 kW) 2.0 MultiJet 2 and 280 HP (206 kW) 3.6 V6 petrol engines.
Next to be seen in Geneva is the new 2012 Fiat Panda, which is the market’s city car. Two new features of the model that are bound to appeal will make their debut in Geneva: the new 85 HP (63 kW) TwinAir Turbo version with Dualogic gearbox. This is the ideal combination for driving in the city. Last but not least, there will also be presented the “Blue&Me TomTom2 LIVE” device. It combines the advantages of an infotainment system integrated with the car and connected to the network with those of a portable navigation system.
2012 Fiat Panda
The Fiat Bravo Street also makes its debut in Geneva. These new edition series embody the latest trends at accessible price. The Bravo Street comes with the 120 HP (88 kW) 1.4 T-Jet Petrol and 120 HP (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet Ds engines, both with the right balance of performance and savings.
At last in Geneva will be previewed, the new 120 HP (88 kW)Fiat Doblò1.4 T-Jet with the only turbocharged petrol engine of the class.The engine develops maximum power of 120 HP and torque values at the top of the category (206 Nm (151 lb-ft) at 2000 rpm). It features 7-seater cabin, which strengthens the family space positioning of the model.
Honda has presented the new Civic Next Generation Touring Car (NGTC). Both Gordon ‘Flash’ Shedden and triple-BTCC champion Matt Neal will be pushing the car to the limit to make it is as competitive as possible ahead of the season debut on 1 April 2012.
“This is the first opportunity we have had to get behind the wheel to really see what the car has got. The team are really pleased with the results from the test at MIRA last week and I can’t wait to finally start putting the car through its paces. It will be interesting to see how the car performs, but I’m optimistic that we’ll walk away from today confident we have a championship winning car.”, said Matt Neal.
“The feedback on the new Civic NGTC car so far is incredibly promising and I’ve been itching to get into the car since the end of the 2011 season. Like Matt mentioned, this is the first time we have had to really push the car and I’m looking forward to putting it into action.”, Gordon ‘Flash’ Shedden added.
“The team have all been working incredibly hard since the start of the NGTC programme back in August so everybody’s very excited to see the new car on track for the first time. It’ll be interesting from the point of view of both drivers and engineers to see how the car behaves on a track where we were very competitive with the S2000 Civic and we can really start to understand and develop the new car.” Team Manager, Peter Crolla concluded.
The next testing session takes place at Donington Park circuit on Thursday 23 February.
The 2013 Buick Encore Small Luxury Crossover will go on sale in early 2013 in the U.S. Regardless of its size however, in the new Buick designers used every space available to make it visually pleasing and useful way. In details, the new Encore offers eight beverage holders, storage in all four doors, four different bins in the dash, pockets in the seatbacks, an available bin beneath the front passenger seat, and even bins under the rear load floor around the spare tire. Deep pockets have been added to each front door. Moreover, the Encore’s dashboard includes multiple spaces that hide such items behind closed doors. There is a small flip-down compartment to the left of the steering wheel, and at the same time there are larger upper and lower glove boxes. Additional storage space for front passengers features a cubby in front of the gear selector. The latter houses a 12-volt plug and USB jack. There are also included two cupholders. In the back, Encore’s rear doors can hold half-liter bottles, while a fold-down rear armrest offers two cupholders and more storage space.
2013 Buick Encore Small Luxury Crossover
In addition, in the boot there is space for six large grocery bags. If one needs even more space, than there is the possibility of folding or lowering either or both sides of the 60/40 rear seat. Moreover, the front passenger seat folds flat too and this offers the unique possibility of carrying sports equipment like skis or a surfboard. Buick is a modern luxury brand which delivers luxurious interior and exterior with innovative personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance.
2013 Buick Encore Small Luxury Crossover now with more storage space
The luxury crossover 2013 Infiniti JX has just rolled off the production line during a special ceremony today at Nissan’s Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant nearby Decherd, Tennessee. The vehicle has is 7-passenger one and it is the latest addition to the Infiniti Inspired Performance lineup. For those interested, it will go on sale at Infiniti dealerships in the U.S. in March.
This world-class vehicle was built in Middle Tennessee with the expect quality craftsmanship of this inspirational design. Along with the assembly of the new Infiniti JX, the 265-horspower (195 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engines are also assembled in the vicinity. More importantly however, is that the all-new 2013 JX delivers best-in-class fuel economy and has ratings of 21 mpg and 20 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive and intuitive all-wheel drive models respectively. What is more here is that the luxury crossover market is the fastest growing luxury segment in America; and this is where the brand Infinity steps in and takes part in this wonderful opportunity. In addition, the new 2013 Infinity JX Luxury Crossover features the world’s first Backup Collision Intervention system. This is a first-to-market technology which was brought up by Infiniti. In details it sensors in the rear of the JX to detect potential obstacles when backing out of a parking space. The system gives visual and audible warnings if there is any kind of hindrance. Moreover, if the driver doesn’t respond in time, the BCI steps in and automatically applies the brakes thus avoiding a potential impact. Furthermore, the new JX is more appealing than ever. It stands out with styling and craftsmanship. The interior is wider and offers huge legroom in all three rows and ample cargo room behind the third row. Additionally, there is also featured an innovative multi-mode middle seat design, which provides entry to the third row without removing a second row child seat. There are also a lot on innovative technologies featured in the vehicle. For instance, such one is the Infiniti Connection™. This new advanced system automatically synchronizes the owner’s schedule through Google Calendar™ and then provides navigation and guidance to the appointments. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) has been also revealed – it is exactly $40 450 for the JX35 FWD and $41 550 for the JX35 AWD model.
Toyota has announced the price list for the new 2012 Aygo starting from just £8495 for the entry level Aygo 1.0 VVT-i 3-door with 5-speed manual as the price is going up to £10950 for Aygo Fire 1.0 VVT-i 5-door plus AC.
As well as adopting the new “face” of Toyota’s latest generation of small cars, Aygo’s engine has been revised so that emissions drop below the 100g/km threshold, which means no annual road tax and no London congestion charge. At the same time owners can expect even more miles per gallon.
Leading the new range are the special Fire and Ice models: for Fire the focus is on sporty details, while for Ice the theme is comfort and on-board connectivity.
There is only one engine – 1.0-litre VVT-I petrol achieving 65.7 mpg and just 99 g/km of CO2.
Aygo Fire comes equipped with 14” alloys, front foglights and LED daytime running lights, rear privacy glass, leather steering wheel and gear knob trim and a rev counter. Owners can also ramp up the hotter look with a new Burnt Orange paint finish, with matching side protection mouldings and interior trim.
Price list – 2012 Toyota Aygo
Aygo Ice’s specification puts the emphasis on in car comfort, entertainment and connectivity, featuring air conditioning, Alcantara and leather trim, a more powerful four-speaker sound system that is DAB-ready, Bluetooth and a USB port for connecting digital music players.
An Xtraprotected Pack is available to prepare Aygo Fire and Aygo Ice inside and out for the scuffs and scrapes of everyday driving, with rear parking sensors, mud flaps, carpet mats, a rear bumper protection plate and side protection mouldings. For those wanting to add a few extra style flashes, Aygo Ice can be specified with a Style Pack offering rear chrome trim, aluminium scuff plates and a chrome exhaust pipe, or the Style Pack Plus with all of the aforementioned plus 14” alloy wheels.
Air conditioning can be specified as an option on Aygo+ and Aygo Fire, and metallic paint is available for all models apart from the entry level Aygo.
A brave project involving two cars – one iconic and the other a technological masterpiece – has been completed and the results are now exposed to our judgment – Welcome to the WheelsandmoreAMG SLS and the “Toxique Evil” McLaren MP4-12C. Deviations from standardness manifest themselves in engine and exhaust tweaks, custom suspensions, wheels and the lot.
Wheelsandmore McLaren MP4-12C “Toxique Evil”
The McLaren already has a potential nuclear bomb for an engine so why not squeeze it for more juice. So now, the 3.8 liter V8 biturbo has 66 hp more power which makes a total of 666 hp – “diabolical”. That extra boost is achieved trough modifications of the intercooler and the introduction of a Wheelsandmore exhaust system. Despite being handcrafted, that system is complicated and modern with its own remote controlled valves whether for efficiency or just for the fun of it.
A PCC complex electronic hydraulic suspension has the heavy duty to tame that power and lowers the whole car by 25mm. The idea is to minimize body-roll and shed precious seconds off lap times.
Another functioning/styling feature is the complementing set of customized forged wheels with sizes 9.0×20“ and 12,0×21” front and rear respectively. Continental Sport Contact 5P tires are seen as ideal to wrap around the ultralight wheels. Overall a vicious machine worthy of its name.
Wheelsandmore McLaren MP4-12C (2012)
Wheelsandmore Mercedes SLS AMG “Silverstar”
Probably a pun from the legendary Silver Arrow from the 50s. Power in the SLS, already a masterpiece of a car, is amplified by some engine management tweaking and a stainless steel exhaustsystem with remote-able valve flaps. We are talking about a power surge from (420kw) 571 hp / 650 nm up to (467kw) 635 hp / 710 nm.
Custom suspension is paired with a 6Sporz² wheelset consisting of handcrafted, 3-piece forged rims sizing 9,5×20 and 11,0×21 inches and ultra high performance 265/30/20 and 295/25/21 Continental Sport Contact tires.
Maserati plan to make a premiere of their new GranTurismo Sport at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show this year. It will be a replacement for the current GranTurismo S. The thing is, the company wants us to think it’s new but what we actually have here is a restyled interior, a new bumper and a revisited engine.
The Spanish company GTA Motor hasn’t got much street cars to offer. Yet, it will again take part in the 82nd edition of the Geneva Motor Show with the GTA Spano. This time, they say that the car is production ready and will be availble to customers late this year.
Alfa Romeo might not have much cars to show on the 2012 Geneva Auto Show (they have only two production vehicles at the moment) but they are betting on technology and choice. There will be four Giulietta models and three Mitto cars taking the stand. Some of them will feature the Fiat group 0.9 TwinAir Turbo “International engine of the year 2011”, many will be coupled with the Alfa TCT (double clutched transmission) and will also feature Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde trim levels.
Lancia will be bringing a touch of luxury and elegance to the 82nd Geneva Motor Show with six vehicles at their booth. It is a sort of a reincarnation for the company as it has had a glorious history, then a bit of a decline and now it’s back. Highlights deserve the B segment Ypsilon, the flagship Thema, the Voyager MPV and the not yet released Flavia Cabrio.
Volvo will switch to TTA – the Swedish Racing Elite League ahead of 2012 and today the first picture is released of the new racing car.
Honda has presented the new Civic Next Generation Touring Car (NGTC). Both Gordon ‘Flash’ Shedden and triple-BTCC champion Matt Neal will be pushing the car to the limit to make it is as competitive as possible ahead of the season debut on 1 April 2012.
Toyota has announced the price list for the new 2012 Aygo starting from just £8495 for the entry level Aygo 1.0 VVT-i 3-door with 5-speed manual as the price is going up to £10950 for Aygo Fire 1.0 VVT-i 5-door plus AC.
A brave project involving two cars – one iconic and the other a technological masterpiece – has been completed and the results are now exposed to our judgment – Welcome to the Wheelsandmore AMG SLS and the “Toxique Evil” McLaren MP4-12C. Deviations from standardness manifest themselves in engine and exhaust tweaks, custom suspensions, wheels and the lot.
