Automobiles Review – Page 928 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2012 Fiat 500 is “Best Car” according to “Travel + Leisure” Annual Design Awards

The new 2012 Fiat 500 was named “Best Car” in the eighth annual “Travel + Leisure Design Awards”. To be more precise, the 2012 Travel + Leisure Design Awards award new products, buildings and destinations that improve the travel experience through thoughtful design. The jury of the Design Awards appraised 2012 Fiat 500 for its effortless combination of compact practicality with a real sense of style, speed, and fun. In addition, the vehicle will be featured in the March issue of Travel + Leisure. What is more important here is that the 2012 Fiat 500 will be recognized at the Travel + Leisure Design Awards event on 7^th of March at Department in Berlin, Germany.
2012 Fiat 500 offers a unique combination of Italian design, driving fun and efficiency at an unbeatable value. Hence, this makes it the best model to win this particular award. Moreover, Fiat 500 is offered in several special models, such as the open-air Fiat 500 Cabrio, or the exclusive 500 and 500c by Gucci, or the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth. This means that to every customer is offered the unique opportunity to choose the most appealing one to them, and to drive it with excitement and unmatchable driving pleasure.

Source: Fiat

February 16, 2012

Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV launched in Japan

Mazda Motor Corporation has just announced the launch of the all-new Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV in all dealerships in Japan. The CX-5 is going to become a core model in the Mazda lineup. In addition, the all-new CX-5 is the first model to adopt Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It will also include gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis, offering a predictable and refined driving experience combined with great fuel economy. A lot of attention is put on design, dynamic performance, functionality, environmental and safety performance, thus way providing predictable and responsive driving experience.

To go further into details, the all-new CX-5 has a line-up of two new-generation engines. The first one is the model equipped with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine. It meets Japan’s Post New Long-Term Emissions Regulations without an expensive NOx after-treatment device, while at the same time delivering fuel economy of 18.6km/l, and maximum torque of 420Nm (400 lb-ft). The second model, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L one is equipped with the highly-efficient direct injection gasoline engine, and includes Mazda’s 4-2-1 exhaust system. It delivers great fuel economy of 16.0 km/l.

In addition, Mazda CX-5 features the new design theme, which goes under the slogan KODO – SOUL of MOTION. The exterior design features bold styling that simultaneously expresses SUV-like solidity and functionality with finely-honed vitality and dynamism typical of Mazda. Furthermore, it expresses strength and depth adopting Mazda’s signature wing, seen in the new-generation Mazda design. The side view features the prominent front fenders and the sculptured body sides accentuate a sense of power. While the exterior is sporty and bold, the interior is an inviting space that makes one want to drive it the moment one sees it. For the interior, Mazda’s goal was to make an enjoyable space that is comfortable for everyone in the vehicle in any situation. There are featured 40:20:40 split fold-down seat backs and karakuri folding configuration means that even when carrying long objects, two adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats. This functionality is offered as a standard feature for the XD L Package, the XD and the 20S grades. Other standard features include: door pockets with bottle holder to carry a one-liter bottle, and a function to display in the rearview mirror images from the side monitor, and reverse guiding monitor to aid parking. Next, the new Mazda CX-5 utilizes Mazda’s SKYACTIV-BODY light weight, highly rigid body and all model grades come with curtain and front side airbags, Dynamic Stability Control system and Traction Control System as standard safety equipment Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

Source: Mazda

February 16, 2012

New Audi RS 4 Avant

It has been 3 years since the RS4 got off Audi’s production line but today we can indulge ourselves once again in the roar of a V8, shelled by a familiar body – It’s the new Audi RS4. The resurrection kicks off with an Avant version which is here to show it’s rivalries what’s what.

The RS4 is back with a bang as it gets the powertrain usually found in the RS5 Coupe – a hand-built 4.1 liter plant, producing 450 PS at 8,250 rpm and 430 Nm of torque from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm. In true RS tradition, that power goes trough a permanent Quattro AWD system. The ‘permanent’ term however, should not scare you off as the Quattro in the latest RS4 is exceptionally flexible – it incoroprates a self-locking crown-gear centre differential that allows up to 85 percent of the power to go to the rear axle or up to 70 towards the front wheels. By default, one would find that the power bias ratio is 40:60 in favor of the back wheels. So for the people who like to travel sideways everywhere that is a relief.

The whole power thing translates into a time of 4.7 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph sprint and a top speed of 174 mph (limited to 155 mph). Stunning performance, keeping in mind that this estate returns 25.7mpg on the combined cycle.

Compared to the standard A4, the RS4 is 20 mm lower thanks to the truly complex suspension – a five-link set-up at the front and a self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear assembly. We don’t know what all that means but chances are its beneficial. The power steering is clever too. It has a conscious mind that takes into account the current speed of the car to determine the steering firmness.

The car sits on 19-inch (20-inch optional) wheels wrapped in four 265/35-series tires. The 10-spoke design of the wheels are rather revealing and it’s not like the Audi hasn’t got anything to hide. We are talking about internally vented wave disc brakes – an innovation in stopping power as the brakes are around 3 kg lighter (in total weight) and more heat-efficient due to their “wave” outer, perforated contour.

Inside, black is the predominant finish with occasional carbon inlays and chrome clasps lining the switches and buttons. One would also find that the front sports seats are heated and that the driver information system has an RS menu with a lap timer.

There are tons of other optional extras that might be worthwhile ticking – the Dynamic Ride Control ensures even more stability at high speeds and sharp bends and a sports exhaust system for that kid in everyone of us.

Prices for the Audi RS4 are yet to be released and hopefully we’ll see the arrival of a sedan version so that everyone is happy. In the mean time do not hesitate to look around in the RS4 gallery.

Source: Audi

February 16, 2012

Jaguar XK, XKR Special editions

To say that a Jaguar lacks the successful formula of blending luxury with engineering perfection, would be a mistake. However one could say that the XK and XKR can do even better. That is why now we have the XK and XKR Special Edition models (coming in Coupe or Convertible setups). The focus here is mainly the interior with added a hand-crafted ‘Artisan‘ design.

Let’s talk leather – ‘scraffito‘ finished front seats, instrument binnacle, door and rear quarter casings. All the while two new veneer finishes – Shadow Walnut and Dark Figured Aluminum can complement the Poltrona Frau® leather headlinings. As standard, you get a 525W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, 16 by 16 way adjustable heated Performance seats, a heated steering wheel and keyless entry/start. Unique treadplates and stainless steel pedals also give away the editions as special.

While being improved upon from the inside, the XK and XKR remain exceptional engineering achievements. Jaguar has been familiar with the use of aluminium technology and today that know how is seamlessly transferred onto the riveted and bonded aluminium monocoque construction of the two cars. That means they are light, rigid and stable. Every model from the lineup gets as standard a continuously variable adaptive damping for that extra ride comfort.

The XK harbours a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre direct-injection V8 that churns out 385PS while the XKR gets a 510PS power plant thanks to supercharging. With the MY 2013 XKR, a performance package is available for the coupe and convertible editions (previously only the coupe could get it). It’s called the “Dynamic Pack” and it basically raises the top speed to 174mph, includes the addition of side sill extensions, adds a rear diffuser. Also with it the car stance is 10mm lower and the adaptive dynamics, spring and damper rates are revised.

Source: Jaguar

February 16, 2012

Prindiville Design Land Rover Defender

If you want something really exclusive, Prindiville Design might have the solution – the Limited Edition Land Rover Defender. There are only 25 units available worldwide and all have been assembled by hand. Performance has been tweaked by Defender specialists, Alive Tuning.

Prindiville began with a standard Defender 90 Hard Top and, being proficient coachbuilders, completely overhauled the exterior and interior. Enhancements to the suspension, braking system, cooling, and engine on the other hand, have been made by the Lincolnshire-based Alive Tuning company.

Customers decide upon choosing a body color that will best match the Prindiville designed exterior complete with a titanium high performance sports exhaust, chrome side protection runners, LED front and rear headlamps and a ribbed undershield. Also provided are the front and rear parking sensors and cameras. Four 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels harbor Prindiville six-pot callipers and sport discs. For the ultimate road stance and balance some performance springs have been thrown in as well.

Prindiville Defender (2012) — Prindiville Defender Limited Edition (2012)

Inside the Cobra sport seats are wrapped in Italy’s finest hide which can also be found on the steering wheel. The Alcantra driver and passenger carpets, the unique center console storage unit are all coordinated with the overall color of choice. Every single Prindiville Defender has a unique number (naturally up to 25) aluminum plate on the dashboard, commemorating the series in the coachbuilder’s prestigious collection.

Soundproofing the cabin is not only beneficial in reducing engine noise but it also creates an adequate environment to indulge ourselves in the Prindiville provided multimedia systems – a five-inch built-in LCD television interface providing access to wireless Internet, a DVD player, satellite navigation, 360-degree external vision, surround sound from four loudspeakers.

The Limited Edition offers a choice of four different power upgrades, which gradually increase the output of the 2.4-litre TDi powerplant from 122 to 190 bhp. Add to that a dual-range six speed transmission, which can be further upgraded to an automatic or tiptronic gearbox you get an off-roader like no other. Street performance on the other hand is further enhanced with the addition of a high flow intercooler, silicone hoses and a turbocharger. You’ll be going from 0 to 60 mph in just 10 seconds with that package. Yikes!

Source: Prindiville Design

February 16, 2012

2012 Lexus GS 250 SE – Price £32 995

The new 2012 GS range is already available on the UK market. It starts at £32 995 for the entry-level GS 250 SE and goes up to whopping £44 995 for the Luxury model – full hybrid GS 450h.

The engine range includes a 2.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i petrol with 206PS (154 kW) and a 3.5 litre V6 hybrid with overall power 340PS (253 kW).

The standard equipment includes 17” alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps and windscreen wipers, LED daytime running lights and a rear-view camera with parking guide monitor. Cabin comfort is assured with leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and electrically adjustable front seats (10-way, with memory setting for the driver’s seat) with heating and ventilation functions. The steering wheel is electrically adjustable, too, and incorporates paddle shifts. On-board entertainment is provided by a 12-speaker audio system with CD player, DAB tuner, Bluetooth and USB/Aux ports for connecting personal music players.

Both the GS 250 and full hybrid GS 450h are offered in Luxury and F Sport grade. The former builds on the SE specification with the introduction of 18-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and an HDD satellite navigation system with Remote Touch controller. Luxury grade also provides a new blind spot detection system integrated into the folding/auto-dimming door mirrors.

F Sport versions of GS make a bolder style statement thanks to 19” rims, a boot-lip spoiler and sports-styled bumpers and front grille. In addition to the Luxury specification, the F Sport has bi-xenon headlights with an automatic high beam function, as well Lexus’s Adaptive Front-lighting System, which adjusts the beam direction as the car approaches bends and turns at junctions.

The F Sport look carries through to the cabin with sports pedals and perforated leather-trimmed sports steering wheel and gear knob. The front sports seats gain further adjustment functions – 16-way for the driver, plus four-way lumbar support.

The F Sport benefits from Adaptive Variable Suspension and selectable drive modes plus, on the 450h model, the Lexus Dynamic Handling System, which brings together a comprehensive array of steering and handling features, including Dynamic Rear Steering, electric power steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.

At the top of the range, the GS 450h Premier is fitted with 18-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and the same bi-xenon headlamp system as the F Sport models. The F Sport’s adaptive suspension and selectable drive modes are also part of the Premier’s specification.

In the cabin the seats are upholstered in semi-aniline leather, with both front seats benefiting from 18-way electric adjustment and memory settings. The passenger seat offers extra leg support and a rear easy access function.

The sophisticated climate control system is divided three-ways between the front left and right and rear sections of the cabin, and is equipped with an ioniser to help maintain an ideal environment.

The HDD navigation and premium Mark Levinson sound system are linked to a 12.3-inch central display screen, the largest on the market. Other details include automatic boot closing, sunshades for the rear windows (electrically operated for the back window) and a tyre pressure warning system.

Options list include a premium surround system with 12.3” navigation and multimedia screen, a sun roof, LED headlamps and a preventive safety package featuring Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Crash Safety. Metallic or mica paint is an option across the board, while full-map navigation is available for the GS 250 SE.

Nine exterior colours are available for SE, Luxury and Premier versions of the new GS: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey, Meteor Blue, Crimson Red, Atlantic Blue, Celestial Black and, for GS 450h only, Obsidian Black. The F Sport models have a different range of colours: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey and Crimson Red.

In the cabin SE and Luxury models have gloss black dash inserts, with aluminium used for the F Sport; Walnut, Ebony or Bamboo wood trims are used in the GS450h Premier, according to the choice of leather upholstery shade.

There are six leather colours, with a Garnet red exclusive to the F Sport.

Source: Lexus

February 15, 2012

ASMA Design Lamborghini Aventador

ASMA Design has announced their latest project based on the hypercar – Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4.

The superfast car is powered by a 6.5 liter V12 with 700PS (515 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed ISR gearbox specially supplied by Graziano Trasmissioni Group. It shifts in just 50 milliseconds, which guarantees perfect performance.

The kerb weight is just 1575 kg (3 472 lbs), thanks to a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) monocoque structure with total weight of only 147.5 kg.

The tuning company has released a single picture (rendering) of the tuned Aventador, which will come with complete styling package, new paint and enormous wheels.

Stay tuned for more information about this interesting project.

Source: ASMA Design

February 15, 2012

1968 Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter vs Ferrari 599 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed

Dragtimesinfo has released a new video with two interesting drag battles.

The first one is between a mighty 1968 Chevrolet C-10 powered by huge V8 with 10.0 liters of displacement and 850PS (625 kW) and Porsche 911 Turbo Mk.2 tuned by Rinspeed with 530PS (390 kW). The run covers 1 mile and both cars hit speeds of around 250 km/h (155 mph). Which is best? Check out in the video below.

The C-10 takes part in the second run, too, but this time against a powerful Ferrari 599 GTB powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0 liter V12 with Aluminium Head and Block. The power is 611BHP (456 kW) at 7600RPM and 607Nm (448 lb-ft) at 5600RPM. 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h in 11.0 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph).

Enjoy the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dv9rQjEUYxo

Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed vs Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

February 15, 2012

The new modern incarnation of Chevrolet Camaro

There no other muscle car like Detroit muscle one. A modern and brand new incarnation of one of the greatest muscle cars of all time Chevrolet Camaro is going to reach the dealerships in the U.S. and UK. The prices for the Coupe start at £34 995 and for the soft-top Convertible model start at £39 995. In the new Camaro are featured all of the attributes that made the original muscle cars famous. That automatically means – great performance, stunning looks and incredible value for money. An additional model, next to the coupe and the cabriolet, there is also offered a limited one – namely the the 2012 45^th anniversary Camaro. The vehicle is finished in striking Carbon Flash Black with bespoke red and silver anniversary stripes, dark silver 20-inch alloys, a unique 45^th anniversary leather interior with red, white and blue stitching and a one-off white-backed instrument panel. It’s priced at £36 495 for the Coupe or £41 495 for the Convertible. And it will go on sale only for limited time.

All offered models have six-speed manual gearbox. However, they are also available with six-speed automatic transmission. The power of the car comes from its 6.2-litre V8 engine, which delivers the 432PS (317 kW). The new Camaro accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.2 seconds. All Camaros have an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

Source: Chevrolet

February 15, 2012

2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the Most Fuel-Efficient Sedan in the U.S.

The new 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid is expected to be America’s most fuel-efficient non-rechargeable sedan. This success can be traced back to Ford’s electrified vehicle team and the nearly 500 patents Ford now holds for its hybrid technology. Innovations can be found throughout Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or further by giving fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice. Key components such as Ford’s innovative powersplit architecture system are included on vehicles like the new Ford Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid.

In details the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid is expected to deliver 47 mpg city and 44 mpg highway. At the same time, these expectations for the new 2013 Ford Fusion Energi, which arrives this fall in the U.S. dealerships, are more than 100 MPGe. In addition, one patent covers the display system for the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid that shows how efficiently the power of the car is being used. Fusion Energi is projected to achieve a better miles per gallon. In other words the levels of innovation are set very high for the new upcoming models.

Source: Ford

February 15, 2012

2012 Lumma CLR 558 GT Porsche Cayenne

LUMMA DESIGN has recently released one of their latest tunings of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo under the name CLR 558 GT and now is aiming towards the diesel versions. It was improved to the performance power of the 600 hp (441 kW), and in it was mounted a broader CLR 558 GT aerodynamic kit. The exterior of the vehicle is painted in gloss black and is complemented with the CLR 22-inch wheels by LUMMA Design, also in black. LUMMA Design is also made modifications on the chassis, the sound and the interior.

The German tuners are offering now increased performance for this Cayenne Diesel. The tuning group improved the diesel engine with D-Power-Box, which is an additional electronic system and now draws out a whopping 280 hp (206 kW) instead of the standard 245 hp. Hence, the torque increases from 550 to the tremendous 630 Nm (464 lb-ft). As usual, LUMMA Design continues to offer an increased performance for the 4.8-liter V8 turbo gasoline engine by a moderate 100 hp (74 kW) or by considerably more horsepower to 600 hp (441 kW). In addition, LUMMA Design sports muffler guarantees a sportier rear appearance, thank to the highly-visible and centrally-positioned 80- and 100-mm-diameter tailpipes. For vehicles with a tow bar, the tuner will soon offer a 4-pipe exhaust system with left and right 4x100mm tailpipes. Moreover, for gasoline engines, there is provided a complete, stainless steel sport exhaust system.

To go further into details, the LUMMA Design Body Kit CLR 558 GT consists of a front spoiler with fog lights and LED daytime lights in extravagantly-formed air inlets plus racing grill, a rear valance with diffuser optics, powerful front and rear fender extensions, new side skirts and the lettering “CLR 558 GT”. All components are largely made of PUR-RIM in OEM quality. In addition, this body kit can be improved by other supplementing components, such as tailgate spoiler that can be easily adhered to the tailgate. Furthermore, the high-quality, new-styled LUMMA Design sport-look lightweight engine hood is available from carbon/Kevlar composite material as well as from the motor sport material. Next, the headlights of the CLR 558 GT are refined by a set of headlight covers. There is also a set of covers for the rear lights. In addition, the tuners have included four LED’s on the vehicle floor on the left and right sides. They light up when the doors are opened or unlocked and show the passengers the way into the vehicle.

For the complete wheel sets there is a choice of two 22-inch options. The first wheel set includes new 10- or 12×22-inch sports rim LUMMA “CLR 22” in matte black or silver; and the second wheel set, named “Racing 3”, has a single-piece rim featuring a multi-piece look and glossy polished stainless steel outer rim.

Furthermore, LUMMA Design achieves a slightly lower center of gravity and more agile handling. This is due to the installation of an electronic lowering module or lowering springs, depending on which option the Cayenne has.

The interior of the Cayenne is improved by two-tone leather and Alcantara upholstery. There is also featured a wide range of additional accessories. Designed ergonomically and produced with elegant. The bicolor black-red leather interior, combined with Alcantara with contrasting color stitching, captures the attention immediately. The classic red seat belt completes the perfect look. The cockpit includes colored instrument dials in red as well as stainless steel door scuff plates with an illuminated LUMMA logo. The pedals and the foot rest are also transformed with aluminum. There is also included a foot mat made of high quality velour with an embroidered emblem and real leather edging.

2012 Lumma CLR 558 GT Porsche Cayenne Interior

Source: Lumma Design

February 15, 2012

2012 Kia Cee’d to debut at Geneva Motor Show

2012 KIA Cee’d is going to make a major come back at this years Geneva Motor Show. The all new version of the vehicle now has even more elegance and is expecting to achieve great success. It offers a combination of dynamism, sophisticated styling. The all new 2012 Kia Cee’d five-door hatchback is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor. However, it retains the same long wheelbase. The elegant coupe-like proportions are emphasised by a steeply raked A-pillar, a very low belt-line in the front and lengthened side windows. The front part of the exterior represents the latest interpretation of Kia’s trademark – the ‘tiger-nose’ grille and aggressive, wraparound headlamp clusters housing signature LED daytime running lights.

Next, when looked from the side the vehicle impresses with its wide track and solid stance. At the same time the strongly sculpted door surfaces, the steeply raked A-pillar, sweeping roofline and integral rear spoiler emphasize the sporting aesthetics of the cars generous glasshouse. Moreover the entire exterior is improved by numerous small yet highly significant detail touché. They add to the prestige and premium feel of the new Kia Cee’d. In details, they include new sophisticated Kia badge, the indicator blade protrusion in the front headlamps, the Kia-signature windscreen head castellations, the chrome side glazing surround and the cee’d-unique, aerodynamic shaping of the tail lamp which extends into the bodywork.

The interior of course, has been completely remade. It now offers more premium look and feel, higher quality, improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced driving position ergonomics. In particular, the dashboard layout features a cockpit-like design with an aircraft-themed, driver-oriented frontal look. In addition, the main control panel wraps around the steering wheel, placing all switchgear within easy reach of the driver, and the main control groups such as audio and air-conditioning have been segregated to bring a more premium, luxurious, big car feel to the interior.

Soft touch high quality materials were used in the creation of the interior, and they add a new tactility to the driving environment. Instruments and switchgear are picked out in very thin chrome, the door handles are built up in a layered sandwich of high quality materials and the door opener itself has a sculpted, one-piece, shell-like quality.

Source: KIA

February 15, 2012

Blog