Automobiles Review – Page 936 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2012 Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe – Price £27 320

Audi has announced two new TDIe engines, where the “e” means efficiency. The manufacturer will hit the market with A5 Coupe and A5 Sportback powered by 2.0 liter TDIe engine with two outputs – 136PS (100 kW) and 163PS (120 kW). The price is very competitive, too – £27 320 OTR for 2012 Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe with 136PS.

The performance is not too bad and the car is perfect for everyday drive – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 212 km/h (132 mph). The impressive is the fuel consumption – 64.2 mpg according to the official combined cycle test and emission of 117 g/km CO2.

The 163PS is slightly faster to 100 km/h – 8.7 seconds with better top speed 220 km/h (137 mph) and a little more thirsty – 62.8 mpg with 118 g/km CO2.

Last, in the Coupe variant, the 163PS engine accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph) with fuel economy of 64.2 mpg with 115 g/km CO2.

All cars have 6-speed manual gearbox.

In both Sportback and Coupe models all the four-cylinder TDI engines can be combined with a new, highly cost effective SE Technik specification. For just £1 000 on top of the SE model for Sportback and £500 for Coupe, it adds DVD SAT NAV, Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection, the Audi Parking Plus system with front and rear sensors and cruise control.

A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe 136PS

Standard                           £27,320 OTR
SE                                       £29,090 OTR
SE Technik                       £30,090 OTR
S line                                  £31,390 OTR

A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe 163PS

Standard                           £27,825 OTR
SE                                       £29,595 OTR
SE Technik                       £30,595 OTR
S line                                  £31,895 OTR

A5 Coupe 2.0 TDIe 163PS

Standard                           £28,775 OTR
SE                                       £30,545 OTR
SE Technik                       £31,045 OTR

Source: Audi

February 2, 2012

Audi GT R8 Spyder Price – $210,000

The Audi R8 GT Spyder is the definition of the word “exclusive”. One will be surprised to find that there are only 333 of these hand-built masterpieces around the world (only 50 in the US). And much like the R8 GT Coupe, the Spyders also have a number system on the gearstick to tell which is which… which sounds ridiculous yet it makes us want one even more.

Lightweight components of the GT Spyder serve as the technical distinction of the car. The engine frame is constructed of ultra-light magnesium, and the long cover over the soft-top compartment and the large side panels at the rear are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. That carbon diet has payed off and the GT is now 187.39 lbs lighter than an already efficient and nimble R8. The carbon fiber rear spoiler provides the right amount of downforce to the rear axle while a stiffer suspension gives the GT a more agile feel. The whole car in fact is lower by 10 millimeters compared to the the standard car. Grip is guaranteed as the long-lasting quattro technology is there work its magic on the 19 inch wheels. At the same time, xyz ventilated and cross-drilled rotors provide exceptional stopping power. Aerodynamics get some benefit from the visuals (a rear diffuser and a front splitter).

If we take into account the weight saving and the 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine that gives the GT Spyder 560 horses to play with, we conclude to some very impressive figures: from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 197 mph

The interior is black and can be adorned with stitching in a choice of Titanium Gray or Crimson Red for that extra something. Alcantara can be applied on the seat inserts, flat-bottom sport steering wheel, hand brake cover and windshield frame.

Here are the listed highlights that give the GT Spyder a high degree of exclusivity:

R8 GT Spyder Standard Features Highlights:

5.2L 10-cylinder, gasoline engine, aluminum block
quattro® all-wheel-drive
Exterior mirrors: power adjustable, heated Front Airbags: Driver and passenger full-size dual-stage front airbags and knee airbags
Side airbags: Driver and passenger seat mounted head and thorax airbags
Front disc brakes: 8-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
Rear disc brakes: 4-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
LED headlights and daytime running lights
Sport seats, heated, 10-way power with 4-way power lumbar
Audi navigation system plus, 6-disc CD changer, Sirius Satellite Radio, Aux-in jack with 7 speakers and 5-channel amplifier with a total
output of 140 Watts
Preparation for mobile phone (Bluetooth®) with seatbelt microphone

R8 GT Specific Standard Features Highlights:
19″ R8 GT wheels with summer performance tires
R tronic ®, 6-speed sequential gearbox with shift-by-wire technology and sports mode
R8 GT specific sport suspension system
R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte exterior mirrors
R8 GT specific LED tail lights
R8 GT specific aluminum door sill inserts
R8 GT specific steering wheel
R8 GT specific sport seats in Alcantara and leather
R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte interior inlays (monoposto and interior door handles)
R8 GT specific numbered aluminum gear knob
Windshield frame in Alcantara

Optional Equipment Highlights:
Audi navigation system plus with Audi music interface w/ iPod® cable (replaces 6-disc CD changer)
Audi Carbon Ceramic Brakes
Bang & Olufsen Sound System (12 speakers 495 watt)
Titanium Finish 19″ 5-arm-double-spoke-design aluminum alloy wheels with summer performance tires
Forged Aluminum 19″ 5-twin-spoke-Y-design in matte silver look with summer performance tires
Carbon fiber matte door and center console panels
Windscreen Frame in Fine Nappa Leather (interior)

The 2012 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the limited-edition R8 GT Spyder is as follows: MSRP $210,000 (excludes $1,200 Destination and Delivery and Taxes). Deliveries will begin in February.

Source: Audi

February 2, 2012

Fiat 500L Premiere

Big news! No really, the Fiat 500L (L for “Large”) will be making a debut on the 82^nd Geneva Motor Show and today we have the first official images of it. Supposedly it will be targeted at people who want an SUV with MPV passenger space in a B car segment of restrained dimensions and efficiency (picky). The 500L, which complements the 500 Abarth and Cabrio versions, is Fiat‘s best shot at that.

Dimensions stand at 414 cm of length, 178 cm of width and 166 cm of height while inside the single-volume cabin offers seating for five. It is a further development of the concept of ‘cab forward’ introduced by Fiat with the 600 Multipla, a precursor to the concept of the compact people carrier.

The 500L wont hit the European showrooms until the last quarter of 2012 with three engine choices: the TwinAir (2011 international engine of the year), a 1.4 unit and a turbo diesel, 1.3 Multijet II. Although the MPV/SUV/Estate Fiats 500 will hold the latest of Fiat Group’s technology, production will be based in a Fiat factory in Kragujevac, Serbia.

Source: Fiat

February 2, 2012

VW Super Bowl “The Dog Strikes Back” Spot

Volkswagen of America Inc. have revealed their third consecutive ad campaign project for the Super Bowl. On their YouTube channel we can watch a 0:75 extended commercial that is due to air on Game Day in a 0:60 second form.

“This is a perfect opportunity for Volkswagen to celebrate with the fans that have made 2011 such a record-setting year for the company,” said Tim Mahoney, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “This year’s commercial will build on Volkswagen’s ability to tell human stories simply while continuing to build on the brand’s momentum in the year ahead.”

All formalities aside, VW seem reluctant to drop the Star Wars theme despite the fact that the one now, seemingly has nothing to do with drones and Darth Vader. If you remember last year’s commercial, “The Force” spot, features a young Darth Vader who seems determined to make something work with “the Force”. Needless to say that with a little help of the father in the house, the youngster manages to fire up a VW Passat. The commercial went on to become a viral hit with almost 7 million views on YouTube.

This year, VW released a teaser with an ensemble of dogs that bark out the “Imperial March” and now we have a fully revealed commercial. It features an obese dog which for some reason is unable to get out of the house (supposedly opening the door is not an option). After realizing that there is a good chance of having the opportunity to run along a VW Beetle just for the fun of it, the dog goes on a strict diet and engages in an intense workout. Then there is the Star Wars intermission – the commercial is being watched in the iconic Cantina introduced in Star Wars Episode IV where a rather grown up Darth Vader makes a cameo. We also have that loopy tune from the alien jazz band stuck in our head now.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-9EYFJ4Clo

Source: Volkswagen

February 2, 2012

Infiniti Concept Name Revealed

On the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, The Japanese performance/luxury car producer, Infiniti will introduce an advanced sports car concept. Up to this day not much has been heard about it but facts are now starting to emerge as the concept will be called… EMERG-E, an electric car. For Infiniti, having a range-extender drivetrain among their products will be a first. Despite of that, the company promises vivid performance and naturally, zero emissions

The reveal will take place on March 6 at the Infiniti stand, number 1030 in Hall 1, at 10:15CET. For those who wont have the privilege to walk around among the many, many exotic cars at that day in Geneva, Infiniti will provide a live stream on www.infiniti.eu

Here are some of the teasers we have seen so far:

Source: Infiniti

February 2, 2012

2012 Toyota Camry Price – $21 955

2012 Toyota Camry has been already available in the US dealerships. The price starts at just $21 955.

The new Camry features restyled front with sharp line and new headlights. Furthermore, the SE model boasts a complete aerodynamics package as well as a three-spoke sports steering wheel with paddle shifters and metallic trim.

The interior is also revised. It features new dashboard and seats. There are also Bluetooth/USB connectivity and a 6.1” Entune Infotainment system. As options you can specify for a GPS SAT NAV, a JBL premium audio system and a back-up camera.

The engine range includes a 2.5 liter four-cylinder with 180PS (133 kW) and 230Nm (170 lb-ft). It returns up to 35 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city. The more powerful 3.5 liter V6 has 272PS (200 kW) and 336Nm (248 lb-ft). Still, it returns 30 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city.

Last is the hybrid model with a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine delivering 158 PS (116 kw) and a 143PS (105 kW) electric motor. The fuel consumption is very good – 39 mpg in city and 43 mpg on the highway. From 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.

You can also check the latest commercial of 2012 Camry below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8XmdQjJ7BM

Source: Toyota

February 2, 2012

2012 Peugeot Expert

Peugeot has announced the new 2012 Expert. It boasts new style codes, new equipment and a Euro 5 engine range which makes it a front-runner on its segment (PC and LUV) when it comes to CO2 emissions.

It is available in two different models – a compact LUV van and a PC combi (Tepee). Other highlights include a restyled new front, original high-tech equipment for the segment, a 6-speed automatic transmission on the 2.0 litre HDi 163PS engine and particularly well equipped ‘Shuttle’ versions.

The engine range includes a 1.6 liter HDi FAP with 90PS (66 kW) and a 2.0 liter HDi with 98PS/128PS and 163PS.

The production has already started in France and the first vehicles will hit the European market in spring 2012.

Source: Peugeot

February 2, 2012

Suzuki Kizashi – “Sled” Super Bowl 46 Commercial

2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport was introduced at the 2010 New York International Auto Show. Since then, it is available in two trim levels – GTS and SLS.

The Kizashi Sport is powered by a 2.4 liter in-line four-cylinder petrol with 177PS (130 kW) at 6500RPM and 230Nm (169 lb-ft) at 4000RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending all power to the front wheels.

Mentioning the wheels, they are 18” both front and back fitted with 235/45 R18 tires. The total weight of the car is just 1495 kg meaning 8.4 kg/PS.

The performance is at decent level – 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (133 mph). Furthermore, the Kizashi Sport needs just 7.9 liters per 100 km (29 mpg) on combined cycle with emission of 183 g/km CO2.

Check out the commercial below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ta7OP5kwcc0

Source: LaFontaineImports via Youtube

February 2, 2012

Oxigin Carmani 6 Impact

The 2012 tuning season can begin with more color, thank the colorful light alloy wheels and rims, made by Oxigin.

Carmani 6 Impact is now offering bright and colourful variations feturing: green polish, blue polish, orange polish, gold polish, red polish and pink polish.hese are the additional colours to the in addition to the familiar finishes in black polish, and kristal silver. Therefore now every individual taste can be matched. To be more precise the aluminium rims get their colour finishes thank to a special and high-quality colour coating. In addition to the new colour variations, Carmani Light Alloy Wheels is also expanding the portfolio of sizes for the 6 Impact, now available in the following sizes: 6.5 x 15 inch, 7 x 16 inch, 7.5 x 17 inch, 8 x 18 inch, 8.5 x 19 inch.

2012 Ford Focus with Oxigin Carmani 6 Impact Wheels and Rims

Source: Oxigin

February 2, 2012

2012 Ford Focus with 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine

The Ford Focus with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine production is already being launched. The highlight here is that this model is Ford’s most fuel efficient petrol-powered vehicle. In details, the Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost 100PS (74 kW) has the unique fuel economy of 4.8l/100km (58.9mpg); and more importantly the CO2 emissions it releases are 109g/km. In addition there is also a turbocharged direct injection engine available for the Focus in a 125PS (92 kW) version that has in turn 5l/100km (56.5mpg) with CO2 of 114g/km.

The Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost achieves diesel engine standards of performance thanks to the engine torque of 170Nm between (125 lb-ft) 1,400rpm and 4,500rpm. The new 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is produced at Ford’s engine plant in Cologne, Germany. More importantly, Ford invested €134 million ($200 million) in the development of this special high-tech line at the Cologne Engine Plant to build the engine.

This engine is a true example of the demands of the market for improved internal combustion engine, which delivers low consumption and has low Co2 emissions. For the development of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, Ford gathered experts from Europe, including engineers at

Ford’s European Research and Advanced Engineering Centre in Aachen, Germany, and the Dunton Technical Centre, UK.

Production of Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine

Source: Ford

February 2, 2012

2012 Citroen Berlingo Multispace and Citroen Dispatch Combi

Citroen Berlingo Multispace and Citroen Dispatch Combi have just received new styling and equipment upgrades. They are now even more aesthetically and economically attractive.

Let’s start with the new upgrades which the new Berlingo Multispace has received. It now receives wider, more defined grille, a new chevron badge and a new headlight arrangement. The indicators are to the side of the main light units and are underlined by blue segments. The lower part of the grille can be fitted with static cornering lights integrated with the fog lights and LEDs. In addition the side mirrors have been aerodynamically upgraded. New ‘Airflow’ wheel embellishers are also available to help improve fuel and CO₂ efficiency. Inside the cabin, colours and materials have been revised on all levels of trim. Moreover, the new refreshed Berlingo Multispace is going to be available with two new body colours, Nocciola and Belle Ile Blue. Additionally to all those interior and exterior changes, this model now can be specified with up to seven independent seats. These wide interior dimensions can be fitted with the Modutop®, which combines a glazed roof with multiple stowage compartments, a dual access boot, individually controlled ventilation and additional lighting for passengers in the rear. The Modutop® integrated boot is easily accessible, with a rear window that can be opened from the outside for easy loading. Furthermore, the vehicle is now available with a range of efficient engines and gearbox options, such as: Citroen’s e-HDi micro-hybrid powertrain with Stop & Start and a six-speed automated manual gearbox – e-HDi 90 Airdream EGS6 versions deliver CO₂ emissions of just 125g/km. On five-seat versions, the HDi 75 and HDi 90 models now has lower emissions – only 135g/km. This is thanks to the aerodynamic upgrades. On the other hand the HDi 110 engine is upgraded to HDi 115, providing extra performance.

Secondly, there is the Citroen Dispatch Combi, which has received some upgrades as well. It is one of the largest passenger vehicles in the Citroen range: it has space for nine passaangers and more importantly it offers great levels of comfort. The updates on the vehicle new front end with a wide chromed grille including the brand’s updated chevron design, new body colour (Hickory Brown), Grip Control (with the driver choosing one of four modes – normal, all-terrain, snow or sand); an optional tyre pressure monitor is also introduced. In addition the new Dispatch Combi also becomes available with a new six-speed automatic gearbox, which is mated to the HDi 160 engine. On the other hand six-speed manual gearboxes are also available with the HDi 95, HDi 125 and HDi 160 engines. And for a comfortable and convenient driving experience all versions feature a dashboard-mounted gear selector. The highlight here is that special efforts have been made in order to reduce model’s CO₂ emissions. For example there have been added aerodynamic panels underneath the body and a ‘volt control’ function to optimise battery charge management by the alternator.

Source: Citroen

February 2, 2012

Volvo S60 and Volvo V60 with five star safety ratings at EURO-NCAP and US-NCAP [VIDEO]

Volvo Car Corporation achieved great success in the safety ratings with full star results on both sides of the Atlantic. First, the Volvo V60 received five stars and is named now the best car in the Large Family category in the 2011 Euro-NCAP rating. On the other side of the Atlantic, in the U.S., Volvo S60 achieved an overall five star NHTSA crash test rating as well. Obviously Volvo is keeping their promise to the customers, by offering them the safest cars on the market. This is now confirmed by several independent evaluations on different continents! But the exciting news about the V60 model doesn’t end here – it was also rewarded for the low-speed collision avoidance system City Safety. In addition to this, the model S60 was rewarded in the U.S. with an overall five stars in the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). No other car has received the whole 5-Star Safety Rating from the US-NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) in each of the three crash tests (frontal, side pole and side barrier), and in addition it also received a five-star rollover rating. The S60 is currently the only European luxury car in the U.S. that has these top NHTSA ratings, an IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick, and is available with all of the active safety technologies recommended by NHTSA.

httpv://youtu.be/Cz2yFt5U3Sk

httpv://youtu.be/2LrLyd_YP8w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Volvo

February 2, 2012

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