Automobiles Review – Page 947 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi [video]

Here is the 90 second verdict of the new 2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi from Autocar.co.uk.

There is two versions of the Zetec S – one with a 1.6 liter EcoBoost and the second, which is shown in the video with a 2.0 liter TDCi diesel power unit. It delivers 161PS (118 kW) at 3750RPM and 340Nm (251 lb-ft) at 3250RPM. From 0 to 62 mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 217 km/h (135 mph).

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and returns a nice 56.5 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 129 g/km of CO2. The curb weight is 1412 kg.

The price for this pleasure is £21 345, which is a lot compared to the petrol variant for only £18 745.

“Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit.”, commented Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director.

Is the new Zetec S diesel any good? Check out the video, below!

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

Source: Autocar.co.uk via Youtube

January 16, 2012

2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel Price – £29 950

Jaguar has released a new less powerful version of the famous 2.2 liter four-cylinder diesel engine in XF range. It is set to be launched aimed at delivering greater value than ever before. The lower input version now costs just £29 950 OTR, which is a great value for money.

The XF 2.2D 163 PS returns 52.3 mpg on combined cycle with emission of just 149 g/km of CO2. Still, the performance does not suffer too much – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph).

The standard equipment includes suedecloth and leather seats, a touch-screen centrally mounted display, electronic climate control and an advanced 8-speed gearbox complete with automatic Stop-Start.

However, we think that the more powerful version of the 2.2D will be more likeable, because of its performance and great economy figure – 57 mpg.

Source: Jaguar

January 16, 2012

2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro UK Price – £43 145 OTR

The lastest generation of Audi Allroad is even better than the previous model. It adds more brawn to complement its highly sophisticated electronic “brain” as the 3rd generation A6 Allroad Quattro.

The new model will hit the UK market next month as the prices start at £43 145 OTR for the entry-level model.

As we stated before, the 2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro is expected to have huge success.

The engine range includes one TFSI petrol engine and two TDI units. All of the has turbocharging and direct injection guaranteeing high efficiency and nice dynamics. Their fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 20 per cent compared with the previous model.

The 3.0 liter TFSI delivers 310PS (228 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 62mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155mph) – electronically limited. Its combined economy figure is an impressive 31.7mpg.
There are two 3.0 liter TDI model – one with 204PS and one with 245PS with 450Nm and 580Nm, respectively. The entry-level version achieves a combined economy figure of 46.3mpg, corresponding to 159 g CO2/km. All three engines are paired with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

Distinguishing allroad quattro features include extended side sills, more widely flared wings and vertical slats within the single-frame grille. Stainless steel guards protect the underbody at the front and rear of the car, and the exhaust system ends in two large, flattened tailpipes. The roof rails are mounted on double bars.

The wheel arches, bumpers and sills are painted in a contrasting colour, but can be body-coloured if the optional aluminium exterior package is specified. The colour Java Brown is available exclusively for the new A6 allroad quattro.
The luggage compartment has a capacity of 565 litres with seats up and whopping 1 680 litres with rear seats folded down.

The options list includes a head-up display, ambient lighting, and comfort seats seats with a ventilation and massage function. Additional highlights include four-zone automatic air conditioning, a panoramic glass roof and the advanced key, which enables access, start-up and locking without the need to remove the key from the driver’s pocket.

The HDD SAT NAV MMI features an 8” display. A Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers can also be added for maximum listening pleasure.

Source: Audi

January 16, 2012

Roush and the Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 truck is a cultural phenomenon with 584,917 units sold in the US during year 2011 alone. Now the company is anticipating four new engines and ROUSH tuning house is not willing to stand and watch. Instead, both new Ford 6.2L and 5.0L V-8s will get a full supercharger kit while the other two new comers will get enhancements as well, all for the greater grunt.

First lets talk about the juicy stuff: 2.3L TVS R2300 superchargers featuring Eaton’s new TVS Technology can be preordered and fitted to the V8 engines. Those massive turbos boast four-lobe rotors with high-flow inlet and outlet ports which basically allow more power at higher RPM. Other highlights include ROUSH’s new cold air induction system, a 100 mm MAF tube (mass airflow meter), twin 60mm throttle body, a high efficiency intercooler system that incorporates a dual-core low temp radiator, degas bottle and high capacity air-to-water intercooler. A non-calibrated 5.0 Tuner kit is now available for order with the calibrated ROUSH 5.0 kit coming this february. The 6.2 non-calibrated one will be available sometime this month while the 6.2 calibrated ROUSH edition can be shipped no sooner than April.

All four engines (that includes the 3.7 V6 and 3.5 V6) will get cold air induction system kits. In the V6 that translates into an open element upper air box, a washable high-flow air filter and a new MAF tube. V8 also get get that, plus a new clean air tube. Everything is carefully tuned and crafted with OE materials to meet F-150 factory standards. All kits are designed for easy installation requiring no drilling or cutting.

To wrap it up, ROUSH have thrown in a dual-tip, stainless steel, high performance cat back exhaust system. It fits virtually every engine/cabin/bed configuration. It allows air to go trough more smoothly and reduces back pressure which supposedly increases power and torque… and engine noise. The mufflers are made from high grade stainless steal smeared with specially applied (micro-porously) chrome that does not subdue to flaking or cracking under high temperatures.

By the time April comes around, all ROUSH performance parts should be ready for shipment so that newly acquired F-150 trucks wont have to roll the streets naked.

Source: Roush

January 16, 2012

2012 TIKT Corvette C6 ZR1 Tripple X

TIKT Corvette C6 ZR1 Tripple X is a true master piece! With its 648 PS (476 kW) and 810 Nm (598 lb-ft) it goes directly to the class of super sportscars! More importantly it also makes an excellent impression! The high-tech and precision company called TIKT is the reason for this astonishing tuning! In details, first the performance was improved by using a modified cylinder heads, camshafts, strengthened valve springs, modified compressor ratios, a larger throttle valve and a completely modified exhaust. Then after a fine tuning of the engine‘s controls, there was achieved a peak of 769 PS (585 kW) and a top torque of 970 Nm (716 lb-ft) was printed out at the performance test station. Next, there was performed a second step, at which the PS and Torque were stabilized by regrinding and finely adjusting the valve seats. Additional upgrades were made to the cooling system of Z06 too. Additionally the cooler was encapsulated and mounted in combination with a new front skirt. Because of the targeted air flow to the side, now a real venture effect is created! This makes it a great advantage for the Corvette‘s aerodynamics. In order not to hamper the cinematics of the suspension and at the same time to increase the performance on the tarmac, the leaf springs on the rear axle were retained and new wheel mounts were made. The result is that the vehicle is 30 millimeters closer to the ground without any lowering. Together with a new suspension set-up (including new race shocks) this tuned C6 was brought approximately 50 millimeters closer to the road. In addition there was added also an improved grip with very light Zerra Ultralight Evo 2 wheels. They once more reduce the overall mass. And to keep the performance perfect, there were also mounted behind the ultra–light allow wheel rims stable brakes of suitable size. At last but not least, the aerodynamic „assistants“ in the shape of a rear spoiler were also constructed of equally weight saving carbon. And all these modifications and improvements have the Corvette into a Triple X ZR1 the ultimate super sportscar!

Source: TIKT

January 16, 2012

2006 Fisker Tramonto sold for £50 000 at BCA

On the 10^th of January Lex Autolease and BCA have gathered together in order to make a special sale at BCA Bedford. There have been featured 400 end-of-lease cars, in which were also included a special selection of prestige and sporting models. The sale attracted over 300 buyers. Moreover there were other 533 people logging on to bid via BCA’s Live Online internet bidding service. The sale achieved great success-over 90% of the cars were sold for around £3 million – plus turnover that achieved 99% of CAP Clean.

The highlight of the show was the 2006 Fisker Tramonto. In details the model of the vehicle is the only one with right hand drive in existence and it is one of just 15 built. Without a doubt the Tramonto is a true supercar, which is based on the Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG. It was created by the Californian based company founded by former Aston Martin head designer Henrik Fisker. Moreover the model was painted in Titanium Quartz Metallic with two-tone Sand interior in finest Italian leather and finished with Aluminium and bare Carbon Fibre touches. In other words – a true master piece! Hence it is not a surprise that after some very competitive bidding in the auction hall and online, it was sold for £50,000, calculated as 172% of CAP!

2006 Fisker Tramonto sold for £50 000 at BCA

Another notable seller was the 0858 Hummer 2 6.2 Lux at 17,000 miles and finished in an eye-catching combination of orange and black with lots of chrome trim. The price it was sols is the far less £28,850 (equivalent to 112% of CAP). In addition other strong sellers were: 0858 Range Rover Sport 2.7 at 33,000 miles, sold at the price of £23,800 (105% CAP); 1010 BMW 520D 2.0SE – at 32,000 miles, sold for £19,100 (106% CAP); 1111 Audi Q5 2.0 QS – at 6,000 miles, for £32,300 (107% CAP); 0858 Mini Cooper 1.6 – at 40,000 miles, for £7,100 (106% CAP).

Hence we can make the assumption that there is still a very strong demand in the used car market early. BCA once again delivered plenty of buying power – both in the auction hall and online.

Source: BCA

January 16, 2012

2012 BMW All-Electric ActiveE

The electromobility strategy of BMW today has been finally revealed with the delivery of the first all-electric ActiveE model in the US. More importantly BMW are happy to confirm that with the electric vehicles can absolutely serve one’s daily driving needs without compromise. The launch of the new all-electric BMW i model is expected in 2013.

To go further into details, the BMW’s electromobility development strategy began with the MINI E Field Trial in the summer of the year 2009. There were a lot of questions going on along with the launch of the MINI E. For instance, could a private individual live with an electric vehicle on a daily basis without changing their driving habits? The results were spectacular, because not only all of the MINI E pioneers proved without unquestioningly that it could be done, but also that doing so required no change in their daily routine! The only exception and difference was the plugging-in instead of stopping at the gas station.

The Moloughneys today became the first dealership who will lease a BMW ActiveE for a two year period. Deliveries will continue over the next several weeks. As already tested – the MINI E provided valuable information about the life with an EV; now is the BMW ActiveE lease period is prepared to be used to gather feedback that will be part of the development of the BMW i3 (the latter will come to market in 2013). More importantly, the ActiveE is the only car that is 100% Electric and 100% BMW. And it will definitely provide the performance and efficiency everyone has come to expect from The Ultimate Driving Machine^®. It has an output of 170 hp (125 kW) and maximum torque of 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) from a standstill. Hence, it is possible for the BMW ActiveE to accelerate from 0–60 mph in under nine seconds. Moreover, newly developed lithium-ion batteries facilitate a driving range of up to 100 miles on a full charge.

BMW Group makes a big step towards an emission-free, mass-produced electric vehicle with the launch of this BMW ActiveE. Within the framework of project i, the BMW Group is carrying out research and development work on the development of electrically powered vehicles. The next step will be the BMW i3, which is prepared for launching in 2013. The design of the vehicle will meet the demands of a sustainable mobility solution for congested urban areas. Therefore the drive components and battery technology that are going be used in the BMW i3 are now being tested in the BMW ActiveE. However the ongoing field tests involving more than 600 MINI E cars, have already given important information about the demands on future electrically powered production vehicles. Beginning with year in the US, Europe and China, a test fleet of over 1100 BMW ActiveE vehicles, produced at BMW’s Leipzig plant, will provide further valuable insights into the everyday use of the vehicle. Furthermore, the feedback from customers driving the MINI E and the BMW ActiveE will be used directly into series production of the BMW i3.

Source: BMW

January 16, 2012

2013 LEXUS LX 570

The new sporty and bold face of the refreshed model of Lexus LX 570 SUV is at hand. Modifications start from Lexus’ signature spindle grille, new 20-inch alloy wheel design, exterior styling and at the new onboard technologies included. This all-new Lexus LX 570 SUV will be launched at the second quarter of 2012.

In particular, there is new LED daytime running lights, which complement a new headlamp design and new larger fog lamp bezels. Both front and rear bumpers are refreshed, and the rear bumper protector is improved by a stainless steel accent. In addition tail lamps and the tow hitch cover also have received some make over. The spacious, eight-passenger cabin of the LX 570 also receives a number of upgrades and changes. Moreover the driver’s seat gets a new Easy Access system: the steering wheel and driver’s seat automatically retract when the ignition is turned off.

But this is not the end: front seats include improved ventilation, and a 220-volt power outlet, which has been added to the cargo area. Furthermore there is an updated instrument panel which now has new color multi-information display. The instrument panel looks additionally refreshed due to the metallic finish for the centre instrument cluster and front side air vents, along with a new metallic accent above the glove box. The cabin of the new-look LX 570 also includes a mahogany woodgrain-look trim, while ivory and black leather-accented interior trim are also available on the revised model. How abut the exterior: of course there have been new colors added: the new Mercury Gray and Sleek Ecru are now replacing the Rhodium and Metallic Beige.

More importantly, the LX 570’s 5.7-litre V8 delivers the punch and towing power demanded in this segment, producing 270kW (367 hp) of power at 5,600rpm and peak torque of 530Nm (718 lb-ft) at 3,200rpm. Now the 90 per cent of peak torque is available at just 2,200rpm. There are also the newly adopted steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters**, controlling a six-speed automatic transmission. In thus way the driver customers can make the best use of this power, on and off-road. An interesting addition is the sequential shift mode, which also allows the driver to select gears manually.

Even at very low speeds, such as trail driving, the transmission operates smoothly and imperceptibly. Furthermore the LX 570’s transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive which handles perfectly the rigors of slippery winter weather, mud or snow. In details this system uses a TORSEN® limited-slip locking centre differential with front to rear variable torque distribution, directing more power to the wheels, when a slippage could occur. Additionally the four-wheel Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin.

There is also included the famous Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), which helps maintain directional control during cornering and can be turned off via the “VSC off” switch. There is an update in the Crawl Control or off road cruise control, which now increases the number of preset speeds from three to five steps, for greater off-road control.

On the other hand the new Turn Assist feature tightens the turning circle by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel. Another new feature is the Multi-terrain Select function, which allows the driver to optimize vehicle performance by choosing from five types of terrain: rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, mud and sand. Hence, it delivers the ideal combination of stability and traction control assistance over different surfaces.

Without a doubt the LX 570’s has an extremely capable chassis, which is equipped with an advanced suspension system. The high-mount, independent double-wishbone front suspension allows for 230mm of total front wheel travel for outstanding articulation over rough roads and impediments. In addition the four-link trailing-arm rear suspension retains the solid-axle configuration for strength and durability. On the other hand there is the body-on-frame construction, which provides ruggedness and durability in challenging driving conditions, plus impressive ride isolation characteristics and a 3,500kg towing capability. Moreover the Active Height Control (AHC) system lowers the chassis for easy entry and exit and returns automatically to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate. There is also improvement in the aerodynamics on-road stability, thank to the AHC system, which also lowers the vehicle when traveling at higher speeds. This AHC system raises the vehicle to provide additional ride height in driving situations where chassis clearance is at a premium. The hydro-pneumatic Adaptive Variable Suspension system has three modes to control the spring rate and shock absorber damping force to provide optimal handling and comfort for on-road or trail driving. For example, the Comfort mode will provide the driver and the passengers with an easy ride and softer response on extremely bumpy roads. Then the Normal and Sport modes help provide increasingly greater levels of control for driving a heavily loaded vehicle, at higher speeds on paved or unpaved roads. In addition the new design standard features five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels with 285/50R20 tyres. There is also a multi-terrain ABS system, which determines road-surface conditions and automatically selects the suitable level of ABS control for on and off-road driving surfaces.

Furthermore the LX 570 is equipped with standard safety/security features: 10 airbags ( including driver and front-passenger knee airbags, front and second-row seat-mounted side airbags in the outboard seating positions, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags that cover all three rows); three-point seatbelts (for all eight seating positions); second-row seatbelts with integrated pre-tensioners for the outboard seats and an ALR/ELR (Automatic Locking Retractor/Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelt for all three second row passengers; Active Front Headrests which moves upward and forward in the event of certain low speed rear-end collisions when the force of the occupant’s body is applied to the seat back; an advanced radar-based Pre-Collision System with radar Active Cruise Control; Multi-terrain monitor, which includes a greater number of exterior cameras.

The new 2013 Lexus LX 570 is full of luxury, comfort and convenience. It features a full array of standard luxury amenities: four-zone independent climate control, a reversing camera with guide assist, Lexus Navigation System; 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio with 450-watts maximum power and 16 channels. The system also features iPod®”/USB connectivity. In order to deliver even more luxury and entertainment, the LX 570 will also offer dual rear seat entertainment screens mounted behind the front seat head rests.

Additionally, the standard power-sliding second-row seat slides forward and back 45mm for passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility. The second-row seatbacks provide a convenient 40/20/40 split. There is also featured a power retractable third-row seat as a standard. The split rear tailgate features a power upper door, while the bottom section raises and lowers with minimal effort.

Source: Lexus

January 16, 2012

Volkswagen with four awards from What Car?

Volkswagen managed to get four awards from the prestigious What Car? contest. The famous 2012 Volkswagen Up! claimed Car of the Year as well as the best City Car award. Other two victories are for Small Family Car – Volkswagen Golf VI and the coveted Safety Award.

“The Volkswagen up! sets new standards for a car at £10,000. It’s a city car that can seat four adults, while offering new levels of refinement, quality and maturity at this price; none of its rivals feels quite so grown-up. Buyers will be looking for even more for their money than ever in 2012, so the up! is a worthy winner of the What Car? Car of the Year.”, said What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett.

The Safety Award was in large part the result of the availability of Volkswagen’s innovative City Emergency Braking system on the Up!. Although safety features are no longer the preserve of larger, more expensive models, the judges were impressed by this particular example of ‘big car’ technology filtering down to a smaller model. The system uses sensors to scan the space ahead, then applies the brakes automatically if it detects that the car is about to hit an object in front. City Emergency Braking costs from just £225.

The Up! is available to order now, with prices starting at £7 995 (RRP OTR) and with the first models arriving in showrooms in March.

Source: Volskwagen

January 13, 2012

BMW has won two awards from What Car?

BMW has earned 1st places in two categories at the What Car? Awards event. The new BMW 3-Series Saloon has topped Best Compact Executive Car category, while the 2012 BMW X3 took home the accolade of Best SUV of the year.

2012 BMW 3-Series F30 with EfficientDynamics package is the most economical car in its class. However, it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering that sheer driving pleasure.

“The new BMW 3 Series is great to drive, with sharp steering and a well judged chassis. But the biggest gains are in efficiency; it delivers 60mpg and CO2 emissions so low that it falls into the cheapest 13 per cent company car tax band for diesels. It’s a convincing winner of our Executive Car of the Year award.”, commented Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief.

“It is a testament to the quality and refinement of the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for seven consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition, across the generations, for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model is a great honour.”, Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK added.

On the other hand, the superb 2012 BMW X3 xDrive20d was awarded the top honour in recognition of its exceptional blend of efficiency, practicality and quality. It has achieved incredible results – 50.4 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 147g/km CO2.

“There’s more competition than ever among SUVs, but the BMW X3 wins the category award by offering lots of space, excellent fuel efficiency and a beautifully finished cabin. It’s a great family car, really – and its running costs are around those of a regular hatchback.”, Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief finished.

Source: BMW

January 13, 2012

LF-LC Sport Coupe Concept Big Hit in Detroit

Some news from the NAIAS – Designers at the Lexus studio in Calty, California can take a much deserved vacation now as the much anticipated Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sport Coupe Concept is proving itself a big success with an ‘EyesOn Design Award’ for a best concept. Innovative approach has been kept in mind when designing the 2+2 Hybrid which incorporates a certain emotive charge combined with cold blooded technology.

Elements of the new Lexus way, seen in the new GS 450h, can be encountered in the concept, particularly the “spindle“-like grille form and the rear architecture.

Kevin Hunter, Calty President, said: “The LF-LC was a dream car to design and a true collaborative effort at Calty. It is an honour to have that work recognised by our peers and to receive the award.“

In the mean time, Mark Templin, Lexus US Group Vice President and General Manager, commented: “The LF-LC is a striking design and breathtaking in its beauty. The team at Lexus quickly fell in love with this concept vehicle and it’s rewarding to see that the industry agreed. Receiving the EyesOn Design Award is a great start to what promises to be a fantastic year for Lexus.”

Both concept and production vehicles can be honored with the ‘EyesOn Design Award’ which is given after a group of world leading automotive designers and design academics approve the product. Creativity in different areas of design is appreciated which includes aesthetics and innovation, concept implementation, functionality and the spirit of industrial design.

Source: Lexus

January 13, 2012

Alonso and Massa’s Ferrari Way of Skiing

The F1 championship is a demanding, treacherous challenge. For mere preparation, drivers spend weeks in training by submitting themselves to stress which comes in both forms – physical and psychological. So when it comes to blowing off some steam with recreation, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa decide to add more stress. The slaloms at the Madonna di Campiglio resort are used to having champions skiing over them but yesterday something was different. There were two Ferrari FF”s lined at the track’s starting point with Alonso and Massa behind the wheels. What followed was a heated, downhill parallel race between two of the world’s best F1 drivers which ended up in a tie.

So why the, four door FF’? Well, on paper the FF is pretty much ideal for the job: it has a 4WD traction system that sends carefully calculated amounts of torque to each wheel independently and its weight balance is good thanks to the front-mid engine layout and the transmission at the back. Besides, were the cars anything other than Ferraris it would have been a bit embarrassing.

Alonso could not hide his enthusiasm: “It’s incredible how easy it is to drive the FF even on a such a demanding surface and at the same time, how high a performance level you can reach in it.” Massa was of a similar opinion: “the most incredible thing about the car is the fact there is no need to compromise maximum performance and useability, whatever the driving environment,” reckoned the Brazilian. “And on top of that, it’s perfect for everyday use with the whole family in the car.”

Alonso and Massa's Ferrari Way of Skiing

Source: Ferrari

January 13, 2012

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