Blog

  • 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible – Rare and Commemorating

    Chevrolet have announced that a 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition will make it’s debut on January the 21st and will go on sale this summer. This is big news for we are talking about the first Chevy ever, that can be both a collector and a commemorative edition at the same time Yes, Chevrolet are celebrating their 60th birthday this year and what better way to mark the occasion than producing a convertible, more powerful than the gravity of Jupiter.

    Under the hood one can find an LS7, 7.0 liter (427 cubic-inches) engine, rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) which sends 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm) trough a compulsory 6-speed manual. The connecting rods in the LS7 are all titanium and so are the intake valves while high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oil pump add to the performance. The 427 is rear-wheel driven just like the Z06, the battery is at the back for better weight distribution and it comes with a Magnetic Selective Ride Control so the suspension is clever too. The front 19-inch and back 20-inch machine-face Cup wheels (ZR1 Black Cup or chromed also available) are fitted with ZR1 Michelin PS2 tires. To save weight, the hood, fenders and floor panels are all made from carbon fiber. That diet has resulted in the Corvette weighing only 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg) which by itself means a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That’s more power than any other convertible can offer including the Ferrari California Convertible, the Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder, the Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible and even the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet. Predictions suggest a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 3.8 second and top speeds exceeding 190 mph.

    Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition (2013)
    Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition (2013)

    For the commemorative spec on any Chevrolet, one does need to opt for the 60th Anniversary Package which includes a color theme of “Arctic White” on the outside with Blue Diamond leather seats inside and gray-painted brake calipers. Convertibles will also get a blue rooftop. Other enhancements include a ZR1 rear spoiler, a “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels and branding on various places to let you know you are driving a novelty. If one feels the need to spend even more money a graphics package includes racing stripes that slice trough the whole car while a Build Experience option allows customer participation in the construction process of the vehicle… which, doesn’t make any sense if the customer is as inapt as me when it comes to technology.

    Here is a full spec-list of the 427:

    Overview

    Overview
    Model: Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
    Body styles / driveline: two-door convertible; rear-wheel drive
    Construction: composite body panels, hydroformed steel frame with aluminum and magnesium structural and chassis components
    Manufacturing location: Bowling Green, Ky.


    Engines

    Engines 7.0L V-8 LS7 (Z06)
    Displacement (cu in / cc): 427 / 7008
    Bore & stroke (in / mm): 4.125 x 4 / 104.8 x 101.6
    Block material: cast aluminum
    Cylinder head material: cast aluminum
    Valvetrain: overhead valve, two valves per cylinder
    Fuel delivery: SFI (sequential fuel injection)
    Compression ratio: 11.0:1
    Horsepower
    (hp / kW @ rpm):
    505 / 377 @ 6300*
    Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 470 / 637 @ 4800*
    Recommended fuel: premium required
    Estimated fuel economy
    (city / hwy):
    15 / 24 (no guzzler tax)


    Transmission

    Transmission six-speed manual
    Application: std.
    Gear ratios (:1):
    First: 2.66
    Second: 1.78
    Third: 1.30
    Fourth: 1.00
    Fifth: 0.74
    Sixth: 0.50
    Reverse: 2.90
    Final drive ratio: 3.42


    Chassis/Suspension

    Front: short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control
    Rear: short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, cast aluminum upper and lower control arms, transverse-mounted composite leaf spring, monotube shock absorber; Magnetic Selective Ride Control
    Traction control: electronic traction control; Active Handling


    Brakes

    Type: front and rear power-assisted disc with ABS with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, cross-drilled rotors;
    Rotor diameter x thickness
    (in / mm):
    front: 14 x 1.3 / 355 x 32
    rear: 13.4 x 1 / 340 x 26
    Brake swept area (sq in / mm): front: 309 / 1994 rear: 269 / 1735


    Wheels/Tires

    Wheel size: front: 19-inch x 10-inch aluminum
    rear: 20-inch x 12-inch aluminum
    Tires: front: 285/30ZR19
    rear: 335/25ZR20


    Dimensions


    Exterior

    Wheelbase (in / mm): 105.7 / 2685
    Overall length (in / mm): 175.6 / 4460
    Overall width (in / mm): 75.9 / 1928
    Overall height (in / mm): 48.7 / 1236
    Curb weight (lb / kg): 3355/ 1522
    Weight distribution
    (% front / rear):
    50 / 50


    Interior

    Seating capacity 2
    Interior volume (cu ft / L): 52 / 1475
    Headroom (in / mm): 38 / 962
    Legroom (in / mm): 43 / 1092
    Shoulder room (in / mm): 55 / 1397
    Hip room (in / mm): 54 / 1371


    Capacities

    Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 11 / 295 (top up); 7.5 / 212 (top down)
    Fuel tank (gal / L): 18 / 68.1
    Engine oil (qt / L): 10.5 / 9.9

    Source: Chevrolet

  • GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT

    Several interesting Toyota models are showcased at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. The new interpretations of the cars include from off-the-wall concepts to race-tuned specials.

    One of the most interesting is the small GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT. It comes with a supercharged 1.33-litre engine delivering 128PS (95 kW) and 180Nm (133 lb-ft). The engine is connected to a 6-speed close ratio transmission.

    The sporty iQ also features bigger brake system, a sports tuned suspension and a nice dual exhaust system for more power and incredible sound.

    The exterior boasts complete body kit including new front and rear bumpers, a pair of side skirts and a rear spoiler. The stance is completed by a set of 16” Enkei alloy wheels. The interior is also upgraded with sports seats and instruments.

    Actually, the model is scheduled for a limited 100 units production run later this year.

    Other interesting tuned Toyota cars at the show are – a new Yaris Turbo with 1.5 liter turbocharged engine delivering 180PS (132 kW); the new GT 86 in two styling interpretations from TRD and Modellista and  Gazoo Racing FT-86.

    GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT
    GRMN Toyota iQ 130G MT
    G Sports Mark X
    G Sports Mark X
    G Sports Prius Aqua
    G Sports Prius Aqua
    Gazoo Racing FT-86
    Gazoo Racing FT-86
    GRMN Vitz Turbo Concept
    GRMN Vitz Turbo Concept
    GT 86 Modelista Version
    GT 86 Modelista Version
    GT 86 TRD
    GT 86 TRD
    Toyota Auto 2000GT Solar EV
    Toyota Auto 2000GT Solar EV
    Toyota Engineering Society TES-ERA EV
    Toyota Engineering Society TES-ERA EV

    Source: Toyota

  • 2013 SEAT Ibiza

    2013 Seat Ibiza

    The new 2013 SEAT Ibiza captures the heart with its young, emotional design and fun-to-drive zest, innovative technologies and quality. The new line is developed to match even more the indvidual taste of the customer. The range includes the compact and sporty three-door Ibiza SC, the dynamic and universal five-door Ibiza, the elegantly practical Ibiza ST estate car, the extremely efficient Ibiza E-Ecomotive, the exceptionally sporty Ibiza FR with 110 kW (150 hp). However there is something in common for all the models and it is the high standard of quality and outstanding value for money. The introduction to the market of the new models will be in the spring of 2012.

    Of course the new models will offer again its expressive and unique design. However beneath it the new Ibiza offers an impressive array of innovative technologies, such as the latest-generation state-of-the-art TDI and TSI power units, the DSG transmissions and the start/stop system, which combines dynamics with exceptional efficiency and exciting driving. Furthermore in it is included the Portable Media System with touchscreen monitor, which combines the functions of a navigation system, on-board computer, audio system and hands-free device. While it is fully integrated into the Ibiza’s on-board electronics, it is also removable for use on-the-go.

    In details the sporty character and high product quality can be seen all over the new Ibiza’s exterior. The distinctive centrepiece is the trapezoidal grille featuring the SEAT logo. The flatter proportions and horizontal honeycomb structure of the grille and the lower air intake emphasise the width of the new Ibiza. A redesign in the front and rear bumpers give the a look that is particularly accentuated on the sporty Ibiza FR version. Standard equipment on the FR and available as an option on other models are the large fog lamps with integrated cornering light. With these models SEAT has proved again that it has put again a great attention to the details. Take as an example the sophisticated design of the headlamps. In details, the edgy style of the lamps is a hallmark feature of the new SEAT design language, while being perfectly integrated into the Ibiza’s sculptural form. The headlamps are available in two halogen versions or with optional bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. The latter trace the form of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, as do the optional LED rear lights. Moreover the new Ibiza looks like a piece of art on wheels. The characteristic “Línea Dinámica” runs from the headlamps over the powerfully drawn wheel arches to the rear. A second, equally sharp character line runs across the muscular rear shoulders to the rear lamps. These powerful lines and the interplay of taut surfaces give the Ibiza an athletic character – on both the coupé-like three-door and the universal five-door. And even the functional estate car conveys an unmatched look of dynamism – without any restriction to its exceptional utility.

    The interior on the other hand is as exquisite as the exterior. First of all it has a forceful but extremely minimalist and clearly structured cockpit design. The feeling of quality, the high precision of the workmanship, the wide choice of colours and materials ranging all the way to fine leather upholstery serve to underline SEAT’s standards. Here we also have a great attention and effort put on the detaisl. It can be sensed through the steering wheel, in the new design of the climatronic, in the new paint surfaces. Nevertheless the main focus here remains on functionality –for instance take the new instrument binnacle with its improved display or the significantly larger glove compartment. In details it now has a generous storage volume of 10.7 litres and thus offers more space for a lot more accessories and useful items.

    Furthermore the new Ibiza is offered in three body styles to fit perfectly to every lifestyle. There are the three-door Ibiza SC and the five-door Ibiza, which are not only design masterpieces, but are also very well equipped to cope with the practical challenges of everyday life. They has an interior that is generous for this class of vehicle, a luggage volume of 284 or 292 litres and a variable rear bench. Undeniably the bodyshell of the Ibiza ST offers a very high degree of functionality. Despite its sporty design, the load volume of 430 to a maximum of 1,164 litres is surprisingly generous.

    2013 Seat Ibiza - Front Ange

    More importantly the engines included are a cmbination of sportiness and efficiency. The range of petrol units extends from the  economical 1.2 litre with 44 kW (60 hp) to the immensely perky 1.4 TSI with supercharger and turbocharger. 110 kW (150 hp) and the standard-fit DSG transmission catapult the Ibiza to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds, and onwards to an impressive top speed of 212 km/h. In the new Ibiza, this power unit is now also available for the ST estate version. A highlight here is the  Ibiza 1.2 TSI Ecomotive – the state-of-the-art power unit with 77 kW (105 hp) delivers refined drive with its maximum torque of 175 Newton metres at just 1,550 r/min, yet sips on an average of just 5.1 litres/100 km – thanks also to the start/stop technology that is fitted as standard. Additionally the TDI engines are even more efficient when it comes to fuel consumption and emissions. The efficiency highlight is the Ibiza 1.2 TDI E-Ecomotive (also with a start/stop system). Its average fuel consumption is the almost unbeliavable 3.4 litres, equating to a first-class CO2 figure of 89 grams/km! Nevertheless the compact hi-tech TDI delivers attractive performance with its 55 kW (75 hp) and its very respectable torque of 180 Newton metres. The sporty pinnacle of the Ibiza diesel line-up is the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp). No competitor in this segment offers such a powerful diesel; no other masters the combination of performance and efficiency so perfectly – a top speed of 210 km/h comes with an average fuel consumption of just 4.6 litres. And how about the transmitions which fit to those modern engines? There are featured perfectly spaced five and six-speed manual gearboxes. Moreover a number of engines are offered with DSG transmissions either as standard equipment or as an option. This dual-clutch transmission offers not only the comfort of an automatic, but also the advantage of compelling efficiency. The running gear of the new Ibiza shows sophisticated layout that has been carefully fine tuned, giving the compact model handling characteristics that are as sporty as they are safe. In addition the precise steering and the perfectly tuned ESP stability control, as well as the XDS electronic differential lock (as of 100 hp) offer safety in hazardous situations. Next to be mentioned is the powerful brake system with ABS, which is also included. Last but not least, the new Ibiza runs on wheels ranging in size from 15 to 17 inches and sporting a new design.

    Source: SEAT

  • Nissan March Nismo Concept

    Nissan March Nismo Concept Nissan Motor Co. has just revealed the brand new March Nismo Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2012. This is the third premium sports compact vehicle released by Nismo, following on the Juke Nismo Concept and the LEAF Nismo Concept. The car is based on Nissan March and features the exclusive Nismo parts. The result is March Nismo Concept which is an extraordinary and excellent expression of the combination of a premium sports compact car and practical but exciting driving performance.

    First of all the exterior of the concept includes a lower stance and bolder styling thanks to a modified front grille design. In addition there are also featured efficiency-enhancing aeroparts which were developed as part of Nismo’s racing technology. Moreover, the door mirror design has been tailored, and a rear lip spoiler added, to further enhance the car’s aerodynamic performance. What about the interior: Nismo designers have created purpose-designed seats. Additionally the steering wheel has been adapted to aid smooth interaction between the driver and the car. The March Nismo Concept comes with pearl white paint finish with red highlights, and the signature Nismo colors for performance-focused premium sports models. The vehicle is also fitted with several of Nismo’s vaunted racing technologies. For instance, such are the high-performance suspension and large-diameter lightweight wheels, thank to which the March Nismo Concept will deliver superior handling and stability that adds to the pleasure of sporty driving.

    Nissan March Nismo Concept
    Nissan March Nismo Concept

    Source: Nissan

  • World premiere of the new BMW M Series at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012

    BMW M Series thumbThe new vehicles from the BMW M Series, which are going to make a world debut at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 (8-18 of March), are promised to offer even more sporting characteristics, exclusive engine line-up, enhanced agility, precise chassis tuning and astonishing design. Few months are left till the disclosure of the new product range, which was especially developed for drivers seeking sporty driving experience and at the same time count on comfort and practicality. First of all the BMW M Performance Automobiles are equipped with exclusive engine variants. Moreover they have noticeably enhanced agility and outstanding precision on the road, plus design laced with emotional appeal. The harmonious interplay of engine output, power transfer, chassis technology and aerodynamic balance are also provided by the new models.

    Moreover the BMW M Performance Automobiles represent a totally new model category, which will offer inspirational driving dynamics. “We are targeting our efforts at customers looking for more emotionality and more performance, but who don’t want to forgo the everyday usability of their cars,” said Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President of BMW M GmbH. Furthermore, Nitschke announced that there are going to be more improvements and additions to the new models, such as for example, both petrol and diesel-engined variants. In addition, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive would also play a significant role in the BMW M Performance Automobiles. The continuation of the last year’s success of BMW will be made possible through the arrival of the BMW M6 in 2012. Moreover, the President of BMW M GmbH also added, that BMW Group subsidiary can call on decades of motor sport experience when it comes to translating outstanding engine power into excellent dynamics. This development expertise also imbues the BMW M Performance Automobiles with their distinctive character.

    The models in the new product category will continue the steps of the famous BMW M535i. The latter model was unveiled in 1980 and since then it captured the hearts of performance-minded customers thank to its extra power, precisely tuned chassis technology and subtly modified design. A fresh addition to the BMW 5 Series ranks, the Sedan remained a highly successful member of the line-up through two model generations and – up to 1987 – with the BMW M5 for company within the range. Obviously this year the tradition will continue, thank to the new BMW M Performance Automobiles.

    Dr. Friedrich Nitschke, Vice President BMW M GmbH
    Dr. Friedrich Nitschke, Vice President BMW M GmbH

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 FIAT 500 Abarth – Price $22 000

    2012 FIAT 500 Abarth Great news for all who love the brand FIAT! Today the company announced U.S. pricing for its new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), however without included destination in it, is starting form $22 000. Fiat 500 Abarth will now bring to the US years of traditions and success made on the European roadways and racetracks: world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited production volume.
    This race-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth comes standard with many performance features. First of all, there is included the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, which delivers 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) of torque. Moreover Abarth comes with tuned suspension, brake systems and dual exhaust, turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light and 16-inch aluminum wheels! In addition driver and passenger performance seats include one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass-through and accent stitching. The Fiat 500 Abarth also comes standard with BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication, Bose premium audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US
    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US

    Included in the price of each 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience. At no additional charge, they can visit the Abarth Driving Experience, which is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience. All this is made in order to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.

    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US
    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US

    Source: Fiat

  • 2012 Vilner Infiniti EX37 – The Modern Crossover with Оld School Interior

    2013 Vilner Infiniti EX37 ThumbFor the first time this year we have news from the tuning company VILNER. Now, those excellent tuners have prepared for us a modification of the interior of the Infinity EX37 which will leave us speechless! While making the luxury interior, Vilner has used high-quality, expensive, and mostly unpopular materials.

    For example take a look at the seats, the doors, the lower part of the panel, the hoods and the gearshift – they all have been “dressed” in aniline leather, which is incomparably mild and pleasant to touch. Furthermore the material is extremely fine and more importantly there is no chemical treatment or dying on t! And just see the design of the seats – doesn’t it astonish you! It is definitely something you can’t see everyday. At their upper part the bands made from aniline leather create oval forms. And in contrast in the middle and the lower part they are vertical and wider. An accent here is made by the engraved with the “Vilner”’s logo asymmetrically positioned band (made from the same material), which can also be seen at the muff of the gearshift (which is also engraved with the logo). An interesting fact, used in the tuning here, is that through the exploitation of this leather as a result there is a beautiful patina. This undeniably adds more to the Old School character of the interior.

    2013 Vilner Infiniti EX37
    2013 Vilner Infiniti EX37

    To go further into details, the needlework is light and bright. In contrast the ceiling and the console of the steering wheel are made from a high-quality nabuck – Аmaretta®. It also has those distinguished details made from the fine bands VideoFlex Film Extra®. Can you imagine that even the rearview mirror is fashionably dressed in Аmaretta®? If you can’t, well – see the pictures below!

    The steering wheel is transformed by hand again in high-quality Napa in order to deliver more comfort, ergonomics and aggressive looks. In addition the luxury image of the vehicle is complemented by the chrome-plated parts of the steering wheel, the buttons for seats management, the ceiling handles, the protectors on the doors speakers and the plafond.

    Wait, the great news isn’t over! The Audio system included in this tuning is the one which won the first place on “EMMA Balkan Sound & Tuning 2011” in the class of the “Advanced 7 channels”. In details, it includes the original Infiniti player, the processor „AudiSon” and the „Ground Zero” amplifier and speakers!

    Moreover the coupe of the vehicle is additionally made noiseless in order to improve the overall comfort experience of the passengers and the driver, and of course – to deliver even greater sound experience.

    Obviously for Studio Vilner every detail is of utmost importance. Hence, the perfect needlework and luxury materials have the most significant place in the creation of the interior. Well done Vilner! A great start of the year for you!

    Source: Vilner

  • Hennessey Cadillac vs Nissan GT-R – Interesting Outcome [Video]

    Hennessey is a Texas tuning shop famous for creating Texas-sized horsepower numbers and for modifying super cars that will steal a Bugatti Veyron’s lunch money.” – TopGear USA

    Ever wondered what it feels like to thunder down the road in a 6000 lbs fortress? Well, here is a video of a Cadillac Escalade humiliating a Nissan GT-R on a street drag race. Impossible, right? Not if Hennessey have something to do about it. The seemingly standard SUV actually has an HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade on its drivetrain which boosts up the power up to the nuclear 1000 bhp. The company have replaced almost all there is to replace on the engine including the cylinder heads, the camshaft, intake manifolds, catalytic converters air filters etc. They have also fiddled with fuel management system, bolted on two ball bearing turbochargers and after much Dyno tuning and road testing, this is the result: A 60 mph sprint in 3.3 seconds and if you dare to keep your foot down for 11.3 second, you’ll get to 124 miles per hour (provided that it is run on 93 octane fuel).

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXpV8_LXrCM

    Head-to-head, on paper, the Nissan is the underdog here: A “mere” V-6, 520 hp, 3.8 Liter engine. But let us not forget that the GT-R is a Nurburgring veteran and should not be ashamed of anything. In real life, it will pass trough the Escalade as soon as the first corner comes around. The point of that drag race really, is to show Hennessey flexing their muscle – A proof of how capable they are when it comes to extracting power from machinery.

    Hennessey Cadillac Escalade
    Hennessey Cadillac Escalade
    Hennessey Cadillac Escalade
    Hennessey Cadillac Escalade Graph

    Source: Hennessey

  • Cambiano Concept by Pininfarina – Beauty Has a Name

    While the Detroit NAIAS is running its course, there seems to be a lot of hubbub around the 2012 Geneva Motor Show which is due to start in March this year. Here we have a teaser of Pininfarina‘s future concept, the “luxury environmentally friendly sport sedan”. It will be revealed at their show stand in Geneva and undoubtedly, it will be gorgeous.

    Named after Pininfarina‘s home town, the Cambiano is said to have been consciously constructed with a selection of efficient materials and powered by a an eco-friendly power plant.

    Pininfarina is a design company which has given the automotive industry some of the finest aesthetically charged profiles out there. The Ferrari 458 Italia, the Enzo, Alfa Romeo GTV, Jaguar XJ6, Alfa Romeo Spider and many, many more – all love children of the Pininfarina company. And this year the small town of Cambiano has two anniversaries to celebrate: 30 years with the Styling Centre (called, back in1982, the “Pininfarina Studi e Ricerche/Pininfarina Study and Research”) and 10 years of development with the Engineering Center which serves to prove that finely crafted technology and design go hand-in-hand. We personally hope to see many more anniversaries to come for Pininfarina as they bring beauty to the eye with every single project.

    Pininfirina Cambiano Concept
    Pininfarina Cambiano Concept

    Source: Pininfarina

  • Tesla Roadster 2012 Limited Availability

    Tesla Motors is saying goodbye to their all-electric Roadster with style. A last revision of the sports car will be available in Europe, Asia and Australia.

    Exclusivity in the last Tesla Roadster can be found within a range of new body colors – Cosmic Black, Galactic Gray and Magma Orange come with coordinated interior shades. It will also perform better in snowy conditions due to a provided snow cover and improvements on the motor and inverter systems. Because of that update the driver inside will also enjoy improved air conditioning. Other minor tweaks include xenon headlights, soundproofing and better connectivity (in Tesla terms that means that one will be able to plug in their car in almost any socket common for that region).

    With a bit over 2000 Roadster units sold, do you think Tesla Motors is gathering pace towards a change in the automotive world and if so, is it for the better?

    Tesla Roadster (2012)
    Tesla Roadster (2012)

    Source: Tesla Motors

  • 2012 Porsche Boxster Price – £37 589

    Porsche has revealed the price list for the new 2012 Boxster , which starts at “just” £37 589 and the price goes all the way up to £45 384 for the top-of-range S model.

    The new Boxster has completely different design, an all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, a completely revised chassis. All this promises a good ride, but something is missing…

    The 2012 Boxster also has lower curb weight, a longer wheelbase, widened track and larger wheels, which means superb handling and up to 15% greater fuel efficiency.

    The engine range includes a new 2.7 liter with 265PS (195 kW) and a 3.4 liter flat-six powering Boxster S with 315PS (232 kW). Both models feature a manual 6-speed gearbox as standard, with the 7-speed dual-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option. Fuel consumption for the Porsche Boxster with PDK is 36.7mpg, and 35.3mpg for the Boxster S. The performance is amazing – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and 5.0 seconds flat for the S model.

    To enhance the driving dynamics further, the Sport Chrono Package option is offered on the Boxster, featuring Dynamic Transmission Mounts for the first time. Also new in the Boxster is the option of Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear limited slip differential.

    The standard equipment includes an Alcantara interior, 18” alloy wheels, Auto stop/start and Sports mode, remote control hood operation, audio CD with 7-inch colour touch-screen control, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a 3-year warranty.

    The Boxster S adds 19” alloy wheels, partial leather interior and Bi-Xenon headlights.

    On paper everything is just perfect, but the new style is not typical for Porsche, so many of the fans will not be so happy. Will the technology beat the spirit?

    2012 Porsche Boxster S
    2012 Porsche Boxster

    Source: Porsche

  • Seat Expands in China

    SEAT thumbToday the brand SEAT has just made its first step to expansion in China. This was made through shipping of the first 250 vehicles. They will be marketed in China in the beginning of the spring this year! The presence of SEAT in this new market, the bran is setting up a new sea link. The latter will operate on a monthly basis between the ports of Barcelona and Guangzhou and Tianjin. More importantly, thank to this first vehicle transport link between Spain and China, SEAT will export around 4,000 vehicles in 2012.

    Today’s event was marked also by the presence of the Catalan government Ministers – Lluis Recoder, for Territory and Sustainability, and Francesc Xavier Mena, for  Business and Employment, as well as José Alberto Carbonell, Director General of the Port, and Ramón Paredes, Vice-president for Governmental and Institutional Relations at SEAT and the Volkswagen Group in Spain.

    SEAT's expansion in China
    SEAT's expansion in China
    SEAT Vehicles in China
    SEAT Vehicles in China

    Source: SEAT