Automobiles Review – Page 957 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Audi R8 LMS ultra to take part in 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship

The new Audi R8 LMS ultra will take part in the 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship. Two vehicles of the popular brand will independently compete in the world’s highest-calibre GT racing series.

Do you still remember that in the 2009 season Audi started its customer sport programme with the R8 LMS for the GT3 class? This class was one of four major GT categories. At the same time now GT3 is not only making its mark nationally but gaining popularity on an international level. Like the FIA European Championship for GT3 models in 2006, there will also be a FIA GT1 World Championship exclusively held for GT3 vehicles in the future. Hence, the Audi R8 LMS ultra will be able to take part in the world’s top racing class for GT vehicles in the 2012 season. Moreover it will have the opportunity to fight for a world champion’s title of its own for the very first time.

Audi R8 LMS ultra to take part in 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship

Since 2010 the team from Flénu, Belgium, has been fielding the Audi R8 LMS in various European championships. And for this short time the team has achieved some remarkable successes this season. To go into details it clinched overall victories at the Spa and the Zolder 24 Hours, and in addition won the Blancpain Endurance Series. The GT1 World Championship will be a good challenge for the team members, which I am sure they are looking forward to.

In the competition each team is going to compete with two cars of a single vehicle model from a single brand. In contrast to the most GT3 racing series where professionals and amateurs share a cockpit, this time only professional racers will be allowed to compete in the GT1 World Championship. The Belgian WRT Team is going to announce the drivers before the end of December this year. The details on the format of the competition will be approved by the FIA and will be available shortly. A provisional race calendar has already been made. And as we see the below featured schedule, we can expect ten worldwide events, each featuring two one-hour races.

Motorsports: 2011 Spa 24 hours, Vincent Vosse, Teamchef Audi Sport Team WRT

2012 FIA GT1 World Championship
Round 1: Apr 08 Nogaro (France)
Round 2: Apr 22 Zolder (Belgium)
Round 3: May 27 Navarra (Spain)
Round 4: Jul 08 Algarve (Portugal)
Round 5: Aug 26 Peking (China)
Round 6: Sep 02 Ordos (China)
Round 7: Sep 16 Moscow (Russia)
Round 8: Oct 07 Zandvoort (Netherlands)
Round 9: Nov 25 San Luis (Argentina)
Round 10: TBA

Source: Audi

December 21, 2011

2013 Hennessey Performance HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep

Hennessey Performance (HPE) is a company which makes the fast cars, SUV’s and trucks even faster. Now the it will offer a brand new HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep with a start date in the year of 2013. The vehicle is going to be based on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. However there will be some improvements: for example the factory-made 6.4 L Hemi will be increased with a displacement of 7.0 L (426 cubic inches), while at the same time adding a twin turbo forced induction system. The consequents results in the astonishing 805 hp (816 PS / 600 kW) and 823 lb-ft (1115 Nm) of torque. Undeniably they will be enough to propel the HPE800 from 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) in only 3.1 seconds!

In additional further modifications are made in the transmission system and in the torque converter which are now upgraded. There are also included 15.1 inch Brembo front and rear brakes, a lowered sport suspension system, lighter alloy wheels, carbon fiber front splitter and a custom leather interior with Alcantara steering wheel.

Hennessey Performance offers the great opportunity to clients who want to upgrade the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 to an even higher level. This vehicle is designed for the drivers who live in an area with cold weather conditions and want to get out of their car the best performance.

HPE will limit production at just 24 examples with pricing starting at $235,000.

2013 Hennessey Performance HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep

2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep – Specifications:

Power:

• 805 bhp @ 5,800 rpm

• 823 bhp @ 4,000 rpm

Performance:

• 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds

• 1/4 mile: 10.9 @ 130 mph

Includes:

• 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

• HPE800 Twin Turbo Engine Upgrade

• Transmission Upgrade

• Torque Converter Upgrade

• HPE 20 inch Wheel Upgrade

• Custom Leather / Alcantara Interior Upgrade

• Brembo Brake System Upgrade (6-piston calipers front and 4-piston calipers rear, 15.1 inch cross drilled rotors front and rear)

• Lowered Suspension System

• Carbon Fiber Front Lip Spoiler

• Serial Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Compartment Plaque

Source: Hennessey Performance

December 21, 2011

2012 PRIOR-DESIGN BMW 1er PDM1-WB Aerodynamic-Kit [E82]

The 2012 1er PDM1 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit PRIOR-DESIGN (E82) will offer a huge range of options. The mentioned selection will include a front and rear bumper, side skirts, front fenders, a wider rear side panel and a front bonnet. The tuning company Prior Design has just released this new tuning package for the popular 1 Series Coupe models. The package is named PDM1-WB and below you can read in details the full list of the parts which are included:

Package includes:

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB side skirts (2X) (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front fenders (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear widenings (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front bonnet (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Mounting material

2012 PRIOR-DESIGN BMW 1er PDM1-WB Aerodynamic-Kit

Source: Prior Design

December 21, 2011

PP Exclusive Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

PP Exclusive has announced their tuning program for the Mercedes SL63 AMG – R230. There changes are only visual, but they make the roadster unique.

The exterior modifications include a set of huge alloy wheels in dimensions 11J x 20” for the front and 13J x 20” for the rear axle. The stance is improved by lowering the ride with 100mm (3.94”). In order to fit the enormous wheels, the wheel arches are extended with 22 mm at the front and 55 mm at the rear. In case the car is too low, you can always adjust the height electronically with a single push of a button.

If you think that the PP Exclusive SL63 AMG is cool outside, check it out on the inside. The seats are upholstered in finest white leather as well as the sports steering wheel.

The sound and performance is improved by a stainless steel sport exhaust system.

The roadster is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2 liter V8 with 525PS (386 kW) at 6800RPM and 630Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque at 5250RPM.

Source: PP Exclusive

December 20, 2011

Top 10 Cars Women Love To Drive

Women have a specific taste in cars, and it is not a secret that they have different criteria for choosing a car then men do. If men count on a passionate driving packed in good style (sometimes no matter the expenses), women prefer cars which are agile, with good visibility, considerable storage space and which combine practicality and comfort. Moreover they prefer the car to be fuel-efficient, eco-friendly and at reasonable price. Of course, women also have as a core requirement the car to be safe enough, especially when kids are considered. Another important factor is the car to be exciting to drive. And if you think that the most important thing for a woman is how her car looks, well you are wrong. A surprise is that the design comes after the practicality of the car! To sum up, women tend to consider many things as well as put attention to the little details.

Given these criteria we have picked ten of the most preferred vehicles which are appealing to women.

2011 Nissan Rouge

2011 Nissan Rogue - Front Angle

The first car to be included in our top ten is Nissan Rouge because of its comfortability and appealing look. Moreover it is fun-to drive; it is practical and has enough storage space as a compact crossover. Additional features that make this vehicle very suitable one for women are that it has nice interior and comfortable seats. Furthermore it delivers smooth drive.

Price:	[rating:3/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:3/6]

2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic

Ford Focus is one of the most familiar cars on the road nowadays. And no surprise it is also well appreciated by women. The reasons for this are several. First of all it is very well priced. Secondly it is very well built and designed. Moreover with this car the woman counts on the fuel efficiency as well. Additional advantage is that Ford has offered this model as a hybrid – called Ford Focus Econetic, which makes it perfect for those who want to be eco-friendly.

2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:3/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:4/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:3/6]

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

At first glance Hyundai Sonata looks extremely masculine. Nonetheless it features very feminine sides such as unique modern interior and smooth curves. Another very important feature is that the four-door sedan is extremely fuel-efficient. It is the perfect family car, not only because of its’ five-passenger seats, but also because of its practicality and safety. Furthermore it is at excellent amount of money. In addition, to make it even more efficient, in 2011 Hyundai has made out of it a hybrid model.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:6/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:6/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2011 Honda Civic

Undeniably Honda Civic is very appealing and eye-catching. But the woman behind the steering-wheel has chosen this car because it is firstly dependable, secondly – reliable, and thirdly – economical. Moreover it is exciting to drive and it is very comfortable for the passenger. And if you think that only the single ladies will pick such car, well the moms will also choose it because it offers a great level of safety!

2011 Honda Civic - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:5/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:5/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2012 Toyota Yaris

Toyota Yaris is the perfect city car and it is one of the most affordable small cars on the market. Moreover it offers dynamic styling and great level of handling and ride quality. And if the woman wants an exciting drive, she will definitely have it with this car, thank to the direct steering and progressive reactions.

2012 Toyota Yaris - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:5/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:2/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:2/6]

2012 Volkswagen Beetle

This iconic vehicle shows a lot of class and style. It has 73 years history and now it is one of the most desired cars from women. Furthermore it delivers dynamic drive, which is sporty and bold. With such car the lady behind the wheel will feel unique, and who doesn’t want to feel that way?

In addition to the unique styling stand the high-class interior, the capable handling and at last – the comfortable ride it provides. Moreover it is very well-equipped and offers more space than its ancestors.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:2/6]
Comfort:	[rating:3/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2012 Mercedes Benz B-Class

Of course we can’t go further in the Top 10, if we don’t include the Mercedes-Benz brand. Although a lot of women prefer to drive the A-Class too, we have picked for this position – the new B-Class. There are several reasons that most women will fall for this incredible vehicle. First of all it is very stylish in both exterior and interior. Secondly it provides considerable amount of space in the massive cabin and in the cargo. Moreover it is the perfect family car because it offers great levels of comfort and security. And to sum up – it is the perfect car for caring mums!

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:3/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Dodge Journey

The next place goes for Dodge Journey, which is another family car but this time a crossover. What is unique about this car is that it can offer a place for up to 7 passengers and hence this makes it perfect for families with a lot of members. Moreover the car is really at affordable price and is fuel efficient. It can offer the best ride during distant trips for holidays!

2011 Dodge Journey - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Chrysler 300

The woman who drives this car definitely understands from style, because this vehicle is classy and powerful! It is a combination of numerous features, starting with interior and the vigorous V8 engine. In addition it offers as well a comfortable ride in a quiet interior made of high quality materials. And although it is not inexpensive as some other cars included in this chart, it is definitely one of the cars which women love to drive.

2011 Chrysler 300 - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:2/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:6/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

The last included car here is the luxury Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. This vehicle is both affordable and it is a segment leader in terms of efficiency! The pros about this car include not only the high fuel economy but also the excellent infotainment features, the comfortable seats and driving position, and at last but not least – the responsive steering. One thing is surely here – the woman who drives this Lincoln MKZ Hybrid shows that she doesn’t have to sacrifice luxury to own a green vehicle.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:1/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:6/6]
Comfort:	[rating:6/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:6/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

December 20, 2011

Nissan Pathfinder Concept Teaser

We came across this teaser for the forthcoming Nissan Pathfinder Concept. It will be revealed on the North American International Auto Show in Detroid which will be open to the public on the 14th of January 2012.

It is said that this concept, while preserving the typical Pathfinder spirit, is to introduce a new highly modern platform coated with a striking aerodynamic body, Supposedly It will be clever, it will have seating for seven and it will be cargo friendly.

The debut precedes the appointed release of the new Nissan Pathfinder which hopefully will bare as much resemblance as possible to the concept.

Source: Nissan

December 20, 2011

Prices For The Toyota RAV4 and Prius

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. have released their manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2012 RAV4 and the Prius Liftback. They will both hit the showrooms today and on the in January 2012 respectively.

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 SUVs can be ordered in three different trim levels – RAV 4 (base), Sport and top-of-the-range Limited. Whatever the class, all vehicles can carry a 2.5 four-cylinder engine or a 3.5 V6 which develops 269 hp. Even further, either engine can be paired with a front-wheel drive or an electronic on-demand four-wheel drive. That makes a total of 12 possible combinations and thus 12 price listings. When compared to the old model, the RAV4 MY 2012 differs little in price which will preserve Toyota’s rock-solid image on the market – the base and Sport editions get an overall 0.7% increase while the Limited RAVs actually get a decrease in price by 0.5%. The cheapest of all is the 2.5 liter, front-wheel drive, 4 ratio automatic gearbox base model standing at $22,650 as the Limited V6 4WD model with a five-speed automatic transmission receives a price tag of $28,650.

All models include as standard equipment hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. RAVs from the Limited range get an extra Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™. Optional extras come in the form of a 6.1-inch touch-screen CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility, six speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio™ with iTunes ® Tagging, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port with iPod® connectivity and control.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius segment has managed to stay on top of it’s competition in terms of hybrid technology mainly because of the midsized Prius Liftback. Up until know it has been shipped to over a million environmentally conscious customers. And now the 2012 MY has received a minor update – revised front fascia and tail lights, freshly styled 15 inch wheel covers and LED Daytime Running Lights with an on/off function.

There will be four available trim grades in the U.S. (the Two, Three, Four and Five) all of which have overall increased MSRP listings with around 3.3%. with the cheapest one standing at $24 000 while the Prius Five $29 805. You still get your money’s worth though because whatever you choose, it will be packed full of technology.

All models come with a 6.1-inch Display Audio system including a USB port for iPod® connectivity and control, Bluetooth® with phone book access for hands-free calling and a more advanced Multi-Information Display. Owners of the previous Prius model will be able to recognize some carryover technology as well. There’s a Touch Tracer Display, driver door Smart Key with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry, Star Safety System and an adjustable steering wheel with controls on it for the audio and climate systems as well as controls for the phone.

The Prius Three has its Display Audio system enhanced by the EntuneTM and Navigation pack. It also gets an integrated backup camera and three-door Smart Key.

The Prius Four implements a more powerful audio system consisting of eight JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers and an amplifier. SofTex-trimmed seats, headlamps with auto on/off feature and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar power support are also included.

As optional extras the Four and Five can be equipped with Toyota’s Premium HDD Navigation with EntuneTM and JBL®, which features an exclusive seven-inch touch-screen with split-screen capability. These two models are also the first of their kind to be offering a Head-up Display (HUD) which projects information such as speed, fuel etc. on the windscreen.

Here is the complete list of the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices in comparison to the previous 2011 model year counterparts:

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	4430	RAV4	Base 2WD 4AT	$22,475	$175	0.8%	$22,650
2012	4431	RAV4	Base V6 2WD 5AT	$24,510	$175	0.7%	$24,685
2012	4440	RAV4	Sport 2WD 4AT	$24,175	$175	0.7%	$24,350
2012	4441	RAV4	Sport V6 2WD 5AT	$26,105	$175	0.7%	$26,280
2012	4450	RAV4	Limited 2WD 4AT	$25,465	($135)	-0.5%	$25,330
2012	4451	RAV4	Limited V6 2WD 5AT	$27,385	($135)	-0.5%	$27,250
2012	4432	RAV4	Base 4WD 4AT	$23,875	$175	0.7%	$24,050
2012	4433	RAV4	Base V6 4WD 5AT	$25,910	$175	0.7%	$26,085
2012	4442	RAV4	Sport 4WD 4AT	$25,575	$175	0.7%	$25,750
2012	4443	RAV4	Sport V6 4WD 5AT	$27,505	$175	0.6%	$27,680
2012	4452	RAV4	Limited 4WD 4AT	$26,855	($135)	-0.5%	$26,720
2012	4453	RAV4	Limited V6 4WD 5AT	$28,785	($135)	-0.5%	$28,650

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	1221	Prius One (fleet only)	Five-door Liftback	$22,120	$895	4.0%	$23,015
2012	1223	Prius Two	Five-door Liftback	$23,520	$480	2.0%	$24,000
2012	1225	Prius Three	Five-door Liftback	$24,520	$1,045	4.3%	$25,565
2012	1227	Prius Four	Five-door Liftback	$27,320	$915	3.3%	$28,235
2012	1229	Prius Five	Five-door Liftback	$28,790	$1,015	3.5%	$29,805

*Prices do not include the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee on neither of the cars. The fee comes as an additional expense standing at $810 for the RAV and $760 for the Prius.

Source: Toyota

December 20, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor

A real beast is going to be released in the forthcoming 2012, namely the brand new Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor! It comes with the astonishing 568 kW PS/418 from a powerful 6.2-liter V8 with a supercharger kit under the hood! This upgraded Camaro Convertible 2SS with Geiger Kompressort Kit delivers unique mix of power and freedom. Moreover it now offers V8 sound created by the Munich American car specialists. The new and improved vehicle is, in comparison to its ancestors, with significant power increase as well as extensive additional equipment – all of course TÜV. For superior performance regardless of high revs, high torque of the tuned by Geiger Camaro 2SS: min Legendary 779 Nm at 4,100 rpm/.

The whole 568 horsepower (405 kW) you can get at the price of 90,000 euros for the 2SS. In addition the model is characterized by a unique violinist compressor price-performance. Moreover this high-quality equipment version of the Geiger-compressor-kit includes: Geiger wheels in 10 x 22 inch with tires in size 265/30/22 and 295/25/ZR22 rear, an adjustable sport suspension with stabilizers on front Geiger and rear axles, Geiger sport exhaust system, Geiger aerodynamic-enhancement kit with front spoiler, side skirts and rear diffuser as well as special paint. All this comes with an ample standard equipment including leather, xenon headlights, parking assistance, rear camera, head-up display, on-board computer, extra ads (oil and transmission temperature, battery voltage, oil pressure) , dimming exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable and foldable, and Boston Premium Hi-Fi sound system (MP3, CD, Bluetooth-enabled).

The prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible start from 43990 Euro. Moreover there is being offered Geiger individual finishes such as: decorative design of your choice (price from 500 Euro), metallic paint (for 800 Euro), additional premium paint (for 1000 Euro), numerous individual special leather interior, sports seat, navigation and sound system.

Specifications 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor:
Engine: 6.2-liter V8 with Geiger-compressor kit
Power: 568 kW at 6250 rpm PS/418 kW / 772 HP/ 568 HP
Torque: 779 Nm at 4,100 U / 575 lb-ft /
Consumption (combined): 12.8 l/100 km
Price: From € 84 900

Source: Chevrolet

December 20, 2011

New 2012 Lexus Concept

As we have already announced – Lexus has revealed last week a new concept for a new vehicle that will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit at 13:25 PST (22:25 CET) on 9^th of January, 2012. Today the company has released a second teaser, this time giving a sneak peak at the interior of the new Lexus design concept. The interior was created by Calty, which is Lexus’ design studio in Newport Beach, California. As you can see, design is more than luxurious with smooth lines and curves, and fine leather all around. It is definitely eye-catching and breathtaking.

And having in mind the first teaser (an image of the exterior), this concept vehicle will surely be a sports car with sharp and aggressive lines.

Source: Lexus

December 20, 2011

Chevrolet Sonic RS 2013

NAIAS, year 2010 – Chevrolet showed that they too want to be taken seriously in the hot hatch world with their, then concept, Sonic RS. Well, now that concept is a reality and it will be revealed at the 2012 NAIAS with production starting near the end of the same year. To set itself apart from its standard counterparts, the RS has employed some distinguishing alterations which start at the exterior and reach all the way under the hood.

Available solely with five doors, the Sonic RS is undoubtedly dressed to impress. The front, racing styled fascia is patched on both ends with typical RS inlets which in turn have redesigned fog lights nestled in them. The front grille is also in a specific RS honeycomb design and new rocker moldings are applied as well. At the back new fascia, new spoiler and chromed outlets of the already tuned exhaust system give the Sonic a new character. For an overall look, Chevrolet have put on RS badges here and there along with four conspicuous 17-inch five spoke styled wheels. The paint finishes will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic depending on customer preference.

Inside the RS symptoms continue as we make ourselves comfortable in the black leather sport seats with red stitching all around. A specially designed steering wheel with a thicker rim and a flat bottom feels nice to the touch. Strange and futuristic instrument clusters, which can only be found in the RS, flash back at you. The gear stick is freshly styled while the pedals are made from aluminum.

IT enthusiasts will be glad to know that Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system comes as standard. It is a seven-inch color touch screen radio which can be connected to various smart phones via Bluetooth in order to access Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio. Navigation directions, originally downloaded on the user’s smart phones can be displayed on that screen. Other forms of multimedia (like photos and videos) will also be available to display provided that the car is not in motion.

There are high hopes for the RS’s performance as this will be the first car in its segment to employ a turbocharged powertrain. It is an Ecotec 1.4l engine that develops 138 units of horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm). Chevrolet say this power will be available trough the whole range of the rev. counter so even at low rounds per minute the sporty presence should be preserved. The gearbox is be a six-speed manual which comes as standard while a six-speed automatic is optional.

There are some technological advances dedicated to handle the newfound power as well. The front wheels are attached to a MacPherson strut suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar while at the back we have a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound, link-type rear suspension – including a robust, tubular V-shape beam – with gas-charged shocks. Both, the front track and the back one are identical when it comes to width – 59.4 inches (1,509 mm) aimed to achieve a good planted stance and stability. Being an RS version, the car also has a set of four disk brakes complete with a four channel ABS system. It also has a clever nervous system in the form of four load sensors (one on each wheel) which take into account the road conditions and the weight of passengers and cargo so that the braking force is distributed more evenly and efficiently.

All and all it has been a long wait and now we’ll have to wait even more to see if it was worth it.

Source: Chevrolet

December 19, 2011

Donkervoort GTO: 340HP, 450 Nm and 750kg

Donkervoort Automobielen in Lelystad and Audi Quattro GmbH announce the next generation of open sports cars: the Donkervoort GTO. The project took two and a half years of development, but it worth it.

GTO is powered by a five-cylinder 340PS and 450Nm 2.5 liter TFSI Audi motor. The weight of the open sports car is around 750kg, so the power-to-weight will be amazing. Compared to the old D8 270RS, the new GTO is about 35 cm longer and 15 cm wider. The GTO is therefore a brand-new designed car. Only sharing 5% of the parts with the D8 270RS and about 30% with the much more recent GT. A milestone in the 34-year history of Donkervoort.

“This weight savings is obtained by redesigning several accessory parts of the motor together with the Audi technicians. For example, amongst others a new intake manifold was developed. Because the intake follows a more favourable route through the motor area it is not only lighter, but has a favourable effect on the achievements of the motor as well. The dashboard in this design of the GTO is equipped with a special race module switch, which can increase the capacity from 340 to 400 HP at once. Connected to this is another Donkervoort novelty: the first car from Lelystad that has ‘traction control’ on board. Only for when it is raining of course.”, commented Joop Donkervoort.

The production of the Donkervoort GTO starts in 2012, whereby it is expected that the first specially designed units will be delivered in the summer. The price of the new GTO is between € 100 000 and € 150 000 excluding taxes.

Source: Donkervoort

December 19, 2011

Nissan Micra with two new editions

In the UK, Nissan has decided to add two new trim levels to an already colourful lineup of Micras. Called Kuro (black from Japanese) and Shiro (white), the two editions are now ready to order with a price starting at £11,550 for the 1.2 liter naturally aspired engine coupled with a manual transmission. However the new supercharged DIG-S power plant and the CVT automatic gearbox are also available as options.

One can tell from a distance if a Micra is either of these two trimmings. The Kuro is coated in a metallic Sapphire Black while Shiro is available in two white shades – Pearl or Alabaster. Inside the dashboard has an ivory feel to it and the light seat trimmings all in the name of luxury.

The equipment level resembles the one of the mid range Acenta trimline with several additions which are usually reserved for the Tekna top of the range: We have parking sensors with parking space measurement, heated front seats and climate control. For the extra £400, the Nissan Connect satellite navigation will also be included.

As a final touch, the back sides of the Kuro and the Shiro are branded with a definitive badge to let people know that the person inside values sensibility with a slight dash of glamour.

Source: Nissan

December 19, 2011

Blog