Automobiles Review – Page 970 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible

After the reveling of the stunning IPL G Coupe, Infiniti has introduced the new 2013 IPL G Convertible at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The new IPL G Convertible features special aerodynamic styling pieces, the dynamic performance of an IPL-tuned V6, exhaust and suspension, 19” IPL aluminum-alloy wheels, and unique leather-appointed interior – along with the G Convertible’s three-piece retractable hardtop.

“The Infiniti Performance Line, as demonstrated by our first offering, the IPL G Coupe, challenges the concept of ultra-high cost sports series. IPL pushes the premium performance envelope for buyers seeking a higher level of exclusivity and driving exhilaration, but does so with an Infiniti twist,”commented Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore.

“Like every Infiniti, the new IPL G Convertible takes a different path from its established competitors, with its retractable hardtop that is designed to look as good with the top up as down. It’s a terrific addition to the Infiniti Performance Line, taking the dramatic Infiniti G Convertible to an even higher level.”, Mr. Poore added.

IPL G Convertible is powered by a 3.7 liter naturally aspirated V6 with 348PS (256 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox with Downshift Rev Matching and quick-shift Drive Sport (DS) mode with magnesium paddle shifters and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC).

Other interesting features are the IPL-tuned high-flow exhaust system with dual-pipe design, large brakes with 4-piston calipers up front and 2-piston at the rear and 19” IPL split 7-spoke graphite-finish wheels and low-profile W-rated Bridgestone Potenza RE050A performance tires.

The Cabrio is offered in two exterior colors – Moonlight White and Malbec Black and two interior colors – Stone and IPL-exclusive Monaco Red.

All IPL G Convertible interiors include red-stitched leather-appointed Climate-controlled front sport seats with embroidered IPL logos, manual thigh extension and driver’s power torso and thigh support adjustment, red-stitched steering wheel, Silk Obi aluminum trim, IPL embroidered front floor mats, and aluminum trimmed pedals and footrest.

2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible will hit the UK market in spring, next year.

2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible Interior

Source: Infiniti

November 21, 2011

2012 Audi A1 Sportback Price – £13 980

2012 Audi A1 Sportback will become available in the UK later this month and will reach its first customers here in the spring of 2012. The 5-door city car is priced at just £13 980 OTR.

A1 Sportback makes provision for an extra passenger – up to three can pass through its rear doors and take a seat, each of them protected by a headrest and full three-point seatbelt. The luggage compartment is also pretty good – 270 litres with the rear seats up and 920 litres, when they are folded.

There are three trim levels – SE, Sport and S line. The options list is quite rich, too – alloy wheels, remote central locking, air conditioning, electric front and rear windows and mirrors, split folding rear seat and a six-speaker single CD Concert audio system linked to a 6.5” retractable display.

Sport model additions include larger 16” wheels, sports suspension, sports seats, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and a Driver’s Information System, while S line versions upgrade with extras such as an exclusive S line exterior treatment including larger 17” alloy wheels, S line sports suspension and leather and cloth combination upholstery.

The engine range includes a choice of three TFSI petrol engines and one TDI diesel producing between 86PS and 185PS.

The puniest is the 1.2 litre TFSI with 86PS (63 kW). There are also 1.4 litre TFSI with 122PS (90kW) and 1.4 litre twin-turbocharged TFSI with whopping 185PS (136 kW). The diesel is 1.6 litre TDI with 105PS (77 kW). Later line-up will be joined by a fifth member – the 2.0-litre TDI with 143PS (105 kW).

2012 A1 Sportback 1.6 TDI with 105PS returns up to 74.3 mpg with just 99 g/km of CO₂, while the turbocharged and supercharged 1.4 TFSI with 185PS will feature the 7-speed S tronic twin-clutch gearbox – from 0 to 100 km/h in 7 seconds and a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).

Check out the full price list, below!

Audi A1 Sportback pricing overview

SE Model pricing
Petrol – SE
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.2TFSI SE Manual	86PS	118	5-speed manual	£11,112.50	£13,335	£13,980

Diesel – SE
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.6TDI SE Manual	105PS	99	5-speed manual	£11,995.83	£14,395.00	£15,040

Sport Model pricing
Petrol – Sport
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.2TFSI Sport Manual	86PS	118	5-speed manual	£12,645.83	£15,175	£15,820
1.4TFSI Sport Manual	122PS	126	6-speed manual	£12,987.50	£15,585	£16,230
1.4TFSI Sport S tronic	122PS	119	7-speed S tronic	£14,195.83	£17,035	£17,680

Diesel – Sport
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.6TDI Sport Manual	105PS	99	5-speed manual	£13,529.17	£16,235.00	£16,880

S line Model pricing
Petrol – S line
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.2TFSI S line Manual	86PS	118	5-speed manual	£13,933.33	£16,720	£17,365
1.4TFSI S line Manual	122PS	126	6-speed manual	£14,275.00	£17,130	£17,775
1.4TFSI S line S tronic	122PS	122	7-speed S tronic	£15,483.33	£18,580	£19,225
1.4TFSI S line S tronic	185PS	139	7-speed S tronic	£17,091.67	£20,510	£21,270

Diesel – S line
Engines	Power	CO₂ g/km	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	OTR Price
1.6TDI S line Manual	105PS	99	5-speed manual	£14,816.67	£17,780.00	£18,425

Source: Audi

November 21, 2011

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Spyder combines the convertible body style with rear-wheel-drive for ultimate fun.

“With the Gallardo LP 550-2 Spyder, we are expanding the Lamborghini lineup with a purist model that adds yet another dimension of driving fun. This will appeal in particular to a very special group of customers that enjoy a spirited driving style and also like to experience the sheer pleasure of open-air driving,” commented Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

“This special model with rear-wheel drive is a logical expansion of our lineup of spyder models with all-wheel drive.”, he added.

The 2012 Gallardo LP 550-2 Spyder is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 with 550PS (405 kW) and 540Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque, which means 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph). The soft-top of the Gallardo Spyder is designed for unlimited top-speed enjoyment both open and closed.

Thanks to systematic Lamborghini lightweight design and an extremely low dry weight of just 1 520 kg, phenomenal performance is guaranteed.

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder

Source: Lamborghini

November 20, 2011

2012 Honda CR-V

Honda has introduced the new 2012 CR-V at the LA Motor Show. The new CR-V is compact on the outside and roomy inside. It represents an ideal balance for size and capability in the entry SUV segment by offering five seats, smooth and quite ride and even more innovative features than the previous model.

2012 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4 liter i-VTEC four-cylinder petrol engine with 188PS (138 kW) and 221Nm (163 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. The engine also offers best-in-class fuel economy – 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg on combined cycle – for AWD version.

The new CR-V standard equipment includes an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat, a Bluetooth HandsFreeLink phone interface, a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines.

As a first for Honda, every 2012 CR-V includes an SMS text messaging function, which can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Another first is the introduction of a Pandora Internet Radio interface3, compatible with the Apple iPhone, which works with the vehicle’s audio controls and i-MID.

There are three trim levels – LX, EX and EX-L. The standard safety equipment features an electronic stability control system; an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist; side-curtain airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision.

2012 Honda CR-V will hit the US market on December 15.

Source: Honda

November 20, 2011

Hamann Hawk Mercedes SLS AMG White

Mercedes SLS AMG is one of the most staggering vehicles currently available on the market. It is not only superbly fast, but it carries the spirit of the legend – Gullwing. To further emphasize its character, Hamann now offers complete styling and performance packages.

The most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world – AMG’s 6.2 liter is boosted to 636PS (468 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) at 4850RPM. The results are thanks to a high-performance stainless steel sport exhaust system, a sports air filter and an ECU re-map, of course.

The performance is even brutal than the stock version – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph).

The exterior of Hamann Hawk is really striking. It features complete aerodynamics package including front apron with larger air inlets and a new LED lights. There are also a new bonnet made of checkered flag carbon, new side skirts and a rear wing also made of checkered flag carbon.

The vehicle is widened with 60mm on each front side and 70mm on each rear side.

The new rear apron with the diffuser enhances the air flow under the bottom of the car and provides room for four enormous end pipes each measuring 90 mm in diameter.

Hamann Hawk stands on enormous “Unique Forged Anodized“ rims in dimensions 9J x 21” with tires 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 12.5J x 21” with 345/25 ZR 21 tires at the rear axle.

The ride can be lowered by up to 30mm thanks to the coilover kit especially refined for the Hawk.

Finally, the interior boasts most delicate leather and ultra-suede, applications and embroideries replace the serial interior. HAMANN additionally adorns the air inlets, door sill protectors and centre console with checkered flag carbon. Black anodized aluminium pedals render a comfortable grip. The technical highlight of the new interior is the new steering wheel which has been ergonomically redesigned.

Source: Hamann

November 19, 2011

ABT Audi AS6 Avant

ABT Sportsline has introduced their tuning program for the latest Audi A6 Avant. The tuner offers both performance and styling packages to boost the individuality of the premium vehicle.

There are performance upgrades for the 3.0 TDI in both versions – 204PS (150 kW) and 245PS (180 kW) as well as the petrol 3.0 TFSI with standard 300PS (221 kW).

The exterior include complete aerodynamics package – ABT side skirts, ABT front spoiler, ABT rear skirt insert and 4-end pipes and ABT rear spoiler. There are also ABT sport rims with dimensions from 19” to 21” and sports tyres for them.

Whatever engine the customers choose – they will always get a balanced vehicle which meets the highest demands: everyday reliability and suitability for long journeys in combination with maximum sportiness characterise the new ABT AS6 Avant. After all you don’t want to go without comfort and luxury just because you are in a particular hurry.

You can check the full list of upgrades, below!

ABT Audi AS6 Avant:

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine:                     3.0 TDI, 2967 ccm capacity
Performance tuning:    ABT POWER
Performance:               240 PS/177 kW (standard: 204 PS/150 kW)

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine:                    3.0 TDI, 2967 ccm capacity
Performance tuning:    ABT POWER S
Performance:               300 PS/221 kW (standard: 245 PS/180 kW

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine:                     3.0 TFSI, 2995 ccm capacity
Performance tuning:    ABT POWER
Performance:               420 PS/309 kW (standard: 300 PS/221 kW)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT side skirts
ABT front spoiler
ABT rear skirt insert and 4-end pipes
ABT rear spoiler

ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGY
ABT sport rims – 19” to 21”
Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres

Source: ABT

November 19, 2011

Hamann Guardian Evo Porsche Cayenne II

Hamann has introduced its extensive parts programme for the current Porsche Cayenne Turbo. It includes a whole package of improvements – performance, aerodynamics, brake system and suspension. The name of the project is HAMANN GUARDIAN EVO.

The body kit includes extended front apron with larger air inlets and integrated additional daylight running lights as well as full beam and fog lights in LED technology. There are also an ultra-light carbon bonnet with a slit “power dome”, wing extensions and new side skirts resulting in widening the vehicle with the impressive 120 mm at the front axle and 160 mm at the back.

The HAMANN rear apron with an integrated diffuser houses the two central stainless steel end pipes measuring 120 mm in width.

The performance modifications include – sports silencer, sports catalysts, sports air filter and an optimized engine map. The result is 550PS (405 kW) at 6100RPM and 770Nm (568 lb-ft) at 2300RPM. From 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h.

Guardian EVO stands on enormous 11J x 23” unique forged wheels fitted with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres in size 315/25 R23. Behind them, there are CERAMIC sports brake system with brake discs 420 x 40 mm in the front and 380 x 32 mm in the back with 6-piston and four-piston calipers, respectively.

A sports module has been developed especially for the Cayenne´s air suspension and thanks to this serial enhancement, the HAMANN GUARDIAN EVO can be lowered by up to 35 mm.

The interior is the final touch, which gets masterly stitched embroidery on the dash board and the seats. The ergonomically re-designed airbag steering wheel renders a comfortable grip. Last, but not least, there are carbon component parts on the instruments and the centre consoles.

Hamann Guardian Evo Porsche Cayenne II Interior

Source: Hamann

November 18, 2011

CLP Automotive BMW X6 wide-body kit

CLP Automotive has announced their tuning program for BMW X6. It consists of a new wide-track and wide-body kit for the SAC. The name of the program is Bruiser and you can see, why.

CLP adds 50mm to the track of BMW X6 by adding a new front bumper with a large central air vent, wide front fenders, modified side skirts, new door panels, different rear bumper and of course widened quarter panels. To complete the exterior package you can order a rear spoiler, which is also available.

The widened X6 needs bigger wheels and the choice is just perfect – 11J x 23” at the front and brutal 12.5J x 23” at the rear fitted with ultra-low-profile tires. CLP also adds a new sport exhaust system for deeper sound.

The price is not announced, but it will be less than €10 000, which is nice offer for such transformation. Just imagine this tuned vehicle with mighty twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 under the front hood… with appropriate re-map, of course.

Source: CLP Automotive

November 18, 2011

Volkswagen eT!

The eT! research vehicle could someday actually revolutionise the world of lightweight commercial vehicles. Completely reconceptualised, driven with zero emissions, thought through to the last detail and driving semi-automatically if necessary! Just how wide-ranging the significance of this research project could be for sustainability in the transportation field is underscored by the support for the eT! project by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.

“We analysed process flows and customer needs in detail, and from these analyses we derived ideas on how the segment of delivery and courier vehicles could be further developed over the long term. In this context, we focused on zero-emissions driving and available space in urban areas, semiautomatic driving functions that offer relevant support and simplify work processes and the integration of new communication technologies. On top of that, we also set out to design a very emotionally appealing commercial vehicle. To attain these goals, our teams not only looked towards the future from the past, but also worked from a future perspective to implement an advanced development concept based on technologies available today.”, commented Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold, Director of Volkswagen Group Research.

“The eT! research vehicle unifies a whole gamut of innovative functions, which will gain in future importance, specifically for logistics businesses. In particular, the possibility of driving the car semi-automatically – and electrically – in downtown areas unifies economical and environmental aspects more systematically than ever. As a vision of the future, the eT! Is showcasing what is the maximum feasible technology for electric vehicles in the commercial market today with a special design that systematically addresses future customer needs.”
explains Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, spokesperson for the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Variants of this lightweight transport vehicle could be implemented for all conceivable business uses. And these derived concepts are also the focus of research activities. Meanwhile, the eT! concept shown in a world premiere at the Design Centre of Potsdam was specially designed for delivery of mail shipments of all types. The research vehicle will now be integrated in a driving test study and further analysed.

Source: Volkswagen

November 18, 2011

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

Ford has introduced another special Mustang at the LA Auto Show. 2013 Shelby GT500 – raises the bar high on performance with the introduction of the new 2013 model that goes on sale next year delivering 650 horsepower and a top speed of more than 200 mph.

The road-legal Shelby GT500 is powered by a 5.8 liter supercharged V8 with 659PS (485 kW) and 813Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. The gearbox is 6-speed manual, which sends the power to a torsen LSD on the rear wheels. Nothing is said about the acceleration, but the top speed is 322 km/h (200 mph).

The 2013 Shelby GT500 offers two new sets of forged-aluminum wheels including a unique wheel for cars with the optional packages. The 19” front and 20” rear wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires on all vehicle configurations.

The new Shelby GT500 can be ordered with Performance Package includes Bilstein electronically-adjusted dampers, while the Track Package features an external engine-oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler to prevent over-heating on the track.

Other keys for improved traction management include:

Torsen limited-slip differential:When customers order the optional Performance Package, they will get a Torsen limited-slip differential that helps the rear suspension deliver maximum torque and traction better and longer under track conditions

Launch control: A new launch control system lets drivers set the desired launch rpm depending on tire temperature, street surface or other conditions. Unique to SVT’s launch control is that it is integrated with both the engine control and traction control

Brembo braking system: A new Brembo brake system offers drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, both on the road and the track. New six-piston calipers in front along with larger front and rear rotors help improve brake fade. New brake pads that are more aggressive also help the car achieve high deceleration and further robustness for more driver confidence

Source: Ford

November 18, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Price – $54 995

2012 Chevrolet Camaro is one of the most beautiful and stunning cars available on the market. It comes with unique aggressive exterior, brutal engine and nice characteristics even for everyday driving.

“From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” commented Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing.

“The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”, he added.

2012 ZL1 is powered by a supercharged 6.2 liter V8 with whopping 588PS (432 kW) and 754Nm (556 lb-ft), which is enough to pool several carriages. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic. All that power is sent to the rear wheels, so the handling and fun are insane.

The performance – 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with automatic gearbox and 4.0 seconds with the manual. The top speed is 296 km/h (184 mph) – automatic and 290 km/h (180 mph) – manual.

“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, and a top speed in excess of 180 mph, the power and acceleration of the Camaro ZL1 rivals many supercars,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

“And, horsepower is only half of the story, as the most significant measurement of the ZL1’s potential is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That is a great testament to the power, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1, and to the well-rounded performance of the ZL1 that sets the bar for the sports-car segment.”, he added.

All this pleasure comes at decent price – $54 995, including destination charges, so if you consider buying a sports car, ZL1 is one of the best options available on the market.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 options:

Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185

20”, bright aluminum wheel package is $470

Power sunroof is $900

Stripe package is $470

Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600

The suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500

Source: Chevrolet

November 18, 2011

2013 Ford Mustang GT facelift

Ford has introduced the new 2013 Mustang GT facelift. It is currently exhibited at the Los Angeles Motor Show as well as the 2013 Mustang.

“The new Mustang is the perfect example of continuing to build on excellence. It takes the greatness of the 5.0-liter and V6 and pushes the refinement to the next level,” commented Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer.

“The car has been spot-on functionally and now we’re adding more features and technology to further improve the driver’s experience.”, he added.

2013 Mustang GT is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 with 426PS (313 kW), which is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and 6-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission is available as an option. The shifter has been upgraded for 2013 with more modern style and improved accessibility.

The standard 18” painted aluminum wheel on both GT and premium GT is an evolution of the five-spoke design. The 19” optional GT wheel comes with a gloss-black finish with machined face for a more sinister look.

The 2013 Mustang GT features xenon headlights, a new 4.2” LCD productivity screen, Shaker audio system with 8 speakers – 370 WATTS. The upgraded Shaker Pro offers 9 speakers and delivers 550 WATTS of power. You can also order leather-trimmed or cloth Recaro sports seats.

The 2013 Ford Mustang will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. First sales will start next spring.