Automobiles Review – Page 971 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

Jaguar has brought the 2012 XKR-S Convertible at the Los Angeles Motor Show. This is the most powerful and fastest open-topped GT Jaguar has ever built. It comes with unique supercharged AJ-V8 GENIII petrol, revised suspension, uprated Adaptive Dynamics and many other upgrades.

The XKR-S Convertible is powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 550PS (405 kW) and 680Nm (501 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

The sound is incredible, too, because of the performance Active exhaust, which enables higher power and torque and gives the XKR-S its own distinctive soundtrack.

The XKR-S Convertible also features lightweight aluminium architecture providing high torsional rigidity meaning that the vehicle has superb handling. There are also revised front and rear suspension, uprated Adaptive Dynamics system, styling changes including new front bumper design with wider, lower air intake, carbon fibre splitter and twin side nacelles.

The aerodynamics package also includes new sills smooth resulting in 10mm reduction in ride height, unique rear wing with carbon fibre insert and apron.

A very important feature for convertible maniacs is that the roof opens or closes in just 18 seconds with a single touch of a button.

2012 XKR-S Convertible stands on huge 20” alloys fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres – 255/35 ZR20 at the front and 295/30 ZR20 at the rear.
The interior boasts 16-way adjustable Performance seats trimmed in carbon leather, a multifunction three-spoke steering wheel wrapped in leather and stainless steel pedals. Other premium surfaces include soft-feel paint for the switches and a gloss black centre console. An exclusive dark aluminium finish is available as standard with an optional Piano Black finish also available.

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is priced at £103 000 and the first deliveries will start in the beginning of the next year.

Source: Jaguar

November 18, 2011

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US is being currently exhibited at the LA Motor Show.

“Bringing the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth to the U.S. enables us to reach out to driving enthusiasts who want Italian performance at an attainable price,” commented Olivier Francois, Head of FIAT Brand and Chief Marketing Officer – Chrysler Group LLC.

“With its lightweight, track-tuned handling and purpose-built design, the Fiat 500 Abarth brings to life the legendary racing heritage of the brand and becomes the Italian high-performance car for everyday driving.”, he added.

The small city car will be powered by an all-new 1.4 liter MultiAir Turbo engine. There are no exact numbers, but probably the US 500 Abarth will be slightly more powerful than the EU model. The European model boasts 140PS (103 kW) and 206Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque.

Other goodies include Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally included on a small car. The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes the brand’s legendary performance heritage to American streets.

The exterior boasts complete aerodynamics body kit and 16” alloy wheels as standard and possibility for 17” as an option.

The interior comes with Abarth-designed steering wheel with perforated leather and flat bottom. There are also cruise, audio and BLUE&ME^TM Handsfree Communication technology controls on the steering wheel. The instrument cluster has 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer. For a touch of sophistication, the instrument-panel cluster brow is wrapped in Nero leather with Rosso accent stitching. There are Unique Abarth-styled front performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass through, accent stitching around the perimeter and integrated side-thorax air bags.

For a contemporary and technical look, the Fiat 500 Abarth features the center stack, radio and climate control system, as well as the headliner and pillars finished in Nero, while the four-passenger seating is available in Nero (cloth or leather) or Rosso/Nero (leather) color combinations.

Source: Fiat

November 17, 2011

2013 Ford Escape

Ford exhibits 2013 Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this month. The vehicle is based on Vertrek Concept and it is practically the same.

“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” commented Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.

“Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.”, he added.

The exterior of the new Escape boasts a sloping roofline and a tailgate-mounted spoiler, which bring better aerodynamics. There are also a new hood and a prominent grille, power liftgate and 17” alloy wheels. The interior now features better materials and restyled switchgear.

2013 Escape is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 175PS (129 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft, a 2.5 liter with 170PS (125 kW) and 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) and a powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240PS (177 kW) and 338 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque. All engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of FWD and AWD, which is available as an option for EcoBoost variants.

2013 Ford Escape can be ordered with MyFord Touch SAT NAV system, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot Information System.

“This all-new Ford model opens a new chapter in the world of SUVs,” Mr. Kuzak said.

“By being smarter, this utility vehicle will help customers around the globe find better, easier ways to connect with technology, maximize fuel efficiency and find the versatility and capability they need and want.”, he finished.

Source: Ford

November 17, 2011

Subaru BRZ STi Concept

Subaru has unveiled the BRZ STI Concept at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. The sports vehicle come with RWD and it is co-developed with Toyota Motor Corporation.

The car is designed for “Pure Handling Delight” and features horizontally-opposed Boxer engine. The exterior boasts aggressive headlights, a carbon fiber roof and an enormous rear wing. The package also includes a front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a 4-tailpipe exhaust system.

The performance is further boosted by a special sport-tuned suspension and Brembo brake system. BRZ STI sits on 18” alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

Subaru BRZ STI Concept is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter Boxer engine with direct injection technology. It is designed with a square bore and stroke of 86 X 86 mm for high output and high environmental standards, which were both attained.

Styling

• By installing the Boxer engine as low as possible, the low hood and sleek roofline together compose a sophisticated form. This is also blended with STI performance touches for a Subaru sporting profile.
• A hexagonal lower front grille, hawk eye headlights and fin-shaped fog lamps make the front face instantly recognizable as Subaru.
• STI-made lower front spoiler and rear wing magnify down-force and aerodynamics performance. They allow stable straight driving and excellent handling at high speeds.
• The rear design with bold rear fender flares, large rear-diffuser, and twin dual tailpipes intensifies the STI performance feel.
• A carbon-fiber roof, already installed in a WRX STI model and highly acclaimed, has been employed by the concept car. With it, extra weight reduction and an even lower center of gravity were achieved, contributing considerably to the ultimate handling performance this concept model aims to offer.

Engine

• The Boxer engine has inherent qualities of light weight, compactness, low center of gravity, and high rigidity – all pointing toward its great potential as a sports car engine. Taking full advantage of these features, a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder direct fuel-injection gasoline engine has been developed exclusively for BRZ.
• The engine has been designed with a square bore and stroke of 86 X 86 mm. Combined with Toyota’s D-4S direct injection technology (fuel injection system), high output and high environmental standards were both attained, both expected of a new generation sports car.

Chassis and Body

• Compared with other Subaru models, the engine in SUBARU BRZ CONCEPT – STI – sits an impressive 120 mm lower and is positioned 240 mm closer to the center of the chassis. As a result, this car has achieved one of the lowest possible center of gravity in cars on the market today.
• By incorporating lightweight parts such as a carbon-fiber roof, the overall weight has been reduced. Subaru has also succeeded in attaining a body structure that is both lightweight and highly rigid in a striking balance. The concept car is the embodiment of pure driving enjoyment only obtainable with a “Boxer sports car”.
• Its unique handling performance has been remarkably refined by adopting STI’s lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires and STI tuned suspension with excellent lateral stiffness.
• Brembo brakes enhance braking performance.

Major Specifications

Overall Length × Width × Height (mm): 4,230 × 1,800 × 1,280
Wheelbase (mm): 2,570
Engine Type: 2.0-liter direct fuel injection naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder
Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine
Tires: 215/45R18 (Front), 225/45R18 (Rear)

Source: Subaru

November 17, 2011

2012 Hyundai Azera

Hyundai Motor America has introduced the new 2012 Azera, which is the fifth vehicle to adopt the company’s signature Fluidic Sculpture design language. The 2012 Azera represents a modern approach to the traditional large sedan segment by using an advanced powertrain, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. This approach has been successful for the other Fluidic Sculpture vehicles.

Azera is the model sitting between Sonata and Genesis. It comes with exclusive exterior design featuring xenon headlights, LED taillights and big 18” alloy wheels. The elegant look continues in the interior, too. Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance, thanks to a flow-through center fascia and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers. The cabin comes with heated leather seats and SAT NAV, but you can also order premium 12-speaker Infinity audio system, ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Among the standard equipment, you’ll find dual automatic climate control, second row air vents and cooled glove box.

2012 Azera is powered by Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI V6 with 297PS (218 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual control. The fuel consumption is satisfying – 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

The vehicle sits on 245/45 R18 tires on 18” Hyper silver alloy wheels – standard. There is an optional 19” Hyper silver alloy wheel fitted with 245/40 R19 tire.

Azera has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).

The colour range includes Black Onyx Pearl, Porcelain White Pearl, Silver Frost Metallic, Smoke Gray Metallic, Hyper Silver Metallic, Venetian Red Pearl, Bronze Mist Metallic and Midnight Blue Pearl. Interior color choices are Camel, Graphite Black and Chestnut Brown.

2012 Hyundai Azera:

All-new second generation Azera with Fluidic Sculpture design
Powered by a new Lambda II 3.3-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission
Horsepower: 293 at 6400 RPM
Best-in-class combined 23 mpg
Better combined fuel efficiency than Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Lexus ES350 and Buick LaCrosse V6
Best-in-class specific output
Nine standard airbags – includes knee airbag
Impact-reducing front seat system
Standard VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD
Best-in-class head and leg room for front-seat passengers
Standard 18-inch alloy wheels and optional 19-inch alloy wheels
HID Xenon headlights with LED accents
Segment-exclusive standard navigation system with rearview camera
Standard leather interior with heated front and rear seats
Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with voice recognition
Standard Blue Link telematics platform
Segment-first manual side window sunshades
Ventilated front seats

Source: Hyundai

November 17, 2011

Volkswagen Beetle R Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show

Volkswagen will exhibit the Beetle R Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The car made its official debut in Frankfurt earlier this year. The US was the biggest market for the previous New Beetle, and that’s likely to remain the same with the new vehicle.

Beetle R comes with redesigned front and rear bumpers. The front has three air intakes in a black high-gloss finish and the rear has a diffuser and four tail-pipes – two either side. Above this sits a large spoiler with a gloss black finish on top and body-coloured finish beneath.

Along the sides flashes of gloss black give the Beetle R a distinctive look: it can be found on the door mirror caps (just as on the Golf R and Scirocco R), the door handles, the 15 mm wider side sills and also on the roof.

The Concept stands on 5-spoke Talladega 20” alloy wheels, which will be familiar to drivers of the Golf R or Scirocco R.

The interior comes with racing seats covered in black Nappa leather and dashboard accented in high gloss black. The instrument panel highlights the Beetle R’s sporting intent: the tachometer is in the middle and the speedometer to the side, while atop the dashboard are three auxiliary instruments: an oil temperature gauge, chronometer and turbo boost pressure indicator, all with distinctive blue needles.

There is no data about the engine, but Golf R and Scirocco R, use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit with 270PS and 265PS, so the power will be around that number.

Source: Volkswagen

November 16, 2011

2012 Bentley Continental GTC US Price – $212 800

Bentley Motors will offer the new Continental GTC to the North American market.

“Los Angeles is the ideal location for Bentley to launch the luxurious and powerful GTC convertible,” commented Alasdair Stewart, Bentley’s Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing.

“Southern California remains the most successful market for Bentley in the US, and the US remains the largest market in the world for the Company. New model introductions, such as the GTC convertible – which will reach US customers later this year – and the new GT coupe – which went on sale in the spring – have helped Bentley global sales grow by a third in 2011.”, he added.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC is powered by a brutal twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine with 567PS (417 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and top speed of 322 km/h (200 mph). The engine is mated to a Quickshift transmission that improves acceleration response times and cuts shift times to only 200 milliseconds.

The GTC’s chassis, the stiffest of any convertible in the world, provides a firm foundation for suspension control, minimising scuttle shake and contributing to the GTC’s refined handling.

The GTC interior comes with luxurious wood and leather. There are also 8” touch-screen infotainment system, and zip-code entry navigation, all supported by a 30GB HDD. To ensure drivers and passengers alike enjoy an extended top-down driving season, the GTC now features neck warmers in the rear headrests of its cobra-head designed slim-line seats. With the top up, acoustics have improved thanks to the addition of acoustically-sensitive undersheet, wheel liners, front and side glass and a three-layer roof with a rubber-film middle layer.

The new Bentley GTC convertible will enter the US market in late 2011. The price tag is as stunning as the car itself – $212 800.

Source: Bentley

November 16, 2011

2012 BMW F10 M5 Saloon UK Price – £73 040

BMW UK has announced the new 2012 F10 M5 Saloon, which is available to order from this month with price – £73 040 OTR. This is the 5^th-generation of the famous five series and it is simply fantastic. This is also the most powerful road-legal BMW, which the manufacturer has ever produced.

2012 F10 M5 comes with unique exterior design dictated by the technical requirements of the car, while the luxurious sports car-like cockpit offers an extensive range of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services.

The performance is simply astonishing – 4.4 seconds to 100 km/h, 13 seconds to 200 km/h and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited and over 200 mph (322 km/h) without the speed governor.

All these figures are possible thanks to the staggering 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 under the front hood. It delivers 560PS (412 kW) at 5750RPM and 680Nm(502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. The most powerful ///M engine features twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold. Despite the brutal performance, the engine is not so thirsty – 9.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle (28.5 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.

The engine is mated to a new 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic and Efficient Dynamics technology, including engine Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration.

The transmission offers manual (S) and fully automated (D) shift options, with three programmes in each, allowing the driver to select the most sporty, relaxed or efficient driving style at will via a rocker switch.

The DSC system is linked to the anti-lock brakes (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant, Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying function and Start-off Assistant. By pressing the DSC button the driver can override the basic settings and select M Dynamic Mode (MDM), which raises the intervention thresholds or turns them off completely.

The new M5 has 6-piston caliper brakes featuring a further development of BMW’s remarkable compound construction so that they resist fade even under repeated heavy loads and deliver an exceptional degree of feel. They are mounted within 19” M light alloy wheels with 265/40 R19 tyres at the front and 295/35 R19 tyres at the rear. Forged 20” alloys can be specified as an option.

The interior of the car boasts M Sports seats, Merino leather upholstery, Aluminium Trace interior trim strips and the BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, plus the BMW iDrive control system with a 10.2” Control Display. M5 lettering on the sill panels is standard.

The instrument cluster with black-panel technology includes classic BMW M circular dials with red needles and white illumination. The multifunction buttons on the M leather steering wheel operate the cruise control, radio and telephone. On the left-hand side the driver will now find two M Drive buttons which can call up a pre-configured setting for the car – for example, a sports or a more comfort-orientated set of driving characteristics.

Standard equipment in the UK includes Head-up Display, DAB digital radio, front and rear Park Distance Control, four-zone air-conditioning, Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and front seat heating. With Professional Multimedia Navigation system and BMW Assist, a new real-time traffic information service provides accurate traffic bulletins and diversion suggestions. Furthermore, with Bluetooth and USB audio interface as standard, the integration of Smartphones and music players keep occupants entertained and informed.

Optional equipment including a rear-view camera, High-Beam Assistant, Speed Limit information, Lane Change and Lane Departure warnings, Surround View and BMW Night Vision ensure the driver is aware of anything and everything happening within the vicinity of the car. A Mobile Application preparation allows iPhone owners to receive web radio stations and display Facebook and Twitter posts on the Control Display.

Source: BMW

November 16, 2011

BMW Concepts at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show

BMW will bring the two famous concepts – i3 and i8 at the 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show, next month. With the “i series”, the BMW Group is adopting an all-embracing approach, redefining the understanding of personal mobility with purpose-built vehicle concepts, a focus on sustainability throughout the value chain and a range of complementary mobility services. Both vehicles were introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show, this year.

BMW i3 Concept is a small 5-door city car, which can carry up to four occupants. It is powered by an electric motor with 170PS (125 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph). The lithium-ion battery pack delivers enough energy for range up to 160 km (100 miles). It can be recharged in just 6 hours to 100%. The overall weight of the vehicle is 1250 kg (2755 lbs).

BMW i8 Concept is a sports car, which comes with a three-cylinder turbocharger petrol engine combined with an electric motor. The total power is 353PS (260 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque, so the performance is superb – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The car weighs just 1480kg. The i8 can go on electricity alone up to 32 km (20 miles). The fuel consumption is amazing for such amount of power – 2.7 l per 100 km with CO2 emissions of 66 g/km.

An additional range of mobility services – which can also be used independently of the cars – will be an integral component of BMW i alongside the vehicles themselves. A totally new development in this area will be vehicle-independent mobility services.

Source: BMW

November 16, 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz has announced the new ML 63 AMG. The SUV is not only superbly powered, but it now features efficiency and performance, exclusivity and an awesome driving experience. The vehicle boasts a 28% improvement in efficiency over its predecessor.

2012 Mercedes ML 63 AMG is powered by a new 5.5 litre bi-turbo V8 engine with 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (519 lb-ft). The optional AMG Performance package boosts the V8 engine’s power output to 557PS (410 kW) and its maximum torque to 760Nm (563 lb-ft).

“Like its predecessors, the new ML 63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG. As the inventor of the high-performance SUV, we remain true to the philosophy which we introduced in 1999 with the ML 55 AMG and continued in 2005 with the ML 63 AMG.”, commented Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The newly developed ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation, the AMG-specific design and the broad scope of standard equipment and appointments provide for a highly attractive overall package.

The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, ECO start/stop system, an all-aluminium crankcase, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling and generator management. All this mean that you’ll have more power, better torque and less fuel consumption, which is 23.9 mpg. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds if fitted with the AMG Performance Package, while the top speed stands at 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The engine is mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system, which is 7-speed automatic gearbox with several functions – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport) and M (Manual).

The AMG Performance package includes an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.

2012 ML 63 AMG stands on enormous five-spoke light-alloy wheels – 9J x 20” with 265/45 R 20 up front and 10J x 21” with 295/35 R 21 at the rear axle.

The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 mm – front and 345 x 26 mm – rear.

The interior boasts electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. There are also aluminium trim elements, leather upholstery and a lot AMG badges. The distinctively designed instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG.

The designo Exclusive package features Nappa leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats with an unusual diamond pattern. It is available in designo marron, designo porcelain and designo black. There are also AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats as well as velour floor mats with designo metal badges and black designo leather edging. A designo roof lining in DINAMICA black rounds off the designo Exclusive package.

Further optional items include designo trims in black piano lacquer and the designo wood/leather steering wheel in black piano lacquer.

The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will launch in the UK in Spring 2012.

	ML 63 AMG
Displacement	5461 cc
Bore x stroke	98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio	10.0 : 1
Output	525 hp at 5250 rpm 557 hp at 5750/rpm*
Max torque	700 Nm at 1750-5000 rpm 760 Nm at 2000-5000 rpm*
Engine weight (dry)	204 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	23.9 mpg
CO₂ emissions	276 g/km
Acceleration 0-62 mph	4.8 s 4.7 s*
Top speed	155 mph**

* with AMG Performance package; ** electronically limited.

Check the standard and optional equipment, below!

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG standard equipment:

• AMG door sills in stainless steel

• AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs

• Audio 20 CD radio with Bluetooth and USB interface

• Tyre pressure monitoring system

• Electric sliding glass roof

• Heated seats for driver and front passenger

Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG Performance Studio:

• AMGfloor mats

• AMG light-alloy wheels (10 x 21) in 5-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, fitted with tyres in size 295/35 R 21

• AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA

• AMG Performance package with increase in power of 32 hp and 60 Newton metres more torque, AMG engine cover in high-quality real carbon, AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA, callipers in red painted finish

Optional equipment:

• Trailer coupling with electric unlocking

• Becker^® MAP PILOT

• Electrically operated EASY PACK tailgate

• Rear Seat Entertainment System

• harman/kardon^® Logic 7^® surround sound system

• Wood/leather steering wheel in nappa leather

• THERMOTRONIC luxury automatic climate control

• Light package including Intelligent Light System

• Media interface

• Memory package

• COMAND Online multimedia system

• Electrical panoramic sliding glass sunroof

• Aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs

• TV tuner

• Wood trims

Source: Mercedes

November 15, 2011

Toyota Concepts at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show

Toyota will exhibit several concept cars at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. The three concepts feature a lot of interesting technologies and are divided by the time they will appear – one near future, one mid term and one way out there.

The FT-EV III , which is short from Future Toyota – Electric Vehicle III is based on Toyota iQ. This is a small four-seater electric vehicle concept suitable for short-distance trips. FT-EV III comes with a lithium-ion battery and can go up to 65 miles on a single charge.

The seconds Concept is FCV-R meaning Fuel Cell Vehicle – Reality & Revolution, which is 4700mm long, practical, family sized vehicle powered by hydrogen. This concept model represents the next step towards the commercial launch of a Toyota fuel cell vehicle by 2015. The fuel-cell unit is located beneath the specially designed bodyshell and the vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers. It also boasts impressive luggage space. The fuel cell stack, with a 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tank, has been improved to provide a cruising distance of approximately 430 miles.

Lastly, The Toyota Fun-Vii – Fun-Vehicle interactive internet is a herald of future where people, cars and society are linked.

The 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show will take place at Tokyo Big Sight from Saturday 3 December to Sunday 11 December 2011.

Source: Toyota

November 15, 2011

2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel – Epic Journey over 2 884 miles

An epic journey from New York to Los Angeles was made by a British team with 2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel, which achieved an incredible 62.9 mpg over the course of 2 884 miles ( 4640 km).

The journey started eight days ago and finished in November 14. It includes crossing of 11 states, three time zones. Yet the XF only required four stops for fuel – its peak economy of 67 mpg being achieved on the penultimate day of the trip.

2012 Xf 2.2 litre disel has a four-cylinder engine with 190PS and 500Nm of torque. The performance – 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). The XF 2.2 emits just 149 g/km of CO₂. Further improving efficiency, the new 2.2-litre engine is connected to a new 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox and an innovative Stop-Start system.

The project has been broadcast live on Twitter and on Facebook as Jaguar’s Senior Press Officer, Faye Goldstraw, travelling in a support vehicle, charted the progress of the car as it crossed America.

2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel - Epic Journey behind the wheel — 2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel – Epic Journey behind the wheel

2012 XF 2.2 Diesel was driven by independent testers – David and Alexander Madgwick . In the course of the coast to coast adventure, the car maintained an average speed of 53 mph (85 km/h) incorporating a multitude of real-life scenarios including the busy roads exiting New York and, towards the end of the trip, entering Los Angeles, road works, high winds and a climb to 7 275 feet above sea level.

“This project was designed primarily to test the potential economy of the XF 2.2. The incredible figures achieved by the car were accomplished through making every element of the new XF as efficient as possible – from its aerodynamics to its four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel engine linked to an eight-speed gearbox. The whole XF team is incredibly proud of what’s been achieved and it’s a graphic demonstration of the strength, engineering integrity and efficiency of the car.”, has commented Paul Alcock, XF Project Manager, Jaguar Cars, who was present throughout the journey.

2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel - Epic Journey New York — 2012 Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel – Epic Journey New York

Source: Jaguar

November 15, 2011

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