Automobiles Review – Page 974 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Ford Flex

Ford has unveiled the 2013 Flex, which will have its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month. The SUV has a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.

2013 Ford Flex has seven-seats, new generation of MyFord Touch, rear inflatable belts, collision-avoidance technologies, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, first-row heated and cooled seats, power-fold mirrors, an optional new Appearance Package and updated engine range.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter Ti-VCT V6 petrol with 289PS (213 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque, which has 20PS more than the previous version and is more fuel efficient. There is also a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 360PS (265 kW) and 474Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. Both power units are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission, a sequential gearbox with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

MyFord Touch includes two 4.2” screens in the instrument cluster and an 8″ screen in the center stack. The feature pairs with the latest version of SYNC.

The base SYNC package includes:

•   Hands-free, voice-activated calling via a Bluetooth®-connected mobile phone or USB-connected digital music player
•   911 AssistTM, the automated emergency calling service that is free for the life of the vehicle
•   Vehicle Health Report, the on-demand diagnostic and maintenance information service
•   Enhanced safety and driver-aid technology
•   The new Flex is equipped with the automotive world’s first production rear inflatable belts to offer improved comfort and protection for rear seat passengers. Last month, this safety innovation was named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics, part of the magazine’s seventh annual Breakthrough Awards.

2013 Ford Flex - My Ford Touch(R) — 2013 Ford Flex – My Ford Touch(R)

Also new is an Appearance Package on Limited and SEL models that includes an available two-tone roof and mirrors, 20” machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, leather seats, unique door trim panels and other interior upgrades for a truly distinctive, premium look and feel.

There are also nine exterior colors: Ruby Red, Deep Impact Blue and Kodiak Brown. Customers also can choose from body-color roofs, or two-tone with white, gray or black available on the Appearance Package.

2013 Ford Flex is built at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada.

Source: Ford

November 8, 2011

Startech Range Rover Evoque

Range Rover Evoque is one of the sexiest vehicles on the market, especially the 3-door version. It’s unique style is way ahead of time and the vehicle is extremely well appreciated by the motor fans all over the world. To do an even more spectacular Evoque, Startech will reveal their tuning program for the model at the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

The exterior comes with complete aggressive body kit, custom-tailored 9J x 21” forged wheels fitted with size 265/40 R 21 Continental tires, a lowered suspension by 35 mm, a sports exhaust system and high-class interior options. . All body components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.

The interior boasts an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and aluminum pedals, foot rest and shifter. There are also finest leather and Alcantara in any desired color, wood or carbon-fiber trim sets in any desired color and with a wide variety of surface finishes.

Last, but not least, a performance kit for the 2.0-liter SI4 gasoline engine that normally produces 240PS (177 kW) is already in the final stages of development.

Source: Startech

November 8, 2011

2012 Audi A4 1.8 TFSI 120PS Price – £24 000

Audi has priced the all-new 2012 A4 for the UK. The A4 range are already available and the prices start at under £24 000.

2012 Audi A4 has entirely new exterior boasting a new front fascia with modified grille, new headlights and restyled front hood. At the rear, there are a new diffuser, a pair of new taillights and a dual exhaust system. The sport package – S line includes lowered suspension and 18” alloy wheels and an option for 19”.

The interior is also revised and now comes with selection of new steering wheels with chrome and high-gloss inlays. The steering arm and the ignition key have been also modified. There are high-gloss applications and some chrome trim at the controls. The MMI Navigation Plus is further revised as well as the automatic transmission, the efficient air conditioning systems, Audi drive select and the multifunction steering wheel.

The engine range includes six diesel and four petrol power units.

The diesel range includes a 2.0 liter TDI with either 136PS (100 kW) or 163PS (120 kW). There are also options for 120PS (88 kW), 143PS (105 kW) and 177PS (130 kW). The V6 3.0 TDI has either 204PS (150 kW) or 245PS (180kW). All engines come with improved fuel efficiency ranging from 4.2 liters to 4.8 liters of fuel per 100 km.

The petrol variants are a new 1.8 liter TFSI with 170PS (125 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft), a 1.8 TFSI with 120PS (88 kW) and a 2.0 liter TFSI with 211PS (155 kW). The mighty 3.0 liter petrol has 272PS (200 kW). The average consumption in the A4 Sedan is limited to 5.6 liters per 100 km.

The top-of-range S4 has supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with 333 PS (245 kW) and 440Nm (324 lb-ft). The performance is superb – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds flat and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Furthermore, it need just 8.0 litres per 100 km.

New generation Saloon and Avant versions of the accomplished A4 premium compact executive Saloon, Avant and allroad quattro models combine an even more sharply tailored look and an expanded line-up of engines bringing economy gains of up to 21 per cent. Due in March 2012, the new generation A4 ranges will be priced from just under £24 000.

Check out the full price list, below!

2012 Audi A4 and S4 range – UK OTR Pricelist:

A4 Saloon SE
1.8 TFSI 120PS six-speed manual	£sub-24K (from early 2012)
1.8 TFSI 170PS six-speed manual	£25,240
1.8 TFSI 170PS eight-speed multitronic	£26,720
2.0 TFSI 211PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,170
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS six-speed manual	£29,170
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS seven-speed S tronic	£30,650
2.0 TDIe 136PS six-speed manual	£26,555
2.0 TDI 143PS six-speed manual	£26,555
2.0 TDI 143PS eight-speed multitronic	£28,035
2.0 TDIe 163PS six-speed manual	£27,575
2.0 TDI 177PS six-speed manual	£27,575
2.0 TDI 177PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,055
2.0 TDI quattro 177PS six-speed manual	£29,120
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,490
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS six-speed manual	£TBC
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS seven-speed S tronic	£34,600

S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS six-speed manual	£38,665
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS seven-speed S tronic	£39,915

Premium for SE Technik specification – £1,100
Premium for S line specification – £2,555
Premium for Black Edition specification – £1,250

A4 Avant SE
1.8 TFSI 120PS six-speed manual	£TBC (available early 2012)
1.8 TFSI 170PS six-speed manual	£26,455
1.8 TFSI 170PS eight-speed multitronic	£27,920
2.0 TFSI 211PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,385
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS six-speed manual	£30,370
2.0 TFSI quattro 211PS seven-speed S tronic	£31,850
2.0 TDIe 136PS six-speed manual	£27,755
2.0 TDI 143PS six-speed manual	£27,755
2.0 TDI 143PS eight-speed multitronic	£29,235
2.0 TDIe 163PS six-speed manual	£28,775
2.0 TDI 177PS six-speed manual	£28,775
2.0 TDI 177PS eight-speed multitronic	£30,255
2.0 TDI quattro 177PS six-speed manual	£30,320
3.0 TDI 204PS eight-speed multitronic	£31,805
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS six-speed manual	£TBC
3.0 TDI quattro 245PS seven-speed S tronic	£35,825
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS six-speed manual	£39,865
S4 3.0 TFSI quattro 333PS seven-speed S tronic	£41,115

Premium for SE Technik specification – £1,100
Premium for S line specification – £2,555
Premium for Black Edition specification – £1,250

Source: Audi

November 8, 2011

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription

Volvo UK has announced the new special edition C70 Inscription, which is the world’s first four-seater convertible car with a three-piece folding hard top as standard.

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription also comes with painted grille and black 18” wheels with exclusive interior features, including Sovereign Hide upholstery and a leather-covered dashboard.

The new C70 Inscription will be limited to just 2 000 units a year as each starts at £33 855 OTR for the D3 SE Inscription and can be ordered from mid-November with first deliveries in February 2012

“The Inscription is based on our human-centric Designed Around You philosophy, offering those customers who love convertibles and coupés a beautifully detailed version with a lot of kerb appeal,” commented Doug Speck, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Corporation.

The engine range includes both five-cylinder 2.0 litre diesel engines: the D4 with 177PS (130 kW) and 400 Nm (296 lb-ft) and D3 with 150PS (110 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft). It is available in three colours: Black Stone (Solid), Black Sapphire (Metallic) and Ice White (Solid) and also benefits from exclusive 18” black Midir alloy wheels with black detailing and polished spokes and outer rim.

At the front of the Inscription edition, the high-gloss paint on the grille and the LED Daytime Running Lights are both surrounded by contrasting chrome, giving this C70 a distinctive “face”.

The Volvo C70 Inscription will debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show that opens on November 16^th.

Exclusive interior
The interior also features a distinctive new look that echoes the unique exterior, including:

An exclusive leather-covered dashboard with contrasting stitching
Sovereign Hide upholstery in Off Black or Calcite with the same contrasting stitching as on the dashboard, handbrake lever and carpets
“Inscription” embroidered on the front headrests
Special Inscription carpets and handbrake lever
Steering wheel and gear shift knob with aluminium inlays
Sports pedals with aluminium inlay
Aluminium inlay in the iconic ultra-slim centre stack is standard, Black or Nordic Light Oak as an option

Source: Volvo

November 8, 2011

2012 Nissan GT-R

Here is a little, but important lesson: How to improve perfection? It is not so simply, because firstly you need 2011 Nissan GT-R, then you’ll have to add some more horsepower and torque, after that you have to set-up the chassis and transmission, and finally to add some more comfort inside the vehicle. The result is 2012 MY GT-R.

2012 Nissan GT-R is powered by the famous 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, which now delivers 550PS (404 kW) at 6400RPM and 652Nm (483 lb-ft) at just 3200RPM.

Engine response and torque at mid and low-speeds, and power at high revolutions, has been significantly improved, mainly due to:

Improved intake efficiency
Better air flow resistance, which has been reduced by the addition of an intake manifold fitted to the head of each unit and the use of resin in the enlarged air intake duct for the intercooler.
Improved exhaust emissions efficiency and enhanced control.
Reduced air flow resistance thanks to a more compact under floor catalyser which improves emissions efficiency and reduces weight.
Improved exhaust valve cooling performance by the adoption of a newly-designed metallic sodium-filled valve. At the same time, valve control timing, the air mixture ratio and ignition timing have been improved.

The gearbox received better shift fork arm and a firmer fixing bearing for the flywheel housing. A special differential oil R35 COMPETITION Type 2189E (75W140), which was developed for competition is now used in every version of GT-R.

The body has also received some modifications – reinforcing of certain areas and improved inter-vehicle detection capability. This was achieved by changes in the positioning of the sensor and more rigid, highly-damped vehicle body, and by adding a more accurate acceleration sensor in areas with higher sensitivity in the vibration testing of each vehicle body.

More power needs better suspension with improved responsiveness, smoothness and steering feel, as well as enhanced cornering stability and riding comfort.

Inside, 2012 GT-R has blue lighting inside the tachometer ring to match the shift position indicator light, Rear View Camera device (standard) and Bose sound system woofers.

With the latest 2012MY version, the legend that is the Nissan GT-R continues to evolve.

Source: Nissan

November 7, 2011

Senner Opel Astra

Senner Tuning has announced a new tuning package for the latest Opel Astra, which is just astonishing even without any modifications. However, the tuning specialists have developed both styling and performance upgrades.

The 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol gets a performance upgrade boosting the engine from 140PS (103 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) to 165PS (121 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft). The engine control system was adapted by SENNER, and the BMC sport air filter was installed. The stainless steel muffler with a 140×90 mm pipe on the right and left side is custom made. Furthermore, there is a power converter – tuning for the electric acceleration pedal.

The exterior package includes a matte black Steinmetz front grille, a roof spoiler, a front spoiler lip with a sword, a set of side shafts in two-color design and a rear skirt insert.

The tuned vehicle stands on nice Alutec rims in dimensions 8J x 19” fitted with 235/35R 19 Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta. Last, but not least, the suspension can be adjusted to your own taste.

All in all, this conversion costs approximately € 11 900.

Source: Senner

November 7, 2011

2012 Toyota Avensis Price – £18 450

Toyota has revealed the full price list for the new 2012 Avensis. It comes in three different trim levels – T₂, TR and T Spirit with range starting at £18 450 for the 1.8 Valvematic T₂ saloon with 6-speed manual transmission.

“This is great news for Burnaston, we are proud to be starting work on the new Avensis, a car that is central to Toyota’s European strategy and a key model for the UK. British-built, and with petrol engines sourced from Toyota’s Deeside factory plus ultra-efficient diesels, it is a stronger market contender than ever before.”, said Tony Walker, Toyota Manufacturing UK Deputy Managing Director.

Every grade in the new Avensis range is revised to deliver greater value for money through higher levels of standard equipment and quality.

All models have integral daytime running light, cabin trims and upholstery have been upgraded with new finishes, designs and colour choices.

Check out the full price list, below!

GRADE	BODY	ENGINE & TRANSMISSION	OTR PRICE
T₂	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£18,450
T₂	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£19,470
T₂	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£19,485
T₂	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£20,505
T₂	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£19,445
T₂	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£20,480
TR	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£20,545
TR	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£21,565
TR	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£21,580
TR	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£22,600
TR	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£21,525
TR	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£22,560
TR	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£22,485
TR	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£23,520
TR	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£23,875
TR	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£24,910
T₄	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£22,320
T₄	Saloon	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£23,340
T₄	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic 6MT	£23,355
T₄	Tourer	1.8 Valvematic MDS	£24,375
T₄	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£23,300
T₄	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£24,355
T₄	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£24,260
T₄	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£25,295
T₄	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£25,365
T₄	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£26,400
T Spirit	Saloon	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£25,145
T Spirit	Tourer	2.0 D-4D 6MT	£26,825
T Spirit	Saloon	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£26,105
T Spirit	Tourer	2.2 D-4D 150 6MT	£27,785
T Spirit	Saloon	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£27,210
T Spirit	Tourer	2.2 D-CAT 150 6AT	£28,885

Source: Toyota

November 7, 2011

Top Convertibles 2011

Always pointed as the category cars that gives drivers the most thrilling experience on the road, the convertible rides have walked a long way from the early ragtops with leaky roofs till the nowadays quiet, fast and extremely comfy cabrios. (more…)

November 7, 2011

Citroen C3 e-HDI 70 Airdream EGS VTR+

Citroen has announced the new C3 e-HDi 70 Airdream EGS VTR+ emitting just 87g/km of CO2. This is the lowest CO2 emitting diesel model to date, so the manufacturer should be extremely proud with this achievement.

Furthermore, the small city car returns whopping 83.1 mpg on combined cycle, which now Citroen’s most fuel and CO₂ efficient diesel powered car, ranking it amongst the very best in its class.

These results are thanks to an innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid Stop & Start technology, combined with a refined and efficient 68HP HDi diesel engine.

The model was introduced at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September and now it is available to order with a price of just £15 290 OTR with the C3’s renowned panoramic Zenith windscreen.

“Citroën is committed to driving down the cost of motoring and this new model is a perfect example of that. With impressive fuel economy, low CO₂ emissions, a BIK rate at just 13%, free VED and the benefit of no London Congestion Charge, this stylish model is a financially and environmentally attractive addition to the Citroën range.”, said Jules Tilstone, Citroën UK’s Marketing Director.

“Underlining the brand’s firm environmental commitment, a full 50% of Citroën cars sold this year emit under 130g/km of CO₂ and there has been a five-gram decrease in average CO₂ emissions for the European range as a whole.”, Mr. Tilstone finished.

Source: Citroen

November 7, 2011

2012 MINI Cooper Avenue

MINI now offers to a new level of sophistication with the launch of a stunning collection of premium options, called MINI Yours.

MINI Yours is pure differentiation by design, a vast catalogue of exclusive and design-led exterior paints, tattoos, interior trims and upholsteries that are completely new to MINI. It will ensure a bespoke and truly stand-out result for every owner.

Buyers can select a MINI limited edition such as the MINI Inspired by Goodwood, MINI Soho, Clubman Hampton or the recently announced London 2012 edition. These have all now been integrated into the MINI Yours programme.

And for a genuinely bespoke design, customers can select as much or as little as they like from the extensive range of exclusive MINI Yours options.

“The introduction of MINI Yours underlines MINI’s reputation as the benchmark car brand in customisation. The sheer number of options available through MINI Yours means customers can tailor-make their MINI using exclusive colours, designs and materials like never before; creating a MINI like no other on the road,” commented Jochen Goller, Director of MINI UK.

The MINI Avenue package is available with either Highclass Grey or Laguna Green metallic paint. Both feature an identical interior with an exclusive Soda repeating design motif.

The standard equipment includes Satellite Grey Soda Lounge leather with matching black floor mats, Bi-colour Sport leather steering wheel with multi-function controls, Soda mirror caps and special effect white bonnet stripes. There is also a set of 17” twin-blade spoke alloy wheels.

The price of the exclusive MINI Avenue package is £4 880 on a MINI One or One D, Hatch, Convertible or Clubman.

2012 MINI One D Avenue is priced at £19 360 OTR.

Source: MINI

November 7, 2011

Superchips Abarth 500

Abarth 500 get some more boost from SuperChips ltd. The specialists has worked its magic on the Abarth’s Bosch MED7.9.10 engine management system to enable the 500’s 1.4-litre turbocharged engine to deliver some more power.

Still, the reliability doesn’t suffer at all, because everything is carefully tested on dyno. The ECU remap gives enhanced performance without any side effects.

Originally, the 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers 135PS (99 kW) at 5500RPM and 180Nm (130 lb-ft) or 206Nm (152 lb-ft) in sport mode at 3000RPM. The tuning gives another 22PS (16 kW) and 46Nm (34 lb-ft), meaning that you’ll have 167PS (115 kW) at 5654RPM and 226Nm (164 lb-ft) at 2942RPM.

On the road, this means significantly improved in-gear acceleration, making journeys more exciting, overtaking safer and fast driving more fun. In conjunction with Superchips attention to detail to ensure sharper throttle response, the end result is an Abarth 500 that feels considerably sharper than before!

The Superchips Abarth 500 upgrade requires installation at one of approximately 80 Superchips performance centres and is covered by a full Customer Service Guarantee and an industry-leading 12 month / 30 000 supplementary full vehicle warranty.

The Superchips ECU remap is available now directly from Superchips and its UK dealer network, priced at £455 and will fit on all Abarth 500 cars from February 2009 onwards.

Superchips – don’t compromise, optimise.

Source: Superchips

November 7, 2011

Audi R18 TDI at the 6-Hour Race in China

Audi wants to boost their positions in motorsport in China, that’s why they will bring Audi R18 TDI at the 6-Hour Race in Zuhai.

In 1985 and 1986, the legendary Audi quattro won the Hong Kong-Beijing Rally two consecutive times. Audi competed with the A4 DTM at Shanghai twice. And on the debut of the sports prototypes at Zhuhai last year the spectators were thrilled by the Audi R15 TDI.

Audi R18 TDI is a true masterpiece with a number of genius engineering solutions for the ultra-lightweight design.

The big V10 is replaced with a 3.7 litres V6 TDI with sensational 540PS (397 kW). It is connected to a new 6-speed gearbox made of carbon-fiber composite material.

Weight is saved even from the headlights, which feature LED technology. Because the gearshift is no longer activated pneumatically but rather electrically, the R18 TDI requires no more pneumatic system. Optimized airflow through the cockpit should make air-conditioning redundant.

Audi fans around the world will be able to watch the ILMC finale live on the internet on Audi.tv. The broadcast from Zhuhai will start at 11 a.m. local time (4 a.m. CET) on November 13. Eurosport will broadcast the final stages of the race live from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. (CET).

Source: Audi

November 6, 2011

Blog