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  • 2012 Peugeot 208

    Peugeot will launch all-new 208 model in two distinct body styles; 3- and 5-door. It is set to arrive in mainland Europe in the spring and for the UK in the summer of 2012. Peugeot 206/207 are ones of the best-selling cars is in the ‘B’ (Supermini) segment, so the manufacturer expect huge success of the new 208.

    2012 Peugeot 208 is completely different vehicle than the predecessor 207. It is lighter – 173kg with a range which starts at 975kg, more aerodynamic – Cd of 0.29, CdA of 0.61 and smaller – 70mm shorter and 10mm lower. These benefits are accentuated by noticeably increased occupant space, with more room in the rear seats (+5cm at the knees) and a more generous boot (+15 dm3 in volume), proof of optimised architectural performance.

    “The strength of the 208 lies in its style: it is a real ball of energy. It has the potential to please everyone, like a popular piece of music that touches the human soul regardless of culture.”, commented Gilles Vidal, Style Director, Automobiles Peugeot.

    Its latest generation engine technology and the use of the e-HDi micro-hybrid system on virtually all versions add to the vehicle’s improvements in terms of weight reduction and aerodynamics.

    The 208 introduces a new range of 3-cylinder petrol engines, 1.0- and 1.2-litre VTi, which are particularly efficient. They return up to 65.7mpg with emissions of just 99g/km of CO2 .

    The 208 renews the driving experience, a key factor in the DNA of every Peugeot:

    • Due to the small steering wheel which provides new ergonomics, the driver experiences a completely new driving agility,
    • Due to a new level of engineering between comfort and road holding, the result of the historical expertise of the Marque in terms of suspension and the benefits from the compactness and reduced weight of the vehicle.
    2012 Peugeot 208
    2012 Peugeot 208

    Source: Peugeot

  • 6th Gear Experience – £75 gift to remember – Audi R8

    The UK’s leading provider of supercar driving experience days, 6th Gear Experience has announced an amazing collection of over 30 cars to choose from, five great circuits around the country, and a range of gift vouchers from only £75.

    With such opportunity, you can turn someone’s dream into reality with a 6th Gear driving experience. And with on-course and in-car video and photography, 6th Gear will help ensure that everyone enjoys a highly memorable day.

    The list of supercars is amazing – Murcielago LP640, Gallardo Spider, 458 Italia, 360 Challenge Stradale, Audi R8, 997 Turbo and the brutal supercharged Ariel Atom, which accelerates to 100 km/h in 3 seconds. You’ll be also able to choose from the mighty Nissan GT-R and Ford Focus RS.

    There will be a choice of five great circuits – in the south at Longcross Proving Ground near Chertsey, Surrey, in the Midlands at Bruntingthorpe, Leicestershire and Prodrive near Kenilworth, in the east at Blyton Park’s new circuit in Lincolnshire, and in the north from Elvington, York.

    All customers are accompanied by a fully trained race instructor and every supercar is equipped with dual brake pedals.  Before driving their chosen car, everyone is given an instructor driven demonstration lap and in-car briefing.

    You can get supercar driving gift vouchers through most major high street retail stores or to order online at www.6thgearexperience.com. Vouchers are valid for 10 months and redeemable at any of the company’s five UK venues.

    Gift packages are priced from £75 to £795.

    Be hurry and make a perfect present for you petrol head relatives and friends. A gift present for just £75 includes: An instructor driven demonstration/familiarisation lap; 3 – 4 laps (depending on location) driving one of the following supercars : Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Ferrari 360 Modena, Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi R8, Porsche 911 Turbo or supercharged Ariel Atom; A certificate of supercar driving.

    Selection of Supercars
    Selection of Supercars
    Longcross Proving Ground, Surrey
    Longcross Proving Ground, Surrey
    Lamborghini Gallardo
    Lamborghini Gallardo
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Aston Martin DBS
    Aston Martin DBS
    6th Gear Truck
    6th Gear Truck

    Source: 6th Gear Experience

  • BBR Mazda 3 MPS Phase 2

    BBR has announced the specially tuned Mazda 3 Phase 2. It is based on the powerfull Mazda 3 MPS with 2.3 DSI engine.

    A lot of modifications has been made for boosting Mazda 3 MPS to 320PS. Firstly, the MPS’s standard, airflow restrictive turbo inlet hoses are replaced with high flow, cast aluminium/silicon versions specifically designed to withstand higher boost levels without deformation. To optimise inlet flow and provide superior filtration BBR replaces the stock paper airbox element with a high flow performance filter.

    The exhaust has been modified, too. Mazda MPS turbo downpipe, pre-catalyst and main catalytic converter are replaced with a BBR 3 inch stainless steel downpipe including a sports catalyst.

    In conjunction with the BBR Phase 2’s mechanical modifications a custom mapped BBR Star Chip is installed to extract the maximum safe power from the original Mazda MPS turbo charger.

    The end results are 320PS (235 kW) at 6200RPM and 500Nm (370 lb-ft) at 3800RPM.

    Priced at £1645, with a fitting charge of £395, customers should allow six to eight hours for installation. A 3 inch diameter cat back stainless steel exhaust system is available for a further £495.

    BBR also offers Mazda 3 MPS Performance Spring set for £165. You can also order a full Specification Koni adjustable dampers for £795.

    BBR Mazda 3 MPS Phase 2
    BBR Mazda 3 MPS Phase 2

    BBR’s Phase Two Conversion includes:

    A BBR spec High flow fuel pump – the standard Mazda 2.3 DSI high pressure fuel pump is removed, disassembled and cleaned, the standard unit is reassembled with the addition of BBR’s high flow internals and unit reinstalled – retaining the standard visual appearance but with much higher performance.

    A BBR High Flow inlet hose set – a complete set of high flow replacement hoses are included, removing Mazda’s inherent flow restrictions and allowing greater flow to the turbocharger.

    A BBR high flow exhaust downpipe with sports cat – a complete downpipe section including sports catalyst, produced from highest quality aircraft grade stainless steel ensuring a perfect fit and consistent high flow.

    A high flow filter – BBR specifies a ‘drop in’ performance air filter, which improves inlet airflow, increases throttle response and comes with a million mile warranty.

    BBR MPS Phase Two Power 318 bhp @ 6580 RPM
    BBR MPS Phase Two Torque 370 ft/lbs @ 3900-4300 RPM

    Source: BBR

  • Audi RS5 Coupe vs tuned Audi S5 Sportback

    Another hard choice – Audi RS5 Coupe or tuned Audi S5 Sportback. Although the second car has two more doors, it is not less sporty, at all.

    Firstly, Audi RS5 has a brutal 4.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 450PS (331 kW) at 6000RPM and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) at 4000RPM. The redline of the engine is all the way up to 8250RPM. It is mated to a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox, which sends the power to Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

    The performance – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) with speed governor and 278 km/h (173 mph) with optional package.

    The car stands on enormous 19” forged aluminum wheels with 265/35-series tires as standard. Customers can also upgrade to 20” wheels with 275/30-series tires as an option. Behind them, there are humongous ventilated wave brake discs – 365 millimeters up front with 8-piston calipers. However, you can order carbon fiber-ceramic discs up front as an option.

    Audi RS5 also comes with complete aerodynamics package including sporty front bumper, a new rear bumper with diffuser and a pair of modified side skirts. There is also an interior sport package including leather seats, steering wheel and some elements and logos all over.

    Audi RS5 Coupe is priced at €77 700, which is a lot, but it worth every single cent.

    On the other hand, we have a nice S5 Sportback with a tuning package from Senner.

    It is powered by a 3.0 liter turbocharged V6  with 333PS (245 kW) at 5500RPM and 440Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque at just 2900RPM. After some small modifications like air filter, sport exhaust system including an additional muffler and X-Pipe of stainless steel with the enlarged pipe diameter to 63.5 mm and 4 exhaust pipes of 90×70 mm, and of course an ECU re-map. The power has been increased to a hefty – 445PS (327 kW) and 530Nm (393 lb-ft).

    Senner S5 Sportback also comes with Elegant TS-7 wheels in sizes 9.5J x 20” up front and 11J x 20” at the rear fitted with Conti Sport Contact 5P tires in dimensions 255/30 R20 and 295/25 R20, respectively.

    The car is finished in black mettalic paint with bright borders, as well as moldings and racks for windows, including a fog-light frame in the same color.

    The suspension received adjustable screw thread B16 PSS10 from Bilstein with the possibility of height, pull rate and pressure adjustment in “Senner-tuning”, which is responsible for the low suspension: about 40 mm on the front axle and 35 mm on the rear axle.

    The total cost of the upgrades is €15 000 and the original S5 Sportback costs €57 900, so the combined price is “just” €72 900, which is almost 5 thousand less than RS5.

    Again, it is very difficult to choose, whether you’ll have the brutal RS5 with its mighty V8 or the more “normal” tuned S5.

    Senner Audi S5 Sportback
    Senner Audi S5 Sportback
    2011 Audi RS5
    2011 Audi RS5
  • Mopar 8.4 liter V10 with 800HP at 2011 SEMA

    Mopar has created a monstrous entirely new 8.4 liter V10 engine, which was introduced at 2011 SEMA Show.

    “SEMA is the perfect platform to introduce some of Mopar’s newest high performance and restoration parts and products,” commented Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar. “If you’re looking for horsepower that can be dropped in or bolted on, the Mopar exhibit area has a full range of small- and big-block products for the enthusiast.

    “Mopar has been in the performance business for decades. In fact, the brand really came to life at the track,” he added.

    “We are committed to supporting performance enthusiasts. We have an extremely rich product plan that will not only support the more than 5 million HEMI engines in market today and the 30 million Chrysler Group vehicles on the roads across the country, but will also support the products of tomorrow. The engines we are launching are the first of many exciting products to come for both on and off-road needs. We have an amazing track record of fueling enthusiasts and are committed to continuing this legacy.”, Mr. Gorlier finished.

    The new 8.4 liter performance V10 produces 811PS (597 kW) and 941Nm (695 lb-ft) of torque. These results are thanks to a number of modifications – a forged steel crankshaft with forged steel connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons with a compression ratio of 12.5:1. All rotating components have been balanced for maximum performance at the track. The mighty engine revs up to 7000RPM.

    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10

    Source: Dodge

  • Toyota Yaris B-Spec Club Racer

    Toyota Yaris B-Spec Club Racer will be exhibited at the 2011 SEMA Show. It is the first race car built for competition in the U.S. from the next-generation 2012 Yaris SE.

    The Yaris Club racer will compete in the SCCA B-spec class race category in 2012 with Action Sports Star and BMX legend Jamie Bestwick behind the wheel aiming to qualify for and compete in the 2012 SCCA National Championship Runoffs, held at the famed Road America circuit in Elkhart Lake, Wis. The seven-time X Games champion and former Dew Tour Athlete of the year will be on hand to talk about the Yaris B-Spec Club Racer at a Toyota press conference.

    The Yaris B-Spec Club Racer was built by SportsCar Magazine utilizing an all-new second-generation Yaris SE three-door hatchback. It demonstrates how the all-new Yaris offers a cost friendly avenue for amateur racers eager to gain experience in SCCA wheel-to-wheel racing. The Yaris B-Spec Club Racer’s livery also pays homage to Toyota’s 1998 LeMans pole-winning GT-One race car, as Toyota celebrates it return to the famed racing series next year.

    With the right size for drivers who need an agile and functional vehicle, the all-new 2012 Toyota Yaris Liftback features sporty styling, outstanding safety features and improved fuel economy.

    The all-new Yaris features a remarkable attention to detail in the design and engineering of the vehicle. From its smart, interior design and quiet, refined passenger cabin to its responsive driving dynamics, the 2012 Yaris answers car-shoppers’ demands for a no-compromise vehicle.

    Toyota Yaris B-Spec Club Racer
    Toyota Yaris B-Spec Club Racer

    Toyota Yaris B-Spec Club Racer

    EXTERIOR
    – Toyota Le Mans GT-One inspired graphics
    – OMP tow hooks

    INTERIOR
    – Autopower Industries 8-point SCCA-spec roll cage
    – Autopower window net
    – OMP AFFF 2.8L fire system
    – OMP HTE FIA race seat
    – OMP 805 6-point FIA harness
    – OMP WRC steering wheel
    – RLC Racing Track Commander data acquisition system

    TIRES/WHEELS
    – Hoosier Racing Tire A6 P205/50ZR15
    – Enkei RPF1 15×7

    SUSPENSION
    – Cusco Zero-3 Series Suspension kit
    – Cusco Center Lock Pillowball Upper Mounts

    BRAKES
    – Pagid RS29 brake pads

    POWERTRAIN
    – Toyota 1NZ-FE 1.5 liter with VVT-i
    – AEM Performance Electronics EMS Series 2
    – Beta Motorsports cat-back exhaust
    – Church Automotive Testing custom tune
    – Joe Gibbs Driven XP1 Racing Oil
    – Joe Gibbs Driven Super Speedway Gear oil
    – K&N air filter
    – K&N oil filter

  • Volkswagen GT Up! Concept

    Volkswagen has announced their plans to creat GT Up!. Until then, you’ll be able to see GT Up! Concept car. The GT Up! Concept promises to distil the driving pleasure of the seminal hot hatch, the GTI, into a powerful yet petite package.

    It comes with sporty style – wide-mouthed honeycomb grille, broad bumper including ducts to provide cooling airflow to the front brakes, these ducts also containing the wing-shaped LED daytime running lights. The sporting theme continues along the flanks, which feature extended sills and black gloss-painted door mirrors.  The wheels are arch-filling 17-inch alloys with wide 195-section tyres.  At the rear, a deep roof spoiler helps reduce lift over the rear axle, while a black diffuser at the bottom is framed by an exhaust pipe on either side.

    VW GT Up! will be powered by a small turbocharged petrol engine with around 100PS.

    The interior boasts a black roof lining, anthracite-coloured seats offset by central panels with a blue chequered pattern that has more than a hint of GTI about it.  The gloss-black dashboard and upper door trim panels are similarly offset by blue rings around the air vent nozzles, while the driver gets to grip a chunky leather-bound three-spoke wheel.

    Volkswagen GT Up! Concept will be exhibited at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show.

    Volkswagen GT Up! Concept
    Volkswagen GT Up! Concept

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Subaru BRZ Concept

    Subaru will exhibit BRZ STI concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It will be held between November  18th and 27th, this year.

    Built around Subaru’s core technologies, the BRZ will use a new 2.0 litre Subaru Boxer engine developed specifically for the model and with the latest direct injection technology to improve combustion and efficiency. It will deliver around 200PS (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.

    The new compact coupe has been developed as part of an on-going joint project with Toyota Motor Corporation. All cars will be built at Subaru’s Gunma plant in Japan when production starts in spring 2012.

    The car is practically the same as the production model. It features a sports front bumper with nice grille and LED daytime running lights. There is also a huge rear wing and a sports four-tailpipe exhaust system.

    Subaru BRZ Concept
    Subaru BRZ Concept
    Subaru BRZ Concept
    Subaru BRZ Concept
    Subaru BRZ Concept
    Subaru BRZ Concept

    Source: Subaru

  • Kia at 2011 SEMA Show

    Kia will exhibit several six outrageous sports-themed vehicles in Las Vegas at the 2011 SEMA Show.

    This year’s show cars were inspired by Kia’s growing sports marketing portfolio that includes basketball, women’s golf, motor sports and more.  Two were built by the world famous West Coast Customs with additional vehicles conceived and built in-partnership with the popular lifestyle magazine, Antenna, as well as GoGoGear.com and Kia’s U.S. racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports.

    “Kia is experiencing unprecedented growth and momentum and we’re bringing our most exciting range of show cars ever to this year’s SEMA Show, including several variations on the stylish all-new 2012 Rio 5-door and the fuel-efficient and technology-laden Optima Hybrid,” commented Michael Sprague, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Kia Motors America.

    “Our involvement in the world of sports has dramatically increased awareness and perception of the Kia brand, and together with some high-profile partners we have created a line-up of fun and eye-catching vehicles with unique back stories and plenty of personality.”, he added.

    “Slam Dunk” Blake Griffin Optima Hybrid is created by West Coast Customs (WCC). They have created a basketball-themed Optima Hybrid that adds some hardwood flair to Kia’s first-ever hybrid in the U.S.

    “Hole-In-One” Michelle Wie Soul is also built by West Coast Customs. It was inspired by Michelle Wie, Kia’s official golf ambassador and one of the most recognisable young athletes around the world.

    “Retro Surf” Rio 5-Door is developed by Kia and Antenna. It features lowered and modified suspension set-up for sportier handling, and the aggressive exterior stance is accentuated by eye-grabbing 17” three-piece gold wheels.

    “Hat Trick” Forte 5-Door is created by Antenna. The Hat Trick Forte 5-door can handle it all with a custom hockey stick holder that stretches from the trunk through the center of the vehicle into the cabin.

    Slam Dunk Blake Griffin Kia Optima Hybrid
    Slam Dunk Blake Griffin Kia Optima Hybrid

    Source: Kia

  • 2012 MINI Roadster

    There is no doubt that MINI Cooper is one of the best cars on the market. Now, there is a new version, which brings even more pleasure and excitement – 2012 Cooper Roadster. The car is practically the same as the MINI Roadster Concept.

    MINI keeps the nice and primary go-kart feeling, but with a number of safety features like bespoke chassis set-up, low centre of gravity, torsionally rigid body and optimised aerodynamic properties. 2012 MINI Roadster comes with Electric Power Steering and DSC as standard. As an option, you can order EDLC – Electronic Differential Lock Control, which is standard in the John Cooper Works version. The new MINI roadster also has roll-over bars in polished stainless steel and active rear spoiler extends automatically at 80 km/h.

    The interior is practically the same – center-mounted speedometer, a wide dashboard and circular air vents. But there are also bespoke colour and materials concept for upholstery and trim elements.

    2012 MINI Roadster Interior
    2012 MINI Roadster Interior

    The standard equipment includes speed-sensitive steering assistance, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, air conditioning and audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection.

    Options list is large, but some of the extras are black headlight housing, xenon Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access, automatic climate control and the Always Open Timer. There are also wide range of entertainment and communications options: Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system, MINI navigation system, MINI Connected features including Driving Excitement app, web radio, Google services, RSS news feeds, Mission Control, and in-car use of Facebook and Twitter.

    No doubt, that 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster is a brilliant small car, which will bring joy to its owners.

    Check out the specifications, below!

    2012 MINI Roadster
    2012 MINI Roadster

    Specifications:

    MINI John Cooper Works Roadster:

    Four-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology and numerous technological details carried over directly from motor sport.
    Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm,
    max. torque: 260 Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm (280 Nm/207 lb-ft with Overboost at 2,000 – 5,100 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 6.5 seconds, top speed: 237 km/h (147 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.3 litres/100 kilometres (38.7 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 169 g/km.

    MINI Cooper S Roadster:

    Four-cylinder petrol engine with
    MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc,
    output: 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm/177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm (260 Nm/192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,730 – 4,500 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 7.0 seconds,
    top speed: 227 km/h (141 mph).  Average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.0 litres/100 kilometres (47.1 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 139 g/km.

    MINI Cooper Roadster:

    Four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 9.2 seconds, top speed: 199 km/h (124 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (49.6 mpg imp),
    CO2 emissions: 133 g/km.

    MINI Cooper SD Roadster:

    Four-cylinder turbodiesel with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 305 Nm/225 lb-ft at 1,750 – 2,700 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 8.1 seconds,
    top speed: 212 km/h (132 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 118 g/km.

    Exterior dimensions:

    Length: 3,734 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 3,728 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 3,758 millimetres)
    Width: 1,683 millimetres
    Height: 1,390 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 1,384 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 1,391 millimetres)
    Wheelbase: 2,467 millimetres

    Source: MINI

  • 2012 Honda Civic 5-door EU

    Honda has released a full information about the new 2012 Civic 5-door Euro-spec. The car is created with only one purpose – to get you from point A to point B safely and cheaply without any difficulties.

    2012 Civic features new lower and wider aerodynamic monoform profile with perfect drag coefficient. The front has a unique look as well as the wide aero management rear combination lamp. There are a lot of changes and many new body colours for the exterior.

    The interior boasts a new functional cockpit layout with two control interface zones, a full-colour i-MID TFT screen incorporating an Eco driving support function, audio display and user support. There is also a premium sound system with 90W Subwoofers and 25mm AL dome tweeters available as an option. The steering wheel features new design with easy operating controls finished in extra-smooth leather. Blue interior door lining illumination is also available.

    The luggage space is superb – 401 litres.

    The engine range includes a 1.4-liter i-VTEC with 100PS (73 kW) and 127Nm (94 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 13.4 seconds and a top speed of 187 km/h (116 mph). The impressive about it is the fuel consumption – 52.3 mpg, which is only 5.4 litres per 100 km with CO2 emissions of 129 g/km.

    The bigger 1.8 liter i-VTEC has 142PS (104 kW) and 174Nm (128 lb-ft). The performance is satisfying – 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). It needs only 5.8 litres per 100 km on combined cycle – 48.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of 137 g/km.

    There is also a diesel – 2.2 liter i-DTEC with 150 PS (110 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft). It is the best choice – 8.5 seconds to 100 km/h and the top speed is 217 km/h (135 mph). It covers 100 km with just 4.2 litres diesel – 67.2 mpg with CO2 emissions of 110 g/km.

    Check out all new features, below!

    2012 Honda Civic 5-door EU
    2012 Honda Civic 5-door EU

    Interior styling

    • New functional cockpit layout (two control interface zones)
    • Full-colour i-MID TFT screen incorporating an Eco driving support function, audio display and user support
    • Premium sound system with superior 20cm 90W subwoofers and 25mm AL dome tweeters (optional)
    • New touch point surface materials used throughout for an improved quality feel
    • New designed steering wheel with easy operating controls finished in extra-smooth leather with more comfortable stitching (depending on grade)
    • Blue interior door lining illumination (depending on grade)

    Exterior styling

    • Lower and wider aerodynamic monoform profile
    • Elegant look seamlessly unifying all surfaces including the wheel arches and the body
    • Lower and wider unique look in the front area
    • Wide aero management rear combination lamp
    • New brake and indicator light cluster design
    • New body colours

    Comfort and convenience

    • Air chamber support seat with lumbar and side support
    • Audio key-off timer and station list
    • Large, smooth-operating electric sunshade with central opening
    • HDD navigation system with arrow display, 11 languages and an 800x480mm WVGA screen (depending on grade)
    • Power windows operated by key fob
    • Coupling to keyless button function allows the door mirrors to be folded and retracted
    • Hill start assist
    • Multiple storage console, including USB/iPod® and AUX inputs
    • Revised interior and exterior door handles
    • Smoother gear shift feel

    Fuel economy and environmental performance

    • ECO Assist
    • Idle Stop
    • ACG multi-stage control
    • Reduced engine friction
    • Optimised combustion
    • Air shutter grille on diesel model

    Safety

    • LED day time running lights for improved conspicuity
    • Cap-less fuelling system with misfuelling guard for diesel models
    • Auto high-beam support system (grade depending)
    • Distinctive, high-mounted brake light
    • ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), CMBS (Collision Mitigation Brake System – grade depending)
    • Variable speed limiter
    • Hands-free array microphone (grade depending)
    • Lowered rear extra window for better view from the driver’s seat
    • Improved crosswind stability

    Suspension

    • Fluid-filled compliance bushings for superior damping in the rear suspension
    • H-Beam Trailing Arm with even higher rigidity than the predecessor Civic Type R for road stability

    Engines

    • 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel producing 110g/km of CO2 with 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque.
    • 1.8-litre i-VTEC petrol producing 137g/km of CO2 with 142 PS at 6500 rpm and 174 Nm of torque at 4300 rpm
    • 1.4-litre i-VTEC petrol producing 129g/km of CO2 with 100 PS and 127 Nm of torque at 4800 rpm

    Source: Honda

  • 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth

    The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth will hit the American market with the racing traditions that have made it a success on European roadways and racetracks – world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited-production volume.

    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth US is powered by an all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine. The European version has 140PS (103 kW) and 206Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque, but we will wait to see, whether the US model will be overpowered.

    The small sporty car also comes with Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design and technologies.

    The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth will unleash the brand’s legendary performance heritage on American streets.

    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
    2012 Fiat 500 Abarth

    Source: Chrysler