Vauxhall – Page 9 – Automobiles Review

2013 Vauxhall VXR8 Tourer – 431HP

Vauxhall has announced the new 2013 VXR8 Tourer, which is the fastest Estate car in the UK. The drifting machine is equipped with powerful V8 engine, big wheels, spoilers and other nice performance parts.

The engine is 6.2 liter V8 with 431HP (317 kW). It is connected to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The power is put on the road through an LSD (limited-slip differential) at the rear wheels.

The exterior boasts an aggressive front bumper with black accents and LED daytime running lights. There are also ventilated front fenders, big sports exhaust system and a set of 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile performance tires.

The interior boasts full leather trim as standard and front occupants are cocooned in special HSV Performance Seats with 8-way adjustability. Aux-in/USB inputs; iPod support and Bluetooth with phonebook display and touch-screen dialling.

The boot has capacity of 895 liters with rear seats up and up to 2,000 liters with rear seats folded down.

The Vauxhall VXR8 Tourer comes with a lifetime warranty and priced at £49,500

Source: Vauxhall

March 28, 2013

Official World Premiere of Vauxhall Adam Rocks Concept in Geneva

Vauxhall Adam Rocks Concept is set to amaze the Geneva Motor Show visitors where it is going to be officially revealed. The concept study is an urban mini-crossover that could open a new segment in the industry.

When compared with the production model, Adam Rocks is taller, wider, but still more compact in appearance and at the same time is offering a cabriolet roof. It aims to show the versatile opportunities for customization and personalization of the standard production model, adding to the significant amount of different specification and trim combinations.

This Vauxhall concept combines the toughness of a crossover and the coolness of open air driving. It is definitely going to stand out from the crowd, thanks to its new crossover body style. It has a chassis that is raised 15mm and is 20mm wider.

More details about the sporty Vauxhall Adam Rocks Concept are to be announced during its official debut.

Source: Vauxhall

February 7, 2013

Opel Adam R2 Concept Debuts At Geneva Motor Show

Opel Adam Cup added to the range of the brand’s motorsport cars with its debut in November last year. However, at the Geneva Motor Show Opel will presents Adam R2 Concept, which is built on the Cup version and will undergo final development and homologation during 2013.

Opel Adam R2 aims to add a step further to the motorsport strategy by offering a top-class vehicle for international customer rallying. In addition, it will be also eligible for every national championship in Europe.

The R2 rally variant is equipped with special body components from the sporty Opel OPC product line: some of the attention-grabbing elements can be seen on the hood and tailgate, as well as under-ride guards – front and rear. They putt emphasis on the sporty format of the Adam. Its unique shell also harbors pure high-tech.

Under the hood is to be found the 1.6-liter ECOTEC 16V engine with variable camshaft phasing. It generates around 185 hp (136 kW) and has a maximum torque of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) in its competitive configuration. Power is transmitted through a Sadev sequential five-speed gearbox and a limited-slip differential with a multi-disc lock.

Furthermore, the chassis set-up with asphalt and gravel settings, guarantees maximum traction and dynamic handling. On the other hand the braking system delivers perfect deceleration, because of its inherent hydraulic ‘fly-off’ handbrake, Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers and braking pressure regulation for the rear axle.

The R2 is a true competitive vehicle and since being such it includes a cabin that features all the necessary attributes and details: an integrated safety structure; SPARCO Competition racing seats compatible with the HANS driver safety system; a cockpit with an LCD gear indicator, control light and MONIT trip computer; a central control panel; a map reading light and an electric fire extinguisher.

Source: Opel

February 4, 2013

Car buying trends 2012

2014 Ford Fiesta With less than a month remaining of 2012, the motoring industry is starting to reflect on what cars have proved to be the most popular with consumers looking for something new or used. Whether customers want something new or a used Audi from VCARS.co.uk, in these austere times, they want value for money, and the fact that many new cars that have sold well are smaller, more efficient models shows how much people want to drive on the cheap.

Some of the most popular new cars sold in 2012 are small city cars and superminis. The Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa are two good examples. Given their size, they cost less to buy, but they tend to offer drivers much more in terms of savings than a lower price tag. Smaller cars use less petrol, which at a time when fuel is becoming more expensive by the day is very useful. Meanwhile, small cars also tend to cost less in terms of tax.

As well as smaller new cars, used cars are also growing in popularity. As companies like VCARS sell used cars at great prices, the temptation for motorists who don’t mind buying second-hand is great to say the least. You could get a car that has everything you could ask for – great fuel economy, plenty of space, comfort and equipment plus a smooth ride for a fraction of the price of a new model.

If the economy improves over the course of 2013, there’s a chance that more people will be buying new. However, any new models that are bought are likely to be more fuel-efficient. Hybrids and electric cars are likely to grow in popularity, especially if the price of petrol and diesel continues to increase at its current rate. However, with many drivers with their eyes on the pennies, they’re likely to continue to buy thriftily.

December 7, 2012

Superchips Gives More Horsepower to Vauxhall Astra GTC

Superchips Vauxhall Astra GTC now has extra performance for its new GM 1.4-litre petrol turbo powerplant. The technicians from Superchips, are offering a great ECU Remapping program, which enhances the 1364cc 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4T motor.

Through chassis dyno and road testing, Superchips has developed a performance Bluefin ECU remap which improves its power output while at the same time retaining factory failsafe protocols and reliability levels.

The Superchips Bluefin ECU remap produces additional 22 hp (16 kW) at 5428 rpm, with progressive increases throughout the rev range from just 1700 rpm all the way to the powerplant’s 6250rpm limiter. Torque outputs are similarly enhanced, with the Superchips remap producing noticeable gains from 2500 to 5000 rpm. In fact the overall increase in the torque here is 36 Nm (26 lb-ft) at just 2557rpm.

The consequence of the modifications done are more liveliness of the Vauxhall, more exciting driving and enhanced fast cruising, overtaking and load carrying performance .Yet this extra verve doesn’t come at the expense of fuel economy.

The reason is the combination of the additional low-speed torque and the extra efficiencies, meaning that if the car is driven in a “like for like” manner then standard fuel economy levels will be retained.

Source: Superchips

November 26, 2012

2012 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport Realizes Performance Potential

2012 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport is the high-performance replacement for the 325 hp (240 kW) Insignia VXR model. The new car generates more power and achieves great top speed. It does not include a speed-limiter which means that it car realize its true performance potential.

Some details however, are differentiating the SuperSport model from the VXR. The visual identifiers like blue ‘Brembo’ lettering on its front brake callipers and additional increments on its speedometer offer subtle hints about the car’s giant-slaying intent.

The new performance potential of the Insignia, combined with adaptive’s all-wheel-drive chassis deliver perfect driving enjoyment and haven’t been put to better utilization. In addition, this Vauxhall is fitted with HiPerStrut front suspension, which maintains negative camber, thus enhancing grip levels in wet and dry conditions.

This of course makes the SuperSport’s handling safe and rewarding for all enthusiast drivers. Next, Vauxhall’s adaptive damping system, named FlexRide comes here as a standard, and comes with a VXR setting for enhanced controllability at higher speeds.

More importantly is to mention where this car draws its power from. Well, the engine under the hood is the 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC one, with a micro-alloy forged steel crank, classic 60-degree cylinder angle and die-cast alloy sump. In fact, these are the main features, one can find on many race engines.

This powerful unit produces up to 325 hp (240 kW) and uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response. Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 5.6 seconds.

Source: Vauxhall

November 7, 2012

2013 Vauxhall Cascada – available from March

Vauxhall has released full details of 2013 Cascada full-size convertible that will launch the company into a fourth new sector this year, following on from its Ampera, Mokka and ADAM models.

The new Cascada will feature an all-new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 170HP (125 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. The engine range also includes a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 140HP, and up to 220Nm thanks to an overboost function. There will be a diesel version coming with powerful 2.0 CDTi delivering 165HP and 380Nm of torque. The engines will be available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The car comes with a high-quality fabric hood, with superior acoustic and thermal insulation thanks to a special layer of polyester fleece between the outer and inner linings. This makes the 2013 Cascada “weather proof”, so it can be used despite harsh conditions. The hood can be opened in just 17 seconds at speeds up to 30mph by an interior switch, or via a button on the key fob.

“Cascada is set to change people’s perception of Vauxhall once again,” commented Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director.

“The full-size convertible sector tends only to be occupied by very high-priced cars from premium manufacturers. With Cascada, we’re offering customers high levels of equipment, technology and luxury but at an affordable price.”, he added.

Cascada pricing will be announced in line with order banks opening at the start of next year. First UK deliveries will be from March 2013.

Source: Vauxhall

October 17, 2012

Vauxhall Corsa Achieves 85.6 MPG Efficiency Result

2012 Vauxhall Corsa is more economical than ever achieving 85.6mpg while emitting just 88g/km. The environmentally friendly car is equipped with 95 hp (70 kW) 1.3CDTI ecoFLEX Start/Stop engine which contributes to the numbers delivered.

Furthermore, some additional improvements have been made in order to minimize the consumption and emissions. For instance, the turbodiesel is equipped with a variable displacement oil pump which delivers only the necessary oil pressure.

In fact, it changes the oil volume having “in mind” the load so that it can reduce energy needed for oil circulation. The use of special low-viscosity transmission oil also contributes to efficient fuel consumption.

Next to be mentioned is the engineered manual transmissions with a more precise and smooth gear change action. The modifications result in high shift comfort and optimized operation in cold and warm conditions. In addition, what also takes part in the great efficiency are the new 185/65 R15 low-rolling-resistance tyres.

Performance however is not a compromise here, given the achieved results. The maximum torque of this Vauxhall model is of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) is available between 1,750 and 3,250rpm. The powerful 95 hp (70 kW) turbodiesel gives the Corsa the acceleration time of 12.3 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

Source: Vauxhall

October 16, 2012

2013 Vauxhall ADAM debuts at Paris Motor Show

The arrival of Vauxhall Adam was announced more than a month ago with the launch of its first official images. With high level of personalization, the new Vauxhall model is set to take Paris by storm next month.

In the fashion capital of the world it is set to make its global debut, coinciding with a pricing announcement and official opening of order books for first customers.

“Mondial de l’Automobile” or Paris Motor Show is going to take place from 27th of September to 14th of October. In fact, this is the world’s most popular motor show and the perfect setting for the fashionable newcomer.

The lucky visitors will see an impressive display of Adam’s representing just some of many combinations available. Moreover, the interactive stations will also be on the stand allowing visitors to create their very own Adam.

The vehicle is based around the three trim levels, namely JAM (fashionable/colorful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty). More importantly, the new Vauxhall model is has a groundbreaking design in terms of technology, offering features only found in higher-end cars.

Such instance for example is the Adam’s top-of-the-range infotainment system ‘My Media’ which combines the owner’s smartphone with the car making internet-based applications available from the facia-mounted touch screen.

The official launch of the car is expected next year. It will be offered with a choice of three efficient ecoFLEX four-cylinder petrol engines: a 1.2-litre 70 hp (52 kW), plus a choice of 1.4-litre engines with either 87 hp (64 kW) or 100 hp (74 kW). In addition, the new models will be available with optional Start/Stop technology and will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Source: Vauxhall

August 14, 2012

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo now generates 195 horsepower

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch and Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo Sports Tourer are the new two high performance diesels from the brand. Both are generating 195 horsepower (143 kW) and have 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

Both Vauxhalls are the most powerful cars in their class: they offer blistering performance, high levels of practicality and impressive frugality. Their top speed reaches 135mph and can achieve 0-60mph in less than eight seconds.

Despite the boost in performance, they have excellent economy as well: low CO2 emissions of 134g/km and a combined efficiency of 55.4mpg. The great fuel economy is further enhanced by the Start/Stop technology included in the models.

In fact, the twin turbo technology is rare in this class. The Astra uses a sequential turbocharging system, with the smaller turbo accelerating quickly at lower speeds to eliminate ‘lag’, providing 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from 1,250rpm.

Furthermore, in the mid-range of rpm, both turbochargers operate together, with the larger turbocharger pre-compressing the intake air, before it is fully compressed in the smaller one. A continuous control over the bypass valve is happening, in order to pass on part of the exhaust gases to the larger turbo. The effect of all this is that the driver still enjoys smooth acceleration.

In addition, some stylish changes have been made as well. The new Astra now has more aggressive look thanks to the revised front grille, new front indicators and fog lamps, and refreshed rear-panel styling.

Other unique features are the fresh 18” alloy wheels, twin rear exhausts, exterior styling pack and alloy sports pedals.

The Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch has a starting price of £24,095 and the Sports Tourer – £25,110.

Source: Vauxhall

August 1, 2012

2012 Vauxhall Ampera Earth UK – Price 29 995 GBP

Vauxhall has introduced a new entry-level Ampera for the United Kingdom. The car is priced from just £29 995. The name of the model is Earth, which screams “Eco-friendly” vehicle, so probably there would be many satisfied clients.

Still, the car comes with a lot of standard equipment like power windows and locks, electronic climate control and a 7” touchscreen display.

The Ampera Earth has the same electric motor with total power of 152HP (111 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. The top speed of the car is 161 km/h (100 mph) and the range is 64 km (40 miles) on electricity alone. However, when the 16 kWh lithium-ion battery is depleted, a small 1.4-liter petrol engine-generator activates to recharge it.

Every Ampera owner also has access to ‘My Ampera Services’ a programme which provides owners with a direct number / email address to a named Ampera agent at Vauxhall HQ. Completing the package and like all Vauxhall cars, the Ampera is backed by a unique Lifetime/100,000 mile new vehicle warranty. In addition, the battery system benefits from an impressive eight year/100,000 mile warranty that is transferable to subsequent owners.

Source: Vauxhall

July 11, 2012

2013 Vauxhall Adam: first official images revealed

The first official images of 2013 Vauxhall Adam has just been released and we can see how excitingly stylish and sophisticated this car looks. Adam is a three-door four-seater built with the help of the highest quality materials. This Vauxhall is to be presented to the public officially at this year’s Paris Motorshow.

The design philosophy of the car was implemented by the Brit, Mark Adams’ team in Europe. It has a “floating” roof which is visually disconnected from the body. The aim is to use more than one colour for the body and to make the vehicle even more eclectic.

Adam carries design signatures which are typical for other Vauxhalls: the crisp line around the door handle (GTC), the wing-shaped chrome grille bar (new Astra) and the blade shape in the lower doors. However, it will include as an option a LED daytime running lights, making it the first car of the A-Segment to incorporate this.

Furthermore, the vehicle will be available in three trims from launch – JAM (fashionable/colourful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty). It is all about personalization here which can match any individual taste. There are plenty of visual combinations, with a wide variety of exterior colours: two different roof colours, interior colours, equipment and materials.

Not only will be the car unique to its driver, but also it will be offered with a choice of three efficient ecoFLEX four-cylinder petrol engines: 1.2-litre 70 hp (52 kW), plus two 1.4-litre engines with either 87 hp (64 kW) or 100 hp (74 kW). In addition the optional Start/Stop technology will further improve the efficiency of the Adam. All engines will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

What is more, for the first time in the A-segment, ADAM will offer a new top-of-the-range infotainment system. It was especially designed to support new media sources, including Bluetooth, as well as connectivity for smartphones with Android or Apple iOS software. Of course, this will enable access to internet-based applications, including GPS navigation.

In particular, the system utilizes state-of-the-art seven-inch, full-colour touch screen display. Thanks to it the driver and the passenger next to them can quickly access the variety of on-board controls.

Next, the technologies included here are also unique to the segment. An example is the Advanced Park Assist II system. With its help the drivers switch on the system with a button on the dashboard and it tells them when they reach a parking space large enough to accommodate the car.

Adam comes equipped with a front suspension created by MacPherson and with a compound crank system at the rear. The wheels are in sizes from 16- to 18-inch, and cars that are specified with 17- or 18-inch rims come as standard with the lowered sports chassis.

The first examples of 2013 Vauxhall Adam will be seen at dealerships in January 2013.

Source: Vauxhall

July 11, 2012

Tag: Vauxhall