Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Toyota Harrier Modellista & Harrier TRD Sportivo concept to debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon

 Toyota Harrier Modellista & Harrier TRD Sportivo concept to debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon


Toyota Harrier Modellista

Both models will feature aerodynamic body kits


Toyota has announced plans to introduce a variety of concepts at the Tokyo Auto Salon.




The company is keeping details a closely guarded secret but they confirmed plans to showcase the Harrier Modellista and Harrier TRD Sportivo concept at the event.




First up, the Harrier TRD Sportivo concept has been equipped with an aerodynamic body kit that includes a front spoiler, revised side skirts and two rear spoilers. The crossover also has a revised grille, a TRD suspension, a sports exhaust system and 18-inch aluminum wheels.




Likewise, the Harrier Modellista has a Ver.1 Aero kit with a front spoiler, revised side skirts and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. There's also lowering springs and 19-inch aluminum wheels with Yokohama tires.




Interior pictures were not released but Toyota says the model has piano black trim, a wooden luggage compartment and LED lighting.




Motivation is provided by a 2.0-liter engine that develops 151 HP (111 kW) and 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a continuously variable transmission that sends power to the front wheels.


BMW & Toyota finally agree on a joint sports car platform - report

 BMW & Toyota finally agree on a joint sports car platform - report


Production ready BMW i8 [10th Sep, 2013] [10th Sep, 2013]

Could be anything from a BMW Z4 successor to a Lexus LFA successor


According to reports out of Germany, BMW and Toyota have finally agreed on a joint sports car platform.




Details are limited but BMW development boss Dr. Herbert Diess told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung "We have agreed on a joint architecture for a sports car. What is important is that there will be two different vehicles that are authentic to the two brands."




That's a little vague but the companies appear to have selected one particular model from the "four, five or six" different proposals that were under consideration.




There's no word on what type of car will be produced but the rumor mill has indicated it could be anything from a BMW Z4 successor to a Lexus LFA successor.




Note: BMW i8 pictured


Monday, December 30, 2013

ABT Sportsline Audi RS7 2014


ABT Sportsline Audi RS7 2014 Car Wallpapers




ABT Sportsline has introduced a new tuning program for the stylish and powerful Audi RS7.



The tuner has added an exposed-carbon spoiler at the rear and 20-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels. The tuner also offers stainless steel muffler system and floor mats along with integrated entrance lights.



The model is available with two performance packages. The entry-level package enables the twin-turbo 4.0 TFSI V8 engine to produce 666 HP (490 kW) and 830 Nm (612 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 106 HP (78 kW) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft). The Power S package offers an output of 700 HP (515 kW) and 880 Nm (649 lb-ft) of torque - an increase of 140 HP (103 kW) and 180 Nm (132 lb-ft) with an top speed of 320 km/h.


Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 2014


Lamborghini Huracan LP610 4 2014 Car Pics




Lamborghini has unveiled the Lamborghini Huracan which is the successor to the iconic Gallardo. The model derives its name from the world of bullfighting.



The new Huracan comes with precise technology and top level craftsmanship. It has sharp edges, monolithic and sculptured volumes and precise surfaces. The silhouette of the Huracan merges the front with the cockpit and the rear of the car. The main headlamps are equipped with full LED illumination.



The interior is dominated by an innovative cockpit with a 12.3 inch full-color TFT instrument panel. Fine Nappa leather and Alcantara distinguish the interior, with several color combinations offered to ensure broad individualization options. Superb craftsmanship guarantees the highest quality and sense of luxury throughout.



The 2014 Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 is powered by the 'IDS' 5.2-liter V10 engine delivering a maximum power of 610 HP (448 kW) at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 6.500 rpm. IDS stands for Iniezione Diretta Stratificata, a mixture of direct and indirect fuel injection. The car can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.2 seconds, 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 9.9 seconds and has a top speed of more than 202 mph (325 km/h).



The Lamborghini Huracan will make its world public debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2014.


Wednesday, December 25, 2013

2014 Nissan GT-R


2014 Nissan GT-R


The 2014 GT-R is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury sports car, available in two trims, the Premium and the Black Edition.



Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 545-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.


2013 ABT Audi R8 GTR


2013 ABT Audi R8 GTR


Audi tuner specialist from Germany, ABT Sportsline have released the ABT R8 GTR at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Based on the pre-facelift R8 V10 model, this complete aerodynamic package offers extra power and improved handling.



Perfect down to even the last detail inside, the R8 GTR is a real sports car whose design and technology form a powerful unit.



The ABT R8 GTR is powered by the V10 engine producing an impressive 620 hp. It accelerates from a 0-100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and 9.9 seconds to reach 200 km/h. It has a top speed of 325 km/h.


Tuesday, December 24, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4Matic


2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4Matic


Mercedes unleashes its new dominating force among high-performance sedans in the luxury segment. The pinnacle of German engineering, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4Matic pairs a visually striking appearance with unchallenged driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency.



The latest member of the S-Class family boasts 5.5L twin-turbo V8 engine that provides a presentable 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. Combining that kind of power with a lightweight body that tips the scales at 220 pounds less than its predecessor, results in a 0 - 60 mph accelaration of 3.9 seconds, with an electronically-limited top speed of 186 mph. Ensuring a safe ride as well, it comes equipped with high performance AMG brakes, AMG Adaptive sport suspension and a performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive.


2013 Jaguar F-TYPE


2013 Jaguar F-TYPE


Some people will say the F in the Jaguar F-Type stands for "Future" and they could very well be right. We say this because the current Roadster has already been doing pretty well, and is selling out fast, and the Coupe model has already been building up some excitement.



However, there are other models on the horizon, such as the stunning Jaguar F-Type Project 7 Speedster Design Concept, which has been on show during the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2013. However, don't expect this version to hit the market, because it is just an idea to show us what's possible, although we do love it.


Monday, December 23, 2013

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Ford Mustang Mach 1 gets rendered

 Ford Mustang Mach 1 gets rendered


2015 Ford Mustang Mach 1 rendering / topspeed.com

Could be an upcoming special edition


Ford recently filed a trademark application for the "Mach 1" moniker so Top Speed has created some renderings of what the model could look like.




Drawing cues from the Mustang Boss 302, the Mach 1 has been equipped with a revised grille and an adjustable front splitter. The car also has special alloy wheels, body side graphics, a larger rear spoiler and a four tailpipe exhaust system.




Ford has remained coy about future Mustang variants but speculation suggests the Mach 1 could be equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, a revised interior and a 5.0-liter V8 engine. There's no word on specifications but the company has previously said the 5.0-liter V8 will produce more than 420 bhp (313 kW) and 390 lb-ft (528 Nm) of torque.




Check out the source link for additional photos


OFFICIAL: Lamborghini Huracan details released with 45 pics and video



0-100 km/h in 3.2s


Additional official photos and press release (see below) of the Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 have been released along with the first video and in-depth details.




Lamborghini can now stop with those annoying video teasers as the Gallardo successor has been revealed in full. While previous reports indicated the "Cabrera" moniker, the car's official name is going to be "Huracan" and will be powered by the familiar V10 5.2-liter engine uprated to 610 HP (448 kW) at 8,250 rpm and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm.




The 1,422 kg (3,134 lbs) supercar will need 3.2 seconds to get from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) while the 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) sprint will take 9.9 seconds. The engine is Euro 6 compliant and enables the Huracan to have an average fuel consumption of 12.5 liters / 100 km (18.8 mpg US or 22.5 mpg UK). Power is sent to both axles through a dual-clutch gearbox and on the steering wheel there's a switch to select from one of the three available driving modes: Strada, Sport and Corsa.




The Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 comes as standard with carbon ceramic brakes and a large 12.3-inch TFT display inside the cabin which provides all the necessary info, from tachometer to the infotainment system.




Pricing will be disclosed in March 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show when the car will receive its first public outing followed by first deliveries in spring.


Saturday, December 21, 2013

Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Karmann Edition announced

 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Karmann Edition announced


Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Karmann

Costs 27,275 euros in Germany


Volkswagen has introduced the new Golf Cabriolet Karmann special edition.




Named after legendry auto manufacturer Wilhelm Karmann GmbH, the special edition has additional chrome trim and 17-inch Porto-style alloy wheels.




The cabin boasts two-tone sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gray contrast stitching. The model also has brushed aluminum / dark gray trim, chrome accents and Karmann branded sill plates. Other highlights include a premium audio system, a wind deflector and a park distance warning system.




Performance specifications were not released but Volkswagen confirmed the model will be available with a variety of engines that have outputs ranging from 105 HP (77 kW) to 160 HP (118 kW).




The Golf Cabrio Karmann is currently available to order and pricing starts at €27,275 in Germany.


Toyota GT 86 sedan to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, be launched in late 2016 - report

 Toyota GT 86 sedan to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, be launched in late 2016 - report


Toyota GT 86 Sedan render 12.10.2013 / Theophilus Chin

The rumor mill is back in action


Rumors about a Toyota GT 86 sedan have been swirling for years but new details are starting to emerge about the mysterious model.




According to Motoring's sources, the Subaru Cross Sport concept provides a hint at what the production model could look like. As they explained “It’d be easy to bring the B-pillar forward, add a rear door and slant the rear roof section to create a viable sedan look."




The source also said the model is being developed under the 734A codename and could measure 4750mm long, 1780mm wide and 1400mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 2750mm.




To compensate for the additional weight, the model would reportedly use a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. There are also rumors about hybrid and all-wheel drive variants but it remains unclear if they will actually go into production.




If everything pans out, the sedan could be launched in late 2016.


Saturday, December 14, 2013

2013 Fiat Viaggio Revealed


New Fiat Viaggio


Auto Europe Car.Fiat italian car maker has announced new car with called 2013 Fiat Viaggio.Designed by Fiat Group's Style Centre in Turin, the Fiat Viaggio has a timeless, clean-surfaced expressive exterior design that blends fluid and curvaceous forms with strong proportions.The Fiat Viaggio is tastefully designed inside and out with discernible Italian style. Fiat designed the Viaggio to be a world compact sedan unlike any others in its segment. Equipped with the overall dimensions which are "lower, wider, and longer" inherited from the architecture and platform upon which it is based, the Fiat Viaggio affords a dynamic appeal tuned to bring class-leading ride and handling.



The new four-dour, five-seater 2013 Fiat Viaggio sedan is based on the CUSW (Compact US Wide) architecture. It is the most advanced within the Fiat Group, and it is also the basis of the new Dodge Dart, presented at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2012. The CUSW architecture is, in turn, derived from the Compact architecture originally developed for the best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulietta, a framework that enables the Italians and the Americans to share technologies and components and most of all best practices for engineering and design capabilities.



2013 Fiat Viaggio will be the only car in its segment to offer exclusively sophisticated Turbo engines (1.4L T-Jet 120 HP and 150 HP) on the Chinese market, securing performances that anybody would expect from bigger displacement engines without compromising on fuel economy and maintenance costs. Teamed with the T-Jet Turbo engine is Fiat's latest generation 6 speed dual dry clutch transmission, and alternatively the well-tested 5-gear manual transmission.



As the first Fiat-Chrysler joint project, the Fiat Viaggio will be produced in the new GAC Fiat production plant in Changsha, in the Hunan province.Enjoyed this post 2013 Fiat Viaggio Review with click image to image gallery of 2013 Fiat Viaggio.



More Pictures of 2013 Fiat Viaggio


2013 Fiat Viaggio images


2013 Fiat Viaggio design


2013 Fiat Viaggio


2013 Nissan Cima launched


2013 Nissan Cima images


At the 2012 Beijing Auto Show, Nissan has introduced its premium sedan segment to market in Japan and China is 2013 Nissan Cima. Nissan Cima was originally introduced in Japan in the late 1980s to compete with the Toyota Crown Majesta. From the mid-1990s, Cima is based on the equivalent version of the Infiniti Q45 series. Nissan Cima chose to base the long-wheelbase version of the Infiniti M35h.



As his partner China, which Nissan Cima features 5.9-inch (150mm) longer wheelbase than the Infiniti M and the standard rear passenger area highlighted by the additional legroom and lots of amenities such as entertainment systems and power seat-reclining, heated and cooled.



The new Nissan Cima is offered and comes with hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain is the same as that used Infiniti M35h 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and electric motor provide a total system output of 359-horse. In Japan, prices for the Nissan Cima started at 7.35 million yen (U.S. $ 69,000) and increased to 8.4 million yen (U.S. $ 78,800). Nissan said it is targeting annual sales of 1,000 units.



More Pictures of 2013 Nissan Cima


New Nissan Cima


2013 Nissan Cima


2013 Nissan Cima design


Friday, December 13, 2013

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe


2013 Elantra Coupe images


The 2013 Hyundai Elantra coupe will go on sale later this month with a starting price of $18,220, including a $775 destination fee. That price is for a six-speed manual-transmission model; the six-speed automatic version will start at $19,220. The Elantra coupe is available in two trims: a base GS and upper-level SE.



The initial pricing puts the Elantra coupe above the 2012 Honda Civic coupe ($16,545) and the 2012 Kia Forte Koup ($17,950). The Hyundai comes with more standard features, however. They include fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, heated front seats and Bluetooth.



The Elantra coupe SE, which starts at $20,520 with a manual transmission, comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, leather upholstery and a rear spoiler. On top of the SE trim (with automatic transmission), there’s a Technology Package that costs $2,350 and comes with a navigation system, backup camera, dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start.



Earlier this week, Hyundai priced the 2013 Elantra GT hatchback at $19,170, including a $795 destination fee. It also goes on sale this month. The 2013 Elantra sedan has a base price of $17,470, including destination.



More Pictures of 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe


New Elantra Coupe


2013 Elantra Coupe design


2013 Elantra Coupe


GM released 2012 Chevrolet Orlando LTZ


New Chevrolet Orlando LTZ


With an MSRP of $19,995, the 2012 Chevrolet Orlando is the least expensive seven-passenger vehicle you can buy in Canada; the Mazda5 has six seats, the North American C-MAX will get only five, and the Rondo EX with the optional third-row bench costs $23,795.



Now, don’t start planning a road trip to Vegas with six of your buddies just yet. The rearmost bench in the Orlando is best suited for kids; remember, this is a compact-sized vehicle. In addition, occupying all rows of seats leaves no room for cargo. You either haul stuff or a max load of passengers, not both. Same thing with the Mazda and the Kia.



Yet, with two or three kids, the Orlando makes a lot of sense. Flip down that third row and you get 739 litres of space, enough for carrying your family’s belongings. Fold down the second row as well, and you get about 1,600 litres of volume; only the Rondo is bigger inside.



One advantage I think the Mazda has over the Chevy concerns its sliding side doors. Kids can carelessly open their door in a shopping centre parking lot and dent the car beside; not so with sliding doors. The Orlando also has rather wide B-pillars, which create blind spots when you’re trying to merge into traffic or change lanes.



The Chevrolet Orlando benefits from supportive seats up front and a good driving position. The switchgear layout is also well thought-out, while the sound system includes a USB port in our tester, concealed in a storage compartment behind the button interface; unfortunately, bigger USB keys will prevent you from closing the lid. And navigating through MP3 file folders is a little fussy.



Every Orlando is equipped with a 2.4L inline-4, which develops 174 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual is available, but we think 95% of buyers will choose the 6-speed automatic instead. The 0-100 km/h sprint takes 10.4 seconds with the automatic, while fuel economy ratings are 10.6/6.9 L/100km city/highway.



Unfortunately, our average of 12L/100km isn’t nearly as impressive. We’re driving conservatively, we’re easing away from stoplights very smoothly, and at 100 km/h, the engine spins at only 1,900 rpm; heck, we’re eco-driving the Orlando, and it’s still consuming more than expected. Ironically, the bigger and heavier Equinox crossover boasts better fuel economy ratings.



Fuel issues aside, the 2.4L engine is up to the task of getting the Orlando up to speed swiftly, while the ride is comfortable for everyone including rear-seat passengers. However, the on-center feel of the electric-assist steering isn’t very precise. Overall, Chevy’s multipurpose vehicle may not be as fun to drive as the sportier Mazda5, but it isn’t a chore either.



The base Orlando LS includes keyless entry, power windows, six airbags, a 6-speaker stereo as well as traction and electronic stability control systems, while A/C is optional. The 1LT gains a telescopic steering column, power heated mirrors, body-coloured door handles and cruise control. Adding goodies such as alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and heated seats brings us up to the 2LT, which starts at $23,595.



Our tester is the top-shelf LTZ trim, however, with the optional leather seating package and power sunroof. Total price before taxes, freight and delivery charges: $30,505.



In comparison, a loaded Mazda5 GT costs $28,430, while a Kia Rondo EX V6 Luxury costs $27,195.



The Chevrolet Orlando is a competent multipurpose vehicle that can hold its own against its rivals, and so far this year, it’s selling slightly better than both the 5 and the Rondo. The LTZ trim is too expensive, but a 2LT is a reasonable deal for what’s included with it.



More Pictures of 2012 Chevrolet Orlando LTZ


2012 Chevrolet Orlando LTZ


2012 Chevrolet LTZ images


2012 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ hatchback


Thursday, December 12, 2013

Designer envisions a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta successor named the CascoRosso

 Designer envisions a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta successor named the CascoRosso


Ferrari CascoRosso rendering 09.12.2013 / Dejan Hristov

Would be a front engine sports car with a hybrid system


Dejan Hristov has created some renderings a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta successor.




Dubbed the CascoRosso, the two-seat sports car draws inspiration from the 250 GTO and features an aerodynamic design with a stylish front fascia, a roof-mounted scoop and a BMW i8-like rear end. The CascoRosso also has a large diffuser, four tailpipes and hidden headlights with a cover that retracts into the body.




Hristov also envisions the model would be a front engine sports car with a hybrid system that has a rear-mounted battery for better weight distribution.


2015 / 2016 Mercedes M-Class facelift spied near the Arctic Circle

 2015 / 2016 Mercedes M-Class facelift spied near the Arctic Circle


2015 / 2016 Mercedes M-Class spy photo 09.12.2013 / Automedia

Features a new front fascia with a single bar grille


The Mercedes M-Class has been on the market for a couple of years so the company is preparing a minor facelift for the midsize crossover.




Caught undergoing testing near the Arctic Circle, the facelifted M-Class has a new front fascia with a single bar grille that is flanked by restyled headlights. Our spy photographer also says the crossover has new character lines and an updated daytime running light bar.




Engine options will likely carryover with minor modifications to improve performance and fuel efficiency. However, there could be a new hybrid variant and a ML 400 that uses a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 that develops approximately 330 bhp (246 kW) and 350 lb-ft (474 Nm) of torque.


Wednesday, December 11, 2013

2015 Jaguar XS to be previewed by a thinly veiled concept at the Paris Motor Show - report

 2015 Jaguar XS to be previewed by a thinly veiled concept at the Paris Motor Show - report


2015 Jaguar XS spy photo 18.07.2013 [18th Jul, 2013] / Automedia

Production model could be introduced at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show


According to a recent report, Jaguar will preview their entry-level sedan with a thinly veiled concept at the Paris Motor Show.




Details are limited but Jaguar design director Ian Callum told Autocar the model will "follow the current design trends of Jaguar.” Callum went on to say “We’ve established a beautiful design and we need to start using it on a family and this will be part of the family."




As we have previously reported, the sedan will ride on the iQ[Al] platform and could adopt the XS moniker. Jaguar has been coy on specifications but has previously confirmed the model will be offered with a variety of engines including mills that will enable the model to hit a top speed in excess of 300 km/h (186 mph) and have CO2 emissions of less than 100 g/km.




The production model is slated to debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show and go on sale shortly thereafter.


Porsche Macan four-cylinder coming in late 2014 - report

 Porsche Macan four-cylinder coming in late 2014 - report


2014 Porsche Macan 20.11.2013 [20th Nov, 2013] [20th Nov, 2013]

Could have approximately 220 bhp (164 kW)


Porsche's powertrain and transmission boss has revealed some new details about the entry-level Macan.




Speaking to Auto Express, Dr Thomas Casper said the crossover will gain a four-cylinder petrol engine "sometime in 2014, perhaps at the end.” Casper declined to go into specifics but said the model will be a "proper Porsche" and having a sporty exhaust note is a “top priority."




There's no word on specifications but previous reports have indicated the entry-level model will use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with approximately 220 bhp (164 kW). The engine could eventually be offered in the Boxster and Cayman but nothing is official as of yet.


Tuesday, December 10, 2013

2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate Release


2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate design


Jaguar car maker has announced new car with called 2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate. A full-length, leather-trimmed centre console separates the two individually tailored rear seats which feature power adjustment, ventilation, massage and lumbar functions. A table, machined from solid aluminium with piano-black and chrome detailing, rises up from the centre console at the touch of a button to provide a working area, its role supplemented by the provision of two third-generation iPads with wireless keyboards that are housed in bespoke leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats.



To underline its purpose in ensuring that passengers remain cosseted at all times, the Jaguar XJ Ultimate features revisions to the suspension to optimise rear ride comfort, with no compromise to the car's breadth of dynamic ability.



The exterior detailing of the 2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate offers discreet clues to the model's figurehead status with sculpted lower air intakes chromed to match the grille, polished stainless steel oval exhaust pipe finishers, unique dual-surfaced alloy wheels and subtle 'Ultimate' badging.



The XJ Ultimate is available with Jaguar's existing 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol engine, its powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel, and a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol unit, all driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed transmission.



The Jaguar XJ introduced a mouldbreaking coup design ethos to its class, taking Jaguar's established principle of long, unbroken feature lines and applying them to a decidedly 21st century form. Dramatically different from its competitors, the all-aluminium XJ captures the essential Jaguar design elements of elegance, muscularity, sleekness and strength.



2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate will also be offered with a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine being introduced to the range for the 2013 model year. This engine, which in the Jaguar XJ Ultimate will produce 340PS and 450Nm, draws on the award-winning technology inherent to Jaguar's V8 and offers similar performance to the naturally-aspirated version of that engine (which is not available in the XJ Ultimate), but with the emissions and fuel economy advantages of a V6.



More Pictures of 2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate


2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate


New Jaguar XJ Ultimate


2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate images


Aston Martin AM 310 Vanquish officially release


2013 Aston Martin Vanquish


The new Vanquish - known internally as the project AM310 - replaces the DBS in Aston Martin range, even though it uses the Vanquish name. Underneath the new-look body, which is part DBS, part One-77, The Vanquish is pretty much identical to the current DBS, and is powered by the same V12 engine as well.



This V12 powerplant - which by the way has a working class background, as it's two Mondeo V6s welded together - in the new Vanquish makes 573 PS at 6,750 rpm, 620 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, which is enough to take the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, and onto to a top speed of 186 mph.



To be launched later this year, the new Vanquish will have a base price of 189,995. Stay tuned for more official details and pictures.



More Pictures of Aston Martin AM 310 Vanquish


Aston Martin AM310 Vanquish


Aston Martin AM310 Vanquish design


Aston Martin AM310 Vanquish interior


Monday, December 9, 2013

The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Announced


2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV


A rear-wheel-drive four-door hatchback with staggered wheels and a mere 2,579 pounds distributed 45/55. From the folks who gave us the Evo. Sounds awesome, doesn't it? But the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (conversationally referred to as either the "i" OR the "meev") isn't that sort of car. Its focus is just as narrow as the Evo's but could hardly be more different: the cheapest, most energy-efficient electric car you can buy in the United States. How cheap? The i-MiEV's low-20s price (after a $7,500 tax credit) isn't much higher than that of a Toyota Prius c, the cheapest, most energy-efficient hybrid.



The Prius succeeded in part because it looked like nothing else. Even the most car-ignorant person can readily identify one. The i-MiEV similarly won't be confused with any other car. Even the wipers are radically different (the one on the right was bent upwards by engineers, not hooligans). But will Americans identify this ultra-compact egg-on-wheels as a car at all? The Prius c is nearly 20 inches less lengthy than the regular Prius. The i-MiEV (despite sharing a 100.4-inch wheelbase) is another foot shorter still (144.7 vs. 157.3 inches). The Mitsubishi is also over four inches narrower (62.4 vs. 66.7 inches) but nearly seven inches taller (63.6 vs. 56.9 inches). This is after being widened a couple of inches for North America. Road-legal cars with four doors don't get any smaller in North America. Even SUVs are generally wider than they are tall.



Given the price range, it should come as no surprise that nearly every interior surface save the seats is hard plastic in both cars. The i-MiEV's interior nevertheless manages to seem much more spartan than the Prius c's.



The EPA (which tends to be conservative on this metric) says it'll go 62 miles on a charge while getting the gas equivalent of 126 miles-per-gallon city, 99 highway, and 112 combined. Only the upcoming Honda Fit EV does better, 118 combined, and it will be lease-only. The upcoming Focus EV checks in at 105, and the LEAF at 99. At the average electricity price of 12 cents per kWh, the i-MiEV costs about two dollars to recharge. In my driving the Prius c, with EPA ratings of 53 city, 46 highway, and 50 combined, averaged about 62 miles-per-gallon (additional details and photos here). It might be the most fuel-efficient gas-powered car, but in terms of fuel cost per mile it's still about double the i-MiEV.



More Pictures of 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV


2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV design


New Mitsubishi i-MiEV


2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV images


All-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster


2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550


Mercedes-Benz car maker has announced new car with called 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550. While the sleek Mercedes-Benz SL550 for the 2013 model year is about two inches longer and wider, its aluminum frame is more than 200 pounds lighter than the previous model. Most of the body panels are also aluminum, and high-strength steel is used in the roof pillars. Overall, the new SL body is about 20 percent stiffer than the car it replaces.Mercedes-Benz SL550 is powered by an efficient and refined new V8 engine that gets up to 14% better fuel economy while producing more power - an astounding feat, considering that increasing power or fuel economy is usually an either-or scenario. The V8 features direct fuel injection, twin turbochargers and multi-spark ignition.



Based on its highly successful 5.5-liter predecessor, the new 4.6-liter V8 engine has 20 percent smaller displacement but generates more horsepower and torque - 429 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque. Its smaller displacement is more than offset by the power boost of its twin turbochargers and an air-water intercooler.The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 engine comes with an innovative ECO stop-start system. Whenever the car stops with the brake pedal depressed, the engine is automatically turned off to save fuel. As soon as the driver touches the accelerator pedal, the engine computer selects the piston that is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to seamlessly re-start the engine.



Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to make emergency calling a standard feature, and the new SL marks the debut of mbrace2, the next generation of telematics innovation that gives drivers top-of-the-line features related to safety, infotainment, personal assistance and vehicle care. It includes the ability to remotely update all software modules via cloud networks, so mbrace2 users always have the latest technology in their vehicles and at their fingertips. New services are also added to the mbrace2 Mobile Application, which is compatible with both iPhone and Android smartphones.



More Pictures of 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550


2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 images


2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 design


New Mercedes-Benz SL550


Sunday, December 8, 2013

2012 Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S


2012 Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S


I do like a Ford Focus. And I do spend a deal of time in the boozer explaining to those who get enough practice to hit the bullseye of a soap-on-mirror target with a freshly squeezed blackhead every single time that they really should spare themselves the price of a knackered old BMW with a sewing machine under the bonnet and consider the Blue Oval alternative.



Which made my recent drive in the new Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetec S all the more pertinent.
Why the Ford Focus is the perfect first car



Specifically, I tend to punt an original Mk1 Ford Focus at younger motorists; the car Ford spent so much money developing it nearly knackered the company.



Never works, of course... The only downside to this job is that the man who sidles up to discuss his choice of next motorcar has already made his mind up. He doesn't want an argument, he simply wants affirmation. Well, he won't get it from me. Not if the object of his desire is a BMW with an exhaust pipe the diameter of a MacDonald's milk shake straw he won't.



A recent hoon in a Zetec S spec third-generation Ford Focus has done much to reaffirm my position... With, however, one or two reservations...
Ford Focus (2012): is it a looker?



Ever since his Audi days, I've always been a big Martin Smith (or, given the maw of the impending Mondeo, should that be Aston Martin Smith?) fan. But I can't help feeling that every successive generation of Focus is just a whisker less easy on the eye than that first, svelte masterpiece.



There's a whiff of Eastern market-appeasing bling creeping into both exterior and interior styling of 2012′s Focus, and I'm slightly at a loss to explain a radiator grille which appears to blank off a disconcertingly large percentage of its surface area; I don't see why what works for the VW Up can't work for a Focus...
Inside the 2012 Ford Focus



Moreover, though I enjoy the deep-frozen kingfisher bill dial needles of the instrument binnacle, I'm not crazy about the cheap imitation of a Vuvuzela Spice (plastic and annoying) Vertu telephone that is the centre console styling, nor the fact that the instrument binnacle and centre console multi-information/infotainment screens don't actually match. A bizarre oddity, since they do, perfectly, in the new C-Max...



This also constitutes the first Focus in which I've felt the need to reach for the instruction manual... Over and above the gently counter-intuitive switchgear appendant to the centre console screen itself, there are two identical steering wheel-mounted switches – both sport a central 'OK' button surrounded by a quadrant of arrows – for the purposes of navigating your way through the endless menus in this car... Then there's another raft altogether for controlling the stereo.
Do we want all these gadgets?



I know hatchback buyers all want rafts of premium toys these days (well, I actually only know that because that's what the manufacturers tell me the thoroughly clinic'ed punters want, and I can just hear the key question now: 'Would you like, a) loads of trick driver assistance and safety systems, b) nothing, c) a smack in the face with a week-old mackerel?'), but must the cost of operating them be a swift punt up the luggage for the car in front?



Granted, buyers will learn to live with, if not exactly love, these control systems, but I wonder how they'll fare with a couple of other elements which smack of the increasing bent towards design dictatorship...



From an ergonomic perspective, the centre console box/armrest is little short of infuriating. It's an increasingly prevalent detail in many cars of this ilk and, in a manual, just plain crazy; car dictating gearchange style to driver rather than vice versa, simply because you can't drop your elbow to the height you'd prefer. I know we need boxes to house our mobile connectivity devices, but really...



This is a continuation of the ergonomic bullying that spawned steering wheels covered in divots, making it possible to hold it comfortably only at quarter to three. Those of us taught to drive with hands at ten to two continue to be unamused...



More Pictures of 2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S


New Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S


2012 Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S design


2012 Ford Focus 1.6 Ecoboost Zetac S images