Toyota has released an all-new seventh-generation Toyota Camry in Australia that debuts a contemporary design with improved driving dynamics and a more spacious interior.
The base model Altise and range-topping Atara SL retain their old prices, while the Atara S is $1000 more than the Ateva and the Atara SX is $2000 more than the Sportivo.
The Altise produces 133kW of power and 231Nm of torque, while the Atara models get an extra 2kW/4Nm for a total output of 135kW and 235Nm.
The 2012 Toyota Camry Altise is equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels (full-size steel spare wheel), a trip computer with Eco indicator, and an upgraded six-speaker sound system with steering wheel controls, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, and AUX port, and USB input with iPod connectivity.
The Atara SX gets a sports suspension tune, leather door trims and interior accents, sports pedals, rear spoiler, unique rear bumper and dark-tinted headlights.
Built in Australia, new Toyota Camry features expanded safety features, a more comfortable ride, better handling and added refinement, including an even quieter cabin.
Atara models have unique styling, including the lower-body design, a sporty mesh upper grille, prominent side skirts and twin exhausts.
Price increases for Atara S (replaces Ateva) and Atara SX (Sportivo) are outweighed by added features.
Toyota Camry has been Australia's number-one selling fleet vehicle in the medium segment for 17 years running.
"The new Camry Altise will feature all the inherent qualities that the previous model had.
"In addition we have the new Camry Atara range to provide even more options for fleet customers and improve driver satisfaction."
Toyota Camry Atara is designed to expand the appeal of Australia's best-selling mid-size car to even more customers.
Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said Atara embues Camry with the added style and sophistication these customers expect.
The new models are Atara S (replacing Ateva), Atara SX (Sportivo) and Atara SL (Grande).
Bolder, more advanced styling is the hallmark of new-generation Camry.
Special attention was paid to increasing the level of differentiation between Toyota Camry Altise and Atara.
A character line on the Atara SX rear bumper matches the design of the vehicle's front end.
Local designers at Toyota Style Australia (TSA) were responsible for the interior fabrics and colour and trim of the new Camry and Atara range.
Toyota Australia will cut a full litre from the combined-cycle fuel economy of its next-generation Camry sedan.
"Toyota's estimates show that the new engine could reduce the amount of fuel consumed across the Camry fleet by more than 20 million litres per year.
On Toyota Camry Atara models, the twin exhausts gain an extra 2kW - an overall percentage increase of 15.4 per cent.
Torque is improved from 218Nm to to 231Nm for Camry - or 235Nm with the twin exhausts - including substantial increases in the mid range.
Greater efficiency, reduced friction losses and improved combustion in the new Camry engine deliver better performance while using less fuel.
It delivers high power output and improved fuel efficiency by ensuring high air flow and intake tumble flow.
New-generation Toyota Camry has an all-new chassis package designed to provide increased stability and agility, coupled with a flat ride, high-quality damping feel and improved steering feel.
Camry has a new aerodynamic package, increased body and steering system rigidity, newly adopted electric power steering and improved tyre performance.
Camry's new tyres reduce rolling resistance and increase grip in wet and dry conditions.
Performance has been improved in braking, ride and handling.
New-generation Toyota Camry has a range of aerodynamic improvements designed to increase down-force while maintaining front/rear balance.
Camry's new upper-body aerodynamics include the Toyota first of stabilising air-flow fins on the exterior mirror mount.
Camry also has a new fin on the rear combination lamp to increase stability.
Both sets of fins increase Camry's flat-ride quality.
Toyota's local test centre calibrated new-generation Camry's steering, ride and handling to suit Australia's unique conditions, such as undulating country roads and coarse-chip road surfaces.
The new Toyota Camry electric power-assisted steering calibration is similar to the Camry Hybrid EPS calibration, but is retuned to suit the petrol model's different mass distribution.
In a Toyota first, Camry Atara SL has a system to warn the driver if there is a vehicle in the 'blind spot' on either side.
Camry's passive safety has been further boosted by the vehicle's stronger body.
Camry's suite of active safety systems includes vehicle stability control, traction control and ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Toyota's new-generation Camry has increased stopping power and improved brake feel.
Toyota Camry's brake-control hardware has been completely redesigned to give the driver a more secure and confident feeling when braking.
The improved braking grip of Camry's new tyres also contributes to reduced stopping distances.
New-generation Toyota Camry has improved driving comfort, instruments and storage capacity.
Camry has an improved seat design that is 30mm taller for increased back support, with a new seat frame for improved ride comfort.
The groundbreaking, all-new Land Rover Range Rover Evoque made its global public debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque has turned the much-acclaimed LRX concept car into reality, faithfully capturing the spirit of its landmark cross-coupé design.
Phil Popham, managing director of Land Rover, said: "The groundbreaking, all-new Range Rover Evoque takes the brand into exciting new territory.
The all-new Land Rover Range Rover Evoque takes its inspiration directly from the LRX concept car, which drew worldwide acclaim for its exciting new interpretation of classic Range Rover design cues.
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover design director, said: "The Range Rover Evoque marks a bold evolution of Range Rover design by adopting new interpretations of classic Range Rover design cues and staying true to the core Range Rover values.
Land Rover engineers have developed the Range Rover Evoque to provide customers with a polished driving experience that combines dynamic and sporty handling with responsive, effortless performance and refinement.
Compact size - at 4350 mm, the Range Rover Evoque is 430 mm shorter than a Range Rover Sport Land Rover designers and engineers have developed a host of distinctive and innovative features, to ensure the Range Rover Evoque stands out from the crowd.
The Evoque is the first Range Rover to offer breathtaking new sound systems developed in partnership with the high-end audio specialist Meridian.
Other features available to Land Rover Range Rover Evoque customers include: Blind Spot Monitoring system Hard-drive navigation system Phil Popham said: "The launch of the Range Rover Evoque is a significant step forward for the Range Rover brand.
The all-new Range Rover Evoque has turned the LRX concept into reality, marking a bold evolution of Range Rover design, and providing customers with a compact, premium and highly desirable SUV.
The Evoque delivers Range Rover levels of quality and craftsmanship in every detail of the car. The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is completely faithful to the style of the stunning LRX Concept, capturing its design almost to the millimetre.
The all-new Range Rover Evoque has been designed and engineered to provide drivers with a finely judged balance of sporting driving dynamics, responsive performance and sophisticated refinement.
Achieving the desired dynamic character in the Evoque required an evolution of the Range Rover DNA. Starting with the driving dynamics of the Range Rover Sport, which has a similar DNA to a luxury sports saloon, Range Rover dynamics specialists set out to deliver a more agile and connected drive.
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque has an all-turbocharged engine line-up with a choice of state-of-the-art petrol and diesel power units. Range Rover engineers have applied meticulous attention to detail to ensure that the Evoque displays a refined and harmonious sound quality under all driving conditions.
Weight saving was a primary objective in the development of the Range Rover Evoque, and engineers have applied a range of advanced lightweight materials to make this the lightest Range Rover ever, with weights starting at just 1600kg.
Weight-saving technologies can be found throughout the bodyshell and chassis of the Range Rover Evoque, including: For the ultimate in weight saving, the two-wheel-drive Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is 75kg lighter than the four-wheel-drive version, and delivers superior fuel economy and CO2 emissions for customers who do not require four-wheel-drive all-terrain capability.
Range Rover engineers have rigorously eliminated parasitic losses from every area of the Evoque, to ensure that the car delivers the lowest possible fuel consumption.
The all-new Range Rover Evoque has been designed and engineered to provide customers with the same comprehensive range of premium technologies they expect from a true Range Rover, just shrink-wrapped into a more compact package.
The unrivalled array of premium Land Rover Range Rover equipment comprises the latest technologies for controls, connectivity, comfort and convenience, including some highly distinctive and original signature features plus stunning new high-end Meridian audio systems.
David Mitchell said: "The Evoque provides the complete Range Rover experience, but packaged into a smaller, more attainable car.
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque also supports Bluetooth audio streaming, so that customers can enjoy music stored on their phone, or other portable Bluetooth device, via the car's audio system.
The all-new Range Rover Evoque has been engineered, developed and tested to the same exacting standards as the larger models in the Range Rover line-up.
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque features an all-new structure and suspension system which have been developed to deliver outstanding dynamics both on- and off-road, while preserving the stunning sporting profile of the original LRX concept car.
The Range Rover Evoque features a powerful all-disc braking system for confident stopping in all conditions.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) Active safety performance is further enhanced by a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art traction and stability systems, configured using Range Rover's expertise in all-terrain performance to maximise stability and safety in the widest range of driving conditions.
To complement the car's responsive on-road handling, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque features refinements to the Dynamic Stability Control and Roll Stability Control systems which further enhance cornering behaviour and stability. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Traction Control System (TCS) Engine Drag torque Control (EDC)
The Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept is an all-wheel-drive, plug-in hybrid and looks as if a traditional four-door coupe and an SUV got melded together in the design center.
The Volkswagen Cross Coupe concept is not a coupe. Coupes traditionally have two doors; the Cross Coupe has four. Underneath the skin lies one of the more complicated power sources VW has shown — a 148-hp diesel engine and 54-hp electric motor powering the front wheels, and a 114-hp electric motor on the rear axle for all-wheel-drive.
The Cross Coupé concept takes the wacky proportions from cars like the BMW X6 and Acura ZDX, grafts on VW’s newest design language, and applies it to a compact, Tiguan-sized package.
Thankfully, the gas engine gets a boost from not one, but two electric motors, one powering the front axle and another powering the rear axle. The claimed combined output of the gas engine and electric motors is 262 net horsepower.
Being a plug-in hybrid, the Cross Coupé is capable of a 25 mile all-electric range, with a claimed total hypothetical range of 531 miles. In all-electric mode, top speed is limited to 75 mph.
Lastly, Volkswagen Cross Coupe is showing off another innovation in the concept thanks to its all-wheel-drive system with electric drive shaft. The rear axle is driven by the rear electric motor while power is supplied to the rear electric motor by the one at the front.
Now, Ford has revealed yet another revised Cobra Jet for 2013, with the car being unveiled at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show in Florida.
Further updates to the 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet include a lighter body, electric power steering, a new roll cage and new suspension geometry that allows for quicker launches.
According to Ford, this car has all the features, which can help the new car, become top drag racing machine. This car features electric power steering.
Ford is offering two 5-liter Coyote V8 engine options with the 2013 Cobra Jet. The 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet will be powered by 5.0L TiVCT engine and Ford is offering this car with two engine options. One model will sport a naturally aspirated Cobra Jet induction system with CNC ported heads and high lift cams.
The electric power steering makes this car more powerful. Ford claims that 2013 Cobra Jet features latest drag racing technology, which will help this car acquire a good speed and consistency as well.
This ready-to-race car is offered in two 5.0 liter Coyote engine options: naturally aspirated Cobra Jet induction system and with CNC-ported heads and a supercharged version with a Ford Racing supercharger. This car boasts of power steering and a roll cage for safety.
Ford has made the chassis of the 2013 Cobra Jet Mustang lighter than its predecessors for optimum weight distribution.
o celebrate 150 years of Italian unification, Maserati presented a limited edition GranTurismo S at the 2011 Bologna Motor Show.
On the exterior, the matte blue is further contrasted by carbon fiber elements found on the front spoiler, side mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler.
With a limited edition of twelve cars intended for the Italian market, the Granturismo S Limited Edition is characterised by special trim levels and contents.
The color is combined with carbon elements, like the front spoilers, side mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler.
The lucky 12 will get the Maserati GranTurismo S Limited Edition in a matte Sebring Blue with carbon fiber spoilers, side mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler. Black dubs accent black matte side skirts as well as the headlight trim.
New Renault Twingo is the first vehicle in the range to feature the brand's new design identity. Like the first-generation Renault Twingo, the newcomer features an expressive, appealing front end.
The 'eyelids' of the headlights also contribute to new Renault Twingo's distinctive looks.
Depending on market, New Twingo can be fitted with a electrically-operated fabric sunroof as an option.
Located on the tailgate, they enhance New Renault Twingo's lines and echo the front end, bringing extra shape and punch to the car. Inside, Twingo's bubbly side is enhanced through the harmony of colour and material.
The colours also feature on the door inserts and climate control and heater system controls.
New Renault Twingo's design combines compact exterior dimensions with an impressively spacious interior. Meanwhile, Twingo's reputation has always been sealed through its versatility-featuring separate, independently sliding, 50/50-split rear seats, Twingo is particularly practical, too.
The powerplants which feature in the new Renault Twingo range mean it is more than capable of devouring long distances. Twingo's flagship engines, like the 1.2 16V 75hp petrol engine or the dCi 75 and dCi 85 diesels, have all benefited from ongoing improvements.
The fuel consumption for Renault Twingo dCi 75 and 85 (3.4 litres/100km) counts among the most frugal in its class. New Renault Twingo is one of the only city cars to be available with Euro5 diesel engines that combine performance and fuel efficiency.
All the audio systems in the New Twingo range will feature Bluetooth functionality and audiostreaming with USB connectivity as standard.
This audio system permits the use of GPS navigation thanks to a Renault-developed iPhone application.
The magazine also stressed that "with Twingo, Renault has demonstrated its ability to propel one of its cars to the top level of customer satisfaction."
Though some characteristics could be deal-breakers for certain buyers, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is an exceptional SUV.
Unlike the Mazda Tribute, a Ford Escape clone, the CX-5 compact SUV that takes its place has no Ford roots. An automatic transmission is optional on the CX-5's base, Sport, trim level, and standard with the higher Touring and Grand Touring trims.
Five inches shorter from bumper to bumper than the Mazda CX-7, the CX-5 has a footprint similar to popular SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Escape.
The CX-5 follows the Mazda3 compact car in getting the automaker's new SkyActiv engine: a 155-horsepower, direct-injection four-cylinder whose efficiency helps the Mazda3 eke out 40 mpg highway.
Mazda expects EPA mileage of 26/32 mpg city/highway with the automatic and front-wheel drive or 26/33 mpg with the manual. All-wheel-drive models still get 25/30 mpg. Excellent.
Developed around SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY - including all-new Mazda petrol and diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, body and chassis - the CX-5 delivers precise response and a high-quality, rewarding ride matched to outstanding environmental and safety performance.
Inside, Mazda created a driver-oriented cabin with solid styling that reflects the Mazda CX-5's strength and high rigidity.
The detailed, high-quality meter design raises the driver's anticipation for the ride ahead.
The rear centre seat creates a large flat luggage space when folded down. Mazda CX-5's new HMI system improves safety by minimizing the driver's eye movement away from the road. With the vehicle stopped, the driver might operate it by touch screen.
Regarding dynamic performance, the ultimate goal of the Mazda CX-5 development team was to make the vehicle move precisely according to the driver's wishes.
A newly-developed electric power assist steering system offers highly precise control according to vehicle speed. The brakes deliver easily-controllable, precise and assured braking performance from low to high speeds.
The SKYACTIV-G 2.0 petrol engine models have the world highest compression ratio of 14.0:1, and their 4-2-1 exhaust system prevents knocking and provides abundant torque from low engine speeds, enabling acceleration that precisely matches the driver's intention.
Models with this engine achieve outstanding fuel economy, precise response, and a high-quality, linear and rewarding ride: A High Power version developing maximum torque of 420 Nm at 2,000 rpm and maximum power of 129 kW / 175 PS at 4,500 rpm.
The Mazda CX-5 uses the full array of SKYACTIV Technologies to achieve outstanding fuel economy and emissions performance without sacrificing its fun-to-drive character.
High-Beam Control (HBC) automatically changes between low and high beam during night driving in order to avoid blinding upcoming vehicles.
The Nissan LEAF Nismo. We’d expect the LEAF to be the last car Nissan would add Nismo bits to. Standing proud and butch on Nissan’s Tokyo Motor Show stand is a Nismo worked-over version of the LEAF, Nissan’s electric car for the masses.
Nissan are calling the LEAF Nismo a concept, but it seems pretty clear they intend putting it in to production. Sitting inside Nissan's Smart House perched above the automaker's booth here at the Tokyo Motor Show was a fitting setting to talk about Nissan's plans for future electric vehicles.
Nissan is committed to a zero-emissions future. Carlos Ghosn, Nissan's President and CEO, maintains that 10 percent of the global automotive market will be comprised of electric vehicles in 10 years. So seeing a Nismo version of the Leaf sharing the stage with Ghosn implies that Nissan is at least exploring the possibility of a sports-oriented EV. Once that happens, Nissan can justify production of an electron-powered sports car.
“Nismo adds even more excitement and innovation to Nissan products. In 2011, Nismo-developed Nissan GT-R racecars won the Drivers’ and Team titles in Japan’s SUPER GT championship and also took the Drivers’ title in the FIA GT1 World Championship.
Nismo-developed engines won their class in the Le Mans 24 Hours and the company has also developed the remarkable trail-blazing LEAF Nismo RC, the world’s first all-electric racing car. “Nismo has carved out an enviable reputation in motor racing,” said Carlos Ghosn, Nissan President and CEO.
About Nismo Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd (Nismo) was established in 1984 primarily to look after Nissan’s motor sport activities. In 2011, Nismo-developed Nissan GT-R racecars won the driver’s and team titles in SUPER GT and the drivers’ title in the FIA GT1 World Championship, while Nismo-developed engines won LMP2 class at the Le Mans 24 Hours, and took LMP2 class titles in the ILMC and Le Mans Series.
Scion unveiled its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car to a crowd of eager car enthusiasts. The Scion FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion's definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising MPG.
"Serving as a laboratory for Toyota, Scion is always experimenting with new things," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. The Scion FR-S is a true "scion," born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts.
The balance begins with the strategic use of the world's only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system.
As we noted when they debuted in Tokyo earlier this week, the Toyota (GT) 86 and the Subaru BRZ are identical save for some minor cosmetic differences. The only real difference is the Scion badge in place of Toyota’s encircled T logo. Only the Scion and the Subaru will be sold in the U.S., while Toyota’s offering is headed for non-Scion markets (i.e. everywhere else).
Likewise, the Scion will offer the same choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Inside are the same Toyota/Subaru touches like a diminutive 14.4-inch diameter steering wheel, low-lying bucket seats, and a centralized tach/speedometer combo.
Power output from Subaru’s FA-series 2.0-liter boxer remains at 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet and uses Toyota’s innovative D-4S fuel-injection system. Aisin’s six-speed manual and paddle-shift automatic gearboxes route power to the rear 215/45-17 Michelin rubber.
Ford introduces the sporty Zetec S to its acclaimed all-new Focus line up. Developed specifically for UK customers, Ford Focus Zetec S combines sporty styling with the debut of the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine.
Any 2012 Ford Focus Zetec S chosen with this engine or the 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge, as they benefit from auto start-stop, Ford ECO mode, gear shift indicator, active grille shutter and smart regenerative charging.
Customers will have to choose between four engines: the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine, a 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi with ECOnetic Technology, 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi.
Equipped with the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine , the upcoming Ford Focus Zetec S will hit 62mph in 7.9sec.
The 2013 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel drive sports car featuring the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The Subaru Boxer engine in the BRZ was positioned even lower than other Subaru models so that the BRZ has one of the lowest possible centers of gravity on the market today. The product concept of Subaru BRZ is "Pure Handling Delight". The Subaru BRZ is a fun sports car that any driver may enjoy driving with peace of mind.
unequaled elements of the BRZ are its grille and front bumper design, headlight detailing, custom fender vents, integrated exhaust tips, and revised tail-lamps. Despite predictions the BRZ would be more powerful than its Toyota counterpart, Subaru has confirmed that its sports car will also feature a horizontally opposed ‘boxer’ engine and Toyota’s D-4S direct injection technology and with peak output capped at 197 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.
The Subaru BRZ has a low-mounted Boxer engine on a specially designed sub-frame that forms an "ultra-low center of gravity package". With this arrangement, BRZ achieved a low driving position typical of a sports car. Subaru aimed for a sports car design that instinctively conveys the car's. fun-to-drive character.
The "ultra-low center of gravity package" also allowed a low hood design. This low hood and bulging front fenders raise expectations for the Subaru BRZ's. drivability. The low center of gravity enhances BRZ's. sensuous beauty with its shapely fender flares.
Low center of gravity and low driving position were achieved by the perimeter type body frame layout.
Effective use of this material in the upper structure of the Subaru BRZ contributed to its low center of gravity.
To gain a low front hood from the "ultra-low center of gravity package", the front strut mount was lowered while maintaining the stroke.
Tokyo, Japan (29 November 2011)- Nissan Motor Co,. Ltd reveales a bold new future for its Nismo performance arm. Aimed at a car-loving audience looking for a car that reflects an edgy personality, 2011 Nissan Juke Nismo Concept magnifies the standard car's. unequaled mix of compact car agility, coupé-like responses and SUV strength.
done in signature Nismo colours of pearl white with red highlights, the Juke Nismo Concept wears a body kit created by Nismo's. aerodynamic specialists whose skill has been honed perfecting racecar bodywork.
"As the Concept shows, Nismo brings new levels of individuality to mainstream Nissan cars like Juke.
Aimed at a car-loving audience looking for a car that reflects an edgy personality, Nissan Juke Nismo Concept magnifies the standard car's. unequaled mix of compact car agility, coupé-like responses and SUV strength done in signature Nismo colours of pearl white with red highlights, the Nissan Juke Nismo Concept wears a body kit created by Nismo's. aerodynamic specialists whose skill has been honed perfecting racecar bodywork.
“As the Concept shows, Nismo brings new levels of individuality to mainstream Nissan cars like Juke. The future for Nismo is to develop premium sports designs for an ever-widening range of customers,” told Nismo President, Shoichi Miyatani.
The anticipation is over: the new Toyota GT 86 sports car makes its world debut at the 2011 Tokyo motor show.
The Toyota GT 86 has been conceived as an entirely driver-focused machine, designed to deliver the core qualities of the classic sports car knowledge. The Toyota GT 86 measures 4,240mm long, 1,285mm high and 2,570mm wide, dimensions which create it the most compact four-seater sports car available today.
The flat-four engine format and the driver's. hip point - the lowest of any current Toyota production model - together give the Toyota GT 86 an ultra-low centre of gravity, at just 475mm.
The Toyota GT 86's. engine is the result of a joint Toyota and Subaru development programme that brings together their technical know-how and mutual passion for sports cars.
The Toyota GT 86 can be launched as the world's. only current sports car to feature a front-mounted, horizontally opposed engine and rear-wheel drive, but it cannot claim to be the first.
German tuner Brabus has released the second model teased yesterday, the SLS AMG Roadster package.
The Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG rides on Monoblock F “Platinum Edition” forged rims which come in a 20-inch size for the front axle and in a 21-inch size for the rear one.
The Brabus front spoiler attaches to the underside of the production bumper. On the sides the Brabus side skirts make an optimal aerodynamic transition between the front and rear wheel wells.
The rear end of the 2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster adds even more sporty character as well: the modifications include the understated Brabus rear spoiler, the side air vents for the rear fascia and the Brabus diffuser with custom-tailored cutouts for the four distinctive tailpipes of the Brabus quad sport exhaust.
The sport suspension and the production suspension may be upgraded with the Brabus Front Lift System for added convenience.
The Brabus engine specialists have developed the Brabus B63 S tuning kit for the 63-liter. fast-revving V8 engine.
The performance kit consists of newly calibrated engine electronics with special Brabus mapping for ignition and injection, and the Brabus high-performance exhaust system. Brabus B63 S tuning bumps maximum power output from standard 571 hp (563 bhp) / 420 kW to 611 hp (600 bhp) / 448 kW, making the SLS even more dynamic.
The Brabus interior design studio gives the SLS cockpit an equally sporty and exclusive ambiance.
With a five vehicle hybrid line-up, Lexus reinforces its commitment to hybrid technology with the all-new 2013 Lexus GS 450h.
Today, the Lexus GS 450h is the world's first premium performance sedan to be equipped with a V6 Atkinson cycle gas engine and two-motor hybrid system, in a front engine rear-wheel drive vehicle.
The hybrid version of the 2013 GS 350 incorporates improvements to its hybrid powertrain and is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system.
Lexus GS 450h engineers have aimed for reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while providing exhilarating performance.
With a total system power output of 338 hp, the Lexus GS 450h will accelerate effortlessly from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The new GS hybrid also features a Drive Mode selector.
That means we could be seeing a combined gas mileage of around 30 mpg for the 2013 Lexus GS 450h, which, while still impressive, fails to beat the efficiency of many diesel rivals sold overseas.
As a result, Lexus is now reportedly developing a ‘downsized’ hybrid system for the GS, which will allow it to compete with more fuel efficient diesel models. The Lexus exec also reiterated the automaker’s stance of backing hybrid technology rather than diesel when it comes to economy.
The fact that Lexus wants to boost the appeal of its 2013 Lexus GS luxury sedan is no secret.
In Autocar’s words, the GS “would offer the M5 a genuine rival for both performance and dynamic ability given the driver-focused developments in the all-new GS’s chassis.”
According to an earlier report, the LFA’s 552-horsepower V-10 would indeed fit in the GS engine compartment, but there’s no clear indication as to how much the 10-cylinder would be detuned for sedan duty.
It’s harder to pin down the handling and “feel” parts of a car without seat time, but early impressions of the base GS appear to be favorable (stay tuned for our First Drive of the new 2013 GS lineup this Friday).
The new 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet may accelerate from 0-60 in as little as 44. seconds and achieve a top-track-speed of 177 mph, while the 911 Carrera S cabriolet may reach 60 mph in as little as 4.1.seconds and has a top-track-speed of 187 mph.
Combined with lower weight, the new 911 Cabriolet models share the longer wheelbase, wider front track and the new electro-mechanical power steering of their Coupe siblings, ensuring the open-roofed models offer more sporting driving characteristics, greater precision and agility compared to the prior model. The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet features a 3.4-litre. engine generating 350 hp (257 kW), driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed manual transmission.
The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet offers the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch transmission as an option, delivering even lower fuel consumption and shorter acceleration times.
The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet models go on sale in the UK on March 3 2012. The 911 Carrera Cabriolet is priced from £79,947, the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet from £89,740.
Debuting at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2013 Ford Escape comes with a 168 hp 2.5-litre 4-cylinder as a base engine, with an all-new 173 hp 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder as well as a 237 hp 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder available as options.
Ford unveiled the new Escape today, calling it a Smarter Utility Vehicle, a play on the SUV acronym.
Although Ford already manufactures a hybrid Escape, the Detroit-based automaker has decided to offer other, more fuel-efficient Escape options to its customers.
Ford managed to improve the Escape’s coefficient of drag by 10 per cent compared with the previous generation, and claims that the Escape will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the compact SUV sector.
The Escape’s design makeover results in a vehicle that looks — and is — lower, wider and longer than the outgoing model. The new Escape is available in four trim levels that adopt Ford’s global small vehicle nomenclature.
Along with the new trim levels come two new engines, plus one engine carried above from the outgoing Escape. The base “S” model is powered by an better version of the 2.5-litre,. four-cylinder engine which carries above from the previous Escape.
Depending on the market, VW will offer the 2013 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack with turbocharged petrol and/or diesel four-cylinder engines. Buyers may also order the car with either front-wheel drive or 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
Aside from the 30mm higher ride height, the Alltrack may be distinguished from the Passat wagon by its grey exterior door handles and the matching mouldings on the wheelarches.
Chez VW Group, il y a déjà les Scout, les Allroad, les Freetrack, les Cross maintenant il y aura la Passat Alltrack qui la version SW de se donner des airs de baroudeuse comme ses cousines. Les versions 1.8 L TSI 160 et 2.0 L TDi 140 sont proposées d’origine en version 2RM et seule la version TDI proposera en option la transmission 4Motion.
Alors que les versions 18. L TSI 160 et 20. L TDi 140 sont disponibles uniquement avec la BVM6, les version TDi 170 et TSI 210 sont livrées d’origine avec la DSG. Pas beaucoup plus d’informations au sujet de la mécanique, des performances car VW attend la présentation officielle au salon de Tokyo pour en dire plus.
The 2013 Seat Mii city car is the perfect vehicle for today's. urban lifestyle. Quite simply, the SEAT Mii makes life easier - with compelling practicality, exceptional driving fun, high efficiency and innovative technology.
The Mii combines SEAT's. sporty Mediterranean design with the very best craftsmanship and enormous scope for personalisation. At a length of 355. metres, the SEAT Mii is the perfect size for modern-day urban use. The SEAT Mii is also a leader once it comes to innovative technology.
A unequaled innovation in this class of vehicle is the SEAT Mii's. City Safety Assist. Systematic lightweight design means that the base weight of the SEAT Mii is only 854 kg.
There are two Ecomotive versions of the Mii. SEAT is a young brand and the unequaled new SEAT Portable System is, of course, part of that. 'The. Mii offers enormous intelligence in a compact format,'. told Dr Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development.
Gearshift display, engine speed recommendations, average values and consumption profile all help the SEAT Mii owner to drive particularly economically. Plus, the SEAT Portable System is fully integrated into the vehicle electronics.
2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder figure may be found in Los Angeles (LA) Auto Show 2011. Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder is an open-roof version of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni.
This year is no exception, as Lamborghini has pulled the wraps off the Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, essentially a convertible version of the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni.
As described in the name, the latest Lambo features a longitudinally mounted V10 packing 550 horsepower that is driven exclusively through the rear wheels.
The LP550-2 Spyder will be the third two-wheel-drive model sold in the U.S. behind the LP 550-2 Bicolore and the LP 550-2 Coupe. It’s also the third Spyder, which now joins the LP 570-4 Spyder Performante and the LP 560-4 Spyder.
Lamborghini claims the LP 550-2 Sypder will need just 4.2 seconds to accelerate from 0-62 mph, while its top speed is limited to 198 mph.
The first rear-drive roadster convertible from Lamborghini Diablo SV since 1998, the LP550-2 Spyder is rear-drive version of the LP560-4 ragtop for somewhat less money: $ 211,995 (plus a yet-determined gas guzzler tax) versus $ 232,095.
With the Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, we are expanding the Lamborghini lineup with a purist model that adds yet another dimension of driving fun. "This special model with rear-wheel drive is a logical expansion of our lineup of spyder models with all-wheel drive.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder with rear-wheel drive is the perfect fit for the kind of sports car driver that enjoys a particularly hands-on and spirited style of driving.
Volkswagen may say the 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is more masculine until its blue in the face, but the Beetle will always have that stigma of being driven by those who truly used the standard flower vase found in the last-generation New Beetle.
While VW is mum on power output, the all-wheel drive Golf R makes due with 256-hp so if the front-drive Beetle R were to reach production, it would have to slot in below VW’s new halo car.
Design flourishes on the 'R'. concept include wider bumpers and wheel arches, racing seats, four exhaust pipes and engine-cooling air intakesIt's. a fair assumption that given the Beetle shares a platform with a Golf, the Beetle R will be powered by the Golf R's. turbocharged 2.0-liter. 4-cylinder engine, which produces in the region of 270hp.
If you appreciate the styling of the 2011 Volkswagen Beetle, you’ll probably like the looks of the Beetle R even more.
If Britain’s Autocar is correct, the Beetle R will see production if there’s a positive reception for it in Los Angeles.
Since the VW Beetle shares a platform with the VW Golf, building a Volkswagen Beetle R won’t require a significant amount of engineering.
The latest entrant in Audi's. A1 lineup is the five-door version of Audi's. A1 supermini - the 2012 Audi A1 Sportback. In the five-door avatar, the A1 Sportback weighs 1065kg, around 25kg more than the three door A1, owing to the two extra doors in the Sportback.
Globally, the Audi A1 Sportback will be offered with the same engine range that drives the three-door - a 14-litre. turbo petrol four-cylinder, 14-litre. turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder and a 16-litre. turbodiesel four-cylinder.
Audi has released details and pictures of its 2012 A1 Sportback – the five-door version of its Mini rival.
The three-door A1 offers only optional roof arches in a contrasting colour.
For the three-door A1, the company selected a 90kW 14-litre. turbo petrol four-cylinder, 136kW 14-litre. turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder and a 66kW 16-litre. turbo diesel four-cylinder.
In Europe, the entry-level Sportback will cost about $1550 more than the base three-door.
The Audi A1 Sportback comes standard with four seats. The Audi A1 Sportback also features many high-end solutions in terms of controls and infotainment, including Audi connect. The two 14-liter. TFSI engines produce 90 kW (122 hp) and 136 kW (185 hp). Many individual options reflect the high-tech expertise of the Audi A1 Sportback. quattro GmbH offers the S line exterior package, the S line sport package and the Audi exclusive line.
Dubbed the world's. fastest crossover, 2011 Nissan Juke-R Concept is a unequaled concept car that combines the power, speed and handling of Nissan's. flagship GT-R sports car with the bold, exciting design of the Juke crossover model.
The car's. unique, impactful styling places Juke's. curves and lines above GT-R's. 38-litre. engine, drivetrain and suspension, making Nissan Juke-R the most testosterone-packed compact crossover in the world.
Nissan had ambitious plans for the Juke-R’s bodywork, which had to portray the car as “innovative, exciting and dynamic.” Fastening them to the Juke’s existing body appears to be another story, since RML affixed the body panels to the Juke shell using the same adhesive that bonds the chassis panels in Formula 1 cars together.
Dubbed the world’s fastest crossover, Juke-R is a unequaled concept car that combines the power, speed and handling of Nissan’s flagship GT-R sports car with the bold, exciting design of the Juke crossover model.
The car’s unique, impactful styling places Juke’s curves and lines above GT-R’s 38-litre. engine, drivetrain and suspension, making Juke-R the most testosterone-packed compact crossover in the world. GT-R steering wheel, pedals, dials and 7-inch touch-screen display are built into a modified version of Juke’s dashboard.
The 2013 Honda Fit EV has been unveiled at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Fit EV is based on Honda’s light car, called Jazz in AustraliaThe.
fully electric Fit EV joins a diverse powertrain range offered by Honda in the US that includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen fuel cell and natural gas powered vehiclesHonda.
Honda told that the Fit EV's. MSRP is $36,625 with an estimated lease priced at $399 a month. The Fit EV is powered by a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 92 kW (equal to 124HP) coaxial electric motor sourced from the FCX Clarity.
Honda says that in Econ mode, driving range may increase by as much as 17-percent compared to driving in Normal mode, while Sport mode is claimed to "significantly" improve acceleration.
Honda's. Fit EV is an all-electric version of Honda's. sub-compact hatchback with an estimated combined city/highway range of up to 76 miles using the EPA's. testing (according to the EPA, the Nissan Leaf would reach 73 miles). In the city, Honda expects a maximum electric range of 123 miles.
Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, adding to the Honda Fit EV's fun to drive nature.
In addition to the 3-mode driving system, the Honda Fit EV includes interactive coaching features designed to assist the driver in maximizing battery performance and driving range. The 66. kW, onboard 32 amp charger allows for convenient recharging of the Honda Fit EV.
The Honda Fit EV carries a familiar chrome front fascia that is similar to other Honda environmentally-responsible vehicles like the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle and Insight hybrid. The Fit EV features illuminated meters that alert the driver to key vehicle functions including state of charge, battery usage and driving range.
Honda will try the Fit EV with the City of Torrance, California Google Inc. and Stanford University as a part of the Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program. Each program participant will provide Honda with real-world feedback on the Fit EV.
The 2012 Porsche Panamera GTS has been unveiled at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto ShowShort. for Gran Turismo Sport, Porsche says the GTS is the “purist member” of the four-door Panamera familyPowered. by a 316kW/520Nm 48-litre. V8, the GTS produces 22kW and 20Nm more than the Panamera S and 4S models. The GTS also shares the Turbo’s 14-spoke 19-inch alloy wheelsThe. 2012 Panamera GTS launches internationally in February.
The power unit in the new Porsche Panamera GTS is a modified 48-litre. naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp (316 kW) at 6,700 rpm, trumping the engine in its Panamera S/4S sister models by 30 hp (22 kW). Deceleration on the sporty Panamera is provided by the superlative braking system of the Panamera Turbo.
To achieve these enhancements, the engineers increased the nominal engine speed by 200 rpm in typical sports engine construction fashion, the GTS's. eight-cylinder engine achieves maximum output at 6,700 rpm. The full speed range was extended by all of 400 rpm, the maximum engine speed is 7,100 rpm. The control of the GTS power unit is handled by a modified and upgraded engine management system. The modified engine management system also enables a brief shut-off of individual cylinders once changing gear, with the engine speed adjusting even faster to the transmission speed.
The Porsche Panamera GTS features a sporty chassis boasting performance-oriented options as standard. Sporty performance is delivered by the combination of 19-inch Panamera Turbo wheels, five millimetre thick wheel spacers at the rear and the Panamera Turbo's. braking system - recognisable by the red brake callipers.
The Porsche Panamera GTS meets particularly sporty requirements and therefore comes with the Sport Chrono package as standard, which in addition to the Normal and Sport modes offers the Sport Plus program as well.
Porsche offers Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) as the final level of development of the Panamera GTS chassis, twinned with the electronically controlled rear axle differential lock and PTV Plus. In terms of its aerodynamics, the Porsche Panamera GTS is on a par with the Panamera Turbo: with its large air intake openings, the standard front section from the Panamera Turbo's. SportDesign package emphasises the vehicle's. sporty dynamics and ensures an optimal air supply for the back pressure air filters peculiar to the GTS.
The Porsche Panamera GTS's. agility is apparent in every bend. Porsche has place together special optional equipment packages married with a black interior, exclusively for the Porsche Panamera GTS.
Enter the 2013 Infiniti JX, a three-row seven-seat crossover that aims to fill that hole in the brand's. lineup.
Available features include cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel and enhanced Intelligent Key.
Remote engine start and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system are options Adaptive cruise control and a forward-collision warning system are also available in addition to the blind spot warning system Let's. hope Infiniti managed to infuse the driving knowledge with some of the FX's. athleticism.
They include a $4,950 Premium package that includes a navigation system, AroundView monitor and a 13-speaker Bose sound system.
Infiniti crossovers tend to be, well... rather small. Want something bigger from Infiniti? Enter the JX.
The JX is also jam-packed with luxury features and the latest technology you'd. expect from a Japanese luxury automobile. An independent front suspension handles the load up front, with a multi-link set-up in the back. Prospective buyers will begin taking delivery of 2013 models next spring, with prices starting at $40,450 – before taxes and delivery – for the front-wheel-drive model.
Leather-appointed seating is standard, along with heated front seats with 8-way power driver's. seat and 6-way power front passenger's. seat. On vehicles equipped with Infiniti Connection, owners may have their Infiniti Personal Assistant get a restaurant, create the reservation, and have directions sent directly to their JX's. Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System.
The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti's. tradition of developing world's. first technologies, adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system.
Other available technology includes both Infiniti's. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The Infiniti JX's. braking system is a 4-wheel vented disc design with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
The Premium Package includes an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 8-inch WVGA dye touch-screen display, Infiniti Voice Recognition, XM NavTraffic? "The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, as Infiniti's. first venture into the 3-row luxury crossover segment, is true to both the Infiniti brand and to Infiniti design," concluded Poore.
The 2012 Hyundai Azera, which debuts at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, can no longer be the poor sister of the Hyundai lineup. The base 2011 Hyundai Azera starts at $26,270, including a $775 shipping charge.
Hyundai’s Azera near-luxury sedan represents a significant milestone in the brand’s history, as it was the very first Hyundai model to creep over the $30,000 price barrier. The Azera proved that Hyundai could compete on more than just a low price, and paved the way for later luxury models like the Hyundai Genesis sedan and the Hyundai Equus.
Like Hyundai’s other new designs, the Azera now features the brand’s “fluidic sculpture” design, which has helped the automaker sell a significant number of cars since it was launched on the 2010 Hyundai Sonata.
Like Hyundai’s other recent models, Hyundai did what it could to reduce weight wherever possible. From what we may tell, Hyundai will offer the 2012 Azera in base and Premium models.
Hyundai Azera's. Fluidic Sculpture design takes inspiration from the mechanics of flight. The 2012 Hyundai Azera offers first class seating assignments for all passengers. Leather seating surfaces are standard. Hyundai Azera's. climate and seat temperature controls keep occupants in total comfort.
The Hyundai Azera rides on a 112-inch wheelbase, with an overall length of 1933. inches and width of 73,2. inches. Hyundai Azera has best-in-class front head and leg room.
Hyundai engineers have developed an impact-reducing seat system for the Hyundai Azera. This seat system eliminates the need for active front head restraints and is expected to reduce head and neck injuries by 17 percent above the front seats in the previous generation Hyundai Azera, which had active front head restraints. Hyundai Azera has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).
Hyundai Azera features nine airbags including dual front, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact, front and rear side curtain airbags and a driver's. knee airbag.
Powering the all-new 2012 Azera is Hyundai’s Lambda II 33L. GDI V6. With the help of direct injection, extraordinarily high-pressure fuel injection and Hyundai embracing the classic saying, “there’s no replacement for displacement,” the Azera churns out 293-hp and 255 lb-ft of torque
