Mazda Takeri unveiled in Geneva

We’ve seen this car in 2011 at the Tokyo Motor Show but now the Takeri has been unveiled on European territory at the Geneva Motor Show. The Japanese automaker Mazda developed this sleek and gorgeous concept as a preview for the new generation of the 6 model which is scheduled to go on sale in 2013. The production version will have different wheels, door handles and wing mirrors; other than that it will be the same as the one you see in these photos.

This superb concept features the company’s Kodo – Soul of Motion design language that we already seen on another attractive vehicle, the CX-5. The new Mazda6 is going to have a considerably bolder look in comparison to the current generation, featuring crisper lines, technical headlights, a more distinctive finish of the front grille and also a more coupe-like profile.

The new model is going to benefit from the entire suite of SkyActiv technologies that consists of efficient gasoline and diesel power units, compact & lightweight manual and automatic gearboxes, a new modular steel platform and also new suspension systems. When the production version will come out, it will be the first model from Mazda which will come with its own regenerative braking system called Intelligent Energy Loop. This system is capable of using a unique solution that is able to convert the kinetic energy to electricity when the car is decelerating and this energy is stored in an electric double-layer capacitor.

The power which will be stored thanks to this process is going to be used in order to run the electric components of the Mazda6, which means that the load on the power unit will be considerably reduced, while the fuel economy will be raised by approximately 10%. Inside it will adopt a minimalistic look with a four-seat driver-focused cabin. Instead of the usual controls it comes with a rotary controller which looks like the BMW i-Drive.

The concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show has an all-new SkyActiv-D 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine that produces 173 hp and a maximum torque of 310 lb.-ft. This is a low-friction, lightweight power unit that has the lowest compression ratio of all diesel engines produced so far and benefits from the regenerative braking and stop/start systems, allowing to provide an “excellent” fuel economy and CO2 emissions of only 104 g/km. This clean and frugal engine is linked to Mazda’s new convertor automatic gearbox that manages to be just as efficient as a manual transmission.

Source: Mazda

Post tags: Tags: Concepts, geneva-motor-show, Mazda, mazda takeri, motor shows

All-new Audi A3 revealed in Geneva

Aside from brining the hot TT RS Plus at the Geneva Motor Show, the Ingolstadt-based automaker Audi has introduced the new generation of the A3 hatchback, brining to the event in Switzerland the three-door version of the model.

This is the third generation of the A3 and brings a significant weight reduction, high-class premium interior, along with a very efficient lineup of gasoline and diesel engines. This is the first vehicle based on the VW Group’s new modular MQB platform that is going to be used for a lot of cars, from the small A1 to the A5 Sportback.

The lightest version of the new Audi A3 is the one that has a 1.4 TFSI engine, weighing only 1,175 kg which is 80 kg less than the equivalent model. Most of the car’s body is manufactured from high-strength steels while for the rest of the bodywork the German engineers have used aluminum for parts of the bumpers and the hood.

As far as the suspension is concerned, it comes with a MacPherson strut front configuration and a multi-link rear system. Those who want to buy the new A3 will be able to opt for an optional sport chassis that brings the car closed to the ground by 15mm, while with the optional S Line package it is lowered a further 10mm. The Drive Select package brings adaptive damping, while as standard it comes with 16-inch alloy wheels (up to 18-inch rims available).

The new generation of the Audi A3 measures 4237mm long, 1421mm high and 1777mm wide, making it 1mm shorter and 12mm wider than the outgoing model, while the height has remained the same. Even though the length is virtually the same, the engineers from Audi have managed to increase the wheelbase by 23mm for a grand total of 2601mm.

Upon launch, the new Audi A3 is going to be available with two gasoline engines and one diesel. The cheapest model will be powered by the aforementioned 1.4-liter TFSI that generates 120 hp and a peak torque of 148 lb.-ft, allowing the hatchback to complete the 0-62 mph sprint in 9.3 seconds, en route to a maximum speed of 126 mph. With this engine, the car manages to return 54.3 mpg UK and has CO2 emissions of 120 g/km.

The other gasoline engine is a bigger 1.8-liter TFSI with 178 hp and a maximum torque of 184 lb.-ft, enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 144 mph. In the combined cycle, the car will return 50.4 mpg UK and has CO2 emissions of 130 g/km.

The only diesel engine which will be available upon launch is a 2.0-liter TDI that pumps out 141 hp and 236 lb.-ft, allowing the Audi A3 to hit 62 mph from start in 8.6 seconds, before hitting a maximum speed of 134 mph. With this more frugal engine, the Audi A3 returns 68.9 mpg UK and has CO2 emissions of only 106 g/km.

Later on this year, the German carmaker will offer the new A3 with a bigger 1.6-liter TDI engine which will be able to return an impressive 74.3 mpg and will have CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km. In addition, another engine that the A3 will get this year is a small 1.2-liter TFSI gasoline which will be replacing the 1.6-liter TFSI.

As far as the S3 is concerned, this will be powered by a bigger 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline engine which will be capable of producing 260 hp and will come with the company’s Quattro AWD system. In the future, we will probably see a hybrid version of the A3, along with natural gas and e-gas versions.

The 1.4 TFSI and 2.0 TDI engines will be getting as standard the 6-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.8 TFSI will be linked to a dual-clutch, 7-speed S tronic transmission. The 1.8 TFSI version will be getting the aforementioned Quattro all-wheel drive system in the last part of 2012.

Those of you who live in the United Kingdom will be able to get the car starting with September. The entry-level Audi A3 is going to cost approximately 19,000 pounds.

Source: Audi via Autocar.co.uk

Post tags: Tags: Audi, audi-a3, geneva-motor-show, motor shows

Star of the Geneva show – Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

Without any doubt, the most popular and interesting car of this year’s edition of the Geneva Motor Show is the all-new Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, a car for which about 360 people made a deposit before it was officially unveiled at the event in Switzerland. This number comes from Amedeo Felisa who is the company’s CEO.

Before the car went live in Geneva it was shown during an event for customer previews which lasted about a week. During this time, about 450 people had the possibility to see the car and 80% of them decided to put an order on the F12 Berlinetta, according to Felisa.

The new F12 Berlinetta is the most powerful road car that Ferrari has ever made as it is powered by an impressive V12 6.3-liter engine that pumps out no less than 730 hp. Even though many people though that V12 engines will soon be discontinued, it seems that Ferrari doesn’t think this way and for the successor of the Enzo which is scheduled to come out towards the end of this year, another V12 engine will be used.

Thanks to this powerful engine, the F12 Berlinetta is capable of doing the 0-62 mph sprint in only 3.1 seconds while to get to 124 mph from start it needs 8.5 seconds. That V12 engine has a maximum torque of 509 lb.-ft and 80% of that torque is available at just 2500 rpm. This V12 normally-aspirated engine revs up to an impressive 8700 rpm.

The successor of the 599 was initially supposed to be called the 620GT but this new name that it got reminds of some classic cars Ferrari has made in its glorious history, like the 250 GT Berlinetta. The Italian automaker has said that the car managed to do a lap of the company’s Fiorano test track in 1 minute and 23 seconds, making it the fastest Ferrari that was on that circuit. The company says that the F12 Berlinetta is capable of reaching a top speed of more than 211 mph.

This V12 engine offers 116 hp / liter and it is based on the power unit found in the FF, a 6262cc 65-degree V12 unit. However, the new iteration of this engine is 80 hp and 5 lb.-ft more powerful than what the FF has to offer and it’s also more powerful than the 599 model it replaces in the company’s lineup.

Even though this new V12 engine is considerably more powerful, Ferrari’s engineers have managed to lower not only the fuel consumption levels but also the emissions of CO2. While the 599 offer 15.8 mpg UK in the combined cycle, the new F12 Berlinetta can return 18.8 mpg. In addition, the 415 g/km CO2 emissions of the 599 have been reduced to 350 g/km in the new model. These figures are available if the car is fitted with the stop/start system which is an optional feature.

Ferrari’s new model is 4618 mm long, 1273 mm high and 1942 mm wide, making it 47 mm shorter, 63 mm lower and 20 mm narrower than the outgoing 599. In addition, compared to its predecessor, the wheelbase is now 30 mm shorter, measuring 2720 mm.

The most important modifications can be found at the back where the dual clutch F1-style gearbox and the rear suspension have been repacked in order to lower the volume at the rear. In addition, the dashboard, seats and engine have been lowered, managing to offer a lower center of gravity in comparison to the previous 599 model. The outgoing model had a weight distribution of 47/53 while the F12 Berlinetta sports an “ideal” weight distribution of 46/54 front/rear.

The car has an aluminum spaceframe chassis and bodyshell which have been developed especially for the new model, boasting 12 different types of alloys. The Italian carmaker has said that compared to the 599, the new F12 Berlinetta offers a 20% structural increase and weighs 70kg less than the previous model, with a curb weight of 1525 kg.

The downforce is now 76% greater over the 599 while the drag coefficient stands at just 0.299. To achieve these more than impressive figures, the Italians implemented the Aero Bridge system which is capable of channeling air from the side hood air intakes via the wheel arches and after that it spits the air out via the car’s sculpted deep swage lines located in the F12’s side doors, managing to improve the control of turbulent airflow and also reduce the drag. Aside from this, the car also has Active Brake Cooling that will open the brake cooling ducts only when the temperature of the carbon ceramic brakes is high enough.

As you would expect, the all-new Ferrari F12 Berlinetta comes with a bunch of electronic aids to help the driver, including the company’s own E-Diff, F1-Trac, ESP Premium and a high-performance ABS system. Aside from these, the car also comes with the SCM-E magnetorheological suspension system, and Ferrari says that they were also able to lower the car’s steering angles.

By making the space behind the two seats accessible from the car’s hinged glass tailgate, Ferrari said that the capacity of the rear luggage has been increased but they didn’t mention an exact volume. The dashboard of the F12 Berlinetta has a lightweight construction while the interior is wrapped around in Frau leather. There are also lashings of aluminum and carbon fiber trim, along with an aeronautic field-inspired design of the air vents.

If there is something that we don’t like about the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is that Human Machine Interface which we’ve already seen on the FF and the 458, which is an interior control system that puts most of the major controls on the steering wheel making it look too crowded and difficult to access.

No word at the moment about the price tag of the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta but most likely it will cost more than 250,000 pounds. The right-handed units will arrive in the United Kingdom in the beginning of next year. We’ll let you know when Ferrari will publish the price list for the new model and also details about the car’s availability.

Source: Ferrari via Autocar

Post tags: Tags: Ferrari, ferrari f12 berlinetta, geneva-motor-show, motor shows

2013 Volvo V40 makes its official debut at Geneva

Set to rival five-door, five-seat hatchbacks like the BMW 1-Series and the Audi A3 Sportback, the all-new 2013 Volvo V40 has made its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show, following a rather ruined teaser campaign by the numerous leaks that have surfaced the Internet.

When it will reach the dealerships, the new generation of the V40 is going to be available with a bunch of gasoline and diesel engines. The most powerful gasoline unit will be a turbocharged 5-cylinder 2.5-liter T5 engine that is capable of generating 251 hp (254 PS / 187 kW) and a peak torque of 295 lb.-ft (400 Nm). This engine is linked to an automatic gearbox and offers a 40 Nm overboost when you accelerate. Speaking of acceleration, it reaches 62 mph from start in 6.7 seconds and manages to return 35.8 mpg on the European combined cycle.

Moving down the lineup of engines we find the 1.6-liter GTDi T4 that can be ordered in one of the two following configurations: T4 that has 177 hp (180 PS / 132 kW) and the less powerful T3 with 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW). The more powerful engine has a peak torque of 199 lb.-ft (270 Nm) with a 30 Nm overboost included whereas the T3 can offer 177 lb.-ft (240 Nm) of torque. It has a 48.7 mpg rating and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km. The beefier T5 is linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission while the T4 can be ordered with a 6-speed manual or an automatic 6-speed double clutch Powershift gearbox.

As far as diesels are concerned, the 2013 Volvo V40 can be ordered with either a 5-cylinder, 2.0-liter D4 turbodiesel that pumps out 175 hp (177 PS / 130 kW) and 295 lb.-ft (400 Nm) of torque or with a less powerful 2.0-liter D3 turbodiesel that offers 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW) and has a maximum torque of 258 lb.-ft (350 Nm).

The beefier D4 turbodiesel can do the 0-62 mph sprint in 8.3 seconds when fitted with the automatic gearbox while with the manual it will do it in 8.6 seconds. It has a fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km when equipped with the manual while with the automatic transmission it can return 53.3 mpg and has CO2 emissions of 139 g/km.

The 2013 Volvo V40 will get at an official price tag at the end of the month and you will be able to place an order starting with April. The Swedish automaker will begin the production in May and you’ll get your car in September.

Source: Volvo

Post tags: Tags: geneva-motor-show, motor shows, Volvo, volvo v40

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse revealed

This year at the Geneva Motor Show, Bugatti has introduced the most powerful roadster of all time. We’re talking of course about the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse which as you would expect is based on the open-topped Grand Sport version, but it comes with a serious power boost that we’ve seen in the Super Sport model which is the closed-topped Veyron.

The Grand Sport offers no less than 987 hp and a peak torque of 922 lb.-ft, whereas the Vitesse comes with a massive 1,184 hp available at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 1,105 lb.-ft available between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. That horsepower is coming from the huge 8-liter, 16-cylinder engine that comes with four enlarged turbochargers and intercoolers. In order to support the power increase, Bugatti’s engineers have modified the chassis of the car.

No word about the 0-62 mph sprint time of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse (long name, isn’t it?) but most likely it should be of about 2.5 seconds, which is 0.2 quicker than the regular Grand Sport. The latter is able to reach a top speed of 253 mph with the transparent polycarbonate roof on while without it the top speed is limited to 223 mph.

Bugatti hasn’t released any details concerning the price tag of the Grand Sport Vitesee, but since the Super Sport costs 2.1 million pounds, the roadster will cost just about the same.

Source: Bugatti via Autocar

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2013 Kia Cee’d goes official

Kia has big plans for the new generation of the cee’d since this model is the company’s best-selling car in Europe. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the all-new cee’d brings interior and exterior updates, more powerful engines and more goodies in the cabin.

The front end of the new generation has an entirely different look, with a different style for the headlights that now feature integrated LED daytime running lights (mandatory in EU), along with a new look for the front bumper that includes fog lights. The hood too has also been modified, while at the back the taillights are way nicer than what the outgoing model has. The rear bumper has been updated as well.

Compared to the model it replaces, the new Kia cee’d is 10 mm lower and 50 mm longer. The body is 10 mm narrower and the track is wider (17 mm front / 32 mm rear). Thanks to these modifications, the car is now more aerodynamic (Cd 0.30) while inside the cabin it offers 21 mm more leg room and 12 mm more head room. In addition, the shoulder room in the back has increased by 5 mm. The cargo room is also up by 40 liters, for a grand total of 380 liters.

Some of the goodies available for the new cee’d include multi-mode trip computer, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, USB/iPod/AUX connectivity along with a bunch of optional features, such as dual-zone climate control, TFT “Supervision” Cluster, a large panoramic glass roof as well as powered adjustments for the driver’s seat.

Safety-wise, the 2013 Kia cee’d comes with six airbags, ABS with BAS, PPAS – Parallel Park Assist System, HAC – Hill Assist control, ESS – Emergency Stop Signal, VSM – Vehicle Stability Management and ESP. Keep in mind that some of these safety features are an optional feature.

In Geneva, Kia also brought the SW version of the cee’d, while the three-door pro cee’d will be launched later on this year.

Source: KIA

Post tags: Tags: geneva-motor-show, Kia, kia-ceed, motor shows

2013 BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible launched

BMW has unveiled the 2013 M6 Coupe and Convertible models before their first public appearance which is scheduled for next month at the Geneva Motor Show, before going to the New York Auto Show in April.

Under the hood of both versions is the same V8 4.4-liter power unit with two twin-scroll turbochargers that can also be found in the latest generation of the M5 which came out several months ago. This 8-cylinder engine is capable of generating 560 hp (412 kW) available between 5,750 and 7,000 rpm, and a maximum torque of 502 lb.-ft (680 Nm) reached between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The German automaker said that the rev limiter will kick in at 7,200 rpm.

Those ponies are sent to the road via the standard seven-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission and the company’s Active M Differential that is able to optimize the power transfer between the wheels at the back. The M6 might be also getting a six-speed manual transmission in the U.S., just like the M5 did.

Performance-wise, the 2013 BMW M6 Coupe needs only 4.2 seconds to hit 62 mph from start, on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). BMW also offers an optional M Driver’s package that increases the maximum speed to 189 mph (305 km/h). The Coupe can reach 124 mph (200 km/h) in 12.6 seconds while the Convertible will do it in 13.1 seconds.

Even though this new model is 10% more powerful and has 30% more torque than the previous V10 models, the German company has said that these new V8-powered M6s drink approximately 30% less fuel, managing to return 23.8 mpg (9.9 liters / 100 km or 28.5 mpg UK) for the Coupe model, while the Convertible does 22.8 mpg (10.3 liters / 100 km or 27.4 mpg UK).

In order to compensate the larger dimensions of the new M6, BMW has implemented a bunch of weight saving measures, like the carbon fiber-reinforced plastic roof, aluminum hood and doors and thermoplastic front side panels. A glass-fiber composite material was used for the boot lid and the roof cover of the Convertible model. However, don’t expect that the cars are light as the Coupe has a curb weight of 4,078 lbs (1,850 kg) while the Convertible is even heavier, standing at 4,365 pounds (1,980 kg).

A novelty for the 6-Series is the optional M Carbon-Ceramic brakes that can be ordered exclusively with the 20-inch alloys. These brakes are 42.8 lb (19.4 kg) lighter than the regular ones. As standard, the 2013 BMW M6 rides on 19-inch M lightweight alloy wheels wrapped around in 265/40 R19 “ultra-high performance” summer tires for the front while at the back there are 295/35 R19 tires.

As far as the design is concerned, the new M6 is wearing an aero package that includes front + rear bumpers, rear diffuser that houses four chromed tailpipes, side skirts. Aside from this, the front of the car features a new design for the M kidney grille that houses the M6 badge. Inside the car you get the usual M-specific sport seats, instrument panel gauges, steering wheel, trim and gearbox lever.

The 2013 BMW M6 Convertible will be arriving in the U.S. dealerships this June, while several months later BMW will bring its Coupe sibling.

Source: BMW

Post tags: Tags: 2013 bmw m6, BMW, bmw m6, bmw m6 convertible, bmw m6 coupe

Audi TT RS Plus announced

After several months of rumors about the Audi TT RS Plus, the Ingolstadt-based automaker has finally revealed the hottest version of the TT which will make its debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show, before going on sale in April.

It is available in both Coupe and Roadster versions and it is distinguished from the regular TT RS by the single-frame radiator grille in polished anthracite and also by the TT-RS Plus badge. In addition, the grille surrounding trim frame features a matt aluminum finish while carbon fiber-reinforced polymer was used for the side mirrors.

At the back of the Audi TT RS Plus you’ll notice the oval dual exhaust pipe tips while another novelty would have to be the valve controlled exhaust which regulates the engine sound volume. Speaking of the engine, we should mention that in this Plus version it gets carbon fiber trim covers. Other than that, inside the cabin the gear lever is trimmed with an aluminum-look ring and also adopts a TT RS Plus badge. It rides on 19-inch TT-RS wheels which now feature a black paint with a contrasting red accent on the rim flanges which we frankly don’t like.

The highlight of this Plus version would have to be the additional 20 hp (15 kW) of power and 11 lb.-ft (15 Nm) of torque, for an impressive grand total of 360 hp (265 kW) and a peak torque of 343 lb.-ft (465 Nm). Mated to an S tronic transmission, the Audi TT RS Plus is able to do the 0-62 mph sprint in 4.1 seconds, while with the manual gearbox it needs 4.3 seconds to perform the sprint. These figures are available for the Coupe, while the Roadster does the spring in 4.2 seconds with the S tronic or 4.4 seconds with the manual. Both models are able to hit an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).

The Coupe version is able to return 27.7 mpg (8.5 liters / 100 km), while the Roadster can do 27.4 mpg (8.6 liters / 100 km).

In Germany, the starting price for the Audi TT RS Plus Coupe fitted with the manual gearbox is 60,650 Euros, while the same version with the 7-speed S tronic costs 62,800 Euros. As for the Roadster mode, this has a base price of 63,500 Euros with the manual or 65,650 Euros with the S tronic transmission.

Source: Audi

Post tags: Tags: Audi, audi tt rs, audi tt rs plus, audi-tt

Tesla Model X goes official

After months of anticipation, Tesla Motors has finally unveiled the Model X in front of a crowd of a thousand people at the company’s design studio located in California. The model shown in these photos is actually a pre-production version while the production is scheduled to start next year.

The vehicle is made by sharing the same architecture that was used for the Model S sedan and it will be available with the same three batteries: 40 kWh, 60 kWh and 80 kWh packs.  The single charge range is lower by approximately 10% due to the fact that the crossover is heavier than the sedan. In other words, we should expect that the Tesla Model X will be able to do 145 miles (233 km) with the entry-level 40 kWh pack, while the top-spec version with the 80 kWh should provide a range of up to 270 miles (435 km).

As far as the styling is concerned, the Model X adopts a similar design as the S model, while the sloping roofline gives the car a hint of coupe. The highlight of the design is without any doubt at the rear doors which feature a gullwing configuration that Tesla promises that these provide the easiest access inside the cabin as possible. These doors have been designed with a hinge in the middle of the door in order to allow it to bend for opening the doors in tight spaces.

Inside the Tesla Model X there are three rows of seats which can accommodate up to seven adults and their luggage. Speaking of luggage, since there isn’t a combustion engine, the Model X has two luggage compartments, one in the front where the engine normally is and one at the back.

Elon Musk, the company’s CEO has stated that Tesla is already working on a fourth model which will be announced in a couple of years.

Source: Tesla Motors

Post tags: Tags: Tesla, tesla model x

Chrysler’s inspiring Super Bowl ad welcomes an optimistic future

Chrysler’s latest ad for this year’s edition of the Super Bowl is both inspiring and clever. If you are not new to the automotive world you probably know that the last couple of years for the U.S. industry have been very difficult. Chrysler considers that much like the halftime of the Super Bowl, the Detroit car industry is at its own half time right now and they consider that all that matters is to look forward and find a way to may it work. With a true American as symbol.

Progress has already been made if we look at the sales figures from last year. With new and exciting products launched, the car industry in Detroit and all over the world is waiting for the second half which promises to be better than the first one. Let’s hope that the people who work in this domain will not lose their jobs and everything will go back to normal as it was before the financial crisis.

Post tags: Tags: Ads, Chrysler, imported from detroit, super bowl

Toyota’s latest ad reinvents the world as we know it

We always liked a clever ad, regardless of the product it was designed for. One of the newest ones comes from Toyota which have come up with a great way to promote the latest generation of the Camry. What they did is reinvent the Camry and after that come up with a couple of other things that would make our lives a lot better.

From police officers that do massages, curtains made from pizza to rain that makes us skinny, it is a clever method to promote how Toyota thinks that they have reinvented the automobile with the launch of the latest Camry.

Post tags: Tags: Ads, toyota camry

All-new Porsche Boxster revealed

2012 Porsche Boxster

Over the last few months we’ve seen a lot of spy shots with the third generation of the Porsche Boxster but now we have official photos courtesy of the German manufacturer. The car will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and will become available in UK towards the last of April.

2012 Porsche Boxster

The new styling of the Boxster is the work of Porsche’s design boss Michael Mauer. It adopts a cab forward stance and comes with heavily sculptured flanks, longer doors, bigger wheel houses that will be accommodating larger wheels up to a size of 20 inches. At the back it will remind us of the classic 911 ducktail.

2012 Porsche Boxster

The carmaker has stated that the new model has a longer wheelbase and will feature wider tracks that guarantee more space inside the cabin. Codenamed 981, the new Boxster has a fully automatic cloth hood that no longer needs manual assistance. There is no need for a tonneau cover as it stows behind the cabin in a fully exposed position.

2012 Porsche Boxster

Autocar estimates that the car’s structure is more than 100kg less heavy in comparison to the all-steel body of the outgoing model. This means that the entry-level model is going to have a curb weight of less than 1,300 kg, even though it will pack more equipment.

2012 Porsche Boxster

This third generation of the Porsche Boxster features an entirely new chassis that has a longer wheelbase and a wider front track. Up front it features a MacPherson struts suspension while at the back it adopts a multi-link arrangement, which means that it can accommodate 20-inch wheels so Porsche will also install beefier brakes.

2012 Porsche Boxster

Probably the most significant modification in the car’s mechanical setting would have to be the steering system which ditches the hydraulic assistance  in favor a new electro-mechanical system that Porsche developed in collaboration with ZF.

2012 Porsche Boxster

The previous generation of the entry-level Boxster came with a 2.9-liter engine while the new model will have an horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder 2.7-liter that has been reworked. Even though it is a smaller engine, it manages to be 10 hp more powerful than the engine it replaces so it pumps out 265 hp. As you would expect, this power unit benefits from the stop/start technology, along with a thermal management system that dispenses with the gearbox oil cooler. Porsche also fitted the new Boxster with brake energy recuperation which should help the car deliver 36.7 mpg UK on the combined cycle which is going to be a 15% more efficient in comparison to the outgoing model.

2012 Porsche Boxster

The hotter Porsche Boxster S has the same 3.4-liter engine but this one too has been revised in order to be more efficient. The power figure is up by 5 hp to 315 hp while the fuel consumption is rated at 35.3 mpg, which is better than the previous 30.1 mpg.

2012 Porsche Boxster

As standard, the new generation of the model will come with a 6-speed manual gearbox while the 7-speed PDK double clutch transmission is going to be an optional feature. Fitted with the latter, the regular Boxster needs 5.7 seconds to do the 0-62 mph sprint, while the S version will do it in 5 seconds. Compared to the outgoing model, the new version of the car is 0.1 and 0.2 seconds faster, respectively. The car will be even quicker if fitted with the optional Sport Chrono package that offers dynamic gearbox mounts. The company’s engineers have also developed a Torque Vectoring system that offers the car a mechanical differential, but this is available only for the S version.

2012 Porsche Boxster

Inside the cabin, the new generation of the Porsche Boxster is wrapped around in Alcantara and has an audio CD system with a 7-inch color touchscreen display. In addition, it will have an auto stop/start and Sports mode, 18-inch alloy wheels and a universal audio interface that offers MP3 support. The more expensive S model rides on bigger 19-inch alloys and also has bi-xenon headlights and a partial leather interior.

Source: Porsche via Autocar.co.uk

Post tags: Tags: Porsche, porsche boxster

2013 Cadillac ATS debuts at Detroit Motor Show

2013 Cadillac ATS

Here it is, the new rival for the BMW 3-Series. It is Cadillac’s response to the German sedan and it’s called the ATS. The new model is 0.3 inches longer than a 3-Series and it is developed on a new corporate architecture which General Motors called Alpha. This offers support for rear- and all-wheel drive configurations, both of them being available for the ATS.

2013 Cadillac ATS

Designed to rival the luxury compact sedans from all over the world, the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS features a five-link rear and front struts, along with a variable-assist electric power steering developed by ZF and disc brakes on all four wheels. We should mention that the more expensive variants of the car will have Brembo disc brakes to provide the stopping power.

2013 Cadillac ATS

The car can be fitted with 17- or 18-inch rims with 225/35ZR19 all-season run-flat tires for those who can pay the extra buck. Also an optional feature will be the driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension that features Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping.

2013 Cadillac ATS

The entry-level model is equipped with a 4-cylinder 2.5-liter engine that develops 200 hp and a peak torque of 188 lb.-ft. For more money you could get the turbocharged 4-cylinder 2.0-liter that generates 270 hp and a maximum torque of 260 lb.-ft, while the most powerful engine will be the V6 3.6-liter engine that pumps out 318 hp and 267 lb.-ft. All of these DOHC engines are direct injected, while the transmission options include a 6-speed manual (Tremec M3L TR3160) and a 6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6L45).

2013 Cadillac ATS

The cabin of the 2013 Cadillac ATS is trimmed in a mixture of wood, metal, leather and carbon fiber. Also on board is an LED gauge cluster, a push-button start, ambient lightning, satellite radio, along with optional performance seats that have power-adjustable bolsters. There’s also a generous 8-inch LCD multi-touch screen part of the CUE infotainment system that can pair data from a smartphone or any other type of mobile device that has Bluetooth support.

2013 Cadillac ATS

For those with big pockets, the ATS can be fitted with an impressive reconfigurable full color head-up display, a powerful Bose surround sound audio system, satellite navigation, along with front + rear automatic brakes that have short range radar and ultrasonic sensors. In addition, the 2013 Cadillac ATS will be available for order with a side blind-zone alert, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, adaptive cruise control, adaptive headlamps and a rear back-up camera.

2013 Cadillac ATS

The looks? We’ll let you be the judge of that. Personally, I’m not a big fan of the back. The rest of the cars looks nice, but it’s not a BMW 3-Series.

Source: General Motors via Inside Line

Post tags: Tags: Cadillac, cadillac ats, detroit motor show, naias

Detroit Motor Show – Dodge Dart

Dodge Dart

The Dodge Dart is making an interesting comeback in the automotive industry with its official unveiling this week at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The new generation of the model is based on the Alfa Romeo Giuiletta and it will be manufactured for the North American market.

Dodge Dart

For those who never heard of this model, it was a classic car in the American car market during the 60s when it came out as Dodge’s entry-level model. One of the reasons why the car became popular was due to its rather unusual push-button transmission. The company has stated that the new model is “a thoroughly modern vehicle” so you shouldn’t expect a retro car.

Dodge Dart

The Dodge Dart will have to face some serious competition coming from the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Cruze and the Ford Focus. This would have to be the first model in the lineup who has borrowed the DNA from Fiat, courtesy of the Alfa Romeo brand. The new Dart is based on a platform that has been adapted from the Giulietta. The architecture is known as the Compact US Wide, or CUSW, and it will be the foundation of many cars which will be launched not only in the U.S. but also in Europe.

Dodge Dart

It is obvious that Chrysler has put a lot of work in the design of the new Dart, which will feature a considerably more appealing and aerodynamic shape in comparison to the now defunct Dodge Caliber hatchback which it replaces in the company’s lineup. It will adopt Dodge’s traditional “race- track” tail lamps and the “crosshair” grille, along with the dual exhaust system grabbed from the Charger.

Dodge Dart

Under the hood of the Dodge Caliber we’ll find some Fiat-sourced engines, like a 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged power unit, along with a bigger 2.4-liter “Tigershark” Chrysler engine that will benefit from Fiat’s MultiAir technology. Also available will be an all-new 16-valve, four-cylinder Tigershark 2.0-liter engine. The car will be able with a new 8-speed automatic gearbox developed by ZF.

Dodge Dart

The new generation of the Dodge Dart will feature independent suspension all around, which is a rare feature in this segment. The decision of implementing such a configuration of the suspension was based on the automaker’s attempt to offer the Dart a more European-style ride.

Dodge Dart

As far as the interior cabin is concerned, you should expect to see color-keyed accents, ambient lightning and soft-touch materials. Some of the options which will be available include a digital instrument cluster, a heated steering wheel and a generous 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch infotainment system.

Dodge Dart

Source: Dodge via Autocar.co.uk

Post tags: Tags: detroit motor show, Dodge, dodge dart

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL revealed, heading to Detroit Motor Show

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The German automaker Mercedes-Benz has revealed the all-new SL which promises to deliver “the ultimate in passionate, refined motoring”. Scheduled to make its first public debut in January next year at the Detroit Motor Show, the sixth generation of the highly successful model is based on an entirely new platform but keeps the same recipe that made it a huge hit.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The car is going to be available with longitudinally-mounted V6 and V8 engines and a RWD configuration, just like its predecessor. What sets this model apart from other cars in this segment would have to be its folding metal “vario-roof” that needs only 20 seconds to convert.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The styling of the new model adopts cleaner surfaces and bolder looks in comparison to the outgoing model, reminding us of the gorgeous “pagoda” SL from the 60s and the R107 from the 1970s. The modern look is brought by the SLS-inspired upright radiator grille and some familiar body-side sculpting. The German automaker has stated that that the new generation of the SL is the most aerodynamically efficient vehicle in its segment and it also manages to set new standards for wind noise-based cabin refinement.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

When it will go into production, it is going to be the very first Mercedes-Benz model manufactured in a large scale series which will feature an almost all-aluminum construction. The body-in-white superstructure of the car is manufactured from a combination of chill vast, vacuum die cast, stamped and extruded aluminum, allowing the new generation of the SL to be 125-140 kg lighter in comparison to the model that it replaces. In addition, it is also 20% more torsionally rigid. The only plastic parts installed by the German automaker are the “soft nose” grille, the folding roof and tubular steel A-pillars, the lightweight magnesium rear bulkhead and the header rail.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will be available with two direct-injection power units that allow the car to be 22-29% more fuel efficient over the older model. The V6 3.5-liter engine powers the entry-level SL350 version and it is capable of developing 302 hp and a maximum torque of 273 lb.-ft. Even though it is less powerful in comparison to the outgoing SL350, the new model is 0.3 seconds quicker in the 0-62 mph sprint as it is able to do it in 5.9 seconds. This version of the SL promises to return 41.5 mpg UK on the combined cycle.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The beefier twin-turbo V8 4.7-liter engine that motivates the SL500 is also used for the S-Class. It generates 429 hp and 516 lb.-ft of torque, enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in only 4.6 seconds. Both of these engines are going to be linked to a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

Just like the model it replaces, the new SL features a multi-link suspension setup for both ends. As standard, the SL350 will feature steel springs with semi-active dampers, while an optional feature is going to be the company’s height-adjustable, self-levelling, hydraulically-controlled Active Body Control chassis. The steering system of the new SL comes with a new electro-mechanical direct steer setup with a variable ratio and variable assistance levels.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

Just like the SLK convertible, the new generation of the SL will be offered with an optional electro-chromic panoramic glass roof. The driver will be able to choose between transparent glass and light/dark shade thanks to the Magic Sky Control system. The car’s folding roof frame is manufactured from magnesium and it weighs 6 kg less than the one you’ll find on the outgoing model, managing to provide a lower center of roll.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

There are two additional technological novelties introduced in this model. The first one would have to be the Frontbass audio system that has bass loudspeakers installed in the front bulkhead, instead of their regular place which would have to be the interior door panels. This innovative audio system takes full advantage of the bulkhead’s more rigid construction so it provides less distortion and improved sound resonance. The footwell has a cone-like shape and it doubles as a natural amplifier.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

The other system introduced in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is a high precision windscreen wash-wipe system known as the Magic Vision Control which flushes water through the jets that are built-in the rubber of the wiper blade. The water is deployed just ahead of the wiper’s leading edge, on both the upstroke & downstroke of the blades in order to diminish mess and wastage, while at the same time improve visibility.

For those who have deep pockets, the car can be fitted with optional features like heated fluid supply lines, heated wiper blades, along with a heated washer fluid tank – all of great utility during the cold season.

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Autocar

Post tags: Tags: 2013 mercedes sl, 2013 mercedes-benz sl, detroit motor show