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Tuesday, March 20, 2012

2012 Porsche Panamera

price $74,400

Porsche has continued to make changes to the most interesting car in the world for the 2012 model year. There are two new 2012 Porsche Panamera models that represent two schools of thought. Representing the green team is the 2012 Panamera S Hybrid, which Porsche says is the most fuel-efficient car it has ever produced. For those who prefer their green-cred to be that they recycle dinosaurs for fuel, there's the Panamera Turbo S, which produces 550 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque (590 lb-ft with over boost and the Sport Chrono Package) from a twin-turbo 4.8-liter V-8. The Porsche Panamera includes offers features like rear- or all-wheel drive, and comes standard with Porsche's fabulous "PDK" seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, with the exception of the Panamera S Hybrid which has an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. Porsche offers four different engines for the Panamera.

Panamera buyers have the choice of a 3.6-liter 300-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque V-6, a 4.8-liter V-8 that produces 400 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 and electric motor combo that's good for 380 hp and 427 lb-ft of torque, and the aforementioned 4.8-liter twin-turbo 500-hp and 516 lb-ft of torque V-8., that's capable of 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque in "Turbo S" guise. Inside, the Panamera immerses its four occupants in luxury befitting of an executive sedan. The interior features a cockpit-like design with an exceptionally high level of refinement, which includes standard leather seating, and well thought out control placement.
Body Style: Sedan Engines: 3.6L V-6, 3.0L supercharged V-6 + electric motor, 4.8L V-8, 4.8L twin-turbo V-8 Transmissions: 8-speed automatic, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic Models: Porsche Panamera, Porsche Panamera 4, Porsche Panamera S, Porsche Panamera 4S, Porsche Panamera S Hybrid, Porsche Panamera Turbo, Porsche Panamera Turbo S

As expected with any vehicle wearing the Porsche badge, performance is a priority in the Panamera. The 2012 Panamera comes standard with rear- or all-wheel drive, and all save the all-new Panamera S Hybrid come standard with Porsche's seven-speed "PDK" dual-clutch automatic; an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-drive are compulsory on the Panamera S Hybrid. A "4" denotes all-wheel drive; all Turbo models are all-wheel drive. The Panamera gets a 3.6-liter 300-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque V-6. The Panamera S gets a 4.8-liter V-8 producing 400-hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The Panamera S Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 and electric motor that's good for 380 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. The Panamera Turbo is powered by a 4.8-liter twin-turbo 500-hp and 516 lb-ft of torque V-8. The Panamera Turbo S gets the same engine but with 550-hp and 590 lb-ft of torque with over boost.

The 2012 Porsche Panamera includes standard safety features you'd expect in a high-power executive sports sedan designed to handle the high-speed grand touring of Germany's autobahns. The Panamera is constructed from lightweight steel, and features side- and cross-members designed to channel energy from an accident away from the cabin. The Panamera's interior is also protected by super high-strength steel and side-intrusion beams. Inside, the Panamera also gets front driver and passenger airbags, side airbags in each seat, and side-curtain airbags. The Panamera also includes ABS, TPMS, ESC, and TC. More safety features like blind spot monitoring are available.

2013 Acura RDX Concept


The little sport-ute may have been too much too early. It has not been a tremendous success, but nowhere near the flop that is the ZDX. To re-invigorate sales of the 2013 RDX there are serious amount of mechanical changes, with only minor exterior refinements. Those subtle exterior changes can be seen in this Concept just revealed. Not much of a concept as we’ve been told that it’s a running prototype, and production models will be at dealerships before this summer.

Gone is the 240-bhp turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four and overly complex and heavy SH-AWD (Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive). In its place will be a more powerful and fuel efficient V-6. The all-wheel drive will remain, but in a much simpler concept without the super-handling portion. The result will be a lighter, faster, less expensive and more efficient 2013 RDX. Whether it drives as nimbly as its more intelligent turbocharged predecessor will have to be seen. As will buyer interest.

2012 Porsche 911

Price $172,100

The 2012 Porsche 911 is all-new this year. Yes, it may look just like the old 911 but, make no mistake, the 911 is back and better than ever in its seventh generation. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S ride on a wheelbase that's 4.1 inches longer than the previous 911, for an overall length gain of just 2.2 inches. While bigger usually equals bad, the new 911 is more stable and a better drive then the old one, making the 2012 Porsche 911 the best 911 yet. While there will certainly be a plethora of 911 variants soon, so far Porsche has only announced the 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S for this year. The 2012 911 Carrera is powered by a 350-hp 3.4-liter F-6 mounted right over the rear axle, while the Carrera S gets a 400-hp 3.8-liter F-6. For 2012 Porsche will be offering two transmissions on the 911. The fantastic Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK for short) seven-speed dual-clutch automatic returns, while Porsche also introduces an all-new seven-speed manual transmission. Porsche says its new seven-speed manual is the first of its kind in a passenger car.

 Body styles: coupe, convertible Engines: 3.6-liter flat-6, 3.8-liter flat-6, 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-6 Transmissions: six-speed manual, seven-speed automatic Models: Porsche 911, Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, Porsche 911 Carrera GTS 4, Porsche 911 GT2 RS, Porsche 911 GT3, Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Porsche 911 RS 4.0 The 2012 Porsche 911 contains a lot of new technology, like the first ever seven-speed manual transmission in a passenger car, a seven-speed "PDK" dual-clutch automatic, and fuel-saving auto start/stop included on all models. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S both have different engines. The 2012 911 Carrera gets an all-new 3.4-liter F-6 that produces 350 hp and 287 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed to the rear-wheels though all-wheel drive is certainly coming in the future. The 911 Carrera S is powered by a refreshed 3.8-liter F-6 that produces 400 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. In our testing, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission-equipped Carrera S accelerated from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, and stopped from that speed in just 94 feet.

As can be expected in any car designed to handle the high speeds of the German Autobahn, safety was a concern for Porsche with the 2012 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S. The 2012 911 Carrera and Carrera S both include six airbags including a front driver and front passenger airbag, and standard safety amenities like anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. Porsche also used a large amount of high-strength steel in the body of the 2012 911 to enhance occupant protection.

Monday, March 19, 2012

2012 Audi Q7

Price
$59,950
The Audi Q7 is a full-size luxury crossover SUV unveiled in September 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Production of the Q7 began in autumn of 2005 in Bratislava, Slovakia.[2] It is the first SUV offering from Audi and went on sale in 2007. Later, Audi's second SUV, the Q5, was unveiled as a 2009 model. Audi has since unveiled a third SUV model, the Q3, going on sale in the 3rd quarter of 2011.

Review
The 2012 Audi Q7 is the largest SUV that the brand offers, with seating for up to seven passengers. The Q7 is just one of many players in the large and luxurious SUV field, which includes the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GL, Infiniti QX56, Cadillac Escalade, and Lexus GX 460. Customers have their choice among three engines. First up is the 3.0-liter, supercharged V-6-engine that puts out 280 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The second is a more powerful version of the base engine--333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, which powers the Q7 3.0 S line model. Finally, a 3.0-liter, turbocharged V-6 diesel engine provides a whopping 406 lb-ft of torque that translates into plenty of low-end grunt and higher miles per gallon. Audi offers the Q7 in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and the range-topping Prestige, which includes a number of exclusive items like Audi's adaptive air suspension and Audi's adaptive xenon headlights with LED daytime running lamps. All trim levels come standard with leather, LED taillights, a power tailgate, and privacy glass..

The product range 
Body style: SUV Engines: 3.0L supercharged V-6, 3.0L diesel V-6 Transmission: 8-speed automatic Models: Q7 Premium, Q7 Premium Plus, Q7 S line Prestige, Q7 TDI Prestig

Exterior 
With an overall length of 200.3 inches, the Audi Q7 is currently the second longest vehicle the brand offers (the long wheelbase A8 takes the crown at 207.4 inches). Despite its massive size, Audi designers have managed to inject some style into the Q7 by way of the familiar corporate nose, brushed metallic trim, LED taillights, and large wheels that range from 18 to 21 inches. A new S line Plus package adds piano black accents on the front grille and window surrounds.

Interior 
All three rows of passengers are treated to standard leather seats, automatic climate control, and Sirius satellite radio. A panorama sunroof opens up the interior quite a bit and is standard on Premium Plus and Prestige models and optional on the Premium model. Additionally, all models come standard with ambient LED lighting, power adjustable front seats, and Bluetooth. Prestige models feature exclusive items such as four-zone climate control and ventilated front seats.

Performance 
While most competitors in the Q7's segment are powered by big-displacement V-8-engines, Audi has decided to stuff its luxo barge with forced-induction V-6 powerplants. First up is the 3.0-liter, supercharged V-6 that puts out 280 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. A high performance version of the same engine is used in the Q7 S line, which puts out 333 hp and 325 lb-ft. Finally, a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel is rated at 225 hp and 406 lb-ft. All Q7 variants are fitted with Audi quattro all-wheel-drive system for added grip during inclement weather or for light off-road duty. Safety Standard on all Q7 trim levels are anti-lock brakes, quattro all-wheel drive system, LATCH, traction control, electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, and an electronic parking brake. Six airbags are standard and rear side airbags for the second row of passengers are optional. The range-topping Prestige model features exclusive safety features like Audi side assist (which detects and warns if a vehicle is in your blind spot) and adaptive cruise control with braking guard. EPA Fuel Economy Q7 3.0T S-line: 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway Q7 TDI: 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway

Sunday, March 18, 2012

The Ferrari California (2012)



The Ferrari California is a grand touring sports car that was launched by Ferrari at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. It is a two door "2+2" hard top convertible. The California is powered by front-mid mounted gasoline direct injection 4.3 L (260 cu in) V8 with 460 PS (338 kW; 454 hp). The car revives the "California" name used for the late-1950s Ferrari 250 GT. According to industry rumors, the California originally started as a concept for a new Maserati, but the resulting expense to produce the car led the Fiat Group to badge it as a Ferrari in order to justify the high cost of purchase; the company denies this, however. The California represents a new, fourth model range for the company



Class                          Grand tourer
Body style                  2-door, 2+2 coupé cabriolet
Layout                        Front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Engine                         4,297 cc (262.2 cu in) 90° V8
Transmission              7-speed dual-clutch automated
                                    manual 6-speed manual
Wheelbase                 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length                        4,563 mm (179.6 in)
Width                         1,902 mm (74.9 in)
Height                        1,308 mm (51.5 in)
Curb weight               1,630 kg (3,594 lb) (dry)
Price                          $192,000



The California has a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph) and it can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds.[2] Although 180 kilograms (397 lb) heavier and 30 PS (22 kW; 30 hp) less powerful than the mid-engined F430, the California reaches 97 km/h (60 mph) in the same time as the F430 due to the dual-clutch transmission.

The Ferrari FF (2012)



The Ferrari FF (FF meaning "Ferrari Four", for four seats and four-wheel drive) is a grand tourer presented by Ferrari on March 1, 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show. It is Ferrari's first production four-wheel drive model. The body style has been described as a shooting-brake, a type of sporting station wagon/estate car with two doors. It replaced the 612 Scaglietti grand tourer. The FF has a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph) and it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds. Ferrari states that the FF is the world's fastest four-seat automobile. The FF sells for $300,000 USD, with 800 being produced during the first year.

Class                     Grand tourer
Body style             3-door shooting-brake
Layout                   FM4 layout
Engine                   6.3 L V12
Transmission          7-speed dual-clutch
                              automated semi-automatic
Wheelbase             2,949 mm (116.1 in)
Length                   4,907 mm (193.2 in)
Width                    1,953 mm (76.9 in)
Height                    1,379 mm (54.3 in)
Curb weight           1,880 kg (4,145 lb)
Price                       $295,000


The new four-wheel drive system, engineered and patented by Ferrari, is called 4RM: it is around 50% lighter than a conventional system, and provides power intelligently to each of the four wheels as needed.[3] It only functions when the manettino dial on the steering wheel is in the "comfort" or "snow" positions, leaving the car most often in the traditional rear wheel drive layout.[10] This system is based around a second, simple, gearbox (gears and other components built by Carraro, taking power from the front of the engine. This gearbox (designated "power take off unit", or PTU) has only two forward gears (2nd and 4th) plus reverse (with gear ratios 6% taller than the corresponding ratios in the main gearbox), so the system is only active in 1st to 4th gears. The connection between this gearbox and each front wheel is via independent haldex-type clutches, without a differential.[11] Due to the difference in ratios "the clutches continually slip"[12] and only transmit, at most, 20% of the engine's torque. A detailed description of the system (based on a conversation with Roberto Fedeli, Ferrari's technical director) has been published.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano(2012)


The 599 GTB Fiorano (internal code F141) is an Italian gran turismo produced by Ferrari. It is the brand's two-seat flagship, replacing the 575 M Maranello in 2006 as a 2007 model. Styled by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari's Frank Stephenson, the 599 GTB debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. It is named for its total engine displacement (5999 cc), Gran Turismo Berlinetta nature, and the Fiorano Circuit test track used by Ferrari.


Class                     Grand tourer
Body style             2-seat berlinetta
Layout                   FMR layout
Engine                   6.0 L Tipo F140C V12
Transmission        6-speed manual 6-speed "F1" sequential
Wheelbase            2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Length                  4,665 mm (183.7 in)
Width                    1,962 mm (77.2 in)
Height                   1,336 mm (52.6 in)
Curb weight          1,688 kg (3,721 lb)
Price                      $320,580



The Tipo F140C 6.0 L (5999 cc) V12 engine produces a maximum 620 PS (456 kW; 612 hp), making it the most powerful series production Ferrari road car of the time. This is one of the few engines whose output exceeds 100 hp per liter of displacement without any sort of forced-induction mechanism such as supercharging or turbocharging. Its 608 N·m (448 ft·lbf) of torque will also be a new record for Ferrari's GT cars. Most of the modifications to the engine were done to allow it to fit in the Fiorano's engine bay (the original Enzo version could be taller as it would not block forward vision due to its mid-mounted position).A traditional 6-speed manual transmission as well as Ferrari's 6-speed called "F1 SuperFast" is offered. Reviewers of the car have mentioned that the MagneRide suspension gives the 599 a very comfortable ride but allows it to handle well at the same time.. The Fiorano also sees the debut of Ferrari's new traction control system, F1-Trac.

The Ferrari 458 Italia (2012)


The Ferrari 458 Italia is a mid-engined sports car produced by the Italian sports car manufacturer Ferrari. The 458 Italia replaces the Ferrari F430. The 458 Italia was officially unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show on 15 September 2009.
In Ferrari's first official announcement of the car, the 458 Italia was described as the successor to the F430 but arising from an entirely new design, incorporating technologies developed from the company's experience in Formula 1.

Body style              2-seat Berlinetta
Layout                    Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Engine                    4.5 L V8
Transmission         7-speed dual-clutch
Wheelbase             2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Length                   4,527 mm (178.2 in)
Width                     1,937 mm (76.3 in)
Height                    1,213 mm (47.8 in)
Curb weight           1,485 kg (3,274 lb)
Price                       $230,275



The car's suspension features double wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear, coupled with E-Diff and F1-Trac traction control systems, designed to improve the car's cornering and longitudinal acceleration by 32% when compared with its predecessors. The brakes include a prefill function whereby the pistons in the calipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to minimize delay in the brakes being applied.This combined with the ABS has reduced 100–0 km/h (62-0 mph) braking distance to 32.5 metres (107 ft). The adaptive magnetorheological dampers are co-developed with BWI Group.

Ferrari's official 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration is under 3.4 seconds,[8] while top speed is over 325 km/h (202 mph), with a fuel consumption in combined cycle (ECE+EUDC) 13.3 L/100 km (21.2 mpg-imp; 17.7 mpg-US) while producing 307g/km of CO2.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2012)



The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a luxury grand tourer automobile developed by Mercedes-AMG to replace the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. The car is the first Mercedes automobile designed in-house by AMG and is described by Mercedes-Benz as a spiritual successor to the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 IAA. Sales began in mid-2010 in Europe with MSRP of €177,310 (including taxes)and in the United States in mid-2011 for less than $200,000. The SLS AMG is featured as the cover car for the PlayStation 3 racing game Gran Turismo 5, and is the safety car for the Formula One seasons from 2011 to present. In the video game Forza Motorsport 4, Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear comments "This is not just the greatest car Mercedes makes; right now, I think, it's the greatest car in the world." The car is also used for the 2011 film Transformers: Dark of the Moon, as the Decepticon Soundwave.

Class                Grand tourer
Body style        2-door coupe
                          2-door roadster
Layout              Front mid-engine,
                          rear-wheel drive, Transaxle
Engine              6.2L, V8, DOHC 563 bhp
Transmission    7-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic
Wheelbase       2,680 mm (105.5 in)
Length              4,638 mm (182.6 in)
Width                1,939 mm (76.3 in)
Height Coupe:  49.3 in (1,252 mm)
Roadster:         49.7 in (1,262 mm)
Curb weight      1,620 kg (3,600 lb)
Price                  $189,600



The SLS AMG is designed to be a modern 300SL Gullwing revival by Gorden Wagener. The car has a long bonnet, the passenger compartment is close to the rear axle and the rear of the car is short. The SLS AMG has also adapted the feature of wing doors that will swing open upwards on gas struts, not in a mix of upwards and forward like the SLR. The doors must be closed manually as AMG engineers decided against auto-closing systems because the systems would have added 90 pounds (41 kg) to the car. In case of a roll-over, the doors can be fully detached to allow the occupants to leave the vehicle.

The Volvo C30 (2012)


The Volvo C30 is a small family car produced by Volvo Cars. The C30 is a three-door, four-seat shooting brake hatchback powered by straight-4 and straight-5 engines. The car is a hatchback version of the S40/V50/C70 range, and uses the same Ford C1 (or Volvo P1) platform. It is being marketed as a premium hatchback or a sports coupe specially designed for first-time Volvo buyers and the youth market. Production is expected to be 65,000 units a year, 75% for sale in the European market. The production car was officially unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show.

The exterior design of the C30 is based on the 2001 SCC concept car, which was inspired by the 1800ES, the estate adaptation of the P1800 Coupe. It also shares many design cues with the Volvo 480, particularly the 'sportback' body style and glass tailgate. According to Simon Lamarre, chief studio designer, "the 1800ES has become one of the icons for Volvo," inspiring the design of the Volvo C30. The interior design is similar to the S40 and V50; the majority of parts including the instrument panel, 'floating' centre stack and steering wheel are shared by the three cars.

Class                    Small family car
Body style            3-door hatchback
Platform               Volvo P1 platform
Engine                  Petrol: 1.6 L
                            I4 1.8 L
                            I4 1.8 L Flexifuel
                            I4 2.0 L
                            I4 2.4 L
                            I5 2.5 L turbocharged I5
                            Diesel: 1.6 L
                            I4 2.0 L
                            I4 2.4 L I5
Transmission        5- or 6-speed manual
                           5-speed automatic
                           6-speed PowerShift
Wheelbase          2,640 mm (103.9 in)
Length                 207–2010: 4,252 mm (167.4 in)
                           2011–: 4,266 mm (168.0 in)
Width                  1,782 mm (70.2 in)
Height                 1,447 mm (57.0 in)
Curb weight        1,331 kg (2,930 lb)-1,347 kg (2,970 lb)
Price                   $24,950 


An upgraded sound system includes a digital 5×130 watt ICE Power amplifier from Alpine featuring Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, and 10 loudspeakers from Danish Dynaudio.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Lamborghini Murciélago (2012)



The Lamborghini Murciélago is a two-door, two-seat sports car produced by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 2001 and 2010. Successor to the Diablo and flagship of the automaker's lineup, the Murciélago was introduced as a coupé in 2001. The automaker's first new design in eleven years, the car was also the brand's first new model under the ownership of German parent company Audi. It was styled by Peruvian-born Belgian Luc Donckerwolke, Lamborghini's head of design from 1998 to 2005. A roadster version was introduced in 2004, followed by the updated LP 640 coupé and roadster and limited edition LP 650-4 Roadster. The final variation to wear the Murciélago nameplate was the LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, powered by the largest and final evolution of the historic Lamborghini V12 engine. Production of the Murciélago ended on November 5, 2010, with a total run of 4,099 cars. Its successor, the Aventador, was released at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Class                    Sports car
Body style            2-door coupé 2-door roadster
Layout                 Mid-engine, four-wheel drive
Engine                  6.2 L V12 6.5 L V12
Transmission        6-speed manual
                           6-speed e-Gear semi-automatic
Wheelbase          2,665 mm (104.9 in)
Length                2002-06: 4,580 mm (180.3 in)
                          2007-10: 4,610 mm (181.5 in)
Width                 2002-06: 2,045 mm (80.5 in)
                          2007-10: 2,057 mm (81.0 in)
Height                1,135 mm (44.7 in)
Curb weight        Dry weight:
                          1,650 kg (3,638 lb)
                          1,665 kg (3,671 lb) LP640
                          1,565 kg (3,450 lb) LP670-4 SV
Price                  $416,300


In a continuation of Lamborghini's tradition of naming its cars after stars from the world of bullfighting, the Murciélago was named for a fighting bull that survived 28 sword strokes in an 1879 fight against Rafael "El Lagartijo" Molina Sanchez, at the Coso de los califas bullring in Córdoba, Spain. Murciélago fought with such passion and spirit that the matador chose to spare its life, a rare honor. The bull, which came from Joaquin del Val di Navarra's farm, was later presented as a gift to Don Antonio Miura, a noted local breeder; thus began the famed Miura line of fighting bulls, and the name for one of Lamborghini's greatest designs.

Lamborghini Gallardo (2012)



The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with over 10,000 built in its first seven years of production. The car is named after a famous breed of fighting bull. The Gallardo offers two choices of transmissions, a conventional (H-Box) six-speed manual transmission, and an advanced six-speed electro-hydraulically controlled semi-automatic robotized manual, which Lamborghini abbreviates to "E-gear". The "E-gear" allows the driver to make shifts much faster than a manual transmission would. The driver shifts up and down via paddles behind the steering wheel, but can also change into automatic mode.

Class                 Sports car
Body style         2-door coupé
                         2-door spyder
Layout              Mid-engine, four-wheel drive
                        Mid-engine, rear wheel drive )
Engine              5.0 L V10 5.2 L V10
Transmission    6-speed manual
                        6-speed single clutch
                        electrohydraulic manual transmission
Wheelbase       2,560 mm (100.8 in)
Length             4,345 mm (171.1 in)
Width              1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Height              1,165 mm (45.9 in)
Spyder:            46.6 in (1,183.6 mm)
Curb weight     1,520 kg (3,351 lb)
                         LP560-4: 1,500 kg (3,307 lb)
Price                $248,000


This is a concept vehicle based on the contemporary Gallardo, but without a roof. The car was designed by Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Lamborghini Design. The car was unveiled in 2005 at the Geneva Motor Show.

Lamborghini Aventador (2012)



The Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 is a two-door, two-seater sports car publicly unveiled by Lamborghini at the Geneva Motor Show on 28 February 2011, five months after its initial unveiling in Sant'Agata Bolognese. Internally codenamed LB834, the Aventador was designed to replace the ten-year-old Murciélago as the new flagship model in the Lamborghini line-up starting in 2011. Soon after the Aventador unveiling, Lamborghini announced that it had already sold over 12 months of the production vehicles, with deliveries starting in the second half of 2011. The suggested retail price is €255,000 in Europe, £201,900 in the UK and $379,700 in the U.S.

Class                Sports car
Body style        2-door coupé
Layout              Mid-engine, four-wheel drive
Engine              6.5 L V12 (L539)
Transmission     7-speed single clutch gearbox
Wheelbase       2,700 mm (106.30 in)
Length             4,780 mm (188.19 in)
Width              2,030 mm (79.92 in)
                       (w/mirrors: 2,265 mm (89.17 in))
Height             1,136 mm (44.72 in)
Curb weight    1,575 kg (3,470 lb)
Price               $379,700

Like previous Lamborghinis, the Aventador name was chosen for its symbolic connection to the world of fighting bulls, sharing a name with the legendary Aventador, a trophy-winning bull in the world of Spanish bullfighting. Bred by the sons of Don Celestino Cuadri Vides, the bull that bore the number 32 took part in a notably spirited, bloody and violent battle with a torero in the town of Zaragoza, Spain that earned him the “Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera" in 1993.

Subaru Legacy (fifth generation)


The fifth-generation Subaru Legacy was originally unveiled as a concept car at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the model, and the production version was introduced at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. Production of the fifth generation started on 29 May 2009.

Layout                       front engine, variable assist 4 wheel drive
Engine                       2.0 L DOHC AVCS 148 hp (110 kW) H4
                                  2.0 L DOHC turbodiesel 148 hp (110 kW) H4
                                  2.5 L SOHC i-AVLS 170 hp (130 kW) H4
                                  2.5 L turbo DOHC DAVCS 265 hp (198 kW) H4
                                  3.6 L DOHC DAVCS 256 hp (191 kW) H6
Transmission             Lineartronic CVT
                                  5-speed automatic
                                  6-speed manual
Wheelbase               108.3 in (2,751 mm)
Length Sedan:         186.4 in (4,735 mm)
Wagon:                    4,775 mm (188.0 in)
Width                       71.7 in (1,821 mm)
Wagon:                    1,780 mm (70.1 in)
Height                      59.3 in (1,506 mm)
Wagon:                    1,535 mm (60.4 in)
Curb weight             3,557 lb (1,613 kg) (3.6R Limited)
Price                         $20,995

A number of design traditions have ended with the fifth generation. The side windows are no longer frameless, ending a Subaru tradition started with the first generation Leone in the early 1970s. On wagons, the "D" pillar is no longer covered in glass. The parking light switch traditionally installed on top of the steering wheel column has also been removed, with Subaru using conventional headlight electrics, meaning if the headlights are left on when the engine is turned off, the headlights remain on unless the automatic headlight feature switch position is being used.

Buick Verano (2012)



The Buick Verano is a four-door, five passenger, compact sedan manufactured at General Motor's Orion Assembly plant in Orion Township, Michigan as a 2012 model. With a front engine, front-wheel drive layout, the Verano formally debuted at the North American International Auto Show on January 10, 2011. The Verano shares General Motors' Delta II platform with the Chevrolet Cruze, was co-developed with the Chinese market Buick Excelle GT, and is the first compact marketed by Buick in the United States since the Buick Skylark was discontinued in 1997.

Class              Compact car
Body style      4-door sedan
Layout            Front engine, front-wheel drive
Platform         Delta II
Engine            2.4 L Ecotec I4 (Flex-Fuel)
Transmission  6-speed automatic
Wheelbase     105.7 in (2,685 mm)
Length           183.9 in (4,671 mm)
Width            71.4 in (1,814 mm)
Height            58.4 in (1,483 mm)
Curb weight   3,300 lb (1,500 kg)

The Verano shares its platform with the European market Opel/Vauxhall Astra J and the North American market Chevrolet Cruze. Jim Federico, Executive Director and Vehicle Chief Engineer for Verano, led the vehicle development team and David Lyon, Buick design director, styled the exterior. The Verano's unibody construction utilizes galvanized steel for its front fenders, hood, roof and door panels and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) bumper covers. It incorporates acoustical laminated glass, triple door seals, a five-layer interior roof liner, sound absorbing mats, recycled denim insulation and specially manufactured 17-inch forged alloy wheels, which minimize road noise and makes it more difficult to hear approaching emergency vehicles.

Bentley Mulsanne (2012)



The new Bentley Mulsanne is a high-end luxury car produced by Bentley Motors Limited in the United Kingdom. The name is derived from Bentley's historical racing pedigree, which included five victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans — the Mulsanne Straight being the stretch of the Le Mans racing circuit where cars reach their highest speeds.

Performance & Efficiency:
Engine                6.75L twin-turbo L Series V8
Transmission      8-speed ZF 8HP automatic
Wheelbase         3,266 mm (128.6 in)
Length               5,575 mm (219.5 in)
Width                1,926 mm (75.8 in)
                         (w/mirrors: 2,208 mm (86.9 in))
Height               1,521 mm (59.9 in)
Kerb weight      5,700 lb (2,600 kg)[2]
Designer            Dirk van Braeckel
Price                 $285,000

Interior Concept 
At the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Executive Interior Concept (EIC) contains many technologies commonly found in offices to assist executives while on the road. The rear passenger area features three LCD screens powered by an Apple Mac mini located in the trunk, with additional iPads in fold out trays connected thru bluetooth keyboards. Additional features include in-car wifi, iPods with docking stations, and integration of the many devices to the car's Naim audio system.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Audi A6


The Audi A6 is an executive car marketed by the German automaker Audi AG, now in its fourth generation. As the successor to the Audi 100, the A6 is manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany – and is available in saloon, and wagon configurations, the latter marketed by Audi as the Avant. All generations of the A6 have offered either front-wheel drive or Torsen-based four-wheel drive – marketed by Audi as their Quattro system. Second- and third- generation A6 models have shared their platform with the company's Allroad models.

Class            Executive car
Body style    4-door saloon/sedan,
                    5-door Avant (estate/wagon)
Layout          Longitudinal front engine,
                    front-wheel drive, or
                    quattro permanent four-wheel drive
Platform       Volkswagen Group C platform series
Related
                    Audi A7
                    Audi S6
                    Audi RS6

Audi A4


The Audi A4 is a compact executive car produced since late 1994 by the German car manufacturer Audi, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. The A4 has been built in four generations and is based on Volkswagen's B platform. The first generation A4 succeeded the Audi 80. The automaker's internal numbering treats the A4 as a continuation of the Audi 80 lineage, with the initial A4 designated as the B5-series, followed by the B6, B7, and the current B8. The B8 A4 is built on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform shared with many other Volkswagen models.

Predecessor    Audi 80 
Class              Compact executive car
Layout            Front engine, front-wheel drive
                      or four-wheel drive
Platform         Volkswagen Group B
Related          Volkswagen Passat

Aston Martin Rapide


The Aston Martin Rapide is a four-door, high-performance sport saloon, which British luxury marque Aston Martin introduced in early 2010. It was first presented as a concept car at the North American International Auto Show in 2006. The Rapide name is a reference to the Lagonda Rapide, a saloon car produced by Lagonda, now part of Aston Martin. The car is based on an Aston Martin DB9. The base price for the Aston Martin Rapide is $199,950 (USD) and the first cars were rolled out in May 2010.

The Rapide is built at a dedicated plant at the Magna Steyr facility in Graz, Austria. Production began in 2010 and the factory plans to build 2,000 per year. The concept car version featured a full-length glass roof and LED light bars on the rear end, two firsts for Aston Martin. The glass roof was not carried through to production.

Assembly      Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr)
Predecessor   Aston Martin Lagonda
Class            Grand tourer
Body style    5-door hatchback/liftback
Layout          FR layout
Platform       Aston Martin AM VH platform
Engine          6.0 L V12
Price             $199,950 (USD)


Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Scion tC toyota car


The Scion tC is an automobile manufactured and sold by Scion, a division of Toyota. Introduced in the United States in June 2004 and Canada in 2010. The name tC does not fit in with its stablemates the xA, xB, and xD, because the name XC designation has already been used by Volvo for its lineup of sport utility vehicles. According to Scion, tC stands for touring coupe. The tC is sold as the Toyota Zelas in the Middle East, China, Central and South America.


Specifications 

Engine      2.4L 2AZ-FE straight-4 
Transmission      4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 
Wheelbase    106.3 in (2,700 mm) 
Length      174.0 in (4,420 mm) 
Width      69.1 in (1,755 mm) 
Height      55.7 in (1,415 mm) 
Curb weight      2,905 lb (1,318 kg) (manual) 
                        2,970 lb (1,350 kg) (automatic)


Toyota Racing Development (TRD) 
Similar to many other models of Toyota/Lexus/Scion, there are many upgrades available through the in house tuning shop Toyota Racing Development (TRD). Currently TRD produces performance parts such as lowering springs and racing struts, full coilover suspension systems, performance brake kits, rear sway bars, front strut tower bars, limited-slip differentials, upgraded clutches, axle-back exhausts and cold-air intakes for the Scion tC. Other cosmetic accessories such as TRD branded valve covers and oil caps are also offered. TRD also offered a supercharger which is a rebadged Vortech supercharger that is capable of putting out 20 psi (1.4 bar), although when installed by a dealership and under warranty it is set at 6 psi (0.4 bar). Starting in 2008, Scion began making the supercharger with tamper-proof pulleys. As of mid-2009, TRD has discontinued production of superchargers for the Scion tC.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Nissan Leaf hatchback electric car


The Nissan Leaf (also formatted "LEAF" as a backronym for Leading, Environmentally friendly, Affordable, Family car) is a five-door hatchback electric car manufactured by Nissan and introduced in Japan and the United States in December 2010. The US Environmental Protection Agency official range is 117 kilometres (73 mi), with an energy consumption of 765 kilojoules per kilometre (34 kW·h/100 mi) and rated the Leaf's combined fuel economy at 99 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (2.4 L/100 km).[8][9] The Leaf has a range of 175 km (109 mi) on the New European Driving Cycle.


Body style      5-door hatchback
Layout      Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Platform        Nissan V platform
Electric motor       80 kW (110 hp),
                        280 N·m (210 ft·lb) synchronous motor
                        Transmission Single speed direct drive
Battery      24 kW·h lithium ion
battery Range      117 km (73 mi) (EPA)
                           175 km (109 mi) (NEDC)
                           76 to 169 km (47 to 105 mi) (Nissan)
Wheelbase        2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length        4,445 mm (175.0 in)
Width        1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height         1,550 mm (61.0 in)
Curb weight        1,521 kg (3,354 lb)
Price                 $32,780


Design 
The Leaf's frontal style is characterized by a sharp V-shape design with large, up slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that create a distinctive blue internal reflective design. The headlights also split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, which reduces wind noise and drag. The headlights consume 50% less electricity than halogen lamps.Nissan sought to make the Leaf appealing to mainstream drivers by giving it a familiar sedan- and hatchback-like design. The bottom of the car has aerodynamic paneling to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics as much as possible.

Recharging 
The Leaf has two charging receptacles: a standard SAE J1772-2009 connector for level 1 and 2 charging (120/220 volts AC) and a JARI high-voltage DC connector designed by TEPCO for DC fast charging (480 volts DC 125 amps) using the CHAdeMO protocol.

Chevrolet Volt


The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by General Motors. It is also sold as the Holden Volt in Australia, as well as the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera in Europe. Volt sales in selected U.S. markets began in mid-December 2010 and in international markets since September 2011. Customer deliveries of the Opel Ampera in Europe began in February 2012.
The Volt is the most fuel-efficient compact car with a gasoline engine sold in the United States, as rated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Volt operates as a pure battery electric vehicle until its plug-in battery capacity drops to a predetermined threshold from full charge, at which point its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range. The Volt's regenerative braking also contributes to the on-board electricity generation. In order to improve performance, the internal combustion engine may at times be engaged mechanically to assist both electric motors to propel the Volt.


Class      Compact car Body
style      5-door hatchback
Layout      Front engine, front-wheel drive
Platform       Delta II / Voltec
Combustion engine    1.4 L 4-cylinder
Electric motor      One 111 kW (149 hp): One 55 kW
                           (74 hp) permanent magnet motor/generators
Transmission     Single gear
Drivetrain      4ET50 electric drive unit
Battery      16 kWh lithium-ion
battery Range    379 miles (610 km) (EPA) Electric Range
                         35 miles (56 km) (EPA)
                          25 to 50 miles (40 to 80 km) (GM)
Wheelbase       105.7 in (2,680 mm)[1] Length 177.1 in (4,500 mm)
Width      70.4 in (1,790 mm)
Height       56.6 in (1,440 mm)
Curb weight      3,781 lb (1,715 kg)


Concept 
The Chevrolet Volt concept car was unveiled at the January 2007 North American International Auto Show, becoming the first-ever series plug-in hybrid concept car shown by a major manufacturer.The Volt concept vehicle had four doors with a rear liftgate and seating for four passengers. This was a significant change in design when compared to the General Motors EV1 of the 1990s, which only seated two to reduce weight and to make the necessary room for the lead-acid battery pack. The top speed was also increased on the Volt, from the electronically limited 80 miles per hour (130 km/h) to 100 miles per hour (160 km/h). The battery pack size was reduced, from about 10.6 cu ft (300 L) in volume in the EV1, to just 3.5 cu ft (100 L) in the Volt.


Connectivity
The Volt features OnStar Mobile application for owners to access vehicle information without being in or near the car. This smartphone application features the ability to check fuel efficiency as well as the vehicle's current electric range. It also helps monitor the charging, giving owners key information about the current charge level and the amount of time it will take until it is fully charged. The application also is able to control features such as locking/unlocking doors, and acts as a remote starter. A five-year OnStar Directions and Connections service was bundled into the 2011 Volt's base price, which was reduced to three years for the 2012 model year.

Coda All-Electric Sedan


The Coda is a four-door, five passenger electric car manufactured by Coda Automotive. After being re-scheduled several times, the Coda is slated to begin deliveries in the United States in early 2012. Initially the all-electric CODA will be available only in California.According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Coda's 31 kWh lithium ion iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery system delivers a range of 88 mi (142 km), the longest among its class. EPA's rated the Coda's combined fuel economy at 105 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (2.2 L/100 km).


Body style                       5-door sedan
Layout                             Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Electric motor                 100 kW (130 hp), 300 N·m (220 ft·lb)
Transmission                  Single speed gear reduction
Battery                           31 kW·h Lifepo4 battery
Range                             88 mi (142 km) (EPA)
                                        125 mi (201 km) (Coda)
Length                            176.4 in (4,480.6 mm)
Width                              67.2 in (1,706.9 mm)
Height                             58 in (1,473.2 mm)
Curb weight                    1,660 kg (3,670 lb)
Price                               $45,000


The Coda basic model is powered by a 31 kWh lithium ion iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery system that is substantially larger than that of other vehicles in its class. Under its five-cycle testing, the EPA rated the combined fuel economy equivalent at 105 MPGe (2.2 L/100 km), with an equivalent 110 mpg-US (2.1 L/100 km; 130 mpg-imp) in city driving and 99 mpg-US (2.4 L/100 km; 119 mpg-imp) on highways. EPA's official range is 88 mi (142 km), the longest among its class, and second only to the Tesla Roadster among electric cars available in the U.S.CODA Automotive estimates the range to be up to 125 mi (201 km) under favorable operating conditions.[6] The Coda has a top speed of 85 mph (137 km/h) electronically limited.The battery system features an active thermal management system, which CODA Automotive states will give the vehicle a more dependable range than other BEVs and improved battery system durability.

BMW ActiveE


The BMW ActiveE is a demonstration electric car based on the BMW 1 Series small family cars. It is the second vehicle after the MINI E to be developed under BMW Group’s Project i. The electric drive system is the latest addition to BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme.The four-seater, rear-wheel drive ActiveE was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2010.

Body style          2-door Coupe
Platform             BMW 1
Series                (E82/E88)
Electric motor    168 hp (125 kW)
Battery              32.0 kWh lithium-ion battery
Electric Range   100 mi (160 km)
Curb weight      1,800 kg (4,000 lb)

The electric car has a 32 Kwh lithium-ion battery pack developed in cooperation with SB LiMotive and an all-electric range of 100 miles (160 km). The ActiveE takes 8.5 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) and its maximum speed is electronically limited to 90 miles per hour (140 km/h).The ActiveE has an EcoPro mode that retards throttle response, shuts down the defrosters and tweaks the climate control to boost efficiency by up to 10%.The ActiveE has a 125 kW (168 hp) electric synchronous motor integrated into the rear axle to power the rear wheels, the same configuration that will be used in the BMW i3. The motor weights 200 lb (91 kg) and delivers 249 N·m (184 ft·lbf) of torque. The curb weight of the ActiveE is 4,001 lb (1,815 kg), nearly 800 lb (360 kg) heavier than a BMW 135i, but the ActiveE has a 50:50 weight distribution.The liquid-cooled storage cells are located under the hood, in the transmission tunnel and where the fuel tank would normally reside. The rear-mounted electric motor reduces the trunk space to 7 cu ft (200 L) versus 10 cu ft (280 L) in the standard BMW 1 Series.


Monday, March 12, 2012

BMW 3 Series (F30)


The BMW F30 series, the sixth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars, was unveiled by automaker BMW on October 14, 2011 in Munich, Germany. It was released as a 2012 model and has been on sale since early 2012.

Styling 
The exterior has strong hints from the current 5 series platform. Wide tail lamps, and a lower slung roofline gives the newer model a more athletic stance. A more traditional exterior returns to classic BMW styling as seen from the late 1990’s 3 series (E46) and 5 series (E39) models. This new direction replaces the modern and edgy “bangle butt” styling as seen in the pre-face lifted 2006 (E90) bodystyle. The trademark kidney grill has taken on a rectangular shape which connects to the headlamps. Interior styling has taken on a much more modern and contemporary approach. A small LCD panel protrudes out of a dash board with much more edgy lines. Wood or Aluminum accents are seen on swooping door handles, a triangular shaped piece on the center console and a minimal amount on the dashboard. Cup holders return to the center console, which is hidden under a plastic compartment. Component speakers are much more visible. Seats have taken on more stitching detail and appear more sporty. “Sport Line” models don bright red stitching on the door panels, seats, and steering wheel similar to M3 Models. There is also a distinctive red metallic trim which covers the entire dashboard.

Class
              Compact executive car
Layout
              FR layout Body style(s)
              2-door coupé
              2-door convertible
              5-door touring
              4-door saloon
              5-door hatchback (GT)
Engine(s)
              2.0L N20 I4
              3.0L N55 I6
              1.6L I4 Diesel
              2.0L Diesel I4
Transmission(s)
              6-speed manual
              8-speed automatic
Wheelbase
              2,810 mm (110.6 in)
Length
              4,624 mm (182.0 in)
Width
              1,811 mm (71.3 in)
Height
              1,429 mm (56.3 in)
Vehicles
              BMW 3-Series


Engines 
Naturally aspirated straight-six engines from 325i/330i are replaced by BMW's new N20 turbocharged inline-four two liter engine already introduced in a lot of BMW models. Top of the range 335i has the same N55 engine as E90. Diesel powertrain is still two liter inline-four N47 engine which is optimized for the new car.

BMW 1 Series (F20)



The BMW F20 (introduced in 2011) is the second generation of the five door compact hatchback variant of the BMW 1 Series. Like its predecessor, new car still features rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight balance,[1] a longitudinally-mounted engine and an advanced aluminum multilink suspension.

Engines
The BMW 1 series uses the BMW N13 inline-four petrol engine. It develops 136 hp (101 kW) in the 116 model and 170 hp (127 kW) in the 118i model. Diesel 1 series models are powered by the BMW N47 engine which is updated for the 120d model. All engines are mated to six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Body style
                 5-door hatchback
Engine
                 Petrol 
                 1.6 L I4 - 136/170 hp
                 Diesel 
                 1.6 L I4 170 hp
                 2.0 L I4 - 116/143/184/218 hp
Transmission
                 6-speed manual
                 8-speed automatic
Wheelbase
                 2,690 mm (105.9 in)
Length
                 4,324 mm (170.2 in)
Width
                 1,765 mm (69.5 in)
Height
                 1,421 mm (55.9 in)
Curb weight
                 1,365–1,440 kg (3,010–3,200 lb)

Equipment 
BMW claims to have improved cabin materials from the last 1 series. All models on the F20 chassis will be equipped with start-stop and air conditioning as standard. Higher trims will include a 8.8-inch (220 mm) flatscreen monitor and Bluetooth hands-free with USB connectivity. BMW’s Drive Performance Control is standard on all models. Drive Performance Control allows the driver to select one of four modes. These include Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and ECO PRO. ECO PRO aims to save fuel by adjusting throttle response to encourage slower acceleration and by limiting the use of accessories like air-conditioning, heated mirrors and seats. The increases in fuel economy are displayed to the driver, showing how far extra the car can travel as a result. To differentiate the sub-models, BMW offers Sport Line and Urban Line models which differ by alloy wheels, kidney grille and other appearance-related features.

BMW 1 Series M Coupé


The BMW 1 Series M Coupé is a high-performance version of the BMW 1 Series Coupe, developed by BMW's motorsport branch BMW M. It is currently the smallest and least expensive M model available. The name was chosen to avoid confusion with the original BMW M1.

the 1 Series M Coupé uses a M-tuned, twin turbocharged version of the N54engine, as found in the 335is and Z4sDrive35is. Still a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with direct injection, it produces 335 hp (250 kW) at 5900 rpm and 332 lb·ft (450 N·m) torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm (with .9) overboost). The redline is 7,000 rpm. Official 0-60 mph time is 4.7 seconds, quarter mile (~400 m) in 13.2 seconds.The car is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) top speed. There is an M Drive button that activates a quicker throttle response program. The sole available gearbox is a six-speed manual transmission with an M gearshift knob, dry sump lubrication system, and 3.15:1 final drive ratio.

The body on the BMW 1 Series M Coupé has been modified as well, giving the car a significantly wider track and bigger body, as well as a body kit to distinguish it from the standard 1 Series. Despite the car's larger size, it is 77 lb (35 kg) lighter, giving it a weight of 3,296 lb (1,495 kg).