Tata Nano India Review: Secret Behind Peoples Car

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No single car by the Tata Motors has been talked about as much as the Tata Nano. Classified as being part of the new breed of 21st century cars the Nano symbolizes the new age philosophy of smaller, lighter and cheaper cars. The project was initiated in the year 2003 to construct a small sized car in the range of one lakh rupees i.e about $2100. This was done after considering the fact that India had a considerable number of families that were being forced to drive around on two wheelers due to the lack of finance for a four wheeler.

Hundreds of reviewers who took Nano for a ride had a different take on it. But there was a lot that all agreed on. Nano is a ultra compact but looks bigger due to its height and wide stance. Its interior is unexpectedly roomy with decent quality material used for furnishing. The car is more than capable of accommodating four adults along with few small bags in its 130 litre boot volume. Fold down the rear seat and the parcel tray fixed to it and you can reach the luggage area.

Everything seemed almost normal till now but to make the cheapest car in the world there has to be few things outside the ordinary. Looking causally at the car inside-out you can feel that there is something different in Nano. Look carefully and you can see lot of cost-cuttings. Tata Nano has about one third of the usual number of parts which is made possible due to its centralised wiring; wheels mounted with three rather than four bolts, missing left hand side wing mirror and seats moulded in one single piece. These are just few of the innovative techniques used to cut price and weight to bare minimum resulting a 600kg car versus 683kg for its nearest competitor Maruti Suzuki 800.

The Nano is powered by a tiny 624cc engine big enough to drive it to a top speed of 106kph. The all-aluminium parallel-twin petrol engine makes 35ps of power at 5250rpm and a max torque of 48Nm. The fuel consumption is claimed to be 23.5km/l while emissions are very low. Nano meets all current regulatory requirements in India including full frontal crash, head impact on steering wheel, body block impact on steering and seat belt anchorage strength.

This rear wheel driven machine is a genuine car in every sense of the word and earns the well deserved honour of being the cheapest (most affordable) means of private transportation.

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Photo Gallery: New Tata Nano Pictures.

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Aston Martin V12 Vantage Unveiled Before Geneva Auto Show

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Aston Martin will present the most potent production sports car in the marque's 95-year history at the Geneva motor show on 3rd March. Based on the hugely successful V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage will feature a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.2 seconds. The latest incarnation of the Vantage family has been designed to provide a unique character, appealing to different driver tastes and complementing the other models in the Aston Martin line-up.

The V12 Vantage features spring rates 80% stiffer in front and 45% stiffer in the rear, allowing the coupe to hit up to 1.3 lateral gs. The V12 mill weighs almost 200 pounds more than the V8, but after the Aston got done tweaking the Vantage, the overall increase was a paltry 110 pounds.

Independent double wishbones are mounted fore and aft, while six-piston calipers squeeze 398mm (15.67-inch) carbon ceramic discs in front and four-piston units clamp down on 360 mm (14.17-inch) ceramic rotors in the rear.

The V12 Vantage will be built at Aston Martin's global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines which are built in the state-of-the-art production facility combining hi-tech manufacturing processes with traditional hand-craftsmanship. Production will be limited to between just 300-500 examples per year, making the V12 Vantage a truly exclusive driver's car.

Source: TheyReviewed
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Photo Gallery: New Aston Martin V12 Vantage Hi-Res Pictures.

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2008's Top 10 Best-Selling Vehicles

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Here is the final list of 2008’s best-selling cars, SUVs and trucks in America. Automakers had a rough ride, especially in the December month. Vehicle sales were badly affected by high gas prices for better part of the year and the parting blow was given by the credit crunch that suddenly came up from nowhere. But Ford F-Series Pickup has managed to stay Number 1 on the US Top 10 list for 2008.

The Ford F-Series trucks includes the F-150 and Super Duty models and together their tally for year 08 stands at 515,513. Honda dominates the top ten list with its 3 best seller- Accord, Civic and CR-V while Toyota and Chevrolet follow closely with 2 vehicles each.

The Top 10 Best-Selling Cars of 2008
* Ford F-Series: 515,513
* Chevy Silverado: 465,065
* Toyota Camry: 436,617
* Honda Accord: 372,789
* Toyota Corolla: 351,007
* Honda Civic: 339,289
* Nissan Altima: 269,668
* Chevy Impala: 265,840
* Dodge Ram: 245,840
* Honda CR-V: 197,279

Source: Kicking Tires
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Spy Photos: 2010 Nissan 370Z Caught Before LA Auto Show Debut

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Nissan was recently spied testing the upcoming 370Z prototype near the Nürburgring in Germany. The redesigned next-gen Z car will debut at Los Angeles auto show and is set to replace the outgoing 350Z by 2009-2010. With the Nissan Maxima like boomerang shaped headlights and rearlights, the new 370Z gets a 3.7-liter V-6 engine. To spice up the already hot coupe, Nissan is rumored to have used the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox from GT-R’s kitty.

See 09 Nissan 370Z Spy Pictures below.

From what we see, the new car looks shorter and wider than the current 350Z and has a more aggressive front-end treatment plus flared wheel-arches. The current 350Z is criticised for its dull interiors and not so good quality material used in cabin. So Nissan is expected to make some major improvements on this front in the next version of its iconic sports car.

Thanks Ronald for sending us these spy shots of Nissan 370Z.

Source: Ronald
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Photo Gallery: Spy Pictures of upcoming Nissan 370Z.

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Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept: Photos & Video

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Maserati has released the details of its new race car concept, the GranTurismo MC Corse. Developed by Maserati Racing Department engineers, the track-bound GranTurismo MC Concept is based on Maserati's flagship GranTurismo S. It comes with an upgraded engine along with a new intake system, catalytic converters and a center-exit exhaust enabling it to make 450 hp of power. Other modifications include an aero kit, 18-inch lightweight alloys, upgraded suspension and brake components and a FIA-approved rollcage.

GranTurismo MC Hi-Res Pics Pasted Below.

The Maserati Corse concept features two large air intakes along with new side air vents linked to the side skirts to improve air cooling for both the engine and the front brakes. The rear fenders are now wider to accommodate larger rear tires. Plus there are twin exit exhaust pipes integrated into the rear diffuser and the suspension has been upgraded to meet the track surface with new racing shocks and large racing slicks.

The MC Concept has been stripped of almost all the interior luxury that GranTurismo S possess. This weight saving exercise allowed it to gain a FIA-approved rollcage, a sole racing seat and a Sparco racing steering wheel while still weighing less than 1,400kg.

Maserati hasn't yet disclosed if the GranTurismo MC Corse concept is just a design exercise or an actual race car that we can soon hope to see in track events.

Source: carmagazine
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Video: Testing the new Maserati Granturismo MC Concept at Monza circuit.



Photo Gallery: Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept High-Res Pictures.

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Launch: 2009 Honda City Hits Thailand: Photos-Details

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Honda has made the official debut of its new updated economy car, the next gen Honda City. To begin with, 2009 City will only be available in Thailand. But within a few months time it will be released in India, China, Philippines, Malaysia, Pakistan and other Asian markets. The Thai version of Honda's latest City will sell for 524,000 to 694,000 baht, which is about 15,000 US dollars. It comes with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine that makes 120 hp of horsepower. It is available in five speed manual and automatic transmissions.

See 09 Model Honda City Picture Gallery Below.

Visually, Honda City is much better looking than the previous generation City and thus will have a much wider appeal. The front end has a strong resemblance to the Honda FCX Clarity. It has a huge front grille that merge seamlessly with the new stylized headlights which incidently look like they were taken from the Altis. At the rear the short bootlid with an integrated spoiler gives the car a stout BMW'ish look. Rear-lamps have a nice design but not everyone would say the same about it.

The exterior dimensions of the new Honda City are - 4,395mm long, 1,695mm wide and 1,470mm tall. This makes it 5mm longer and wider but 25mm shorter in height. Thus unlike the tall boy looks of the previous model, the new City gives an impression of being a much more proportional sedan with a sportier stance.

On the inside is a simple but elegantly designed dash, well laid out instrument cluster and an aluminium finish center console. There are loads of storage spaces that include 7 cup/bottle holders. The steering wheel is now adjustable for reach as well as height. It features paddle shift controls and integrated audio controls. Cars audio system now comes with an iPod compatible USB connector. The rear seats are placed higher than the ones at the front and can be folded in a 60/40 split. Everything is very well put together, as you would expect from Honda.

The fifth-gen Honda City comes in three models variants- S, V, SV. The City S and City V have dual-tone beige interiors while the top-end City SV gets the exclusive dark trims. For customers in Thailand the car will be available in six colours: Habanero Red Pearl, Deep Lapis Blue Metallic, Alabaster Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Bold Beige Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

Source: Pakwheels
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Photo Gallery: Latest Thai Version Honda City Official Pictures. Click Pics To Enlarge.


2009 Honda City Photo Gallery: Pictures Taken From Brochure. Click Pics To Enlarge.

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2009 Honda Insight To Be World's Cheapest Hybrid

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Honda will debut its Toyota Pirus challenger, the new Honda Insight as a concept car at the 2008 Paris Motor Show next month. Touted as being the least expensive hybrid in the world, the Insight hatchback is going to hit the market in 2009 with a possible base price of $18,500. It will share styling cues with the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle as can be seen from Honda's official pictures for the upcoming concept.

The Insight Concept defines a new stage in the evolution of hybrid technology by utilizing a more cost-efficient version of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) hybrid technology. The production Insight will be offered as a five-door, five-passenger hatchback. Numerous technologies, including a function to assist customers in achieving more fuel efficient driving habits, will be applied to achieve a further improvement in real world fuel efficiency.

Along with the Civic Hybrid, the new vehicle will be produced at an expanded hybrid vehicle production line at the Suzuka factory in Japan. The Insight is expected to have annual global sales of 200,000 units per year - approximately 100,000 in North America. Following the launch of the new Insight, Honda also plans to introduce another unique sporty hybrid vehicle based on the CR-Z, first shown at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show.

The original Honda Insight was introduced in December 1999 as America's first gas-electric hybrid car. The first vehicle to break the 70-mpg fuel economy barrier, Insight was designed from the ground up to demonstrate the potential for fuel-economy in a two-seater subcompact automobile.

Source: Hybrid Cars
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Photo Gallery: Honda Insight Concept Hybrid High-Res Pictures.

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Smart ForTwo Limited 2 Special Edition Released

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The Smart ForTwo Limited 2 Special Edition, based on the 71bhp Passion has just been released in Europe. The significant change from a regular Passion Coupe or Cabrio are the addition of 15-inch six-spoke alloys, a special pale blue metallic exterior paint and the interior covered with cognac brown leather. UK buyers also get an option to add electric power steering, an upgraded audio system and locking glove box. The price for Limited 2 coupe starts at $18,363 while the open top model gets a price tag of $22,100.

Further details can be checked in the press release pasted below.

Smart enthusiasts searching for that certain something extra need look no further than the exclusive smart fortwo special edition - limited two. Based on the popular 71bhp smart fortwo passion this special edition will be available in coupé and cabrio body styles when it goes on sale on 1st September 2008.

Boasting a wealth of additional equipment and a unique paint finish, which varies between different shades according to the light, the model is destined to become one of the most stylish and luxurious smarts ever produced.

The limited two's frugal fuel economy of up to 70.6mpg on the extra urban cycle is complemented by a lavish interior featuring cognac brown leather heated seats, a three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with gearshift, leather gear knob and velour floor mats with leather trim. A rev counter and clock are also added.

As well as limited two badging and six-spoke alloy wheels with 15-inch tyres, the newcomer is distinguished by its special light blue metallic paint finish which displays subtle silver and beige tones depending on the prevailing light conditions.

Owners can also choose to enhance their car's impressive specification with a trio of optional extras – electric power steering, a lockable glove compartment or a smart sound system.

Prospective buyers will need to act quickly to get their hands on smart's new edition limited two as numbers of this special edition will be limited in order to retain its exclusivity. On-the-road pricing is £9,575 for the coupé and £11,525 for the cabrio.

Source: Smart
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Bugatti Expands Model Range With New Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

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Yesterday at the 2008 Monterey Auto Show, the evening prior to the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the Bugatti unveiled a second model to the world – the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport with a unique removable roof. In response to customer demand, significant modifications have been made to the vehicle's complex structure to make possible open-top driving, thereby adding a new dimension to this high-performance sports car.

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport is immediately recognizable as a result of its slightly higher windscreen, stylized daytime running lights, and lightweight, transparent polycarbonate roof.

The new Bugatti also gets the carbon fibre doors and house an integrated longitudinal beam. In the event of an accident, this transfers the load from the A to the B-pillar, thereby dissipating impact energy. Furthermore, the two redesigned air intakes for the 16-cylinder mid-engine now feature 10-centimetre wide carbon-fibre elements to offer protection should the car roll.

Along with moisture-resistant, backstitched leather, a range of new equipment features has been added to the interior, including a reversing camera with 2.7-inch monitor in the rear-view-mirror, and the "Puccini" sound system with digital signal processor. When the roof is closed, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport can reach 407 km/h, while speeds of up to 360 km/h are possible with roof off. Should it rain, an innovative folding roof stored in the luggage compartment can be opened up like an umbrella at any time.

When this folding roof is in place, the car can travel at up to 130 km/h. Assembled by hand at the company's headquarters in Molsheim, Alsace, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport will be available from March 2009 at the price of 1.4 million euros (excluding tax). Just 150 examples will be made, with the first 50 of these going exclusively to registered Bugatti customers. The first vehicle is certain to be highly sought after, and Bugatti has taken the decision to donate this specific car to charity. It will be sold to the highest bidder at the Pebble Beach Auction presented by Gooding & Company.

Source: TheyReviewed
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Photo Gallery: New Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport High Res Pictures.

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Lexus Debuts Pebble Beach Edition LS 600h L & SC 430

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Lexus introduced the first-ever LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition and the sixth SC 430 Pebble Beach Edition to commemorate its continuing partnership with Pebble Beach Company. The vehicles were unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Lexus Fashion Preview. Production of these 2009 Pebble Beach Edition vehicles are limited to 50 LS 600h L hybrid luxury sedans and 300 SC 430 hardtop convertibles.

Pebble Beach Edition owners have the opportunity to customize their ownership experience by selecting from one of three distinctive merchandise packages: Callaway Golf Experience, Travel Package or Epicurean Encounter. The Pebble Beach LS hybrid comes standard with the Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS). Furthermore, the Pebble Beach Edition LS 600h L is equipped with the Advanced Parking Guidance System, Rear-Seat Entertainment System (RSES), power rear-door sunshades and rear-seat side airbags.

Celebrating its sixth year, the new Pebble Beach Edition SC 430 receives an exterior/interior color combination with a Mercury Metallic exterior paint and an exclusive two-tone Ecru and Black leather trim interior with Black Bird's-eye maple wood trim. The retractable hardtop convertible includes special-edition brushed chrome badging on the front fenders and center console, and an Ecru The Lone Cypress™ logo embroidered on black carpeted floor mats. It also features a color-keyed rear spoiler, 18-inch Machined Tourmaline alloy wheels, and white illuminated scuff plates. All-season run-flat or summer run-flat tires are available.

The 2009 SC 430 and LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition vehicles go on sale in September and October 2008, respectively.

Source: Lexus
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2009 BMW 7 Series Official Specs & Hi-Res Pictures

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Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) has as expected come out with the technical details and hi-res pictures of the 5th generation, 2009 model BMW 7-Series. We have already discussed a lot on the new 7-Series in our previous posts that can be read here. So now without adding anything more from our end we will leave you with what BMW has to say about its flagship model which is going to make its debut at the upcoming Paris Auto Show.

PRESS RELEASE (UK VERSION):
The New BMW 7-Series Highlights
- World's first Night Vision system with individual pedestrian recognition.
- World's first production car with front side view camera.
- First BMW Saloon with speed-related Integral Active Steering.
- First BMW with Lane Change Warning.
- BMW 7 Series to feature EfficientDynamics for class-leading CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.

The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.

The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November with a host of world firsts and will initially be offered with a choice of three powerplants, one diesel and two petrol engines. The two petrol-powered cars will be offered with a long-wheelbase body too. All three engines produce more power yet use less fuel and produce less emissions than the models they replace.

Model	Power hp	Torque Nm/lb-ft	Zero – 62mph Seconds 0 - 62	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg Imp/U.S.
BMW 730d	245	540/398	7.2	153	39.2/32.6
BMW 740i	326	450/332	5.9	155*	28.5/23.7
BMW 740Li	326	450/332	6.0	155*	28.2/23.4
BMW 750i	407	600/442	5.2	155*	24.8/20.6
BMW 750Li	407	600/442	5.3	155*	24.8/20.6

* Electronically-limited.

The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drivetrain performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm.

The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest ever CO2 figure of any previous BMW 7 Series and it is also the most economical 7 Series ever. Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 153mph top speed.

To put the BMW 730d's competitive advantage in context this luxurious vehicle records near identical fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the Mercedes C320CDi – a car that is two market segments below the 7 Series and is smaller and lighter than the BMW.

The impressive performance of the 730d is, in part, possible due to third-generation common-rail direct injection technology, incorporating piezo injectors, that operates at a peak pressure of 1,800 bar. This system ensures a near perfect combustion process. Weighing 185kgs the new six-cylinder diesel engine is also 5kgs lighter than its predecessor.

The BMW 730d is set to be the biggest seller in the UK, accounting for approximately 85 per cent of sales.

The BMW 750i and 750Li are the range flagships. The new 4,395cc V8 engine from the recently launched X6, featuring twin-turbochargers and high-precision direct injection technology, produces 407hp from 5,500rpm to 6,400rpm; impressive figures that are backed up by an equally stunning 600Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm. Such breathtaking performance sees the BMW 750i accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.3 seconds for the 750Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption on the combined cycle is 24.8mpg, while CO2 emissions equate to 266g/km.

The all-aluminium V8 engine powering the 750i and 750Li also features its own world first - twin-turbochargers and catalysts that are placed within the V-space of the engine block. This not only optimises packaging but the reduction in manifold length and larger cross sections mean the engine breathes better for enhanced performance. Double-VANOS variable valve technology and high-precision direct injection technology further aid engine performance to the degree that all the innovations combine to offer a V8 engine that has an equivalent output of a traditional 12-cylinder unit.

Aimed at customers who prefer the characteristics of a petrol-powered BMW six-cylinder engine, the BMW 740i and 740Li are also offered. Using an internationally-acclaimed 2,979cc powerplant, the BMW 740i musters 326hp and 450Nm of torque for rapid yet serene performance. The twin-turbocharged engine features high-precision direct injection and Double-VANOS variable valve technology to achieve optimum performance. The car accelerates from zero to 62mph in 5.9 seconds (6.0 seconds for the 740Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. The 3.0-litre BMW 740i and 740Li post combined fuel consumption figures of 28.5mpg and 28.2mpg respectively, while returning emissions figures of 232g/km and 235g/km.

All BMW 7 Series models come with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

EfficientDynamics
The launch of the new 7 Series means the entire BMW range now comes equipped with EfficientDynamics technologies as standard. With its roof, doors, bonnet and side panels all made from aluminium to dovetail with the principle of lightweight engineering, the BMW 7 Series also has other innovative class-leading technology which improves engine performance, while cutting fuel consumption and emissions.

Brake Energy Regeneration uses the engine's power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car's electrical circuit. When the driver is accelerating the alternator disengages so all of the engine's power is channelled towards the car's performance. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car. This intelligent use of drivetrain power is why EfficientDynamics technology has helped the 7 Series become a class-leader in terms of performance, fuel consumption and emissions.

World firsts
The BMW 7 Series' drivetrain superiority is reinforced with a plethora of automotive firsts. All 7 Series can now be specified with the world's first car available with a Side View camera system. In addition to Park Distance Control that aids slow speed manoeuvring, the front side view camera system provides another tier of driver awareness. With the touch of a button two forward facing cameras mounted in the front bumper can show an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display. This allows the driver to negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with absolute confidence.

The new BMW 7 Series can be specified with the world's most advanced Night Vision system in a production car. BMW was the first manufacturer to fit Night Vision to a premium car and it has now upgraded this package to include a pedestrian recognition system in another world first. A control unit analyses video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera's reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects a human is moving into the path of the vehicle.

Building on the impressive list of innovations, the 7 Series is the first BMW to feature Lane Change Warning combined with Lane Departure Warning. The latter is a system that first appeared on BMW 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel provides an alert. However, courtesy of two radars located at either side of the rear bumper, Lane Change Warning adds another level of driver safety. The sensors constantly scan the blind spot either side of the vehicle, up to a distance of 60 metres, and alert the driver to the presence of another vehicle with a triangular symbol in the door mirror housing.

Cars that are specified with Head-up Display and Lane Departure Warning have the added driver benefit of a speed limit warning system. The camera used as part of the Lane Departure Warning system can now also scan oncoming road signs to alert the driver of any impending speed restriction. The current speed limit is then displayed in the Head-up Display. This is the first time a production car has been offered with a speed warning system that can read road signs.

Completing the host of innovations is speed-related Integral Active Steering. A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3º. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics.

Tailormade driving dynamics
The latest generation BMW 7 Series is the first to have Drive Dynamic Control featuring Variable Damping Control as standard. Drive Dynamic Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. As part of this Variable Damping Control can bet set in comfort, normal, sport, sport + modes. For the first time though these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. The selected mode now alters the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel.

To aid driving dynamics and comfort the 7 Series is the first BMW Saloon to feature race car-like double-wishbone front suspension. This arrangement allows engineers to fine-tune the suspension for the best kinematic configuration. The rear suspension consists of a five-link arrangement made of aluminium which can be further optimised with the inclusion of Adaptive Air Suspension.

The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction of slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.

A new interior
The new BMW 7 Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car. In addition to a new iDrive controller and larger 10.2-inch screen, owners will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console. For the first time on a BMW the instrument cluster comprises a high-resolution colour display with Black Panel technology. This new style of display makes for greater character clarity and, when not in use, forms a smooth, homogenous black surface that gives the interior an added level of modern elegance.

The 7 Series is the first BMW to enable a customer to upload their favourite music to be stored on the vehicle courtesy of an 8Gb hard drive. In excess of 100 albums can be saved in this way for the driver's enjoyment. Four-zone automatic air-conditioning is fitted as standard while, for the first time, the 7 Series can have a rear seat ventilation system combined with massage function. The air-conditioning system feeds cool air to the seat squab and backrest, while 12 massage bubbles gently knead the occupants' upper body.

The BMW 7 Series comes with BMW ConnectedDrive. This facility features elements such as a dedicated call centre with a concierge service, automatic fault awareness and BMW Assist, the electronic safety net that automatically dials the emergency services in the event of an accident, free of charge for three years.

The BMW 7 Series goes on sale in the UK on 15 November, 2008. Prices will be announced in due course.

Source: TheyReviewed
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Photo Gallery: New 2009 Model BMW 7-Series High-Res Pictures.

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Opel To Launch Insignia Hatch-Sedan At British Motor Show

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GM Europe is preparing to debut the 2009 Opel Insignia hatchback and sedan variants at the 2008 British Motor Show in London. The new Insignia is based on Epsilon II platform and will be replacing the Opel Vectra. Europe will get the option of seven powertrains to choose from including four gas and three diesel models all mated to six speed transmission.

The four gasoline engines range from a four-cylinder 115 hp unit to a V6 with 260 hp. Three new direct-injection turbo-diesels exclusively developed for the Insignia feature a displacement of 2.0 liters and power outputs spanning from 110 to 160 hp.

The newly developed chassis for Insignia can be enhanced with the innovative, integrated FlexRide mechatronic system, as well as the sophisticated Adaptive 4x4. The length of both the notchback and hatchback, at 4,830 mm, and the wheelbase of 2,737 mm remain the same. The Insignia's fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and driving dynamics benefit from the aerodynamic efficiency that was perfected during more than 650 hours in the wind tunnel. The result: A class-leading drag coefficient of 0.27.

Prices for the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Austria and Switzerland will be announced July 22 in London and cars will hit German dealerships before the end of the year. Opel expects both models to sell in about equal numbers but U.K. and France enjoy a high market share for 5-door sedans in the mid-size class segment.

Source: TheyReviewed
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Preview: New 2009 BMW 7-Series (F01) Photos Leaked

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Today our day started on a exciting note as we got our first look at the production model pictures of yet to debut new 2009 BMW 7-Series that hit the web via Flickr. How these seemingly official press photos of upcoming 7-series got leaked is not known but we take it as pre-release publicity act by BMW. Anyhow, it looks a lot like the outgoing model but a bit more edgier and tauter. The new 7-Series take many design cues from the CS Concept, like the angel-eye shape of the front headlamps and an oversized grille. You can see the comparison photo here.

The rear end has been blessed with a more balanced and intergrated look than before. It gets a pair of uniquely restyled but odd looking tail-lamps. Not sure how many of you would like them but atleast give the Bavarian automaker some credit for its effort.

Expect for fixing certain styling ills of the previous generation model, there doesn't seem anything revolutionary about the exteriors of the new BMW flagship. But don't get too upset as a lot of significant changes are expected under the sheet-metal including a longer wheelbase and higher spec powertrain options plus a hybrid version at a later stage.

Moving inside, the car comes with a markedly cleaner and more refined interior look which is quite different from what we saw earlier in the spy shot. It gets some neat restyling and new cool looking gadgets but if you thought you could just wish away the iDrive, better luck next time. BMW is confident that its second generation iDrive controller won't irritate its users and comes with the new iDrive onscreen interface thats believed to be easier on eyes.

It seems that the 7-Series would also get BMW's in-car Internet system since a Google search page is shown in one of the pictures below. For the guys at the back there are individual rear-seat monitors which look more useful and classy than the regular center single screen used in the outgoing model. Even the gear-shifter looks new and is no longer mounted on the steering column.

BMW is expected to release the high-res official photos and more details about its new 7-Series on July 7th. Is it a coincidence that the new 7 comes on the 7th day of the 7th month?

Source: Flickr
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Photo Gallery: New 09 Model BMW 7-Series Pictures.

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Photo: New 2009 BMW 7-Series Tease Golfers

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If you regularly follow golf tournaments, or have atleast seen this years European Tour's BMW International Open held in Germany, then what we have here may not be a news to you. For others we'll like to inform that during the above said outing BMW placed an official teaser picture of its new 2009 7-Series in form of a large banner on the golf course. As you can see from the photo, it only displays a darkened view of the upcoming next generation BMW 7-Series’ front end.

The part of the poster that attracts most attention is not the regular BMW kidney grill but the new front headlamps. The uptil now the 7-Series spy photos have never revealed the look of the headlights, but looking at this teaser shot you can easily conclude that the new Bimmer is going to receive the chrome eyelid LED headlamps similar to the one seen on BMW CS Concept which debuted at Shanghai last year. See the photo comparison below.

Like the current 7 Series, under the hood you can expect the usual range of V8 and V12 engines and if rumors are beleived, it might come with eight-speed automatic transmission plus a new night-vision system and speed-limit recognition technology. BMW will start building the next-generation 2009 7-series this fall and it will hit Europe later this year with sales in US starting in spring of 2009.

It is being believed that BMW will make the public debut of the new 7 at this years Paris Auto Show in October but some reports suggest that the car is suppose to be revealed on July 7, 2008. No stress, we'll keep you updated.

Source: 7 Post
Read More On: BMW 7-Series

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Spy Photo: Aston Martin Vantage V12 Prototype Spotted

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The engineers of iconic British automaker Aston Martin were recently spied testing the upcoming limited edition V12 powered Vantage prototype. The proof of this is the spy photo you see here. From the looks of the car it appears to be your regular 380-hp Aston Vantage V8 but look carefully and you will notice the four strips of louvers on the hood. Does it look familiar?

Definately yes as this louvered engine cover is taken straight from 600-hp V-12 powered Vantage RS Concept shown last December and is a necessity for cooling such a high spec engine which in production form is expected to delivering about 550 horsepower.

According to the spy photographer, the test mule has a new redesigned carbon fibre rear diffuser as seen on the concept model. The integrated rear spoiler is now smaller in comparison to the show car and it also gets the newly styled side rockers. Further the prototype was seen wearing big carbon-ceramic disc brakes which have been borrowed from current Aston DBS.

With a power-to-weight ratio of over 375bhp per ton, the V12 Vantage RS concept is the fastest accelerating road car ever built by the company, capable of reaching 62mph (100km/h) from rest in 4.0 seconds and 100mph (160km/h) in just 8.5 seconds. So it won't be wrong to expect similar performance from the upcoming production version of Aston Martin's V12 Vantage but you won't get it cheap as it is expected to cost double the price of Vantage V8.

Source: NextAutos
Read More On: Aston Martin



Photo Gallery: 2009 Aston Martin V12 Vantage RS Concept High-Res Pictures.

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New Seat Ibiza Sport-Coupe (SC) Details & Photos

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Within few months of the Seat Ibiza five-door's international debut, the Spanish automaker is back with the stylish Ibiza SportCoupé. It is the three-door variant of the new SEAT Ibiza and is due to make its first public appearance at the upcoming 2008 British Motor Show in London. Targeted specifically towards sports-orientated supermini buyers, the SportCoupé's 1.6-liter (105 PS) powerplant will be offered with a seven-speed DSG double-clutch gearbox. It is expected to go on sale in UK before the end of this year.

Checkout Seat's official press release for the new Ibiza SportCoupé and some of its high resolution photos below.

Press Release.
Hot on the heels of the smart SEAT Ibiza five-door's international debut, the dynamic Spanish car maker is today revealing its stunning new Ibiza SportCoupé.

With two fewer doors and an even more svelte shape than its stylish five-door supermini sibling, the sassy SportCoupé is tailored very clearly towards drivers keen to mix fun and functionality with a head-turning shape.

The SportCoupé's bespoke silhouette – at 1,428 mm it is 17 mm lower than the five-door with a markedly different and more aggressive design treatment throughout – clearly signals the sporting intentions of the latest addition to the new Ibiza family.

And that dedication to driving excitement is underlined by the newcomer's technical highlights which include the option of cutting edge seven-speed DSG double clutch gearbox technology – a world first for the supermini segment.

The ultra slick-shifting automatic/sequential manual 'box will be available on 105 PS 1.6-litre versions of the new car, while crisp handling and a composed ride are assured courtesy of the Ibiza SC's all-new supermini platform – the first application of this particular engineering base in the Volkswagen Group.

There's also a different interpretation of designer Luc Donckerwolke's 'Arrow Design', with lowered headlights and repositioned radiator grille serving to reinforce the muscular new motor's obvious kerb appeal.

Precise engine and trim combos have yet to be confirmed, although it's already clear that more potent FR and Cupra versions of the new Ibiza will certainly sport SC styling when they make their debuts over the coming months.

SEAT Head of Marketing, Steve Robertson, said of the important addition to the new Ibiza family: 'Traditionally, a significant part of our business has been built on the success of three-door Ibiza, so the unveiling of this stunning new SportCoupé is a key moment for us.

'I know our existing Ibiza owners, as well as sports-orientated supermini buyers generally, will be thrilled at what they see. Personally, I can't wait to see the new Ibiza SC on the road here in the UK!'

Source: Seat
Read More On: Cars From Seat

Photo Gallery: New 2009 Model Seat Ibiza SportCoupe Pictures.

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Teaser Photo: Upcoming 2010 Lotus Eagle Sneak Preview

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Lotus is gearing up for July 22 world debut of it Project Eagle, a mid-engined 2+2 Lotus sports car at the British Motor Show. This event would mark the first significant launch by Lotus in past 13 years. The photo that you see here of a black sheet drapped car with its headlights and fog lamps lit is what we think to be the sneak preview of upcoming Eagle. And this picture has been released in preparation for the Lotus diamond (60th) anniversary celebration that will be held in September.

The unlike the earlier Eagle spy photos & video, this preview photo doesn't reveal much about the looks of the car except for the shape and placement of front lights. But one thing is quite clear, the camo makes the car's front-end look like one big smile but we imagine it hides a very aggressive looking 'Eagle' underneath.

Going into production at the beginning of 2009 as a 2010 model, Project Eagle will enter the market as Lotus' flagship performance car above the Elise, Exige and Europa. Based on an all-new aluminum chassis that's set to underpin the forthcoming Esprit supercar, the Eagle is rumored to be powered by the modified version of 3.3 and 3.5-litre V6 Toyota engines.

Lotus has already confirmed that unlike the current Elise/Exige family, the larger Eagle will have a hydraulic assist system for the steering rack and would use the Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) that consists mainly of bonded aluminum extrusions.

Mike Kimberley CEO of Group Lotus had earlier said: "This is a very exciting period for us at Lotus and the whole company is enjoying the challenge of delivering such an exceptional new Lotus car... we are proving that the new Lotus is a reality and that VVA is an advanced ecological technology from which further Lotus models will be produced, thus giving Lotus a true "multi-platform" line up over the next 5 years".

We are expecting that the new 2010 Lotus Eagle will debut in UK with a price tag of around £45,000. Now don't get too serious about the number, its just an estimate.

Source: Lotus60thAnniversary
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2009 Nissan GT-R To Hit US Showrooms This July, 70% Already Booked

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From July 7th, Nissan will begin the delivery of new 2009 GT-R's first batch to the 671 GT-R Certified Nissan dealers in USA. More than 1,700 of the exotic 480-horsepower GT-R supercars, or approximately 70 percent of the first year allocation for the United States market, have already been spoken for since the order books opened in last January.

The base model of the fifth-generation GT-R comes with a price tag of $69,850 while the GT-R Premium model goes for $71,900 plus the $1,000 for destination and handling costs. Car comes equipped with a standard 480-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 engine and advanced 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

All new 2009 Nissan GT-R has been holding the record for the fastest lap time of 7 minutes 29 seconds achieved by a production-spec vehicle at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife. But two days back this lap-record was broken by the GM's upcoming 2009 Corvette ZR1. Its has managed to set a faster laptime of 7:26.4. But please don't get us wrong as we are not trying to compare the two cars, nor can they be compared. Why?, because Corvette ZR1 is a 640Hp supercar that costs $103,300 which is almost twice the cost of GT-R and comes with 160 more horses. They are both supercars but in a different league. And we suppose that a sportscar’s Nurburgring lap-time shouldn't be a factor in your car buying decision if you won't be frequently hitting the Ring.

"After years of speculation and anticipation, the wait for a U.S.-spec Nissan GT-R is over," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "GT-R is one supercar that more than lives up to its promise, with independent testing by the leading auto enthusiasts magazines and online sites producing performance results that only a handful of production cars have ever attained – much less at a $70,000 MSRP."

Mr Castignetti you just hit the bulls-eye.

Source: Nissan
Read More On: Nissan GT-R

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Alfa Romeo Launch Prodrive Tuned Brera S For UK

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There is soon going to be a new sports car on the block, developed specifically for roads in Britain. Alfa Romeo is planning for the new, limited edition Alfa Brera S with a hand from Prodrive, the world-leading motorsport specialist. Alfa says the engineers worked intensively for a year on suspension and chassis development and the result is a sports coupe that subtly enhances all that is good about the original Alfa Brera, while giving it crisp driver feedback & handling.

Distinctly different from the rest of the line-up, this unique addition to Alfa Romeo's UK range includes refined styling changes, inside and out. And to ensure ultimate exclusivity, production of the Alfa Brera S will be limited to just 500 individually numbered models. Power comes from a choice of two existing direct injection petrol engines – the 185 bhp 2.2 JTS and the 260 bhp 3.2 V6 JTS.

For the record, the 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 JTS Alfa Brera S can reach 62 mph from rest in 8.6 and 7.0 seconds respectively, on the way to maximum speeds of 139 and 155 mph.

To reduce roll and pitch and achieve an even flatter cornering attitude, Prodrive commissioned bespoke Eibach coil springs and Bilstein dampers. Spring rates are increased by over 50 per cent compared to the standard Alfa Brera, giving the car a more nimble and agile feel, while the specially tuned gas-filled mono-tube dampers give tighter body control. To further enhance suspension geometry and achieve lower centre of gravity, the cars have been lowered by 10 mm front and rear.

At each corner of the Alfa Brera S, unique Alfa 8C Competizione-inspired, lightweight 19" alloy wheels and Pirelli PZero Nero tyres have been fitted. The Prodrive stamped exhaust comes finished with chrome embellishers and has been altered to mirror the shape of the rear lights. The list continues with the Prodrive branded front stone deflectors, and a bespoke red 'S' or 'SV6' on the C-pillar.

Inside the 3.2 V6 JTS Alfa Brera S, changes are more obvious. Not only are the sports seats upholstered in soft black Frau® leather with red stitching, so are the dashboard fascia, door panels, steering wheel and gearlever. Foot pedals are fashioned from drilled aluminium and the headrest recess houses a limited edition Brera S aluminium plate, featuring the flags of Italy and Britain. This interior can also be specified on the 2.2 JTS version.

The transition from Alfa Brera to Brera S takes place at Alfa Romeo UK's dedicated import centre, near Bristol, and is overseen by Prodrive.

Source: TheyReviewed
Read More On: Alfa Romeo

Photo Gallery: Alpha Romeo's Limited Edition Prodrive Brera S High-Res Wallpaper Pictures.

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Audi A5 Coupe UK Lineup Gets 2.0L TFSI Eco-Friend

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Just like many other autmakers, Audi also wants to display its concern for environment. So it goes ahead and adds the new 2.0L TFSI to its A5 model range and will be available this August. The vehicles reported 42.8 mpg (36 mpg US) mileage in mixed driving definately boost its eco-friend credentials but don't worry, its also fun to drive. A5 2.0 TFSI generates 208 hp of power at 4300 rpm and torque of 258 lb-ft at 1500 rpm allowing it to hit 62 mph in a decent 6.9 seconds. And its all yours for £28,760. Check press release below for details.

PRESS RELEASE:
Latest Turbo FSI engine joins Audi coupé range and reiterates that fun and frugality are far from mutually exclusive A5 2.0 TFSI now available to order in front-wheel-drive or quattro all-wheel-drive forms priced at £28,760 OTR and £30,285 OTR – first deliveries in August. All-new Turbo FSI engine is based on 1.8 TFSI from new A4, but adds Audi valvelift technology for improved engine 'breathing' to maximise performance and efficiency.

A newly developed Turbo FSI petrol engine available from this week for the Audi A5 provides the sought-after coupe with yet another choice blend of pace and pence-per-mile efficiency. The new 211PS A5 2.0 TFSI can be ordered in either front-wheel-drive or quattro permanent all-wheel-drive forms for £28,760 OTR or £30,285 OTR, and will reach its first UK customers in August.

The new high-tech 2.0-litre unit is derived from the already much praised 1.8 TFSI engine introduced recently in A3, A4 and A5 models. It delivers 211PS from 4,300rpm and a very impressive 350Nm torque maximum from just 1,500rpm – more even than the 3.2-litre V6 FSI unit also powering A5 models. It enables the front-wheel-drive A5 2.0 TFSI with six-speed manual transmission to cover the 0-62mph sprint in 6.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 155mph and return up to 42.8mpg according to the combined cycle test. And despite doing full justice in performance terms to the purposeful styling of the A5, it also shows restraint where emissions are concerned, with an output of 154g/km for the front-wheel-drive version.

Standard specification for front-wheel-drive and quattro all-wheel-drive versions of the new A5 2.0 TFSI includes xenon headlamps with trademark LED strip daytime running lamps, 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, 3-zone electronic climate control, a 10-speaker Concert CD audio system, full Milano leather upholstery and rear acoustic parking.

Source: Audi
Read More On: Cars From Audi

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