CarNoise

Survey: Maruti-Suzuki is India’s Most Trusted Automotive Brand

2012-01-24T04:39:00.000-08:00

Trust is a complex concept to be measured and even more difficult to earn and maintain. Brand loyalty thrives on trust and higher this rating goes more consumers follow the brand. As per 'The Trust Report, India Study 2012', compiled by the Brand Trust Advisory, Maruti Suzuki is India’s most trusted automotive brand. Now that can’t be called a surprising revelation since it’s already a well known fact the Maruti commands lots of respect and trust in India and its reflection can be seen in its annual sales figure.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Alto has been rated as the top two most trusted cars and BMW leads the list of luxury car brands followed by Audi. Interestingly as per the report the second and third largest automobile maker in India, the Hyundai Motor and Tata Motors could not make it to the list of top ten trusted automotive manufacturers. Come on now, the quality of cars from Hyundai and Tata has improved a lot in recent years but it seems that even in the past year people continued to suspect cars from these brands.

"The report measures 61 tangible and intangible aspects of brand trust, which combine to encompass all positive behaviours and attitudes toward a brand," Trust Research Advisory CEO N Chandramouli said.

The survey was conducted between August-November 2011 and took into account the responses and views on 17,000 brands from over 2,700 participants across 15 cities in the country and has featured top 1,000 brands from several categories.

What we are more concerned about here is how our automotive brands performed on the trust factor. So checkout below the list of top ten automotive brands as per the Brand Trust Report 2012 which have managed to gain and maintain the trust of people of India all through the year of 2011.

Source: TrustAdvisory
Read More On: Maruti-Suzuki

Rank	Brand	Category
1	Maruti-Suzuki	Four-Wheeler
2	BMW	Luxury Cars
3	Hero Honda	Two-Wheeler
4	Toyota	Four-Wheeler
5	Honda	Four-Wheeler
6	Ford	Four-Wheeler
7	Audi	Luxury Cars
8	Skoda	Four-Wheeler
9	Hero	Two-Wheeler
10	Yamaha	Two-Wheeler

Comparison: Maruti Suzuki Ertiga vs Toyota Innova - The Inevitable Competitors

2012-01-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

Maruti Suzuki has entered the multi-purpose vehicle market with the launch of its Ertiga MPV at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The new Ertiga kick starts a new compact premium UV (utility vehicle) segment in India and will soon be joined by Chevrolet, Mahindra and others. So before the new players join the party let’s compare the pioneer of the mini MPV class, Ertiga with the ruling boss of this segment, the new Toyota Innova.

Pitching the new Ertiga (which means three rows in Indonesian language) against the recently facelifted Toyota Innova seems odd since they don’t belong to the same segment and are targeted at a different set of customer base. But going by the lack of options for MPV buyers in our automobile market the Ertiga vs Innova duel won’t feel out of place. The Utility Vehicle (UV= MPV + SUV) segment accounts for around 14 per cent of the total sale of vehicles in India and a 66 per cent of these are Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPV), the segment where Ertiga is positioned.

(Checkout a detailed pictorial comparison between Ertiga and Innova below).

Innova has been ruling Indian hearts for many years due to its proven reliability and workhorse powerplant. Maruti Suzuki’s Ertiga is new but coming from the stable of India’s largest automobile manufacture gives it a certain halo of trust in the eyes of masses. Though an MPV, the Ertiga has a very car-like styling and stance. The front resembles a buffed up Ritz hatchback while the peeled-back headlights are reminiscent of the new Swift which along with the pronounced wheel arches and a strong rising shoulder line gives it a bold stance. The rear has a distinct design with Honda Jazz like tail light. But it can still be easily identified from behind as a Maruti product with its trademark centrally located stop lamp at the bottom of the bumper.

With the launch of its Ertiga, Maruti not only intends to attract a new class of customers into its fold but also expects to take away many of the Toyota buyers who used to shop in the ‘Innova market’. Now that’s easier said than done. Ertiga does not make a style statement like say the Fluidic Hyundai but its appeal lies in the neutral ‘please all’ design and that’s what is going to help it be the choice of the whole family. So let’s try to decipher the new Ertiga while not forgetting what Innova has to offer.

Ertiga vs Innova: Target Base.

Toyota Innova is designed to move 7 people in comfort and can accommodate the 8th passenger in times of need. That’s one of the reasons what makes it a hit in the taxi segment as well as for personal use. Checkout Ertiga and you’ll find that it’s built to enable 6 people (4 adults + 2 kids) to travel together in peace and can still find space for one more rider if required. So what set of customers is Maruti Suzuki aiming at with its new MPV? Answer is - a conventional Indian middle class family with an average income and in need of space for 1 or 2 more people than what a usual hatchback or sedan can accommodate. Generally speaking, a complete family normally consists of 5 or 6 members: Parents (2) in age group 55-75yrs, self and spouse (age 25-45) and their 2 offspring’s (age 5-15). Till now people of this segment had to either choose a large 3 row SUV (15-20lakh) or had to stretch their budget to atleast the Innova territory. So with launch of Ertiga, Maruti intends to hit the sweet spot of Indian customers looking for a MUV at a price of a mid-size sedan.

Ertiga vs Innova: Structural Advantage.

Toyota cars are built to last and have comfortable interiors but boring looks and Innova is no different. Maruti Suzuki made vehicles are known to be value for money, practical by design and are loved for their highly fuel efficient motor and pleasing looks and Ertiga carries on this tradition. Technically speaking Innova is based on the old body on frame construction architecture and due to the inherent rigidity of this structure it can endure bad roads better. Ertiga on other hand is a modern MPV based on an extended Ritz platform, which itself is based on a modified Swift platform. Due to this monocoque construction it gets advantage over Innova in terms of better ride comfort, stability and handling.

Ertiga vs Innova: Space vs Utility.

Dimension	Innova	Ertiga
Length (mm)	4585	4265
Width (mm)	1760	1695
Height (mm)	1760	1685
Wheelbase (mm)	2750	2740
Boot (liter)	400	135

The inside of the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga looks spacious and a lot of credit for it goes to the all beige interior colour. It has 3 rows of seats just like a traditional MPV with a maximum capacity to carry 7 passengers at a time. But realistically speaking, shoulder room will be at a premium if 3 adults decide to sit in the middle row since Ertiga is only as wide as the all-new 2011 Swift. The seats of the middle row can slide forward/backward as required. The 3rd row is best left to kids or really short adults. Legroom & head-room are in extremely short supply there. Notice that the 2nd row seat has a 60:40 fold-down split. You can also completely fold down the 2nd and 3rd row of seats when more than 135 liter of boot space is needed. Ertiga is no match for the amount of room including the luggage space you get inside a full size MPV like Innova. On comparing the outer dimensions you will notice that Toyota is longer by quite a margin even though both have almost the same size of wheelbase. This is due to the fact that Ertiga has very short overhang and the loss of space inside make its proportions compact on outside. And a smaller body shell allows lots of flexibility to park and maneuver easily even in congested areas, giving it an edge over Innova.

Ertiga vs Innova: Engine & Fuel Efficiency.

Comparison	Innova (Diesel)	Ertiga (Diesel)	Innova (Petrol)	Ertiga (Petrol)
Power (ps)	102	90	132	95
Torque (Nm)	200	200	181	130
Fuel Economy (ARAI Kmpl)	12.99	20.77	10.35	16.02

Just like Innova, Maruti’s new UV also comes in both petrol and diesel versions. Suzuki’s highly acclaimed K-series petrol engine family is joined by its youngest member with the debut of the new K-14B VVT 1.4 liter petrol motor in Ertiga. But the main volumes puller will however be the 1.3 Liter DDiS Fiat derived Multijet turbo diesel engine, which is the same unit that powers the SX4. Its pulling torque power is equal to Innova’s 200Nm even though net power is lower. But being a smaller and lighter vehicle gives Maruti Ertiga the advantage of higher power to weight ratio and better mileage.

Ertiga vs Innova: Market Price.
Maruti Suzuki has the bandwidth to price Ertiga very competitively due to its large scale of operation, high amount localization and lots of component sharing like extended Ritz chassis and a specially tuned SX4 diesel engine. Also its dashboard is lifted straight out of new 2011 Swift..well almost. So a starting price of 6.5 to 7 lakhs should not be a surprise. New face-lifted 2012 Toyota Innova now comes with a base price of Rs 8,87,400. Now that’s quite a price difference but don’t forget that Innova is much bigger and more powerful than Ertiga.

Ertiga vs Innova: Conclusion.
By now it is clear that no matter in how much detail we try and compare Maruti Ertiga with Innova, the bottomline always remains the same i.e. both MPVs are different and by comparing one with other we do justice with none. Pitching Innova against Ertiga is just like comparing the mighty Ford Endeavour with the compact Skoda Yeti SUV. Ertiga and Innova are vehicles of different segment. Innova already rules the large MPV market and Ertiga don’t have any rivals yet to compete against in the compact MPV segment. But that is going to change soon when manufactures like Chevrolet, Renault, Nissan, Mahindra etc come to the market with their own version of mini MPV.

Read More On: Maruti-Suzuki

Photo Gallery: New Maruti Suzuki Ertiga vs Facelifted 2012 Toyota Innova

Ertiga vs Innova Front Side View

Ertiga vs Innova Front Grill, Headlight, Fog Lamp

Ertiga vs Innova Dashboard, Steering Comparison

Ertiga vs Innova Interior Space Comparison

Ertiga vs Innova Boot Space Comparison

Ertiga vs Innova Boot Space with 3rd Row Folded

Ertiga vs Innova Rear Comparison. Notice Bottom Lamp.

Ertiga vs Innova Front Profile View

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Facelift Spied & Compared

2012-01-06T09:06:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet Cruze has been GM’s most successful model in India since its launch in mid-2009. But competition has been getting stronger with the launch of all-new VW Jetta, a refreshed Toyota Corolla and the upcoming debut of next generation 2012 Honda Civic this year. So with the heat rising in this segment Chevy can’t just sit back and enjoy its success. For quite sometime now we have been hearing about how GM intends to improve back seat comfort in Cruse and may launch facelift version this year. What you see here is the first clear photo of the new face of Cruze, thanks to our reader Mohitu who mailed it to us.

So going by this spy pic we can expect the facelift version to come with significant modifications to the front bumper design. The most obvious change is seen in the grille that no longer adopt the honeycomb model but horizontal lines that reinforce its character. Lower grille has been replaced with a single integrated slat. The fog light surrounds have a triangular shape, a bit like a Camry and includes LED daytime running lights.

Now all these changes are expected in the 2012 American version of Cruze facelift but how much will get filtered down to Indian spec is yet to be seen.

Read More On: Chevrolet

Spy Photos: 2012-2013 Chevrolet Cruze Facelift Comparison

Video: Qatar's Fleet Of Porsche Police Cars

2012-01-01T02:44:00.000-08:00

It’s a well known fact that people in Saudi Arabia has special liking for Audi vehicles and that’s why the term “saudis in audis” is famous. But what we were not aware of was the kind of passion people in Qatar (a country known to have highest per-capita GDP on Earth mainly due to its vast oil and natural gas reserves) has for Ferrari badged SUVs and sportscars.

When someone talks about the Republic Day parade of India, usually the picture that we get in mind is of large armored vehicles and tanks. But looking at the video of Qatar National Day parade (it happens each year in commemoration of Qatar's unification and independence) made us realize what transformation can happen if our country has loads of cash to burn and low crime rate.

Check out the clip below showing Qatar Police Force proudly displaying to the assembled crowd its gigantic fleet of Porsche Cayenne SUVs and Porsche Panamera sedans along with several Toyota Land Cruiser. It should be noted that this Arab state is a major shareholder in Porsche SE and Volkswagen group. So in short it won’t be wrong to says: “qataris in ferraris” just like “saudis in audis”.

Read More On: Porsche

Video: Porsche Police Cars Parade in Qatar

Toyota Aqua / Prius C: World’s Most Fuel Efficient Hybrid Launched

2011-12-30T04:53:00.000-08:00

Toyota recently launched in Japan its latest compact car which is being said to be the world’s most fuel efficient mass produced hybrid vehicle (excluding plug-in hybrid vehicles). The new car is being touted as a small successor to Toyota’s revolutionary Prius and is called Aqua in home market and Prius C in other countries. With addition of Prius C hatchback, Toyota now has 4 Prius-badged hybrid models that includes the regular Prius, the new plug-in Prius PHEV and the Prius V minivan.

According to Toyota’s Press Release, “the Aqua incorporates 17 years of Toyota expertise and technology in the development of mass-produced hybrid vehicles, and boasts a small, light and efficient hybrid system that achieves a world-leading fuel efficiency”. On the Japanese JC08 test cycle (a new method of finding fuel efficiency), the Aqua gave an incredible fuel economy of 35.4 km/L (83.3 mpg) and 40.0 km/L (94 mpg) under the MLIT 10-15 test cycle (the original Japanese method of calculating efficiency numbers).

Aqua, which means water in Latin, is powered by a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine producing 74 hp, and mated to a 45 kW electric motor. Combined output of 100 hp is enough to push it to 100 km/h (62mph) in 10.7 seconds in combination with its CVT gearbox. Aqua has a length of 3.9 meters as compared to 4.48 meters Prius and costs around 22% lesser. The car’s base model is priced at 1,690,000 yen in Japan which is about Rs 11,42,973. But if Toyota decides to launch Aqua in India in near future with 1.2L engine under the hood then we can hope for a much lower pricing.

Toyota Aqua/Prius C Technology Highlights:

A cooled Exhaust-Gas Recirculation (EGR) system improves efficiency in the high-expansion-ratio Atkinson cycle engine.
Also contributing to increased engine efficiency is a battery-powered water pump, a friction-reducing beltless design and precise coolant-water-flow volume control.
A selectable electric-vehicle mode (EV Mode) enables driving with only the electric motor.
The hybrid battery has been sized for placement under the rear seat, resulting in a spacious cargo area of 305 liters.
The Hybrid System Indicator offers easy-to-understand information concerning eco-driving, such as effective accelerator use. Also part of the information system is Eco Judge ranks eco-driving on a 100-point scale, and Eco Wallet shows money saved as compared with other levels of fuel efficiency.
Automatic air conditioning is equipped with an electric inverter compressor run by the electric motor, enabling a comfortably air-conditioned interior even when the engine is off.

Read More On: Toyota

Photo Gallery: New 2012 Toyota Prius C / Aqua Hybrid Hatchback

Survey: Honda Cars Stronger Than BMW & Merc

2011-12-28T23:20:00.000-08:00

Honda cars have been found to be the best equipped to deal with potholes, saving drivers thousands of rupees in repairs each year, according to a new research by Potholes.co.uk. These results are based on warranty claims resulting from pothole damage in UK and gives out the names of top 10 best and worst susceptible car brands. According to the research, after Honda, the most ‘pothole-proof’ manufacturers are Toyota and Hyundai, with less than 2% of their cars suffering axle and suspension damage attributable to potholes and other road defects.

Chrysler came out as the most unreliable against potholes followed by hot shots like Land Rover, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. These premium brands are known world over as being the manufacturers of some of the best cars and off road SUVs including Presidential vehicles. It’s difficult to imagine that those fancy low profile tires and large, expensive wheels that we see on luxury vehicles with their bulging sidewalls are not really strong enough to deal with what our roads have to offer. This survey doesn’t sound promising for their known credentials.

'We've found some cars have an uncanny ability to absorb the jolts from even the most severe road craters, while others aren't so resilient,' said Duncan McClure Fisher of Warranty Direct. According to their calculations in an average year, there is a 6 per cent chance of any car suffering such damage.

Since the government continues to struggle to solve the pothole problem, we consumers can at least be smart about our vehicle of choice. Scroll down to see the ranking compiled by potholes.co.uk.

Read More On: Honda

Top 10 Most Resilient
Make	Damage Rate
Honda	1.4%
Toyota	1.5%
Hyundai	1.7%
Nissan	2.0%
Kia	2.1%
Mitsubishi	2.2%
Mini	3.0%
Suzuki	3.1%
Ford	3.4%
Mazda	3.4%

Top 10 Least Resilient
Make	Damage Rate
Chrysler	12.2%
Smart	10.6%
Mercedes	10.4%
Land Rover	10.1%
Jaguar	9.4%
Saab	8.5%
Fiat	7.4%
BMW	6.8%
SEAT	6.6%
Vauxhall	6.4%

Why Honda Pledge To Destroy 1,055 New Cars?

2011-12-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

Quality first always - the Honda way. In a bid to reassure its customers worldwide that no vehicle damaged in Thailand’s recent flood crisis will ever be sold, Honda has started the process of scrapping and destroying a total of 1055 cars. The cars include 217 units of Honda Brio, 213 Jazz, 353 City, 150 Civic, 91 Accord, 30 CR-V and one imported Freed. In order to ensure transparency, the vehicle identification numbers of all the cars will be made public on Honda's (Thailand) website www.honda.co.th .

In a statement, executive vice president of Honda Automobile Thailand Pitak Pruittisarikorn said, “We will not sell any of the damaged cars to customers, or sell or reuse any of the parts. This is to create confidence amongst our Honda customers that Honda will abide to its credibility of the automobile's quality control".

The decision to scrap the cars has caused many to question why Honda did not attempt to at least salvage some of the parts, or possibly donate the cars. The simple answer is that Honda realized that an influx of flood-damaged cars into the market could potentially cause more harm than it would be worth to the brand’s reputation down the road – especially if people choose to re-sell the car and fail to disclose the car’s past. Furthermore, if the automaker attempted to salvage certain parts of the car they would likely forfeit major write-offs as well.

On-site demonstrations outside Honda’s Thailand plant showed the step by step process of how the flood damaged cars will be made completely unusable. The specialist workers hired by Honda to scrap the cars first drained the remaining liquids from the engine and then dissembled the car by delicate steps. Finally, the skeleton of the car was lifted by a crane into a gigantic mobile pressing machine which turned it into a compressed cube for recycling.

The process of decommissioning and scrapping all the flood damaged vehicles is said to be done in an environmentally-responsible way and is expected to be completed within one month.

Flashback:The Honda automobile plant in Rojana Industrial Park in Ayutthaya Province, Thailand was under heavy flooding in early October that brought production to a halt and aerial pictures showed hundreds of new cars submerged in muddy water. The waters have since receded significantly but many areas still face a major clean-up operation. Production is yet to resume at the factory.

Read More On: Honda

Video: Honda Demonstrates The Process Of Scrapping It's Car

Video: SRK drives new Hyundai Sonata in Don 2

2011-12-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

Don Shahrukh Khan has done some breathtaking stunts while driving the new fluidic 2012 Hyundai Sonata in an action packed high-speed car chase scene of Don 2. The movie is a sequel to Farhan Akhtar’s super hit 2006 movie Don. This scene involves Priyanka Chopra aggressively chasing SRK in a Hyundai Santa Fe and is shot in the busy streets of Berlin. By the time the climax of the car chase sequence completed there were about 67 badly destroyed high profile cars like BMW 5-Series and Alfa Romeo Mito lying all around the shoot location.

While promoting his movie, SRK said, “Don 2 chase sequence brings the wow factor to the entire film. It is one the best sequence to be shot on Indian celluloid. Its grandeur and scale just mesmerizes audience.”

We found the video clip of this high profile car chase in Don 2 on YouTube but are not sure if its an official trailer or not. You can see it here.

Read More On: Hyundai

Don 2 Official Trailer

Toyota Recalls Etios & Liva: Are You Affected?

2011-12-23T07:33:00.000-08:00

Toyota Kirloskar India has acknowledged a possible defect in its Etios sedan and Etios Liva hatchback. But instead of announcing a full public recall for the effected vehicles Toyota has launched a print ad titled ‘Special Service Campaign’. Using this advertisement Toyota intends to inform owners of all Etios cars produced before 8th October 2011 about the potential anomaly observed in the vehicle’s fuel tank inlet pipe that could cause an inconsistent fuel supply or leakage problem in future. In total about 41,000 units of Etios and Liva will be covered under this exercise.

Our research indicates that in all these Toyota cars the fuel inlet pipe (filler hose) has the part or the model number printed on it whereas in the cars produced after 8th October this number is embossed. This may help you just in case you are not sure when your car was manufactured. But still its best to visit an authorized Toyota dealer and let them determine if your car needs a ‘special service’ or not.

Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director (marketing) at Toyota Kirloskar, said “It’s part of a special service campaign and not a recall,”. “We realised there are surface cracks in the hose and filler pipes. While it doesn’t pose any immediate danger, we decided to change the parts as a pre-emptive measure,” he added.

With this recall, Toyota joins companies like Honda, Maruti Suzuki and Skoda in India, all of whom had to call back vehicles to fix faulty parts. But it’s quite amusing to see how all the manufactures try to avoid using the word ‘recall’ in their public statements and replace it with comforting words like ‘Special Service Campaign’. There is a reason behind this approach. The word 'recall' is interpreted as a product failure. Owing to this negative bias attached to recalls, carmakers in India avoid using the term and prefer to host service campaigns or deal with the issue on a one-to-one basis.

This is exactly what Toyota updated on its facebook page:
“We had observed a few cases of potential aberration in the filler hose in some of our Toyota Etios & Etios Liva vehicles. As a part of our Customer First philosophy, we are conducting a Special Service Campaign to check and replace the filler hose of Etios & Etios Liva cars manufactured till 8th October 2011. We are conducting this campaign as a precautionary measure in order to ensure safety & happiness of all our Etios & Etios Liva customers. We have also made an announcement in the newspapers in this regard.You may be contacted by your Toyota dealer in the next few days in this regard. Alternately, we request you to please contact your Toyota Dealer for an appointment. The service check is estimated to take less than 45 minutes and will be free of cost. You may be contacted by your Toyota dealer in the next few days in this regard. Alternately, we request you to please contact your Toyota Dealer for an appointment. The service check is estimated to take less than 45 minutes and will be free of cost.”

Read More On: Toyota

2012 Honda City Facelift: What's New

2011-12-22T00:19:00.000-08:00

Putting an end to the immense speculation on the status of the new City, Honda recently launched the facelifted version. The refreshed model is similar to the model launched in Thailand a few months back. Now the new 2012 Honda City comes in more colors, more variants and yes with more style and better looks. Mechanicals are left undisturbed. Cosmetic touches have been given to front and rear as well as interiors to instill energy into the aging segment leader. Honda has also added cruise control and sunroof to the equipment list along with a nice Eco Meter that promotes light-footed acceleration. Lets take a detailed look at what all has been added to the new updated version of City.

Read More On Honda:
Survey: Honda Cars Stronger Than BMW & Merc
Why Honda Pledge To Destroy 1,055 New Cars?

Honda City facelift exterior additions

New chrome grille further enhancing the premium look
Restyled front & rear bumper making City 20mm longer
New tail lights imitating the concept version
10 spoke alloys that look Accord'ish
Ground clearance increased by 5mm

Honda City facelift interior additions

New fabric seats
Center control panel with chrome bits
Chrome coated door handles.
Blue backlit meter

Honda City facelift extras

Sunroof
Cruise control
Turn indicators on ORVM
Introduction of Corporate edition for value customers
Two new colors – Carnelian pearl red and Sparkling brown metallic

Honda City facelift price (ex-showroom New Delhi)

Corporate Edition – 6.99 lakh
E – 7.70 lakh
S – 8.20 lakh
V MT (Manual Transmission) – 8.70 lakh
V AT (Automatic Transmission) – 9.42 lakh
V MT with sunroof and leather seats – 9,50,500 rupees
V AT with sunroof and leather seats – 10,22,800 rupees

Truth Be Revealed : Maruti Suzuki Alto vs Hyundai Eon Comparison

2011-12-10T09:20:00.001-08:00

The Korean car maker Hyundai is known for sculpting beautiful shapes out of raw metal. But with launch of its new baby hatchback Eon, Hyundai has set a new benchmark in low cost car design. Now with the presence of Hyundai Eon in the Indian entry level car segment the other budget hatchbacks like Maruti Suzuki Alto, Alto k10, Maruti 800, Chevy Spark, Tata Nano etc suddenly seems to look boring and ancient in comparison. But does that mean all these cars will lose their market share overnight just because a smart looking car has been launched?

It is wake up time. In the Indian car market scene looks of a car is an important factor in its success but the deciding factors have always been: KKH- Kitne Ki Hai (Price), KDH – Kitna Deti Hai (Fuel economy/efficiency), product reliability plus ease and cost of maintenance and service. So no doubt Hyundai’s Eon can win fashion contests but can it crack the code of our unique small car space is yet to be seen.

Lots of reviewers are giving over importance to looks of new Eon as if it’s all that’s required. But as they say ‘looks don’t win battles’, here we will try and look at comparison between the ageless Maruti Suzuki Alto/Alto K10 versus new fluidic Hyundai Eon from a more practical, real life point of view.

Fuel Economy Comparison: Eon vs Alto: Kitna Deti Hai?

Mileage Comparison	Local (kmpl)	Highway (kmpl)	Overall (kmpl)	Fuel Tank (litre)
Hyundai Eon	15.6	24.3	17.7	32
Maruti Alto K10	16.3	26.3	18.8	35

All seem to be talking about how fuel efficient Hyundai Eon is, considering the official ARAI mileage figure of 21.1kmpl and Suzuki Alto K10’s 20.2kmpl. But as we all know ARAI gives only the ideal test condition figures and not the real world fuel efficiency numbers. So to know what average fuel consumption we can expect in our day to day driving, guys at Overdrive tested and found some actual figures which differs a lot from ARAI published mileage of Eon and Alto. Considering these figures (mentioned in above table) we note Alto has superior fuel efficiency over Eon in local as well as highway drive. Now taking into account the overall (local + highway) fuel economy and fuel tank size of both the cars we can get a usable result. In one tank full of petrol Eon can be driven 566.4 kilometers whereas Alto will keep running for 658 kilometers i.e. almost 91 km more that Eon.

Speed Test: Eon vs Alto: Who’s faster?

Performance Comparison	0-100 kmph (sec)	Top Speed (kmph)
Hyundai Eon	19.08	131
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10	15.2	153

Alto’s higher fuel efficiency has not been achieved by compromising on performance. In Overdrive’s 0 to 100 acceleration test Eon reached ton in a lazy 19.08 seconds whereas Alto reached 100 in just 15.2 seconds. Plus on an open highway run Hyundai’s small fluidic gives up on touching 131 kmph whereas Maruti’s old workhorse keep galloping till 153 kmph. In short Alto is more like a pocket rocket- small and fast.

Engine Comparison: Eon vs Alto: Who’s powerful?

Powertrain Comparison	Engine (CC)	Power (PS)	Torque (Nm)
Hyundai Eon	814	56	76.5
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10	998	68	90

Engine is said to be the soul of an automobile. Japanese have always been great at making amazing engines and Suzuki is no different. If you drive Eon and Alto back to back you’ll notice two prominent things immediately. One- Alto has way more powerful and refined engine and second- due to Eon’s narrower power-band you need change gears much more frequently than in Alto. Moreover in Alto you feel very less engine/transmission vibrations on control levers like accelerator, gear shift etc. than Eon. K10’s 998cc, 68bhp twin-cam engine is one of the best in this segment and goes on to show just how good a three-cylinder can be. Along with a precise-shifting gearbox it makes Alto an ideal car for people who love to drive.

Design and Ergonomics Comparison: Eon vs Alto.
Alto has been designed keeping in mind the practical needs and requirements for its user’s comfort whereas Eon’s shape has been crafted to make a style statement. Due to its rising shoulder line Eon has a small glass area at rear and thus limiting the amount of light coming in from the sides and making it claustrophobic. Further, the thick A-pillar decreases the overall frontal visibility. Also due to longer back seat base your legs may hit against the B-pillar while getting in and out of Eon. In contrast, Alto has much better all-round visibility with large window area, slimmer pillars and more ergonomic ingress & egress.

Price Comparison: Eon vs Alto: Kitne Ki Hai?

Price Comparison (KKH)	Price (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Maruti Suzuki Alto	2,32,000
Hyundai Eon	2,70,000
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10	3,04,000

Hyundai Eon starts from base price of 2.7 lakhs and goes upto 3.75 lakhs whereas Alto can be bought for 2.32 lakhs and Alto K10 for 3.04 lakhs. So you need to cough up atleast 38,000 rupees more to buy Eon base over Alto base. Also since Alto is not a new launch so you can expect to get some discounts at dealer level as well. In contrast Hyundai has already announced that it’s going to increase car prices in a months’ time thereby further diluting Eon’s value for money image.

Sales Comparison: Eon vs Alto: Who sells more?

Car Sales Comparison	Sept. 2011	Oct. 2011	Nov. 2011
Hyundai Eon	7188	6315	7418
Maruti Suzuki Alto	21198	15197	24422

A new car garners maximum sales in first 2-3 months of its launch after which the number of units being sold comes down to a comparatively lower but stable figure. Being a recent launch Hyundai has been managing to sell on average about 7000 units of Eon for the past three months which by any standard is a very health number till you compare it with Alto who has been getting 25,000 new customers month on month for past many years. Recent downfall in Alto’s sale has nothing to do with Eon but with production shutdowns and labour issues at Maruti’s factory for the past many months and it has been resolved now. Rather than making a dent in Maruti Alto’s market share, Eon has been eating into sales number of its elder sibling Santro Xing.

Another reason for Alto’s superstar performance all these year has been low cost of maintenance and service provided by Maruti throughout India. Even though Hyundai has been building a decent pan India dealer network but it pales in comparison to Maruti Suzuki's network. Also the average cost incurred on maintaining and servicing a Hyundai product in comparison to Maruti has always been higher.

Maruti Suzuki Alto/Alto K10 has been ruling the Indian automobile market for almost 11 years now and it’s no mean task to fulfill needs and meet expectations of generations of Indian masses. Ask Tata (‘Nano’) how difficult it is to earn trust of people no matter how good your product is. So it will never be easy for a new ‘fluidic’ boy to dethrone the King of Indian small car market in a hurry.

Disclaimer: This comparative analysis is done to remind and highlight the true positive aspects of Alto which seem to have be been ignored by one and all since the launch of Eon. It does not in any way intend to undermine the qualities and potential of Eon being a wonderful hatchback.

Read More On: Maruti-Suzuki | Hyundai

Comparison: Maruti Suzuki Swift New Vs Old - Why So Similar

2011-08-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone who has been till now eagerly waiting for new 2010-2011 Maruti Suzuki's Swift seems to be complaining about how similar the new & the old hatchback looks. Even we agree that the brand-new Swift looks very much like the old one – at least at first glance. It has the same cheeky grin, the same concise shape, the same agile presence. But if you really know the previous generation Swifts inside-out, you’ll surely notice some very real differences in the new Swift model.

But the question that remains unanswered is what made Suzuki adopt such cautious approach towards the design of its new baby. In fact, one gets the sense that the Swift designers were almost scared to make changes. The answer lies in the fact the Suzuki didn’t wanted to mess with Swift’s success formula. There was too much at stake to take a risk.

Maruti Suzuki Swift is easily the most recognisable car on the road, thanks to its unique body shape and design. And being the only true global model in Suzuki’s product range makes it one of the most important car for it. Around 2 million units of Swift have been ‘swiftly’ produced since November 2004 in seven factories around the world and are being sold in over 100 countries.

Suzuki says its next generation Swift is ‘All-New’. We believe that due to the fact that the under-the-skin changes are much more extensive than the styling would suggest. But focus of this post is to highlight key exterior design changes in the new Swift.

Although very similar at first glance, the differences become more evident when old and new Suzuki Swift stand side by side. So that’s why we have compiled some photographic comparison between the All New 2011 Maruti Suzuki Swift and evergreen 2005 Swift. Hope we have succeed in highlighting the key exterior-interior differences between the styling in our Swift vs Swift comparison photo gallery.

In our view the exterior detailing is more now distinctive, ensuring an unmistakably more contemporary appearance. The elongated headlight and tail-light clusters are more pronounced with stronger shapes. A redesigned boot opening is all new. Larger wheels with a fresh design, and wider, lower-profile tyres emphasise the new Swift’s more planted stance. The biggest step concerns the length (+90 mm) and wheelbase (+50 mm), while the height (+10 mm) and width (+5 mm) remain almost unchanged.

Read More On: Maruti-Suzuki

Photo Gallery: Comparison- New vs Old Maruti Suzuki Swift

Refreshed Hyundai i10 Coming This Diwali

2010-09-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

This diwali Hyundai is planning to launch new i10 and you may get to see it at the upcoming Paris motor show. Now its not going to be a new car altogether but will be more of a mid-life facelift. Its not that we are bored looking at Hyundai's little baby but giving it a refreshed look will definately improve its road presence. Upcoming i10 has recently being captured on camera undergoing trial run under camouflage by guys at IndianCarsBikes.

Lets now see what changes can be expected in the upcoming Hyundai i10. Firstly the 1.1-litre iRDE engine that powers the current i10 is expected to be replaced by this new 1.0-litre, VTVT engine whereas 1.2-litre Kappa is expected to remain unchanged for now. From the spy shots its clear that new car gets redesigned set of headlamps which look similar to what we saw on new Hyundai Elantra released abroad. And going by the same design theme we believe i10's grille, the fog lamps and the lower air dam position will also take cue from the bigger sibling. Look at the comparison picture below to know what we are talking about.

On the rear, the most important change will be the new tail lamps which are expected to be much more appealing. Interiors too gets a facelift with blue back-lit for music player and maybe a different theme colour for dash. Overall the i10 facelift is said to have 86 new parts.

Source: IndianCarsBikes
Read More On: Hyundai i10

VW Polo Sedan Maybe Badged As The Vento

2010-05-09T05:23:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen has a history of selling sedan version of Polo hatchback in many countries across the globe. Even the previous generation Polo had a sedan variant called the Polo Classic. And what you see here are said to be new sketches of the upcoming Volkswagen Polo Sedan, being dubbed as VW Vento.

It doesn’t look particularly surprising as the change to a sedan bodytype is quite straightforward – adding a boot and making few changes to the front nose and the backlights to differentiate it from hatch. And this saves loads of money and time as building a car from scratch would have taken years.

There are no awkward lines to be smoothened out as the Polo has quite a squareish straight-cut design to begin. The Vento will likely ride on a 50mm longer wheelbase (than the Polo). While this is a minor change, the additional length will allow for increased rear seat head and legroom. The Vento will be launched in India sometime in July this year.

Source: Leblogauto.com
Read More On: VW Polo

Trivia: Volkswagen Polo India

2010-03-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

The 5th generation Volkswagen Polo, launched globally in 2009, officially entered Indian market on 23 Feb 2010 with a tag line of 'German Engineering. Made In India.' Polo comes with the classic "VW" look famous for its clean understated designs. Beautifully crafted inside and out, it is a testament to Volkswagen’s lasting quality standards. It is being manufactured at VW group's Chakan plant in Pune.

Made available in 3 variants: Trendline, Comfortline & Highline, Polo currently comes with only a 1.2-litre, 75 bhp, 3-pot petrol mill paired with five speed manual gearbox and develop 75 bhp power along with a decent fuel-economy of 17.2 kmpl. It has been priced at Rs. 4.42 lakh (base ex showroom New Delhi). The 1.2 litre diesel model will be available from May 2010 and followed by a possible 1.6 liter powerpacked machine.

VOLKSWAGEN POLO TRIVIA
The Indian Polo does not wear the twin-focal smoked European headlamps that look so much better.

Unlike most newer generations of the same car, the Polo has cut flab and actually weighs a few kilos less than its predecessor.

The clever VW boot handle/lock is taken straight out of the Passat.

When you drive it for the first time, make sure you look at the shifting lever closely as the reverse gear is positioned parallel to 1st gear before it.

VW Polo was voted as the European Car of the Year(CoTY) 2010. The last time Volkswagen won the ECOTY was back in 1992, for the Golf.

Polo is one of the oldest running production cars ever. With the first run happening sometime around 1975, the Polo was and continues to be the able younger brother to its hot-hatch sibling, the Golf.

The 12-valve petrol engine is also found in the Fabia, but VW has eked out some more oomph from it.

The 1198cc diesel motor develops 74 bhp at 4200 rpm and a significant 18.3 kgm of turning force at 2000 rpm. This diesel is an all-new unit — it is one of the first applications of the engine for the VW Group anywhere in the world.

Source: Web
Read More On: VW Polo

Tata Nano India Review: Secret Behind Peoples Car

2009-05-05T03:02:00.000-07:00

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.

Read More On: Tata Nano

Photo Gallery: New Tata Nano Pictures.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Unveiled Before Geneva Auto Show

2009-02-05T09:19:00.000-08:00

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
Read More On: Aston Martin

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

2008's Top 10 Best-Selling Vehicles

2009-01-07T02:16:00.000-08:00

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
Read More On: Cars For 2008

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

2008-10-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Nissan 370Z

Photo Gallery: Spy Pictures of upcoming Nissan 370Z.

Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept: Photos & Video

2008-09-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Maserati

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

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

Launch: 2009 Honda City Hits Thailand: Photos-Details

2008-09-12T03:18:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Honda City

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.

2009 Honda Insight To Be World's Cheapest Hybrid

2008-09-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Honda

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

Smart ForTwo Limited 2 Special Edition Released

2008-08-17T05:57:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Smart

Bugatti Expands Model Range With New Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

2008-08-17T01:57:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Bugatti Veyron

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

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

2008-08-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Lexus

2009 BMW 7 Series Official Specs & Hi-Res Pictures

2008-07-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: BMW 7 Series

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

Opel To Launch Insignia Hatch-Sedan At British Motor Show

2008-07-04T05:02:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Opel Insignia

Click To View GM's 2009 Model Opel Insignia Photo Gallery.

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

2008-07-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: BMW 7-Series

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

<<Previous -- Page 5 Of 2009 Model BMW 7-Series -- Next>>

Photo: New 2009 BMW 7-Series Tease Golfers

2008-07-02T07:24:00.000-07:00

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

<<Previous -- Page 4 Of 2009 Model BMW 7-Series -- Next>>

Spy Photo: Aston Martin Vantage V12 Prototype Spotted

2008-07-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2008-06-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

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.

Teaser Photo: Upcoming 2010 Lotus Eagle Sneak Preview

2008-06-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

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
Read More On: Lotus Eagle

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

2008-06-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2008-06-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

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

Aston Martin Vantage Joins Kilgour At Paris Fashion Show

2008-06-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Sports car manufacturer, Aston Martin, and bespoke tailor, Kilgour of Savile Row, teamed up at a unique event yesterday at the BETC Photographic Studio in Paris. At Kilgour's first-ever fashion show in Paris presenting its spring/summer collection, Aston Martin created its very own haute couture bespoke V8 Vantage Coupe for the occasion, inspired by the latest creations.

The special V8 Vantage was finished in a unique Morning Frost Satin paint, with the texture of fine silk. The interior is influenced by Kilgour's latest collection and finished in Kilgour Midnight Blue, with the seat-inserts adorned with a polka-dot effect.

Aston Martin and Kilgour both build on long traditions of highest quality craftsmanship and design and attract clients from all over the world with their tailor-made and cutting-edge innovations. The fashion show in Paris offered a unique opportunity to view the latest creations of two extraordinary brands. The new collection and the V8 Vantage were appreciated by 250 invited VIP and media guests.

Source: Aston Martin
Read More On: Astom Martin

Photos Gallery: Aston Martin V8 Vantage High-Res Pictures.

Spy Video: 2011 Honda/Acura NSX, 3 Minutes Of Fun

2008-06-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

We recently showed you a small clipping of 2011 Acura NSX scorching the Ring. Well to follow it up, we have the full 3 minutes of spy video footage of Acura NSX for your pleasure. Taste it, love it, hear it, enjoy it..do whatever you need to but don't miss it.

Source: YouTube
Read More On: Honda NSX

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Text+Video: 2009 Corvette ZR1 Breaks Nissan GT-R's Lap Record

2008-06-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

Corvette Chief Engineer, Tadge J. Juechter has official broken the news of the upcoming 2009 Corvette ZR1 posting the fastest ever production car lap time around the Nurburgring. ZR1 now beats the 2009 Nissan GT-R's impressive record of 7:29 with its faster laptime of 7:26.4, as verified by the onboard datalogging and two hand-held stopwatches.

Here's what Juechter wrote on GMNext blog: "This morning (Friday June 27), General Motors development engineer Jim Mero drove the Corvette ZR1 around the Nürburgring in a time of 7:26.4. Jim commented after the lap that conditions were good except for a strong headwind down the main straight and that the lap was solid, but he felt there were a few places he could have gone faster." Now this indicate towards GM's intention of further improving the lap time and thus make things more difficult for upcoming 2011 Honda/Acura NSX and Toyota LF-A.

Giving out further details, Juechter clarified that the ZR1 that lapped the Ring was instock trim with no change in engine calibrations and it wore the production cars Michelin Pilot Sport 2’s tires. The chassis alignment and vehicle height were set to factory specs and the fuel used was the standard pump (not racing) gas. The only additional devices used were the communications and safety equipment.

To put an end to all possible speculation, Juechter wrote: "The vehicle was exactly like the cars that will be built in Bowling Green, Kentucky and sold around the world later this summer."

An in-car official video will be posted in the week of July 7 when the ZR1 engineering team returns from Germany. But rather waiting till then you can checkout BridgeToGantry's short spy video below that gives you glimpses of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 lapping the Ring. Hope you won't miss the sweet humming of ZR1's supercharged V8.

Source: GMNext
Read More On: Corvette ZR1

Video: 2009 Corvette ZR1 Performing At Nurburgring.

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Ford UK Launch Red Fiesta Limited Edition Model

2008-06-27T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Fiesta is Fords most selling mid-size vehicle in the UK. And since its due for replacememnt soon, Ford is trying to come out with newer Fiesta limited or special edition models to make most out of this vehicle before its gets dumped. So moving on that line, Ford has now launched the Red edition Fiesta Zetec S. Named 'Red' since this model would be available in, you guessed it, only red color.

The Red edition of Fiesta is based on the Fiesta Zetec S, powered by a 1.6-liter four generating 100hp of power. Only 400 pieces of Fiesta Red edition will be created for sale in UK and will be offered at a price of £13,000. For the guys and gals who need more details about the new Fiesta guise, we have pasted Ford's official press release below.

FORD ADDS STRIKING NEW FIESTA LIMITED EDITION
- New sporty Fiesta Zetec S Red special edition
- Black and white 'chequered flag roof' and Colorado red body paint
- Leather seats and privacy glass
- On sale now priced at £13,000 on-the-road

BRENTWOOD, Essex, 26 June, 2008 – The appeal of the exciting Ford Fiesta line-up continues to expand with the debut of a new sporty, feature-packed special edition – the Zetec S Red. Just 400 new Zetec S Red special editions, representing 10 per cent of all Zetec S models, will be available, priced at £13,000.

The "Red" edition follows the success of the popular radian yellow "Anniversary" and lime green "Celebration" models which sold out within weeks of their launch last year. Ford Fiesta has been in the top three best-selling vehicles in Britain every month this year with 42,895 models sold up to the end of May - almost 20 per cent of the British small car market.

With the zesty yet thrifty1.6-litre, 100PS petrol engine, Zetec S Red features Colorado red paintwork with chequered flag roof decal. Dark privacy glass on the rear windows and panther black features: door mirrors, door handles, bodyside mouldings, roof spoiler and tailgate handle, all add to the stylish look. Also standard are Quickclear® heated front windscreen, ebony leather seats, 16in alloy wheels, air conditioning and heated electrically-operated door mirrors.

Source: Ford
Read More On: Ford Fiesta

Photo Gallery: 2008 Ford Red Edition Fiesta Zetec S High-Res Pictures.

2010 VW Golf TwinDrive Electric Hybrid Concept Revealed

2008-06-27T00:12:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen yesterday unveiled its new hybrid concept called the Golf Twin Drive. The uniqueness of this Twin Drive concept is the combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine with plug-in electric hybrid technology. The electric motor stored in Golf's cargo hatch runs on an array of easily chargable lithium-ion batteries generating a respectable 82hp (61kW) of power. You won't need to worry once the electric-only range of 31 miles (50 KM) is crossed and the batteries get drained as the 122 horsepower 2.0L turbodiesel engine would take over from there.

It won't be right to compare the 2010 Golf Twin Drive with the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, as unlike the Volt, there would be no charging of the batteries by the engine. But the good thing is that you can still hook-up the car to a regular household power outlet and enjoy your beer while the baby gets all charged-up.

To further boost its travelling range, Golf will be loaded with two new innovative technologies, the regenerative braking to charge the batteries, and the start-stop system to shuts off the engine when idling in traffic.

By 2010, Volkswagen along with the German government would be developing a fleet of 20 Golf test cars fitted with the Twin Drive system. And VW promises to charge the batteries for the vehicle's electric motor using only 'renewable electricity' during the trial process. If you are confused by the term 'renewable electrictiy', not a prob, it just denotes the electric energy thats generated from renewable resources such as wind and hydro power.

Source: Autoblog
Read More On: VW Golf

Photo Gallery: New Volkswagon Golf Twin-Drive Electric Hybrid Concept High-Res Pictures.

2009 Dodge Ram Gets More Power But Consumes Less Fuel.

2008-06-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dodge has announced its new 2009 Dodge Ram with improved fuel economy even though power gets boosted to 390 hp with a 407 lb-ft of torque. For comparison sake, the Ram's all-new 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 with fuel-saving Multiple Displacement System (MDS) technology offers 4 percent improved fuel economy, 13 percent more horsepower, 8 percent more torque over 2008 engine.

Engines available in all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 models include the 390-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8, flex-fuel 4.7-liter and 3.7-liter gasoline engines. The 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty models (with current 2008 design) are available with either the 5.7-liter HEMI or the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine, which acording to Dodoge achieves 2010 NOx emission standards, making it the cleanest and best-performing heavy-duty pickup truck in the market.

The 4.7-liter V-8 delivers 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 Nm) of torque and shares some of the HEMI engine's combustion technology with its twin spark plugs per cylinder. Dodge will also continue to offer customers a 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 Nm) of torque. It will come standard on all-new 2009 Dodge Ram two-wheel-drive regular cab and Quad Cab® models.

Dodge had confirmed that it will introduce an all-new Cummins turbodiesel engine in its light-duty pickup trucks after 2009. The new engine is said to provide a dramatic increase in low-end torque, up to a 25-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 20-percent reduction in carbon dioxide (C02) emissions when compared to an equivalent gasoline engine.

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid, available after 2009, will be the latest addition to Chrysler LLC's fuel-efficient lineup, joining clean diesel, HEMI and flex-fuel vehicles. The two-mode hybrid system is currently being introduced in the company's 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid and 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid. It uses electric motors to allow the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often, improving fuel economy.

With gas prices moving up faster than ever and new stricter emission norms just few years away, it's does not seem to be a great time to debut an all-new full-size pickup truck. But still truck manufacturers are trying to salvage their falling sales with new fuel efficient powertrains and a promise of partial hybrid versions in upcoming models. Hope this works for Dodge Ram.

Photos: NCP
Read More On: Dodge

Photo Gallery: New 2009 Model Dodge Ram High-Res Pictures.

Spy Photo: 2009 Honda/Acura TL Spied Again

2008-06-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

Honda's high volume sedan, the Acura TL has again been spied on. This time its the guys from Automotive Traveler who caught TL prototype undergoing hot weather testing at California's Mojave Desert. The photos are much clearer than before and the TL prototype wears less of camo over its bright red colored body.

The Honda/Acura TL spy photo that you see here reveal what has been expected for long now, that is just like Acura's 2009 RL and TSX, the 4th generation TL will also get the triangular wide-tooth front grill. This angular theme is further carried to the rear of the vehicle giving the trunk-lid a cut inverted triangle shape (see photos). Such a bold and aggressive treatment to a high-selling model can be quite a risk.

It's still not known what is under the hood of the upcoming Acura TL but it won't be wrong to hope for the 3.7-liter V6 from the MDX CUV mated to a six speed, manumatic DSG gearbox. Further the 09 model TL is expected to switch from front-wheel drive to the Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) like the one used in Acura RL and RDX. But its quite possible that new TL range will consist of two models, one featuring FWD and the top model TL Type-S getting SH-AWD. And given Honda's emphasis on good fuel economy along with low emissions, TL engine should employ the company's cylinder-deactivation feature that has successfully worked in the new Accord V6.

We'll end our list of possiblities here and will leave you with the spy photo of Acura TL undergoing some tough desert condition testing below.

Source: Automotive Traveler
Read More On: Honda/Acura TL

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Update On New 2009 Acura TL.
2009 Acura TL Gets AWD : Buzz & Spy Photos.

2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 & 4S Details Released

2008-06-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

Porsche is continuing the generation change of the 911 model series. Just a few weeks after the new 911s with classic rear-wheel drive, the all-wheel-drive versions Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S are now entering the market in both Coupé and Cabriolet guise. You can easily diferentiate the new C4 and C4S from their 2WD counterparts via the red reflector strip spanning the width between the taillamps.

A whole range of new technologies surrounding the engine, the transmission and drivetrain ensures an even higher standard of driving pleasure on much lower fuel consumption. Particularly the new, electronically controlled all-wheel drive which is know for its precision and fast response, is expected to offer an even more intense driving experience. Just like the Carrera and Carrera S, the C4 range also gets the new, direct-injected engines and the optional seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) twin-clutch gearbox.

The features and characteristics of the new engines speak for themselves. Depending on the model, the new all-wheel-drive Carrera offers up to 8.5 per cent more power, up to 12.9 per cent more fuel economy, and 15.4 per cent lower CO2 emissions. Specifically, output of the 3.6-litre power unit is up by 20 to 345 bhp (254 kW). At the same time a Carrera 4 Coupé with PDK, to take just one example, consumes a mere 10.1 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, equal to 28.0 mpg imp. The improvements on the 911 Carrera 4S with its 3.8-litre power unit are equally significant, with maximum output up by 30 to 385 bhp (283 kW) on overall fuel consumption down in the case of Carrera 4S Cabriolet with PDK to 10.7 litres/100 km, equal to 26.4 mpg imp.

The new Carrera models come in all cases with bi-xenon headlights and new LED daytime driving lights. The newly designed rear light clusters also feature LED technology and for the first time Porsche offers Dynamic Bending Lights as an option. It almost goes without saying that all Carrera 4 models come as before with their muscular rear end 44 millimetres or 1.73" wider than on the two-wheel-drive versions. And a new reflector trim bar between the LED rear lights gives the typical rear end of the car even more dynamic character.

New PCM Porsche Communication Management with its touch-sensitive screen improves operation of the in some cases optional navigation, information and audio systems to an even higher standard. And a further important point is that PCM is now compatible with Bluetooth, USB and iPod requirements.

All AWD Carrera models will be at the European dealership as of 25 October 2008.

Source: Porsche
Read More On: Cars From Porsche

Photo Gallery: New 2009 Model Porsche 911 Carrera 4 And 4S High-Res Pictures.

2009 Porsche Cayenne SUV To Get Diesel Power

2008-06-25T03:06:00.000-07:00

Its coming and its here to stay. Porsche is going diesel. Now this is a big change considering the fact that Porsche is one of the few European automakers to have never offered a diesel option. The news is generating varied reactions. Well some people are definately happy and some are not but many are still undecided. But anyways Porsche has confirmed that it will offer a diesel powered version of Cayenne SUV by March 2009.

Many reasons have been put forward that could have compelled Porsche to say yes for the inclusion of diesel powertrains. First explanation is the stricter emissions laws coming in to Europe, which mandates carmakers reduce their fleet average carbon emissions. Second reason could be the rising fuel prices and also we can't ignore Porsche’s close relationship with Volkswagen, which put a number of diesel powerplants at its disposal.

Now you should not be expecting some of the larger diesel engines like the V12, V10 or V8. The reports suggest that the upcoming turbo diesel Cayenne will employ Audi's high performance 3.0-liter V-6 TDI. It's the same unit that features in Audi's Q7 and produces 240 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Now if Q7 can sprint to 60mph in 8.5 sec, it won't be completely wrong to look for a similar performance from Cayenne's diesel version.

We expect 2009 Geneva auto show to be the debut venue for new Porsche Cayenne.

Source: AutoCar
Read More On: Porsche Cayenne

Mercedes-Benz Unveils New 2009 Zetros Truck

2008-06-24T23:55:00.000-07:00

Daimler AG launched its new off-road truck, the Mercedes-Benz Zetros, at this year's International Defence Exhibition Eurosatory 2008 in Paris. Zetros will be offered in a three-axle cab-behind-engine truck version (Zetros 2733 A 6x6) and a two-axle version (Zetros 1833 A 4x4). The three-axle model offers payloads from 7 tonnes to 10 tonnes, while the two-axle model has payloads of 4 tonnes to 6 tonnes.

The extreme off-road capability of the Zetros all-wheel-drive truck is unique in this segment, including especially its tactical and strategic mobility (air and rail transportability). The novel approach of a cab-behind-engine truck with its low design height and its centre of gravity behind the front axle provides an ideal platform for armoured versions capable of withstanding mines and ballistic attack.

According to Mercedes, its Daimler's concept for the new off-road, all-wheel-drive truck series offers a number of key advantages over comparable vehicles currently available on the market. The new vehicle concept is primarily based on standard production line, all-wheel-drive components from the Axor/Actros series that have proven themselves on assignments worldwide and have been modified for off-road use, combined with an innovative cab module. This draws on the "Global Cockpit" and steering system of the MB Axor.

The integrated design of the Mercedes-Benz Zetros includes a level cab floor with a comfortable seating position for the 2nd co-driver and easy through-cab access. In addition, the low cab design enables the 4x4 and 6x6 vehicles to be air-lifted in transport aircraft such as the Hercules C 130 or the Transall C 160 with a minimum of preparation. Rail transportability is also assured as the vehicle conforms with the international loading gauge.

Via: eMercedesBenz
Read More On: Mercedes-Benz

Photo Gallery: New 2009 Model Mercedes-Benz Zetros Truck High-Res Pictures.

Audi To Debut 1939 Auto Union "Silver Arrow" Type D Reconstruction

2008-06-24T23:24:00.000-07:00

Audi Tradition is marking this year's Festival of Speed at Goodwood, England (July 11 to 13, 2008) with a world debut. At the largest classic car racing event in the world, the Ingolstadt company will be taking the wraps off an absolutely authentic reconstruction of the original Auto Union "Silverarrow" Type D Dual Compressor from 1939.

Construction of this racing car, the original version of which won two Grand Prix races at the hands of H.P. Müller and Tazio Nuvolari, took four years. The "Silverarrow" will be taken on its maiden drive by Nick Mason, the Pink Floyd drummer, in front of some 150,000 spectators at Goodwood.

The Auto Union Type D that is about to make its debut will be the last "Silverarrow" replica to be commissioned by Audi Tradition. Thomas Frank, Head of Audi Tradition, continued: "Our Auto Union Type D from 1938, which to a very large extent is made from original parts and has been exhibited at racetracks for a number of years, will go on display in the Audi museum mobile in the medium term. One reason for this decision is that we need to avoid it being damaged. The new replica will take its place. We will thus still be able to give people the extraordinary experience of witnessing this car in action."

In Nick Mason, Audi has found a worthy pilot for its maiden outing. The Pink Floyd drummer is a leading proponent of classic car racing in Great Britain. Mason has driven in the Le Mans 24 Hours on five occasions and is the proud owner of a notable collection of racing cars whose value is in the mid-range double-digit millions. He already drove an Auto Union racing car at Goodwood in 2007: the 1936 Type C. And he is really relishing the prospect of this year's competition: "I must have done something right last year if Audi Tradition is now prepared to let me take to the wheel for this maiden trip. But seriously, it's a huge honour, which I sincerely appreciate."

Source: Audi
Read More On: Cars From Audi

New 2009 Lamborghini Versace Edition LP640 Revealed

2008-06-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

Versace and Lamborghini, collaborators since 2006, announced the launch of the new Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 Roadster VERSACE and a unique collection of accessories, both to be previewed for the first time at the Maison's Via Gesù 12, Milan on Monday June 23rd, 2008.

To create the new super roadster, the Maison Versace's designers joined forces with designers from the Lamborghini Design Centre (Centro Stile)and specialists working on the "ad personam" project. This Lamborghini program allows individual clients to create personalised sports cars, choosing the equipment specification, the colour of the exterior body and of the interior fittings.

The new limited edition Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 Roadster VERSACE, which will be produced to order, displays a pastel white livery and the Versace Greek key motif on the lower part of the door. Equipped for the very first time with a transparent engine hood that reveals the powerful V12 engine, this model has been reconfigured internally. The cradle seats are clad in black and white leather, while opulent full grain soft nappa leather – hand-embroidered with the Versace Greek fret motif - upholsters the instrument panel, the doors and the central console.

The rigorous design and minimal lines of the Murciélago engine hood inspired the Versace Collection LP 640 range of accessories, which will also be previewed for the first time globally. Exclusively crafted in black matte calf skin, models include: a trolley bag, suit carrier, sports bag, as well as a briefcase, suitcase, gloves, driving shoes, belt, wallet, key ring, beauty case, hat and a pair of jeans. These hand-made accessories boast traditional craftsmanship, stitching and edging à la française and a palladium-engraved tag displaying both the Versace and Lamborghini logos.

This prestigious accessory collection will be exclusively available at Versace Boutiques and selected Lamborghini showrooms beginning in November 2008.

Via: TheyReviewed
Read More On: Cars From Lamborghini

Photo Gallery: New Lamborghini LP640 Versace Edition Accessories Picture.

2009 Nissan Maxima Pricing & Engine Specs Revealed

2008-06-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

Nissan announced pricing on the all-new, flagship 2009 US Model Nissan Maxima, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. The seventh generation Maxima features all-new sports styling, a driver-oriented interior and an enhanced 290-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine – offering 35 more horsepower than the previous generation Maxima and better fuel economy (EPA estimated 19 mpg City/26 mpg Highway versus 19/25 mpg for the 2008 Maxima).

The 2009 Maxima is offered in two well-equipped models, Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV, each equipped with standard 3.5-liter V6 and intelligent Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission). Prices start at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $29,290 for the Maxima 3.5 S and $31,990 for the Maxima 3.5 SV.

“The 2009 Maxima 3.5 S features an increase in standard equipment, horsepower and style, combined with better fuel economy, yet remains very competitively priced with nearly $400 more value than the 2008 Maxima 3.5 SE,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc."

The Nissan exterior design for the new Maxima combines an aggressive stance and powerful fender design along with a slight reduction in wheelbase and overall length, along with a wider front and rear track.

The cars interior includes a special driver’s sport seat, available leather-appointed seating, offset shifter lever that is closer to the driver, “Daylight Illumination” gauges and a wide range of available technology, including a Bose® audio system, RearView Monitor and Nissan Hard Drive Navigation system with XM NavTraffic® real-time traffic information (active XM® subscription required, sold separately), Voice Recognition and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.

The 2009 Maxima comes equipped with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve VQ-series V6 engine, rated at 290 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. The new Maxima’s standard intelligent Xtronic CVT™ is tuned specifically for the car’s sporty driving character. It includes a manual mode, new “Ds mode” (drive sport) and available paddle shifters.

Via: TheyReviewed
Read More On: Nissan Cars

Photo Gallery: USA Model 2009 Nissan Maxima Sedan High-Res Pictures.

Maserati Release New 2009 Quattroporte Specs & Photos

2008-06-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Italian luxury carmaker Maserati has released the first official photos of its new, more powerful Maserati Quattroporte sedan. With next generation of Quattroporte due only in 2012, Maserati has wisely developed a mid-lifecycle update to give its five year old sedan a fresh look and some serious power jump. New Quattroporte will now be offered in two versions: the standard Quattroporte and the sportier Quattroporte S. Both will utilize the ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

While the standard Maserati Quattroporte is fitted with the same 4.2-litre 400bhp V8 engine as the previous car, the Quattroporte S gets the new 4.7-litre 430bhp V8 from the Alfa 8C and GranTurismo S basket.

Exterior styling changes include a new grill with vertical fins, updated headlamps with LED daytime running lights, new rear light cluster, reshaped front bumper along with new door mirrors. The interior is fitted with a redesigned more ergonomic center console integrating the new Maserati Mutlimedia System along with two new shades of brown leather trim.

Maserati Quattroporte has always been the undisputed symbol of Italian luxury. And now with a restyled and more updated version of Quattroporte hitting the market this October, it will only make its position stronger against the emerging competition from England and Germany in shape of Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera.

Read More On: Latest Auto News

Photo Gallery: New Updated 09 Model Maserati Quattroporte High-Res Pictures.

By 2015, Mazda To Cut Fuel Consumption 30 Percent

2008-06-23T06:23:00.000-07:00

Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that it is setting its sights on reducing the fuel consumption of Mazda vehicles sold globally by an average 30 percent by 2015. This determined commitment will entail a holistic approach which includes using lightweight technologies, the upgrade of almost all of Mazda's gasoline engines, introducing a Smart Idle Stop System, a new gasoline rotary engine and new diesel engines worldwide.

By 2015, Mazda will have renewed almost its entire powertrain lineup and, from 2011, through steadily developing safe, lightweight, new generation platforms aims to reduce the weight of its new vehicles by 100 kilograms or more.

Mazda saw its hydrogen powertrain efforts progress positively forward in June 2008 when the Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid received the green light from the Japanese government to begin testing on public roads. The Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid (known as the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid in Japan) offers 40 percent more power and an extended hydrogen driving range of 200 kilometers. It will be available for commercial lease in Japan during the 2008 fiscal year.

And, Mazda is already progressing well with the development of an all-new Hydrogen RE vehicle with dynamic performance equivalent to a 3.0-liter gasoline engine and a hydrogen range of 400 kilometers.

The next technological milestone for Mazda will be the introduction of the mass production version of its proprietary Smart Idle Stop System into one of its cars in 2009.

Source: TheyReviewed
Read More On: Mazda

Next Volkswagen (VW) Beetle May Get SUV, Roadster Styling

2008-06-22T22:16:00.000-07:00

According to the Channel4, VW is planning to launch the successor of new Beetle by 2011. Unlike the current Beetle which is available in only two body styles, the coupe and cabrio, the next generation Beetle will be a multi-variant version. By this we mean that future holds a two-seat Beetle roadster just like the 2005 Ragster concept, an SUV-type Beetle similar to the 2000 Beetle Dune concept and of course, a standard version.

The new 2011 Beetle model is expected to be based on the current fifth gen Golf/Rabbit platform, with technical development happening in Germany, styling in California and final construction at Mexico.

We may not be a potential customer for Beetle SUV but definately would love to see one. With BMW MINI steadily churning out new variants, its good that the competition is finally waking up.

Source: Channel4
Read More On: Volkswagen

Photo Gallery: Volkswagen (VW) Ragster Concept High-Res Pictures.