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Spied: 2013 Peugeot 208 GTi

2012-01-28T03:17:00.000-08:00

The new car that will take Peugeot back into the hot hatch arena, the Peugeot 208 GTI, has been spied testing for the first time.

Spotted during cold weather development work in the middle of Scandinavia, this three-door Peugeot 208 doesn’t sport the aggressive rear wing or bespoke front grille that’s expected to feature on the final GTI version.

However, telltale signs that this is the ‘hot’ version of Peugeot’s new 208 include the twin exhausts and the low-profile suspension. The final GTI will have its own unique wheel designs and tyre sizes, plus sports seats and unique interior decor will complete the package.

Two versions will be offered, both using the 1.6-litre twin-cam turbo engine that currently powers the Citroën DS3 and Mini Cooper.

A 154bhp version is likely to be used in the GTI, with a hotter 204bhp unit going into a more focused model, possibly called GTI Racing. The quickest Peugeot 208 is on course to offer sub-7.0sec 0-60mph acceleration and a top speed of well over 140mph.

The mainstream 208 arrives in June, with the GTI expected to follow before the end of the year.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Renault Plans Alpine Tribute at Paris Motor Show 2012

2012-01-26T15:55:00.000-08:00

Renault looks set to reveal a follow-up to the iconic Renault Alpine A110 at the Paris motor show this autumn. The firm is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the A110 Berlinetta this year and Renault design chief Laurens van den Acker told Autocar “it would be remiss not to do something” to celebrate the original Alpine.

A question remains as to whether a new Alpine coupé could become a production reality — assuming there’s a positive reaction to the show concept.

“These things live by the grace of the day,” said van den Acker. “In my view, the best thing for a designer is always to have something cooking in the corner. Then when the planets line up, you have something ready.”

Steve Norman, Renault’s marketing chief, said the firm “knew what to do” about a production Alpine, but it “was a question what size of market it could take”.

He added: “We have to ask: ‘Is there room in today’s car market to build something that could be compared to a Porsche?’ In any case, for an Alpine to make sense financially, it would have to sell in North America and China.”

Van den Acker also talked up the prospects for the striking DeZir concept eventually making production. “It’s not realistic to expect us to produce a rival for Ferrari or Lamborghini; our badge would not support that yet. But with the new [electric] technologies coming through, anything is possible.”

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2013 BMW 7-Series

2012-01-26T15:53:00.000-08:00

An update of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series has been spotted, revealing subtle exterior changes.

Changes include revised headlamps, which along with relocated indicators (now in the mirrors) will be LEDs, while there’s a new tail-light design. There will be no sheetmetal changes for the largest BMW, which is now more than three years old.

Also photographed is the optional M package, with a deeper front bumper and enlarged brake ducts.

Regular models will see the six-speed automatic phased out as the ZF eight-speed will become standard on all 7 Series variants – as is already the case for the 1 Series hatch.

A new instrument cluster design will freshen up the cabin, and we can expect a raft of new technologies to be announced closer to the car’s arrival in showrooms following its debut at the Geneva Motor Show at the beginning of March. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2013 BMW X6

2012-01-26T15:50:00.001-08:00

Love it or hate it, the BMW X6 is the type of vehicle that commands your attention. In an effort to keep its “sports activity coupe” fresh, Munich has made several cosmetic updates to its 2013 BMW X6 lineup and is now also offering an M Performance package that provides some additional oomph.

For starters, the X6 receives minor touch-ups to its front fascia that brings its version of BMW’s signature kidney grille more in line with the mugs on the new 3 and 5 Series models. Available adaptive LED headlights now can be had over the standard Xenon units. BMW’s familiar twin headlight treatment within the housing also appears on the new X6 and its foglights are now set in matte finish surrounds. Out back, the X6’s taillights also receive the LED treatment and are housed in larger enclosures that stretch out to the edges of the vehicle.

An array of exterior paint color choices are available, with two non-metallic and nine metallic colors such as Marrakesh Brown metallic to choose from. A new 19-inch alloy wheel has been added to the mix and comes as standard equipment on the xDrive 50i. While nothing much has changed in the cabin, new leather upholstery options are available if desired and a three-seat bench is available as an option.

As before, the 2013 X6 is available with BMW’s tried and true 300-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline six and 400-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8. Check off the M Performance package option and the 3.0-liter gets bumped up to 315 hp and 330 lb-ft while the 4.4-liter is boosted to 440-hp and 480 lb-ft.

Cosmetic upgrades for the M Performance Package include black chrome exhaust tips, stainless steel pedals, 20-inch wheels, and a Carbon Black metallic paint option. All engines are mated to eight-speed automatic gearboxes. The X6 M carries on largely unchanged for 2013, with its 555-horsepower V-8 and six-speed automatic transmission.

BMW says it has sold more than 150,000 X6s worldwide since its launch three years ago, with 20,000 of those in the States — not bad for such a polarizing vehicle. Expect to see the 2013 X6 in showrooms this spring.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Unofficial Picture: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

2012-01-26T15:41:00.000-08:00

The first images of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe have officially leaked out, thanks to the fan boys over at Hyundai Blog. First spotted wrapped in camouflage in October, these shots are the first unwrapped images we’ve seen of the 2013 Santa Fe as Hyundai readies it for its debut at April’s New York International Auto Show.

Back in October we brought you these exclusive spy shots of a camouflaged 2013 Santa Fe rolling around the streets of New York. From what we could tell, the new Santa Fe would be bigger than the outgoing model, and wears Hyundai’s trademark fluidic design language. The camouflaged mule also gave us a slight glimpse of the 2013 Santa Fe’s new grille which looks to be very similar to Ford’s old tri-bar grille.

These spy shots from the Hyundai Blog clearly show what that Santa Fe we spotted in New York was hiding under all that camo. Up front, the 2013 Santa Fe gets a chrome three-bar grille in a trapezoidal opening reminiscent of the Veloster’s. The new Santa Fe also gets new headlights that follow the same design language of the recently-debuted 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. Around back, the 2013 Santa Fe gets a rear that at first glance looks like it could belong on the Audi Q7.

The 2013 Santa Fe’s power plants aren’t currently known, and details likely won’t leak out until the official debut in New York. We’re expecting the next-gen Santa Fe to make full use of Hyundai’s gasoline-direct injection four-bangers, and possibly the 293-hp 3.3-liter GDI V-6 from the recently-introduced Azera. Rumors are also floating around that the 2013 Santa Fe may get a version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 that’s currently found in the Veloster Turbo and Sonata to help it go head-to-head with the EcoBoost-equipped Ford Explorer.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Ram Laramie Limited

2012-01-26T15:38:00.001-08:00

If you’re in favor of a luxurious version of the Ram pickup but don’t really like the cowboy-boot-on-wheels styling of the Laramie Longhorn edition truck, Ram has another option: the new 2012 Laramie Limited promises similar interior appointments but with a bit of cosmetic restraint.

The Laramie Limited package will be offered on 1500, 2500, and 3500 Ram models fitted with either crew or mega cabs. Regardless of the truck series, the Laramie Limited package goes for a clean, elegant exterior appearance. The traditional bodyside emblems are deleted, while new chrome accent strips run along the doors. Chrome is also used to dress up the mirror caps, step bars, door handles, and grille – which, we’re told, borrows its inserts from the Ram Sport model. 1500 models wear 20-inch aluminum wheels borrowed from the Laramie Longhorn, while HD models make do with 17-inch polished aluminum rolling stock.

Like the Laramie Longhorn, the Larmie Limited aims to dress up the interior with premium materials, but designers aimed for a clean, contemporary look in lieu of the Longhorn’s wild, wild west theme. Seats are upholstered in slate leather with graystone piping and contrast stitching. Leather stitched in a similar fashion also adorns the instrument binnacle, center console lid, and door panels, while trim panels are given a piano black finish. Berber carpets, bright chrome vent trim, and unique gauges – which bear the tagline “Designed in Detroit” – are also part of the package.

Unsurprisingly, there’s quite a bit of standard equipment found to go along with the snazzy decor. Front seating surfaces are heated and cooled, while rear outboard positions are heated. Chrysler’s uConnect touchscreen navigation/infotainment system is standard equipment.

Ram plans on rolling out the truck at this year’s Chicago Auto Show in February, and will be available at dealers come late spring. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but seeing as content largely mirrors that of the Laramie Longhorn, we wouldn’t be surprised if the MSRP also falls close to the $45,000 mark.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Spied: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra

2012-01-26T15:27:00.000-08:00

Introduced as 2007 models, the current Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickup twins are due for a revamp. Our spy photographers (dressed like snow leopards, we hope) have nabbed several shots of both extended- and crew-cab versions during cold-weather testing. While it’s difficult to make out much in the way of design aside from the familiar cab-in-front, bed-in-back layout, here’s a rundown of what changes to anticipate.

GM already has confirmed its investment and a few details on the fifth-generation small-block V-8, and you can count on the new engine(s) powering these trucks. As we’ve mentioned in our recent sightings of the C7 Corvette, the new small-block also will make its way into Chevy’s iconic sports car; historically, truck production volumes have supported the small-block program, making the Vette’s V-8 possible. We know all Gen V small-blocks will feature aluminum blocks, direct injection—which in turn allows for a higher compression ratio—and a “new combustion system design” that has us intrigued. In addition to the new fuel-saving tech, we’re also expecting to see the continued use of cylinder deactivation

Additionally, with the Ford F-150 bushwhacking a V-6–powered trail, we’re thinking we’ll see wider use of a six-pot in the new Chevys and GMCs. At the very least, expect the prehistoric 4.3-liter V-6 that comes standard on base 1500 trucks to die, perhaps being replaced by GM’s ubiquitous 3.6-liter direct-injected V-6. That engine currently produces up to an additional 100 hp and an extra 15 lb-ft of torque compared to the older, larger-displacement six. Remaining four-speed automatic transmissions should be swapped for six-speed units.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Car: 2012 Nissan Note

2012-01-25T08:35:00.001-08:00

The range of the British-built Nissan Note supermini-MPV is being upgraded for 2012, with a new luxury N-TEC+ grade one of the key changes.

The mid-range Nissan Note Acenta gets new two-tone 16in alloys in place of the previous 15in versions, as well as chrome-effect door mirror covers and front fog light surrounds. On the inside there’s a new seat fabric, while climate control, automatic headlights and rain-sensitive wipers all now come as standard.

The Nissan Note N-TEC+ has the same specification as the Acenta trim but adds rear parking sensors as well as the darkened rear privacy glass and the ‘Connect’ touch screen satnav/audio system found on the existing N-TEC trim.

The engine line-up continues with the 1.4, 1.6 petrol and 1.5dCi power units. The Pure Drive badged 1.5dCi is the most frugal and emits 110g/km of CO2 and a claimed combined economy of 67.3mpg.

Prices start at £11,200 for the Nissan Note Visia, with the Acenta level at £13,000 and N-TEC+ at £13,500. The first of the new Notes will reach dealers in early February.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2013 Fiat Panda 4WD

2012-01-25T08:33:00.000-08:00

The new Fiat Panda 4x4 has been spied during cold weather testing. This all-wheel-drive version of the Italian company’s popular small car was spotted in largely uncamouflaged guise.

Fiat is backing up it’s the 2WD model range of the Panda with this 4x4 variant, which has extra-strength suspension mountings and unique spring/damper/anti-roll bar rates delivering increased wheel travel.

Drive to the rear wheels is through a hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch ahead of the rear differential. The Panda 4x4 is expected to come with a six-speed manual gearbox. The 4x4 Panda also gets a new design of front and rear bumper compared to the standard model.

The two-wheel-drive version of the Panda was on display at the Frankfurt motor show late last year and goes on sale here in April, with the 4x4 slated to follow towards the end of 2012.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom

2012-01-25T08:31:00.000-08:00

The Rolls-Royce Phantom was introduced in 2003 and, despite being mostly unchanged, is still regarded as one of the most luxurious cars on sale. But these spy pictures reveal there will be a few mild updates in 2012.

As you can see from the pictures, the exterior changes will be minimal with just a few changes to the headlights and front bumper. The foglights that sit proudly below the headlamps on the current model are actually just decals on this prototype and could be ditched completely for the production model.

Mechanical changes will concentrate on further refining the Phantom’s ride comfort, reducing CO2 emissions and improving performance. As it stands, the Phantom emits 377g/km of CO2 and claims 18mpg.

Interior changes will most likely stretch to updating some of the software and systems like the sat-nav, to incorporate BMW’s latest technology.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2014 Porsche Panamera

2012-01-25T08:30:00.001-08:00

Despite a mixed reception to the first model’s looks, the Porsche Panamera is now firm's second-best selling car. The updated Panamera looks to resemble its sporty stablemates, and these spy shots reveal a revised front-end with rounder headlights, just like the new 991-generation 911.

The biggest changes will be in the bumpers, with these images showing substantial modifications, including a more pronounced rear end with bold openings below the Panamera’s tail-lamps. There are sharper edges both front and rear to keep the Panamera looking contemporary, but it's clear that the new Panamera sticks to Porsche’s design preference for evolutionary rather than radical design changes.

Cabin tweaks should be minor, with mechanical improvements likely to be limited to improved efficiency. The new Panamera is set to arrive in 2013, and a minor price increase can be expected.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2013 Buick Enclave/GMC Acadia

2012-01-25T08:28:00.001-08:00

By most accounts, both the 2012 Buick Enclave and 2012 GMC Acadia are still handsome people haulers despite their age. The Enclave has been with us since the 2008 model year, while the Acadia first bowed in 2007. But while the sheet metal has aged somewhat gracefully, everything else is showing its age, namely the interior and powertrain. General Motors hopes to address those shortcomings with a significant refresh for the 2013 model year and these testers caught by our spy photographer are proof of better things to come.

From what we can see in the photos, the overall shape remains the same. The Enclave, however, seems to be sporting a much larger front grille, while the Acadia, which appears to be a Denali model, appears unchanged. Also heavily concealed was the interior, which no doubt will get a more dramatic refresh than the exterior. In our most recent tests of the Enclave and Acadia, we found the interiors to be dated, full of hard plastics, and absent of many amenities found in competitors such as power-folding third-row seats, voice-activated nav, and smart keyless entry.

We should also expect to see an update to the powertrain, which currently consists of one engine choice — a 3.6-liter, direct-injection V-6 that puts out 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a six-speed auto that sends power to the front or all four wheels. Power is decent, but fuel economy, though better than some competitors, could be improved. There are rumors that a smaller-displacement turbocharged engine will either replace or be available as an option to the 3.6-liter V-6.

As we reported last year, the Lambda platform that the Enclave and Acadia (and the Chevy Traverse) share isn’t due for an overhaul until the 2014 or 2015 model year. Will the upcoming refresh be enough to keep GM’s crossovers competitive in this crowded segment?

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport SE

2012-01-25T08:26:00.001-08:00

It’s fair to say that the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport already stands out from the crowd, but a new version of the car shown at the Qatar Motor Show is even more noticeable. The Grand Sport seen here is “an exclusive and uniquely colored model” with yellow paint bringing the car’s price to a cool €1.58 million (about $2.05 million).

The lower half of the Veyron wears exposed black carbon fiber, while the upper half is painted in bright yellow that was, apparently, one of company founder Ettore Bugatti’s favorite colors. The black-and-yellow theme continues throughout the car: yellow brake calipers peek out from behind black wheels, yellow leather upholstery has black stitching, and the black carbon-fiber dashboard is accented by yellow stitching on the shifter.

Bugatti took the opportunity to remind us that Veyron buyers can customize their cars in almost limitless ways, whether the bumblebee design seen in Qatar or the orange-and-blue Veyrons that bowed at last fall’s Dubai Motor Show. A standard Veyron Grand Sport starts at just €1.4 million, meaning the one pictured here has a significant amount of options baked into its price tag.

Of the 150 examples of the Veyron Grand Sport scheduled for production, Bugatti has already sold 45. That means there are 105 more opportunities for you to buy the world’s fastest, most powerful production convertible. If, of course, you have a few million dollars lying around.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trim Level

2012-01-25T08:23:00.001-08:00

What’s in a name? That’s up to you. Jeep’s currently showing a preview of a potential dress-up package for the 2012 Grand Cherokee, but it’s leaving the task of naming the stealthy ensemble to the general public.

Jeep’s currently showing two specially-prepared Grand Cherokees – one painted black, the other a dark red – at the Houston and Washington D.C. shows, respectively. Both vehicles are billed as concepts, but Jeep notes the package is “production intent,” and “could be in showrooms this spring.”

Seeing as both packages aren’t that extravagant – and the Jeep brand’s recent fascination with special-edition designer packages — we’d hazard that’s a safe bet. Based on the existing Laredo X model, these vehicles were designed to provide a “factory-customized stealth appearance.” To that end, they boast a black grille surround with a mesh grille insert, black headlamp bezels, and a black liftgate trim panel. 20-inch wheels – which bear a slight resemblance to those used on the Grand Cherokee SRT8 – are finished in a matching hue, restricting exterior brightwork to the window moldings and a handful of emblems.

Interior revisions are limited to standard leather seating surfaces and heated front bucket seats. The remainder of the standard equipment – i.e. rear back-up camera and park assist, a 506-watt audio system with subwoofer, USB audio input, Bluetooth phone connectivity, etc. – essentially mirrors the existing Laredo X model. If so, expect Chrysler’s 3.6-liter V-6 to be standard equipment, its 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 to be optional, and both two- and four-wheel-drive variants in the pipeline.

Really, the only unknown at this stage is the name, seeing as there is none. Visitors to www.jeep.com/namemyride can submit suggestions; from there Jeep will whittle the entries down to three finalists. The winning name will be selected in May, and the winner may have a chance at winning a new 2012 Grand Cherokee – possibly one equipped with this very package.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Spied: 2014 BMW X5

2012-01-19T17:47:00.001-08:00

The all-new BMW X5 has been spied in testing for the first time. The all-new SUV is tentatively scheduled to be launched later in 2013 and will be the third of four SUVs BMW will be launching, refreshing or replacing before 2014.

Under the skin, the new BMW X5 will share its underpinnings with the new BMW X3, which has been a huge sales success in the UK since its launch in 2011. It will get a longer wheelbase and wider tracks, but will retain just two rows of seats, albeit with increased rear cabin space.

The double wishbone front, multi-link rear suspension system of the X3 will be retained for the new X5.

The biggest news under the bonnet will be a new four-cylinder diesel engine option that will give BMW a rival for the soon-to-be-launched, and sure to be popular, Mercedes ML250 CDI.

The model, potentially badged BMW X5xDrive25d, is likely to be powered by an improved version of BMW’s existing 204bhp twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel engine, with increased torque output to compensate for the X5’s extra size and weight.

Elsewhere, the engine line-up will consist updated versions of today’s six-cylinder petrol and diesel units, with revised V8 petrol engines mainly aimed at North American, Chinese and Middle Eastern markets.

The new X5’s 2013 launch will be preceded in 2012 by a facelift for the controversial X6 coupe-SUV and followed in 2014 by the firm’s new X6-inspired, and X3-based, X4 SUV. All models will be built at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant to provide even greater economies of scale than before.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2013 BMW 1-Series M

2012-01-19T17:40:00.000-08:00

These spy pictures show the most potent version of the new BMW 1-series, which is set to launch alongside the new three-door model later this year.

A BMW M insider at confirmed to Autocar that the new model was likely to wear the M135i badge and would be part of the firm’s upcoming M Performance Automobiles line-up.

According to the insider the M135i model, pictured here in testing for the first time, was likely to be powered by the same 316bhp turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine found in the BMW 640i.

Like all M Performance models, the M135i will also sport a whole host of chassis and styling tweaks as part of its makeover. Insiders say the model should be viewed as a three-door hatchback version of the current 135i coupe with a more focused M-honed chassis and more muscular styling.

The spy pictures also reveal the look of the three-door 1-series for the first time. It gets a gently sloping roofline and a more angular rear glasshouse for a sleeker profile than the five-door model.

Thanks to: Autocar

Spied: 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet

2012-01-19T17:35:00.000-08:00

This is the first spy shot of the brand-new VW Beetle Cabriolet - and our spy photographer has captured it completely undisguised. Previewed by the E-Bugster concept, shown at the Detroit Motor Show last week, the new Cabriolet is designed to have a more masculine appearance than the car it replaces.

Pointers towards the more muscular look are everywhere on this prototype. The roofline is much lower and the glasshouse is narrower than the old car's, with more steeply raked front and rear windows - a theme hinted at on the E-Bugster.

While closely linked to the old car, with its bulging wheelarches that flow into the front and rear bumpers, the bodywork features sharp creases instead of rounded edges. The result is a more modern look that should have a wider appeal, without losing the Beetle's distinctive silhouette.

Engine choices are expected to reflect the hard-top, which arrives in the UK in April. That means it will initially be offered with 104bhp 1.2 TSI and 158bhp 1.6 TSI petrol engines, with a 197bhp 2.0 TSI following at a later date. A 138bhp 2.0 TDI diesel version of the Beetle hatchback is scheduled to debut at the Chicago Motor Show next month, and that engine - a crucial addition for the UK market - is certain to be offered in the Cabriolet, too.

This four-seater Cabriolet isn't the only drop-top Beetle VW has in the pipline. We learned at the Detroit show that VW is planning a two-seater speedster version of the Beetle, also previewed by the E-Bugster concept, in Detroit. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2013 Fiat 500 MPV

2012-01-19T17:32:00.000-08:00

The new 2012 Fiat 500 MPV has been caught in the open for the first time. Codenamed L-Zero by the Italian company, it's a larger and more practical people carrier version of the popular supermini. It will replace the current Multipla.

Auto Express first scooped the new model late last year, but these are the first spy photographs showing the MINI Countryman rival on the road.

Despite the heavy disguise, it's easy to see the new model takes cues from the 500 at the front – with a pair of large round headlights and a similar nose. The rest of the shape is similar to the Panda, with proportions aimed at maximising headroom and luggage space.

The new MPV is based on a modified Panda platform, and it will be available with five or seven seats. Front-wheel drive will be standard, but a 4x4 option will also be offered. Several names for the new car are under consideration, including 500+ and Multipla.

Engine choices will include a 900cc TwinAir petrol turbo, a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel and a larger 1.4-litre petrol turbo. Expect manual and automatic gearboxes, too.

Production will begin at a new manufacturing plant in Serbia later this year, and the car will reach UK dealers before the end of 2012. It will also be sold in the US. Expect prices to start at around £13,000. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2014 Porsche 911 GT3

2012-01-19T17:26:00.000-08:00

There’s a new Porsche 911 GT3 on the way, and these spy pictures give our first look at the most extreme 991 yet ahead of its early 2013 release.

Porsche has fitted a large rear wing and front spoiler, while twin centrally mounted exhausts further help to differentiate the GT3 from a standard 911.

The big differences will be to performance, and Porsche will be shedding weight and increasing power. A standard 991 Carrera S produces 394bhp, but in the GT3 power will be boosted to over 450bhp from the 3.8-litre engine.

Weight savings over a standard 911 are expected to be around 40kgs, with a stripped out interior as well as lightweight wheels and body panels.

Reports suggest that Porsche will not offer a PDK gearbox with the 991 GT3, so a six-speed manual will be the only option.

Expect the 911 GT3 to cost just under £100,000 when it goes on sale in 2013. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Sneak Peek: Mitsubishi New Vehicle

2012-01-19T17:20:00.000-08:00

Mitsubishi’s Outlander needs a bit of an update, but it looks like help is on the way. Mitsubishi is set to launch a new production vehicle – which may likely be the successor to the current Outlander — at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

There’s not much known about the car, other than a short release from Mitsubishi that claims that the car will be a “strategic and innovative premium vehicle,” and that it’ll make its March 2012 debut on stage at the Geneva show.

From the looks of things, however, we wouldn’t be surprised if the car in question is the replacement for the current Outlander. We’d heard before that the PX-MiEV and PX-MiEV II concepts would closely preview the next-gen Outlander; lo and behold, the fascia previewed here looks much like the aforementioned concepts. Gone is the Lancer Evolution-inspired front fascia; a new double bar grille, slender headlamps, and a rounded bumper fascia appear to lend the crossover a cleaner look than before. Mitsubishi says this look previews the future of its corporate design language.

This vehicle might also preview the future of the marque’s powertrain strategy. In keeping with its corporate mantra to increase the number of electric or hybrid offerings available around the world, the next-gen Outlander will ultimately be offered as a plug-in hybrid (like the PX-MiEV itself), although we’re unsure if that system will debut immediately at launch.

Expect more details on the next-generation Outlander – assuming the name remains intact – to emerge closer to its show debut in March. Mitsubishi plans on rolling out the vehicle in markets around the world throughout the course 2012, starting with the European market.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek: Pininfarina Cambiano Concept

2012-01-19T17:07:00.000-08:00

Pininfarina’s slow tease of its Cambiano concept for the Geneva Motor Show continues this week, with an interesting look at the car’s roof. This marks the third teaser image of the concept, which will compete for attention along with the 2013 Porsche Boxster and electric concept from Infiniti.

The newest image of the Pininfarina Cambiano concept shows an interesting Web-like design for sections of a glass roof. The center stack of controls appears to be canted toward the driver (always a good thing) and the area behind the rear seat seems to be covered in a large expanse of wood trim. The Cambiano’s smooth curves are consistent with the other two teaser images, one of an LED headlight and the other depicting the top of a wheel well. Previously, it wasn’t apparent whether the vehicle was a coupe or sedan, but the latest photo clearly shows the door cut-line of a two-door. Little else is currently known about the powertrain or mechanicals of the concept.

Pininfarina’s Geneva concept takes its name from the town of Cambiano, Italy, where the company has been headquartered since 1982. The year 2012 marks the 30th anniversary of the Pininfarina Styling Center’s opening and the 10th anniversary of the Pininfarina Engineering Center.

Pininfarina claims the Cambiano concept will showcase the company’s design and engineering abilities, so don’t be surprised to see all-electric or hybrid powertrain technology featured.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Mini Cooper Baker Street & Bayswater SE

2012-01-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

Mini’s march of London-themed special-edition models continued today, with the automaker adding two more to the stable: the Mini Baker Street and Mini Bayswater.

Both models are based on the classic Mini Hardtop, and follow in the vein of the previous London-themed models by slightly changing the paintjob, upholstery, and interior fittings.

The first, the Mini Baker Street, is only available as a Mini Cooper. The package adds a unique Rooftop Gray metallic paint (you can also order it in Pepper White and Midnight Black), a set of black bonnet stripes, and matching black 16-inch wheels and wing mirror caps. Inside, the seats are a matching shade of Rooftop Gray, as is the door trim and cockpit surfaces. The upholstery has a custom Baker Street logo tag, which matches the emblem applied to the interior door sills and turn signal surrounds.

The Mini Bayswater is available as either a Cooper or Cooper S. It’s painted in a custom shade called Kite Blue, then adds bespoke 17-inch black wheels, a black roof, and matching black bonnet stripes. Inside, the car boasts piano black trim, while the dark gray leather upholstery gains blue and gray contrast stitching, as well as a unique Bayswater tag that matches embems found elsewhere on the car.

The Bayswater and Baker Street join the list of other London-themed Minis, including Camden, Mayfair, and Hampton special editions. No word yet on if Mini will crank out Buckingham Palace or Mini Tower of London editions, but expect the 2012 Bayswater and Baker Street models to go on sale shortly.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Lexus LX570

2012-01-15T08:58:00.001-08:00

Lexus’s big LX570 brute-ute receives a mid-cycle update for the 2013 model year. In so doing, it becomes the second Lexus product after the GS sedan to don the brand’s controversial spindle grille.

Also new are its quad headlamps with LED daytime running lights, 20-inch wheels, fog lamps, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and front and rear bumpers. The interior gets a few new trim bits and an easy-entry driver’s seaLexus’s already competent automatic four-wheel-drive system gets a new feature known as Multi-Terrain Select. It’s similar to Land Rover’s Terrain Response System—albeit without the handy pictograms—and allows drivers to cater powertrain settings to the driving surface.

Other than all that, the LX570 is the same Armageddon-grade, eight-passenger luxo-beast it’s always been.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Chrysler 700c Concept

2012-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

This extraordinary concept MPV, badged the Chrysler 700c, appeared on the Chrysler Group stand at the Detroit motor show, though company officials said they knew little about it.

Sources did reveal that mercurial company boss Sergio Marchionne decided that the 700c MPV concept should be pushed onto the stand at the last minute, partly to glean feedback from the public days at the Detroit show.

Although the 700c was badged as a Chrysler, it looks – from the lavish appearance – to have strong Lancia design cues and is rather more Italianate than North American.

Company sources would only say that the 700c was not the shape of the next Chrysler Voyager, although it appeared to based on the same underpinnings.

However, it is possible that Marchionne wants to explore the possibility of a super-luxury seven-seat MPV, which would sit above the Voyager in a future Fiat/Chrysler line-up, even though it is based on the same underpinnings.

Such a vehicle would suit Lancia in the European market and would help stretch the Chrysler brand more upmarket in the US.

Exposure to the US public over the next week or so, would also give valuable feedback to Fiat on how a ‘European’ future Chrysler could be without being too avant-garde for home-market tastes.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Honda Accord Coupe Concept

2012-01-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

This is the Honda Accord Coupe Concept, which showcases upcoming styling and technology changes to the current model, which is sold in the US but which won’t be coming to Europe.

The Coupe is actually longer and heavier than the saloon, which will also be updated in the US this year. It will be sold with two new engines: a 2.4-litre four cylinder with a six-sped manual or CVT transmission, a 3.5-litre V6, linked to a six-speed automatic transmission.

During the unveil at the Detroit motor show Honda also confirmed that it will sell a plug-in hybrid version of the production car, which goes on sale later this year. It will havea 15-mile electric only range or run as a hybrid linked to a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle engine. Recharging from a 240 volt socket takes 1.5 hours.

Safety kit enhancements will include a lane departure warning system, a blind spot warning system and the option of a reversing camera.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Toyota NS4 Concept

2012-01-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

Toyota is presenting its vision for an advanced future plug-in hybrid saloon at the Detroit motor show today. The Toyota NS4 also acts as a preview for Toyota's future design language, which "aims to make an emotional connection with customers".

Toyota has not yet confirmed the exact details of the NS4's powertrain. The Japanese firm has however said the system is both smaller and lighter than current plug-in hybrid set-ups, including the one featured in its own Toyota Prius plug-in. Toyota claims this new system also improves fuel economy, acceleration and all-electric range, while preserving a “short” recharge time.

Toyota is acutely aware of its need to make its designs much more distinctive, the NS4 being a preview of what we can expect from future Toyotas. The front grille is much bolder, and the a sculpted front bumper, lower spoiler and LED daytime running lights also help contribute to a more recognisable 'face'.

At the rear, there are wraparound lights that are meant to resemble a rear spoiler. The NS4 has also been designed with interior space and access in mind; a trick roofline and powered 'swan-wing' doors are the evidence of this.

Other features of NS4 include its advanced infotainment system and a preview of Toyota's next-generation of safety equipment. The NS4 gets a touchscreen in the centre console, which is designed to resemble a smartphone. It controls everything from heater controls to an iPod, and is claimed to present information in a clear, simple way to minimise driver distraction.

New safety tech includes a next-gen pre-collision detection system, a new blind-spot monitor and adaptive headlights. A clever pop-up bonnet also features, which raises the rear of the bonnet in the event of a pedestrian collision to help prevent head injuries.

Toyota has also equipped the NS4 with new glass technology that is lighter and more aerodynamic to improve economy, and is more resistant to rain and fogging for better visibility. Conventional mirrors have been replaced with cameras, which are claimed to offer a wider field of vision.

"By 2015 we hope to have hybrids in other models as cars like the Prius and hybrid tech will be fully accepted,' said Jim Lentz, Toyota US president. "The plug-in hybrid technology will be a natural progression for hybrids and by 2015 it will be smaller, lighter, have better economy and range and a faster charger time. Cars will also be connected to all parts of our lives so it's important to evolve human interface technologies in the interior. It will be exciting to see what concepts are at Detroit in 2015."

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Buick Encore

2012-01-15T08:50:00.000-08:00

The wraps have come off the Buick Encore at the Detroit motor show today. The soft-roader will be badged as the Vauxhall Mokka when it hits UK showrooms in November, and is the marque's answer to the Nissan Juke and Ford's new Fiesta-based EcoSport.

The high-riding five-seater is 4280mm long and around 1645mm high. It has 1540mm front and rear tracks and a 2555mm wheelbase.

The Mokka has family ties with the Buick Encore. Both are based on GM’s Gamma II platform, which will also underpin the next-generation Corsa. Vauxhall's version will debut at the Geneva motor show in March.

In the UK, the Mokka will offer a choice of 117bhp naturally aspirated 1.6-litre and 142bhp turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engines, as well as a 1.7 CDTi turbodiesel that has 132bhp and 221lb ft of torque.

All three powerplants will be equipped with stop-start, and the turbo versions can be combined with either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. An all-wheel-drive version will be available in addition to the standard front-drive model.

The Mokka has a maximum of 1372 litres of load space with the rear seats folded or 533 litres with the seats up, as well as 19 storage holes and Vauxhall’s integrated Flex-Fix bicycle carrier.

The car’s minimum ground clearance is 158mm and uses suspension designed specifically for a company crossover. Most Mokka variants will ride on 18in alloy wheels as standard. Other standard technology includes electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist and hill descent control systems and adaptive forward lighting. Vauxhall’s front camera system will be available as an option.

Ed Welburn, GM design boss said: "This car puts us on the edge of a new automotive theme. It helps give us the finest Buick product portfolio in decades. A lot of people don't want or need anything bigger than this."

Mary Barra, senior VP product planning said: "The Encore is a very important car for Buick's continued growth in China and North America. Sales were up 17 per cent in China in 2011 for another record year. In the US, we're outselling Audi and sales were up 14 per cent. This car is the first of its size and type to be launched in North America."

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Lexus LF-LC Concept

2012-01-13T22:38:00.000-08:00

The Lexus LF-LC Hybrid Sports Coupé Concept has been unveiled at the Detroit motor show, and Lexus's US chief Mark Templin has described the bold car as, ‘a sneak peak of what we're up to in the future’.

Created by the Calty design studio in California, the LF-LC is intended as a driver-focused vehicle that displays a possible future design direction for the premium manufacturer.

The futuristic styling of the car evolves the L-Finesse design language for Lexus’s production cars, seen in its latest more aggressive guise on the new Lexus GS and to make it onto next year’s new Lexus IS.

After unveiling the LF-LC, Templin said: ‘This is the styling direction we’re taking. We want to excite the customer with something new. From GS onwards, all Lexuses will look better, drive better, have better electronics and be even safer.'

One of the LF-LC’s key features is a one-piece glass roof that also serves as the windscreen and rear screen. The concept car’s glass roof has a lightweight, cantilevered pillar that’s inspired by modern architecture and improves visibility as well as enhancing the LF-LC’s sleek lines.

Other features include a plunging ‘waterfall’ front grille, which takes Lexus’s current spindle grille design to new extremes, and rear lights inspired by the afterburner of a jet fighter.

The front-engined, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features the manufacturer’s Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Inside, the cabin is finished in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood. The LF-LC features lightweight, race-inspired front seats and a racing-style steering wheel containing integrated controls and a start button.

The  LF-LC features a remote touch-screen system that allows the driver to operate controls without shifting position or altering line-of-sight. Twin 12.3in LCD screens provide information and navigation displays.

A touch-screen in the centre console is used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, with a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex commands. Similar touch-screen surfaces on each door are used to operate the windows, mirrors, seat positions and personal entertainment settings.

Some elements of the LF-LC preview a luxurious new 2+2 coupe that Lexus is known to be considering for production.

If a production version of the Lexus LF-LC is given the green light, it will use a shortened version of the next-generation LS’s platform, which is due to go into production in 2014. It is likely to take the LC600h badge for production and feature a hi-tech hybrid drivetrain.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Lincoln MKZ Concept

2012-01-13T22:36:00.000-08:00

The Lincoln MKZ concept has been unveiled at the Detroit motor show – and its significance goes well beyond the launch of a new product, as it also marks the first step in Ford’s quest to reinvigorate its struggling luxury brand.

"We are not introducing a new car, we are essentially introducing a new brand," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president for Global Product Development. "The MKZ concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we have been quietly but aggressively pursuing."

Ford has long pondered what to do with Lincoln, but is now committed to growing it; company bosses have set up a dedicated team of engineers and designers to work on Lincoln products only, and have also pledged to launch seven new or significantly revised Lincolns by 2014, two others of which are the flagship and MKT crossover, which are both also at the show.

Mark Fields, president of Ford America, said: “Lincoln is an important part of our business. The luxury industry is significant. In any given year in the US, the luxury segment is 11-13 per cent of overall sales, and it’s important for us to win customers with strong new vehicles.”

However, Lincoln won’t be expanding its attentions outside of North America yet. Jim Farley, Ford’s vice president of marketing, told Autocar: “It will take every ounce of energy and every cent of investment to make Lincoln work right in North America. Once we have got that right we may look elsewhere, but that’s a long way off.”

The MKZ, which sits on Ford’s mid-size platform and can be configured to run as a front or all-wheel-drive car, will make production in the US later this year, bearing a strong resemblance to the concept on show in Detroit. Design director Max Wolff also wants to apply the design theme, which he characterises as "elegant simplicity" to all Lincoln cars.

Wolff, who is in the process of setting up the dedicated Lincoln design studio, the brand’s first dedicated premises since 1970, says he has tried not to shy away from keeping classic Lincoln styling cues - the split-wing grille, for instance, was first introduced on the 1938 Lincoln Zephyr – while also blending in modern design, such as the panoramic glass roof and LED technology.

Inside, the emphasis is on comfort and luxury; it’s a strict four-seater, its cabin is swathed in leather and wood fittings and there a 10.1 inch TFT screen ahead if the driver, plus an eight-inch LCD touchscreen on the centre console.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Acura/Honda NSX Concept

2012-01-13T22:34:00.000-08:00

Honda President Takanobu Ito expects the company’s new Honda NSX to be on sale within the next three years, and hinted that the Japanese supercar could go racing, too.

Honda is finally getting back into the supercar business with a new NSX concept, seven years after pulling the original mid-engined two-seater from production.

Speaking at the launch of the much-anticipated NSX concept at the Detroit motor show today, President Ito said: “The NSX will be the ultimate expression of synergy between man and machine. The car development will be led by the US, and it will be sold globally within the next three years. It is a car that is up to the performance of racing and, while this car is for customers, you might see it racing as well.

“This is a car that demonstrates our passion for performance. The NSX became an icon through its power-to-weight ratio and the driving experience that it gave anyone behind the wheel.

“Since 2005 we have strived to make a successor but global change has had a colossal effect on the industry in that time. Even a supercar must respond to environmental responsibility. This car is about high performance through efficiency."

What Honda engineers have wrought takes the NSX replacement off in a completely different direction from the V10 monster Honda acknowledged was under development as recently as 2007.

The new model will maintain the original NSX’s mid-engined layout and feature extensive use of aluminium and other lightweight materials, most likely carbonfibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

But the powertrain will be decidedly different from the V10 Honda originally planned in 2007. It will be based on the new, electric version of Honda’s ‘Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive’, or E-SH-AWD system, which will appear on the upcoming Acura MDX sold in the US. It’s what engineers call a “through-the-road all-wheel drive” system, as there’s no mechanical link between front and rear axles.

For the MDX, the driveline features a front-mounted 306bhp 3.5-litre V6 paired with a 39bhp electric motor. Together, they drive the front axle through a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission — Honda’s first. The rear axle, meanwhile, will feature twin 27bhp electric motors, one driving each wheel.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Ford Fusion/Mondeo

2012-01-13T22:31:00.000-08:00

The all-new Ford Mondeo has been launched at the Detroit motor show. The car isn’t due to go on sale until March next year, but Ford has announced it early because the Mondeo’s sister vehicle, the US-market Fusion, has just been revealed at the Detroit show.

As part of the company’s ‘One Ford’ policy, the European and Asian-market Mondeo and the US Fusion have merged to become essentially the same car.

Sources say the new car, which has been engineered primarily in America, is based on an all-new, “10 per cent stronger” platform that replaces the one under today’s Mondeo and the Mazda 6-sourced platform used by the current Fusion. It retains MacPherson struts at the front and gets all-new multi-link rear suspension. Ford claims the Mondeo has again been conceived as a driver’s car.

For now, most of the technical information relates to the Fusion, but Mondeo buyers can expect 168bhp/172lb ft 1.6-litre and 234bhp/250lb ft 2.0-litre turbocharged Ecoboost petrol engines, as well as Ford’s 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre diesels.

The US market also gets the Fusion Hybrid, which uses a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, electric motor and CVT transmission to deliver 56mpg-plus economy. A plug-in hybrid version has also been announced which promises fuel economy equivalent to around 100mpg with a range comparable to the Chevrolet Volt.

Sources at Ford say although no decision has been made on whether hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants of the Mondeo will be sold in Europe, an electrified C/D segment car is scheduled for a 2013 launch.

The new Mondeo platform has also been engineered to accommodate all-wheel drive, which will be an option on the US-market car powered by the 2.0-litre petrol engine. Stop-start will also be an option on the new model, activated by brake pedal pressure. Lane Keeping Assist, adaptive cruise control, Active Park Assist and a Blind Spot Information System will be available as options, as will a new Active Noise Control set-up, which use the audio system to help cancel out road noise. SYNC, Ford’s in-car internet service, will also be offered on the new Mondeo, after appearing later this year in the UK in the Focus.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Falcon F7

2012-01-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

Falcon Motorsports has revealed its new Falcon F7 supercar at the Detroit motor show. The F7 is the work of Michigan-based tuning firm Falcon and is seen in production form exactly one year on from the Falcon Mach 7 conce pt at last year’s show.

Power for the concept comes from Chevrolet’s 7.0-litre V8 LS7 engine, tuned to produce a mighty 612bhp and 600lb ft. Upgrades over the standard engine include a carbonfibre intake manifold and a revamped ECU. The F7 weighs in at 1263kg.

The bodywork is all made from carbonfibre. The chassis is a hydroformed tube chassis, with the suspension based on the current generation Corvette. Falcon claims the bodywork is well suited to low volume production; the firm plans to build just 20 F7s per year.

Inside, the retro-themed interior gets features including special leather sports seats and aluminium trim for the instruments and switchgear.

The F7 is set to cost $225,000 when it goes into production later this year.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

2012-01-12T18:05:00.000-08:00

The new US-spec Hyundai Veloster Turbo has been given its official debut at the Detroit motor show. A European version of the car will also follow, possibly after a launch at the Geneva motor show in March.

Powering the US Veloster Turbo is a new turbocharged 1.6-litre direct-injection petrol engine with 198bhp. Hyundai claims its new go-faster 1+2 doored coupe has a best in class power to weight ratio.

Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. When equipped with the former, the Veloster Turbo returns a claimed 45.6mpg combined. Other powertrain features include a sports-tuned exhaust note.

Completing the mechanical upgrades is a sports-tuned steering system.

The styling has also undergone an overhaul. The Turbo features a unique front-end design, with a new grille, bumper and fog lights. There's also a matte grey paint finish, 18in alloys, and new LED headlights.

Inside, there are leather sports seats, and a Turbo-exclusive Graphite Black colour scheme, which also gets special Turbo badging.

The US will get their version of the Veloster Turbo by the summer. UK buyers are tipped to get the car in the second half of 2012.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Audi Q3 Vail Concept

2012-01-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

Audi has taken the wraps off its Audi Q3 SUV Vail concept at the Detroit motor show. Designed with a winter sports theme, the Q3 Vail is 40mm wider and 30mm higer than the production Q3 model and features flared arches, roof bars with integrated wide-angled LED lights, and 20-inch alloys clad in off-road tyres.

Powering the AWD Audi Q3 Vail concept is the firm’s familiar 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which is driven via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. The Vail produces 310bhp and 295lb ft of torque, which Audi claims will propel the SUV from 0-62mph in 5.5sec, with top speed achieved at 163mph.

Further details of the Audi Q3 Vail concept (the name of which is inspired by a Colorado mountain resort) include a diffuser-integrated exhaust system, ‘Energy Red’ paintwork and a single-frame aluminium grille.

Inside, induction chargeable lights, induction warmed drinks flasks and heated cushions come as standard. Also included are black, ribbed floor mats, special leather upholstery - thin strips of leather are interwoven with yarn – and a Nappa leather instrument panel, with aluminium inlays.

Finishing the Q3s winter sports theme is a charging station in the boot as well as a heated load floor mat, ‘which provides a warm area to sit on when putting on or taking off your ski boots,’ according to Audi.

The Vail concept has been launched to whet the appetite of American buyers ahead of the launch of the Q3 later this year. The compact SUV's US launch is critical for Audi, which needs to increase sales from 2011's 117,500 to 150,000 in the next three years. Audi CEO, Rupert Stadler told Bloomberg News recently "The next pillar of the market that we have to conquer is the United States. We see opportunities in the SUV and sedan segments."

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

2012-01-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

The Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid made its world debut at the Detroit motor show – but there are currently no plans to bring the petrol-electric car to the UK.

The car is powered by a 148bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine and a 20kW electric motor. According to the manufacturer’s claims, the Jetta Hybrid’s fuel consumption is about 20 per cent better than an equivalent petrol-powered vehicle, meaning it can achieve about 54mpg. The car can also cover 0-60mph in less than nine seconds.

Like Volkswagen’s Touareg Hybrid, the Jetta uses a decoupling clutch that can disengage the petrol motor for pure electric drive (or when coasting or braking), disengage the electric motor (for higher speeds or when the battery charge is low), or combine the two units for maximum power. The two power sources combine to give peak power of 168bhp. Power is directed to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox.

Using electric power alone, the Jetta Hybrid can be driven at speeds of up to 44mph and over a distance of 1.3 miles, depending on conditions.

The lithium-ion battery pack that powers to electric motor is housed behind the rear seat bench. The Jetta Hybrid weighs 100kg more than the non-hybrid Jetta, at less than 1500kg in total.

Under braking, the Jetta Hybrid switches to a battery regeneration mode, which decouples the TSI engine and uses the electric motor as a generator. The generating power of the motor rises with increased brake pedal travel.

The interior is unchanged from existing Jettas, apart from a dash display that shows current drive mode, energy flow and battery charge.

Externally, the Jetta Hybrid can be identified by low-drag aerodynamic tweaks including a new front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler. There are also new headlights with LED running lights, LED rear lights and unique 15-inch alloy wheels with low rolling resistance tyres. It also gets a Volkswagen logo on a blue background and ‘Hybrid’ badges on the front wings and bootlid.

A newly designed exhaust system, an acoustic windscreen and thicker front side windows help to make this the quietest vehicle Volkswagen has ever offered in this class. The Jetta Hybrid launches in North America in November.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012-01-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

This is the Volkswagen E-Bugster concept, which has been launched at the Detroit show. It is, in fact, two concepts in one, being both a slightly exaggerated concept version of the upcoming second generation Beetle cabriolet and the debut of the electric drivetrain destined to be used by the wider Golf family from 2013.

The E-Bugster is 90mm lower and 30mm wider than the production Beetle hatchback but retains the same length. The concept has been laid out as a strict two-seater, with the battery pack positioned behind the front seats.

The exterior styling, with a cut-down windscreen, low hard-top and shallow side windows, are all direct references to the classic southern California hot rod look.

This concept also gets bespoke bumper designs, incorporating the large C-shaped LED running lights first seen on the electric version of the Up city car. Extended wings accommodate 20-inch wheels and 235/35 tyres.

Inside, pressing the start button begins a light show that immerses the interior first in blue light, then white light, followed by pulsing lights from the instrument cluster. This then turns into a light strip just 1mm high that runs around the vents and along the door trims.

Under the skin, VW says its new electric drivetrain, which uses an 85kW motor and a 28.3kWh battery pack, can sprint to 60mph in 10.9sec and has a range of “at least 110 miles in urban conditions”. The system also gets a new electronic control module which VW says is unusually light at just 80kg.

It also uses a new ‘Combined Charging System’, which has been developed by the German car industry in conjunction with Ford and allows the battery pack to be charged by various types of electricity supply, although VW says the car industry also needs to come up with a common plug connector. In any case, an ultra-fast DC charge of the battery should take just 35 minutes.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrid

2012-01-12T08:57:00.000-08:00

Mercedes is set to join the ranks of manufacturers selling hybrid-powered executive cars with this diesel-electric Mercedes E-class, which has been officially unveiled at the Detroit motor show. The E300 BlueTec, due on sale next September in both saloon and estate bodystyles, is engineered around the most powerful version of Mercedes’ 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine.

The headline CO2 figure of 109g/km will make the E300 BlueTec popular with company car users. It undercuts BMW’s petrol-powered Active5 Hybrid by a significant 40g/km.

The 201bhp/369lb ft diesel engine is mated to a 27bhp/184lb ft brushless electric motor sited within the gearbox housing. A 0.8kWh lithium ion battery is said to provide an all-electric range of less than a mile at speeds below 35mph. Together, they are claimed to provide the E300 with a 0-62mph time of 7.5sec and a top speed of 150mph.

With a host of fuel saving measures, including stop-start, brake energy recuperation, a sailing mode and low rolling resistance tyres, it is claimed to return a combined 67.3mpg — an improvement of 9.6mpg on the existing E250 CDI saloon.

The US-only E400 Hybrid uses a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine mated to the same electric motor used in the E300. This delivers 32.4mpg on the US fuel cycle, which is regarded as beingtougher than the European cycle.

Hybrid versions of Mercedes saloon car range are likely to be restricted to the C, E and S-class for cost reasons, according to its head of research and development Thomas Weber. "An efficient four-cylinder engine is a more cost-effective way of achieving low emissions in small cars," he said. Weber also confirmed the next S-class, due later this year, will be offered as Mercedes' first plug-in hybrid model.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Audi A4

2012-01-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

The wraps have come off the facelifted version of the Audi A4 at today's Detroit motor show, which will be a key rival to the recently revealed, sixth-generation BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.

The Audi A4 – one of the Ingolstadt marque's strongest sellers – is due to arrive in UK showrooms in March in saloon, Avant, Allroad quattro and S4 forms. The headlining S4 now offers up 0-62mph in just 5.0sec, a limited 155mph top speed along with combined average fuel consumption of 39.3mpg.

The reworked A4 gains a host of detailed styling changes, a revised range of petrol and diesel engines and changes to its interior – all of which are aimed at setting it apart from today’s A4, which has been on sale here since 2008.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Porsche 911 Cabriolet

2012-01-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

The new Porsche 911 cabriolet has been unveiled at the Detroit motor show. The car features an innovative fabric and composite plastic folding hood to provide the soft-top with a cleaner appearance, improved aerodynamic efficiency and more refinement.

The new open-top 911 will go on sale in the UK in March priced at £79,947 for the Carrera cabriolet and £89,740 for the Carrera S cabriolet.

The cabrio is about 60kg lighter than its predecessor, features the longer wheelbase of the latest hardtop 911 and is about 18 per cent stiffer than the car it replaces.

Eschewing the traditional multi-layered fabric structure of the 997 series 911 cabriolet, the new model adopts a specially developed lightweight hood that uses a fabric-skinned composite panel for the upper and rear part of the structure, providing it with a more uniform shape together with a tauter fit, that is claimed to make it more resistant to buffeting at high speeds.

The new hood, which is supported on a magnesium frame, also receives a glass rear window glued directly to the outer fabric skin. The cabrio’s development boss, Michael Schaetzle, says this process involves a newly patented process, developed by Porsche, and will also feature on the upcoming third-generation Boxster, due in 2012.

While the upper and rear parts of the hood receive composite panelling, the sides retain a similar multi-layered fabric design as used previously, which allows it to fold and stow behind the cabin underneath a larger tonneau cover than employed on the outgoing 997 cabrio. All up, the new structure takes just 11sec to raise or stow, and can be operated at speeds up to 37mph. Along with the new roof, Porsche has also provided the new cabrio with an automatic wind deflector. It rises in just two seconds, and takes up no extra space.

The soft-top will initially come with the same horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine choices as the 911 coupé. Buyers will be able to choose between a standard seven-speed manual or an optional seven-speed double-clutch gearbox.

Off the back of its most successful sales performance in history, with global sales up 11 per cent to 118,000 units, Porsche is targeting 25,000 sales of its latest 911 this year.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Acura ILX Concept

2012-01-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

The Acura ILX is a precursor to a production version of the luxury compact saloon, which will also launch in the spring. It has been conceived as conquest vehicle to attract new buyers to the brand.

Engine choices will comprise of 2.0 and 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engines, and a 1.5-litre hybrid, which is the first from the company.

Acura’s head of design, Jon Ikeda, used the ILX and RDX concepts at Detroit to show the firm’s new, more mature styling direction. “We wanted beautiful, not boy racer, styling,” he said. "We want to re-establish Acura's credentials as a maker of beautiful cars".

Takanobu Ito, Honda's President and CEO confirmed Acura will expand into some growth markets, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Russia and Ukraine from the end of 2013. Ito said there are no plans to expand the brand into Europe.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Acura RDX Concept

2012-01-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

The Acura RDX Prototype, is a virtually production-ready look at the new 2013 RDX crossover, due for launch in the spring.

It will be powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 273bhp, 33bhp more than the outgoing model, and will receive a new, lighter all-wheel drive system. The result is a target of 33.6mpg on the highway – the best economy of any petrol-powered luxury SUV in its class.

The RDX Prototype has more elegant styling than the current model, and Acura says the car is more aerodynamically efficient. The wheelbase is longer and the track wider and a revised electric power steering system designed to offer a smoother and more entertaining drive.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Nissan Pathfinder Concept

2012-01-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

Nissan is presenting the next generation of its full-size Nissan Pathfinder SUV with this concept at today’s Detroit motor show – but the production model is not destined for the UK. Instead, UK buyers will continue to be offered today’s Pathfinder.

The new fourth-generation Pathfinder puts a much greater emphasis on styling this time around, featuring a more aerodynamic body with a lower belt line, muscular wheel arches and a much more recognizable front-end.

The new three-row, seven-seat Pathfinder features an all-new unibody platform, which is claimed to offer much greater flexibility in interior packaging. The platform has allowed for the more aerodynamic styling without compromising on interior space, headroom or boot capacity, Nissan claims. Perceived interior space is also improved with a large panoramic roof.

The new platform will make the imminent next-generation Pathfinder weigh considerably less than the current body-on-frame design. This in turn will greatly improve fuel economy by as much as 25 per cent, which Nissan says is at the request of current Pathfinder owners.

The concept features a V6 petrol engine of an unspecified capacity mated to a new CVT gearbox. There’s also a new four-wheel drive system that Nissan claims allows the Pathfinder to beat allcomers for towing ability.

Full details on the new Pathfinder production car will be released in the summer before the all-new model reaches US dealers in the autumn.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Nissan e-NV200 Concept

2012-01-11T09:16:00.000-08:00

Nissan is delivering on its promise to make an all-electric van using the Nissan Leaf’s running gear with this new Nissan e-NV200 Concept at the Detroit motor show. As the name suggests, the concept is based on the versatile Nissan NV200 van, which will form the basis of the next-generation New York taxi from 2013.

The e-NV200 Concept has “potential” as a mass production vehicle, Nissan claims, with businesses the likely target market for sales. Despite an initially higher purchase price, Nissan claims business users would notice a “reduction in operating costs” compared to conventional vans equipped with an internal combustion engine.

The Leaf hatchback provides the e-NV200 with its all-electric driveline. It gets a lithium-ion battery pack that powers an 107bhp/207 lb ft electric motor. All-electric range is claimed to be similar to the Leaf’s. The powertrain will not effect the NV200’s payload or cargo space.

Styling wise, the NV200 is instantly recognizable as a Nissan electric vehicle thanks to its Leaf-inspired front end. Like the Leaf, its charging connector point is hidden underneath a flap beneath the Nissan badge at the front. The concept is also painted in the Leaf’s Aqua Blue paint.

Real-world trials of all-electric NV200s are already underway around the world. Companies testing the development models include the Japan Post Service in Yokohama and FedEx in London.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Chevrolet Code 130R Concept

2012-01-10T21:12:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet has unveiled two new four-seat coupe concepts at the Detroit motor show, the Chevrolet Tru 140S and the Chevrolet Code 130R. General Motors plans to let younger buyers directly influence Chevrolet's future product strategy by asking them what type of cars they want to see Chevrolet make.

The Two Detroit concepts are the first stage of this, as those asked by GM said they wanted "coupe styling with space for their friends", according to GM's North American president Mark Reuss.

Both concepts are powered by the firm's turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which also features in the new Chevrolet Sonic RS, another model making its show debut at Detroit. Both concepts were designed at Chevrolet's Californian design centre.

The Code 130R is described as a coupe with "pure functional muscle". It harks back to muscle cars of the 1960s, but GM insists there's nothing retro about it. "It celebrates our performance era, but with no error feel," said Reuss.

No platform has been confirmed by GM for the rear-wheel drive Code 130R. Autocar understands the architecture is a shortened version of the new Cadillac ATS.

Neither concept has an interior at present. Instead, GM will be asking Detroit show goers to directly influence the interiors of the concepts by asking what direction they should take. The concepts will then be fitted with interiors and presented at a future motor show.

"We want input from the wider public before we modify them," said Reuss.

Reuss said that if the concepts were to go into production, they each would command a price tag of around $20,000.

The long-term strategy for concepts and production cars like these is to "make young people - future Chevrolet buyers - fall in love with an automotive brand in the same way they do with an technology company, or a gadget," said Reuss.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Chevrolet Tru 140S Concept

2012-01-10T21:09:00.000-08:00

The Two Detroit concepts are the first stage of this, as those asked by GM said they wanted "coupe styling with space for their friends", according to GM's North American president Mark Reuss.

The Tru 140S is based on the front-wheel drive Cruze platform. Reuss says its brief was to be a car with an "affordable exotic" look. The sleek three-door gets Chevy's recognisable front-end, with chrome wheels and a matte white paint finish.

"The Tru 140S is for those who want an affordable sports car with lots of style," said Reuss. He added that it's research had indicated that young buyers wanted an Italian sports car look, and this was incorporated into the Tru 140S's design.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 BMW 3-Series

2012-01-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

The BMW 3-series has been unveiled to the North American audience at today's Detroit motor show.

The roomier, faster and more economical BMW 3-series saloon - know internally as the F30 - is new from the ground-up, has been four years in the making, and is tasked with continuing BMW’s dominance over key rivals such as the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-class and Volvo S60.

So thorough has the design and development been that BMW R&D chief Klaus Draeger, describes it as ‘BMW’s most ambitious engineering program to date’.

Holding true to a front-engine, rear-drive layout, the new 3-series will initially be sold with the choice of three engines in four models – the 320d, 320d EfficientDynamics, 328i and 301bhp 335i.

Following the launch cars into the showrooms a month later, in March next year, are the entry-level diesels and a petrol model: the 320i, which gets a 181bhp 2.0-litre four-pot, and the 114bhp 316d and 141bhp 318d, both of which use versions of the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit. Later in the year comes the rest of the cavalry, including the 318i petrol and the 325d, 330d and 335d diesels.

And in a move mirroring that of the 1-series, the new 3-series will introduce three new trims – Sport, Luxury and Modern — to complement the usual ES, SE and MSport.

Also being readied for late next year is the 3-series ActiveHybrid that mates a turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor combined into the automatic ’box housing. It will produce 335bhp and 332lb/ft and return 44.4mpg. A UK-first late next year will be four-wheel drive models.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible

2012-01-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

The ultimate soft-top Mustang has been revealed at the Detroit motor show. The Ford Shelby GT500 is mechanically identical to its equally hardcore coupe sibling revealed at the Los Angeles motor show last autumn, with the addition of a folding fabric roof.

That means power comes from a 5.8-litre supercharged V8 engine, which produces a lofty 650bhp and 600lb ft. Ford says every part of the powertrain has been optimised for producing the additional horsepower, including a larger, more efficient supercharger that is a unique design for the Shelby GT500’s engine.

The clutch, transmission and axle have all been upgraded and the Ford Shelby GT500 also gets a new carbonfibre driveshaft, cross-drilled block and heads and updated camshaft profiles. The gearing of the six-speed manual transmission has been revised to manage to torque and power delivery.

Other tweaks include a new downforce-generating front grille, a redesigned splitter that is designed to make the car feel more planted at speeds of 160mph-plus and a new quad exhaust system. The cooling system has been uprated and features a larger, revised cooling fan and more efficient air cooler.

Stopping power comes from six-piston Brembo calipers, revised pads and larger front and rear rotors to reduce brake fade. The Shelby GT500 runs on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels coupled with Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G tyres.

An optional, track-oriented Performance Package offers Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers and a Torsen limited-slip differential. On top of that, a Track Package is also available for even more extreme performance.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Cadillac ATS

2012-01-10T17:42:00.000-08:00

The Cadillac ATS saloon is the firm’s latest attempt to crack the ultra-competitive BMW 3 series segment. Revealed at the Detroit motor show, it's based on an all-new lightweight rear-drive platform and features an advanced new turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine in its line-up.

The ATS will go on sale in the US this summer, but UK sales are yet to be confirmed. A General Motors source told Autocar that provisions had been made for right-hand drive. They added that new diesel engines for the ATS were also in development, and it would seem logical for GM to wait until these are ready before launching the ATS in the UK given diesel’s dominance in the segment.

Launch US engine options include the new power-dense 270bhp turbo four, a 200bhp 2.5-ltre four-pot and a range-topping 318bhp 3.6-litre V6. Performance and economy figures have yet to be confirmed. Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are offered, with all-wheel drive also optional.

At 4643mm long, 1805mm wide and 1421mm high, the ATS is 20mm longer, 6mm narrower and 8mm shorter than the BMW 3-series. Cadillac quotes the ATS’s weight as “less than 1542kg”; the new BMW 320d weighs 1420kg.

Cadillac engineers undertook much of the ATS’s development at the Nurburgring. GM claims the advanced chassis blends “balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement”.

Features include Cadillac’s first multi-link independent suspension at the rear and a multilink double-pivot MacPherson strut set-up at the front. The suspension is fully adjustable and features Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping. The ATS also features a near 50/50 weight distribution.

Styling wise, the ATS builds on Cadillac’s ‘Art & Science’ design language. It features bold vertical LED lights at the front, and an active grille to help reduce drag. As standard, 17in alloys are fitted with 18in alloys optional.

The driver-focused interior includes Cadillac’s new ‘Cadillac User Experience’ infotainment system, which centres on an 8in LCD touchscreen used to control everything from Bluetooth phone connectivity to the Bose sound system.

Cadillac has yet to confirm pricing, but our source indicated it “needed to be competitive against similarly equipped BMW 3-series, Mercedes C-class and Audi A4 models”.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Mini Roadster

2012-01-10T17:41:00.001-08:00

The definitive production version of the new compact two-seat Mini Roadster has been spied at the Detroit motor show today. The Roadster is a sister car to the recently introduced Mini Coupé and rival to the Mazda MX-5 and upcoming Citroën DS3 cabriolet.

It will be built at Mini’s Oxford plant and reach UK showrooms in spring 2012, priced from £18,015 for the base Cooper model.

At 3728mm in length, 1638mm in width and 1390mm in height, the Roadster is a scant 3mm shorter, 47mm narrower and 25mm lower than Mini’s existing open-top model, the Cabriolet, on which it is largely based.

Unlike its four-seat open-top sibling, though, Mini’s latest model is a strict two-seater. The space behind the seats is dedicated to extending luggage capacity, as in the Coupé.

The interior adopts the retro-inspired look of existing Mini models, while the new car’s fabric hood features weight-saving manual operation. This multi-layered structure can be lowered from the driver’s seat, folding back behind the seats into a space ahead of a rear liftback.

Mirroring the move taken with the new Coupé, the Roadster will be sold with Mini’s familiar 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in three states of tune. In naturally aspirated guise, it kicks out 121bhp in the Cooper. Twin-scroll turbocharged versions produce 181bhp in the Cooper S and 208bhp in the range-topping John Cooper Works models.

Also available from the start of Roadster sales in the UK will be a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel unit with 141bhp in the Cooper SD. It is claimed to provide 0-62mph in 8.1sec, a 131mph top speed, a combined 62.8mpg and CO2 of just 118g/km, for the manual.

Gearbox choices include a standard six-speed manual on all models. An optional six-speed automatic is also available on all models apart from the John Cooper Works.

Mini is talking up the dynamic properties of the Roadster, suggesting that its lightweight fabric hood provides it with a lower centre of gravity than other models. The steel body structure adopts the same stiffening measures as the Coupé, including a substantial brace at the rear.

With a weight distribution biased towards the front, the new open-top also possesses better traction than earlier Mini models, claim officials.

Customer feedback to the Mini Roadster will help determine where the Mini brand expands. Design chief Anders Warming said: "We have been criticised for straying from the Mini brand values with some of our cars, but if our customers want a type of car, then you might say it fits well with what the modern Mini customer wants."

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Bentley Continental V8

2012-01-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

Bentley has launched its long-awaited twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine at the Detroit today, saying it promises “an instantly recognisable growl”.

The engine will initially be offered in special versions of the Continental GT and GTC, identifiable by their black grilles, red badges and ‘figure eight’ exhaust pipes. The models will be positioned below existing 6.0-litre W12 Continentals, which will stay in production.

The new V8, which uses direct high-pressure fuel injection and cuts to a fuel-sipping four-cylinder mode on light throttle loads, produces 500bhp at 6000rpm and 487lb ft of torque between 1700 and 5000rpm. Using a new eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, which also improves efficiency, the V8 Continental has a top speed of 180mph, with 0-60mph acceleration below five seconds.

Bentley won’t reveal precise fuel consumption and CO2 figures until early next year. Nor has it said whether the engine has been engineered to run on bio-ethanol, like the 6.0-litre W12. However, it expects V8-powered Continentals to be able to cover more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The move fulfils a Bentley commitment, made three years ago, to deliver a new powertrain with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced by 40 per cent compared with the W12 engine that has until now powered all Continental models, more than 50,000 of which have been sold since launch in 2003.

The new engine is closely related to the similar-sized unit already used in Audi’s S6, S7 and S8 models, but its power and torque characteristics have been uniquely configured to suit the marque values of Bentley’s cars.

Sophisticated Crewe-configured engine management allows a “seamless and imperceptible” transition to four-cylinder running on light loads. Other technical highlights include special low-friction bearings, thermal management to avoid excess heat loss, energy recuperation via an intelligent charging system and turbo packaging within the engine’s vee to reduce throttle lag.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Volvo XC60 Plug-in Concept

2012-01-10T17:34:00.000-08:00

Volvo’s Detroit motor show star is this petrol-electric Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept. As well as confirming Volvo’s intentions to launch a plug-in hybrid in North America, Russia and China, the concept is also a first look at one of the new four-cylinder petrol engines from Volvo’s new Volvo Environmental Architecture family.

The XC60 combines a 256bhp four-cylinder petrol engine with a 69bhp, 147lb ft electric motor. It can drive for up to 35 miles on electric power alone, and it can achieve more than 100mpg on the European combined cycle, with emissions rated at below 53g/km. More than half of US drivers are estimated to travel less than 30 miles a day.

The XC60 is being presented as a concept, with Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby stressing that it is not yet certain which Volvo will be sold first in the US with the plug-in powertrain. “A world-class plug-in hybrid will reach our American showrooms in a couple of years,” said Jakoby. “However, it is too early to say which model will be the first to feature the solution.”

The XC60 hybrid uses the same plug-in technology as the £47,000 V60 Plug-in Hybrid that will go on sale in Europe later this year. However, the V60 will feature a 212bhp, 324lb ft five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine.

Both cars will feature three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid and Power. Pure is all-electric, Hybrid uses the electric assistance to boost economy and Power uses the electric assistance to boost performance.

Other features of the drivetrain include a selectable electrical all-wheel drive mode, which is claimed to be more economical than a permanent mechanical all-wheel drive system as it is only activated when a driver needs assistance in snow, mud or similar low-grip situations.

A two-stage braking system also features, which initially slows the car using the electric motor (the energy from which is used to recharge the battery pack) before the mechanical brakes kick in when extra braking is required.

A full recharge of the batteries on both the XC60 and V60 takes between 3.5 hours and 7.5 hours depending on the amperage of the power source. While recharging, it is also possible to pre-heat or cool the cabin to prevent the car using unnecessary charge on these tasks when on the move. The battery can also be pre-conditioned to its optimum working temperature, too, thus maximising the electric-only range.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Dodge Dart

2012-01-10T08:50:00.000-08:00

The Dodge Dart has made a comeback at the Detroit motor show, in the shape of an all-new Alfa Romeo Giulietta-based compact saloon produced for the North American market.

The Dart was a classic of the American car market in the 1960s, when it served as an entry-level model to the Dodge brand, and was well known for the unusual push-button transmission Dodge offered. However, Dodge officials claim the new Dart is not a retro car, claiming it to be “a thoroughly modern vehicle”.

It will line up alongside such compact segment stalwarts as the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, as well as newer rivals including the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra.

The Dart is the first product in the Chrysler line-up to get an injection of partner Fiat’s DNA, courtesy of its Alfa Romeo brand. It is based on a platform adapted from the Giulietta, underscoring the increasing ties between Chrysler and Fiat. Dubbed the Compact US Wide, or CUSW, architecture, it will appear under the skin of a variety of new products in both the United States and Europe.

In keeping with Chrysler tradition, a significant emphasis has been put on the design of the newly revived Dart, which adopts a more aerodynamic and appealing shape than that of the old Dodge Caliber hatchback it replaces.

Familiar features include the Dodge ‘crosshair’ grille and ‘race track’ tail-lamps, as well as a dual exhaust system borrowed from the bigger Charger saloon.

On the powertrain side, the Fiat influence is obvious, with the Dart offering a turbocharged 1.4-litre MultiAir engine and a 2.4-litre ‘Tigershark’ Chrysler unit fitted with MultiAir technology. There is also a new Tigershark 2.0-litre, 16-valve four. The Dart also gets a new eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

The Dart features independent suspension all round — unusual in the segment — to enhance what Dodge claims to be a more European-style ride. A hi-tech interior is another feature, with the centre console dominated by an 8.4-inch touchscreen.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Mercedes SL

2012-01-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

Mercedes boss Dieter Zetsche has set his company the target of being the world's largest premium car maker by the end of the decade on the eve of the Detroit motor show.

Mercedes currently trails class leader BMW in global sales, and Zetsche believes taking leadership of the premium sector, which is expected to grow at an even faster rate than the entire new car market, is key to success.

"This year is impossible to predict, nobody can be certain what will happen," said Zetsche. "But we are very confident that the next decade will see significant growth for the whole car market, and the premium sector in particular. We want to be number one in that time."

Zetche said his confidence was down to the new products being developed by Mercedes, including the new Mercedes SL, which is being shown in the metal for the first time at the Detroit motor show and will deliver “the ultimate in passionate, refined motoring” when it arrives in UK showrooms next July according to its makers. The new roadster will go on sale in the UK almost 60 years to the day since the original 300SL became the first German sports car to win the Le Mans 24Hrs.

The sixth-generation SL is based on an all-new platform, but apart from that it diverts from the proven recipe of the outgoing model only among the details.

As is the class norm, and like the R230 model, the new R231 SL uses longitudinal V6 and V8 petrol engines and rear-wheel drive. But unlike many direct competitors, it has a folding metal ‘vario-roof’ that takes less than 20 seconds to convert, and a strictly two-seat cabin.

Featuring cleaner surfaces and bolder styling lines than the outgoing car — none more so than the unbroken shoulderline running from headlight to tail-lamp — the new SL’s aesthetic references are to the 1960s ‘pagoda’ SL and 1970s R107.

However, Mercedes hasn’t wasted the chance to update the car with the SLS-inspired upright radiator grille used by its sports car family, and some familiar body-side sculpting.

The exterior form is functional as well as elegant. Mercedes claims the SL is the most aerodynamically efficient car in its class and sets new standards for wind noise-based cabin refinement.

But the car’s biggest technological advancement is under the skin. This SL will be the first Mercedes in large-scale series production to use an almost exclusively aluminium construction.

Made from a mix of chill cast, vacuum die cast, stamped and extruded aluminium, this body-in-white superstructure allows the new SL to be between 125kg and 140kg lighter than the outgoing steel car, and 20 per cent more torsionally rigid.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: Smart For - us Concept

2012-01-10T08:46:00.000-08:00

Smart's compact zero-emission pick-up concept called Smart For-us has been seen for the first time at its official debut at the Detroit motor show today. The concept hints at the next For-four and is a tongue-in-cheek attempt to make the pick-up-loving American market take a wider interest in the compact car brand.

The Smart For-us – a name chosen to reflect the US's fondness for pick-ups - the electric powered two seater has been conceived as part of a plan to further extend the scope of the future Smart line-up through the addition of new models. Smart officials are quick to point out that no firm decisions have been made on a production future for the new urban based utility vehicle.

Various styling elements along with the basic dimensions and newly developed platform of the For-us are said to mirror those of the upcoming second-generation For-four, which is being developed in partnership with Renault.

Combining styling cues first established on the smaller Smart For-vision concept revealed at the Frankfurt motor show back in September together with typically rugged contemporary pick-up design elements, the For-us uses an electrically powered cargo tray that motors out by 280mm at the rear to ease loading. Traditional smart elements include largely unadorned body panels and a two tone colour scheme.

Inside, there is a basic interior with seating for two and a 900mm long cargo tray with what smart describes as an integrated docking station. It will be used on the concept car bound for Detroit to provide electrical energy to two Smart E-bikes.

At 3547mm in length, 1506mm in width and 1701mm in height, the For-us is a substantial 852mm longer, the same width and, owing largely to its raised ride height, 161mm higher than the existing For-two. It also rides on a wheelbase that has been extended by 613mm over that of Smart’s signature two seat city car at 2480mm, while the tracks have pushed out by 50mm both front and rear at 1335mm and 1435mm respectively.

Power for the new Smart concept comes from the same plug-in electric system used on the Smart For-two Electric Drive on sale in Europe. It uses a brushless electric motor mounted at the rear producing 74bhp and 96lb ft of torque together with a 17.7kW/h lithium ion battery that is charged via standard mains electricity and on the run via energy recuperated during periods of trailing throttle and braking.

Renault will use the same platform as that planned for the For-four to underpin its third-generation Twingo. Secrecy surrounds where the platform will originate, although sources close to Mercedes-Benz suggest it will be a development of the so-called A-platform currently found underneath the second-generation Twingo. Both cars will be produced in an existing Renault factory located in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, from 2014.

Thanks to: Autocar

Detroit Show 2012 Highlights: 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

2012-01-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

The 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe has been seen ahead of its Detroit motor show debut. The revised rear-drive coupe features refreshed styling and is believed to receive two revised engines and an eight-speed automatic gearbox option for the first time.

The base engine for the Genesis Coupe is allegedly a 270bhp, 275lb ft twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder. Buyers can also choose an upgraded 3.8-litre V6 engine, which puts out 343bhp. Both engines are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard with an eight-speed auto, an in-house Hyundai development, an option.

Buyers can choose from four different versions of the Genesis Coupe: Base, Track, GT and R-trac. The 2013 facelifted model features a revised sports suspension system and a new three-stage ESC system, which incorporates a ‘Race’ mode.

Styling wise, the Genesis Coupe features a much bolder front-end inspired by the recent range of Hyundais. There’s a new front grille, bumper and headlight design, plus LED lights. LEDs are also fitted to the revised rear end.

Inside, the cabin has undergone an overhaul, with a new centre console being the chief revision.

The revised Genesis Coupe will reach US showrooms in the spring, but UK buyers will have to wait until the next-generation model is launched by the middle of the decade as there are no plans to convert the current model to right-hand drive.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2013 Chevrolet MPV

2012-01-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

General Motors India unveiled the Chevrolet MPV Concept at the 11th Auto Expo in New Delhi this week. The MPV Concept is a joint venture project between GM and SAIC, engineered for the B-segment MPV market in India and developed for emerging markets, which pretty much means it is a low cost Toyota Avanza/Nissan Grand Livina competitor.

GM’s India Technical Center worked with Lotus Engineering for about a year and a half to tune the chassis. The body and chassis uses high strength and ultra high strength steel for chassis stiffness and safety. It can seat ether 7 or 8 people in a flexi-seating setup.
Thanks to: Paultan

Unofficial Picture: 2013 Ford Fusion/Mondeo

2012-01-08T09:02:00.000-08:00

This is the first image of the new Ford Mondeo, which is due to be unveiled at the Detroit motor show on Monday.

The image was shown on the Ford iPad app counting down the days to the car's reveal. It will go on sale in America first as the Ford Fusion, before being launched in Europe with very minor styling changes in 2013.

The key detail that the picture reveals is the Aston Martin-esque front grille, which was first shown on the Ford Evos concept, which previews all future Ford design themes, at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Renault Plans to Release Laguna Crossover

2012-01-08T09:01:00.001-08:00

The Renault Laguna will only be sold in the UK again if the next generation model, due in around three years time, is radically different from the current car.

In February, Renault will drop from sale in the UK the current Laguna range, the Wind roadster, both variants of the Modus and Espace and the Kangoo and Trafic passenger versions. Following that announcement, it was revealed that a decision on the styling direction of the new Laguna is due to be taken in the next three months. Renault UK boss Thierry Sybord revealed he favours switching Renault's family sized car to a crossover format to give it a distinct position in the market place, but conceded the UK market was not strong enough to dictate the car’s styling.

"If the next-generation Laguna is the same as the current one, then there’s no way it will be a success in the UK," he said. “My view is that, in Europe, there is not enough opportunity to sell this kind of saloon. There are the two German actors in Europe, and the two big fleet operators in the UK, Ford and Vauxhall. We can’t compete.

Sybord said Renault’s alliance partner Nissan was a good example of how innovation away from traditional segments could lead to sales successes.

“Therefore we are still thinking of a new kind of car, possibly a crossover saloon,” he said. “Look at what the Qashqai has done for that market, it is a success. It would be a new kind of car for the market, but it would be very hard to do. The decision is whether we want to carry on with what we’ve done before; if we build the same car again, the situation will stay the same.”

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Audi to Debut Q3 Vail Concept at Detroit Show

2012-01-08T08:55:00.001-08:00

Audi – and parent Volkswagen – are pursuing an aggressive strategy to build sales in the U.S. Audi is planning a proliferation of new models in the coming years globally, but could the compact Q3 crossover be in the cards for the States? Signs point to yes.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Audi CEO Rupert Stadler stated that the automaker will be bringing a “Vail” concept version of the Q3 SUV to the Detroit auto show next week. “The next pillar of the market that we have to conquer is the United States.” Stadler told Bloomberg. “We see opportunities in the SUV and sedan segments.”

The Q3, which went on sale in Europe in the middle of last year, slots below the Q5 in Audi’s lineup of crossovers. It’s been rumored since the debut of the Cross Coupe Concept at the 2007 Shanghai auto show that Audi could bring a smaller SUV to the U.S. BMW had planned to bring its compact X1 crossover to our shores, but has indefinitely put those plans on hold due to high demand in Europe and Asia for the vehicle.

There are currently no definite plans to bring the Q3 here, but if it does, expect to see both the 2.0-liter direct-injected I-4 and 2.0-liter turbodiesel I-4 offered in Europe to make the trip along with optional Quattro all-wheel drive seven-speed. Enthusiasts can hope that the standard six-speed manual makes the trip across the pond, but chances are that the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox will be the only transmission choice for American buyers.

Not much is known about the Q3 Vail Concept, but when we spoke to Audi we were told to expect a “themed concept.” Given the name, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Q3 concept has something to do with posh winter skiing in the Colorado Rockies. The appearance of a Q3 in Detroit shows that Audi is serious about testing U.S. interest in its smaller SUV.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Concept Car: Tata eMO

2012-01-08T08:53:00.001-08:00

No, the Tata Nano is not coming to Detroit, but the spirit of cheap and cheerful minicars designed by Indian companies is: Tata Technologies will show an electric minicar concept called the eMO at the Detroit Auto Show next week.

First and foremost, the eMO (which stands for electric mobility) is almost certainly not going to be produced. The car isn’t a concept for Tata Motors (the company that builds the famed Nano) as much as it is for Tata Technologies, which frequently serves as an engineering subcontractor to various manufacturers. Consider the car merely a means to exhibit the company’s design methodology and capabilities instead of a precursor to a real-life product.

Ideas and concepts aside, the car would be an interesting addition to the electric car market: it was designed to be both very light and inexpensive. Like the Nano, there’s no fifth door; instead, the cargo hold is accessed by way of rear-hinged passenger doors, and folding the rear seats flat. Allegedly, this design delivers structural rigidity on par with similar microcars, but also weighs much less.

It’s also a fairly good-looking car, too. There are some futuristic design touches that are commonplace for electric cars (think vertical LED taillights and aerodynamic wheels), but it also boasts a full panoramic glass roof, and a waterfall center stack that looks like it was pulled from a Volvo concept car.

Not so futuristic is the targeted price: roughly $20,000. That’s a bit much for a car this small, but it would undercut most other electric vehicles currently sold in the U.S., including the Mitsubishi I MiEV and the Nissan Leaf.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Unofficial Picture: 2013 Dodge Dart

2012-01-08T08:49:00.000-08:00

Dodge has pulled the sheet off of its new Alfa Romeo–based 2013 compact car and announced that it will be called Dart. Set to debut in January at the Detroit auto show, the Dart features three engines and three transmission options and aggressive styling reminiscent of the larger Charger. We’ve only got one question: How do you say “Dart” in Italian? Actually, it’s a three-part question: Wouldn’t you rather say “Demon” in Italian? Or “Hornet”?

If the resurrected Dart name had you daydreaming of late-1960s Mopar muscle, we’ll stop you right here. The 2013 Dart rides on a front-wheel-drive platform adapted from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. Compared to the Giulietta, the Dart is wider and longer, its new architecture dubbed Compact U.S. Wide. Don’t let all of the air out of the Fun Balloon quite yet; the small Alfa is a fine driver’s car (you can read our drive of a 2010 Giulietta here).

The Dart’s appearance at least fulfills Dodge’s sportiness claims. The company released just two images of an up-level R/T model, but what’s visible is very Charger-like. The front wears a crosshair grille stuffed into a large, blacked-out cutout and flanked by swept-back headlights. The rear is basically a downsized rendition of the Charger’s, complete with a full-width LED taillight treatment and dual exhaust outlets. As opposed to many others in its segment—as well as its Caliber predecessor—the Dart will exist only as a four-door. Dodge has given no indication that a hatchback is in the works. An image of the interior will be released on December 13, according to a mini-site set up for the Dart, but our spy photographers already took a peek inside.

When it goes on sale sometime in 2012, the Dart will offer three different inline-fours. There will be a 2.0-liter, a turbocharged 1.4-liter Multiair, and a 2.4-liter Multiair. The naturally aspirated 2.0- and 2.4-liters are both members of Chrysler’s new engine family, which it calls—please keep giggling to a minimum—Tigershark. Modernized evolutions of Chrysler’s current global 2.0- and 2.4-liter fours, which make 158 and 173 hp, respectively, both should have direct injection. The turbo is likely the same unit as is found in the U.S.-spec Fiat 500 Abarth. We expect the 2.0-liter to make around 160 hp, the turbo 1.4-liter to produce about 170—but deliver better fuel economy than the 2.0—and the 2.4 to perhaps touch 200 horses.

Dodge also is mum on what transmissions will back the engines, although it says three gearboxes will be offered. A five- or six-speed manual is a given, and while initial reports said that Fiat's dual-clutch automatic wasn't headed to the U.S. any time soon, now Chrysler tells us that the trans is ready for small-car duty. The new ZF nine-speed automatic probably will join the lineup a bit later. We’ll have to wait until the Detroit show for all of the Dart’s details, but it looks as though Dodge has an attractive and modern small car on its hands (sorry, Caliber). We’re just waiting for the SRT4 version—or, wait.
Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Car: 2013 Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV

2012-01-05T23:41:00.001-08:00

This is the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV, a production version of the Maruti Suzuki Concept rIII that made its debut in Delhi two years ago. I’m quite curious about the name – rIII becomes Ertiga, sounds like Bahasa Malaysia to me!

Sitting on a Suzuki SX4 platform stretched to have a long 2,740mm wheelbase, the 7-seater compact MPV is powered by either a new K-14 model 1.4 liter VVT four cylinder petrol engine or a 1.3 liter Fiat four cylinder turbodiesel engine. That’s actually a pretty long wheelbase, when you compare it to other vehicles in its class.

We hear that India will be producing CKD kits to be exported around the world, so this is definitely not an India-only product.
Thanks to: Paultan

New Concept Car: Tata Indica Vista S2

2012-01-05T23:38:00.001-08:00

The party at Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi wouldn’t be complete without Tata Motors, and as expected, the Indian manufacturer has brought a number of new wares to the show, one of them being the Indica Vista Concept S2.

The car is a reinterpretation of the form, as previously seen on the Indica Vista Sport, which came about at the last Auto Expo in 2010. The Concept S2 has a wider and wedge-like stance, and the design features a central volume that’s encased by two arrow-like flanks. A two-tone paint scheme – a matte metallic dark shadow and bright silver combination – and the use of aluminium and red accents helps highlight the shape further.

Dress-up kit includes a metallic brow for the headlamps, a lower grilled with a polished black lip surround and signature LED daytime running lights at the front, while the rear gets a spoiler, restyled rear bumper and a stylised LED tail lamp cluster. The inclusion of side skirts completes the picture.

Inside, the Vista Concept S2 gets a black-themed cabin, with sporty race bucket seats clad in black leather and a smaller diameter, sportier steering wheel among the cue changes.

On the mechanical front, the car wears a turbocharged 1.4 litre petrol engine offering 140 PS at 6,000 rpm and 188 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, mated to a five-speed Fiat C510 manual gearbox with revised gear ratios. With disc brakes all around and a retuned and beefed up suspension, as well as 17-inch alloys and 205/40 series rubbers, Tata says this one is every bit the handler as it looks suggest.

Thanks to: Paultan

New Car: 2013 Tata Safari Storme

2012-01-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

Taking centrestage at the Tata stand is the Safari Storme. The Storme is not an all-new Safari but a throroughly revised version of the existing SUV. Among the biggest changes to the vehicle is the adoption of Tata's modern X2 platform that also underpins the Aria. The switch to the X2 platform should reap huge benefits in terms of dynamics and overall refinement.

Tata has also tweaked styling to make the Safari look contemporary. The nose is all-new with a different front grille and headlamp design. In silhouette, the Safari looks pretty similar to the outgoing model though the different side cladding are give aways of the new car. Styling changes to the rear include a new tail gate with the spare wheel now mounted under the body. A thick horizontal strip above the repositioned number plate is a noteworthy detail here. Dual chrome tipped exhausts complete the rear redesign.

The interiors have received a makeover too with a revised dashboard design and plastics that seem to have improved in quality.

Powering the Safari Storme is the familiar 2.2-litre, 16-valve common-rail DiCOR engine on duty on other Tata cars. While peak power remains 140PS, the engine has been worked on to improve overall refinement which is something the Safari was in dire need of. Just how much better the new Safari is over the older car? To know the answer you;ll have to wait for our exhaustive road test.

Other significant exhibits at the stall were the Manza diesel-hybrid concept and the new 1.05-litre 3-cylinder variant of the 1.4 DiCOR engine.

Thanks to: Autocar India

New Concept Car: Hyundai Hexa Space MPV

2012-01-05T23:27:00.001-08:00

Hyundai has design flair, as seen in its latest models like the i40 Tourer with its sleek exterior styling, and as the company seeks to expand its presence in Indian territory, it displayed the Hexa Space MPV concept at this year's Delhi Auto Show.

Demonstrating the company's talents in interior design, the Hyundai Hexa is based on the Europe-only ix20 mini peoplemover platform -- also used by the Kia Soul -- and can seat eight people. The vehicle can be switched to camping or limousine-like accommodation via rearrangement of the clever seating set-up incorporating hexagonal-shaped pews.

All seats can fold flat for recreation purposes or the second row can fold to avail ample legroom for rear passengers.

The front arrangement accommodates three with the centre seat positioned slightly rearward for more shoulder room while the Hexa's sliding door allows for unobstructed access to the cabin.

Dimension-wise the Hexa is narrow, suiting streets in busy cities like Delhi, however its roofline is high allowing good headroom for all passengers.

Propulsion for the Hyundai Hexa Space MPV concept is taken care of by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed auto.

The innovative show car concept is also fitted out with a touchscreen-activated comfort control system and push-button auto shifter.

Thanks to: Car Point

New Car: 2013 DC Avanti

2012-01-05T23:24:00.000-08:00

This is the DC Avanti, the first Indian designed sports car.

Unveiled at the Delhi motor show today, it will initially go on sale with a mid-mounted, Ford-sourced, 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine making a claimed 261bhp. A V6 version with 394bhp will go on sale at a later date. Both engines are linked to a six-speed dual clutch transmission.

The Avanti weighs 1560kg, and features extensive use of aluminium. Its makers, who are based in Pune, claim the base model will hit 62mph in less than seven seconds.

DC Design has set a manufacturing goal of 200 cars a year initially, but plans to build up to 2000 cars a year longer term. The car will be sold through dedicated Avanti showrooms in India.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2013 Renault Megane Collection

2012-01-05T23:19:00.000-08:00

Renault has revealed its Renault Mégane Collection 2012 range, which features styling tweaks and three new engines among the key changes.

The Mégane Collection 2012 gets three new ‘Energy’ engines – one petrol and two diesels – all with stop-start and deceleration/braking energy-recovery systems.

The Renault Energy TCe 115 is a 1.2-litre unit that will replace the 1.6-litre 16v in the Mégane range. Compared to the outgoing motor, power is up 5bhp to 115bhp, and peak torque is up 29lb ft to 140lb ft, with 90 per cent of the shove available from 1650rpm. Versions of Mégane Collection 2012 powered by this engine emit 119g/km of CO2 and offer 53mpg, according to the manufacturer’s figures.

The first of two diesels is the Energy dCi 110, a tweaked version of the Mégane range’s best-selling 1.5-litre engine that returns 74mpg and 95g/km. Peak torque is up to 191lb ft, which is available from 1750rpm. The second oil burner is the Energy dCi 130, a 1.6 litre that possesses 130bhp and 236lb ft at 1750rpm. It returns 71mpg and 104g/km.

The Mégane’s front-end gets some small styling tweaks, including gloss black and chrome detailing and daytime running lights, and the selection of wheels on offer across the range has been revised.

The cabin comes with new interior trims, including a two-tone leather/Alcantara pack available in a choice of three finishes.

There are some detail changes across the variants in the model range. The Bose version is now an equipment level in its own right, while the GT and GT-Line finishes now have ‘boomerang’-shaped LED lights, red upholstery stitching and a sports steering wheel incorporating thumb rests, plus Renault Sport-badged door sill guards and dashboard trim strip.

The Mégane Collection 2012 can be ordered with Renault’s Visio system which comprises a camera fixed to the windscreen behind the rear-view mirror. It automatically switches from main- to dipped-beam headlights at night and also offers a lane-assist system.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2013 Toyota Aygo

2012-01-05T23:16:00.000-08:00

The Toyota Aygo has been facelifted, completing the trio of updated platform-sharing models including the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 107.

Like the Citroen and Peugeot, the Aygo gets optional daytime running lights and has been given a redesigned front end to help it fit in with Toyota's latest design language. The angled grille and sharper headlights give the Aygo a look similar to the recently released Yaris.

In the cabin, Toyota has given the dashboard a new dark grey finish and fitted a leather trimmed steering wheel.

Most importantly for a car in this segment, Toyota has cut emissions in the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine from 105g/km to 99g/km. That qualifies it for free road tax and exemption from London's Congestion Charge. Fuel economy also improves from 61.3mpg to 65.7mpg.

Power remains unchanged at 67bhp, meaning the 0-62mph sprint still takes 14.2 seconds.

Additional sound deadening and subtle tweaks to the suspension should help ensure the Aygo is quieter and more comfortable on the move too.

The refreshed Aygo will be unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show later this month, with sales due to start in the UK in March. Prices haven't yet been revealed, but expect to see a slight increase in the current £8,590 starting price. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2013 Citroen C1

2012-01-05T23:15:00.001-08:00

The Citroen C1 city car has been updated in an attempt to keep pace with the new VW up!. Refreshed front end styling, mechanical tweaks and a cleaner three-cylinder engine have all been added.

The C1 keeps the same three-cylinder 68bhp 1.0-litre engine that it shares with its sister cars the Peugeot 107 and Toyota Aygo, but thanks to some minor tweaks it now emits a tax-busting 99g/km of CO2 and returns 65.7mpg when equipped with the five-speed manual gearbox.

An EGS automatic is also available, equipped with wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the first time, although that drops fuel economy and emissions to 62.8mpg and 104g/km respectively. Citroen claims revised power steering settings and re-calibrated suspension improve agility and ride comfort, too.

A smaller double chevron badge now sits on the bonnet, while the front bumper has been completely redesigned to house vertical LED running lights - a signature already seen on the DS3 and C4 Aircross - and a pair of fog lights.

Botticelli Blue, a colour already offered on the C3 and DS3, is added to the paint choices, and a chrome strip is added to the grille on mid and top-spec cars. A new leather steering wheel, a redesigned manual gear lever and leather/Alcantara upholstery are all now offered as optional extras.

The new C1 makes its world debut at the Brussels Motor Show next Tuesday. UK pricing will be confirmed closer to the on-sale date in April. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2013 Peugeot 107

2012-01-05T23:12:00.000-08:00

After six years and 650,000 units sold, the Peugeot 107 has been refreshed. New styling to bring it into line with the rest of the range, fuel economy has been improved and more equipment has been added, but the starting price for the range has been reduced.

At the front, a deeper bumper features LED running lights and fog lights for the first time. The grille is split into upper and lower parts, while the bonnet is sculpted and features a new lion badge.

An overhaul of the 68bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine has dropped CO2 emissions by 4g/km to a tax-free 99g/km for the first time, while fuel economy is up to 65.7mpg. The 0-62mph time of 14.2 seconds and top speed of 100mph is unchanged.

The range has been re-jigged, with three trim levels now offered - Access, Active and Allure. Air-conditioning is standard on Active models, while Allure spec cars get alloy wheels, a Bluetooth connection and USB socket as standard.

Despite the bump in equipment levels, prices have actually fallen, with an entry-level car now costing £7,995 - that's £700 less than the cheapest version of the outgoing model. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Concept Car: Suzuki XA Alpha

2012-01-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

Suzuki has pulled the wraps off its XA Alpha concept at the New Delhi Motor Show in India. According to Autocar, the compact crossover rides on the same platform as the Suzuki Swift hatchback.

The car was actually built by Maruti Suzuki India Limited, a division of Suzuki that is India’s largest seller of passenger cars. The name XA Alpha denotes the concept car’s intentions: X means crossover, A means entry-level vehicle, and Suzuki says “’Alpha’ represents trendiness and newness that the youth connect to.” At just 157.5 inches long, the XA Alpha is approximately four inches shorter than a Mini Countryman.

Chunky styling, a blacked-out B-pillar, and a short greenhouse with sloped roof make the Suzuki resemble a Range Rover Evoque. The front fascia wears C-shaped running lights, while the liftgate has narrow taillights that rise around the sides of the rear windshield.

Autocar reports that the Alpha’s small size allows it to qualify for lower tax rates in India, and that the car would be targeted to young buyers. It seems likely that Suzuki will put the XA Alpha into production, and with a choice of its “K-Series” gasoline or diesel engines. It could go on sale as soon as 2014. The concept has 19-inch wheels; a production model would be offered with optional four-wheel drive. Suzuki says it will “create new categories in the utility vehicle segment” and has “lined up a busy product plan.”

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Radical Look for Next Renault Clio

2012-01-05T07:11:00.001-08:00

The crucial new Renault Clio will be revealed at the Paris motor show in October and go on sale by the end of the year, promising to bring “sexiness and sportiness” back to the struggling brand.

With Renault about to slash its range in the UK in a bid to return to profitability, the all-new Clio 4’s importance in the streamlined model line-up becomes greater than ever if Renault UK is to prosper again.

The Clio 4 will be a much lower and wider, instantly more recognisable and have a much higher quality interior than the forgettable Clio 3, which has never come close to scaling the highs of the best selling original from the mid-1990s.

Renault’s product planning chief Beatrice Foucher told Autocar that Renaults needed to become “German first and French second”. She added: “We need to improve quality first before we think about design and innovation. There’s just no emotion in the current car so it’s not hard to improve the design and sexiness.”

The Clio 4 will be the first all-new model to be designed by the firm’s design chief Laurens van den Acker, who joined Renault from Mazda in 2009. Speaking to Autocar, the Dutchman said the Clio’s looks would lean heavily on the styling of the acclaimed DeZir low-slung sports car concept from the 2010 Paris motor show.

“The DeZir is the spirit and DNA of what’s to come from Renault,” he said. “I hope the sexiness and sportiness of the DeZir will transfer to Clio 4.”

Design touches will include a much bolder DeZir-inspired front-end, with a more pronounced lower bumper, and a more upright front black gloss grille emblazoned with a large diamond Renault logo. The grille will be flanked at either side by smaller, less rounded, more technical headlights, another trait of the DeZir concept.

The Clio 4 will have a slippery silhouette to make it as aerodynamic – and sporty - as possible. It will have a much lower roofline and will “hug the road”, according to van den Acker. The wheel arches will be closed in to further contribute to the sporty stance.

“We have to be bolder,” said van den Acker. “Renault has been criticised for making great concepts and not making theme into production cars. This is something I want to do from the very start.”

The Clio 4 will only be made as a five-door model this time around. Van den Acker claims the five-door will look just as sporty as three-door thanks to a clever solution for the rear door handles, which are likely to be hidden in the C-pillars. “It will be a sporty car even with five doors,” he said. “It was a challenge but I think we managed it.”

Despite the lower roof for Clio 4, interior and boot space is likely to match that the Clio 3 thanks to some clever packaging. The two cars will be similar in length. “We would love it be shorter,” said van den Acker, “but it’s physically impossible.”

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2013 Dacia Lodgy

2012-01-05T07:08:00.001-08:00

The new Dacia Lodgy MPV has been unveiled two months ahead of its official world debut at the Geneva motor show.

Available as a five- or seven-seat MPV, the Lodgy MPV is the latest addition to the growing model range from the Renault-owned Romanian brand. The line-up already comprises the Duster crossover, Sandero and Sandero Stepway supermini and Logan saloon, seven-seat estate, van and pick-up.

Few technical details of the Dacia Lodgy MPV have been issued, apart from the fact it is 4500mm in length. The name is derived from the word ‘lodge’ and, according to Dacia, refers to the model’s ability to comfortably accommodate a family and its luggage.

Renault UK has yet to decide whether to bring right-hand-drive versions of the Lodgy MPV to these shores, but it’s possible that the model could join the Duster and all-new Sandero after their January 2013 launches.

The Duster and Sandero, which will be sold through Renault UK dealers, are expected to be offered with a 1.6-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines, and the Lodgy MPV could get the same powerplants.

To promote the Lodgy MPV, Dacia has created this 355bhp, four-wheel-drive, ice-racing version, which has been driven by Formula 1 legend Alain Prost in the Andros Trophy series.

If it does come to Britain, expect the Lodgy MPV to follow the wallet-friendly pricing scheme set by the manufacturer’s other products. It should be pitched substantially below the £17k asking price of rivals such as the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso.

Thanks to: Autocar

Sneak Peek Up Date: Nissan Pathfinder Concept

2012-01-05T07:03:00.001-08:00

Nissan continues its tease of the Detroit-bound Pathfinder concept scheduled to be unveiled next week. Instead of another dimly-lit silhouette of the upcoming crossover, this time we’re given two videos that slowly tease parts of the front and rear ends.

The first video previews the front end, as a light pans across its surface to reveal slanted-in rectangular headlights and a new grille design. The bottom of the grille connects with the headlights to form an angle similar to, though less dramatic than, the Nissan Murano, which the Pathfinder will likely share certain components with. As we previously reported, the next-gen Pathfinder is expected to be based on the recently-announced Infiniti JX35, which itself is based on the same platform that underpins the Murano. Like the JX, the Pathfinder will likely get seven-passenger seating to further differentiate the model from the smaller Murano.

The second video is even more mysterious than the first, showing the crossover’s rear end from an angle rather than head-on. The bumper looks thin, appearing to protrude just barely outward. The rear liftgate looks a bit curvy where the roof meets the glass, but is otherwise pretty nondescript. We can’t see the full shape of the taillights, but they appear slender with an angled inner edge. Thought Nissan says it’s incorporated some of the Pathfinder’s traditional SUV design elements into this concept, that’s not really apparent in the rear. Still, we can see a bit of old-school Pathfinder influence in the front, with the rugged yet sleek headlight and grille treatment. While its hardware certainly deviates from the traditional Pathfinder formula, the concept bound for Detroit may still showcase some hardcore SUV DNA in its design. We’ll know for sure next week when the vehicle is fully unveiled.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek Up Date: 2013 Buick Encore

2012-01-05T07:00:00.001-08:00

Buick will unveil the 2013 Encore crossover at the Detroit Auto Show next week, but that hasn’t stopped it from giving us another tease: it has posted the third of four pieces of an Encore photo to its Facebook page.

What can we see now as opposed to the last two times Buick released teasers? For starters, we can now see the entire front clip, which takes its waterfall grille and projector headlight visual cues from other Buick models like the Verano. If you squint at it for a while, you might see a bit of Saturn Vue visual DNA in the front bumper, too, although the Vue is dead and its surviving Captiva sibling is built atop a larger platform.

What else do we know? Very little–we know it will be smaller and less expensive than the Enclave crossover, and will offer four-cylinder powerplants. We also hear that it will be very quiet–like the Verano the Encore will feature Buick’s QuietTuning technology, which promises to keep road noise at bay.

We’ll hopefully see the final quadrant of the photo–along with the actual car–over the course of the next week.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Mitsubishi Shogun Black

2012-01-04T09:25:00.001-08:00

The Mitsubishi Shogun has spawned the Black special edition, which is based on the range-topping long wheelbase SG4 and offers a new styling kit. Mitsubishi hopes the Shogun Black will widen the appeal of the SUV with satin black trim pack, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, spoiler, wing mirrors, grille and headlamp bezels and side steps.

Despite its name, the Shogun Black will be available in a range of metallic colours, as well as solid Frost White, pictured.

The announcement comes less than three months after the introduction of revisions for the 2012 model year, which marked the arrival of a Euro V-compliant engine and improvements to the cabin. Standard equipment in the SG4 includes Mitsubishi’s Communication System, which counts sat-nav and a reversing camera among its features.

The Mitsubishi Shogun Black is available at dealers now, priced at £41,999 – £1000 more than the SG4, with an additional £540 charge for metallic paint.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Concept Car: Volvo XC60 Plug-in

2012-01-04T09:23:00.001-08:00

First details of the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept have been revealed. And unlike the V60 Plug-in, it gets a petrol engine rather than a diesel. The wraps will be taken off the new concept at the Detroit Motor Show to promote Volvo’s hybrid systems to the petrol-loving American market.

It's powered by a 276bhp four-cylinder turbo petrol engine and a 69bhp electric motor, which drive the front and rear wheels respectively. When they are working together, Volvo claims the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid will be able to accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds.

A full charge of the batteries takes 7.5 hours from a standard socket, and the XC60 will be able to travel up to 28 miles in electric-only mode. Keep it in Hybrid mode and the Plug-in will manage more than 100mpg and produce just 53g/km of CO2. A Power mode is also available for maximum acceleration.

Despite its Concept tag, the XC60 Plug-in will almost certainly make production late in 2012, but don’t expect it to be cheap. The V60 Plug-in commands a £5,000 premium over the currently most expensive model in the range. With that in mind, the XC60 Plug-in could cost as much as £45,000. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Citroen DS1 is on the Way

2012-01-04T09:21:00.001-08:00

Citroen is setting its sights on the Fiat 500 with a new addition to the DS family. The DS1 will join the DS3, DS4 and DS5, and offer a genuine alternative to the fashionable Fiat city car.

Our exclusive illustrations show how the DS1 could look, and the similarities to other cars in the family are obvious. The double chevron grille features again, with LED daytime running lights either side.

The three-door will also borrow the floating C-pillar design cue from the DS3, allowing the side windows to flow seamlessly into the rear windscreen.

It’s expected to be revealed at March’s Geneva Motor Show, with sales starting in 2013. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2013 Bajaj RE60

2012-01-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

The Tata Nano was supposed to be the Model T for India’s 21^st-century car-buying masses, but lackluster sales have knocked it down a peg or two. It’s not about to get any better, either, now that the Nano has a new competitor, a tiny hatchback called the Bajaj RE60.

While the RE60 is broadly the same size as the Nano, Bajaj Auto isn’t exactly targeting the Nano at its direct competition. Similar to Tata’s original goal for the Nano, the RE60 is supposed to be an alternative to overloading a motorcycle, or India’s ubiquitous three-wheeled tuk-tuk rickshaw.

Power comes from a rear-mounted, water-cooled, 200-cc single-cylinder engine that promises 20 horsepower. That might be 18 fewer horses than the Nano, but the RE60 checks in at just 880 pounds, some 440 pounds less than a Nano. Bajaj alleges the car should return about 83 miles per gallon, emit 60 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, and top out at 43 miles per hour.

Considering that Bajaj sells more three-wheel taxis than any other company, the RE60 looks to be a step in the four-wheeled direction for the company. And hedging the RE60’s bets as a taxi (the show car even included a hard-wired fare meter on board) may be a way for the tiny car to succeed if consumers don’t bite. Tata Nano sales have grown slowly since launch, but have not exploded the way its manufacturer had hoped. In December 2011, Tata sold 7,466 Nanos, less than one-third the 25,000 units per month it had once predicted.

Whether or not the RE60 will suffer the same fate remains to be seen, but its commercial aspirations certainly suggest it may find a little more success in India than Tata’s offering. Expect production to begin within the next few months, after Bajaj determines the extent of its cooperation with Renault-Nissan, who formed a partnership with Bajaj in 2010 to create an ultra-low cost car.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Concept Car: Ford EcoSport

2012-01-04T08:41:00.000-08:00

The Ford EcoSport, Ford’s next-generation B-segment crossover , is too small for the U.S. market but it’s just right for half of the emerging powerhouse economies that make up the BRIC nations. The company announced Wednesday that it will unveil the next-generation EcoSport, already a popular model in Brazil, on Thursday at the New Delhi Auto Expo. Ford will add production in India, the “I” in BRIC, and in other countries to be announced when CEO Alan Mulally lifts the EcoSport’s veil Thursday.

Mulally is on a quick globtrotting campaign for the One Ford product. He’ll reveal the EcoSport at the New Delhi Auto Expo, a biennial event Ford considers as important as the Frankfurt, Beijing, and Detroit shows. After New Delhi, Mulally returns to Detroit for next week’s North American International Auto Show, before flying off to Las Vegas for the Consumer Electronics Show. That’s some serious frequent flier mileage.

With the EcoSport, already a popular Ford in Brazil, the company is covering the B and I among the so-called BRIC countries, which have growing, emerging economies as the European Union teeters on the brink of collapse and the U.S. economy’s recovery struggles. The “R,” Russia, is a likely market for EcoSports exported from India, while the “C,” China, likely would require its own assembly plant. Don’t count that out. Ford says the new, small CUV will be sold in “other” markets to be announced later.

Including the U.S.? No. Though rumors half a decade ago had the current-generation EcoSport coming to the U.S., Ford doesn’t consider our market ready for a B-segment crossover, no matter how optimistic Buick is for its new “baby Enclave” here.

Billed as the latest example of “One Ford,” the EcoSport should be roughly the Encore’s size. Ford will offer myriad powertrains, varying depending on the needs and demands of the local market. The 1.0-liter EcoBoost 3-cylinder will be included in some markets, though Ford hasn’t identified which.

It’s designed to evoke traditional sport/utility cues, including a “command” driving position with a high ground clearance and integrated lower body cladding, and a spare tire mounted on the swing-out tailgate. Its nose treatment, however, isn’t the new face of Ford as revealed in the Evos concept from Frankfurt, but rather the current design language, with a smaller grille over a large, oval lower fascia.

Ford has been late to the China party, so it’s trying to make up for that by going big in India, a market tipped to be the next big thing, with perhaps even more potential than its powerhouse neighbor to the north. Two plants costing Ford $1 billion are under construction in India’s Sanand and Gujarat regions. One is for stamping, body, paint and assembly of vehicle bodies and the other is an engine machining and assembly facility.

Ford also is investing more money into its Chennai assembly plant, where it will build the EcoSport. The Chennai engine plant will be expanded to increase capacity by 90,000, to 340,000 per year.

The new Ford EcoSport launches mid-year in Brazil, followed later by the Asian markets.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Fiat 500 MPV

2012-01-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

The Fiat 500 range is growing. Auto Express has learned the company will reveal a new small people carrier at March’s Geneva Motor Show, and that the car will go on sale shortly after, priced from around £13,000.

Based on a modified platform from the new Panda, the supermini-MPV will be the first new addition to the 500 family. It will translate the cheeky city car’s looks and charm to a larger, more practical vehicle, as the Countryman does to the standard MINI.

Leaked pictures of the car have already appeared, and we produced our image using information from our sources in Italy. As you can see, the car gets a 500-style nose, with large lights flanked by lower spotlamps and a simple, single-bar upper grille. Add chunky wheelarches, minimal overhangs and a curvy tail, and the car should bring some style to the MPV sector. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Sneak Peek: Toyota NS4 Concept

2011-12-21T23:00:00.000-08:00

This teaser image shows the front of the new Toyota NS4 concept which the Japanese manufacturer will unveil at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month.

Toyota has not revealed any information about the NS4 concept, apart from describing it as an 'advanced plug-in hybrid concept'. The NS4 will follow three alternatively fuelled concepts that were revealed by Toyota at the Tokyo motor show late last month.

The NS4 is likely to be the latest vehicle to used the Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) system Toyota shares with sister marque Lexus. HSD technology is forming the backbone of the two companies' future strategy. Together Toyota and Lexus will launch or update 25 models in its range across the next two years.

The Toyota NS4 will be revealed at Detroit on January 10, along with the North American debut of the Toyota Prius C hybrid supermini.

The Prius C made its official public debut at the Tokyo show and will be the smallest car in Toyota’s newly expanded range of Prius-badged cars.

Thanks to: Autocar

Sneak Peek Up Date: 2013 Buick Encore

2011-12-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

The latest trend in new-car debuts is to mete out teaser photos via social media websites, and the 2013 Buick Encore is no exception. The company’s Facebook page has just revealed one quarter of an image of the new Encore; subsequent portions of the image will be revealed each week leading up to the crossover’s debut in Detroit on January 10.

The first teaser photo of the 2013 Encore showed us a close-up view of the crossover’s grille and headlight, while the new Facebook picture reveals the Buick’s hood and windshield. From what we’ve seen, the baby Buick crossover will wear smooth and elegant lines, along with subtle hood vents, and chrome roof rails. So far, it looks like a scaled-down version of the Enclave.

The company has promised that its newest vehicle will feature “contemporary Buick styling, signature QuietTuning technology, and segment-leading content and space.” The Encore will be a smaller crossover, designed to slot below the Enclave — both in size and in price.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Recall Up Date: 2011 - 2012 Chevrolet Captiva

2011-12-21T22:54:00.001-08:00

GM is recalling a number of Chevy Captivas due to issues with the power steering pump and fluid.

The Problem: The engine will operate at excessive speeds when the transmission is set to manual mode and first gear. Continued driving in this situation will increase steering pump speed. The heat from the pump will transfer to the fluid, which could reach the reservoir’s melting point and cause a leak. A fire could result if the leaking fluid ignites.

The Fix: Dealers will install an improved power steering fluid cooler free of charge. The part is expected to arrive in dealers by March 2012. Contact Chevy at 1-800-630-2438 with any questions.

Number of Affected Vehicles: A total of 3,150 model year 2011 to 2012 Chevy Captiva crossovers.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Recall Up Date: 2010 - 2011 Cadillac SRX

2011-12-21T22:51:00.000-08:00

General Motors responded to a letter from a customer who experienced “unintended vehicle motion” after shifting his Cadillac SRX from “park to “drive” and back. GM investigated the claim and has now issued a recall on model year 2010 to 2011 Cadillac SRX crossovers built at the company’s Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico. The recall affects vehicles in China and the United States.

The Problem: Affected vehicles have a transmission cable that is not properly aligned in the engine compartment. The cable will not shift gears properly causing unintended vehicle motions.

The Fix: GM is recalling and inspected affected vehicles in China and the United States. Customers should call GM customer service for questions or concerns.

Number of Affected Vehicles: GM is recalling 9,862 Cadillac SRX crossovers in China and 8,789 vehicles in the United States. The recall affects model year 2010 to 2011 vehicles.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Concept Car: Lexus LF-LC

2011-12-21T22:45:00.001-08:00

Though it wasn’t meant to be revealed until the 2012 Detroit auto show in January, photos of the Lexus LF-LC concept have leaked online, and in response, Lexus has released the first official photo of its new sports coupe concept, pictured above. The photos reveal that Lexus’ new show car is a 2+2 wearing sharp lines and aggressive air intakes. As with the LF-Gh concept, the first two letters stand for Lexus Future.

According to Autocar, the LF-LC may be headed for production in the near future. The publication suggests a production LF-LC would be built on a shortened version of the next Lexus LS chassis, and will have a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Autocar reports the name LC600h is likely, as is a 2015 on-sale date.

The new car is supposed to show the next evolution of Lexus’ design language, and many of the cues on this show car have appeared in prior Lexus production and concept vehicles. The mesh spindle-shaped front grille resembles that of the Lexus GS, for instance, while the swept-back headlights and stubby trunk recall the LFA supercar. Other design elements include a panoramic glass roof and deep air intakes ahead of the front wheels.

The Lexus concept had originally been previewed by two small teaser images, and was slated to appear publicly in Detroit next month. The company promised the designed hinted “at the new contemporary, upscale and uniquely Lexus design direction.” It was styled by Toyota’s Calty design studio in California.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2013 Audi A1 Quattro

2011-12-21T22:41:00.000-08:00

Audi has launched a new volley in the realm of small, performance-oriented hatchbacks with the A1 Quattro. The new car is a go-fast variant that will be limited to just 333 examples, and will pack a 256-hp wallop.

Regular readers will note that the A1 Quattro looks remarkably similar to a car we spied on the Nürburgring two months ago; whereas we expected the moniker RS1, Audi has instead simply appended “Quattro” to the small car’s name.

The key ingredient in the new car is Audi’s 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged inline-four engine, producing a solid 256 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Its output is transferred exclusively to quattro all-wheel-drive by way of a six-speed manual transmission. Audi says the A1 Quattro hits 62 mph in 5.7 seconds and can reach 152 mph.

Visual upgrades come in the form of a big rear wing, tinted rear windows and taillights, dual 3.9-inch exhaust tips, and subtle red accents in the headlights. The A1 wears unique turbine-style white wheels measuring 18 inches in diameter and eight inches wide. An aluminum shift knob, stainless-steel pedals, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a racy red-faced tachometer accent the car’s interior.

To match the power upgrades, Audi gifted the Quattro with larger, vented brake discs gripped by black-painted calipers; firmer suspension tuning; a more direct steering ratio; and a revised stability-control system that can be fully disabled for track use.

The A1 Quattro goes on sale in the second half of 2012, and just 333 lucky customers will have a chance to buy one. Pricing hasn’t yet been announced and, sadly, the car will not make an appearance on American soil.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Saab to Go Bankrupt

2011-12-20T00:16:00.001-08:00

The saga has been running for two years but Saab’s fate looks as if it has finally been sealed, with news that the Swedish manufacturer has filed for bankruptcy.

In a very public struggle to stay afloat, Saab was almost sold off to Pang Da and Youngman – both Chinese manufacturers – but the deal was called off by Saab’s former owners, General Motors, who didn’t want its technology falling into Chinese hands.

The troubles began when General Motors sold a struggling Saab to Spyker in January 2010, and there was never a successful model to kick-start sales in the competitive segment Saab is a part of.

An official statement read: “The Board of Saab Automobile subsequently decided that the company without further funding will be insolvent and that filing bankruptcy is in the best interests of its creditors. It is expected that the Court will approve of the filing and appoint receivers for Saab Automobile very shortly.” For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Mercedes to Show off E-Class Hybrid at Detroit Show 2012

2011-12-20T00:11:00.000-08:00

Mercedes is set to join the ranks of manufacturers selling hybrid-powered executive cars with this diesel-electric Mercedes E-class.

The E300 BlueTec, due on sale next September in both saloon and estate bodystyles, is engineered around the most powerful version of Mercedes’ 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine.

The E300, and its petrol twin, the US-only E400, will be revealed at the Detroit show next month.

The headline CO2 figure of 109g/km will make the E300 BlueTec popular with company car users. It undercuts BMW’s petrol-powered Active5 Hybrid by a significant 40g/km.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2012 Donkervoort D8 GTO

2011-12-20T00:10:00.001-08:00

Donkervoort has revealed the latest addition to its track-focused range, the Donkervoort D8 GTO. The open-topped Donkervoort D8 GTO features the same 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine as used in the Audi TT RS, with power increased to 395bhp and maximum torque of 331lb ft delivered at 1600rpm.

The D8 GTO weighs about 700kg and has a 0-60mph time of around three seconds and a top speed of 158mph.

It follows on from the Donkervoort D8 RS and GT, with a design reminiscent of the Lotus 7, and a steel tubular chassis joined to carbon composite body panels. The D8 GTO has also been extended by 35cm, and widened by 15cm in order to fit the longitudinally mounted engine.

Despite similarities however, the GTO will share just five per cent of the parts with the RS and about 30 per cent with the GT, and company founder Joop Donkervoort describes the car as ‘the first in a new generation’ of models.

The first 25 GTOs will be fitted with a special lightweight engine that utilises items such a new intake manifold to save an extra 30kg. This variant of the D8 GTO is fitted with a race module switch, which increases power to 400bhp when it is deployed.

Donkervoort has used aviation-inspired design features such as a one-piece door with integrated hinges that weighs just 980g, and lightweight locking devices for the aluminium bonnet.

The undercarriage of the car has been revised, the front axle has been equipped with a totally new anti-roll bar and the rear axle construction - to give the GTO extra stability - has a completely new design.

Half of the first batch of 25 D8 GTOs have been sold already and will be delivered next summer. A run of ‘standard’ versions will follow in 2013. The car is expected to be priced between £84,000 and £126,000.

Thanks to: Autocar

Sneak Peek: Ford Concept

2011-12-20T00:03:00.000-08:00

We’ve seen early prototypes and heard rumours of a Ford Fiesta-based SUV but now we’ve got our first look at how the new model is shaping up thanks to this teaser shot.

The picture reveals a model thought to be called the EcoSport Concept that will be unveiled at the New Delhi Auto Show in January. Its world debut in India is no surprise as Ford is planning on making it only the second of its models available there.

As part of the ‘One Ford’ strategy, which sees almost identical cars sold the world over – much like the most recent Focus – the EcoSport will be the same in India as it is when it reaches Europe in late 2012. Expect to see a higher level of standard specification for European models though.

Judging by this teaser, much of the styling is inspired by the Vertrek concept seen at January’s Detroit expo. It gets the same multi-layered headlights, sculpted bonnet and lowered roofline.

There will also be a wide range of petrol and diesel engines. The petrol line-up will include two versions of the firm’s efficient EcoBoost turbo engines: a new three-cylinder 90bhp 1.0-litre unit, and the powerful 1.6-litre from the bigger Focus. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express

Sneak Peek: Nissan Pathfinder Concept

2011-12-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

It’s not news that Nissan will be showing off a concept version of its all-new 2013 Pathfinder in a few weeks at the Detroit auto show, but the company has now revealed a teaser of the new SUV.

Not too much can be seen in Nissan’s shadowy image, but the Pathfinder will definitely be eschewing its squared-off look for a more curvaceous form. The photo shows a strong character line running the length of the car from the center of the hood to the taillights, with a dip just above the door handles. Large, five-spoke wheels and roof rails may lend the Pathfinder to a sportier look.

What we know is that the new Pathfinder will shed its truck-based roots and become a crossover, similar to what the Ford Explorer did last year. It’s most likely that the new Pathfinder will share its platform and mechanicals with the recently unveiled Infiniti JX35. That car rides on a stretched version of the front- and all-wheel drive platform that underpins the Murano crossover, but provides room for a third row of seats. We wouldn’t be surprised if this also helps Nissan differentiate the Pathfinder from the Murano within its own lineup.

The Pathfinder will also probably share the 3.5-liter V-6 engine with the JX, which is rated for 265 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque in that car. Expect to also see the same CVT transmission, standard front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive as an option.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Recall Up Date: 2010 - 2011 Nissan Sentra

2011-12-19T23:57:00.000-08:00

Nissan is recalling model year 2010 and 2011 Sentras due to the installation of an incorrect engine bolt. The bolt could cause a series of issues leading to an engine stall.

The Problem: During manufacturing, a terminal stud bolt could have received zinc coating that was thicker than the proper specification. The coating could cause a voltage drop. The engine may have a hard time starting or it could stall when the vehicle is in motion, causing an accident. Additionally, the voltage drop could damage the engine control module (ECM).

The Fix: Nissan will start the recall on or before January 23, 2012. Dealers will replace the positive battery terminal and cover. Call 1-800-647-7261 to reach Nissan with any questions.

Number of Vehicles Affected: Sentras with the MR20 engine manufactured from May 11 to May 22, 2010 and from July 8 to October 25, 2010; a total of 33,803 vehicles.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Proton Exora Bold Premium & Prime

2011-12-17T04:09:00.000-08:00

The refreshed Proton Exora has been the most talked about car of late, with spyshots, unmasked units being transported and leaked brochures all out in the open. With this as background, Proton has finally released official details of the facelifted MPV, confirming much of the details we already know.

The long-awaited Campro Charge Fuel Efficiency (CFE) engine powers the Exora Bold Premium and the range-topping Exora Prime. This CFE engine puts out 138 hp at 5,000 rpm and 205 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm from 1.6 litres. Paired to a CVT gearbox, top speed is 185 km/h and 0-100 km/h is done in 13.3 seconds. Claimed fuel consumption is 7.8 litres per 100 km.

As our eagle-eyed Anthony spotted, the CFE isn’t just a Campro with a turbo bolted on. The stroke of the engine has been shortened from 88 mm to 86 mm, resulting in a smaller displacement of 1,561 cc vs the Campro CPS’ 1,597 cc.

“Boosted with the more efficient 1.6L engine, customers will experience powerful performance which is comparable to a 2.0L engine, with much lower fuel consumption. The additional power kicks in to provide more pulling power when accelerating or overtaking. In short, it’s what you can aptly describe as a ‘pay-as-you-go’ engine, which gives you more ‘vroom’ for every litre of petrol used,” says Proton Group MD Datuk Seri Syed Zainal Abidin.

Besides the two CFE+CVT variants, the Exora is also being offered in Bold Executive trim (1.6L Campro CPS with manual or torque converter auto) and non-Bold Standard trim, which is only available as a manual.

Spec-wise, the Bold Premium CVT gets leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering, front fog lamps, rear spoiler, electric foldable wing mirrors, cruise control and reverse camera with rear view mirror LCD. The latter is similar to the system seen in the Kia Forte 6-Speed.

Thanks to: Paultan

First Sketch: Hyundai i-Oniq Concept

2011-12-17T04:02:00.000-08:00

Hyundai's ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language takes a step forward at March’s Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the i-oniq concept car.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President of Hyundai Europe, told Auto Express: “It’s a maturing of fluidic sculpture, making it a bit more adult.”

Although the i-oniq itself won’t make production, Rushforth hinted that it may offer clues to the shape of the next generation of Hyundai’s upmarket Genesis coupé, currently sold in the US and mainland Europe.

However, Rushforth said that Genesis would not be expanded in Europe. Next year sees the arrival of Hyundai’s i40 saloon, a new i30 in five-door, estate and, possibly, three-door form, a revised i20 and a new Santa Fe. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Spied: 2013 Chevrolet Impala

2011-12-17T00:22:00.000-08:00

The current generation Chevrolet Impala has been living in the past for years now – it is still available with a front bench seat, after all. For the 2013 model year, GM wants the Impala to take a step back from the geriatric (and fleet) crowds, and once again become the styling icon it once was in its heyday. If these first-ever spy shots of the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Impala are any indication, Chevy is well on its way to returning that swagger to the Impala line.

Ask any 15-year old and they’ll tell you the key to swagger is a cool (hot?) outward appearance with a bit of attitude, which is something this camouflaged 2013 Impala looks to have. Losing both the meekness and the blandness of the previous Impala, the new Impala seems to pick up some styling cues from the hot-selling Camaro like a nose that tapers to a slight point, and a similar-looking grille. The 2013 Impala also looks like it grows a bit larger, while dropping down closer to the ground, giving it a low-slung stance. Out back the Impala seems to share some cues like its stylized exhaust tips with its platform mate, the Buick LaCrosse.

What good is looking good on the outside if you can’t back it up on the inside? From the looks of it, Chevrolet is seriously stepping up its game when it comes to the 2013 Impala’s interior. The spy shots show an interior that looks like it was actually designed. The 2013 Impala’s interior will lose the dark, hard plastics and get upscale bits like a stitched dashboard, aluminum trim, a new steering wheel, and a large centrally located nav screen. The 2013 Impala also looks to be getting a redesigned instrument panel with a large multifunction screen flanked by two crisp-looking gauges.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Unofficial Picture: 2013 Kia Forte

2011-12-17T00:13:00.001-08:00

Sketches that have leaked online purport to provide an early look at the 2013 Kia Forte. According to Kia World, the sketches show a redesign for the Forte sedan that will be officially revealed sometime in 2012.

The leaked photo reveals a Forte sedan that is much more rounded and modern than the current model. In the profile sketch, the Kia appears to have a sloping roofline similar to the Hyundai Elantra, and is vaguely reminiscent of the Kia Ray concept from 2010. The front grille, headlights, and taillights are all in tune with the latest Kia designs, like those seen on the Optima sedan.

The current Forte sedan was launched in 2009; the car also is available as a two-door coupe and four-door hatchback. Regardless of body style, power comes either from a 156-hp 2.0-liter inline-four, or a 173-hp 2.4-liter inline-four engine.

The Kia Forte is currently built on the same platform that underpinned the prior-generation (through model-year 2010) Hyundai Elantra, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Forte once again adopted the Elantra’s underpinnings. If so, it could mean a bump in the Forte’s fuel economy ratings. The new Elantra uses a 148-hp, 1.8-liter inline-four engine that returns 29/40 mpg (city/highway) whether mated to a manual or automatic transmission.

We reached out to Kia to see whether a 2013 Forte is indeed on the way, but did not receive a response before deadline. If a Forte makeover is nigh, we imagine it will debut at a major auto show some time in the next six months.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Honda to Produce EV-STER Concept?

2011-12-17T00:07:00.000-08:00

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito told German auto magazine Auto Motor und Sport that the funky Honda EV-STER concept we showed you last month during the Tokyo Motor Show will go into production. The EC-STER was conceived as a modern-day Honda Beat and comes close to the size of that Japanese market Kei-car.

The concept comes in less than two inches wider than the Beat and the JDM Kei-car standard. The concept is powered by a 58kW (78 horsepower) lithium-ion motor and is said to hit 60km/h (just over 37 mph) in 5.0 seconds. Power is sent to the rear wheels. Honda says the electric-powered EV-STER would have a range of 100 miles and top speed of 100 mph.

But don’t fret if these numbers don’t impress. The Honda EV-STER is package-protected for a gasoline engine – behind the seats, making it a mid-engine, rear-drive replacement for the gone but not forgotten Honda S2000. Still no word on size or power level of the hypothetical internal combustion engine, but it would likely create more power and produce better times than the electric motor.

One show car feature that would not likely make production is the twin-lever steering. A conventional steering wheel would probably get the nod for the production car. No details whether either model will come stateside. We are crossing our fingers for the gas-powered version with at least 200 horsepower – maybe from the rumored 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek: 2012 BMW X6M Diesel

2011-12-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Could BMW be prepping a diesel-powered variant of the X6 M? All signs are pointing to yes, and the automaker releasing the second teaser video for a new M-tuned X6 model.

Earlier this month, BMW released a minute-long video showing an X6 driving along serpentine roads and tracks with its front and rear fascias, mirrors, exhausts, and badge blurred out. Most notable was the fact that the badge was long – possibly denoting the rumored tri-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel powerplant slated for M models.

There are reportedly plans for the Munich-based automaker to make a diesel-powered performance variant of the 5 Series that could end up wearing the M550dX badge, so it wouldn’t be a far stretch for the same powerplant to make its way into the X6. The proposed oil-burner could potentially offer 318 hp and a massive 516 lb-ft of torque. While it would be less than the 555 hp and 500 lb-ft currently offered in the X6 M, a diesel would yield much better fuel economy and a longer cruising range.

The second video, titled “Step 2,” includes sound bites from BMW M head of global sales and marketing Brian Watts and M director of sales Thomas Schemera declaring that the new X6 variant “looks like a sports machine, sounds like a sports machine” and “turns any road into a racetrack.” Most importantly, Watts says that it is “deserves the M badge.”

We also get a quick tease of the X6’s exhaust note. It sounds deep and throaty, and we can definitely hear some form of forced induction. Check out the video below to hear for yourself and let us know what you think may be under the hood of this revised X6.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek: 2013 Buick Encore

2011-12-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

Buick has announced that a new five-passenger crossover called the Encore will join its 2013 lineup and released a teaser photograph of the sub-Enclave-sized SUV. Judging from the headlight seen here, the Encore will be somewhat less exciting than the Envision concept from this year’s Shanghai auto show. While we speculated that a production version of the Envision might utilize the Cadillac SRX’s architecture, rumor has it that the Encore will ride on a smaller, front-drive platform shared with the surprisingly good Chevrolet Sonic. We’ll likely have to wait until the Encore debuts at the 2012 Detroit auto show in January.
Thanks to: Car and Driver