Saturday, April 28, 2012

Volkswagen Polo R-Line : Adding more style to the substance

Volkswagen Polo R-Line

Volkswagen is adding even more style to its popular supermini, with the launch of the Polo R Line, which builds on the impressive specification of the Polo Match with unique styling touches inside and out.

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Thursday, April 26, 2012

Mazda and Ford invest additional us$27 million in Autoalliance Thailand to boost pickup production capacity


  •  New investment made to meet extraordinary global demand for all-new pickup trucks
  • New production capacity comes online from next month
  • AAT’s pickup line was upgraded in 2011 for production of the all-new Mazda BT-50 and all-new Ford Ranger

HIROSHIMA : April 26, 2012 - Mazda Motor Corporation and Ford Motor Company today announced an additional investment of US$27 million (approximately THB 837 million) in their AutoAlliance (Thailand) (AAT) joint venture to upgrade production equipment and increase pickup truck production capacity by 20,000 units per year.

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The new ABT Beetle

 
2012 ABT BEETLE

Its predecessor was an evergreen, a mass-consumption vehicle, both in Germany and worldwide. The Beetle was dependable and robust, it looked nice and was very distinct. Incidentally, it was also a sportsman and film star, if you will, and this potential for a cult following is what characterises its successor as well, especially when tuned by ABT Sportsline.

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The new DTM Safety Car : C 63 AMG Coupé Black

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black - 2012 DTM Safety car

A further highlight of the 2012 DTM season in addition to the spectacular new Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé will be the DTM Safety Car: right from the off, C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series will be providing the necessary safety for the world's most popular touring car series. With a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp), this two-seater is the most powerful C-Class of all time. The German Touring Car Masters (DTM) gets underway at the Hockenheimring on 29 April 2012.

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Wednesday, April 25, 2012

2013 Scion FR-S

2013 SCION FR-S
• Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car starts at $24,200
• Low center of gravity and lightweight design achieves a “Pure Balance”
• World’s first boxer engine to utilize Toyota’s D-4S direct and port injection
• FR-S comes standard with complimentary Scion Service Boost 

Scion has announced full details for its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car.  The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family and will go on sale in June. 

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Friday, April 20, 2012

Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG

2012 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

AFFALTERBACH : April 19, 2012 – High tech for the AMG off-road classic: the new G 63 AMG impresses with state-of-the-art drive technology, expressive design and increased fuel economy. All this is largely attributable to the AMG 5.5‑litre V8 biturbo engine delivering 400 kW (544 hp) and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system. Even more exclusive is the new G 65 AMG: its AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine delivers 450 kW (612 hp) and reaches a maximum torque of 1000 newton metres – a record in the off-road segment.



Every new AMG high-performance vehicle offers an outstanding mix of "more power from less fuel" – and the G 63 AMG is no exception. The "strong man" in the AMG model range has been further enhanced with the state-of-the-art powertrain of the new ML 63 AMG. The design has been comprehensively reworked, so that, for the first time in the 33-year history of the G-Class, AMG customers can enjoy a raft of future-oriented systems: spray-controlled petrol direct injection, the ECO start/stop function and generator management. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 newton metres. This enables the new G 63 AMG to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, with a new top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

The new G 63 AMG outperforms the G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR by 27 kW (37 hp) and 60 newton metres. Its direct predecessor was a clear favourite for G-Class purchasers, with a sales ratio of over 40 percent.

Key figures for the G 63 AMG at a glance:

G 63 AMG
Displacement
5461 cc
Bore x stroke
98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio
10.0 : 1
Output
400 kW (544 hp) at 5500 rpm
Max. torque
760 Nm at 2000–5000 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
13.8 l/100 km
CO2 emissions
322 g/km
Efficiency class
G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h
5.4
Top speed
210 km/h*
* electronically limited



AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC and ECO start/stop function

The vehicle's driving performance features are matched by its impressive advances in the area of fuel economy. The fuel consumption of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) is a reduction of 2.1 litres on the predecessor model, representing fuel savings of 13 percent. This reduction can be attributed to the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG  SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function. The seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting, creating an incredible range of variability. In "Controlled Efficiency" (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. "C" mode is also characterised by smooth accelerator and transmission characteristics and early gear changes; the vehicle is usually started in second gear in this mode. The AMG instrument cluster includes a green "ECO" symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility. Short, precisely defined ignition and injection retardations mean shorter shift times when changing up at full load. The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is further enhanced with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

The fascination of the characteristic sound of a V8 AMG

A glance at the AMG sports exhaust system will reassure any doubters that all these efficiency advances have not been at the expense of emotional appeal. The twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear put out the hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound that means so much to the vehicle's many admirers. The latest catalytic converter technology is used to ensure that the G 63 AMG meets both the EU 5 exhaust emissions standard and the requirements for the US market (LEV-II standard, on-board diagnosis II and lambda probe diagnosis).

New chassis settings, optimised acoustic comfort

The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been adjusted for the more dynamic handling characteristics of the new model. To reduce vibration and noise impacts, the design engineers at Mercedes-AMG have also implemented a wide range of NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) measures. Optimised bearings for the automatic gearbox, transfer case and engine cut vibration and noise levels. All this ensures a more comfortable ride and helps to keep the driver fit and alert, particularly over long distances.

The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The G 63 AMG runs on new AMG 5x2 spoke light alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with 275/50 R 20 tyres. As an exclusive special equipment option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges. The new AMG high-performance brakes deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance. All-round ventilated, perforated brake discs with dimensions of 375 x 36 millimetres at the front and 330 x 20 millimetres at the rear provide optimum thermal capability and outstanding deceleration values. The front axle is fitted with a six-piston fixed-calliper brake system taken from the ML 63 AMG, with a single-piston floating-calliper system on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted red around the entire circumference, and are also available in silver.

Fully readjusted ESP® for with more comfort functions

The new generation of the G-Class also offers a range of exemplary safety features. For example, the luxury off-roader has a completely readjusted ESP®, with automatic control systems including the start-up assist and a HOLD function, both for easier hill starts. And in an emergency braking situation, when the driver suddenly releases the accelerator and hits the brake pedal, the brake system increases the pressure in the brake lines and applies the brake linings to the discs. This ensures maximum effect as soon as the brake is applied. This "pre-filling" function supports the brake assist fitted as standard.

For customers ordering the optional trailer coupling, the ESP® trailer stabilisation feature provides increased safety when the vehicle is pulling a trailer. This additional ESP® function detects the trailer as soon as the electric connector plug is inserted in the socket on the towing vehicle. The ESP® trailer stabilisation system uses the sensors of the ESP®, counteracting any fishtailing of the trailer at speeds higher than 65 km/h by alternating brake application to the left and right front wheels. This is generally sufficient to eliminate the problem and prevent any further risk. In very severe fishtailing situations, the engine torque is also reduced and the towing vehicle is braked on all four wheels, to get the vehicle back to within a safe speed range as quickly as possible.



Characteristic AMG styling with the new face of the brand
The appearance of the eight-cylinder top-of-the-range model is also definitely up with the times. Following the example of the SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG, the G 63 AMG has also taken on the new face of the AMG brand. The high-gloss black "twin-blade" radiator grille with four chrome inserts makes the new G-Class model instantly recognisable as an AMG. The grille design is consistent with the car's classic contours, with an off-road look perfectly integrated into the vehicle's overall appearance.

Another completely new feature is the AMG bumper, with three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. Vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts create a distinctively masculine look for the G 63 AMG. New LED daytime running lamps are fitted below the bi-xenon headlamps. As before, only the AMG model has the characteristic wheel-arch flares, stainless-steel running boards and side protective strips with stainless-steel inserts. Other distinctive features include the "V8 BITURBO" logo on the front mudguard and G 63 AMG type plate on the rear door.

Stylish new-look interior with increased comfort

The interior features even more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. Along with the facelift changes provided as standard, including the new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems, the G 63 AMG has an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors. The classy E-SELECT shift lever with the distinctive AMG medallion is a familiar feature from other models such as the SLS AMG. An exclusive on-board environment is created by the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. Options available for an even more stylish interior comprise the AMG carbon trim and the designo Exclusive package.

Exclusive twelve-cylinder performance: the new G 65 AMG

Even more exclusive, and also the world's most powerful production off-road vehicle, is the new G 65 AMG. With maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 newton metres, the top-of-the-range V12 model delights the connoisseur with its incomparably dynamic handling characteristics. The G 65 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h (electronically limited). This is the first G-Class vehicle to be equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, which features new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit. The result is enhanced combustion, leading to smoother running and power delivery. The high-quality carbon and aluminium engine cover adds a final visual touch to this extensive package of new features. As in the G 63 AMG, the  AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G‑TRONIC automatic transmissionsystem is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.

The key data at a glance:

G 65 AMG
Displacement
5980 cc
Bore x stroke
82.6 x 93.0 mm
Compression ratio
9.0:1
Output
450 kW (612 hp) at 4300–5600 rpm
Max. torque
1000 Nm at 2300–4300 rpm*
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
17.0 l/100 km
CO2 emissions
397 g/km
Efficiency class
G
Acceleration 0–100 km/h
5.3
Top speed
230 km/h**

* electronically limited

In terms of appearance, the G 65 AMG is differentiated from its V8 sister model by the high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards. Interior features include the welcome display with exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation, the designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. A unique special touch is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This distinctive upholstery feature is repeated on the door central panels. A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo foot mats with a V12 badge. An exclusive special option from the AMG Performance Studio is AMG light alloy wheels, painted matt black with high-sheen rim flanges.

Prices in Germany at a glance (including 19% VAT):
G 63 AMG    137,504.50 euros
G 65 AMG    264,180 euros

Both AMG models are available only in the station-wagon long version. Market launch is as from June 2012.

The AMG G-Class: unmistakeable by tradition

The G 55 AMG KOMPPRESSOR has been a favourite since 2004, as a strong character, immune to passing fashions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 supercharged engine initially developed 350 kW (476 hp), increasing to 368 kW (500 hp) in 2006 and 373 kW (507 hp) in 2009. The maximum torque of 700 newton metres remained unchanged, along with the vehicle's supremely dynamic performance values. The G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR accelerated from zero to 100/km in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).


Images : 2012 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Source : DAIMLER]

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Cayenne GTS set to celebrate its world premiere at Auto China in Beijing

Porsche Cayenne GTS

STUTTGART : April 18, 2012 - Porsche will celebrate the world premiere of its SUV Cayenne GTS and present the new generation of the Boxster for the first time in Asia during Auto China in Beijing. The 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition will open its doors to the public on 27 April 2012 and will run until 2 May 2012.

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Audi RS Q3 concept

AUDI RS Q3 Concept

  •     Interpretation of a high-performance athlete with 265 kW (360 hp)
  •     Powerful 5-cylinder unit combines gasoline direct injection with turbocharging
  •     Acceleration to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.2 seconds and top speed of 265 km/h (164.66 mph)
INGOSTADT : April 18, 2012 - At Auto China 2012 in Beijing, Audi is presenting a themed vehicle based on the Q3 – the RS Q3 concept. It interprets the character of the compact SUV in a very special way – systematically dynamic.

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Sunday, April 15, 2012

“Power packhorse” with style and sporting spirit – the new ABT Multivan

2012 ABT T5 Multivan

The ABT Multivan reminds Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of the worlds largest tuning company for cars manufactured by the Volkswagen Group, of basketball player Dirk Nowitzki: “The car can manage a lot of (shopping) baskets and is fast and agile despite its XXL size.” The vehicle, plainly called “T5”, is an achiever; the ABT specialists give the great-grandson of the so-called Bulli (the original VW van) a new look, which gives the model athlete an extravagant appearance and an extremely agile feel. Of course, the additional performance provided to the Multivan by ABT also benefits its every-day properties. Power reserves are useful for anyone who wants to transport kit and caboodle, a mobile workshop or – if necessary – a complete household. Therefore: let van be a noble creature, helpful and fast. 

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Tuesday, April 10, 2012

2012 FIA GT1 : Nogaro - Double Nogaro joy for Ortelli and Vanthoor

2012 FIA GT1 - Nogaro Winners : Stephane Ortelli / Laurens Vanthoor - #32 Belgian Audi Club Team WRT - Audi R8 LMS

WRT made it two out of two in the 2012 season today, when Stephane Ortelli and Laurens Vanthoor claimed victory in the first Championship race of the season, at Nogaro, in France.  Ortelli's last win in the FIA GT Championships was in 2007, at Nogaro, when he won the GT2 category with Gianmaria Bruni. Bright sunshine and big crowds, this first event of a new era saw the two Audi R8 LMS cars finish in first and second places, with Frank Stippler and Oliver Jarvis taking second. 

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Monday, April 9, 2012

2012 FIA GT3 European : Sainteloc Racing Audi takes Race One honours at Nogaro

FIA GT3 European - Nogaro Winners : Marc Sourd and Gregory Guilvert - #16 Audi R8 LMS

NAGARO : April 8, 2012 - French pair Marc Sourd and Gregory Guilvert claimed victory in Race One of the Nogaro weekend in their Sainteloc Racing Audi R8 LMS during an incident-filled wet race.

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Thursday, April 5, 2012

SRT Viper GTS-R Unveiled : Set for Return to American Le Mans Series

SRT Viper GTS-R

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. : April 4, 2012 - The street legal 2013 SRT® Viper unveiled to the world today at the New York International Auto Show isn’t the only high-performance snake making a triumphant return in 2012.

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Audi in China: most successful quarter with over 90,000 deliveries

Audi continues its success story in China: The company sold 90,063 automobiles in China and Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2012 – a year-on-year increase of 40 percent. Sales of the Audi Q5 nearly doubled (93 percent) to 20,870 units.  
  •     Sales in China rose by 40 percent to 90,063 cars
  •     Head of Marketing and Sales, Peter Schwarzenbauer: “New Audi A6L will further boost growth”
  •     31,505 vehicles delivered in March sets new record

CHANGCHUN : April 4, 2012 - Audi continues its success story in China: The company sold 90,063 automobiles in China and Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2012 – a year-on-year increase of 40 percent.

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The new Lexus RX 350 F SPORT makes North American debut at New York International Auto Show

2013 LEXUS RX350 F-Sport
  •  Features Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters
  •  Dynamic Handling with F SPORT Suspension
  •  Highlighted with Signature Lexus Spindle Grille and Aggressive Sport Bumper

NEW YORK : April 4, 2012 – Making its North American debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, Lexus today revealed the all-new 2013 RX 350 F SPORT.

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The new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY": 45 years of AMG - Marking the anniversary with high-performance and style

Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY"

AFFALTERBACH : Apr 04, 2012 - To mark its 45th birthday in June 2012, Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG brand is presenting the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY". The V12 roadster boasts an exclusive array of unusual appointments and design features. The special anniversary model is being produced in a limited edition of 45 vehicles. AMG 
also presented a limited special model to mark its 40th birthday: the 40 cars produced as the CL 65 AMG "40th Anniversary" edition in 2007 have since become valuable collectors' items. Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG brand was founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher. Over the past 45 years the former two-man company has evolved into a world-renowned producer of unique high-performance automobiles.

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The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class : First class in all conditions

2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK350

STUTTGART : April 4, 2012 - Comfort, safety, elegance, efficiency – the new GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz demonstrates leadership qualities in all the decisive SUV disciplines. Innovations such as the standard-specification Crosswind Assist, the STEER CONTROL steering assistance system, the load recognition and the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) increase the active safety. Other new features to become available are assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist, together with a parking package incorporating an automatic function for entering and exiting parking spaces, plus a 360° camera. With excellent driving dynamics and high levels of ride comfort – both on the road and on difficult terrain – the GL-Class pampers its occupants with the first-class comfort of a luxury saloon. Up to seven passengers enjoy an excellent amount of space. Numerous BlueEFFICIENCY measures significantly increase the energy efficiency: the GL 350 BlueTEC 4 MATIC diesel model, for instance, consumes 7.4 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres, which is around 20 percent less than the predecessor, whilst also undercutting the future exhaust emission regulations in accordance with EU 6. In the case of the 300 kW (408 hp) GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model, the fuel consumption falls by about 18 percent.

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Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Fisker Automotive unveils the All-New Fisker Atlantic in New York

FISKER Atlantic - Design Prototype

  • Atlantic design prototype confirms Fisker Automotive’s bold future direction
  • Uncompromised styling reinforcing commitment to exquisite design
  • Four-door sporting sedan with a luxurious and practical interior
  • Driven by Fisker’s advanced EVer powertrain technology: electric car with extended-range freedom
  • Rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive option
  • Atlantic marks Fisker’s next step in its transition from start-up automaker to mainstream American manufacturer

NEW YORK : April 3, 2012 – Fisker Automotive is pleased to unveil its all-new model, the Atlantic sedan. This is the latest model in the company’s expanding line up of extended-range luxury electric cars.

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Tuesday, April 3, 2012

BMW i8 Concept Spyder

BMW i8 Concept Spyder

Under the banner of its sub-brand BMW i, the BMW Group is developing a range of purpose-built vehicle concepts and complementary mobility services which meet the changing needs of customers and redefine the understanding of personal mobility. As well as adopting intelligent technologies and innovative design, BMW i is pursuing an all-embracing approach defined to a significant degree by sustainability throughout the value chain.

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2012 WRC : Ford Sweeps WRC Podium After DQ

Mikko Hirvonen (FIN) Jarmo Lehtinen (FIN), Citroën DS3 WRC, Citroën Total World Rally Team     

The result of the Vodafone Rally de Portugal was turned on its head shortly after Mikko Hirvonen began celebrating his first win for Citroen, when scrutineers found what they deemed to be illegal parts on his DS3.

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Monday, April 2, 2012

2012 AUTOBACS SUPER GT : Dead heat race through the final lap. ZENT CERUMO SC430 wins season opener

GT-500 Winners : Yuji Tachikawa / Kohei Hirate - ZENT CERUMO SC430 w LEXUS SC430

On the afternoon of April 1, the Okayama GT 300km Race, Round 1 of the 2012 AUTOBACS SUPER GT, took place at the Okayama International Circuit in Okayama Pref. The winner in the GT500 class was the No. 38 ZENT CERUMO SC430 driven by Yuji Tachikawa and Kohei Hirate. The winner of the GT300 class was the GAINER DIXCEL R8 LMS (Audi) driven by Tetsuya Tanaka and Katsuyuki Hiranaka.

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