Acura TSX
New BMW X3 Review, Test Drive
As one would expect, there�s more than a bit of the X5 in the X3�s details. The kidney grille looks very similar, the heavy looking bumper is there on this car too and look at it from the rear and you�ll swear this is BMW�s full-sized SUV. The new X3�s footprint is actually almost the same as the original X5 � BMW�s iconic first SUV � which means this car is both longer and wider than the outgoing X3. But the increase in size hasn�t brought a corresponding increase in mass. This new car actually weighs 15kg less than the earlier car with the same specification.
The X3 is actually based on the estate or Touring version of the 3-series, and so what you get is a monocoque or �frame-in-body� construction, a longitudinally placed engine in the nose and independent car-like suspension for all four wheels. X in BMW terminology stands for four-wheel drive, and this car uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between front and rear axles. To improve efficiency, this version comes with auto start-stop that switches the car off at signals, and this BMW, like recent examples, comes with an electric steering for greater efficiency too.
On the road, a heavy 1.8-tonne kerb weight, an upright SUV stance and a two-litre 181bhp diesel don�t exactly spell performance. But generous torque from the motor and the presence of the eight-speed gearbox improve things considerably. There is considerable grunt in the midrange, the gearbox is quick to downshift, and this allows it to keep up with traffic quite easily.
However, the X3 lacks the ability to suddenly up the pace at these speeds. The motor constantly has to work hard and performance is only really good in the midrange. Stability at speed is far more impressive. The X3 tracks faithfully even at very high speeds, there is absolutely no hint of nervousness and the BMW feels glued to the road even at speeds in excess of 180kph. A light but firm touch is all you need on the wheel, there is no sloppiness in the way the X3 changes lanes, and the brakes have plenty of bite and stopping power as well. The X3 is also well insulated and feels quite refined at speed. There is very little tyre roar, the car rides silently over expansion joints.
In fact so silent is the rest of the car, you sometimes hear wind swishing over the mirror and the �A� pillar.
On smaller roads I decide to switch back to �Normal� mode to soften the dampers. And the effect is immediate. Despite having large 18-inch wheels, the X3 simply glides over many of the rough patches and holding onto a particular line is no problem either. The X3 also feels easy to punt around and navigate through the centre of some small towns. The light, electric steering and compact dimensions of the car make it quite easy to thread through narrow cobblestone streets and parking with the electronic driver aids is quite easy too.
In �Sport� mode, the dampers firm up nicely and body control is much tighter and the steering feels weightier too. Unfortunately, this feels a bit artificial and odd and I miss the light but very precise feel of the system in Normal.
On smaller roads, the X3 also feels substantially quicker than out on the open roads. Performance for these roads is more than adequate and using the strong mid-range delivers a decent kick. You do need to place the gearbox into S if you want to drive in a spirited manner though. This motor doesn�t have the strongest bottom end and looking for performance when the eight-speed �box is shifting up as often as it can for greater efficiency does get a bit frustrating.
What�s vastly improved however are the interiors of the X3. This one feels as big and as airy as Audi�s Q5 on the inside. The width of the cabin is impressive, the wide dashboard makes this feel like a full-sized SUV and BMW has used first-rate materials too. The design of the soft-feel dash is full of attractive curves and swoops, a smart looking metallic strip has been used on the bottom of the central console and this and other metallic insets help lift the mood of the cabin.
The instrument panel is nearly identical to that of a 5-series, the air-con and audio system controls are like the 3-series, and the seats are identical to the 3-series as well. BMW has used sumptuous double-stitched leather to cloak the insides, door pads included, and you get the full bells and whistles iDrive too. Also on this car, is BMW�s Dynamic Drive Control that allows you to toggle between Normal, Sport and Sport + at the touch of a button.
At the rear, you sit a bit low but legroom is surprisingly good and the backrest is very supportive too. The seats can be folded and flipped for additional luggage space but with the standard 550 litres available, we doubt you�ll ever feel the need to make use of this feature.
The new X3 is on much more solid ground than the outgoing model. It is more spacious on the inside, is both beautifully crafted and built, and it looks larger on the outside too. It may not be as much fun to drive as the earlier car and performance from the 2.0 motor isn�t spectacular either. But the new X3 delivers almost everything Indian luxury SUV buyers seem to be looking for. This really does feel like a slightly scaled-down version of BMW�s bigger X5. All BMW needs to do now is deliver this SUV at a competitive price, from somewhere around Rs 40 lakh, and watch the order books fill up.
2012 New Ducati Desmosedici GP12 1000cc Valentino Rossi
After yesterday's Honda completed the second trial with a 2012 Honda 1000cc motorcycle protype with riders Casey Stoner. So now turn Ducati recently tested both New Prototype Ducati Desmosedici GP12 1000cc motor makes. The Italian manufacyurer experiment with circuit riders Valentino Rossi at Mugello, Italy on Thursday, May 26, 2011. Valentino Rossi completed the trial with 60 Lap at Mugello circuit with circuit conditions Warm and sunny. The test this time is Valentino Rossi's second test with Ducati Desmosedici GP12 1000cc.
Here's a greeting Rossi after testing with the Ducati Desmosedici GP12 as in reports in the Official MotoGP site. "I�m pleased, because it was a positive test,� said Valentino at day�s end. �We took full advantage of the time we had, because the track and weather conditions were perfect. I liked the new asphalt a lot. The surface is smooth, those holes that I knew so well are now gone, and the grip is fantastic. I must say they�ve done a great job, because if it�s possible, riding here at Mugello is now even better than before. I�m happy to have come back here to test after my injury last year, because it was a nice feeling and a good day. We started around 11:00 this morning, and we completed sixty laps in all�many kilometers without any problems, either physical or with the GP12. We tested everything that Filippo had planned to try, and we�re satisfied because, although we�re still at a pretty early stage, we�re going in the right direction."
BMW M3 CRT 2012 Pictures Review and Spec
BMW M3 CRT 2012 Pictures Review and Spec
BMW M3 CRT
The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) embodies a concentrated blend of state-of-the-art development expertise - inspired directly by motor sport - in the areas of drive system and chassis technology and intelligent lightweight design. It also represents the worldwide debut of a new production process for carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components in the automotive industry. This process allows CFRP to be introduced widely in the construction of the high-performance BMW M3 Saloon-based sports car created by the BMW M GmbH factory. And that helps it achieve a weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kilograms per horsepower. A V8 engine with customary M high-revving characteristics and maximum output of 331 kW/450 hp accelerates the BMW M3 CRT from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
The BMW M3 CRT will be produced by the BMW M GmbH factory in a limited run of 67 units. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW M3 GTS - of which 135 examples were produced - this is the second small-series, high-performance M3 off-shoot to be bred for the race track but registered for the road. The exclusive character of the Saloon is emphasised by bespoke lightweight design components manufactured as part of an innovative production process. The bonnet of the BMW M3 CRT and the bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are made from a cellular carbon honeycomb, which is produced in a globally unique process pioneered for the manufacture of body components for the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models.
BMW M3 CRT
The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) embodies a concentrated blend of state-of-the-art development expertise - inspired directly by motor sport - in the areas of drive system and chassis technology and intelligent lightweight design. It also represents the worldwide debut of a new production process for carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components in the automotive industry. This process allows CFRP to be introduced widely in the construction of the high-performance BMW M3 Saloon-based sports car created by the BMW M GmbH factory. And that helps it achieve a weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kilograms per horsepower. A V8 engine with customary M high-revving characteristics and maximum output of 331 kW/450 hp accelerates the BMW M3 CRT from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
The BMW M3 CRT will be produced by the BMW M GmbH factory in a limited run of 67 units. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW M3 GTS - of which 135 examples were produced - this is the second small-series, high-performance M3 off-shoot to be bred for the race track but registered for the road. The exclusive character of the Saloon is emphasised by bespoke lightweight design components manufactured as part of an innovative production process. The bonnet of the BMW M3 CRT and the bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are made from a cellular carbon honeycomb, which is produced in a globally unique process pioneered for the manufacture of body components for the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models.
BMW M5 2012 Wallpapers
BMW M5 2012 Wallpapers
BMW M5
A change in leadership is nigh in the exclusive segment that brings together ultra-dynamic business saloons with track-oriented drive and chassis technology. The new BMW M5 is poised to build on the tradition of its predecessors and once again redefine the performance experience available in a four-door car. Displaying the conceptual harmony, state-of-the-art technology and astonishingly dynamic handling for which BMW M cars have become renowned, the fifth-generation BMW M5 stirs the passion of keen drivers for top performance and blends it, in inimitable style, with the universal qualities of a top-class premium saloon. The most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced model from BMW M GmbH, the innovative Active M Differential - which optimises power transfer to the rear wheels - and model-specific chassis technology developed on the back of extensive racing expertise all secure the BMW M5 a dominant position in the high-performance saloon market.
The new BMW M5 is a high-performance sports car whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely to the demands of track use yet which also sets a new benchmark in everyday driving with its supreme touring comfort and innovative equipment features. It also sets the pace in its class in terms of efficiency. The car's history of success in a segment founded more than 25 years ago by the original BMW M5 is set to continue in thrillingly contemporary style.
Under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 lies a newly developed, high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo technology, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Injection petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control), maximum output of 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 - 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The instantaneous power delivery and sustained thrust familiar from M cars are the key to acceleration of 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds (0 - 200 km/h/124 mph: 13.0 seconds). Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres / 28.5 mpg imp (CO2 emissions: 232 g/km). While output has increased by around 10 per cent and maximum torque is up by more than 30 per cent, the new BMW M5 burns over 30 per cent less fuel than its predecessor.
BMW M5
A change in leadership is nigh in the exclusive segment that brings together ultra-dynamic business saloons with track-oriented drive and chassis technology. The new BMW M5 is poised to build on the tradition of its predecessors and once again redefine the performance experience available in a four-door car. Displaying the conceptual harmony, state-of-the-art technology and astonishingly dynamic handling for which BMW M cars have become renowned, the fifth-generation BMW M5 stirs the passion of keen drivers for top performance and blends it, in inimitable style, with the universal qualities of a top-class premium saloon. The most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced model from BMW M GmbH, the innovative Active M Differential - which optimises power transfer to the rear wheels - and model-specific chassis technology developed on the back of extensive racing expertise all secure the BMW M5 a dominant position in the high-performance saloon market.
The new BMW M5 is a high-performance sports car whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely to the demands of track use yet which also sets a new benchmark in everyday driving with its supreme touring comfort and innovative equipment features. It also sets the pace in its class in terms of efficiency. The car's history of success in a segment founded more than 25 years ago by the original BMW M5 is set to continue in thrillingly contemporary style.
Under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 lies a newly developed, high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo technology, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Injection petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control), maximum output of 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 - 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The instantaneous power delivery and sustained thrust familiar from M cars are the key to acceleration of 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds (0 - 200 km/h/124 mph: 13.0 seconds). Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres / 28.5 mpg imp (CO2 emissions: 232 g/km). While output has increased by around 10 per cent and maximum torque is up by more than 30 per cent, the new BMW M5 burns over 30 per cent less fuel than its predecessor.
Mercedes Benz Maybach
Mercedes Benz Maybach
Hello friend, how are you today? Nice to meet you again. Here I will explain about Maybach 62 Interior Pictures. I hope after reading this you will get what you are looking for about Maybach 62 Interior Pictures
Nissan Skyline GTR R35
Nissan Skyline GTR R35Born from a long line of Skyline GT-Rs dating back to 1969, this latest version � "R35" to the hard-core � promises to pack more turbocharged power, more all-wheel-drive technology and more sheer speed than any Japanese car ever to come to America.
For six years the 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R has been the subject of intense rumors and frenzied speculation. Frequent sightings of GT-R test mules help fuel the excitement. We've caught GT-R prototypes on the streets of L.A. and the N�rburgring test track in Germany. Nissan's engineers also made a trip to a couple California racetracks, bringing the GT-R to both Laguna Seca and Sears Point.
Why is this car followed so closely? Because the Skyline GT-R R35 is expected to be the ne plus ultra of Japanese performance machinery
The original Nissan Skyline GT-R
might have hit the street in 1969, but it wasn't until 1990 that the GT-R legend would be solidified. That was the year the Skyline GT-R was introduced to an utterly stunned Japanese market. It was the first of three twin-turbocharged, all-wheel-drive and all-wheel-steering Skylines (R32, R33 and R34) and it's the generation upon which the Skyline GT-R legend rests.
Nissan GT-R takes on Spa 24 hour
The R35 Nissan GT-R will be making its European endurance racing debut this weekend at the Spa 24 hour race. This marks the first appearance of a factory backed GT-R at the race since it won the event back in
1991 under Group A touring car regulations. The 2009 race forms part of the FIA GT calendar and sees entries from some of motorsport�s biggest names, including Aston Martin, Audi, Corvette, Ford, Ferrari, Maserati and Porsche.
Nissan Motorsport have completed 10,000kms in testing since the car�s initial shakedown last December. The car will be driven by German Michael Krumm and Britons Darren Turner and ex-F1 driver Anthony Davidson.
Hyundai Equus
BMW Unveils Mobility Of The Future
The BMW Group has showcased its visions of future mobility in the shape of the i3 Concept and i8 Concept studies. These concept vehicles provide a glimpse of the first electrically powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the BMW i8 in 2014.
�We are marking another milestone in the history of the BMW Group. As chairman of the Board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project,� declared Norbert Reithofer, chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, at the premiere of the two vehicles in Frankfurt on July 29. �As the world�s leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electric-drive cars as well,� he added.
With its zero-emission electric drive and a range of approximately 150km, the i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment; its dynamic 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensuring BMW-style dynamic handling. Thanks to its innovative LifeDrive architecture featuring a carbon passenger cell, the i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1250kg with optimal interior space and the highest crash safety levels. With four seats and a 200-litre luggage compartment, this vehicle is fully suited for everyday use.
BMW i3 Concept: A revolution in car design
�This vehicle will mark the launch of the first volume-produced car featuring bodywork largely made of carbon. It�s a revolution in automotive design,� stressed Klaus Draeger, member of the Board responsible for development.
�This vehicle will mark the launch of the first volume-produced car featuring bodywork largely made of carbon. It�s a revolution in automotive design,� stressed Klaus Draeger, member of the Board responsible for development.
The application of this new CFRP technology allows a weight reduction, compared to a conventional electric car, of between 250 and 350kg, and that means more dynamic handling coupled with a greater range. The BMW i3 does the 0 to 100kph sprint in less than eight seconds, while a high-speed charger achieves an 80 percent battery charge in just an hour.
Thanks to the emission-free drivetrain and a value added chain designed to be sustainable all along the line, lifecycle emission figures for the i3 are at least a third lower than for a highly efficient combustion-engine car. If the i3 is run on electricity from renewable sources, the figures improve by well over 50 percent.
BMW i8 Concept: New-generation sports car
The i8 Concept goes from 0 to 100kph in less than five seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100km. Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 35km in electric mode sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town route, a high-performance three-cylinder petrol engine also comes into play. The sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 250kph and space for up to four occupants.
The i8 Concept goes from 0 to 100kph in less than five seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100km. Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 35km in electric mode sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town route, a high-performance three-cylinder petrol engine also comes into play. The sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 250kph and space for up to four occupants.
�The BMW i8 Concept is the sports car for a new generation - pure, emotional and sustainable,� ?Draeger underlined.
With BMW i, the BMW Group is corroborating its position as the most innovative and sustainable auto manufacturer in the world. With BMW i, it is providing answers to the mobility challenges of the future while pursuing a holistic approach. In addition to purpose-built premium vehicles with electric drive, the company is also offering intelligent mobility services.
Both the i3 and the i8 will be built at BMW?s Leipzig plant in Germany. Some 400 million euros are earmarked for investment in new buildings and facilities by 2013, while 800 new jobs are to be created. Vehicle production will be CO2 neutral and will draw on renewable resources. The company is currently investigating the possibility of erecting its own wind turbines on the plant site
Bentley Mulsanne
2011 Edo Koenigsegg CCR
Edo Competition released a tuning package for the Koenigsegg CCR, the main focus is setting two Rotrex unit, with assistance from the manufacturers drive ratio changed and moved to the ECU hardware changes to
accommodate. The aim is to increase capacity while maintaining a broad torque curve in the range of rpm. With the new drive ratio of the engine hits the previous maximum, and extends to 891 hp, depending on the
level of melody. To ensure long-term reliability of the supercharger to make sure the machine is reduced to 7200 rpm redlin
accommodate. The aim is to increase capacity while maintaining a broad torque curve in the range of rpm. With the new drive ratio of the engine hits the previous maximum, and extends to 891 hp, depending on the
level of melody. To ensure long-term reliability of the supercharger to make sure the machine is reduced to 7200 rpm redlin
High-end Mercs under single roof
Shaman Group has put up on sale a cluster of high-end and exclusive vehicles from the Mercedes-Benz stable. The Mumbai showroom has put on display cars like the E-Coupe, E-Cabriolet, SLK 200, SL350, ML, GL and the R-Class � all under one roof.
These CBUs are exclusive and lifestyle Mercs which are purely built keeping performance, exclusivity, safety and luxury in mind. This collection of CBUs is rare a sight as buyers don�t get to see a variety of high-end Mercedes under one roof. These brand new cars are for selective buyers and can be customized as per the buyers� demands.
Prices of these Mercs start from Rs 58 lakh and goes up to Rs 1 crore (on-road Mumbai). The 184bhp SLK 200 is available at Rs 58 lakh, the 272bhp E 350 Coupe is priced at Rs 75.33 lakh and for those who want an open-top four-seater GT can opt for the E 350 Cabriolet for Rs 82.89 lakh. The SL 350, which can be termed as the most desirable and stylish car on Indian roads, is also put up on sale for a staggering price tag of Rs 1.03 crore.
In the SUV class you could opt for the ML 350 CDI for Rs 69.30 or if you want something that has spacious interiors and a perfect blend of on- and off-road capabilities then look no further than the GL range that starts from Rs 79.40 lakh for the petrol variant, going up to 95 lakh for the Luxury diesel variant. And if you are keen on buying a luxury MPV then you have the R350L that is available for Rs 79.53lakh.
Prospective buyers can check out the cars at the Mercedes-Benz Shaman outlet at Kalina
New spy pictures of Hyundai HA
We�ve got our hands on another spy picture of the Hyundai HA, this time with fewer covers as compared to the cars spotted earlier. The test mule was spotted by our alert reader Roshan Vignesh being tested near Chennai.
Its evident from the pictures that the HA carries a cab-forward stance, similar to the i10. And considering its strong shoulder line and the severely raked A- and C-pillars, it suggests that this baby Hyundai will be a recipient of the company�s �Fluidic Sculpture� design language, which is full of sharp cuts.
With the HA, Hyundai is aiming at stealing some of the Nano�s thunder by pricing it in the range of Rs 2-3lakh. At this price point, it will be able to compete with the top-end versions of the Nano and scaled down and slashed products from Maruti as well.
The HA will be based on a pared-down Santro platform, which already costs Hyundai very little and the company will leverage its already fully localised powertrain as well. The motor that powers the car will be an 814cc three-cylinder version of the Epsilon engine in the Santro, developing approximately 48bhp, and Hyundai will carry over other bits and pieces from the Santro too.
Hyundai knows how to build quality products that are well engineered, well suited to Indian conditions, deliver very good fuel economy and the company is at the top of the game as far as parts and service are concerned too.
Expect Hyundai�s all-new small car, the HA to be launched towards the end of 2011 or early 2012.
2012 Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am
The Ferrari 458 Grand Am is built to match the American regulations and is therefore different to the European car,
especially in that it develops 500 horsepower and has less efficient aerodynamics than the GT version. It is also fitted with a 48 mm restrictor and maximum revs are 8000. Significant modifications have been made to the braking system, as the car has neither ABS nor traction control. Other differences to the GT3 include the roll-over bar which gives greater lateral protection to increase safety in a series in which collisions are rather
more frequent. The car is fitted with tyres from Continental, the sole supplier to the series, featuring a very hard compound, again to conform with the series regulations. On its shakedown today, it completed a good number of trouble-free laps, 45 to be precise in the hands of Maurizio Mediani and Jaime Melo, as they took turns at the wheel
especially in that it develops 500 horsepower and has less efficient aerodynamics than the GT version. It is also fitted with a 48 mm restrictor and maximum revs are 8000. Significant modifications have been made to the braking system, as the car has neither ABS nor traction control. Other differences to the GT3 include the roll-over bar which gives greater lateral protection to increase safety in a series in which collisions are rather
more frequent. The car is fitted with tyres from Continental, the sole supplier to the series, featuring a very hard compound, again to conform with the series regulations. On its shakedown today, it completed a good number of trouble-free laps, 45 to be precise in the hands of Maurizio Mediani and Jaime Melo, as they took turns at the wheel
Rolls-Royce Ghost
Wiesmann Spyder
Wiesmann showcased the design study of a two-seater, extremely purist, convertible sports car at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Powerful, ultra-light and purist, the Wiesmann Spyder Concept is the essence of
Wiesmann's philosophy. With a kerb weight of less than 1000 kg, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h less than 4 s and makes a top speed of approx. 290 km/h. Basis for this excellent performance is a 420-hp V8 high speed motor which is powered by a 4 liters of engine capacity. The two-seater has no doors or windscreen and is the most extreme Wiesmann ever built.
The Wiesmann Spyder design study is based on the Wiesmann brothers' early designs, though it also incorporates their many years of experience in sports car construction. It demonstrates the sports car manufacturer's receptiveness to trends because many Wiesmann fans have approached the company founders in recent years with requests for an extremely purist model.Red Bull to enter road car market
Formula 1 team Red Bull Racing wants to be recognised as a serious engineering firm away from the racetrack, and will use its recent tie-up with Infiniti to move into road car development.
RBR boss Christian Horner told Autocar he wants to �use Red Bull�s expertise outside F1�. Horner said, �Red Bull used to be known only as an energy drink company, but now it is recognised as an engineering team. It�s a natural evolution for us to get involved in road car engineering.�
Chief among the Infiniti/RBR plans is a co-developed sports model in the mould of the Renault Clio Williams, although Nissan�s luxury arm has not yet disclosed which car will receive this treatment. Infiniti insiders are already suggesting brand awareness is rising because of the F1 tie-up, which has been aided by hiring RBR driver Sebastian Vettel as a company ambassador.
Infiniti�s European plans away from its RBR alliance include two new model lines, four-cylinder engine options and more hybrid cars. The new models include a crossover in the Ford Focus class inspired by Infiniti�s Etherea concept and a Nissan Leaf-based electric car with a greater range and improved performance.
The Renault-Nissan union with Daimler will yield Infiniti four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, while the brand will also extend its hybrid offerings, some developed in-house, others with Mercedes-Benz.
Audi launches A8 L W12 Quattro
Audi India launches the most powerful version of its flagship, the A8 L W12 Quattro. Powered by a 6.3-litre FSI petrol motor, this top of the line variant develops 500bhp and 63.73kgm of torque.
To distinguish the new W12 from rest of the A8s, this high-end variant gets single-frame radiator grille with a touch of high gloss black paint finish and special chromed horizontal bars along with chrome inserts on the air inlets and exterior mirrors. The exhaust system has two trapezoidal-pattern tailpipe trims neatly integrated into the rear bumper. The A8 L W12 quattro comes with LED headlamps as a standard fitment.
The new A8 L offers both luxurious ride comfort and sporty handling. It is once again, based on a virtually all-aluminum body/chassis structure, which combines high strength with relatively light weight (for its size).
The W12 sprints from 0 to 100kph in only 4.7 seconds and effortlessly reaches to its limited top speed of 250kph. The power is transmitted through eight-speed tiptronic gearbox. Gear shifts are performed electronically from an elegant yacht-style selector lever or at steering wheel paddles. The A8 L W12 quattro runs on 255/45 section tyres and gets 19-inch alloy wheels with a 15-spoke design reserved for this model.
Speaking on the occasion, Michael Perschke, head, Audi India said, �The addition of this powerful engine to the Audi A8 L range in India will further consolidate our position in the limousine segment. I am confident that all new Audi A8 L W12 will raise the bar and set new standards for luxury and engineering performance in India.�
The new Audi A8 is now available in three variants; a 4.2-litre FSi motor, a 3.0-litre TDi and now the 500bhp 6.3-litre W12 petrol variant. The 4.2-litre V8 TDI variant � the same engine that made the A8 a popular choice in the foreign markets � will also make its way to India by early 2012.
The new Audi A8 L W12 carries a price tag of Rs 1.26 crore (ex showroom Maharashtra).
2011 Tesla Roadster
2011 Tesla Roadster Review - The Car Connection Get a Free Price Quote. for the 2011 Tesla Roadster from a dealer near you. Check Insurance Rates. for the 2011 Tesla Roadster. See the Tesla Roadster in other years:
Many of the best new cars for 2011 have advanced safety features that keep you and your passengers more secure as well as making your insurance agent happy. Keep in mind when considering a new car the2011 Tesla Roadster
McLaren MP4-12C
New Honda CR-V 2012 official pics
Here is the first official picture of Honda�s all-new CRV concept. The Honda concept SUV uses an all-new platform that will feature on the production car. The concept features a series of styling changes over the current CR-V designed to give the SUV a more aggressive stance.
The most prominent changes are at the front, where the CR-V features a wraparound lower front bumper that is better integrated into the rest of the front fascia than on the current car. The three-bar horizontal front grille is also much more dominant than the current CR-V�s, with slimmed-down headlights flanking it on either side. Honda claims the front-end styling changes result in much improved aerodynamics over the current car.
Heavily sculpted bodywork features on the sides, which also get more pronounced side sills. The concept also gets new alloy wheels. At the rear, the CR-V will retain the vertical light design of the current car, although no image has been released by Honda to show the rear styling. The Japanese firm is also claiming an all-new, more spacious interior with a lower floor for improved load-carrying ability.
Honda has confirmed no engine details at this stage, although improved efficiency and fuel economy is promised. The current CR-V is available with 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines, developing 143bhp and 161bhp respectively.
The 2012 Honda CRV concept is not destined for the Frankfurt motor show in September, instead will be making its motor show debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in California in the same month.
Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series revealed
Mercedes reveals its most powerful C-Class � the 509bhp Mercedes C63 AMG Coup� Black Series.
Like all three previous Black Series Mercedes, the C63 sticks with a tried and tested formula of sledgehammer power, track-focused hard-core chassis and aggressive race-derived styling. Power comes from AMG�s 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, which has forged pistons, conrods and crankshaft, a new engine control unit and a 50 per cent bigger oil cooler.
The prodigious output is channelled through a seven-speed AMG Speedshift transmission, which uses a wet, dual-clutch in place of the usual fluid coupling. The transmission has four control settings and can snap through the gears in 100 milliseconds in the sportiest Sport Plus and Manual modes.
To boost the new Mercedes� traction and improve its handling the rear axle features a limited slip differential that is allied to three stages of ESP stability control, one of which allows the system to be completely switched off.
Under the skin is a revised chassis with wider tracks � up 40mm at the front and 75mm at the rear � stiffer anti-roll bars and suspension with �numerous setting options�. Upgraded brakes include bigger 390mm front discs, stopped by six-piston calipers, and 360mm discs at the rear, with four-piston calipers.
A two-seat cabin is standard, with an optional rear bench with individual seats, like the �cooking� C63 AMG Coup�. Race-style bucket seats and red-trimmed seatbelts with contrasting stitching add a sporty edge to the interior.
Firsts for the Black Series are an optional Track Package and the AMG Aerodynamic Package. Included in the Track Package is super-sticky Dunlop rubber and a differential cooler sited in the rear bumper apron. The Aerodynamic Package features carbonfibre aerodynamic add-ons for the front bumper and a fixed, carbon rear spoiler.
The Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series will go on sale in the first quarter of 2012.
2011 Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond
Cadillac will offer this spring a Black Diamond Edition of the high-performance CTS-V that comes with a host of popular performance options and an exclusive tri-coat paint, also called �Black Diamond.�
In the CTS-V Black Diamond, a dark tri-coat paint is embedded with SpectraFlair Bright Silver pigment.While other luxury makers offer metallic paints, Black Diamond is created through a meticulous process that gives the paint added dimension
The paint is joined by a set of Satin Graphite 19-inch wheels and yellow Brembo brake calipers outside.Slide yourself indoors and meet an interior that boasts microfiber suede Recaro seats and Midnight Sapele wood accents littered throughout the cabin.GM says that the whole package is meant to invoke images of a well-tailored tuxedo
The CTS-V Black Diamond Edition joins Cadillac�s award-winning V-Series line of performance luxury vehicles.The CTS-V Sedan, Coupe and Wagon all feature a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine with 556-horspower, Magnetic Ride Control suspension that reads and reacts to the road 1,000 times a second and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tire.
