Auto News and Reviews...........

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-class / C250 / C350

2011-06-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

Worldwide, the bestselling Mercedes-Benz cars are the C-class sedan and wagon. But since the CLK ascended the Mercedes product hierarchy to become the E-class coupe, the marketing folk in Stuttgart think there’s even more sales potential in the C range. And that’s why Mercedes engineers developed the new two-door, four-seat C-class coupe.
But this new car is not just a smaller version of the E-class two-door. It is mainly a cheaper version. The C coupe costs only about $1500 more than an equivalent C-class sedan, and it shows. The design is less expressive, with simply shaped wheel arches and a rear end that looks very similar to that of the C-class sedan. It’s questionable if anyone will recognize the influence of the SL on the C coupe’s headlight design, or the presence of the BMW Hofmeister kink adjoining the car’s rear side glass. It’s more likely that Americans will instead see shadows of the Honda Accord coupe here.

To differentiate it from the C-class sedan, the new coupe’s roof is 1.5 inches lower. But it’s built on the same 108.7-inch wheelbase and to the same 180.7-inch length and 69.7-inch width. Like the sedan, it has B-pillars, and let’s be honest: A coupe with B-pillars is like Angelina Jolie with braces. (Dental braces, not leg braces. Leg braces would be hot.) And unlike the more expensive E- and CL-class coupes, the C coupe doesn’t have power rear windows or an easy-rear-entry function that pulls the front passenger seat forward. Worst of all, there is no seatbelt-delivery system, as found in your finer two-doors. Instead, the dashboard comes with exclusive design features such as a new infotainment system with silver-colored buttons. The steering wheel looks like the one in the CLS. Indeed, the interior looks great. Mercedes calls it a “lounge atmosphere,” and key C sedan safety features (Attention Assist, nine airbags) are available here.

As Mercedes does with the E-class and S-class coupe, the new C coupe offers an optional—special order, only—sport suspension package called Dynamic Handling. It lowers the body by 0.6 inch and stiffens the springs and dampers. The advantage is agile handling in sport mode, even as the system softens up midflight if it encounters crummy roads; the transition happens in as little as 10 milliseconds. The handling package also includes a stability-control-based torque-vectoring system. In fast corners at the adhesion limit, when the stability-control sensors detect encroaching understeer, the system slows the inside rear wheel in order to assist the yawing moment. As a result, the C coupe turns into corners with precise control and real determination. As in the new Mercedes SLK, the gap between sport and normal driving modes is unusually wide, resulting in two very different driving characteristics. We drove the four-cylinder C250, which follows the downsizing principle: reduced displacement compensated by direct injection and turbocharging. In keeping with Mercedes’ opaque naming conventions, the 250 packs a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 201 horsepower at 5500 rpm. Naturally. Compared with the V-6–powered C350, the turbo four delivers 101 fewer horsepower and 44 pound-feet less torque. But the C250 is no slouch in the torque department: The peak of 229 pound-feet happens between 2200 and 4300 rpm. So the load changes in the most frequently used rpm range seem more spontaneous, and the C250 feels more agile on winding roads than the C350, which offers its maximum 273 pound-feet between 3500 and 5250 rpm. The C250 comes with a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The 1.8-liter turbocharged engine is able to run very efficiently, achieving an observed 30 mpg. Performance is about what you’d expect—we estimate 0 to 60 in 6.7 seconds.
Thanks to various developments, including a new torsional crankshaft damper, the 1.8-liter runs comfortably at low engine speeds. As a result, the C250 turns between 1200 and 2000 rpm in city traffic, improving mileage by about seven percent, according to Mercedes.
But a coupe isn’t developed to save gas. It’s built to shorten breath. This one doesn’t.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe

BASE PRICE (EST): $36,300–$42,300

ENGINE TYPE: turbocharged DOHC 16-valve 1.8-liter inline-4, 201 hp, 229 lb-ft; DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6, 302 hp, 273 lb-ft

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic with manual shifting mode

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 108.7 in Length: 180.7 in
Width: 69.7 in Height: 54.8 in
Curb weight: 3500–3650 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 5.6–6.7 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 14.9–17.0 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.2–15.1
Top speed (governor limited): 130 mph

PROJECTED FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST):
EPA CITY/HWY: 18–20/27–30 mpg

BMW 1-series with turbo four-cylinder power

2011-06-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

Meet the next-generation BMW 1-series. The upcoming baby Bimmer will sport all twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engines burning either gasoline or diesel, hauling around a car that's grown in every dimension except height.

BMW also is expanding its use of eight-speed automatic transmissions to the 1-series lineup and making the BMW EfficientDynamics technology package standard. For the next-gen 1-series, that means automatic start/stop functionality on both manual and automatic transmissions and an eco pro mode. Activated using what BMW terms the "driving experience switch," eco pro tweaks the car's engine map, heating, air conditioning and mirror/seat heating to eke out as many miles per gallon as possible.

Add in enough electronic nanny acronyms to impress even Ford, plus BMW ConnectedDrive to manage all your infotainment needs, and you have a full-featured premium sport hatch. How that's going to translate into a more competitively priced offering for whatever models make the jump to our market remains to be seen.

Read BMW's press release below:

New BMW 1 Series lineup BMW
The new BMW 1 Series lineup will be available exclusively with four-cylinder turbocharged engines.

PRESS RELEASE: The new BMW 1-series at a glance:

• The new BMW 1-series: the second generation of this pioneering premium compact range. Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in its class. Even more sporty and fuel-efficient than before and significantly more comfortable and spacious. Outstanding interior and exclusive features, occupying a distinctive niche within its segment. Unique combination of premium-quality handling, aesthetics and innovative technology.

• Five doors. Bold, swept-back body; uniquely high-quality, sporty design with BMW's typically elegant proportions and boldly shaped surfaces. Youthful, lively image enhanced by design elements highlighting the maturity and premium status of the new BMW 1-series. BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line provide added scope for personalization using exclusive interior and exterior design features and equipment.

• For the first time, all the petrol and diesel engines for the BMW 1-series now feature new BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. A new generation of 1.6-liter petrol engines: BMW 116i with 100 kW/136 hp, BMW 118i with 125 kW/170 hp. Radically redesigned 2.0-liter diesel engines: BMW 116d with 85 kW/116 hp, BMW 118d with 105 kW/143 hp, BMW 120d with 135 kW/184 hp. Also scheduled for launch soon is the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition, with a 85-kW/116-hp 1.6 liter diesel engine and additional fuel-saving technologies that will keep CO2 emissions over the EU testing cycle down to just 99 g/km.

• BMW 1-series still a market leader with its BMW EfficientDynamics technology: first car in the world in its segment with optional eight-speed automatic transmission, Automatic Start/Stop function in both manual and automatic transmissions. ECO PRO mode is activated using the driving experience switch (included as standard).

• Significantly improved comfort and unique handling thanks to rear-wheel drive, in-line engines, perfectly balanced weight distribution and advanced suspension technology. Double-joint cross-strut front axle; five-link rear axle; high-precision electromechanical power steering with no interference from the drive train. Optional Variable Sports Steering; DSC Driving Stability Control including DTC Dynamic Traction Control and electronically locking rear differential as standard.

• Body 85 millimeters longer, wheelbase 30 millimetres longer, front track 51 millimetres wider and rear track 72 millimetres wider than previous model; height remains unchanged, but 17 millimeters of increased width create a more spacious interior and a sportier look. 21 millimetres more rear legroom; luggage compartment expanded from 330 to 360 litres; luggage capacity expandable to a maximum of 1,200 litres with rear seats folded down (40/20/40 seats available optionally). Large number of storage compartments, shelves and cupholders in cockpit.

• Highly torsion-resistant body for increased responsiveness and passenger protection. Comprehensive range of safety equipment including front, side and head airbags.

• High-quality interior with driver-friendly cockpit and outstanding materials and finishes; optional iDrive system with integral dashboard control display using the exclusive BMW flatscreen design.

• BMW ConnectedDrive: a comprehensive and (for a compact car) unique selection of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services. High-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, reversing camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information, Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, and web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

• Model versions:

- BMW 118i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control, capacity: 1, 598 cc, output: 125 kW/170 hp at 4,800 rpm, maximum torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 4,500 rpm, acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds, maximum speed: 225 km/h, combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.8 – 5.9 litres/100 kilometres, CO2 emissions*: 134 – 137 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

- BMW 116i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control, capacity: 1,598 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp at 4, 400 rpm, maximum torque: 220 Nm at 1,350 – 4, 300 rpm, acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.5 seconds, maximum speed: 210 km/h, combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.5 – 5.7 litres/100 kilometres, CO2 emissions*: 129 – 132 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

- BMW 120d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,800 bar), capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 135 kW/184 hp at 4, 000 rpm, maximum torque: 380 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 750 rpm, acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.2 seconds, maximum speed: 228 km/h, combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.5 – 4.6 litres/100 kilometres, CO2 emissions*: 119 – 122 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

- BMW 118d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar), capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 320 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 500 rpm, acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.9 seconds, maximum speed: 212 km/h, combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.4 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres, CO2 emissions*: 115 – 118 g/km, emissions standard: EU5. BMW 116d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger with common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar), capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 85 kW/116 hp at 4,000 rpm, maximum torque: 260 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm, acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 10.3 seconds, maximum speed: 200 km/h, combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.3 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres, CO2 emissions*: 114 – 117 g/km, emissions standard: EU5. * EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tyres fitted

Unique driving pleasure in a premium compact car: The new BMW 1 Series.

The premium compact BMW 1 Series is already synonymous with driving pleasure. Now, the second generation offers state-of-the-art engine and suspension technology, further improvements in fuel efficiency, significantly more space and an innovative range of features and equipment.

Still the only rear-wheel-driven car in its class, it builds on the strengths of its predecessor, which has already sold more than one million units worldwide. With its outstanding handling and design, innovative technology and premium image, the new BMW 1 Series has consolidated its position as a pioneering individualist in the competitive five-door segment.

BMW's entry-level model has achieved maturity, offering an even better balance between sportiness and driving comfort, improved functionality, and numerous driver assistance systems previously available only in higher segments. This is also apparent in its size. The body of the new BMW 1 Series is 85 millimetres longer than its predecessor, at 4,324 millimetres, while the wheelbase has widened by 30 millimetres to 2,690 millimetres. The car also looks more powerful because its overall width has increased by 17 millimetres to 1,765 millimetres (due to an increase in track of 51 millimetres at the front and 72 millimetres at the rear), whereas its height remains unchanged at 1,421 millimetres. The rear seats have 21 millimetres more legroom, and the luggage compartment has expanded by 30 litres to 360 litres.

The design of the new generation is a powerful expression of the latest technological advances. The model's fresh, youthful image has been stylishly updated, with precision-moulded body surfaces and a modern, functional interior both underlining its premium status. Another innovation is the BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line, two ranges of interior and exterior design features and equipment that provide exclusive personalization opportunities.

All engines in the new BMW 1 Series are four-cylinder models using BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The petrol engines are part of a new generation, combining an impressively sporty feel with exceptionally low fuel consumption and emissions. The 1.6-litre engines have twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS. The new BMW 116i achieves 100 kW/136 hp, and the new BMW 118i 125 kW/170 hp. These represent increases of 10 kW and 20 kW on the previous versions, with fuel consumption reduced by up to 10 per cent. The 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel models have been radically redesigned, featuring variable turbine geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection. The new BMW 116d (85 kW/116 hp), the new BMW 118d (105 kW/143 hp) and the new BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp) have further consolidated the BMW 1 Series' record of superior fuel efficiency in the compact segment.

The new BMW 1 Series is the first and only car in its class to be optionally available with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Like its predecessor, it also incorporates the extremely wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology package as standard. This includes the Automatic Start/Stop function, available with both the manual and automatic transmissions, and ECO PRO mode, activated using the driving experience switch (included as standard), for even better environmental performance. There are also plans to expand the range with the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition. This will have an output of 85 kW/116 hp, but additional fuel-saving and emission-reducing technologies will enable it to achieve fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 emissions figure of just 99 grams per kilometre over the EU combined cycle (provisional figures).

Also unique to this segment is ConnectedDrive, the new BMW 1 Series' optional package of driver assistance and mobility services. This includes high-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, reversing camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, and speed-limit and no-passing information. BMW ConnectedDrive also features Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, and web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

Exciting, elegant, innovative design

The drive-train layout, with a longitudinally mounted in-line engine at the front and rear-wheel drive, is unique within the compact segment. This improves the new BMW 1 Series' handling, and is also reflected in its design, with BMW's typical proportions: long bonnet, wide wheelbase, swept-back passenger cell. The new BMW 1 Series is the embodiment of responsiveness and innovative elegance in a compact car, with a youthful, lively design and high-quality features adding to the excitement.

The front of the car is dominated by the large BMW kidney-shaped radiator grille, boldly shaped headlight units and three-section air intake. The grille is tilted forwards, adding emphasis to the challenging stance of this most sporty of compact models, while the surrounding areas catch the light and create a strong sense of three-dimensionality, with four contour lines on the bonnet forming a V that points towards the grille. The typical BMW double-round headlights have accent trim across their tops. In combination with the optional bi-xenon headlights, this creates a strongly focused look, powerfully enhanced by the direction indicators set into the inner light rings of the headlights and an LED accent light. In another innovation for BMW, the side indicator lights are integrated in the exterior mirrors.

From the side, the proportions of the new BMW 1 Series are even more strikingly apparent. The slightly sloping roof line, sporty, angled rear windscreen and flat side windows give the car a coupé-like feel, while the Hofmeister kink – the low forward bend at the back end of the side windows – extends well into the C-pillar, making the door aperture wider and facilitating entry to and exit from the rear seats.

The design quality of the new BMW 1 Series, which is unique in the compact segment, is particularly evident in the distinctive BMW lines and dramatically curved surfaces. The characteristic BMW swage line starts at the front sidewall and rises continuously to the rear lights, its boldness giving powerful emphasis to the shoulder area, with the door openers neatly integrated into the swage line. An additional character line below the doors flows sharply upwards into the outline of the rear wheel arch. The sill line provides a similarly dynamic touch, running parallel to the road and then rising steeply at the rear wheel arch, which is nicely echoed by the outlines of the side windows. The size of the rear wheel arches draws attention to its rear-wheel-drive layout which is the reason for its excellent dynamic responses.

The wide-set wheel arches reinforce the broad, powerful impression created by the back of the new BMW 1 Series. The wide-opening, slightly concave tailgate is opened by pressing the top section of the BMW emblem that sits at its centre, and the rear lights are also set well apart, creating a strong horizontal emphasis that is heightened by their deep surrounds.

There are optional xenon headlights, and the rear lights consist of L-shaped banks of LEDs. An additional brake light is set into the roof spoiler. The outline of the rear apron echoes that of the front bumper, while the V-shaped emblem surround leads the eye towards the road surface, emphasizing the new BMW 1 Series' stable roadholding.

The interior: premium finish, dynamic lines, driver-friendly cockpit

Inside, a combination of typical BMW design features and innovative accents gives the new BMW 1 Series a fresh, youthful and modern feel, with a focus on spaciousness and driving pleasure. Lines and surfaces are dynamic and forward-leaning, with high-quality, precision-finished materials reflecting the model's premium specifications. BMW's characteristic driver-friendliness is apparent in the angled displays and controls in the middle of the instrument panel, and the ergonomic contours of the centre console, designed for maximum visibility. The interior surfaces are layered, another innovation which gives the new BMW 1 Series an organic look and feel.

In conjunction with an optional navigation system and the BMW Professional radio, the new BMW 1 Series uses the BMW iDrive system. This comprises a controller on the centre console, favourites buttons and a freestanding flatscreen monitor. The 6.5 or 8.8-inch high-resolution control display, which is integrated into the instrument panel, is used for all information, entertainment, telecommunications and navigation functions.

The new BMW 1 Series also offers much more storage space, with large door pockets, two cupholders on the centre console, a roomy glove compartment, and a compartment under the armrest. Bottles of up to 1 litre can be fitted into the lower door panel sections.

The optional storage package includes large compartments in the rear doors and nets on the front seatbacks. The 360-litre luggage compartment expands to a maximum of 1,200 litres by lowering the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, giving a flat surface extending all the way to the front seats. The optional through-loading system has 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats.

The ultimate in personalization: BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line make their debut

The exclusive new BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line of interior and exterior equipment help to show off the high-tech, dynamic facets of the new BMW 1 Series to best advantage.

The BMW Sport Line includes sports seats with specific coverings, leather sports steering wheel with contrasting red stitching, a red keyclasp, adjustable armrests, high-gloss black interior trim and matt coral accent strips. The instruments have specific number and scaling designs. The ambient lighting can be switched between orange and white the inclusion of this feature in the centre console and footwell is exclusive to the BMW Sport Line.

Other features of the BMW Sport Line include 16-inch star-spoke light-alloy wheels, black exhaust pipe end trim, and door sill finishers with "BMW Sport" lettering. The kidney bars, the central air intake trim bar, the side intake surrounds and the rear bumper trim are all high-gloss black. Additional options include high-gloss black mirror caps and 17-inch two-tone light-alloy wheels.

The BMW Urban Line includes specific cloth/leather seats, a leather sports steering wheel, adjustable armrests, and contemporary acrylic glass interior trim, which creates a strong sense of depth and is available in white or black with matt oxide silver accent strips. A striking effect is also provided by the ambient and courtesy lights, which can be switched between orange and LED royal blue. An additional light source on the B-pillar enhances the effect of the illumination.

The distinctive exterior includes specific 16-inch V-spoke alloy wheels or optional 17-inch high-gloss white wheels with an angled surface, and white rear bumper trim. Additional design accents on the front include white kidney bars with chrome-plated fronts and a white trim bar for the centre air intake. The side intake surrounds are painted in the same colour as the car, and the BMW Urban Line also includes door sill finishers with "BMW Urban" lettering and a white keyclasp. White mirror caps are available as an option.

The components of the BMW Lines are matched down to the last detail, and create a striking visual impact. Other individually customizable features include a choice of seat coverings, interior trims and accent strips and light-alloy wheels.

Apart from the new BMW Lines, the new BMW 1 Series itself offers additional design and material options. The standard equipment includes satin silver interior trim and Move fabric seats, and among the optional alternatives are additional interior trims and accent panels and Dakota leather seats in a choice of two colours. All upholstery versions are also available for the optional sports seats, and there are currently three standard and five metallic exterior paint colours.

The new generation of petrol engines: dynamic power delivery and outstanding fuel efficiency thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The new BMW 1 Series is currently available with a choice of two latest-generation four-cylinder petrol engines and three radically redesigned four-cylinder diesel units.

The 1.6-litre petrol engines making their debut in the BMW 116i and BMW 118i models use BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, consisting of a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control.

This design is based on that of the multi-award-winning 225 kW/306 hp in-line six-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo found in models such as the BMW 135i and BMW 135i Convertible. Like that engine, the new four-cylinder units too are part of BMW's EfficientDynamics design strategy, which aims to continually increase driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

This is the first time that four-cylinder engines have been fitted with BMW TwinPower Turbo, which represents an exceptionally fuel-efficient way of boosting output. In normally aspirated engines, responsiveness could only be enhanced to the same degree by significantly increasing capacity, and therefore weight and fuel consumption.

The design draws on the by BMW engineers' long experience of building high-performance turbo engines. The BMW 2002 turbo, launched in 1973 with a four-cylinder, 125 kW/170 hp engine, was the first European production car to be fitted with an exhaust gas turbocharger, and is still regarded as a the template for a compact, high-performance driver's car. In 1983, the first turbocharged engine ever to win a Formula 1 world championship was a Brabham BMW driven by Nelson Piquet.

The forced-induction system of the new BMW 1 Series uses the twin-scroll principle, with separate ducts both in the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger itself, each serving one pair of two cylinders. This enables more efficient use to be made of the exhaust pressure waves to drive the turbocharger, so in typical BMW fashion the engine responds instantly to any movement of the throttle. Output is also boosted by VALVETRONIC variable valve control, which is fully integrated into the cylinder head, and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust sides.

The patented BMW VALVETRONIC technology steplessly adjusts intake valve timing, rendering the throttle valve of earlier engines obsolete. The amount of air required for combustion is regulated within the engine itself, minimizing throttling losses during gas exchange and improving engine efficiency. The new engines are unusually fuel-efficient, thanks mainly to High Precision Injection. The fuel supply is precisely regulated by magnetic-valve injectors with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar, positioned centrally between the valves and close to the spark plug.

The four-cylinder engine of the new BMW 118i, which has an all-aluminium crankcase, has a maximum output of 125 kW/170 hp at 4,800 rpm, and a maximum torque of 250 Nm at between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. It is exceptionally responsive, accelerating the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 225 km/h. Improved efficiency is reflected in combined-cycle fuel consumption of 5.8 to 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 134 to 137 grams per kilometre (EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tyres fitted).

The new BMW 116i's four-cylinder engine provides significantly improved driving dynamics compared to the predecessor model. It has an output of 100 kW/136 hp at 4, 400 rpm and a maximum torque of 220 Nm between 1,350 and 4, 300 rpm. The car takes 8.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h from a standing start, and has a maximum speed of 210 km/h. The new BMW 116i's fuel consumption over the combined cycle is 5.5 to 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, and its CO2 emissions are 129 to 132 grams per kilometre.

An evolutionary step forward: four-cylinder turbodiesel with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and even greater fuel efficiency.

Wide-ranging design modifications have enabled the four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines in the new BMW 1 Series to build on their competitive advantage in the areas of output and fuel efficiency. These include aluminium crankcases, reduced engine friction, thermodynamically optimized turbochargers and variable turbine geometry, next-generation common-rail direct injection and magnetic-valve injectors.

These enhancements represent the latest stage in the success story of BMW four-cylinder diesel engines, which earned the predecessor of the new BMW 118d the title of World Green Car of the Year.

The new BMW 120d marks another major advance, with a 5 kW increase in maximum output to 135 kW/184 hp at 4,000 rpm, and maximum torque boosted by 30 Nm to 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. It reaches 100 km/h from a standing start in 7.2 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 228 km/h. Combined-cycle fuel consumption has been reduced to 4.5 to 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 119 to 122 grams per kilometre (EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tyres fitted).

The four-cylinder diesel engine of the new BMW 118d has a maximum output of 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 212 km/h. Its combined-cyle fuel consumption is 4.4 to 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 115 to 118 grams per kilometre (EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tyres fitted).

The new entry-level BMW 116d has a maximum output of 85 kW/116 hp at 4,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 260 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 200 km/h. Its combined-cyle fuel consumption is an outstanding 4.3 to 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions an equally impressive 114 to 117 grams per kilometre (EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tyres fitted).

Advanced BMW EfficientDynamics technology puts the new BMW 1 Series in a class of its own

Back in 2007, the BMW 1 Series set a new global benchmark, with a unique range of technologies to reduce fuel consumption and emissions being included as standard. Today, the new BMW 1 Series extends the scope of the BMW EfficientDynamics programme. The diesel versions have a centrifugal-force pendulum built into the dual-mass flywheel to compensate for rotational irregularities and ensure a smooth ride at low revs.

The car makes extensive use of intelligent energy management systems, including Brake Energy Regeneration and electromechanical power steering. Depending on the model, these may also include a gear shift indicator, automatic air valve control, a high-efficiency rear differential, a map-regulated oil pump, a pressure/rev-regulated electric fuel pump, a self-disconnecting air-conditioning compressor and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.

The Automatic Start/Stop function, which switches off the engine when it is stationary at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic, is included as standard in the new BMW 1 Series, with both manual and automatic transmissions. ECO PRO mode, which is activated by the driving experience switch, adjusts the engine map, heating, air conditioning, and mirror/seat heating to minimize fuel consumption. The resulting increase in range is shown on a display.

As a result, the new BMW 1 Series will embody the concept of fuel-efficiency like no other premium car, building on the strengths of its predecessor in this area. At a later date, the range will be expanded with the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition. This will be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine, and feature a number of fuel-saving and emission-reducing technologies, including solutions to further optimize drive-train efficiency, improve aerodynamic performance and reduce rolling resistance. The BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition will have an output of 85 kW/116 hp, with fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 99 grams per kilometre over the EU combined cycle (provisional figures).

Eight-speed automatic transmission: sporty, fuel-efficient, and unique in a compact car

The standard six-speed manual petrol and diesel versions of the new BMW 1 Series offer efficient power transmission and precise gear changes.

The BMW 1 Series is also the only compact car also available with the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering fast, smooth gear changes and excellent fuel efficiency. The innovative architecture of its wheel set allows more gears and a better spread of ratios, with barely any increase in weight over the existing six-speed automatic gearbox for the BMW 1 Series.

The unusually high efficiency of the eight-speed automatic transmission means that fitting it to the most powerful new BMW 1 Series models actually results in lower fuel consumption and CO2 figures than with a manual transmission.

The Steptronic function used in the automatic transmission allows gear changes to be initiated manually using the electronic selector lever. A further option is the eight-speed sports automatic transmission, which enables even more dynamic gear changes, and includes shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Perfect handling: high-quality suspension technology, even weight distribution and improved stability control

The new BMW 1 Series boasts best-in-class suspension technology, with a double-joint cross-strut front axle with McPherson struts and sway bars, and a five-link rear axle. The high aluminium content of the front axle structure effectively reduces the unsprung mass, while noise levels have also been reduced and crash performance improved.

Both the front and rear axles have double elastic bearings and extra-large bearing blocks for increased comfort and responsiveness. The new BMW 1 Series has a wider track than its predecessor (51 millimetres wider at the front, 72 millimetres wider at the rear), and the almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution helps to translate the dynamic advantages of the rear-wheel drive layout into an exciting and agile ride.

The new BMW 1 Series has electromechanical power steering as standard, combining typical BMW precision with very low energy consumption. The optional Servotronic function provides speed-dependent power assist. Variable Sport Steering, also available as an option, reduces the number of steering wheel rotations required to make sharp turns. In this mechanical system, steering ratios are adjusted using a variable steering rack. Parking and turning are safer and easier, requiring minimal steering effort, but the typical BMW steering precision and directional stability at high speeds are maintained.

As an alternative to the standard 16-inch wheels, the new BMW 1 Series is also available with 16, 17 and 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Its responsiveness and powerful braking in emergency situations are partly due to DSC Dynamic Stability Control, and the car also has ABS anti-lock braking, DTC Dynamic Traction Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control and DBC Dynamic Braking Control. Other features now include braking assistance, fading compensation, brake drying and hill assist.

DTC mode increases the intervention thresholds of DSC, making it easier to drive on loose sand or deep snow. By allowing slight slippage of the drive wheels, it also facilitates controllable oversteer. DSC Off mode activates the electronic rear axle differential locking system. If either of the drive wheels suffers wheelspin while accelerating through tight bends, brake force is applied to this individually, so that the opposite wheel maintains traction.

Torsion-resistant body, optimal weight, wide range of safety features

The new BMW Series 1's lightweight body makes it more agile and improves passenger safety, with high-strength steel being used to increase torsion resistance and the strength of the passenger safety cell while minimising weight. Crumple zones and clearly defined load paths absorb the force of an impact and deflect it away from the passenger cell.

The standard safety package comprises front airbags, side airbags integrated into the seatbacks, front and rear head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts in all seats, front seatbelt tension limiters and pre-tensioners, and an ISOFIX child seat mounting system in the rear.

BMW ConnectedDrive: unique comfort, safety, information and entertainment options

The new BMW 1 Series' high-tech presence is reflected in an impressive range of driver assistance and mobility services which is unique in a compact car. The BMW ConnectedDrive options network the driver with the vehicle and the outside world to improve comfort and safety while providing a wide spectrum of information and entertainment.

The Adaptive Headlight function incorporated in the optional xenon headlights adjusts the illumination depending on the vehicle's speed, steering angle and yaw rate. At low speeds, the turning lights integrated into the foglamp illuminate the road in the direction of travel. Other features include rain sensor, automatic headlight control, high beam assistance, park distance control, which allows safe, precise parking, with the image from the reversing camera appearing on the iDrive control display. Park assist aids parallel parking by identifying suitable spaces and steering the car into place if required.

Cruise control with brake function controls the engine and brakes while setting the optimum automatic gear to maintain the speed selected by the driver. The Lane Departure Warning facility now incorporates Collision Warning, which uses a camera at the bottom of the rear-view mirror to monitor the road markings and prevent unintended changes of direction.

The camera also monitors other vehicles and, if required, sounds a two-stage alarm to prevent collisions. A visual warning appears on the instrument panel if a minimum distance set by the driver is not maintained, and a flashing symbol and acoustic signal are activated if avoiding action is required.

The Speed Limit Info system has been expanded, with symbols on the instrument panel showing known speed limits and no-passing signs above or beside the road as recorded by its camera.

Innovative technology has been used to facilitate the integration of Apple iPhones and other smartphones and music players, including online services. BMW Apps allow iPhone users to receive web radio stations and display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. Another new function, Real-Time Traffic Information, provides detailed congestion data and recommended diversions. The new BMW 1 Series also has unlimited Internet connectivity, another unique feature within the compact segment.

High-quality standard features include driving experience switch, air conditioning, and keyless ignition.

The new BMW 1 Series offers all the excitement of premium-quality, pioneering technology and exceptional driving pleasure within a compact car, with many superior features as standard and a wide range of attractive options. The driving experience switch, a standard feature located on the central console, tailors the car's settings to the driver's personal tastes, including engine characteristics, DSC driving stability control, optional Servotronic settings and automatic gear change programme and dynamics.

COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO modes are included as standard. The eight-speed sports automatic, Variable Sport Steering and BMW Sport Line versions also have SPORT+ mode. Cars fitted with the Professional navigation system have a sport display on the control monitor showing real-time engine performance and torque.

The standard equipment of the new BMW 1 Series also includes remote-controlled central locking, height-adjustable driver's and front-seat passenger's seats, electric wing mirrors, electric front and rear windows, BMW Business radio and CD, six speakers and an AUX IN connection, and air conditioning. Options include two-zone automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable and heated seats, multifunction steering wheel, automatically dimming rear-view and wing mirrors, foglamps, electric sunroof, and towbar with removable ball.

The engine of the new BMW 1-series can be activated by touching the start/stop button as soon as the keyless remote is inside the car, making traditional ignition key insertion redundant. The optional Comfort Access system automatically locks and unlocks the car.

The Professional navigation system includes a hard disk. Individual entertainment features include a DVD changer, digital audio broadcasting receiver and 360-watt, digitally amplified 12-speaker Harman Kardon hi-fi system.

Like its five-door predecessor, the new BMW 1-series is made in BMW's Regensburg assembly plant, together with the BMW 3-series saloon, coupe and convertible, the BMW M3 and the BMW Z4. The plant has produced more than 4.5 million automobiles in its 25-year history.

BMW

Mazda to halt Mazda 6 output in Michigan

2011-06-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

Mazda said Monday it will stop building the Mazda 6 at its AutoAlliance International joint venture plant with Ford Motor Co. in suburban Detroit after the sedan's current life cycle.

Mazda Motor Corp. said that production of the next Mazda 6 will be consolidated into the company's plant in Hofu, Japan, confirming reports from Japanese media citing unnamed sources.

The Mazda 6 is built at three sites: AutoAlliance International, Mazda's 50-50 joint venture with Ford, in Flat Rock, Mich., and in plants in Hofu, Japan, and in China.

In its announcement, Mazda said it is studying plans for the future of AutoAlliance, repeating similar statements made last week. Ford spokesmen have declined to comment on Mazda's plans for Flat Rock.

Ceasing production at AutoAlliance would leave the plant without a Mazda product. Ford builds the Mustang in Flat Rock.

The move is expected to happen in mid-2012. That is when the current Mazda 6 is scheduled to be replaced with an updated version, featuring Mazda's new SkyActiv powertrain technologies and design cues from Mazda's Shinari concept sedan that debuted last November at the Los Angeles auto show.

Mazda 6 sales fell 53 percent in May from May 2010, to 1,639 units. Sales through May totaled 13,604 units, down 9 percent from the same period in 2010.

Mazda booked a $102.6 million loss for AutoAlliance in its fiscal year that ended March 31, pulling its North American operations--its only region to post an operating loss last year--deeper into the red.

The announcement also comes at a time when Mazda and other Japanese automakers have seen unfavorable foreign exchange rates cut into profits of Japan-made vehicles sold overseas.

In a statement, Mazda Motor Corp. CEO Takashi Yamanouchi said consolidating production into Japan made the most sense for Mazda.

Jeremy Barnes, a spokesman for Mazda North America, said line workers at the plant, represented by UAW Local 3000, were told about the plans on Monday.

Maserati GranTurismo 2011 -Convertible

2011-06-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

Test jalopies rarely show up on a Saturday evening, but this one did. The Maserati GranTurismo convertible stopped a dinner party in its tracks by sliding out of a three-axle trailer in front of our West Coast bureau—top down, quad pipes spluttering, looking like Athena’s left Puma in its umpteen coats of waxed Blu Oceano enamel. If your ego demands that you make an even grander entrance, may we suggest renting the USC marching band?

Builders of luxury convertibles have split between folding hardtops and canvas. Rational heads in search of extra ultraviolet go for a Mercedes-Benz SL and its metal robo-roof. Traditionalists prefer the lustrous burled wood found under the fabric top of a Jaguar XK. An extrovert goes Italian, definitely ¬Italian, even if it costs a bit more. On its $140,200 GTC, Maserati has opted for a three-layer ragtop.

One button in the lavishly bovine-skinned interior sends the top diving in 21 seconds under a motorized cover, which can be swaddled in even more leather for an extra $1350 (which also includes extra dash wrapping). Our top flopped and re-popped many times and without any shilly-shally or smoke from the wires, so a treasured stereotype took a beating there.

Stowing the roof is akin to removing cotton from one’s ears. In the GranTurismo hardtop, the V-8 is almost mute. With no
top, suddenly there’s an engine with the voice of an angel—a barking angel, a snarling angel, an angel that rips and howls and makes catcalls at the ladies.

At least, if you have selected the sport setting. If not, the 433-hp, 4.7-liter V-8—which pulls this rig past 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and delivers 140 mph in less than half a minute—makes an unsettling hissing noise, like the Goodyear blimp with a leak.

The trouble is, besides opening up the exhaust throats, the do-it-all sport button also tenses up the GTC’s suspension and makes the throttle and the six-speed automatic far less concerned about fuel economy.

The firmer damping delivers no great benefit to the handling of this 4571-pound porker, but it does wreck the otherwise smooth ride and telegraphs more shock waves through the floor and the steering ¬column, already weakened by the absence of a solid roof. We wish Maserati had included a separate suspension button to give the driver more a la carte control.

Even though the GTC’s steering feels a bit remote and the brakes sometimes get overwhelmed before tight bends by all the kinetic energy stirred up by the heroic engine, the car retains enough poise to make an open road highly pleasurable.

Sure, shifts by the traditional planetary-gear ZF six-speed automatic aren’t quite as snappy as in the latest dual-clutch jobs (or as satisfying as a manual’s—dream on), but we suspect the GTC’s mostly boulevard-bound drivers will appreciate its smooth operation.

As with the coupe, the ragtop swallows up a full parking space. It rolls on the same platform as the Quattroporte sedan, and the 115.8-inch wheelbase is more than a foot longer than a Benz SL’s. In crowded lots, this giant four-seat lothario feels big enough to span the gap between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West.

Even so, the trunk shrivels from a shoebox nine cubic feet in the coupe to a snuffbox six, leaving a space shaped like—and not much larger than—a carton of cigarettes. At least the rear-seaters get to keep their knees, and with the top up, the cabin is pretty well sealed off from wind and road noise. Broad and mostly flat, the front seats are brutally firm and feel like cast concrete after a few hours.

Selling to rich folk seems so easy. Will they really pay $750 for painted brake calipers and $2500 for body-color dash trim? Maybe. Either way, the GTC is both alluring and idiosyncratically flawed, a combination as old as Italy itself.

New Honda CB Twister Launch In India In 100cc Segment

2010-02-28T05:07:00.000-08:00

After creating a lot of ruckus in the 125cc segment, Honda Motorcycle and Scooters India (HMSI) is all set to launch a brand new smaller capacity ‘Stunner’. The new bike would be christened as CB Twister and as the name infers it would be based on the similar platform. As a few of the spied pics suggest, this bike is made to distinguish itself from the already crowded 100cc market and draws its cues from the bigger CB series of bikes. The tank resembles a reworked Stunner’s, red shock absorbers are carried directly from Stunners, front headlight has been made fiery, the stylish dummy air scoops add to the aesthetics of the bike and the upswept side panels and a fantastically contoured seat compliments the overall blistering looks of the bike. The basic designing and parts of the bike have been inspired from bigger CB 1000R (aka Hornet), CB 300R, CBX 250 and CBF Stunner.

HMSI declared three years ago that they were working on an all-independent and an exclusively for-India lower capacity bike and seems like Honda has hit the right chord and what could be the best segment to do this than the segment which churns out the major portion of the whole market! HMSI sells Shine and Stunner in the 125cc segment and Unicorn in the 150cc segment.

This would be their first bike in the lurid 100cc segment and a lot of thinking has been done by the higher management so that the new bike does not cannibalize into their sister concern Hero Honda’s bread and butter segment where it rules by a huge margin. This bike would be positioned as a premium 100cc luring customers from starting 97ccs to 125 and 135ccs who want their bikes to look more stylish and are bored of seeing those umpteen 97ccs on the road!

The bike boasts of some pretty fantastic India’s first features and we expect the price to be on the higher side of 50ks. Disc brakes, six spoke alloys, small stylish exhaust, split grab rails, open sporty chain, trendy dummy air scoops, glossy colors etc form some of the features which would make this bike a hot favorite among the masses.

Honda CB Twister (Overall Information)

Prices: Rs. 47000/-*

Honda CB Twister Variants
i) CB Twister Kick Drum
ii) CB Twister Self Drum
iii) CB Twister Self Disc

Vehicle Summary
i) Name: CB Twister
ii) Model: Kick Drum
iii) Type: Commuter
iv) Fuel Consumption (City): 55.00
v) Fuel Consumption (Highway): 70.00

Engine Specifications
i) Displacement: 109cc
ii) Engine: 4 Stroke, Single Cylinder, Air Cooled OHC
iii) Maximum Power: 9 Bhp @ 8000 rpm
iv) Maximum Torque: 9 Nm @ 6000 rpm
v) Gears: 4 Manual
vi) Cooling Type: Air Cooling

Technical Specifications
i) Weight: 108.00 kg
ii) Ground Clearance: 180.00 mm
iii) Fuel Tank: 8.00 ltrs
iv) Wheelbase: 1262.00 mm
v) Electrical System: Battery – 12 V:5 AH
vi) Headlamp: Halogen 12V 35/35 W
vii) Wheel Type: Alloys
viii) Tubeless: Yes
ix) Colors: Pearl Night Star Black, Pearl Fujy Blue, Pearl Amble Yellow, Candy Comic Green & Pearly Siena Red

Toyota Prius Wagon and SUV

2010-02-28T05:06:00.000-08:00

I usually start the article with the good parts of the vehicle that I’m talking about, but this time, I have almost nothing positive to say about how is this car looking. The single good thing that I like at this car is the fact that it is a hybrid.

Toyota Prius Wagon and SUV also received the title of the ugliest car in the last 50 years and I agree with that. If you are interested for such a car, you have to know that Toyota Prius Wagon and SUV is coming at the end of 2010 so you don’t have to wait too much.

On the internet is no specification about how much power is going to deliver the hybrid system of this car, what amount of torque or anything like this, probably they will release these details with few time before the release of Toyota Prius Wagon and SUV.

Audi TT-RS by MTM

2010-02-28T05:05:00.000-08:00

Audi TT-RS, the most powerful version of the new TT has received a performance package from MTM. The most powerful package provides an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h equal to the one of the Audi R8 4.2 FSI. Motoren Technik Mayer engineers have developed a performance package for the new Audi TT-RS. The standard version of this model develops 340hp and 450Nm, reaching from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.

The 2.5 liter five-cylinder engine offers torque of 450 Nm between 1600 rpm and 5300 rpm. MTM tuners have kept the standard engine as a base package that was developed for the TT-RS. The ECU unit was rescheduled, and the Audi TT-RS has received a new exhaust system, equipped with operated valves according to acceleration and tasks.

So, those from MTM offers three different power stages, depending on customer needs. The first stage provides 404hp and 550Nm, while the second stage power package for MTM Audi TT-RS offers 408hp and the same maximum torque. The most powerful package offers 424hp and 560Nm, with which Audi TT-RS can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and top speed climbs to 297 km/h.

2010 Fiat Doblo

2010-02-28T05:04:00.002-08:00

I must admit that until this moment I was not liking at all any Fiat car but now, when I saw this release, it made me think again and then realize that I was so wrong. Still, there are some Fiat cars that I don’t like but when I saw just the pictures with this one, I fell in love with it.

This new 2010 Fiat Doblo comes in 3 variants: Cargo, with 5 seats and with 7 seats. When it will be launched, it will come with 4 choices of engines: a petrol 95 horsepower engine, a 90 diesel engine and others with 105 horsepower and 135 horsepower.

With few time after the release, there will be available another dual fuel engine with petrol / methane and a diesel engine with a Dualogic robotized gearbox. These are the principal features including the cool design that makes me like so much this car from Fiat.

Electric Smart Rolling Down the Line

2010-02-28T05:04:00.001-08:00

Drum roll please! The electric Smart ForTwo is officially underway at Daimler’s factory in Hambach, France.

From an urban mobility standpoint, there’s been a lot to love about the Smart from the get go. Although small, it’s built like a tank, it offers the comfort and convenience you’d expect and and it gets great mileage. But if you’re of a green bent and you want to get even better “mileage,” so to speak, the car for you arrives soon.

We’ve been following the Smart for awhile, from the new car-sharing program in Austin, Texas, to those crazy Dutch treating them like cows and taking Daimler to task for not offering the diesel Smart or hybrid version on this side of the Atlantic. Yeah, you can say we’re fans.

Like a lot of you, we’ve wanted to see the EV version of the fortwo as well. It makes total sense – because, let’s face it, the fortwo isn’t exactly a road trip kind of car. Around the city though, it makes total sense. So here comes the EV version — Tesla Motors helped with the drivetrain — off the assembly lines.

The first 1,000 customers to receive their Smart EVs, or Smart electric drive as they are officially called, will be participants in a variety of mobility projects in major cities in both Europe and the United States. Daimler is taking a page from BMW, which is doing the same thing with the Mini E. After Daimler gets feedback on electric driving under everyday conditions for the fortwo electric drive, it will be available to the general public in 2012.

“With the start of the series production of the smart fortwo electric drive, the Hambach plant enters a new era – at the same time, the smart fortwo emphasizes its pioneering role on the way to individual mobility with local zero-emissions in cities and urban areas,” said Marc Langenbrinck, managing director of Smart. “Its innovative battery-electric drive makes the smart fortwo electric drive the ideal vehicle for the city: it combines responsibility to the environment with driving fun and joie de vivre in a virtually perfect manner.”

This is the second-gen fortwo EV, but the first that isn’t strictly an R&D project. By the time 2012 rolls around and Daimler’s gotten feedback on how the little car performs in the real world, the Smart EV will be offered alongside other models in showrooms. Getting a practical, sorted city EV will be as hard as checking an option box on a sales form.

Photo: Daimler

Electric Rolls-Royce, In Time For Christmas 2010

2010-02-28T05:03:00.001-08:00

Rumors of an electric Rolls-Royce Phantom are back, with the word being the super-luxe automaker could have one on the road within 12 months.

We’ve been hearing mumbling about this car for more than a year. It started when CEO Tom Purves said an e-Rolls would be perfect for well-heeled city dwellers. The car, he said, could build upon the drivetrain in the Mini E. The rumors picked up again in September when a Rolls spokesman let slip that an electric Phantom was under consideration back in Goodwood (or, more likely, Munich, since BMW owns Rolls).

Now AutocarUK cites an unidentified “company source” saying the e-Phantom could be on the road by the end of next year. Why the rush? Because BMW is a big sponsor of the 2012 Olympics in London, and my wouldn’t it look green bringing a flotilla of electric land yachts to the games?

Personally, we think an electric Rolls makes perfect sense. Most owners simply tool around town, so range isn’t a big issue. It could save owners some serious coin on emissions and road taxes in cities like London. And electric motors provide boatloads of torque and they’re quiet — two hallmarks of a Rolls-Royce.

Besides — we love the idea of a Rolls plugged into a socket. “Jeeves, please do remember to plug the car in.”

Photo of a regular ol’ gas-burning Phantom: Rolls-Royce

Welcome to Iowa. Please Plug In Your Car.

2010-02-28T05:01:00.000-08:00

California is the birthplace of the coming EV invasion, but a tiny town in Iowa wants to be the birthplace of a “Pony Express” of charging stations that will keep those cars going.

Businessman Mike Howard has erected four charging stations in Elk Horn, a town of 650 people about an hour east of Omaha. He has plans to install four more soon. No, that’s not many at all, and they’re in the middle of nowhere. But Howard says you’ve got to start somewhere, especially if you envision a network of charging stations stretching from Denver to Chicago along Interstate 80. He likens his network to the Pony Express.

“They had to have stations to continue on to deliver the mail,” Howard told the Associated Press. “This is a modern-day Pony Express.”

Many automakers are developing electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, and cars like the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf are expected by the end of next year. The big question has been where people are supposed to plug them in when they aren’t home. We’ve seen campaigns to create “charging corridors” spring up in California and Arizona, and of course Better Place has an ambitious plan for a charging infrastructure people would subscribe to. The Obama Administration is providing $3.4 billion in grants this year to spur development of EVs and bolster the grid.

But Howard wants to bring chargers to the heartland, even though there are, according to the AP, just 96 electric cars in Iowa and only one in Elk Horn.

“He’s definitely being progressive, but you know, somebody’s got to be first,” Pat Davis, program manager for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Vehicle Technologies, told the Associated Press.

Amen.

Photo: General Motors

VW Builds the World’s Coolest SUV

2010-02-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Paris-Dakar Rally is a race so crazy competitors have been taken out by land mines. To say it’s grueling is like saying Carrie Prejean likes shooting video. Just what sort of vehicle is required to take on a race where normal conditions include searing heat, towering dunes, ginormous rocks and weather conditions that would give a crab boat captain pause?

Volkswagen has the answer in their new Touareg for the next Dakar.

The cars, trucks, bikes and buggies that run in the Dakar rally are tech porn of the highest order. Take a look at what VW has to offer for the 2010 running of the race, which will be run through Argentina and Chile. (The name comes from the days when the race ran from Paris to Dakar, Senegal.) The Germans made history last year by taking the checkered flag in the first diesel-powered entry in the automobile class. It entered the diesel ‘Reg in the Baja 1000, too.

This time around, the Touareg features such cool features as a carbon fiber-reinforced outer skin that weighs a mere 50 kilograms, a braking system capable of exerting pressure equal to that of 700 meters below sea level and a data acquisition system that can store 250 MB of data that is read and analyzed by race engineers at the close of a days stage.

Just the run of the mill specs for the Touareg shows you how serious of a challenge the Dakar is. The VW is powered by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder TDI diesel engine with two-stage turbocharging system with exhaust turbochargers and intercooling. The mill, mounted longitudinally behind the front axle, puts out approximately 280 horsepower and more than 440 pound-feet of torque. Gotta love diesels for buckets of torque.

All that power and grunt is put to the ground — no matter what kind of ground it is, tarmac, sand, gravel, rocks, you name it — via a longitudinally mounted sequential five-speed gearbox and a permanent all-wheel-drive. More slick hardware includes selectable viscous locking mechanical differentials and an hydraulically actuated three-plate ceramic clutch. Stopping power comes from 320 mm ventilated disc brakes squeezed by aluminum calipers with six pistons up front and four out back. The Dakar Touareg even has power-assisted rack and pinion steering.

All this is done in a surprisingly lightweight package that tips the scales at just under 4,000 pounds. The Dakar Touareg can hit 100 km/hr from a standstill in 6.1 seconds on firm ground and tops out at , on hard ground, and will top out at approximately 118 mph, which may not seem like much.

Unless you’re running flat-out through the desert.

Photos: VW

Going Rogue in a Luxury Hybrid Snowmobile

2010-02-28T04:59:00.000-08:00

When we heard that Sarah Palin got a $1.25 million advance for Going Rogue, we wondered how she was going to spend the loot. With a new wardrobe in the closet and donors clamoring to her PAC like cranky old people to a town hall meeting, we think it’s time for her to listen to her new pal Oprah and live that best life now.

We’ve got just the thing: a luxury snowmobile snow machine just perfect for a fabulously wealthy Alaskan former First Family.

The i-Scoob (Get it? No? Sound it out! Ice cube — good one!) is a concept from designer Jeff Darling. It’s a plug-in hybrid with a well-appointed interior that can also be hosed out. It’s designed to be as capable carrying precision instruments to measure the thinning permafrost as it is hauling bullet-riddled polar bear carcasses. Plus, there’s an electric-only feature for crossing those especially environmentally sensitive areas of the tundra on the way to a seal hunt.

It’s purely a concept — even in Alaska it’ll never see the light of midnight, but gosh is it fun.

Depending on the time of year, Darling said that on-board solar panels may be useful for when all other fuel sources are expended. “While there may not be much sun in the areas the i-Scoob would operate, every little bit helps,” he said. “Even if it takes a couple days to generate enough power to finish the journey it’s better than being permanently stuck.”

The passenger compartment of the i-Scoob is enclosed by a front-hinged capsule, and every hollow compartment is filled with foam for insulation and flotation. “Should the vehicle fall through ice into frigid water it will remain afloat,” Darling said. “The foam also helps insulate the drivetrain components and occupants from the harsh environment.” A glazed cockpit traps warm air from the sun, providing skeptics a real-life demonstration of the greenhouse effect.

Steering and acceleration are via joystick, while a radio and climate control keep passengers comfortable and entertained.

Fisker, Mission One Snag Design Awards

2010-02-28T04:58:00.002-08:00

Say what you will about electric vehicles, the Fisker Karma and Mission One are sexy rides indeed. The judges at Spark agree and have honored the two EVs in the annual Spark Design and Architecture awards.

The Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid and Mission One electric superbike snagged gold awards, joining the exhibits at the California Academy of Sciences, the videogame Tony Hawk: Ride and a long list of other winners in the international design competition.

Spark honors the best designs in everything from architecture to advertising, and the jury includes more than a dozen designers, creative directors and professors. They considered more than 370 contenders before naming 93 winners in four categories.

Photo of the Fisker Karma taking a lap at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca: Jim Merithew / Wired.com.

Photo of the Mission One at the Bonneville Salt Flats: Mission Motors.

BMW is the partner of the London Olympic Games in 2012

2010-02-28T04:58:00.001-08:00

Bavarians have officially announced that will provide to the organizers Olympic Games of 2012 over 4000 cars that will provide the transport of the officials present in London. Olympics in London in 2012 will have a partner, BMW Group, the German manufacturer will provide 4000 cars to the organizers that will serve to transport officials, guests and sponsors present in England’s capital during the event.

BMW will use this opportunity to promote their environment friendly versions of its range. In this sense, all cars that BMW will make available to the organizers of Olympi Games in London will reach Euro 6 standards and will deliver up to 120 grams CO2/km. BMW EfficientDynamics range will play an important role in this new generation of BMW models, following to benefit by engines that meet all the rules of the organizers.

Besides cars, BMW will make available to athletes the entire range of BMW Bikes to move in Olympic Village, motorcycles which bears the logo of BMW, following also to be used for assistance in certain disciplines.

Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom

2010-02-28T04:57:00.000-08:00

I think this will be the best limousine built ever looking for many angles. Why? First let’s start with what’s important and also mentioned in the title: the fact that it is electric. In this way you will not notice when the engine will be started accelerated and stopped because it makes very low noise, and you will feel on the back of you Rolls-Royce Phantom (the electric model) just like in your bed or even better.

There is something sure about this new electric model of Rolls-Royce Phantom namely that it will be released next year or better said, after one year (anyway, it will still happen in 2010). This new electric model of Rolls-Royce Phantom will debut at 2012 London Olympics.

A big minus at this electric Rolls-Royce Phantom is that now with the lithium ion battery it will weight much more, remembering that with the big V12 engine it weights around 3 tons, but I think that with a good power, you will not feel that issue.

Porsche dressed in chocolate in Netherlands

2010-02-28T04:56:00.000-08:00

A dealer Porsche from Netherlands thought to a very original marketing strategy and right for the spirit of winter holidays that is rapidly approaching. Porsche Centrum Gelderland dressed a model 911 Carrera S in … chocolate!

The task of making the supercar sweeter went to Jan Blancke, which took 175 kilograms of chocolate to cover the entire car. To avoid staining that could remain on the paint after the Porsche will be cleaned, Blancke at first covered with a plastic sheet previously and after he poured melted chocolate on the car.

And for a realistic look he used white chocolate to mark the optical blocks. The dealer from Netherlands said the they prepared the car to celebrate “Sinterklaas” (Saint Nicholas), but the Porsche covered with chocolate can be admired also at Christmas. The dipped Porsche will remain on display until Christmas, at which time we fully expect to see it wheeled into a walk-in freezer until it can to be thawed in time to make an appearance in our Easter basket next Spring.

Smart ForTwo started the production for 1,000 units

2010-02-28T04:55:00.000-08:00

I don’t remember if I had the occasion to tell you that this is the most useful, helpful and efficient car that you can use it in the city. If you can use a normal cell phone, I bet you can use this car because all you have to do when the battery runs off is to go at a station and plug in your car and after a short time, you will be ready to continue your road.

Well, I made this post to tell you that they started the production for this Smart ForTwo. Anyway, it is a limited production of just 1,000 units so hurry up if you want to own such a car faster.

The electric engine of Smart ForTwo develops 40 horsepower which are more than enough for such a small car. Also, the torque for Smart ForTwo is at 89 lb-ft. The little Smart ForTwo has a top speed of 62 miles per hour.

Porsche Boxster Spyder

2010-02-28T04:54:00.002-08:00

I think this is a big step for Porsche or at last this is what I think. The base design of this new Porsche Boxster Spyder is just like at the other Porsche boxsters but this time it has something changed that makes this car to be much more unique and also from now, it will look much better.

I don’t say that until now these little sport cars were ugly, no, they are still great but with this car, they made some things at it to look much sexier and also aerodynamics than before.

I’m not very good at this but from what I see, they changed the design of headlights, probably at the front bar and also some changes at the side body and even at the back of the car. If you have a lot of money and don’t know what good car to buy, I think that this Porsche Boxster Spyder would be more than just a perfect choice.

Honda P-NUT Concept to debut in Los Angeles

2010-02-28T04:54:00.001-08:00

Honda will unveil at the Los Angeles Motor Show a concept named P-nut, who wants to be an aggressive coupe for large urban areas. Honda continues the series of innovative concepts at this year’s edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Japanese have issued a press release that announced the launch of the P-nut prototype, a name derived from the abbreviation of words Personal-Neo Urban Transport, on 2nd December, the day when American salon opens its gates. From the first information it seems that Honda’s stand will host a futuristic coupe with aggressive design lines, created by the research and development center of Honda from Los Angeles.

Its aim is to illustrate the Asian vision of a compact urban design, for those who want mobility in congested cities. There are not any information about the powertrain that the concept will adopt but judging by past trends of Honda models, we have all chances to see a hybrid system with improved performance.

30,000 units recall for Mitsubishi Lancer / Lancer EVO

2010-02-28T04:52:00.002-08:00

NHTSA (National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration), “Big Brother” of the car traffic in the United States decided to withdraw 29,353 units, more precisely 2008-2009 models of Mitsubishi Lancer / Lancer EVO because of problems arising from front airbags. According to U.S. officials, prolonged exposure of their sensors to a mixture of snow and salt can went to corrosion, which would delay the onset of the airbag in the event of an accident.

For now, withdrawing target vehicles are they sold in states where salt is used to clean the road in winter season (eg Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin and so on). Dealers in these areas have been asked to replace defective components, operation, of course, free.

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. From press release: “THIS COATING OVER TIME MAY CAUSE CORROSION OR THE SENSOR. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLES CRASH OF THE TYPE THAT WOULD DEPLOY THE AIRBAGS THIS TYPE OF SHORT-CIRCUIT MAY CAUSE A DELAY IN THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAGS WHICH COULD RESULT IN DRIVER OR PASSENGER INJURY.”

2011 Nissan GT-R SpecM

2010-02-28T04:52:00.001-08:00

I have to tell you that I become a fan of this car not too time ago. It happened when I played for the first time Need for Speed 2 because Nissan GT-R was in the game and I loved to drive it so much. Of course, there is a big difference between driving it in games and driving it on streets.

Of course, as you probably think, Nissan GT-R SpecM is an upgraded version of Nissan GT-R that you probably get used with, in the past, as I did. Nissan GT-R SpecM will cost 18,000,000 yen or over $200,000 (more exactly, $202,428 – according to Google converter).

Nissan GT-R SpecM isn’t looking very sexy but we can speculate or even be sure that Nissan invested more money at this car in performance and less for a cool or even luxury design. Anyway, I still expect at a high-tech interior just like at the other Asian cars.

Spy Photos: Audi A7

2010-02-28T04:51:00.000-08:00

I have not seen until now this type of spy photos so the photographer probably snaked very well and he was in big danger while he made these photos so if you ask yourself why there are not too many photos on the internet, you may now know the answer.

This was a testing lab and we’re very lucky to see this 2011 Audi A7 uncovered because on the internet there are another spy photos with this new 2011 Audi A7 captured while it was tested on roads but it was camouflaged. This new car from Audi will come with many choices of motorization.

As you get used to, there will be gasoline engines but also diesel engines and some hybrids which will combine the power of some diesel engines with some electric systems and some of these engines will be able to propel this new 2011 Audi A7 with 600 horsepower.

New VW Golf VI GTD by ABT

2010-02-28T04:50:00.000-08:00

The most performant version of Volkswagen’s Golf TDI received a tuning package from ABT Sportline. The model is now developing 190hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds. Besides the aerodynamic modifications, the German model have a rescheduled ECU unit, which helps to develop 190hp and 390 Nm.

DSG Gearbox that fitted this model has seven steps and helps to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds while top speed of Golf GTD ABT version is 230 km/h, very close to the value of a VW Golf GTi standard version.

We must not forget that the Golf GTD offers a fuel consumption much lower than that of GTI and its performances are similar, especially the ABT version. Aerodynamic package developed by people from ABT includes a front spoiler, a new front grille, side sills and a set of a rear skirt that integrates a four-pipe ABT exhaust. Volkswagen’s Golf GTD suspension was modified by replacing the springs with subtle stronger elements, to get a higher level of response.

2010 Volvo C30 Facelift

2010-02-28T04:49:00.001-08:00

From what I think, this is one of the cars with the most futuristic aspect which is available on market and anyone can buy such a car. This time we will talk about a facelift of 2010 Volvo C30 made by Heico Sportiv and from now I tell you that this facelift is making this car much more futuristic but it would look better in a dark color.

This new 2010 Volvo C30 Facelift by Heico Sportiv comes with a 1.6 diesel engine which is pretty big for such a small car, so don’t have to worry about the power of it. The power and torque is also increased from 80kW (109 bhp) and 240 Nm to 92kW (125 bhp) and 280 Nm.

This car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 9.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 200 kilometers per hour. If I would like to buy a car to use it more in the city but also for few times on high ways, I would think about a 2010 Volvo C30 and also the facelift version.