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Spyshots: Audi Q5 Facelift

2012-02-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

The Audi Q5 was officially introduced in 2008 at the Beijing Auto Show. Exclusively manufactured by the Ingolstadt, Germany Audi factory, the Q5 is one of the first models to be entirely based on the company's LP modular platform.

Audi Q5 Facelift

In our eyes, it’s the Audi SUV everybody should have wanted - smaller and more practical on a daily basis than the Q7. Yet somehow, they seem to have gotten the design a bit wrong in a market where looks are everything.

We’re not sure if they are going to get it right with the facelift, since spy shots reveal precious little other than the fact that it will have fresh headlights and a hexagonal grille. Let's just hope Audi doesn't make minimal changes like they have done recently.

This mule is a bit puzzling, as it’s got 3.0T quattro written on the back. Currently, the Q5 only comes with a 3.2-liter FSI, and we though the 3.0-liter turbo would be reserved for the Q5 S. The V6 unit has the potential of making 333 horsepower, but since this Q5 hasn’t got the quad exhausts of an Audi ‘S’, we don’t expect that much.

Source: Auto Evolution

Spy Photos: BMW X5 M Facelift

2012-02-13T07:15:00.000-08:00

Here are the first spy photos of the upcoming BMW X5 M facelift. In 2009, BMW offered their life cycle impulse to the standard X5 models, but the X5 M model came to market around the same time with the pre-facelift design cues.

BMW X5 M Facelift

Nearly three years later, BMW is ready to offer small visual upgrades to the super sporty SAV.

The spied prototype carries light camouflage around the headlights and taillights, an indication that the full LED treatment is coming to the X5 M as well. The X5 M LCI will make use of the adaptive LED headlights, along with redesigned taillights.

No power upgrades are planned for the X5 M so expect the same tuned up 4.4 liter V8 engine delivering 555 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,650 rpm. The engine uses the twin-scroll twin turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection. By positioning the twin-scroll turbochargers together with the catalytic converters in the “V” section between the cylinders, it minimizes the turbo lag and offers better fuel efficiency.

Inside, BMW will most likely offer specific trim and leather options for the X5 M, but no other significant changes.

We predict a premiere of the twin-M SUVs at the New York Auto Show in April.

More Images:

Source: BMW Blog

Audi’s Next Generation RS4 to Debut at Geneva

2012-02-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

According to Auto Express magazine, an official document leaked on the Internet has confirmed that Audi’s next generation RS4 Avant will debut next month at Geneva Motor Show.

Audi RS4 Avant

But while the previous range-topper was sold as an sedan and estate, it appears the new Audi RS4 will only come as an estate.

According to the same document, the new RS4 will use the same 4.2-liter V8 engine as the RS5 coupe, with 444 hp, mated to a seven-speed twin-clutch S tronic gearbox.

Performance should be on par with the RS5 = with 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds. It is expected to start at 66,000 euro.

The fact the Geneva Motor Show is just around the corner makes it a very likely contender, although it remains to be seen whether it would debut production ready or as a pre-production concept.

Source: INAUTONEWS

2013 BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible unveiled

2012-02-12T09:29:00.000-08:00

BMW’s M division has just unveiled the new 2013 M6 Coupe and Convertible. The coupe is set to debut at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show in March, while the convertible will arrive at the 2012 New York Auto show in April.

2013 BMW M6

Powered by a 560-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine, which is coupled to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the new BMW M6 will accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.2 seconds (4.3 the convertible M6). In standard form, the M6 reaches a top speed limited to 155mph — or 189mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

To help rein in all that performance, the M6 has massive brake rotors measuring 15.7 inches in diameter in front and 15.6 inches in the rear. The car also will introduce M division’s first-ever carbon ceramic brakes as an option with the 20-inch wheel package. The new carbon-ceramic brakes are distinguished by six-piston and single-piston floating calipers painted gold.

Also included is BMW’s Active M Differential, an electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip diff that works in conjunction with the DSC and the new Dynamic Damper Controls that electro-hydraulically tweak damping force on-the-fly depending on the settings and the situation.

The front-end of the M6 Convertible will stand out among the other M models. The newly designed M kidney grille now bears an M6 badge, an homage to the first generation M6. The grille’s black, paired kidney grille slats take their cues from the characteristic double-spoke design of the M light-alloy wheels.

The 30 millimeter (1.2 inch) increase in track width over the two cars’ respective 6 Series stablemates is complemented by powerfully flared front wheel arches, which sit flush with the wheels. This extra width offers a clear nod to the optimized roadholding of these high-performance sports cars.

The three-dimensional shaping of their air intakes and race-inspired flaps designed to control airflow to the outer air intakes also underlines the cars’ forward-surging, dynamic character.

An LED accent light cuts across the tops of the standard Adaptive Xenon Headlights. The bright white, three-dimensional LED corona rings are leveled off to striking effect at the top and lower edges. Adaptive LED Headlights are available as an option on both M6 models.

Almost all BMW 6 Series equipment options available, including Comfort Access, active seats, heated steering wheel, doors with Soft Close Automatic function, Navigation system Professional, Bang & Olufsen High- End Surround Sound System.

2013 BMW M6 Performance, fuel consumption and emissions data:

BMW M6 Coupe:

Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.2 seconds,
Acceleration [0 – 200 km/h (124 mph)]: 12.6 seconds,
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), 305 km/h (189 mph) with M Driver’s Package,
Average fuel consumption: 9.9 litres/100 kilometres (28.5 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions: 232 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.

BMW M6 Convertible:

Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.3 seconds,
Acceleration [0 – 200 km/h (mph)]: 13.1 seconds,
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), 305 km/h (189 mph) with M Driver’s Package,
Average fuel consumption: 10.3 litres/100 kilometres (27.4 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions: 239 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

Spy Photos: F31 BMW 3 Series Touring

2012-02-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

F31 BMW 3 Series Touring

At the upcoming Leipzig Auto Show in June, BMW is expected to unveil the next generation F31 3 Series Touring. As expected, the F31 Touring picks up the design details from the new 3 Series Sedan and adds the typical sport wagon lines.

The spy photos showcase the usual psychedelic camouflage that hides the final design cues, but we don’t expect any major changes at the front or rear-end.

In Europe, the entry level model will be the 320d producing 184 horsepower. Next in the line-up is the more powerful 325d which uses the twin-turbo 218 horsepower four-cylinder engine from the 525d. The six-cylinder diesels will make their way into the 330d and 335d, producing 258 horsepower, respectively 313 hp.

More Images:

Source: BMW Blog

New Audi A3 Completely Revealed in Spy Photos

2012-02-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

Audi A3 Spyshots

Want to know what the new A3 looks like in the sheetmetal, without the help of renderings or teaser images? Pictures are likely not going to get any clearer than this until Audi themselves publish them!

The all-new A3, based on VW Group’s new modular MQB architecture, has been captured completely undisguised with the exception of a bit of tape round the edges of the lights. Our spy photographers captured it while it was undergoing final tests in northern Scandinavia before it will be officially presented later this month.

The new A3 will be available with a number of advanced powertrains, including the new 140 hp 1.4-liter with a cylinder deactivation system that enables it to work on two cylinders on partial loads.

Expect Audi to reveal the new A3 in the coming couple of weeks, ahead of the auto show debut in Geneva.

Source: Auto Evolution

Audi TT RS plus coming with 360 horsepower

2012-02-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a small car with plenty of power and can go real fast Audi will have a car for you early this year. The Audi TT RS plus will come in both coupe and roadster form with 360 horsepower and capable of 173 mph.

Audi TT RS

The five-cylinder, 2.5-liter TFSI in the Audi TT RS plus is a turbocharged direct-injection unit which delivers 465 Nm (342.97 lb-ft) of torque. Customers can choose between a manual six-speed transmission and the seven-speed S tronic with its lightning-fast gearshifts. The dual-clutch transmission comes with a launch control function which optimizes acceleration from a standing start. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, which operates with a multi-plate clutch, transfers engine power to the road.

The Coupé with S tronic catapults from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.3 seconds). The Roadster does the same exercise in 4.2 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.4 seconds). Top speed is limited to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) for all versions of the car. The Coupé with S tronic uses an average of just 8.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (27.67 US mpg); the Roadster uses 8.6 liters per 100 km (27.35 US mpg).

Alongside numerous efficiency-improving measures, the impressive mileage figures are due primarily to the extremely lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) bodies made of aluminum at the front and sheet steel at the rear. The Coupé with manual transmission, including quattro drive, weighs just 1,450 kilograms (3,196.70 lb); its power-to-weight ratio is 4.0 kilograms (8.82 lb) per horsepower. The power-to-weight ratio of the Roadster is 4.2 kilograms (9.26 lb) per horsepower.

Audi TT RS

The TT RS comes with a high-performance brake system that is able to cope with the engine’s power. Four-piston fixed calipers in conjunction with perforated brake disks are installed on the front axle. The Audi TT RS plus is fitted with 19-inch cast wheels of five-arm “Rotor” design; they are painted black with contrasting red rim flanges. The wheels are fitted with 255/35 tires. The adaptive damping system known as Audi magnetic ride is available as an option. A large, fixed rear wing increases downforce at the back of the car.

The Singleframe radiator grille also sets the Audi TT RS plus apart visually. Its diamond-pattern mesh is in highly polished anthracite, its trim frame has a matt aluminum-look finish. The housings of the exterior mirrors are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). The dual-branch sport exhaust system has black oval tailpipe trims. A sound flap further intensifies the sound of the engine. The Carbon design package gives the engine compartment a more exclusive look. The knob on the gear or selector lever features an aluminum-look trim ring and a TT RS plus badge.

The TT RS plus Coupé with manual transmission costs €60,650 ($79,979) in Germany or €62,800 $82,814) with the seven-speed S tronic . The TT RS plus Roadster has a list price of €63,500 ($83,737) or €65,650 ($86,572) respectively.

Source: Sports Car Illustrated

Mercedes Benz A25 AMG 335 bhp superhatch on the cards

2012-02-12T07:43:00.000-08:00

Current gen A-Class hatchback somehow fails to live up to its Mercedes Benz tag. Mercedes have had their share of troubles with the current A-Class engines, and there's no denying that. Moving forward with the bag of memories, Mercedes-Benz is all set to turn things over by making announcements about a new A-Class.

Speculations have already begun, and all fingers are pointing at AMG. Will the German automobile company reveal an AMG-version A-Class soon? Industry insiders and automobile have been biting their nails clean wondering what's going on in the Mercedes Benz camp. No doubt AMG has tons of experience in dishing out engines that power Mercedes Benz cars, however, are they well-equipped to deliver for a smaller hood as compact as A-Class?

Many experts believe that the automobile major will have to rely heavily on its England based firm in Northamptonshire that constructs high-performance F1 engines and components. What will happen of the A-Class remains a mystery. The days to come will reveal all.

Source: Rush Lane

Spy Shots: Next BMW X5 has begun testing

2012-01-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

Next Generation BMW X5

The current BMW X5 went on sale back in 2006 and after what will end up being eight years, BMW will finally release a brand-spanking new generation X5 in 2014, and we were able to grab some spy shots of its first tests. The new model will be completely redesigned, much lighter compared to the current model, and powered by more fuel efficient engines.

It’s no surprise BMW will be working on their X5, considering Audi and Landrover have announced they will be focusing on lighter models for the future. BMW is matching these statements with a 330 lb drop for the new X5, compared to the current model, through the extensive use of aluminum. It will be offered with the company’s latest turbocharged engine in a smaller capacity and an improved fuel economy. The top version, however, will still enjoy its usual 4.4 liter V8 engine, but with improved figures. It has been rumored that BMW will also offer a hybrid X5.

In addition to the weight drop and engine modifications, the next X5 will also get a revised suspension, improved xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, and systems like lane departure warning and compensation, night vision, park assist, traffic sign recognition, surround view cameras, and active cruise control.

More Images:

Source: Top Speed

Spied: BMW M135i Hatchback

2012-01-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

BMW M135i Hatchback Spyshots

Prototypes of a new BMW 1 Series F20 with tailpipe on both sides of the rear bumper have emerged in recent months indicating that a 135i F20 F21 model is just around the corner, but more recent spy photos indicate that a sportier model is in works as well. Just last week, BMW announced their new M Performance cars line that will include several models from each “family.”

According to a BMW source, an M135i model will be part of the M Performance lineup. The prototype spied features the two tailpipes, one on each side, as well as blue-painted brake calipers. The M135i will also sport an M-tuned chassis and muscular styling. Under the hood, the M135i takes advantage of the same petrol unit found in the 640i, a 3.0 liter straight-six turbocharged engine product 320 horsepower.

The three-door M135i F21 gets a gently sloping roofline and a more angular rear glasshouse for a sleeker profile than the five-door model.

If the reports are accurate, then we should expect the M-tuned 1 Series hatchback to be launched this fall. We also expect a similar M135i model to be launched for the new 1 Series Coupe.

Source: BMW Blog

BMW 3-Series Touring going to the U.S.

2012-01-23T06:23:00.001-08:00

BMW

BMW is planning to introduce its 2013 3-Series Touring model into the United States, contrary to earlier reports which said that the version has a low demand.

The German based automaker BMW will introduce the 2013 3-Series Touring model into the United States in the nearby future, even if earlier reports were saying that the version was withheld from the North American auto market due to low demand. According to bmwblog.com, the Product Planning and Strategy manager from BMW, Paul Ferraiolo, has confirmed, during the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the fact that the new 3-Series Touring, codenamed the F31, will be officially introduced to the North American market.

The guys at the bmwblog.com are also saying that the new generation of the BMW 3-Series Touring is expected to come with the new 2.0 liter turbocharged engine, in two configurations, first one with 181 horsepower and the second one with 241 horsepower. Next in the lineup will be the 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder unit, which will generate a total output of 315 horsepower and have a peak torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). A 2.0 liter diesel engine will also join the lineup, with its two configurations of 141 horsepower and 184 horsepower.

The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 which is scheduled to make its debut in the nearby future as a sedan is also expected to come with the wagon body on it and the model will be powered by a 3.0 liter engine and a 54 horsepower electric motor. Another possible hybrid version might also hit the market, with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder diesel unit and a 15 kW electric motor, which will be developing a total output of 221 horsepower.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Tesla Model X Crossover to debut on February 9

2012-01-23T06:20:00.001-08:00

Tesla has recently announced that the Model X Crossover will be officially presented to the public on February 9, 2012.

According to the “green” car manufacturer, the Model X Crossover has been scheduled to make its debut on the 9th of February, and the event has been officially announced by the company’s CEO, Elon Musk. The debut of the Tesla Model X Crossover will happen at the automaker’s design studio in California and even if the model has been officially announced, it’s very hard to say yet whether the vehicle will be a concept or a full production vehicle.

The fact that Tesla will introduce the Model X Crossover on February 9, 2012, has also been announced on the company’s official Twitter page, but even so, there’s no official word on it yet. Rumors say that the Model X Crossover will be manufactured on a modified version of the Model S platform and it’s expected to be powered by the same 40 kWh battery. The sedan version can do up to 125 mph and it has a range of 160 miles, but the Model X Crossover will obviously be larger so those numbers are expected to decrease. If it makes it into production, the crossover might go on sale sometime in 2013.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Audi S5 Special Edition introduced in the U.S.

2012-01-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Audi S5 Special Edition

The German based automaker Audi has recently introduced in the United States a special edition of the S5 model.

According to the car manufacturer, the brain behind this Audi S5 Special Edition is the A4, S4, A5, S5 and RS5 product planner, Barry Hoch, and the automaker is saying that this model has been developed for enthusiasts. The Audi S5 Special Edition doesn’t stand out from the crowd with its exterior design, which is basically unchanged, except for the 19 inch alloy wheels and the Daytona Grey paint job. Besides these, the Audi S5 Special Edition is also coming with two-tone sports seats on the inside, along with piano black badges, carbon fiber trim, unique floor mates with aluminum badges and white piping.

Audi is also saying that the S5 Special Edition isn’t powered by the 3.0 liter TFSI V6 engine and this model is actually coming with the 4.2 liter unit, which is closing the gap a bit too much between the S5 and the RS5 models. The Audi S5 Special Edition will be limited to just 125 units and the sports car will come with a choice of either the six-speed manual or tiptronic automatic transmission and the Quattro manual has a starting price of $68,700, while the Quattro tiptronic costs $69,900.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Pininfarina Cambiano teased again

2012-01-23T06:11:00.001-08:00

Pininfarina Cambiano

Pininfarina has teased again its Cambiano Concept ahead of its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

The Italian based car design company Pininfarina was announcing not too long ago that its Cambiano Concept will be officially presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show in March this year, and now the model has been placed into the spotlights once again after its creators have launched a new teaser image. Compared to the previous teaser image, when part of the front fascia was visible, this time the Italian designers have presented its roof, and besides that, half of the car is viewable from above.

Even if Pininfarina has teased the Cambiano Concept two times until now, the car design company still didn’t provide any official details on it, but on the way, we have learned that the model has been named after the town in which the company is based. The Cambiano Concept has been developed in order to celebrate Pininfarina’s 30 years of Styling Centre and 10 years of the Engineering Centre. Furter images with the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept, along with details about it, will be released once the model makes its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: INAUTONEWS

2013 Lexus LX 570 starts at $81,805

2012-01-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

2013 Lexus LX 570

The redesigned 2013 Lexus LX 570 has just gotten a price hike and the model has been set at $81,805 in the United States.

According to the Japanese based automaker, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 is coming with some interesting new features, along with a more expensive starting price of $81,805, including an $875 destination charge, being actually $1,475 more than the outgoing model. Future customers of the crossover will be able to order an optional luxury package, set at $1,510, which is packing a cool box, leather trimmed upholstery, heated steering wheel, rear-center armrest cover, wood trimmed door switch plates, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second row of seats and a Smart Access card key.

The 2013 Lexus LX 570 will also be available with a rear seat entertainment system for an extra $2,005 and it’s coming with redesigned front and rear bumpers, new headlights and taillights and wider body side moldings. The 2013 Japanese crossover is powered by a 5.7 liter V8 engine which is developing a total output of 383 horsepower. The model is almost $1,000 more expensive than its main competitor, the Escalade Platinum, and it will go on sale in early February.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Fisker Karma will start at 111,300 EUR in Europe

2012-01-23T06:03:00.000-08:00

Fisker Karma

Fisker is planning to bring its Karma model into Europe, where the electric vehicle will have a starting price of 111,300 EUR.

After the car manufacturer has announced a few years ago that the Fisker Karma will be priced from almost 79,000 EUR in Europe, the “green” vehicle is now coming with 23.000 EUR more on the Old Continent. According to autobild.de, the Fisker Karma will be available in two variants, with the first one having a starting price of 111,300 EUR, while the second one will be even more expensive, at 117,300 EUR. The European Fisker Karma won’t be different than the one already on sale outside the continent and it will still offer that impressive driving sensation from its two electric motors.

As a reminder, the Fisker Karma is coming with a 20 kW lithium-ion battery which is powering the two electric motors in order to develop a total output of 402 horsepower and 1.300 Nm of torque (959 lb-ft). The sedan can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). A 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine will act as a generator when the battery is depleted and the model can travel up to 83 km (52 miles) on electricity alone, having an overall range of 483 km (300 miles) and averaging 2.5L/100km (112 mpg UK) while emitting 51 grams of CO2 every kilometer.

Source: INAUTONEWS

2013 Corvette 427 Convertible and 60th Anniversary Package unveiled

2012-01-12T22:46:00.000-08:00

2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition with 60th Anniversary Package

General Motors has recently unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible and the 60th Anniversary Package.

The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible is a collector’s edition which is coming with some interesting new features. GM says that the model is powered by the 7.0 liter LS7 engine, shared by the Corvette Z06 too, which is developing a total output of 505 horsepower and it has a peak torque of 470 lb-ft, being actually the most powerful unit ever installed on a production Corvette Convertible. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and the model is coming in three trim levels.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, making its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current C6 generation. We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine”, said the vice president of Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet, Chris Perry.

The new American sports car will go against models like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, the Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder, the Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible and the Ferrari California Convertible. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration time in the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible takes 3.8 seconds, the quarter mile is done in 11.8 seconds and the top speed exceeds 190 mph.

The Corvette 60th Anniversary Package includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, gray painted brake calipers, the 60th logo fitted onto the wheel center caps, the steering wheel and seat headrests, the Pearl Silver Blue full-length racing stripe and 60th Anniversary badges fitted all over the car. Pricing for the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible and for the 60th Anniversary Package will be announced at a later date.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

Lincoln MKZ Concept revealed at Detroit

2012-01-12T21:43:00.000-08:00

Lincoln MKZ

The North American based automaker Lincoln, a Ford sub-brand, has finally revealed the MKZ Concept, at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show.

After teasing it for quite some time and attracting everyone’s attention on it even a day before its official debut, the 2013 Lincoln MKZ Concept has been officially presented to the public at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Just as it was expected, the new generation of the Ford Fusion / Ford Mondeo had played an important role in inspiring the designers into creating the MKZ Concept, and the exterior lines are similar, which isn’t exactly a bad thing.

“With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand. The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we’ve been quietly but aggressively pursuing”, said the Ford Motor Company vice president for Global Product Development, Derrick Kuzak.

Even if the Lincoln MKZ Concept has been officially presented to the public and the model can be considered the reinvention of the luxury brand, the company didn’t say anything about its engine, performance and other things like that. Lincoln says that the MKZ Concept is coming with some high quality materials for the interior design and the cabin has been fitted with an 8 inch LCD touchscreen, reconfigurable 10.1 inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, an entertainment system, the MyLincoln Touch in-car communications and many other interesting things.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

Lexus LF-LC Concept unveiled in Detroit

2012-01-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

Lexus LF-FC Concept

The Japanese based automaker Lexus has officially unveiled the LF-LC Concept, at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show.

The Lexus LF-LC Concept isn’t what you might call a surprise appearance and the model has been teased several times and it even leaked on the internet, just ahead of its debut. But the LF-LC is now finally here and it has been presented by Lexus at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Even if the Lexus LF-LC Concept has been officially revealed at the over-seas automotive event, the manufacturer didn’t release any details on the engine, performance and similar features.

According to the car manufacturer, the Lexus LF-LC Concept has been created at Calty Design Studio in Newport Beach, California, and it’s a 2+2 sport coupe concept, coming with a dynamic body, a new grille, vertical fog lamps, afterburner tail lamps, quad exhaust and a glass roof. The interior has been fitted with two 12.3 inch LCD screens, a remote touch-screen control board used for the audio system, navigation and climate control, a pop-up touch screen keyboard for complex entries, touch screen controllers used for the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments, personal entertainment and door panels and many other things which will eventually go wrong and make your life a living hell.

The Lexus LF-LC Concept will catch the production line as the SC successor and it is believed that the model will be launched as the LC 600h. Rumors say that the LF-LC in its final production version will be powered by a hybridized 5.0 liter V8 engine, which will develop around 500 horsepower, helping the model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

Fisker Karma will get TomTom navi

2012-01-12T21:22:00.001-08:00

Fisker Karma

The 2012 Fisker Karma sedan will get TomTom navigation on board, the California-based automaker said on Tuesday.

The agreement between the two companies encompasses the core map; Points of Interest; and Voice Maps, which are used to support text-to-speech and voice recognition for address input of the navigation system.

All of this location content is available via a Command Center — the industry’s first 10.2″ touch screen interface which controls navigation, as well as climate, infotainment, phone and additional secondary systems.

The Fisker Karma Command Center not only gives you audio and visual feedback, it also incorporates haptic feedback (tactile), and thus allows a less distracting interface with the driver.

The peak output of the car is 402 horsepower and the car can clock 62 mph from rest in mere 6.3 seconds. Also, the pure electric range of the car is very impressive with a 32 miles EPA rated emission free range.

The base model — the Eco Chic starts at $95,000. The top of the range Eco Chic model is $116,000.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Falcon F7 supercar revealed in Detroit

2012-01-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Falcon F7

The latest North American supercar, named the Falcon F7, has been officially presented to the public at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show.

The Falcon F7 supercar is pretty close to catching the production line, thanks to its impressive output squeezed from Chevy’s LS7 engine, and to its exterior design, which is making it quite appealing to the audience at the over-seas automotive event. Even if its chances of officially hitting the European market are close to zero, the Falcon F7 supercar is one interesting attraction to the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, and the model might make it into production, being well received by the audience.

Falcon F7

But don’t get your hopes too high because of the Falcon F7 makes it into production, than its estimated price stands at 225,000 USD, so it won’t be affordable. According to it manufacturer, the Falcon F7 supercar takes its power from a modified version of Chevrolet’s LS7 engine, which has been upgraded and it’s now developing a total output of 620 horsepower, having a peak torque of 813 Nm (600 lb-ft), while weighing just 1.263 kg (2.785 pounds). There’s no official word on its performance and features yet but if the supercar hits the production line all the details will be released.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Maserati Kubang unveiled at Detroit Auto Show; will be assembled in U.S.

2012-01-12T21:14:00.000-08:00

Maserati Kubang

The Maserati Kubang concept, which was shown for the first time in September at the Frankfurt show, is making its North American debut in Detroit, the city in which it will be built.

Maserati hopes to sell about 20,000 a year of the SUV, mostly in the U.S. and China. The concept is now called the Kubang, but the vehicle will get a yet-to-be-revealed new name before it enters production (Cinqueporte ?).

The shorty story on the Kubang is that it shares a platform with the latest Jeep Grand Cherokeeand Dodge Durango, but features a unique body designed at the Maserati Style Center headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti.

While still at the prototype stage, little else is known about the true performance. A good idea would be to take the Quatroporte and add a few seconds, few pounds to the overall numbers.

The company said the SUV on display is generally similar to the production vehicle on the outside, though the interior will see more changes before it’s completed.

Maserati’s global sales hit 2465 in 2011, a gain of 21 percent compared to a year prior. North America remains the brand’s most important market, with sales growing here 10 percent year-over-year in 2011.

Source: INAUTONEWS

2013 Audi A6 Allroad unveiled – may come in U.S.

2012-01-12T06:19:00.000-08:00

Audi A6 Allroad

Audi has just unveiled the new 2013 A6 Allroad, after the brand with the four-ring logo introduced the A4 Allroad earlier this week at Detroit Motor Show.

The new A6 Allroad is 4.94 meters (16.21 ft) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 ft) wide and 1.47 meters (4.82 ft) tall, making it a few millimeters bigger than the station wagon variant.

It follows the Audi ultra-lightweight construction principle familiar from the sedan, with aluminum components making up roughly 20 percent of its body. Total vehicle weight has been reduced by as much as 70 kilograms (154 lb) compared with the previous model.

Stainless steel protects the underbody at the front and rear and the exhaust system ends in two large, flattened tailpipes; 18-inch five-arm alloys come as standard.

In Europe, the new Allroad will be offered with four turbocharged petrol engines, and three turbodiesel options.

The 3.0 TFSI, which is boosted by a mechanically driven compressor, produces 228 kW (310 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the A6 allroad quattro from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.9 seconds.

The three variants of the 3.0 TDI produce 150 kW (204 hp), 180 kW (245 hp) and 230 kW (313 hp); torque values are 450, 580 and 650 Nm (331.90, 427.79 and 479.42 lb-ft).

The entry-level version consumes on average just 6.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (38.56 US mpg), corresponding to 159 g CO2/km (255.89 g/mile).

Sending drive to all four wheels is either an eight-speed automatic or seven-speed dual clutch.

Like in most all-wheel drive Audis these days, the Quattro drive system is paired with torque vectoring.

The new Audi A6 allroad quattro will be available in Germany from spring 2012. The 3.0 TDI developing 150 kW (204 hp) has a list price of €54,600.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

2012 Audi A3 interior revealed in Las Vegas

2012-01-12T04:25:00.000-08:00

2012 Audi A3 Interiors

The German based automaker Audi has just unveiled the 2012 A3’s interior at the Consumers Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

After being spied on for quite some time now, the interior of the 2012 Audi A3 has been finally unveiled and what better place to do that than the Las Vegas CES (Consumers Electronics Show). As you can see from the images posted below, the interior design of the 2012 Audi A3 has been severely modified and the dashboard is now angled towards the drive so all controls are easily accessible. Audi says that the MMI control panel, with a larger knob, incorporating a touchpad for handwriting recognition and precise clicks, is also available for the model.

Besides these, the 2012 Audi A3 is also has other modifications in the cabin, such as the leather wrapped steering wheel, circular air vents, aluminum trim and pop-up infotainment system with a seven-inch display, which is using a dual-core Tegra 2 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz. This will be part of an MMX (multi-media extention) board responsible for the navigation, internet and telephone functions. This will be upgraded later with the quad-core Tegra 3 processor, which can be clocked at 1.4 GHz. The new Audi A3 might be officially presented to the public at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, but there’s no official word on that yet.

More Images:

Source: INAUTONEWS

Pininfarina Cambiano Concept teased ahead of Geneva debut

2012-01-12T04:01:00.000-08:00

Pininfarina Cambiano Concept

The Italian based car design company Pininfarina has officially announced that the Cambiano Concept will be presented at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Pininfarina is once again entering the spotlights, this time with a new creation, named the Cambiano Concept, which will be officially presented to the public at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March. With an appealing design even for a teaser image, the Pininfarina Cambriano Concept is by far an Italian model and the only drawback is that the whole car isn’t visible, at least yet. As you can see from the image posted above, the right front fascia, with the LED headlight, part of the front grille, engine hood, fender and windscreen are visible and we must admit that this is by far the most interesting teaser image yet.

The Italian car design company didn’t release any details on the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept except that it has been developed to celebrate the group’s 30 years of Styling Centre and 10 years of the Engineering Centre. Further images with the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept will be released in the coming days, according to the design company, but details about it will be announced once the model will be officially presented to the public at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: INAUTONEWS