Actual Car News

Jey Leno Checks Out Lamborghini Aventador

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 07:55:00 -0700

The first Aventadors are gradually reaching their respective owners, and the new supercar manages to impress everyone. But it takes a true car fanatic to bring out all that’s good about the replacement for the mighty Murcielago.

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Thus, Jay Leno gets up close and personal with the President and CEO of Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann, for a look at the company’s car to scare away all others... for a while. What you have before your eyes is not a black car, but one that’s still unpainted to show the carbon fiber.

New Health Care Reform Laws That Affect Individuals
Health Insurance Reform Changes That Kick In For 2011
On Tuesday, March 23, 2010, President Barack Obama signed a health care reform bill into law. Here are highlights of new health insurance reform laws that will take effect on January 1, 2011 (unless otherwise indicated)
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The technical details regarding its performance have been available for some time, but in case you need a reminder, we can tell you that the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 uses a 6.5-liter V12 that churns out a hypercar-like 700 hp (515 kW) and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) of torque.

Eddie Murphy and His New Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 07:39:00 -0700

Spotted in the parking area of a local coffee shop, comedian and actor Eddie Murphy was spotted beside his gleaming black SLS AMG. No word if he was done with his cup of joe but the door is showing the red leather interior of his supercar. We all know that the SLS AMG was inspired by the famous 300 SL with its gullwing doors and just like the SL, the SLS offers uncompromising performance in a luxurious cocoon.

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Eddie’s taste in cars is known to run to vehicles like Rolls-Royces but apparently, as this picture shows, he also enjoys blasting around town in a relatively raucous Mercedes with a 6.3 liter V8. The more than 560 horsepower that powerplant provides should be enough to put a smile in Eddie’s face although the way this car stamps its authority on other lesser cars is only something owners can laugh about.

The design of the car is evocative of the breathtaking Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, one of the brightest design icons of the Mercedes-Benz brand. However, Eddie’s car is thoroughly modern, with every creature comfort you could ever dream off.

Kim Kardashian and her favorite car

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 07:21:00 -0700

Hot information from celeb, there were rumors that Kim Kardashian had bought herself a Ferrari as a wedding gift (which kinda made me laugh tinking back to when she was driving Reggie's Ferrari F430) and while we don't know if she bought it for herself or if her husband bought it for her we do know that she picked up her White Ferrari 458 from Platinum Motorsport last night. By the looks of it I think Platinum outfitted it with some wheels but I don't know what else they did... maybe some new pedals to accommodate 5 inch heels better

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This is the another news, after months of speculation and spy shots, Maranello has finally revealed the mid-engined V8 replacement for the Ferrari F430. The all-new Ferrari 458 Italia won't be shown in public until September's Frankfurt Motor Show, but the official details were released early this morning. A new direct-injected 4.5-liter V8 ups the ante underhood, pumping out 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. The redline? A screaming 9,000 rpm. Eighty percent of the F458 Italia's torque is now available at a low 3,250 rpm, thanks in all likelihood to the new engine's 12.5:1 compression ratio.

As with last year's California, the Ferrari 458 gets a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox that directs power to the rear axle. Much has been done to reduce internal friction within the new V8, in addition aerodynamic drag improvements. As a result, the Ferrari 458 Italia's gas mileage improves to a combined 17.1 mpg (US) on the EU test cycle. As this is a Ferrari, talk of fuel consumption really does seem somewhat pointless, anyway. No mention of incorporating any type of KERS hybrid system has been made thus far. The KERS idea, you'll remember, had taken several spins around the rumormill over the last year or so; maybe that'll materialize at a later date.

Like its predecessor, the Ferrari 458 Italia's aluminum structure helps keep weight under control -- it tips the scales at just 3,042 pounds dry. So, we know you're wondering: How quick is it? Based on specs at least, this new coupe does't disappoint. Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 3.4 seconds, and this will be the first volume production Ferrari V8 to top the 200 mph barrier, with a top whack of 202 mph.

New 2013 Chevrolet Malibu review

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:03:00 -0700

2013 Chevrolet Malibu series made its global debut at the 2011 Auto Shanghai, with simultaneous introductions in the United States and China - two of the nearly 100 countries on six continents where it will be sold. Chevrolet's first global midsize sedan will provide customers from Shanghai to New York and Sydney to Sao Paulo with expressive design, advanced technologies, ride performance and fuel-efficient powertrains.

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"The current Malibu has left an award-winning impression and changed the way people think about Chevrolet. It redefined what an American midsize car could be," said Rick Scheidt, vice president, Chevrolet Marketing. "This all-new Chevrolet Malibu delivers on the intangibles of today's Malibu but gives customers even more: more style, fuel efficiency, content and features, craftsmanship, and dynamic capabilities rivaling high-end sedans."

Expressive and efficient exterior

"The exterior design of the all-new Chevrolet Malibu carries DNA from its sister vehicles, the Camaro and Corvette, to bring a sporty sensibility to the family sedan segment," said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director for GM exterior design and Chevrolet Brand Champion.

A wider stance, broad shoulders and an integrated rear spoiler bring a new athleticism to Malibu and give it a more aggressive appearance. The new Chevrolet Malibu has a 4.5-inch (114 mm) shorter wheelbase and 62-inch (1,574 mm) front and rear tracks that are more than 2 inches (51 mm) wider than the model it replaces.

Other exterior design cues include Chevrolet's dual-port grille, projector HID headlamps, larger Chevrolet bow-tie badges front and rear, and new Camaro-inspired LED dual-element taillamps. The look is complemented by a range of large 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheels.

The new Malibu exterior is anticipated to be SAE-certified as one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in the segment, with a coefficient of drag (Cd) rating near Chevrolet Volt's Cd of .280. Because of Chevrolet Malibu's new shape and design, engineers were able to remove 60 counts of wind drag compared to the model it replaces.

Chevrolet Malibu also has electronically controlled and integrated active aero shutters (select models in North American markets) to improve aerodynamics and enhance fuel economy without sacrificing the exterior design.

Chevrolet Malibu's active shutter system automatically closes airflow through the lower intake opening when air intake is least needed. When closed, the shutter system enhances aerodynamic performance by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides, rather than through it. Whether the shutter is open or closed depends on engine coolant temperature and speed - for example, the shutters open when the car is traveling up a hill, pulling a trailer, or in hot city driving; the shutters close at highway speeds when less engine cooling is required.

Roomier, more refined interior

The new Malibu interior was designed to bring an element of sophistication to everyday driving, featuring an all-new dual cockpit design that creates an inviting, roomy and comfortable environment.

The increased width of the new Chevrolet Malibu means a more spacious cabin. Compared to the previous model, it has nearly 4 cubic feet (113 L) of additional interior volume, along with more shoulder and hip room.

The Chevrolet Malibu interior features metallic, chrome or wood accents located around the shifter, surrounding the center stack, around the instrument cluster and on doors and the steering wheel. Soft, ice blue ambient lighting reflects off of and complements chrome accents and ensures even, consistent illumination along the instrument panel and in storage pockets. Ice blue lighting on the center stack dials, exposed ice blue French contrast stitching, soft-touch and textured surfaces, and strategic applications of noise-deadening materials add to Malibu's interior refinement.

The Chevrolet Malibu also has a number of storage areas, including a radio face that articulates up and down to reveal a six-inch deep storage area behind its seven-inch touch-screen radio display - a U.S. first in a midsize car. Malibu will also offer a full range of the latest infotainment options, including new color radio systems and an available navigation system.

Malibu will include Chevrolet's new MyLink infotainment package at launch. It builds on the safety and security of OnStar and seamlessly integrates online services like Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio®. MyLink integrates wireless connectivity through Bluetooth to enable hands-free use of selected smart phone apps while the device remains safely stowed.

MyLink features a high-resolution, full-color touch screen display designed to manage the number of steps required to complete a task. MyLink also adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smart phones, building on the Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevrolet vehicles.

All-new 2.5L powertrain
The 2013 Malibu features a global lineup of fuel-efficient and powerful four-cylinder engines that complements its European-inspired driving characteristics.

An all-new Ecotec 2.5L dual overhead cam, four-cylinder engine with direct injection leads Chevrolet Malibu's engine lineup in North America. It is expected to be one of the most efficient of its size in the market. New features include enhanced authority continuously variable valve timing, variable-displacement oil pump and electronic thermostat that save fuel, while delivering V-6-like performance. It is estimated the engine will be SAE-certified at more than 190 horsepower (141 kW) and 180 lb.-ft. of torque (245 Nm). The new engine has noise-reducing features such as a cast exhaust manifold, steel crank, low-noise timing chain and direct mount accessories that contribute to a quiet-cabin experience.

The 2.5L is mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic with features designed to enhance powertrain efficiency. They include changes to clutch controls and hardware that improves shift response and time. These changes enabled engineers to specify higher gearing to improve cruising efficiency while maintaining acceleration performance and driveability.

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Driving experience

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu delivers precise ride and handling. It has been engineered to be best-in-class and on par with more expensive sports sedans.

Benefiting from continuous refinement of an award-winning global architecture, engineers have tested, tuned and calibrated the Chevrolet Malibu on rural roads, highways, freeways and GM validation facilities around the world.

The Legend Ford Mustang 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 22:26:00 -0700

The big news for the 2012 Ford Mustang in 2012 Ford Mustang is a capable, even sophisticated coupe or convertible with a big range of talents, including 31-mpg highway fuel economy. On the other hand, it's a tire-smoking pony car rechristened last year with new powertrains and given a jolt of throwback goodness for this model year with the return of the Boss.

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Mostly on the strength of the GT, the new Boss and the returning Shelby GT500, we're giving the Mustang a solid 8 out of 10 for its performance strengths, and even for its upscale luxury and tech features.

Last year, Ford brought back the "5.0" Mustang, with that displacement netting it 412 horsepower in the Mustang GT. Base models gained a new corporate 3.7-liter V-6 with 305 horsepower. The GT is our clear winner: it's a torque-happy engine with good throttle response and a sharp attitude, something the old modular V-8 strained to deliver even while it turned out decently competitive numbers.

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The 2011 updates also brought a set of upgraded brakes, some tighter suspension tuning and a switchover to electric power steering, which Ford's rendering about as well as any manufacturer. It's part of the Mustang's evolving personality--quicker on its heels, defter to the touch.

The convertible option makes the Mustang an especially appealing muscle car. It opens its fabric top quickly and tucks it out of sight, while it also leaves the 'Stang vulnerable to a little more body flex than you'll find on smaller two-seat convertibles. And Ford's learned the lessons of Scion, opening up the order sheet to custom-fitted Mustangs with all sorts of wheel-and-tire packages, decals, scoops and interior treatments. There's even SYNC Bluetooth control for infotainment and navigation, and Sony stereo systems.

Get New VW Beetle from £16,490!

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 19:53:00 -0700

New Volkswagen Beetle will cost from £16,490 and is available to order now. Three trim levels and two engines are offered from launch – a 104bhp 1.2-litre TSI and 1.4-litre TSI producing 158bhp - with two more engines to follow.

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Trim levels include Beetle, Design and Sport, with air conditioning and DAB radio standard across the range. Entry-level cars are available with a 1.2-litre unit and seven-speed DSG transmission only.

See a pic of the new Volkswagen Beetle

Mid-spec Design models - offered with DSG or a six-speed manual ‘box in 1.2 and 1.4-litre guise - add 17-inch alloys, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, front fog lights and a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Range topping Sport versions include 18-inch alloys, tinted windows, cruise and climate control, sports seats, parking sensors and gloss black door mirror housings. A six-speed manual ‘box mated to the more powerful engine is only available here.

Keyless entry, sat-nav, a panoramic sunroof and bi-xenon headlights are available as options as is VW's 400W Fender sound pack, which costs £495.

VW claims that 1.2-litre models mated to a seven-speed DSG ‘box will achieve 48mpg and 137g/km Co2 (putting it in tax band E), with 1.4-litre, manual variants capable of 42.8mpg and 153g/km Co2 (tax band G).

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Transmission dependent, the 1.2-litre is offered in Beetle or Design trim from £16,490, with 1.4-litre cars available in Design or Sport trim from £19,470. Compared with the outgoing model, prices of the new car are up by around £3000. The current 1.4-litre Luna model costs from £13,345, rising to £18,715 for the top-of-the-range turbocharged 1.8-litre version.

Later in 2012, a 104bhp 1.6-litre TDI BlueMotion Technology, 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI and 2.0-litre TSI with 197bhp join the new line-up along with the option of a six-speed manual gearbox for the 1.2-litre TSI model.

New Toyota FT-86 at Tokyo show

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 19:34:00 -0700

New! It’s been nearly four years in the making, but Toyota will finally unveil the production FT-86 version sports coupe at next month’s Tokyo Motor Show. Subaru’s version of the two-door, the BRZ, will also be on hand at the Tokyo show.

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The long-awaited production versions of the co-developed Toyota FT-86 and Subaru BRZ sports coupes will finally be revealed at next month’s Tokyo motor show, ahead of their UK launches next summer. Power for both models comes courtesy of a Subaru-derived flat-four engine, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic will be optional.

Both models will arrive with a flat-four engine sending power to the rear-wheels. Although Subaru is best-known for its all-wheel drive systems, no such option will be available on the BRZ. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, but a six-speed auto will also be on offer.

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Toyota’s version of the coupe – which will be sold as a Scion in the United States – will be the cheapest and most moderately powered of the duo. Toyota is still eying a near-$20,000 price point and power should check in at 200 horsepower.

The BRZ will likely be priced from the mid-$20,000 and will boast a more powerful engine than the Toyota, although a turbo is not part of the car’s plans.

In addition to sharing most mechanical components, the two cars will also share most of their styling. The only changes between the two are expected to be grille and wheels designs.

Look for the cars to make their market launch sometime during mid-2012.

2012 Acura TSX Future Car

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:39:00 -0700

For those seeking the premium, luxury appeal of Honda's Acura brand on a limited budget, the TSX provides a reasonable alternative to pricier models. For the latest model year, customers will also benefit from a thoroughly updated and expanded TSX model lineup.

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While Acura redesigned the TSX for the latest model year, its 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6 powertrains are mostly carried over for the new model year, but small modifications to reduce friction have increased fuel economy by one mpg for both city and highway across the board.

The 201-horsepower, 172 lb-ft of torque 2.4-liter (170 lb-ft. with the optional automatic) is rated at 22/31 city/highway (automatic, 21/29 manual) in the sedan and 22/30 in the automatic-only wagon. A five-speed automatic and six-speed manual are essentially carried over for the refreshed model.

Available only on the sedan and only with an automatic transmission, a 3.5-liter V6 cranks out 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft. of torque. It sips fuel at a rate of 19 mpg urban and 28 mpg highway.

Aside from styling changes, which modify the front and rear fascias, the TSX gains new alloy wheel designs and acoustic windshield glass and upgraded sound insulation. Inside, the center console is mildly revised, while contrasting stitching is added to the standard leather seats.

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Inside, the TSX Sedan received revised styling for the center console, darker trim pieces, brightly finished door handles, an updated parking brake handle and new garnishes for the steering wheel. In addition, contrasting-color stitching is new for the leather seats, door armrests and center console. Rear seat occupants will enjoy the addition of heating/cooling vents mounted at the rear of the center console, and the TSX's center console cargo compartment is now climate controlled.

An optional upgraded navigation system now boasts an LED backlit display, a 60GB hard drive capable of storing 15GB of music and Song By Voice interfacing.

2012 Audi A7 Future Car

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:26:00 -0700

The Audi A7 is an all-new model from Volkswagen's volume luxury brand, intended to compete with Mercedes-Benz's CLS. This new four-door coupe brings a new level of style to the segment that gives the pioneer a run for its money, and delivers in a way that BMW's 5-Series GT simply cannot.

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While the Mercedes and BMW counterparts bring a V8 to the fight, Audi instead is relying on a supercharged 3.0-liter V6, which it interestingly refers to as a 3.0T. This force-fed V6 is good for 310 horsepower, 325 lb-ft of torque and a zero-to-60 sprint of 5.4 seconds.

Of course, in the U.S. the A7 also has the latest generation quattro all-wheel drive with enhanced torque vectoring and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The A7 also features Audi drive select, which is essentially computer tuning that takes into account the vehicle's transmission, power steering and engine output all at once to deliver optimal shift points, steering boost and throttle characteristics in four possible modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and individual.

While power and handling are certainly important aspects of the A7, it is the styling - inside and out - that defines the car. The exterior takes form of the currently very vogue "four-door coupe" format, sacrificing rear headroom for sex appeal. Because of the steep rearward slope, the trunk is also much shorter and smaller than a traditional sedan of the same size, but Audi makes up for it with a very unique to the segment rear crease that runs the width of the trunk.

While the rear of the A7 defines the vehicle from a style perspective, the front fascia and its incredibly aggressive design are not be forgotten, including the Xenon plus headlights and LED daytime running lights as standard - with optional full LED headlights with adaptive lighting. Also not to be forgotten are the standard 18-inch wheels or available 19- or 20-inch variations.

Inside, the A7 is packed with technology and luxury, ranging from the "wraparound" design that gives the driver and front passenger a feeling more akin to that of a cockpit or racecar. Materials arrive in forms that simply convey a look and feel of luxury, from the colors, to the wood veneers, to the supply and contrasting leather, to the subtle metallic accents throughout.

The Audi A7 is available with two types of leather – Milano or Valcona – which color-coordinate with the four-spoke steering wheel and transmission selector lever. Fine grain Ash wood veneers are standard, while Dark Brown Walnut and brushed aluminum trims are optional. The seat coverings are available in Black, Titanium Gray, Nougat Brown and Velvet Beige, while the headlining is available in Black, Lunar Silver and Silk Beige.

Being a modern Audi, the A7 is equipped with MMI, or multimedia interface, which includes an eight-inch pop-up display, a five-inch information LCD display and an optional heads-up display for the windshield. The MMI also boasts an industry first: the ability to recognize driver handwriting via the touch input pad, allowing for the input of both navigation and telephone information.

MMI also includes interfacing to control Google Earth for navigation, Google Local search and Wi-Fi connectivity for as many as eight different mobile devices.

Driver aid technologies include Audi's adaptive cruise control system, a color heads-up display, Night vision, Audi side assist and Audi pre sense plus. If technology-based safety systems don't tickle your fancy, Audi also offers a Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System that features 15 speakers and 1,300 watts of power to bring your music to life.

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Optional packaging

Adding the Premium Plus package will swap out the standard 18-inch wheels for 19-inch wheels, add Audi MMI Navigation plus with Audi MMI touch and Google Earth, Audi connect with a six-month trial period, front and rear parking sensors, a seven-inch color driver information system and an eight-inch Audi MMI screen, along with HD radio, CD changer and an MP3 jukebox.

The Prestige package builds upon the Premium Plus package by adding the S line exterior styling with new bumpers and grille, adds a Bose surround sound system, advanced key, four-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, adaptive and cornering lights, power adjustable steering column and LED ambient lighting for the interior.

The Innovation Package adds LED headlights, Audio pre sense plus, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, Audi side assist, head up display and Night vision assistant.

The Sport Packages include either 19- or 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and a three-spoke sport-themed steering wheel.

The Driver Assistance Package is essentially a limited version of the Innovation package aimed exclusively as safety tech, and as such adds just Audio pre sense plus, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go and Audi side assist.

The final option is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, which adds 15 speakers with a center channel and subwoofer, acoustic lens emerging tweets and speakers covers finished in an elegant aluminum.

A luxury car wouldn't be complete without a myriad of active and passive safety features to keep its precious occupants safe, as is the case with the A7. The A7 employs an adaptive restraint system that is integrated into the Audi pre sense safety system, which intelligently manages airbag deployment and seatbelt tensioners simultaneously in the event of a near of actual accident.

Chevrolet sheds coming to U.S. in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:10:00 -0700

The Chevrolet officially unveiled its North America version of the upcoming Chevrolet Spark compact car back at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. At the time it was introduced as a 2011 model year car – but obviously that opportunity came and went without a Spark.

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Several months later, Chevrolet’s North American president, Mark Reuss, confirmed that the Spark will in fact arrive in the U.S. as a 2013 model year vehicle sometime in early to mid-2012 – and today the automaker has let loose a handful of other new details.

Leftlane had already reported that the Spark was expected to receive a 1.2-liter engine good for 78 horsepower in Europe, but now GM says that engine will in fact arrive with 83 horsepower for the U.S. Torque figures were not given.

It was also revealed that the car will come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, commensurate of its likely low entry price, and simply stated that “an automatic transmission will be available.” The failure to specify how many speeds the automatic transmission could possibly be due to the fact that a final decision has not been made, but others believe it is due to the fact that the Spark will use a rather outdated four-speed automatic.

To give some perspective to its size, the Spark will arrive at four inches longer than the Fiat 500, three feet longer than a Smart ForTwo and 14 inches shorter than the Chevy Sonic.

The car will come with many trim levels, with some featuring a color touch screen radio, Chevrolet MyLink infotainment connectivity with Pandora and Stitcher internet radio, Bluetooth connectivity, heated leatherette seats, and exterior touches like chrome accents and alloy wheels.

The new five-door hatchback will actually slot below the revised Aveo (Now known as the Sonic) when it goes on sale, giving Chevrolet the full gambit of vehicle sizes in the U.S. Jason Laird, executive director of North American product communications for GM also tweeted on the matter, “Spark minicar will give Chevrolet A-B-C-D-E segment coverage for the first time in the U.S.”

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Other facts and speculation

GM says that the new small car will be capable of greater than 40 mpg on the highway, with battle set to take place with Scion’s upcoming iQ. Some reports suggests the U.S. car will be good for 46 mpg on the highway, but GM has yet to confirm fuel economy details.

Depending on global markets, safety equipment includes driver and passenger front air bags, front side airbags, roof rail head curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. Other safety features include pretensioners for front seat belts and three-point belts in the rear. Spark has been developed and is expected to achieve high crash test ratings.

BMW-reveals 2012 3-Series, the new hybrid model

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:41:00 -0700

Leading automobile companies in the world, BMW, has taken the wraps off its sixth-generation 3-Series. Set to hit United States showrooms early next year, the 2012 3-Series promises a number of key improvements over the current car.

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Visually, the new 3-Series adopts the same design language first seen on vehicles like the 5-Series and 7-Series. However, the new 3 is longer and wider than the outgoing model, giving the car an overall athletic look. The new 3-Series is nearly 2-inches wider than the current car and over 3.5 inches longer. Despite a bigger footprint, the 2012 3-Series retains a perfect 50/50 weight distribution and is actually 88 pounds lighter than the current car.

As a result of those expanded dimensions, the new 3-Series boasts more cabin space, particularly for rear-seat passengers. BMW also says that the 3-Series trunk can comfortably hold three-golf bags.

But perhaps the biggest news for 2012 is the 3-Series return to a four-cylinder powerplant. The 2012 328i model will be powered by BMW’s TwinPower turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, developing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft or torque. As a result, the 328i will be able to scoot from 0-60 in a brisk 5.7 seconds.

BMW’s 335i will remain on offer for 2012, delivering 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder. That added grunt is good for a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

BMW has yet to announce EPA mileage for either model, but expect some pretty impressive numbers. BMW has gone to great lengths to ensure the 2012 3 is more fuel efficient than the current model and has included such technologies as auto stop-start, Brake Energy Regeneration and even an air conditioning system that can disconnect completely from the engine.

2012 3-Series buyers will be able to choose between two transmissions — a standard six-speed manual and an all-new eight speed automatic. BMW is the first automaker to offer an eight-speed gearbox in this class.

BMW has yet announce the M3 version of the new car, but buyers can opt for an M Sport package in the meantime. The M SPort package adds performance goodies like 19-inch wheels and lowered suspension.

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ActiveHybrid 3

Marking a first for the segment, BMW will launch a hybrid version of its new 3-Series during the fall of 2012. The ActiveHybrid 3 will be powered by BMW’s 300 horsepower 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder paired to an electric motor that can boost power by as much as 55 horsepower. BMW says to expect performance on par with the 335i.

The ActiveHybrid 3 can travel up to 2.5 miles on all-electric power, with an all-electric top speed of 37mph while under load. The hybrid 3 can coast at speeds up to 100mph while in electric mode.

The EPA has yet to test the ActiveHybrid 3 but the car averaged 36.7mpg on the European cycle, representing a 12.5 percent improvement over “equally powerful conventionally driven BMW sports sedans.”

BMW has yet to release pricing information for the new 3, but we expect to have that information closer to the car’s February on-sale date.

New 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

noreply@blogger.com (Andik Lontar) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:09:00 -0700

The SLS AMG Gullwing Coupe with 563 horsepower has gone topless to create the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster - the range and brand-topping model for the entire Mercedes-Benz namesake.

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Mercedes-Benz has updated its brand topping SLS AMG Roadster with a host of new performance, safety and appearance options.

The most significant change arrives in the form of the new AMG Ride Control sports suspension, which utilizes electronically controlled dampers to allow the driver a choice of three different suspension settings.

The first setting, "Comfort" mode, as one would expect, is a relatively soft setting for long distance cruising or traveling over bumpy roads. "Sport" tightens up the shock absorbers to cut down on body roll and is billed by AMG as the best balance between responsiveness and comfort. Finally, "Sport Plus" is reportedly optimized to yield the quickest times while bombing around on a race course, should SLS AMG owners be so inclined.

AMG says the optional system is controlled by electromagnetically actuated valves in the shock absorbers control the oil flow between the lower and upper chamber. U.S. pricing for the Ride Control hasn’t been announced, but it will sell in the U.K for 2320.20 pounds.

Other new options include lightweight AMG 10-spoke forged wheels with matte black finish, red-painted brake calipers and several new exterior and interior colors. The newly available Blind Spot Assist system is a good choice for those who don’t want their limited-visibility SLS AMG to participate in a merger of equals with another car when changing lanes.

Boasting an AMG-designed chassis, body and powertrain, the SLS Roadster is officially considered the second car to be independently developed by AMG. The SLS Roadster is, obviously, based very heavily on its gullwing sibling - sans the iconic gullwing doors that give its coupe counterpart such a unique appeal.

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Source info: by Marketwatch

Under both hoods

The SLS AMG’s compact cloth fabric top was chosen for three reasons: Its light weight compared to a folding metal roof, its trim folded dimensions and its unique style. Capable of stowing away in just 11 seconds, it can be operated at speeds up to 31 mph.

Unlike the gullwing, the Roadster’s doors open traditionally with little pomp and circumstance. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t impressive inside.

Under the roof, things are mostly standard SLS AMG. That’s to say that the car draws inspiration from the original 300SL Gullwing of the 1950s, a legendary racing and road car that is highly valued by collectors today. The dashboard is retro-modern, with all the latest Mercedes-Benz luxuries and high-grade materials and trim that can be tailored to an individual buyer’s tastes.

Its dashboard is aircraft-inspired, as well, thanks to the jet engine-resembling vent nozzles and the aircraft thrust control-shaped E-Select gear lever.

That lever helps fire up the AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed automatic. With four modes – comfort, sport, sport+ and manual – the automatic can fire off shifts faster than any driver could. A Race Start function optimizes the car’s sophisticated traction control system and mechanical differential lock for optimal launches.

Motivating the SLS AMG is the division’s 6.3-liter V8, which puts out 563 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. This thrust propels the SLS AMG to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds and the car is electronically limited to an impressive 197 mph. As a result, both roadster and gullwing boast similar performance figures.

Designed to handle

Like the coupe, the SLS AMG Roadster is more than just an acceleration machine. A low-mounted engine with a dry sump system helps ensure optimal weight distribution and a nearly ground-level center of gravity.

The engine is front-mid mounted, meaning it lies as close to the center of the vehicle as possible, which helps AMG achieve a 47/53 weight distribution. A broad track – 66.2 inches up front and 65.1 inches out back – improves grip and control.

All four wheels hit the ground thanks to double wishbone suspensions with a track road, a Formula 1-derived technology.

Buyers can select either the standard sport-oriented suspension or a new Adaptive AMG Sport Suspension with three modes (comfort, sport and sport+). Each mode features its own shock tuning to alter the ride quality based on the type of driving desired.

The rear-wheel-drive roadster also offers optional ceramic brakes for optimal fade-free braking under extreme conditions.