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http://www.sgcarmart.com/new_cars/newcars_...p?CarCode=11161 At $98,988. Got sedan and hatchback
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Got an invite for 26 Nov 2015 Test drive. Details of the car below: https://yrjaguar.s3.amazonaws.com/production/pdf/upload/XF_16MY_MB_GEE_13Nov.pdf Looks like registration for launch open to all, see below. http://jaguar.com.sg/xf_launch/
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Anyone saw an advert in today's Straits Time? Full page half car body taken from the back. ..along with the words. ..hand over your keys. ..3 Sep 15... anyone knows the make and model and what the advert is about?
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2015 GT-R Nismo to sprint to 100km/h in two seconds flat?
Regan_ong posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
We all know about the Nissan GT-R and its need for speed. Now the 'Godzilla' is all set to get wickedly faster with Nismo - the performance arm of Nissan - unveiling the GT-R Nismo. There have been no spy shots whatsoever, so the closest we could get are pictures of the GT-R Track Edition. The future Nismo version will be based on the 2014 GT-R and will feature a series of updates that will transform the 'Godzilla' into a real track machine, while keeping it perfectly suitable for the road. On the exterior, Nismo will work on improving the car's aerodynamics, so lower front and rear bumpers, wider wings and sill side skirts, plus a huge wing at the rear is to be expected. Inside the car, the GT-R Nismo will most likely get special suede-trimmed Nismo sports seats with red stitching, plus a redesigned steering wheel, pedals, gauges and gear knob. Under the hood, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engine delivers at least 20 horses more than the standard 550bhp. There have been rumours that the GT-R Nismo will hit 100km/h in two seconds. Wait a second. The current GT-R already does the century sprint in three. Wouldn't that mean that the GT-R Nismo will be able to outsprint a 1,200bhp Bugatti Veyron Super Sport over short distances? Well, as exciting as the GT-R Nismo is going to be, we're having a hard time accepting that it will be able to hit 100km/h in two seconds flat, at least on street tyres. What do you think? -
Nissan has revealed the all new 2015 Nissan Murano at the New York International Auto Show. While the original Murano was inspired by the elegance of Italian Murano glassware from which the model took its name, the third generation took its cues from the Nissan Resonance Concept. The prominent glass areas of the first generation Murano were retained and expanded with the new design, including the use of its jet-inspired roof and D-pillars that appear disconnected from the roof that help visually lighten the cabin. Another key element is the continued refinement of the boomerang-style headlights and taillights, which were originally introduced on the Nissan 370Z. The new design is slightly lower, wider and longer, enhancing the aerodynamics while not compromising the desired crossover height and stance. The instrument panel height is lower than previous Muranos. Centred between the outer wings is a large information and control centre with an available eight-inch colour display with multi-touch control. The cargo area has been reconfigured to provide a projected best storage space in the segment (with seats up). The rear cargo area, accommodates four large suitcases and can accomodate more load with the flat folding rear seats. The Murano will be available at launch with a standard 3.5-litre DOHC V6 rated at 260bhp and 325Nm of torque. Also standard is an advanced Xtronic transmission tuned for quick response and smoothness. Fuel economy is projected to be enhanced by approximately 20 percent versus the current generation Murano, due to the approximate 58kg overall weight reduction, enhanced aerodynamics and engine/transmission efficiencies. The 2015 Nissan Murano will be offered in four grade levels when it goes on sale in late 2014 in America - each available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
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The new S 63 AMG Coupe expands the Mercedes-AMG model range
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG Coupe will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in April 2014, as the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family. The 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo engine boasts an output of 585bhp and 900Nm of torque - linked to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. This allows the performance Gran Tourer to accelerate from nought to 100km/h under 4.3 seconds, and on to reach a governed top speed of 250km/h. With a combined figure of 10.1L/100km - the two-door model is the most fuel-efficient model in its competitive segment. The S 63 AMG Coupe is lighter by 65kg - thanks to a lighter lithium-ion battery, forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimised braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium. There are two variants of the S 63 AMG Coupe - with rear-wheel drive or with AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive. With the 4MATIC system, 67 percent of the power is sent to the rear axle and the rest to the front. For the suspension - the rear-wheel drive AMG Coupe is equipped with MAGIC BODY CONTROL, while the all-wheel drive variant features the AIRMATIC system with the adaptive damping system ADS PLUS. Inside the car, high-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty, exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sports seats offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. One particularly exclusive model in the range is the S 63 AMG Coupe 'Edition 1', which will be available a year after market launch. Swarovski crystals in the LED headlamps (not the one above) lend the car an irresistible look, while the cabin is trimmed in exclusive nappa leather with contrast topstitching. The roof liner and the sun screens are in DINAMICA microfibre. Further features include AMG Exclusive floor mats, door sill panels with illuminated AMG lettering and a high-gloss black poplar wood trim. Also included is an 'Edition 1' branding on the sports steering wheel. -
Following the launch of the BMW 4 Series Coupe and Convertible, the Gran Coupe (GC) is the third model to join the new BMW 4 Series. The 4 Series GC combines the sleek look of a two-door coupe with the functionality provided by four doors and expansive spaciousness, including a wide access luggage compartment of 480 litres, expandable to 1,300 litres, makes loading and unloading much easier. The 4 Series has exactly the same dimensions as the two-door coupe - measuring 4,638mm long, and sitting 1,825mm wide with a wheelbase of 2,810mm. However, the roof is 12mm higher, 112mm longer and gently stretched, allowing it to flow smoothly into the rear quarter panels and boot lid. This extended roofline provides more headroom in the interior, along with added comfort. The boot lid is equipped as standard with an automatic opening and closing mechanism for maximum convenience. Up front, the 4 Series coupe and Gran Coupe are identical and share typical BMW design features like the double-kidney grille, dual round headlights and the large air intake in the front apron. The standard model variant, plus three optional equipment packages and the M Sport package, leave no wishes unfulfilled for drivers wanting a special look and feel. The BMW Individual program offered includes options for creating an exclusive vehicle with special leather interior packages, exterior colours and 19-inch light-alloy wheels. The 4 Series GC offers a choice of five powerful, cultivated and efficient engines. The high end is represented through the 435i's six-cylinder in-line 3.0-litre petrol engine delivering 306bhp. The BMW 428i GC and 420i GC are equipped with four-cylinder engines which deliver 245bhp and 184bhp, respectively. Two four-cylinder diesel engines are also offered, starting with the 420d GC which delivers 184bhp and sprints to 100km/h in only 7.7 seconds (7.5 seconds with sport automatic transmission) with an average fuel consumption between 4.7 to 4.9L/100km. The engine in the BMW 418d GC has an output of 143bhp and consumes up to 4.7L/100km. At model launch, the BMW 428i and 420d can be optionally equipped with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive technology. The standard variant features a six-speed manual transmission, but all engines can be combined with the optional eight-speed Steptronic or eight-speed sport Steptronic transmissions, which also feature manual shifting using paddles on the steering wheel.
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2015 Corvette Z06 delivers faster lap times than 2013 Corvette ZR1
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Chevrolet introduced the most track-capable Corvette in the brand's history via the 2015 Corvette Z06. At the heart is an all new 6.2-litre LT4 supercharged V8 engine that will deliver no less than 625bhp and 861Nm of torque. It will be linked to either a seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match or a 8L90 new eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters to enhance both performance and efficiency. Extensive use of aluminium and magnesium allows the 8L90 to be 4kg lighter than the six-speeder in the predecessor. Along with design features that reduce friction, the 8L90 is expected to contribute up to five percent greater efficiency, when compared with a six-speed automatic. The stiffer design of the aluminium frame allows the Corvette Z06 to be offered with a removable carbon fibre roof panel for the first time - and offers 60 percent more structural rigidity than its predecessor. To deliver optimum grip levels, the Z06 is fitted with larger Michelin tyres. The front tyres are 1.5 inches wider while the rear tyres are two inches wider than the Corvette Stingray. Additionally, a track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tyres for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance. The cabin is distinguished from the Corvette Stingray by unique colour schemes that emphasises the driver-focused cockpit, and a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel. The cabin offers two seating choices, a GT seat, for all-around comfort, or a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering, for greater support during track activity. The Z06 also benefits from interior details designed for high-performance driving, including a steel reinforced grab bar and soft touch materials on the edge of the console. The new Corvette Z06 will be available in early 2015 and performance data will be announced closer to the start of production. -
Lexus reveals stern RC F Coupe before official debut at Detroit Auto Show
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Lexus claims the new Lexus RC F is styled to support the most powerful V8 performance car ever developed by Lexus. While I cannot comment on the credibility of the statement, as no performance figures were revealed, I have to say the coupe is an exceptionally striking vehicle. The spindle grille might not be for everybody, but I believe the RC F wears it best. And not to forget, it has an well sculpted rump too. Also, personally this is Lexus' best work since the LFA and the new GS Sedan. Perhaps its the sharp styling or the colour, but the rear end reminds me of a 'Cybertron' look. It would make a good Decepticon, in my opinion. Although it is based on its 'tamer' RC Coupe sibling, the RC F has wider wheels and tyres, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts and carbon fibre components. The Lexus spindle grille, now a hallmark trait for Lexus' models, features a more subtle 'F' pattern on the lower half, while not failing to dominate the front fascia of the RC F. The hood is higher than on the RC coupe to accommodate the larger V8 engine and create a powerful flared profile. Three variations of 10-spoke, 19-inch, forged aluminum wheels are available, including a hand polished design. It might be a performance coupe, but apparently Lexus' obsession to detail isn't overlooked! Like the LFA supercar, the RC F features an available speed sensitive active rear spoiler which deploys at around 80km/h and retracts when speeds hit less than 40km/h. The interior complements the aggressive exterior, as the instrument panel is dominated by a central meter, which changes according to the four selectable driving modes. The information, colour and text size of the display can also be altered. With the RC F, Lexus will debut an, elliptical cross-section thick grip, steering wheel with optimum placement of paddle gear shifts. I have genuinely no idea what that means but I don't really like the chunky and thick wheel. That is probably the only complaint I have with this car, the steering wheel and the location of the star/stop ignition button, which looks a little high and far from the driver doesn't it? -
All new C-Class loses weight and gains upmarket treatment from Mercedes-Benz
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
According to Mercedes-Benz, the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its elegant interior. And I can't really deny. The all new C-Class seems to be a major departure from its forefathers. It looks serious yet more focused, modern and rich. The C-Class is the biggest selling model series from the German marque and launch models will initially comprise the C180, the C200 and the C220 BlueTEC. The all new C-Class now measures 4,686mm long and sits 1,810mm wide with a 2,840mm wheelbase. In profile view, a long bonnet, a passenger compartment set well back and short overhangs define the C-Class's classic, well balanced Mercedes-Benz sedan proportions. Large wheels emphasise the rear and communicate a stylishly sporty character. There is a choice of two different faces. A sporty fascia with a centrally positioned star or the classic sedan radiator grille featuring the Mercedes star on the bonnet – limited to the Exclusive line. While halogen headlamps are standard, two energy-saving LED variants are available - a static system and a dynamic version with ‘LED Intelligent Light System’. The light signature will no doubt mesmerise onlookers and fellow commuters on the road. The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level with the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details The driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of space and luxury while Mercedes claims settling into one’s seat in the C-Class is akin to the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on a commercial jetliner - although that probably depends on which airline you are talking about doesn't it? A free-standing 7-inch wide central display dominates the centre console while a larger 8.4-inch wide screen is installed when specified with the COMAND Online system. Five round metallic air vents lend the dashboard a sporty touch and adds contrast to the warm look of the other materials – such as the wood in the centre console or the leather on the dashboard. The innovative touchpad in the handrest over the Controller and a head-up display are new additions to the C-Class range. Thanks to intelligent and innovative lightweight construction, the aluminium hybrid body is around 70kg lighter and aids in reducing the vehicle's overall weight by around 100kg. The lightweight construction cuts fuel consumption by up to 20 percent without any loss of performance, while at the same time enabling a lower centre of gravity, for a noticeably sporty and agile handling. Three engine variants are available at the market launch – a diesel in the guise of the C220BlueTEC and the two petrol models, C180 and C200. Five four-cylinder petrol engines rated from 156bhp to 238bhp will be available, including the special C180 ECO Edition. A six-cylinder petrol engine rated at 333bhp will follow in due course. The diesel engines will cover an output range from 115bhp to 204bhp. The C220 BlueTEC will also be optionally available with an output of 170bhp as the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition. A new small diesel engine with a displacement of 1.6-litre will also be added to the range. Depending on its configuration, the supercharged four-cylinder engine generates 115bhp or 136bhp of power and delivers 280Nm or 320Nm of torque. The new C-Class is also the only vehicle in the segment to offer tunnel detection via satellite navigation. It uses the map information from the navigation system and the GPS location data to close the air recirculation flap automatically when the vehicle enters a tunnel, subsequently re-opening it when the vehicle emerges from the tunnel. The new C-Class is also equipped with a unique avant-garde acoustic system while a Burmester surround sound system is optionally available. -
Some cars, like whisky, just get better with age and the Range Rover is certainly one of them. The mother of all SUVs that you see here has lost some 420kgs from its previous model, thanks to the lightweight all-aluminium monocoque body structure. From the beautifully grained leather to the metal finishing, the material selection and build quality is immaculate. Even the plastic and rubberised mouldings exude an impression of quality and luxury. With a formidable output of 503bhp and 625Nm of torque, throttle response from the 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged Rangie is lag-free while taking off from the line is monumental. The 0-100km/h timing of 5.4 seconds is formidably fast for an SUV. The Range Rover is like the sweet girl you knew back in secondary school, just that she has matured, lost a few pounds and has the right curves at the right places. She even carries herself with the kind of style that isn't overly exaggerated now. It just simply reminds you why you were attracted to her in the first place.
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Toyota releases engine details on 2014 Europe market Corolla
SYF77 posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Toyota has released more details on the all new Corolla destined for the European market. Not only does the car look more sophisticated than the current model, it grew in all dimensions with a measurement of 4,620mm by 1,775mm by 1,465mm (L x W x H). The car is longer than the all new Mazda 3 sedan. The Euro-spec Corolla will be available with one diesel and four petrol engines. The 1.4-litre turbo diesel develops 89bhp with a peak torque of 205Nm. Transmission option for the oil-burner include a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed Multi-Mode transmission. The entry-level gasoline engine is a 1.33-litre Dual-VVT-I which generates 98bhp and 128Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. There are two 1.6-litre engines available for the Europe market – a Dual VVT-I unit with 120bhp and 154Nm of torque as well as a Valvematic version with 130bhp and 160Nm of torque. The lower-powered 1.6-litre comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional Multidrive S (CVT) transmission. The range-topper is a 1.8-litre Dual VVT-I unit with 138bhp and 173Nm of torque. The engine is mated exclusively to the Multidrive S transmission. Should we be concerned about the European Corolla? Yes we should, as sources indicate that the Australian and Asean Corolla share the same version as Europe. -
With its sights set on the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar could be planning a full range of models for its upcoming entry-level car - possibly called the XS. The XS will replace the X-Type, finally giving Jaguar a product in the highly competitive luxury compact sedan segment. According to sources, the car will also be available with coupe and wagon bodystyles (rendered images below). Jaguar's upcoming 3 Series and C-Class fighter seen testing and wearing a modified XF body is also poised to be clad in an all-aluminum monocoque body structure, similar to the XJ, to save weight. According to Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's Global Brand Director, an aluminium monocoque is a first for this market and on this sort of scale, by the time they go on sale, the new saloon, coupe and estate will be the most efficient, refined and advanced cars in their class. Plus, the car is expected to be offered initially with Jaguar's small capacity turbocharged four and supercharged six-cylinder petrol and diesel engine. This will also mean that entry-level cars are able to emit less than 100g/km of CO2 without the need for hybrid technology. The baby Jaguar is scheduled to be due in 2015 and it sure is one exciting cat. Purr.
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Infiniti caused quite a bit of hullabaloo late last year when it announced it would be changing its vehicle names so that all of its cars start with Q and all of its crossovers and SUVs start with QX (not the ones on the number plates seen locally). Now, the luxury division of Nissan has posted a video that explains the historically relevant reason for the new Q badge. Well, Infiniti is returning to the Q name to pay homage to its very first model, the Q45, and it's starting with the all new Q50 sedan. Now, however, while most of Infiniti's 2014 models will get the new Q badge, the G37 Sedan will keep its nameplate through model year 2015 (despite the fact that Infiniti already changed the G37 Coupe and G37 Convertible models to the name Q60). Are you getting confused? Watch the video below to understand better.
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Like Porsche and Lamborghini, Ferrari has the habit of releasing stripped out, track focused models based on their mid-engined supercars. Following the lineage of the F360 Challenge Stradale and the F430 Scuderia, the Prancing Horse has gone all 'Superleggera' on the 458 Italia. Sporting a different front facia, rear end body work, fins protruding before the rear axle and a more flush and slippery body to accommodate the active aerodynamic systems, the V8 equipped 458 Italia that has been given a power bump in a trimmer package of almost 1.3 tonnes. More power, lighter weight, active aerodynamics and a mid-engined V8
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The Jaguar F-Type. One of the most anticipated cars in 2013. I was keen to drive it after reading all the great reviews from other magazines. After getting behind the wheel, there's no doubt that the car is as brilliant as they say. Slotting in between the Boxster and the 911 Cabriolet, Jaguar gave it great handling and looks. Turn in is sharp and it rides firm on our roads when set up for attack. The 374bhp Supercharged V6 is no weakling. It pulls willingly to the red line and makes one hell of a lovely howl when you give it the beans. Bangs and cracklings from the exhaust come as standard from the factory. Awesome. Anyway, enough of my ramblings. Here are more photos of it… Many options for corner entry.. Traction out of corners is not the best, which also means its fun factor is high. Meaty steering with good weighting. Dynamic mode and the loud button for the exhaust should be on permanently! Cute little visor! Lovely wheels and brakes. Corners flat. Top up or down, it's still a beauty. Read more about it in our review section. Special thanks to Changi Karting Circuit (CKC) for kindly providing their location for the photoshoot.
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With a long standing tradition of building compact, open top sports cars that started with the S600 and ending with the S2000, Honda seems intent to get back into the game. After seeing the success Toyota/Subaru has had with the 86/BRZ, Honda is primed to one-up its rivals. According to a source within Honda, a new affordable sports car is being seriously considered, but don't expect something as high-end as the S2000 - think small, quick and light. The car would be small, probably even smaller than the Mazda MX-5, and come equipped with either a 1.3-litre or 1.5-litre in-line four with i-VTEC. Keep your expectations low on its power output, but thanks to its light weight which is rumored to sit around 900kg, the car should have adequate acceleration along with good handling and an overall agile driving experience. There's even talk that the "S1500" may come with a mid-engine layout, in the style of the Honda Beat. As for the car's design direction, Honda would either use the Japan-only N-ONE or make it look more like the current Civic. We reckon the N-ONE's styling would do justice because it pays homage to the iconic S600. Rumours of a new Honda roadster have appeared and disappeared with tide-like regularity since the moment the S2000 died, and none of them have come to pass. The NSX revival was followed by nearly a decade of will-they, won't-they rumours and telephone-game whispers before Honda actually buckled down and built something. It seems like the same thing could be happening here. Either way, let's wait for Honda to come up with this answer to the Toyota 86 and the Mazda MX-5 in 2015 or 2016.
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Mitsubishi Motors has revealed the first official photo and initial details of the brand new Attrage compact sedan. The car is the production version of the G4 concept which was displayed at the 2013 Bangkok Motor Show. Mitsubishi said the name 'Attrage' is derived from the word 'attractive'. Mitsubishi claims that the Attrage will deliver 'driving pleasure thanks to agility and pleasing driving dynamics'. Powering the Attrage is a 1.2-litre 3A92 three-cylinder MIVEC unit which churns out 76bhp at 6,000rpm and 100Nm at 4,000rpm. The engine is mated to a choice of CVT or five-speed manual transmission as standard. Based on the Mirage hatchback, the compact sedan measures only 4,095mm, which is about 300mm shorter than its close rival, the Toyota Vios. There are no interior photos of the new sedan at the moment but Mitsubishi says that the car offers generous rear seat legroom. The new model will be launched in Thailand come July 2013.
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Jay Leno becomes the first person outside McLaren to drive the McLaren P1
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Let me get one thing straight. Personally I am not a fan of McLaren. I have nothing against the team, its Formula One drivers or the firm's awkward behaviour of naming its cars after fax machines. It's just like Manchester United vs Liverpool or Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer or Tiger Woods vs well whoever he competes with. However there are one or two things I admire about McLaren. Firstly, its futuristic, yin-yang inspired factory at Woking, U.K. Secondly, the automaker's approach to cars and the firm's obsession with implementing technology. I have mentioned a countless number of times in the blog, as much as I like cars and the science, art and engineering behind it - I like technology, gadgets and gizmos. As such I cannot think of any other automaker in this era (perhaps besides Audi) that harnesses science, technology and cars as well as McLaren. Ferrari is a front to sell road legal Formula One cars to fund their F1 programme while Lamborghini is a German engineered Italian on steroids and performance enhancing drugs. Pagani is a new kid on the block that is all about theatricality, flamboyance and art. McLaren celebrated - with pride - their 50th anniversary as a racing team. 50 years is a long time, but the British firm has only created five road going cars thus far, and all five have been blockbusters in their own right. We have the iconic and legendary McLaren F1, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, the MP4-12 and 12C and now we have the long awaited and alien looking McLaren 'Designed by Air' P1. The McLaren P1, together with the Porsche 918 and LaFerrari, welcome the next generation of hypercars and motoring in general. They are from three different countries in one continent but they share a similarity - they are all hybrids. Unlike its predecessors, the McLaren F1, Porsche Carrera GT and Enzo Ferrari, they are not purely naturally aspirated. Each feature an electric motor of some sort to boost performance to an already capable internal combustion engine. http://dai.ly/x14g7to In the case of the P1, the futuristic looking vehicle is unlike anything I have ever seen. The aesthetics have time travelled 10-15 years from the future, combined with the technical limitations of today. It is powered by a substantially revised 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, coupled to a single electric motor, for a combined power output of 903bhp. Top speed is electronically limited to 350km/h, with the 0-100km/h standing start acceleration taking less than three seconds. The McLaren P1 will power from rest to 200km/h in less than seven seconds, and on to 300km/h in less than 17 seconds - a full five seconds quicker than the McLaren F1. Despite this, the P1 is also efficient with CO2 emissions less than 200g/km, and the ability to cover more than 10km in emissions free electric mode. Undergoing the final stages of testing before commencing on first customer deliveries soon, fellow self-confessed automotive and collector, Jay Leno, became the first man outside the development team at Woking, and Jenson Button, to drive the McLaren P1. The 12 minute video is pretty much split into two sections, a tour of the McLaren engineering centre that looks nothing short of a cathedral while the second part is Leno thrashing the all new hypercar on what I think is the Top Gear test track - who was gleaming with excitement every single minute of course. As mentioned at the start, I am not a fan of McLaren, but does that mean I should not be jealous? -
Audi unveils its entry level hairdryer through the A3 Cabriolet
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Based on the all new Audi A3 sedan, the Audi A3 Cabriolet makes its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car has grown from the preceding model, from 4,240mm to 4,420mm in length, with the wheelbase increased to 2,600mm. It also sits wider at 1,790mm, but stands shorter at 1,410mm. Additionally cargo load has increased by 60 litres to 287 litres. The A3 Cabriolet is around 50kg lighter than the previous model with a kerb weight of just over 1.3 tonnes. Like the saloon, the face of the Audi A3 Cabriolet is characterised by the single frame radiator grille, which is flanked by flat headlamp housings with either halogen or xenon bulbs. The headlamp clusters are highlighted by the signature monolithic daytime running lights -
Law enforcement teams, firefighters and medics across Europe are adopting the all electric Nissan Leaf as a key frontline emergency support vehicle. Emergency services in Portugal, France, U.K. and Switzerland have deployed Leafs as community support vehicles, with a number of other countries considering making the switch to battery power. The first force in the world to go electric was Portugal's PSP (Pol
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"What is the best car you've driven so far?" I always get asked this question whenever I am engaged in a conversation with my relatives or friends. Well, as a rookie in the industry, I haven't had the chance to try as many as other seniors have. My age notwithstanding. But what I can say for sure is that I don't have an absolute answer to the question but if you're interested, here is my two cents' worth. Firstly, every single car out there has its pros and cons, and in my dictionary, there is only near perfect. Same goes for us humans. And then it boils down to the personal preference about a car. You may love a Toyota 86 to bits, however, your other half may not like it because of the frequent 'get out to let others in' courtesy. Last but not least, on this hot and sunny island of ours, every single thing is helluva expensive. No, hold a second. Buying a car here is helluva expensive - if it ain't for the price, I may have gotten a wee bit nearer to having answered the question. Cars aside, one vehicle that I actually enjoy driving is a Suzuki Every. It is such an honest vehicle; it is just what it is - a van. Yes, the driveability may be like crap and powering it is only a mere 659cc engine but, seriously, who cares about the performance when all you need is a vehicle that allows you to get from point A to point B in a fuss-free manner? Heading to IKEA? No problem too, this 'kei' car can haul your furniture as easy as 1, 2, 3. Best of all, its compact size allows you to access cramped places easily, which is really common on this tiny red dot we call home. So what's the best car I've driven thus far again?
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Did Audi take two steps backwards just to go forward with the A8's design?
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Here is the 2014 Audi A8 facelift which, despite possessing some impressive technology, looks like an offering from the early 90s. It's sharp, boxy and bland. Compared to the all new S-Class or the 7 Series, the A8 looks really boring, although the MatrixBeam LED headlights are pretty impressive. The facelifted A8 comes from the same automaker that brought us sexy machines like the Quattro concept, the RSQ, R8, RS5 and so on. It actually looks like a rejected design piece from Bentley, to be honest. Or perhaps Audi had to tone down its design just so the Bentleys could look more 'exclusive'. Built around the lightweight aluminium Audi Space Frame, the A8 has been finessed by subtle resculpting of the bonnet, the single frame grille, the front bumper and the lower edge of the headlight units. At the rear, the design of the LED taillights have been revised and the bumpers in all models - except the S8 - incorporate two rhomboid tail pipes. New chrome elements, new high gloss black window surrounds and five new colours also mark out the updated car. Measuring 5,140mm in length, sitting 1,950mm wide and standing 1,460mm tall with a 2,990mm wheelbase - the A8 remains unchanged, while the 'stretched' model provides better rear leg room thanks to a 130mm extended wheelbase. The A8 can be powered by one of seven petrol and TDI engines, the majority of which have been revised to improve performance and efficiency. The supercharged 3.0-litre TFSI is boosted to 305bhp, while the twin-turbo 4.0-litre TFSI V8 has 429bhp. The 3.0-litre and 4.2-litre TDI oil burners, have 254bhp and 379bhp respectively. Paired with the renowned quattro all-wheel drive system, the 4.0-litre TFSI now throws the A8 from nought to 100km/h in a brisk 4.5 seconds. The power units in the facelifted A8 is not all about the Frank Martin pleasing performance though. When applicable, the Audi Cylinder-On-Demand (COD) system deactivates four of its eight cylinders to give priority to fuel economy. The most efficient diesel engine is the 3.0-litre TDI, which returns up to 20.36km/L, corresponding to 155g/km of CO2. The luxuriously equipped Audi A8 L W12 quattro is the range topper among the A8 lineup. The lightweight 6.3-litre power unit produces 493bhp. It boasts the best in-class combined fuel consumption of 10.2km/L, corresponding to 270g/km of CO2 emissions. The respectable efficiency rating is due in part to a newly adopted version of the COD system, which can deactivate the fuel injection and ignition for six cylinders. Meanwhile, the 512bhp capable S8 is powered by a 4.0-litre TFSI engine that propels the sports saloon from nought to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds. Equipped with the same COD technology, the S8 is capable of returning up to 11.9km/L and 235g/km of CO2 emissions. All A8 models are equipped with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission which transmits power to all four wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system in all six, eight and twelve-cylinder versions. The new Audi A8 is expected to reach customers here next year. Audi A8 Audi A8 L Audi S8 -
[extract] We should have all seen the new BMW M4 Concept by now and be awed by how handsome it is. We are sure it is going to be a great driver
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Fans of the 86 listen up. Rumour has it that Toyota is preparing a power boost for its popular 86 sports coupe. The Japanese brand has teased numerous concepts of its two-door cult car with upgraded engines, including a supercharged TRD version (above) built in the U.S.A and a twin-charged version (below) created by its in-house skunkworks Gazoo Racing. But those were designed to showcase the ability for aftermarket tuners and were not really suitable for mainstream production. Now, the Chief Engineer of the 86, Tetsuya Tada, has finally admitted that his team is developing a number of ways to increase performance of the showroom version - one of which will definitely make it to production when the 86 receives its mid-life upgrade in 2015. "I hope to make an engine upgrade at least one time with this car. We have already tried all possibilities and there are several types of 86 prototypes at the Toyota proving ground now; one is a turbocharger, one is bigger displacement and the other is a special hybrid system," said Tada. Tada did not divulge any further details, but inside sources claimed that the most likely option is an increase in displacement, bumping the 2.0-litre horizontally opposed engine up to a 2.5-litre and increasing power from 200bhp to around 260bhp. It is understood that this option would be the most cost-effective solution, which not only maintains the integrity of the lightweight concept but prevents placing additional stress on the drivetrain that a turbo charger would, or the complexity and weight penalty of a hybrid system. However, both alternatives are not being tested in vain, as they are likely to be introduced on the next generation 86. Either way, it is almost certain that the hybrid system Toyota is currently working on will make its way into the next generation 86. However, it is unlikely to be a conventional and heavy battery pack but rather a road-going development of the super capacitor system employed in its Le Mans sportscar racers, which are not only smaller and lighter but can store and deliver energy quicker for rapid bursts of acceleration. Come on Toyota! We certainly hope to see a more powerful 86.
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