Monday, June 26, 2006

Land Rover Freelander 2

More photos and details on the Land Rover Freelander 2. It will be available in Europe at the end of 2006, with prices starting from 30.000 €. Performance and engine data - 3.2 liters V6 gasoline engine outputting 233 ps, a 2.2 liters turbo-diesel with 160 ps.

Land Rover Freelander 2Land Rover Freelander 2 2Land Rover Freelander 2 3Land Rover Freelander 2 4Land Rover Freelander 2 5 The Freelander 2 will grow by 77 mm in length (4.50 meters), by 101 mm in width (1.91 m - 2.18 m with mirrors) and by 23 mm in height (1.82 or 1.74 m, depending on whether roof rails are present). The luggage comparment has a capacity of 755 liters.

The 4WD system is based on a Haldex multi-disk clutch. In optimal conditions, torque will be going almost exclusively to the front axle. When needed, the Haldex clutch will transfer torque to the rear axle. The response time is 150 ms, but the clutch can be "pre-loaded", thanks to the PreX system, already seen on the Volvo XC90.

The Freelander 2 will be available with alloy rims going from 16" to 19", (tyres from 215/75R16 to 235/55R19).

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

New Chrylser Sebring

This is Chrysler's effort to tempt Mondeo man - the new Sebring. Think of it as a scaled-down, less menacing version of the 300C.

chrysler sebring It's not due on sale in the UK until next year, but you can catch the first glimpse of the new car at next month's British motor show.

A choice of two engines will be available at launch - a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol with 172bhp and a 140bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel. US markets will also get more powerful V6 versions, but there's no word yet on whether we'll have the same pleasure.

Other headline features of the front-wheel-drive Sebring include a six-speed auto box and, crucially, a steering wheel on the right - which is what stopped previous versions of the Sebring making it to the UK. That, and the fact that it was a little bit too, well, American.

This new car looks much nearer the mark, though, and we expect to be able to tell you more about it once the covers are lifted in London next month.

One rumour worth listening to in the meantime is the potential arrival of a two-door Sebring with a folding metal roof. The convertible version of the old Sebring was a massive seller in the US, so it's not hard to imagine such a model being put into production.

Chrysler's British motor show stand will also feature the Dodge Nitro concept (due in the UK next year), plus Jeep Commander, Chrysler PT Cabrio, Chrysler 300C Touring and Dodge Caliber.

© Source: original article on topgear.com

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Lotus Europa S - available in september for 50.000 €

Lotus has announced that the new Europa S mid-engined coupe Grand Tourer will be available starting from September 16th 2006 in European markets.
lotuslotus 2lotus 3lotus 4 Prices for what Lotus calls a "Business Class driving experience" will be 32,995 £ in England and 42,100 € (before taxes) in Continental Europe, which translates in a recommended retail price that goes from 49,100 € in Germany to 50,600 € in France, all the way up to 66,603 € in the Netherlands (!). The only options will be the Metallic Paint and Lifestyle Paint finishes.

Recommended retail prices for other countries in Europe and non-European countries will be issued shortly. However, please note that the Europa S will not be sold in North America (USA and Canada).

About the Lotus Europa S:

The new Lotus Europa S, a Grand Tourer (GT) inspired two-seater, will provide Lotus customers a spectacular sportscar with significantly enhanced levels of touring and cruising capability, as well as higher levels of comfort and refinement to complement the simplicity of the Lotus Elise and Exige models.

The Europa S follows the core Lotus philosophy of performance through light weight, enabling this refined and high-performing GT car to weigh a mere 995 kg, making it class - leading in this respect. This low weight has been obtained through the clever use of advanced and high-tech
materials including an extruded and bonded aluminium chassis, composite body panels and a very advanced composite energy absorbing front crash structure.

When compared to the award-winning Lotus Elise, the Europa S has a larger boot / luggage compartment and easier cabin access, resulting from lower chassis sides and a higher roof line. Combined with a full leather interior, Satellite Navigation and driver and passenger airbags all as standard, Lotus has created it's interpretation of a "Business Class" driving experience, which remains true to the Company's design philosophy.

The new mid-engine coupe will deliver high levels of performance from a high torque (272 Nm or 200 lbft at 5000 rpm) 2.0-litre turbo engine producing 147 kW (197 hp or 200 PS) at 5400rpm.

The Lotus Europa S achieves around 90% of its maximum torque at only 2000 rpm to give class-leading levels of acceleration from low engine speeds, propelling the car from 0 - 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds (0 - 60 mph in 5.6 seconds), and 160 km/h (100 mph) in 13.6 seconds.

Maximum speed is 240 km/h (150 mph). Being a Lotus, the Europa S has a competitive power to weight ratio of 198 hp / tonne (205 PS / tonne or 148 kW / tonne).

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

Monday, June 19, 2006

Nissan Micra C+C now shifts itself

Nissan is going automatic for the people - at least for the people who buy its Micra C+C coupe-convertible.

The pint-sized drop-top is now available with a four-speed automatic gearbox when you choose the 1.6-litre petrol engine.

It's available in Sport and Essenza trims and prices start at ££14,895, which is £900 more than the manual gearbox version.

© Source: original article on topgear.com

107.300 euros for the Mercedes SLK 55 AMG "400"

So, Mercedes officially announces the souped-up version of the SLK 55 AMG. A few numbers: +40 hp, +10 Nm, -45 kg, +42.000 €.

Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMGMercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG 2Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG 3 Yes, the V8 engine now outputs 400 hp / 520 Nm. Yes, they did use carbon fiber in the hardtop (and in a few other places in the body) and thow away the folding roof mechanism, thus saving 45 kg and lowering the centre of gravity. Yes, they gave it a much more aggressive look. And, finally, yes, it now accelerates in 4.5 seconds from 0-100 km/h (-0.4 seconds) and from 0-200 km/h in 15.5 seconds (-2 seconds).

Performance, driving dynamics and lightweight construction in perfection: With 294 kW/400 hp: exclusive, puristic special series of the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG

Affalterbach, Jun 09, 2006
As the only eight-cylinder roadster in its segment the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG provides unique driving experience. The two-seater is now even more sporty: Mercedes AMG has developed an exclusive and distinctly puristic special series which sets new standards in driving dynamics. With the AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine enhanced to 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Newton metres, numerous lightweight construction components, carbon hardtop, 19-inch AMG forged wheels, AMG height-adjustable torsion sports suspension and AMG high-performance composite brake system the special SLK 55 AMG demonstrates even more convincingly its sports talent – and makes a good figure on any closed course.

Wide, stocky and low slung – the first impression already makes it clear that the SLK 55 AMG is something very special. The front of the car fascinates with the restyled AMG front apron with large air intakes which supply the additional transmission oil cooler and the high-performance steering gear oil cooler with sufficient fresh air. New side air outlets of black carbon ensure an effective flow through of the larger engine oil cooler. The front fenders which are now wider are made of the ultra-light carbon-fibre-reinforced-plastic (CRP) and have black out-lined air outlets.

The non-retractable hardtop of the two-seater is also made of CRP; the black central part with carbon fibre structure provides attractive optical effects. Dis-carding of the vario roof and the complete roof hydraulics has not only enabled a lowering of the centre of gravity, but has also resulted in a notable reduction of weight – the puristic special series of the SLK 55 AMG is with a curb weight of 1,495 kg according to EC standard 45 kg lighter than the basic vehicle. This means that the power/weight ratio has improved from 4.3 to 3.7 kg/hp.

AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm torque

Appropriate to the optimised weight there is a redeveloped AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine under the bonnet with a maximum performance of 294 kW/400 hp, as well as a 520 Newton metres torque. A modified air intake, AMG sports air filter as well as newly developed fan-type exhaust pipes provide an efficient gas cycle and enable that the eight-cylinder reacts more promptly to accelerator pedal movement – which is acoustically noticeable due to the unmistakable V8 sound. The combination of a lower vehicle weight and a high-performance AMG eight-cylinder engine guarantees first-class driving performance: the acceleration from zero to 100 km/h requires only 4.5 seconds (standard vehicle: 4.9 secs.), after 15.5 seconds the SLK 55 AMG already achieves 200 km/h (standard vehicle 17.5 secs.). Power transmission is supplied by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC with manual drive program and AMG aluminium shift paddles on the steering wheel. The chassis and brake system are the ideal partners for the dynamic drive package. For example, the AMG height-adjustable torsion suspension, including adjustable shock absorbers, which has been optimised on the racetrack, allows amazing cornering speed. A brace in the engine compartment provides additional rigidity and more lateral dynamics. The special series SLK 55 AMG has ultra-light AMG forged light alloy-wheels with mixed-size tyres in sizes 235/35 ZR 19 (front) and 265/30 ZR 19 (rear) – as an alternative, optional special sports tyres are available without extra charge. Perfect deceleration is guaranteed by the AMG high-performance brake system with larger composite discs on the front axle.

Interior functional atmosphere of a real racing car

The racing design is consistently continued in the interior: two specially developed AMG sport bucket seats without side airbags in black pearl velour with silver AMG logo offer the best lateral support, the new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel in leather and Alcantara enables perfect control of the vehicle. Ample carbon fibre on the door panel lining as well as on the trim parts give the interior the functional atmosphere of a real racing car – and are an affirmation of the almost 40 years of Mercedes-AMG motorsport history.

Despite potential racetrack driving dynamics the special SLK 55 AMG has all the virtues typical of any Mercedes-Benz car: everyday suitability, safety, durability, quality and standards of service for the most demanding requirements. The first models of the unlimited AMG special series will be supplied to customers as of July. The price in Germany is 107,300 euros (incl. 16% VAT).

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Peugeot shows off 907 coupe

Peugeot's swoopy coupe concept car will be making its first UK appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

peugeot 907peugeot 907 2The Peugeot 907 coupe is home to a 6.0-litre V12 engine with 500bhp, which will help it power up Goodwood's famous hillclimb as part of the Supercar Run on the Saturday and Sunday of the festival.

Built from carbon fibre, the body integrates the windscreen and glass roof into the shell for the smoothest possible shape.

There are wings in the front- and rear-quarter panels to help keep the 907 pinned to the ground, while a retractable rear spoiler means the car is stable at speed and looks good when parked.

The 907 will never be made into a production model, but its styling already influences Peugeot's models.

© Source: original article on topgear.com

Maybach 62

Motoring refinement at the highest level
World premiere of the new Maybach

Maybach 62Maybach 62 2Maybach 62 3
Specifications:

Engine: 5.5 Liter 12 Cylinder
Weight: 6128.85 lbs
Aspiration: Twin Turbochargers
Torque: 663.8 lb-ft @ 2300-3000 rpm
HP: 550 @ 5250 rpm
HP/Weight: 11.14 lbs per hp
HP/Liter: 100 hp per liter
0-62 mph: 5.4 seconds
Top Speed: 155.34 mph

© Source: original article on seriouswheels.com

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Three-door Civic on its way

Honda is turning the British motor show into a three for all.

honda civichonda civic 2Rounding off its edgy new Civic range is the three-door model, which goes on sale in July.

Also on the Honda stand at the London-based show will be the new Legend luxury saloon.

The new Legend is a technology fest and includes braking that can predict an accident and apply the brakes to help avoid the situation.

For race fans, Honda's 'View Suspended' Formula One car will also be on display.

© Source: original article on topgear.com

Will the next Maserati Coupè look like this ?

Found on the net, a scan from an unnamed american magazine, with rendering of how the next, Maserati Coupe could look like.

maserati 2007They talk about a 4.5 liters V8 engine with 500 cavalli, but what we heard is that the engine should be the new 4.7 liters / 470 cv that has been under development for a while.

All doubts should be resolved in some months' time, however: the Coupe is expected next year.

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

Monday, June 12, 2006

Nissan at Goodwood: 350Z GT-S and Murano GT-C

Nissan is going to present a couple of very interesting concept cars at the Goodwood festival of speed: the SUV Murano GT-C and the coupe Nissan 350Z GT-S
Both feature a turbocharged version of their 3.5-liter V6 engines. The 350Z GT-S goes up from 300 to 380 ps, the brakes are upgraded while a body-kit will make it more aggressive, with better deportance at high speed and better brake cooling.

In the Murano GT-C the engine goes from 234 to 350 ps, keeping the 4WD system and the CVT gearbox, while suspensions will be firmer and the ride lower. A rear spoiler and the alloy rims will be 22", the size de-riguer for tuned-SUVs.

While waiting for official photos, we can only lament the fact that no production versions are expected (at the moment).

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

Thursday, June 8, 2006

Lotus Elise S - the new entry-level

Lotus is back with an entry level Elise that is set to propel the Hethel based sports car manufacturer further up the sales charts. The loss of the K series engine had temporarily created a hole in Lotus' portfolio and its disappearance from the range was not good news for Pure sportscar lovers right across the globe.

lotus elise slotuslotus elise s 3 The challenge of 'plugging the gap' has now been spectacularly addressed with the launch of the new Lotus Elise S - a car that will cover 0-100 km/h in a very impressive 6.3 seconds, yet sell for below EUR36.000 in lower-tax countries.

Lotus has shoehorned in a high technology 1.8-litre 136 PS Variable Valve Timing Toyota engine, which perfectly complements the phenomenal handling characteristics of the Lotus Elise. This delivers a cracking new entry-level car, capable of taking you from 0 - 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 205km/h, law permitting!

As the new entry-level car, the Elise S may not be the fastest or quickest Elise in the range, but the acceleration, performance and handling is class leading in its price bracket and belies the cost and real substance engineered into the new vehicle - what other roadster at this price can
reach 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds? For the sake of comparison, a 2.0 litre MX-5 reaches the same speed in 7.9 seconds (Source Mazda Germany website June 06)

Add this to one of the lowest depreciation rates of any car in the market and the purchase of the new Elise S becomes one of the soundest retail propositions to be found.

The Lotus Elise S is built around the revolutionary and award winning extruded and bonded aluminium chassis, with a lightweight steel rear subframe. The chassis itself weighs just 68 kg and has a stiffness of 9,500 Nm per degree.

The body design remains unchanged from the classic 192 PS Lotus Elise R (with the launch of the Elise S, the Elise 111r will become known as the Elise R) - why change the award-winning aerodynamic package and an elegant Lotus design just for the sake of it?

The car's standard specification will also delight, as nothing has been removed from the car to undermine the real value for money proposition afforded by Lotus' new 'firecracker'.

The full Lotus Elise option menu is also available on Elise S, with the exception of a limited slip differential, ensuring the new car is easy to personalize to a customer's individual requirements and preferences.

© Source: original article on eurocarblog.com

2006 Maserati MC12 Corsa

Maserati announces the production of the MC12 Corsa, a build-to-order supercar for a very selected number of Maserati clients who will enjoy the possibility to test their driving capability in the most exclusive gentlemen drivers' environment.

Maserati MC12 CorsaMaserati MC12 CorsaMaserati MC12 Corsa The MC12 Corsa has been developed from the MC12 GT1 type which won the 2005 FIA GT Manufacturers Cup. It will be used exclusively on track during private test sessions - or exhibition activities organised by Maserati. It will not be homologated for road use or for any racing activity.

The Maserati MC12 Corsa - living testimony of Maserati's ability to individually tailor make specially produced cars of the highest technological content - will be on sale at the price of 1,000,000 Euros (plus tax) starting from next Autumn. Available in the official Maserati "Blue Victory" color, it can be personalized upon request with several option items, starting from a different color upon request by the client.

Total production of the Maserati MC12 Corsa will not exceed 12 units worldwide.

Technical data:

Chassis: carbon-fiber monocoque
Gearbox: Cambiocorsa
Brakes: Brembo steel and carbon (no ABS)
Front Rim: 18'' race version
Rear Rim: 18'' race version
Front Tyres: 14x18
Rear Tyres: 14x18
Interior: 2 seats - race version
Roll-bar: yes
Engine: V12
Capacity: 6,0
Power output: 755/8000
Dry weight (Kg): 1.150
Weigth/power ratio (Kg/Hp): 1,52
Units: 12+3
Price: 1.000.000 euro + Tax
Road homologation: No

© Source: original article on seriouswheels.com

Peugeot 206 gets a makeover

Either the Peugeot 206 is nearing the end of its life or the French have become a nation of chavs.
peugeot 206peugeot 206 2Witness the Peugeot 206 Sport accessories range: how to turn an unsuspecting 206 into a car that looks like it's been driven through a downmarket car parts store while covered in glue.

Among the delicacies on offer are 17in alloy wheels, a bonnet top grille designed to attract attention to itself, and Sports rear lights, although how they're supposed to make the car faster we're not sure.

We're not sure we want to know. If, on the other hand, you do, visit your local Peugeot dealer and he will show the four options packs ranging in price from £329 to an amazing £1,349.

© Source: original article on topgear.com

Monday, June 5, 2006

Volvo launches diesel C70

We gave the sneaky warning that Volvo was introducing a diesel engine to the C70 range a couple of weeks back.

volvo c70volvo c70 2And now here are the prices:
The C70 D5 will start at £29,420 for the Sport model, with SE and SE Lux versions costing £30,670 and £33,170 respectively.

The diesel C70 uses a 178bhp version of the Swedish firm's 2.4-litre five-cylinder engine and comes with an automatic gearbox, although a six-speed manual 'box is set to follow later in the year.

Performance from the diesel engine is respectable and 0-62mph is covered in 8.8 seconds, while the C70 D5 turns in 38.7mpg combined economy.

Volvo expects a third of all C70 buyers to plump for the diesel, which is on sale now.

© Source: original article ontopgear.com

Thursday, June 1, 2006

Skoda announces Roomster prices

Skoda has announced prices for its new Roomster and they're as down to Earth as the car itself.

skoda roomsterskoda roomster 2skoda roomster 3 Sales of the Roomster start in September in the UK and prices begin at £9,920. That will buy you the Level 1 1.2-litre 12v model.

There are also 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines on offer, while turbodiesel buyers are catered for with a brace of 1.4-litre turbodiesels and a 1.9 unit.

The trims are also kept simple, with Levels 1, 2 and 3 to choose from.

In keeping with its name, the Roomster offers plenty of interior space, and the boot capacity can stretch from 450 litres to a sizeable 1,780 litres.

The three rear seats can be removed individually, and the outer two can also slide back and forth and from side to side to create ample space for two adults to sit in the rear.

Skoda has aimed to keep prices affordable for its new MPV and the range is topped off with the £14,050 Level 3 1.9 TDi model.

© Source: original article on topgear.com