Tuesday, March 31, 2009
New York Auto Show Debut: All New Subaru Legacy Sedan
Subaru is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Legacy (Liberty) sedan with the unveiling of the all-new fifth-generation model next week at the New York Auto Show. Subaru is renowned for its love-or-loathe approach to designing cars, as seen in the frequent revisions to its Impreza line over the years, but the styling of the new Legacy is nowhere near as controversial though we’re sure it will leave opinions divided.
But some of the familiar stuff includes boxer engines and Subaru's symmetrical AWD. For the US market, which introduces the Legacy at dealer level soon after the show, three engines will be available. The first is a naturally-aspirated 2.5i. It produces 170hp (125kW) and 170 lb-ft (230Nm) of torque. Transmission options are a 6-speed manual and the new Subaru Lineartronic CVT. Up ahead is a 2.5GT turbo with 265hp (195kW) and 258 lb-ft (350Nm) of torque. Only the 6-speed manual is available on the GT. Subaru says this transmission is 25kg lighter than the previous one. Lastly the 3.6R with a 5-speed automatic replaces the old 3.0-litre. It makes 256hp (188kW) and 247 lb-ft (335Nm) maximum torque.
A distinctive wing-shape embellishment on the front grille shows the Subaru brand identity, and the front bumper designs accentuate flat horizontal surfaces. Embellished with solidly-designed headlamps, the front face of the Legacy is intended to be 'bold and powerful'. The cabin's dynamic design and a shorter deck give the vehicle what Subaru calls 'a sporty appeal', while the size and power of the vehicle are expressed in the rear-end design, which is rounded and capacious and framed by the combination lights.
The base Legacy engine is 2.5L unit, which is rated at 170hp (127kW) and 170lb-ft (230Nm) of torque, and this is followed by a 265hp (197kW) and 258lb-ft (350Nm) turbocharged version of the same engine for the Legacy 2.5GT. Filling out the range is the Legacy 3.6R model, which comes with a 256hp (191kW) and 247lb-ft (334Nm) of torque 3.6L engine.
Some of the interior features available are an electronic parking brake, a 10-way driver's seat and a new three-spoke steering wheel. Safety features installed include ABS with EBD, an electronic hill holder system and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).
via:motorauthority
Other article:
Rendered Speculation: New York-bound 2010 Subaru Legacy
Subaru Diesel for Legacy and Outback
Geneva Motor Show: EDAG Light Car Concept
Next Generation Porshe Boxster Spy Photos
Late last year Porsche unveiled its updated Boxster and Cayman range and there are still several other models based on the same Boxster/Cayman platform in the works. One of these is a high-performance RS model, recently seen testing at Germany’s Nurburgring, and another is a chopped 'Speedster' model.
However, development of the next-generation model is also well underway and images of a prototype for the car have once again surfaced. This time the prototype has been spotted on its way to Germany’s Nurburging circuit for some high-speed testing.
It's hard to tell if this is a subtly changed design or if, as with previously-spied 2011 Boxsters, this prototype wears the sheet metal of the current car to disguise its new lines. The mismatched taillights reveal that there's something different going under the surface. These clear-weather photos hint at revised bumper contours, but as with the previous shots of this car there's not much to go on.
A rumor alleging that Porsche insiders are talking about a lightweight, turbocharged four-cylinder platform for the next-gen Boxster recently began making the rounds.
via:motorauthority
Other article:
Porsche Boxster en Cayman gefacelift
Porsche Boxster 2011
Four-Cylinder Porsche Boxster Coming in 2011
Porsche Speedster
2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG sedan released official photos
Mercedes has taken the wraps off the new range-topping E-class: the E63 AMG.
Despite talk from within AMG about ending the horsepower war between German car makers, this new model has more power than the car it replaces — although at 11bhp, it’s a modest gain.
The standard car comes wearing 18-inch AMG alloys with size 255/40 front and 285/35 rear tyres. There is an optional 19-inch rim available. In terms of exterior cosmetics the big AMG gets LED daytime running lights, a more aggressive front spoiler, a rear diffuser and four tailpipes as per current AMG standard issue.
To improve handling, the E63 AMG has been fitted with a newly developed front axle with more negative camber, a 56mm wider track, new control arms, a tubular stabiliser and revised wheel bearings. The rear axle also has extra negative camber and a new subframe mounting for greater stability on the limit.
It is expected that the new E63 AMG sedan will go on sale in the UK in September. It is also expected that the public will get first live glimpse at the 2009 New York International Auto Show next week.
More Photos
Other article:
New Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
New York Auto Show: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG
Continues Testing:Mercedes E63 AMG Prototype
Mercedes-Benz ConceptFASCINATION
Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series by Kleeman
Renntech Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
Kicherer Tunes the Mercedes CLK63 AMG Black Edition
Mercedes CLK 63 AMG Black Series Revealed
Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
Nürburgring: Audi RS3 Mule First Spy Photos
According to a recent report, Michael Dick, a member of Audi's board of management for technical development has stated that the company is considering building a new RS3 – and here’s the first pictures that prove the car is in fact rolling. We snapped a mule of Audi’s future pocket-rocket testing at the Nürburgring.
First unveiled in the upcoming TT-RS, the RS3's 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine utilises a turbo to force out 250kW (340hp) and 450Nm of torque through the quattro AWD system. Anticipating that the RS3's weight will be almost the same as the TT-RS, we think it's safe to use the TT-RS's performance specs as the standard of comparisson here. The 0 - 100km/h dash should be achieved in about 4.6 seconds and an optional unlimited top speed will be 280 km/h (173.98 mph). This kind of performance is approaching RS4 territory but at a considerably lower price.
The car spotted has S3 badges, but we can already see larger air intakes in the front bumper.
Power will very likely come from Audi’s 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine, that develops 340 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque.
Same engine is under the new TT RS. We expect RS3 to hit 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in around 4.6 seconds while the top speed is around 288 km/h (179 mph)
Stay tuned, as we will be seeing more test mules with new details in the near future.
via:evo.co.uk
Other article:
Upcoming Audi RS3 powered by the turbo engine found on TT-RS
Driven: 2009 Audi S5 vs. 1985 Audi Ur quattro
Audi to be Featured Marque at Goodwood Festival of Speed
Rumormill: Audi TT RS, RS5 coming Stateside
Monday, March 30, 2009
Rumour: Dacia SUV to Resemble Nissan Qashqai
After we have announced, exclusively, that Dacia has already started production of parts and components for future SUV model, ready for release this toamana, Masini.ro information returns with the first.
Sources within the company Dacia we have said that the first SUV model in the history of the company will borrow a number of elements on the Nissan Qashqai. So, the new compact SUV Dacia will draw on the Qashqai and will stylistic elements and dimensions of the Nissan model.
In addition, the model also Qashqai Dacia SUV will be available in a version with 7 seats. This is not just a producer for the first novel, the MCV is available in a version with 7 seats.
According to our sources, who wished to remain anonymous, Dacia will prepare a big surprise to design new SUV. These design concept Duster, which will find place in the style of the new Dacia model.
Last week, several publications have provided a Romanian series of spy images that had the new Dacia SUV crash test in Sweden. Photos was easy to notice that Dacia test chassis future model, in case the vehicle found a simple test is Logan. Consequently, the future is worth mentioned that model SUV will not use the Logan platform.
Furthermore, our sources have revealed to us that the new Dacia SUV will not have any connection with Sandero Stepway.
Source: masini.ro
Other article:
Sandero's Advertising Video Shows Car Maker’s Dream
Dacia Confirms the Production of a New SUV
Renault lineup for Geneva - including new concept and Laguna GT
Dacia Logan Rendering & Spy Photos
Spy Photos: Opel Insignia OPC in Blue - Clearest
Opel is alleged to be including Brembo brakes so the driver can handle all the additional muscle. The supposedly four-wheel drive car has circled the Nürburgring in just over eight minutes.
The Opel Performace Centre (OPC) vehicle will have some unique badging to identify the sporting heritage. Black tape is conveniently used to cover up the identifying characteristics in these pics. The last performance car from the outfit was the 2.8-liter V6 turbo Opel Vectra with 255 hp. Rumor has it the OPC could get power in the low 300 horsepower range.
Check this out: more spy pics of the Opel Insignia OPC. The car has been spotted, mostly uncovered, on several other occasions. However, instead of being captured in black or white, the vehicle was captured in blue.
More Photos
Other article:
Spy Shots: Fiery new Insignia VXR uncovered
Geneva preview: Opel Ampera Spied Completely Uncovered
Vauxhall's hot new Insignia performance car previewed by Opel OPC
Opel Insignia Leaked
New York Auto Show: Acura ZDX Luxury Four-Door Sport Coupe
Acura announced it will debut a prototype of the all-new ZDX luxury four-door sport coupe at the New York International Auto Show. The prototype features striking coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility to define a new luxury category.
"The ZDX prototype is unlike anything you have ever seen before from Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president, Acura sales. "The prototype showcases a new level of luxury, style and refinement for Acura and speaks volumes towards our commitment to advancing the brand."
The production version of the ZDX prototype will bring a new level of prestige to the Acura lineup when it arrives at dealerships this fall and offer the latest advancements in performance, technology and safety.
The ZDX prototype will be introduced at the New York International Auto Show on April 8, 2009 at 11:00 am in the Acura booth.
Source: Acura via:jalopnik
Other article:
Spied;New X6 from Acura
Audi TT roadster will appear in Leipzig
Golf GTD, diesel GTi version
Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport
The Clio has been sold as the Renault Lutecia in Japan. A four-door sedan was developed for certain markets where sedans are traditionally preferred over hatchbacks and was sold under names Renault Clio Symbol, Renault Clio Sedan and Renault Thalia. It is also sold under the Nissan nameplate in some Latin American markets as the Nissan Platina.
The all-new second generation of the Clio was launched in the spring of 1998, with considerably more rounded and bulbous styling than its predecessor. Part of the radical concept of the new Clio were many components made of unusual materials to save in weight and repair costs. For instance, the front fenders were made of plastic and the material of the hood was aluminium in some versions. Originally the engine lineup was similar to before, with 1.2 L, 1.4 L and 1.6 L gasoline engines and a 1.9 L diesel. In early 1999, a sportive 16V version equipped with a new 1.6 L 16-valve engine was introduced, and eventually, all the older gasoline engines were upgraded to more powerful and more economical 16-valve versions.
In 1999, Renault launched the 172 hp Clio RS (short for Renault Sport), named Clio Renault Sport 172, with a 2.0 L 16-valve engine and a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). But in this form, the car is capable of surprisingly good handling and performance. The top-of-the-range Clio however was the exotic mid-engined, rear-wheel drive Clio V6 Renault Sport, which placed a 166 kW (230 hp) 3.0 L V6 engine sourced from the Renault Laguna behind the front seats, with a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).
Clio II facelift
A facelift in the spring of 2001 saw the exterior restyled, the interior quality improved and a 1.5 L direct-injection diesel engine added. The Clio 172 was also facelifted and a lightened more focused version was also added to the range, known as the 172 Cup. The 172 later received a further upgrade to 182 bhp, becoming the Renaultsport Clio 182, the Clio 182 Cup, and finally a top-of-the-range ultimate eversion called the Clio 182 Trophy. The Trophy has been heralded as one of the best hot hatches of all time. Only 500 were made for the UK (and a handful for Switzerland). The main difference between the Trophy and the normal 182 and 182 Cup is the race-engineered suspension that affords the Trophy handling unparalled in its market. Renault also produced the Clio v6, which looks like its on steroids compared to the 182, the V6 has a 255bhp 24v 3.0 liter enginer with a 0 - 62.5 speed of 5.8sec and a top speed of 153mph. Renault decided to keep selling the Clio II until 2008; the Clio II is sold alongside with the Clio III; but with a smaller price and known as the Clio Campus. In 2006 this model was facelifted with a restyled front and rear. The number plate moves from boot (or trunk) to bumber.
More pictures and wallpapers of Renault Clio V6