NICE CARS AROUND THE WORLD - WORK OF MASTERPIECE
A new Audi R8, by the end of 2008
With all these fires and crashes of Audi’s super car, the R8, it’s curious to know how interested would be those rich guys to buy the new one, which will be much more powerful. Evo Magazinegot an interview with Audi and found out more about it. Apparently the biggest upgrade will be on the engine side, which is now a V10 that sports 520-bhp inspired from Audi’s RS4 V8 engine.
Sounds like a good idea but I’m sure if I would like to see a convertible before a more powerful new R8. Time will tell if they took the right path.
Lamborghini LB715-5 & 83X May Appear in Paris
The Paris Motor Show may have two new models from Lamborghini gracing the occasion. The news is based on a schedule that is said to have been obtained from Lamborghini, which gives details of a series of meetings that are set to take place with US dealers.
Reportedly, two models will be unveiled – the Lamborghini LB715-5 and the Lamborghini 83X. The LB715-5 is supposedly a Murcielago replacement that is using a V12 engine and delivers between 715 and 825 horsepower (533 to 615 kW). Some sources say it uses Austrian firm Carbo Tech’s carbon-fiber tub.
As for the other model, there are rumors that the 83X will take over for the Gallardo; others say it could be a competing with the Ferrari 599 GTB.
It is understood that at the Paris Show, the company will be trying to focus attention on the 83X – which has one hour allotted to it, according to the leaked schedule; as compared to just 25 minutes for the LB715-5.
More details are expected to come out after a possible Lamborghini dealer meeting that is set to take place on the 23rd of September.
Regardless of whether this materializes, there will be concrete details for sure on September 30th, when the Paris Motor Show begins.
Lamborghini Jota Prototypes Spotted
Two Lamborghini’s Jota prototypes were spied at the Nurburgring circuit. One of them sported a rear spoiler – which is likely to be the Superlegga variant; the other prototype was without a spoiler.
Reports say that the prototypes were put into trucks and carted back to Italy, even though this week was set aside for testing. This has given rise to speculation that there may be more work remaining to be completed on the models. But the fact that the prototypes appear to have gone through both the hot weather as well as winter testing phases, seems to indicate that it will make an appearance without too much delay.
Set to replace the Murcielago, the Jota sits a little lower than its predecessor, and weighs a bit less too. This lighter quality has been achieved due to the aluminum space frame that the Jota has and the carbon fiber body components.
A direct-injection V12 of around 700 horsepower hooked up to a Haldex all-wheel drive system powers the Jota. Reports say that design influences have come from the Estoque and Reventon.
2012 Jaguar XF-R Spy Shots Surface
Super hot spy shots have been obtained of the face lifted 2012 Jaguar XF-R. The model has only been on the market for a year, and yet has been picked for a facelift by the company.
The next XF-R and XF models will have as new addition light-clusters and bumpers that are similar to the new XJ model- which seems to be setting a new design paradigm for the legendary brand. The spy photos reveal that the camouflage that is on specifically covers up the new elements of the car.
It is very likely that XF-R’s supercharged 5.0 liter V8 power plant will be the same, providing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS). This could power the vehicle up to 225 mph (362 km/h), but the XF-R has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
There are no details on when the new XF-R will be out, but sources say it will probably be a 2012 model.
Porsche 911 Speedster Details Released
The first details of the Porsche 911 Speedster have been released a week ahead of the Paris Motor Show. The vehicle has been designed to mark the celebration of Porsche Exclusive’s 25th anniversary.
The 911 Speedster is a convertible with an aerodynamic body kit, black accents, and tinted headlights. Available in Pure Blue paint and also at no extra cost in Carrara White, the car has a double-bubble soft-top cover that camouflages the manual roof.
The interior is resplendent with black leather upholstery, adaptive sports seats, and color-coordinated trim. Powered by a 3.8-liter flat six engine with 408 PS (300 kW / 402 hp), which powers the rear wheels through a seven-speed PDK transmission and a locking rear differential, the car also boasts of active suspension management and ceramic composite brakes.
The 911 Speedster is priced at €201,682 (including Germany’s 19% VAT), and the company says that production will be limited to 356 units.
source: http://www.carblog.co.za/
2009 NEW VOLKSWAGEN SCIROCCO @ GENEVA
Volkswagen released the first official details on the new Volkswagen Scirocco that will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
The German automaker will be premiering an array of models at the Geneva Motor Show 2008. The highlight of Volkswagen’s showcase will be the completely re-engineered Scirocco, an all-round sports car. The Volkswagen Scirocco is based on the Iroc concept (photo) from 2006. The Volkswagen Scirocco will have a choice between four TDI and TSI engines with power figures ranging from 90 kW / 122 PS to 147 kW / 200 PS. The Volkswagen Scirocco price will start at around 20,000 pounds.
The designers of the third generation of the Scirocco unmistakably designed it to be a pure sports car. Different than the original Scirocco of the 1970s, and the second generation introduced in the 1980s, the new car offers substantially greater interior space. That is because – in contrast to its two predecessors – the Scirocco of the year 2008 does not have a sloping hatchback, but a wagon back with matching long roof and steep tailgate.
This offers two distinct advantages. First: the Scirocco exhibits very crisp proportions. Especially when viewed from the rear, it immediately becomes apparent that the 1.80 meter long roof with its lateral arrays of windows stands on very wide and powerful shoulder sections. So the Scirocco gets a waist that is flawlessly cut right from sports car principles. Second: The new model also has space in the rear for two adults plus sufficient luggage. All things considered, the progressively styled Scirocco combines a high level of everyday utility with a classy design.
Scirocco - Design and dimensions
The crisp dimensions of the new sports car also speak with a clear language. The Scirocco with its short overhangs exploits its wheelbase of 2,578 millimeters efficiently for maximum space. The Volkswagen is 1,400 millimeters tall, exactly 4,256 millimeters long and 1,810 millimeters wide.
The crisp dimensions of the new sports car also speak with a clear language. The Scirocco with its short overhangs exploits its wheelbase of 2,578 millimeters efficiently for maximum space. The Volkswagen is 1,400 millimeters tall, exactly 4,256 millimeters long and 1,810 millimeters wide.
Front end
The front end of the Scirocco displays a completely new Volkswagen design language. On the one hand, it preserves historical elements, while simultaneously taking a great leap forward. The radiator grille and bumper are characterized by a dynamic that is timeless and impressive. Technically, the front end concept also fulfills Volkswagen’s stringent requirements for pedestrian protection.
The front end of the Scirocco displays a completely new Volkswagen design language. On the one hand, it preserves historical elements, while simultaneously taking a great leap forward. The radiator grille and bumper are characterized by a dynamic that is timeless and impressive. Technically, the front end concept also fulfills Volkswagen’s stringent requirements for pedestrian protection.
Stylistically, the upper area of the Scirocco’s front end is dominated primarily by horizontal lines. Spanning the area between the prominent dual headlamps is a very narrow air inlet in luxurious black. Beneath this is a very clearly designed area in car color. This narrow double band of the black radiator grille and bumper painted in car color, defined by sharp lines, will be used to identify other new models in the future.
In the lower section of the front end, the image is marked by a central air inlet in black with its diamond-shaped pattern, and to its left and right the integrated turn signal and fog lamps. Incidentally, besides the New Beetle, the Scirocco is the only other Volkswagen to sport the VW emblem, not on the radiator grille, but on the engine hood instead.
Side profile
If you run your hand, first over one of the headlamps, then over the fender and a door, you will notice that the profile curves alternate in direction. Depending on the perspective and incident light, these transitions on the sides of the car give it the appearance of a moving muscle. The powerful image is reinforced by the standard 17-inch wheels, which – due to the large track width (front 1,569, rear 1,575 millimeters) – are practically flush with the body.
If you run your hand, first over one of the headlamps, then over the fender and a door, you will notice that the profile curves alternate in direction. Depending on the perspective and incident light, these transitions on the sides of the car give it the appearance of a moving muscle. The powerful image is reinforced by the standard 17-inch wheels, which – due to the large track width (front 1,569, rear 1,575 millimeters) – are practically flush with the body.
Furthermore, it is the hidden B-pillar, the line of windows that rises steeply toward the rear, and the conspicuously striking C-pillar that – together with the long roof line that appears to be endless – convey a very unique presence and dynamics. In the rear area, an integrated roof spoiler offers another plus in dynamics and additional downforce at the rear axle. Set in very clear counterpoint are the sculpturally shaped taillights that are also eye-catching and prominent from the side view.
Rear end
The sculptural form of the wide taillights is most apparent when viewed from the rear. Here, the car’s character is defined by the ratio of proportions between the roof and shoulder section and thereby the car’s waist. It is sharply contoured, since the roof runs significantly narrower than the overall body. These stylistic traits produce a design typical of a very powerful and significantly more expensive sports car. In any case, the really wide track actually looks even wider than it is. From the rear, the C pillars cannot be made out, since the rear window extends across the entire vehicle width. The overall design of the rear end – broader, with heftier bumpers plus a wide wheel track, the roof line and roof spoiler, plus wide wrap-around rear window – all lend an exceptionally powerful image to this car.
The sculptural form of the wide taillights is most apparent when viewed from the rear. Here, the car’s character is defined by the ratio of proportions between the roof and shoulder section and thereby the car’s waist. It is sharply contoured, since the roof runs significantly narrower than the overall body. These stylistic traits produce a design typical of a very powerful and significantly more expensive sports car. In any case, the really wide track actually looks even wider than it is. From the rear, the C pillars cannot be made out, since the rear window extends across the entire vehicle width. The overall design of the rear end – broader, with heftier bumpers plus a wide wheel track, the roof line and roof spoiler, plus wide wrap-around rear window – all lend an exceptionally powerful image to this car.
Scirocco - Interior
Four sport seats
The Scirocco is a full-fledged four seater. Here, full-fledged means that two adults can be seated comfortably in the rear. Even when a 1.90 meters tall driver adjusts the seat, there is still plenty of knee room in the back. There is no sense of cramped space here. Also guaranteeing that everything is comfortable in this new sports car are the four sport seats. Similar to the new Passat CC, ideally-contoured ergonomic individual seats are used in the back of the Scirocco. Providing for a high level of safety are the headrests that are permanently mounted to the seatbacks in the rear.
The Scirocco is a full-fledged four seater. Here, full-fledged means that two adults can be seated comfortably in the rear. Even when a 1.90 meters tall driver adjusts the seat, there is still plenty of knee room in the back. There is no sense of cramped space here. Also guaranteeing that everything is comfortable in this new sports car are the four sport seats. Similar to the new Passat CC, ideally-contoured ergonomic individual seats are used in the back of the Scirocco. Providing for a high level of safety are the headrests that are permanently mounted to the seatbacks in the rear.
The front sport seats include an Easy Entry feature for easier entry and exit of the rear passengers. Specifically, when the seatback of a front seat is unlatched, the seat moves forward; afterwards, it automatically returns to its preset position. Also standard: height adjustment of the front sport seats. By way of an option for the Scirocco, Volkswagen also offers a “Lifestyle seat upholstery and trim†with Alcantara appointments and the leather upholstery and trim “Viennaâ€, the latter in the colors “Titanium Black†or “Truffleâ€.
Cargo area
The cargo area shows good size too. Laid out like a station wagon, loaded up to the height of the cargo cover it offers a volume of 292 liters. If the seatbacks of the rear individual seats are folded down, a cargo area capacity of 755 liters is available. Even in this case, there is no problem loading the car up to the roofliner, since a cargo net can be integrated behind the front seats.
The cargo area shows good size too. Laid out like a station wagon, loaded up to the height of the cargo cover it offers a volume of 292 liters. If the seatbacks of the rear individual seats are folded down, a cargo area capacity of 755 liters is available. Even in this case, there is no problem loading the car up to the roofliner, since a cargo net can be integrated behind the front seats.
Cockpit
The driver and front passenger in the Scirocco experience a sporty and well-developed ergo nomic environment. Pleasing to the touch and appealing to the eye are the complex designs of the interior door trim. Instruments and gages have also been laid out intuitively and clearly. In particular, the center console with its controls arranged at a high level exhibits a refreshingly clear layout. Arranged directly beneath the two center air vents is the selected audio system. The latest equipment generation is being implemented on the Scirocco (RCD 210 to RCD 510). Always there: a MP3-capable CD player and changer. In parallel, there will be two audio-navigation Âsystems. The top model, designated the RNS 510, delivers refined features such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen and an extremely fast 30 gigabyte hard drive. The Scirocco also features a special instrument cluster with white illumination.
The driver and front passenger in the Scirocco experience a sporty and well-developed ergo nomic environment. Pleasing to the touch and appealing to the eye are the complex designs of the interior door trim. Instruments and gages have also been laid out intuitively and clearly. In particular, the center console with its controls arranged at a high level exhibits a refreshingly clear layout. Arranged directly beneath the two center air vents is the selected audio system. The latest equipment generation is being implemented on the Scirocco (RCD 210 to RCD 510). Always there: a MP3-capable CD player and changer. In parallel, there will be two audio-navigation Âsystems. The top model, designated the RNS 510, delivers refined features such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen and an extremely fast 30 gigabyte hard drive. The Scirocco also features a special instrument cluster with white illumination.
Scirocco - Engines and transmissions
Volkswagen will be offering the Scirocco as the world’s first sports car whose engines are all charged. The three TSIs – gasoline direct-injection engines –output 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The TDI, a highly advanced common rail engine, develops 103 kW / 140 PS. All of the Sciroccos are shifted by a six-speed gearbox.
TSI with 122 PS
Maximum power with minimal consumption – within a very short period of time this property has made the TSI four cylinders synonymous with a new generation of the most fuel-efficient and at the same time sporty Volkswagen engines. Representing the entry level into the world of these multiple award winning engines is a 90 kW / 122 PS strong TSI (at 5,000 rpm). In the Scirocco, the four cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 200 Newton-meter at a low 1,500 rpm – i.e. just above idling speed. The TSI takes the car to a top speed of 200 km/h. The122 PS Scirocco handles the classic 0-100-km/h sprint in 9.7 seconds. Its average fuel consumption of 6.1 liters Super Unleaded per 100 kilometers makes it one of the most economical sports cars of its class. Important: even this entry-level engine breathes agility into the Scirocco in the lower speed range and turns country highways into a source of great enjoyment.
Maximum power with minimal consumption – within a very short period of time this property has made the TSI four cylinders synonymous with a new generation of the most fuel-efficient and at the same time sporty Volkswagen engines. Representing the entry level into the world of these multiple award winning engines is a 90 kW / 122 PS strong TSI (at 5,000 rpm). In the Scirocco, the four cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 200 Newton-meter at a low 1,500 rpm – i.e. just above idling speed. The TSI takes the car to a top speed of 200 km/h. The122 PS Scirocco handles the classic 0-100-km/h sprint in 9.7 seconds. Its average fuel consumption of 6.1 liters Super Unleaded per 100 kilometers makes it one of the most economical sports cars of its class. Important: even this entry-level engine breathes agility into the Scirocco in the lower speed range and turns country highways into a source of great enjoyment.
TSI with 160 PS
This is the latest TSI: a four cylinder, turbo- and supercharged, with 118 kW / 160 PS (at 5,900 rpm). Like all of the TSIs, this engine is exceptionally economical (average fuel consumption: 6.5 l/100 km) and torque-strong (maximum of 240 Newton-meter at just 1,750 rpm) too. This TSI takes the Scirocco from rest to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds; its top speed is 217 km/h. As an option, the 160 PS TSI may be paired with the first 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) in the world that is transverse mounted.
This is the latest TSI: a four cylinder, turbo- and supercharged, with 118 kW / 160 PS (at 5,900 rpm). Like all of the TSIs, this engine is exceptionally economical (average fuel consumption: 6.5 l/100 km) and torque-strong (maximum of 240 Newton-meter at just 1,750 rpm) too. This TSI takes the Scirocco from rest to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds; its top speed is 217 km/h. As an option, the 160 PS TSI may be paired with the first 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) in the world that is transverse mounted.
TSI with 200 PS
At the highest power level, the Scirocco comes with a powerful 147 kW / 200 PS (at 6,000 rpm) TSI. It too has a turbocharger, and it also shines with very good torque and fuel economy. Per 100 kilometers this 280 New ton-meter (from 1,700 rpm) strong four cylinder consumes just 7.6 liters of fuel. Yet it can still deliver a top speed of 235 km/h. The highest performing Scirocco of all times completes the sprint to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. As on the Golf GTI with an identical engine, for example, this engine can be ordered with an inno vative 6-speed dual clutch transmission on the Scirocco too.
At the highest power level, the Scirocco comes with a powerful 147 kW / 200 PS (at 6,000 rpm) TSI. It too has a turbocharger, and it also shines with very good torque and fuel economy. Per 100 kilometers this 280 New ton-meter (from 1,700 rpm) strong four cylinder consumes just 7.6 liters of fuel. Yet it can still deliver a top speed of 235 km/h. The highest performing Scirocco of all times completes the sprint to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. As on the Golf GTI with an identical engine, for example, this engine can be ordered with an inno vative 6-speed dual clutch transmission on the Scirocco too.
TDI with 140 PS
At its market launch in Europe, the Scirocco will already be available with a clean and torque-strong 140 PS TDI (103 kW at 4,200 rpm). This highly advanced common rail diesel is especially quiet. It develops its maximum torque of 320 Newton-meters starting at just 1,750 rpm. The Scirocco completes the 0-100-km/h sprint in just 9.3 seconds with this TDI. Its top speed of 207 km/h contrasts with an average fuel consumption of just 5.4 liters per 100 kilometers. Volkswagen offers an optional 6-speed DSG with this engine too.
Scirocco - Highlights in driving dynamics
At its market launch in Europe, the Scirocco will already be available with a clean and torque-strong 140 PS TDI (103 kW at 4,200 rpm). This highly advanced common rail diesel is especially quiet. It develops its maximum torque of 320 Newton-meters starting at just 1,750 rpm. The Scirocco completes the 0-100-km/h sprint in just 9.3 seconds with this TDI. Its top speed of 207 km/h contrasts with an average fuel consumption of just 5.4 liters per 100 kilometers. Volkswagen offers an optional 6-speed DSG with this engine too.
Scirocco - Highlights in driving dynamics
ADAPTIVE CHASSIS CONTROL
Perfectly tailored to a sports car like the new Scirocco is the newly developed “adaptive chassis controlâ€. It exercises direct control, not only over the suspension characteristic, but also over tuning of the electro-mechanical power steering.
Perfectly tailored to a sports car like the new Scirocco is the newly developed “adaptive chassis controlâ€. It exercises direct control, not only over the suspension characteristic, but also over tuning of the electro-mechanical power steering.
“Adaptive chassis control†offers three programs: “Normalâ€, “Sport†and “Comfortâ€. “Sport†and “Comfort†are each selected by a button in front of the gearshift lever. It is important to note here that “adaptive chassis control†improves the driving properties of the Scirocco in “Normal†mode too – that is, all the time. That is because the suspension is continually being adapted to the roadway and driving situation. The system also reacts to acceleration, braking and steering inputs. This resolves the conflict in goals between a stiff sporty suspension and a comfortable one. That is precisely what makes for considerably better ride comfort – which is also quite noticeable in the “Normal†mode.
The “Sport†program can be recommended as a type of “Nuremburg Ring– North Loop†race track mode. In this case, the suspension is significantly stiffer. In parallel, the power-assist for steering is reduced for more direct steering response. The opposite is done in “Comfort†mode. In this case, ride comfort is especially improved on poor roadways and while driving slowly.
Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept Unveiled
Maserati has released details and photos of its latest competition model, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Corse Concept which is based on the 430 horsepower GranTurismo S.
The engine from the GranTurismo S has been upgraded with a new intake system, catalytic converters and a center-exit exhaust that boosts horsepower to 450. The suspension has also been upgraded and there is a new larger rear spoiler and increased track. 8x12" front and 18x13" rear wheels fitted with racing slicks help put all that power to the ground. In order to keep that power under control the brake discs have been enlarged with monobloc racing calipers and there is a FIA-approved rollcage for even more protection.
source: http://www.thetorquereport.com/
USELESS AFTER SALES SERVICE
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA: How far will you go to get your car fixed? In these day of light-speed emails, instant messages and cellphones, an irate car-owner decided to adopt an old-school method of seeking redress — by placing stickers all over his problematic car.
And the message on the stickers read: "My Honda Tak Guna" (My Useless Honda).
To make sure he got the full attention of the car manufacturer, this sticker-adorned vehicle was parked outside the Honda Malaysia sales and service office here in Section 13 — much to the amusement of many pedestrians and motorists.
As to why he had resorted to such measures, events executive Jess Ross said his car brakes kept failing despite several repairs.
"Three months after buying the car, the rear brakes started giving way.After having these replaced by Honda, the same problem occurred three months later with the brakes giving way in the middle of the road.
"Luckily, I wasn't hit by another car when it happened."
After sending the 15-month old car to the Honda authorised service centre, Sumber Auto, Ross claimed to have been told the car had its front brake callipers fitted wrongly during the original assembly.
Even after the brake calipers were rectified, Jess' woes continued with the calamitous Honda Accord he bought for about RM140,000.
Three months later, after getting his disc brake pads replaced for the second time, his Honda Accord started juddering again.
This time Honda mentioned the brake discs needed to be skimmed.
"On June 20 , there was a screeching sound from my front wheels and the car started juddering again. This time, I decided enough was enough. The car was towed to the Honda service centre for a fourth check on this particular screeching issue."
Claiming manufacturing defects, Ross said: "My demands are simple, firstly I want Honda to fully rectify the problems on my car and include a manufacturer's guarantee that such defects will not recur.
"Secondly, Honda could replace my car with another guaranteed problem-free unit. If all else fails, I want Honda to buy back the car at the purchase price.
"Honestly, I am still open to negotiations and a win-win situation I feel, is the best for both parties," he said, stressing he has no plans to remove the eye-catching stickers from his car.
A Honda Malaysia representative said the company remained committed to inspecting, servicing and repairing the problematic vehicle.
"The company would like to assure Ross the affected vehicle will be serviced and repaired to his satisfaction." Still unhappy with this response, Ross asked: "Why is it Honda Malaysia can't guarantee their parts, which serve a basic function of braking, to function properly?
"Is it too much to ask for a guarantee for their supposedly original parts which they recommended we use?"
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