Rolls-Royce Wraith unveiled at Goodwood Festival of Speed

 Rolls-Royce Wraith

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the new Wraith coupe and most dynamic model at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The mighty Rolls-Royce Wraith might be a two-door fastback version of the Ghost, and comes with attributes of luxury, refinement and hand‑craftsmanship, but the new model, from the world's leading super-luxury marque, also presents a unique character defined by power, style and drama.

The Wraith is the most powerful car in the Goodwood-based maker's history - the monster powered by V12 turbo engine that with 624 bhp/465kW and 800 Nm of torque. That ginormous torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, which means this huge automobile can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds and will cost a hefty £250,000.

Described by its maker as ‘the ultimate gentlemen’s gran turismo’, the Wraith can be seen between Hillclimbs in the Supercar Paddock.

In addition, Rolls-Royce will have a significant presence at this year's Festival of speed, including: Centenary Alpine Trial 'Works Team'.

Rolls-Royce Wraith

Mazda3 Fastback Sedan

 Mazda3 Fastback Sedan

A saloon version of the new Mazda3 Fastback Sedan will be joining the lineup of models on offer later this year, include two bodystyles - hatchback and fastback (saloon).

Both body styles are wider and lower than the current model, with the saloon features a different roof, rear window, rear wings. While the Fastback is 120mm longer than the already large hatch, contributing to an increase in boot space of 69 litres compared to the hatchback. Like the Mazda3 hatchback, the saloon has the 2,700mm wheelbase.

Buyers will be offered a choice of three naturally-aspirated high compression petrol powerplants or one turbocharged diesel engine, all of which are fitted as standard with a start-stop system.

The basic engine is the 100ps SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre petrol engine; delivering up to 56.4mpg (combined cycle) paired with the six-speed Skyactiv-MT manual gearbox. When fitted with the standard six-speed manual transmission the Mazda3 Fastback emits only 118 grams per km of CO2.

Next up is the Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter petrol develops 118bhp and 162bhp petrol engines. The 118bhp engine averages 55.3mpg while emits 119g/km of CO2 and the 162bhp unit is rated at 48.7mpg and 135g/km of CO2.

Lastly,  the 150ps Skyactiv-D clean 2.2-litre diesel, 380Nm of torque at 1,800rpm. While its emissions are stated to be an equally thrifty 104g/km of CO2. The car available with a manual or automatic gearbox and returns up to 72.5mpg.

Lastly, there's the most frugal of the bunch adn Pricing for the new Mazda 3 Fastback will be announced in September.

Source: Mazda

Hi-Res Gallery: Mazda3 Fastback Sedan (6 pictures)
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2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class leaked


As we’re approaching the launch event for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, is due to be officially unveiled next Wednesday evening in Germany. But today a new promotional brochure has surfaced online.

We have already discussed the exterior design of the new S-Class in detail, but the German-language brochure scans provide a clearer look at the new S-Class’ more chiseled.

Inside, it boasts a retro-modern look with two large TFT screens and infotainment system to a sophisticated climate control system with active perfuming and filtering of the air while the classic round air vents and the big steering wheel which is inspired by the older models.

It has already been confirmed that the new S-class will be codenamed W222 and it confirms the model will be offered with at least three different engines.

From what the scans reveal, the S-Class’ launch engine range for the European market will include S350 fitted with a 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel rated for 255hp (258PS), a hybrid powertrain consisting of an electric motor and a 306 hp 3.5-liter V6 (S400 Hybrid) and the S500 will reward buyers with a 4.7-liter turbocharged gasoline V8 with 449hp (455PS).

2014 GMC Sierra get 4.3L EcoTec V-6



General Motors has disclosed additional information about the standard 4.3L EcoTec V-6 for the all-new 2014 GMC Sierra will go on sale later this year with a suggested starting price of $25,085.

Buyers will choose from three new, advanced EcoTec3 engines – a 5.3L available at launch, followed by the 4.3L and 6.2L versions available later this year. EPA fuel economy estimates will be released later.

This is technology no other truck maker can match, and we offer it in every EcoTec3 engines, for every customer,” said Jordan Lee, GM Powertrain chief engineer. “It is a standard feature, so our drivers get our best and most sophisticated technology regardless of trim level.

The 2014 Sierra half-ton pickup boasts all-new powertrains and design, and the Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks ever built by GMC.

2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter officially launched



By the end of this year, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be the second-oldest nameplate in its segment here in the States, complete with a new face, even more safety features, and a brand-new four-cylinder diesel base engine.

The new Sprinter continues to set standards, boasting five new safety systems, engines that meet the future Euro VI emissions standard, and a striking appearance. The Sprinter's standard engine is a diesel-powered 2.1-liter 4-cylinder, which delivers 161-hp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,400 to 2,400 rpm.

Although the European fuel economy test is and the Sprinter is officially exempt from EPA testing by virtue of its over-8600 GVWR, Mercedes-Benz claims an eye-popping fuel economy rating of 37.34 mpg.

The new Sprinter’s appearance has also been substantially enhanced and made more striking. In line with Mercedes-Benz’ current design, the van’s radiator grille is now more vertical and confident. The grille’s three slats are perforated and wedge-shaped. Not only does this change create a more dynamic impression, it also increases the airflow. In addition, a frame surrounds the brand’s distinctive radiator grille, making it more prominent.

Another change involves the headlights, which are now more angular. The covers on the reflector housings are particularly striking, dividing the headlights into separate segments. The new hood is higher and the more distinctly shaped bumpers have finely worked lower edges similar to those found on SUVs. The new Sprinter is immediately recognizable from the rear, due to its double-segmented taillights.

The widely acknowledged exemplary interior has also been further enhanced. Comfort has been boosted by the new upholstery and seat coverings, the thicker steering wheel makes gripping easier, and the fresh air nozzles boast chrome applications if the customer opts for a multifunctional steering wheel. The knob of the gearshift lever has been redesigned as well.

The Sprinter is also fitted with a new-generation radio system that equips the van not only with state-of-the-art electronic entertainment features and Bluetooth telephone equipment (including a telephone keypad and phonebook), but also the Becker MAP PILOT navigation system.

New safety systems in this sector will include Crosswind Assist as standard, while Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Highbeam Assist and Lane Keeping Assist will be optional.

The 2014 Sprinter will go on-sale in the U.S. later this fall.

[alert style="white"] Hi-Res Gallery: 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (9 pictures) [/alert]

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Alfa Romeo confirms SUV by 2016



Italian automaker Alfa Romeo has announced plans to introduce an SUV by the end of 2015, Damien Dally, head of the Alfa Romeo brand in the UK, speaking to The Telegraph.

Dally said “There will certainly be an SUV in the next two or three years.” He said that the Fiat Group’s ownership of Jeep gives Alfa Romeo access to a “whole portfolio of technologies.

While no other details have been released, the Alfa Romeo crossover is expected to be based on the 2014 Jeep Cherokee that recently debuted at the New York Motor Show.

Despite its shared origins, Dally says the new Spider will be “absolutely, 100 per cent an Alfa Romeo” and that it will allow them to sell an open-top model at a lower price than recent Alfa Romeo convertibles.

Most likely, the vehicle will be offered in both front and four-wheel-drive versions, but we’ll keep our ears to the ground for more on any potential new Alfa SUVs or crossovers.

Coda files for bankruptcy



CODA announced today that it is focusing its business strategy on the growing energy storage market. CODA plans to implement the restructuring of its business through a voluntary filing under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. The voluntary petition was filed today in the District of Delaware. This process is intended to enable the Company to complete a sale, confirm a Plan and emerge from bankruptcy in a stronger position to execute its new business plan. The Company expects the sale process to take 45 days to complete.

FCO MA CODA Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group, is leading a consortium of lenders intending to provide debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing to enable the Company’s energy storage business to remain fully operational during the restructuring process. The Company has filed a motion with the bankruptcy court for approval of the consortium, or its designee, as the stalking horse bidder in the sale process to acquire the Company post-bankruptcy. In addition, the Company will seek to monetize value of its existing automotive business assets.

“After concluding a comprehensive review of our strategic options, the Board of Directors, management team and senior lending group have concluded that focusing on the Company’s energy storage business presents the best opportunity moving forward,” said Phil Murtaugh, Chief Executive Officer, CODA Holdings, Inc. “We believe the restructuring process that we have entered into today will enable the Company to complete a sale and confirm a Plan that maximizes the value of its assets, serving the best interests of our stakeholders.”

CODA diversified its business and formed CODA Energy two years ago. CODA Energy’s products are based on the same core technology, which includes its proprietary battery management and thermal management systems, found in CODA’s vehicles adapted for stationary energy storage applications. The Company designs and builds scalable, custom energy storage solutions optimized for generation, distribution and behind-the-meter applications for commercial, residential and industrial end users. The Company is currently shipping product, and has a robust pipeline of new customers and existing installations in the field.

CODA’s legal advisor in connection with the restructuring is White & Case LLP. Emerald Capital Advisors serves as its Chief Restructuring Officer and restructuring advisor, and Houlihan Lokey serves as its investment banker for the restructuring. Sidley Austin LLP is serving as FCO MA CODA Holdings LLC’s legal advisor.

Fiat 500XL leaked photo

Fiat 500XL

The first photo of the new seven-seat Fiat 500XL has surfaced on the internet via a photo taken within the factory. Production of the 2013 Fiat 500XL will start at the end of May in Kragujevac, with the first European deliveries expected at the end of July.

The 500XL is the seven-seat version of the 500L and will be 200mm (7.9 inches) longer. Groovie taillights, blacked out roof pillars and a bunch of other cosmetic tricks work well to hide the horror that is a box van.

The Fiat 500XL will benefit from the same set of powerplants that already do duty on the 500L. Two gasoline units (a 95-hp 1.4-liter four-cylinder and a 105-hp 0.9-liter TwinAir two-cylinder) and a 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel. All these engines will be mated to manual tranmissions.

Photo by Cochespias.net

2013 Daihatsu Mebius starting price $23,600



Daihatsu, the Japanese automaker controlled by Toyota has announced a brand new hybrid van has been added to their model range. Called the Daihatsu Mebius, it’s the Toyota Prius V in disguise.

The 2013 Daihatsu Mebius is available only with five seats while the Prius V can be ordered also with a seven-seat arrangement.

The car has a hybrid system consisting of a 99-PS 1.8-liter gasoline engine working together with an electric motor for a combined output of 136 HP (100 kW). Average fuel consumption is rated at 3.82 liters/100 km (61.6 US mpg, 26.2 km/l).

Prices start at JPY2,350,000 ($23,730) for the basic S”L model while the range-topping variant costs JPY2,800,000 ($28,000).

Source: NCPR

KIA CUB concept teased

KIA CUB


The new KIA Cub concept car will make its public debut at the 2013 Seoul Auto Show on March 28.

It is being described as a compact four-door coupe which is less than four meters long. The picture shows off the entire front-end of the new model, while its wide, aggressive stance, and features two-point LED lights that are similar to those found on the Kia Quoris.

A pair of vents can just about be made out on either side of the bonnet while large alloy wheels and flared rear wheel arches.

No technical details or dimensions have been released, but unlike that car the CUB is likely to share its platform with the taller Soul crossover rather than the Rio supermini.

Full details will be available later this week so stay tuned.

2014 Nissan Micra facelift officially revealed


2014 Nissan Micra facelift

The 2014 Nissan Micra facelift has been revealed with the debut of the new Nissan March in Thailand in Samut Prakarn province. The revised fourth-gen Micra will go on sale globally in the next few months.

The photos reveal a larger grille opening with Nissan's familiar V-like chrome garnish, LED tail lamps, new alloy and wheel designs, a modified rear bumper and the fog lights have been pushed to the corners.

Inside, the 2014 Nissan Micra gets a sharper-looking centre console with new controls for the AC system, Automatic air-conditioner interface with square central vents replacing the circular units.

There are fresh new colors and trims, along with piano black audio system capable of reading music off a CD, AUX port or USB port.

The 2014 Nissan Micra facelift is expected to arrive in the UK later in 2013.

Source: Nissan

2014 Honda Odyssey debuting at New York Auto Show

2014 Honda Odyssey


If you like seven-seat people movers, you're in luck – Honda will debut a updated version of its Odyssey model at the New York Auto Show next week.

At both the press and public days, the 2014 Honda Odyssey will be on display at Honda's booth, along with the 2014 Accord Plug-In and the fully-electric Honda Fit EV.

All Odyssey models are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 278 bhp (207 kW) and 252 lb-ft (341 Nm) of torque - possibly with the six-speed automatic spreading to non-Touring trims.

Multi-link rear suspension that serves as the foundation for Honda's fun-to-drive EV with an EPA combined city/highway estimated driving range rating of 82 miles.

Source: Honda

2014 Toyota Highlander announced

2014 Toyota Highlander


The next generation of the 2014 Toyota Highlander SUV will debut at the New York Auto Show in two weeks time.

The company refrained from providing any details, but confirmed the Toyota's third-generation Highlander will make its world debut on March 27 at 9:10 a.m. Eastern Time in the Galleria Level Four at the Jacob Javits Center.

The car is expected to have an evolutionary design which could borrow some styling cues from the RAV4. Based on Toyota's current product strategy, V6 and hybrid powertrains seem like a sure bet.

Last redesigned in 2008, the Highlander is a mid-size SUV while Toyota sold 121,055 Highlanders in the U.S. in 2012, up 19.6% from the prior year.

Source: Toyota

2013 Porsche 911 GT3 R officially revealed

2013 Porsche 911 GT3 R


The new Porsche 911 GT3 R based on the 997 model generation heads into the 2013 motorsport season with extensive modifications. With its widened fender flares front and rear, the successful customer sport racer, fielded in the GT3 classes, looks considerably brawnier than its predecessor. The new aerodynamics generates substantially more downforce, allowing for higher cornering speeds and later braking points. The wider track and the adapted wheels provide additional improvement in traction.

Ever since its launch in 2010, customer teams around the world have gone from success to success with the 911 GT3 R. In 2012 alone, Porsche customer teams raced the 500 hp production-based Grand Touring race car in 131 races, won 41 of them and clinched numerous championships.

For 2013, Porsche Motorsport significantly modified the aerodynamics. The front bumper panels, all fenders, the sill covers, the rear panel and underbody with rear diffuser received further fine-tuning in the wind tunnel. The rear wing was enlarged to the width of the vehicle and repositioned to work optimally with the redesigned body.

The suspension also underwent modifications. The track of both the front and rear axle grew by 50 millimetres. The width of the front rims is now twelve instead of 10.9 inches. The wheelbase of the latest 911 GT3 R grew by ten millimetres.

Like its predecessor, the highly efficient four-litre, six-cylinder flat engine has an out-put of 368 kW (500 hp). The Porsche six-speed sequential dog-type gearbox with pneumatic shift system is operated via shift paddles on the steering wheel. This technical solution allows very fast and smooth gear changes – an advantage when it comes to high operational safety and a long service life.

An array of electronic driver assistance systems adopted from the predecessor helps turn fast and safe laps. The E-gas features a throttle-blip function. The gearbox elec-tronics make skipping gears and the resulting over revving of the engine virtually impossible. Thanks to a specially-adjusted traction control and a race ABS, the 911 GT3 R can be very well controlled under braking and acceleration.

With a conversion kit offered by Porsche, customer teams can convert older model years of the 911 GT3 R to the 2013-spec. The kit is available from Porsche Motor-sport at the price of 45,500 Euros plus country-specific value added tax.

Source: Porsche

2014 Audi A4 TDI for American consumers

2014 Audi A4 TDI


Audi recently announced plans to expand their diesel engine line up in the United States, American consumers will have the option of a TDI engine in Audi AG's next-generation A4 sedan.

The decision to add more diesels to its lineup clearly comes from rising corporate average fuel economy standards without sacrificing torque.

"This deep in its life cycle, it didn't make any sense to do all that dramatic re-engineering and re-architecting of the car to basically only have a two-year selling period," Keogh said.

The 2014 Audi A4 will be offered with a 2.0-liter TDI engine that develops 184 HP (135 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.

Audi sold 35,415 units of the A4 or its S4 performance variant last year in the United States, accounting for one in four of the 139,310 Audis sold in the country.

The new A4 is expected to launch in 2014 as a 2015 model.

Source: Automotive News

Best and Most Impressive Mahindra xuv 500

Mahindra xuv 500


Car has become the essential need for everyone. It is here in order to get this each and every one are striving hard and getting their dream model for all of their needs. However as the market of these cars got increased, one should know the exact one to buy it is only then they will be able to get the best for of the price which they are going to afford. This is such an article which helps you to know the voices of the customers who have used the Mahindra xuv 500. All these are the happy moments which they have gathered in their life with this association.

This is the first attractive product which is designed with high international standards. For these reasons even though in the beginning the movement is slow, it is later on became a dream car for many people just because of its pleasant features. Crack the roads once you get this into your hands in your own way. Increase your driving pleasure as this is the most awaited day for you and go ahead with the airbags, ESP and ABS. The world wide platform is right now feeling very pride as this model is completely designed by this company from scratch.

These powerful and comfortable cars have changed into a super car mould and everyone is eager to give a test drive. The sales of these got increased tremendously and helped the company in getting huge returns. This is a perfect hit in the market and the outrageous pictures of the car are making people mad of it. Activeness, agility etc are the voices of the customers after having the drive. Right from the first drive they are utmost comfortable and there are many factors which pleased and convinced them the most.

Nevertheless the jaw-dropping spec of Mahindra XUV 500 is as followed: fantastic styling and even the features are built with all the latest technologies that range from utmost comfort to style. The vibrant team of engineers has made all this possible and gave everything that is related to the design and finally brought it to global standards. The weight of this car is even not a problem for any one and one can find this as a single unique piece. The mind numbing power of the engine is even one of the other reasons for this great model in reaching the hilt.

Keeping the market in concern the engineers have increased the passenger space and so many people can happily go on any sort of Indian roads. Have a full blast fun with all your dear ones as you start your journey in this unbelievable super model car. They have taken all the safety measures and designed this in an unbelievable manner that nothing will happen to this car even in the crash when compared to all the other suv models of the market. Completely and perfectly

2014 Range Rover Sport teased


2014 Range Rover Sport

Land Rover officially confirmed debut of the new Range Rover Sport will debut at the New York Auto Show.

Land Rover promises that the next-gen Sport will be the fastest, most responsive and showcases the best of British design, engineering and technological innovation.

We expect the car's styling to bridge the gap between the Evoque and the Range Rover, it is expected to be a good 300kg lighter than the outgoing Sport.

Details are still scarce, but rumors indicate that it will be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel that develops 510 horsepower and 461 lb-ft. of torque.

Land Rover's new Sport will also be offered with a hybrid drivetrain and prices are expected to start at around £55,000.

2013 Hyundai ix35 ahead of Geneva

2013 Hyundai ix35


Hyundai will unveil a revised version of its European-market ix35 crossover - will make its first public outing at the Geneva auto show.

The exterior has received a number of subtle revisions, including bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and a slightly redesigned upper grille.

We hear the ix35's interior could be in line for a more thorough update, with a quality upgrade and there are tweaks to the engines.

The engine lineup has also receive some tweaks starting with the Nu 2.0-liter GDI petrol engine is tweaked to deliver better efficiency and more power. Also, the brand's 'R' diesel engine gains new clean technology features, such as the LP-EGR (low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation).

To further improve the European-tuned ride and handling characteristics, the ix35 benefits from Hyundai's three-mode FLEX STEER driving system.

Source: Hyundai

Seat Mii Ecofuel ahead of Geneva debut

Seat Mii Ecofuel


Seat has announced plans to introduce the Mii Ecofuel with a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder engine converted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) at the Geneva.

The Mii Ecofuel is equipped with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, boasts average consumption of just 2.9 kg CNG/100 km.

"Its attractive starting price and exceptionally low consumption and emissions figures make the Mii Ecofuel one of the most interesting and sensible choices available - even for high-mileage drivers," explains James Muir, President of SEAT S.A.

With a full CNG tank (11 kg), the Mii Ecofuel has a range of up to 240 miles. This means that, with a full tank, a total range of up to 380 miles is possible.

The Seat Mii Ecofuel will be priced from €12,050 in Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden and the Czech Republic where there is a clear demand for CNG fuelled cars and the infrastructure to support it.

Source: Seat

2013 Volkswagen Golf Variant revealed early


2013 Volkswagen Golf Variant

These are the first official photos with the 2013 Volkswagen Golf Variant - ahead of its debut at the Geneva Auto Show next week.

No details of the car were revealed, but it's styling is a cleaner and sharpener evolution of the current model with a better-looking rear end.

The tail lamps adopt a rounder design than the ones found on the hatch, and a TSI engine sporting silver roof rails and five double-spoke alloys.

Full details will have to wait until later, but we have a good idea of what to expect. Expect a wide palette of gasoline- and diesel-burning engines with a 1.4-liter turbo four or a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel along with transmission choices including VW's DSG dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual.

We don't have any images of the interior, but this new model will share its MQB bones with the new Golf.

Full details will be available next week when the car will be shown at the Geneva.

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