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Thursday 3 May 2012
Driven: 2012 Mazda CX-5
Driven: 2012 Mazda CX-5:
There’s more to this model year 2012 SUV-Crossover than meets the eye, it is the Japanese manufacturer’s first car to totally embrace its SkyActiv technology.
Developed in-house, SkyActiv is the key to Mazda’s future, covering every aspect of vehicle engineering from body design and structure through to transmissions – both manual and auto – as well as a new generation of gasoline and diesel powertrains. By 2015, 80% of all Mazda cars will be based on the SkyActiv engineering philosophy according to program manager, Hideaki Tanaka.
Among the many technologies that SkyActiv embraces are gasoline and diesel engines that share the same 14:1 compression ratio, making the gasoline version the highest cr in its sector and the diesel the lowest cr. But what is perhaps most remarkable is that the latter revs quite happily to 5000 rpm, unheard of for this type of engine. With 173 bhp and nearly 310 lbs.-ft. of torque available at just 2000 rpm, in the most powerful diesel, it sprints out of the box like a much sportier car and, when mated to the slick 6-speed auto, provides a genuinely pleasing driving experience.
In fact the most powerful diesel shades the 2-liter gasoline engine with its 162 bhp and 155 lbs.-ft. of torque in terms of top speed and acceleration figures: 129 mph and 8.8 seconds versus 122 mph and 10.5 seconds in manual form.
But the CX-5 is about much more than just performance: Mazda has engineered and patented a unique rear seat folding mechanism that is operated by three simple levers in the rear hatch, so no more getting fingers trapped as you try to fumble with recalcitrant seat catches.
As one of the auto industry’s minnows, Mazda needed more than just its new “KODO Soul of Motion” design theme to make it stand out from the crowd and it has achieved this with the clever SkyActiv technologies that will underpin its future model programs.
Related posts:
There’s more to this model year 2012 SUV-Crossover than meets the eye, it is the Japanese manufacturer’s first car to totally embrace its SkyActiv technology.
Developed in-house, SkyActiv is the key to Mazda’s future, covering every aspect of vehicle engineering from body design and structure through to transmissions – both manual and auto – as well as a new generation of gasoline and diesel powertrains. By 2015, 80% of all Mazda cars will be based on the SkyActiv engineering philosophy according to program manager, Hideaki Tanaka.
Among the many technologies that SkyActiv embraces are gasoline and diesel engines that share the same 14:1 compression ratio, making the gasoline version the highest cr in its sector and the diesel the lowest cr. But what is perhaps most remarkable is that the latter revs quite happily to 5000 rpm, unheard of for this type of engine. With 173 bhp and nearly 310 lbs.-ft. of torque available at just 2000 rpm, in the most powerful diesel, it sprints out of the box like a much sportier car and, when mated to the slick 6-speed auto, provides a genuinely pleasing driving experience.
In fact the most powerful diesel shades the 2-liter gasoline engine with its 162 bhp and 155 lbs.-ft. of torque in terms of top speed and acceleration figures: 129 mph and 8.8 seconds versus 122 mph and 10.5 seconds in manual form.
But the CX-5 is about much more than just performance: Mazda has engineered and patented a unique rear seat folding mechanism that is operated by three simple levers in the rear hatch, so no more getting fingers trapped as you try to fumble with recalcitrant seat catches.
As one of the auto industry’s minnows, Mazda needed more than just its new “KODO Soul of Motion” design theme to make it stand out from the crowd and it has achieved this with the clever SkyActiv technologies that will underpin its future model programs.
.
Related posts:
- 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition – 2012 Chicago Auto Show
- Driven: 2012 Vauxhall Ampera
- Mazda Eyes Diesels for America
Source : Google Reader
2013 Dodge Dart Pricing Announced
2013 Dodge Dart Pricing Announced:
Competition in the subcompact market heats up in June when the Dodge Dart goes on sale. Dodge has announced its pricing and, as promised it starts at a very competitive $15,995 (plus $795 destination) for the base SE model. This undercuts pricing for the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla but is a few dollars more than the Honda Civic.
For that starting price Dart buyers get the new 2.0-liter 16-valve Tigershark I-4 engine, which produces 160 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Dodge claims this is best in class power. Official EPA fuel economy figures have not yet been released so we don’t know how it will compare with its competitors in the fuel economy race.
Standard equipment on the SE includes 10 standard air bags, four wheel disc anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. It does not include air conditioning though, which is something only a handful of people are willing to forego nowadays.
To get A/C you have to upgrade to the Dodge Dart SXT, which starts at $17,995. For that additional $2,000, you’ll also get 17-inch aluminum wheels, power body-color mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, six-speakers, security alarm and a 60/40 split folding rear seat.
Next up is the Dodge Dart Rallye with a sticker of $18,995. It adds black front fascia accents, black headlamp bezels as well as different interior colors. An option for Rallye customers is availability of the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, which has the same power output as the larger 2.0-liter engine (160 hp) but delivers 184 lb.-ft. of torque.
Those looking for a more upmarket feel will need to check out the Dodge Dart Limited which starts at $19,995 and comes with an upgraded interior. Even then leather seats and other luxury items will add to the base sticker. Incidentally, WardsAuto World magazine editors have just chosen the Dodge Dart as a recipient of the “Wards 10 Best Interiors” award from among 40 eligible new 2012 and 2013 vehicles.
Last but not least is the top-of-the-line Dodge Dart R/T, which will be available in the Fall at a starting price of $22,495. It is powered by the new 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 4-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower with 171 lb.-ft. of torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic with AutoStick.
The R/T features the standard content of the Limited and adds the following equipment: 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks, unique front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille, black headlamp bezels, integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips R/T-unique perforated leather seats, dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated seats and heated steering wheel.
Sadly, you cannot buy the ultimate 600 hp Dodge Dart, which would probably cost somewhere north of $250,000. It is reserved for Travis Pastrana, who will race it in the 2012 Global RallyCross Championship.
Related posts:
Competition in the subcompact market heats up in June when the Dodge Dart goes on sale. Dodge has announced its pricing and, as promised it starts at a very competitive $15,995 (plus $795 destination) for the base SE model. This undercuts pricing for the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla but is a few dollars more than the Honda Civic.
For that starting price Dart buyers get the new 2.0-liter 16-valve Tigershark I-4 engine, which produces 160 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Dodge claims this is best in class power. Official EPA fuel economy figures have not yet been released so we don’t know how it will compare with its competitors in the fuel economy race.
Standard equipment on the SE includes 10 standard air bags, four wheel disc anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. It does not include air conditioning though, which is something only a handful of people are willing to forego nowadays.
To get A/C you have to upgrade to the Dodge Dart SXT, which starts at $17,995. For that additional $2,000, you’ll also get 17-inch aluminum wheels, power body-color mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, six-speakers, security alarm and a 60/40 split folding rear seat.
Next up is the Dodge Dart Rallye with a sticker of $18,995. It adds black front fascia accents, black headlamp bezels as well as different interior colors. An option for Rallye customers is availability of the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, which has the same power output as the larger 2.0-liter engine (160 hp) but delivers 184 lb.-ft. of torque.
Those looking for a more upmarket feel will need to check out the Dodge Dart Limited which starts at $19,995 and comes with an upgraded interior. Even then leather seats and other luxury items will add to the base sticker. Incidentally, WardsAuto World magazine editors have just chosen the Dodge Dart as a recipient of the “Wards 10 Best Interiors” award from among 40 eligible new 2012 and 2013 vehicles.
Last but not least is the top-of-the-line Dodge Dart R/T, which will be available in the Fall at a starting price of $22,495. It is powered by the new 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 4-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower with 171 lb.-ft. of torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic with AutoStick.
The R/T features the standard content of the Limited and adds the following equipment: 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks, unique front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille, black headlamp bezels, integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips R/T-unique perforated leather seats, dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated seats and heated steering wheel.
Sadly, you cannot buy the ultimate 600 hp Dodge Dart, which would probably cost somewhere north of $250,000. It is reserved for Travis Pastrana, who will race it in the 2012 Global RallyCross Championship.
.
Related posts:
- 2013 Dodge Dart – Wireless Smartphone Charging
- 2013 Dodge Dart Rally Car Revealed – 2012 New York Auto Show
- Dodge Dart Returns – 2012 Detroit Auto Show
Source : Google Reader
Alfa For America – Maserati to Build Alfa Romeo 4C
Alfa For America – Maserati to Build Alfa Romeo 4C:
We just blogged about Maserati moving some of its production to an ex-Bertone factory in Grugliasco, near Turin. That would include the redone Quattroporte timed for next year. We added that Maserati will continue to build its GranCabrio and GranTurismo models in Modena, plus an Alfa Romeo. Now we get word that the Alfa will be the 4C debuted at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show and headed for the U.S. The rear-drive 2-seater is rather Lotus Evora-like and Alfa is said to be working to keep the weight around 1870 lb. The 4C would likely be powered by a 200-plus horsepower engine mounted transversely amidships with a twin-clutch automatic. This combination could get the 4C to 62 mph in just 5.0 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
Related posts:
We just blogged about Maserati moving some of its production to an ex-Bertone factory in Grugliasco, near Turin. That would include the redone Quattroporte timed for next year. We added that Maserati will continue to build its GranCabrio and GranTurismo models in Modena, plus an Alfa Romeo. Now we get word that the Alfa will be the 4C debuted at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show and headed for the U.S. The rear-drive 2-seater is rather Lotus Evora-like and Alfa is said to be working to keep the weight around 1870 lb. The 4C would likely be powered by a 200-plus horsepower engine mounted transversely amidships with a twin-clutch automatic. This combination could get the 4C to 62 mph in just 5.0 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
.
Related posts:
- What’s in a name? Quite a bit, if you’re Alfa Romeo.
- New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to bow at Geneva
- Video: Alfa Romeo Pandion concept
Source : Google Reader
Book Review: 365 Sports Cars You Must Drive
Book Review: 365 Sports Cars You Must Drive:
Aston Martin One-77
If a genie ever granted a wish to drive a different car every day during the span of a year‚ this would be the ultimate guide. Written by automotive journalists Larry Edsall‚ Steve Sutcliffe and our very own John Lamm‚ the 320-page book covers car manufacturers that range from the kooky (Crosley)‚ the coveted (Triumph) to the crazy (Ferrari). Filled with gorgeous pictures and by John Lamm himself‚ the “guide” highlights each of the 365 cars‚ providing little known fun facts.
Get a copy signed by John Lamm in the R&T shop for just $22.00 >>
1967- 1969 Alfa Romeo T33 Stradale from page 17
No related posts.
Source : Google Reader
Aston Martin One-77
If a genie ever granted a wish to drive a different car every day during the span of a year‚ this would be the ultimate guide. Written by automotive journalists Larry Edsall‚ Steve Sutcliffe and our very own John Lamm‚ the 320-page book covers car manufacturers that range from the kooky (Crosley)‚ the coveted (Triumph) to the crazy (Ferrari). Filled with gorgeous pictures and by John Lamm himself‚ the “guide” highlights each of the 365 cars‚ providing little known fun facts.
Get a copy signed by John Lamm in the R&T shop for just $22.00 >>
1967- 1969 Alfa Romeo T33 Stradale from page 17
No related posts.
Source : Google Reader
Book Review: 365 Sports Cars You Must Drive
Book Review: 365 Sports Cars You Must Drive:
Aston Martin One-77
If a genie ever granted a wish to drive a different car every day during the span of a year‚ this would be the ultimate guide. Written by automotive journalists Larry Edsall‚ Steve Sutcliffe and our very own John Lamm‚ the 320-page book covers car manufacturers that range from the kooky (Crosley)‚ the coveted (Triumph) to the crazy (Ferrari). Filled with gorgeous pictures and by John Lamm himself‚ the “guide” highlights each of the 365 cars‚ providing little known fun facts.
Get a copy signed by John Lamm in the R&T shop for just $22.00 >>
1967- 1969 Alfa Romeo T33 Stradale from page 17
No related posts.
Source : Google Reader
Aston Martin One-77
If a genie ever granted a wish to drive a different car every day during the span of a year‚ this would be the ultimate guide. Written by automotive journalists Larry Edsall‚ Steve Sutcliffe and our very own John Lamm‚ the 320-page book covers car manufacturers that range from the kooky (Crosley)‚ the coveted (Triumph) to the crazy (Ferrari). Filled with gorgeous pictures and by John Lamm himself‚ the “guide” highlights each of the 365 cars‚ providing little known fun facts.
Get a copy signed by John Lamm in the R&T shop for just $22.00 >>
1967- 1969 Alfa Romeo T33 Stradale from page 17
No related posts.
Source : Google Reader
Video: Birth of a Lowering Spring: Inside Pedders Suspension
Video: Birth of a Lowering Spring: Inside Pedders Suspension:
Pedders Suspension is a brand that might be familiar to enthusiasts of the domestic aftermarket. For more than six years, Pedders has offered suspension components for Chevy Camaros, Ford Mustangs and Pontiac GTOs. What most don’t know is that the company is far from an upstart in the chassis game. Pedders Suspension has been in business in their home country of Australia for over 60 years, starting back in the mid-1950s rebuilding shock absorbers.
Headquartered in Keysborough, just outside of Melbourne in the state of Victoria, Pedders Suspension has a unique business model for their domestic market. Their products are distributed solely through franchised Pedders Suspension retailers, of which there are over 130 in Australia. Think Jiffy Lube, but for suspension needs that range from the inspection and alignment all the way to polyurethane bushings and coilover swaps.
Here in the U.S., Pedders’ business model is completely different, utilizing a more traditional distribution route. In their short time in the American market, Pedders’ products have been used by GM, Lingenfelter and Saleen. Pedders sells the gamut of chassis components, including coilovers, polyurethane bushings and CV shafts, but their core product is springs. In fact, Pedders likes to refer to their manufacturing facility as the “World’s Best Spring Plant.” While that’s up for interpretation, having witnessed the birth of a spring, firsthand, we can attest that quality is very much at the core of their values.
Here’s how Pedders Suspension springs are made:
Step 1:
Pedders’ springs begin life as steel from BlueScope Steel, an Aussie company headquartered in Melbourne. Instead of sourcing cheaper materials from China or India, Pedders insists upon using steel that is ISO accredited.
Step 2:
For heating of the metal rods, Pedders relies on gas instead of electricity. With the latter, dips and irregularity in power can cause inconsistencies in the metal. Each rod is baked close to 980 degrees C.
Step 3:
After the steel is heated up to temperature, the glowing rod is then coiled around a mandrel. The solid steel mandrel does not flex or bow with repetitive use. Pedders has more than 100 different steel mandrels in varying shapes and sizes for varying applications.
Step 4:
The next stage in the spring production is quenching, a process in which the hot coiled steel is cooled by oil. The spring is still soft at this point, lacking any memory.
Step 5:
Once the spring is cooled, it goes back into the tempering furnace where the coils are cured. Temperatures are adjusted to suit the gauge of the wire—the thicker, the hotter.
Step 6:
After another cooling phase, each spring is ground to appropriate size and fitment.
Step 7:
For the final step in strengthening the steel, each spring is shot peened with military grade shot.
Step 8:
Pedders scrags 100 percent of their springs. Scragging is a quality-control process where each spring is fully compressed, testing its load for up to 2 mm in variance.
Step 9:
Before they are boxed and shipped around the world, the springs are powder coated. Powder coating gives a spring its brand-distinctive color and protects it from the elements.
Related posts:
Pedders Suspension is a brand that might be familiar to enthusiasts of the domestic aftermarket. For more than six years, Pedders has offered suspension components for Chevy Camaros, Ford Mustangs and Pontiac GTOs. What most don’t know is that the company is far from an upstart in the chassis game. Pedders Suspension has been in business in their home country of Australia for over 60 years, starting back in the mid-1950s rebuilding shock absorbers.
Headquartered in Keysborough, just outside of Melbourne in the state of Victoria, Pedders Suspension has a unique business model for their domestic market. Their products are distributed solely through franchised Pedders Suspension retailers, of which there are over 130 in Australia. Think Jiffy Lube, but for suspension needs that range from the inspection and alignment all the way to polyurethane bushings and coilover swaps.
Here in the U.S., Pedders’ business model is completely different, utilizing a more traditional distribution route. In their short time in the American market, Pedders’ products have been used by GM, Lingenfelter and Saleen. Pedders sells the gamut of chassis components, including coilovers, polyurethane bushings and CV shafts, but their core product is springs. In fact, Pedders likes to refer to their manufacturing facility as the “World’s Best Spring Plant.” While that’s up for interpretation, having witnessed the birth of a spring, firsthand, we can attest that quality is very much at the core of their values.
Here’s how Pedders Suspension springs are made:
Step 1:
Pedders’ springs begin life as steel from BlueScope Steel, an Aussie company headquartered in Melbourne. Instead of sourcing cheaper materials from China or India, Pedders insists upon using steel that is ISO accredited.
Step 2:
For heating of the metal rods, Pedders relies on gas instead of electricity. With the latter, dips and irregularity in power can cause inconsistencies in the metal. Each rod is baked close to 980 degrees C.
Step 3:
After the steel is heated up to temperature, the glowing rod is then coiled around a mandrel. The solid steel mandrel does not flex or bow with repetitive use. Pedders has more than 100 different steel mandrels in varying shapes and sizes for varying applications.
Step 4:
The next stage in the spring production is quenching, a process in which the hot coiled steel is cooled by oil. The spring is still soft at this point, lacking any memory.
Step 5:
Once the spring is cooled, it goes back into the tempering furnace where the coils are cured. Temperatures are adjusted to suit the gauge of the wire—the thicker, the hotter.
Step 6:
After another cooling phase, each spring is ground to appropriate size and fitment.
Step 7:
For the final step in strengthening the steel, each spring is shot peened with military grade shot.
Step 8:
Pedders scrags 100 percent of their springs. Scragging is a quality-control process where each spring is fully compressed, testing its load for up to 2 mm in variance.
Step 9:
Before they are boxed and shipped around the world, the springs are powder coated. Powder coating gives a spring its brand-distinctive color and protects it from the elements.
.
Related posts:
Source : Google Reader
Porsche 911 Sales Roar Ahead
Porsche 911 Sales Roar Ahead:
2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S
It is beginning to sound like a broken record – each month numerous car companies continue to report record sales. April was no exception with Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Subaru all recording their best-ever sales for the month of April in the U.S.
It is good to see Porsche joining this club with sales of 3437 vehicles during the month compared to 3172 for the same month last year. The improvement was largely driven by sales of the new 911, which reached 1090 for the month.
“April 2012 sales resulted in a record April for PCNA and shows the momentum building for our new, seventh-generation 911,” said President and CEO, Detlev von Platen. “We are thrilled with the overall progress as we only sold the first new 911 Carrera Cabriolets in April and are looking forward to our highly anticipated third-generation Boxster arriving in Porsche dealerships the beginning of July.”
Overall sales for April were up by only 2 percent for the month as Ford and GM both showed a slight decline in sales after a very successful April last year. Nevertheless, the improvement was better than industry analysts expected and they have once again upped their forecast for sales for the remainder of the year.
Volkswagen recorded one of the greatest gains in sales year-to-year with a 32-percent increase compared to April last year. It was the best April for Volkswagen since 1971. How long will it be before Volkswagen achieves a new record sales month? It is getting close as VW enjoyed its best ever U.S. sales volume for a full year in 1970.
Related posts:
2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S
It is beginning to sound like a broken record – each month numerous car companies continue to report record sales. April was no exception with Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Subaru all recording their best-ever sales for the month of April in the U.S.
It is good to see Porsche joining this club with sales of 3437 vehicles during the month compared to 3172 for the same month last year. The improvement was largely driven by sales of the new 911, which reached 1090 for the month.
“April 2012 sales resulted in a record April for PCNA and shows the momentum building for our new, seventh-generation 911,” said President and CEO, Detlev von Platen. “We are thrilled with the overall progress as we only sold the first new 911 Carrera Cabriolets in April and are looking forward to our highly anticipated third-generation Boxster arriving in Porsche dealerships the beginning of July.”
Overall sales for April were up by only 2 percent for the month as Ford and GM both showed a slight decline in sales after a very successful April last year. Nevertheless, the improvement was better than industry analysts expected and they have once again upped their forecast for sales for the remainder of the year.
Volkswagen recorded one of the greatest gains in sales year-to-year with a 32-percent increase compared to April last year. It was the best April for Volkswagen since 1971. How long will it be before Volkswagen achieves a new record sales month? It is getting close as VW enjoyed its best ever U.S. sales volume for a full year in 1970.
.
Related posts:
- Porsche Sales Boom
- Porsche Rennsport Reunion IV: Caution, Parking Pitfalls Ahead – Part 1
- Porsche Rennsport Reunion IV: The Oldest Porsche 911 Race Car
Source : Google Reader
Kia Reaches for New Heights with the K9
Kia Reaches for New Heights with the K9:
This is Kia’s new luxury flagship sedan that has just gone on sale in Korea and will be launched in a number of key overseas markets (excluding the UK) in the fourth quarter of this year.
With a 200.0-in. overall length and 120.0-in. wheelbase, K9 offers generous front and rear occupant space. Overall width and height are 74.8 in. and 58.6 in., respectively, creating a spacious cabin environment.
Initially, the Kia K9 will be available in some overseas markets powered by an upgraded 286-bhp Lambda V-6 3.8-liter MPI engine, with a 329-bhp 3.8-liter GDI engine joining the global engine line-up next year.
This all-new Kia will premiere a range of advanced luxury features and technologies, including fully adaptive all-LED headlamps, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), radar-based Blind-Spot Detection (BSD), a 17-speaker Lexicon (by Harman) sound system, Smart Cruise Control (SCC) and an Around-View Monitor (AVM) with four cameras.
Every K9 comes with Kia’s all-new, in-house developed, 8-speed automatic transmission. The wide spread of gear ratios should ensure brisk acceleration and refinement, while shift-by-wire (SBW) technology with a joystick control delivers fast, smooth gear changes.
“K9 is all about elegant simplicity, balanced proportions and simple surfaces,” says Kia’s chief designer, Peter Schreyer. “The class-leading long wheelbase, the prestige distance, large wheels, sharply upright short overhangs and a long sweeping shoulder line all work together in a harmony to give K9 a sporty, athletic proportion and a confident stance quintessential to a premium large rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
“K9 is a clear signal of our intention and determination to compete head-to-head with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me – this car is like a dream come true,” concludes Schreyer.
But when it comes to naming cars the Kia may have some way to go, just let’s just hope it doesn’t prove to be a bit of a dog. Especially since the U.S. is a prime target for this new car.
Related posts:
This is Kia’s new luxury flagship sedan that has just gone on sale in Korea and will be launched in a number of key overseas markets (excluding the UK) in the fourth quarter of this year.
With a 200.0-in. overall length and 120.0-in. wheelbase, K9 offers generous front and rear occupant space. Overall width and height are 74.8 in. and 58.6 in., respectively, creating a spacious cabin environment.
Initially, the Kia K9 will be available in some overseas markets powered by an upgraded 286-bhp Lambda V-6 3.8-liter MPI engine, with a 329-bhp 3.8-liter GDI engine joining the global engine line-up next year.
This all-new Kia will premiere a range of advanced luxury features and technologies, including fully adaptive all-LED headlamps, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), radar-based Blind-Spot Detection (BSD), a 17-speaker Lexicon (by Harman) sound system, Smart Cruise Control (SCC) and an Around-View Monitor (AVM) with four cameras.
Every K9 comes with Kia’s all-new, in-house developed, 8-speed automatic transmission. The wide spread of gear ratios should ensure brisk acceleration and refinement, while shift-by-wire (SBW) technology with a joystick control delivers fast, smooth gear changes.
“K9 is all about elegant simplicity, balanced proportions and simple surfaces,” says Kia’s chief designer, Peter Schreyer. “The class-leading long wheelbase, the prestige distance, large wheels, sharply upright short overhangs and a long sweeping shoulder line all work together in a harmony to give K9 a sporty, athletic proportion and a confident stance quintessential to a premium large rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
“K9 is a clear signal of our intention and determination to compete head-to-head with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me – this car is like a dream come true,” concludes Schreyer.
But when it comes to naming cars the Kia may have some way to go, just let’s just hope it doesn’t prove to be a bit of a dog. Especially since the U.S. is a prime target for this new car.
.
Related posts:
- Kia Ray EV: Kia’s First Electric Vehicle
- Who Has Best TV Commercials – Kia or VW?
- First Look: Kia GT Concept
Source : Google Reader
JAC Heyue SC Coupe – 2012 Beijing Auto Show
JAC Heyue SC Coupe – 2012 Beijing Auto Show:
Photos by Barry Hathaway
It won’t win any beauty contest, but the JAC Heyue SC coupe is one of the bolder vehicles revealed by the hometown teams here at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. The styling seems to be an amalgamation of sporty vehicles from around the world. Depending on where you’re looking, there are hints of Lamborghini, Audi, Lotus, and even Ferrari. The taillights are the most obvious bit of shameless copying of another automaker – they look like cheap knock-offs of the units found on the Ferrari F430.
Built by Jianghuai Automobile Company, the Heyue SC coupe is intended to be the brand’s new sports/luxury model. If that’s the case, it could use a lot more firepower in the engine bay. A 162-bhp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual transmission doesn’t rank high against the competition, especially considering the Heyue’s estimated price of $31,000. Here in the U.S., that kind of financial outlay could get you into a 306-bhp Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and very nearly into a base 332-bhp Nissan 370Z.
More:
Full Coverage: 2012 Beijing Auto Show >>
Photos: 2012 Beijing Auto Show >>
Related posts:
Photos by Barry Hathaway
It won’t win any beauty contest, but the JAC Heyue SC coupe is one of the bolder vehicles revealed by the hometown teams here at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. The styling seems to be an amalgamation of sporty vehicles from around the world. Depending on where you’re looking, there are hints of Lamborghini, Audi, Lotus, and even Ferrari. The taillights are the most obvious bit of shameless copying of another automaker – they look like cheap knock-offs of the units found on the Ferrari F430.
Built by Jianghuai Automobile Company, the Heyue SC coupe is intended to be the brand’s new sports/luxury model. If that’s the case, it could use a lot more firepower in the engine bay. A 162-bhp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual transmission doesn’t rank high against the competition, especially considering the Heyue’s estimated price of $31,000. Here in the U.S., that kind of financial outlay could get you into a 306-bhp Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and very nearly into a base 332-bhp Nissan 370Z.
More:
 |  |
Photos: 2012 Beijing Auto Show >>
.
Related posts:
- MG Icon Concept – 2012 Beijing Auto Show
- Chrysler and Jeep Concepts – 2012 Beijing Auto Show
- Citroën Numéro 9 Concept – 2012 Beijing Auto Show
Source : Google Reader
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