New MINI JCW Coupe Racer to Debut at 24h of Nurburgring

Well, that was quick. Just three days after unveiling the MINI Coupe, the firm’s first-ever two-seater coupe model, and even though its flagship version won’t be available to the public before autumn, the company presented the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe Endurance (yes, that’s quite a mouthful, so we’ll just call it JCW) racer.

And, what’s more, its public debut will be in one of the most demanding endurance races of the world, the Nürburgring 24 hours at the legendary Nordschleife, the place which Jackie Stewart has famously christened “the Green Hell”.

The MINI JCW Endurance is powered by a tuned version of the standard 4-cylinder, 1.6-litre engine that features a twin-scroll turbocharger as well as direct injection.

Power is up to 250 hp, which results in a top speed in excess of 240 km (150 mph), while maximum torque -with the overboost function- reaches 330 Nm (33,6 kgm).

If there’s one thing, other than styling, that the MINI is famous for is its go-kart feeling behind the wheel. Of course, the British firm’s engineers have enhanced it by adding stiffened and adjustable dampers as well as the (obligatory) roll cage, racing seat, 6-point seatbelts and HANS system.

According to MINI the front spoiler, the rear diffuser and the adjustable rear wing of the JCW package generate increased downforce, while the Coupe’s more raked windscreen, compared to the 3-door version, reduces drag.

Last, but not least, and unusually for a racer, the MINI JCW Coupe Endurance features electronic stability control (DSC: Dynamic Control System), which is specially tuned for the track, and the Race ABS from the MINI Challenge. 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

2012 Corvette Z06 Smashes Previous Model’s ‘Ring Time by 20 Seconds [with Video]

As promised, GM released the Nürburgring lap time of its modestly tweaked for the 2012 model year, Corvette Z06. The most important change for the 2012 model is the available competition-orientated Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires, which helped the Z06 turn around the ‘Ring in just 7:22.68.

The lap time is 20 seconds faster than the previous-best Z06 lap time, recorded in 2005, and just 3 seconds behind the 638-horsepower 2012 ZR1, a video of which you can see in our previous posting here.

However, GM noted that in 2005, the Z06 was timed from a standing start instead of the rolling start technique used on the latest Z06 and ZR1 models.

The 505HP Corvette Z06 that was tested at the Nürburgring was fitted with the Z07 chassis package that includes the new optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Selective Ride Control, plus an array of carbon fiber components such as the hood, front splitter and rockers, and aerodynamic improvements. 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

BMW Launches Lighter and More Powerful New M3 CRT Special, Limited to 67 Units

This is BMW’s new hardcore M3 sedan, the CRT, which stands for Carbon Racing Technology. To be produced in a limited run, the M3 CRT was unveiled during a pre-race BMW M event ahead of this weekend’s Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The special edition model combines the body style of the M3 sedan with technology from the M3 GTS coupe, topped off with the use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) to further reduce the car’s weight.

BMW said the M3 CRT represents the worldwide debut of a new production process for carbon-fibre reinforced plastic components in the automotive industry, adding that we will see the same materials on the upcoming i3 EV hatchback and i8 hybrid sports coupe, due to enter volume production in 2013.

In the M3 CRT, CFRP is used to make both the rear spoiler and front airdam, as well as the bonnet, the bucket seats for the driver and front passenger. Along with the use of a sports titanium exhaust system and other lightweight materials, BMW M engineers have managed to shave 45 kg or 99.2 pounds from the regular M3 saloon bringing the total weight down to 1,580kg or 3,483 lbs.

Interestingly, BMW said that if you take into account the equipment on board the weight saving is more like 70 kg or 154.3 pounds.

Under the carbon-fiber bonnet of the CRT lies the M3 GTS’s upgraded 4.4-liter V8 that pumps out 450-horses at 8,300 rpm and peak torque of 440 Nm (324.5 lb-ft) on tap at 3,750 rpm.

Transferring the V8 lump’s power to the rear wheels is a 7-speed M doubleclutch transmission with Drivelogic. BMW says the CRT can go from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in just 4.4 seconds with the electronic capping its top speed at 290 km/h (180mph).

Other features include a modified rear suspension, the addition of six-piston, fixed-calliper high-performance brakes, a specially tuned DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and new 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels wrapped in performance tires size 245/35 R 19 up front and 265/35 R 19 at the rear.

The M3 CRT is offered in an exclusive Frozen Polar Silver metallic exterior paint shade in combination with Melbourne Red metallic applications and a special treatment for the kidney grille.

Inside, apart from the two-tone sports seats, the M3 special features bespoke door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure, while the steering wheel is covered in Alcantara.

BMW will build only 67 examples of the M3 CRT worldwide.

BMW M3 CRT SPECIFICATIONS:

Construction / Cosmetics

• M3 "CRT" = Carbon Racing Technologies
• Limited production - 67 units
• Priced in Germany at EUR 130,000 - incl. VAT
• Debuts new production process for CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) components
• Hood and bucket seats made from cellular carbon honeycomb
• Hood has strength of conventional steel hood, but at 1/4 of its weight. 50% weight saving over M3 aluminum hood.
• Frozen Polar Silver metallic exterior paint
• Melbourne Red metallic applications and special treatment for the BMW kidney grille
• Exclusive door sill strips, door panels and trim strips in aluminium grain structure
• Special Sakhir Orange and Black dual colored covers for the front and individual rear seats
• Alcantara-covered M steering wheel

Powertrain / Performance

• 450hp @ 8,300 RPM
• 324lb-ft torque @ 3,750 RPM
• 180mph / 290kmh top speed
• 4,360 cc displacement
• 0-100km/h (0-62mph) - 4.4 seconds
• Sports exhaust system with extremely lightweight titanium muffler
• Bedplate crankcase construction in special aluminum-silicon alloy
• Individual throttle butterflies
• Knock control system with ion current technology
• Dynamically-optimized wet sump oil supply

Body

• 3,483 pounds / 1,580 kilograms = [100lb (45kg)] lighter than standard sedan / [154lb (70kg)] lighter when equipment on board taken into account
• Proportion of car's weight over rear axle raised to 48.4%
• 7.74 lb-per-hp weight-to-power ratio
• 3.5 kg-per-hp weight-to-power ratio

Wheels/Suspension

• 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design
• 245/35 R 19 front tires and 265/35 R 19 rear tires
• Front and rear axle enhanced by rigid rear axle subframe
• Coilover suspension with individually adjustable dampers
• 6-piston fixed calipers with low-weight compound construction
• 378x32 mm front brake rotors / 380x28 mm rear rear rotors
• Stahflex brake lines

Tech

• Sound-proofing configured specially for low-weight construction
• Two individual rear seats
• M DCT w/ Drivelogic
• Navigation System Professional
• BMW Individual High End audio system
• Alarm system with PDC sensors

Source: BMW via M3Post

Read More

Bentley Launches Mulliner Styling Pack for Continental GT

Bentley’s new Continental GT is, without question, a coupe with imposing road presence. But the British firm wishes to offer its customers the opportunity to make their cars even more unique by launching a range of styling options named Mulliner Styling Specification Classic Pack.

This styling package consists of a front splitter, strakes integrated in the front intake grilles, side extension blades and a rear diffuser, all made from glossy black carbon-fibre.

If you think these are not enough, Bentley also offers more options such as a carbon-fibre rear spoiler and mirror covers, as well as dark mesh front wing vents and black 21-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels.

According to Bentley’s head of exterior design, Raul Pires, the Mulliner Styling Specification Classic Pack “with its sharper lines and darker, lower appearance underlines the iconic form of Bentley’s new GT, underscores its extrovert, flamboyant nature and delivers a more personalized, sportive interpretation of a luxurious and refined GT”.

The Classic Pack is already available to order, while the optional features will be available from the following autumn. 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

What a Tease…Honda Announces All-New 2012 CR-V on its U.S. Website

Honda is trying to build some suspense around its forthcoming, brand-new 2012 CR-V crossover by making an announcement on its U.S. market website. All we get for now is a picture of a tunnel and a press blurb that doesn’t really say much other than that Honda will be revealing the successor to the current CR-V bit by bit in the next few months.

If you don’t feel like visiting Honda’s site, here’s what it says:

“With a new design—both inside and out, new features and new possibilities, the 2012 CR-V will set a new standard for the class. As a top-selling crossover for over five years, expectations for the 2012 CR-V are high and we're confident they will not only be met, but exceeded. Much more will be revealed over the next several months so be sure to sign up on this page to receive updates.”

The next iteration of the CR-V is expected to feature an uprated four-cylinder engine with a little more power and improved fuel efficiency over the current 2.4-liter lump, while the European version of the crossover will also be offered with a diesel unit. We’ve also heard rumors about the availability of a third-row of seats, but this has not been confirmed by Honda officials.

More to come in the next few weeks.

Source: Honda via Indianautosblog

Read More

Holden Engineers Fine-Tuning 2013 Chevy Malibu for Global Markets

The all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has made its way to Australia landing in the hands of Holden’s engineering team, which was recruited by General Motors to assist in the calibration of the mid-size sedan for both the local and global markets outside of North America.

The Australian team is working on the Malibu at Holden’s Lang Lang Proving Ground in the State of Victoria while also evaluating the car on public roads. GM said Holden will continue development of Malibu until the end of 2012.

The 2013 Malibu is Chevrolet’s first truly global mid-size model as it will be offered in nearly 100 countries on six continents. In Australia, it will be badged as a Holden and it is due to launch at the end of 2012. Chevy’s new mid-size saloon will first go on sale in South Korea this fall, followed by China before the end of 2011 and the U.S. early next year. 

photo

Read More

Buick’s 37mpg 2012 LaCrosses with eAssist Priced at $30,820, New V6 with 303HP also Available

The big news for the 2012 model year Buick LaCrosse sedan is the introduction of a new standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with eAssist and a newer, more powerful and more efficient version of the direct-injected, E85-capable 3.6-liter V6 unit that sits atop of the range.

The entry-level LaCrosse with GM’s micro-hybrid eAssist technology is expected to deliver 25 percent better highway fuel economy than the current base model with the 182HP 2.4-liter four-pot, but not without a penalty at the showroom as prices start at $29,960 before an $860 destination charge for a total of $30,820. That’s an increase of $2,830 over the current 2011 LaCrosse CX.

General Motors said the 2012 LaCrosse with eAssist delivers up to 37 mpg highway fuel economy compared to 30mpg of the 2011 model year sedan with the four-cylinder engine. The same hybrid powertrain will also make its way into the 2012 Buick Regal later this year.

The 2012MY also brings an updated version of the LaCrosse’s range-topping 3.6-liter V6 engine with variable valve timing and direct-injection technology. According to the Detroit automaker, the front-wheel-drive 3.6-liter model is rated at 303-horsepower and 264 lb-ft (358 Nm) of peak torque, an improvement of 23HP and 5 lb-ft respectively over the 2011MY LaCrosse’s V6. Pricing for the top-end V6 models has not yet been announced,

Other upgrades for the 2012 LaCrosse include additional new standard features such as dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, full-color driver information center, and Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

photo

source: carscoop.blogspot.com & youtube

Read More

Mercedes-Benz Shows Off its New 2012 ML-Class SUV on Film

By now, you know that Mercedes-Benz has released the new 2012 ML-Class ahead of its world premiere at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. If you’re curious to see how the German firm’s American-made SUV looks on road, this is your lucky day as Mercedes has just published two official videos including a five-minute long film of its BMW X5 rival. You can watch both clips right after the break.

Hiding under the third generation ML-Class’s evolutionary styling is a new platform architecture, which is shared in modified form with the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee, and a fresh choice of engine options that include a frugal 2.1-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel producing 201bhp.

In the United States, the new ML is expected to be offered at launch with a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel pumping out 240-horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 delivering 302-horses.

 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com & youtube

Read More

Real Life Cars 2 Characters Dock at London’s Motorexpo

The imposing fleet of 50 Jaguar E-Type models isn’t the only attraction to arrive today at London’s Canary Wharf for the free-to-visit Motorexpo as Disney and its Pixar studio sent two real life characters from the upcoming Cars 2 movie, which is set to hit UK theaters in 3D on July 22. The full-size film-star cars are the Lightning McQueen racer and the Finn McMissile Aston Martin, voiced in the movie by actors Owen Wilson and Michael Caine respectively.

Commenting on the appearance of the two real life Cars 2 charachters, Motorexpo’s CEO, Graeme Carver, said: “We’re delighted that Lightning McQueen and Finn McMissile chose Motorexpo to start their British ‘Cars 2’ promotional tour. Our show is the most interactive motoring event in the country and it’s only appropriate that we offer our younger visitors something to keep them entertained too.”

The good news for parents is that unlike the movie, a visit to the Motorexpo won’t cost them a penny as the show is completely free for all members of the public to attend. The show runs from Monday 6 to Saturday 11 June and is open daily from 10am to 6pm, and 11am to 5pm on Sunday 12 June. 

 source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

Load Fail: Crashed Ferrari 355 Challenge Breaks free from Chains

Today’s video find takes us to Saint Gouéno in Bretagne, northwestern France, for an incident involving a Ferrari F355 Challenge racecar, which had crashed during a hill climb that took place in the area this past weekend.

We do not know how the race-spec Italian supercar ended up on its rooftop, but the film shows us what when on after that when a service truck arrived to pickup (literally) the Ferrari. As you can see in the video after the break, all goes well until the red F355 Challenge begins its ascent on the truck’s flatbed when all of a sudden it appears that the chain pulling the vehicle breaks and, well, it is not hard to imagine what happened next...

Source: Youtube / RSM TV

Read More

Yuhan Zhang’s Aqua is the Personal VW Hovercraft Concept of Tomorrow

Before budget airlines and the Channel Tunnel, the faster way to get from Britain to France was by hovercraft. The largest of these was the SNR4, a 300-ton behemoth capable of carrying 380 passengers and 40 cars at a speed of 70 mph (113 km/h). In the 1950s and ‘60s, magazines like Popular Science and Popular Mechanics were predicting a future where we’d all be cruising around in affordable, personal hovercrafts. Sadly, it was not to be.

Now, some 11 years after the last SNR4 was retired, 21-year-old industrial design graduate Yuhan Zhang has resurrected the personal hovercraft in the form of her Volkswagen Aqua study.

A hydrogen fuel cell / electric-drive hovercraft with seating for two and a submarine-style rear hatch for entry and egress. Just look at it! It’s like a Vanair Vanguard had sex with the Audi RSQ and this was the result. Check out our gallery below as well as the designer’s description and video slideshow for more information.

By Tristan Hankins

From Yuhan Zhang:

“Aqua is based on the customized subject “Chinese off-road vehicle” by Volkswagen.

The Aqua offers an insight of futuristic vehicle powered by hydrogen and propelled by impeller.

Aqua is function with several engines, the main one drives the fan (or impeller) under the chases, which is responsible for lifting the vehicle by forcing high pressure air under the craft. The air inflates the "skirt" under the vehicle, causing it to rise above the surface. Additional engines provide thrust in order to propel the craft.

Aqua interprets the philosophy of Volkswagen Design with no single parting-line and laconic appearance, The door (hatch)locates on the back of Aqua. It features an electric drive train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell with no pollutant emissions.”

 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

Mercedes Celebrates Unimog’s 60th Birthday with Impressive Design Study

On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the presentation of the Unimog, the Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks (MBS) unit, which is responsible for the Unimog, Econic and Zetros range of models, created a special design concept that attempts to link the past and present together with the future.

Using the current Unimog U 5000’s chassis as a base, the German brand’s designers came up with a futuristic-looking yet distinctly retro-feeling styling for the body of their off-road workhouse. The concept vehicle features an open top design as a nod to the first Mercedes-Benz Unimog model that rolled off the assembly line on June 3, 1951.

“At Mercedes Benz Special Trucks we decided to construct a design concept because we are of the opinion that such a vehicle will act as a bridge between the progressive strength of self-renewal that has distinguished the Unimog programme for 60 years and the future design of the coming generations of products,” said Yaris Pürsün, Director of the Mercedes-Benz Plant at Wörth and Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks.

While there are no plans to produce the Unimog study, the German company said the concept’s expressive "face" corresponds to the future form language of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle design.

The Unimog Cabrio Concept was officially revealed during a special ceremony in the Customer Centre at the Mercedes-Benz Plant in Wörth, Germany, on June 3, 2011. 

 

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

This is what Happens when a Limousine, Convertible and Yacht Meet

In today's highly competitive auto market, one would think there are no new niches left to explore. Well, it's pretty true, except for imaginative individuals like the crew from Sweden’s Gray Design, which also penned the Saab supercar.

Enter the world of the Strand Craft Limousine Beach Cruiser, a vehicle that looks like a crossover between a limousine, a convertible and a yacht – yes, you read correctly, a yacht. Essentially a beach shuttle, the Stand Craft has been conceived for luxury hotel chains willing to offer their clients premium service. More specifically, to carry six passengers from the hotel to the nearest beach as fast and as comfortable as possible.

Crafted by luxury boat maker Strand Craft, the Limousine Beach Cruiser is designed for the sunny parts of the world. Its looks confirm it: the car (or should we say yacht?) features an opening canvas roof, chromed hubcaps and wooden inlays. It also sports an even more extravagant interior with Alcantara leather, brushed aluminum, chrome, a Breitling-made instrument panel and Swarowski crystals.

To keep the passengers entertained until they arrive at the beach, the Limousine Beach Cruiser is fitted with a 15-speaker Naim sound system that has a 1100 Watt amplifier to ensure the best audio quality even when the canvas roof is opened. Finally, the car is powered by a 6.0-liter Chevrolet V8 engine with 400 horsepower, enough to offer the car a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). The eight-cylinder unit is linked to a Haldex-based all-wheel drive system.

There's no info on pricing, though if you don't own a luxury hotel you probably can't afford it.

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

MINI Previews New Coupé, Publishes Information on Lineup

We’re still more than three months away from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but the BMW Group has already begun dropping information and photos of the models it plans to introduce at the show. Following the presentation of the all-new 2012 BMW 1-Series hatchback during the weekend, today the Bavarian group unleashed specifications and a large gallery of photos of the MINI Coupé.

While the model seen in the official pictures is partially covered in the firm’s characteristic swirly camouflage, it’s clear that the production version has barely changed from the 2009 concept car. Pictured here in John Cooper Works (JCW) form, the top-end Coupé hangs on to the concept’s sportier aero package that includes modified front and rear bumpers, side skirts and extended wheel arches that leave room for larger alloy wheels. The Coupé is also the first MINI to get an active rear spoiler that extends automatically at 80 km/h (50 mph).

There are no pictures of the interior yet, but it’s safe to assume that minus the extravagant trim options, the concept’s interior design has been kept intact featuring a strict two-seater layout with extended stowage and loading capacity behind the driver and passenger seat.

Mini says it has fine tuned the chassis of the three-door hatchback model upon which the is based on. “The new car radiates the brand’s hallmark go-kart feeling with a whole new depth of intensity and achieves the best performance statistics ever recorded by a volume-produced MINI,” the company said in a statement.

The British automaker published information on the Coupé lineup, which will include the most potent petrol and diesel engines in the brand’s arsenal (depending of course on the market).

Sitting at the top of the range is the JCW model fitted with a 1.6-liter turbo petrol delivering 211HP, followed by the Cooper S with a 184HP version of the same engine. The third petrol model is the Cooper that gets a 122HP naturally aspirated 1.6-liter unit.

In Europe and other select markets Mini will also offer will the diesel-powered Cooper SD with a 143HP strong 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine returning 4.3lt/100km (54.7 mpg US or 65.7 mpg UK).

Sales of the new Mini Coupé are expected to start towards the end of the year or early 2012. A roadster model will be unveiled late next year.

Engine variants:

MINI John Cooper Works Coupé: Four-cylinder petrol engine with
twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, plus numerous technological details carried over directly from motor sport.

• Displacement: 1,598 cc,
• Output: 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm,
• Max. Torque: 260 Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm
• (280 Nm/207 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm).
• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 6.4 seconds,
• Top Speed: 240 km/h (149 mph).
• Average Fuel Consumption according to EU standard:
• 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres (39.8 mpg imp),
• Co2 Emissions: 165 g/km.

MINI Cooper S Coupé: Four-cylinder petrol engine with
twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.

• Displacement: 1,598 cc,
• Output: 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm,
• Max. Torque: 240 Nm/177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm
• (260 Nm/192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,700 – 4,500 rpm).
• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 6.9 seconds,
• Top Speed: 230 km/h (143 mph).
• Average Fuel Consumption according to EU standard:
• 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres (48.7 mpg imp),
• Co2 Emissions: 136 g/km.

MINI Cooper Coupé: Four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology.

• Displacement: 1,598 cc,
• Output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6,000 rpm,
• Max. Torque: 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm,
• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 9.0 seconds,
• Top Speed: 204 km/h (127 mph),
• Average Fuel Consumption according to EU standard:
• 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres (52.3 mpg imp),
• Co2 Emissions: 127 g/km.

MINI Cooper SD Coupé: Four-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common-rail injection and variable turbine geometry.

• Displacement: 1,995 cc,
• Output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm,
• Max. Torque: 305 Nm/225 lb-ft at 1,750 – 2,700 rpm.
• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 7.9 seconds,
• Top Speed: 216 km/h (134 mph).
• Average Fuel Consumption according to EU standard:
• 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres (65.7 mpg imp),
• Co2 Emissions: 114 g/km.

Exterior dimensions:

• Length: 3,728 millimetres (MINI Cooper S Coupé,
  MINI John Cooper Works Coupé: 3,734 millimetres)
  Width: 1,683 millimetres
  Height: 1,378 millimetres (MINI Cooper S Coupé,
  MINI John Cooper Works Coupé: 1,384 millimetres)
  Wheelbase: 2,467 millimetres

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

Want to Try out the New Caterham-Lola SP/300 R? Here’s How

With the development of the new Caterham-Lola SP/300 R now complete, the British carmaker is ready to give potential owners their first taste of the prototype-racing car on the tarmac. The dates on which racing drivers and trackday enthusiasts alike can get behind the steering wheel of Caterham’s 300bhp, 180mph (289 km/h) sports prototype are:

-Saturday, August 27 at Donington Park
-Wednesday, September 7 at Donington Park
-Thursday, September 15 at Snetterton
-Wednesday, September 21 at Donington Park

Caterham said that customers who have already placed an order for the SP/300 R will be given priority booking slots, “after which the extensive list of people who have registered an interest with Caterham will be offered one of the strictly limited drives”.

The SP/300 R was developed in partnership with British racing and engineering brand Lola, and it made its global debut at January’s Autosport International Show at Birmingham’s NEC. It is powered a Caterham-tuned, supercharged version of Ford’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder Duratec unit churning out 300-horses. The British automaker committed to build only 25 of the lightweight sports prototype racers a year, with 14 having already been snapped up.

“There has been a huge amount of interest in this car since we unveiled it at the start of the year,” said Caterham Motorsport Manager, Simon Lambert. “It will be fantastic to get it on track this summer and we can’t wait to see the look on people’s faces when they try it for the first time. We are confident it will be everything they expect and more.”

 source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

Opel Officially Reveals 2012 Astra GTC, High-Po OPC Coming Next Year

This is General Motors’ brand new Opel Astra GTC revealed more than two months ahead of its world premiere at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany, in mid-September. The newest member of Opel’s ever-growing Astra family will go on sale across Europe including the United Kingdom where it will be available as a Vauxhall later this year. Recent reports also suggest it may come to the States under the Buick brand.

GM’s European subsidiary is confident about its new Astra GTC with Vauxhall going as far as to claim that it will “lay down the gauntlet to VW’s Scirocco and Renault’s Megane Coupe with a heady mix of dynamic excellence, dramatic design features and competitive pricing".

The production version of last year’s Paris Motor Show concept GTC sports a far more athletic appearance than the rest of the Astra range thanks to the uniquely designed body that includes a more rakish roofline. According to Opel, the only elements the GTC shares with its five-door and estate siblings are the door handles and roof aerial as even the wheelbase and tracks are different.

Compared to the five-door Astra, the ride height of the GTC is lowered by 15 mm while the wheelbase grows by 10 mm, from 2,685 to 2,695 mm and both tracks are wider, at 1,584 mm (+ 40 mm) in front and 1,588 mm (+ 30 mm) in the rear.

Opel and its sister brand Vauxhall say the Astra GTC is a more driver’s car than the five-door model as the company’s engineers having made several changes to the chassis including the adoption of the HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) setup used on the 325HP Insignia OPC / VXR instead of the standard McPherson suspension.

At the rear, the GTC continues to use a Watt’s link axle, while as an option, Opel offers the fully-adaptive FlexRide chassis control system with a choice of three settings - Standard, Tour or Sport.

Moving on to the available lineup at launch, the Astra GTC can be ordered now with a choice of four engines. However, Opel said more powertrains will be offered around its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show adding that the sportiest versions including the future high-performance OPC model will follow in 2012.

For now, diesel options are limited to a 2.0-liter CDTI common-rail turbo unit delivering 165HP and 380 Nm of torque in overboost function. It is fitted with a diesel particulate filter and a six-speed manual transmission, plus a new Start/Stop system. With this engine, the GTC can reach 100 km/h (62mph) in 8.9 seconds en route to a top speed of 210 km/h (131 mph), while returning a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 lt/ 100 km (48 mpg US or 57.7 mpg UK) with corresponding CO2 emissions of 129 g/km.

The most powerful engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline unit with 180-horses linked to a six-speed manual gearbox offering the GTC a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). A 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine available with 120HP and 140HP completes the petrol lineup.

In Britain, buyers can place their order now for the Astra GTC with prices ranging from £18,495 for the 120HP Sport 1.4 Turbo to £22,430 for the 165PS SRi 2.0 CDTi. For more details on UK pricing, check out the list below.

________________________________________________________________

2012 OPEL ASTRA GTC

source: carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

BMW Reveals 2012 1-Series M Sport Package and Online Configurator

BMW is wasting no time in pushing the marketing envelope on its brand-new “My, what big eyes you have” 2012 1-Series as the Bavarian automaker has already released an online configurator on its German website only two days after the hatchback model’s debut.

Aside from allowing potential buyers and time-wasters alike to configure the 2012 1-Series hatchback, the dedicated webpage also serves us our first taste of the M Sport Package. The option group includes a new aero kit comprising of M parts such as the front and rear bumpers, a sports-oriented chassis set-up, and bespoke alloy wheel designs.

The interior also receives the M treatment with sport seats and door panels dressed in special upholsteries, aluminum trim on the dashboard and door-sills plus a sports steering wheel, handbrake and gear levers, and pedals.

Source: BMW via Autofan & carscoop.blogspot.com

PHOTO GALLERY

source: http://carscoop.blogspot.com

Read More

Jump Fail: Can You Guess What Happens Next?

Here’s one jump that won’t buff out. For reasons beyond logic, the driver of a fairly new Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck decided to impress his buddies (and his….insurer) at a meet on the sand dunes of Silver Lake in Michigan, USA, by performing a high-speed jump stunt. The laws of physics pretty much explain what happens next.

 

Read More