Archive for September, 2011

postheadericon Audi Exclusive: Barbie suburbs

Would you like your car view of Dior? Does having a single unit on the market? For quiet, Audi makes it easy and the Audi Exclusive program you get a car dealer dress tailor. A program where dreams come true.

Exclusive Audi is provided by quattro GmbH, which is responsible for the production of high-performance cars from Audi and in 2001 launched a customization program. With it, every customer can configure any Audi vehicle with optional equipment that accentuate their individuality, sportsmanship and elegance. In this program include the gamut, from the small to the large A8 A1. Everything imaginable and then some, if the current account balance allows. Outside personal color wheels and bodywork are most requested, while inside you can make endless combinations of leather and wood. Be said that the delicacy in the choice of skins of this program puts “skin” bumps, as there is a selection process which must be overcome up to 45 laboratory tests (to ensure abrasion, durability and permeability ), regardless that they should not have imperfections caused by, for example, by barbed wire fences that protect animals.

Quattro GmbH is headquartered in Neckarsulm, where they operate nearly 700 workers, not only is responsible for the Audi exclusive customization program. The Audi subsidiary is also responsible for sports models of the brand and line of lifestyle items Audi Collection. Currently, quattro GmbH sold more than 2.5 million items and customize more than 160,000 vehicles a year. Each week, they leave the assembly lines quattro GmbH about 200 custom vehicles. Those who have money and also time to think about how to customize the entire car and be a fan of the brand with the four rings, are available to Audi Collection, the boutique where you will strengthen their link with the vehicle and brand. A select range of accessories ranging from bags and unique skin, clothing, accessories, related items and sports and travel to a wide range of models to scale.

postheadericon Alfa Romeo 4C Concept 2011

Essential style capable of conveying strong emotions, the technical investigation that is always at the forefront, and the satisfaction of the superlative on the road and driving, combined with maximum vehicle efficiency: these are the qualities that have always set Alfa Romeo apart in world motorsport.

The same values that underlie the concept of Alfa Romeo 4C, a compact ” supercar “, which represents the true essence of a sports car according to the brand values : performance, Italian style and technical excellence, offering the maximum driving safely. That’s why the concept Alfa Romeo 4C is the ambassador of the engineering heritage that distinguishes the Alfa Romeo cars of today and tomorrow.
” DNA technology ” is the philosophy of Alfa Romeo to the technical development of all its models. Each car has to know how to combine excellent dynamic performance ( in the tradition of the brand), performance efficiency and environmental sustainability, comfort and active safety and passive control in all conditions.

In this perspective, the concept of 4C is the most advanced level ” DNA technology “, where ” D” of the dynamics, linked to performance and vehicle dynamics is reinforced by the transfer of a perfect balance between pleasure and excitement of performance with the knowledge of the efficiency in everyday driving experience.
4C shown in Frankfurt is marked by the new ” Liquid Metal ” which dynamically enhances the smooth lines, curves and original. And precisely because of this attractive “Made in Italy” abroad, the Alfa Romeo 4C has been voted ” most beautiful Concept Car of the Year” by readers of German magazine Auto Bild, which comes on top of its many competitors presented in recent months in the halls of Tokyo, Geneva and Shanghai.

The launch is scheduled for 2013 4C. In recent months the project was further developed and enriched with technical content to improve the car’s dynamic excellence. The weight is confirmed around 850 kg, with an output of 200 HP and overcoming the weight of a power ratio less than 4 kg / hp, a value worthy of a true ” supercar “.
The concept has the formula of the two-seater coupe rear -engine, an approximate length of 4 meters and a wheelbase of less than 2.4 meters. These dimensions, on the one hand emphasize compact vehicle attributes while emphasizing its agility in the other.
The Alfa Romeo 4C concept of using technology and materials derived from the 8C Competizione – carbon, aluminum, rear – and technology from Alfa Romeo models currently on sale: turbo petrol engine of 1750 cc with direct injection, “Alfa TCT ” dry dual-clutch transmission, so all the best of the ” DNA technology “, including of course the Alfa DNA switch dynamic control is the physical expression within the interior of all Alfa Romeo.

postheadericon BMW has unveiled another M3 Coupe limited edition

BMW has unveiled another M3 Coupe limited edition. This time for the Chinese market, but for North America. The car, like a Stealth fighter, is called Frozen Black and will be available with a production limited to 20 pieces, exclusively for the U.S..

The Frozen Black is sold, according to Autoevolution, priced at 55,500 euros, 610 euros excluding the shipping destination. The special edition is 15,000 euros more expensive then the normal M3 Coupe.

The BMW M3 has been painted in a color individual and personalized Frozen Black and is equipped with 19-inch wheels GTS. The wheels are gloss black finish, the same color as the typical BMW kidney grilles, exhaust pipes and strips on the wings. Basically, it’s a car that is invisible at night like a black cat if you turn the lights off.

The displays also include the Frozen Black brake calipers in red, black leather interior with red stitching and contrasting trim detail some carbon fiber. The suspensions were also lowered by 10 mm, a choice to improve performance on the road. Customers interested Americans can buy one of the first 19 specimens from Thursday reserving ‘ June 16, and wait for delivery which will take place later this month. BMW North America say they want to keep for ‘ the last specimen

postheadericon BMW M3 CRT lighter carbon

BMW M3 CRT: it is called the ultimate ” weapon” of BMW M GmbH. CRT stands for Carbon Racing Technology, a technology that applies a weight / power ratio of 3.5 kg / hp. The V8 engine delivers a maximum power of 450 hp and triggers the CRT M3, 0 to 100 km / h in just 4.4 seconds. Produced in only 67 units, CRT has the M3 hood and front seats in the cellular structure of carbon, which is produced in a process unique in the world and was originally designed to build body parts for the BMW and the BMW i3 i8. These new models, due to enter series production in 2013 and will be equipped with an innovative electric propulsion technology and BMW ActiveHybrid, will be presenting a body consisting entirely of CFRP in the passenger cell.

This innovative construction process leads to a considerable potential thanks to the use of CFRP for mass-produced cars in order to decrease the weights. Returning to the BMW M3 CRT, we find the M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic, Navigation System Professional, BMW Individual High End audio system, a slight exterior mirror, a package for the trunk, an alarm system and control system Parking distance sensors front and rear.

Despite this remarkable selection of standard equipment, its empty weight of 1,580 kg DIN is about 45 kg less than the BMW M3 saloon. When you take into account the equipment on board, saving weight settles around 70 kg. In addition, the ingenious weight reduction on the front raises the proportion of vehicle weight on the rear axle to 48.4 percent, which has a positive effect on agility. The brakes, high-performance six-piston fixed calipers on the BMW M3 CRT have a lightweight construction. The ventilated brake discs measuring 378 x 32 mm x 28 mm front and 380 rear.

The new variant also uses M3 Steel-braided brake ducts and comfort pads specific to the model. The DSC ( Dynamic Stability Control ) specially developed, including the ABS and the M Dynamic Mode ( MDM ), is responding to the increased dynamic potential of the BMW M3 CRT is optimized weight distribution. Meanwhile, the front tires and 245/35 R 19 rear 265/35 R 19 ( M alloy wheels mounted on 19-inch light -ray “Y ” ) ensure that the motor acceleration and braking power are transferred on road with maximum effect. The electronic engine management of the BMW M3 CRT limits its maximum speed to 290 km / h.

postheadericon The Audi TT Roadster and even the Mazda MX5

Mercedes is preparing a class rival for the Audi TT Roadster and even the Mazda MX5. Mercedes is the SLA, a standard two-seater with hood that could reach the street in 2013 with a starting price of close to 60,000 euros.
The initial basis of the prototype, when it was unveiled at the Detroit in 2000, was the Mercedes Class A, but may finally have the platform of the new Class B, so that the SLA could be the first Mercedes roadster FWD. The Vision SLA concept was that of a small roadster with the primary aim of conveying the same driving pleasure of a SL, but in a smaller segment. The proximity of the Class A was evident in the compact dimensions, with a length of 3.77 meters outside, six inches shorter than the SLK, and no less than 73 centimeters shorter than the SL. The main features of its design and compact roadster is accentuated with a sharply sloping windshield, large doors and a slightly tilted back style reminiscent of the legendary Mercedes Silver Arrows.

The range of engines that could be the protagonist of SLA range include a 1.6-liter direct-injection turbo four-cylinder automatic transmission mated to the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a six-speed manual. So much for the gasoline engine because the diesel side speaks of a new 1.8 -liter four- cylinder turbo diesel. But in his day had the Mercedes 1.9-liter engine of 125 hp and maximum torque of 180 Nm at 4000 rpm can generate a 0-100 km / h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 209 km / h. A more than respectable performance for a two-seat pocket that must have weighed 950 kg. The lightness of the body responds to advanced engineering solutions that the engineers had made an innovative hybrid structure composed of aluminum and plastic panels and high quality.

postheadericon Porsche is already working on their return to Le Mans

When speaking of the pleasure of driving it comes to Porsche, its sporting models range in general. What is the secret? There are no secrets, which learned in the racing world led him to road cars. There is nothing better for getting more rewarding driving and to seduce the most demanding customers.

The video we showed was shot in the Frankfurt Motor Show, this is an interview with Hartmut Kristen, Porsche Motorsport Director. The video mixed images of the interview with pictures of the latest products and Porsche’s racing successes, and also with historical scenes of the German mark. Kristen talks about the importance of the Porsche race car, the latest exploits in Nürburging, values the importance of developing everything in the demanding world of competition and then fabricate the most exciting cars, and finally take a look at future sporting the brand plans and hybrid technology that Porsche is a world leader.

Everything evolves and we can bet that every day we will see races where hybrid technology and electric eventually have more to say in the competition. That’s the next step in the Porsche racing plans. The German brand has already taken course, or rather, has recovered to return to Le Mans, a senior level, and officially.

 

It was announced a few months ago and are already working on it. But they are aware that both Audi and Peugeot are at a very high level and will not be as easy as getting and winning. Audi has yet to define their plans for 2014 sport, which is when it comes to Le Mans Porsche. It would not make sense that two brands of the same groups fought each other, so it’s more than likely be a transfer of technology from Audi to Porsche, Stuttgart and keep up the work of a decade of success for Audi, with a gift Bentley, who is also the group. At this time the rules have to evolve, they are already doing, and Porsche is eager to know how far role will the hybrid system, initially developed KERS with Williams F1, and complementary systems that are energy recovery developed and already you are giving a sensational result, beating all their cars and racing competition in middle and long distance. We talked about the innovative 911 GT3 R hybrid has two electric motors that supplement the combustion engine. The key to their success is the greater autonomy, because it needs to go through boxes, less frequently, in addition to increasing the power generated electricity, because the two motors coupled to the combustion engine providing 120 kW on the forehand…

postheadericon Audi Q5 hybrid pricing

After so much talk about it, eventually the Audi Q5 hybrid is actually four: the commercial launch is set for November, but already you can order it from July. The price? 56,800 euros, in which are included, among others, the navigation system MMI, program efficiency, Audi sound system with amplifier, 19-inch alloy wheels and steering wheel controls. Powered by a 2.0 TFSI 211 hp and a 54 hp electric motor, it delivers 245 hp of potenzamassima. The average fuel consumption, as measured by the measurement cycle NEDC European standards, is just 6.9 liters per 100 km. The hybrid SUV with the four rings along with a constant driving speed of 60 km / h, about 3 miles zero emissions, or reaches a top speed of 100 km / h in electric mode only.

The hybrid SUV with the four rings along with a constant driving speed of 60 km / h, about 3 miles zero emissions, or reaches a top speed of 100 km / h in electric mode only. The Audi Q5 hybrid four is 4.63 meters long and 1.90 meters wide, 1.63 meters high. Externally, the Q5 hybrid is distinguished by signature four ” hybrid ” side and the rear gate, the single-frame grill painted in shiny black, arctic silver exclusive special color of the body, the 19-inch 10-spoke design with turbine and the masks of chrome tailpipes. The frame emphasizes the dynamic character of the Audi Q5 hybrid four. To reduce drag, the workforce was reduced by 25 mm. On the security front, the electronic stabilization program ( ESP ) has innovative features.

Thanks to a special sensor, ESP is able to detect the presence of a luggage rack on the roof, which inevitably changes the center of gravity of the Audi Q5. ESP in this case takes them into account and adapt its interventions anticipating slightly compared to normal parameters. On request, the Q5 hybrid systems can be equipped with four high-technology borrowed from the superior and can make driving more comfortable and relaxed. The parking assistant ” Audi parking system advanced “, l ‘ ” Audi lane assist ” l ‘ ” Audi side assist “.

postheadericon Audi R8 GT Spyder

A “discovery ” fabulous. The Audi has made ​​a spider and exciting for both performance and technology, both in design and construction that makes extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber. A true supercar the R8 Spyder GT, Limited (333 copies ) which follows the same edition of the R8 GT Coupe. Overflowing the dynamism of its 560 hp, but even more so is the beauty of the German two-seater.
Diapason R8 range of sports, this special version of GT Spyder has an engine that Audi is an icon in the home, the V10 5.2 -liter gasoline direct injection, capable of developing 560 horsepower and peak torque of 540 Nm at 6,500 rpm. So the two-seater open-air can touch 317 km / h top speed and accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in just 3.8 seconds. It can go on the track in short, to compete with the best sports car in the world, and the ” Launch Control ” which encourages departing shots go in the direction of this ambition, far from obvious for a car pool.

The change is the automatic R tronic with paddles on the steering wheel ( in case you want to drive acting on the gears ) and the traction is full-time with a slight preference for the distribution on the rear, on which also operates the locking differential. The ESP can be deactivated, so as to enhance the excitement of driving more qualified. But what characterizes the R8 Spyder GT from the other versions of the Audi R8 range is the ultra-lightweight construction, which has reduced the weight of 85 kg of the car. The carbon used for the body, the magnesium chassis, fiberglass and plastics for the interior have made it possible to maximize the dynamic performance of the car, which is assembled almost entirely by hand.

The structure has been lowered by 10 mm and 19-inch wheels are fitted large tires measuring 235/35 front and 295/30 rear. Stay on top of the brake system, making use of advanced carbon ceramic discs are more resistant to high performance. Substantial differences compared to other Audi R8 in design: it suffices to mention the larger speakers, the fins in the front bumper, the circular tailpipes and rear LED lights. Confermatissima the electrically operated soft top (you can open or close on the move, up to 50 km / h) and the heated rear window may, if necessary, be lowered.

postheadericon Audi Q3 pricelist arrives in Italy

Audi debuted in the premium SUV segment in a compact format. Line coupe style, decided to design headlights ( xenon plus headlights with daytime running lamps in LED technology ), low roofline and steeply sloping rear pillars: the figures certainly do not lack. There are also two packages available for the exterior. As for size, the length is equal to 4.39 meters, 1.83 meters in width and height of 1.59 meters. There are many possibilities to customize the cockpit and express their personal style, thanks to the many colors and materials available. The trunk has a minimum capacity of 460 liters, which become 1,365 if you recline the rear seats ( folding separately). The roof rails are standard. Initially the Audi Q3 is available in a TDI engine and two TDI engines.

The three four-cylinder engine combines direct injection, turbocharging, the energy recovery system and the system Start&Stop. The power of these engines ranges from 170 hp and 211 hp. In the version with 140 hp 2.0 TDI engine and front wheel drive, which will be launched at a later time, the Q3 will consume on average less than 5.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. The most powerful TDI and TFSI fitted as standard, even the S tronic dual- clutch seven-speed. The S tronic has an innovation that further improves the efficiency in the process of issuing permits to proceed with the Audi Q3 when inertia in the system ” Audi drive select ” mode is on “efficiency “. The chassis provides four-link rear suspension, electromechanical power steering and rim diameter from 16 to 19 inches. The electromechanical parking brake and the care system during take-off are standard, then a system will also be available to control downhill speed. With ‘ ” Audi drive select ” the driver can customize according to your driving style, on four levels, different technical elements, including the adaptive shock absorbers ( optional ). The advance of the Audi Q3, which is produced in the Spanish plant in Martorell, near Barcelona, started in June. Following are the prices: 170 hp 2.0 TFSI four € 32,600, 211 hp 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic € 37,900, € 30,600 140 hp 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic 177 hp € 37,900. 1,900 instead of the surcharge is for the advanced version, 3,500 for the Advanced Plus

postheadericon 2012 Audi A5 restyling

Audi A5, the hour of the redesign: Sportback, coupe, convertible and S5 versions are equipped with the latest technology in engines, quattro drive and infotainment systems. All this makes the cars more efficient, and sports.
Externally, the design is new taillights and headlights, you can apply technology and xenon plus LED daylight homogeneous. The interior stands out for new colors and materials, while the controls have been improved in numerous details. Whole new range of engines consists of direct-injection turbocharged engines.

This is true for the four models and for the three TDI TFSI petrol, including the new 1.8 TFSI, which features several innovations. The average consumption of the engines fell by 11 %, the system Start&Stop and recovery system are fitted as standard in all variants of the engine and transmission.

The broadcasts are available from the six-speed manual gearbox, multitronic to up the S tronic seven-speed, front wheel drive or four ). On vehicles which are mounted on the drive train of four -wheel drive, along with the S tronic, are adopted, the central differential ring gear and the self-locking torque vectoring system, complemented perfectly by the sport differential.
The chassis has been further improved, the optional Audi drive select dynamic steering and further raise the driving pleasure. What’s New in Family A5 is the electromechanical power steering.