Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition

On the heels of its recent milestone announcement of 900,000 MX-5 Miatas being produced, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) unveiled the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition, a limited-run model of only 750 units. The Special Edition continues the MX-5's history of being a dynamically-engineered, enthusiast-approved roadster whose price doesn't discriminate and whose luxuries are not stripped.
Special Edition-exclusive interior touches include gray door trim and heated leather seats with gray stitching, a black leather-wrapped parking brake and steering wheel with contrasting gray stitching, chrome treatments to the air vents and instrument cluster as well as aluminum pedals (6MT only). Special Edition models are only available in Sparkling Black Mica or Dolphin Gray Mica, two new MX-5 colors, and are packaged with 17-inch Bright Finish aluminum alloy wheels.

The MX-5 traditionally has appealed to higher income households as its purchase reason is not as the practical daily driver but as the additional "fun" car, such as for those long, winding road-hunting weekends. Originally available in three trim levels - Sport, Touring and Grand Touring - the Special Edition is based off of a fully-equipped Grand Touring model but is only available with the industry-leading, easy-to-use Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT).
Popular in both warm and winter climates, PRHT models go from rain-deflector to sun-worshipper in 12 seconds - with trunk space to boot - and outsell soft tops 4:1 worldwide. In the United States, there also is no lack of interest for premium accessories as 70 percent of Grand Touring models sold are PRHT-equipped, of which 50 percent are optioned with the Premium Package. The Premium Package is standard on the Special Edition and includes a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a six-month complimentary subscription, Xenon headlights, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with a Traction Control System (TCS), an anti-theft alarm and the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System.
It is no secret that on any given weekend more Mazdas and Mazda-powered vehicles are road-raced than any other brand. Performance and tuning are dynamically engineered into every Mazda and the MX-5 Miata Special Edition retains its sports car soul but with a few niceties not meant for the bumper-to-bumper love taps of the track.
The Suspension Package, optional on Touring and Grand Touring models, is made standard with the Special Edition and includes Bilstein® shocks, a limited slip differential (LSD) and a sport-tuned suspension. Both the six-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter and six-speed Sport automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are available to enjoy the 167-horsepower, 140 lb-ft of torque 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (158 horsepower with the 6AT). At only 2,593 pounds (2,619 pounds for the 6AT), the MX-5's nearly 50:50 weight distribution, combined with its track-proven suspension and responsive power, mean the rear-wheel drive sports car is a lightweight only in terms of size, not road prowess.
The 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition starts at $30,925 for the manual transmission, and $31,525 when equipped with the six-speed Sport AT automatic.

2011 KIA Sportage SX20

Scheduled to arrive in dealer showrooms later this month, the 2011 KIA Sportage SX front-wheel drive (FWD) features a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,795 while all-wheel drive (AWD) models feature a starting MSRP of $27,295
The KIA Sportage SX joins the 2011 Optima Turbo as Kia’s second vehicle in the U.S to feature the powerful Theta II 2.0-liter Turbo GDI engine and adds unique exterior and interior features and luxury appointments to provide consumers a high performance and high value CUV. In combination with a highly efficient six-speed automatic transmission, the new KIA Sportage SX features up to 256 horsepower while maintaining class-leading fuel economy1 of 27 miles per gallon on the highway, better than any other turbo-equipped compact CUV on the market today. In addition to powertrain enhancements, the KIA Sportage SX employs sport-tuned suspension featuring firmer shock and strut rates for improved handling and dynamic performance over non-SX models.

 On the outside, the KIA Sportage SX models receive unique 18″ alloy wheels, a signature SX grille, dual exhaust, and special side sill moldings. Exterior updates are complemented by SX-specific interior appointments adding more refinement inside the cabin, including standard aluminum door sills and a sleek new supervision gauge cluster. Available exclusively on the KIA Sportage SX, Orange and Blue interior color packages offer more interior color choices for potential buyers. The Orange Color Package includes orange stitching on the steering wheel, center console, and seats coupled with orange accents on the door panels and air vents. A unique blue patterned cloth seat and blue interior accents are included as part of the Blue Color Package.

Kia Motors’ Theta II 2.0-liter Turbo GDI engine delivers significant performance with a powerful inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces up to 256 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of peak torque. The KIA Sportage SX turbo utilizes a twin-scroll design which offers improved combustion efficiency, more available low-end power, and reduced turbo-lag as compared to more traditional single-scroll turbo systems. 

2012 KIA Rio 5-Door First Photos

KIA has revealed the first official photos of the 2012 KIA Rio 5-Door. The new KIA Rio will be available in 3- and 5- door body styles.
New KIA Rio has its own interpretation of Kia’s signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance.

The new KIA Rio features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres (hatchback) and 390 litres (sedan). Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width) to enhance the feeling of sportiness.
No picture available for interior now, but KIA says it will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models – together with a wide selection of trim options.

The world premiere of the new Kia Rio will be celebrated at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 – alongside another all-new product for Kia, the next generation Picanto city car – during its press conference, taking place at 16.15 (CET) on the Kia stand in Hall 6. Also being displayed at Geneva, and making its European debut, is the innovative hybrid version of Kia’s stunning Optima sedan, scheduled to go on sale in the US market later this year.

2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback

The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is offered in 1.8 S and 1.8 SL models, each equipped with a 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The Nissan Versa Hatchback S is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, while the Hatchback 1.8 SL is offered exclusively with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT® transmission.

The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback long 102.4-inch wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs create a sporty dynamic look. The Versa Hatchback exterior also features body-color front and rear bumpers and body-color dual remote-controlled outside mirrors. Versa Hatchback has a coefficient of drag of 0.31. Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL models add a higher level of performance styling with a roof-mounted rear spoiler, lower body side sill extensions, unique front and rear fascia and standard fog lights.
The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is available in nine exterior colors: Red Alert, Metallic Blue, Blue Onyx, Espresso Black, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Super Black, Fresh Powder and Arctic Blue.
Every 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback comes equipped with a standard 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine rated at 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. Three transmissions are offered – a 6-speed manual (1.8 S), an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic with overdrive (optional 1.8 S), and Xtronic CVT™ transmission (standard on 1.8 SL).
Fuel economy for the 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is rated at 28 mpg City/34 mpg Highway with the Continuously Variable Transmission; 24 mpg City/32 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic transmission; and 26 mpg City/31 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission.
All 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchbacks are equipped with an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars. Other standard equipment includes Electric Power Steering and power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also standard.
Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 S models feature 15-inch styled steel wheels with covers and P185/65HR15 Continental all-season tires. Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL models offer standard 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with Continental P195/55R16 all-season tires, while 6-spoke 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are optional on 1.8 S models equipped with the 4-speed automatic transmission.
The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is manufactured at Nissan’s Aguascalientes and Cuervanaca, Mexico assembly plants.

Nissan Micra DIG-S

Nissan Micra DIG-S. Powering the newest version of the popular Nissan Micra city car – the DIG-S – this advanced petrol engine produces just 95 g CO2/km and underlines Nissan’s leadership in both zero and low emissions mobility.
A direct injection unit with a supercharger – hence the car’s name: Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger (DIG-S) – the engine is the embodiment of Nissan’s PURE DRIVE strategy, delivering sparkling performance, frugal economy and exceptionally low emissions.

Technical innovation has been packed into the engine. The Nissan DIG-S uses the Miller cycle and direct petrol injection to raise the compression ratio to 13 to 1 for greater combustion efficiency and a supercharger for instant throttle response and added power. As well as delivering ultra low CO2 emissions, the lightweight, low-friction 1,198cc three-cylinder unit produces the power expected from a conventional 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
Nissan Micra’s city car credentials have been honed over decades of class leading models. Bristling with new technologies and based on a brand new platform, Europe-bound examples of the fourth generation Nissan Micra are built at an entirely new facility in India. It is also built in China, Mexico and Thailand and is sold in 160 countries around the world.
The new Nissan Micra DIG-S is available in one body five-door body style, three trim levels – Visia, Acenta and Tekna – and with a choice of two petrol engines. As well as the DIG-S, there’s a normally aspirated version of the 1.2-litre engine, developing 59kW (80PS).

By minimising heat, friction and pumping losses as much a possible, Nissan’s engineers have created an engine that sets the standard for the rest of the industry. Its three-cylinder configuration gives many benefits including less weight and further reductions in friction loss, thanks to having fewer moving parts. Further gains are made thanks to the adoption of advanced engine management systems with Start/Stop and energy regeneration.
The Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger (DIG-S) engine produces 72kW (98PS) and 142Nm, while CO2 emissions are 95 g/km for the manual version and 115 g/km for the CVT version. Maximum speed is 180km/h for manual. Combined cycle fuel economy figures for the manual Visia version is 4.1 l/100kmh *.
In common with industry practice, these headline figures refer to the entry-level version – Visia – as higher levels of equipment found in plusher models mean extra weight which affects emissions performance. But such is the efficiency of the unit that the most popular version, Acenta, also promises an outstanding CO2 figure: just 99 g/km in manual form.
This remarkable engine makes sub 100 g/km emissions performance easily accessible while low cost of ownership make it a serious alternative to a comparable diesel… with the added bonus of greater refinement. Its first appearance powering the new Nissan Micra makes for an irresistible combination.

BMW X5

2011 BMW X5 will write the latest chapter in the story of the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle® in the spring of 2010. Originally launched for the 2000 model year in late 1999, the BMW X5 permanently changed the automotive landscape. It proved that the driving dynamics, responsiveness, and linear control signature to every BMW could be compatible with utility, versatility, and other-roads capability. For 2011, the BMW X5 models are enhanced with new powertrains and updated design. The new BMW X5 will make its North American debut at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.
Innovative new design elements and powertrains are the result of over 4,000 new parts created by BMW designers and engineers for the 2011 BMW X5. Two of the X5's powertrains will be all-new for 2011, creating the new BMW X5 xDrive50i and BMW X5 xDrive35i, in addition to the familiar BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d. All models receive a design update that enhances the brilliant focus and aesthetic appearance of the X5 brand.

Fresh Design. Well-Balanced Proportions.
The body design of the 2011 BMW X5 is characterized by well-balanced proportions that accentuate the vehicle's powerful presence and agility. A long wheelbase, short front and rear body overhangs, and large light-alloy wheels provide a visual balance between the front and rear of the vehicle. Square-shaped, carefully flared wheel arches hint at the BMW X5's all-wheel drive traction and other-roads capability. The body lines sweep upwards from the front and rear wheels, communicating BMW's near-perfect 50-50 front-rear weight distribution which is so essential to the BMW X5's legendary driving dynamic.

BMW 6-Series Coupe

The German automobile manufacturer BMW launched its 6 Series coupe in India in 2007. Targeted at the super-rich Indian consumers, the second-generation two-door coupe flaunts striking exteriors, which are well complemented by spacious interiors. Powered by a smooth, but forceful engine, the coupe promises to deliver an impressive mileage. Seamless transmission, advanced safety features, high stability and handing quality are the highlights of BMW 6 Series coupe.

Engine
Under the hood of the 650i variant of BMW 6 Series coupe, the only one available in India, lies a powerful gasoline engine, which generates a maximum output of 270 kW @ 6300 rpm and a peak torque of 490 Nm @ 3400 rpm. The eight-cylinder V8 engine delivers impressive performance, with exceptional smoothness. Double vanos and Valvetronic technology of the coupe makes driving an effortless task.

Design And Comfort
The wide stance and long bonnet give BMW 6 Series coupe an eye-catching appearance. Body colored bumpers, sparkling headlamps, sleek double-kidney shaped front grille and clear lens jewel-like fog lamps enhance the sporty appearance of the frontage. The muscular rear end is adorned by dazzling tail lamps and an additional brake light, integrated in the spoiler lip. The interiors of the car are roomy and quite comfortable. Four people can easily fit into the two-door coupe.

Interiors
The dynamism of the exteriors of BMW 6 Series coupe is extended to its plush interiors as well. Top quality materials are used in the cabin to provide functionality and exclusivity to the car. The 2+2 seater has generous boot space too and a good amount of legroom for rear seat passengers. Upholstered in finest Dakota leather, the cabin gets sleek wooden trim in the trendy instrument cluster and leather wrapped steering wheel with multi-function buttons. Standard features found in the 650i variant of BMW 6 Series coupe include automatic air-conditioning, power windows and power door locks.

Ride And Handling
The Active Steering System of BMW 6 Series coupe makes use of an electric motor, which modifies the wheel angle according to the increasing and decreasing speed of the vehicle. The optional Dynamic Drive active suspension system takes handling precision to a new high. It not only provides optimum stability to the automobile, but also offers high level of riding comfort by minimizing body roll via the active anti-roll bars, positioned on the front and rear axles. This ensures a smooth ride for all its passengers.

Mercedes B55 Concept

Spacious, innovative and safe, the compact models of the Mercedes A and B-Class score with their high practicality, and have found favour with more than 2.5 million customers as a result. An extraordinary one-off example has now been built at the Rastatt plant, and shows the B-Class in a completely new light: a B55 with a V8 engine and rear-wheel drive.

The idea came from the Rastatt plant manager, Peter Wesp. He gave some of his staff the task of creating a very special vehicle on the basis of the B-Class - leaving it to their creativity to decide what and how. Andreas Würz, a foreman in the technical vocational training department, immediately took up the challenge. He took a very close look at this large compact model, enlisted the aid of a tape-measure and came up with an idea that not only surprised and delighted his boss and colleagues, but also the trainees: "Actually it should be possible to fit a V8 into the engine compartment."
Together with his fellow-foreman Matthias Rieger from the electrics/electronics installation section, he assembled a team of twelve second-year and third-year trainees specialising in production mechanics and automotive mechatronics.
A book of specifications was drawn up:

• The spatial concept of the B-Class was to remain unchanged.
• On the outside too, there were only to be minor indications of the conversion work.
• The interior was to be upgraded in line with the new vehicle class being aspired to.
• And the result of the conversion was to be in large measure suitable for day-to-day driving.HR manager Martin Spicale promised financial support, which made the project a feasible proposition in the first place. And a "victim" (Würz) for the conversion was also soon found: a B 200 CDI which had anyway been delegated to the training workshop for learning purposes. While the trainees completely disassembled the car, Würz went in search of a suitable engine and found what he was looking for. And no mistake: the 5.5-litre V8 developing 285 kW (388 hp) and 530 newton metres of torque was transplanted into the B-Class together with a seven-speed automatic transmission and the engine control unit. The latter proved to be quite a headache later on, as it had to be reprogrammed only to process signals from the driven rear axle.
  Würz: "The V8 power unit fitted amazingly well, and we were even able to use the original engine mounts." There were serious problems with the steering, but here too, harmony was restored with a number of modifications. The exhaust system was a clever combination of various replacement part items, and took the form of a twin-pipe system emerging at the centre of the rear end. This is where the one-off, christened the B55 gets its typical, burbling sound - once the ignition key has been turned, all heads in the vicinity are guaranteed to swivel simultaneously in the direction of the B-Class.
  Intensive perusal of parts catalogues also solved the second major transplantation problem, namely the drive axle at the rear. It emerged that the rear axle of an older W 210 series E-Class would be a very good geometrical fit. Plant manager Wesp gave the go-ahead to obtain one, and Würz and his colleagues designed a subframe, which extensive forming and welding work allowed to be integrated into the B-Class bodyshell to receive the new rear axle. Elegantly concealed within the sandwich floor, the propshaft of the E-Class also fitted into the B-Class with no further modifications.
  For the brakes the team also struck gold in the replacement parts catalogue, this time in the C32 AMG listing. Perforated and internally ventilated disc brakes in size 345 x 34 mm were implanted at the front, with perforated and internally ventilated disc brakes in size 300 x 30 mm at the rear. The system was combined with striking 8.5 x 18 AMG sports wheels in a five-spoke design shod with 235/40 ZR 18 Y tyres at the front and 9 x 18 wheels with 255/35 ZR 18 Y tyres at the rear. The maximum steering angle at the front axle was limited to suit. The team had recourse to a typical item from the tuner's toolbox for the suspension, installing a coil-over suspension by K&W.
  Where the interior was concerned, friends from the training workshop in Sindelfingen were able to help, providing Alcantara linings for the A, B and C-pillars as well as a roof liner in the same, luxurious material. The seats in a leather/Alcantara combination were provided by the specialists at Johnson Controls, who are located on-site in Rastatt. The finishing touches were added to the B55 in the paint shop of the Rastatt plant. In trendy white with dark-painted radiator louvres and smoked headlamp lenses, the B-Class cuts an imposing figure but only gives a discreet indication of the powerpack concealed beneath its bonnet.
  The project team headed by foreman Würz are particularly proud that at 1620 kg, the weight of the B55 is only around 180 kg greater than that of the original car. Which means that impressive performance figures can be expected. Würz: "We have not made any measurements yet, but we should manage a sprint to 100 km/h in under six seconds."
  Plant manager Wesp is equally proud of the result: "The team of trainees has done a superb job, and placed a spotlight on the sporty genes of the B-Class that nobody could have imagined." Training manageress Manuela Rascher is likewise very pleased: "The B55 shows what our training workshop can do. And at the same time it clearly demonstrates that we not only offer young people high-quality professional training, but also highly unusual and exciting project work." Could it be that further projects of this nature are planned for the future? Rascher: "We may have some surprises in store…"

Rolls Royce Phantom VI

The chauffeur of the Lord Mayor of London has been charged with drink-driving in a ceremonial Rolls-Royce.

Michael Dore, 55, was driving Lord Mayor Ian Luder’s £200,000 official Phantom VI when he was stopped by police.
He was breathalysed and his blood was allegedly found to contain 54mg of alcohol per 100ml. The legal limit is 35mg.
Mr Luder was not a passenger in the car at the time of the arrest, although Dore was only a short distance from the Lord Mayor’s historic official residence, Mansion House.
Dore has also been charged with not holding a valid driving licence.
The 6.25-litre Rolls-Royce has been owned by the Lord Mayor’s office since it was bought new in the Eighties.
It is 20ft long, weighs two-and-a-half tons and bears the number plate LM 0. Only 374 were made and the Queen has two in her fleet of cars.
Dore appeared in connection with the alleged offences at the City of London Magistrates’ Court last week and was remanded on bail until next month.
When approached at his £300,000 home in Ashtead, Surrey, Dore said: ‘I am not prepared to talk about this.’
A spokesman for the Lord Mayor’s office said: ‘We cannot comment. This is a matter for the police.’ But a source said that Dore has not been suspended from his post.