SipuTurbO

Rio Done It Again

2012-02-09T15:41:00.003+08:00

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.

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.

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Ford Ranger 2012

2012-02-09T15:37:00.004+08:00

Ford is currently planning to introduce eight new vehicles throughout Southeast Asia within five years in order to increase its market share in one of the fast-growing markets in the world. Apparently, Ford decided to develop the new models due to the fact that it had a favorable year so far and its sales showed an impressive increase of 175 percent in January and February thanks to new models such as the Fiesta subcompact.

And we have to say that Ford has very big chances to increase its stake in the ASEAN and Thai markets. Currently, Ford has less than 2 percent of the ASEAN and Thai markets, according to Autonews. "We are very serious about growth in this region," said Peter Fleet, president of Ford ASEAN.

Currently, the biggest share of the vehicle market in Thailand is taken by Toyota with 40.7 percent, while Isuzu has 19.1 percent and Honda 14.3 percent and Nissan just 6.8 percent. Indonesia as a sales market in terms of the number of vehicles bought by customers will overtake Thailand," said Fleet. "The industry gap today is not that considerable, maybe 50,000 units a year, something of that order."

SOURCE

DC Avanti:India Made Supercar

2012-01-09T10:09:00.007+08:00

DC Design, India’s premier automotive design firm has taken a step beyond what it is known and revered for, with its reveal at Auto Expo today, of what is the country’s first ever sports car, the sleekly styled and superbly configured DC Avanti. What makes this a special occasion is that the Avanti is not just a full road worthy prototype but one with production firmly pencilled in! DC intends to go the way of so many Italian carrozzerias (like Bertone, Ghia, Pininfarina and Stola to name four) who not only styled, designed and engineered smashing sports cars but also went on to make them in limited production runs for sale to the general public.

DC will be doing just that with the Avanti which is being readied for a production run beginning 2013 and none other than the legendary India cine genius and informed motoring buff Amitabh Bachchan was on hand to take the wraps off this glorious rolling sculpture. While DC has done some amazing work over the past decade including prototypes for so many of the world’s big name car manufacturers, he has never done a production run of any of his designs, concentrating on one-offs. All that is destined to change with the DC Avanti, a move that adds another dimension to the multi-faceted design and engineering capability that DC Design has built up at its Pune works!

Speaking at the launch of the project very dear to his heart (and which he had nurtured for so many years), Dilip Chhabria, the guiding tour-de-force at DC Design said, “We are extremely ecstatic to present the DC Avanti today and it is a manifestation of not just the burgeoning interest in high end sports cars but also as a calling card for our own capabilities which have now progressed from mere styling in the early days to full prototyping and bespoke one-off manufacturing. Every country which has written its name in the pantheon of automobile manufacturing has invariably distinguished itself with sports cars by its own nationals and I thought that India rightly needs to be in this exclusive club.” “The Indian market for high end automobiles is on a steep uphill curve as witnessed year-on-year and our focus is at the top end of this rarified niche. The design is completely our very own as is the engineering and also the production process. Type approval and on-road tests would follow soon and we intend to simultaneously set up an all new facility at Talegaon near Pune to build this vehicle,” said Dilip.

“We intend to produce 300 units of the Avanti in 2013-2014 and if all goes well we could ramp up production to go into four figures per annum. Till now DC Design was noted for its design and customization but then we added complete engineering and prototyping to our roster of services and working for the world’s biggest names helped us understand and add to our expertise,” added Dilip. “The Avanti is an ongoing culmination of all that we have learnt and we intend to give a sports car to a select new emerging breed of car buyers who value good taste without compromising on performance and who don’t need to spend a fortune on making the adrenaline flow.” He further added.

The Avanti supercar doesn’t reinvent the wheel in the basic process of manufacturing a high tech sports car because in time honoured specialist car production DC Design will be using proprietary parts from various car makers, especially in the areas of drivetrain and suspension. The Avanti would be powered by a specially tuned Ford EcoBoost 2.0-litre four-cylinder, dohc, 16-valve engine. This unit not only features turbocharging with direct injection but also features VVT (variable valve timing) and this helps it to dish out power and torque which normally are on par with a larger 3.0-litre engine. Max power will be 240bhp at 5500rpm with a massive 366 Nm of torque developed at 3500rpm helping give it both tractability and thrust. If that is not all, the latest electronics will also help deliver strong on the fuel efficiency front as well. Also the engine and its ancillaries are all Euro 4 & 5 compliant already meaning it would be right even for the export markets but the good thing is that it could also be taken further to the incoming Euro 6 legislation with a slight change in the engine mapping characteristics.

Handling all that power and torque from the mid-mounted four-cylinder engine is a six-speed manual gearbox. Again sourced from the Ford Europe parts bin, this transmission is robust and reliable and does all it is tasked with. There will also be another transmission option for those who seek an even higher technological plane with a six-speed dual clutch Power Shift unit. The Avanti will have a light weight but very strong space frame chassis using a mix of square, rectangular and round sections to get the best strength and rigidity across the dynamic spectrum. Suspension is in time honoured sports car fashion with unequal length wishbones all around working in conjunction with coil over shock absorbers. Agile, quick and ultra-responsive, the Avanti promises performance and visual erotica at a cost to quality proposition that will be second to none. Hydraulically assisted rack and pinion steering gear will be standard fitment.

Specialists in safety engineering which include the likes of Bosch would be lending their might in developing the latest generation ABS brake systems and SRS air bag technology for the Avanti; ride and handling would be perfected by global experts in this realm and overall body and trim plus final assembly would be done at DC Design’s all new production facility coming up at Talegaon near Pune. The Avanti will be electronically limited to 250km/h and will ride on 19-inch tyres all round. Footwear on the front wheels would be of size 255/35-19 while 295/30-19-sized rubber would do duty at the rear. Helping safety and control given the max velocity and acceleration the Avanti would pack in, large 330mm diameter ventilated disc brakes with grippy AP Racing callipers come as OE fitment.

The Avanti’s low slung silhouette is pure excitement and is unlike any seen from an Asian automotive entity. Sporting a combination of pleasingly complex concave and convex surfaces to deliver great form, the Avanti is fast standing still with its rippling muscles akin to a wild animal waiting to spring onto its prey. Animalistic yet aesthetic in its essence but replete with fine craftsmanship across the entire vehicle, the Avanti can more than hold its own in its class. DC has already put in place a unique and dedicated self-owned and managed sales and service network in five major metros in the country (Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai and Hyderabad) and this would only be honed to a fine pitch by the time the Avanti production commences. An additional four outlets would also be opened in the course of 2012.

Bookings, on a first-come-first-served-basis will open soon, immediately after Auto Expo 2012 with deliveries scheduled from the last quarter of calendar 2013. The big story doesn’t end here, the feel good theme continuing on the price front as well. At Rs. 30 lakhs ex-showroom, the Avanti would be a stunner in more ways than one and a smile inducer cum big name basher made in India. More announcements on the Avanti and its bespoke customization to owner’s trim and equipment preferences would follow soon.

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Yamaha Y125 Moegi

2011-12-13T13:02:00.007+08:00

Call us jaded, but these days, there are few vehicles at the average auto show that can stop us in our tracks. Yamaha has proven there's still something to get excited about on the show floor with its Y125 Moegi. The design study has all of the grace and elegance of a bicycle with the all important element of internal combustion lifted from a small-displacement motorcycle. The 125cc fuel-injected single cylinder engine likely has just enough power to whirr you around town.

Yamaha didn't release any actual figures for horsepower or torque, but we do know the bike weighs a scant 176 pounds soaking wet. It wouldn't take much to propel the machine through the city streets. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Yamaha has any plans to bring the sexy contraption to market. That's a shame, but it's at least good to know that the company's designers are throwing an eye towards elegance. Hit the jump to check out a video of the Y125 doing what it does best.

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Spyshots: Codename FT-86

2011-12-13T12:48:00.005+08:00

Toyota has been stealing all of the limelight with its interpretation of the company's forthcoming collaboration with Subaru recently. What with news that the car may actually cost more than $25,000 and show up under the Scion banner, the interwebs have been alight with talk of the 'Yota coupe. Meanwhile, word of the Subaru half of the equation has been left to a scant few spy photos and little else.

Well, we can add yet another smattering of shots of the Pleiades-badged coupe to the mix. Our camera-equipped spyshot ninjas have managed to nab a few more pics of the Subaru mule our for testing, and this time, it appears that the engineers are hard at work playing with an STI variant. Why do we say that? Feast your eyes on that bulging hood and front-mounted intercooler. Those two pieces all but scream hi-po, and they are our first indication that the flat-four powered, all-wheel drive coupe will be available with a powertrain offering something north of 300 horsepower. As of right now, it's anyone's guess as to when we can expect to see either the FT-86 or its Subaru equivalent on the scene, but early reports are saying 2012 is a good possibility. Get excited.

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1199 Ducati Fan Dream Come True

2011-12-01T14:47:00.007+08:00

I often get lambasted in the comments section for being pro-Ducati here on Asphalt & Rubber, and that’s fine by me, because I am. It’s hard not to like a company that has basically defined the modern aesthetic for motorcycles, or a company that continues to grow despite being in the worst recession since The Great Depression. It’s also not hard to love a company that continues to release, year-after-year, new compelling motorcycles, as is the case today with the 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale.

Teased ad nauseam, the Ducati 1199 Panigale shouldn’t disappoint the discerning sport bike rider with a strong appetite for Italian food, as the latest v-twin from Bologna sets many firsts for the superbike market segment. As we predicted last year, the Ducati 1199 Panigale drops 20lbs off the Superbike 1198′s design (22 lbs actually), while making an extra 20hp over its predecessor. Not only is the 1199 Panigale the lightest production superbike on the market, with its 361 lbs dry weight (414 lbs wet), it’s also one of the most powerful with its 195hp peak power figure, courtesy of the Superquadro motor.

Other firsts include a revolutionary monocoque frame, the first full-LED headlight on a motorcycle (another story we broke), the first electronically adjusted suspension on a sport bike, the first engine braking control system, as well as the first GPS-assisted data acquisition system for a production motorcycle (the DDA+ package is an optional equipment item for the Panigale). While traction control comes standard, ABS brakes will also be an optional item for the Ducati 1199 Panigale.

Available in April 2012, as we expected the new Ducati 1199 Panigale has gotten a price increase over the Superbike 1198. Accordingly the base model will cost $17,995, the “S” will cost $22,995, the “S” with ABS will cost, and “S” Tricolore will hit the wallet at $27,995 MSRP.

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New Born Kawasaki Zzr1400 abs

2011-11-26T22:52:00.007+08:00

For 5 years the Kawasaki ZZR1400 ABS has remained relatively unchanged, for 2012 however it shares very little with its predecessor. The new bigger engine starts by offering not only more power but unprecidented torque figures. Do not be alarmed, the Kawasaki ZZR1400 for 2012 maintains its ease of use along with its smooth power delivery. Additionally there are now 2 available power modes, and the all newto the ZZR1400 traction control also has 3 adjustable levels that can be selected in relation to surrounding conditions.

ABS has been further refined adding further to feel and therefore rider confidence in the systems.

Again a new feature for the Kawasaki ZZR1400 for 2012 is the back torque limiter (Slipper Clutch) that is provided to reduce rear wheel chatter or lock up during high rpm downshifts.

The Kawasaki ZX14 or Kawasaki ZZR1400 as it is known in the UK is a stunning motorcycle that turns its Ram air - fuel injected motor into a powerful, torquey sports tourer that will be excellent on any occasion. With a suggested top speed of around 200mph the ZZR1400 will be the most powerful Kawasaki branded motorcycle and will challenge the best of the best and leave them wanting. It will ride at any speed - handle with assurance, has styling to draw a crowd at every stop and turn heads on every corner.

MCN headline for the previous model said it all - The Kawasaki ZZR1400 - 0-60 in 2.5 seconds. Can you imagine, it took longer to read the statement than it would take for this bike to reach 60mph. The ZZR1400 for 2012 exceeds it predecessor in every way.

The Kawasaki ZZR1400 is developed from the ZZR1200 and ZX12R has a chassis every bit equal to the power plant, with for 2012 its advanced aluminium monocoque frame to give responsive handling and lightweight feel it is a very slim and compact package. The engine position and Uni-Trak rear suspension linkage complementing the rigid frame gives the ZZR1400 great controllability at high speeds and superb road holding when sports riding.

The Kawasaki ZZR1400 also offers a relaxed riding position with low pegs for ample leg room, with its flowing design and the new design of quadruple projector beam headlights illuminating the road ahead this has to be the bike of choice.

There are less than subtle changes in the sculpture and curvature of this new 2012 Kawasaki ZZR1400 that the sparkling Kawasaki green paint scheme highlghts beautifully. These changes are not just cosmetic and have been implemented to ensure excellent stability at high speeds and improved heat dissipation from the engine..............

A functional work of art !!!

Changes to chassis, suspension and setup ensure that the Kawasaki ZZR1400 for 2012 is improved for town, open road and track use high speed cornering manouvers are very much enhanced with these modifications and greatly improve rider confidence. As far as straight line performance goes, there remains to be no contest.

Kawasaki ZZR1400 2012 Key Features

* Instrument cluster of the Kawasaki ZZR1400 is easy to read, with black-faced analogue speedometer and tachometer.
* It has a Shift indicator light and clutch engagement light
* Multi function LCD digital display includes fuel guage, gear indicator, dual trip meters, odometer and clock
* The Large diameter petal brake discs, radial mount front callipers and radial pump brake master cylinder give the Kawasaki ZZR1400 very impressive braking performance and superb feel.
* Hydraulically operated clutch features a radial mount clutch master cylinder for worry free, silky smooth and lightweight operation.
* Idling speed control systems contributes to easy starting capability.
* Lightweight Denso radiator with high-density cores provides efficient cooling.
* Massive head pipe casting contributed to frame rigidity.
* Air box located in frame, contributing to a very compact layout.
* Engine vibartion has been even further reduced by the secondary balance shaft giving silky smooth power delivery.

Colour options for the Kawasaki ZZR1400 for 2012 are Black or striking Black and Green design.

The Kawasaki ZZR1400 - Touring has gone supersonic

Source:Click Here

Spyshots Proton For Year 2012

2011-11-18T15:29:00.002+08:00

New image for Proton nearly complete for 2012 model,yellow like 1.5 Myvi. Grill are more like EMAS then light is wider sharp look from Savvy.For hood shape still like Neo from this picture & wheel arch wider like Exora or Neo.

Dynamic & Aggresive New Land Rover

2011-11-04T12:01:00.004+08:00

Land Rover Malaysia has officially launched the Range Rover Evoque – the car arrives in three variant forms, these being a 2.0 litre petrol three-door Coupe as well as two five-door examples, a 2.0 litre petrol version and a 2.2 litre diesel.

The 2.0L Petrol Coupe – specified with a Dynamic Plus package – and the 2.0L Petrol 5-Door Prestige are powered by the 240 PS and 340 Nm Si4 turbocharged engine, with twin variable valve timing. As for the 2.2L Diesel 5-Door, which is also configured in Prestige trim, it wears the 190 PS and 420 Nm version of the SD4 turbodiesel, the same mill as found in the Land Rover Freelander 2.

Both the petrol and diesel engines are matched to the latest generation AW F-21 six-speed automatic transmission with a Rotary Auto Shifter. Performance figures are a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.6 seconds for the petrol versions and 8.5 seconds for the diesel, while maximum speed is 217 km/h for the petrol duo and 195 km/h for the diesel job.

Features available across the range include adaptive Xenon headlamps, push-button start, an 8-inch touchscreen with HDD and corresponding 380-watt 11-speaker Meridian audio system, 5-inch driver information full colour display, powered tailgate, rear climate control vents, paddle shifters, cruise control and electronic parking brake, among others.

A full suite of three-letter acronym traction and stability systems are also to be found, and these include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control (HDC), Enhanced Understeer Control (EUC), Gradient Release Control (GRC) and Engine Drag torque Control (EDC).

The Coupe has some stuff that’s not to be found on the five-door versions – these are Adaptive Dynamics, a fixed panoramic roof with solar attenuating glass, textured aluminium trim in the interior as well as metal-finish foot pedals.

All three versions come wearing 20-inch alloys, though the Coupe gets what is called Style 7 and the two five-door variants, Style 6 – essentially, they are both the same V-spoke designs, but in different finishes, silver sparkle for the former and shadow chrome for the latter.

The Coupe comes in three exterior shades – Fuji White, Firenze Red and Sumatra Black, with an Agility theme in the White example and a Velocity theme to be found for the latter two colours. The five-door expands the exterior colour palette by two – Orkney Grey and Indus Silver join the trio above. Each is partnered to a matching interior theme, these being called Sprint, Vibe and Element.

Pricing-wise, the CBU Evoque rolls in at RM393,888 for the 2.0L Petrol Coupe Dynamic Plus, while the 2.0L Petrol 5-Door Prestige goes for RM363,888 and the 2.2L Diesel 5-Door Prestige is priced at RM353,888, all on-the-road excluding insurance. It’s apparently going great guns for the SUV – more than 250 bookings were secured for it even before the launch, so if you want one now, be prepared to wait.

Source:Paultan

Aventador In India

2011-11-04T11:54:00.006+08:00

Lamborghini has launched the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 in India through Exclusive Motors Pvt. Ltd. The 6.5 liter, 700 horsepower, Aventador comes in with a top speed of 350 kilometers an hour with a zero to hundred kilometers an hour figure at 2.9 seconds. The independent shifting rods used for transmission gets the shifting time down to 50 milli seconds, a little higher than a Formula One car.

The Aventador comes with an entirely new technology package, showing the unique and powerful functional design. The carbon fiber monocoque, occupant cell, with tub and roof is made in one single unit giving the frame an enhanced level of rigidity and outstanding driving precision. The permanent all wheel drive with drive mode select for track and road capabilities makes this even safer and more precise. Also, inspired from the Formula One car is the pushrod spring and damper suspension to meet the needs of a high performance super sports car.

On the launch, James Page, Marketing Manager SE Asia and Pacific, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A said, “With this launch, the innovation and design in the sports car segment has taken a leap of two generations. India is an emerging market for sports cars which is evident from the successful Formula One race event. The Aventador is a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini’s brand values. Excellence of the Aventador LP700-4 makes it unrivalled in the worldwide super sports arena. As we at Lamborghini decided that the Aventador should have no competitor.”

The power-to-weight ratio of the Aventador is 2.25 kilograms per horsepower with a dry weight of only 1575 kilograms due to the carbon fiber monocoque. The overall length of the Aventador is 4780 millimeters with the width of 2260 millimeters including ORVMs and the overall height if 1136 millimeters. The Aventador comes with carbon-fiber scissor doors, a feature that was first introduced in the Lamborghini Countach.

Satya Bagla, Managing Director, Exclusive Motors Pvt. Ltd. added, “We are extremely excited as we have achieved yet another milestone with the launch of the Lamborghini Aventador in India. It’s an exceptional package with futuristic design, unique and innovative technologies and an overwhelming performance. We are positive that the car will delight super car connoisseurs in the country with its revolutionary design and performance.”

The Aventador is priced at Rs. 3.69 crores ex-showroom Delhi.

Source:zigwheels

Honda CR-Z Will Be In Malaysia

2011-10-27T14:53:00.006+08:00

Honda Malaysia to launch the Honda CR-Z in November

Petaling Jaya, 17 October 2011 - Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd today announced that the award-winning Honda CR-Z will be introduced to the Malaysian market in early November 2011. Malaysia will be the first country in Southeast Asia to launch the Honda CR-Z.

"We are pleased that the government has decided to extend the full exemption of import duty and excise duty until December 2013 as announced recently in the Budget 2012. The launch of the CR-Z is timely to support the government's effort to promote green technology and ensure sustainable development of the nation", said Mr. Yoichiro Ueno, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia.

Due to the overwhelming response of the Honda Insight after its launched last year, Honda Malaysia decided to bring in another hybrid vehicle to offer Malaysians more hybrid vehicle options.

The Honda CR-Z was named 2010/ 2011 Car of the Year (COTY) in Japan and won the 2010 Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organisation (JIDPO) Good Design Award. The revolutionary hybrid vehicle is environmentally responsible and at the same time, fun to drive.

Since it went on sales in February 2010, the Honda CR-Z has been well received with close to 34,000 units sold worldwide as at end December 2010.

More information on the launch of Honda CR-Z will be released in due time.

Source:Honda/Malaysia

Ducati Monster 1100 Evo It`s Name

2011-10-21T17:07:00.004+08:00

Ducati is set to unveil the new Monster 1100 EVO motorcycle, an early 2012 model, at the New York International Motorcycle Show (IMS) on Jan. 21-23, 2011.

This EVO naked bike is the new flagship model of the air-cooled Monster family, the best selling of the Ducati model family ever, although sales of the Monster have certainly slowed in the last few years. This may be partly due to the fact that the Streetfighter is now the naked bike platform for the Ducati liquid-cooled Testastretta engines.

The '12 Monster 1100 EVO is powered by the Desmodue Evoluzione engine, which is the first two-valve Ducati to hit the 100 hp. Compared with the previous 1100 cc twin-cylinder air-cooled L-Desmodromic, this new engine has high revs while a more linear torque curve designed to ensure a smoother power delivery.

The inlet ports and the combustion chamber shape have been redesigned, while the new camshafts have an extreme profile to provide an increased valve lift. The pistons are new too and feature an high compression profile. To ensure high standards of reliability the head cooling system has been revised with improved lubrication to enhance the cooling performance.

The Monster 1100EVO also marks the arrival of the new "Ducati Safety Pack", a simple and effective combination of adjustable Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and ABS brakes designed to aid rider safety.

This new 2012 Ducati Monster 1100 EVO also features a new APTC wet clutch which ensures quiet operation and long life. In addition, the progressive self-servo mechanism reduces the lever effort at the handlebar and makes the Monster even more practical in traffic.

The Monster APTC wet clutch works with a race-like ‘slipper' system which reduces the destabilizing effect of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting, and compared with other wet clutch used so far by Ducati, features an additional cush-drive damper mechanism which smoothes the repeated transition from drive to over-run during stop-start traffic.

This innovative new 2012 Ducati EVO package is the first of its kind to be offered in the interest of rider safety as opposed to outright performance figures. At an MSRP of $11,995, the new EVO looks to up the game for the Monster family.

Source:ultimatemotorcycling

Peugeot 508 Series For 2011

2011-10-20T11:25:00.004+08:00

On July we release a preview of the new Peugeot 508 and the full specification fo the 2011 Peugeot 508 and 2011 Peugeot 508 SW is officially out with the similar picture and specification on the car. For the gasoline line, the 508 will be available with 1.6-liter VTi 120hp linked to an electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox and the high range would be packed with 1.6-liter THP 156hp with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. While the diesel range will also start with a 1.6-liter e-HDi FAP 112hp upto a 2.2-liter HDi FAP 204hp. A total of 3 gasoline option and 5 diesel option.

As expected the 508 new e-HDi offers a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission (up to 15% in town). HYbrid4 will be expected on 2012 that will be a HDi diesel and electric motor hybrid. The interior is simply elegant with its leather seats and its high-tech equipment.

It includes a head-up display (with GPS), four-zone air conditioning, “main beam assistance”,”hands-free”, access and start-up, automatic electric parking brake, driver’s electrically-operated lumbar massage, new telematics, JBL hi-fi sound system. And not to forget the large panaromic glass roof allowing more natural exterior light.

FF Ferrari

2011-10-17T14:51:00.005+08:00

Love it or hate it, the 2012 Ferrari FF marks a bold step for Ferrari into relatively new territory. Not only is the shooting brake body a first for a volume model from the Italian automaker but the car also sports its first all-wheel drive system.

If just a year or two ago you said Ferrari would launch an all-wheel drive hatch, most people would call you crazy, but here we are, with dozens of shots of the new FF in front of us, each of them making us want the car that much more.

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past six months and all this is new to you, the FF is Ferrari’s latest supercar and serves as the replacement for the 612 Scaglietti. It is also one of the biggest models ever unveiled by Ferrari, stretching 193.2 inches in length and 76.9 inches across.

Inside, there’s space for four, plus its relatively unique hatchback design nets a generous 15.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 28.2 cubic feet. The downside: the FF weighs a massive 3,946 pounds.

It’s certainly no slouch, however, as its 6.2-liter V-12 engine generates as much as 651 horsepower and 504 pound-feet of torque. This is channeled to all four wheels via a sophisticated all-wheel drive system and seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

The FF made its official world debut back at March’s 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Source:motorauthority

Refresh For Camry 2012

2011-10-12T10:14:00.004+08:00

Like the late Rodney Dangerfield, the Toyota Camry could reasonably complain that it don’t get no respect.

Never mind that it’s been America’s bestselling passenger car in 13 of the past 14 years—the past nine consecutively—and appears to be headed for another sales title this year. Never mind that a financial or marketing exec might observe that those numbers are the only kind of respect that really matters. The Camry don’t get no respect at Car and Driver, and it has only rarely elsewhere over that entire run. But the 2012 Camry, due in showrooms in October, could end—or at least moderate—our disdain.

All-New, Selectively

This is the Camry’s seventh generation—the first appeared in 1983—and inevitably the words “all-new” appear in the accompanying publicity materials. As usual, that description is open to interpretation and/or explanation. Considered in terms of the specifications, all-new is hard to see here. The body dimensions are identical to those of the gen-six car. So are the particulars of the 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6 that towed our SE test car—same bore, same stroke, same port fuel injection (no direct injection yet), same output: 268 hp, 248 lb-ft of torque.

The only powertrain changes, aimed at improving fuel economy, are subtle: lower-viscosity engine oil (0W-20 versus 5W-30), a transmission-oil warmer to achieve operating temps a little faster, and a higher (numerically lower) final-drive ratio of 3.46:1 versus 3.69:1. The net, according to the EPA, is a gain of 1 mpg in city and highway modes, for a rating of 21/30. We averaged 25 mpg.

New Where It Counts

Although changes to the basic unibody are mostly cosmetic—the seventh-generation sheetmetal, although not exactly head turning, looks contemporary and continues to be commendably slick with a 0.28 Cd—the really significant newness lies within. Without altering exterior dimensions, Toyota’s design team rearranged the Camry’s furniture to create more space for folks inhabiting the rear seats. Key elements: The accelerator pedal and the front-seat rails have sneaked slightly forward, and the backs of the front seats have been scooped out, yielding a rear-seat knee-room gain of 1.8 inches, according to the company.

Expanded roominess is always welcome in a family sedan, and in the new Camry, it’s enhanced by a center rear position that’s habitable for more than a run to the mall. Even more welcome, though, is the upgrade in the materials, including lots of soft-touch surfaces that give the interior an aura of comfort and quality distinctly absent in the last couple generations. The pseudo-suede center inserts in our test car’s optional leather-trimmed front buckets lend a soupçon of luxury, as well as a little grip to keep the driver centered in rapid transitions (not that many of those are likely), and slimmer A-pillar trim yields better forward sightlines.

Hold the Excitement

Assessed as a device with which to satisfy your inner Sebastian Vettel, the new Camry is pretty similar to its predecessor, which is to say essentially bland. Our test car was an SE model, nominally sportier than the rest of the lineup, but the suspension tuning is still skewed strongly toward the comfort side of the chart. There’s considerable body roll in hard cornering, obstinate understeer progresses to absolute, and as is common nowadays, a new electric-assist power-steering system substitutes weight for tactile information. This string of criticisms would add up to “fuhgedaboudit” if the Camry had sports-sedan pretensions. But it doesn’t, and its dynamic virtues are on target for its family-sedan mission.

And let us not neglect the power component. The Camry’s optional V-6 may be basically unchanged, but it delivers respectable hustle—0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, the quarter-mile in 14.3 at 101 mph, 50 to 70 in 3.7. Those times are brisk for this class and would have been tops in our recent sedan comparison involving the Honda Accord EX-L V-6, Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited, and Volkswagen Passat 3.6 SEL. Chalk it up in part to a curb weight—3407 pounds—100 pounds wispier than that of the lightest car in that group. Similarly, our test Camry’s 0.83-g skidpad performance would have topped those charts, and its 70-to-0-mph braking distance—173 feet—would have been 15 feet better than the comparo’s best stopper.

Respectability Returns

All in all, what Toyota has achieved with the latest Camry makeover is a return to the traits that put this car at the top of so many families’ shopping lists. An aggressive pricing schedule can’t hurt, either. The base price for most models is down versus 2011’s by as much as 7.5 percent, and the base for our test car—$27,400, less than any of the comparo trio previously cited—is unchanged from the previous generation.

Although well equipped in basic trim, our SE had a substantial inventory of optional equipment: the Leather package (seats, door trim, heated front seats, $1050); a power sunroof ($915); and navigation with Entune, Toyota’s infotainment system ($1550). The latter package also included a rearview camera, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with digital compass, an anti-theft alarm, and JBL audio with Bluetooth and voice recognition. The nav system is one of the most cooperative we’ve ever encountered, and we were similarly pleased with the JBL audio system. The bottom line as tested: $30,935.

This still isn’t the kind of car that raises pulse rates. But it is competent in everything, just right for a driver who doesn’t want to be involved any more than is absolutely necessary. As the Camry’s phenomenal sales record shows, there are a lot of those drivers out there. The new Camry should make them happier than they’ve been in a long time.

Source:Caranddriver

New Reveiled From Bugatti

2011-10-06T11:44:00.005+08:00

Bugatti will reportedly launch the Galibier sometime by the end of 2012. Pricing is expected to reach the $1.5 million dollar range.

According to a recent interview conducted by Auto Motor und Sport with Bugatti President and CEO Wolfgang Durheimer, the Bugatti Galibier is scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2012.Wolfgang stated that "The car has a much higher value than the Veyron, with a lot of trunk volume and a four-seat plus one configuration." Bugatti's CEO also said that they are taking into consideration how many units to produce. He mentioned anywhere from 500, 1,000 or even 1,500 units.

The Galibier will be the successor to the Veyron, which has officially ended production. Although not as powerful as the former, the Galibier will still produce a very respectable output of around 850hp and is looking to command a price tag somewhere in the $1.5 million range. Other details remain unknown for now.While it may not be the preferred choice for some Veyron enthusiasts, Bugatti wants the Galibier to be cheaper to produce and still maintain the brand's exclusivity.

Source:Carbuzz

4008 Series Peugeot

2011-10-06T11:33:00.003+08:00

Peugeot is preparing new production of the 2012 Peugeot 4008 that is designed for the in road as well as off road vehicle. The car will be running on four different types of engine. The petrol with 1.6 liter producing 85 kW with manual five speed transmissions and the 2.0 liter producing 113 kW with manual five speed transmissions, or the Diesel CVT HDi with 1.6 liter producing 82 kW with manual 6 speed transmissions and the 1.8 liter producing 110 kW with manual 6 speed transmissions. Special for European market, the car will have two diesel HDi engine, while in other countries, the ride will come with the suitable powertrains.

The 2012 Peugeot 4008 has stylish front look, with the LED headlamps and the designs of red claws – three of them – near the rear lamps. The grille will be available with vertical design, prominent wheel protection arch trims, and also horizontal grooving bonnets. With such strong design and dynamic model, the new car is certainly a great looking car.

The 2012 Peugeot 4008 are available with three different transmission models: the LOCK for 4 wheel driving, the 4WD for four wheel driving, and the 2WD for two wheel driving.

Source:Topgearrules

2012 Honda CRV

2011-08-14T11:36:00.004+08:00

The 2012 Honda CR-V arrived in dealerships with redesigned for the first time since the 2007 models. Keep details about 2012 Honda CR-V until near release, but the 2012 Honda CR-V will come with more daring style, extra features, and improve fuel economy. 2012 CR-V models is expected to be a winner in industry sales of new SUV in 2012. The new CR-V is a luxury SUV with five seats, four-door wagon based on the same under-structure of the skin as the car was redesigned 2012 Honda Civic compact. Honda motivated to reclaim the leadership of a compact cross-sales by launching new CR-V as the third generation.

The 2012 Honda CR-V exterior styling is now leaving the passive view of the third generation CR-V and become more expressive, so that the all-new 2012 CR-V looks fashionable to be in alignment on the Kia Sportage. From the 2012 Honda CR-V spy photos, we can see the lattice three-bar poking through the front camouflage. 2012 Honda CR-V exterior looks more aggressive than the previous model, with rear lights are supported by the new CR-V continues to rise at the rear pillar.

2012 Honda CR-V interior roominess in the name of swoopy styling, which had dimensions airy cabin and a cargo hold that were among the most spacious in the SUV crossover. To the 2012 CR-V, Honda will offer an added dimension of style, amazing interior versatility and Honda’s latest technologies for convenience and refinement. By sharing Civic platform, the 2012 CR-V will continue to qualify as a crossover. Crossovers combine an elevated, SUV-like body with a car-type understructure.

2012 Honda CR-V engine will come and deliver fuel economy and reduced weight, with the powertrain in a four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine is only available. The 2012 Honda CR-V will continue its basic formula of a four-cylinder engine working through front- or all-wheel drive. That would mean the 2012 Honda CR-V would reprise a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that would again be rated around 180 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque. That would allow the 2012 Honda CR-V to retain a competitive horsepower number but would keep it behind the class curve for torque. The 2012 CR-V would also remain off the pace if Honda chooses to continue fitting a five-speed automatic as the sole transmission, with use more fuel efficient SUV six-speed automatics. CR-V default drivetrain layout will again be front-wheel drive, which puts the weight of the engine over the wheels that propel the car.

Source:newautovehicle

Compact Car; Brio From Honda

2011-04-28T15:13:00.003+08:00

Honda has come up with a rival for the Nissan Micra, and calls it the BRIO. The car makes its debut at at the 27th Thailand International Motor Expo, and then will go into produciton and reach far east markets like Thailand and India from March 2011. Just like the Micra, the BRIO too will be an efficient little city car for the masses.

The car has a compact body – length 3,610mm x width 1,680mm x height 1,475 mm – but a rather spacious interior. Although the Thai and the Indian models will have different details based on the culture of their target markets, the BRIO is ought to be an eco car with projected fuel consumption of 5.0 liters per 100 km.

According to Honda the Thai version will cost approximately 400,000 baht, no idea how much is that in more relevant currencies!

“Honda would like to expand the joy of mobility to more customers in Thailand, India and other Asian countries through the introduction of a new small vehicle with compact and highly efficient packaging by utilizing our own experiences cultivated by motorcycle business here in Asia,” said Takanobu Ito, President and CEO of Honda Motor.

Source:Motorward

Cabriolet Porsche 911 - Spyshot

2011-03-18T10:23:00.005+08:00

Porsche is now less than a year away from launching its next-generation 911 and as can be seen by these latest spy shots, prototypes for the car appear to be almost complete. Earlier this year we brought you spy shots of the latest prototype for the 911 Carrera hard-top, and today we have new shots of the 2012 Porsche 911 Cabriolet.

We first started seeing test-mules for the new 911 back in 2008 and soon after that Porsche's chief of research and development, Wolfgang Dürheimer, revealed some details of what to expect for the new car.

Speaking of the new car, Dürheimer said, "'it will be even more competent, even sexier, even more unique. The design can of course only be evolutionary, but beneath the skin, almost anything is possible". The 2012 Porsche 911, known internally as 'project 991', will feature a few radical departures from the 911's long-running classical styling.

The changes are out of necessity more than anything, but they will be noticeable. First, pedestrian protection rules in Europe will require a change to the nose section of the car, likely meaning a larger and more collapsible bumper section. The rear of the car will also be changed, but for aerodynamic improvement.

Clear differences between the new model and the current 997 are the more upright headlights, a slightly longer body, and the side mirrors are now positioned at the side of the doors and not at the window.

Other new features for the car will include extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber materials and active aerodynamics--surfaces that react to what the car is doing, and how fast it's doing it. Expect adjustable front and rear spoilers, dynamically opening and closing air intakes and an automatic rear wing.

As for powertrains, reports coming out of Germany claim power in the base Carrera will stand at 345 horsepower from a 3.4-liter boxer engine, downsized 200 ccs from the current engine. Step up to the Carrera S, however, and you’re expected to get a bigger 3.8-liter engine and 395 horsepower.

We still have a long wait to get the final word, however, as the 2012 Porsche 911 isn't due until September's 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.

Source:Motorauthority

Proton Satria Neo Red Version 2011

2011-03-10T17:30:00.005+08:00

PURE PERFORMANCE

Building an ultimate road-going Satria Neo, R3 drew upon years of racing experience to develop a car made with techniques usually reserved for the highest levels of performance.

STYLED TO PERFORM

Aggressive looks complemented by added aerodynamic efficiency have always been a trademark of R3 vehicles. The Satria Neo R3 is no exception, with race-proven exterior enhancements that add visual drama and functionality.

HANDCRAFTED POWER

Revised for improved response and power, the engine is assembled by hand and features exclusive R3 parts to develop 145bhp@7,000rpm, a 13% improvement over the standard engine.

RACE-BRED COMFORT

Inspired by motorsports, the cabin features a custom colour scheme and luxurious materials for an exclusive driving experience.

Price:From RM7+,+++ K

1198 It`s Number

2011-03-05T17:43:00.006+08:00

Performance

Horsepower (bhp): 170 bhp
Torque (Ft Lbs): 97 lbs
Redline RPM: N/A RPM

Exterior

Body Material: Plastic
Frame: Steel / Magnesium
Hand Grip Material: Rubber

Transmission

Number Of Speeds: 6
Transmission Brands: N/A
Transmission Types: Manual

Instrumentation

Speedometer: Standard
Tachometer: Standard
Fuel Level Warning: Standard

Wheels

Rear Wheel Diameter: 17
Front Wheel Width (in): 3.5
Rear Wheel Width (in): 6

Bags & Storage

Tank Bag: N/A
Saddle Bag(s): Not Available
Lockable Storage: Not Available

Tires

Front Tire Speed Rating: Z
Rear Tire Speed Rating: Z
Tire Brand: Pirelli

Fuel Economy

US MPG (City): N/A
US MPG (Combined): N/A
US MPG (Hwy): N/A

Brakes

Front Caliper Pistons: 4
Rear Caliper Pistons: 2
Rear Brake Rotor Width (mm): N/A

Suspension & Steering

Front Suspension Brand: Showa
Front Suspension Type: Inverted Fork
Rear Suspension Type: Single Sided Swing Arm

Seats

Seat Height (mm): 820
Seat Material: N/A
Seat Type: Two-Piece

Other Specs

Fuel Capacity (gal): 4.1
Number Of Speakers: N/A
Adjustable Handlebars: N/A

Source:motorcyclistonline

Volkswagen Bulli Nice To Be

2011-03-04T11:02:00.006+08:00

Volkswagen Bulli is another modern take on VW’s iconic Microbus, set for debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The Bulli is a compact 6-seater and is powered by an electric drivetrain.

Even though it may never happen, the Bulli has a very fun concept. The 6-seater layout – 3+3 – in its small body means that the car is extremely flexible for different uses. It measures 3.99 m in length, 1.75 m in width and 1.70 m in height. Wheelbase is 2.62 metres. It manages to be cool and compact and yet practical. Plus, it is the first people carrier that doesn’t look dull and boring!

The system that powers the Bulli include a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery concealed in the sandwiched floor behind the sills which powers the Bulli’s electric motor. That’s an 85 kW unit with 260 Newton metres of torque (115 PS/192 lbs ft) and theoretical driving range is up to 300 km (186 miles). Performance-wise, it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.5 seconds, and has a top speed (electronically limited) of 140 km/h (87 mph).

Inside the Bulli has six seats: three on a front bench seat (which can be split and folded) and three on the rear bench which can be folded flat to maximise loadspace – or turn into a bed in the true spirit of the iconic campervan. When all six seating locations are occupied, a 370 litre loadspace is available; with seats folded, the cargo capacity of the 1.8 metre long interior increases to 1,600 litres.

The Bulli is also bang on up to date in terms of technology. It comes with a removable iPad in the centre console serves as a multifunctional touchscreen as the car’s infotainment system that provides many features including in-car internet. The Bulli has no tachometer (unnecessary with an electric motor) nor a centre console, nor gear lever. That is why you can seat three people at front!

Like the original Samba bus, the Bulli presented in Geneva has two-tone paint and a distinctive ‘V’ on the bonnet; its 18-inch alloy wheels with stylised chrome hubcaps are another tribute to the Samba bus.

Source:motorward

Prius Family Hybrid Car

2011-03-02T12:33:00.005+08:00

With a compact exterior, spacious interior, the Toyota Prius cargo space V over-capacity 50 percent more interior than the current Prius. Exterior design is smooth, round and thick, with extended roof line, the vehicle could become a symbolic figure of the Prius and hold triangle.

Front vehicle has a little edge, wind aero-slip angle to improve aerodynamics and expanded under the grill, can someone have a unique design of the current Prius. Toyota Prius back V-style highlighted by a panel from the back by, a complex fine tail lights and a specially designed roof spoiler, air.
Also available, and the first Toyota, resins, panoramic sunroof with retractable shield Sunday that an open atmosphere in the cockpit with a weight loss of 40 percent compared with conventional glass roof of the same size, and excellent thermal insulation performance.

If the current generation Prius, Toyota Prius, V is a showcase of technology that many standard features are the same. Four drive modes (Normal, Power, C., and EV) were selected in various road conditions and driver. Smart Key system with the start button, an electronic circuit that features Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) and rearview camera. The options are energy efficient LED Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Advanced Parking Guidance System.

A new trend in hybrid vehicle with an excellent cargo space and a legacy of environmentally friendly than the Prius and the fuel consumption of the Prius in 2012 V for sale late summer 2011.

Source:tecnotomotive

Audi 2011 A8

2011-03-02T11:55:00.004+08:00

For those who put together multimillion-dollar deals by lunch, your car has arrived. The 2011 Audi A8 4.2 FSI quattro packs a mansion’s worth of luxury amenities into a smooth German battleship primed for the autobahn and does it for less than $100,000 ($89,625 to be exact). Sure, there are more expensive, more exotic and much faster sedans out there, but after rolling through the city in this A8, it’s hard to figure out why anyone would shell out all that extra dough. With a 372-hp V8 under the Audi’s hood, 20-inch wheels with low-profile, high-performance rubber on the ground and Audi’s legendary all-wheel-drive quattro drive system ensuring that power goes where it’s needed, the A8 has all the rocket power that any power-suited exec needs. Why? Because all the outrageous luxury features inside the car provide plenty of distraction from, you know, ripping through rush-hour traffic at 25 mph.

Most comfortable car seats – ever

For a mere $2,000 extra, my test A8 came with 22-way adjustible seats for both driver and front passenger. Yes, the seats were heated and also air-conditioned, but to roughly double the amount of yoga most luxury car seats can manage, Audi installed magic fingers in the seat backs, a.k.a., massagers. Flick a lever on the side of the seat and a menu of five massage settings pops up on the navigation screen, from “Stretch” to “Wave.” The seats alone do the impossible: they make the prospect of stop-n-go traffic something to get excited about. And after working out at the gym, the “Knocking” setting did wonders on my aching back and shoulder muscles, so much so that I gave the driver’s seat a name, Gretchen, she of the wonderous hands.

Being a luxury sedan, the backseat passengers also enjoy the love with ample leg room and their own left and right climate control setup, coupled with heated seats as well. Why? Because with the money you save on this Audi versus a pricier Mercedes-Benz S Class or BMW 7 Series, you can afford to hire your cousin Miles to be your driver. With Miles driving you can then fire up your iPad, connect to the Audi’s internal wireless network (WLAN) and plug into the Net. That’s right; the car is your own private broadband WiFi hot spot. In fact, you could pile three of your friends inside with laptops and play a little Call of Duty: Black Ops while Miles drives you to Vegas. From Chicago.

Air suspension equals cloud commuting

To further insulate passengers from the outside world, the A8’s air suspension automatically adjusts to the surface of the road and the aggressiveness of the driver. Careen down the boulevard like a New York City taxi driver and the suspension tightens up. Cruise down the street or freeway with a mellow foot on the gas, keeping the rpms purring no higher than 2,000 rpm thanks to the transmission’s eight gears, and the air suspension dials up super-plush. As clichéd as it sounds, driving the A8 does feel like floating on air (because that’s exactly what’s happening).

All my gushing over how plush the A8 rides doesn’t mean it can’t haul ass. By switching the car to “Sport” mode and sliding the shift lever down to “S” for Tiptronic paddle shifting, I had access to the same DNA that goes into Audi’s R8 supercar: Fast and precise shifts, torque that rocketed me 0-62 mph in a little over five seconds, and a sportscar’s steering response. I found that keeping the engine rev’d in the 3,500-4,000 rpm range transformed the car from cruise liner into growling destroyer. But I have to admit, what goes on under the hood is not what the 2011 A8 is about. Instead, I often found myself fiddling with the seat, climate control, stereo, sunroof and more as I searched for my inner vehicular bliss.

Source:Mademan

Honda CBR 250 2011

2011-02-24T13:46:00.007+08:00

What was on our minds during the development of new CBR? It was to realize an attractive quarter model that can meet the demands of the times to come and provide customers all over the world with joy and at an affordable price. What we aimed at was the 'Sport Quarter for One World, CBR250R.'

Our passion is embodied in various aspects of this motorcycle such as its displacement, frame size, driving stability, and riding position. These features were optimized for riders of all kinds, from beginners to experienced riders, so that they can feel the fun of maneuvering, which is fundamental to motorcycle riding.

A sporty feel that riders get the moment they mount and ride the motorcycle is pursued without sacrificing ease of use, in search of the optimum balance between the two. Nimble acceleration that can be felt the moment the throttle is opened, a feel of smooth rev-up in the high-speed range, linear vibration characteristics that do not discomfort riders, and a variety of equipment features such as a rear grip that provides a sense of comfort when riding in tandem-with this list of features, we are confident that customers will be satisfied without exception.

The styling design expresses an originality that only Honda is capable of and which can be appreciated globally. It incorporates distinctive features everywhere that customers around the world will recognize at once as the features of a Honda sport bike. Building on a dynamic and sporty form based on the "mass centralization form," the cutting-edge design concept for Honda's full-cowl sport bikes from the VFR1200F and CBR1000RR on down, a simple and clean advanced styling was refined further from the functional viewpoint, producing a distinctive presence. The model also realized the all-around ease of use of the 250cc class, including a comfortable riding position and excellent handling performance.

To enable a rider to experience the exhilarating feeling of riding into a pleasant wind, which only a sport bike can provide, an abundance of convenience is provided by creating a highly flexible riding position and riding space. At the same time, the design capitalizes on the slim and compact single-cylinder engine to minimize the front projection. In addition, a separated seat that enables the rider to enjoy a wide variety of situations from touring to sports riding and easy-to-grasp separate left/right rear grips that provide the passenger a sense of comfort come as standard equipment.

Motorcycle Specs

Model: CBR250R / CBR250R ABS

Engine Type: 249.4cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke: 76mm x 55mm
Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI, 38mm throttle body
Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front: 37mm fork
Rear: Pro-Link single shock with five positions of spring preload adjustability
Brakes: Front: Single 296mm disc
Rear: Single 220mm disc
Optional ABS
Tires: Front: 110/70-17 radial
Rear: 140/70-17 radial
Wheelbase: 53.9 inches
Rake (Caster angle): 25.0°
Trail: 95mm (3.74 inches)
Seat Height: 30.9 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gallons
Color: Metallic Black, Red/Silver
Curb Weight*: 359 pounds / 368 pounds (ABS)
Price: TBA Nov. 11, 2011

PRICE FOR MALAYSIA MARKET: RM18k-RM22K

Source:world.honda

Hyundai Equus 2011

2011-02-18T08:21:00.005+08:00

Pros

Front-seat comfort
Quietness
Price

Cons

Handling
Fuel economy

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Hyundai Equus makes its North American debut as this Korean brand's new flagship sedan. This premium-large car is rear-wheel drive. It's about 4 inches longer in wheelbase and 7 inches longer overall than the Hyundai Genesis sedan, the vehicle with which Equus shares its basic design. Also derived from the Genesis is Equus' powertrain, a 4.6-liter V8 engine that pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 385 horsepower when used with premium-grade gas and 378 horsepower when used with regular. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags. Lane-departure warning is standard.

Equus trim levels include base Signature and uplevel Ultimate. Leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a heated power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, keyless access/engine start, a navigation system, rearview camera, and heated power rear seats are standard. Equus Signature seats 5. Ultimate models have a two-place split rear bench for 4-passenger seating and a center-mounted chilled storage box. These versions also have a reclining rear-passenger seat with massage function. Also standard on the Ultimate are cooled rear seats, DVD entertainment, power trunk lid, and a front-mounted camera.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys are the Hyundai Equus, Hyundai Genesis, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A8, Fisker Karma, Hyundai Equus, Jaguar XJ Series, and Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. The BMW 7-Series gains a new gas/electric hybrid model and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class gains a new diesel model for 2011.

Source:consumerguideauto

Alfa Romeo Giulietta It`s Name

2011-02-17T15:38:00.004+08:00

As a sedan, the 3rd generation Alfa Romeo Giulietta for the 2011 model year is a fantastic ride for a sedan that lives up to the Alfa Romeo name. A front-wheel drive model, the dynamics of the new Giulietta are superb as well as the interior features and standard equipment offered. Fans of Alfa Romeo and followers of the Giulietta may be looking for a new facelift and redesign, but they’ll have to wait a few years longer, as the next overhaul isn’t due until the 2014 model year.

Specifications

Engine: Five engine choices including a 1.4-liter or turbo that puts out 120 or 170 horsepower as well as two diesel options.
Transmission: The Giulietta features an all-new 6-speed three-shaft gearbox.

Exterior Features

The 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta’s wheelbase is 8.6 feet sporting light lines and a sleek, distinctly European exterior styling. The well-known Alfa Romeo trident adorns the front above the distinctive triangular grille. Buyers will be able to choose between a comfort or sport chassis and each will have a few different trim levels and powertrain options. The LED headlight and taillight accents are stylishly and uniquely designed.

Interior Features

The new Giulietta offers plenty of space in its well-accented interior, with luxury features like leather seating, Bluetooth and hard-drive based navigation aplenty to make for a more enjoyable experience. Tilt and telescoping steering wheel and heated front seats for both driver and passenger are additional touches that it may be difficult to find on other sedans in the same class and price range without paying a hefty premium. The interior cabin is incredibly quiet, at highway speeds indicating the car’s precise and well-fitted design.

Performance

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta offers a surprisingly comfortable ride, which, for those used to the harsher, but more precise handling of an Alfa Romeo may come as something of a surprise. A DNA dynamic mode makes for a sportier ride, but the 2012 Giulietta still feels like a comfortable family sedan.

Source:Automobile

Suzuki Kizashi

2011-02-08T16:46:00.004+08:00

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi lineup gains new sporty variants. Otherwise, this midsize sedan sees no major changes following its introduction for the 2010 model year. Kizashi is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive in S, SE, Sport GTS, and Sport SLS trim levels. The latter two trims are new for 2011. All Kizashi models are powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. It produces 185 horsepower when paired with a 6-speed manual and 180 when used with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. The manual transmission is available on the front-drive S, GTS, and SLS. The CVT is optional on those models and standard on the SE and all AWD versions. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags. Keyless engine start and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard on all models. A 10-way power driver seat with three-position memory are standard on all but the S. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and rear-obstacle detection continue as SLS-exclusive standard features. The Sport GTS and Sport SLS have a lowered sport suspension, specific alloy wheels, and unique exterior and interior trim.

Source:consumerguideauto

Burn Up Your Car

2011-01-10T08:34:00.003+08:00

Eight Facts About Warming Up Your Car in Winter

Old habits die hard, and one of the oldest — still rigorously enforced by many drivers — is that "warming up" the car for a few minutes is necessary to avoid some kind of unspecified damage.

But idling is totally unnecessary, which is why many communities have enacted ordinances against the practice.

Don't take my word about idling being ineffective, but do listen to my mechanic, Rob Maier, who runs Maier's Garage in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

He says, "You don't really need to idle your car, because of the efficiency of modern fuel injection, which eliminated carburetors and chokes. The only reason to let the car idle at all is to get the oil circulating, but after 30 seconds that's a done deal. My truck has 150,000 miles on it, and I just throw it into gear and go."

Here are some quick facts and tips that should put the idling question to rest:

1. Driving warms the car faster than idling

If your concern is not the health of the car, but simply your own creature comforts, Bob Aldrich of the California Energy Commission points out that "idling is not actually an effective way to warm up a car — it warms up faster if you just drive it."

The coming electric cars, such as the Nissan Leaf, will incorporate a wonderful feature that allows the owner to use a cellphone to tell the car (which is plugged into the grid) to pre-warm or pre-cool the interior. No idling necessary.

2. Ten seconds is all you need

Environmental Defense Fund, which produced the Idling Gets You Nowhere campaign, advises motorists to turn off their ignition if they're sitting stopped for more than 10 seconds.

"After about 10 seconds, you waste more money running the engine than restarting it, said Andy Darrell, deputy director of the EDF Energy Program. "Switch the car off at the curb, and you'll be leaving money in your wallet and protecting the air in your community."

3. Idling hurts the car

According to the Hinkle Charitable Foundation's Anti-Idling Primer, idling forces an engine "to operate in a very inefficient and gasoline-rich mode that, over time, can degrade the engine's performance and reduce mileage."

The Campaign for an Idle-Free New York City points out that idling causes carbon residues to build up inside the engine, which reduces its efficiency.

[ Related: Five secrets to make your car last longer and save you money. ]

4. Idling costs money

Over a year of five minutes of daily idling (which causes incomplete combustion of fuel), the "Anti-Idling Primer" estimates that the operator of a V8-engine car will waste 20 gallons of gasoline, which not only produces 440 pounds of carbon dioxide but costs at least $60.

5. Idling in the garage can kill you

Idling a car in a garage, even with the door open, is dangerous and exposes the driver to carbon monoxide and other noxious gases. If the garage is attached, those fumes can also enter the house.

6. Block heaters beat remote starters

Lori Strothard of the Waterloo Citizens Vehicle Idling Reduction Task Force in Canada says, "Remote starters can too easily cause people to warm up their cars for 5 to 15 minutes, which is generally unnecessary."

A block heater, which is designed to heat the engine and can cost under $30, on a timer set to start one to two hours before driving, does the trick in very cold climates.

7. Quick errands aren't quick enough

Natural Resources Canada points out that leaving your car idling while you're running into a store on an errand or going back into the house to pick up a forgotten item is another way to waste gas and pollute both your town and the planet.

"Leaving your engine running is hard on your pocketbook, produces greenhouse gas emissions, and is an invitation to car thieves," the agency (PDF) says.

8. Idling is bad for your health (and your neighbor's health)

According to Minneapolis' anti-idling ordinance, "Exhaust is hazardous to human health, especially children's; studies have linked air pollution to increased rates of cancer, heart and lung disease, asthma and allergies."

Isabelle Silverman, who runs EDF's anti-idling campaign, says that car idling "is the second-hand smoking of the outdoors. One of the problems is that cars idle close to the curb, where pedestrians are walking. And when you have a child in a stroller, they are particularly close to the tailpipe. Studies show that children's IQ levels are lower when they live near major roads with lots of traffic." (A fresh study even links autism to freeway pollution.)

Alex Scaperotta, who created an anti-idling campaign with a classmate when he was in fifth grade in Wilton, Connecticut, came up with a slogan that was used on bumper stickers and websites: "If you're stopped for more than 10, turn it off and on again." Sounds like good advice.

Source:Yahoo.com

PROTON FESTIVAL TO ALL MALAYSIAN

2010-12-28T10:25:00.002+08:00

Celebrating 25 years of evolution at Festival PROTON 1 Malaysia

In celebration of its 25 years of operations, a convoy of over 60 Proton vehicles, from the very first Proton Saga to the latest Proton Inspira, will be travelling across Malaysia as part of its Festival PROTON 1 Malaysia.

From 18 December to 31 December, the convoy will make 11 stops across Malaysia, each time culminating into fun-filled events showcasing local artists’ performances and Proton’s entire range of cars over 25 years.

The end of Festival PROTON 1 Malaysia will end with a bang celebrating the new year on 31 December.
Source:Proton

Chevrolet New Spark

2010-12-23T16:08:00.005+08:00

Is it possible to launch a car without launching a car? GM did just that at the 2009 North American International Auto Show, revealing the first image of the 2011 Chevrolet Spark minicar while rolling out onto the show stand the similar 2007 Beat concept. The production hatchback will appear live and in the sheetmetal at the 2009 Geneva motor show, but we sat down with sources close to the program to learn a little bit more.

It Looks Familiar

It should. If you'll recall the 2007 New York auto show, you'll remember a trio of pint-sized concepts: the Beat, the Trax, and the Groove. Each represented a possible design direction for GM's forthcoming new production minicar. GM asked the public to vote for their favorite design on its website.

Some two million votes were cast, and the Beat came out on top. The sole photo shown of the production 2011 Spark is almost a dead ringer for the Beat concept, save for the addition of two rear doors. GM hasn't shown an interior photo, but sources suggest it too will closely ape the concept's cabin and include niceties like MP3 audio systems and Bluetooth connectivity.

From Bupyong, With Love

As with both the Aveo and the current Spark/Matiz (sold in Europe and other markets), GM's leveraged its Korean Daewoo subsidiary for both development and production. That will be the same for the new Spark. Although engineering was overseen by Opel in Russelshiem, Germany, most activity, including assembly, will be performed in South Korea

Size (or the lack of) Matters

It's been called a microcar, and for good reason - this thing will be small. Though it's expected to be somewhat larger than the present Spark/Matiz, which is a scant 138 inches long and 59 inches wide, it will be slightly smaller than the current Aveo, which measures 170 inches long and 67 inches wide. (The next-generation Aveo, by the way, will likely grow a bit as it moves up to the Opel Corsa's Gamma platform with its next redesign, in 2011 or 2012.)

To most Americans - save for Smart ForTwo owners - the Spark will appear Lilliputian, but they may be surprised by the interior. We're told that clever packaging will yield a cabin that's not noticeably smaller than today's Aveo, but cargo space will be compromised - don't expect to get more than a couple duffel bags behind the rear seat.

Sparks destined for North America will be larger than their overseas brethren in one way: engine displacement. While vehicle classes and tax brackets in many Pacific markets mandate engines smaller than 1.0-liter in displacement, Americans will likely see something along the lines of a 1.2-liter four-cylinder. GM executives are promising fuel economy of 40 mpg highway, which would surpass the smaller, two-seat Smart.

Will It Sell?

That remains to be seen. Though GM was (more or less) playing by itself when it brought the subcompact Aveo to our shores, the viability of the segment had already been proven years earlier by the likes of the Geo Metro and the Ford Aspire. That's not the case for the even-smaller Spark - aside from the Smart ForTwo, this segment is a relatively unproven one in the truck loving U.S-of-A.

Still, GM has some reason to bring the car stateside. The quick shift away from large trucks and SUVs has shown automakers that if gas is expensive enough - say, $4 a gallon - consumers will move to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. Smart sold nearly 25,000 cars in the U.S. last year, while Mini's U.S sales were above 54,000 units, making North America the brand's largest market.

There's also the matter of the web voting - while some differed in which concept they preferred, all shared one common message: build one, and bring it here. And GM will, in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Source:Automobilemag

New Comer From Proton

2010-12-03T16:24:00.003+08:00

This is the Proton Lekiu concept, part of the group of Proton Pahlawan Series concept cars on display at the KLIMS 2010. It’s an Exora-based SUV concept that uses the Exora’s platform, and the styling especially the front end also borrows heavily from the Exora with some offroader style design elements added.This may or may not be sold as a Proton but we were informed sometime earlier this year at a briefing that Proton and Lotus Engineering were developing an SUV for Youngman Europestar so this could in fact be that project. If there’s a business case though, I don’t see why Proton won’t sell this. What do you think – should an SUV be part of Proton’s core model line-up? Look after the jump for a full gallery of the Lekiu Concept.

Source:Paultan

Persona Against Tuah??!!

2010-12-03T15:59:00.005+08:00

Proton has quite a grand display at the KLIMS 2010 motorshow – there’s a whole array of concept models there that are called the Pahlawan series. All of them look like they could make it into production, at least some derivative of them – it’s just a matter of time when!

All of the concept cars are named after Malaccan warriors – Hang Tuah, Hang Jebat, Hang Lekir, Hang Lekiu and Hang Kasturi. The most exciting for me is this Proton Tuah Concept which you can see above. It’s a four door sedan that could most likely be a preview of the upcoming Persona R replacement model. It’s still a clay model of course so don’t expect production-like finishing. The Tuah/new Persona replacement will be Proton’s new global C-segment offering.

It features a new family face, with daytime running lights integrated in the headlamps and in the fog lamp area. The side profile features large 18 inch 10 spoke wheels wrapped with 225/40R18 tyres, and a nice sloping roofline. On the rear end the left and right tail lamp cluster is joined as a single piece, kinda like a 2nd generation Subaru Legacy.

Look after the jump for a full gallery of the Tuah!

Source:Paultan

Proton Inspira In Jebat Name??

2010-12-03T15:48:00.006+08:00

A favourite modification theme for Mitsubishi Lancer owners is to ape the legendary Evolution, and we’re sure that some Proton Inspira owners or prospects are looking at the same direction too. But before anyone has attempted that on their new car, Proton Design themselves have come up with an “Inspira Evo” to provide some inspiration. As part of the carmaker’s “Pahlawan” series of concepts at KLIMS, this is the Jebat!

The Jebat has a matt black coat covering large parts of its front and rear, with a matching strip at the lower section of the doors. Look closely and you’ll also notice that the front and rear fenders are puffed up, wide-body style. There are also daytime LEDs, bonnet vents (three in total) and a rear spoiler for the Evo look. The rear bumper has a diffuser that’s quite narrow, covering only the length of the number plate. The wheels are 18-inch items.

Inside, Hang Jebat gets to sit on nice Recaros with red stitching, a theme repeated on the door panels. That and a Clarion touch screen ICE system are the only changes from the standard car.

Live and studio images after the jump. What do you think?

Source:Paultan

Bugatti Veyron Launch In India

2010-11-01T11:21:00.004+08:00

The Bugatti Veyron was officially launched in New Delhi, India, on 28 October 2010, despite the 110% import tax which raises its price tag to an astonishing $3.6 million (about 160 million rupees), thus making it the most expensive car on sale in the country.

Until now, that title rested with the Mercedes Maybach, which retailed in the region of $1.3 million.

The company will deliver the supercars six to eight months after receiving the orders. There are no sales estimations at this time, according to Guy Caquelin, Bugatti's marketing manager for the Middle East, Europe and India.

Exclusive Motors, which is sole distributor for Bentley and Lamborghini in India, has been appointed official dealer and is now listed on Bugatti's website as its representative and "Official Bugatti partner of New Delhi."

Sources say that the first Bugatti Veyron has already been delivered to a Mumbai based realtor a few weeks ago and another two will meet its owner, a business tycoon in southern India, later this year.

The combined net worth of India's 100 wealthiest people climbed to $300 billion this year, equivalent to a quarter of India's gross domestic product. “People have more spending power and are getting more aware of owning beautiful things,” said Satya Bagla, head of Exclusive Motors Pvt., the dealer for Bugatti, Lamborghini and Bentley. “They are more ready to show their wealth.

Source:Autoevolution

New Altis 2011 From Toyota

2010-10-19T10:48:00.002+08:00

Toyota-Astra Motor introduced the Corolla which facelift now comes with a new name Grand New Corolla Altis because of the large changes that occur. This launch also spelled out in Europe faster because only a few weeks ago.

The biggest changes occurred in the sector that is driving the engine and transmission. Toyota Corolla Altis now apply the dual VVT-i technology on the 1.8-liter engine (2ZR-FE) complement the existing similar technology in the 2.0 liter engine (3ZR-FE). Dual VVT-i set the valve opening and inhaust exhaust are computerized.

Whereas in the present transmission system using Super CVT-i with a seven-speed Sequential Sport Shift. This transmission offers refinement, silently and contribute to improving fuel efficiency. Equipped with Sequential Shift, so the driver can still play the transmission lever to pursue the pleasure of driving. Another option, new gearbox 6 MT.

Combination of these two new technologies that help increase fuel efficiency up to 7% plus extra comfort. Other additional devices in the car is equipped with Toyota’s new entertainment Navigation

In terms of exterior changes visible on the front bumper, headlights, rear combination lamps, alloy wheels, rear bumper, new design optitron meter, 3 spokes steering wheel, driving eco indicator and other changes.

Grand New Corolla Altis 2.0V so worth USD 380 million. 8.1 Type G to be USD 349.7 million and the new type E 08.01 USD 328 million.

Source:Jogjaspeed

ZX-14 Beast To Fight Hayabusa

2010-10-13T08:18:00.007+08:00

2011 ZX-14

Do you want to go insanely fast? Does aiming your motorcycle at a distant vanishing through a grey halo of speed-induced blur make you feel truly alive?

Twisting the throttle of the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 will give you the experience you crave. Wind tunnel designed plastic and a high revving, high displacement inline-four pumping out an undisclosed amount of horsepower enable the brave to conquer the open spaces in short order.

There is little one can say about the differences between the two Japanese hyperbike screamers because it is nearly impossible for a mere mortal to test this class of motorcycle at its extreme end of performance.

Given a rider with the skill and strength of will to hit the limiter in sixth gear, there is a distinct problem in finding a suitable location for such a test.

A track day will tell you much about the low and midrange torque and horsepower, but long before you get close to the top end you run out of strait and all your concentration goes into wrestling the behemoth through corners designed to challenge a 600.

The logical venue is a standing mile time trial on a dry lakebed, but that does not lend itself to an informal test, not to mention the dismay the fine folks at Kawasaki might suffer at having a loaner bike entered into an official competition.

In the West, we have a very big desert with some lovely long, strait roads where one can join the 200 MPH club if so inclined.

Of course, that comes with the risk having your bike spend some time in an impound lot, or at worst spread across the landscape in very small pieces after trying to bunny-hop an endangered desert tortoise.

In the end, it is all pointless because the manufacturers have agreed to limit top speed to 300 kph (aka 186 mph). Despite the previously stated difficulty, if you are looking for a machine of the caliber of the Ninja ZX-14, there are characteristics that distinguish it from the other bike in its class.

Styling is a concern when it comes to the motorcycles we choose and the ZX-14 has that. Every angle is purpose built to accomplish the main task of the machine; slip through the ocean of air as cleanly as possible.

Contours ramp down from the passenger seat cowl, cutting through the rider compartment, over the four slashes along the tank, to culminate at a point on the ground preceding the front tire.

The lower fairing channels cooling air through the lightweight Denso radiator and around the engine compartment while deflector wings under the swing arm smooth the flow of air around the rear wheel. Front and back turn indicators fuse into the bodywork; the only thing distracting the flow of air over the fairing is the large ram air intake duct between the evil grin of the headlights.

Cool, high-pressure air channels through the central duct into the 1352cc four-cylinder DOHC engine, passing the 44mm Mikuni throttle bodies with 32-bit ECU controlled duel throttle valves.

Fine-atomizing injectors spray 75µm droplets of fuel at a 20-degree angle to cover a wider area of the combustion chamber to give a controlled even burn. Each of the four spark plugs has its own ignition coil allowing the ECU to optimize the tuning of each cylinder independently.

Perfect primary balance and dual gear-driven balancers reduce vibration to an absolute minimum while special piston profile and insulation in the magnesium timing chain cover reduces mechanical noise. The sound produced by the ZX-14 has an appealing turbine ambience and urges the rider to turn the throttle further.

A six-speed transmission is overkill in the Ninja ZX-14, as it can easily suffice to have only five gears, perhaps even four, for the majority of riders who throw a leg over this God of Speed.

The transmission started out very tight, but after a hundred miles the dogs wore in and slick shifting became the norm. The hydraulic clutch uses a radial-pump master cylinder--same as the front brake--which gives a clean look.

However, the throw is too close to the grip preventing two-fingered clutching. The slipper clutch works well; clicking down a couple gears and dumping the clutch gives a satisfying ratcheting down in speed without locking the rear wheel.

Handling, while not quick, is confidence inspiring. At the speeds capable by the ZX-14, you want extremely predictable handling so quick steering is replaced by strait line stability and precise corner tracking.

Engine placement in the hollow box aluminum frame plays an important part in the Ninja's handling. Front to rear balance is carefully designed into the bike to give the desired handling characteristics for a machine with a clamed curb weight of 567 pounds.

The road interface comes in the form Bridgestone Battlax tires, both wrapped around attractive cast wheels with offset center ribs so wheel weights can be located precisely along the centerline.

Kawasaki's twin 310mm petal front discs, with radial-mounted, four-piston calipers and rear 250mm petal disk with twin-piston caliper, provide admirable stopping power.

Each piston in the calipers has its own brake pad, which increases cooling efficiency and decreases the chance deforming due to heat. Braking is unaided by ABS, which saves weight but a motorcycle capable of such high speeds can use all the help available when slowing down.

The frame is a combination of box aluminum and cast aluminum to give strength and rigidity while remaining light and wraps around the engine, which is a stressed member to add torsional rigidity and further, save weight.

Dampening on the 43mm inverted cartridge forks is stiff in initial throw to resist dive during braking and the Uni-Track linkage rear suspension is fully adjustable, linear in action, and helps lower center of gravity by lowering linkage position.

Despite its high output, power application is smooth across the whole rev-range making the ZX-14 very predictable. Below 3000 rpm, the ZX-14 is quite tame and very easy to ride around town.

Digital Timing Advance in conjunction with exhaust design and high displacement gives the Ninja exceptional low and mid-range power with a very friendly throttle response. Between 3000 and 5000 rpm, you have an outstanding highway machine with comfortable ergonomics for the long ride away from civilization.

The bike is necessarily low for high-speed aerodynamics but this helps in mid-speed situations because the air hitting your chest helps take the weight off your arms from the forward positioned bars. Once the speedo hits the triple digits, the full effect of the wind tunnel designed body comes into play. Tucking into the envelope cut by the fairing feels natural and the sensation of pure speed overtakes your mind, driving out all mundane thoughts.

The 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 combines attractive styling with mind-boggling performance in a package that pleases even if it never ridden to its full capability. You do not have to be super-human to ride one, but if you are, let me know what it is like at the redline in sixth.

2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 | Motorcycle Specs:

Engine...Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement...1352 cc
Bore x stroke...84.0 x 61.0 mm
Compression ratio...12.0:1
Fuel system...DFI with four 44mm Mikuni throttle bodies
Ignition...TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission...6-Speed
Final drive...X-Ring Chain
Rake/trail...23 degrees / 3.7 in.
Front tire size...120/70 ZR17
Rear tire size...190/50 ZR17
Wheelbase...57.5 in.
Overall height...46.1 in.
Overall length...85.4 in.
Overall width...29.9 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel...43mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, 13-way compression and 11-way rebound damping adjustment / 4.6 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel...Bottom-link Uni-Trak® and gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping adjustments, adjustable ride height / 4.8 in.
Front brakes...Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discs with dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers
Rear brakes...Single 250mm petal disc with twin-piston caliper
Fuel capacity...5.8 gal.
Seat height...31.5 in.
Curb weight...566.7 lbs.
Color choices...Candy Lime Green / Ebony, Ebony

New Replacement Model For Waja

2010-09-23T16:25:00.004+08:00

As per some of your requests, Theophilus Chin has whipped up some artist renderings of what a new Lancer-based Proton Waja Replacement Model could look like, based on the disguised car we saw earlier today. Please remember the image above is just a rendering based on the disguised car and is not representative of any product Proton might launch in the future. Look after the jump for another front three quarter view. You can click any of the two renderings in this post for a larger view.

Source:Paultan

The Z1000 From Kawasaki

2010-09-02T09:46:00.004+08:00

The Kawasaki Z1000 allotment for the American bazaar in 2010, and already afresh we should be beholden that Kawasaki had abundant to spare.Though the change is subtle, the headlamp/flyscreen is adapted slightly, giving the Z an alike sleeker, meaner face, and the headlight is Kawasaki’s aboriginal use of a “line-beam unit.” A new LCD apparatus panel, arresting through an orange lens, can be agee for bigger examination angles.The astern 41mm angle best compression damping acclimation for a now absolutely adjustable front-end, and a new close over the angle tubes accomplish it attending like one, big stout unit.

Also, a new button allowance helps appearance bankrupt headers while added pieces awning the mid-pipe allocation aloof ahead of the bifold bankrupt cans that engineers fabricated beneath than on the 2007-08 Z1000 acknowledgment to the use of an under-engine pre-chamber. Otherwise, the bankrupt retains the “quad” look.The antecedent Z had a bore and achievement of 77.2 x 50.9mm, banausic from the aboriginal bearing Z’s 953cc displacement. The 2010 archetypal now sports 77 x 56mm bore and achievement abstracts – absolutely 1mm over the ZX-10R’s 76 x 55mm – for an agent displacing 1,043cc. Compression arrangement is 11.8:1, and fueling is handled by a coffer of 38mm Keihin burke bodies.

Specs / Specification New Kawasaki Z1000 ( 2010 ) :

* Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
* Displacement: 1043cc
* Bore x Stroke: 77.0 x 56.0mm
* Compression Ratio: 11.8:1
* Fuel Injection: DFI with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles
* Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
* Transmission: Six-speed
* Final Drive: X-ring chain
* Rake / Trail: 24.5 degrees / 4.1 in.
* Frame Type: Aluminum Backbone
* Front Tire: 120/70 ZR17
* Rear Tire: 190/50 ZR17
* Wheelbase: 56.7 in.
* Front Suspension / Wheel Travel: 41 mm inverted cartridge fork with stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 4.7 in.
* Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel: Horizontal monoshock with stepless rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 5.4 in.
* Front Brakes: Dual 300mm petal-type rotors with radial-mount four-piston calipers
* Rear Brake: Single 250mm petal-type rotor with single-piston caliper
* Overall Length: 82.5 in.
* Overall Width: 31.7 in.
* Overall Height: 42.1 in.
* Seat Height: 32.1 in.
* Fuel Capacity: 4.1 gal

Source:ExclusiveAutomotivePerformance

Skyline R35 New Facelift

2010-09-02T09:16:00.003+08:00

Nissan’s GT-R is set for the most comprehensive update yet! To go with the freshly updated look revealed in these leaked pictures, Nissan’s halo-car will get a few engineering tweaks as well as welcoming a luxurious new Spec-M model to the range.

Visually, the GT-R gets new daytime running lights and a restyled front bumper, while at the back there’s a new diffuser. The tweaks are functional too, the new shape improves the GT-R’s aerodynamics, with the drag coefficient dropping from 0.272 to 0.268. The updated diffuser has improved downforce by 10%.

The black and blue paint finishes shown in the picture are all-new for the updated car and will be named Aurora Flare Blue Pearl and Nebula Opal Black.

The driving experience will be improved too. A new set of forged aluminium wheels are 12kg lighter than the existing units, helping to improve everything from acceleration to handling.

Spec-M variants offer buyers new levels of customisation and there’s a £4,000 optional pearlescent white finish unique to the luxurious supercar. Among the changes will be softer springs, more comfortable leather seats and a wide selection of interior colours and materials.

All new models will see power and torque from the twin-turbcoharged 3.8-litre V6 increased and efficiency improved by around 3%.

The lighter and more powerful performance focused Spec-V will also inherit the latest updates. Below that, base models will now be labelled Pure Edition.

Source:Autoexpress

Recalls From Ferrari

2010-09-02T09:06:00.004+08:00

After completing its investigations into the fires which affected a number of 458 Italias, Ferrari has issued a voluntary safety recall to get modifications carried out to all 458s which have been built so far.

The campaign covers all cars built so far, up until the end of July. As the factory was shut in August, so no cars were made in that month, this will affect 1,248 cars.

Dealers are calling or emailing clients so the modification can be made to the wheelarch and heatshield assembly. Letters are also being sent.

Adhesive used in the wheelarch assembly has been found to be liable to melt at high temperatures, deforming the wheelarch which can then fall against the exhaust. If the car is being driven hard in places with a high ambient temperature, there is also a risk that the adhesive can catch fire.

The recall will see the adhesive used in the assembly replaced by mechanical fasteners.

Owners of the five cars which hit the headlines because of fire damage will be given a brand new replacement 458 free of charge, as long as the fire was caused by the adhesive issue.

Source:Autoexpress

New Launch From Lotus

2010-06-28T08:47:00.007+08:00

Lotus has released full information and photos of its latest sports car, the Evora. Previously known only by its "Eagle” code name, the car was revealed at the British auto show.

The Evora will be positioned above the Elise and Exige S models and, like the not-for-the-U.S. Europa, aims to provide increased day-to-day usability, which means it should be no harder to get in and out of than a Corvette, with a low, flat door sill. Think Porsche Cayman as opposed to all-out track toy: the Evora will carry more creature comforts and be larger (although that’s a relative term) than the Elise and Exige in an attempt to help attract new customers to the Lotus brand.

The basic structure is similar to every other modern Lotus: mid-engine, lightweight—the Evora prototype weighs 2976 pounds—and smaller than most everything else on the road. Like the Europa, the Evora has a sloped rear window and a fixed roof, although a convertible will arrive at a later date, and Lotus hints at further variants.

The Evora will be offered either as a true two-seater or with a 2+2 seating arrangement, but Lotus warns the rear seats are only suitable for children, and we suspect only those with very short legs.

Power will come from a Toyota 3.5-liter V-6 with variable valve timing, tuned to produce 276 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, and Lotus says the car clears the 0-to-60-mph sprint in less than five seconds and tops out around 160 mph.

The Evora employs typical Lotus aerodynamic tricks to keep the car planted at high speeds, including a rear diffuser and spoiler. Lotus engineers claim the Evora is quicker around the famed Nürburgring circuit than the Elise. It is not designed to offer a go-kart-like ride, but rather to appeal to a wider demographic. That said, the Evora rides on Bilstein shocks and Eibach springs, so performance should still be superb.

Inside there are way more toys than in the Exige and Elise: air conditioning, leather seating, a tire-pressure monitoring system, a backup camera, cool blue LED lighting, and a remote garage-door opener.

There’s also a slick Alpine audio and navigation system with satellite radio, iPod, and Bluetooth connectivity, and a clever audio equalizer. We recently installed a similar system in our long-term Subaru WRX STI, and it sounds great.

As a further concession to practicality, the Evora even has a rear-mounted trunk that’s supposed to fit a set of golf clubs. Because it’s mounted behind the engine, the trunk is cooled to stop engine heat from melting cargo—but we wouldn’t go so far as to put ice cream back there. Lotus rounds out the features list with anti-lock brakes and traction and stability control.

Lotus says it will be another six months before the Evora is available for test drives. The Evora will go on sale in spring 2009, starting in Europe, with only 2000 to be built per year unless demand warrants adding a second shift at the Hethel, England, plant. We’re waiting to hear back from Lotus on how many are headed to the U.S. We expect them later in 2009 as 2010 models.

The car is the first of three new models Lotus promises as part of a five-model business plan to grow the niche brand. It is the first all-new addition to the lineup since 1995.

Source:carandtrader

Kia SUV 2010

2010-04-30T14:36:00.006+08:00

Longer and lower, the new Kia Sorento brings sleek styling and a futuristic touch to the world of the urban CUV. With its longer front overhang, wedge profile, crisply defined greenhouse and accentuated wheelarch volumes, Kia's new CUV looks thoroughly modern and sporty.

The 4.7-metre long new Kia Sorento moves vehicle design in this segment up to a new level of sophistication.

As part of Kia's drive to expand market coverage with its latest CUV, the new Kia Sorento will be manufactured with a total of four engines - with different engines being available in various regions around the world in order to best suit local requirements and with CO2 emissions from just 173 g/km.

The original Kia Sorento was a 'landmark' vehicle which took the Korean brand into a whole new section of the automotive market all around the world. Introduced in 2002, it marked a huge step for Kia, challenging many established 4x4 and SUV brands and starting the process of changing public perception of Kia as a 'maker of small cars.'

Now, under the direction of Kia's Chief Design Officer (CDO), Peter Schreyer, the Kia design team aimed to deliver futuristic styling with a bold sense of power and dynamism, to once again differentiate Kia's larger CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) from potential rivals by incorporating Kia's new design DNA.

"The dynamic design of new Kia Sorento adopts simple, linear lines to create a powerful, yet polished appearance. Sporty and striking, the new Kia Sorento represents a new breed of vehicle," commented Peter Schreyer, CDO of Kia Motors Corporation.

Bold frontal styling incorporates Kia's new 'signature grille' that blends seamlessly into the new Kia Sorento's four-light, black bezel wrap-around headlamps. The profile's rising upper belt-line and the dynamic bevel treatment beneath the greenhouse plus the unique trapezoid C-Pillar adds tension and endows new Sorento with a unique appearance. Extending the rear window to the outer edges of the simply styled tailgate hints at the spacious cabin and the large tail lamps enhance the sporty appearance.

During the development of the new Sorento, Kia engineers ditched the body-on-frame structure and designed an all-new unitary (monocoque) bodyshell with room for up to seven occupants. Building on those new foundations, they concentrated on eight key areas - class-leading performance, increased fuel economy, reduced emissions, improved on-road handling, more fun-to-drive responsiveness, greater cabin space and comfort, enhanced overall safety and the introduction of new technologies.

The original Kia Sorento earned widespread media and public acclaim for its innovative styling, durability, off-road abilities and value-for-money. Since 2002 it has attracted thousands of customers who had not previously considered buying a Kia and achieved global sales of almost 900,000 units.

"With the new Sorento, we have created an all-new, seven-seater CUV that will soon be recognized as an 'exciting all-rounder' with a much broader customer appeal," commented Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President & COO of the International Business Division. "Despite the current economic uncertainties, we are confident that the new Kia Sorento will significantly increase Kia's share of the CUV market, achieving annual global sales of 140,000 units from 2010."

The new, longer bodyshell created for the new Kia Sorento, with its repositioned A-pillars and dashboard (moved forwards) and extended tailgate (moved rearwards), ensures that the cabin is much more spacious than the current model. The real and perceived quality of the cabin is greatly enhanced and available high-tech features will include: keyless entry, engine start button, reversing safety camera, built-in sat-nav and panoramic glass sunroof.

The new Kia Sorento's interior styling echoes the sense of power and dynamism created by the exterior appearance. Kia is confident that existing Sorento owners and new customers will be equally impressed by the cabin's generous proportions, sweeping dashboard design, high-quality fit, discreet trim accents and the availability of numerous high-tech features.

The thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel is becoming a Kia trademark feature and through it the driver can view another element of Kia's developing design DNA - the 'three-cylinder' instrument cluster. Similar to the cluster fitted to the latest version of Magentis and the recently-launched Kia Soul, the new Kia Sorento's cluster has clear and precise graphics.

Depending on the model, new Kia Sorento will be equipped with a six, eight or 10-speaker audio system, with MP3 and iPod connectivity, plus built-in or external amplifier and a new sat-nav system with a 6.5-inch screen. Remote controls for the audio system are mounted on the steering wheel.

The longer bodyshell created for new Kia Sorento ensures that the stretched cabin is much more spacious than the current model, with seating for up to seven people. Interior headroom is increased by 64 mm (to 906 mm) and legroom by 102 mm (to 795 mm). Luggage space in the new Sorento is amongst the best-in-class as cargo capacity is increased by 15per cent, thanks to moving the tailgate back by almost 70 mm.

During the design and engineering process to create the new Sorento, Kia's research and development team prioritized achieving a major improvement in the vehicle's refinement and minimizing its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). An excellent foundation for creating a vehicle with good NVH qualities is a stiff bodyshell structure and the new Kia Sorento features a much higher percentage (70.4per cent) of high-tensile strength steel compared to the previous model (40.0per cent).

Kia's all-new Sorento will be manufactured with up to four different engines to meet the needs of motorists in every region of the globe.

For the Korean market, Kia is offering the new Kia Sorento with three engines, including a version of its 2.7-litre V6 engine running on low-cost LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) called the 'Mu LPI'. This unit delivers 165 ps and 244 Nm - the reduced outputs are a consequence of using LPG which contains 25% less 'stored energy'. New Kia Sorento will also be available in the Korean market with the four-cylinder 2.4-litre Theta II petrol engine that delivers 175 ps and 225 Nm, as well as the new four-cylinder R2.2 diesel engine.

The all-new 'R' family of turbo-diesel engines proves that Kia's engineering capabilities are indeed world-class. The 2.2-litre engine comfortably out-performs most four-cylinder and many V6 units from rival brands, while complying with Euro 5 emissions standards thanks to their third-generation common-rail fuel system. The R2.2 generates a maximum of 197 ps and 435 Nm.

New Kia Sorento buyers will be offered a wide choice of transmissions and drivetrains - depending on model. Five-speed and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be offered. Both six-speed transmissions are new or upgraded.

Kia's all-new six-speed automatic transmission is a regular 'torque converter' automatic, but it incorporates a unique 'flat' torque converter, which allows the unit to be 54 mm shorter, has 62 fewer parts (than a five-speed unit), weighs 12 kgs less and boosts fuel economy by up to 12per cent over a traditional automatic transmission.

New Kia Sorento buyers can select from two advanced drivetrains to 'best-match' the on-road and off-road abilities of their new Kia vehicle to their lifestyle. The 2WD drivetrain offers lower weight and enhanced fuel economy, while the 4WD drivetrain will be ideal for buyers who regularly face difficult driving conditions, tow trailers (weighing up to 2,500 kilos, depending on model) or go off-road.

Traction is also boosted by the available HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) which prevents the vehicle slipping backwards, and DBC (Down-hill Brake Control) that limits vehicle speed to just 5 mph on steep declines.

For the new Kia Sorento, the suspension engineers' brief was to shift the handling bias a little to improve the on-road driving experience, in terms of ride quality and steering 'feel' - whilst retaining the vast majority of the previous model's off-road abilities. The suspension has been lowered by 10 mm and thanks to the new unitary (monocoque) bodyshell construction the centre of gravity has been lowered by 54 mm.

The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension is 'carried over' from the previous model, but with significant improvements. The steering is now more direct, requiring fewer turns of the wheel lock-to-lock.

For maximum stopping power, all new Kia Sorento models are equipped with an all-disc braking system. Either as standard or an option, ABS anti-lock and EBD brake force distribution systems are available.

New Kia Sorento presents buyers with a range of state-of-the-art safety systems and equipment as standard or as options - depending on market. Active safety technologies that buyers can specify include ESC, HAC, DBC, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) and RPAS (Rear Parking Assist System), plus several systems to boost braking performance during extreme conditions.

Reversing is made even safer by a new Kia Reversing Safety Camera mounted on the tailgate. This camera is fitted with a 130 degree wide-angle lens and transmits images to a 3.5-inch LCD display panel set within the cabin's rear view mirror whenever reverse gear is selected.

New Kia Sorento's robust all-new bodyshell structure delivers increased impact resistance. Using a much higher percentage (70.4per cent) of high-tensile strength steel the new vehicle achieves excellent rigidity and strength. Particular attention was paid to the B-pillar areas, with a roll-over hoop incorporated into the B-pillars and much stronger (60 kg grade) steel is used in the side sills.

The new Kia Sorento bodyshell is designed to achieve the top-score 5-Star rating in Europe's EuroNCAP and the USA's current official NHTSA crash tests, plus a 'Good' rating (again the top-score) in IIHS tests for both frontal and side impacts.

Source:Netcarshow

New Subaru Outback 2010

2010-04-26T14:51:00.007+08:00

For fifteen years, the Outback as all but defined Subaru in the United States. The high-riding wagons have been the perfect vessels for the brand's signature all-wheel-drive system. Through three generations, the Outback formula has effectively remained the same. For the fourth-generation 2010 Outback, Subaru has made the most significant changes so far to its best-known model.

The Sport-Utility Wagon: More of the former, less of the latter.

Subaru had been offering four-wheel-drive station wagons here since the mid 1970s, but it wasn't until 1995 that the company created the Outback as a special model. Essentially an all-wheel-drive Legacy station wagon with extra ground clearance and a rugged, outdoorsy image, the Outback has hewn to the same formula through two successive redesigns, even as it has added more engine options (including a turbocharged four and a six-cylinder) and more luxury features.

For 2010, however, the Outback branches out, using a unique bodyshell instead of borrowing one from the Legacy wagon (which is no longer sold in North America, but is still offered in Subaru's home market). Given free reign to craft an Outback-specific body, Subaru designers evolved the shape away from a pure station wagon and more towards a crossover/SUV--much as they did with the new Forester last year.

As a result, the car is fractionally shorter in length (by 0.8 inch) but substantially taller in height (growing 2.0 inches) and wider (2.3 inches). The larger body provides more passenger room and cargo space. Most significant is the increase in rear-seat legroom, which has been expanded by nearly 4 inches, and is now truly generous even for passengers over six-feet tall. The higher roofline provides lots of headroom as well, and seat comfort--formerly a sore point--has improved. In the cargo hold, a repackaged rear suspension is less intrusive, and maximum volume is up by nearly 6 cubic feet while the height of the load floor remains low.

Still a kin to the Legacy, at least under the skin

Although it no longer uses a Legacy wagon's body, the Outback is still mechanically related to the Legacy sedan, which is also new for 2010. Both cars share four- and six-cylinder horizontally opposed boxer engines, along with a range of available manual and automatic transmissions.

This new Outback, however, loses one of its previous three engine choices. The base 2.5-liter four remains, as does the--now larger--six-cylinder, but the turbocharged four has been dropped (although Subaru still offers it in the Legacy GT). Subaru product planners point to poor sales of the turbo in the outgoing model, although a turbocharged engine's inherent advantage at high elevations would seem to make it a good choice for in mountainous areas where the Outback is so popular.

Two boxers left standing

Like all Subaru engines, the two remaining offerings are horizontally opposed, or boxer, engines. The four-cylinder is essentially the same unit that as before. For 2010, however, its two available transmission choices are new. Where the Outback previously did not offer a manual transmission, it now has a six-speed stick shift as standard on the base and mid-level ("Premium") trim levels. Choosing it saves $1000 over the available automatic, but you give some of that back at the gas pump, as the manual's gas mileage, 19/27 mpg (city/highway), falls short of the automatic's 22/29 mpg.

The reason for the automatic's efficiency is that it's a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is great for fuel economy but is a little strange when accelerating as it can hold the engine at the optimal rpm rather than allowing revs to rise with the car's speed. There are also shift paddles that allow the driver to effect manual up- and downshifts through six preset ratios. Overall, the 170-hp four is up to the task of moving the relatively lightweight Outback--which is commendably svelte compared to the typically porky crossover--but one occasionally wishes for more grunt during two-lane passes or when climbing the steepest hills.

The Outback's optional six-cylinder engine is larger than before--3.6 liters, up from 3.0. Its 256 hp is a modest increase over the smaller six's 245 hp, but its 247 lb-ft of torque a represents a more substantial jump over the previous 215 lb-ft. Despite the increased displacement, the six--which is paired exclusively with a five-speed automatic--manages to increase both city and highway fuel economy by 1 mpg, to 18 city/25 highway. And unlike its predecessor, it runs on regular fuel. This engine makes easy work of propelling the Outback. Less expensive to run than the old six, and less expensive to buy (the extra cost is slightly lower than before), the six-cylinder could see a greater take rate than its recent average of 10 percent or so.

On (and off) the road

Both engines are surprisingly quiet--the burbling, boxer-engine patter that has long characterized Subaru four-cylinder engines is suppressed. The Outback is a quiet cruiser overall; Subaru has finally ended its fixation with frameless door glass, and wind noise is notably absent. The front suspension is essentially the same as before with damper struts, but the rear switches from a multi-link setup to A-arms. The ride on the highway is plush, if a bit floaty, with suspension tuning identical for both engines. The steering is slightly quicker in the new car but it's not very linear, with a bit too much gain as one moves off center, resulting in the need for small steering corrections.

Of course, a major component of the Outback image is its ability to venture off-pavement, and that capability is slightly enhanced, as all Outbacks now have 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the front and rear overhangs have been trimmed. For most Outback buyers, "off-road" likely translates to "dirt roads". We bombed down plenty of dirt two-tracks in the mountains of Montana, and the Outback never put a tire wrong. More impressive was the car's body structure, which proved tight and rattle-free despite the pounding.

Other items and innovations

In keeping with its outdoorsy image, the Outback is often shown with bikes, skis, or kayaks on its roof, so it's fitting that a roof rack is standard. An interesting new twist, however, is that the rack's crossbars--which often are sold as an extra-cost accessory or, if they're standard, can't be removed and therefore contribute to wind noise--pivot out from the side rails, where they're stored when not in use. A new Harman/Kardon sound system is available, with a USB port and an iPod input (for those who don't upgrade to the H/K system, and iPod input is available as a dealer accessory). Other new options include navigation, a rear-view camera, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The parking brake is now electronically activated by a button on the dash, and includes a useful hill-holder feature.

Powertrain

Engine: 2.5-liter SOHC H-4Horsepower: 170 hp @ 5600 rpmTorque: 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpmPowertrain: 3.6-liter DOHC H-6Horsepower: 256 hp @ 6000 rpmTorque: 247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpmTransmissions: 6-speed manual, continuously variable automatic, 5-speed automaticDrive: 4-wheel

MeasurementsL x W x H: 188.2 x 71.7 x 65.7 inLegroom: 43.0/37.8 inHeadroom: 40.8/39.3 inCargo capacity: 34.3/71.3 cu ft (seats up/down)Curb weight: 3386-3658 lbsEPA rating (city/highway): 19/27 mpg (2.5L, 6-speed), 22/29 mpg (2.5L, CVT), 18/25 mpg (3.6L)

source:automobilemag

Aprilia New Reveal

2010-04-21T10:40:00.008+08:00

It really doesn't trouble the RSV4R, though. The little Aprilia carves into the first left-hander, then flicks right as I wind back the throttle and send the bike accelerating off the second apex with a deep V4 growl. The bike is so stable and sharp that it feels like it could steer itself, and that's despite the fact that this is the cheaper, less extravagantly-fettered version of Aprilia's new superbike.

But it's no surprise that the R-model is this good, considering how much it has in common with the exotic RSV4 Factory with which Aprilia's V4 adventure began less than a year ago. The vital stuff is retained, notably the gorgeous bodywork and the 999cc, 16-valve V4 motor. The only engine-related differences are aluminium cases (instead of magnesium) and the lack of variable-length intake tracts that help prolong the Factory's peak power.

This bike also has conventional plastic bodywork instead of carbon-fiber and the frame isn't adjustable at the steering head, engine mounts and swingarm pivot. Instead of Öhlins components the R uses a Showa fork and Sachs shock, and the wheels are cast rather than forged. In total the R is 11 pounds heavier, at a claimed 407 lbs. dry.

This Portuguese launch wasn't actually the R-model's debut. The event was originally scheduled for Mugello, Italy, six weeks earlier, but was cancelled halfway through the first day after five bikes blew up due to a batch of faulty connecting rods. Aprilia was severely embarrassed, but thankfully the problem happened after six months of trouble-free production that had proved the V4's basic reliability.

Estoril was booked for the relaunch, and the Lisbon area's fickle weather just about obliged. The RSV4R felt wonderfully light and responsive as I headed out onto the track for the first session. Its steering precision and neutral feel made it wonderfully confidence-inspiring through the decreasing-radius first bend, and I was thankful for the steering damper every time the bike wheelied as I swung left and accelerated down the following hill. Much work went into fine-tuning the notably compact and well-balanced chassis, and it's quite evident when riding it. The 1000 handles like a trimmed-down 600, a benefit of careful chassis design which includes extending the fuel tank under the seat for improved weight distribution.

Perhaps the R's stationary intake trumpets meant I was shifting earlier, but if the R-bike was any slower than its Factory sibling, the difference was unnoticeable. It still charged toward its 14,000-rpm limit with haste, and repeatedly put 165 mph on the digital dash. And there's certainly no difference in braking abilities, since the R retains the Factory's Brembo Monobloc calipers and 320mm rotors.

Suspension action was sublime, too, even if the R's fork and shock aren't as refined as the Factory's. Spring rates are unchanged and both ends are fully adjustable, although the range is slightly narrower. Even when the track dried after lunch, the Aprilia handled superbly on showroom settings, and better still after I'd firmed it up with a little extra damping front and rear.

It's certainly an addictively fast and sweet-handling machine, with the same sleek looks, compact size, pure speed and razor-sharp handling that have made the Factory so popular with everyone who has ridden it. My only quibble is that Aprilia hasn't followed Ducati and BMW's lead in offering traction control, which would have been reassuring on the damp surface. But this is the base model, after all.

Aprilia's publicity materials claim the R's personality is significantly different, but I disagree. It handles so well and is so blisteringly fast that the performance on road or racetrack would be almost identical for all but the very fastest riders. The Factory's upgraded components are nice, but with a price $5000 less, I'd pick the base model every time.

Inevitably the R's aggressive character and compact size mean it won't be the most practical or versatile sportbike, any more than the Factory is. Some people have suggested that Aprilia should have attempted to broaden its appeal by softening its power delivery or attempting to make it a bit more comfortable. Thank goodness they resisted any temptation to do that. The Factory is a stunning race-replica that fully justifies its high price; and the RSV4R is a majestic mass-produced superbike that provides similar style, performance and thrills for a lot less money. You really can't go wrong with that.

source:motorcyclistonline

Malaysia New In Market-Freed

2010-04-20T11:48:00.005+08:00

Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd is set to introduce a new addition to an already impressive local vehicle line-up. Set to make an appearance early in the second quarter of the year, the Honda Freed – a premium compact multipurpose vehicle, – will, according to Honda Malaysia, make it’s debut into an unrivalled market segment, initiated by Honda Malaysia to fulfill the market’s demand for more refined and urban compact MPVs.

The Freed will be imported from Indonesia and Honda highlights that the Freed will be made distinguishable from other local MPV’s by its unparalleled features that include an automatic sliding door and a flat-floor walk-through cabin among others.

“Since its official launch in Japan in 2008, the Freed has been well received in the Asia region including Indonesia and Thailand. It later garnered great anticipation in Malaysia in 2009. Therefore, we are excited to inform all that Honda Malaysia will be bringing in the Freed onto Malaysian shores in the second quarter of this year,” said Mr. Toru Takahashi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia.

The Freed was designed to meet both the functional and aesthetic requirements of a modern urban MPV. Categorised as a premium selection vehicle, the Freed is targeted at young urban families. It has been well received among families in Japan, hitting the No.1 spot in minivan sales after just six months of introduction into the Japanese market. After hitting 130,000 units sold in Japan (as of December 09), the Freed was awarded Japan Car of the Year 2008/2009 in the Best Value segment.

The Freed has also been well received in Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore, and arrives on Malaysian shores in early Q2, seeking to add greater value to the market with its unparalleled specifications.

Source:Zerotohundred

Satria Neo R3 Lotus:RM115 K Maybe 25 O.T.R

2010-03-31T21:17:00.005+08:00

Proton Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing edition with Tuned 1.6 Campro CPS engine by Race Rally Research (R3) – Proton’s tuning division uncovered. With upgrades about RM60,000 of equipments and tuning from a standard Proton Satria Neo CPS, this mean machine receive a 145 bhp and 168 Nm of torque from a 1.6 engine. Judging by this figure, it is impressive.

However Proton only able to claims 9.2 second on this Proton Satria Neo CPS R3 Lotus Racing Edition. Another highlight of this car would be – it costs RM115,000. Many would think this it’s too much to pay for a Satria Neo. Let me walk you through the upgrades that has been done. The Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing edition looks some what fimilar from the Satria Neo R3, but Proton claims that claims it’s front back bumper are make with Race Proven FRP material and improved Aerodynamics.

The Proton Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing Edition is inspire by Lotus. Therefore, there’s only one colour available – which is Lotus’ Green. The car here, it’s also style with some sporty elements such as yellow racing stripes and carbon fiber materials all over the car. From the outlook, the most signification difference would the be widen fenders with air vents and a Lotus badge on it.

The heart of the Proton Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing Edition is using the 1.6 Campro CPS which can be found on the conventional Satria Neo CPS. The displacement remained as 1597cc with maximum output of 145bhp @ 7,000rpm and torque of 168Nm @ 5,000rpm. This limited edition only comes with Manual Transmission.

Mainly, the power train enhancements for the Lotus Racing Edition have added R3 Engine Management System, R3 Camshaft with Adjustable Alloy Cam, R3 Alloy under drive pulleys, R3 Titanium Manifold Extractor, R3 Tuned Exhaust System and R3 Carbon Fibre Air Intake with K&N Filter inside.

After a short chat with the R3 representative, he mentioned that the gearbox final gear ratio has been replaced with closer ratio gear for better acceleration which not listed on the brochure and the rest of the components besides the enhancements are similar to conventional Satria Neo CPS. Therefore, there will not be any problem getting an experienced mechanic to service and maintaining the car. Photo below shows R3 Aluminum Gear Knob.

The performance result was average at its class with no surprises of maximum speed of 200km/h and 0-100 km/h in 9.2secs. In fact, the Proton Satria GTi R3 that was introduced in late 2004 with 1.8L 4G93P perform even better with 0-100 km/h in 8.2secs and 140whp @ 6100rpm.

A set of Ohlins DFV (Dual Flow Valve) fully adjustable coil-over suspension with R3-tuned spring and damper rates are fitted to the car. The car benefits with lower ride height, stiffened rubber suspension bushes and revised suspension geometry. This allows the driver to have a better handling, more responsive steering feedback and better cornering precision.

Pop-up the rear boot of the Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing, and you will notice there’s a knob on side each for the car. The function it’s that to adjust the level of hardness of the rear suspension when it is needed.

However, I doubt that it requires such a serious braking system but it comes with a massive 4-pot AP Racing calliper and cross ventilated discs for the front brakes. For the rear brakes, it remained as standard 1-pot with solid discs. The Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing is also equipped with ABS and EBD. The rims of the Satria Neo here is a set 16″ OEM from Advanti and claims as R3 Light Weight Alloy rims.

Aside from the performance upgrades, Proton has also done many upgrades on the cosmetic part. For example, a push-start button is installed along with the car but you will also need to insert your key to start the engine. The steering is wrapped with leather and with a yellow centered indicated.

The seat of the Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing edition is wrapped with Nappa Leather of course with styling inspired by Lotus and the Lotus Logo on the headrest. However as compared to the earlier version of Satria Neo R3, this unit here doesn’t have bucket seat. The seats are basically wrapped leather seats from the standard seats in any Satria Neo.

The door panel of this special edition Satria Neo it’s also redesign to suit the car’s theme.

The Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing car is fitted with few carbon fibre equipment to reduce weight and styling purposes. The bonnet here as the picture show is made with light-weight carbon fibre material.

Asides, that the door still also fitted with carbon fibre material. We did a check on it whether it is carbon fibre or sticker, and yes it is real carbon fibre attach on the surface of the door frame.

All this while, the carbon fibre parts on the R3 are prone to theft. Many R3 owners resorted to removing these lightweight parts and replacing them with standard parts, refitting them only during track day or events.

Our sources say that 15 units are already booked for and remain 10 units up for sale as of 30 March 2010. One of the owner of this beautiful masterpiece belongs to the Proton Advisor, Tun Mahathir which he owned a collection of R3 in his garage.

Source:Fastmotoring

Moto Guzzi New Concept

2010-03-15T15:44:00.003+08:00

• 2010 Moto Guzzi V12 X

Miguel Galluzzi and Pierre Terblanche capture the essence of Moto Guzzi and inject it into motorcycles to drool over, designed with one thing in mind: pure riding pleasure.

Miguel Galluzzi e Pierre Terblanche - two of the most brilliant motorcycle designers of all time - teamed up to present us with their styling exercises centred around the very essence of the Moto Guzzi brand - its legendary in-line twin-cylinder engine.

The V12 prototypes have been developed around the 1,200 cc 4-valve 90-degree V-twin from Mandello, so much so that they were even named after it.

This is Moto Guzzi's tribute to the one engine that turned the "Italian eagle" brand into a myth of motorcycling and to its unique character. It is a statement of Moto Guzzi's commitment to keep developing and improving its flagship engine for the years to come.

Pierre Terblanche's prototypes stand out for the minimalist design of the aluminium casting frame embracing that true masterpiece of mechanics. The frame compact dimensions make for a simple, neat layout. Tank, saddle and tail are integrated into a monocoque structure, an unconventional example of the fine art of design combining technology, style and practicality.

The overall impression is one of striking neatness, a sight unseen in the motorcycle industry: there is not a single cable left in sight, not a single off-key detail to be found. Such uncluttered appearance and compact size would simply be unthinkable without the sleek layout of the Guzzi twin-cylinder engine. Quite a paradox, if one considers the exuberant personality of this engine.

The V12 models are true to the Moto Guzzi tradition and its commitment to innovation that goes back nearly 9 decades.

Moto Guzzi is back to the quintessential Italian bike (so much so that all labels and indications are in Italian), a statement of style combined with technology. Rather than on performance for performance's sake, the focus is on showcasing the mechanics, on essential design, on the pleasure of owning a unique motorcycle and - of course - on riding fun, thanks to its eager engine and amazing chassis.

The prototypes feature innovative details and solutions, like the concept bikes they are. Noteworthy are the cutting-edge rear suspension of the V12 LeMans, the LCD "rear-view mirrors", the LED light units, the "suspended" passenger footpegs and the heat sinks.

1- MOTO GUZZI V12 LM: This is the Italian sports bike reinvented, true to the legacy of the legend of Le Mans it is named after. This bike is for those who want an exclusive motorcycle to ogle and to own for the utmost riding pleasure. The bike provides excellent performance under all riding conditions and easy rideability for all to enjoy. Like the other two versions, the V12 LM combines luxury details (height adjustment for top fairing and handlebar) with innovative, yet well-proven components.

2- Moto Guzzi V12 STRADA: This is the essential bike and the most versatile model in the V12 range. Perfect for everyday commuting, comfortable for two-up riding, with perfect naked ergonomics. The touring-style handlebar is matched by the generously sized tail fairing capable of accommodating a comfortable passenger saddle. The V12 Strada sports a range of technical solutions and aesthetic details built around the Moto Guzzi twin-cylinder engine, that would have been unthinkable with a conventional engine layout. The passenger footpegs are connected to the swingarm through a linkage system and look as if they were floating in air, enhancing that sleek, uncluttered look that is at the core of the styling concept.

3- Moto Guzzi V12 X: this is a "one-of-a-kind" motorcycle, true to the character of the Guzzi twin-cylinder. The focus is on riding fun, and is enhanced by its aggressive design. The V12 X is the motorcycle for aggressive riders that begs to be pushed to the limit. Born to show off and fun to ride, this motorcycle is in a category of its own. Its spirited personality is highlighted by the aggressive riding position, a sports-like chassis set-up, longer suspension travel and a rev happy engine.

Moto Guzzi V12 LM, V12 Strada and V12 X are three extraordinary Italian motorcycles. In the words of Miguel Galluzzi, Manager of the Piaggio Group styling centre:

"There is an impalpable, yet very real force in the history of Moto Guzzi. It lies in the ideas and in the unrelenting research work that led Moto Guzzi to build its tradition on innovation.

Mentioning all the accomplishments of Moto Guzzi and their significance in the history of the Italian motorcycling industry would seem like indulging in some kind of vain celebration. Throughout its history, Moto Guzzi has put forward a unique concept of motorcycle. Everything started with an idea, and new ideas have always been the lifeblood of the "Italian eagle".

New ideas once again mark a turning point in our history.

The prototypes showcased today are only the beginning: such unparalleled care for detail and neat design would be unthinkable without our twin-cylinder engine. Keep an eye on Moto Guzzi because this is just the first step. We are back to relying on ideas, and we have plenty of them. This is just the beginning".

Specifications

Engine 90° V-twin engine, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine capacity 1,151 cc
Max. power NA
Max. torque NA
Exhaust system 2 into 1 stainless steel exhaust with 3-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor (Euro 3)
Gearbox 6-speed
Final drive Compact reactive cardan shaft drive system called CA.R.C.; double cardan joint and floating bevel gear seat

Source:totalmotorcycle

New KTM Offroad

2010-03-15T15:24:00.004+08:00

• 2010 KTM 350 SX-F

Ready for take off - 350 SX-F Factory Racing

KTM is presenting a near series-ready, four-stroke motocross race motorcycle with 350 cm³ at the EICMA 2009 in Milan. With this move, the sports motorcycle specialists from Mattighofen, Austria define a completely new path in Motocross.

Motor Sports and Development
KTM lives and breathes 100% motorsport. This is completely evident when the KTM Motocross Factory Team transporter again docks at the factory in Mattighofen after a long race weekend. Team boss: No-one less than MX multi World Champion Stefan Everts. His commitment creates fantastic possibilities for the factory because he is able to perfectly dovetail development and motorsport and in doing so, assists in writing a new chapter in the long, tradition-rich history of the Austrian manufacturer’s significant success in Offroad sport. With all of his immense experience and enormous energy, the meticulous Belgian is driving a very special project, the results of which carry the stamp of the MX legend right down to the smallest detail as well as those of the powerful KTM genes. It is this symbiosis that carries the promise of something really special. It underlines KTM’s proven core competence in the area of Motocross and is being proudly presented to the public for the first time on the occasion of the EICMA in the form of the new 350 cm³ MX concept.

With this pilot project version of a completely new Motocrosser, KTM again demonstrates the courage and determination to leave the beaten path. Its benchmark data with 350 cm³, linkage and injection are based on a broadly applied, permanently ambitious development that is carried out always looking straight to the future. This is a radical new interpretation of an existing structure with a clear goal: maximum sporting success and enthusiastic customers!

Why 350cm³, injection and linkage?
When one observes KTM’s hugely successful 2009 Motocross season, it is hard to recognize any room for improvement. Marvin Musquin excelled in picking up the MX2 title with teammate Rui Goncalves close behind as MX2 vice world champion, Max Nagl triumphed as vice world champion in the MX1 class and Steffi Laier wrapped up the women’s world championship title. But it is exactly this success story that provides the fertile soil for KTM’s untiring will to advance – and this is exactly the vision of the KTM Factory Team – to continue to improve on their established strengths and at the same time to explore a whole new path. This is “Ready to Race” in the broadest possible context.

The future
A new concept does not however mean that KTM will place less importance on its traditional models – KTM is still READY FOR TAKE OFF governed by the will to win and the stop watch. Therefore for the 2010 season, the well known, newly presented 2010 models – the SX 250-F in MX2 and the SX450-F in MX1 will be in the starting lists. And, as in 2009, they will surely continue to celebrate great success in 2010. Meanwhile the “Project 350” continues to run at high pressure. With these moves, KTM’s traditional obligation to its customers remains completely valid: What the factory riders’ use on the track is always also available for sale.

Source:Totalmotorcycle

New Wish For Toyota

2010-03-12T10:55:00.002+08:00

Toyota have launched the new Wish in the Japan market not too long ago, with a new front look. It comes either 1.8 or 2.0 variant. I guess the protruding concept is also being brought over to the Wish as well, as you can see the front headlights is like coming out of the body .

The new Wish is fitted with the new generation engine with “Valvematic” technology, i guess they renamed VVTL-i to this name, since the technology is variable valve and lift.

The interior looks great, with the triangular window at the side so that you have more view of the road.

This baby also comes with Super CVT-i transmission which gives better fuel economy. Also mentioned is that the 1.8L gives 16Km/L while the 2.0L gives 15.2Km/L. I would say these are pretty impressive figures for the MPV class.

Also available is an Eco Drive mode, i guess in this mode the ECU optimizes the alignment of the driving force with the accelerator operation to offer better fuel economy.

The 1.8L makes about 142 HP with 176 Nm of torque while the 2.0L makes out 156HP with 196Nm of torque.

Well a Wish does not cut it for a family car or a performance car. Where does it sit, calling it an MPV is really an understatement coz the boot space is really disappointing. For that price i rather save up more for a Toyota Caldina, you will get the same boot space, around the same amount of room in the car but faster! It looks cooler too.

Source:dailytorque

Proton Concept Car - E.M.A.S

2010-03-03T12:10:00.002+08:00

GENEVA: Malaysia’s first global car Emas (pic, above) is expected to mark the birth of a golden era for Proton, the national car maker.

The concept version of the car, shown in three variants, was launched at the Geneva International Motor Show yesterday by Proton adviser Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Production by 2012.

“This is Proton’s 25th year and we want to tell the world that Proton is now ready to be a global player,” he said, adding that Proton was willing to invest in strategic partnerships to drive this new direction for the company.

“I’ve told the Proton people that I’d like to see the car out in a year, but they say they need more time,” Dr Mahathir said.

He said the project represented a giant techonogical leap for Proton, which previously focused on the local market.

Proton group managing director Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, who was also at the launch, said they would need between 17 and 24 months to get the car into production.

Moving ahead: Proton adviser Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad posing beside the Emas with Proton Holdings Berhad chairman Datuk Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh and group managing director Datuk Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir (left) as the car was launched at the 80th Geneva Motorshow. -Bernama

“We are thankful and humbled that this is happening as we celebrate our 25th anniversary. We will certainly use this opportunity to reach out and build our brand further in the global market,” he added.

Emas, an acronym for Eco Mobility Advance Solution, was designed in collaboration with acclaimed Italian design house Italdesign Giugiaro.

“This is a car for today, with a design for tomorrow,” said Italdesign Giugiaro co-chairman Fabrizio Giugiaro at the launch.

“We don’t want to call it a concept car, rather, this is a new concept for a car,” he added.

Source:The Star Online

2010 Honda Crosstour 4wd

2010-02-11T08:26:00.005+08:00

The first crossovers borrowed their boxy styling from traditional SUVs. But a growing trend to meld coupe-like styling into the genre is exemplified in the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour.

Active hobbies and adult children still living at home are the reasons behind the surge of crossovers.

As children leave home, empty-nesters generally trade in minivans for stylish coupes and convertibles. But some adult children of boomers are delaying their departure from home, while their parents aren't about to delay their active pursuits. Coupe-like crossovers assuage their desire for style while satisfying their need to carry people and cargo.

The Crosstour is marginally longer, wider, taller and heavier than the Honda Accord, on which it is based. The biggest difference, though, is in total cargo volume. Thanks to a high back, the Crosstour can swallow 728 litres of cargo, compared with 397 for the Accord sedan.

While a high hatch lid aids aerodynamics and cargo capacity, it results in a back window that is almost horizontal. The view from the driver's seat is like looking down a narrow tunnel and visibility is only fair, despite a second window being fitted under the rear spoiler. The rear pillar is also large, creating a blind spot.

We drove the top-of-the-line Crosstour with the navigation package, which includes a back-up camera -- a welcome feature given the visibility challenge. It should be standard on all Crosstours, with the image projected on the rear mirror, like some competitors.

The cargo area is well thought out, with a waterproof bin under the floor and panels that can be flipped over -- carpet on one side, plastic on the other. The hatch itself is large, with a cargo cover built-in. It would have been even more attractive if it was powered. Be aware that the trunk floor is a bit higher, which means more lifting of groceries and other cargo. The back seats, which are split 60/40, can be folded flat remotely using levers in the trunk.

Up front, the driver and front passenger are greeted with faux wood and a well-executed dash. Our car had a multi-function screen, displaying the navigation, audio and other controls, controlled by a large rotary knob located under a very small audio knob.

I could not find an instantaneous/average fuel consumption screen; instead a green ECO light on the dash came on whenever I was light with my right foot. But maybe that's just me.

Leg and headroom is about the same as the Accord sedan. The sunroof seems small, especially after seeing the offerings from competitors such as the Subaru Forester. A larger glass roof would have helped lighten up the cabin.

The centre armrest has power and USB and audio-in sockets, but parents travelling with kids should note that there are no power outlets for back-seat passengers.

The steering wheel controls come with Bluetooth, a hands-free phone interface and voice recognition. The navigation system is satellite-linked.

The 3.5-litre V-6 is the only engine available on the Crosstour. It features cylinder deactivation, with the computer switching from running on six, four and even three cylinders depending on engine load. If this feature came into play during my time with the Crosstour, it was seamless and undetectable. Fuel consumption is decent, at 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and eight on the highway.

A five-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. I guess Honda figured people who choose the Crosstour aren't the sporty type, as they did not include a manual mode on the transmission.

The Crosstour can be ordered as a two-wheel-drive but I have been told this is a low-production model, as Honda expects to sell most of the vehicles equipped with four-wheel-drive. Keep in mind that while Honda calls its system 4WD, it is essentially a sophisticated front-wheel-drive system that normally operates in two-wheel-drive and only switches to driving all four wheels when it detects slippage. It has no low and high setting and the differential cannot be manually locked. It's similar in operation to the system found in the CR-V.

Unlike the rest of the Accord line, there is only one trim level -- the top-of-the-line EX-L. Because of this the standard equipment list is extensive, with features such as two memory position eight-way power leather seats, dual-zone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, six-disc CD audio system with subwoofer and others. The navigation system is available only on the 4WD model.

Safety comes in the form of electronic brake distribution and brake assist, traction and stability control. It comes with the usual number of front, side and side curtain air-bags.

The crossover market has been the only bright light for automakers in the last year. The mid-sized 2010 Honda Crosstour joins the growing number of crossovers being introduced by automakers around the world. As the segment grows crowded, Honda has wisely chosen to differentiate its offering with coupe-like styling while retaining the practicality the market demands.

THE SPEC SHEET

Type: Midsize crossover, front-engine, part-time four-wheel-drive

Engine: 3.5-litre V-6, generating 271 h.p. at 6,200 r.p.m., 254 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 r.p.m.

Transmission: Five-speed automatic, cam-driven four-wheel-drive system

Dimensions (mm): Length, 4,999; width, 1,898; height, 1,670; wheelbase, 2,797

Curb weight (kg): 1,845

Source:Honda News

2010 Suzuki Hayabusa

2010-02-09T12:29:00.001+08:00

Ever since we introduced the Suzuki Hayabusa, it's had only one competitor: Itself. That's why the 2010 Hayabusa is so impressive - compared to the original, it's hotter than ever.

For enthusiasts, that comparison will make your heart pound. The Hayabusa's engine is thoroughly updated from the previous model for more power and an improved power-to-weight ratio, which you'll experience as an even greater rush of acceleration.

Its refined chassis and suspension help provide crisper handling. And its striking fairing offers sleeker aerodynamics. The original Hayabusa was the best. With the 2010 Hayabusa, you're looking at better than the best.

Key Features

1340cc - 1340cc, DOHC liquid-cooled engine with 16-valves, Twin Swirl Combustion Chambers provides 11% higher performance and smoother operation

Front ForksFront Forks - Fully adjustable inverted front fork featuring DLC coated inner tubes for minimal friction resistance and outstanding suspension performance over a variety of riding conditions

Instrument cluster features four analog meters for speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and water temperature with a S-DMS mode indicator, gear position indicator and adjustable engine rpm indicator

LED taillight utilizes a double lens structure with a clear inner lens and a red outer lens for maximum visibility and a high quality finish

Radial-mount front brake calipers for maximum braking performance and allows for smaller 310mm front brake rotors resulting in reduced unsprung weight and improved handling

S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector) allows the rider to choose from three different engine settings depending on riding conditions or rider preferences

Suzuki SDTV fuel injection system with dual injectors per cylinder and ram air intake with large volume airbox

Vertically stacked twin headlights provide increased light intensity, improved light distribution and match the elegant flow of the new Hayabusa styling

Engine Features

1340cc, DOHC liquid-cooled engine with 16-valves, Twin Swirl Combustion Chambers provides 11% higher performance and smoother operation

High efficiency curved radiator now features dual electric fans controlled by the ECM for increased cooling capacity. Oil cooler now has 10 rows cores for increased heat dissipation

Ion plating treatment utilizing PVD (physical vapor deposit) method is applied to piston rings providing a smoother surface treatment for increased durability, reduced friction loss and reduced oil consumption

Large volume 4-2-1-2 exhaust system with a large capacity catalyzer, dual triangular canisters and closed loop system that meets Euro 3 and Tier 2 regulations

Lightweight aluminum alloy pistons feature a revised shape and a higher compression ratio of 12.5:1 for maximum performance in all conditions

Lightweight titanium intake and exhaust valves with narrow 14 degree valve angle for high combustion chamber efficiency

SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electro-chemical Material) plated cylinders minimize cylinder size and improve heat dissipation and new hydraulic cam chain tensioner for reduced mechanical noise

S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector) allows the rider to choose from three different engine settings depending on riding conditions or rider preferences

Shot-peened chrome-moly steel connecting rods for maximum durability

Slick shifting 6 speed transmission working in conjunction with an innovative back torque limiting clutch for smooth and controlled downshifts

Suzuki SDTV fuel injection system with dual injectors per cylinder and ram air intake with large volume airbox

Ventilation holes at the cylinder skirt for reduced pumping losses and increased performance

Chassis Features

Aggressive aerodynamic fairing design with low drag coefficient retains it's signature Hayabusa look and features a muscular look to work with the amazingly powerful engine and cutting edge chassis

Bridged aluminum alloy swingarm features a cross-sectional shape for increased rigidity and to cope with improved rear tire grip and increased engine output

Fuel tank height is lowered to allow riders helmet to tuck in and windscreen height is increased for improved wind protection and optimum aerodynamic efficiency with the rider in place

Fully adjustable inverted front fork featuring DLC coated inner tubes for minimal friction resistance and outstanding suspension performance over a variety of riding conditions

Fully adjustable rear shock absorber with a 43mm piston and 14mm rod diameter Lightweight and rigid twin-spar aluminum frame minimizes weight while maintaining high torsional strength

Instrument cluster features four analog meters for speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and water temperature with a S-DMS mode indicator, gear position indicator and adjustable engine rpm indicator

LED taillight utilizes a double lens structure with a clear inner lens and a red outer lens for maximum visibility and a high quality finish

Lightweight single piston rear brake caliper working in conjunction with a new larger 260mm rear brake disc

Passenger seat and rear subframe are lowered for improved passenger comfort

Radial-mount front brake calipers for maximum braking performance and allows for smaller 310mm front brake rotors resulting in reduced unsprung weight and improved handling

Vertically stacked twin headlights provide increased light intensity, improved light distribution and match the elegant flow of the new Hayabusa styling

Wheels mounted with high performance Bridgestone BT-015 tires for unmatched handling and control

Source:TotalMotorcycle

Toyota Recall It Cars

2010-02-09T12:11:00.003+08:00

TOKYO/DETROIT, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T) said on Tuesday it would recall its flagship Prius hybrid in Japan for braking problems and that it had halted shipments of two other hybrid models to check for similar problems.

The world's largest automaker is already under fire for two other recalls covering more than 8 million vehicles worldwide due to problems with slipping floormats and sticky accelerator pedals.

Toyota is fighting to keep its reputation for quality and reliability while dealing with a potential rush of litigation for crashes linked to 19 deaths and numerous injuries in the United States over the past decade.

Criticised by U.S. safety authorities and members of the Obama administration for moving too slowly on those recalls, Toyota said President Akio Toyoda and Executive Vice President Shinichi Sasaki, in charge of quality, would hold a media briefing at 3:30 p.m. (0630 GMT) in Tokyo regarding the recall.

It will file a recall of the 2010 Prius, the world's best-selling hybrid car, "and other models" at Japan's transport ministry at 1:30 p.m. (0430 GMT), a spokeswoman said. Details will be announced at 2 p.m. (0500 GMT).

The Sai and Lexus HS250h hybrids use a similar braking system as the Prius, and Toyota said it has halted shipments at its Toyota Kyushu unit while it conducts checks to determine if a recall or fix of those models would be necessary.

The Nikkei business daily said that Toyota may halt production of the Sai and Lexus hybrids. A week-long output shutdown would amount to a combined 2,000 units at least of the two models, it reported.

GLITCH FIXED

Toyota has said it had fixed a software glitch in the anti-brake lock system (ABS) on the 2010 Prius at the end of last month, and that cars being produced now would not be subject to any recall.

Owners of the latest, third-generation Prius have complained that on bumpy roads and on ice, the regenerative brakes which help charge the vehicles electric battery appear to slip and it lurches forward before the traditional brakes engage.

U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co (F.N) said last week it would roll out a software patch for consumers to address similar problems with braking on two of its hybrid models, without filing a recall.

Toyota's recall of the Prius in Japan will likely be followed by similar steps in the United States, Europe and elsewhere. The new Prius is sold in some 60 countries, with cumulative sales just over 300,000 units.

The move is also likely to raise questions about the U.S. safety authorities' delay in investigating complaints over braking on the Prius.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had received more than 100 complaints before opening a formal investigation on Feb. 3, a day after Toyota made its own announcement.

Shares in Toyota, which lost about a fifth of their value since late January, were up 3 percent, outperforming a 0.4 percent fall in the Nikkei average .N225.

"The shares fell while Toyota appeared not to be doing anything to deal with its problems. But now, the fact that they're taking concrete steps on the issue is being seen as positive," said Hiroaki Osakabe, a fund manager at Chibagin Asset Management.

"But the gains will be limited since many investors want to see the impact of the problems on U.S. car sales, with more share selling ahead if there's a big drop."

LAWSUITS

In the apparent first of a potential rush of legal claims over the Prius, the owner of a 2010 Prius has sued Toyota in Los Angeles, claiming the automaker failed to fix a brake defect and seeking a court order requiring a recall.

Daniel Warshaw, a lawyer for Pearson, Simon, Warshaw & Penny LLP, said he believes his client is the first to file a suit seeking class-action status over the braking complaints on the Prius.

"I believe there will be many other lawsuits across the country in 72 hours," he told Reuters.

Meanwhile, complaints to U.S. safety regulators about 2010 Prius brake problems have jumped sharply since the Transportation Department announced a formal investigation last week.

Several complaint files total more than 1,000 reports from vehicle owners but a partial review of the documents submitted to NHTSA found some duplicates, so the exact number is unclear. Four injuries were reported.

More bad news came when KBB, or Kelley Blue Book, said on Monday it plans to cut U.S. used-car values of recalled Toyotas by 1.5 percent "on concerns around the growing supply of unsold Toyotas on both dealer lots and at auctions."

This came after KBB on Feb. 5 cut used-car values of recalled Toyotas by 1-3 percent.

Used-car values are a key component in car dealers' ability to set residual values -- or how much a used car will be worth 36 months after purchase -- and interest rates.

Toyota said on Monday it restarted production at six U.S. and Canadian plants "with no issues," a week after halting work.

Toyota faces further scrutiny on Wednesday when its North America chief executive, Yoshimi Inaba, testifies to Congress in front of the House Oversight Committee in Washington.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and NHTSA Administration Administrator David Strickland will also testify. (Additional reporting by Chang-Ran Kim, Mayumi Negishi and Elaine Lies in TOKYO; David Bailey in DETROIT; Steve Gorman in LOS ANGELES and John Crawley in WASHINGTON; Writing by Lincoln Feast; Editing by Jean Yoon)

Source:Reuters

Sneek Peek New Perodua MPV

2009-10-11T16:05:00.010+08:00

Eight preview before new Perodua MPV will be launch in the end 2009.See detail in my previous article....

Source:Email By Someone

Perodua First MPV

2009-05-10T15:55:00.006+08:00

An interview with Perodua managing director Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in The Edge Weekly has revealed some plans about Perodua this year. For one, Perodua will be undergoing a rebranding sometime in the middle of the year, which will coincide with the launch of the new Perodua Kembara. The rebranding exercise will also give Perodua a new logo, which will be more of a restyled evolution of the current one rather than something new.

The new Perodua Kembara will come with a 1.5 liter engine (likely the 3SZ-VE) and will have four-wheel drive. It will not be assembled locally by Perodua but will be a CBU import from Japan. It will be a low volume product, and the expected price tag is likely to be more than the Toyota Rush because of its higher specs (the 4WD drivetrain) and Japan sourcing. It will be targetted at the urban, upper-middle income group. Expect the new Perodua Kembara to be based on the short wheel base Daihatsu Terios with a May 2008 launch date.

Another surprise revealed in the article is Perodua’s plans for 2009. Perodua will launch a new three row 6-seater MPV in September 2009. Datuk Hafiz likened it to a Toyota Wish, but a smaller version. I wonder what could this be based on. Can’t really think of any compact 6-seaters from Daihatsu/Toyota other than the Daihatsu Gran Max, but that’s more of a Rusa-like van.

If you read this article by Xinhua News Agency posted on the 5th of March 2008. it is revealed that Toyota and Daihatsu is developing a new MPV in Indonesia. The MPV is set to be launched in 2009. This model is could be the one that the new 2009 Perodua MPV will be based on.

Anyway whatever it is, it’s something to look forward to next year. 2009 seems to be the year of the MPVs.

As Proton gears up for its Proton Exora MPV to be launched next week, our other national carmaker Perodua is also prepping up its Perodua MPV, set to be launched in Q3 this year. The new Perodua MPV is internally called the Perodua D46T codename and is expected to be priced between RM57K to RM66k, according to Perodua MD Datuk Syed Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in Bernama.

The new Perodua D46T will be based on the Toyota Passo Sette, also known as the Daihatsu Boon Luminas. It measures 4,180mm long, 1,695mm wide and 1,620mm tall, with a long 2,750mm wheelbase to maximize the interior space (2,550mm long).

It sits 6 or 7, depending on how big the people are, but the intention is 7 of course, because some of the Japanese model pix shows 3 headrests for the 2nd row. The same Bernama report also confirmed it will come with a 1.5 liter engine, likely the 3SZ-VE in transverse-mounted front wheel drive configuration.

Source:Paultan

The World Cheapest Car

2009-05-10T15:40:00.003+08:00

Tata Motors today took the covers off the world’s cheapest car — the Nano.

Over the past year, Tata has been building hype for a car that would cost a mere 100,000 rupees (roughly $2,500) and bring automotive transportation to the mainstream Indian population. It has been nicknamed the “People’s Car.” Over the course of the New Delhi Auto Expo, which began this week, anticipation had grown to fever pitch.

With the theme from “2001: A Space Odyssey” playing, Ratan Tata, chairman of Tata Motors drove the small white bubble car onto Tata’s show stage, where it joined two others.

The Tata Nano could sell for around $2,500. (Photo by Raveendran/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images)

“They are not concept cars, they are not prototypes,” Mr. Tata announced when he got out of the car. “They are the production cars that will roll out of the Singur plant later this year.”

The four-door Nano is a little over 10 feet long and nearly 5 feet wide. It is powered by a 623cc two-cylinder engine at the back of the car. With 33 horsepower, the Nano is capable of 65 miles an hour. Its four small wheels are at the absolute corners of the car to improve handling. There is a small trunk, big enough for a duffel bag.

“Today, we indeed have a People’s Car, which is affordable and yet built to meet safety requirements and emission norms, to be fuel efficient and low on emissions,” Mr. Tata added. “We are happy to present the People’s Car to India and we hope it brings the joy, pride and utility of owning a car to many families who need personal mobility.”

The base price for the Nano will be 120,000 rupees, including road tax and delivery. Higher level models will cost more and come with air-conditioning. Sun visors and radios are extra.

The nearest priced competitor is the Maruti 800, which costs roughly twice as much as the Nano. In comparing the Nano to the Maruti 800, Mr. Tata said, “It is 8 percent smaller — bumper to bumper — and has 21 percent larger seating capacity than Maruti 800.”

The Hindustan Times reports reactions from a couple of Tata’s competitors, Maruti and Hyundai:

Jagdish Khattar, a former head of Maruti 800 manufacturer Maruti Udyog Ltd., says it’s too early to say whether the Nano will overtake the original.

“It’s a good product but it’s still too early to say whether it will overtake the 800 because it caters to a totally new market segment,” he said while watching a live telecast of Tata’s press conference after unveiling of the Nano.

But clearly, at least one other manufacturer was worried.

An official of Hyundai Motors, which unveiled an LPG version of its Santro Thursday, was more circumspect.

“We definitely see it as impacting our sales,” he said in halting English, preferring to maintain anonymity.

Anand Mahindra, managing director for Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors’ primary competitor, said before the unveiling, “I think it’s a moment of history and I’m delighted an Indian company is leading the way.”

The Nano will go on sale in India later this year with an initial production run of 250,000 a year. Tata says it will offer the Nano in other emerging markets in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa within four years.

Source:New York Times

Proton EXORA MPV

2009-01-30T23:35:00.010+08:00

Fully undisguised shots of the Proton EXORA MPV - both exterior and interior - have found their way onto the internet, and they reveal to us plenty of details on the eagerly anticipated 7-seater MPV by Proton!

What we can see is one shot of the Proton EXORA MPV in white, another in an unidentified brown-like colour (may be something else altogether because of colour balance), and 3 shots of the interior. Here are what can be observed:

A complete revamp of the Proton steering wheel design that is curiously reminiscent of the one Honda is currently using. There is steering wheel audio controls and also a phone button which could indicate some variants of the MPV are equipped with a Bluetooth hands-free system.
Instrument panel features a two-meter design, with RPM on the left and an even-numbered speedometer on the right which tops out at 180km/h. The design of the meters are predominantly red with white text. They look like an evolution of the one in the GEN2 CPS facelift, but with modifications that somehow make them end up looking like the one found in the Isuzu D-Max, except the D-Max design is blue.
A small storage and a card holder (Touch N Go?) located below the driver’s side aircond vent
A door-open indicator in the middle of the two meters
A redline of 7,000rpm for the RPM meter
Two digital displays below each meter. The left one shows a digital fuel meter and digital temp meter as well as various other multi-info readings. I’m not sure what the right one shows.
The gear lever is dash-mounted much like the Honda CR-V.
Dashboard itself doesn’t seem to have any texture to it but it’s likely that this is a pre-production version, so the production version should have some texture in-line with all the recent Proton model launches.
Center dash area design from top to bottom - clock, two aircond vents, 2-DIN CD player, various buttons including hazard light, manual air conditioning knobs, recirculation and air cond button.
5-spoke alloy wheels
Bee-sting antenna at the front just after the windscreen.
Signal indicator on side mirrors
Reflector headlamps
Foglamps on the front bumper
In the photo of the white MPV you can see the rear hatch swings upwards, instead of the other method which is sideways like a fridge

The MPV looks really gorgeous from the outside especially the white one, with strong design cues from the Mitsubishi Grandis. The interior looks alright, except the air cond vents look really cheap. They’re better off reusing the ones from the Saga. There also seems to be an odd-looking spacing between the two center vents, like there was supposed to be a hazard light button there but somehow went missing.

Source:Paultan

Limited SLR

2009-01-12T23:09:00.004+08:00

Stuttgart– Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster.

The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h – no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory during the 1950s.

The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.

Three letters are all it takes to make car fans’ hearts beat faster: SLR. In the 1950s the Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 celebrated victory after victory. It won the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manual Fangio and Karl Kling – and, first and foremost, by the British racing driver Stirling Moss. At ten hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds he still holds the Mille Miglia record.

This is why the modern-day version of the legendary SLR carries the additional words “Stirling Moss” in its name. As the new SLR Stirling Moss unites the character of the current SLR models with the fascination of the SLR of 1955. The core values of both the historical and the present-day SLR models include an exciting new design, innovative technology, high-class materials displaying perfect craftsmanship, and, above all: a unique driving experience for all the senses.

Whilst the 300 SLR earned its spurs on racing circuits the world over, the new member of the SLR family is not designed for the racetrack. Although it sets new standards in terms of technology, performance and excitement – just like its forebears – it is aimed at individuals who have exquisite requirements and nurture very special dreams.

Highly puristic concept without a roof or a windscreen

Remaining totally true to the specifications of the 300 SLR, the new Silver Arrow’s equipment is extremely sophisticated and yet at the same time decidedly spartan, doing without both a roof and side windows. There are just two wind deflectors a couple of centimetres in height to protect the driver and passenger from the airflow. Two air scoops integrated into the bodywork serve as roll-over bars. With this extreme concept the new SLR Stirling Moss is visually very different from all the other vehicles which belong to the elite sports car class.

Just like the legendary racing vehicles of yesteryear, the SLR Stirling Moss dazzles with its superlative performance. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 350 km/h this puristic high-performance sports car denotes completely new dimensions in open-top driving. And not just because of the impressive performance figures; every time drivers take to the wheel of the SLR Stirling Moss their senses are addressed with a previously unheard of intensity, conveying a driving experience in its purest and most sensual form. This automotive thoroughbred thus facilitates the kind of open-air feeling that is utterly unique for a road-going vehicle.

Exciting design reminiscent of the SLR racing cars

The SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of fine lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLR Stirling Moss, they were fully aware every single moment that they were creating a vehicle with a top speed of 350 km/h. At the same time this supreme athlete is highly reminiscent of the SLR racing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day.

The SLR Stirling Moss sports an exciting, pronounced arrow-shaped form and is characterised by an elongated bonnet and a compact, muscular rear. As there is no windscreen, the exterior and interior flow smoothly into one. The bonnet also stretches from its striking tip right down into the interior, giving the vehicle body a distinctly sleek air. Even when standing still, the sports car radiates such dynamism that the observer immediately falls under its spell.

Further eye-catching features include two air scoops behind the driver and passenger. They carry additional roll-over bars, also uniting the traditional and the modern. The wings are powerfully contoured. Black-painted ventilation “gills” sitting facet-like on the sides and on the bonnet also cite the legend. A thrilling interplay of light and shadow ensues through the expressive lines, underlining the dynamic overall impression. Exactly as they were on the shining historical example, the side skirts on the new SLR Stirling Moss are also very high. This prompted the designers’ decision in favour of folding swing-wing doors which open forwards.

The vehicle can be closed by two tonneau covers which are carried in the boot. When both tonneau covers and the doors are closed the SLR Stirling Moss resembles a sculpture.

In keeping with the puristic exterior of the vehicle, the interior is also reduced to the bare essentials. Surfaces penetrating each other in the instrument panel and doors make for an exciting atmosphere and resonate perfectionism. A mixture of high-class authentic materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and fine-quality leather sets the style here. An aluminium plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss and covers the area around the shift lever.

Innovative technology and polished aerodynamic concept

Developers working on the Stirling Moss were able to fall back on a wealth of experience gathered when producing the SLR Coupé and Roadster, in particular where the technical base was concerned, with its extravagant carbon-fibre design, high-performance suspension and throaty V8 engine. The common denominator uniting the Stirling Moss with the other members of the SLR family is the aerodynamic concept with a closed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper for maximum possible downforce at the rear axle – with one difference: the diffuser here is considerably larger than that on the coupé and roadster.

Thanks to the high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel, the SLR Stirling Moss always generates sufficient downforce for extremely safe handling. But the driver can also manually operate the AIRBRAKE in order to increase the contact pressure further, during particularly sporty driving, for example. The AIRBRAKE is also raised during powerful braking at speeds above 120 km/h, so as to stabilise the vehicle even more in such situations, thus facilitating maximum possible deceleration.

Limited to 75 units – the SLR models’ crowning glory

The new SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the sporting gentry and enthusiasts alike. At the same time it is a collector’s item which marks the pinnacle of an era and, for the foreseeable future, at least, the final curtain for the SLR. In May 2009 production of the SLR models will cease; only a total of 75 units of the Stirling Moss will be manufactured between June and December 2009, bearing chassis numbers from 1 to 75. Not only does this exclusive vehicle represent the conclusion of the current SLR family; it also serves as a very special thank you to the most loyal of SLR customers, for they are the only ones able to acquire a Stirling Moss.

Source:Mercedes Press Release

New Release:Yamaha R1 2009

2009-01-12T22:35:00.009+08:00

2009 Yamaha YZF-R1 Features Uneven Firing Order For Improved Power Delivery

Cypress, Calif. – Forget everything you ever knew about the supersport liter class. Because once you hear the growl of the all-new 2009 YZF-R1, it will become clear that this bike is unlike anything before.

It’s all about power – delivery of power, to be exact. That’s because the all-new R1 is the world’s first production motorcycle with a crossplane crankshaft. Originally pioneered in MotoGP racing with the M1, crossplane technology puts each crank pin 90 degrees from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270-180-90-180 degrees. The result is incredibly smooth, roll-on power delivery with outrageous amounts of torque for a rush like you’ve never experienced before.

The unique shape of the crossplane crank smoothes out fluctuations in inertial crankshaft torque to provide very linear power delivery as the engine’s combustion torque builds, giving the rider more linear throttle response with awesome power and traction exiting corners. Not just new, the R1’s new crossplane crank engine represents a complete paradigm shift.

To make the crossplane crank viable an advanced ECU individually maps each cylinder’s ignition and fuel injection timing. This powerful electronics package also controls Yamaha Chip Control Intake and Chip Control Throttle (YCC-I, YCC-T).

Also new for 2009 is the inclusion of D-MODE variable throttle control function that enables the rider to adjust performance characteristics to match a variety of riding conditions. In addition to standard mode mapped for optimum performance, the rider can select from A mode for sportier response in low to mid-speed range, and B mode for somewhat less sharp response for riding situations that require especially sensitive throttle operation. These 3 different maps at the push of a button allow the rider to choose the optimum power character for their riding situation.

This revolutionary new engine is housed in an equally advanced chassis. Control filled die-cast frame rails balance high vertical rigidity with relatively low lateral rigidity for increased high speed stability while improving handling, especially while leaned over during corner exit. A control filled die-cast magnesium sub frame cuts weight far from the center of balance and contributes to concentration of mass.

Visually the new R1 breaks new ground leading with twin projector beam headlights concentrated near newly placed forced air intake ducts. The sculpted body work features inner and outer shells controlling airflow around the bike at high speeds and forcing more cool air to the radiator and engine bay while eliminating the need for hot-air vents usually located at the sides of the radiator.

More than the just the next-generation of supersport; the 2009 YZF-R1 represents a major breakthrough in supersport technology and performance.

The new R1 will be available in dealerships nationwide beginning in January 2009 with a starting MSRP of $12,390. The 2009 R1 will be available in Raven/Candy Red, Pearl White/Rapid Red, Cadmium Yellow/Raven and Team Yamaha Blue/White.

Full information on all Yamaha models can be found at http://www.yamaha-motor.com.

YAMAHA RIDERS UNVEIL NEW R1 IN LAS VEGAS

All four Yamaha MotoGP riders took part in the global unveiling of the all-new Yamaha R1 today in a suitably glittering show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fiat Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, plus Tech 3 Yamaha team-mates Colin Edwards and James Toseland were surprise guests at the unveiling, which took place in front of 3000 Yamaha US dealers at the famous Mirage Hotel.

The all-new version of the R1, Yamaha’s premium performance road bike, is more closely linked than ever to the YZR-M1 on which the four riders contest the MotoGP championship. The riders each came on stage aboard a different colour version of the machine, before being interviewed about it’s qualities in relation to their own MotoGP bikes.

Next stop for the foursome will be the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the inaugural MotoGP race at the famous venue, which takes place this Sunday.

Valentino Rossi

“This is a great bike, it’s very like my M1 and it’s exciting to see so many MotoGP qualities now appearing on a bike for the road. I think everyone who loves the R1 and Yamaha will be very excited about this new version, it’s fantastic!”

Jorge Lorenzo

“I think this bike will be very popular. Yamaha have worked very hard to try to make it as like our M1 as possible and it seems they have done a fantastic job. The cornering and agility especially is great, which is of course one of the best qualities of the M1.”

Source:Yamaha Press Release

New MPV from Toyota & Dahaitsu Also Perodua

2009-01-06T13:04:00.003+08:00

Toyota and Daihatsu Launch Compact 7-seater

Tokyo-TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (DMC) announce today the nationwide launch of a seven-seater compact vehicle with three rows of seats that will be sold in Japan under the Toyota brand as the "Passo Sette"*¹ and under the Daihatsu brand as the "Boon Luminas"*².

The roomy, user-friendly and stylish compacts are small enough to make handling easy and big enough to accommodate seven people. Featuring the driving-assistance features and comforts often favored by female drivers, the Passo Sette and Boon Luminas offer added flexibility for mothers with young children and help support active and exciting lifestyles.

For the Passo Sette and Boon Luminas, TMC and DMC combined their product-planning know-how, with DMC putting to use its extensive experience in compact vehicles to be in charge of development and production. DMC will supply the Passo Sette to TMC on an original equipment manufacturer basis.

*¹Sette: Means seven in Italian, and refers to the seven seats in the Passo Sette
*²Luminas: A coined name combining the English words roomy and luminous. The name is intended to evoke the image of a vehicle that provides new splendor to its occupants.

Source: Daihatsu

2009 New BMW 7 series

2008-12-26T15:41:00.009+08:00

What a hard act to follow. The last all-new 7-series, the 2002 745Li, was welcomed into the automotive world with about as much warmth and adoration as a 41-pound newborn baby girl with sixteen middle fingers and a full beard. And it merited about as much media coverage. Incensed enthusiasts on Internet forums called for

BMW design director Chris Bangle's head. The BMW faithful stumbled around dealerships breathing into paper bags to allay attacks of hyperventilation. Somewhere, someone passed out at the mere sight of the bulbous trunk lid. OK, perhaps not. But even we shockproof editors at Automobile Magazine were perturbed by the styling.

European bureau chief Georg Kacher called the 745Li "a car that completely defies conventional thinking on interior and exterior design." Design editor Robert Cumberford chimed in, "Ugly? It certainly is not beautiful." BMW ignored us, and all the other critics of that 7-series (known within the company and by BMW geeks by its chassis code name, E65), and stood by the bold new look. "We felt that a radically different shape and a radically different ergonomic concept were compulsory to leapfrog the competition," said one BMW board member at the time.

How ironic. Back in 1994, in describing the then-new, third-generation 7-series, Cumberford maintained that he barely could tell it apart from its predecessor. "Apparently the middle-aged buyers," he wrote, "are thought not to want imaginative styling."

So who was right? BMW will happily point out that the ugly-duckling E65 matured into a beautiful white swan-becoming the best-selling 7-series of all time. Then again, BMW acknowledges that the 2006 face-lift, which diminished the E65's bizarre and polarizing looks, was the company's most successful midcycle freshening ever in generating additional sales. Read between the lines, and it looks like Cumberford's observation was correct.

Whether it was the face-lift or China's growing demand for premium large cars that was actually responsible for the E65's record sales, one thing is for sure: the 2009 750Li marks a return to a conservatively styled 7-series. The new 7 probably will never win any beauty pageants-at least not without a nose job to reduce those enormous nostrils-but it's not likely to invite the vehement criticism that the last one did. The styling is disappointing to those who expected BMW's new flagship sedan to look like the gorgeous, swoopy Concept CS that generated gasps at the 2007 Shanghai auto show. Worry not, CS fans-the 7's superconservative styling serves as a hint that a production CS is coming. In the meantime, let us say good-bye to the Bangle Butt and welcome back the handsome and understated 7-series.

Beginning this March, you'll have your choice of two 7s-the 750i and the long-wheelbase 750Li. Both cars, internally designated F01 and F02, respectively, are about an inch and a half longer and 80 pounds heavier than last year's 750i and 750Li. Although the numbers on the badge haven't changed, the V-8 under the hood has. Replacing last year's 360-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 is the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged and direct-injected V-8 first seen in the X6. The force-fed V-8 produces 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, making the 2009 750Li significantly more powerful than the 2008 750Li-and quicker than even the 6.0-liter, V-12-powered 760Li, which now has been dropped.

Source: automobilemag

Lotus ;Great Power And Great Price

2008-12-22T15:02:00.003+08:00

The latest money saving advice comes from British sportscar maker Lotus, and is very simple – buy a Lotus and save money!

In the current financial climate the emphasis is on being smart with our money. A new breed of ‘Frugalists’ are turning to European price busting grocers Lidl and Aldi for their weekly shop in order to afford the annual pilgrimage to `the slopes’, and cash-smart homeowners are splashing out on expensive insulation or installing wood-burning stoves in order to make savings on their domestic energy costs. In every household across the country the message is evolving from a frantic ‘SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!’ to a more strategic ‘invest in cost efficient solutions’.

The Frugalist’s tip is, be smart with your money and preserve your lifestyle by spending more cleverly. With a cold winter ahead and a declining economic situation it’s easy to lose focus on the “living” part of life - imagine then, what a great revelation it is to learn that you could save money by driving a Lotus!

There’s no doubt about it, a Lotus is a prudent purchase in the sportscar market, but sometimes performance cars are subject to the criticism of society and have even been described as antisocial. However, it may help your conscience to learn that a Lotus is considered by most critics as a green choice. The efficient design of the Elise SC for example offers stunning looks and supercar performance, yet produces just 202 g/km of CO2, allowing the Lotus to remain in the standard £8.00 Congestion Charge bracket. Savings are not just limited to the confines of London though, with impressive fuel efficiency paying dividends in town and country, by focusing on light-weight technology Lotus has been able to use smaller, more efficient engines, whilst still achieving the sensational performance that Lotus customers expect.

Looking at the bigger picture of servicing and parts costs, Lotus uses tuned Toyota engines in its Elise range giving great reliability and avoiding costly repair bills that are associated with some exotic cars. Not surprisingly, economical running costs are one of the contributing factors to the continued demand for Lotus vehicles on the second-hand market. Figures from autotrader.co.uk for the entry-level Elise, the Elise S indicate that the model is retaining a fantastic 82% of its value after 12 months making it a better value proposition than its rivals the Honda S2000 GT and the Subaru Impreza WRX STi.

2009 Volvo XC60

2008-12-12T11:41:00.009+08:00

We got our first glimpse of the XC60 in concept guise at the 2007 Detroit show just over a year ago. The S40-based utility will make its production debut in Geneva next month.

The 2009 XC60 will be the brand's first foray into the increasingly crowded small premium crossover segment - it will join other alphanumeric utes like the BMW X3,Acura RDX, Land Rover, and the upcoming Mercedes GLK. Volvo hopes to appeal to current customers with the XC60 and sees it as the next step up for C30 buyers.

U.S.-bound XC60s will get motivation from Volvo's turbocharged inline-six T6 engine, which produces 281 hp. All-wheel drive will be standard.

The expected host of Volvo safety features is joined on the XC60 by a system called City Safe. When driving at low speeds the car will automatically apply the brakes if it senses an imminent collision. Volvo claims this is the first vehicle to offer such anti-rear-ending technology as standard. President and CEO Fredrik Arp even went as far as saying that this is "the safest Volvo ever."

The styling is a toned-down version of what we saw on the concept with a profile that Volvo describes as coupe-like (a la BMW's X6). The interior has the same Swedish cleanliness we're used to.

The XC60 should arrive in the U.S. in early 2009 and we'll give you more details once Volvo officially announces the vehicle in Geneva.

Source: automobilemag

Greencar Award Goes To....

2008-12-12T10:51:00.006+08:00

Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, Mickey Rourke, Frank Langella and Leonardo Di Caprio may be sitting on the edge of their seats after the announcement of the Golden Globe nominations for best actor but here at thegreencarwebsite.co.uk, it’s the race to be named ‘world green car of the year’ that has our attention.

In case you are feeling a sense of déjà vu, then yes, it is only one month since the last ‘green car of the year’ was announced - on that occasion it was the Volkswagen Jetta TDI that scooped the award at the LA Auto Show. This prize however, a sub-award of the annual World Car of the Year competition, is handed out by a juror of journalists around the world.

In 2006 the inaugural award went to the Honda Civic Hybrid, with the Mercedes-Benz E320 BlueTec and the BMW 118d winning in 2007 and 2008 respectively. In 2009 there are 20 cars up for the award, but one thing is for certain - it won’t be a double for the VW Jetta.

Yes the Jetta has been left off the list, as has the Toyota Prius. However, the misery for Toyota and VW is outweighed by the joy for Volvo, which has five potential winners included.

Here is a list of the nominees in full:

Audi Q7 3.0 TDI
BMW 335d BluePerformance
Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon Hybrid
Citroën C1
Fiat Palio Weekend Electric
Fiat Siena Tetrafuel model
Honda FCX Clarity
Mazda Hydrogen Rotary RX8
Mercedes-Benz ML/R/GL 320 BlueTEC
MINI Cooper D
MINI E
Mitsubishi iMiEV
Nissan X-Trail 20 GT
smart ed
Subaru Legacy/Outback PZEV
Tesla Electric Roadster
Toyota iQ
Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe
Volvo S40 1.6D DRIVe
Volvo S80 2.5 FT (Flexifuel)
Volvo V50 1.6D DRIVe
Volvo V70 2.5 FT (Flexifuel)

source: thegreencarwebsite

Electric Car From Mitsubishi

2008-12-02T14:54:00.004+08:00

During the past decade, development of alternative ways to move cars accelerated and this decade is seeing production models either going on sale or in the final phase of testing. Different manufacturers have focused on different approaches although some have also chosen a range of options since no one is sure which will actually be the right one.

For Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC), electric vehicles or EVs have been a strong focus since the 1970s (although it has also explored other solutions), initially in response to air pollution. In fact, in 1971, the company already made its first EVs - around 150 electrically-powered variants of its Minicab and Minicar that were supplied to government agencies and power companies.

The early Mitsubishi EVs used lead-acid batteries (the same as what you have in your car’s engine bay) which were the only high-capacity storage batteries available then. However, lead and acid are poisonous so the future of such batteries for EVs was not there and when lithium-ion battery technology became available in the 1990s, this became the choice of most EV manufacturers.

MMC has positioned EVs as the pinnacle of its environmental technology and the culmination of its almost 40 years of development is the i-MiEV (or ‘i-meef’, as it is referred to), an electric variant of the innovative Mitsubishi i car. The i-car, which was displayed at the last KL International Motorshow, has a radical design and compact size that lead many to think it was an EV but it actually has a petrol engine.

The unique construction of the i-car, which has its engine mounted towards the back of the cabin and the fuel tank under the middle, was ideal for switching to an electric powertrain. In place of the 35-litre fuel tank, a flat lithium-ion 330V battery pack with a capacity of 16 kWh is under the floor and the hardware for the permanent magnet synchronous electric motor goes under and behind the rear seat. The battery pack is a heavy item and positioning it low and in the middle also benefits vehicle dynamics.

The electric motor may be small and light and produce only 47 kW but when it comes to torque, it sure packs a punch! As the chart show, 180 Nm is available from start to what would be the equivalent of a third of the rpm range of the 660 cc turbocharged engine of the i-car. In comparison, the petrol engine’s torque curve starts much lower down and never gets anywhere near 180 Nm. But that’s a normal characteristic for a petrol engine and a small one can only deliver so much torque.

Driving range on a full charge is the big issue for EVs and one which has been of concern to consumers. If you have to keep recharging to drive long distances, then it’s not going to be much fun and furthermore, will there be recharging stations available? Extending the range has been a major challenge but as battery technology has advanced, this has slowly improved and the i-MiEV has a claimed 160 kms using the Japanese 10-15 mode (an industry standard for fuel consumption measurement) at an average speed of 22.7 km/h. That suggests the car is pretty much an urban commuter rather than for intercity travel. A top speed of 130 km/h is possible but that also means the battery ‘juice’ will drain faster and range will be reduced. There is regenerative charging which captures ‘wasted' energy during braking and coasting to recharge the battery but this is not significant.

Until recent years, EVs have required special charging stations, a fact that was very discouraging since consumer acceptance of such vehicles would be dependent on the assurance of an extensive network of stations – an infrastructure which would be costly and take a long time to establish. The i-MiEV eliminates this issue by having a plug-in recharging system where the car can be hooked up to a household power socket (like the one you have powering your computer) and fully charged within 7 to 14 hours, depending on whether it’s a 200V or 100V supply. There’s also the option of a quick-charging system (which requires a 3-phase 50 kW/200V supply) that will have the battery pack 80% charged within 30 minutes.

Source:Motor trader

2009 Honda City

2008-11-27T15:54:00.009+08:00

The Honda City is a subcompact car manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda since 1981 for the Asian market.

Since 2002, the City is also known as the Honda Fit Aria. It is a subcompact sedan that uses Honda's Global Small Car platform, which is also used by the Fit/Jazz (a five-door hatchback), the Airwave (a wagon version of the Fit Aria/City), the Mobilio, and the Mobilio Spike. One of the characteristics shared by the Fit/Jazz, City/Fit Aria, and Airwave, is the location of the fuel tank. Rather than placing it under the rear seats, it is located under the front seats, thereby freeing up valuable room in the back.

Source:Japanese Sport Car

New Daihatsu 2009 Concept Car

2008-11-26T13:05:00.003+08:00

Introducing a concept model that shows the future shape of an open sports car, conceived by Daihatsu as a car for adults who want to feel the wind as they drive.

The OFC-1 expresses the feel of a liberating, transparent canopy cockpit, and the familiarity of a flowing, smooth teardrop silhouette. Moreover, a glass top with liquid crystal sunshade used for the electromotive canopy-top open roof offers a free and liberating open-air feeling, regardless of the weather.

The 3-piece electromotive open roof completes operation in less than ten seconds and preserves independent trunk space even when the roof is open to improve the convenience of compact convertibles and allow enough trunk storage space for two adults to take an overnight trip.

In addition, a rear spoiler melded into the body, plus the 17-inch alloy wheels, express powerful running performance.

The interior is an expression of the sports mind compressed into a compact space. In addition to the expression of a mechanical image function in the meter center cluster, the high-contrast interior color arrangement serves to orchestrate a progressive, high-quality and sporty interior space.

For running performance, the powertrain technology combines a high-performance turbo engine together with CVT with 7-speed paddle shift to achieve the highest level of both fuel consumption performance and environmental performance for vehicles in its class.

To commensurate with the underside of a sports car, the vehicle is equipped with 4 wheel disc brakes, electronic modulated suspension and stabilizers which improves roll stiffness thus producing a high performing spinning system together with the adoption of the 165/50R17 sport tires.

Dimensions and weight:

Overall length: 3395mm
Overall width: 1475mm
Overall height: 1290mm
Wheel base: 2230mm
Track front: 1300mm
Track rear: 1290mm
Minimum road clearance: 130mm
Kerb weight: 820kg
Seating capacity: 2 persons

Engine

Type: petrol, 3 cylinder DCHC, 12-valve, intercooler turbo transverse
Displacement: 658cc
Bore x Stroke: 63 x 70.4mm
Max output: 47 kW at 6000 rpm
Max torque: 103 Nm at 3000 rpm
Fuel supply system: Electric fuel injection
Compression ratio: 9.0

Suspension:

Front: MacPherson Strut, coil spring
Rear: Torsion beam, coil spring

Steering: Rack and pinion

Brakes front and rear: ventilated disc brake

Tire size front and rear: 165/50R17

Fuel consumption (EU combined mode): 4.6 liter / 100 km

CO2 Emissions (EU combined mode): 100.9 g/km

Source: Daihatsu

New Yamaha 150cc Naked Bike

2008-11-17T13:15:00.004+08:00

The FZ16 is the first 150 cc bike in India to feature tubeles tyres both in the front and the rear. It also has a full digital (even the tachometer is now digital) speedometer console. The 140 mm wide Rear Tyre is an impossibly FAT one and is the largest rear tyre on not just for its segment but for any production motorcycle in India. The Rear Tyres are also Tubeless Radials which helps in reducing the weight

Even the inner tubes of the front fork are of 41 mm dia and are possibly the largest on any current production motorcycle again in India. The bulky looking fuel tank of the FZ16 is actually a three piece unit with plastic resin covers as its outer covering.

The FZ16 is the second bike in India to feature a monoshock suspension at its rear. The silencer of the FZ16 is a short and stubby looking unit which according to YAMAHA helps in centralization of the bike's mass and therefore aids in handling.

The rated power of the FZ16 is 14 Ps max power which puts it in the same league as the Pulsar 150 DTSi and the Hero Honda Hunk/CBZ Xtreme. But it is the Torque of the FZ16 (14 Nm @ 6000 RPM) which is a bit higher compared to its current 150 cc competition. Looking at the Power/Torque figures the FZ16 seems to be an ideal City Bike.

The FZ currently is available in three colors.

Black

Orange

Engine

Engine type: Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve

Displacement: 153.0 cm3

Bore & Stroke: 58.0 × 57.9mm

Compression ratio: 9.5:1

Maximum output: 14PS / 7500 rpm

Maximum torque: 14 N.m / 6000 rpm

Starting: Electric starter

Lubrication type: Wet sump

Carburetor type: BS26

Clutch type: Constant mesh wet multiplate

Ignition type: CDI

Primary/secondary reduction ratio: 3.409 / 2.857

Transmission type: Return type 5-speed

Source:2wheelsindia

New Daihatsu Tanto

2008-11-17T12:45:00.005+08:00

Daihatsu Launches Fully Redesigned Mini Vehicle TANTO

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced the nationwide launch in Japan of the fully redesigned mini vehicle TANTO1 on December 17.

The TANTO was created in November 2003 as a vehicle with surprising roominess for its size and one that is fun for the entire family. The TANTO gained support among drivers with children for its spaciousness and convenience and pioneered a new mini vehicle genre. Sales have been extremely good, averaging about 8,000 vehicles per month.

The current redesign seeks to transform the surprisingly expansive interior into a highly inspiring space. In addition to enhancing core performance attributes such as high safety performance and excellent fuel efficiency, Daihatsu achieved three significant advances in the unreserved pursuit of the TANTO DNA—expansiveness and convenience:

1) The surprising expansive interior was evolved even further to achieve an exceptionally large space, the largest of any mini vehicle.2
2) The center pillar was removed and a powered sliding door installed (world's first on a mini vehicle)
3) to create a amazing feeling of openness and provide for extreme ease of boarding and exiting.
4) Extraordinary utility was created through outstanding convenience in a wide variety of situations in response to calls from mothers with young children.

Two models with unique characteristics are available: the TANTO, which maximizes functional value for families with children that enjoy spending time together, and the TANTO CUSTOM, which seeksaesthetic value that is sure to the captivate the sensibilities of both men and women who place an emphasis on individuality.

The new models also offer the following features:

- The interior and exterior designs of both the TANTO and TANTO CUSTOM have been uniquely coordinated.
- The TANTO has been completely updated, including the platform and the engine, and safety, driving and environmental performance have been further enhanced.

1. TANTO: Italian word meaning "plenty"
2. As of December, 2007, measured by Daihatsu. (Interior length x interior width x interior height.)
3. As of December, 2007, measured by Daihatsu.

Plans call for sales of 8,000 units per month in Japan. The manufacturer's suggested retail prices range from 1,030,000 yen to 1,655,000 yen (excluding consumption tax).

Source:Daihatsu Press Release

Naza Carnival 2008

2008-11-14T12:32:00.005+08:00

The Naza Group of Companies will again be holding its Naza Carnival 2008 this weekend (November 15 & 16) and it’s a great opportunity to get that car or motorcycle you’ve been thinking off – at special prices which will be valid during the event.

The Naza Auto Mall in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, is perhaps the only place in Malaysia where there is the widest variety of makes and models of cars and motorcycles under one roof. Furthermore, Naza also offers customers the freedom to personalise their vehicle with a range of options, many of which are from reputable after-market companies.

On top of that, all cars sold by Naza come with nationwide warranty for both brand new and pre-owned units. Naza’s extended warranty program provides peace of mind to the customers as it is said to be a program no other competitors (especially pre-owned dealers) offers.

During the Naza Carnival 2008, which is on from 10 am to 10 pm daily, there will be a lot of activities for visitors of all ages. The activities include colouring contests, premium giveaways by Naza GT Queens, Bike Beauty competitions, live band performances , Harley-Davidson parade, CICAKMAN appearance and a performance by Adam (AF2).

And just by visiting the event, you could win one of three Naza Blitz motorcycles too. All you have to do is fill out the “Visit & Win” contest form and who knows, you may be the lucky one.

According to Dato’ SM Zulkifli SM Amin, Executive Vice-President (Operations), other companies within the Naza Group involved in properties, hotels and financing will also be participating in the Naza Carnival 2008 and will have special offers over the weekend.

Program Schedule
Saturday - November 15 2008
All day program activities:
- Photo booth with Aston Martin DB9 & Ducati 1098
- Walking Table Games
- Henna Tattoo
- Sand Art
- Clowns
- “Visit & Win” NAZA Blitz contest
10.00am – Event start, Colouring contest registration
11.30am – Colouring contest for kids
12.00pm – Premium giveaway by Naza GT Queens.
12.30pm – Magic Show on stage
1.00pm – Colouring contest results
1.30pm – GTR Beauty Bike Competition
2.00pm – Live Band on stage
2.30pm – Game Show on stage
3.00pm – Harley-Davidson Parade
3.30pm – CICAKMAN appearance
4.00pm – Performance by Adam (AF)
5.00pm – Live Band on stage

Sunday - November 16 2008
All day program:
- Photo booth with Aston Martin DB9 & Ducati 1098
- Walking Table Games
- Henna Tattoo
- Sand Art
- Clowns
- “Visit & Win” NAZA Blitz contest
10.00am – Event start, Colouring contest registration
10.30am – Open Bike Beauty Competition
11.30am – Colouring contest for kids
12.00pm – Premium giveaway by Naza GT Queens
12.30pm – Magic Show on stage
1.00pm – Colouring contest results
1.30pm – Live Band on stage
2.00pm – Blade Beauty Bike Competition
2.30pm – Game Show on stage
3.00pm – Ferrari 599 Product Presentation
3.30pm – CICAKMAN appearance
4.30pm – Ferrari F430 Product Presentation
5.00pm – Live Band on stage

Source:Motor Trader

Proton to provide 225,930 rear seatbelts free

2008-11-14T12:10:00.004+08:00

Proton will fit rear centre lap seatbelts for 225,930 units of cars which it manufactured between 2004 and 2008. The seatbelts will be supplied to owners free of charge and installed at designated service centres nationwide.

"As a responsible car manufacturer, Proton supports the government's move [to make rear seatbelt usage compulsory from January 1 2009] and believes that it should not burden the car buyers to pay for the extra seat belt," said Proton’s MD, Dato' Syed Zainal Abidin bin Syed Mohamed Tahir. He added that the exercise would cost the company about RM7.3 million and it was being done as part of the company's corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The affected models, which did not come with the centre seat belt are the previous generation of the Proton Saga/Iswara manufactured between 2004 and 2008 (144,000 units), and the Gen2 manufactured between 2004 and June 2008 (81,930 units).

The retrofit exercise will commence on December 1 2008 for Peninsular Malaysia and on January 1 2009 for Sabah and Sarawak. Assuming every one of the 225,930 owners claims his or her seatbelt, the exercise is expected to take about 13 months to complete. All Proton Edar and Edaran Otomobil Nasional Berhad (EON) service centres as well as all authorised Proton service dealers nationwide will be able to undertake the retrofitting. Retrofitting work will take approximately 20 minutes per car.

Dato' Syed Zainal Abidin advised car owners not to rush to the service centres as the installation will only be done upon prior appointment. To make an appointment, customers are required to call the nearest service centre. For information on service centre locations and contact details, customers may call the Proton i.care at 1300-880-888 (toll-free) for assistance. Alternatively, customers may also register for an appointment via Proton Edar's official website at www.proton-edar.com.my. Upon online registration, personnel from the nearest service centre will contact the customer to confirm an appointment date and time at the nearest service branch. Customers are also advised to write down their car chassis number and the preferred colour, before making an appointment either by phone or online registration.

Source:Motor trader

Hummer With 2++ inch Wooden Rim

2008-11-14T12:00:00.006+08:00

We've seen it supercharged and even converted to remote control, but we've never seen a HUMMER H3 like this. Officially it's called art, but the phrases 'automotive travesty' and 'left-field promotional opportunity' also spring to mind in regard to British artist Matthew Harrison's latest project - a H3 with the standard 16-inch alloys dropped in favor of ‘Wild West’ wooden wagon wheels. The head-turning installation will be parked opposite the Royal Academy of Arts in London as part of the Zoo Art Fair 2008 which runs from 17-20 October. The strange thing is - it kind of suits.

Source:Gizmag