2012 Lyonheart K

The 2012 Lyonheart K is a British made, luxury sports car that has been built to honor the E-Type Jaguar. The Lyonheart K has been designed by Robert Palm of Classic Factory, working in collaboration with Bo Zolland.

Homage

The original intention was to build just one Lyonheart K as a concept car in the style of the E-Type. However, when the car generated huge, worldwide interest, Classic Factory announced that they would do a limited production run of just 50 cars.

Despite the classic appearance of the car, only the most modern construction materials have been used in the build. Carbon fiber is the raw material for the bulk of the car. It is used in the doors, the bonnet, the body panels, the roof and the trunk lid.

Exterior Finish

As you would expect of a classic car, there is plenty of chrome on show. The black matrix grille is divided by a chrome horizontal bar, and the L-Shield symbol in the grille center is also made from chrome.

Chrome is used in the side finishers, the bumpers and the door handles. Further glitter is added by the polished stainless steel glass surrounds and the stainless steel twin tailpipes.

Interior

The interior of the car reveals the widespread use of top quality leather. The seats are covered with leather and the door panels and pillars, visors, stowage compartment, visors, console and fascia are all leather trimmed.

There is a customization program allowing buyers to select various options like material and dials. The car also has a 7″ full-color, touch screen and a modern SatNav system.

Performance

The Lyonheart K comes with a 5-liter, supercharged V8 engine capable of generating a massive 550 HP and torque of 502 lb-ft. The powerful engine, combined with lightweight carbon fiber construction, lets the car reach 60mph in just 3.7 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically capped at
186mph.

All this power, exclusivity, style and luxury come at a price, however. The Lyonheart K is going to set you back about $650,000 at today’s exchange rate.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: € 495,000
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 24 combined
Dimensions
Length: 187 in. (474.9 cm) Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275.2 cm)
Height: 50.7 in. (128.9 cm) Width: 74.5 in. (189.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3527 lbs (1599 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: 32 Valve Supercharged V8 Displacement: 5000 cc
Horsepower: 542 HP Max RPM: 6000-6500 RPM
Torque: 502 lb-ft @ 2500-5500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.0 seconds Maximum Speed: 186 mph (299 km/h)

May 7, 2012 at 2:06 pm | No comment

2012 Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification

The 2012 Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification is an impressive step up from its predecessor, the Grand Touring Bentley.

Exhibited at the international Geneva Auto Show in Switzerland, the new overall look and features of this Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification sets it apart from other traditional Bentley’s of the past.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.3 gallons (96 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 11 city / 18 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 219.5 in. (557.5 cm) Wheel Base: 128.5 in. (326.6 cm)
Height: 59.8 in. (152.1 cm) Width: 75.8 in. (192.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5976 lbs (2711 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: Twin Turbo V8 Displacement: 6.75 Liter
Horsepower: 505 HP Max RPM: 4200 RPM
Torque: 752 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds Maximum Speed: 184 mph (296 km/h)

Performance

This car features refined comfort with a powerful 6.75 liter V8 engine, as well as a more sporty suspension and steering capabilities.

It can easily accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in a brief 5.1 seconds, reaching a maximum driving speed of 184 miles per hour. With a new sporty torque of 752 pounds per foot at 1750 rpm, Bentley delivers a whole new driving experience.

The new two piece wheels are 21 inches in diameter and made of lightweight aluminum alloy, complete with racing quality titanium fasteners.

Now, the Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner lets you select a preferred driving style of your choice with their customized Drive Dynamics Control System. A simple rotary switch located by the gear shift selector allows the driver to alter the suspension and steering settings, and with the new “Sport” option you can experience more grip while driving, body control, and sharp cornering accuracy.

Interior & Exterior

The Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification’s interior features signature leather covering on both the front and the rear seats, with an intricate diamond quilted pattern for extra elegance. Both the brake and accelerator pedals are made from drilled alloy with raised grips.

As far as the exterior is concerned, customers can create a highly personalized look with 100 different exterior colors to choose from for the body of the vehicle, as well as 22 different options of leather hides for their interior.

Further luxury is offered on this 2012 Bentley with the optional bottle cooler that can be installed into the interior, capable of chilling two full sized champagne bottles. A tinted glass sunroof is also available, for additional driving pleasure.

May 6, 2012 at 2:06 pm | 1 comment

2012 Chrysler 200

There is much to be desired in the 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan. Though many liked its V6 engine and other accoutrements such as the audio system and climate control, they felt that this midsize car’s flaws outweighed its good points.

The sedan comes in four trims, the LX, Touring, Limited and S. The convertible has three trims: the Touring, the Limited and the S. The convertible also gives drivers a choice of a fabric or a hard top that is retractable. Both sedan and convertible are unchanged from the 2011 versions.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $18,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64l) MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 191.7 in. (486.9 cm) Wheel Base: 108.9 in. (276.6 cm)
Height: 54.9 in. (139.4 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3402 lbs (1543 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.1 in. (15.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: I4 DOHC Dual VVT Displacement: 2.4 Liter cc
Horsepower: 173 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Touring MSRP: $21,565; MPG: 20 city / 31 hwy
Option:Limited MSRP: $24,685; MPG: 20 city / 31 hwy
Option:200 S 3.6L V6 MSRP: $26,980; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy

Engine

The 2012 200 has a V6 engine which some appreciate for its power, though many found the torque steer and the four speed automatic transmission off-putting. The front wheel drive 200 come with two engine options.

The base has a 4 cylinder, 2.4 liter that delivers 173 horsepower, with an option of a six speed automatic transmission. Reviewers found this engine a bit boring. You have the option to choose a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine that has 283 horsepower and comes with a six speed automatic transmission. Overall, the 200 gets around 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Performance

Many liked the way the car handled, though some claim that it actually pulls to the side when they stepped hard on the gas. On the other hand, reviewers said that the car was nimble because of its suspension.

Exterior

Reviewers liked the car’s soft, feminine silhouette.

Interior

The lack of ample space on the inside is the reason the 200 received lackluster scores. The 200’s interior seems to be much smaller than the interior of other midsize cars. It is not a comfortable car to sit in, for driver or passengers.

The seats also felt thin to many reviewers. Reviews of the interior trim were mixed. Some test drivers thought the trim was pleasing while others thought it looked cheap. The trunk holds 13.6 cubic feet of cargo and again, is small for its class, though serviceable.

Safety

The 2012 200 received good safety scores from the federal government and was a top safety pick for other institutions that test for car safety.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the 200 a 3.0 out of 5 reliability score. The car has a standard warranty of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain has a warranty of five years or 100,000 miles.

Pros

Reviewers liked the way the car handled and its smooth engine. They also liked its sleek looks.

Cons

The 2012 Chrysler 200’s interior was so cramped and uncomfortable for a midsize car. The trunk is also bewilderingly small for the car’s size. The torque steer that came with the V6 engine did not impress many.

Competition

Comparable cars that faired better with reviewers were the Chevrolet Malibu LS (MSRP $22,110; 22 city / 33 hwy) and the Ford Fusion S (MSRP $20,705; 22 city / 32 hwy). Test drivers liked the Malibu’s trunk space, while the Fusion has an edge in fuel economy. The Chrysler 200 seems to be a car for people who want to get to work, or the store, or the school and back.

Overall Rating
61 out of 100

What others say:

“The Chrysler 200 sedan is surprisingly spacious, quiet, and comfortable; meanwhile, the tight-fitting rear seats in the Convertible offer a bit more space than the competition.”Car Connection

“Not exceptional, but not a dullard either. Steering feel is fine, and body control in turns is decent. The brake pedal on one test car had a slightly mushy feel, but it stopped straight and true.”Consumer Guide

“The 200 is an aging design that is uncompetitive among family sedans. On the plus side, the ride is compliant and the optional V6 is strong and smooth.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Beyond all the visible improvements over the Sebring, the 2012 Chrysler 200 shines most brightly in the way it drives.”KBB

“The 2012 Chrysler 200 convertible is a good, spacious choice among midsize drop tops, but its 200 sedan sibling faces tougher competition and is thus less appealing.”Edmunds

May 5, 2012 at 5:48 pm | No comment

2012 Kia Sorento

The 2012 Kia Sorento does well in the arena of affordable midsize SUVs. It has a capable engine, it handles like a car, and it has more standard features than other SUVs in its category.

The Sorento has a stiffness that, while others would complain about it, gives positive feedback during turns. And if you feel that the three-row model is cramped, you can go for the five-seater model and enjoy all the space that you want.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $21,250.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters) MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 183.9 in. (467.1 cm) Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 67.3 in. (170.9 cm) Width: 74.2 in. (188.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3845 lbs (1744 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.1 in. (18 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 37 cu ft (3rd row) Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 2.4L I4 DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 175 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 169 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Available Trims & Engine
Option:LX MSRP: $23,150; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy
Option:EX MSRP: $25,950; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy
Option:EX V6 MSRP: $27,950; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy
Option:EX V6 AWD MSRP: $29,650; MPG: 18 city / 24 hwy
Option:SX MSRP: $33,150; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy

Engine

The base model of Kia Sorento has a 4 cylinder 2.4 liter inline engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 169 lb ft of torque. The top-of-the-line trim has a 3.5 liter V6 engine that puts out 272 horsepower and torque of 248 lbs/ per ft.

You have the option between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. All trims except the base model come with an automatic transmission.

Performance

The overall performance of the Sorento is notable given the fact that it is a bargain brand crossover. Even the base model provides adequate power that most drivers will certainly like.

The Sorento V6 gives you more without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It has strong brakes and composed handling. The suspension is not that great though, and it can make the ride bumpy if you are driving on uneven roads.

Exterior

Like its smaller brother, the Kia Sportage, the Kia Sorento has sharp looks. It has more lines compared to the Sportage which make it look older – in the context of comparing brothers. It also has a detailing on the front grille but its headlines appear smaller thus exuding a sleeker look. It has 18″ alloy rims that help make the Sorento look serious and bold.

Interior

The 2012 Sorento comes with a lot of standard features for its price. The center console offers compatibility with modern devices. In its class, the crossover definitely has better quality interiors.

The materials used are high quality. The first and second rows of the Sorento provide adequate space and cause no discomfort even on long rides. The high driving position is good too. The only complaint that we have is that the seats are not soft enough.

Safety

The Sorento is a Top Safety Pick of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for scoring “good” in roof strength; rear crash, side impact and front offset tests. On the other hand, the federal government gives the Sorento 4 out of 5 stars for scoring well in their own tests.

Reliability

The 2012 Sorento comes with the standard 5-year warranty and a lengthy 10-year powertrain warranty. The crossover also comes with a 5-year 24 hour roadside assistance and a 5-year corrosion warranty. Indeed, the Kia Sorento is one of the most reliable vehicles in the market.

Pros

The Kia Sorento has plenty of standard features that are not present in some of its same-priced counterparts. It has adequate space, even in the third row. The base engine is adequate for most of your driving needs and upgrading to the V6-equipped Sorento does not sacrifice fuel economy. The Sorento also handles well, making it a top pick in its class.

Cons

The suspension tuning is too firm and it can give you a bumpy ride on imperfect roads. Another complaint that we have is that the second row for the five-seater model does not slide.

With all its features for its affordable price, the 2012 Kia Sorento is indeed a good choice for families who are on a budget.

Other vehicles in the same class as the Sorento are the Toyota Rav4 (MSRP $25.330; 22 city / 28 hwy), Ford Edge (MSRP $31,080; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the Chevy Equinox (MSRP $30,515).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“With a range of performance from economical to brisk, the 2012 Kia Sorento has a newly available engine that makes our previous recommendation of the V-6 a little less unanimous.”Car Connection

“The steering provides reasonable feedback, and body lean is well controlled in fast turns. Sorento’s exterior dimensions are tidy for the class, providing good maneuverability in close quarters. Braking control is fine. SX models have slightly sharper moves.”Consumer Guide

“One of the larger small SUVs, the Sorento is a good choice. Its smooth 3.5-liter V6 delivers good power and fuel economy as good as the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Kia interiors have been getting better and better over the years, and the 2012 Kia Sorento SUV is no exception.”KBB

“No longer simply just a good value, the 2012 Kia Sorento is now an excellent pick for a small or midsize crossover SUV.”Edmunds

May 5, 2012 at 3:00 pm | No comment

2012 McLaren MP4-12C

The 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is the ultra performance manufacturer’s first attempt at a track and road vehicle and is based on their famous Formula 1 Technology.

Performance

With a speed of 0 to 62 MPH in just 3.3 seconds they have definitely found an uncompromising transition from race track to the highway.

At a cost of $ 264,000 dollars you will be sitting behind the wheel of a vehicle that harnesses 592 HP waiting to be unleashed at 7000 RPM from the twin turbo 3.8 liter V8 at a moment’s notice.

The seven speed dual clutch transmission can be controlled from the wheel when accessing the different modes that are available, normal, track and speed. The 12C also allows the true Formula 1 Experience by letting the driver up or down shift by pulling with the right and pushing with the left for one hand shifting.

There are also other modes available, such as winter mode, which adjust for road grip and optimal traction in specific conditions.

Body & Chassis

While performance and ability are the driving forces behind this vehicle, you simply cannot ignore its sophisticated yet powerful appearance. The body and chassis are carbon based for extreme durability and lightness that is required in all vehicles that produce this type of power.

MonoCell

The chassis is called MonoCell and it is basically a carbon tube formed in a resin process that ends up being a strong yet single foundation for the 12C to be built upon. The side vents behind the doors are large enough to aid in stability during high speeds as well as giving the vehicle an exciting yet dangerous appearance.

The vehicle is something that could possibly change how super sports cars are made considering this vehicle is suited for track and street for the price their competitors can’t touch. The 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will certainly change the industry at a time when innovation is necessary.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Super Car Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (72 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 24 combined
Dimensions
Length: 177.5 in. (450.9 cm) Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm)
Height: 47.2 in. (119.9 cm) Width: 75.1 in. (190.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2945 lbs (1336 kg) Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (12.0 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: 32-valve V8 DOHC VVT Displacement: 3799 cc
Horsepower: 592 HP Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 443 lb-ft @ 3000-7000 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed McLaren SSG
0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds Maximum Speed: 205 mph (330 km/h)

May 5, 2012 at 2:07 pm | 2 comments

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