2012 Audi RS5

The 2012 Audi RS5 is a powerful Coupé that comes with a powerful engine in a two-door, it certainly delivers exceptional performance.

Performance

With its 4.2- liter, V8 engine, this car can zoom from 0-60 in under 4.5 seconds. It is capable of delivering 450 horsepower and 317 pounds-feet of torque, and can reach a top speed of 174 mph, although the top speed is electronically capped at a lower level as standard.

Exterior

Audi has tweaked some of the exterior design elements of the car to give it a sharper, sportier appearance. A honeycomb pattern grille that matches the style of the large, centered radiator grille covers the air intakes on either side.

The headlights have been completely redesigned. The Xenon headlights and turn signals reside together in a sleek wedge shape, surrounded by daytime LED running lights. The rear lights have also been redesigned, and present a sleek, curved picture.

The rear bumper, with integrated diffuser, has been given a new, curvier look, and the twin tailpipes emerge into the bumper itself. The rear spoiler automatically increases in length when the car reaches 75 mph.

Interior

The interior has undergone several changes. Many of the buttons and rollers in the console have a better intuitive action, and the navigation system is easier to use. The leather-covered steering wheel is now flattened at the bottom.

The standard seats are electrically adjustable. Bucket seats that are manually adjustable are available as an option, and the company also offers a deluxe option of seats with full climate control.

Transmission

The 2012 RS5 is fitted with Audi’s seven-speed, S tronic transmission. The drive mode can be switched between manual and automatic shift with the press of a button. Manual shifting can be done via the shift lever or paddles mounted on the steering wheel. The system features a launch mode that automatically optimizes high acceleration from a standing start and prevents wheel spinning.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: £58,750.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: NA Miles Per Gallon: 27 combined
Dimensions
Length: 183 in. (464.9 cm) Wheel Base: NA
Height: 53.7 in. (136.6 cm) Width: 73.2 in. (186 cm)
Performance
Engine: V8 DOHC Displacement: 4163 cc
Horsepower: 450 HP Max RPM: 8250 RPM
Torque: 317 lb-ft @ 4000-6000 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed S Tronic
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds Maximum Speed: 174 mph (280 km/h)

February 18, 2012 at 1:36 am | No comment

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

Chevrolet has launched the 427 Convertible, the latest edition to long line of Corvettes, as a farewell to the outgoing C6 model and before the introduction of the C7 in 2014.

The launch commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Chevrolet brand and after more than 40 years, a Corvette is being rolled out with the legendary 427 name.

The new Corvette 427 convertible is the quickest in the history of Corvette, thanks to its powerful engine and light-weight construction.

Interior & Exterior

The 2013 Corvette 427 collector edition will be available with the 60th anniversary package, which includes Arctic white exteriors with optional pearl blue racing stripes. The interior would be wrapped in Blue Diamond leather with suede accents. The car gets Corvette ZR1 style Michelin PS2 tires, 19-inch alloys in the front and 20-inch at the rear.

The 427 has been designed to have an improved power to weight ratio and several light-weight body components have been used in the construction, like Carbon fiber floor panels, carbon fiber raised hood, carbon fiber fenders and front splitter.

Performance

The Corvette 427 convertible has been fitted with a 427 cubic-inch engine (7 liters) which churns out 505 horsepower and 470 lb ft of torque. The engine has been derived from the Corvette Z06. It’s the most potent engine to be installed on a Corvette. The engine has been matched to a 6-speed manual transmission and there is no option of automatic transmission.

This Corvette 427 is being designed for performance. With great emphasis given to the power to weight ratio, the car churns out staggering performance figures.

It goes from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds and runs a quarter mile in 11.8 seconds. The convertible has maximum speed of more than 190mph. However, with this kind of performance, the car is not very fuel efficient.

Chevrolet has not decided on the number of Corvette 427s they will build, and the production numbers would likely depend on the demand of the vehicle. The company has not yet released the price of the vehicle.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 15 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm) Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268 cm)
Height: 48.7 in. (124 cm) Width: 75.9 in. (192 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 22.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: V8 Engine Displacement: 7.0 Liter
Horsepower: 505 HP Torque: 470 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds Maximum Speed: 190 mph (305 km/h)

February 17, 2012 at 3:32 pm | 3 comments

2012 F&M Evantra

From Mazzanti Automobili in Italy comes the F&M Evantra, to be released in mid 2012. This limited supercar series will be produced at a rate of only five models per year.

The customization and production of each model for its client will be personally supervised by the car’s builder, Luca Mazzanti.

Whats in a name…

The F&M Evantra derives its name from an ancient Etruscan goddess, and was formulated by Hungarian car designer Zsolt Tarnok. The Evantra is a mid-engine super car, meaning the engine is mounted nearer to the center of the vehicle. This engine layout more evenly distributes the engine weight on all four wheels, and makes the vehicle faster and easier to turn.

Exterior & Interior

The body style of the Evantra is a two seat coupe. The car buyer will decide how the body will be constructed from one of two different options. The first option is called PRO-BODY, and will use all composite materials for assembly.

The second option is called ONE-BODY, and will be an exclusively hand-crafted aluminum body which can be thoroughly personalized by the buyer. The engine and body will be combined on a light-weight steel chassis.

The outer lines of the Evantra have the popular symmetries of many mid-engine sports cars, and the profile curves are smooth and classically molded. Several stylish details, and a mixture of concave and convex surfaces, express a distinctly competitive nature bordering on hostility.

The doors open outward and upwards making for very easy entry and exit of the vehicle. All in all, the 2012 F&M Evantra supercar is a very beautiful and sleek rocket on wheels.

Performance

The Evantra features a mid-mounted 3.5-liter flat-6 engine. Customers can select from two different engine designs, a naturally aspirated engine rated at 397 horsepower, or a 595-hp twin-turbo version.

With a low curb weight of 2465 pounds, the 2012 F&M Evantra will be able to achieve acceleration speeds of 0-60 mph in less than 3.7 seconds according to Mazzanti.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Performance
Engine: Flat 6 – Natural & Turbo Displacement: 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 403 & 603 HP Curb Weight: 2465 lbs (1118 kg)
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds Maximum Speed: NA

February 16, 2012 at 5:21 pm | 2 comments

2013 BMW X5 M50d

The 2013 BMW X5 M50d is the latest addition to the future. The X5 M50d will give drivers a whole new experience when it comes to sporting flair and taste.

It is yet to be matched by other all wheel drive vehicles that are currently in the market. Here are some of the many features that the new BMW M50d has to offer.

Off Road

No more worrying if your car will be able to sustain the intensity of a rough road. This new car from BMW will ensure you that each ride is one of adventure, comfortably enjoyable, and safe with it’s off road capability. The all wheel drive system (AWD) has directional stability and traction for loose ground. This system is not only great for rough roads but great in adverse weather conditions as well.

The Engine

The M50d has an engine that generates 381 horse power. The torque peak of this new car is 545.7 ft lbs. In only 5.4 seconds this revolutionized car reaches 62 miles per hour and reaches a top speed of 155 miles per hour.

It is the perfect sports utility vehicle for people who love speed and efficiency in a car. This combination has been a goal of BMW for better service for consumers.

Go Green

BMW worked hard to make sure that this car is also environment friendly. Since most companies are now working towards a better future by taking care of the environment, BMW introduces this new car that has low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

This powerful diesel BMW engine has a 6 cylinder in line diesel version that ensures people of low cost. Low cost does not mean compromising the fuel efficiency and environment.

The company worked together to make sure that all the necessary functions are there to create a fast and efficient car of the future with the 2013 BMW X5 M50d.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV/Coupe Base Price: £ 60,325
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gallons (85 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 32 city / 41 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 191.2 in. (485.7 cm) Wheel Base: 115.4 in. (293.3 cm)
Height: 69.5 in. (176.6 cm) Width: 79 in. (201 cm)
Curb Weight: 4905 lbs (2225 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 23.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Twin Turbo Inline 6 Diesel Displacement: 2993 cc
Horsepower: 381 HP Max RPM: 4000-4400 RPM
Torque: 545 lb-ft @ 2000-3000 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)

February 16, 2012 at 2:24 am | No comment

2012 Toyota Tacoma

Toyota has always been a favorite when it comes to pick-up trucks. They are sturdy, efficient and provide the right performance required by these trucks. The Toyota Tacoma was first introduced in 1995.

It was adjudged the pick-up truck of the year in 2005 by Motor Trend Magazine. The 2012 version of this truck is designed in such a way that it can be used as an extended cab.

Significant restyling was done and the headlights were revised. The grills as well as the bumpers also went through significant modifications. Because of its performance and vast number of configurations, the 2012 Toyota Tacoma version is a top choice when it comes to pick-up trucks.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Pick-Up Truck Base Price: $16,875.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters) MPG: 21 city / 25 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 190.4 in. (483.6 cm) Wheel Base: 109.6 in. (278.3 cm)
Height: 65.8 in. (167.1 cm) Width: 72.2 in. (183.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3250 lbs (1474 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 3 people
Performance
Engine: 16 Valve, 4 Cylinder DOHC Displacement: 2.7 Liter
Horsepower: 159 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Access Cab MSRP: $20,565; MPG: 19 city / 24 hwy
Option:Double Cab 4.0L 4×4 V6 MSRP: $27,335; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy
Option:X Runner 4.0L V6 MSRP: $26,380; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy

Engine

The base version of this pick-up vehicle comes with a 2.7 liter, 4 cylinder engine with an option for a 6 cylinder. It comes with a standard manual with an option for an automatic transmission; you can also choose either the 2WD or 4WD.

Interior

The interior is quite impressive with satellite navigation, MP3 players, stability control and traction control. In fact, the interior luxury is something that makes this pick-up truck popular among customers.

The Toyota Tacoma continues to be a customer choice in terms of luxury and performance. It is trendy and sporty, equipped with the necessary package for off-roading.

Workhorse

However, the sporty and rugged nature of the truck does not prevent it from being used as simple truck, for commercial purposes. It is also widely used as a family truck for driving your day during a weekend or for short distance travelling.

Acknowledging the superiority of this vehicle, the 2012 version of the Toyota Tacoma was awarded the best compact pick-up truck award. Some of the Access Cab Models of this vehicle is equipped with additional distractions like side and curtain airbags and Bluetooth facility.

Challenges

The new Toyota Tacoma is not without its drawbacks. Many test drivers feel that the vehicle has a low seating position and that the brake pedals seem to be a little bit spongy. If you get the vehicle with a V6 engine, then you could be in for a noisy ride, which contradicts Toyota’s promise about this vehicle being a regular cab or a family truck, suitable for a weekend ride.

Seats at the back are quite jumpy and tiny in the Access Cab version. Hence, riding as a passenger in one of this can be not that comfortable as you expect.

Trims

Despite such minor faults, the Toyota Tacoma still continues to be one of the most popular pickup trucks because of Toyota’s reputation of building quality trucks. It comes in four different trims, the Regular Cab version, the Double Cab version, the High Performance X Runner Trim version and the Access Cab version.

In addition to the two base models of this vehicle there is also the PreRunner (also available in V6 version) and the X-Runner V6 versions. Reports from Toyota say that customers can expect more updates on Toyota Tacoma this year.

Competition

Other pick up trucks that may be compared to the Tacoma include the Colorado (MSRP $18,555; 18 city / 25 hwy) from Chevy and the Nissan Frontier (MSRP $19,565; 19 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“If you want a compact truck, it might be a good idea to raise your hand now. Although the Tacoma is here to stay for the foreseeable future, it’s one of few compact models remaining in a seemingly dwindling corner of the market; and with the discontinuation of the Ford Ranger this year,”Car Connection

“Among models made available for testing, X-Runner has almost sporty-car moves, with little body lean in fast corners and strong brakes. PreRunners and 4WD Tacomas exhibit comparatively more body lean and less braking prowess, but are easily on par with class rivals.”Consumer Guide

“The freshened Tacoma remains a workhorse compact pickup. Fuel economy is competitive, and handling is secure but not agile. The 4.0-liter V6 provides strong performance and sounds polished.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Engines offer a good balance of power and fuel efficiency; wide variety of body styles and trims; strong safety scores; impressive build quality; well-appointed interior.”Edmunds

“America’s best-selling compact pickup just keeps getting better, which is bad news for the competition, but great news for lovers of the 2012 Toyota Tacoma pickup.”KBB

February 15, 2012 at 9:55 pm | No comment

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