2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is the German automakers introduction into the compact SUV segment. Not only does this entry address the day to day driving needs of the average person, it also provides for the adventurous with its off-road capabilities.

The GLA- Class borrows from the front wheel architecture from the Mercedes Class A and B vehicles. The engine is the same as the Class A, however it is believed that only the GLA250 version with an optional “4Matic” offered in the U.S.2015-Mercedes-Benz-GLA-Class-goin-my-way-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact SUV Est. Base Price: $34,500
Dimensions
Length: 173.9 in. (441.7 cm) Height: 58.8 in. (149.4 cm)
Width: 71.0 in. (180.4 cm) Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 4 DOHC Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 208 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 258 lb-ft Transmission: 7-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 145 mph (233 km/h)

Engine & Performance

Under the hood of the 2015 GLA-Class, you get a 2.0 liter, turbocharged, inline 4 that is capable of producing 208 horsepower.

To go with the “4-Matic” (all wheel drive) system, this SUV goes from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds with a top speed of 145 mph. This engine is paired with a 7 speed dual clutch automatic transmission.2015-Mercedes-Benz-GLA-Class-studioA-B

Exterior

Currently the GLK is the smallest of Mercedes SUV’s. The GLA-Class will take over that role with a rounder body. The front appearance is much more muscular than their other SUV’s with the front seat view positioned higher.

It features the unmistakable Mercedes characteristics such as the dual louver grille and the star emblem. You can’t miss the imposing cooling air intakes either. Scalloped side panels provide a uniqueness not seen in other SUV manufacturer’s designs.

The rear window appearance is sportier with its enhanced sloping contour. Also in the rear, a large roof spoiler is sharp in appearance and functional for handling.

Should you desire an even greater sports car flavor, you may want to look at the AMG model featuring bigger wheels with cross drilled brakes and dual exhausts.

Interior

The interior is luxurious without sacrificing its muscular demeanor. This is achieved by a combination of high quality materials and technology. All trim surfaces employ the “silver shadow” feature as an enhancement.

Another Mercedes trademark feature has five large nicely appointed air vents on the dash and a 3 spoke galvanized chrome clasp steering wheel containing 12 function keys.

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September 2, 2013 at 8:16 pm | No comment

2013 Audi TTS Coupe Competition

The 2013 Audi TTS Coupe Competition is a luxury sports car which is one of the highest rated vehicles in its class in the United States.

The features are attractive. Since nearly half a million Audi TTS’s have been built, the German car manufacturing giant decided to release a special edition vehicle, which is the TTS Coupe competition.2013-Audi-TTS-Coupe-Competition-easy-drive-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $48,700*
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 gals (60 L) MPG: NA
Dimensions
Length: 165.3 in. (419.8 cm) Wheel Base: 97.2 in. (246.9 cm)
Height: 53 in. (134.6 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 3263 lbs (1480 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 4 TFSI® Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 272 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed S Tronic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds Maximum Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)

* Base Coupe TTS

Engine

The TTS Coupe Competition delivers 272 horsepower to go with 258 lb ft of torque through its 2.0 TFSI engine.

It comes with a six speed S tronic transmission which can accelerate the car from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The average fuel consumption for this vehicle is 31 miles per gallon (7.7 L /100 km).2013-Audi-TTS-Coupe-Competition-long-way-easy-fun-B

Performance

Although this new model is an improved version of the latest TT, it lacks drive. When compared to the Porsche Boxer, it lacks agility and athleticism on the track. It does handle well, and is a pleasure to drive. This coupe model has additional safety features which make it desirable.

Interior & Exterior

This Audi model comes in a special and exclusive paint mixture. You can choose from Imola yellow or Nimbus grey. Its sleek and bold exterior is much like the other models made by Audi this year. What makes it stand out is the fixed rear wing with stabilizing bars.

The interior features comfortable leather seats, complete with leather trims. The doors are embossed with a marking that says “1 of 500” which accentuates the exclusivity of this edition.

The price on this new model makes it very attractive. As compared to other luxury sports cars in the same class, the new TTS is fairly priced.

The new features on this car that make it comfortable to drive in, however it does lack a bit of power on the track. Other than that, the 2013 Audi TTS Coupe competition is an excellent car.

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September 2, 2013 at 12:38 pm | No comment

2013 Audi TTS Roadster Competition

The TTS line from Audi will be celebrating a production milestone by releasing a limited edition model.

To date, Audi has produced 500,000 units of the TTS, and in commemoration of this achievement, they introduce the 2013 Audi TTS Roadster Competition limited edition.

Only 500 units will be made in marking this special occasion for Audi.2013-Audi-TTS-Roadster-Competition-on-the-highway-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Roadster Base Price: $51,700
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 gals (60 L) MPG: 30 combined
Dimensions
Length: 165.3 in. (419.8 cm) Wheel Base: 97.2 in. (246.9 cm)
Height: 5.1 in. (134.8 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 3439 lbs (1560 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 4 TFSI® Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 272 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed S Tronic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds Maximum Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)

* Base TTS Roadster

Engine

The limited edition TTS Roadster Competition has 2.0 liter TFSI engine that churns out 272 horsepower. It has an electronically limited maximum speed of 155 mph.

It is a full time all wheel drive vehicle. The transmission is a six-speed S-Tronic automatic-manual. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.2013-Audi-TTS-Roadster-Competition-from-another-side-B

Performance

Being an all-wheel drive, it offers great road stability and responsiveness during tight corners. Also, the fluid lines in the front of the car enhance the aerodynamics, providing improved downforce, producing better road grip.

Exterior

The exterior design of the model carries on the legacy of the TTS series. Its front looks very similar to the classic TTS model featuring the generous grill that reaches down the front bumper and the rectangular shaped headlights.

Towards the rear of the car, a new rear wing has been installed. Also, a small and discreet spoiler has been placed right beneath the central breaking light.

Interior

Unlike previous models, the TTS Roadster will only have two seats. An overall black theme has been chosen for the 500 units with black leather seats and dark grey elements on the doors and central panel. Also, a new color touch screen can now be seen on the right side of the driver.

The 2013 Audi TTS Roadster Competition is an anniversary edition model. Even if the car will have a bigger engine, fuel consumption does not go over the top. It can work both as a city car or a competition roadster.

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September 1, 2013 at 12:38 pm | No comment

2014 Koenigsegg Agera R

With the unveiling of the 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R, the automaker has their eyes clearly set to compete with the leader of supercars.

The Agera R offers new technology and power while retaining the look it has been renowned for. The new technology includes a proprietary process called “Aircore” used to create the world’s first one piece, hollow wheel made from super light carbon fibers. This feature has reduced its overall weight by 44 lbs.2013-Koenigsegg-Agera-R-in-white-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe Est. Market Price: $1,700,000
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gals (80 L) MPG: 16 combined
Dimensions
Length: 169 in. (429.3 cm) Wheelbase: 104.8 in. (266.2 cm)
Height: 44.1 in. (112.0 cm) Width: 78.6 in. (199.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3164 lbs (1435 kg) Ground Clearance: 3.9 in. (10.0 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 4.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2
Performance
Engine: V8 DOHC Twin Turbo Displacement: 5.0 Liter
Horsepower: 1140 HP Max RPM: 7100 rpm
Torque: 888 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Dual Clutch w/ Paddle Shifter
0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds Top Speed: 273 mph (440 km/h)*

Engine & Performance

* Uncertified

The 2013 Agera R engine is an in-house developed 5.0 liter, V8, with twin turbo. This new engine is capable of generating 1140 horsepower and the rev limiter has been raised from 7250 to 7500 rpm.

Worth noting is that 25 horsepower has been added. This is made possible by switching to ANS nano-surfaced cylinder sleeves which create less friction and provide better fuel consumption.2013-Koenigsegg-Agera-R-in-red-B

This vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, the top speed has not yet been determined. The Koenigsegg Electronic Stability (KES) is now a standard feature.

Wrapping it up, a Triplex suspension system and lighter rear exhaust section has been added.

Exterior

Not much has changed on the outside of the new Agera R and for good reason. It maintains its excellent styling featuring its dynamic rear wing. Koenigsegg has added a new front/side winglets that reduces drag and provides additional down force at 155 mph.

The Agera R comes with a detachable and storable hardtop making it the only roadster hyper car with that capability.

Interior

The interior of the vehicle contains nicely appointed racing seats and an oblong steering wheel with a chrome gear shifter mounted on the column. The dash itself is set off center topped with dual round performance gauges.

An info screen embedded into the panel is located directly below the retro looking gauges. The rest of the controls are set at the instrument panels mid-point, with buttons aligned in a circular fashion.

Because all Agera R models are made to order, you can choose your own exterior and interior colors. Matching shades are identified by an exclusive configuration available through Koenigsegg.

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August 26, 2013 at 5:04 pm | 1 comment

2013 Koenigsegg Agera

When Christian von Koenigsegg came up with the idea of a new hyper car to add to his product line, he did not miss a beat on the absolute pleasure of a driving experience.

The 2013 Koenigsegg Agera is not only fun to navigate; it is comfortable and exhilirating as well. Its speed, handling and control are unsurpassed in the marketplace. The cars ultra aerodynamic design completes the final details of the project.2013-Koenigsegg-Agera-nice-lines-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe Est. Market Price: $1,500,000
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gals (80 L) MPG: 16 combined
Dimensions
Length: 169 in. (429.3 cm) Wheelbase: 104.8 in. (266.2 cm)
Height: 44.1 in. (112.0 cm) Width: 78.6 in. (199.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3164 lbs (1435 kg) Ground Clearance: 3.9 in. (10.0 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 4.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2
Performance
Engine: V8 DOHC Twin Turbo Displacement: 5.0 Liter
Horsepower: 960 HP Max RPM: 7100 rpm
Torque: 814 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 3.0 seconds 0-124 mph: 8.0 seconds

Engine & Performance

The 2013 Agera has a twin turbo, 5.0 liter, V8 engine under its hood. This generates up to 960 horsepower at 7100 rpm.

It will move from 0-62 mph in 3 seconds flat. The engine is mated with a newly designed 7-speed gearbox featuring the world’s first dual clutch configuration for a single input shaft system.2013-Koenigsegg-Agera-intimidating-B

Exterior

The Koenigsegg Agera has been built for speed. With that in mind, any exterior design features are created starting there with aerodynamics being at the forefront and the rest being devoted to ergonomics, practicality, and of course, safety.

The front air inlets and the rear diffuser are obvious indications of the designs intent, speed. The body style is reminiscent of the earlier offerings from Koenigsegg like the CC more than 15 years ago.

Its strong, yet compressed styling has evolved only as technology and safety have dictated. The original sleek form is as solid and true today.

Interior

You cannot help but be impressed with the quality of the materials used in the 2013 Koenigsegg Agera. It begins with the aniline and Alcantara leather seats.

The rest is made by utilizing carbon fibers, aluminum and other precious metals. The interior illumination factor alone is impressive, with the Koenigsegg “Ghost Light” technology being employed around the aluminum control knobs.

Shift paddles are mounted on the steering wheel and a High Definition touch infotainment screen displayed at the center dash.

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August 26, 2013 at 9:07 am | No comment

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