Search the Community
Showing results for tags 'new car'.
-
Alpina launches its fastest accelerating model to date
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The 4.4-litre V8 engine in the Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Gran Coupe develops 540bhp and a high 730Nm of torque available between 2,800 and 5,000rpm. The bi-turbo lump is linked to a capable ZF eight-speed transmission with Alpina Switch-Tronic for a creamy power delivery. Bundled with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive technology, the B6 Gran Coupe blasts to the century mark from nought in a dizzying 3.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 318km/h - making it the fastest accelerating BMW Alpina to date. Direct injection and valvetronic contribute to the B6 Bi-Turbo Gran Coupe's low consumption and emission figures of just 9.6km/L and CO2 emissions of 242g/km in the combined cycle. Typical design features of Alpina blend seamlessly and elegantly into the contours of the Gran Coupe and accentuate its sporty, powerful appearance. In particular, the 20-inch Alpina Classic light alloy wheels complement the long, smooth proportions of the Gran Coupe. The front spoiler with integrated, slightly forward positioned splitter directs more air over and around rather than underneath the vehicle, thereby stabilising the front end at high speeds. The design of the front spoiler ensures the effective flow of sufficient air to various radiator modules of the performance cooling systems. The Blue Alpina instruments, hand stitched steering wheel in Lavalina leather and illuminated door sills are just some of the exclusive features of the Gran Coupe's interior. The stainless steel exhaust system with trademark twin pipes returns a deep exhaust note - while an optional titanium exhaust system from Akrapovic is also available. -
Alpina lays its hands on the BMW 4 Series Convertible
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Alpina B4 Bi-Turbo Convertible is characterised by short overhangs, precise, long drawn shoulder lines, a wide rear and a charming metal folding roof. Functional aerodynamics, signature 20-inch Alpina classic wheels and two elliptical double tailpipes are hallmarks of the Alpina design philosophy and lend a particularly elegant presence with the Alpina refined convertible. Like the name suggests, the 2,979cc straight-six engine in the Alpina B4 Bi-Turbo is equipped with two turbochargers to deliver 410bhp and a maximum torque of 600Nm. In combination with the excellent ZF eight-speed transmission, the B4 Bi-Turbo Convertible accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed in excess of 300km/h. Braking power is provided by 18-inch high performance brake system with 370mm discs at the front and 345mm discs at the rear. Blue painted aluminium callipers with Alpina lettering, in conjunction with high performance pads, ensure fading stability and optimal pedal feedback. The stainless steel exhaust system was developed in collaboration with Akrapovic and is 7.5kg lighter in comparison to its predecessor. The resonant, sporty sound of the exhaust system is controlled by an intelligent exhaust valve. In Sport Mode, the valve is permanently open and the B4 Bi-Turbo thrills with its distinctive aural character under hard acceleration. The drivetrain, equipped with auto start-stop and Valvetronic also impresses with class leading economy figures of just 13,2km/L and 177g of CO2. -
The Porsche Boxster gains a more powerful engine and uprated chassis
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Building on the proven Boxster virtues of lightweight, responsive handling and a charismatic flat-six engine, the Porsche Boxster Gran Turismo Sport (GTS) features an optimised version of the proven 3.4-litre engine, which has been tuned to produce 330bhp and 370Nm of torque. Further emphasising the distinctive character of the GTS is the standard fitted Sport Chrono package and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). These offer the driver the opportunity to modify the damper stiffness and to change the throttle characteristics of the engine. In conjunction with the optional PDK seven-speed double-clutch transmission, the Launch Control function catapults the Boxster GTS from zero to 100km/h in in 4.7 seconds. The new GTS is the also first Boxster to offer the potential of maxing out at 280km/h via the standard manual six-speed shifter. More importantly, the GTS is Porsche's first mid-engined roadster to be certified according to the Euro 6 emissions standard, and achieves an overall fuel consumption of 14.6km/L, when equipped with the PDK, and 13.1km/L with the manual transmission. The Boxster GTS can also be specified with a new, optional sports chassis configuration that lowers the ride height by 20mm. From the outside, the new Boxster GTS features subtle yet unmistakable visual clues including black 20-inch Carrera S alloy wheels, with 235/35 tyres at the front and 265/35 tyres at the rear. A distinctively styled front spoiler and black finish Bi-Xenon headlights - with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) are standard. The cabin greets the occupants with sports seats and leather trim and akin to other GTS models, the interior ambience is refined with Alcantara elements. -
Since its debut in 2005, the Cayman has earned a particular reputation as a driver's car. With an improved engine and sharpened chassis - Porsche believes the Cayman GTS sets a new benchmark for sporting performance. The Cayman GTS is powered by a charismatic 3.4-litre flat-six engine, based on the lump from the Cayman S - but has been refined to churn out an extra 15bhp to 340bhp and 380Nm of pulling power. The standard fitted Sport Chrono package and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offer the driver the opportunity to modify the damper stiffness, along with subtly changing the throttle characteristics of the engine. The Cayman GTS hits the century mark from nought in a brisk 4.6 seconds via the Launch Control function, when fitted with the optional PDK seven-speed double-clutch transmission. With the standard manual six-speed transmission, the car continues to a top speed of 284km/h. The Euro 6 compliant Cayman GTS achieves an overall fuel consumption of 14.6km/L and 13.3km/L, when equipped with PDK and manual transmission, respectively. Black 20-inch Carrera S alloy wheels are shot with 235/35 tyres at the front and 265/35 tyres at the rear. The ride height is lowered by 20mm when specified with a new, optional sports chassis configuration. The interior is furnished in standard leather trim while enhanced with Alcantara elements.
-
McLaren chases the 458 Speciale with the dynamic 650S
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Based on the 12C super car, albeit with the face of the McLaren P1, McLaren Automotive expands its young lineup with the McLaren 650S - which would formally debut on the 4th of March, at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show. Like the 12C, the 650S is available either as a Coupe or a Spider with a retractable folding hard top. According to McLaren, the 650S promises to redefine the high-performance supercar segment, and has been designed and developed to provide the ultimate in driver engagement on both the road and the race track. The badge designation refers to the power output - 650PS - amounting to 641bhp - from the British-built McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 engine, while 'S' stands for 'Sport'. Inspired by the McLaren P1, the front bumper and the better integrated front splitter contribute to increased levels of downforce, for a greater level of steering feeling and confidence to the driver on turn-in, while also adding to the agility and handling. A new design five-spoke lightweight forged '650S' alloy wheels are unique to the model, and are fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres for optimised road holding, handling and driver feedback. The bespoke 'MC1' branded tyres have been developed alongside the 650S by Pirelli. The McLaren Airbrake, now operates with a greater level of functionality providing increased stability. The newly developed system deploys the Airbrake when the car requires added downforce - instead of braking or when manually operated in 'Aero' mode. Below the Airbrake, a distinctive rear three-piece bumper, similar to the GT3 racing version of the 12C, compliments the aerodynamic shape of the McLaren 650S. Active aerodynamics featured on its stable of cars have been further developed and honed to ensure the ultimate performance and ability for the 650S. Enhanced levels of specifications are also available as an added option. These include fixed-back carbon racing seats, an electric steering column adjustment, a rear parking camera and extended carbon fibre throughout the interior. -
Audi RS4 Avant Nogaro selection to celebrate world premiere in Geneva
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Audi launched its flagship performance series line, the RS, with the Audi RS2 Avant twenty years ago. To pay tribute to the founding model, Audi will launch a special edition RS4 Avant Nogaro from early 2014. Although previewed through digital media, the car will celebrate its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, finished in Nogaro blue and carrying exclusive equipment. Like its forefather, the customised Nogaro blue pearl effect paint finish is the most noticeable visual signal of the anniversary model. Originally, the RS2 Avant was optionally finished with an exclusive Nogaro blue hue, recalling the two victories achieved by Frank Biela on the Nogaro circuit in the French Touring Car Championship of 1993. The RS4 Avant Nogaro houses a naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 powerplant that delivers 450bhp at 8,250rpm, with a peak torque of 430Nm available between 4,000 and 6,000rpm. The lump propels the RS4 Avant from nought to century in a brisk 4.7 seconds before climbing to a governed speed of 280km/h. It sips 10.7L/100km - for a CO2 equivalent of 249g/km. In the sporty interior, Audi offers two different upholstery versions. In both cases, the side sections are covered with black Valcona leather, Alcantara synthetic fibres for the centre sections and door trim inserts are coloured either black or Nogaro blue. A modern classic: the Audi Avant RS2 from 1994 The Audi RS2 was the first RS model from Audi, and also the brand's first high-performance model to combine everyday usability with a dynamic character. Audi developed the RS2 in cooperation with Porsche, with assembly occurring at Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. Its appearance alone was indicative of the power it held within. The front bumper featured powerful air inlets, and the grille was painted black. The rump of the RS2 Avant was dominated by a thick horizontal band of light that emphasises the width of the vehicle. The force fed 2.2-litre five-cylinder engine delivered a modest 315bhp and 410Nm of torque and sprinted to the century mark in a respectable 5.4 seconds and reached a top speed of 262km/h. A six-speed manual transmission delivered the power to the quattro drivetrain, which had a manually activated locking differential at the rear axle. Fast forward twenty years later and the Audi RS6 Avant, the most powerful car in its lineup, is armed with 560bhp and a dizzying 700Nm of torque from a 4.0-litre V8. Dubbed the everyday supercar, the RS6 Avant completes the sprint to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds - 0.7 seconds quicker than a V8 powered Audi R8. -
Citroen offers simple and smart motoring experience with the C4 Cactus
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Previewed as the Cactus concept back in September last year, the production-ready Citroen C4 Cactus retains the funky looks, practicality, and the radical but functional, 'Airbump' element. Citroen believes the Citroen C4 Cactus stands out from its rivals in the C segment, and unites good looks with functionality - with unique styling and flush surfaces that are free of harsh edges. The C4 Cactus boasts a length of 4,160mm, sits 1,730mm wide and stands just 1,480mm tall for improved aerodynamics - with a 2,600mm wheelbase - akin to the C4 hatchback. Fitted to the sides of the car and the bumpers, the innovative Airbump technology, they are available in four colours and can be matched with the ten body colours and three choices of interior trim for a wide range of personal customisation. Above all they provide real protection, as the supple Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) skin comprises air capsules to absorb impacts - and require no specific maintenance, which contributes in reducing the vehicle repair costs. Don’t they remind your of Nike Air sneakers from the nineties? Inside, the linear and tidy cabin provides more space for the driver and passengers cocooned in a friendly, relaxing environment. The rear passenger legroom is similar to the Citroen C4 - but with more compact exterior dimensions. Boot capacity is an adequate 358 litres. The large panoramic sunroof provides effective shield from UV rays, while excellent light, heat and acoustic protection eliminates the need to fit a sunblind - which shaves 6kg of the vehicle weight. Cars equipped with the Efficient Tronic Gearbox (ETG) feature a simplified 'Easy Push' system - comprising 'Drive, Neutral and Reverse' selection control on the lower fascia, while steering wheel paddles allow the driver to manually shift gears. Tipping the scales at just 965kg, Citroen has adopted smaller latest generation engines, which reduce fuel consumption whilst maximising driveability. As a result, the C4 Cactus is available with a petrol version emitting less than 100g/km of CO2 and a diesel version emitting just 82g/km - despite returning 38.7km/L. -
Volkswagen premieres off-road capable Beetle in Detroit
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
With the world premiere of the Beetle Dune at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Volkswagen gave the public the chance to see a Beetle with a cooler, off-road look. Finished in an 'Arizona', yellow/orange metallic paintwork, the flared wheel arches are finished in a contrasting black. It is no Land Rover for sure, but it looks tough enough to take on the gruelling Dakar Rally don't you think? Overall, the Dune has grown compared with the R-Line model - on which it is based. The overall length has increased to 4,290mm and the car is both 50mm higher off the ground and 20mm taller. The wheel housings widen the body by 27mm per side to give a total width of 1,864mm. Mechanically, the Dune uses the running gear from the Beetle R-Line. Under the hood, there's a 210bhp rated turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI engine running the front wheels. Combined with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Beetle Dune has a manufacturer estimated fuel economy rating of up to 12.3km/L. As with all U.S. Beetle R-Line models, the electronic XDS differential is also offered as standard. The wheel arch extensions transition into brushed aluminium sill trim panels, between which there's a chrome plated underbody skidplate. Meanwhile, the distinctive Dune logo is placed ahead of the rear fenders. The bottom of the door mirrors are in black, with the rest of the mirror being vapour-coated in aluminium. The front end is revised by the adoption of a new hood, which has a raised centre section, flanked by prominent air vents. Similarly the redesigned front apron features a large central air intake. The Dune team also revamped the interior, with two particular areas of attention. The dashboard is painted in the body colour, while the classic Beetle bin has been replaced by a grab handle that features contrasting black soft-touch material with 'Arizona' and aluminium accents. The outer surfaces of the front sport seats and the two rear seats are upholstered in 'Titan Black' leather, while the centre surfaces are made of 'Ceramic' coloured 'Gobi'breathable sport fabric. The leather and fabric areas and the front and rear of the head restraints have decorative body coloured stitching. -
Toyota hints at a Supra successor with a design study concept in Detroit
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The Toyota FT-1 is a daring design study that will be unveiled in Detroit, U.S.A, which signals the direction of Toyota's future sports car designs. The FT-1 aims to show what can be achieved when the focus is creating a sports car design that will truly excite. The FT in the FT-1 stands for 'Future Toyota' while the number 1 in the nameplate represents the ultimate. The project started nearly two years ago at Calty Design Research, Inc. (Calty), Toyota's design centre in California, U.S.A. The team was inspired by history - with the team, referencing several sports car in Toyota's sports car heritage - going as far back as the 2000GT coupe, released in 1967. In addition, the concept draws inspiration from Calty's more recent sports car concept work such as the FT-HS and the Lexus LF-LC. The bold and sharply styled face suggests powerful performance while dynamic air-intakes, exhaust ports and a McLaren P1 like - retractable wing at the rear - give physical form to the Toyota FT-1's optimum aerodynamic performance. Meanwhile, the cockpit's wraparound windshield and side glass openings are a distinct nod to the design of the legendary Toyota 2000GT. Furthermore, the A-pillars have been positioned as far back as possible to provide increased cornering visibility. The interior is highlighted with an ergonomic cockpit that aims to solely focus on the driver and enhance his/her driving experience. A delta-shaped display zone surrounds and integrates the driver to provide an exhilarating feeling of connectedness with the vehicle. An F1 inspired steering wheel and a colour heads-up display keeps the driver's attention at bay to what he should be doing best - driving. Apparently Toyota's new approach to design will see the marque trying to produce cars that connects more deeply with customers, generating a more satisfying ownership experience that complements the firms legendary reputation for quality, dependability and reliability. Having said all that, ,lets be honest here for a minute. Toyota - being Toyota - can pen concepts that rival the likes of masterpieces from Italy, but their actual production car would resemble nothing like their penned artwork. Remember what happened to the 86, or even the latest Corolla (American spec) ? Having said so, the mildly anime like FT-1 looks drop dead incredible and Toyota will have a global best seller if they can materialise this vision. -
991 Targa combines style of coupe with open top motoring
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
The all new 991-based model is the first Targa top model to combine advanced open roof technology with a distinctive coupe appearance. Just like the legendary original 911 Targa, the 991 features a striking wide bar in place of B-pillars, a movable roof section, and a wrap-around rear window. The three gills and 'targa' lettering on the sides of the silver trimmed bar are a subtle leitmotif - inspired by the original 1965 Targa model. I personally think - it looks not too bad! The Targa roof system in the 991 Targa consists of two movable parts - a soft top and a glass rear window. The rear window attached to the convertible top compartment lid is opened and tilted at the push of a button as the soft top folds and stows away behind the rear seats. The mechanism takes around 19 seconds to operate and functions only when the vehicle is stationary. Perhaps Lamborghini or Audi could borrow this nifty system for the facelifted Aventador or all new R8 models. The 991 Targa comes in two versions with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed manual transmission as standard. The 991 Targa 4 is powered by a 3.4-litre, 350bhp flat-six engine - and when equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission and Sport Chrono Package, it accelerates from nought to century in 4.8 seconds to reach a top speed of 281km/h. Nice. Still, the higher rated 991 Targa 4S, delivers 400bhp from a 3.8-litre power unit to hit a top speed of 296km/h after reaching century mark in 4.4 seconds - of course when equipped with the PDK and Sport Chrono packages. The 991 Targa models are currently available to order from Porsche Centres in the U.K. and Ireland, with first cars arriving in showrooms in May. -
Infiniti presents Q50 Eau Rouge performance sedan concept in Detroit
Akram_saheed posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Infiniti has formally premiered the Formula One inspired - the Q50 Eau Rouge performance sedan concept - at the Detroit Auto Show. The Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge expresses the firms design vision of a high-performance Q50 premium sports sedan. Featuring custom aerodynamic bodywork, the Q50 Eau Rouge is lower and wider. The performance sedan is inspired by masculinity, aerodynamics, refinement and power. The Q50 Eau Rouge mirrors components from the successful RB9 race car and almost every exterior panel is custom to the Q50 Eau Rouge. In fact only the front doors and the arch of the roof pillars are retained from its stock brethren. According to the premium Japanese marque, the interior of the Q50 Eau Rouge was designed to offer command and comfort. Precision control is afforded by a high-grip sports steering wheel and paddle shifters akin to Formula One. Red infused carbon fibre detail the doors - while the centre console complement the exterior styling. Once again, a darker shade of chrome replaces the more energetic silver chrome in the red cockpit. "If we built this car I would expect it to feature over 500bhp and 812Nm of torque. Through our various alliance partners, we have access to a range of engines featuring this performance capability which, with a fair amount of engineering effort, can be developed to exhibit Infiniti character and accommodated within the Q50 engine bay," said Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company Limited. -
Nissan provided an advanced look at its future design direction with the world debut of the Nissan Sport Sedan Concept design study. It previews a future production vehicle - probably a CLA competitor - intended for owners with a passion for cutting edge design and driving dynamics. The Nissan Sport Sedan Concept was created by Nissan Design America in California and developed at the Nissan Global Design Centre in Atsugi, Japan. Design aspects of the Sport Sedan Concept will be adapted to all future Nissan models including the new V-Motion front aspect, 'floating' roof and boomerang shaped headlights and taillights. The 'V-Motion' movement at the front end flows from the chromed grille up through the hood. The front of the Sport Sedan Concept also incorporates the large LED boomerang headlights, a deeply scooped front fascia and wide, sloped windshield. The profile is equally powerful, with its dynamic lines adding a strong sculptural feel and connecting the custom 21-inch aluminium alloy wheels mounted with low-profile 275/30R21 tyres. The final exterior touch is the unique 'Strad Amber' paint that was inspired by the craftsmanship and rich finish of noted classic violins. Aren't Violins brown and not goldish? Regardless, the elaborate candy colour paint finish is achieved through application of an orange-amber top coat over a base of gold paint, creating a distinctive depth and bespoke richness. The Sport Sedan Concept's interior also offers cues to future production designs. The edgy and geometric look was inspired by modern furniture, apparel and accessories. Premium materials are found throughout, with the use of diamond shaped graphics on the quilted seats, stitching and panels complementing the high-contrast colours and metallic accents. The front-wheel drive Sport Sedan Concept is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine - capable of producing north of 300bhp - linked to a sport-tuned Xtronic CVT and features an innovative suspension layout with performance dampers.
-
The new MC Stradale will be the star on the Maserati stand, alongside the all new Quattroporte as they make their European debut. Maserati has unveiled a new, potent MC Stradale that will debut in Geneva. The new four seater GranTurismo MC Stradale, combines sportiness with remarkable Italian styling and luxury. While the new Quattroporte will be built in the newer Giovanni Agnelli plant in Grugliasco (Turin), the aggressive racing inspired GranTurismo MC Stradale will be built in viale Ciro Menotti in Modena. The changes include the new carbon fibre bonnet with a striking central air intake, which reminds me of the Ferrari California, and new forged 20-inch alloy rims. Maserati claims the new GranTurismo MC Stradale boasts four comfortable seats and the cabin houses featuring new materials and style. Sadly there aren't any pictures that shows the interior. The GranTurismo MC Stradale is powered by a capable 4.7-litre, 460bhp V8 engine mated to a robust 6-speed robotised manual gearbox. The Brembo carbon ceramic discs take care of braking performance, for a vehicle with a 302km/h top speed.
-
[extract] Back in 2009, Zagato and Perana Performance Group attracted some attention with their new Z-one. However, the Perana Z-One has now resurfaced under a 111-year old brand known as AC, which will be renaming and selling it as the the AC 378 GT Zagato. The 6.2-litre V8 outputs 440hp and 537Nm of torque. If that doesn
-
BMW premiered its concept i8 spyder in Beijing recently. The electric spyder does not differ much from its coupe sibling besides riding on a shorter height and wheelbase. The rear-end of the car was clearly seen with an eDrive as a mark for the new electric technology. In can be certain that in the future, the eDrive badging will identify all electric and plug-in hybrid cars of BMW's i sub brand. eDrive comprises the electric motor developed by BMW, the lithium-ion battery, and the intelligent motor management system. Full torque of the electric motor is available from the start and the acceleration unfolds until hitting the top speed.
-
Rumours about the next generation Mitsubishi Evolution to be a hybrid has been going around for quite some time and there were also rumours about Mitsubishi scrapping the model totally and focusing on electric vehicles. But now Mitsubishi have made a U-turn and confirmed that the next generation Evolution will feature a hybrid powertrain. Mitsubishi president, Osamu Masuko, recently announced that the company is starting on the new hybrid Evolution project next year and it will be ready within the next three years. He also added that Mitsubishi has set the goal of developing a sports car featuring electric power. What
-
When Aston Martin released the Cygnet city car (a luxury rebadged of the Toyota IQ), it was to offer Aston Martin owners the option of a car that can deal the traffic congestion of big city streets while their performance grand tourer sits in the garage at home. Well, some have said that the Cygnet is for Aston Martin owners to use as paperweight so that their dollar bills would not fly away. Now, it seems that Lotus has jumped on the "Performance auto manufacturers producing tiny gutless cars" bandwagon. Lotus announced that they will move forward with their city car concept (debuted at the 2010 Paris Motor Show) and it will hit the market by late 2013 for the 2014 model year. Initially announced as a hybrid vehicle, Lotus might consider going down the all-electric route. Production for this car won
-
When I first heard about Toyota planning to release the successor to the Supra, I was a little skeptical. Rewind back to 2008, when the global economic was gripped with a financial crisis; many automakers were in debt, planned models were put on hold or totally scrapped and some automakers decided to retire certain models and focus on more popular, sellable ones. But it seems that everything is going well with Toyota, judging from the rendered images of the new Toyota Supra. Even though it is still in conceptual form, every JDM fan (including me) wants to see it in production. Toyota recently announced that a new Toyota Supra is in the making. A production version is even being speculated for market entry in 2014. Toyota is keeping plans under very tight wraps for the moment though, so we
-
Honda releases official details on the 9th generation Honda Civic
Rigval posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Honda has released press pictures of the 9th generation or 2012MY USDM Civic, a car which is set to go on sale Stateside in Spring 2011. Supposedly designed from the ground up, the 9th gen Civic does not share parts with the outgoing model. Strange, as the car looks similar but is somehow not as forward (or futuristic) looking as the 8th gen model, which has got to be one of the nicest 4 door sedans in the South East Asian market today. I am a little disappointed. The car (even the US only 2 door coupe shown down below) looks less sporty, less aerodynamic and more conservative than the 8th gen Civic. If I were to make a comparison, it would be like comparing the looks of the EK or 6th gen Civic to the dull looking 7th gen Civic. The 9th Gen Civic Si (pic above - which could be the base for the Civic 2.0Si sold around the region) looks a little un-sporty. Take a look at the front bumper and then take a look at the ride height. I sometimes wonder how can a Civic Si look like its running off-road suspension settings. Someone from the HONDA America PR department isn't paying attention to details. Luckily the interior looks similar. It is still driver-centric and pretty much as futuristic as ever. Everytime I drive the current, 8th gen Civic (the photo right above this paragraph) I feel like I am stepping into a car car from 2020 instead of circa 2008-2010. I mean compare that dashboard with a Toyota Corolla or even a Mitsubishi Lancer and you'll know what I mean. Maybe Honda is feeling the same as it did when they did the change from the 6th Gen to the 7th Gen. They want to capture the conservative crowd again. But in all honesty, that generation of Civics was a flop. They were dull shopping trolleys and meant to target Corolla owners. Of course, this time they did not go ultra dull as before. And with that comment I can safely say that the new Civic, when it is launched here (which should be the same but with slightly different lights front and rear), will be high on the list of people who can afford it. Hey, its a Honda and somehow, in these parts of the world its prices are premium. Civic HF, Si in Sedan, Coupe and Natural Gas Specifications 140 horsepower, 1.8-liter i-VTEC -
3 upcoming cars i'm excited about (The Affordable Edition)
Blogger posted a blog entry in MyAutoBlog
Every year we are assaulted with a slew of new launches from the various car manufacturers. They range from hyper-machines chucking out gazillions of horsepower to tiny fuel-sipping run-abouts. In all likelihood, the months ahead will be no different and we can expect a mind-boggling range of new cars to hit our shores. Here, I would like to take a couple of minutes to talk about 3 cars from affordable marques that I am impatiently anticipating. And in no particular order whatsoever: 1. Nissan Juke The Nissan Juke is probably going to be the first of the 3 cars here to be launched in Singapore. But that is not our main concern here. We are here to talk about why I am eagerly awaiting my opportunity to crawl behind the steering wheel of one. First up, its controversial looks. Nissan has designed some thing that has left me undecided about whether I like it or not. Whichever the case may be, this is definitely not a shrinking violet and is bound to grab the eyeballs of everyone standing near one. Nissan has been experimenting with somewhat radical looks with its previous 2 SUV type models and I guess the design philosophy has come to fruition with this one. Curiosity is practically killing me as I wonder how our Singaporean market will take to this design. Next, is of course the availability of the turbo-charged 1.6litre engine. My half-decent memory suggests that it has been a long time since Nissan put a snail on any one of its mass market cars (GTR excluded, for obvious reasons). In fact, Nissan may well be embarking on a path of exploring the possibility of greater efficiency through turbo-charging relatively low capacity engines. Will this take Nissan down a new direction and make it the future VW of the East? I am guessing a lot will depend on the Juke and its sales figures. And of course, I really want to test Nissan's new take on the turbo-charged engine and see what it is good for. 2. Hyundai Avante 2011 Hyundai's new Avante can hardly qualify as news anymore and hence, I doubt that I need to describe it in great detail. But if you live under a rock, here is the blog post to read about it. Moving back to the main discussion for today though, what has got me all excited about this 2011 Avante has got to be the new direct injection engine. Known as the GDI, its 1.6 litre unit will chuck out 140BHP and 166NM of torque. While these specs is nowhere near the famous VTEC engines of yesteryears by the other H brand (read B16A etc), these figures are pretty much class leading in our current market. Which leads me to wonder, will this 2011 Avante be Hyundai's first rice and boyracer car ever? That I will only be able to find out once I get in one and see how those 140 ponies behave on the road. Here's hoping they are a riotous and noisy bunch. 3. Suzuki Swift 2011 The upcoming variant of the Suzuki Swift, like the Avante, has been previously discussed on Myautoblog (read it here). So once again, I will skip the details and move onto the crux of my blog entry. The Swift, in my mind, has always been one of Suzuki's best sellers in Singapore in recent years. All forms and guises of the Swift can be easily spotted along our roads and it is no surprise. It is a decent piece of kit for the price. And that is the whole reason why I am so excited about the new Swift. How will Suzuki improve on what is already a pretty good car in its class? Come to think of it, is Suzuki even able to? Will the follow up Swift in 2011 be Suzuki's next blockbuster or will it be a box office dud? The only way to find out is when it is finally launched for sale in Singapore. Here is hoping that Suzuki pulls off yet another success and follow it up with an even better new version of the Swift Sport. I can hardly wait.
