2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Chevrolet has introduced the most powerful Chevrolet Camaro ever built, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 name is was named for a limited-edition, after the original Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 of 1969, that featured an all-aluminum racing engine installed in just 69 Camaros in the late 1960s

“Camaro ZL1 is about high-tech performance and design, and is a type of car no one has ever brought to this segment previously,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “It’s the most technically advanced Camaro ever, so we’ve chosen a name from the most elite and exclusive Camaro in history.” The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is planned to launch at the beginning of 2012 in limited number, which The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 go head-to-head with the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 exterior distinguished by a redesigned front fascia, a front splitter, HID headlamp, new vertical fog lamps and a carbon-fiber air extractor which help create additional downforce at speed. the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 exterior also gets new rocker panels, new design 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with a new Goodyear Supercar F2 tires, a twin-paired exhaust tips, a subtle rear spoiler and a reworked diffuser, which also increase downforce, lower drag and enhance the car’s aerodynamics.

“Everything about the ZL1′s design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Our designers’ goal was to execute that function-oriented design with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car that delivers on the attitude it projects.” For completing the exterior look, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 also gets “ZL1” badging on the grille, hood, decklid and brake calipers as well as all of the standard Camaro colors will be offered on the ZL1.

Performance

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 engine is powered by a LSA 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine that also used in the Cadillac CTS-V, which produces an estimated higher than the 550 HP and 550 lb.-ft. of torque. Chevrolet said “official estimates of the car’s capabilities will be released later in 2011″. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 engine is paired with the high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is also have a dual-mode exhaust system, a Magnetic Ride Control that features two driver-selectable Tour and Sport damping modes, a new electric power steering system, Brembo anti-lock brakes will be used on all four wheels with six piston calipers and super-light 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels with ultra-grippy Goodyear Supercar F2 tires.

Interior

Inside, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 interior features a unique instrument panel, a redesigned steering wheel and alloy pedals, the “four-pack” auxiliary gauge system, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts, a six-way power driver and passenger seats, door panel inserts, and ZL1-logo sill plates and black leather sports seats with microfiber suede inserts, there’s only one interior color – black.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 interior also features an ew technology including Wireless PDIM and USB-port, a Boston Acoustics premium audio system, the steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability, a rear camera system and rear parking assist.
Price

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 price is estimated at $49,495, which The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will go on sale at the beginning of 2012 with official prices and final details will be announced at a later date.

[Source: autoclubmax.com]

2012 Ferrari FF

The 2012 The Ferrari FF will make its official debut in occasion of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, with versatile four-seater ever and powerful V12 engine melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility.

With The new V12 engine 6,262 cc direct injection engine which develops 660 CV at 8,000 rpm, Ferrari FF specs stunning acceleration figures (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec.) . These include six model-specific exterior colours and sumptuous interior trim incorporating specially selected and treated aniline leather. Rumors say the Ferrari FF price will be in the $700.000 area.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Engine
  • Type: 65-degree V12
  • Overall displacement: 6,262 cc
  • Maximum power: 660 CV @ 8,000 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 683 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
• Dimensions and weight
  • Length: 4907 mm
  • Width: 1953 mm
  • Height: 1379 mm
  • Dry weight: 1790 kg
  • Weight distribution: 47% front, 53% rear
  • Weight/power ratio: 2.7 kg/CV
• Performance
  • Maximum speed: 335 km/h
  • 0-100 km/h: 3.7 sec
• Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE+EUDC)
  • Fuel consumption: 15,4 l/100 km
  • Emissions: 360 g/km

[Source: caruan.com]

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

The all-new Charger will once again receive a slight makeover later this fall, although this time it'll get musclecar mascara from Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team. Not only is the new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 more powerful than the last go-fast rendition, but according to preliminary test data, it's more efficient, too.

The new SRT8 Charger's improved efficiency is achieved in part by the addition of Chrysler's adaptive valve exhaust system and Fuel Saver technology. The latter switches the all-new 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 into a four-cylinder mode that's activated over a wider rpm range, thus minimizing consumption. By exactly how much has yet to be announced, but for a reference point, the last Challenger SRT8 powered by the 6.1-liter V-8 was rated 13/19 mpg city/highway. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft on the 2012 Charger SRT8 optimize low-end grunt for even more speed when you want it.

Each of the SRT8's 465 horses and 465 pound-feet of torque are routed to sticky 20-inch rear rubber through the brand's well worn W5A580 AutoStick five-speed automatic. Yes, we know, it's no pistol-grip six-speed manual (say, from the Challenger SRT8 392), or even a six-speed slushbox, but SRT has included a first-ever paddle shifting function to make the aging tranny more entertaining.

Even with the questionable gearbox in place, Chrysler reckons the SRT8 can sprint to 60 mph from a standstill in the high-4 second range, achieve 0.88 g on the skidpad, and top out at an estimated 175 mph. Quarter-mile times should be in the high-12 second range, Chrysler says.

Good thing there are four-piston Brembos to clamp down hard on 14.2-inch front/13.8-inch rear slotted rotors. The massive binders utilize Chrysler's Ready Alert Braking system that positions pads closer to the rotors when a collision is anticipated by onboard telemetry. Each corner also gets redesigned 20-inch forged aluminum wheels that sport black accents to emphasize their mirror-like faces.

An SRT first, the adaptive damping suspension adjusts stiffness levels based on driver inputs and road conditions. When left in Auto mode, the suspension's ECU calibrates all four corners to a softer level; toggle to Sport for a tauter road feel. Engineers installed a beefier power steering system for direct, yet livable communication.

The sedan's Coke-bottle lines are slightly modified with the addition of a full SRT body kit. Meaner looking front and rear fascias, sculpted sills, and a rear trunk mounted spoiler differentiate the model from lesser variants. A gloss black cross grille sits prominently on the nose, while polished four-inch exhaust tips indicate this Charger isn't to be messed with.

SRT designers also had a hand in transforming the passenger environment into one fit for a sport-oriented driver. Uniquely bolstered, stitched, and branded SRT adjustable front bucket seats are vented and heated. To assure that rear passengers aren't jealous, the backseat bench is heated too. Carbon fiber-themed trim pieces replace some of the regular Charger's plastic bits. A 900-watt 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with Uconnect and an 8.4-inch touch screen duly entertains riders when they're not enjoying the sedan in corners. Like the Challenger SRT8 392, the giant central display can be configured to show Performance Pages, essentially all the juicy stats gearheads love to see and measure (like 0-60 mph, average g forces, and quarter-mile times).

Expect the Charger SRT8 to arrive replete with premium bells and whistles as the car will top the lineup. Notable features include keyless Enter-N-Go, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Complete specifications and details (including fuel economy and power stats) will arrive in the coming weeks, but we think it's safe to say that the 2012 Charger has been thoroughly recharged.

[Source: motortrend.com]

2012 MINI Cooper Coupe price $22.000

Earlier, fans had known style of 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe through the concept version unveiled in 2009. Located inside the vehicle carrying the company's sporty Mini far as interior space is only room for two passengers. Compared to the hatchback 3 door, 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe more low 52 mm. In addition, recruits the MINI is equipped with adaptive rear wing can be automatically expanded when driving at speed 80 km/h to optimize airflow.

Inside, 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe remained dashboard panel design and layout equipment familiar of version hatchback. The only difference is that, 2012 Cooper Coupe accompanied with colors and materials manufacturing new accessories. The disappearance of back seat gave 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe of storage space 280 liters. In addition, MINI also try to increase its usability 2012 Cooper Coupe with storage baskets on wider doors and three glass shelves.

When available on the market, 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe will be divided into three copies, including Cooper Coupe, Cooper S Coupe and John Cooper Works Coupe (JCW). All are equipped with a 4-cylinder, 1.6 liter capacity and 6-speed manual gearbox. In addition, 6-speed automatic transmission also appears on the Cooper S Coupe and Cooper Coupe as optional equipment. Cooper Coupe can produce capacity 121 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions/min and maximum torque of 118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm/min. Thus, 2012 Cooper Coupe easily accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 8.3 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 204 km/h and fuel consumption 5.4 ltr per 100 km as announced by the production.

Meanwhile, S Coupe and JCW Coupe 4-cylinder engine applications, capacity 1.6-liter twin-turbo and direct fuel injection. The S Coupe owned power 181 horsepower at 5,500 revolutions/min and torque of 177 lb-ft at 1600 to 5000 revolutions/minute. Overboost function of S Coupe helps increase torque to 192 lb-ft at 1700 to 4500 revolutions/minute. For its part, the JCW Coupe carry on his power 208 hp, maximum torque 192 lb-ft respectively in 6000 and 1700 to 4500 revolutions/minute. If S Coupe can accelerate from 0-196 km/h in 6.5 seconds, the JCW Coupe 0.4 seconds faster. Maximum speed of the S Coupe and JCW Coupe respectively 228 km/h and 240 km/h.

According to Autoweek, the price of 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe starting at $ 22,000. The number corresponds to the MINI Cooper S Coupe, 2012 John Cooper Works Coupe is 25,300 and $ 31,900. Currently, MINI has not announced its official selling price of the 2012 Cooper Coupe.

[Source: nonstopcars.com]

2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

German car fans were expecting to see the updated C63 AMG this March, at the Geneva Motor Show, but photos leaked this week of the new sedan and wagon, providing a peek at what lays ahead for the upcoming C series rocket. The main exterior changes are to the fascia; the C63 AMG gets SL series-inspired headlamps, with Audi-esque LED light-piping. LEDs also make their way to the tail lamps, and the team also re-designed the 18-inch wheels, with red brake calipers grabbing the 14.2-inch front discs. Under the hood, the biggest difference is that top speed will no longer be limited to 155 mph; the 2012 C63 AMG, with the performance Development Package, will top out at 174 mph. AMG has developed a new 5.5-liter biturbo mill, but the C63 keeps 6.2-liter V8, so output remains at 451 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Some early reaction is mixed about the new fascia design, but all told, the new C63 is yet another gift to MB fans. Check out the gallery after the jump, of both the sedan and the wagon.

[Source: freshnessmag.com]

2012 Cadillac SRX

The Cadillac SRX was introduced at the 2009 United states International Auto Show in Detroit, and is going down sale starting up at $33,330 for the base 3.0 Liter V6 powered front wheel drive version and climbs all the way up to $51,360 for the 2.8 Liter six cylinder Turbo Premium version. As the Cadillac of crossovers enters its second generation, the completely redesigned SRX delivers an engaged choice regarding look and feel and driving character to ordinary CUVs with its downsized fuel effective gas burning engines. The SRX comes regular using a front wheel drive layout and is provided with all wheel drive as an option. It is created atop a version of General Motors’ Theta platform that is also used in the Chevrolet Equinox and the Epsilon II platform which is usually also used for the European Opel Insignia.


And now, in 2011 Cadillac recently introduced a brand new, more efficient version of its 2012 Cadillac SRX mid-size crossover SUV, which now rewards vigor 3.6-liters direct-injected V6 engine with 300 horsepower.

That provide even far more acceleration that the current 3.0-liters V6 powered SRX, the new, 2012 Cadillac SRX is expected to hit the automaker’s car dealerships this august.

Don Butler, vp of Cadillac promoting and advertising, shares: “SRX is resonating with luxury buyers by offering the purpose of a crossover and the distinctive style of a Cadillac. Now, we’re raising the standards even higher by providing the SRX with enhanced performance. The brand new engine can make the SRX more responsive for creating the highway, entering freeways from on-ramps and climbing hills.”

Anyway its more horses, the most recent 3.6-liters direct-injected V6 plant also boasts FlexFuel capability and wider rpm range for its high torque, which gives the driver more power in front of a wider choice of speeds and driving conditions.

Further accessories on the 2012 model year Cadillac SRX luxury SUV include general Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, a heated steering wheel on the luxury, performance and prime quality trim levels and door lock switches on the driver and passenger door panels. Additionally in Cadillac SRX, a new machined finish on the huge 20-inch rims set arrives standard on the performance and high quality trim levels.

[Source: tunecar.info]

2011 Naza-Kia Forte 2.0 tested

It has often been published that the Koreans are in a - vastly improved - league of their own with their newer generation automobiles for this new decade. Cheap (in relative terms, of course) doesn't mean nasty and low rent anymore. While some may loath at the very sight of a Korean automotive badge, there is no denying that the prime example that you see above has a lot more to offer under its sleeve. Especially in its upgraded form which has been available in our Malaysian market since early this year (2011).


I could still vividly remember how much likeable the Forte 1.6 EX/SX was in 2010 when I reviewed these lesser versions. Even the larger capacity 2.0SX paled quite miserably with its lifeless steering with a bubble-gummy feel just off-centre, being an electric-powered assisted rack. In the meantime, the 4-speed A/T was not geared to appreciably harness the added flexibility of a 2.0L lump.

Fast forward to the 2011 Forte 2.0 - with 6A/T - these bugbears are gone, especially the synthetic-feel steering. In fact, it's well weighted and tied down now, though a tad "artificially coloured" it may seem but heck, it's a vast improvement. It even hints you of that "Zoom Zoom" feedback or that premium "The Power of Dreams" feel.

At highway speed, tracking corners seem more brilliant with the suspension just nicely damped with incisive suspension rebound i.e. taut body control. No wallow, no pitching. Acceptable body roll should you gun it into bends. High speed stability around its tested Vmax of 200km/h was let's say, comforting, cosseting and confident. Wind noise and road noise level remained impressive for its class at that 'lofty' velocity as well.



Tractability going about in town or suburb traffic is much improved with the new 6-speeder while the implanted rear-view camera display proved more than just a gimmick. Though the display image was a wee bit constrained by the height of the central rear-view mirror dimension, it worked perfectly well for all the reversed parking I managed to execute.




However, all isn't rosy from this Korean camp C-segment offspring. For one, I fail to understand why there is the lack of external boot release handle/rubber-strip switch at the rear - usually recessed in the rear number plate upper frame/garnish. You simply must press the button on the remote fob, how so inconvenient for a key/fob-less entry enabled car! Or you must tug the boot release lever on the floor carpet below and to the right of the driver's seat. The other sore (eye) point is why their generic-looking engine cover(s) do not seem to greet you "Annyeonghaseyo" as friendly the others say "Konichiwa" or "Guten Tag", just to name a couple of established examples.

I do have to apologise for not observing its fuel economy (trip computer was displaying 12.0l to 13.0l/100km mostly!). In the new Forte 2.0, most of the time I was having fun stretching its legs on almost every trip out in this "budget" 2.0-litre sedan, which is convincingly far from looking, feeling or driving budget-y in nature.