Mercedes-Benz Launches New Ad Campaign for 2012 C-Class, Releases 70 Photos

Mercedes-Benz has kicked off a major advertising campaign for its facelifted C-Class series under the tagline “A Class Ahead”. The new model will be promoted across print media, TV, radio stationsa nd the Internet. While the TV advertisements are filmed in rural environments, the print ads put the C-Class in urban settings. Each advertisement highlights a specific feature of the 2012MY C-Class, such as the 20-second commercial called “Souvenir” (view below) that underlines the estate's 1,500-liter load capacity and the “Rocker”, dedicated to the interior of the car. In addition, the German automaker released a new photo gallery of the 2012My C-Class, which you can check out below.

It Came from eBay Hell: Toyota Celica-Based Ferrari F430 Replica

There are probably more Pontiac Fiero-based imitations in the world than real Ferraris. Today, though, we have something a little different. No, it is not a Pontiac Fiero-based Lamborghini Miura (we have already had one of them), it is a Toyota Celica that has been transformed into a passable F430 replica.

Did I say passable? Well, only just. From the front, it looks okay, with the hood, headlights and A-pillar being sufficiently F430-like. As you move back, however, it all starts to unwind. The awkward side window treatment, slab-sided rear flanks and the shape of the rear windscreen just seem wrong. Though you can’t expect much from trying to transform a front-engined, front wheel drive Japanese coupe in a mid engine, rear wheel drive Italian exotic.

Things only get worse inside; the interior is essentially stock seventh-gen Celica with stick on parts that are supposed to give the impression of a Ferrari interior. Suffice to say, it does not work. The seller is asking US$45,000 for a car that nominally pulls around $7,500 on the used market, a frankly ridiculous price. You can check out our gallery (if you dare) and leave your bit in the comments section below.

 

Jaguar Dismisses Bertone's B99 Sports Sedan Concept

One of the highlights of this year's Geneva Motor Show was the B99 design study for an entry-level Jaguar sedan by Bertone. The concept car was created independently by the Italian design house, without the involvement of Jaguar. Therefore, the B99 does not preview the design of the future X-Type, as confirmed by a top Jaguar executive.

“It is not our concept. We appreciate the fact that Jaguar is interesting enough for people to do a concept around. It's not that we are offended by it, or against it - it is just not for us," Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's global brand director, told Automotive News at the Geneva Motor Show.

However, according to Hallmark, a future entry-level Jaguar is in the cards for a 2013 or 2014 launch but the design of the small sedan has not been yet finalized. The B99 is simply a display of Bertone's capability.

Jaguar's current design language, as seen on the XF and more recently on the bolder XJ, is modern and has little to do with the past, whereas the B99 Concept is retro from most angles.

 

Nissan Updates 2011 370Z in Europe, Adds GT Edition to the Range

With all the attention (rightfully) focused on the new Esflow pure-electric sports coupe concept at the Geneva Motor Show, Nissan’s announcement on the presentation of the updated for European market 370Z Coupe slipped by almost unnoticed. For the new model year, Nissan introduces a number of suspension, transmission and equipment improvements for the entire 370Z Coupe range while also adding a new trim level to the range called the GT Edition.

Starting with the performance upgrades, the 370Z Coupe benefits from retuned dampers which promise to provide a better balance between ride comfort and high-speed handling. Nissan said that due to the higher average speeds regularly enjoyed in Europe, technicians from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) engineered these changes.

For 2011, refinement is also enhanced through revisions to underbody insulation to reduce road noise.

The optionally available seven-speed automatic transmission gains a snow mode which, when applied, starts the car off in second gear and controls engine revs to prevent wheel spin on ice or snow.

Equipment upgrades come in the form of a new rear view-parking camera as part of the Nissan Premium Connect satellite navigation option and the standard fitment of a tire pressure monitoring system.

Wrapping up the changes for 2011, is the introduction of a GT Edition for the Coupe model. Buyers can choose from three different body colors - metallic black, pearl white and Black Rose, the latter shade being exclusive to the GT Edition, with each featuring contrasting stripes running along the flanks of the car. The exterior is set off by the standard 19inch RAYS forged alloy wheels, which are finished in a dramatic anthracite color and replace the standard 18-inch rims.

BMW Announces ‘Design Pure Balance’ Package for Z4 Roadster

A new styling package will soon be added to the long list of available options of the BMW Z4 hardtop roadster. The ‘Design Pure Balance’ equipment package is similar to the ‘Design Pure Impulse’ released in the fall of 2010 and includes special interior appointments and a bespoke exterior finish.

Inside, the package adds a Cohiba Brown leather treatment with contrasting seams in Lotus White along with additional black leather features with seams in Umbra, plus Fineline Anthracite wood and sports seats, all fitted as standard. While buyers can choose from a variety of non-metallic and metallic exterior paint finishes, BMW proposes a unique Mineral White metallic color which is exclusive to this edition.

The new equipment package will be available for order from summer 2011.

 

Design Study for a Modern Day Renault Alpine Sports Coupe

An affordable, rear-wheel drive sports coupe from Renault bearing the historic Alpine moniker has been in the cards for years but the French carmaker has yet to launch a modern day successor to the last model to carry the Alpine name, the A610 from the mid 1990s.

After production of the A610 ended, Renault used the Alpine factory in Dieppe to manufacture the street-legal RenaultSport Spider, a lightweight two-seater model with a rear mid-engine layout built from 1995 to 1997, which was the French firm’s last bespoke sports car.

Over the years, we have seen many independent designers creating concept studies for a new Alpine coupe, the most recent being the one you see pictured above, which is the work of David Cardoso.

Here is what David told Carscoop about his design: “I made a modern interpretation of the Renault Alpine A110. Like the original Alpine, this concept has a rear engine and a stretched silhouette. The rear is inspired by the Dezir Concept while the front has influences of the Nepta Concept. Could be a direct competitor (or ally since Nissan is in the Renault group) for the Nissan 370Z.”

Check out the high-resolution pictures below and voice your thoughts about the design in the comments section below.

 

Kia Adds 256HP 2.0-liter Turbo to Sportage Range, Priced from $26,490

Kia has released details and pricing on its new turbocharged 2011 Sportage SX compact CUV, scheduled to arrive in the firm's U.S. showrooms later this month. The Sportage SX is Kia's second vehicle in the States to feature the company's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with direct-injection technology and a twin-scroll turbocharger that delivers 256 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of peak torque.

The 2.0L Turbo is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions. Kia said the FWD model returns 22mpg in the city (10.7 lt/100km) and 27mpg on the highway (8.7lt/100km).

In addition to the new powertrain, the Sportage SX also gets a sportier-tuned suspension with firmer shock and strut rates for improved handling over the standard versions along with several bespoke styling features such as the unique 18-inch alloy wheels and grille trim, dual exhaust, and special side sill moldings. The exterior updates are complemented by SX-specific interior appointments including standard aluminum door sills and a modified gauge cluster.

Prices for the 2011 Sportage SX start from $26,490 for the front-wheel drive (FWD) model and from $27,990 for the AWD model, with both MSRPs including a $695 destination and handling fee.

 

 

 

2010 The Ford Fusion SPECIFICATIONS, Price and Detal Pictures

The Ford Fusion is a terrific vehicle, but like any automobile, it can run into serious problems. Just one major problem with your Fusion may cost you thousands of dollars to repair if Ford's manufacturer's warranty is not they're to protect you. If you drive a Ford Fusion, you should seriously consider getting a Ford Extended Warranty to cover your vehicle.

Attractive & purposeful, the redesigned 2010 Fusion is an excellent choice among midsize sedans. With a choice of 4 or 6 cylinder engines, in addition to front wheel and all-wheel drive, the Fusion has something for everyone. You can choose from a 175-hp 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission, or a 240-hp 3.0 liter V6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The addition of a 263-hp 3.5 liter V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission is new for the 2010 model year. The Fusion is available in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, & Sport. Safety features include traction and electronic stability control, a security system, 6-airbags, and an advanced tire pressure monitoring system.

A Ford Fusion Extended Warranty will protect you if your car runs into serious problems with the engine, transmission or any other important part. These repairs can cost thousands of dollars, so it is critical that your Fusion is protected. Ford produces excellent cars and trucks, but any automobile has the potential of running into serious problems. The best way to give yourself piece of mind and protect yourself and your Fusion is to get a free quote on a Ford Fusion Extended Warranty and see if an extended warranty is right for you and your family.

Ford Fusion 2010 (code name CD338) a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 6 variants, ranging from the I4 S to the V6 SPORT AWD manufactured by Ford Motor Company.

Ford Fusion 2010 I4 S is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, I4, 175-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 31-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The V6 SPORT AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 263-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

Ford Fusion 2010 SPECIFICATIONS:

Body style(s): 4-Door Sedan (America), 5-Door Hatchback (Europe and india)
Engine(s): 2.5L Duratec 16V I4 Engine,3.0L Duratec 24V Flex Fuel V6 Engine, 3.5L Duratec 24V V6 Engine
Power: 175 @ 6,000, 240 @ 6,550, 263 @ 6,250 (SAE net @ rpm)
Torque: 172 @ 4,500,223 @ 4,300,249 @ 4,500 (lb.-ft. @ rpm)
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual, Standard; 6-Speed Automatic, Optional 6-Speed SelectShift Automatic 6-speed SelectShift Automatic
Exterior Dimensions (IN.)
Overall height: 56.9
Overall width: 80.1
Overall length: 190.6
Wheelbase: 107.4
Track (front/rear): 61.7/61.3
Colors: Atlantis Green Metallic,Brilliant Silver Metallic,Red Candy Metallic $,Smokestone Metallic,Sport Blue Metallic,Sterling Gray Metallic,Tuxedo Black Metallic,White Platinum Tricoat,White Suede
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 17.5 FWD; 16.5 AWD
Mileage(est)(city/highway): 22 City/31 Hwy (Manual, S Model) varies with variants
Price Onwards: $19,620

2010 The Ford Explorer SPECIFICATIONS and Detail Pictures

The Ford Explorer is one of the best known sport utility vehicles on the market. Not anymore. Beginning with the 2011 model, the Explorer has crossed over from being a truck based SUV to a car based SUV or what is best known as a Crossover model.

No matter, the all new Explorer is almost as big and heavy as the model it replaces, but with one significant difference: the model loses its optional V-8 engine and gains an optional four-cylinder engine. Yes, Ford is using modern powerplant technology to offer a twin-injection turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as an option to give customers a fuel efficient option not offered by anyone else in this class.
Ford Explorer 2010 4X2 is a 4-door, up to 7-passenger sport-utility, available in 3 variants, ranging from the XLT 4.0L to the Limited 4.0L built by the Ford Motor Company since 1990, as a replacement for the smaller but related Ford Bronco II.
Upon introduction, both Ford Explorer 2010 variants are equipped with a standard 4.0-liter, V6, 210-horsepower engine that achieves 14-mpg in the city and 20-mpg on the highway. 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

Ford Explorer 2010 SPECIFICATIONS:

Body style(s): 4-Door SUV
Engine(s): 4.0L SOHC 12V V6, 4.6L SOHC 24V V8
Power: 210 @ 5,100 , 292 @ 5,700 (SAE net@rpm)
Torque: 254 @ 3,700 , 315 @ 4,000 (lb. ft. @ rpm)
Transmission: 5-speed automatic O/D ,6-speed automatic
Exterior Dimensions (IN.)
Overall height: 71.9
Overall width Including Mirrors: 84.8
Overall length: 193.4
Wheelbase: 113.7
Track (front/rear): 60.9/61.8
Colors: Black ,Black Pearl Slate ,Blue Flame Metallic ,Brilliant Silver,Drk Copper Metallic ,Sangria Red Metallic ,Sport Blue Metallic,Torch Red ,White Suede
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 22.5
Mileage(est)(city/highway): 14 /20 (4x2), 14 /19 (4x4)
Price Onwards: $28,880

All New 2011 The PorschePanamera To Get EXTENDED

The entry-level powerplant is Volkswagen's 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower. The 'S' archetypal will bear 400 application from a 4.8-liter V8, and the Turbo alternative will action an estimated 500 horses. Porsche aswell added the Panamera 4, which adds all-wheel drive to the abject 300 application model, and the Panamera 4S, which adds all-wheel drive to the 400 application V8 model.

The interior is filled with the classic Porsche look. Four specially designed Porsche seats make up the seating area. This provides more comfortable seating arrangements for all passengers. The dash looks like a sports car with its five circular instruments. Of course, what luxury car would be complete without leather and real wood design throughout the interior. Each seating area has its own temperature controls. The center console is filled with buttons that control suspension, vehicle settings, emergency lights and temperature control for the front passengers. The standard Porsche Communication Management system and GPS unit is also included.

2010 Lexus LF-A Super Luxury Cars

Looks like the Lexus LF-A supercar will be accepting its own affability affairs absolute soon. Recently, Lexus North America and Los Angeles-based auto tuner, CEC, addled a affiliation area the closing will be tasked to actualize a affability affairs for the LF-A supercar. The affairs will be bound to just three models with anniversary car advancing with a amount of modifications that will be congenital accurately to the whims of anniversary of the car owners.

The Lexus LF-A is a concept supercar which was initially introduced at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), the car was later reworked upon by Toyota's premium brand for slight modifications and was re-launched at Detroit at 2007 North American International Auto Show.

LF-A altogether provides a bold new design to Lexus brand and marks the beginning of a new era in supercars. The styling of the LF-A is rooted in a design direction called L-finesse, the concept of L-finesse design direction was used to reshape and redefine the 2005 model to give it a more refined look which was earlier presented at 2007 NAIAS. The later version has revised styling and refinement; the front end, in particular is made more curvaceous to give LF-A the sporty look and provide better aerodynamics.

Detail Exterior BMW 1-Series Reviews

For a convertible the BMW 1 Series is actual impressive. It’s alone a four-seat car but it will bench four adults adequately calmly in the sculpted seats. With the roof up all-round eyes isn’t the best with the rear three abode of the roof a hindrance.

The bolt roof opens or closes in a bland motion in just 22 abnormal at speeds of up to 31mph. With the roof up the cossack has a accommodation of 305-litres which reduces to 260-litres if it becomes a convertible.

One acrimony was that something ahead in the cossack had confused the abridged which the roofs folds into actual slightly. This meant the roof wouldn’t accessible and it didn’t explain why. This was infuriating and it took a while to amount out such a baby problem.

Range Rover - Land Rover

The Range Rover Evoque will be priced about about $45,000. That would be about $8,500 added big-ticket than a Land Rover LR2 and about $3,500 beneath big-ticket than an LR4. But the Evoque's abounding name is technically the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque and it wears a Land Rover cast on its rear blind - admitting brands like Toyota, Honda and Nissan don't put their badges on their corresponding affluence lines. With this antecedent overlap in price, and Range Rover possibly traveling even lower with a sub-Evoque Mini rival, we asked Land Rover if it was alive to get any added break with its Range Rover brand.

"Dealers will add Range Rover branding to their towers," said Skip Pavlik, Land Rover artefact manager, apropos to the signage alfresco dealerships that will announce three brands now - Jaguar, Land Rover and Range Rover, instead of just Jaguar and Land Rover. Pavlick aswell said that "the affair is in alteration appropriate now."

2011 Mitsubishi GalEA Detail exterior

Mitsubishi GalEA is a architecture abstraction that uses administration elements of the contempo Mitsubishi 'jet-fighter' architecture language. It was built-in to animate the 1997 Galant EA as a four-door coupГ©. The EA aggressive the 'jet-fighter' architecture accent and now it allotment as a four-door sportcoupГ©.

This time, the architecture of the car was teased via the Mitsubishi GalEA Facebook page and the final aftereffect has been aesthetic at some point according to user-reactions.

At the foreground you can admit some data that were adopted from the Mitsubishi Concept RA but the added locations of the physique accept an alone new administration with bouncing curve which accept already been alien on the Mitsubishi Concept CS.

Perfomance Teest 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

The Mercedes C-Class can calmly board 5 while there is 475 litres bootspace available. Our week-long accommodation coincided with a weekend breach for four and baggage was agitated with allowance to spare. The berth acquainted ample and accumulator amplitude was accessible in the anatomy of cupholders foreground and back, annual holders set into the aback of the foreground seats and accumulator amid the disciplinarian and foreground bench passenger.

The Mercedes C-Class is the world’s aboriginal assembly car to be advised and developed based on a agenda prototype, and babble and beating were apish afore an absolute car had in fact been built. Then it underwent 15 actor alley analysis miles. It shows. The ride is cool comfortable; one rear-seat commuter acclimated the byword “like gliding”. But it aswell handles able-bodied too. The architect food all Mercedes C-Classes with a suspension/damping amalgamation alleged Agility Ascendancy which, a part of added things, adjusts the abeyance and damping (contributing to ride quality) according to the attributes of the alley travelled on. You can aswell about-face calmly amid Sport and Comfort gearshift settings depending on whether it’s predominantly a canoeing or overtaking-heavy journey

Really Coming 2012 The Renault Wind Gordini

• Wind Gordini aswell places accurate accent on autogenous design. The berth appearance appropriate “Gordini” atramentous and dejected covering upholstery, dejected and white aperture straps, a dejected covering council caster with white stripes at the top, and a accessory batten with a covering gaiter and metal bulge with the Gordini name.
• But aboriginal and foremost, the Gordini name expresses a association spirit that has travelled down the years. Just as Gordini drivers of the 1960s and 1970s flashed their headlamps as a assurance of acceptance if they met on the road, so the avant-garde Gordini association meets up on the amusing networks. In an avant-garde move by Renault, they were the aboriginal to accept account of the Wind Gordini acknowledge with a brain-teaser acquaint on the

Detail Interior 2012 The Renault Mégane Coupé Monaco GP

Under the hood, 5 engines will be available. Choices cover the dCi 110 EDC, dCi 130, and dCi 160 as able-bodied as the Tce 130 and Tce 180. In the RS variant, ability is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 250 PS (184 kW / 247 hp) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque. It appearance all the above accessories as able-bodied as covering upholstery and 18-inch Keza wheels.