Toyota Auris (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Toyota Auris (2013) | New Toyota Auris is the latest models to reflect Toyota's determination to engineer cars that are more appealing and dynamically engaging to drive, while building on its long-established reputation for quality, durability and reliability. As well as presenting a more confident exterior design and a higher quality interior, new Toyota Auris also benefits from improvements to driving dynamics and efficiency enhancements to its powertrain line-up, Including the full hybrid system that powers the flagship Toyota Auris Hybrid model.

The overall height is 55mm less than the current model and a lower front end design helps deliver excellent aerodynamic performance with a drag coefficient Cd 00:28, supporting better handling stability and lower fuel consumption. The air vent surrounds and meter, center console and transmission tunnel trim share a high quality satin silver finish, and higher grades on the dashboard itself is leather trimmed. The tactile quality of the interior surfaces has been improved, with baseball-stitched nappa leather used to trim the steering wheel, and soft touch materials featured on the instrument panel's upper surface. The door assist grips and grips have a soft texture finish, the door armrests are padded and the pillars are fabric-trimmed.

All hatchback versions provide more luggage space, at 360 liters. Repositioning of the battery pack beneath the rear seat has ensured Toyota Auris Hybrid has the same load capacity as other models in the range. New Toyota Auris further benefits from a lower ride height, driving position and center of gravity. Efficiency and dynamic improvements have been made to the Hybrid Synergy Drive system, roomates will be offered in the Toyota Auris Hybrid.

Within the UK the new model will also feature 1.4-liter diesel and 1:33 and 1.6-liter petrol engines. Europe-wide Toyota expects an even one-third share of sales for each powertrain type - full hybrid, diesel and petrol-hybrid has matured reflecting how up to become mainstream rather than a niche a choice. New Auris has been designed for Europe and will be built exclusively at Toyota's Burnaston factory in the UK, alongside Avensis, supported by investment that demonstrates the company's commitment to its European operations.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Cobra (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Cobra (2013) | Cobra has been the consistent performance label as Shelby worked with Ford for most of the last 60 years, and Shelby was instrumental in the creation of Ford performance vehicles Including Cobras, GT40 and the Mustangs since the mid-1960s. The unique tribute car was unveiled by Ford Motor Company board member Edsel Ford II, Ford's group vice president for sales and marketing Jim Farley, and Shelby American president John Luft at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion where Cobra is the marque of the show for 2012.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra. Using the 662-horsepower 2013 Shelby GT500 as a foundation, "Friends of Carroll" created the one-of-a-kind 2013 Shelby Cobra GT500 Mustang That wide-body generates more now than 850 horsepower with the help of a Ford Racing 4.0- liter Whipple supercharger.

Ford Motor Company teamed up with Shelby American for Several key components on the Carroll Shelby tribute car. Shelby American Provided a specially designed hood, new rear wide-body kit, Shelby Wildwood brakes and new rear 20x13-inch front and 20x10-inch wheels. Carroll Shelby performance changed the world forever, says Luft. You will find the spirit and influence of Carroll Shelby in every vehicle we build future just as you'll find it in the rear wide-body kit and hood integrated into the 2013 Shelby Cobra GT500.

BMW Zagato Roadster Concept (2012)

CAR GARAGE | BMW Zagato Roadster Concept (2012) | The decision to launch another collaboration Between Italian coachbuilder Zagato and BMW was made only a short time after the Zagato Coupé BMW took its first bow. Encouraged by the positive reaction to the Coupé, Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President of BMW Group Design, and Andrea Zagato soon Agreed to take Their partnership a step further. On the menu this time would be a Roadster model. The BMW Roadster Zagato was duly conjured up in record haste, with only six weeks separating the first design idea from the finished model.  Andrea Zagato picks up on the theme: "Our success in finishing the car in Such a short space of time shows what is possible when two companies pool Successful Their resources," says Zagato. "BMW is a high-Achieving a carmaker boasting the vast well of knowledge and technical capability in this area.

A low-set kidney grille, complete with intricate z-grating design, as well as focused twin circular headlights and a three-dimensional front apron shape the expressive face of the BMW Roadster Zagato, as They do the front end of the Coupé. Overall, the BMW Zagato Roadster's front end is very three-dimensional, wide and powerfully formed. The nose surges forward dynamically, dipping down close to the road, and allows the BMW Roadster Zagato to cut an agile figure, Crouching as if about to pounce. The focused headlights accentuate the car's driver-oriented character and high-speed concept: the "Razorlight" - a precise LED light strip set into the matt surface above the headlights - these elements finishes off with an extra touch of class. Sitting low Between the headlights is Zagato's take on the BMW kidney grille, featuring matt surrounds kidney.

The BMW Roadster Zagato zeroes in on this peculiarity and consciously allows the inside and outside boundaries Between to blur. A strip of brown leather wraps around the interior like a rail to create a visual connection Between the inside of the car and its exterior. Embracing the driver and passenger like a large protective arm, this leather provides an attractive adornment transition into the otherwise predominantly black interior. The interplay of colors and composition of details bathe the interior of the BMW Roadster Zagato in a sumptuous ambience, while the brown "z" embroidered into the seats is a further Nod to its origins.

The tail of the sharply chiselled Zagato Roadster BMW provides a fine advertisement for the exquisite talents of the Zagato body specialists. Taken as a whole, the rear of the BMW Roadster Zagato has a very broad, low-slung appearance, giving the car a wide stance and muscularity Planted on the road. Like Those of its counterpart Coupé, the BMW Zagato Roadster's rear lights are arranged behind the black tinted glass. Beneath it, the dark diffuser BMW Gives the Roadster Zagato a squat, powerful stance. Exhaust tailpipes positioned towards the outer edges of the rear add further emphasis, another contributing Their matt finish Flourish of quality.

McLaren X-1 Concept (2012)

CAR GARAGE | McLaren X-1 Concept (2012) | McLaren called the X-1 and structurally based on the company's groundbreaking carbon MonoCell but with a totally unique body, it has been created for an anonymous car enthusiasts. Inspirational cars included a 1961 Facel Vega, a 1953 Chrysler D'Elegance Ghia, a 1959 Buick Electra, a 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540K and a 1971 Citroën SM. 'The client liked the shiny texture of the finish, "notes Stephenson. The client wanted a competition Between external designers - some outside the automotive world - and McLaren's own designers," notes Stephenson. In the end, a design by McLaren's Korean-born graduate RCA Hong Yeo was chosen, and completed under the direction of Stephenson. One of the biggest design challenges faced by Yeo That was That most cars embody elegance and timeless classic values have front engines and rear-wheel drive proportions. Stephenson recalls: 'From this design, we then produced a 30 per cent scale model, then a full-size hard foam model.

It was to be a usable car, road legal and capable of traveling at supercar speeds. A full CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) aerodynamic testing schedule ensured a high-speed stability, and the car also completed approximately 625 miles of testing Including testing intensive two stints at the Idiada circuit in Spain with McLaren chief test driver, Chris Goodwin. After testing, the whole car was meticulously Rebuilt, by hand to concours standard. MSO Programme Director Paul Mackenzie explains: 'The X-1 McLaren showcases the skills of Special Operations. More and more customers want Bespoke luxury or individual features. All body panels of the McLaren X-1 are made from carbon, and are finished in a rich piano black, as specified by the owner. Body sides are visual lacquered carbon fiber. 'The black paint has no metallic or color tints and is one of the most challenging colors to paint, but the finish is absolutely exquisite and perfectly befits the car "adds Stephenson.

Components were tooled exclusively for the car. They even include unique head-and taillights, inspired by the McLaren Speed Marque logo. The brightwork is machined from solid aluminum, and a nickel finish is then applied. The McLaren logo in the nose is specially machined from solid aluminum then nickel plated. Wheels are also unique to the X-1, and are diamond turned with a tinted lacquer to complement the nickel-plated exterior brightwork. Even the McLaren Speed Marque badge in the nose is machined from solid aluminum, then nickel plated. The Airbrake McLaren rear wing is also machined from solid aluminum and nickel plated, to complement the rest of the brightwork.

The unique body of the X-1 means most dimensions have changed. The McLaren X-1 is 4658mm long - 109mm longer than a 12C. Width is 2097mm (with mirrors) - an increase of of 188 mm. Light weight, as with all projects McLaren, was a priority. While the basic architecture of the interior did not change, Red Harissa Bespoke Personalisation includes Nappa leather McLaren used for the seats, door and roof trim, and switchgear with machined nickel-coated, aluminum bezels. Special Andesite Tufted carpet covers the floor. All these changes ensured the McLaren needed a special X-1 homologation for road use. The car has been thoroughly engineered to be usable and road legal. Stephenson explains: 'The X-1 epitomises how we can not only create a truly unique product tailored to the client, but also enable the client to become a key member of the design team throughout the process.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series (2012) | The new high-performance vehicle is the most powerful C-Class of all time, boasting a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a maximum torque of 620 newton meters. The AMG 3.6-liter V8 engine impresses with its hefty torque, tremendous pulling power and responsiveness, and ensures high-caliber performance: the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km / h in 4.2 seconds. Exclusive fun at the wheel comes courtesy of the AMG adjustable coil-over sports suspension, the AMG high-performance compound and the functional braking system standard equipment. It boasts sports tires and active rear-axle transmission cooling, plus the flics Including AMG aerodynamics package, a functionally tuned front splitter and an adjustable carbon-fiber rear aerofoil. Broad, low, brawny and ready to pounce from a standstill - the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series Coupé makes a mighty impression.

255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 - these are the impressive wheel formats for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series Coupé at its market launch. The wheel / tire combination is mounted on 9 x 19 (front) and 9.5 x 19 (rear) AMG light-alloy wheels, fills out the wings to stunning effect and plays a significant part in the dynamic appearance of this new AMG sports car. Painted titanium gray, high-Sheen is the light-alloy wheels are particularly light produced using forging technology - as is the case on the SLS AMG.

The captivating high-tech components and the spectacular exterior design both find Their logical continuation in the interior of the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series Coupé, the which is black with red highlights elements, displaying the functional atmosphere of a true racing vehicle, whilst at Positively glowing the same time with high quality and lovingly crafted details. Two AMG sports bucket seats facilitate the best levels of lateral support and Thus Spake optimum vehicle control on the race track. As an option the C63 AMG Black Series Coupé is also available as a four-seater Including the AMG sports seats are familiar from the Mercedes C63 AMG Coupé - and with single seats in the rear.

The AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather / microfibre DINAMICA steering wheel rim with a flattened top and bottom featuring sections of aluminum shift paddles has for manual gear changes. Red seat belts and red contrasting topstitching on the steering wheel, on the seats, door center panels, armrests on the doors, the center console and shift lever on the gaiter add some interesting highlights. An exclusive "Black Series" logo adorns the trim on the dashboard, the which sports a high-gloss piano-black lacquer look. On opening the vehicle door the driver is greeted by AMG lettering. Possible displays for the engine oil temperature, the ESP  mode or the gear selection are integrated into the AMG main menu.

Plenty of pulling power, an agile response and hefty torque - the qualities of the large-displacement high-speed AMG naturally aspirated engine unadulterated arouse passion in the driver. The jewel in the crown is the emotive, hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound from the AMG sports exhaust system. The tried-and-trusted, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission takes care of power transmission.

Mercedes-Benz SL500 (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Mercedes-Benz SL500 (2013) | Mercedes-Benz is initially offering the new SL with two engines - as the SL350 with a V6 engine and as the SL500 with a V8. The new engines have an BlueDIRECT output of 225 kW (306 hp) in the SL350 and 320 kW (435 hp) in the SL500 (a 12-percent increase of over-the predecessor). Moreover, the new Mercedes-Benz SL-Class breathes new life into the meaning of the famous abbreviation "SL" - super-light - through systematic weight reduction. For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz is implementing an all-aluminum bodyshell in series production. The newly developed vehicle weights approximately 110 kilograms less than a comparable bodyshell made of sheet steel. On balance, the SL350 (1685 kg) is 140 kilograms lighter events - all thanks to a host of other details to enhanced intelligent Reduced weight, the which Mercedes-Benz has also Implemented in the new SL in Addition to the aluminum bodyshell.

The aluminum bodyshell of the new SL offers no point of attack for corrosion. A sophisticated surface protection concept ensures the preservation of both the brilliant look of the outside skin and of the Underside of the sheet metal panels, Thus Spake simultaneously protecting the renowned reliability and value stability of the Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The foundation for maximum corrosion resistance is formed by corrosion-resistant aluminum alloys and design features, while the few steel vehicle components are all fully Galvanised. High-quality zinc / nickel coatings or special electrochemical corrosion insulation measures Prevent contact with aluminum.

Mercedes-Benz drivers are safer than drivers of other brands when out on the roads. It underlines the efficacy of the comprehensive Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy. The results of the work Carried out by the safety experts at Mercedes-Benz is known as Real Life Safety, a concept the which is based on research into Thousands of accidents. The new Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters sets new standards for and can confidently be Referred to as the safest roadster in the world", remarks Professor Dr Rodolfo Schöneburg, Director of Passive Safety at Mercedes-Benz. "The rigid aluminum bodyshell offers superb preconditions for a stable occupant cell, as well as for precisely defined deformation zones. This provides optimum protection for the occupants in the event of an accident. " During the development process for the new Mercedes-Benz SL-Class the requirements of Euro NCAP rating and other Institutes were taken into account.

Rich power reserves plus modest fuel consumption - this formula describes the fundamental characteristics of the new SL models. The V8 in the new SL500 has at its disposal 4663 cubic centimetres of displacement from the which it achieves 320 kW (435 hp) - so in spite of having less displacement around 0.8 litres that's some 12 percent more than its predecessor (285 kW/388 hp ). The consumption, meanwhile, falls by up to 22 percent, with the torque at the same time Increasing from 530 Nm to 700 Nm - an increase of of 32 percent. The V6 engine for the SL350 has the same displacement as its predecessor - 3499 cubic centimetres - from the which it now achieves 225 kW (306 hp). Plus the new V6 engine impresses with its outstanding consumption figures.

Dodge SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Dodge SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition (2013) | The 2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition evokes memories of past reveals Viper Coupe in 1996 and 2006 with a symbolic GTS Blue paint and dual Bright White stripes - exclusive to Launch Edition models - running the length of its all-new exterior styling That incorporates iconic Viper cues with a contemporary execution. The 2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition carries on the tradition of special Viper builds models to the fifth generation of the American-built supercar performance with true enthusiasts and collectors in mind.

"Designed with Viper loyalists in mind, the 2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition models brings back the classic paint schemes That have adorned all previous Viper coupe launches to help us celebrate the return of our brand's flagship performance machine to the supercar market," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports and Senior Vice President - Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC. In Addition to its paint scheme Historically significant, the Viper SRT wheels on Launch Edition models are a modern deep-section design, featuring a five-spoke polished forged-aluminum design. The new logo Stryker was named by owners WHO Attended the 2010 Viper Owners Invitational event in Salt Lake City.

The 2013 Viper SRT and SRT Viper GTS models are set to return in fourth quarter of 2012 with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts. The 2013 Viper SRT models Incorporating feature iconic designs timeless exterior styling cues Viper with a contemporary execution.

SsangYong Korando Sports (2013)

CAR GARAGE | SsangYong Korando Sports (2013) | Ssangyong Korando Sports brings a new level of refinement to the market place, blending the suspension, engine and cabin finesse of a passenger car, the silhouette, space and seating for five that's typical of a double cab, and the rugged workmanlike ability of a commercial pick-up.

Whether towing a horsebox or trailer work, ferrying crews to the site or the children to school, Ssangyong Korando Sports will meet a range of different demands. "This is more a passenger car with a pick-up versatility," said Paul Williams, CEO of Ssangyong Motor UK. Ssangyong has a growing reputation for building extremely competent off-road vehicles, and the new Ssangyong Korando Sports draws on this pedigree. It's an honest, reliable and highly capable vehicle yet extremely well equipped, and pound for pound will outclass many more expensive rivals .

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013) | Familiar from the 2012 CLS63 AMG this new engine can Produce either 518 hp or 550 hp, together with an impressive reduction in fuel consumption - 22 percent less based on the European driving cycle. Also Responsible for improved fuel economy is the newly developed electromechanical speed-sensitive AMG sports steering system the which only draws power during steering wheel movements. Both variants of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Achieve exceptional performance: acceleration from zero to 60 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively and the top speed is 155 mph or 186 mph with the AMG Performance Package (electronically limited).

Numerous driver assistance systems in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG help to avoid traffic accidents or mitigate Their severity, Such as Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver if the short-range radar sensors detect a risk of collision should the vehicle change lanes. If broken lane markings are crossed, the system controls an electric pulse generator in the steering wheel generates the which Vibrations for a short time - a discreet but effective cue to countersteer Immediately. Before the braking system intervenes, the steering wheel always vibrates to Provide a warning.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also plays a major role in the car's exemplary consumption figures. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG also features a ECO Stop / Start function the which is active in the Controlled Efficiency ("C") transmission mode and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the vehicle comes to a stop. The system will also shift Earlier and avoid high engine speeds. In all three transmission modes, not only is the ECO Stop / Start system deactivated but the engine management system partially suppresses the cylinders at full load.

The 2012 E63 AMG features the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with a specially designed front axle: the track has been widened by 2.2 inches and includes independent wheel carriers for Increased negative camber at the front to improv grip during performance driving. Further features include steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, with an automatic level control system and an electronically controlled damping system, the which automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on driving conditions and reduces body roll. The driver can switch Between the three suspension modes of "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" at the touch of a button. 

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is also features a new electromechanical AMG sports steering system speedsensitive with a more direct ratio of 14:1 and variable power assistance That adapts According to the suspension mode. In Addition to the 3-stage ESP system with Sport mode, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG features the AMG high-performance braking system with two-piece discs at the front. An even more powerful, 40 percent lighter AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece braking system is available as a special order option.

McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Concept (2012)

CAR GARAGE | McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Concept (2012) | The 12C McLaren Can-Am Edition is finished in striking shades of McLaren Orange, in tribute to cars of Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme the which were extremely Successful throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The McLaren badges on the front and rear are also finished in carbon fiber. Beneath the surface, the 12C McLaren Can-Am Edition shares the same carbon fiber chassis as the 12C MonoCell road car.

The unique aerodynamics of the McLaren Can-Am Edition 12C, as with the 12C GT3 race car, have been honed by McLaren Racing Formula 1 technology and using simulation to optimize downforce. The optimized aerodynamic package includes a carbon fiber front splitter, carbon fiber dive planes, and a carbon fiber wing the which dominates the rear of the car.  An imposing carbon fiber diffuser helps to further maximise the aerodynamic package, fitted Beneath the two-tone rear bumper.

The highly efficient braking system sits behind a set of black satin-finished forged lightweight alloy racing wheels, Shod with Pirelli racing slick tires complete the which the exterior revisions. Inside the cockpit, the McLaren Can-Am Edition 12C is race ready as well.  An integrated air conditioning system, now mandatory in a growing number of race series, is also present.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2013) | Mercedes-Benz is Becoming the most dynamic premium brand in the world. The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is opening up a new chapter in the compact segment: emotive markedly in design, with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), extremely efficient with emissions from just 98 g of CO2/km and a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0:27 .  With a drag coefficient (Cd) value of 0:27, the aerodynamic experts at Mercedes-Benz succeeded in creating another masterpiece with the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. And the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition is due to follow later event Able to exceed this record for hatchback vehicles: thanks to a number of aerodynamic enhancements, this beacon of efficiency achieves a Cd value of 0:26.

The new basic engine in the OM 607 series develops 80 kW (109 hp), delivers 260 Nm to the crankshaft and with a manual transmission consumes 3.8 litres per 100 km, corresponding to 98 g of CO2/km. This is a 22-percent improvement over the only 60 kW (82 hp) preceding model, the A 160 CDI, the which consumed 4.9 litres. The figures for the preceding were A 200 CDI 103 kW (140 hp), 5.7 litres, and 149 g of CO2/km.

In combination with COMAND Online, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is equipped with the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system. As long as COMAND Online is connected to a mobile phone, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system can automatically alert the emergency services within a matter of minutes in the event of a serious accident. After the airbags or belt tensioners are triggered, the vehicle's exact GPS position and vehicle identification number (VIN) are sent by SMS to a special emergency center, with positional Data also being transmitted using the DTMF method (dual-tone multi-frequency) at the same time. Driver can also manually the make the emergency call as "MB emergency call" is always the first entry in the phone directory system.

On receiving the call, the emergency center establishes voice contact with the vehicle occupants in a matter of seconds. Other than any mobile phone communication charges, the which would only Arise in the event of an actual emergency call, no charges are Incurred by the driver for the emergency call facility and no contractual relationship - other than the regular mobile phone contract - is required.