2012 Hyundai i40 Tourer

The 2012 Hyundai i40 Tourer isn’t as sexy as Hyundai would have you believe, but it’s a comfortable, well-equipped estate that gets most things right. It’s affordable, equipped with plenty of cutting-edge technology, and satisfying to drive. The i40's styling was performed by Hyundai's European design center in Germany, and takes cues from the fluidic sculpture theme that can be seen in the Tucson and the i-Flow concept. The fluidic sculpture design DNA is recognizable by flowing lines inspired by nature which combine to create a dynamic exterior. Advanced lighting innovations, such as standard day-time running lights with Xenon headlamps (optional) or a TFT LCD supervision instrument cluster, will further strengthen the i40′s position as the lead model in Hyundai’s line-up and the European D-segment.

2012 Hyundai i40 Tourer all engines are tuned for strong torque delivery extended across a wide engine-speed range, making the i40 an enjoyable car to drive around town or on the motorway. Manual and automatic transmissions will also be offered. In a segment where diesel models represent 77% of total sales, Hyundai is anticipating that the ‘high-power’ version of the 1.7-litre diesel unit developing 136PS will be the most popular engine among both private and fleet buyers. This engine’s high torque output (325 Nm from just 2,000 rpm) will ensure a responsive drive with acceleration to 62mph in just 10.6 seconds for the manual model and a brisk 12.0 seconds with automatic.

High-tech features include smart-parking assist and lane-keeping assist systems, as well as connectivity items like Bluetooth with voice recognition and full map navigation with rear view camera. In terms of comfort and convenience, the 2012 Hyundai i40 Tourer will be available with an electric parking brake, front air ventilation seats, heated and reclining rear seats, as well as new features for the segment like auto-defog system, and a heated steering wheel. The Hyundai i40 uses the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features, fitted as standard in several countries, include ESP, ABS, Hill Start Assist Control, VSM, Brake Assist System and Emergency Stop Signal. In terms of passive safety, every i40 on the road in Europe will be fitted with up to nine airbags front, side and curtain, with driver knee airbag available as standard on all models.

2012 Toyota Camry

The 2012 Toyota Camry is one of the most fuel efficient sedans to date all three powertrains offer extremely competitive fuel economy figures. The 2012 Camry Hybrid now beats the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Hyundai Sonata Hybrid in fuel efficiency, with ratings of 43/39 mpg city/highway and 41 mpg combined on the LE Hybrid. The latest generation carries itself with dimensions identical to the 2011 model. Total length, wheelbase, width and height are all carried over dimensions, resulting in a familiar profile. The assembly displays from fender to fender with the goal of giving the vehicle the impression of greater width without actually stretching the model's track. A new front bumper cover with a jutting chin and expansive lower air intake is framed by chrome foglight recesses on L, LE and XLE models.

The 2012 Toyota Camry single biggest improvement is its interior, the cabin's styling looks as though it was created by a human a stylist, even able to convince the bean counters to splurge a little, with L and LE models receiving aluminum look plastics while SE guise is saddled with a satin version of the same gear. Top of the line XLE trims are still laden with some of the worst-looking simulated wood we've ever seen, however. The center stack stretches from windshield to shift console with a pair of vents positioned up high and a navigation and entertainment screen nestled just below. The whole kit is trimmed in matte black plastic regardless of interior color choice. It feels several classes richer than the last Camry's cabin, and the elegant styling sacrifices nothing in terms of usability.

A total of three audio display systems are available depending on trim, starting with a six speaker AM/FM/CD head with an LCD screen attached to six speakers. Step up a level and the Camry delivers a 6.1-inch touchscreen unit with HD radio, iTunes tagging and voice-recognition navigation. The system also allows for the personalization of various vehicle systems, including exactly which doors unlock at the press of the key fob. At the top of the heap, a premium navigation system offers up a 7-inch display coupled to 10 JBL GreenEdge speakers. That's two more speakers than the best audio system in the last generation Camry, though JBL has managed to cut the total weight and power consumption of the set to levels well below the gear in the 2011 model. JBL says that the company's GreenEdge speakers suck down 58 percent less energy than before while producing higher quality sound at the same time.

The 2012 Toyota Camry powertrains is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. The 268-hp V6 model is expected to score EPA ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, which equal the four cylinder Camry of a couple years ago and nearly match the Sonata's 2.0-liter turbo four. The new four cylinder Camry, jumps to the top of the class with expected 25/35 mpg ratings. For 2012, the Camry comes equipped with an all new six speed automatic transmission, as well as a taller final drive ratio of 3.634 in four cylinder models and 3.458 on V6 vehicles for improved fuel economy. In addition, the gearbox features flexible logic for torque converter lock-up that can allow the converter to provide some slip to no slip at all, depending on the situation. The driver can manipulate gear selection via a bump shifter on the console or, on SE models, by wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

2012 Delahaye USA Bella Figura Type 57S

The 2012 Delahaye USA Bella Figura Type 57S overall design is having impressive change on the outer look and also interior styling. The coupe model is basically being widened, stretched, and artistically enhanced to accommodate two passengers whose height reaching up six foot tall not necessarily mean that the owners or the passengers should be that tall, actually. The Bella Figura Type 57S model may still preserve the classic and vintage style, but it’s equipped with sophisticated and high tech features. It has power brake, power windows and steering, and also air conditioner that will make the passengers feel comfortable and also safe. The company has considered using Bostic fiber, along with Airex Baltek and AOC vinyl ester.

The first 2012 Delahaye USA Bella Figura Type 57S prototype car has an all aluminum 5 litre M70 BMW V-12, while the first production car, set to enter the manufacturing process in November; will have a new supercharged 556 HP 6.2 litre LSA Cadillac engine. The top of the line is a Renntech twin turbocharged Mercedes V-12 engine, but an inline Jaguar six is also possible.

Delahaye USA Press Release:
After three years of work we’re proud to present our new carbon fiber tribute to Jean Bugatti and his elegant Type 57S. Much more than a replica, this is an artistically stylized, stretched and widened coupe which comfortably fits two six-foot-six occupants while respecting the classic Bugatti look and feel. We’re building air conditioned cars with power brakes, steering, windows and with modern engines you can actually drive and afford to maintain! These cars are designed and built in the USA (polished aluminum body built in UK).

We’ve combined the digital technology of REVOLUTION DESIGN STUDIOS in Michigan with state of the art composites from VELOCITY ENGINEERING in Indiana and decades of chassis fabrication expertise of THE ROADSTER SHOP in Illinois. The Bella Figura is available in right or left hand drive as a complete finished turnkey vehicle, as a turnkey minus where you bolt in your engine and transmission (in some cases an importing advantage outside USA), as a roller (body on chassis with wheels), or in self-assembly form for the build-it-yourself enthusiast.

The 2012 Delahaye USA Bella Figura Type 57S available in right or left hand drive and in four configurations:

• Turnkey: complete finished vehicle
• Turnkey minus: complete less engine and transmission (an importing advantage outside USA)
• Roller: body on chassis with wheels
• Component: body, chassis, and all basic components plus customer options for assembly by customer or contracted engineer

2012 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition

The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette features an all-black color scheme and unique badging. The exterior is coated in an exclusive Carbon Flash Metallic black paint and is accented by black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and  red brake calipers.The lightweight cast-spun aluminum wheels are offered in several sizes 18-inch/19-inch for Corvette Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1. The package also includes Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world's fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated by Corvette.

The Chevrolet Corvette Centennial Edition expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package can be applied to any Corvette model, from base coupe to ZR1, with the order code ZLC. Inside of the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, the same 100th anniversary logo with Louis Chevrolet’s face is found on the steering wheel with the entire interior finished in high quality dark Alcantara with gobs of red stitching. The 100th logo is found on the unique headrests and the center sections of the seats, the steering wheel the arm rest and the shift boot sport microfiber suede originally only found on the limited edition Z06 Carbon edition of 2011.

The first 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette produced is a 3LZ Z06 model equipped with the Z07 performance package:  Brembo ceramic brakes, Magnetic Selective Ride Control, Michelin high performance tires and the CFZ package: Carbon fiber goodies including the hood, roof, front splitter.

First introduced in January of 1953, the Corvette has only become more renowned as the years drift by. Undergoing many changes and restyles as any other vehicle will over the years, the Corvette has experienced new engines, transmission, chassis, features, body colors and so much more. Starting with a 235 cu-in 6-cylinder engine, the Corvette has since switched to a V8 with a horsepower that is improving each year. Over the years, the Corvette has also been offered in different trim models, the hardtops, coupes, convertibles, ZR-1s and Z06. Several different special editions models were also featured over the years to mark Corvette's step up into a new generation. The Corvette was always a 2-seater vehicle, Chevy has always offered and included features and equipments that were sophisticated enough to please owners and buyers.

Vehicle Specs
Engine : 7.0-liter LS7 V-8
Horsepower : 505 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Torque  : 470 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
Transmission : 6-speed manual
0–60 mph : 3.7 seconds
Top Speed : 199 mph
Weight : 3,100 lb
Length : 176 inches
Tires : Front 285/30ZR-19; Rear 335/25ZR-20

2011 Smart Forvision Concept

Daimler AG and BASF (chemicals company) will launch the Smart Forvision Concept. The joint concept vehicle smart forvision presented at the 2011 International Motor Show in Frankfurt combines a futuristic design with technologies relating to energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management. "With the forvision smart is doing justice to its role as Daimler's think tank for urban mobility. We are presenting numerous world premieres that make uncompromising electric mobility possible. With the clear objective of greatly increasing the zero-emission range we concerned ourselves with all factors that influence this on the vehicle. This resulted in completely new concepts and materials in the areas of insulation, reflection, lightweight design and energy management. In addition to transparent organic solar cells, transparent and energy-saving light-emitting diodes and infrared-reflective films and coatings, high-performance foams are used for insulation against cold and heat. smart is also setting new standards of lightweight design with the use of the first all-plastic wheels", says Dr. Annette Winkler, Head of Smart.

Transparent solar cells covering the entire roof surface create the first light transmitting roof that also generates energy. The hexagonal cells are based on organic dyes embedded in a sandwich roof. The transparent dyes of the solar cells are light-activated. Even in diffused light and poor light conditions they generate enough energy to power the multimedia components and the three fans that assist with climate management in the vehicle interior. There is an additional new feature under the solar cells: transparent OLEDs illuminate the Smart Forvision Concept interior when the door is opened or a button pressed. When switched off they allow for a clear view outside. This results in a glass roof effect during the daytime, while the areas are illuminated without any dazzle at night. With a free choice of colors, the new OLEDs offer more design freedom; they also consume less than half as much energy as conventional energy-saving lamps.

Cool Smart Forvision Concept exterior design elements like its jet-inspired rear lights look like the turbines of a small aircraft, which give the rear a very futuristic and sporty look. On the inside, e-textiles replace regular seat heating technology. So bodies seating in the seats only absorbs heat through specific contact points like the middle and lower back area of the seats. This is also featured in the armrests of the doors to provide even greater comfort. The design of the seats, in addition to the white steering wheel that looks as if it should be on an aircraft, are very unique and further enhance the sci-fi look of the concept. But sadly, no details were given about its powertrain. We should wait till the official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show next month.

2011 Citroen Tubik Concept

Citroen used phrases like shared, intelligent, connected and eco-friendly to describe the Tubik Concept. the vehicle is billed as an executive shuttle packed with technology, something like a first class airline cabin on wheels. The Citroen Tubik Concept revives radical van design with a body wrapped in chrome and what appears to be a front fascia inspired by big rigs. Citroen Tubik Concept is a redesigned model of the 1939 Tub van and its replacement, the 1948 Type H that was produced up until the beginning of the 1980s. The Tubik Concept Van is intended to be a modern take on the boxy MPV shape. It will serve as both a commercial van and a people carrier with the 4.8 meter long, 2.08m wide and 2.05m tall model providing comfortable space for nine passengers.

There's bags of tech inside and out. The doors are unlocked via a fingerprint sensor and the cabin features a giant semi circular screen with a surround-sound system. It’s clearly a very futuristic, the designers at Citroen even went out of their way to show off all the variety of configurations they wish to integrate with the interior. The Citroen Tubik Concept has three rows of seats. The first row of seats allows two people to sit facing either the road or the other passengers. While the middle row can seat up to three people or can be converted into a small table.

The driver sits in a circular ring which boasts a head-up display and an advanced steering wheel with an integrated infotainment system. Power will be provided by PSA Peugeot Citroen group’s new Hybrid4 hybrid diesel drivetrain and an electric motor to drive those at the rear. Yeah, almost cool enough for the future automotive space shuttle ..!!

2011 Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

2011 Alfa Romeo 4C Concept is the latest version of the 4C has been refinished in a fluid metal matte gray. The gunmetal like hue is a stark contrast to the red used for the Geneva debut, but it looks sensuous on the shapely 4C. The new Alfa Romeo 4C Concept presents the classic formula of the two-seater, rear-wheel drive coupé with its engine at the centre, a length of approximately 4 metres and a wheelbase of less than 2.4 metres. Its sports car soul creates a unique driving sensation, both on the road and when racing, where its velocity and transverse acceleration become even more demanding.

The color shift changes absolutely nothing beneath the 4C’s skin. Smaller than the 8C Competizione, the 2011 Alfa Romeo 4C Concept has half the cylinder count. The turbocharged 1.75-liter I-4, borrowed from the Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde, sends somewhere between 235 and 250 hp to the rear wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Extensive use of aluminum and carbon fiber allow the 4C to remain supermodel thin, and keep its curb weight below 1900 pounds. With that sort of power-to-weight ratio, the car could sprint from 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds.

The 2011 Alfa Romeo 4C Concept integrates its Alfa DNA technology perfectly, a true philosophy which brings together all of the on-board technology, making it enjoyable and customisable for the driver and further accentuating the competitive nature of the Concept compared to other vehicles currently on sale. The Alfa Romeo 4C Concept has an extremely sophisticated suspension layout with high quadrilateral at the front and MacPherson at the rear, to ensure max agility and road handling. This solution, along with the rear-wheel drive and the extraordinary weight/power ratio, ensures Alfa Romeo driving pleasure, enhanced even further by the weight distribution.

Harald J. Wester, the Italian marque’s chief executive, said the 4C, a handsomely executed sports coupe, would sell for about 45,000 euros, or roughly $62,000, in Europe. It will go into production in late 2012. A roadster version is also planned.