• Not quite enjoying the same full-fledged performance status as its R models, R-Line is instead more akin to BMW’s M-Sport: appearance packages for its ordinary models to look like their more sporting stablemates. As such, the Tiguan R-Line features body-coloured front, rear and side skirts with a purposeful looking rear diffuser, as well as a roof spoiler and new 19-inch ‘Mallory’ alloys with beefy 225/40 tyres.
    DOCUMENTED: 20.05.2013 | 08:38 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Two Special VW SUVs Land Here!

    Both the Tiguan R-Line and Touareg Edition X arrive to mark significant milestones in each model’s history.

    Volkswagen has certainly been going from strength to strength lately. Not only has its dominance in the WRC been a great bit of marketing ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : VW, Volkswagen, Tiguan, Touareg, R-Line, R, SUV, Edition, X
    • Not quite enjoying the same full-fledged performance status as its R models, R-Line is instead more akin to BMW’s M-Sport: appearance packages for its ordinary models to look like their more sporting stablemates. As such, the Tiguan R-Line features body-coloured front, rear and side skirts with a purposeful looking rear diffuser, as well as a roof spoiler and new 19-inch ‘Mallory’ alloys with beefy 225/40 tyres.
    • The interior features similar touches, like Vienna’ leather seats, aluminium sill plates and stainless steel pedals. The flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel is shared with the one in the Golf R and is adorned with R badges, as are the headrests of the front sports seats.
    • Unlike similar offerings from some other companies, the Tiguan does at least have a bit more muscle to go with the beefed-up looks, courtesy of the Golf GTI’s 210bhp TSI engine. Coupled with the 7-spd DSG gearbox, the SUV can hit 100km/h in a brisk 7.3sec.
  • DOCUMENTED: 16.05.2013 | 11:19 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    A 'Selfish' Celebration

    The Raging Bull turns 50 this year. We weren’t expecting it when the Veneno was unveiled at Geneva, and we certainly weren’t expecting this, the Egoista.

    Do you remember how you (or your parents) celebrated their 50th birthday? Perhaps a huge party with many friends was thrown, or perhaps a ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Lamborghini, Bull, 50, Anniversary, Birthday, Gift, Egoista, Selfish, V10, De Silva, Concept
    • Even by Lamborghini’s own admission the Egoista isn’t something to be shared. Its name is literally the Italian term for ‘selfish’, in reference to its one seat and no-compromise approach to uniqueness and individuality.
    • The car’s design is heavily aviation-inspired, in particular by the Apache attack helicopter. The aluminium and carbonfibre body is coated in a radar-resistant paint, as are the orange wheels. The cockpit is accessed via a flip-up canopy with orange anti-glare glass, and features a Heads-up display not unlike one you’d find in a F16 jet. In fact, the entire cockpit itself is a separate structure from the rest of the car, and can even be ejected in case of an emergency.
  • To be fair though, the Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept isn’t all max power and unhinged lunacy. In fact, the thinking behind it is fairly inspired – using Audi’s racing experience to shed massive amounts of weight: the car weighs just 1,111kg, 300 less than the TTS on which it’s based.
    DOCUMENTED: 14.05.2013 | 11:26 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Superleicht

    Like a Superleggera, but German. The Audi Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept makes Lamborghini's (and indeed everyone else's) efforts at a lightweight special seem completely inadequate.

    Think of a German engineer and what normally springs to mind? Meticulousness? Sensibleness? Cold logic and common sense?  In most ca ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Audi, TT, Quattro, Concept, Worthersee, Festival, Lightweight, TSI
    • To be fair though, the Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept isn’t all max power and unhinged lunacy. In fact, the thinking behind it is fairly inspired – using Audi’s racing experience to shed massive amounts of weight: the car weighs just 1,111kg, 300 less than the TTS on which it’s based.
    • Exotic materials abound all over the car. Not only does it have a carbonfibre bonnet, roof and bootlid, even parts of the body in white are made from the stuff – the rear end, central tunnel and B pillars. With the floor and hinges made of magnesium, about 100kg has been shaved from the car’s body.
    • In an effort to further improve the ride and handling, a lot of focus has also been placed on reducing unsprung mass. Or course, there are your obligatory carbon-ceramic brakes, but then there are also other innovations like fiberglass-reinforced plastic springs, as well as special, 20kg-lighter wheels, with aluminium spokes bolted to a carbonfibre rim.
  • With a top speed of 300 km/h, the car also is equipped with huge brakes. In order to slow down the GTI, Volkswagen uses ceramic brake discs all around with 380 mm discs in front and 356 mm at the rear. The are housed behind fat 20
    DOCUMENTED: 10.05.2013 | 11:09 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Volkswagen Design Vision GTI Concept

    Wolfsburg builds a 503 bhp monster! Dubbed the Design Vision GTI, it's giving us flashbacks of a certain 650 bhp Golf.

    Back in 2007, Volkswagen revealed the GTI W12-650 at the GTI Festival in Wörthersee. This year, they've gone and repeated histor ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Volkswagen, Design Vision GTI, Concept, W12, Golf
    • With a top speed of 300 km/h, the car also is equipped with huge brakes. In order to slow down the GTI, Volkswagen uses ceramic brake discs all around with 380 mm discs in front and 356 mm at the rear. The are housed behind fat 20
    • Despite looking really massive, the Design Vision GTI is exactly 15 mm shorter than the production GTI, mainly because of the more compact rear apron. It is also lower by 57 mm. But, the concept car is significantly broader by more than 70 mm. The track widths measure about 60 mm wider, giving the Design Vision GTI a really aggressive stance.
    • Inside, the concept car is a tad more futuristic than the production car, but still comes across as a highly believable design. The use of aluminum, alcantara and sporty red accents ensures the driver knows that this car is no ordinary Golf. We hope, but doubt, that Volkswagen will put this into production. But that said, we can't help but wonder if this is in some way, a teaser to the rumoured 300 bhp Golf RS that Volkswagen is developing. We'll see...
  • Called the Jetta Special Edition, the car gets a full bodykit for the front, rear and sides, 18-inch Preston alloy rims, chrome tailpipes, tinted windows and aluminium pedals. Mechanically it’s identical to the Jetta and Jetta Sport, with a choice of 122 or 160 bhp 1.4 TSI engines, mated to the familiar 7-speed DSG gearbox. The $10,000 CEVS rebate applies for the Jetta SE too.
    DOCUMENTED: 07.05.2013 | 07:13 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Hitting The Gym And Working Out

    The Jetta’s always been a competent performer, with this sporty new variant, Volkswagen is hoping to enhance its appeal and win new hearts.

    Huge space, fuel-efficient engines, and a premium badge? Given these qualities, it’s not surprising the VW Jetta was Singapore&rsqu ... MORE

    • Called the Jetta Special Edition, the car gets a full bodykit for the front, rear and sides, 18-inch Preston alloy rims, chrome tailpipes, tinted windows and aluminium pedals. Mechanically it’s identical to the Jetta and Jetta Sport, with a choice of 122 or 160 bhp 1.4 TSI engines, mated to the familiar 7-speed DSG gearbox. The $10,000 CEVS rebate applies for the Jetta SE too.
    • The car was launched just last Wednesday, May 1st, and is on sale from $123,300 with COE. Not a bad choice if you want to stand out from the crowd.
  • Exterior-wise, the car looks pretty much looks like a mix of the Grand Turismo and a shrunken Quattroporte; the combination has produced a car that is dotted with sleek lines and sexy curves. The same cannot be said about the car’s rear end; the Kia Cerato-esque lights just do not fit the curvature of the Maserati bodyshell.
    DOCUMENTED: 29.04.2013 | 07:22 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Ghibli Is Ready To Take On The Middle-Weight Champs!

    Maserati shrinks the Quattroporte and slaps in a V6 diesel.

    In the past, if you wanted a mid-sized luxury sedan, there was only the likes of BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Audi and Lexus to turn to. Now th ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Maserati, Ghibli S, Diesel, Quattroporte baby, Luxury,
    • Exterior-wise, the car looks pretty much looks like a mix of the Grand Turismo and a shrunken Quattroporte; the combination has produced a car that is dotted with sleek lines and sexy curves. The same cannot be said about the car’s rear end; the Kia Cerato-esque lights just do not fit the curvature of the Maserati bodyshell.
    • To prevent potential customers getting a ‘culture shock’ when they enter the cabin, the interior has to be on par or be of better quality than the exterior. Inside, leather has been spread just about everywhere. Not only that, the leather helps tie in with the futuristic looking centre console, which finishes with a BMW-like gearstick. Only the finest-quality hides will be used, supplied by Italian specialist Poltrona Frau. There is also an optional Bowers & Wilkins system for any audiophiles out there.
    • A choice of three engines will be available to shift that gorgeous body around. The entry-level powerplant is a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, developing 271bhp – Maserati’s first ever oil-burner. If you prefer petrol power, Maserati\'s turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine will be available in two states of tune. The top of the line Ghibli S will develop 410bhp and sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in just 5.0sec, and continue ploughing along until it hits 285 km/h. A V8 petrol is expected to follow at a later date. All engines will be coupled with a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.
  • Let’s talk about the exterior. Visually, the car looks pretty much the same as the standard E class. But squint a bit harder, and you will notice that the car is slightly longer, gaining 140 mm of rear legroom. To make sitting in the rear even more comfortable, the front passenger seat can be electronically adjusted from the rear passenger area. Currently, the car is confined to China only. Various trim levels are available. The launch car shown at the show is called the Sport Sedan version and has been fitted with a more aggressive looking front end with a big three pointed star on the grille. If you want something classier, you may opt for the Sedan trim, which ditches the large grille-mounted badge for one standing on the bonnet. The low-beam headlamps are LEDs as standard.
    DOCUMENTED: 26.04.2013 | 07:24 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Mercedes stretches the E for China

    Revised long wheel base E-class launched at Shanghai Auto Show

      The E class has been and will continue to be the core product of the Chinese market for Mercedes-Benz. To make sure that they ... MORE

    • Let’s talk about the exterior. Visually, the car looks pretty much the same as the standard E class. But squint a bit harder, and you will notice that the car is slightly longer, gaining 140 mm of rear legroom. To make sitting in the rear even more comfortable, the front passenger seat can be electronically adjusted from the rear passenger area. Currently, the car is confined to China only. Various trim levels are available. The launch car shown at the show is called the Sport Sedan version and has been fitted with a more aggressive looking front end with a big three pointed star on the grille. If you want something classier, you may opt for the Sedan trim, which ditches the large grille-mounted badge for one standing on the bonnet. The low-beam headlamps are LEDs as standard.
    • A variety of powerplants and drivetrains are available, ranging from an economical 1.8 litre turbo 4 cylinder (E260 L), to a 330bhp 3.0 litre twin-turbocharged V6 (E400 L).
    • The E class has always been Mercedes’ solution to provide a relatively affordable (limousine for those who want the comfort, quality and luxury of a Mercedes, and yet not pay so much for an S-class. Not too much more expensive than the standard E, but with a lot more legroom. Want an E-class limo but don’t want to get one made by an aftermarket specialist? Well, the E-class L is the perfect solution. It’s a shame we’re not going to get it.
  • Alas, BMW hasn’t made any mention of engine options or vehicle dynamics or anything at all to do with actual driving – the X4 is for now still officially a Concept, intended to show how the production version will look. Looking at the X3 though, engine options should be carried over directly. That means the turbocharged four and six cylinders as found in the xDrive20i, 28i, and 35i.
    DOCUMENTED: 08.04.2013 | 12:19 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    First reveal of BMW X4

    BMW lifts the wraps off its new ‘SAC’ ahead of its premiere at the Shanghai motor show

    “Fancy a small, sporty BMW that can also serve family duties? Sure, the 3-series is among the best in class. Need more bootspace? N ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : BMW, X4, SAC, Concept, Shanghai, SUV
    • Alas, BMW hasn’t made any mention of engine options or vehicle dynamics or anything at all to do with actual driving – the X4 is for now still officially a Concept, intended to show how the production version will look. Looking at the X3 though, engine options should be carried over directly. That means the turbocharged four and six cylinders as found in the xDrive20i, 28i, and 35i.
    • It doesn’t take long to figure out where in the lineup this model slots in. Just as the X6 is a sleeker, less practical version of the X5, so too is the X4 the SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) sibling to the X3. You may find BMW’s glut of niche-busting models unnecessary – I certainly do – but there’s a very good reason the X4 exists: the whole range of X models accounts for 25% of BMW’s overall sales today.
    • The X4 shares its basic styling direction with the X6 – narrow glasshouse, bluff front end, high shoulder line, huge wheelarches and distinctive swage lines keep it distinct from the X3. Overall length and wheelbase are identical, but height and width go down and up 53 mm and 34 mm respectively.
  • With that, say hello to the new C4 Picasso. Previewed earlier this year in Geneva by the Technospace concept, the production version doesn’t look like it’s changed one bit, save for the non-body coloured rims. According to Citroen, the egg-shaped cab-forward shell (geddit? Shell? Egg? Never mind) is 40mm shorter than the old car, yet has a 55mm longer wheelbase for added legroom. The new Picasso has also shed 140kg in the quest for lower CO2 emissions.
    DOCUMENTED: 08.04.2013 | 09:07 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Art For All The Family

    MPVs don’t usually have a right to look stylish, but Citroen clearly disagrees.

    Citroen has been in a renaissance in terms of design for several years now. After a period of boringly-styled cars in the ‘90s and ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Citroen, C4, Picasso, MPV
    • With that, say hello to the new C4 Picasso. Previewed earlier this year in Geneva by the Technospace concept, the production version doesn’t look like it’s changed one bit, save for the non-body coloured rims. According to Citroen, the egg-shaped cab-forward shell (geddit? Shell? Egg? Never mind) is 40mm shorter than the old car, yet has a 55mm longer wheelbase for added legroom. The new Picasso has also shed 140kg in the quest for lower CO2 emissions.
    • This is thanks partly to the smaller dimensions and use of aluminium and composites for the bonnet and tailgate, but mostly down to the new EMP2 platform, parent company PSA’s answer to the VW Group’s modular MQB architecture. What this means is a FWD chassis that can be easily modified for different widths, wheelbases and lengths, allowing several models to be spawned from the same platform and lowering overall production costs. The C4 Picasso is the first to use it, to be followed shortly by Peugeot’s next 308.
    • As a family car, the Picasso will live or die on the appeal of its interior. Space will definitely not be at a premium, with a clas-leading 537 litres of boot space and rear seats that can slide, recline and fold individually. The windscreen stretches back over the front row and combines with the panoramic glass roof to brighten up the cabin, while the driver’s view ahead is dominated by two large HD screen displays on the dashboard; a 7-in touchpad with controls for in-vehicle functions (radio, air-con, etc) and a 12-in screen for driving information (speed, navigation, reverse camera).
  • Exterior wise, the car has a long bonnet and a long wheelbase and is slated to be a “next-generation luxury sports coupe.” The bold styling of the car includes details such as fluid surfaces courtesy of Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture design language, muscular body lines that run the length of the car, and Hyundai’s trademark hexagonal radiator grille. To make the car stand out even further, Hyundai has equipped it with butterfly doors and aggressively styled 3D rear lights. The rear is rounded off with a pair of exhaust tips on both sides of the car. The attractive body sits on lightweight 22-inch alloys with carbon trim to help keep the weight down.
    DOCUMENTED: 04.04.2013 | 10:25 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Hyundai Launches Radical HND-9 Concept

    Stunning looking concept launched at Hyundai’s home motor show.

    Hyundai is on fire right now. Their design team has been hard at work and has been churning out sexy cars from their design center in Nam ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Hyundai, HND-9, Seoul, Concept, Coupe
    • Exterior wise, the car has a long bonnet and a long wheelbase and is slated to be a “next-generation luxury sports coupe.” The bold styling of the car includes details such as fluid surfaces courtesy of Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture design language, muscular body lines that run the length of the car, and Hyundai’s trademark hexagonal radiator grille. To make the car stand out even further, Hyundai has equipped it with butterfly doors and aggressively styled 3D rear lights. The rear is rounded off with a pair of exhaust tips on both sides of the car. The attractive body sits on lightweight 22-inch alloys with carbon trim to help keep the weight down.
    • Matching the exterior stride for stride is the styling of the interior. The cabin has been designed to give its occupants a modern and luxurious feel. The seats are made from a special mesh that projects different colours depending on what angle you view it from. The on-screen interface has been designed with hues borrowed from a jet fighter cockpit. That jet fighter feel is further enhanced with the car’s greenhouse design.
    • There are cues that the HND-9 would become the next generation Hyundai Genesis Coupe as they both have similar powertrains. The HND-9 is powered by a turbocharged 3.3 litre V6 engine that produces 362 bhp.
  • DOCUMENTED: 04.04.2013 | 08:48 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Mercedes' New AMG is a 'CLA45' Act!

    The CLA gets a powerful 4 cylinder engine and all wheel drive to turn it into a mad, track munching beast.

    Mercedes has had great success with their CLS, which combines sportiness and luxury in one sleek looking package. Although the CLS may be ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Mercedes, Benz, CLA45, CLA, AMG, Coupe
    • The ordinary CLA is a really stunning looker. Based on the A class but with a new 4-door coupe body, it combines the desirability of the CLS at the price of a compact executive car. It was inevitable Mercedes would add more go to the CLA. On the outside, the CLA45 AMG receives some aero tweaks around the lower front intakes. At the rear, rectangular dual exhaust outlets, and a large, high-speed spoiler complete the list of alterations to the exterior. The car sits on 19-inch aluminum wheels decked in Dunlop tyres.
    • In the cabin, the standard CLA\'s paddle shifters have been enlarged, while the dashboard has been lavished with carbon fibre trim, which looks good against the contrasting stitching on the door cards and seats. The standard seats have been abandoned for a pair of lovely AMG Sports seats.
  • On the outside, it may look like very little work has been done. But look a little closer, and you will realise that Kia has lengthened the Soul, tweaked its headlights and front bumper, and smartened up its rear end. The rear taillight cluster has been replaced by a much smarter and more modern unit, while the rear tailgate has been widened and is now made up of a single piece of glass, with the centre decked out with a piece of body-coloured trim.
    DOCUMENTED: 04.04.2013 | 07:38 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Kia’s Got A New Soul!

    Kia ditches the ‘boy-racer’ look and goes for a more matured look in the facelifted Soul.

    Kia created the Soul a couple of years back in an attempt to ditch their image for making boring, white-good cars. In a way it has worked ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Kia, Soul, New, Supermini, New York
    • On the outside, it may look like very little work has been done. But look a little closer, and you will realise that Kia has lengthened the Soul, tweaked its headlights and front bumper, and smartened up its rear end. The rear taillight cluster has been replaced by a much smarter and more modern unit, while the rear tailgate has been widened and is now made up of a single piece of glass, with the centre decked out with a piece of body-coloured trim.
    • Inside, gone is the radical interior, and in its place, a much smarter and more expensive looking dashboard. The leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather trim on the doors, coupled with a variety of piano black trim and soft touch materials make the Kia Soul feel a whole lot more expensive than it actually is.
    • When it comes to power, there are several engine choices, from the base 1.6 litre engine, to the top of the range 2.0 litre inline four. The 2.0 litre four banger develops 164 bhp, which gives enough power on tap, without sacrificing fuel economy. The powerplant is coupled with Kia\'s new six-speed automatic transmission, which maintains the perfect balance between a sporty drive and comfort.
  • GM hasn’t announced prices yet but has said that the Z/28 will be more expensive than the ZL1. My opinion? Get one, rip out the rear seats, install a half-cage and straight-through exhaust, then store it at the upcoming Iskandar race track in Johor and you’d have the most badass brute on the track.
    DOCUMENTED: 03.04.2013 | 20:48 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Return Of A Legend

    Due to its large size and heavy gross weight, the current Camaro has always been seen as more of a cruiser than a bruiser. Until now.

    The Camaro in its current guise has been turning heads and warming hearts ever since its unveiling as a concept in 2006, partly because o ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Chevrolet, Chevy, Camaro, GM, Z/28, V8, LS7, Trackday, Muscle
    • GM hasn’t announced prices yet but has said that the Z/28 will be more expensive than the ZL1. My opinion? Get one, rip out the rear seats, install a half-cage and straight-through exhaust, then store it at the upcoming Iskandar race track in Johor and you’d have the most badass brute on the track.
    • At the recent New York Auto Show though, GM has responded. Alongside a facelift for the 2014 model year (slimmer grille, rectangular taillights, larger lower air intake), Chevrolet also introduced a stripped-out, hardcore variant for trackdayers, and revived an iconic nameplate: the Z/28.
    • The Z/28 moniker first appeared in 1967 as an option package that would allow Chevrolet to compete in the Trans-Am racing series; a homologation special, if you will. It consisted of power front disc brakes, close-ratio 4-spd manual and a lighter, small block 302 cubic inch (4.9 l) V8 that was (under)rated at 290 bhp. Since then it has appeared in every generation of Camaro as either an engine and handling package, or more latterly, just a trim option.
  • The WRX concept has been designed as a ready-to-rally 4 door sedan. With a much lower and wider stance, it looks a whole lot more aggressive than the current car. To make the car even more aggressive, Subaru has ditched the tiny grille of the current car and have gone for an extremely pronounced front meshed grille and large air intake. The front end is then rounded off by a large bonnet scoop. The rear of the car has received some rather un-Subaru-like cues too; Subaru has ditched the WRX’s huge wing and replaced it with a BMW M3-esque lip spoiler. The whole package certainly looks smart, and knowing Subaru, will probably go like stink too.
    DOCUMENTED: 02.04.2013 | 11:05 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Subaru Stuns with the Scooby

    Incredible-looking WRX Concept is miles ahead of the Impreza, yet retains some of its classic DNA.

    In the recent few years, the gap between the standard Impreza and the WRX has been narrowing; the WRX has become softer and less sporty, ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Subaru, WRX, Impreza, WR Blue, Concept, New York
    • The WRX concept has been designed as a ready-to-rally 4 door sedan. With a much lower and wider stance, it looks a whole lot more aggressive than the current car. To make the car even more aggressive, Subaru has ditched the tiny grille of the current car and have gone for an extremely pronounced front meshed grille and large air intake. The front end is then rounded off by a large bonnet scoop. The rear of the car has received some rather un-Subaru-like cues too; Subaru has ditched the WRX’s huge wing and replaced it with a BMW M3-esque lip spoiler. The whole package certainly looks smart, and knowing Subaru, will probably go like stink too.
    • On the subject of bonnet bulges and going like stink, Subaru themselves have not revealed what would reside under that beautiful bonnet, although we can expect a turbocharged 2.0 litre of some sort.
    • The WRX Concept is definitely a stunning looking thing. Subaru has managed to strike the perfect balance between aggression and beauty for this concept car. The amount of attention to detail is just obsessive, which is why I think this car is the best looking car ever produced by Subaru. That said, it’s not likely this is exactly what the final product will look like as the majority of concept cars get ‘dulled down’ before they enter production. It’s a real shame that such a beautiful machine would never get to feel the roads beneath its wheels.
  • Enter the new Forester XT. With a 2-litre ‘Direct Injection Turbo’ flat-four putting out 240 bhp and 350 Nm, the car will sprint to 100 in 7.5s and top out at 221 km/h. And, this being a crossover, the long-travel suspension should be able to soak up the bumps quite decently. The perfect replacement for newly minted dads needing something more family-friendly than their hopped-up WRXes?
    DOCUMENTED: 01.04.2013 | 13:15 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    A Real Trailblazer

    No, not that honking great GM SUV; Subaru’s latest offering has the pace to be a real scorcher.

    Subaru has been in the doldrums for a while now. It’s been 5 years since they pulled out of the WRC, the WRX and STi models were qu ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Subaru, Forester, XT, Turbo, X-mode, AWD
    • Enter the new Forester XT. With a 2-litre ‘Direct Injection Turbo’ flat-four putting out 240 bhp and 350 Nm, the car will sprint to 100 in 7.5s and top out at 221 km/h. And, this being a crossover, the long-travel suspension should be able to soak up the bumps quite decently. The perfect replacement for newly minted dads needing something more family-friendly than their hopped-up WRXes?
    • Family men will be pleased to hear of the Forester’s safety standards; 7 airbags help contribute to a 5-star EuroNCAP and ‘Good’ IIHS safety ratings. Larger dimensions all round free up more interior room, while practical touches such as one-touch folding rear seats and a rear door that opens nearly 90° make it easier to live with day to day.
    • Most talked about, though, is Subaru’s new X-MODE control system that aids drivers in extreme conditions, all at the push of a button. Similar in concept to Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, it detects when wheels are slipping or have no grip, and appropriately shuffles torque around to the wheel(s) that can use it most. It also incorporates a Hill Descent function, allowing the car to maintain traction and creep down a steep hill, without the driver needing to use the brakes (though you should probably still cover the pedal with your foot, just in case).
  • As before, two engine options will be available, with a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK gearboxes. The base Cayman has a 2.7-litre flat 6 with 275 bhp, while the S shares its 3.4-litre engine with the 991 Carrera, albeit in a different state of tune, producing 325 bhp. Thanks to stop-start and direct injection, Porsche claims a 15% improvement in fuel efficiency, bringing the figures to 7.9km/l and 8.4km/l for the base and S models.
    DOCUMENTED: 01.04.2013 | 11:07 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Arrival Of The New Cayman

    Evolution is once again the name of the game at Porsche, with the launch of the 2nd-gen Cayman and Cayman S.

    Following in the footsteps of its drop-top Boxster sister, the Cayman has finally landed in Singapore. Unveiled to the media and invited ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Porsche, Cayman, S, PDK, Boxster, Coupe
    • As before, two engine options will be available, with a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK gearboxes. The base Cayman has a 2.7-litre flat 6 with 275 bhp, while the S shares its 3.4-litre engine with the 991 Carrera, albeit in a different state of tune, producing 325 bhp. Thanks to stop-start and direct injection, Porsche claims a 15% improvement in fuel efficiency, bringing the figures to 7.9km/l and 8.4km/l for the base and S models.
    • Depending on engine and options, the new car is up to 30kg lighter, despite growing in length and width, and putting on larger wheels. The longer wheelbase and wider track should improve the car’s agility, as well as giving it better composure when tackling bumpy roads.
    • With the 911 moving upmarket, the Cayman has had room for more luxuries. Adaptive cruise control is an option for the first time, maintaining the distance to traffic in front, as is Porsche Torque Vectoring and electromechanical power steering.
  • DOCUMENTED: 28.03.2013 | 12:23 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Eurokars City Centre Revamped And Unveiled

    With Second Minister for Trade and Industry S. Iswaran as the Guest of Honour, the Eurokars City Centre opens its doors to the public.

    After two years of extensive renovations, the Eurokars Centre at 27/29 Leng Kee Rd opened to a dazzling fireworks display and lion dance ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Eurokars, Group, Centre, MINI, Porsche, Rolls Royce, Showroom
    • In keeping with the growing role of technology in today's society, the Eurokars Group is rolling out two initiatives to enhance customers' ownership experience. Firstly, a tie-up with Google will allow Porsche customers to take a look inside the showroom when they search for Porsche Singapore on Google Maps. Additionally, a Eurokars Group app will be made available for iOS to update customers on the latest news and happenings, as well as eventually allow them to pre-book their cars for servicing appointments.
    • The After-Sales department has been upgraded, to shorten waiting time for servicing and repairs, and features the largest car elevators in SIngapore, able to accommodate the six metre-long Rolls Royce Phantom. There is also a new Customer Lounge with full-service bar and free wi-fi, all designed to enhance customer satisfaction.
  • DOCUMENTED: 28.03.2013 | 08:23 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Mind The Claws - The Jaguar XKR-S GT And XJR

    Two new flagships arrive to head Jaguar's model lines, and though they share the same heart, their briefs couldn't be more different.

    It may not be called the 'Jaguar XK GT3 Black Edition', but one could easily see that Jaguar had the 911 GT3 and C63 Black Series ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Jaguar, V8, XK, XKR-S, GT, XJR, Supercharged, Sport
    • It certainly looks the business, with an aero package made of carbonfibre that includes a front splitter, canards, diffuser and massive rear wing, all contributing to a useful 145 kg of downforce at its (iimited) top speed of 300 km/h. The bonnet also features more louvres to further aid engine cooling (like an Aston V12 Vantage) and there is a R-S GT graphics package unique to this car.
    • In a first for a road-going Jaguar, the GT features carbon ceramic brakes which help shave 21 kg off the car's unsprung weight, accompanied by 20-in forged alloys wrapped in Pirelli Corsa tyres. There's also a quicker steering rack borrowed from the new F-type, a 52 mm wider front track and re-worked suspension with Eibach dampers that's 68% and 25 % stiffer front and rear.
  • No need to hunt for a parking lot or wonder where to go, the Basement 2 car park is dedicated to receive you. Just pull up at the service reception bay and a service advisor will attend to you promptly. He will then run through the areas that your car will be worked on for the day, and proceed to give you a cost estimate.
    DOCUMENTED: 28.03.2013 | 04:39 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Audi Service Excellence 'Test Driven'

    They could have sent out a press release saying that they've got a great aftersales service program. But Audi went one better and invited us to experience it for ourselves.

    Photos: Audi Singapore So you're an Audi owner. Or maybe you'd like to imagine yourself as one. Well, Audi has decided you ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : Audi, Audi Centre, Aftersales, Service, Premium Auto
    • No need to hunt for a parking lot or wonder where to go, the Basement 2 car park is dedicated to receive you. Just pull up at the service reception bay and a service advisor will attend to you promptly. He will then run through the areas that your car will be worked on for the day, and proceed to give you a cost estimate.
    • Good news if you own an A8, an S, an RS or an R model, because you get a dedicated service advisor who will give you the exclusive attention. This is a great initiative not just because the aforementioned models belong to rich owners, but more so because the cars deserve to be managed by someone who understands the nuances of these top of the line models.
  • What better way to celebrate the company’s 50th and the F1’s 20th birthdays than by unleashing a new all-conquering hypercar on the world? With McLaren’s vast Formula One experience and technology at its disposal, the P1 certainly has a shot at besting its chief rivals, the LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder. It may not be the fastest in a straight line (the P1 gives away about 50 bhp and 2 sec to 300 km/h to the Ferrari), but then again, McLaren have said all along that their goal was to make the fastest road car round a circuit, not just a straight line.
    DOCUMENTED: 27.03.2013 | 13:29 GMT +8 | 0 COMMENTS

    Brutish British Bulldog

    Enter Britain's contender for the 2013 hypercar World Cup...

    We’ve known about the McLaren P1 for quite some time, having been unveiled at the 2012 Paris motor show. Now though, after months o ... MORE

    ARCHIVED IN : McLaren, P1, F1, Hybrid, V8, Turbo, Hypercar
    • What better way to celebrate the company’s 50th and the F1’s 20th birthdays than by unleashing a new all-conquering hypercar on the world? With McLaren’s vast Formula One experience and technology at its disposal, the P1 certainly has a shot at besting its chief rivals, the LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder. It may not be the fastest in a straight line (the P1 gives away about 50 bhp and 2 sec to 300 km/h to the Ferrari), but then again, McLaren have said all along that their goal was to make the fastest road car round a circuit, not just a straight line.
    • To that end, most of the P1's performance capabilities come from the wind tunnel, where its form was almost entirely dictated by aerodynamics. There's a two-stage active rear wing with DRS (that can alter in pitch depending on speed and cornering loads, and act as an air brake), active suspension that lowers the car in Track mode by 50mm, creating a sort of ground effect, a massive and crazy looking diffuser and adjustable flaps ahead of the front wheels. Plus, the whole body of the car draws inspiration not only from the '90s F1 supercar, but also the MP4-23, the racer that took Lewis Hamilton to the Drivers' title in 2008. Made entirely out of carbonfibre, the body curves, dips, and flows to guide air either for downforce and cooling and is pared back and shaped to such extremes that it looks as if it was shrink-wrapped around all the mechanical components. Even the LED lights have been sculpted as much as possible to allow space for cooling, the rears especially, just a thin strip following the contours of the rear bodywork's trailing edges.
    • Like the 12C, the P1 also uses a hydraulic active suspension system that automatically adjusts stiffness and damping without the need for anti-roll bats. The 390 mm and 380 mm front and rear brake discs boast a mirror-like finish, and are made from a special NASA-grade carbon ceramic that is lighter and dissipates heat more efficiently, and the brake pads are developed by Akebono, the brakes supplier for the F1 team. Housing the brakes are lightweight 19 and 20-inch rims wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsas developed specifically for the P1. End result for all this techno-wizardry? 600kg of downforce at 260 km/h (5 times more than the 12C), and up to a mind-boggling 2G in the corners and braking,