Strip away the ice-racing livery – this is being presented as Alain Prost's ice slider for the 2011-12 Trophee Andros – and this is the new Dacia Lodgy, as revealed in our artist's impression. That unusual name signifies the budget brand's new small MPV, which could come to the UK.
We won't see the new Lodgy in roadgoing spec until spring 2012, but we hear it could join the Dacia Duster and Sandero when UK sales begin next year.
Dacia Lodgy: the lowdown
We'll see the new Lodgy Glace perform at the ice racing championship at Val Thorens (any skiers reading may well have seen the track as you drive into the French mountain resort).
But you'll be able to drive this racing car, once four-time F1 champ Prost has finished his icy antics and after its world debut at the 2012 Geneva motor show. Drop the 'Glace' name – French for ice – and you're left with the roadgoing MPV.
So the roadgoing Lodgy won't have ice spikes and a 350bhp V6?
Alas not. Replace the four-wheel drive with front-drive, and that Renault-Nissan Alliance V6 will be dropped in favour of more austere diesels and petrols.
Still, we get some idea of the roadgoing Dacia Lodgy from this ice racer.
It'll be 4001mm long and 1900mm wide, which means we're looking at a compact people carrier sitting somewhere between a Renault Modus and a Scenic. And doubtless with bargain-basement prices.
Thứ Ba, 28 tháng 2, 2012
Mercedes ML 63 AMG (2012) first pictures
Mercedes is packing its M-class off-roader off to the gym to beef up to BMW's M division SUVs and Porsche's Cayenne Turbo. The result? The new ML63 AMG, unveiled today.
The new high-performance ML63 packs AMG's new 5.5-litre V8. They call it downsizing, but shrinking from 6.2 litres to 5.5 hardly compromises the outputs: the bi-turbo V8 cranks out 518bhp and 516lb ft.
So the new 2012 Merc ML63 AMG's another pointlessly fast monster 4x4?
Depending on your perspective! One man's go-faster SUV is another man's dream car, and all that.
If you like fast 4x4s, you'll love the ML63. It gets 15bhp and 52lb ft over the outgoing AMG'ed M. And if you spec the AMG Performance pack and its swollen 1.3 bar boost (up from 1.0), the outputs grow to 549bhp and 561lb ft. These are truly startling figures for a big, bluff 4x4 - these big luxury sports utility vehicles have a unique feel from behind the wheel when you stamp on the gas.
Merc's newcomer will become one of the fastest yet. Although limited to 155mph, the ML63 will pass 62mph in just 4.8sec (knock a tenth off that if you spec the Performance upgrade). This is knocking on the door of supercar territory.
Just think of the polar bears though!
To ease your conscience, Mercedes has fitted a smattering of fuel-saving tech to the new 2012 ML63. There's stop-start, the latest piezo-managed direct injection and a seven-speed auto transmission for a CO2 rating that's down from the previous highs, at 276g/km. The AMG is 40kg lighter than its predecessor, too - helping trim average economy to 23.9mpg.
AMG chairman Ola Källenius acknowledges that the new ML63 has had to do its bit for the environment. 'Like its predecessors, the new ML63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG.'
Källenius also points out that it was Mercedes who invented this niche, with 1999's ML 55 AMG (packing a then-eye-popping 342bhp from its 5500cc V8). The new chapter opens in spring 2012; UK pricing is yet to be confirmed.
What's standard on the new 2012 ML63 AMG?
Four-wheel drive, Airmatic air suspension with three selectable modes, adaptive dampers and a choice of 20in or 21in alloys. There's even a line in the brochure with a lot of ticks alongside the kitchen sink.
If you wonder why Merc persists with such high-powered SUVs, consider this. It sold 13,000 ML63 AMGs in the last generation between 2006 and 2011. Since the 1990s, it's flogged 24,000 in total. So even if many CAR Online public commentators get stuck into big-bhp off-roaders, remember there is a demand out there somewhere. Probably in the Middle East, Russia and Asia, we suspect
The new high-performance ML63 packs AMG's new 5.5-litre V8. They call it downsizing, but shrinking from 6.2 litres to 5.5 hardly compromises the outputs: the bi-turbo V8 cranks out 518bhp and 516lb ft.
So the new 2012 Merc ML63 AMG's another pointlessly fast monster 4x4?
Depending on your perspective! One man's go-faster SUV is another man's dream car, and all that.
If you like fast 4x4s, you'll love the ML63. It gets 15bhp and 52lb ft over the outgoing AMG'ed M. And if you spec the AMG Performance pack and its swollen 1.3 bar boost (up from 1.0), the outputs grow to 549bhp and 561lb ft. These are truly startling figures for a big, bluff 4x4 - these big luxury sports utility vehicles have a unique feel from behind the wheel when you stamp on the gas.
Merc's newcomer will become one of the fastest yet. Although limited to 155mph, the ML63 will pass 62mph in just 4.8sec (knock a tenth off that if you spec the Performance upgrade). This is knocking on the door of supercar territory.
Just think of the polar bears though!
To ease your conscience, Mercedes has fitted a smattering of fuel-saving tech to the new 2012 ML63. There's stop-start, the latest piezo-managed direct injection and a seven-speed auto transmission for a CO2 rating that's down from the previous highs, at 276g/km. The AMG is 40kg lighter than its predecessor, too - helping trim average economy to 23.9mpg.
AMG chairman Ola Källenius acknowledges that the new ML63 has had to do its bit for the environment. 'Like its predecessors, the new ML63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG.'
Källenius also points out that it was Mercedes who invented this niche, with 1999's ML 55 AMG (packing a then-eye-popping 342bhp from its 5500cc V8). The new chapter opens in spring 2012; UK pricing is yet to be confirmed.
What's standard on the new 2012 ML63 AMG?
Four-wheel drive, Airmatic air suspension with three selectable modes, adaptive dampers and a choice of 20in or 21in alloys. There's even a line in the brochure with a lot of ticks alongside the kitchen sink.
If you wonder why Merc persists with such high-powered SUVs, consider this. It sold 13,000 ML63 AMGs in the last generation between 2006 and 2011. Since the 1990s, it's flogged 24,000 in total. So even if many CAR Online public commentators get stuck into big-bhp off-roaders, remember there is a demand out there somewhere. Probably in the Middle East, Russia and Asia, we suspect
Jaguar XKR-S Convertible (2011) first pictures
Jaguar has announced the smallest surprise of the year - a convertible version of the rabid XKR-S. We all knew it was coming, but it shouldn't take the sheen off the fastest and most powerful Jaguar open-top road car ever.
It's essentially the cabrio bodyshell mated to the XKR-S mechanical spec. That means the AJ-V8 Gen3 V8, tuned to produce a startling 543bhp and 502lb ft of torque.
So how quick is the new Jaguar XKR-S Convertible?
Very rapid indeed. The supercharged cabrio has a claimed top speed of 186mph and will pass the benchmark 60mph in 4.2sec.
If you're a speed freak, you may not be as interested in the 292g/km of CO2 rating.
Looks good though...
The XKR-S follows the bad-boy attitude of the coupe: there's a new bumper design, a whopping air intake design, carbonfibre splitters and a 10mm drop in ride height. Any lower and it'd be billed by Chelsea and Westminster Council for scraping away the King's Road.
Naturally, the roof of the XKR-S is automatically powered from nought to posing in just 18 seconds. And the most expensive Jag sports car is dripping with equipment, including 16-way adjustable leather seats and a choice of piano black or dark aluminium trim for the cabin.
CAR GAMES is driving the XKR-S Convertible this autumn; stay tuned for our first drive review.
It's essentially the cabrio bodyshell mated to the XKR-S mechanical spec. That means the AJ-V8 Gen3 V8, tuned to produce a startling 543bhp and 502lb ft of torque.
So how quick is the new Jaguar XKR-S Convertible?
Very rapid indeed. The supercharged cabrio has a claimed top speed of 186mph and will pass the benchmark 60mph in 4.2sec.
If you're a speed freak, you may not be as interested in the 292g/km of CO2 rating.
Looks good though...
The XKR-S follows the bad-boy attitude of the coupe: there's a new bumper design, a whopping air intake design, carbonfibre splitters and a 10mm drop in ride height. Any lower and it'd be billed by Chelsea and Westminster Council for scraping away the King's Road.
Naturally, the roof of the XKR-S is automatically powered from nought to posing in just 18 seconds. And the most expensive Jag sports car is dripping with equipment, including 16-way adjustable leather seats and a choice of piano black or dark aluminium trim for the cabin.
CAR GAMES is driving the XKR-S Convertible this autumn; stay tuned for our first drive review.
Ford Escape (2011) - first pictures of the new Kuga
Ford is bringing its One Ford mantra to bear in the SUV sector for the first time - so this new Escape will in turn mutate into the next Ford Kuga for Europe.
We're expecting the new Kuga in late 2012, with UK sales slated for spring 2013.
Ford Escape: a mix of Vertrek and Kuga
The new Escape 4x4 has heavy overtones of the Vertrek concept car, yet Europeans will be familiar with the Kuga motifs at play.
US buyers apparently bemoaned the unavailability of Kuga style for Stateside motorists, so there's plenty of European influence on the new Escape.
What will be different from Escape for Europe?
We hear the grille and foglamps will change for the 2012 Kuga, and there will be more chrome elements for the European spec models too. Inside the dashboard and centre console will also be different.
Rather obviously, most Europeans will spec their next Kuga with inline four-cylinder engines, the bulk of them being diesel. The US spec Escape, unveiled today at the 2011 LA show, is powered by 1.6 and 2.0 EcoBoost four-pots.
And what are the innovations on the new Escape/Kuga?
There are gadgets like an automated tailgate which lifts at the waggle of a foot; a multimedia system fully compatible with voice control; active park assist to twiddle the wheel for you; and torque vectoring control.
'We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,' said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of product development. 'Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.'
We're expecting the new Kuga in late 2012, with UK sales slated for spring 2013.
Ford Escape: a mix of Vertrek and Kuga
The new Escape 4x4 has heavy overtones of the Vertrek concept car, yet Europeans will be familiar with the Kuga motifs at play.
US buyers apparently bemoaned the unavailability of Kuga style for Stateside motorists, so there's plenty of European influence on the new Escape.
What will be different from Escape for Europe?
We hear the grille and foglamps will change for the 2012 Kuga, and there will be more chrome elements for the European spec models too. Inside the dashboard and centre console will also be different.
Rather obviously, most Europeans will spec their next Kuga with inline four-cylinder engines, the bulk of them being diesel. The US spec Escape, unveiled today at the 2011 LA show, is powered by 1.6 and 2.0 EcoBoost four-pots.
And what are the innovations on the new Escape/Kuga?
There are gadgets like an automated tailgate which lifts at the waggle of a foot; a multimedia system fully compatible with voice control; active park assist to twiddle the wheel for you; and torque vectoring control.
'We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,' said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of product development. 'Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.'
Porsche Panamera GTS (2012) first pictures
Porsche has ramped up an even hotter version of its Panamera ugly duckling at the 2011 Los Angeles auto show.
The new 2011 Panamera GTS made its world debut at LA, and will arrive at UK dealerships in February 2012 costing a stout £90,409.
What makes the Panamera a GTS?
That'll be a 30 horsepower upgrade to the 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8, making a total of 424bhp and 384lb ft.
So the new Panamera GTS is blindingly fast for a big luxury saloon: 0-62mph is over in 4.5sec and top whack is 179mph.
Mind you, the GTS weighs in at a very chunky 1920kg. Which explains the 25.9mpg combined fuel economy and 256g/km of CO2 spewed out.
What else is new on the 2012 Panamera GTS?
There's a rather extraordinary sounding new 'Sound Symposer' system, which diverts intake noise into the cabin at a push of a button. The Sport button controls a microphone detecting vibrations near the throttle valve and air filter - broadcasting them on demand through a speaker at the A-pillar.
Those extra ponies come from new freer flowing exhaust, among other noodling changes to the V8.
Handling is also improved, says Porsche. The GTS sits 10mm lower, 19in Turbo wheels are fitted and the blown Panamera also contributes its bigger brake discs and red callipers.
Fitted with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, the Panamera GTS has an electronic rear diff to apportion torque to either driven rear wheel and sports active anti-roll bars on both axles.
The new 2011 Panamera GTS made its world debut at LA, and will arrive at UK dealerships in February 2012 costing a stout £90,409.
What makes the Panamera a GTS?
That'll be a 30 horsepower upgrade to the 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8, making a total of 424bhp and 384lb ft.
So the new Panamera GTS is blindingly fast for a big luxury saloon: 0-62mph is over in 4.5sec and top whack is 179mph.
Mind you, the GTS weighs in at a very chunky 1920kg. Which explains the 25.9mpg combined fuel economy and 256g/km of CO2 spewed out.
What else is new on the 2012 Panamera GTS?
There's a rather extraordinary sounding new 'Sound Symposer' system, which diverts intake noise into the cabin at a push of a button. The Sport button controls a microphone detecting vibrations near the throttle valve and air filter - broadcasting them on demand through a speaker at the A-pillar.
Those extra ponies come from new freer flowing exhaust, among other noodling changes to the V8.
Handling is also improved, says Porsche. The GTS sits 10mm lower, 19in Turbo wheels are fitted and the blown Panamera also contributes its bigger brake discs and red callipers.
Fitted with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, the Panamera GTS has an electronic rear diff to apportion torque to either driven rear wheel and sports active anti-roll bars on both axles.
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