Isuzu-D-MAX-Pickup-Truck-2012

Isuzu D-MAX Pickup Truck 2012 at Tokyo Motor Show – Latest photos & reviews of  Isuzu D-MAX Pickup Truck 2012: These have been challenging times for Isuzu but the Japanese company is still holding on with its light commercial and truck offerings.

At this week’s Tokyo Motor Show, Isuzu presented the Japanese premiere of its new 2012 Isuzu D-MAX mid-size pickup truck that was developed in collaboration with General Motors.

The Isuzu D-MAX is a sister model to the new global Chevrolet Colorado, with both vehicles manufactured in Thailand.

The body-on-frame pickup truck is offered in single and double cab configurations and choice of three turbo diesel engines including a pair of 2.5-liter units producing 115HP and 136HP, and a larger displacement 3.0-liter powerplant rated at 177-horsepower, linked to either 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.

photos Isuzu D-MAX Pickup Truck 2012:

Lancia-Ypsilon-Red-and-Black-Carscoop-2012

Lancia Ypsilon Black Red 2012 Autos at Bologna Motor Show – Latest photos & reviews of Lancia Ypsilon Black Red 2012: Remember the times when Lancia targeted the younger end of the male audience with cars like the beautifully penned Flavia Coupe and the rally-born Delta HF Integrale series? Sadly, those days are finito.

Nowadays, the Italian company is trying to reach out to the same demographic with trim models like the new Ypsilon Black&Red that will make its debut at next month’s 2011 Bologna Motor Show.

According to Lancia’s own words, the new trim level “is designed as an alternative for a younger and male target that prefers contents associated with sporty style and audio technology.”

The Ypsilon Black&Red is available with a choice of two engines, a 1.2-liter gasoline unit with 69-horses or a 1.3-liter turbodiesel producing 95-horsepower.

There are only four exterior colors available – Argilla Red, Vulcano Black, three-layer Fiamma Red and two-tone Argilla Red with Vulcano Black roof, and a single interior theme with two-tone black and red upholstery.

The car’s standard equipment includes a manual air-conditioning system, a higher-end 360° Hi-Fi Music system, 15-inch alloy wheels, height-adjustable driver seat, electric windows up front, and an array of safety features such as ABS + EBD, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) complete with ASR and Hill Holder, plus front and side airbags.

Photos Lancia Ypsilon Black Red 2012 Autos:

SsangYong-Korando-2011

SsangYong Korando SUV 2011 Returns to the UK with priced from £16,995 – Latest review & photos of SsangYong Korando SUV 2011: SsangYong is making a comeback to the UK market in September. And its return will be spearheaded by the all-new Korando crossover which has no relation whatsoever with its predecessor.

The newcomer is priced from £16,995 with the Korean company, which is owned by the Indian conglomerate Mahindra & Mahindra, setting its eyes on the likes of the Hyundai ix35, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Qashqai.

The new Korando is the production version of the 2009 C200 Aero Concept designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro’s ItalDesign. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine with 175HP and 360 Nm of torque, which emits 157 g of CO2 per km. It will be available in front- and four-wheel-drive versions with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

“Korando is a great value proposition, and it arrives in the highly competitive crossover market at absolutely the right time” commented Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.

“Very keenly priced, with a comprehensive list of standard equipment, excellent towing ability (two tonne) and, thanks to its long wheelbase, a spacious interior, Korando is the clever choice for families and those who tow a caravan, horsebox or trailer”.

The front-wheel-drive Korando will be available in three trim levels: S and ES with the manual gearbox and EX with the automatic transmission, while the 4WD version will be available only with the top-of-the-line-EX trim.

Standard equipment features across the range includes ESP, Hill Start Assist, cruise control and reverse parking sensors.

Photos of  SsangYong Korando SUV 2011 in UK:

Porsche -MY-911-GT3-2012

Porsche  MY 911 GT3 2012 at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2011 – Latest photos & review of Porsche  MY 911 GT3 2012: The all-new 911, code-named 991, may be just around the corner with its debut coming next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but that doesn’t mean that Porsche is done with the soon-to-be-replaced 997.

At least not with its racing version, the GT3 Cup, which with more than 2,200 units sold, is the number one preference for customer racing teams worldwide.

Now, Porsche has unveiled the 2012MY 911 GT3 Cup. It is based on the 991 (997) GT3 RS, with the 3.8-liter flat-six engine producing an identical 450HP at 8,500 rpm.

However, it does get a race exhaust system that features a controlled catalytic converter to reduce CO2 emissions.

The new GT3 Cup has a larger 100-liter FT3 safety fuel tank, which is filled via an opening in the hood. According to Porsche, this change makes the car more suitable for a wider range of endurance racing.

The Porsche racer rides on 18-inch wheels shod in 25/64-18 front and 30/68-18 Michelin racing tires.

Both the front and rear anti-roll bars are adjustable in seven positions in order to achieve a customized set-up for each occasion.

In addition, the Porsche Mobil1 Supercar racers, which support the F1 championship, get exclusive use of the PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes that, compared to the composite cast units used in other race versions of the 911, reduce overall weight by 20 kg.

Deliveries of the new 911 GT3 Cup will start in September and the car will be available in this specification for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. Pricing starts from €161,750 (~ US$228,700) not including local taxes.

Photos  Porsche  MY 911 GT3 2012 at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2011:

Toyota-Yaris-2012-US

Toyota Yaris 2012 Announces Prices at Lollapalooza Music Fest US – Latest review & photos of Toyota Yaris 2012: When an automaker is ready to launch a new model into the market, we usually receive a press release along with some initial or teaser photos before we see it in person at a major auto show.

But that’s not the case with the U.S. market version of the 2012 Yaris as Toyota quietly unwrapped the car under a tent at the…Lollapalooza annual music festival in Chicago this past weekend while today, the Japanese company announced U.S. pricing without, however, releasing any photos or further details. Strange indeed.

We’ll remind you that the new generation of the Yaris was first shown in Japan in December, 2010. Toyota then presented a concept hybrid version at the Geneva Show in March this year before revealing the final production model for Europe in June and for Australia in July at the Melbourne Motor Show.

Toyota said the redesigned 2012 Yaris’s base MSRP will range from $14,115 for the L grade three-door liftback fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox to $17,200 for the SE grade five-door liftback with a four-speed automatic transmission.

The aforementioned MSRPs do not include a $760 delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee which lifts prices to $14,875 and $17,960 for the 2012 Yaris L and Yaris SE grades respectively

Toyota said that pricing for the new model is “comparable to a Convenience Package-equipped current generation Yaris” adding that production of the car will start on August 31.

And while Toyota did not announce any further details, Cars.com editor Joe Bruzek was at the Lollapalooza music fest where he managed to get a look at the spec sheet found on the 2012 Yaris LE that was on display.

The LE comes fitted with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota stating on the spec sheet that the manual model will return an estimated fuel efficiency of 30mpg city and 38mpgh highway, while the automatic 30mpg city and 35 mpg highway.

By comparison, the current generation Yaris that also features a 1.5-liter gasoline unit, returns 29mpg/36mpg when equipped with a manual gearbox and 29mpg/35mpg when fitted with an automatic.

While we wait for Toyota to release photos of the North American-specification 2012 Yaris, scroll down for a video and a comprehensive gallery of the European market model.

Photos of  Toyota Yaris 2012 at Lollapalooza Music Fest US:

Ford-Harley-Davidson-F-150-2012

Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 2012 models – Latest photos & review of Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 2012: Since teaming up in 1999, the brand alliance between Ford and Harley-Davidson has produced 10 F-150 models, six Super Duty F-250 and F-350 models, as well as the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck in 2009, resulting in more than 70,000 sales.

The latest Ford model to wear the Harley Davidson badge is the 2012 F-150, which like its predecessors, gains distinctive design tweaks and added standard features.

This year’s F-150 H-D is offered in the traditional Tuxedo Black color or a new White Platinum Tri-Coat finish combined with fresh bodyside graphics executed in a snakeskin texture.

The brand-new 22-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted accents and unique center cap shod in low profile tries, along with the smoked out headlamps and tail lights, as well as the six-bar billet-style bright chrome grille and “Harley-Davidson” badging, complete the exterior mods.

Inside, the trim panels are covered in high-gloss Tuxedo Black paint, while the console lid and upper steering wheel are dressed in snakeskin leather.

Ford’s reptilian love affair continues with the scuff plates featuring brushed aluminum trim with snakeskin texture, as well as the snakeskin leather-trimmed seats with accent color inserts and unique cloisonné badge.

Standard features include a 4.2-inch LCD productivity screen, voice-activated Navigation System, power moonroof, rear view camera, second-row heated seats, ambient lighting, remote start system, a 110-volt power inverter and power-adjustable pedals.

The 2012 F-150 H-D is powered by Ford’s 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides a maximum trailer towing capability of 7,500 pounds.

Pricing and availability have not yet been announced.

Photos of  Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 2012:

Opel-Insignia-2012

Opel Insignia 2012 With 140HP 1.4 Turbo and 250HP 2.0 Turbo – Latest photos & review of Opel Insignia 2012 : The Opel Insignia is entering the 2012 model year with some modest upgrades that include the broader availability of the 1.4-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines in more markets across Europe and new technology systems.

Even though Opel makes word of a new 1.4-liter Turbo petrol that replaces the naturally aspirated 1.8-liter unit with the same output, as well as a new 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol for the 4×4 model with 30 more horses for a total of 250HP, we know for a fact that both engines were already available in certain market.

That said, we reckon Opel means it will roll out the new engine options to all markets across Europe with the 2012 Insignia.

As a reminder, the 1.4-liter Turbo ecoFLEX offers the Insignia a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 205km/h, while returning a combined fuel efficiency of 5.9lt/100km (39.9mpg US with CO2 emissions of 134g/km.

The 250HP (184kW) 2.0-liter Turbo accelerates the Insignia 4×4 from zero to 100km/h) in 7.5 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). It consumes 8.9 lt/100 km (26.4mpg US) on average with CO2 emissions of 209g/km.

For the new model year, Opel will also enhance the 220HP 2.0-liter Turbo Insignia with front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission, with a start/stop system, aerodynamic underbody paneling and rolling-resistance-optimized tires, all of which will help reduce fuel consumption by 0.5 to 7.6 liters per 100km and CO2 emissions from 189g/km to 179g/km.

Throughout the range, Buick Regal’s European counterpart benefits from the new Navi 600 and Navi 900 Europa infotainment systems featuring SD cards, a revised front camera that adds a Following Distance Indication function to the traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning systems, new available leather trims and a new dark metallic lacquer “Luxor” exterior color.

The updated for the 2012 model year Opel Insignia will make its first public appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Photos of  Opel Insignia 2012:

Opel-Insignia-2012

Nissan-Micra-DIG-S-2011

Nissan Micra DIG S 2011 With new price in UK – Latest photos & review of Nissan Micra DIG S 2011: The new Nissan Micra DIG-S -which stands for “Direct Injection Gasoline – Supercharged”- is available to order in UK with on-the-road prices starting at £11,500. First deliveries will take place on September 1.

The new version of the Micra, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, is powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder supercharged gasoline engine delivering an output of 98HP.

According to Nissan, the new powerplant “offers the performance of a bigger petrol engine with the fuel economy of a diesel”.

Nissan’s claims are supported by the 68.9 mpgUK (57.36 mpg US or 4,09 lt/100 km) and 95 g/km CO2 emissions of the base Visia edition, while for the better-equipped and thus heavier Acenta and Tekna, the respective numbers are 65.7 mpg UK (54.7mpg UK or 4.3 lt/100 km) and 99 g/km.

The DIG-S engine operates on the Miller Cycle, where the inlet valve stays open longer. Along with a high compression ratio, direct injection, variable timing control with eco mode, specially shaped pistons and auto stop-start system, the Micra DIG-S offers increased fuel efficiency and exemption from UK road tax and congestion charges.

The DIG-S Micra costs £1,000 more than the equivalent non-supercharged version and is available with a five-speed manual gearbox. The basic Visia version costs £11,150, the Acenta £12,150 and the Tekna £13,650. Buyers can opt for a CVT auto transmission, which adds another £1,000 to the price.

Photos of  Nissan Micra DIG S 2011:

Cadillac-XTS-Luxury Sedan-2013

Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan 2013 – Latest review & photos of Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan 2013: The Cadillac-related announcements keep dropping in as after the release of a teaser photo of the firm’s entry-level compact sedan codenamed ATS, GM revealed that we’re also going to see a flagship luxury sedan model added to Cadillac’s range in the Spring of 2012.

We will come to know that model as the Cadillac XTS and it will replace both the current STS and the DTS, the production of which was terminated this year.

General Motors may not have published a teaser photo of its Cadillac range-topper in the sedan category but the Detroit firm said it will be modeled closely after last year’s XTS Platinum concept study adding that the final production model will be revealed in the coming months – obviously either in LA this November or Detroit in January 2012.

The company is highly optimistic for the new XTS claiming it will compete against the best.

“The Cadillac XTS is being designed to compete and win against the finest luxury cars,” GM said in a prepared statement. “It takes a new, modern approach to the large luxury sedan, combining high-tech electronics and engaging driving dynamics in a car that is also elegant and spacious,” the company added.

The new 2013 Cadillac XTS will be manufactured at the Oshawa Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, with GM saying it will invest $117 million to prepare the facility and at the same time, “create or retain” 400 jobs on the Flex Line

Photos of  Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan 2013:

Mercedes-Benz-SLK-2012-Brabus

Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster 2012 Polished up by Brabus – Latest review & photos of Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster by Brabus 2012: Whenever there’s a new Mercedes-Benz model out, you can be sure that Brabus will be one of the first customizers to jump on the tuning bandwagon.

For the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster, the German firm has developed an extensive customization program to take care of both the styling and performance aspects of the car.

Brabus says it is currently working on more extreme engine upgrades but for the time being, an available kit promises an increase of 26-horsepower and an additional 30Nm (22 lb-ft) of peak torque for the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY.

There are two available performance packages for the SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY. The first kit bumps output from 204HP to 230HP, while the second package lifts output to 240-horses and 370Nm (273 lb-ft) for a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 248km/h (154mph).

Those looking for a deeper exhaust note can order a stainless-steel sport exhaust system with quad tailpipes. Brabus will also add a sports suspension that lowers the two-seater model’s ride height by some 30 mm (1.2-inches) and a high-performance braking system.

On the outside, the German company has developed several aerodynamic components including a front bumper with spoiler lips, side sills, a rear diffuser with a centrally mounted rear reflector and a boot lid spoiler.

There are several alloy wheel designs to choose from ranging in size from 17- to 20-inches. The larger rims are shod in high-performance tires from Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 on the front axle and 275/25 ZR 20 at the back.

Finally, Brabus offers a variety of interior upgrades ranging from high-gloss polished stainless-steel scuff plates and aluminum foot pedals and shifter to bespoke leather treatments.

Photos of  Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster 2012:

BMW-Turbocharges-X3-2012

BMW Turbocharges X3 xDrive 20i 2012 with Two New Engines – Latest review & photos of BMW Turbocharges X3 xDrive 20i 2012: A pair of new turbocharged engines will soon be added to the range of the recently-launched BMW X3. These include a base four-cylinder gasoline unit and a flagship straight-six diesel.

The new entry level version of the X3, the xDrive20i, is powered by a 2.0-liter aluminum four cylinder gasoline engine featuring a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, Double Vanos variable camshaft control and Valvetronic variable valve control system. It delivers 184HP at 4,800 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque from just 1,250 rpm.

The X3 xDrive20i will be offered with either a 6-speed manual or, optionally, an 8-speed automatic transmission both of which (as the “x” denomination reveals) will direct power to all four wheels.

The second new powerplant is a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel with twin-stage turbocharging and the latest generation of BMW’s common-rail direct injection system with up to 1,800 bar of pressure. It will power the X3 xDrive35d, which with 313HP and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque from 1,500-2,500 rpm, is the most powerful version yet in line-up.

At low engine speeds, only the smaller turbocharger operates with the compressed air passing through the larger one building up pressure. Thus, when maximum power is needed, an electronic controller engages the larger turbocharger promising “spontaneous response”. The xDrive35d comes standard with four-wheel drive, an 8-speed auto gearbox and an auto stop-start system.

Both the xDrive20i and the xDrive35d will go on sale this fall.

Other changes to the X3 include the revised Auto Hold and ConnectedDrive systems plus new interior trim options.

Photos of  BMW Turbocharges X3 xDrive 20i 2012:

GM-buick-regal-2012

GM Buick GS 2012 and GM Buick eAssist 2012 Releases Pricing – Latest Price & review For GM Buick GS 2012 and GM Buick eAssist 2012: This fall will see Buick adding two more offerings to its Regal range, namely the performance orientated GS that’s powered by a turbocharged four, and the fuel efficient eAssist featuring a “light” hybrid powertrain.

Pricing for the 2012 Regal GS starts at $35,310 while the 2012 Regal eAssist at $29,530 , with both prices including $860 in destination charges.

The Regal GS comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower (201kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400Nm). Power is transferred to the front-wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-speed automatic to be available later in the year. The Regal GS returns an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg on the highway.

Standard features include 19-inch rims, push-button start; a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom sport steering wheel with audio controls; metal sport pedals; leather-appointed, heated and 12-way adjustable sport seats and a Harman Kardon sound system with nine speakers.

The Regal eAssist features a belt-driven, liquid-cooled electric motor/generator in place of the alternator that provides15HP (11 kW) and 79 lb-ft of assistance for the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.

The system allows the Regal eAssist to deliver an EPA-rated 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Buick said the eAssist system is a $2,000 option on the Regal base model which will continue to be offered as a standalone model with the 2.4-liter gasoline engine.

Photos GM Buick GS 2012: