A Photo Gallery from the VW Group Family Gathering in Geneva

Like every year, the Volkswagen Group held a special media event on the night before the opening of the Geneva International Auto Salon, where it rolled out all a selection of its world premieres.

Two of the most eye-catching and talked about models were the Lamborghini Veneno and the Porsche 911 GT3 � coincidentally, the former to celebrate the Italian brand's 50th anniversary, and the latter the 50th birthday of the 911 series.

Bugatti showed off another specially version of the Veyron hypercar, while Bentley was represented by the new Flying Spur luxury sedan, and Italdesign by the Lamborghini-powered Parcour concept cars.

Other new models to go on show were the super-frugal VW XL1, of which only 250 examples will be built, the VW e-Co-Motion van, the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron and RS6 Avant, the Seat Leon SC, and the latest generation of the Skoda Octavia.

We'll have more pictures and details on each car from the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow morning.

Articles Source : Carscoop

Seat Announces Geneva Auto Salon-Bound Mii Ecofuel

If the Seat-badged counterpart of the Volkswagen Up!, the ultra-compact Mii, isn't frugal enough for you, the Spanish manufacturer has now announced an even cleaner and cheaper to run version called the Ecofuel.

However, don't expect a hybrid system, or a small fuel-sipping diesel, as they have gone the way of the Up! eco and modified the car to run on cheaper and more environmentally-friendly compressed natural gas (CNG or LPG).

The engine is the same as in the regular Mii, a 1.0-liter three-pot unit, which makes 68 hp and 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque. Furthermore, if you happen to not find a CNG filling station, you won't have to worry, as it can also run on regular gasoline just fine.

According to Seat, the Mii Ecofuel is easily their most efficient model, using up 2.9 kg of CNG per 100 km, while emitting a measly 79 g/km of CO2. The car will also feature a Stop-Start system, low rolling resistance tires and a Brake Energy Recovery system. The very low CO2 figure will make it tax-exempt in some European countries, a big selling point in its own right.

The car is expected to cost from �12,050 in Germany, but prices will differ slightly depending on the market. Still, it is some �900 cheaper than the Up! eco, and considering the fact that it is basically the same car, it is probably the better buy.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

Stunning design, outstanding performance and state-of-the-art technology - the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra represents the essence of the SEAT brand like no other model. With its compact dimensions and high level of functionality, the new Ibiza Cupra delivers sporting performance for every day, accompanied by a truly impressive set of figures. From a standing start, the Cupra completes the sprint to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 228 km/h, making the SEAT Ibiza Cupra one of the most dynamic models in its class. In terms of performance, the new Cupra is even better than the previous model, as is its already exceptional efficiency: Its average fuel consumption stands at just 5.9 litres/100 km, its CO2 emissions at 139 grams per kilometre.

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

2013 Seat Ibiza Cupra

The new SEAT Ibiza Cupra takes an existing success story to a whole new level. The first generation was launched in 1997, since when the highly dynamic Cupra models have developed to become an icon of the SEAT brand. Cupra stands for Cup Racing, and the exclusive lettering is reserved purely for the brand's sportiest models.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra features 132 kW (180 hp) of output, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), XDS electronic differential lock, high-performance brakes - this exceptional level of technological expertise is as much a given for the new Ibiza Cupra as the extensive equipment featuring a host of innovative details. One example is the optional SEAT Portable System, which combines the navigation and entertainment functions, and can be removed for mobile use.

"The Ibiza Cupra is a true icon of the SEAT brand. Its stunning design and outstanding dynamics promise sheer driving fun kilometre after kilometre," says James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A. "With its innovative technologies, premium interior and further improved quality, the new Ibiza Cupra clearly shows the speed and determination with which our brand is developing."

The Design

The stunning design shows the sporty character of the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra at first glance. The three-door coup� has a muscular and powerful stance, while the redesigned face with its broad grille and very powerful air intakes adds emphasis to the vehicle's breadth and solidity - and provides a highly visible indication of the Ibiza Cupra's amazing performance.

The angular line of the headlamps is typical of the new SEAT design language, while fitting perfectly into the Ibiza's sculptural form. The bi-xenon lights are standard equipment and their sophisticated design offers a clear view of the attention to detail that is standard practice at SEAT. The LED daytime running lights pick up the line of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, just like the rear lights, which also feature LED technology. From a technical standpoint, the bi-xenon headlamps deliver excellent illumination of the road ahead. The cornering lights are integrated into the large fog lamps.

The side view of the dynamic compact car is brought to life by its sharp lines and edges. The accentuated rear shoulders and the exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels emphasise the sporty look. The black gloss exterior mirrors set a clear contrast to the paintwork of the SEAT Ibiza Cupra. The Ibiza Cupra also comes as standard with tinted side windows.

At the muscular rear end, a broad bumper frames the substantial, matt-black diffuser with the trapezoidal tailpipe fairing. The Cupra lettering and logo on the rear hatch is a confident statement of the special role played by the compact sports car as the new benchmark in its class.

"The new Ibiza Cupra is packed with emotion. It lines emulate the taut muscularity of a performance athlete. It has a solid and powerful stance, displays its dynamics, yet has a steady air of refinement and self-confidence," says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Head of SEAT Design. "The new-generation Ibiza Cupra is the perfect embodiment of the SEAT brand identity."

The Interior

The emotional power of the exterior design is also reflected in the interior of the SEAT Ibiza Cupra. The cockpit displays an impressive array of sporty details - while remaining clear and intuitive to operate. The outstanding feeling of quality and the precision craftsmanship underscore SEAT's attention to detail. All of the Ibiza Cupra's touch points have been given special treatment, to enrich the interaction with the car.

The new sports steering wheel with the Cupra logo on the lower of the three spokes also features pale grey stitching and black glossy inserts in the spokes. Just behind the rim are the perfectly positioned shift paddles for the DSG gearbox and just beyond the wheel are the clear, easy-to-read instruments featuring a sporty design which is unique to the top model in the Ibiza line-up. The pedals are aluminium in appearance, with high friction rubber contact points.

The exclusive Cupra sports seats are optionally available in two-tone leather. They provide excellent grip and support thanks to their generously proportioned side cushions and ergonomic form. The seats feature distinctive pale grey inserts that run along the edge of the seat base and the back support and even up to the head-rest. The inner trim of the doors also features a pale grey insert, bringing a sophisticated and tasteful appearance to the interior.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra comes to market with a completely new entertainment system. As well as being recently re-designed with a clear interface for easy, intuitive operation, the powerful audio system can be complemented by the innovative SEAT Portable System. The surprisingly inexpensive solution with a touch-sensitive, 5-inch screen is perfectly integrated into the vehicle electronics system - and at the same time, easy to remove at any time for mobile use in one simple step.

The many and varied functions of the SEAT Portable System include the GPS navigation function, the hands-free phone system (Bluetooth) with voice control and wireless audio streaming (Bluetooth). The easy-to-operate in-car computer provides the driver with an extensive assortment of information. If desired the display also shows the current engine speed and coolant temperature. A dedicated Cupra screen greets the driver every time the system is started. Useful extras include an electronic "note" feature and the "Highbeam" function, which provides additional interior illumination on exiting the car at night. The screen can also show visual warnings issued to indicate when a door has been left open.

The SEAT Portable System is part of an ongoing development programme. Additional functions will be available in the Spring. These include the option of online access via a mobile phone connected to the system. This will facilitate access to up-to-the-minute traffic, traffic enforcement warnings, weather bulletins and enable local search functions.

Articles Source : NetCarshow