Nissan working on Juke-based BRZ/FR-S rival?

With the BRZ/FR-S selling like mad, it's no surprise other carmakers are looking jealously at the sales numbers. If rumors are to be believed, Nissan is no exception.

 

Nissan Compact Coupe Concept

 

Nissan Compact Coupe Concept

 

Nissan Compact Coupe Concept

 

Nissan Compact Coupe Concept

 

Nissan Compact Coupe Concept

Motor Trend says it's been told Nissan is working on its own sports coupe to compete with Toyota and Subaru. It's not the first time we've heard such plans, though. Back in 2008, Nissan was reportedly working on a 240SX successor but as the economy started running out of gas, so did that project.

Nissan did, however, show off the Compact Sport Concept at the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show pictured above. Looking very much Juke-like but a bit shorter, and, well, compact.

Coincidentally, rumors say the new plan is to use the Juke platform. Inside the company the project is being called the "Mini-Z," despite the fact it would almost certainly be front-wheel or all-wheel drive. That would help differentiate it from the BRZ/FR-S, but would certainly turn off those of us with sportier intentions.

Nissan's 190-horsepower, 1.6-liter turbo was underhood in the concept, and if used in the production car, would have fewer horses but a wider torque band than its competitors from Toyota and Subaru.

Motor Trend says the U.S. probably wouldn't be the initial target market, but instead China, Japan and Europe would be first with American buyers still in consideration. The mag's source says the Mini-Z should be close in size to Honda's CR-Z and should start production sometime late next year. Check out Nissan's press release on the Compact Sport Concept below.

Articles Source : Autoblog

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

The latest Beetle might be 'more power, less flower', but that doesn't mean that it's anything other than environmentally conscientious, and that's especially the case with the Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept, which is powered purely by electricity.

Revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the two-seat VW E-Bugster Concept continues the latest Beetle's sporty theme. An electric motor provides 85 kWh of power, which can propel it from 0 to 60 mph in 10.9 seconds, and yet offer a range of at least 110 miles from the 28.3 kWh lithium-ion batteries. Even in a country as large as America, that's sufficient for the majority of commuters' needs, while if the E-Bugster needs a top-up, a fast-charging function allows complete recharging in just 35 minutes.

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

The quick charging is possible thanks to a new Combined Charging System that was developed in co-operation with Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche, Ford and General Motors/Opel. This allows charging via single-phase AC sources (for example a 120-Volt US or 230-Volt European domestic outlet) or via ultra-fast DC sources at specific charging stations. To succeed, this will require the development of a uniform industry standard for sockets and plugs and also for the charge controller, so that all charging types can be handled.

Of course, the Volkswagen E-Bugster doesn't charge only when plugged in: as soon as the driver's foot leaves the accelerator pedal kinetic energy is transformed into electricity and stored in the battery. Applying the brakes increases the intensity of regeneration, a function that is indicated to the driver in the instrument panel. Other instruments include driving range and battery state indicators, and a meter that shows how much energy the driver is requesting via the accelerator pedal.

At 4,278 mm long and 1,838 mm wide, the E-Bugster is the same length as a standard Beetle but 30 mm wider, while the new roof lowers the height by around 90 mm to 1,400 mm. This helps to give the Volkswagen E-Bugster its more dynamic and sporty look. The low, swept-back windscreen ensures maximum visibility, as does the wide rear screen, which shows that speedster-style vehicles need not be impractical.

Both front and rear bumpers have been substantially modified from those of the production Beetle. At the front, LED daytime running lights at the outer edges of the central air intake form a C-shape on the left that is mirrored on the right - a signature feature of Volkswagen's electric vehicle concepts. This is also true at the back, where reflectors take the place of LEDs. Beneath the flared wheel arches sit 20-inch alloy wheels that are adapted from the 18-inch 'Twister' alloys of the production car, with 235/35 tyres. Around the bottom edge of the side windows is a chrome strip that loops around the vehicle from A-pillar to A-pillar. From this chrome strip to the top of the VW E-Bugster's hard top the height is a low 400mm.

Inside, the two-seat interior reflects the E-Bugster's blend of high-tech and sportiness, with sports seats nestling either side of a continuous centre console, plus aluminium door handles and seatbelt guides.

Starting the Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept is pure theatre: upon pressing the Start button the interior is bathed in white light, then blue light. It starts with a light pulse in the instrument cluster, from where the light emanates in a millimetre-wide strip, coursing into the doors and around the air nozzles.

If the E-Bugster's name is familiar, it should be: it takes some inspiration from the Ragster concept that made its debut at the 2005 Detroit Show, and which itself inspired the current Beetle. The 'E' of the name signifies the vehicle's electric power, and the 'Bug' part of the name should need no explanation.

Articles Source : Netcarshow

2013 Lotus Esprit

Powered by a 5.0 litre V8 pressure charged engine delivering up to 620 PS, the Esprit retains exceptional performance through it�s unique lightweight design making it the ultimate expression of Lotus supercar ownership. It is the supercar that will redefine ride and handling, performance, comfort and exclusivity.

 

2013 Lotus Esprit

 

2013 Lotus Esprit

 

2013 Lotus Esprit

 

2013 Lotus Esprit

 

2013 Lotus Esprit

The styling of the Esprit echoes the performance with strong lines throughout the sleek low body. The symmetry through the mass and proportion of the Esprit give it an intense look, it�s the perfect example of the new Lotus DNA in action.

Lotus Esprit Specification

• * Layout: 2 seater, mid-engined, rear wheel drive
• * Engine: Petrol, hybrid optional
• * Hybrid technology: Optional KERS
• * Cylinder: V8
• * Capacity: 5.0 litre
• * Power/Torque: 620 PS / 720 Nm
• * Rev limit: 8,500 rpm
• * 0-100 km/h: 3.4 seconds
• * Top speed: 330 km/h
• * CO2/km: 250 g/km (using optional hybrid technology)
• * Weight: 1,450 kg
• * Seats: 2
• * Transmission: 7 Speed DCT
• * Drive: RWD
• * Start of production: End of 2012
• * Enters the market: Spring 2013
• * Price indication: Circa �110,000

Articles Soerce : Lincah

2008 Lotus Exige S 240

Although hardly struggling in the performance department in standard 220 PS guise, the Exige S is now being offered with an optional Performance Pack.

 

2008 Lotus Exige S 240

 

2008 Lotus Exige S 240

 

2008 Lotus Exige S 240

 

2008 Lotus Exige S 240

This raises power to the same 240 PS / 179 kW (minimum) at 8000 rpm enjoyed by the limited edition 240R, courtesy of a Magnuson/Eaton M62 supercharger and new, faster flowing injectors, and higher torque clutch system and an upsized roof scoop.

This hike in power, together with an increase in torque to 170 lbft / 230 Nm / 23.5 kgm at 5,500 rpm from the standard 158.6 lbft / 215 Nm (22 kgm) at 5500 rpm, helps whisk the Performance Pack Exige S from zero to 60mph in 4.0 secs / 0-100km/h in 4.2 secs (estimated) and from standstill to 100mph in 9.7 secs (estimated). Top speed rises to 153 mph (estimated).

The power and torque of the 240 PS engine is increased across the rev range giving even more flexibility. Inspite of this phenomenal performance the fuel economy is impressive with an estimated combined figure of 9.1 litres / 100 km (31.0 mpg).

Of course the increased power and straight-line performance are only a couple of elements of the Performance Pack option. The clutch is uprated and a clutch damper fitted; there are thicker, 308mm diameter cross-drilled and vented discs at the front clamped by AP Racing fourpiston callipers; the standard brakes pads are replaced by uprated items and there are braided brake hoses.

Articles Soerce : Lincah

Next Subaru WRX previewed by Advanced Tourer concept

There was nary a peep of discontent about the looks of the Subaru Advanced Tourer concept revealed at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. But when everyone was clamoring for Scooby to transfer the Advanced Tourer's looks to a production vehicle, never once did people ask for that transfer to be foisted on the WRX. A report in Motor Trend, though, says that's what's happening: the concept "was actually an early look at the next-generation Subaru WRX."

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

 

Subaru Advanced Tourer concept

MT's sources said the front end Advanced Tourer's front end will go onto the WRX, with other aspects of the concept made more aggressive to suit the personality of Subaru's rally-ready racer. And if the concept also presages the next WRX's dimensions, then you can expect the next-generation sedan and hatchback to be larger (though in truth we don't anticipate a big gain in footprint).

Notice the name "Impreza" hasn't appeared anywhere in our discussion yet. Subaru is reportedly dropping the name in an attempt to get more 'Likes' for the WRX by making it more approachable, so the next model will relinquish its association with the Impreza line and be more performanced focused even as it is receives a better interior and is morphed into a "more-mature sporty grand tourer." Engine choices are still being debated for the car due in 2015; the rumored options include 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders and a hybrid version of the 1.6-liter.

Articles Source : Autoblog

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2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

Drawing inspiration from classic sports cars, the 2009 Pontiac Solstice coupe was created for drivers who appreciate both dramatic styling and balanced performance. Unveiled at the New York Auto Show as a GXP model, the Solstice coupe builds on the success of the convertible model while offering a greater range of all-season driving opportunities.

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

For drivers still wanting an open-air experience, the coupe also features a removable roof panel, fully opening the cockpit to all of the sensations of the road.

"Today's Solstice is the top-selling roadster in the U.S., and we believe this new model has even broader appeal," said Jim Bunnell, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager. "The coupe has all the design cues and pleasing performance of the original roadster, and is an all-season alternative for people who enjoy open-air driving."

The coupe is expected to arrive in Pontiac dealerships in early 2009.

The making of a coupe

The new coupe was inspired by the Pontiac Solstice coupe concept shown at the North American International Auto Show in 2002. True to the concept, it is a modern sports car with classic lines. The roofline has a "fastback" shape with stylized "rails" that run from the front of the roof to the rear, culminating in a stylish and functional ducktail-style rear spoiler.

The coupe's roof is fixed aft of the B-pillars, with side windows and a rear liftglass for access to the cargo area. The roof panel is easily removed from the passenger compartment, and an optional soft roof cover stores in the cargo area. A home storage case for the roof panel will be offered through GM Accessories.

Engineering the design

Despite its dramatic new look, engineers made only minor structural changes to create the Pontiac Solstice coupe. The rear fenders and rear fascia are the same as those on the convertible. New taillight assemblies flow more smoothly into the tapered roofline.

"The Solstice coupe represents a major collaboration of design and engineering," said Bruce Kosbab, chief engineer. "The sleek lines of the new roof give the car a fresh appearance, yet only minimal changes were made to the body structure - it's a great example of building on an already solid foundation."

Lightweight structure

The roof's structure was strengthened with additional support elements, including an aluminum roof bow attached with aluminum brackets. The bow and brackets are stiff, yet low in mass, a design feature that pervades the coupe's overall construction. The roof includes a lightweight sheet molding compound cover affixed to a rigid aluminum frame for additional lightweight support. A lightweight magnesium roof panel frame weighs just 31 pounds (14.2 kg) and can be removed by one person. The cover is also made of sheet molding compound.

Powertrain and suspension

Because the change to a coupe body style resulted in only a slight increase in curb weight, no drivetrain or suspension changes were necessary to shift from the convertible body structure. Initial tests have shown that the Solstice coupe will deliver ride and handling, acceleration, braking and fuel economy comparable to the convertible model.

The coupe is powered by a standard 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine that generates 173 horsepower (129 kW), while the GXP version is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec engine with 260 horsepower (194 kW).

Interior additions

Much of the coupe's interior remains the same as that of the convertible. However, the area behind the seats was redesigned for easy access to the cargo area, and a storage tray was mounted directly behind the headrests.

Removing the folding-top mechanism made way for a new, flat cargo floor and several storage compartments. The cargo area's covered bins provide secure storage for smaller items. Cargo tie-down hooks help secure irregularly shaped items.

Articles Source : NetcarShow