Insider: Alfa Romeo 4C gets 240PS / 270PS, Racing, Stradale & Roadster Variants Confirmed

Sergio Marchionne�s ambitious plan for the resurrection of Alfa Romeo calls for no less than six new models for launch in the U.S. market until the end of 2016. The thing is that, four of them are earmarked for 2015 and one for 2016, leaving just one model for this year: the 4C mid-engine sports coupe.

Thanks to a CarScoop reader who happens to be a Swiss dealer and who attended an Alfa Romeo meeting earlier this month, we are in a position to share several new details about the production 4C that will likely be presented at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Contrary to initial reports that its 1.7-liter turbocharged inline-four could put out as much as 300-horses, Alfa Romeo officials told dealers that its output will be 240PS or 237hp for the base model, the same as in the Giulietta QV from which it is borrowed.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

If a four-cylinder sounds inappropriate for an Italian supercar, the carbon fiber chassis will keep the weight low, though, we assume it will be more than the 850 kg (1,874 pounds) that were announced for the concept model and which theoretically give the 4C an impressively lower power-to-weight ratio of 3.5 kg/PS.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Nevertheless, it should be able to keep up with other mid-engine sports cars like the new 275PS (271hp) Porsche Cayman and perhaps even the Cayman S which, despite boasting 325PS (321hp), is much heavier at 1,320 kg (2,910 pounds) and has a power to weight ratio of 3,78 kg/PS.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Moreover, our source said that Alfa is targeting a price between �56,000 and �64,000 (equal to US$76,400-$87,300 at today's rates), depending on the trim level, in Switzerland.

This means that the 4C will be priced closer to the base 275PS Cayman, which costs �57,500 (US$79,000) in Switzerland rather than the 325PS Cayman S, which at �71,230 (US$97,300) is far more expensive. To get an idea of what it may cost in the States, the base Cayman has an MSRP of $52,600, and Cayman S, $63,800.

Even if signore Marchionne doesn't change his mind on the 4C pricing policy, he probably won�t have a problem shifting all the cars Alfa will make.

That�s because, according to our insider, global production will be limited to just 2,000 units, equally split between the coupe (1,000 units) and the roadster model (1,000 units) that was also confirmed during the Alfa Romeo dealer meeting.

This number also includes the track-only �Racing� version as well as the road-legal Stradale, both of which will be introduced in 2014 featuring a more potent engine delivering 270PS (266hp).

Last, but certainly not least, having recently snapped a lightly camouflaged test car, we know that the production 4C will remain faithful to the gorgeous concept in terms of design and will also retain its compact dimensions, with only subtle changes such as the shape of the rear diffuser and the exterior mirrors.

Articles Source : Carscoop

Ferrari�s New F138 2013 Formula 1 Car is Evolutionary Rather Than Revolutionary

On Friday, February 1, Ferrari unveiled the new single-seater with which Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa will fight for the 2013 Formula 1 World Championship.

The new car is named the F138, with the first two digits standing for the year (2013) and the �8� for the number of cylinders as well as the eighth season the team is using that configuration.

With F1 switching to V6 turbocharged engines, the project 664 (as it is code-named) is a development of last year�s F2012 rather than a clean-sheet design. Of course, practically every one of its nearly six thousand components has been revised for maximum efficiency but the basics, such as the suspension layout and the engine, follow the same philosophy.

As head of the production department Corrado Lanzone put it, there were two main priorities during the F138�s development, weight reduction and miniaturization, while Luca Marmorini, the head of engine and electronics, said that the Scuderia worked on improving on the F2012�s already exemplary reliability.

The most noticeable change is at the rear, which is much narrower, while the Drag Reduction System (DRS) on the rear wing has been optimized and the single control unit that will be mandatory for 2014 has been introduced one year early.

Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo said the F138 is �hopeful� and he is optimistic that it will be competitive from the first race due to the attention that has been paid to every detail, especially in the aerodynamics.

As for the engines, he once again expressed his opposition to the 2014 change: �A V6 engine is not part of the Ferrari tradition and in the name of the F138 we are paying homage to the eight cylinder engine and the fact that this is the last year we will use it. I continue to maintain, for economic, musical and power reasons that it would be better to stick with eight cylinders. But the decision has been taken to build the V6 and, in fact, I�m sure Ferrari is capable of building the strongest V6 in the world.�

Surprisingly, Ferrari used Toyota�s wind tunnel instead of its own because, as di Montezemolo explained, the team �had doubts as to the correlation of data from the wind tunnel and the track�, so they closed it down and will rebuild it in time for the summer break.

You can scroll down for the image gallery and the video of the F138 official launch.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG models are becoming even more dynamic: the AMG high-performance cars are being fitted with an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with increased output as exclusive "Edition 507" models. The increase of 37 kW (50 hp) now brings output to 373 kW (507 hp) with a maximum torque of 610 Nm, and is a result of a technology transfer from the SLS AMG: the eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine from the super sports car features forged pistons, connecting rods and a lightweight crankshaft. An AMG high-performance composite braking system with red brake callipers is fitted as standard. The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" is designed to appeal to ambitious sports drivers who take pleasure in top-class technology as well as exclusive design and appointment details.

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" produces 373 kW (507 hp), and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds in the guise of the Saloon and Coup�, and in 4.3 seconds as the Estate. As such it outperforms the 336 kW (457 hp) standard model by two tenths of a second, and the variants with the AMG Performance package which produce 358 kW (487 hp) by one tenth of a second each. The top speed of all variants is 280 km/h (electronically limited): this is because as standard the "Edition 507" models are fitted with the AMG Driver's package. In addition to an increase in the restriction imposed on the top speed, the package also includes a voucher for attendance of a driver training session at the AMG Driving Academy.

According to Ola K�llenius,Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The C63 AMG with the classic AMG 6.3-litre high-revving V8 naturally aspirated engine is one of the most popular AMG high-performance cars in the world. With the new C63 AMG "Edition 507", we are offering our loyal customers an attractive model variant which boasts even higher performance and at the same time is visually exciting."

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" featuring technology transfer from the SLS AMG

The increase in power output to 373 kW (507 hp) at 6800 rpm comes courtesy of the modified inner workings of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine: the forged pistons adopted from the SLS AMG, together with new connecting rods and a lightweight crankshaft, translate into a weight saving of three kilogrammes. The reduced mass inertia benefits the agility of the eight-cylinder M 156 naturally aspirated engine, which now features even higher levels of flexibility. The maximum torque has also increased by 10 Nm, jumping from 600 to 610 Nm at 5200 rpm. The titanium grey-painted variable intake manifold is a characteristic feature of the uprated V8 engine. A new engine control system rounds off the series of implemented powertrain measures.

Externally, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" is characterised by a host of exclusive design features: most notable among these is the bonnet - it originates from the C63 AMG Coup� Black Series. Two openings in the distinctive aluminium bonnet help with expelling engine heat. New AMG light-alloy cross-spoke wheels with tyres in sizes 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) are another exclusive feature of the "Edition 507". The AMG light-alloy wheels are produced using particularly lightweight forging technology and are available in two variants: painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, or matt black with high-sheen rim flanges. AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey above the side sill panels are yet another new feature of the exterior.

The spoiler lip on the boot lid (Saloon and Coup� only), the exterior mirror housings as well as the surrounds on the radiator grille and daytime driving lights are all finished in high-gloss black. Darkened headlamps also add a distinctively sporty touch. Available as an optional extra exclusively for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" is the designo magno platinum paint finish.

AMG high-performance braking system featuring composite technology

As standard, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" comes with an even more powerful AMG high-performance braking system featuring composite technology. The front axle makes use of composite brake discs measuring 360 x 36 mm. The advantages of the composite design include higher fatigue strength and lower warping characteristics. In addition, composite discs also tip the scales at a lighter weight: the reduced unsprung masses improve the response of the spring/damping elements.

With composite technology, the brake discs are connected to an aluminium bowl via eight cast bracket arms. This results in homogenous elongation of the friction ring under heavy loads. The brake discs are ventilated and perforated all round and are decelerated by means of 6-piston aluminium fixed callipers on the front axle and 4-piston fixed callipers on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted red all round.

"Edition 507" interior: even more dynamic and exclusive

The decidedly sporty yet functional interior of the C63 AMG is even more dynamic and exclusive in the case of the "Edition 507". Three different equipment and appointment variants are available to choose from: porcelain designo leather/DINAMICA, black designo leather/DINAMICA and black designo leather. In the case of the designo leather/DINAMICA upholstery, light-coloured contrasting topstitching makes for an attractive highlight. The AMG Performance steering wheel in Alcantara� with light-coloured contrasting stitching has a 12-o'clock marking. The selector lever of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is finished in DINAMICA and features an AMG badge. The steering wheel and selector lever gaiter also have light-coloured contrasting stitching.

In the AMG instrument cluster, red applications serve to visually differentiate this variant from the other C63 AMG models. The trim in high-gloss black piano lacquer look and the "Edition 507" badge on the trim on the front passenger side round off the high-quality, exclusive interior.

Optional extras available from the AMG Performance Studio include:

• AMG door sill panels, illuminated in white featuring LED technology
• AMG floor mats
• AMG rear axle locking differential
• AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, with tyres in sizes 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear)
• AMG Performance suspension
• AMG Performance Media
• AMG carbon-fibre/high gloss black piano lacquer-look trim
• extended appointments in designo black leather comprising: upper part of dashboard, beltlines in the doors finished in designo black leather
• vehicle collection from the AMG Customer Center in Affalterbach (for Germany)

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG "Edition 507" will be celebrating its world premiere at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, which will be opening its doors from 5 March 2013. The model's sales release is scheduled to begin on 8 April 2013, while the market launch in Germany will commence in June 2013.

Articles Source : Netcarshow

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

While ice cold winter weather sweeps across Lake Shore Drive, the Dodge brand heats up the 2013 Chicago Auto Show by building on Challenger's red-hot record selling year, and now at the show, the introduction of the new Challenger R/T Redline with modern muscle-car cues, a potent HEMI� V-8 engine throwing down 375 horsepower and a performance-tuned chassis for world-class dynamics � this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline

"Building on Challenger's all-time sales record in 2012, the new Challenger R/T Redline fuses our iconic heritage with a one-of-a-kind customized appearance," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO - Dodge Brand. "Featuring unique body-side stripes and black chrome wheels with red accents, the new R/T Redline combines unmatched personalization with the unmistakable performance of the legendary HEMI V-8."

The new 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline builds on the success of the 305 horsepower V-6 Challenger Rallye Redline model that arrived in the middle of the 2012 model year.

2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline

Based on the 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T � America's most affordable V-8 muscle car at $29,995 MSRP � or R/T Plus, the new Challenger R/T Redline adds even more attitude and style with a right-from-the-factory custom look to the brand's iconic coupe.

Following Dodge Challenger's signature A-line bodyside character line, an all-new two-color Redline Red and Graphite stripe runs from behind the front wheel arches to the tail. For a distinctive look, the rear-quarter section of the stripe features the "Redline" name in Red over Graphite color scheme. For a distinctive look, the R/T Redline features a body-color grille surround.

Filling the wheel wells, the Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features 20-inch Black Chrome wheels with a Redline Red lip and inner backbone for a one-of-a-kind look. For even more performance and driving precision at-the-limit handling, the available Super Track Pak adds Goodyear Eagle F1 P245/45R20 three-season performance tires, high-performance brake linings and a lowered ride height.

With its two-color stripe and four available exterior colors, including Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Bright White and Pitch Black, each new Dodge Challenger R/T Redline will stand out from the crowd. Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features a Dark Slate Gray interior with Dark Slate Gray (R/T) performance seats, or premium Nappa leather performance seats in Radar Red or Dark Slate Gray (R/T Plus). Automatic transmission models also feature bright pedals, a Mopar� T-Handle shifter and remote start.

HEMI Power

For the performance enthusiast, the 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that delivers up to 375 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 25 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. When paired with the track-proven Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission, the Dodge Challenger R/T delivers smooth shifts, while delivering even more power through unique performance-tuned dual exhaust and under-floor mufflers with low-restriction bottle resonators. The result, 0-60 mph runs in the low-5-second range and a sinister exhaust growl for the cars left in its rear-view mirror; a trademark of the original Challenger HEMI from more than 43 years ago.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is also available with a five-speed automatic transmission producing 372 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. In addition, this version of the engine includes Chrysler Group's innovative Fuel Saver Technology to seamlessly transition to high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. And for even more control, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters with "sport mode" transmission calibration are included.

Loaded with standard features

Dodge Challenger R/T Redline also includes a tremendous level of standard equipment found on every 2013 Challenger R/T, including the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with cold-air induction delivering up to 375 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, performance-tuned suspension, performance-disc brakes, performance-tuned steering calibration, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, console-mounted USB port with iPod control and auxiliary audio input jack, SiriusXM Satellite Radio with 12-months subscription, automatic headlamps, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 160-mph primary speedometer, instrument panel with mini-carbon bezel, fog lamps, "R/T" grille badge, "HEMI" hood badges and rear body-color deck-lid spoiler. Remote start, bright pedals and Mopar T-handle shifter are also included with the five-speed automatic transmission.

For drivers who want even more premium refinement and details, the new Dodge Challenger R/T Redline can also be built on the 2013 Challenger R/T Plus, which includes premium Nappa leather seating in Dark Slate Gray or Radar Red, heated front seats, six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier, ParkSense rear park assist, power heated mirrors, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with temperature gauge, location specific tire-pressure monitoring and compass, vehicle security alarm, and HomeLink universal transceiver. Remote start, bright pedals and Mopar T-handle shifter are also included with the five-speed automatic transmission.

Just in time for spring

The 2013 Dodge Challenger with R/T Redline Group is available for ordering now and arrives at dealerships this April 2013 with a U.S. MSRP of $1,995. When configured on the Challenger R/T or R/T Plus models, the MSRPs are $31,990 and $33,990 respectively (both prices exclude $995 destination).

Articles Source : Netcarshow

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

For the fourth time in the same number of years, the gang over at Mopar�Chrysler�s service, parts, and customer-care brand�have pulled a car from the Chrysler Group lineup and massaged it into a limited-edition vehicle to showcase some of their latest developments in technology and performance. Having already performed its magic on a trifecta of V-8�powered rear-wheel-drive models�Dodges Challenger and Charger, and the Chrysler 300�it seems fitting that for 2013, Mopar would turn its attention to one of the Group�s newest members, the Dodge Dart.

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

2013 Dodge Dart Mopar

Black and Blue

The 2013 Dodge Dart Mopar �13 will be limited to a run of 500 units, as were its big brothers the Dodge Challenger Mopar �10 and the Chrysler 300 Mopar �12; the Charger Mopar �11 saw a larger production run of 1000. Exterior styling doesn�t deviate too far from the recent Mopar formula. The Dart�s deep-gloss-black body is accented by a pair of unequal-width Mopar-blue racing stripes that run from stem to stern, and the car sits atop 18-inch wheels finished in the same coat of black. Blue is then splashed onto the calipers, part of the Mopar premium brake kit that also includes slotted rotors.

The Mopar ground effects are about as subtle as they get, consisting of a chin spoiler, a decklid spoiler, and a rear diffuser. And exterior nomenclature is limited to a discrete Mopar badge in the crosshair grille and Mopar logos on the center caps of the wheels.

Those looking for a little more flash need only to check out the interior. Night or day, it�s nearly impossible to miss the electrifying Mopar-blue leather driver�s seat we previewed last week, which Mopar says is intended �to keep the emphasis on the driver.� (As opposed to what, moving the steering wheel and pedals to the right side?) The rest of the seating is done in black with contrasting blue stitching. The extroverted interior color scheme includes a blue-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with matching shift knob, and blue ambient lighting. A sport pedal kit, Mopar carpet floor mats, doorsill guards, and an 8.4-inch touch screen finish off the interior.

Power to the People

The only available powertrain is the Dart�s optional turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although Mopar claims the mill�s breathing has been enhanced by a performance-tuned exhaust system. Handling was addressed, too, in as much as Mopar lowered the car�s ride height by a quarter of an inch and re-calibrated the steering, it says, for improved performance.

Each of the 500 Dart Mopar �13 owners will receive a unique owner kit on delivery. Its contents include a personalized plate with vehicle specifications, the car�s date of manufacture, and the unique identification number of the vehicle, all contained in a custom black case.

Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart Mopar �13 is scheduled to begin at Chrysler�s Belvidere, Illinois, assembly plant this spring. Mopar enthusiasts who happen to be shopping for new Darts will want to call their dealer now.

Articles Source : caranddriver

2013 Dodge Journey

The 2013 Dodge Journey ranks 15 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Journey, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

2013 Dodge Journey

2013 Dodge Journey

2013 Dodge Journey

2013 Dodge Journey

2013 Dodge Journey

An optional third row makes the 2013 Dodge Journey unique among compact SUVs, but the base Journey can�t match the performance, fuel economy or reliability of top-ranked rivals.

The 2013 Dodge Journey comes with a four-cylinder engine and a four-speed automatic transmission. Reviewers agree that the base Journey�s performance falls short compared with others in the class. They note that the base Journey is underpowered and can�t match the fuel economy estimates of other compact SUVs. As a result, most test drivers prefer models that are equipped with a V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. With the V6, they say that the Journey has ample power for nearly any driving situation. While it�s generally not considered as nimble as rivals like the Subaru Forester, most reviewers say that the Journey handles adequately for an SUV.

The 2013 Journey stands out from most of its rivals with options that include integrated child booster seats and a third-row seat, which bumps seating capacity up to seven. Numerous small-item storage compartments also add to the Journey�s street cred as a family-friendly SUV. Reviewers say that the first- and second-row seats offer adult-friendly space, though the third row is best left to small children. The Journey�s notable standard features include push-button start and a touch-screen infotainment system with a USB port. However, some reviewers say that the standard infotainment system is difficult to use. As a result, many recommend the optional system, which comes with a larger display. Other available features include navigation, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery.

Articles Source : caranddriver

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

It�s been almost two years since Dodge built a Viper. Production of the last-gen car�which was nearly the last in the �final� sense of the word�ceased in summer of 2010, but it�s again time to give thanks to the gods of internal-combustion barbarism: The new Viper is debuting at the New York auto show. But it�s no longer called a Dodge; now it�s just the SRT Viper.

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

2013 Dodge SRT Viper

Since the beginning, the Viper�s big, bad V-10 has received just as much attention as the car itself. The good news: It�s still big and bad. The only-bad-in-this-day-of-the-650-hp,-200-mph-Mustang-GT500 news: You�re going to wish it made at least 10 more horsepower; the total is 640 at 6150 rpm and 600 lb-ft of torque at 4950. (The engine revs to 6400 rpm.) Both figures are increases of 40.

V-10 Vitals

A number of small changes help the 8.4-liter engine both hit those higher figures and drop a few pounds. The trick cam-in-cam variable valve-timing system remains, although the profile of the intake lobes was reworked. Engineers credit this with about 10 of the additional horses. A new composite intake manifold with longer runners replaces the old aluminum piece, dropping seven pounds from the top of the engine and ratcheting power up another 10 horses or so and pumping torque up about 20 lb-ft. An aluminum flywheel cuts 11 pounds, helping revs build faster, and sodium-filled exhaust valves help keep engine temps down as well as saving a pound. In total, the engine is 25 pounds lighter now than its predecessor.

Articles Source : caranddriver