Auto News - 2013 SRT Viper (re)earns its stripes

Auto News - 2013 SRT Viper (re)earns its stripes. While this really doesn't qualify as "news," the above photo still has us excited enough to share. It's the first official image of the new 2013 SRT Viper with stripes. You see, we were a bit nonplussed when the Viper debuted at the New York Auto Show without its trademark livery. Perhaps it was to better focus attention on the sheetmetal's new curves, but we still missed seeing the lines down the middle on the show stand.

Chrysler has rectified that as shown in this single image of a red example on SRT's Facebook page. According to the caption, the example seen here is an engineering prototype undergoing dry-track stability control testing, an evaluation it apparently passed "with flying colors."

We're also reminded of a little tidbit that Chrysler design boss and SRT brand manager Ralph Gilles recently shared with us that he's quite proud about: The 2013 Viper's stripes will be worn underneath the clearcoat, not above. That's a change from the past model, and should result in both a better appearance and improved wear. The new stripes will be available in white as shown, but also in black and gunmetal pearl as cost options.

We're looking forward to seeing this car in GTS Blue Pearl with white stripes, as not only was the blue/white combo borderline iconic on previous GTS iterations, it also did a striking job of representing America's international racing colors.

You're reading: Auto News - 2013 SRT Viper (re)earns its stripes. Share the article: Auto News - 2013 SRT Viper (re)earns its stripes by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - Next Nissan Z will be smaller, lighter

Auto News - Next Nissan Z will be smaller, lighter. Nissan is reportedly hard at work on its next-generation Z. According to Inside Line, designers are already churning away on a concept version of the 2015 Z that may bow at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. The report notes that Shiro Nakamura, head of design for Nissan, says the new Z will be both smaller and lighter than the current 370Z. 

The model will also be geared toward a wider audience, and Nissan may be investigating the possibility of ditching the tried-and-true 3.7-liter VQ V6 for a turbocharged four-cylinder, a move that would almost certainly help fuel efficiency. The current Z is saddled with a lackluster 26 mpg highway, and strong early sales of cars like the Scion FR-S certainly indicate certain buyers are willing to drop a few ponies for a machine that's engaging to drive and at least somewhat fuel efficient.

Blasphemy? Maybe, but the thought of an engaging, lightweight turbo four sports car is the stuff dreams are made of – it's the "wider audience" part of the discussion that has us concerned as enthusiasts. A smaller Z would likely mean abandoning the Z's FM platform which also underpins machines like the Infiniti G Coupe and Sedan as well as the FX softroader. Inside Line says Nissan may turn to its corporate partner Daimler for some help in the chassis department.

You're reading: Auto News - Next Nissan Z will be smaller, lighter. Share the article: Auto News - Next Nissan Z will be smaller, lighter by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - Facelifted 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata leaked?

Auto News - Facelifted 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata leaked? It looks as if the current generation Mazda MX-5 Miata will stay on for a while longer. (Note: We are not complaining.) Images clipped from a Japanese brochure show a newly facelifted version of the NC platform, designated the NC3.

The roadster wears an all-new front fascia, complete with a five-point grille opening and a pair of redesigned fog lamp housings to to either side. The fascia looks more than a bit like the one found on the Mazda Spyder Concept we all know and love, and softens the current car's always-happy-to-see-you grin.

Word has it the 2013 MX-5 Miata will come with a new pedestrian-safe hood designed to pop up in the event of a collision. Step indoors, and the interior boasts new blacked-out gauges, as well as a new dash cover. It's unclear whether there are any mechanical changes on hand, though we do know the NC3 will bow with a new range of paint color and wheel options.

You're reading: Auto News - Facelifted 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata leaked? Share the article: Auto News - Facelifted 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata leaked? by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - Puritalia releases full renderings of Cobra-inspired 427 roadster

Auto News - Puritalia releases full renderings of Cobra-inspired 427 roadster. The minds at Puritalia have finally gotten around to taking the wraps off of their Shelby Cobra-inspired roadster. The Puritalia 427 is intended to serve as a modern interpretation of the legendary open-top built by Carroll Shelby.

In addition to the gaggle of photos you see here, Puritalia has also served the final specs on the machine. The 427 uses an aluminum space frame chassis with chromoly steel subframes, which help maintain stiffness while keeping the roadster as lightweight as possible. As a result, the machine tips the scales at a mere 2,403 pounds with a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

The body shell is stitched from carbon fiber, and buyers may choose between one of two engines. The base, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 puts 445 horsepower to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, aluminum driveshaft and limited slip differential, though a supercharged variant of the same engine is also available with a more heady 605 horsepower.

With its fully-independent suspension, adjustable shocks and sway bars, the 427 should also keep its feet planted on the ground. A set of six-piston Brembo calipers squeeze 15-inch discs up front, while four-piston clamps press 13.5-inch rotors out back. Sounds like fun to us. Head over to the Puritalia site for more information.

You're reading: Auto News - Puritalia releases full renderings of Cobra-inspired 427 roadster. Share the article: Auto News - Puritalia releases full renderings of Cobra-inspired 427 roadster by clicking the share button below 

Read More >>

Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013

Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013. Given that the 2013 Avalon shares a platform with the new Lexus ES, this news should come as no surprise: Toyota's largest sedan is getting its own hybrid variant for the first time ever. Judging by these first photos, carspotters will have to squint hard to tell that they're looking at a hybrid, as there are only a few small badges and blue-tinted lenses as a tip-off to this vehicle's gas-electric motivation.

As with its luxury-minded sibling, the Avalon Hybrid will arrive under the spell of a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four paired with a duo of electric motors juiced by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Total system power is stated at 200 horsepower, but the meatier number is an EPA fuel economy rating of 40 miles per gallon city and 39 highway.

Also like its Lexus relation, Toyota is touting a trio of operation modes that includes pure EV (only good for one mile at speeds up to 25 mph), Eco, and Sport, the latter of which tweaks both steering weight and throttle response.

Toyota hasn't released any dynamic performance figures or pricing information, but the new Avalon Hybrid will be in dealers this fall, where it will square off against the Buick LaCrosse eAssist and soon-to-be-replaced Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

PRESS RELEASE

All-New 2013 Toyota Avalon Features Both Gasoline and Hybrid Powertrains

• First Full-Hybrid in the Premium Mid-Size Segment • Avalon Hybrid Expects a 40-mpg Combined EPA-Rating

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 26, 2012) – When the all-new, North American designed and engineered 2013 Avalon goes on sale later this year, consumers can choose between a powerful V6 gasoline powertrain and Toyota's proven Hybrid Synergy Drive. The efficiency offered by the new hybrid model will help the all-new premium mid-size sedan achieve excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rating of 40 mpg combined.

In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

Powerful, Efficient V6 Engine
The 2013 Avalon will feature a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, which will propel the new sedan to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness.

This enhanced powertrain's programming has been updated to offer ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. The ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. The SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit (ECU) programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel.

In addition, the new transaxle is equipped with a numerically lower differential gear drive ratio (3.23), designed to help improve fuel economy. The V6-powered 2013 Avalon achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/ 31 hwy).

The transmission operation has been made more efficient and responsive with the adoption of a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch. With lock-up control, the transmission's torque converter fully engages at a lower RPM during standing starts to improve acceleration response and help suppress unnecessary engine revolutions. The new transmission is also kept at an optimal temperature with an automatic-transmission fluid warmer, helping enhance efficiency.

The multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter offers a D range and can be moved into an S-mode gate, which allows manually operated sequential shifting using the console shifter or available (Touring and Limited models) steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear can be selected by moving the shifter up to (+) position or lower using the (-) position to experience highly responsive shifts. By using the paddles or in S-range, the transmission uses a quick responding shift-logic that includes throttle blipping for downshifts. The gear changes and range-of-gear selections are displayed in the color multi-information display.

Avalon Adds Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
For consumers seeking a premium mid-size sedan with excellent fuel economy ratings and an environmental message, the new Avalon features a full power-split hybrid system. Coupled with reductions in vehicle weight and improvements in aerodynamics, the Avalon Hybrid is expects to achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. The 2013 Avalon incorporates the latest advances in Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, building upon Toyota's 14 years of hybrid-development experience. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU, which governs the seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. The power control unit relies on liquid cooling to maintain an efficient temperature.

The Avalon Hybrid achieves a total system output of 200 horsepower and offers three unique modes of operation: EV, ECO and SPORT. The Avalon Hybrid models achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg in the city, and a 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating.

The 2013 Avalon Hybrid offers an EV mode that, under certain conditions, allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric propulsion. EV mode can be engaged, provided other conditions are correct, for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph, providing an all-electric option that is convenient in residential areas or parking garages.

The ECO drive mode engages the gasoline motor, but reduces throttle response and HVAC output to help improve overall efficiency. The SPORT Mode takes full advantage of the new Avalon's dynamic character, improved chassis, and enhanced suspension by altering the engine's throttle response and enhancing steering feel.

The Avalon's hybrid's battery pack is comprised of 204 cells and is located in the vehicle trunk behind the rear seats, while still providing ample trunk space. The scroll casing for the battery cooling system's blower fan has been designed to produce extremely quiet and efficient airflow, helping reduce interior noise and elevating refinement. The power-control unit, located in the engine bay, houses the inverter, DC-DC converter.

The efficient hybrid transaxle in the new Avalon contains two high-output electric motor/generators, a power-split device, an open differential and the final drive ratio. Motor/Generator 1 (MG1) is used to start the gasoline engine and generate the energy that is returned to the battery to power the system. Motor/Generator 2 (MG2) is primarily responsible for electric drivetrain propulsion and regenerative braking. The hybrid vehicle transaxle also incorporates a flywheel-damper design that helps reduce noise and vibration during engine engagement.

Captivating Styling with a Spacious, Luxurious Interior Experience
The new 2013 Avalon is the product of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan's striking exterior and luxurious interior design was conceived by a youthful, talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc., facilities in Southern California and Michigan.

The car's engineering development was led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focus, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Ky.

True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon's more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.

Powertrain Specs

Avalon V6
Avalon Hybrid
Gasoline
Engine
Type/Displacement
2GR-FE / 3.5L
2AR-FXE / 2.5L
Max Horsepower
268 hp
154 hp
Max Torque
248 lbs.-ft.
153 lbs.-ft.
Transaxle
Type
6-speed AT
E-CVT
Electric Motor
Max Output
-
140 hp
Max Torque
-
200 ft. lbs.
Battery
Type
-
Nickel-Metal Hydride
Nominal Voltage
-
245 volts
Number of Cells
-
204 Cells
Max Output
-
34 kw or 45.6 hp

Total System Output
-
149 kw 200hp

Key Dimensional Comparison

2013 Avalon
2012 Avalon
Overall Length
195.3 in.
197.6 in.
Overall Width
72.2 in.
72.8 in.
Overall Height
57.5 in.
58.5 in.
Wheelbase
111 in.
111 in.
Front Tread
62.6 in.
62.2 in.
Rear Tread
62.2 in.
61.6 in.
Front Overhang
38.8 in.
39.4 in.
Rear Overhang
45.5 in.
47.2 in.
Curb Weight
3,497 lbs. (V6),
3594 lbs. (Hybrid XLE)
3,616 lbs.

You're reading: Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013. Share the article: Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013 by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - Mazda to debut MX-5 Miata GT Concept, looking for feedback

Auto News - Mazda to debut MX-5 Miata GT Concept, looking for feedback. Does the idea of a Mazda MX-5 Miata with 205 horsepower – a useful bump over the stocker's 167 ponies – sound like a good idea? How about one with an upgraded suspension, carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser and spoiler?

Still not good enough for you? Fine. Throw in a free-flowing exhaust with single center-mounted tailpipe, body-color roll hoops, sticky tires and a pair of Recaro seats. If we're describing the Miata of your dreams, we suggest you tell Mazda how you feel – this exact machine, dubbed the MX-5 Miata GT Concept, will be on display at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it will make a run up the hill.

Mazda says it's "seeking customer reaction" to the hotted-up sports car, which it says is inspired by its MX-5 GT race car. Mazda: We speak for all when we say, "If you build it, we will come." Also on display at Goodwood will be the Mazda Takeri Concept and the company's new CX-5 crossover.

See for yourself in the image gallery and the press release below.

PRESS RELEASE

MAZDA MX-5 GT CONCEPT TO DEBUT AT GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

Mazda MX-5 GT Concept to run at Goodwood Festival Speed
Mazda seeks customer reaction to 205bhp Mazda MX-5 GT Concept
Mazda Takeri sedan concept and all-new CX-5 feature on the Mazda stand

Mazda will debut its road legal 205bhp MX-5 GT Concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 28 June – 1 July. The Mazda MX-5 GT Concept will be on display throughout the festival on Mazda's stand, as well as taking part in the hillclimb in the 'First Glance' category.

The Mazda MX-5 GT Concept has been inspired by Mazda's podium winning MX-5 GT race programme and its debut at Goodwood is to test customer reaction to a high performance version of the iconic sportscar. Built by race specialists Jota Sport, the MX-5 GT Concept produces 205bhp from a normally aspirated 2.0-litre Mazda petrol engine which is mated to the car's standard manual gearbox. Suspension has been uprated to improve handling and is adjustable for different track conditions, aerodynamic assistance comes from a carbon front splitter, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler. The exhaust note has been enhanced with a sports exhaust system with a central tailpipe. Recaro seats enhance the driver stability and the interior features a number of carbon enhancements that help reduce weight. For customers who want to acquire the car for track use, it comes equipped with road slicks and body-coloured roll hoops behind the seats.

Joining the MX-5 GT Concept on the stand will be the Mazda Takeri sedan concept, a close indication of the design direction of the future Mazda6, along with the recently launched all-new Mazda CX-5 compact SUV, the first car to adopt Mazda's revolutionary SKYACTIV technology which improves fuel economy and reduces CO2 emissions without compromising driving enjoyment.

Mazda has also entered the World's fastest and most powerful MX-5 in the Goodwood hillclimb. Sponsored by SMH Fleet Solutions, Jota Aviation, Total Lubricants and Mazda Financial Services, the Jota Sport Mazda MX-5 GT4 is currently contesting the 2012 British GT Championship and took third in class at Brands Hatch this weekend. Competing against Lotus, Aston Martin, Ginetta and Ferrari racecars, the MX-5 GT boasts a top speed of 160mph and a 0-60 time of just three seconds, making this a very special MX-5.

Drivers for the Goodwood Festival of Speed are regular Mazda racers Mark Ticehurst and Owen Mildenhall and kart racer Jade Paveley, who at just 19 years-old, is one of the youngest drivers at the festival.

"This year at the Goodwood Festival of Speed we have a number of significant cars on the stand and contesting the hillclimb," said Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director, Mazda UK. "The MX-5 has been our best known car for 22 years and with the GT4 and GT Concept on show, we are demonstrating that this car can compete with the more expensive race and performance cars but still remain true to its roots of affordable motoring with a strong focus on the driving experience.

"The Mazda Takeri gives a clear guide as to how the next Mazda6 will look. It will be the second car to use Mazda's new SKYACTIV technology following on from the Mazda CX-5 which we launched in May. SKYACTIV technology reduces vehicle weight, improves fuel consumption and reduces CO2, it takes our cars into the realm of environmentally friendly emissions but with no compromise on the fun to drive attributes that are typical of our brand.

"So come over and say hello during the weekend, we are also giving away a limited number of Le Mans books to visitors to the stand each day – so visit early."

You're reading Auto News - Mazda to debut MX-5 Miata GT Concept, looking for feedback. Share the article: Auto News - Mazda to debut MX-5 Miata GT Concept, looking for feedback by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - Vilner breathes new life into classic Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda

Auto News - Vilner breathes new life into classic Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda. Now that we're familiar with Bulgarian tuner Vilner Studio, we shouldn't be surprised by the generous application of quilted leather in its latest project, the Mercedes-Benz W113 Gentle Pagoda.

A comprehensive luxification of a Pagoda-roofed SL, two-tone leather in cafe and latte hues are cross-stitched throughout the cabin, and set off with chrome, aluminum and a mahogany-rimmed steering wheel. Incredibly, the nicest part of the car could be the trunk, which is so well turned out you'd need to think about which valuables are worthy of putting in it. Take a closer look at it in the photo gallery above.

PRESS RELEASE

Gentle Pagoda by Vilner Studio

To be born in 1963. In the times when the cars were only for the chosen ones. When they were produced only for the chosen ones. When the speed was not the same as nowadays and when the fashion was different. In the times when 300 SL (W 198) and 190 SL (W121 BII) were modern, but not yet legendary.

Getting on in years like a real man, in order to turn into a classic – deserving attention and admiration. Based on Studio Vilner's novel – with Mercedes-Benz W113 Pagoda as the protagonist.

Typically for Vilner's style: the legendary automobile got some light exterior interventions und complete renewing of the interior. The colors are warm and vintage – café and latte.

Every element and small detail has been taken care of. The workmanship is precise; the material is high-quality leather in two colors with a plenty of decorative and light seams. The dashboard is upholstered; the chromed elements and mahogany steering wheel are renewed. Even the trunk is now luxuriously made like a boutique jewellry box. The eponymous hard car roof of "Pagoda" – as a part of the interior – received the necessary dosage luxury and stile.

Tenderly embroidered Gentle Pagoda labels adorn the car interior, and are also present in the cabin. Those are also engraved on the door ledges – in aluminum and artificially made to look older.

Studio Vilner touches the classic and revives it – with the necessary attention and endeavor!

Like in the old times... when the cars were only for the chosen ones.

You're reading Auto News - Vilner breathes new life into classic Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda. Share the article: Auto News - Vilner breathes new life into classic Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda by clicking the share button below

Read More >>

Auto News - A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea

Auto News - A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea. We're pretty sweet on the resurrected Fiat 500. The quirky little hatch is an engaging driver with adorable looks. It is not what we'd call fast, however – even the Fiat 500 Abarth just barely lands itself in "quick" territory.

Fortunately, there are hard-working souls out there willing to remedy the machine's acceleration deficit. Lazzarini Design has done some measuring and discovered that, with a little body work, the 500 can play host to much more formidable powerplant. How formidable? The crew wants to yank the beating heart from the Ferrari 458 Italia and plop the 4.5-liter V8 behind the seats of cinquecento. You know, where the car gods intended the engine in the 500 to be.

These are clearly our kind of people.

But they aren't entirely off their medication. The engine has been detuned from 570 horsepower to a more reasonable 550 hp. Lazzarini says the project actually stretches the 500 wheelbase by almost a foot in order to fit the engine and transmission safely aboard. The whole machine weighs in at 2,200 pounds, even with ballast on both front corners to keep the car planted. If you like what you see, the studio says it is currently looking for an investor to help build the machine. Lazzarini Design estimates the project will cost around $550,000.

You're reading A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea. Share the article: A 458 Italia-powered Fiat 500 is not a good idea, it's the best idea by clicking the share button below

Read More >>