Archive for June, 2009
Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2: Leaked images
What you see above is a leaked image of Lamborghini’s Gallardo LP550-2 that produces 550HP from its 5.2-litre normally aspirated V10 powerplant. This rear wheel drive ‘bull’ that is able to sprint from naught to 100 km/h in a very quick 3.9 seconds.
It is 30 kilograms lighter than the LP560-4, and will feature a price tag that is 10% cheaper than its 560HP all wheel drive sibling. Apparently, only 250 units will be ever produced. Continue reading to view more leaked images of the Gallardo LP550-2. Read the rest of this entry.
Jaguar’s fourth 2010 XJ teaser: Video
Jaguar has released yet another teaser video of its upcoming XJ luxury sedan, that is expected to be launched on July 9th. In this latest video, the “leaping cat’s” chief designer Mike Cross talks about the XJ’s driving dynamic, emphasizing that the new model is responsive yet very comfortable. Continue reading to watch the video. There is also another previously released teaser that showcases the XJ’s aluminum body. Read the rest of this entry.
New dual-mode in-vehicle unit by the LTA
Singapre’s LTA has released the new generation In-vehicle Unit (IU), also known as the dual-mode IU. The new IU, which costs S$ 150 (before GST), can accept both NETS CashCards, as well as the new CEPAS-compliant EZ-Link cards.
To be available from today, the new IU can also be used at Electronic Parking System (EPS) car parks, that support the new EZ-Link cards from October 2009 onwards. Users are not required to make the switch, and if interested, they can do so at LTA’s authorized inspection centers. You can also call the LTA at 800 225 5582 for further assistance.
Peugeot facelifts the 207 line-up
French-based auto maker Peugeot, has revealed facelift models of its 207 range. The 207 range includes the hatchback (3 and 5 door), SW and SW Outdoor, as well as the 207 CC (cabriolet). On the outside, there is a redesigned front fascia, increased use of exterior body colouring and chrome detailing as well as LED tail lights (on the hatchback and CC models only).
Inside, new trims and detailing are evident, along with a revised instrument panel design. The new 207 range now comes with more standard features, including Peugeot’s in-car entertainment system with Connect USB with Bluetooth, one-touch direction indicator function for safe lane changes, remote controlled window closure via the plip unit on hatchback and SW models and one-touch operation of the driver’s electric window on the 207 CC.
Peugeot will offer a total of 12 engine options for the 207 line-up, that can offer emissions output as low as 99 grams per kilometer. The auto maker will also gradually introduce Euro5 compliant engines, and revealed that 207′s with manual trannys will be offered with a gear change indicator, to help the driver maximize fuel efficiency. Peugeot will reveal more information about the new 207 range in a couple of weeks. Continue reading to view an image gallery. Read the rest of this entry.
Citroen unveils the new C3
The new Citroen C3 which measures 3.94 meters long and 1.71 meters wide, looks, true to Citroen’s nature, rather futuristic, with a “Zenith” windshield that extends almost to the B-pillar of the compact hatch. While the front fascia features a slightly aggressive look, the rear end is rather curvaceous. The new C3 also has a standardized chrome finish, which is noticeable on the front, at the top end of the windscreen, at the shoulder line as well as on the trunk, which is a nice touch.
The interior breathes a futuristic atmosphere with a thermo-coated dash and thanks to the large windscreen, there is a sense of airiness. It comes with a 300-liter boot space, and various storage compartments. More features include a RD4 mp3 audio system with a Hifi System, USB Box (USB slot + jack, full iPod compatibility, Bluetooth hands-free kit), MyWay on-board navigation and more. Although there is a large windscreen, Citroen says that the new C3 has low noise and vibration.
Now on to what is under the hood, although information is scarce. It comes with a HDi 90 DPFS engine, with a 99g/km emissions rating. Citroen also revealed that new engines will be offered in 2011, with the auto maker’s Start & Stop system. By then, there will also be a diesel powerplant that can release only 90 grams of emission per kilometer. Two transmission options are available including 5 and 6 speed electronic transmissions. The new Citroen C3 will hit showrooms by November this year. Continue reading to view an image gallery. Read the rest of this entry.
Top Gear’s episode 2 of season 13: Video!
BBC has just aired the second episode of the Top Gear’s current season over in the UK, and thanks to the wonderful world of Internet, you can watch the full episode right here at iCars.sg. This time round, the presenters hit the road to find a perfect car for a 17 year old and check out insurance costs, accident repair cost and more. Richard “The Hamster” Hammond also checks out the Lamborghini Murciélago LP670-4 SV in Abu Dhabi. The Bugatti Veyron also goes head to head with the McLaren F1. Continue reading to watch the video, enjoy! Read the rest of this entry.
Aston Martin enters the small car segment?
What you see above is Aston Martin’s Cygnet Concept, which is based on the Toyota iQ, but with a touch of Aston’s design language. Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez, revealed that, “Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project – made possible with the support of an organization of Toyota’s stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ. Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future.”
He also added that, “This concept – akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht – will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market. The offering of a ‘Cygnet’ with a DBS, DB9 or Vantage is a unique combination of opposites and a novel transport solution allowing intelligent and sensitive mobility on an exclusive and innovative level.”
It seems as though the Aston Martin Cygnet is sort of a vehicle that complements other types of vehicles featured in Aston’s stable. It would be interesting to see how far this goes. Will it actually hit the roads, or will it be end up as just a concept study Only time will tell.
Jaguars and Land Rovers, now available in India
Tata Motors Ltd. has officially brought the Jaguar and Land Rover brand names to India. The Indian-based auto maker offers three models from Jaguar, the XF, XFR as well as the XK, with prices set between 6.3 million rupees ($130,977) and 9 million rupees.
Indians can now purchase three Land Rover models, including the Land Rover Discovery 3, Range Rover and the Range Rover Sport. All three models can also be purchased starting from 6.3 million rupees, but it will go beyond the 9 million rupees range.
Although the luxury car segment in India is made up of less than 1% of the total market, Tata is still confident with the available opportunity. “This is in keeping with our desire to extend the penetration of the brands in India,” said chairman Ratan Tata.
Jaguar Land Rover’s chief executive David Smith revealed that, “The luxury car market in India is very small, but there is a huge opportunity there. It is growing fast and we expect it to grow fast over the next 5 to 10 years.” Last Friday, Tata reported its first loss in eight years, thanks to a negative US$ 520 million figure for the year to March 2009, while Jaguar Land Rover is down US$ 504 million in the 10 months of the fiscal year to March 2009.
