Porsche 911S (model type 991)

As promised from some time before, with the actual release of the new 991, we come to see how Porsche’s classic trophy prize has upped its game.

·             Design & Engineering:

Compare the 997 with the new 991, and be amazed—amazed at how little has changed on the outside. The same headlamps are in place, simply with added LED’s, and sharper curves. As always, the trunk sits up front, with the same three grills directly beneath it. From the side though, slight changes such as the 100mm longer wheelbase, shorter overhang and lower stance become apparent, providing the 997 with a sleeker and more appealing appearance. The rear perhaps, then becomes the most obvious change to the 997. For instance, LED slits have appeared, replacing conventional light bulbs. The seven letter P O R S C H E logo now bears itself proudly on the vehicles bum. In addition, the large, active rear spoiler is now separated from the smaller engine cover. Overall, though the 991 sports a more modern stance, and has a stronger sense of purpose. Currently, only the Carrera and Carrera S models, both in coupé and convertible form are available in the market. Be on the lookout for the upcoming Turbo and GT3 models appearing at a later stage. (The base Carrera as tested can be differed from its by no means ‘lesser’ sibling, through its 20-inch rims and twin, circular tail pipes on either side, as opposed to having single oval shaped ones.)

·            Interior

Porsche claims that the new interior featured in the 991 (good riddance to the rather drab one featured in the 997) has been inspired by the Carrera GT. I prefer to say that the interior has simply been plucked from the Panamera, to the Cayenne, and now the 991. Indeed. From the driver’s point of view, the interior is an absolute joy. The steering wheel is grippy and well rounded, with paddle shifters available as standard (on the Carrera S) model. The dashboard features the same classic Porsche instrument panel, though it now sits against a charcoal gray background. A new feature from the 991, is the new 4.6-inch TFT colour screen which sits amongst the instrument panel, displays essential information such as trip computer, audio system, navigation, G-force meter, track timer, etc. In addition, a large colour screen sits comfortably in the center console, flanked by a myriad of buttons. If the Sport Chrono package is selected, a Sport Plus button comes along with the package, bringing with it lively accelerations, and beautiful noises. PDK transmission, along with the majority of the new Porsche lineup (from Panamera onwards), comes as standard on the 991, allowing for superb transmission shifts. Sticking to its classical heritage, the 991 still uses a classic key fob, avoiding any cumbersome, intelligent smart key. At the rear, space is still ever so tight—with room perhaps for youngsters and perhaps infants. Above 1.6-meters tall? Forget even trying to get to the rear. On the whole, the interior sports increased quality build along with the use of expensive leathers. Combined together, the new 991 seems as if it has an interior worth a million dollars.

·            Ride & Handlings

The Carrera S features a 3.8-litre flat six, which produces 15BHP more than the 997S. Select ‘Sport’ mode, and the engine roars to life, surging ahead of competition. Imagine what ‘Sport Plus’ does to it. Despite the extra power, the new Carrera S is more economical, and emits less CO2 than its predecessor.

·            Verdict

Incredibly amazing, much improved, on the whole, a better experience. As for the price tag? Then again, whatever you pay for the new 991 will give you an interior worth a million dollars, and looks handsome enough to stop traffic. 

o    Pictures from:

o    http://www.ausmotive.com/images2011/Porsche-991-911-08s.jpg

o    http://cdn3.worldcarfans.co/2010/3/medium/3207391.jpg

o    http://autosportscar.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/2012-Porsche-911-Carrera-S-Interior-Transmision.jpg

o    http://www.carsvw.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2012-Porsche-911-Interior-1.jpg

http://www.porsche-mania.com/wp-content/gallery/2012-porsche-911-carrera/2012-new-porsche-911-carrera-interior_05.jpg

The Car Market

As economic powers such as China and India arise, we see how such an issue at hand relates to one matter--cars.

India:

For years, means of transport has meant train, bicycle, foot, etc. Apart from their first attempts at making vehicles, only one has truly emerged as a global player. Tata-- originally a car maker specific to making cheap and practical cars for the every-day, mass-market indian family. With much success locally, this has allowed the brand to become synonymous with two well-known, British players. Thus, Tata is now synonymous with Jaguar and Land Rover/Range Rover, as the proud owner of such established brands. And indeed, things are going well! Look at Jaguar, with new models such as the CX-16, XK-R, XF, and XJ-- all models which were released after the changing of ownership to Tata. As for Range Rover, we have the new Evoque, with even more promising models to follow suit,

China:

Multiple CEO's of major luxury brands, such as Rolls-Royce, and Bentley (to name a few), have acknowledged the fact that the Chinese market accounts for large numbers of their sales. Therefore, you have special editions of Rolls-Royce's, Bentley's, and Lamborghini's, tailored specifically to the Chinese taste, all for gastronomical prices. With the Chinese car market still inflating, we can expect to find even more luxury brands tailoring to their market.

Subaru XV (Premium)

A cheap and completely new crossover from Subaru—think of a smaller Forester, with Citroën DS3 styling thrown in. 

·             Design & Engineering:

Instantly, one can see that the XV appeals to the slightly younger generation, with bold accents (so as to say), bright Japanese colours, and custom designed rims. From the front, the XV bears the classic Subaru chrome grill, as well as a rising bonnet—designed so as to house Subaru’s signature boxer engine. From the side, the XV has a bug shaped design, with the rear sweeping just as the previous Impreza hatchback had. At nearly 4.5 meters long, 1.8 meters wide, and 1.6 meters tall, compared to many of its competitors, the XV has better road presence than many of its competitors. What is more noticeable is the 220mm of ground clearance, truly giving off hints of the XV’s off-road abilities. In addition, the uniquely styled two-tone 17-inch rims give the Subaru an individual touch. From the rear, the XV has rugged features, and sharp edges—nothing too spectacular. Note to reader—below the Subaru badge, the well-respected AWD badge bears itself proudly. Unfortunately, the XV, though uniquely styled seems to be stuck in time, with no hints to any signs of modern touches. For instance, the lack of LED lamps.

·            Interior

On the inside, though versatile and practical, the interior, clad in low-grade, black leather, seems rather drab. Being the premium model as tested; the XV features a start/stop button, as well as a leather steering wheel with multiple functions, such as a Bluetooth telephony system, and cruise control. The speedometer features chrome dials, as well as a good looking and modern, odometer. I must admit, that despite the rugged and rather drab interior, the premium XV model features a rather useful center console, outlined in evergreen, brushed aluminium. For instance, dual-climate control is available, with a boring, but practical CD/tuner/AUX-IN/USB/wireless audio streaming for smart phones. In addition, the system allows one to pair a telephone via Bluetooth. Directly above it, a 2-dimensional full colour screen features climate for both inside and outside, fuel range, as well as a rather smart system monitoring tire pressure and energy distribution to all four wheels. Being the premium model, the XV also features a sunroof, as well as a built-in reverse camera. In addition, a rather ‘grippy’ transmission shifter, clad in leather, and with a +/- manual shifter comes as standard. At the rear, a bench-styled seating sits three rather snugly—though larger passengers may find leg space to be a slight issue. Nevertheless, the XV provides an airy and rather spacious cabin as compared to competitors. As the rear comes hatchback style, boot space fits the average grocery run, but with the rear seats down, fitting in golf bags and skis becomes a rather easy task.  

·            Ride & Handlings

Made of lightweight material, the 2.0-liter boxer engine delivers 150HP, which tugs the crossover along with ease. However, despite the AWD system, overtaking becomes a rather harsh task, with sluggish performance at times. As the XV is mated to a rather noisy CVT transmission, cabin noise is apparent, even when compared to other models in the lineup, such as the Impreza. Keep in mind though, that despite bearing an AWD system and a rather tall stance, the XV is not one to bring along on rough terrain and harsh condition, but more for going up the mountainous roads of Japan and Europe.

·            Verdict

Not bad for a first shot in this segment, though with much room for improvement. With a rather drab but practical interior, as well as the rather ‘young-looking’ exterior the XV might not appeal to all. Though, the low price tag might.

o    Pictures from:

o    http://www.popularmechanics.com/cm/popularmechanics/images/X5/SubaruXV-01-1211-lg.jpg

o    http://automiddleeast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/2012-Subaru-XV-3q-rear-614x432.jpg

o    http://www.carsguide.com.au/images/uploads_ee2/IAA11-Subaru-XV-w.jpg

o    http://www.japanesesportcars.com/photos/d/558680-2/2012-subaru-xv-11.jpg

http://www.zercustoms.com/news/images/Subaru/th1/Subaru-XV-3.jpg

Dear Readers

Dear beloved readers,

Due to an emergency meeting taking place over the weekend, I will be unable to post this week.

See you next week,

Cheers

CSI

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL

As the SL turns 60, it receives a body transplant, rejuvenating it from its near decade old look.

·             Design & Engineering:

A symbol of status, luxury, and sheer comfort, the SL doesn’t disappoint. With roots stretching back over half a century, the SL receives a new skeleton—now made of aluminium and magnesium. In simple English, it means that the SL sheds 110kg, turning the roadster into a sporty yet lightweight vehicle. From the front, the Merc looks exactly like the ingoing SLK, bar slight changes to headlamps. With air vents and a slight bulge on the bonnet, the SL sneaks hints of its sheer power and capabilities. ‘Magic Vision Control’—a function exclusive to Mercedes-Benz, channels washer fluid into heated wiper blades for invisible windscreen wipes. Such small hints point towards the opulence provided by the new SL. From the side, the SL seems relatively imposing, with a large stance, and beauteous curves. From the rear, the usual Mercedes LED lights, (first debut on the new E-Class) flank the sides, with rectangular chrome exhausts protruding out from the SL’s bum. On the whole, the roadster looks taut and simply put—ready for action.

·            Interior

On the inside, the usual Mercedes-Benz fittings come as standard. As featured on the SLK, the same COMMAND system and speedometer makes its debut on the SL. In contrast though, the SL provides a slightly ‘grippier’ and more stylish gear shifter. Air vents come in cockpit style, once again clad in chrome. What appeals to me most about the SL, is the amount of detailing available on hand. For instance, the entire cabin, already clad in German leather (literally—from side panels, to dashboard coverings, etc.) can be specified to come in colours of all sorts. Even the steering wheel can be specified to be clad as two-toned, so as to match whichever funky leather colour specified. As mentioned before, the SL code shares a good number of DNA with its younger sibling—the SLK. Therefore, features such as Magic Sky Control, Active Parking Assist, etc, all come as standard. With the roof up, the SL feels as quiet as a fixed-head coupé, symbolizing the roadster’s heritage of versatility. In addition, the SL features the same safety kit as the current S-Class, thereby making it the safest roadster currently on the market.

·            Ride & Handlings

For now, the SL will feature two engines, being the V6 SL350 and the V8 SL500, until an AMG variant finds its way into the market. Both engines are 140kg and 125kg lighter, respectively, than the outgoing SL. The SL500 features a twin-turbo V8, allowing the SL to hit 0-100km/h in a mere 4.6 seconds. The non-turbo variant provides 306BHP, and achieves the century sprint in a slightly slower 5.9 seconds—still much more impressive than its predecessor. Both engines feature a 30% increase in fuel efficiency, keeping in line with Mercedes’s BLUE EFFICIENCY lineup. As expected 7-G TRONIC transmission comes as standard, thus providing a buttery smooth ride.

·            Verdict

An imprint in history. A legend lived on. Welcome home SL; good job Mercedes.

o    Pictures from:

o    http://www.germancarforum.com/attachments/sl-class/9746d1324070815-official-2012-mercedes-sl-r231-mercedes-benz-sl-r231_wallpaper_04_1600x1200_10-2011.jpg

o    http://images-2.drive.com.au/2011/12/15/2840327/Mercedes-Benz-SL_09_1024-600x400.jpg

o    http://cdn0.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2012-Mercedes-Benz-SL-Class-6.jpg

o    http://www.lincah.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-Mercedes-Benz-SL-Rear-Angle-588x441.jpg

o    http://www.autoreview2u.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Mercedes-Benz-SL-Class-2013-Interior-2.jpg

http://api.ning.com/files/SLt65UeTyDQ*9y8f-EKhMimGDY5Jk3s7jaj7AWX1rGU4zjL9Vqn8tvtnZiUNOUQJXyMhSt9tGbQymXRu0c4Un70R2gAQUl9U/MercedesBenzSLClass_2013_1024x768_wallpaper_29.jpg

SUV—simply ultra 'vierd'.

Once a thing of the past, now a thought for the future.

·              Ever since the turn of the century, the term ‘sports/luxury SUV’ has ultimately, been redefined. For instance, with the introduction of Porsche’s Cayenne (esp. Turbo S), the laws of physics were defiled, with a new concept born into the world. An SUV capable of tackling properly harsh surfaces, mated to mind-blowing V8 turbos, decked out with eloquent interiors.

·              Recently, Lamborghini has decided to put into actions, plans for its new SUV. The car will make its debut in April, at Beijing’s auto show, so as to allow early previews to potential customers with purchasing power. In terms of design and power, it is said to be that: “looks will be inspired by the incoming Aventador, with an engine derived from the Gallardo’s V10.” Nevertheless, expect production for exclusive markets around 2015—in addition to a hefty price tag.

·              Watch out for Italian competitors such as Maserati and Alfa Romeo. Maserati has announced their Maserati Kubang, an SUV based on Jeeps’ Grand Cherokee, simply restyled and re-interiored (mind the grammar). In essence, expect a Maserati tuned engine, along with a possible diesel. Ready for production in late 2012.

·              Alfa Romeo has decided to base their SUV on the new Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot. Honestly, what else could keep coming? Nevertheless, think Q3 sized vehicles, along with Giulietta styling. Speculation has that the chassis will support 2WD and AWD versions, powered by the usual Fiat Group MultiAir2 engines.

·              In addition, watch out for a new version of the iconic Range Rover (though actual pictures haven’t been released—given image comes from artist speculation), along with an SUV from Aston Martin.

·              Seems like an interesting year up ahead~

o    Pictures from:

o    http://www.highsnobiety.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/2012-Maserati-Kubang-SUV.jpg

o    http://www.roadandtrack.com/var/ezflow_site/storage_RT_NEW/storage/images/future-cars/first/lamborghini-suv/2742129-1-eng-US/lamborghini-suv.jpg

o    http://steeringnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Alfa-Romeo-c-SUV.jpg

o    http://www.inautonews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/new-2013-range-rover-vogue-3.jpg

o    http://www.musclecarwallpaper.org/uploads/Exotic-Car-Wallpaper/Aston_Martin_L1.jpg

Hyundai i40 Wagon

Already a cheap and well-balanced Korean made vehicle, the i40 lengthens itself out to become a wagon.

·             Design & Engineering:

From the front, I must say that Hyundai has ruined the face of the i40. Audi-lookalike LED’s have been inserted rather poorly into the front headlamps, making the i40 wagon seem hunched, and rather pathetic. Cheap use of chrome and hard plastics on the outside already make me want to walk away. Though from the side, the vehicle seems to be able to pass off as say, a Mazda 5 wagon, or something mated to a brand of more ‘class’. Like all Hyundai’s of late, the i40 wagon features what Hyundai calls: ‘Fluidic Sculpture.’ Though the i40 tries its best to look modern and expensive, it fails to do so, resulting in a slightly awkward vehicle. Ah—though I must say, the rear end of the wagon attracts my attention. A nice chrome strip plasters the middle segment of the rear end, with the rear almost looking like a cross between a Subaru Imprezza hatchback, along with a touch of Infiniti. Really, I must say the rear end has to be the best detail on the i40 wagon’s exterior, bar the slinky rims fitted as standard.  

·            Interior

With much disappointment from the exterior, the interior simply proves itself worthy of ‘luxury’. Thirty, no; twenty years ago, Hyundai was known as a poor man’s car, with lousy interiors, and unreliability. As the days grow towards the future though, Hyundai plans to change its branding, by placing forth, a fantastic and comfortable interior. Step inside, and one immediately notices a handsome steering wheel, and Ford Fiesta like, center console layout. For a vehicle with such a low price, the i40 wagon provides a grippy steering wheel, with oodles of buttons, such as Bluetooth, cruise control, F1 style paddle shifters, etc. In addition, the modern speedometer has a Zen like mood to it, with dials outlined in chrome, and faded out with ice-blue lighting. A small HD screen (something Koreans are very good at) takes the middle spot, displaying items such as mileage, whether doors are shut; the usual shebang. Apart from that, temperature and fuel gauge indicators, are measured using electronic bars, which move elegantly in the smack center of the rev and speed counters. Though the center console feels slightly cheap and plasticy, it offers multiple features, with 2-zone climate control, and front seat, heaters and coolers. In addition, the center console is mated to an aux-in port, along with USB and iPod connection. Directly below the center console, lies a 21^st century gear shifter, clad in leather, and good to the touch. All seats come in leather/partial leather, and for Premium models, a panoramic roof comes as standard, allowing light to flow into every segment of the wagon. Boot space—humongous. Don’t even get me started.

·            Ride & Handlings

For such a large car, the i40 wagon rides smoothly and comfortably. In corners, it handles surprisingly well, with its light Korean made steering, easy to maneuver around bends. Powered by a 2.0-liter engine, which produces 166 BHP, the wagon will reach 0-100km/h in a leisurely 10.9 seconds. Still, its six-speed gearbox allows smooth shifting. Coupled together, though not a fireball, the i40 wagon will get one from point A to B in a practical and comfortable manner.  

·            Verdict

A niche filler, yes. Loathe the exterior, love the interior, apart from the use of very cheap plastics. You have to buy the Premium model, as it will ease your mind off the road as you relax in comfort on the inside. It seems to look as if Hyundai hasn’t managed to remove it’s branding though. Yet.

o    Pictures from:

o    http://blog.caranddriver.com/wp-content/gallery/hyundai-i40/hyundai-i40-120.jpg

o    http://www.carsrevolution.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Urban-car-of-Hyundai-i40-Wagon.jpg

o    http://www.hyundai-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Hyundai-i40-led-head-lights.jpg

o    http://automotiveroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2012-Hyundai-i40-Wagon-interior-view.jpg

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6kYVg-zBmrjK8OaC5epiqi5yL3Jx0rUvQiD2cWHD-zB5iRYm5tECdHx3U3SFGoLNeIUJRmeHnYOGmo8Khc1hKb1KPmmY11GzEZF1vZoZTxZZvfmRtT9pkhd-S-YaWHsSoD8LPcDa4-5vB/s1600/Hyundai+i40+Wagon+Car+Designs%252C+Photos+%2526+Wallpapers3.jpg