2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio model is longer (by 20 mm), wider (by 25 mm), and lower (by -15 mm) and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm). With an overall height of 1,455 mm, new Kia Rio is one of the lowest cars in Kia’s European product range.

In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia’s ‘U2′ power unit – both fitted with 16-valves and a WGT. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm. A well-proven power unit in the Kia line-up, the updated ‘Gamma’ has friction-reducing modifications and dual CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), to achieve a responsive performance and competitively modest fuel consumption. With maximum output of 109 ps and peak torque of 136 Nm, accelerating to 100 kph in 11.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).

Available in the USA with a choice of three trims – LX, EX and SX – the 2012 Kia Rio sedan is powered by a 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. One of only two vehicles in this segment to offer a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, the 2012 Rio offers consumers that elusive combination of power and impressive fuel efficiency, achieving class-leading 135HP (100kW) power and class-leading fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg city/highway (7.8-5.8L/100km). Kia Rio also offers ISG technology, new to the Kia line-up, where the engine turns off when the vehicle is not in motion. The engine restarts automatically when the driver releases the brake pedal, resulting in lower levels of fuel consumption in stop-start urban traffic.

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2012 Kia Soul

2012 Kia Soul comes with a new six-speed transmissions and the ability to deliver up to 34 miles per gallon on the highway. A new 1.6-litre GDI engine produces 135HP (100kW), an 11 percent increase from the previous engine). For buyers looking for a greater boost in power, a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

This engine, which produces 160HP (119kW), a 13 percent increase from the previous engine, and 143 pound-feet (194Nm) of torque, is standard on the three Kia Soul models. Kia calculates that fuel economy for the 1.6-litre is an impressive 28/34 mpg city/highway (8.4-6.9L/100km), 10 percent more efficient than the previous engine, while the 2.0-litre offers a fuel-sipping 27/33 mpg (8.7-7.1L/100km) for both the automatic and manual transmissions.

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2012 Jaguar XF

2012 Jaguar XF is the introduction of the 2.2-litre AJ-i4D turbodiesel engine. The unit features low-friction pistons and a water-cooled turbocharger to increase efficiency plus active engine mounts and modifications to the sump and block to reduce NVH levels. The result is not only Jaguar’s most fuel-efficient engine ever, but one which offers levels of refinement on a par with the previously-fitted 2.7-litre V6 diesel and all the performance expected of a Jaguar sports saloon. Further refinement is assured on all models by the use of additional acoustic shielding and the use of computational fluid dynamics to smooth exterior airflow.

The range-topping Jaguar XFR receives its own unique, overtly assertive design to underline its performance potential while an alternative ‘Aerodynamic’ option is available on all other derivatives for a total of three dramatically different styling options.

The headlamps now incorporate bi-function HID xenon technology that allows them to be much slimmer and more compact while still providing outstanding beam resolution. They also incorporate LED daytime running lights arranged in a distinctive Jaguar ‘J-Blade’ signature pattern for instant recognition.

The tail lamps have been entirely renewed and now extend onto the central portion of the boot lid. These new units are now full-LED for stop, light and indicator functions and give the Jaguar XF a distinctive night-time rear signature. Separating them is a revised boot lid finisher with a gloss black lower edge for a cleaner appearance. The boot also features power closure on all models.

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2012 Jaguar XJ

The 2012 Jaguar XJ interior available with the Premium Luxury and Portfolio trim levels the Jet/Ivory option features ivory seating with contrast jet stitching, piping and upper surfaces while the headlining is available in either colour, according to customer preference.

All Jaguar XJ variants are now available with an Illumination Package derived from that offered as standard on the Supersport model. This comprises illuminated treadplates, boot latch and front and rear air vents.

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2012 Jaguar XKR

Jaguar sports cars have a reputation for blending athletic high-performance with effortless cruising comfort. Nothing exemplifies this dual character more clearly than the XK’s 5.0-litre AJ-V8 engine.

All variants of the Jaguar XK use the six-speed ZF automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles to control the Jaguar Sequential Shift function for greater driver control. In the XKR-S the transmission has been revised in line with the increased power and torque to optimise upshifts and allow for the increased top speed.

In the latest Jaguar XKR, the cabin has been refreshed with a host of new trim materials including ebony soft-feel paint for the switches, gloss black finish to the centre console and phosphor blue halo illumination and ambient lighting. New veneers, colour combinations and headlining options allow owners to create a cabin ambience precisely matching their requirements.

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2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0

Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 s), and with its gearing designed for the race circuit it reaches the 124 mph (200 km/h) mark on the race track in under 12 seconds.

Equipped as standard with lightweight components such as light but strong carbon fiber sport bucket seats, carbon fiber front fenders and luggage compartment lid, and weight-optimized carpets, the two-seater’s ready-for-action weight is just 2,998 lbs (1,360 kg) with a full fuel tank. The Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0′s power-to-weight ratio is 5.99 lbs/hp (368 hp/tonne).

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2011 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG DTM Safety Car

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG being used for the 2011 DTM season comes with the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine has an exceptionally high output of 358 kW (487 hp) and a peak torque of 600 Nm. The increase in output versus the standard 336 kW (457 hp) engine is due to the AMG Performance Package, which is optionally available for any C63 AMG model and enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds (Estate 4.4 seconds). For the AMG Performance Package the engine specialists have placed their trust in a technology transfer from the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: the forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft have been adopted from the gull-wing model. The lower inertia of the three-kilogram lighter components allows the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine to rev freely and respond even more promptly. Distinguishing features of the Performance Package include the variable intake manifold painted in titanium grey and the AMG high-performance braking system with compound brake discs at the front axle.

New equipment includes the innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which incorporates a wet start-up clutch and four transmission modes as well as double-declutching and RACE START functions for optimum driving dynamics. Distinguishing features of the current model include the aluminium bonnet with modified powerdomes, the new radiator grille, the new headlamps, the new AMG rear apron with a distinctive black diffuser insert and active rear-axle cooling. To optimise radiator inflow, the AMG front apron on the DTM Safety Car features enlarged openings and side air outlets, while the AMG carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the boot lid reduces lift at high track speeds. In keeping with this design, the DTM Safety Car also sports AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirrors.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG DTM Safety Car is shod with multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange, 235/35 R 19 front tyres and 255/30 R 19 rear tyres.

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2012 Porsche Panamera Diesel

The Porsche Panamera Diesel is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine with a rated output of 250 hp (184 kW) achieved between 3,800 rpm and 4,400 rpm. The maximum torque of 550 Nm, available all the way from 1,750 rpm to 2,750 rpm, delivers high pulling power. It is exclusively available with rear-wheel drive and uses a highly efficient eight-speed Tiptronic S as standard. The six-cylinder turbo diesel engine powers the new Gran Turismo from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph (242 km/h).

The Porsche Panamera Diesel offers a highly appealing driving range of more than 745 miles on one 80-litre tank, emits 172 g/km and delivers a Combined fuel economy of 43.5mpg (6.5 l/100 km). With the optional lower rolling resistance tyres, efficiency improves further still, to 167 g/km and 44.8mpg on a Combined cycle.

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