2013 IAA: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG shown in Frankfurt [Live Photos]

2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG had its official introduction, after it has been teased and later leaked. The new model, which is set to have its public unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show, has the usual AMG modifications when it comes to styling. It features bolder bumpers, thicker side sills, bigger 19-inch alloy wheels and a quad exhaust setup that make the car appear more menacing. But then, others claim that it should still seem meaner. It is powered by an updated Euro 6-compliant twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine, producing 585 bhp (436 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). The direct-injected gasoline engine includes Piezo injectors and an all-aluminum crankcase that comes with four valves per cylinder (with camshaft adjustment).

The mill features an air-to-water intercooler and an ECO start/stop function. It gets a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT sports transmission that comes in three modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual). In comparison to the former model, the new S63 AMG is lighter by as much as 220 lbs (100 kg) due to its use of AMG forged alloys, a lightweight lithium-ion battery (-20 kg / 44 lbs) and a two-piece braking system that weighs less.

The outer skin of the car as well as the roof and front end uses aluminium. Meanwhile, the spare wheel recess is built from carbon fiber. Because of this, the short wheelbase model has a weight of 4,343 lbs (1,970 kg) with the fuel tank 90% filled but exclusive of driver and luggage. Under the same conditions, the long wheelbase model weighs 4,398 lbs (1,995 kg).

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG can accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.4 seconds for both SWB and LWB versions. The speed of the all-wheel drive 4MATIC long-wheelbase model is faster than the other two and can do the sprint in only 4 seconds. The three models can reach a maximum speed of 155 mph or 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Gallery: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

Success of Audi Nanuk Quattro at Frankfurt show owed to VW chairman

Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept

Audi's Nanuk Quattro was definitely a head-turner at the recently finished Frankfurt Motor Show. Visitors and journalists at the show were seen taking a second look at the cross between a sports car and a sports utility vehicle. However, the Nanuk Quattro initially wasn’t meant to be part of Audi’s exhibit at the show so it came as a surprise that it became one of the event’s stars. The two-seater Nanuk Quattro is a slightly reworked version of Italdesign's Parcour Concept that was unveiled by the Volkswagen-owned design house at the Geneva Auto Show in March 2013. Back then, the Parcour was under the Lamborghini badge. Although the Parcour was warmly received, people were not enthusiastic about it. The Parcour was a potential display at the Concorso d'Eleganza at Villa d'Este, but organizers denied its presence. A person involved in the selection process disclosed that the reason for rebuffing the Parcour was because the vehicle was "honestly not good enough,” adding that they “didn't want to see it” at the concourse. Months after at Frankfurt, the Parcour – now dubbed at Audi Nanuk Quattro – made Audi’s stand and became a star of the show. How? According to sources for Automotive News, the Parcour caught the eye of no less than the supervisory chairman of the Volkswagen Group, Ferdinand Piech. He eventually ordered that the Parcour be part of the Audi exhibition at the show. [source: automotive news - sub. required]

Gallery: Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept

BMW and Hyundai may build new factories in Mexico

2013 Hyundai Sonata

BMW AG and Hyundai Motor Co. are mulling building new plants in Mexico, according to Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo. The minister told Bloomberg in an interview that the Mexican government has held discussions with BMW and Hyundai, adding that at least one of the carmakers may soon announce plans for a new assembly site in the country in 2014. Any new site from BMW or Hyundai would give Mexico its first new vehicle factory since April 2012, when Audi AG unveiled plans for a $1.3 billion plant it commenced building this year to assemble the Q5. A BMW or Hyundai site is expected to further boost Mexico's auto industry, which has continued to expand this year despite a slowdown in the country’s economic growth.

Japanese carmakers Nissan Motor Co., Honda Motor Co. and Mazda Motor Corp. are currently building new sites in central Mexico, while US auto companies Ford Motor Co. and General Motors are spending more to increase their production.

Meeyoung Song, a spokeswoman for Hyundai, said the South Korean automaker “currently has no plans to build a plant in Mexico. Vehicle production in Mexico surged 4.4 percent in the first eight months of 2013 to 1.99 million vehicles, according to the Mexican Automobile Industry Association.

Gallery: 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Bmw plans to introduce the 1-Series sedan in 2017

by Andrew Christian, Email, 30 Sep, 2013

2013 Bmw 1-Series

According to a company source it appears that Bmw plans to introduce an entry-level front-wheel-drive sedan. The new model will be slotted below the 3-Series sedan and ill arrive in 2017. The 1-Series sedan will take on the Audi A3 sedan and theMercedes-Benz CLA and just like its rivals the new Bavarian sedan will be developed to support FWD and four-wheel-drive. Dubbed NES (New Entry-level Sedan), the new car is part of a range of fwd models scheduled for the BMW lineup. Moreover, it will use company’s new UKL, for "entry-level," structure, same used by the 2014 MINI Cooper, which will be unveiled in November at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. According to the same source, the new entry-level sedan is integral to Bmw’s growth plan and it will be an important pillar in the future 1-Series lineup, especially in the United States and China. [source: automotive news - sub. required]

Gallery: 2013 Bmw 1-Series

Self-driving vehicles still need drivers and regulations

2014 Chevrolet Malibu

Autonomous or self-driving vehicles used to be just an idea; but not anymore as carmakers strive to achieve such a feat by the end of the decade at the earliest. One of these carmakers is General Motors, which is currently testing at a suburban Detroit track a self-driving system embedded in the persona of Cadillac SRX. The car is able to drive itself at highway speed while the driver does something else other than driving. The self-driving capability of the first versions of GM’s autonomous vehicles -- due by 2020 – is only limited to controlled-access highways like an interstate. The first GM self-driving vehicle is also not capable of avoiding accidents on their own, since that task will still be the responsibility of a human pilot. Michelle Krebs, senior analyst with Edmunds.com, told Bloomberg News that although self-driving technology could be doable, there are questions on how to implement, regulate and standardize. She added that there are people who want to be in control and don’t want driving taken away from them.

While the innovation is fast developing, carmakers are still cautious about developing fully autonomous technology, like that envisioned by Google Inc. This cautiousness, according to GM officials, is a realistic view of what consumers will accept and the rules of the road will allow.

Bill Visnic, an analyst who follows autonomous vehicles for Edmunds.com, told Bloomberg that there should be a “kind of regulatory foundations in place at a reasonably nascent place,” particularly in the United States where the federal government oversees vehicle safety while states regulate insurance and licensing drivers. He said that sans such regulatory foundation, it might become “the Wild West out there.”

Gallery: 2014 Chevrolet Malibu

Jeep introduces 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition

2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition

Jeep is introducing its 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition derived from a concept unveiled at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exposition. Finished in black and with a black body-color three-piece hard top, the Jeep 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition features several Bronze Satin Gloss details in the front grille slats, headlamp surrounds and on the Jeep badging. It features distinct 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels finished in matte black with a Satin Bronze high-gloss outer edge. The exterior of the 2014 Wrangler Dragon Edition features gloss-black appliques on the front and rear bumpers, and a Dark Charcoal dragon decal that starts on the hood and runs along the driver’s side of the vehicle. It also boasts of a Mopar fuel-filler door and a black spare tire cover with dragon decal.

The black-and-bronze theme is mirrored inside. Adding to the interior appeal are black Nappa leather seating surfaces with Satin Bronze Dragon Scale on the outer bolster surfaces, center console arm rest and steering wheel. T

he interior also features include high-gloss black instrument panel bezels and door handles and Satin Bronze accent trim on the steering wheel spokes and passenger-side dashboard grab handle. It also boasts of matching bronze bound floor mats and a unique dragon graphic overlay in the gauge cluster. [source: Chrysler]

Gallery: 2014 Jeep Wrangler Dragon Edition

    

2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD unveiled

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class Convertible confirmed

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Concept

The idea of a four-door convertible from Mercedes-Benz is not new as the German manufacturer introduced the Ocean Drive Concept back in 2006. Still nothing happened since then but last week, Mercedes’ head of research and development Thomas Weber confirmed the new model. Weber said that Mercedes-Benz will build a convertible version of the new S-Class which will be based on the S-Class Coupe, recently introduced at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The coupe version will go on sale in Europe in early 2014, while the convertible will arrive somewhere in 2015. Offering a twin-turbocharged V8 and a V12, the S-Class Convertible will feature a fabric top. [source: automotive news - sub. required]

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Concept

Callaway AeroWagon will go into production

Callaway AeroWagon

Callaway has approved the AeroWagon to go into production but it will be more expensive than initially announced. Instead of US$15,000 to do the conversion of its Corvette Stingray shooting brake, it will now cost US$22,995. What buyers get for this considerable amount of money is a new hatch built from carbon fiber structural elements formed with the use of a Resin Transfer Molding process to make a lightweight but sturdy rear. Callaway claims that the AeroWagon can reach a top speed of over 200 mph (322 km/h). This means that there will be upgrades for the V8 6.2-liter engine since the standard C7 is incapable of reaching this speed. Callaway also said that the AeroWagon will offer the highest mileage rating in its segment.

Gallery: Callaway AeroWagon

Jaguar Land Rover looking for a partner to develop hybrid vehicles

2014 Range Rover Sport Hybrid

Talks are ongoing between Jaguar Land Rover and other automakers about teaming up in developing hybrid vehicles in order to comply with the CO2 emissions targets in Europe. When interviewed by Automotive News Europe, JLR's research and technology head Wolfgang Epple said that talks have started with other companies but he didn’t identify them. Epple has been part of collaborations with other car companies on hybrids. When Epple was BMW’s vice president of hybrid technology, he worked with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler to develop a transmission in the U.S. to channel both gasoline and electric power. Epple said that this cooperation, which started in 2005, led to reduced costs.

He said that all the automakers were able to use the same components in building their own cars. JLR is expected to begin sales of the diesel-hybrid versions of the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in early 2014. The company said that the CO2 emissions of these models will be 26% lower than those of the standard V-6 diesels on which they are based.

The two SUVs won’t be available in the U.S. Analyst Bernstein Research said that Jaguar Land Rover has to make the largest improvements of any automaker just to meet the European Union's CO2 target for 2015. This report’s author Max Warburton wrote that JLR faces the challenge of fitting the hybrid equipment to a bigger share of its vehicles than most automakers so that it can reach CO2 targets.

The Bernstein report revealed that JLR has to reduce average CO2 emissions to 164 grams per kilometer by 2015 to meet European’s rules. JLR said that in 2011, its average CO2 figure was 206g/km, down from 223g/km in 2010. JLR also said that the 164g/km target, which is higher than the overall industry goal of 130g/km, is indicative of the higher average weight of Land Rover and Jaguar vehicles. [source: automotive news - sub. required]

Gallery: 2014 Range Rover Sport Hybrid

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray vs. 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Shttp://www.edmunds.com/

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2014 Toyota Corolla Sedan

(1.8L 4-cyl. 6-speed Manual)

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2013 Frankfurt Preview: Bentley debuts new Continental GT V8 S

2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S

Bentley unveiled today, ahead of the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the new Continental GT V8 S and GTC V8 S models. As expected, both models are powered by the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine developing 521 bhp (389 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. The 2014 Continental GT V8 S is able to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 192 mph (309 km/h), while the GTC V8 S hits the same speed in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 191 mph or 308 km/h. Despite the increased performance, the GT V8 S is able to cover more than 500 miles (805 km) on a single tank of fuel. The new GT V8 S coupe returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 26.8 mpg (10.6 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 246 g/km.

The equivalent figures for the convertible are 25.9 mpg (10.9 l/100km) and 254 g/km. The 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S also comes with a lowered sports suspension (by 10 mm), complemented by increased spring rates (45% front, 33% rear) and revised damping for a more engaging and responsive drive. Bush stiffnesses are increased by up to 70%, while the rear anti-roll bar is stiffened by 54% over the standard GT V8 models for improved body control and turn-in.

In terms of design, we find lower-body styling such as a sharp front splitter, side sills and a subtle rear diffuser finished in Beluga gloss. Moreover, the Continental GT V8 S features black gloss radiator grille with single chrome divider bar and 'figure of eight' exhaust tail pipes instantly signify the powerful V8 engine.

The 20-inch wheels are unique to the S models and have an open-spoke design. Besides the 17 exterior colours, the GT V8 S models also get two new ones: Kingfisher Blue and the new Monaco Yellow. Inside, we find discreet V8 S badges on each sill tread plate and a full range of seventeen colours. [source: Bentley]

Gallery: 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S/ GTC V8 S

2013 Frankfurt Preview: Audi unveils the Sport Quattro Concept

The Lexus GS F was caught undisguised by spy photographers and Japan’s Best Car magazine was kind enough to reveal the photos. As you can see, the new Lexus GS F looks pretty impressive and carbon fiber is present in its new bodykit. The upcoming car will feature a new aerodynamic kit consisting of a front lip spoiler, enlarged front fenders, side sills, a new rear bumper with integrated air user and exhaust system. A carbon fiber rear lip trunk spoiler is available too as well as carbon fiber mirror covers. Under the hood we expect to see a 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering over 450 hp. More details to be revealed!

Gallery: Lexus GS F

2013 Frankfurt Preview: Audi unveils the Sport Quattro Concept

Audi Sport Quattro Concept

Prior to the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), Audi released the official info and specs of its new Sport Quattro Concept. The new concept car celebrates the 30th birthday of the iconic Sport Quattro, which was introduced back in 1983 at the IAA. The new Sport Quattro Concept that will make its world debut next week at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show has a wheelbase of 2,784 millimeters. Moreover, it has a length of 4,602 millimeters, a width of 1,964 millimeters and a height of just 1,386 millimeters. Regarding the design, the new car features angular, flat C-pillars, rectangular double headlights with Matrix LED technology (that made its debut on the new Audi A8 Facelift) and a new hexagonal single-frame grille.

The rear end shows rectangular tail lights and a spoiler that extends from the rear hatch at higher speeds. The interior is focused on the driver, as the steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and head-up display are all in the direct field of view. In addition, we find sporty racing bucket seats with folding backs. Furthermore, the interior features the touchwheel of the characteristic Audi MMI control unit that makes it easy to enter information.

Under the hood, there is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 560 hp and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. Moreover, located between the V8 engine and the transmission is a disc-shaped electric motor that develops 110 kW and 400 Nm (292 lb-ft) of torque. It draws its traction energy from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery in the rear with a capacity of 14.1 kWh.

The concept car can be charged via the Audi wall box, which uses intelligent charge management to ensure the optimal feed of energy to the lithium-ion battery. As a result, it can travel up to 50 km (31 miles) using electric power. According to the applicable standard, the show car consumes on average 2.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (94.09 US mpg), a CO2 equivalent of 59 grams per kilometer (94.95 g/mile). When the V8 and the electric motor work together, the Audi Sport Quattro Concept is able to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds and has a top speed of 305 km/h (189 mph). [source: Audi]

Gallery: Audi Sport Quattro Concept

Porsche 911 RSR grabs two class victories at 2013 Le Mans 24 Hours

Porsche - 2013 Le Mans

Porsche grabbed two class victories at the 81st running of the Le Mans 24 Hours. The class victories were the 99th and 100th for Porsche at the Circuit des 24 Heures. Porsche AG Team Manthey scored the top two spots in the highly competitive GTE-Pro class in its Porsche 911 RSR units, each completing 315 laps. Lording the GTE-Pro class is the No. 92 Porsche 911 RSR driven by Porsche works drivers Romain Dumas (France), Marc Lieb (Germany) and Richard Lietz (Austria), clocking 24 hours, 2 minutes and. Placing second is the No. 91 Porsche 911 RSR by Porsche works drivers Joerg Bergmeister (Germany), Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Patrick Pilet (France). Porsche won another crown after the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR fielded by customer team IMSA Performance Matmut dominated the GTE-Am class. The unit was driven by French drivers Raymond Narac, Jean-Karl-Vernay and Christophe Bourret.

Constant showers and difficult conditions graced the Le Mans 24 Hours, but it failed to mar the celebrations at Porsche AG Team Manthey's pit as they welcomed their winning racing cars, which were just over two minutes apart from each other at the finish line. Among those who welcomed the winners at the pit wall are Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Porsche AG Wolfgang Porsche and chief executive Matthias Mueller. Joining them are Board Members Wolfgang Hatz (Research and Development) and Bernhard Maier (Sales and Marketing).

Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Porsche AG: “With the 99th and 100th class win and the double victory of the new 911 RSR, this Le Mans 24 hour race was a magnificent success for Porsche. I very much congratulate all those who have contributed. Our joy, however, is also mixed with sadness and shock at the death of Allan Simonsen. We have not only lost a passionate racer, but also a good friend of the Porsche motorsport family. He contested his first Le Mans 24 Hours in 2007 with a Porsche. With our works driver Marc Lieb in 2005, he contested two races of the Le Mans Endurance Series in a Porsche as well. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family as well as the Aston Martin squad and his teammates at this difficult time.” [source: Porsche]

Gallery: Porsche - 2013 Le Mans