German Car Scene

Month: January 2012

  • Audi Q3 Vail unveiled


    Audi has created a themed version of its Q3 Compact SUV ahead of this year’s North American International Auto Show. The Q3 Vail, which is named after the American winter sports venue in Colorado, is currently a concept but could go into production if enough interest is shown.

    Visually the Q3 Vail is finished in Energy Red paintwork, a special shade that features golden pearlescent particles. By contrast, its add-on body sections are matt grey, while the grille features striking vertical aluminium struts. Adding to the Q3’s rugged appearance is the underbody guard, side air inlets, running boards and flared wheel arch extensions which accommodate the 40 mm (1.57 inches) increase in track. The rear is particularly stylish thanks to that diffuser/underbody guard with integrated twin tailpipes. The five-spoke alloy wheels measure 8.5 x 20-inches and are wrapped in 255/45 offroad tyres.

    Inside, the cabin is finished in a mixture of materials, with the roof lining trimmed in titanium grey Alcantara, the entire instrument panel covered in Fine Nappa leather, while other sections of the upholstery utilize an innovative leather/fabric material. Aluminium is used on the leather-trimmed steering wheel, around the speedometer, rev counter and edges of the control lights. (more…)

  • Volkswagen reveals Jetta Hybrid


    Volkswagen has unveiled a Jetta Hybrid model ahead of its début at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show later this week.

    Power for the Jetta comes from a 1.4 L turbocharged TSI petrol engine that develops 110 kW (148 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of torque, which is backed up by a 20 kW (27 hp) zero-emissions electric motor. Using electric power alone, speeds of up to 70 km/h (44 mph) are achievable and a range of two kilometres (1.3 miles) can be covered.

    With both units in action fuel consumption is improved by around 20 per cent compared to equivalent petrol-powered vehicle at 45 mpg US (around 54 mpg Imperial or 5.2 L/100 km). A sub-9 second 0-60 mph time is also possible.

    When the driver releases the accelerator pedal at higher speeds, up to 135 km/h (84 mph) the engine is decoupled, which in turn reduces drag torque losses and enhances fuel efficiency. Under braking, the Jetta Hybrid switches to a battery regeneration mode. This decouples the engine and uses the electric motor as a generator.

    The Jetta Hybrid will be launched in North America this November.

    [Source: Volkswagen] (more…)

  • smart for-us pick-up concept surfaces


    smart has released further details and images of the cheeky little for-us pick-up concept ahead of its Detroit unveiling later this week.

    Fuelling the urban pick-up is a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 17.6 kWh which powers a magneto-electric motor that develops 55 kW (74 hp) and 130 Nm (96 lb/ft) of torque – enough to allow a respectable top speed of 120 km/h (74 mph). Recharging – from completely empty – takes a maximum of eight hours at a household socket.

    Measuring just 3547 mm in length and 1506 mm in width, the for-us is small compared to everyday pick-ups, but does have a 613 mm longer wheelbase and 50 mm wider track than the regular fortwo, helping to capitalize on its dinky dimensions.

    Once the tailgate is down, the 900 mm cargo area not only reveals anchoring points to accommodate a pair of smart ebikes but, thanks to the integrated docking station, both ebikes are kept completely charged for when the occupants choose to explore traffic-calmed zones – and beyond.

    [Source: smart] (more…)

  • Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept to show up in Detroit


    Volkswagen has revealed this cool-looking E-Bugster Concept ahead of its official début at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

    Power for the purely electrically powered E-Bugster Concept comes via the same unit as seen in the Golf Blue-e-Motion. Fed by a lithium-ion battery, the motor generates a maximum power output of 85 kW (114 hp) and a continuous 50 kW (67 hp). Maximum torque from a stop is an impressive 270 Nm (199 lb/ft), while the E-Bugster’s range can cover at least 150 kilometres. The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is carried out in 10.9 seconds.

    Visually, the Concept bares many similarities to the new Beetle apart from a three inch roof chop and lower screen which results in a sportier, more slippery appearance.

    At the front there’s a pair of C-shaped LED daytime running lights, while at the rear the boot lid receives a subtle spoiler.

    [Source: Volkswagen] (more…)

  • Porsche 911 GT2 R Flat by Albert Motorsport


    Well known for its involvement in competitions and car preparation, Albert Motorsport, the Oberhausen-based Porsche specialist has unveiled its latest project, the 911 GT2 R Flat.

    Looking a little like a squashed 911 GT3 R, this animal actually began life as humble Porsche 996 model – before the guys took an angle grinder to its pillars. The roof chop gives it a look reminiscent of 9ff’s crazy GT9-CS, while the addition of 997.2 lights helps to create a modern appearance. The facelift panels are constructed from lightweight fibreglass as is the roof section.

    Inside the car there’s an extensive roll cage along with a charge cooler which feeds cold air to the twin-turbocharged flat six engine.

    The 911 GT2 R Flat will be making its début at Zandvoort Circuit today, to take part in the four-hour race. If you can’t make it there you can always browse through Albert Motorsport’s 209 photos following its build.

    [Source: Albert Motorsport] (more…)

  • AutoWeek: Volkswagen up! vs Kia Picanto


    Last year, Dutch motoring magazine AutoWeek declared Kia’s Picanto as the benchmark for the A-segment, but with the introduction of Volkswagen’s new up! model has the Picanto lost its crown? (more…)