German Car Scene

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  • Driven: The new Porsche 911


    This new video from Porsche sees the 991 being put through its paces at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone. Gordon Robertson explains some of the technology behind the car while also exploring how it remains true to its roots. (more…)

  • Volkswagen reveals Caddy Match


    Volkswagen UK has created the first special edition of its Caddy model, called the Match.

    Available for a limited period, the Caddy Match features a host of additional equipment compared to the standard model, which includes body-coloured bumpers and wing mirrors, air conditioning, a trip computer, electric windows, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors.

    The Match is on sale until 30 April 2012 and can be specified as a standard Caddy or long wheelbase Caddy Maxi (excluding the 4MOTION and EcoFuel models) and offered with a range of 1.6 L and 2.0 L TDI engines. Prices start at £14,110/€ 17,087 (ex. VAT)

    [Source: Volkswagen UK]

  • DRIVE: BBi Autosport Porsche 911 Turbo S


    Up to now, the offerings from DRIVE have been living up to everyone’s expectations, and this latest video is no exception. Matt Farah visited BBi Autosport in Huntington Beach to pick up a 485 kW (650 hp) Porsche 997 Turbo S before running it down the quarter mile then heading into the canyons to see how it performed. (more…)

  • 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…)