Minggu, 30 September 2012

Honda Mini Acura NSX


While the stillborn, V-10-powered NSX was being developed, Honda was also working on a related and obscure project referred to internally as the Small NSX. At the time it was just one of several advanced R&D ideas sitting in the design room. Then the financial crisis hit, causing Honda to kill the NSX and shelve all other sports car projects. But Honda has since rebounded, and as we know, the NSX has been reborn as an all-wheel drive hybrid. Now we're hearing the Small NSX may be back on the drawing board as well.

While the words "Small NSX" may conjure up visions of a successor to the S2000, our inside source tells us this is not the case, and that it will look much like a shrunken version of the big-boy NSX, something along the lines of the car you see in this artist's impression. Our source also tells us that like the NSX, it will be equipped with a version of Honda's SH-AWD system

Power will likely be provided by a turbocharged direct-injection engine. Honda currently has a number of engines that could fit the bill, including the 3.5-liter V-6, 2.4-liter I-4, and 2.0-liter I-4 already offered in several of its American-market products. Given Honda's America-focused development, overseas engines such as its 660cc and 1.0-liter mills are unlikely to be considered. Of the possible three, the 2.4-liter is the most likely candidate. There's also the possibility that it will be fitted with some kind of hybrid drivetrain.

Our source also tells us the Small NSX will make use of a number of parts from the NSX to help recoup development costs. Given that both cars will be developed at Honda of America's R&D center in Ohio (we're told that in July Honda HQ assigned several of its top test drivers and engineers to the facility for a five-year stint), it's a logical move. The NSX remains on track to return for the 2015 model year. If it's indeed green-lit, the Small NSX could follow a year or two afterward, before the drivers and engineers head home in 2017. Don't expect it to be a bargain sports car, however. Given the amount of DNA it's likely to share with the NSX, the Small NSX would likely cost between $50,000 and $60,000
                                             
                                           Some Pictures :

  
Front Side View


                                                          Front Side Three Quarter View


Head Light View
 
 
Wheel View
 
 
Rear Three Quarter View
 
 
 

Minggu, 09 September 2012

Subaru Outback

Without a doubt, the BRZ is Subaru's current superstar, with sales and pre-orders exceeding expectations. The automaker is hoping to shine a bit of the BRZ's spotlight on the updated 2013 Subaru Legacy and 2013 Subaru Outback, both of which will debut at New York with a number of mechanical and cosmetic tweaks.

Under the hood, 2.5i models now get a new FB series, dual-overhead-cam 2.5-liter, boxer-four rated at 173 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque; an increase of 3 hp and 4 lb-ft compared to outgoing, single-overhead cam engine. A six-speed manual is standard, while an all-new, second-generation continuously variable transmission is optional. Subaru says the new CVT is quieter, more responsive, and is expected to help boost fuel economy. The 256-hp 3.6-liter boxer-six engine and five-speed automatic transmission will carry over for the 3.6R models. Sadly, the sporty Legacy 2.5GT model -- and its boisterous turbocharged boxer-four engine -- has been discontinued for 2013.

All Legacy and Outback models, however, receive suspension, chassis, and body tweaks to improve ride and handling. Subaru claims the updates have reduced body roll by up to 40 percent.

The two new models will also debut an optional EyeSight safety system, which uses a camera for advanced safety features that include adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and vehicle lane departure warning. Subaru says its system is cheaper and more effective than the comparable system available on Volvos.

Subaru has made various interior updates including new fabric materials and an updated audio system for 2.5i models. The Outback and Legacy Limited trim now features a rear-seat A/C outlet and a new electroluminescent instrument cluster. Pricing and an on-sale date have not yet been announced.


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Minggu, 02 September 2012

Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport was unveiled at the 2012 New York auto show with a host of updates including a new front end and standard 18-inch alloy wheels. It will also come with a "Made in the U.S.A." sticker when it reaches dealer showrooms, its production shifting from Japan to the Normal, IL plant following the discontinuation of the Galant sedan.



The compact crossover retains its characteristic “angry eyes” headlights and wide trapezoidal front grille, but gets a subtly revised front fascia. The bumper has been smoothed out a bit, and the grille and fog light surrounds receive new chrome trim. It’s a similar story in the rear, with a simpler, smoother bumper design. The restyled side sills are now colored black on all models to match the lower sections of the altered front and rear bumpers. All 2013 Outlander Sport also have the option of new exterior colors White Pearl and Quick Silver.
Also debuting on the 2013 Outlander Sport is a revised rear multi-link suspension, which Mitsubishi says will improve handling and ride comfort. The available CVT has been recalibrated to provide better acceleration and smoother shift feel. Inside, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, along with Mitsubishi’s FUSE hands-free Bluetooth phone system, come standard. The range-topping SE model adds a premium six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, HID headlights, as well as smart key passive entry and push-button ignition.