Friday, August 31, 2007
Italian Job
A still life set up recreating the scene from the original movie.
FYI its a matchbox car in a length of chimney flue with a little motion blur applied in photoshop.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Down Under's TRD Aurion: Food for Thought for Toyota Camry' Owners!
Toyota Australia introduced a supercharged Aurion enhanced with TRD performance parts. The original 3.5L V6 engine has been forced-fed via a bolt-on Eaton (Twin Vortices Series, TVS) supercharger. Locally conceptualised and made, TRD Aurion is the most powerful Toyota ever seen in Down Under. It will shoot from 0 to 100km/h in 6.1seconds, while top speed is artificially limited to 250km/h.
Click on images to enlarge
The icing-on the-cake must be the 329hp and 400Nm supercharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. To keep this power civilised and tamed on the tarmac, the souped-up Aurion also wears sports suspension, high perforamance brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels & sport tyres, TRD grille, front and rear bumpers, side skirt and rear spoilers.
Click on images to enlarge
The icing-on the-cake must be the 329hp and 400Nm supercharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. To keep this power civilised and tamed on the tarmac, the souped-up Aurion also wears sports suspension, high perforamance brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels & sport tyres, TRD grille, front and rear bumpers, side skirt and rear spoilers.
Mitsubishi Concept-cX Prototype at Frankfurt 2007
Click on images to enlarge
Mitsubishi Concept-cX has already taken shape ahead of the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007 based on these released images from Mitsubishi Motor Corp. (MMC). Built on the 9th generation Lancer / new Outlander platform, the Concept-cX is equipped with a new 1.8L Clean Diesel engine with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that churns out 136ps at 4000rpm and 280Nm of torque at 2000rpm.
Mitsubishi Concept-cX has already taken shape ahead of the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007 based on these released images from Mitsubishi Motor Corp. (MMC). Built on the 9th generation Lancer / new Outlander platform, the Concept-cX is equipped with a new 1.8L Clean Diesel engine with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that churns out 136ps at 4000rpm and 280Nm of torque at 2000rpm.
Mitsubishi’s Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission is called into service for the Concept-cX. It looks like the robotised twin-clutch gearbox will find duty in many other Mitsu vehicles other than the upcoming Lancer EVO X. Meanwhile, its electronically controlled AWD system is nicked from the new Outlander.
From these images, it appears as if the Concept-cX is near-ready for mass production, especially from cues taken from its metal body stampings. The headlights, alloy wheels & tyres, wing mirrors, dashboard and seats will likely be toned down for the final version. But will it carry the badge of the next generation Mitsubishi Colt Plus (AWD) or a rehashed crossover theme for the all-new Pajero iO?
Related posts:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/07/mitsubishi-concept-cx.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/2008-mitsubishi-colt.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/07/mitsubishi-evolution-xs-twin-clutch-sst.html
buggy?
Ted Marcovich ended up going over the edge just a few turns from here. Fortunately Ted and the car will race another day.
Porsche
Chromatic Alchemy
Definition:
Chromatic - 1. Pertaining to color or colors.
Alchemy - 2. A mysterious process of changing the structure or appeareance of things.
All the photos were taken at car shows in Hudson, Fl.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Chevrolet Aveo Sedan 1.4 SE & SX
A new Chevrolet model called the Aveo Sedan was introduced to the Malaysian market recently, to kick off the formation of the new company called Hicom-Chevrolet Sdn Bhd. A joint venture between DRB-Hicom Bhd (49% holdings) and General Motors Asia Pacific Holdings (GMAPH) LLC (51% holdings), the newco serves to strengthen the Chevy brand in Malaysia. Hicom-Chevrolet will also explore the establishment of a local assembly programme in the near future, and at the same time provide a manufacturing hub for the production of Chevrolet vehicles, parts and accessories for the ASEAN region.
The Aveo sedan is available in two trim levels i.e. 1.4SE and 1.4SX, to be available later. Fully imported from Thailand (CBU) the SE retails at RM69,888. The engine is Daewoo’s 1.4L E-TEC II with 16-valve DOHC, generating 94bhp at 6200rpm and 130Nm maximum torque at 3400rpm. The 4-cylinder chambers are fed via multi-point fuel injection featuring Variable Geometry Intake System (VGIS). Standard for the Aveo Sedan is a four-speed automatic transmission equipped with Fuzzy Logic Control for a more responsive drive.
Equipments are fairly decent for a B-segment sedan like this new Aveo notchback. Among them are a 400litre boot space, 60/40 split reclining backseats, a tilt-adjustable power steering, power windows, central locking, electric side-view mirrors and front seatbelts with pretensioner.
The sub-compact sedan wears MacPherson struts up front, with its rear sprung on a torsion beam set-up. For stopping power, the Aveo Sedan comes equipped with front discs and rear drum brakes. A single, driver’s side airbag is added to the SX variant. There is no mention of ABS available for both SE and/or SX. Five colours are available for the new Aveo Sedan: Sterling Silver, Sparkling Tan, Alpine White, Citrus Green and Black Sapphire.
Related post:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/chevrolet-aveo-facelift-for-2008.html
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
All-New Audi A4 (B8) in 2008
Set to debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007, the all-new Audi A4 has a host of improvements to keep it abreast of competition with the BMW 3series (E90) as well as the new Mercedes-Benz (W204) C-Class.
Click on images to enlarge
Having grown up substantially over the current A4, the new B8 has a length of 4,703 mm. To put things in perspective, the current B7 measure in at 4,586mm. In tandem, its wheelbase has extended from the current 2685mm to 2808mm. In short, more cabin space is to be expected along with a capacious boot volume of 480litres.
Audi’s compact four-cylinder 1.8 TFSI, develops 160bhp and a torque of 250Nm between 1500 and 4500rpm, all from a displacement of 1798cc. The manual A4 1.8 TFSI does 8.6 seconds to 100 km/h, and maintains its thrust up to a top speed of 225 km/h. Yet according to the EU test cycle its consumption is only 7.1 l/100 km –1.1 litres per 100 kilometres better than the previous model. What we are likely to see from Euromobil in Malaysia will be the multitronic version - with continously variable transmission.
The 1.8 TFSI is a close relative of the 2.0 TFSI engine chosen three times in succession by a jury of international journalists as “Engine of the Year”. On this smaller version 0f the B8 range, direct petrol injection and turbocharging represent an ideal combination. Injection pressure has been increased to 150 bar and new direct injectors distribute the fuel accurately to the combustion chambers. The turbocharger is exceptionally rapid in its response – at an engine speed of 2000 rpm it accelerates the engine 30 percent faster to a ten percent higher torque than the conventional 1.8T engine that powered the preceeding model. For all its vigour, this four-cylinder unit runs quietly, in a most refined manner.
Audi AG has not released power/torque figures for the 2.0 TFSI engine application in the new A4.
Similar transmissions choices are carried over with the S-Tronic (DSG) still missing form the A4 line-up. As such, a six-speed manual gearbox, the tiptronic automatic transmission, the multitronic continuously variable transmission are paired with either front-wheel drive or quattro permanent all-wheel drive.
The technical features of the steel bodyshell are also evidence of the major steps forward that have been taken on the new Audi A4. The body is extremely light in weight: although almost 12cm longer and over 5cm wider than its predecessor, the bare bodyshell weighs about 10% less – an excellent starting point for a saloon car of low gross weight. The Audi A4 1.8 TFSI, for instance, tips the scales at only 1410kg.
This weight saving is due to specific use of new grades of steel that combine exceptional strength with low weight. Only these ultra-high-strength steel grades give the body the high level of rigidity needed for precise, sporty handling and good ride comfort.
Interchanging the differential and the clutch has enabled the front axle to be moved forward by 154 mm. This change, aided by moving the car’s battery to the boot, helps to achieve ideal weight distribution.
With its wide track –1564 mm at the front, 1551 mm at the rear – the A4 suggests its dynamic power even at a standstill. Audi claims the new A4 will be the sportiest car in the midsize category: agile, effortless to handle and safe at all times.
The new A4 (B8) goes on sale by November 2007 in Europe. Expect to see this in Malaysia only sometime H2 2008.
Related post:
You may want to read this:
Monday, August 27, 2007
Another Facelift for Honda City 2007/08!
Honda Malaysia has executed a 3rd facelift for its top-seller, the City for 2007/08. Notable upgrades include a new honeycomb grille, glass-imprinted antenna, wing mirror turn signals, redesigned rear lights and body-coloured mud guards. Mechanically, both the i-DSI and VTEC are similar to the pre-facelift models.
Available in five colours: Sparkle Grey, Bluish Silver, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Nighthawk Black Pearl and Satellite Silver Metallic, the ‘new’ City is available at all Honda dealers with immediate effect.
Prices are (on-the-road inclusive of insurance) RM85,800 for the VTEC and RM79,800 for the i-DSI.
Available in five colours: Sparkle Grey, Bluish Silver, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Nighthawk Black Pearl and Satellite Silver Metallic, the ‘new’ City is available at all Honda dealers with immediate effect.
Prices are (on-the-road inclusive of insurance) RM85,800 for the VTEC and RM79,800 for the i-DSI. 
Sunday, August 26, 2007
2008 All-New Honda Jazz/Fit
The well-informed and enthusiastic guys at the 'Temple of VTEC' has these images from a Japanese Honda brochure scanned, revealing the all-new Jazz for 2008 model year, set to be unveiled at the upcoming Tokyo International Motorshow 2007.
Interestingly, the 1.5L motor has gained Honda's improved i-VTEC valve train: variable valve-lift + cam-timing now vs VTEC (variable valve lift only) previously.
Related post:
JDM Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X punches out 280PS and 422Nm!
Images from Japanese brochure of the new Lancer Evolution X have leaked some specific details ahead of its appearance at the upcoming Tokyo International Motor Show 2007.
Some interesting published facts are the all-aluminium 2.0L MIVEC Turbo engine spinning a power output of 280ps at 6500rpm and a heady 422Nm of torque at 3500rpm. For the first time ever, the Lancer Evolution series will have Mitsubishi's new 6-speed SST (robotised manual) twin-clutch gearbox, among other technical wizadries of S-AWC (full-time AWD), S-AYC (yaw control) and active centre differential.
Some interesting published facts are the all-aluminium 2.0L MIVEC Turbo engine spinning a power output of 280ps at 6500rpm and a heady 422Nm of torque at 3500rpm. For the first time ever, the Lancer Evolution series will have Mitsubishi's new 6-speed SST (robotised manual) twin-clutch gearbox, among other technical wizadries of S-AWC (full-time AWD), S-AYC (yaw control) and active centre differential.
Expect to see this high performance sedan being introduced by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) sometime next year, even though they do not expect push off many units as compared to their mainstream Lancer 2.0 GT.
For Hi-Res official Evo X images go here:
Related post:
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Friday, August 24, 2007
Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0GT Road Test: A Summary
By Dr Long
This is upon request from some readers who found the last Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0GT report too lengthy for their busy lifestyles (working life et al).
I shall be attempting an ‘abstract’ version now:
Styling: 5/5
Simply gorgeous from all angles externally, compared the last (8th) generation Lancer. The shark nose plus headlights is ever menacing while sidelines are taut and modern. Evo X-like looks is refreshingly sporty, even upmarket to a certain extent.
Interior: 3/5
Leather seats soft, cosseting and supportive. Dashboard design a little too plain. Plastics on door trim needs a soft-touch wrap on upper border.
Engine: 3/5
Needs more low-end grunt to work better with the INVECS-III CVT. Muffler note at low revs and engine drone towards redline uninspiring.
Ride and Handling: 4/5
Ride quality pleasant despite on 215/45 R18 tyres. Damping and suspension rebound control good for a Japanese sedan. Confident handling into twisties of B- and trunk roads; could be better though on highway blasts.
Brakes: 4/5
All round discs do the job well. ABS equipped. Wouldn’t mind vehicle stability control module/software though (cost is still a factor here).
Equipment: 3/5
No complaints for its RM112k (w/o insurance) asking price.
Steering column mounted large-sized paddle shifters a first-in-class. (Possibly nicked from upcoming Evo X)
Practicality: 4/5
Good enough for bachelors, young couples or even young families. Could use a little more boot space.
Desirability: 4/5
With looks than can ‘kill’ and at a price that’s equally ‘lethal’ to its competitors, waiting list is 4-5 months at time of writing. Need we say more?
This is upon request from some readers who found the last Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0GT report too lengthy for their busy lifestyles (working life et al).
I shall be attempting an ‘abstract’ version now:
Styling: 5/5
Simply gorgeous from all angles externally, compared the last (8th) generation Lancer. The shark nose plus headlights is ever menacing while sidelines are taut and modern. Evo X-like looks is refreshingly sporty, even upmarket to a certain extent.
Interior: 3/5
Leather seats soft, cosseting and supportive. Dashboard design a little too plain. Plastics on door trim needs a soft-touch wrap on upper border.
Engine: 3/5
Needs more low-end grunt to work better with the INVECS-III CVT. Muffler note at low revs and engine drone towards redline uninspiring.
Ride and Handling: 4/5
Ride quality pleasant despite on 215/45 R18 tyres. Damping and suspension rebound control good for a Japanese sedan. Confident handling into twisties of B- and trunk roads; could be better though on highway blasts.
Brakes: 4/5
All round discs do the job well. ABS equipped. Wouldn’t mind vehicle stability control module/software though (cost is still a factor here).
Equipment: 3/5
No complaints for its RM112k (w/o insurance) asking price.
Steering column mounted large-sized paddle shifters a first-in-class. (Possibly nicked from upcoming Evo X)
Practicality: 4/5
Good enough for bachelors, young couples or even young families. Could use a little more boot space.
Desirability: 4/5
With looks than can ‘kill’ and at a price that’s equally ‘lethal’ to its competitors, waiting list is 4-5 months at time of writing. Need we say more?
Specifications:
Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 GT
Engine: 4B11 1,998cc DOHC 16V MIVEC (all-aluminium block)
Maximum power: 155ps @ 6000rpm
Peak torque: 199Nm @ 4250rpm
Transmission: INVECS III-CVT with 6-speed manual ‘Sports Mode’
Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 GT
Engine: 4B11 1,998cc DOHC 16V MIVEC (all-aluminium block)
Maximum power: 155ps @ 6000rpm
Peak torque: 199Nm @ 4250rpm
Transmission: INVECS III-CVT with 6-speed manual ‘Sports Mode’
0-100km/h: 10.2secs (as tested)
Top speed: 200km/h (claimed)
Price: RM112,806.10 (OTR w/o insurance)
Verdict: Handsome, freshest value-buy of the season (C-segment). Road holding and ride inspiring.
Top speed: 200km/h (claimed)
Price: RM112,806.10 (OTR w/o insurance)
Verdict: Handsome, freshest value-buy of the season (C-segment). Road holding and ride inspiring.
Full-length test review here:
*For a test-drive and sales consultation (Peninsular Malaysia only) please contact: Dylan Chang at 016-2233771
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