Volkswagen Tiguan in India 2013 Review, Price, Specifications

Expected Date: March - 2013

Expected Price: Rs. 25,00,000

The Volkswagen Tiguan also known as the Touareg’s younger brother is a smaller compact SUV that is all set to hit Indian roads. The Tiguan currently features a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder DOHC turbocharged engine capable of producing 200bhp. For Indian customers we may even see a trimmed down version fitted with a 1.4 litre turbocharged engine producing 170bhp. The car will compete with the CR-V, Fortunner, Endeavour and Skoda’s new sensation, the Yeti.

Volkswagen Tiguan Specifications

Get full technical specifications of Volkswagen Tiguan in India. Spend time to review every spec of the Volkswagen Tiguan including dimensions, Engine Capacity, Suspension, fuel Efficiency and many more. Volkswagen Tiguan technical specification is provided in a very user-friendly fashion and will help you to get detailed information of the car. Evaluate performance of the Volkswagen Tiguan car on the basis of overall specification sheet. We provide you city mileage as well as highway fuel efficiency of the Volkswagen Tiguan which helps you to judge car on the basis of your daily needs. The specification sheet gives you complete details of the engine capacity of the Volkswagen Tiguan such as Power, torque, engine displacement, fuel supply system, engine type and many more. Suspension system and overall dimension are two major factors which decides the overall performance of the car on road, we offer you detailed information on suspension and dimensions of the Volkswagen Tiguan. The information on the braking and transmission system of the Volkswagen Tiguan is also available in the spec sheet.

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Launched - 2013 Jaguar XK Photo,Price,Specifications

The 2013 XK is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in 6 trims, ranging.from the XK Coupe to the XKR-S Convertible.

Upon introduction, the XK Coupe is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 385-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. The XKR-S Convertible is equipped with a standard 5.0-liter, V8, 550-horsepower, supercharged engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 22-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims

The 2013 Jaguar XK now gets a Touring Coupe and Convertible trim added to the lineup. While there are no styling changes except for the 19-inch wheels and Aero package, inside the Touring Coupe receives heated front seats, Morzine cloth headliner and satin rosewood veneer. The XK Coupe will come with 20-inch wheels as standard, a Bower and Wilkins 525-watt audio system, a Portfolio package which gives options like leather floor mats, leather headliner, stainless steel sill plates and pedals. The Convertible has a Dynamic pack which gets a sportier suspension, adaptive dynamics and aero add-ons.

The XKR-S will be limited to 100 units only and there are no changes for it. The 2013 Jaguar XK range starts from Rs 43.93 lakh ex-showroom in North America.

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Nissan Murano in India 2013 Photos, Prices, Reviews

Expected Date: January - 2013

Expected Price: Rs. 25,00,000

Nissan is planning to launch its mid-size SUV for the Indian market. The Murano which sells well in the US will compete directly with the Q5 and the X3 in India. This vehicle is fitted with a large 3.5 litre V6 engine with 24 vales producing 265bhp and mated to a CVT transmission. The car has a 0-100kmph acceleration time of just 9 seconds and it also features ABS, EBD and ESP amongst many other tech and safety features. A brand new cross cabriolet of the Murano is also available for the international market. This car is actually a cross between a cabriolet, a coupe and a SUV. You see, the top of this car can actually come off and there are only 2 doors. But it is uncertain if this version of the Murano will reach Indian shores.

VEHICLE SUMMARY
Name:	Murano
Model:	S
Car Body Type:	SUV
Segment:	D+ Segment
Warranty:	0
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Displacement:	3500cc, V6
Engine Type:	Petrol
Maximum Power:	265 Bhp @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque:	335 Nm @ 4000 rpm
DIMENSIONS
Length:	4787 mm
Width:	1882 mm
Height:	1729 mm
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS
Seating Capacity:	5
Tyre Size:	P235/65 R18
Suspension:	Independent strut, Multi-link independent
Steering:	Tilt
Brakes:	Front Ventilated, Rear Disk
Gears:	6 Manual
Fuel Tank:	88.00

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Honda CR-V Diesel 2013 India

Expected Date: January - 2013

Expected Price: Rs. 24,00,000

Honda has never played around with diesel engines before. India however loves its diesel engines which have forced the Japanese manufacturer to venture into the unknown and now the Honda CR-V will soon be available in a diesel avatar. Honda has developed a 2200cc 4-cylinder diesel engine which can produce 

 134bhp and a very tasteful 347Nm of torque. There will be no difference between the diesel and petrol variant, the only difference will be the power unit. The move by Honda to dabble with diesel engines shows that they are trying to increase sales for the ailing CR-V.

VEHICLE SUMMARY
Name:	CR-V Diesel 2013
Model:
Car Body Type:	SUV
Segment:	D Segment
Warranty:	NA
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Displacement:	2.2 litre, 4 Cyl
Engine Type:	Diesel
Maximum Power:	148 Bhp
Maximum Torque:	350 Nm
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS
Seating Capacity:	5
Tyre Size:	Alloys
Suspension:	MacPherson Strut, Coil Spring, Anti-Roll Bar
Steering:	Tilt
Brakes:	Front Disk, Rear Disk
Gears:	6 Manual

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The 2013 BMW M5 and M6 The Car Review Search Engine

Sometime between the E30 M3 of the 1980s and now, the market for M-badged BMWs expanded to execs in blue pin-striped shirts and Ray Ban aviators. Maybe more aspiring one-percenters became auto enthusiasts, but the company also just cast the net wider; older models like the E34 M5 weeded out the boulevard poseurs by only offering a manual transmission. Compare that to the last-generation M5, which initially only came with an (SMG) automatic — and outsold all preceding M5s. Do the 2013 BMW M5 and 2013 BMW M6 continue that same mass-market trajectory? To answer that question, BMW gave us the opportunity to drive them at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and on the streets of Monterey, Calif.

At first glance it may seem odd to compare the M5 and M6 because of the stark difference in sheet metal, but underneath they're closely related; both are powered by a turbo V-8 making 560 hp, have a rear axle rigidly mounted to the unibody, and use hydraulic steering for better steering feel.

Dynamically the two are similar, but on the track the M6 is more athletic and agile, and tackles the bends with a sharper, flatter poise—aided by the carbon-fiber roof panel, which sheds over 10 pounds up top. The carbon ceramic brakes (a hefty $8,700 option) also give a better bite than the standard M5 steel discs. Both cars barrel through the bends with a well-composed neutrality—but gas out of the corner too eagerly and the 500 ft-lbs of torque will make the rear tires shriek in agony as the tail swings out. Fortunately, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) empowers drivers to control the car at 9/10ths of the limit without fear of plowing into tire barriers, and the system adroitly intervenes as the rear starts to wiggle. But technical wizardry aside, there's no escaping the Newtonian reality that M5 and M6 are heavy — each weighing over 4,200lbs — and you feel it especially in the M5.
With more weight comes more power, and while some may bemoan the shift from the naturally aspirated V-10 to a turbo 4.4-liter V-8, it's a near-flawless engine, with a generous torque band that effortlessly handles the elevation changes at the famed track. The only shortcoming is that BMW pumps artificial engine sounds through the speakers. A phony engine soundtrack should never be a touted feature; whether behind the wheel or in the bedroom, knowing the noises are faked only lessens the experience.
Unlike the previous generation's clunky SMG, the impeccable automatic transmission on the 2013 M5 and M6 not only shift faster than you can blink, but is also almost undiscernibly smooth when cruising. Ironically, it's so good that I preferred it to the six-speed manual (only available with the M5), which although is competent on the track, has a clutch that's too grabby for street driving. Also, downshifts that rev-match feel wrong; if I'm choosing manual for the sensation of control, I don't want a computer to do the leg work for me.
Although the M6 has a performance edge over the M5, the latter shined on regular roads — it shrugged off the choppy roads of Highway 68 with a relaxed yet confident ride. On the other hand, the crisp dynamics of the BMW M6 became an annoyance when leaving the smooth track. Traversing the same stretch of highway as the F10 M5, the patchy asphalt quickly became tiresome even in Comfort Plus mode.
Both M cars are undeniably driver's cars, but I couldn't grasp the point of the M6; the two-ton weight of the 6 Series is understandable because grand tourers are supposed to be supple land yachts. And I can look past the added heft of the M5 because it's a daily drivable saloon, and doesn't have the same racing history as the M6 (whose ancestor was the classic 3.0 CS). But if I wanted a trackable GT the exemplary BMW M3 is cheaper, more nimble and light, and has near-telepathic steering feel. With a starting price of $106,100, the M6 is neither supercar-fast like the cheaper Nissan GT-R, nor as elegantly executed as the Jaguar XKR.
So while the 2013 M5 is everything an M5 should be — a paradoxically posh luxury sedan that feels at home on the track — the finely engineered but flawed M6 needs a crash diet to fit in its pinstripes.

2013 BMW M5

CLASS	Midsize luxury sports sedan
ENGINE	4.4-liter V-8
TRANSMISSIONS	7-speed DCT automatic or 6-speed manual
POWER	560 hp
TORQUE	500 ft.-lbs.
WEIGHT	4,343 lbs (manual); 4,387 (DCT)
0-60 MPH	4.3 (manual); 4.2 (DCT)
EMISSIONS	8.6 tons CO2/year
MILEAGE	15/22 mpg (manual); 14/20 (DCT)
BASE PRICE	$89,900
CONS	Gained weight over the years
PROS	Still has the M5 allure

2013 BMW M6

CLASS	High-performance grand tourer
ENGINE	4.4-liter V-8
TRANSMISSIONS	7-speed DCT automatic
POWER	560 hp
TORQUE	500 ft.-lbs.
WEIGHT	4255 lbs (Coupe); 4508 (Convertible)
0-60 MPH	4.1 (Coupe); 4.2 (Convertible)
EMISSIONS	8.6 tons CO2/year
MILEAGE	14/20
BASE PRICE	$106,100
CONS	Suspension too choppy for daily use
PROS	Powerful V-8 with a wide torque band

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2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Specifications,Pictures

What's New for 2013

After a full redesign last year, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class receives minor feature changes, namely a new Bang & Olufsen premium audio option and an update to its mbrace telematics system.

Introduction

Beauty has its price, and the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is a prime example. There's no doubt the CLS has a presence about it. Its stretched, sleek and athletic stance basically invented the "four-door coupe" body style in 2006. But under the gorgeous sheet metal, the CLS shares its underpinnings with the more affordable Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and it's clear that such style comes with its own compromises.
Consider for a moment that the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class costs considerably more than a similarly equipped E-Class sedan. To compound matters, the backseat of the CLS suffer from a lack of headroom -- a consequence of the sweeping roof line that defines the car's shape.
Now, don't get us wrong -- if money were no object, the CLS 550 and its bonkers 550-horsepower CLS63 AMG stablemate would definitely be on our "must-have" list. In typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, the CLS-Class delivers impeccable ride quality, confident road-hugging handling, a long list of standard and optional high-tech features and an interior that is, quite simply, beyond reproach.
Granted, the same can be said of other luxury sedans in this segment, and some of them are also variations on the four-door coupe theme. The latest entrant is the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, which gains favor with a bit more rear headroom. Even more headroom can be had in the Porsche Panamera, though most will agree that it looks pretty homely by comparison. One could also look at the more shapely Audi A7 and S7, which are less expensive and offer standard all-wheel drive.
The good news is that there's no bad choice in the bunch, even when you factor in the cost of beauty in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is a four-passenger, four-door sedan available in CLS550, CLS550 4Matic and CLS63 AMG trim levels.
The CLS550 and CLS550 4Matic come standard with 18-inch wheels, an adaptive air suspension, bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats with memory functions and four-way lumbar adjustment, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and leather upholstery. Electronics features include a 7-inch video display, the COMAND interface, a navigation system, voice controls, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Mercedes' mbrace2 telematics system and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer, HD radio and satellite radio.
The CLS63 AMG adds a more powerful twin-turbo V8, a different transmission, 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, a sport steering wheel with shift paddles, upgraded leather upholstery, a power rear sunshade, a split-folding rear seat (optional for the CLS550) and an iPod/USB audio interface. The AMG Performance package adds additional power, a higher top speed, a more aggressively tuned suspension, a carbon-fiber engine cover and rear spoiler, and a sport steering wheel trimmed in faux suede. Forged alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential and carbon-ceramic brakes are stand-alone options for the AMG.
Available on either model, the Premium 1 package adds adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, a rearview camera, a power trunk closer, keyless ignition/entry, and heated and ventilated front seats. On the CLS550, this package includes a power rear sunshade and an iPod/USB audio interface. The CLS63 version includes front seats with active bolsters and massage.
The Lane Tracking package adds a blind-spot warning system and a lane-departure warning system. The Driver Assistance package gets adaptive cruise control and enhanced, active versions of the Lane Tracking items. The Parktronic package includes front and rear parking sensors and an automatic parking system. Stand-alone options include an infrared night-view display, heated rear seats and a premium Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system (late availability). The CLS550 can be equipped with a heated steering wheel and massaging front seats with active bolsters.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 that sends 402 hp and 443 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. In Edmunds performance testing, the CLS550 went from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds -- truly impressive performance for a V8-powered sedan of this size. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 20 mpg in combined driving for the CLS550, while 4Matic drops these estimates by 1 mpg each for city and combined figures.
The CLS63 AMG gets a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 that sends 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels through a specialized seven-speed automatic transmission. If that's not good enough, the AMG Performance Pack pumps output to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. In Edmunds testing with the Performance Pack, a CLS63 hit 60 mph in an incredible 3.9 seconds. Estimated fuel economy with the regular CLS63 engine tune is 16/25/19.

Safety

Every 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class features standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front knee airbags, front side airbags (both torso and pelvic), full-length curtain airbags and the updated Mercedes-Benz mbrace telematics system (smartphone integration and Web-based apps that include remote controls, driver monitoring and emergency services). Also standard is Attention Assist (a driver drowsiness and alerting monitor) and PreSafe (it anticipates an imminent crash and automatically takes measures to better secure occupants).
Options include rear side airbags, infrared night-view sensors and rearview parking sensors. The Driver Assistance package adds blind-spot and lane-departure systems; the active version of this package takes action should you fail to heed those warnings.
In Edmunds brake testing, a CLS550 with summer tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 108 feet, which is excellent but just a tad better than average for the class. The CLS63 actually took a bit longer at 113 feet, but that's still excellent.

Interior Design and Special Features

As with the exterior, the CLS cabin takes the current Mercedes-Benz design aesthetic and makes it more organic and curvaceous. Materials are beyond reproach. The control layout is similar to the E-Class, though it swaps in an analog clock and the older knob-style climate controls in lieu of the newer toggle buttons. Stepping up to the CLS63 adds a chunky AMG wheel and fills the center console with AMG vehicle controls and the MCT transmission selector (complete with an embossed AMG crest) in lieu of the 550's electronic shift lever on the steering column.
With its low, racy roof line and two-passenger backseat, the 2013 Mercedes CLS isn't what we'd call the ideal people carrier. If you frequently ferry people around or have particularly tall friends, opting for an E-Class is probably a wiser idea. Trunk space is pretty generous, however, with 15.7 cubic feet available.

Driving Impressions

Simply put, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 drives beautifully. The adaptive air suspension and variable dampers provide secure handling and an impressive ride quality. The electrically assisted steering offers good feedback, loads up naturally and quickens the more you turn, making the CLS feel smaller than it actually is. Also helping that effort is a "base" engine that utterly flattens you into your seat with a simple brush of the pedal. It's hard to imagine needing any more power.
But then you drop yourself into the CLS63, brushits pedal and feel yourself melt at the glorious burbling roar of the bigger twin-turbo V8 at work. This is a truly majestic power plant, and it's complemented beautifully by a transmission that swaps gears with surgical precision. Though a manual mode with paddle shifters is included, Sport+ mode is so adept at downshifting one or two gears during braking (accompanied by the glorious bark of an engine blip) that we found ourselves never using the paddles.
Handling is also exceptional. As with the 550, the AMG's steering feels light, but there is an abundance of feel fed to your hands that rewards a delicate touch. The three-mode suspension system eliminates body roll and brings the big CLS around corners without breaking a sweat. It's quite firm even in its Comfort setting, however, so those looking for a sumptuous ride should stick with the comfier yet still composed CLS550.

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Volkswagen New Passat Sedan 2013

The 2013 Passat Sedan is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 14 trims, ranging from the 2.5L... S to the 3.6L V6 SEL Premium.

Upon introduction, the 2.5L S is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, I5, 170-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 32-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The 3.6L V6 SEL Premium is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter, V6, 280-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

What's New for 2013

After a redesign last year, the 2013 Volkswagen Passat returns with only a minor shuffling of features among trim levels. Most notably, a rearview camera is now available.

Introduction

The 2013 Volkswagen Passat enjoys a rather unique position, since it's the only European entry in the family sedan segment. Now, this does not mean this VW calls soccer "football" or takes off all of August to holiday in Mallorca. Instead, a continental heritage helps the Passat bring to its class of sedans a certain premium flair that its rivals lack.
This is apparent as soon as you take a seat inside the cabin. The interior is classy and distinguished, with legible, informative gauges, a no-nonsense layout and solid-feeling switchgear. On the move, the Passat has a confident, responsive personality while also remaining comfortable and usable. And since European automakers are big on diesel engines, it seems only natural that the Passat offers one: a 2.0-liter turbodiesel that gets very impressive fuel economy.
However, this Passat isn't just beer gardens and lederhosen. VW actually builds this car in Tennessee expressly for the American market. VW knows what Americans want, and that's why there's an impressive amount of legroom, while the trunk is above average in size. And if it's power you desire, there's a strong 3.6-liter V6 good for 280 horsepower available.
There are a couple downsides to the Passat. We're not fond of the longer-than-average braking distances, for instance, and its lazy throttle response with the automatic transmissions can be irksome. There are also a lot of great choices for a family sedan this year, including the stylish 2013 Ford Fusion, newly redesigned 2013 Honda Accord, value-packed Hyundai Sonata and sharp-handling 2013 Nissan Altima. But all things considered, the European-influenced 2013 Volkswagen Passat comes highly recommended.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2013 Volkswagen Passat sedan is offered in three broad models broken down by engine (2.5L, TDI and 3.6L), which are further subdivided into a trio of different trim levels (S, SE and SEL).
The lineup starts with the "S" base model (2.5-liter only), which comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a six-way manual driver seat with lumbar adjustment, cloth upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, audio controls on the steering wheel, cruise control, a trip computer, Bluetooth with streaming audio and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio input. An available Appearance package adds a six-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels and a rear-seat center armrest.
Move up to the SE trim level and you get 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, heated mirrors, a six-way power driver seat, heated front seats, rear seat air vents, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, a sliding front armrest, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, upgraded gauges and displays, rear air vents and an eight-speaker sound system with a touchscreen audio interface and satellite radio.
Options on SE models include a sunroof or the sunroof bundled with a navigation system and iPod integration. TDI SE buyers can add 18-inch alloy wheels and foglights as well. The 3.6L SE comes standard with these options except the navigation system, which remains optional. A nine-speaker Fender audio system is also included.
The 2.5 SEL models include all of the above (minus the foglights but keeping the 17-inch wheels), plus upgraded front seats, live traffic updates, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, a rear-seat pass-through and wood interior trim. The 2.5 SEL Premium adds the foglights, keyless ignition/entry, remote ignition, partial leather upholstery and power front seats with driver memory functions. Both the TDI and 3.6L can also be had in SEL guise, but the Premium package is mandatory.

Powertrains and Performance

The VW Passat comes with a choice of three distinctly different engines. The entry-level 2.5L model is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-5 engine rated at 170 hp and 177 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. In Edmunds performance testing, an automatic-equipped 2.5 Passat accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9 seconds, which is about average for the class. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the manual transmission stands at 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined. The automatic drops slightly to 22/31/25 mpg. These figures are about average for the class.
Those looking for maximum miles per gallon can opt for the TDI model with its fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel, which produces 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated to either the six-speed manual or a six-speed automated manual transmission (known as DSG). In Edmunds performance testing, the Passat TDI went from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds -- this is on par with gasoline-powered four-cylinder sedans. The EPA-estimated fuel economy is an excellent 31/43/35 for the manual and 30/40/34 with the DSG. In extensive Edmunds fuel economy testing, we've found that the Passat can easily surpass these numbers by 8-10 mpg.
If maximum thrust is what you're after, look no further than the 3.6L's 3.6-liter V6, which churns out 280 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. VW's six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission is standard. In Edmunds testing, this engine was able to bring the Passat from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds -- very quick for this class. EPA-estimated fuel economy stands at 20/28/23 mpg.

Safety

Standard safety features for the 2013 Volkswagen Passat include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Models with the manual transmission also gain hill-hold control. In the event of a crash, the Intelligent Crash Response automatically cuts off the fuel supply, unlocks the doors and turns on the hazard flashers.
In government crash testing, the Passat scored a perfect five out of five stars overall, with five stars for frontal impact protection and five stars for side crash protection. Similarly, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Passat its top score of "Good" for frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. In Edmunds brake testing, both a Passat 3.6 SEL and TDI came to a stop from 60 mph in about 130 feet, which is longer than average. A 2.5 SE delivered a class-average 123 feet.

Interior Design and Special Features

Spaciousness is the operative word when describing the Passat's cabin. Space up front is good; however, the driver seat only adjusts in six ways (minus lumbar), and it lacks the seat-bottom tilt found in most competitors. In back, the Passat verges on full-size sedan dimensions, allowing even good-size adults to stretch out their legs. The backrest is too upright, however, which can result in taller occupants' heads grazing the roof. The spacious trunk can swallow 15.9 cubic feet of cargo -- a number that bests many of the Passat's competitors.
The quality of interior materials isn't as high as seen in previous Passats, but they remain among the best in the class, while the design adds an upscale feel. The layout of gauges and controls is also refreshingly simple. Finally, the premium Fender audio system has been tuned to the acoustics of the interior and will please even hard-core audiophiles.

Driving Impressions

The 2013 Volkswagen Passat's character depends a great deal on which engine is under the hood. Performance and fuel economy from the 2.5-liter five-cylinder are adequate and it should be an acceptable choice for most buyers. Our recommendation, however, is the turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel, which offers livelier low-end power and truly extraordinary fuel economy. For those who care more about power than fuel economy, the 3.6-liter V6 engine delivers much more enthusiastic acceleration.
The DSG automated manual transmission that's available with the turbodiesel engine and standard with the V6 works well, though throttle response (with the DSG and the regular automatic) is rather lackadaisical, with a noticeable lag between the time the pedal is pressed and when the engine actually kicks in.
On the highway, the Passat is impressively comfortable, snuffing out bumps large and small. Around corners, the steering is reasonably precise, although it's numb on center and a tad heavy at low speeds. Overall, though, the Passat manages to earn high marks for the type of tasks for which family sedans are typically used.

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Jaguar introduces its Fastest Most Powerful Sedan Ever

After giving America the taste of Jaguar F, Jaquar introduces its fastest, most powerful sedan ever.Jaguar turned stage left and rolled the second member of its R-S ultra high-performance model line out of a makeshift garage door at the 2012 LA Auto Show. The “S” version of the XFR borrows features from the XKR-S and F-TYPE in Jaguar’s attempt to take the sporty sedan to the next level.aguar claims that the XFR-S is also more agile.

It has a tighter connection between driver and asphalt by tuning the spring rates and adaptive damper settings. Lateral suspension stiffness increases by 30 percent, creating more responsive steering. The XFR-S will be available in five colors: French Racing Blue, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Polaris White and Italian Racing Red. Subtle exterior cosmetic touches include the gloss black grille and trim.Only 100 will be available in the U.S., with prices starting at US$99,000, not including destination and delivery costs. The car will be available from early in the 2013 Northern Hemisphere summer.

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New Skoda Octavia 2013 comes alive

it has been a long wait, but finally, Skoda has revealed their all new Octavia sedan. 2013 Skoda Octavia is the third generation sedan, which is built on the VW's MQB platform, the same on which the new VW Golf, Audi A3 and Seat Leon run. New Octavia is 90 mm longer, and 45 mm wider.
Skoda Octavia Mk3 will be available in a choice of 8 engine options of petrol and diesel. The base petrol will be powered by a 1.4L TSI which will generate a maximum power of 120 hp. A 1.8 TSI petrol will also be offered which generates 177 hp along with a 1.6L diesel turbocharged generating 109 hp. The new diesel Octavia sedan will deliver a mileage of .4lt/100km (69.2mpg US or 83.1mpg UK) and emit just 89 gms/km of CO2.
The new Octavia is 4,659 mm long, 1,814 mm wide with a wheelbase of 2,686 mm, which is 108 mm longer than outgoing model. Because of this, you now have 8 mm of extra headroom, 39 mm of more front elbow and 26 mm or rear elbow space. Interior space in the new Octavia sedan is one of the best in the segment. Boot space is at 590 liters. For more information, scroll down.

Mladá Boleslav, December 11th, 2012 – The new ŠKODA Octavia sets standards in the compact segment. The Octavia's third generation more than ever confirms the car's unique position in its vehicle segment, impressing with an unrivalled space offering, new design, high functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, low fuel consumption, wide range of ‚Simply Clever' solutions and a ŠKODA-typical price-value ratio.
"The ŠKODA Octavia is the heart of the ŠKODA brand," says ŠKODA CEO Winfried Vahland. "It embodies the good ŠKODA genes in the best sense of the word: lots of room, quality, precise workmanship, modern, mature technology, timeless design, high functionality and the best price-value ratio. Our customers' expectations have grown. Our aim was to make this car even better for its third generation. This is reflected in the values of the new Octavia – it is a class of its own."
The ŠKODA Octavia in its overall package has always been about offering that little bit extra. This is down to the generous space offering, but also the fusion of an elegant saloon shape with the practical advantages of car with a large hatch, a fusion that is unique in this segment. The new generation confirms this uniqueness. "The new Octavia shows us resolutely continuing down a ŠKODA-typical road. It is a car with middle-class qualities at a compact-car price. It is an ideal car for demanding, confident customers expecting a modern Octavia with all its good values. It is our best," says Frank Welsch, ŠKODA board member for technical development.

Unrivalled space offering, optimum functionality
The new ŠKODA Octavia sets benchmarks in its class in terms of its space offering. "The new Octavia offers space such as is otherwise found only in higher classes," says Welsch. No other car in the compact segment offers more interior length (1,782 mm), more knee room (73 mm) and more headroom at the back (980 mm). Also best in class is the boot volume at 590 litres. Other interior dimensions have also increased significantly compared to the Octavia's second generation: front head room: + 8 mm, front elbow width: + 39 mm, rear elbow width: + 26 mm.

New refinement: a distinctive, clear and timeless design
The new ŠKODA Octavia is not just roomy and functional, it looks good, too. ŠKODA design chief Jozef Kaba? and his team revised the car from head to toe, creating enthusiasm at first sight. Never before has a ŠKODA Octavia appeared as dynamic and at the same time as timelessly elegant, as distinctive, refined and assured on the road as this bestseller's third generation. "Each line and gap breathes love of precision and detail. The new Octavia is an unmistakable face in the automobile crowd," says Welsch.
Compared to its predecessor, the Octavia has grown significantly in length and width. The new model is 90 mm longer and 45 mm wider than the second-generation Octavia. At the same time, the wheelbase has grown by 108 mm, mainly benefiting the interior and space on the rear seats.
The front of the car is assured and confident thanks to an emphasis on horizontal lines and a new location for the ŠKODA logo. The side aspect of the new ŠKODA Octavia has become markedly more dynamic when compared to its predecessor. This is down to the long wheelbase as well as to the shortened front overhang and a C pillar pulled far backwards. The high, sharp tornado line provides the car with optical stretch and distinctively highlights its coupé-like silhouette. A special new characteristic is an upswept dynamic window line in the rear doors, the so-called "fin" - a small, but effective design idea providing the car with a forceful appearance and direction.
Its rear aspect is also about precision, classiness and perfect proportions. Everything is in the right place, well-positioned and tidy. ŠKODA's typical lighting graphic with its distinctive C-shaped lighting contour is executed in uncompromising brilliance.
Tidiness, elegance and especially lots of space are what the new Octavia's interior is about. ŠKODA designers have completely redone the car's insides.
Safety at the highest level

In developing the new ŠKODA Octavia, an important goal was to make the car even safer. Accordingly, ŠKODA engineers developed a host of cutting-edge safety systems for the new Octavia including Front Assistant/emergency braking function (from May 2013), Lane Assistant, which keeps the Octavia on track, multicollision-braking/automatic brake actuation in an accident, Crew Protect Assistant/securing of the vehicle in an accident situation, Driver Activity Assistant (fatigue detection) or an active front hatch for pedestrian protection. These systems help avoid accidents or mitigate their consequences for occupants and other road users.
In addition, a precise chassis, a long wheelbase and a rigid and light body structure combine to ensure an extremely stable handling in ŠKODA's most recent offspring. In the event of an accident, a comprehensive package of passive safety elements provides optimum protection for driver and occupants. In the area of passive safety, up to nine airbags, finely interacting with 3-point safety belts, shield occupants from injury. Knee airbags (standard in EU countries) and rear side airbags are available for the first time in a ŠKODA Octavia.

New efficiency: CO2 emissions from 89 g/km
Engineers achieved significant improvements in the ŠKODA Octavia's consumption and emission figures thanks to newly developed petrol and diesel engines, a low drag coefficient and reduced vehicle weight.
The GreenLine version of the new ŠKODA Octavia (1.6 TDI/81 kW) achieves CO2 emissions of only 89 g/km and consumes a mere 3.4 litres of diesel per 100 km. In all, four petrol engines, all with cutting-edge TSI technology, and four modern TDI common-rail diesel engines are available, with a natural-gas version planned for later. Except for the relevant entry-level petrol and diesel option, all engines now are available in a Green tec version with a start-stop system and recuperation. The line-up runs all the way to the top option, the 1.8 TSI with 132 kW. Modern manual and automatic DSG transmissions are available, with all-wheel-drive versions in the works. A sporty-trim ŠKODA Octavia RS is also in the pipeline.
Despite its increased size and larger amount of technology on board, ŠKODA engineers have still succeeded in making the car up to 102 kilogrammes lighter than the ŠKODA Octavia's second generation. This was achieved thanks to resolute lightweight engineering, a progressive body design, utilisation of high- and ultra-tensile steel and a careful selection of materials. Actual weight reduction will vary depending on buildability of each vehicle configuration.

Supreme comfort through innovative technology
In addition, the new ŠKODA Octavia offers numerous new comfort functions such as hitherto available only in higher-segment vehicles. In addition to making their debut in the new Octavia, some of them are even becoming available for the first time ever in a ŠKODA. In this context, use of new technologies is no end in itself, but seeks to provide tangible added value to customers, meaning no fanciful knickknacks, but technology for people's sake, technology that makes mobility safer and more comfortable for people.
Available for the first time in a ŠKODA is the Adaptive Cruise Assistant, which automatically maintains a pre-set distance to the car ahead. The new Intelligent Light Assistant will switch to high beam and back automatically, increasing comfort and safety in traffic. The Automatic Parking Assistant makes parking the Octavia in and out easier. Also available for the first time in a ŠKODA will be in the future traffic-sign recognition as part of the 'Traveller Assistant' package. Driving Mode Selection enables drivers to set certain vehicle driving characteristics at the push of the button. Another first is the electric panoramic sliding/tilting sunroof: a transparent panorama roof enhancing comfort and wellbeing on board the Octavia. The new Octavia is also available with KESSY (Keyless-Entry-Start-and-Exit-System), the automatic door- and ignition-lock system.

New generation of infotainment systems
The new ŠKODA Octavia impresses with an all-new generation of radio and radio navigation systems. Touch displays with proximity sensors and swiping functionality will be available in higher-level systems, while the new CANTON sound system and an acoustically optimised passenger space provide pure listening pleasure.

Practical and functional thanks to ‚Simply Clever' solutions
As in every ŠKODA, life for occupants is made easier by a range of ‚Simply Clever' features in the new Octavia. Depending on trim level, the following items are available either as standard or as an option. They include foldable cargo elements for the boot, enabling safe anchoring of objects on the floor. A double-sided floor covering in the boot can be found for the first time in a ŠKODA Octavia. An ice scraper is placed inside the filler flap. A warning vest holder is located underneath the driver's seat and a rubbish bin inside the door panel. A multimedia holder has space for an iPod, a mobile phone and the like. A large overhead sunglasses compartment is just one of many storage bays, holders und hooks that make for an intelligent and clean organisation of interior and baggage space of the new ŠKODA Octavia. Also on board are the fuel-error prevention function and a boot cover folding away behind the rear seats.

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Hyundai Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept Debuts At LA

Hyundai demonstrated just how useful this setup was at the unveiling at the L.A. Auto Show by stowing a bike in the back. This would normally be a real task for a car this size, but not so for the C3.

You certainly couldn’t accuse Hyundai of thinking too conventionally when it comes to the Veloster, the car with more doors on one side than the other was always a bold styling decision. Now Hyundai has brought a version with a canvas roof which slides to open either in the front or in the back. Called the C3 (“C” for convertible, “3” for the number of doors), the main differences are really pretty easy to explain, there’s a hole in the roof covered with canvas and a tailgate. That’s a pretty unusual combination of features for a car, but they are not without their uses. Hyundai demonstrated just how useful this setup was at the unveiling at the L.A. Auto Show by stowing a bike in the back. This would normally be a real task for a car this size, but not so for the C3.

here is a certain hauling potential here, and that might attract some buyers. But the roof can also slide in the other direction and serve as a massive sunroof, and this is likely to be the more common application. This setup is certain to be cheaper than a traditional convertible. The engine is the same as the Veloster Turbo, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower.

There is no way to avoid mentioning it: the C3 is weird-looking. That might work for you, but it doesn’t make it not weird. The front wheels are black while the back ones are teal. The mirrors are red and there are black accents all over. Then Hyundai decided to call more attention to this by choosing a matching color scheme for the bike. Hyundai is definitely trying to appeal to young people with this car, and Chris Chapman, Hyundai Design North America’s chief designer, said at the debut that “The Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers the ‘no strings attached’ freedom of a roll top convertible and customizable utility that fits an everyday to a play day dual lifestyle.” Then going on to say “We were inspired by the proverb ‘A rolling stone gathers no moss.” I’m not really sure what any of that is supposed to mean exactly either, but a sliding canvas roof and tailgate aren’t bad ideas, and it will be interesting to see if they make it into production.

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Ferrari F12berlinetta crowned 2012 Supercar of the Year

Maranello, 06 December 2012. Ferrari has been honoured once again to receive a coveted award from BBC Top Gear Magazine, one of the world's most influential automotive magazines, this time for the F12berlinetta which has been crowned "Supercar of the Year 2012". This brings Ferrari's tally of Top Gear Magazine Awards to the astonishing figure of 11 in ten years, and the third time Ferrari has won the "Supercar of the Year" award, with the F430 in 2005 and also the 458 Italia in 2009.

Commenting on the latest addition to the Ferrari range, Charlie Turner, Editor in Chief of BBC Top Gear Magazine commented: "Ferrari F12. At the risk of sounding like I've quaffed freely at the charming Dario's Kool-Aid, the F12 is just extraordinary. What sort of car is the Ferrari F12? Regal but not intimidating. Blitz-fast but not scary. Ridiculously brainy but never distant. Far better than me, without patronising me. Breathtakingly beautiful, did I mention that?"

The fastest, most powerful Ferrari of all time, the F12berlinetta strikes a perfect balance between maximum aerodynamic efficiency and the elegant proportions typical of Ferrari's front-engined V12 cars. Since its launch, the car has been the object of universal acclaim from the press and public alike, with BBC Top Gear Magazineaward following several other recent awards from Auto Bild "Design Award", The Sunday Times Driving's "Best Supercar and Luxury Car" award and the Golden Steering Wheel award from Auto Bild andBild Am Sonntag, the first time a Ferrari has ever taken this leading German industry prize. The Ferrari F12berlinetta's 6.3-litre V12 engine was also the winner of EVO magazine's "Engine of the Year" award in November.

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