2013 World Car Awards finalists

February 3, 2013, 3:59 pm

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The finalists in all four categories of the 2013 World Car Awards have been announced.

World Car of the Year

This is the main prize, which was won last year by the Volkswagen Up! city car. For 2013, a jury of sixty-six motoring journalists from around the globe have selected ten models for the shortlist, following a secret ballot.

• Audi A3
• Land Rover Range Rover
• Mazda 6
• Mazda CX5
• Mercedes-Benz A-Class
• Peugeot 208
• Porsche Boxster / Cayman
• Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 / Toyota 86
• Volkswagen Golf
• Volvo V40

2013 Land Rover Range Rover

World Performance Car

A similar voting process has been followed for the World Performance Car accolade. Interestingly, as with the World Car of the Year class, all of the finalists represent either European or Japanese manufacturers.

• Aston Martin Vanquish
• Audi RS 5
• BMW M6 Coupé / Convertible
• BMW M 135i
• Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
• Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG
• Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster
• Porsche Boxster / Cayman
• Renault Clio Sport
• Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 / Toyota 86

2012 Toyota GT86

World Green Car

For the World Green Car category, the potential winners have been selected by a panel of five experts in green technology, rather than the jury. However, as with all of the awards, it will now be up to the journalists to decide the winner.

• Renault Zoe
• Smart Electric Drive
• Tesla Model S
• Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
• Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid Diesel

2013 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive Coupé

World Car Design of the Year

Likewise, a group of five design experts has chosen the final five candidates for the World Car Design of the Year award.

• Aston Martin Vanquish
• Renault Clio
• Jaguar F-Type
• Land Rover Range Rover
• Mazda 6
• Volkswagen Golf

2013 Jaguar F-Type

Now it’s up to the jurors to vote on each of the four shortlists.

Then, the top three models in each category will be announced at the Geneva International Motor Show on the 5th of March, before the winners are declared at the New York International Auto Show on the 28th of March.

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2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK

February 4, 2013, 4:54 am

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Alfa Romeo has marked its sponsorship of the Superbike World Championship by creating the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition.

First unveiled at last year’s Paris Motor Show, this special version of Alfa’s supermini is distinguished by its body kit, darkened 18” alloy wheels, black bodywork and contrasting red roof. Also included is a glut of decals and stripes, which don’t look great. Indeed, from some angles, they only serve to emphasise the awkwardness of the MiTo’s bulbous nose.

On the inside, Sabelt sports seats are fitted in the front. Usually a £2,000 option, they feature carbon fibre backs, Alcantara upholstery and red stitching. A faux carbon fibre dashboard, sports pedals and red stitching for the leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob complete the package.

As with the regular MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde, power comes from a 1.4 litre turbocharged MultiAir engine that delivers 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS). That’s enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 7.5 seconds and a 136 mph (219 km/h) top speed, while combined cycle fuel consumption is a respectable 47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km).

The Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition is priced at £21,595 on the road. Anybody interested had better be quick though, as just 28 examples are coming to the UK.

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2013 C 63 AMG Edition 507

February 4, 2013, 2:54 pm

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Arguably the C 63 AMG doesn’t really need any more power, but that hasn’t stopped Mercedes-Benz from announcing the upgraded Edition 507 models.

As that name implies, output from the 6,208 cc naturally-aspirated V8 engine has risen to 500 bhp (373 kW / 507 PS) thanks to reworked internals, while peak torque is up to 610 Nm (450 lb/ft). Compared to the regular versions, those figures represent increases of 50 bhp (37 kW / 50 PS) and 10 Nm (7 lb/ft) respectively.

Consequently, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) times have dropped by a couple of tenths to 4.2 seconds for the Saloon and Coupé, or 4.3 seconds for the Estate. Regardless of body style, the electronically-limited top speed is 174 mph (280 km/h).

However, the Edition 507 variants aren’t just about extra straight-line performance. Also fitted as standard are the AMG Driver’s package and a composite braking system, plus there are various appearance changes. These include new 19” cross-spoke alloy wheels, a vented aluminium bonnet borrowed from the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series and numerous gloss black trim pieces.

The C 63 AMG Edition 507 Saloon, Coupé and Estate will all debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, with sales expected to begin shortly afterwards. UK pricing has yet to be confirmed.

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Mercedes F1 W04 unveiled

February 5, 2013, 4:15 am

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The Mercedes AMG Formula One Team has unveiled its 2013 car, the F1 W04.

As with many of the entries on this season’s grid, the F1 W04 is an evolution of last year’s design. However, there have been some changes, particularly to the aerodynamics.

The rear end of the bodywork is more compact, for example, and the stepped nose now features a ‘vanity panel’ for a smoother look. Also included in the specification are a redesigned front wing and a new exhaust system.

Team Principal Ross Brawn (who, despite rumours in the media, still appears to be with the team) is naturally upbeat about Mercedes’ prospects in 2013, saying:  “Many thousands of hours of work have been invested by our technical teams in Brackley and Brixworth to ensure that the new car delivers a step change in performance compared to last season.

“We are also hugely proud to welcome Lewis [Hamilton] to the team as a works Mercedes-Benz driver. With Lewis and Nico [Rosberg], we have what I believe to be the strongest driver line-up in Formula One and I know that a healthy level of competition between them both will help drive the team forward.”

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Toyota GT86 GT4 race car

February 5, 2013, 10:32 am

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UK-based motorsports outfit GPRM has developed a racing version of the rear-wheel drive Toyota GT86.

Built to comply with GT4 regulations, it will be eligible to compete in various series including the Avon Tyres British GT Championship.

While the full roll cage, large rear wing and widened bodywork instantly distinguish it from the GT86 road car, the biggest change is beneath the bonnet. That’s because the 2.0 litre boxer motor has been reworked by Nicholson McLaren Engines and, in the process, it has gained a turbocharger.

As a result, power is up from the stock 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) to somewhere in the region of 360 - 400 bhp (268 - 298 kW / 365 - 405 PS). However, the exact output will be determined by the ‘balance of performance’ process, which is designed to make GT4 racing as close as possible.

GPRM is due to commence track testing later this month. Although Toyota GB has been providing technical support to the project, the GT86 GT4 isn’t a works programme and so the cars will be available for independent teams to buy.

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2013 Renault Scénic XMOD

February 5, 2013, 3:25 pm

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With its raised ride height, body cladding and unique bumpers, the new Renault Scénic XMOD appears at first glance to be a spiritual successor to the all-wheel drive Scénic RX4 that was launched over a decade ago.

However, the 2013 model is strictly front-wheel drive, although the specification does include ‘Grip Xtend’ traction control. Operated via a rotary dial on the centre console, the system offers a choice of Road, Expert and Loose Ground modes that can control both the brakes and engine torque. Renault claims that it’s good enough to allow the Scénic to ‘grip the road confidently’ in arduous conditions such as fresh snow, mud or sand.

The Renault Scénic XMOD is going to be unveiled at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, when detailed specifications and pricing will be confirmed.

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Suzuki crossover teased

February 6, 2013, 2:38 pm

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Suzuki has offered a first glimpse of its new C-segment crossover.

Due to be unveiled at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, it’s based on the S-Cross concept that was exhibited at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. For now though the model’s name is a mystery, as Suzuki is remaining reticent on whether the S-Cross designation will be kept for the production version.

Likewise, specification details are scarce, but it has been confirmed that all-wheel drive is going to be available.

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2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR

February 7, 2013, 8:38 am

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Volkswagen’s new high performance Beetle is a spiritual successor to the Beetle 1303S Gelb Schwarzer Renner (Yellow Black Racer) of forty years ago.

The 2014 Beetle GSR, which has been unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, is powered by an uprated 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine that develops 210 bhp (156 kW / 212 PS) and 280 Nm (207 lb/ft) of torque. That’s sufficient for a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of just 6.6 seconds but, for the United States at least, top speed is electronically-limited to 130 mph (209 km/h).

To go with the extra pace, the specification includes 19” alloy wheels, R Line bumpers and a prominent rear spoiler. Given what the GSR initials stand for, it’s hardly surprising that the only colour scheme on offer is yellow and black. Nevertheless, anybody wanting a more subtle finish is going to be disappointed.

Like the original, production of the 2014 Beetle GSR will be limited to 3,500 units, with the majority of those heading for the United States. Sales are due to begin this autumn.

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£38,770 Golf R Cabriolet

February 9, 2013, 4:06 am

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The new Volkswagen Golf R Cabriolet might have impressive performance, but it also has an astounding price tag.

Featuring a 261 bhp (195 kW / 265 PS) four-cylinder, 2.0 litre engine and a six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, the front-wheel drive Golf will hit 62 mph (100 km/h) from rest in 6.4 seconds, before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

It looks the part too, thanks to 18” alloy wheels, a redesigned front bumper, extended side skirts, a rear diffuser, smoked LED rear light clusters and leather-trimmed sports seats.

Whether any of that is enough to justify the £38,770 outlay is debateable, though. The problem is that there are almost no compact, four-seat convertibles with similar pace to benchmark the Volkswagen against.

But there is the BMW 135i M Sport Convertible. With its rear-wheel drive, 5.6 seconds 0-62 mph time and 155 mph top speed, it’s probably going to be more appealing to enthusiasts. What’s more, the BMW costs £35,625 - a comparative bargain.

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Honda CTX700N and CTX700

February 9, 2013, 8:37 am

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Honda has unveiled its new CTX700N and CTX700 motorcycles in Chicago.

Both use a 670 cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that also powers the Integra maxi scooter and NC700 models. However, the CTX pair are very different machines.

Those initials stand for ‘Comfort Technology Experience’, a concept that focuses on high-speed stability, reduced vibration, agility and, of course, comfort. In order to help tick those boxes, the compact motor is positioned in the steel frame to reduce the centre of gravity, and the proportions are long and low.

The 2013 Honda CTX700N...

...and the CTX700.

Indeed, the 1,530 mm (60.2 inches) wheelbase is slightly longer than an ST1300 Pan European’s, although a 720 mm (28.3 inches) seat height should mean that most riders can get both feet flat on the floor.

The styling meanwhile is said to have been influenced by another of Honda’s large touring bikes, the GL1800 Gold Wing. Adopting the ‘horizontal motive’ design language and incorporating what’s described as a ‘front-massive’ form, the naked CTX700N arguably works better than the faired CTX700.

In the United States, buyers will be able to choose from either a conventional six-speed gearbox or the automatic Dual Clutch Transmission. The latter option also adds anti-lock brakes to the specification, but it costs an extra $1,000:

Honda CTX700N and CTX700 - United States Prices
CTX700N	$7,309
CTX700N DCT ABS	$8,309
CTX700	$8,109
CTX700 DCT ABS	$9,109
Prices shown are base MSRP, including a €310 destination charge.

Sales outside of North America are expected to begin next year.

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Toyota GT86 TRD in the UK

February 9, 2013, 10:43 am

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Toyota has confirmed that UK sales of its GT86 TRD will begin on the 1st of March. Only 250 units are going to be available though, so any prospective buyers might want to plan a visit to their local dealer soon.

As expected, this special GT86 features a host of Toyota Racing Development parts, including a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, side skirts, front apron, 18” ‘TF6’ alloy wheels and a ‘fast response’ quad exhaust system.

But the official performance figures aren’t any better, and the chassis set-up remains unchanged. Those omissions seem like missed opportunities, particularly as this is the first time that Toyota has offered a TRD-branded model in the UK.

To make matters worse, average fuel consumption manages to be slightly poorer, while increased carbon dioxide emissions will result in higher UK vehicle tax rates for both the manual and automatic transmission versions.

And then there’s the pricing: compared to the regular model, Toyota is charging £6,500 more for the GT86 TRD. That huge premium takes the cost up to £31,495, or £32,995 if the automatic gearbox is ordered.

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2014 Toyota Tundra unveiled

February 9, 2013, 3:20 pm

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The updated 2014 Toyota Tundra full-size pick-up has made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show.

Visually, the most obvious changes are to the exterior, particularly at the front end. A taller grille, a redesigned bonnet, squared-off wheel arches and a new tailgate all contribute to what Toyota is calling a ‘modern industrial’ look.

The interior meanwhile is totally refreshed, with improved ergonomics and a new instrument panel. An effort has also been made to provide greater differentiation between the five available trim grades, which now include the upmarket Platinum and 1794 Edition variants.

Buyers will have a choice of regular, double and CrewMax cab styles, all of which are going to be offered with either rear- or all-wheel drive.

As before, the powertrain line-up consists of a 270 bhp (201 kW / 273 PS) 4.0 litre V6 with a five-speed automatic transmission, a 310 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS) 4.6 litre V8 and a 381 bhp (284 kW / 386 PS) 5.7 litre V8. Both V8 motors come connected to a six-speed automatic gearbox and, unsurprisingly, none of the engines run on diesel.

Among the other technical enhancements are retuned dampers that enhance the ride quality and a recalibrated steering system which has been set up for better straight-line stability.

As standard, all models are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, a reversing camera and the Star Safety System suite of devices that includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist and brake force distribution, traction control, stability control and eight airbags.

Built in San Antonio, Texas, the 2014 Toyota Tundra goes on sale in North America this September.

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Holden VF Commodore unveiled

February 10, 2013, 8:18 am

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Holden has taken the wraps off its new VF Commodore saloon, which will also be sold in North America as the Chevrolet SS. It might become the next-generation Vauxhall VXR8, too.

Revealed in luxury Calais V-Series form, the VF is essentially a heavily-facelifted version of its predecessor, the VE Commodore. And that’s no bad thing, because the VE model is a well-proportioned, handsome car in either four-door or five-door Sportwagon guise.

Instantly identifying the updated Commodore are a bolder front grille, larger headlights, LED daytime running lights and a more sculptured bonnet. At the rear, the light clusters now extend into the re-profiled boot lid, and the licence plate has been moved down to the bumper.

Given that improved fuel efficiency was a key goal for the project, the bodywork changes have also made the Commodore more aerodynamic. But that’s not the only measure that Holden has taken, as electric power steering is now fitted and various body panels are made from aluminium.

The interior has been completely reworked, with a particular focus on providing a more premium feel. Indeed, Andrew Smith, Holden Design Director, reckons that refinement levels match those of high-end European offerings. Many of the controls have been repositioned for improved ergonomics, while the seats have been redesigned to offer better comfort and support.

Various convenience and safety features are going to be available on the VF Commodore, many of which have never been seen on an Australian-built vehicle before. They include a head-up display, an auto park assist function and reverse traffic alert, a device that warns of approaching vehicles when reversing out of a parking space.

The Holden VF Commodore, which will be built in Adelaide, is due to go on sale mid-year. Full specification and pricing details are expected in the coming months.

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Images © General Motors.

Euro-spec Nissan 370Z Nismo

February 10, 2013, 12:09 pm

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The European-market version of Nissan’s 370Z Nismo is set to make its public debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

Among the changes made to the 3.7 litre V6 engine is the fitment of a new exhaust system. As a result, it produces an extra 16 bhp (12 kW / 16 PS), taking the power figure up to 339 bhp (253 kW / 344 PS). Peak torque meanwhile has been increased from 363 Nm (267 lb/ft) to 371 Nm (274 lb/ft).

The additional output has helped reduce the 0-62mph (100 km/h) time by a tenth to 5.2 seconds, which doesn’t seem like much of an improvement. However, Nissan is saying that acceleration is better right across the low- and mid-range, so that benchmark sprint might not fully represent the real-world performance gains.

And it has to be remembered that the under-bonnet tweaks are just one part of the Nismo package. The driving dynamics have been enhanced too, thanks to a suspension set-up that has been specially calibrated for European roads, a stronger braking system and extra downforce courtesy of a rear wing and a revised front apron.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but the specification is going to include 19” dark grey alloy wheels, fully-electric sports seats and a leather and Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel.

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North American diesel Cruze

February 10, 2013, 3:30 pm

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Chevrolet has unveiled the diesel-powered Cruze that’ll it be offering in Canada and the United States.

Unlike European models, which are now offered with a 1.7 litre diesel engine, the North American versions get a 2.0 litre turbocharged unit that develops 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS) with 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Connected to a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, that’s sufficient for a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds. Highway fuel consumption meanwhile is a respectable 42 mpg US (50.4 mpg imperial / 5.6 l/100km).

The Chevrolet’s most obvious rival is going to be the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which has a slightly lower output of 140 bhp (104 kW / 142 PS). When equipped with the DSG automatic gearbox, it’s a tenth of a second slower to sixty, but achieves an identical Highway mileage figure.

Interestingly, a starting MSRP in the United States of $25,695 (including a $810 destination charge) actually makes the Cruze more expensive than the Jetta, which costs from $24,950 (including a $795 destination charge).

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Images © General Motors.

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2014 Ram ProMaster

February 11, 2013, 1:29 pm

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The new 2014 Ram ProMaster continues the convergence of Fiat’s and Chrysler’s product lines. A full-size van for North America, it’s based on the Fiat Ducato which, in its current form, has been around since 2006 (and is also marketed as the Peugeot Boxer and Citroën Relay / Jumper in Europe).

While the ProMaster looks virtually identical to its Fiat cousin, beneath the skin there’s a very different set of powertrain options.

The 2.3 litre diesel engines usually chosen by Ducato customers aren’t going to be available in the ProMaster, but the 3.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged EcoDiesel will be. It develops 174 bhp (130 kW / 176 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of torque, and comes connected to a six-speed automated manual gearbox.

As an alternative, Ram is offering the 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 petrol motor, which produces 280 bhp (208 kW / 283 PS) and 352 Nm (260 lb/ft) of peak torque. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The ProMaster retains the unitary construction and front-wheel drive layout of the Ducato. Thanks to three wheelbases, three body types and two panel van roof heights (90” or 101”), buyers will have a choice of thirteen configurations:

• ProMaster 1500 Cargo Van - 118” wheelbase / low roof
• ProMaster 1500 Cargo Van - 136” wheelbase / low roof
• ProMaster 1500 Cargo Van - 136” wheelbase / high roof
• ProMaster 2500 Cargo Van - 136” wheelbase / high roof
• ProMaster 2500 Cargo Van - 159” wheelbase / high roof
• ProMaster 3500 Cargo Van - 159” wheelbase / high roof
• ProMaster 3500 Cargo Van - 159” wheelbase extended body / high roof
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab - 136” wheelbase
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab - 159” wheelbase
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab - 159” wheelbase extended body
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab Cutaway - 136” wheelbase
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab Cutaway - 159” wheelbase
• ProMaster 3500 Chassis Cab Cutaway - 159” wheelbase extended frame

Production of the 2014 Ram ProMaster is due to start at Chrysler’s Saltillo, Mexico plant during the third quarter of 2013.

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Volkswagen Cross Up!

February 11, 2013, 3:16 pm

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Volkswagen has further grown its Up! city car range by introducing a Cross version. (That’s Cross as in cross-country, not annoyed.)

Just like previous Cross models, a slightly rugged look is achieved by the use of black cladding for the wheel arches and sills, silver roof rails, a raised ride height and 16” alloy wheels.

The specification also includes door protection strips and unique bumpers, while the interior gets a special seat fabric that comes in a choice of either anthracite or a rather bright cerise red.

Offered only as a five-door with the 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) 1.0 litre engine, the Cross Up! goes on sale this summer. In Germany, it’s priced at €13,925.

UK availability has yet to be confirmed, though.

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Alfa Romeo 4C revealed

February 12, 2013, 11:39 am

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Two years after it was first revealed in concept form, the production version of the Alfa Romeo 4C is set to be unveiled at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

The 4C is a significant car, not only because it sees the return of a rear-wheel drive Alfa Romeo, but also because it’ll spearhead the brand’s return to the United States.

Constructed mainly from aluminium and carbon fibre, the two-seater is powered by a 1,742 cc turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that’s mated to Alfa’s TCT twin-clutch automatic transmission.

No technical details have been released yet, except for an impressive weight to power figure of 4 kg per horsepower. That equates to around 246 bhp (183 kW / 250 PS) per tonne.

However, a reasonable guess for output would be at least 231 bhp (173 kW / 235 PS), if only because that’s what the same motor currently produces in the Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde hatchback.

Making its debut with the 4C will be an evolution of the ‘DNA’ driving mode selector. The updated system adds a track-specific Race setting to the standard Dynamic, Natural and All-weather configurations.

Sales of the Alfa Romeo 4C are due to begin before the end of this year, but there’s still no official word on pricing. It’ll be built at the Maserati plant in Modena, Italy.

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2013 Nissan V8 Supercar team

February 12, 2013, 3:57 pm

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Nissan Motorsport has announced the four drivers who’ll be representing the marque as it enters the V8 Supercars Championship for the first time.

Two of them - brothers Todd and Rick Kelly - come as no surprise, as both are co-owners of the team. Their Altima race cars will carry the black and white livery of drinks brand Jack Daniel’s.

Joining them in a pair of yellow and black Norton-sponsored Nissans will be James Moffat and Michael Caruso. Although they’re V8 Supercar regulars, neither has driven for a full factory team before.

The first race of the 2013 V8 Supercars Championship is the Clipsal 500, which takes place in Adelaide on Saturday, March 2nd. Before that though, there’s an official pre-season test session at Sydney’s Motorsport Park this coming Saturday.

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Seat Leon SC unveiled

February 13, 2013, 8:24 am

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Seat has revealed a three-door version of its Leon hatchback. Called the SC (which stands for Sports Coupé), a slightly shortened wheelbase plus a more inclined rear screen give it a distinctive look.

Practicality doesn’t appear to have suffered though, as the SC retains the same luggage capacity and rear headroom of the five-door version.

S, SE and FR trim grades will be available in the UK, with a familiar line-up of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines that range in power from 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) to 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS).

The new Seat Leon SC is due to make its public debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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