Hyundai Veloster Gets Turbocharged Engine

On January 11, 2012 in Passenger Cars

Hyundai introduced the all-new 2013 Veloster Turbo armed with 201 horsepower in a world debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Veloster Turbo is one bookend to Hyundai’s turbocharged sports coupe line-up, paired with the refreshed 274 horsepower, rear-wheel drive 2013 Genesis Coupe 2.0T (Turbo) also debuting at the show today.

The 2013 Veloster Turbo arrives in the Summer of 2012, facing off against worthy competitors such as the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S with a better power-to-weight ratio than all of them, and a unique sport-tuned steering and suspension hardware set. Continue Reading →

2013 Subaru BRZ Sports Car Makes US Debut

On January 10, 2012 in Sports Cars

The all-new, rear-wheel drive Subaru BRZ sports car made its United States debut today at the North American International Auto Show at Cobo Hall in Detroit. Arriving in Subaru dealerships this spring, the BRZ delivers pinpoint handling precision and an unmatched driving experience for sports car enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Subaru developed the BRZ with the fundamental of sports car design in mind: low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering. Utilizing Subaru’s naturally aspirated 200 horsepower horizontally opposed (BOXER) engine design is a sports car that does not sacrifice everyday comfort and practicality. With 2+2 seating and folding rear seats, cargo space is sufficient to transport four race tires and tools to track days. Combined with the Subaru brand’s renowned safety and quality, the BRZ is a sports car with practicality as well as performance. Continue Reading →

Toyota Reveals NS4 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

On January 10, 2012 in Concept Cars, Hybrids

Toyota today revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind. Continue Reading →

Volkswagen Shows All-Electric E-Bugster

On January 9, 2012 in Concept Cars, Hybrids

Volkswagen’s iconic Beetle has been redefined for the 21st century. Now, it has been further reinvented as a concept car for the future: the pure electric E-Bugster.

The name “E-Bugster” is a combination of “E” for electric, “Bug,” the American nickname for the Beetle, and “speedster,” which typically describes an open-top two-seater. The E-Bugster concept sports the typical speedster profile of shallow windows and a dramatically cut-down windshield.

At the heart of the E-Bugster is an electric motor that makes 114 horsepower (85 kW) and 199 pound-feet of torque. A lithium-ion battery enables the car to go more than 100 miles in zero emissions driving. Stored under the trunk floor, the battery weighs 695 pounds. The battery is recharged via a plug interface located underneath the hood’s VW logo and can accommodate all three types of available chargers: Level 1 (120V), Level 2 (240V), and, where available, Level 3 (quick charge, 80 percent charge in 30 minutes). Holistically, Volkswagen calls the electric drive unit used in the E-Bugster “Blue-e-motion,” and it will be found in future products such as the Golf Blue-e-Motion. Continue Reading →