Showing posts with label Auto-Show... Show all posts
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Thursday, December 10, 2015
Next-gen BMW 5-series to be unveiled at Paris motor show 2016
BMW is set to unveil the next-generation of its luxury sedan, the BMW 5-series, at the Paris motor show 2016. The new car will get a more streamlined styling as compared to the current car, and will share technology with the new 7-series that made its debut internationally earlier this year.
The new 5-series will get a more prominent kidney grille with dynamic louvers that open and close as per cooling requirement, optional laser headlamps, more pronounced shoulders, LED tail-lamps and a sleeker profile with a more heavily raked rear windshield. The new 5-series will also be based on the new platform, codenamed OKL, that was introduced on the new 7-series. The car will also be around 100kg lighter due to the use of carbon fibre, magnesium, aluminium and high-tensile steel.
On the inside, the dashboard is expected to be designed like the one on the new 7-series with the same basic architecture multi-function steering wheel, switchgear and material materials. The dashboard will also feature an all-digital instrument cluster and a free-standing infotainment display.
Powering the car will be a family of 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines in varying states of tune: the 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines including a quad-turbo diesel in the M550d, the 444bhp 4.4-litre V8 from the new 7-series, plug-in hybrid powertrains from the new 7-series and X5 and the range-topping 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 for the M5. The car will come with the choice of a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic gearbox on the standard models, while the M5 will continue with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic from the current model.
In terms of technology, the new 5-series will get the latest iDrive system with a new touchpad and touchscreen, gesture control with sensors to monitor five different hand movements, voice recognition and functions such as swipe and pinch to zoom. The car will also come with autonomous driving tech such as autonomous emergency braking, hands-off operation and anti-collision systems.
The new 5-series will be available in three body styles – sedan, Touring and GT . The sedan is the one that will make its debut at the Paris motor show. There is no confirmation as yet as to the launch dates of the other two models, though they are expected sometime in 2017.
Mitsubishi's 2016 iMiev will remain cheapest electric car, starting at $22,995
Detroit: Mitsubishi's 2016 iMiev will remain the cheapest electric car on the market when it goes on sale in the U.S. next month.
The tiny four-seater starts at $22,995, the same as the previous model year. With a $7,500 federal tax credit, the price drops to $15,495.
Standard features include heated front seats, remote keyless entry and an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the battery pack.
The iMiev was introduced in 2011. Two years later, Mitsubishi dropped its price by $5,000 to ensure it would be cheaper than newer entries like the electric Chevrolet Spark.
But the car hasn't been a big seller. Mitsubishi sold 196 iMievs in the U.S. last year, down 81 percent from the previous year. By comparison, Nissan sold more than 30,000 electric Leaf sedans.
The tiny four-seater starts at $22,995, the same as the previous model year. With a $7,500 federal tax credit, the price drops to $15,495.
Standard features include heated front seats, remote keyless entry and an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the battery pack.
The iMiev was introduced in 2011. Two years later, Mitsubishi dropped its price by $5,000 to ensure it would be cheaper than newer entries like the electric Chevrolet Spark.
But the car hasn't been a big seller. Mitsubishi sold 196 iMievs in the U.S. last year, down 81 percent from the previous year. By comparison, Nissan sold more than 30,000 electric Leaf sedans.
Vintage cars, motorbikes head out for the 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally in Delhi, Gurgaon
New Delhi: Vintage automobiles including first petrol-fuelled car 'Motorwagen' and rare period motorcycles from golden era of Lambretta to BSA, stole the hearts of people here as heritage enthusiasts took the carefully-preserved beauties out today for a spin.
Over 220 rare cars and 7 period two-wheelers were paraded on the 52-km-long route from Delhi to Gurgaon as part of the fifth edition of the two-day '21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally' that kicked off from the historic Red Fort.
Finest automobiles from Ford Galaxy to Studebaker and 1929 Rolls Royce Tourer and 1928 Morris to 1936 Daimler Sports Coupe and 1947 Cadillac, among others, competed for people's attention and wowed them in equal measure.
Madan, who himself owns an impressive vintage fleet of "253 cars and 99 bikes" said the occasion also brings an impressive touch of royalty, so integral to vintage cars, as "descendants of 51 erstwhile royal families have participated in the rally".
The rally was inaugurated by Chhatrapati Shahu II Bhonsle, the current descendant of the Kolhapur Royal family in Maharashtra. The royal participants included families of Rajkot, Gondal, Kishangarj, Ajaygarh to name a few.
Over 220 rare cars and 7 period two-wheelers were paraded on the 52-km-long route from Delhi to Gurgaon as part of the fifth edition of the two-day '21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally' that kicked off from the historic Red Fort.
Finest automobiles from Ford Galaxy to Studebaker and 1929 Rolls Royce Tourer and 1928 Morris to 1936 Daimler Sports Coupe and 1947 Cadillac, among others, competed for people's attention and wowed them in equal measure.
Madan, who himself owns an impressive vintage fleet of "253 cars and 99 bikes" said the occasion also brings an impressive touch of royalty, so integral to vintage cars, as "descendants of 51 erstwhile royal families have participated in the rally".
The rally was inaugurated by Chhatrapati Shahu II Bhonsle, the current descendant of the Kolhapur Royal family in Maharashtra. The royal participants included families of Rajkot, Gondal, Kishangarj, Ajaygarh to name a few.
2016 Range Rover Evoque facelift teased
The 2015 Geneva Motor Show is just around the corner and most carmakers across the world are busy teasing their concepts to build a hype around their brand. Land Rover has released the first teaser image of the 2016 Range Rover Evoque facelift which will be revealed in full guise on the Geneva podium.The teaser image reveals that the 2016 Evoque will get new full LED adaptive headlamps. The company claims that the headlights will be capable of providing ‘superior illumination in dark conditions,’ following the curves of the road.
Land Rover has also announced that the SUV will come with a new engine line-up, new safety and convenience features, and interior enhancements. The 2016 Range Rover Evoque is expected to get the four-cylinder Ingenium family of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines sourced from the Jaguar XE and Land Rover Discovery Sport.
In India, the Evoque is currently offered with a 2.2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that churns out 188PS of power and 420Nm of torque. The engine is mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
More details on this updated SUV will be revealed at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 2015
Renault reveals Kadjar SUV
The Geneva Motor Show is about to commence next month, but Renault seems to have already set the mood for new unveils and launches by taking the wraps off the Kadjar SUV. Thanks to the Nissan-Renault alliance, the Kadjar shares a lot of its components with the Nissan Qashqai SUV.
The engine options will be the same as the Qashai, with the Kadjar being offered in 1.5-litre and 1.6-litre diesel mills and it will be based on the Nissan-Renault CMF platform. The crossover will be offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 variants, with the All-wheel drive featuring a very familiar Auto, Lock and 2WD modes. Renault claims that thanks to an approach angle of 18 degrees and a departure angle of 25 degrees the Kadjar will be an efficient off-roader too.
The Kadjar has a bold front grille that flaunts the large Renault badge in the centre. The curvy bonnet and the sharp headlights give it a touch of aggression. At the back, the Kadjar isn’t as bold as it is from the front. On the inside, the company says the dashboard has been given a sporty look all with a 7-inch TFT touchscreen and Renault’s very own R-link multimedia system. The Kadjar gets a navigation system, voice command Bluetooth telephony and more.
The Kadjar has a bold front grille that flaunts the large Renault badge in the centre. The curvy bonnet and the sharp headlights give it a touch of aggression. At the back, the Kadjar isn’t as bold as it is from the front. On the inside, the company says the dashboard has been given a sporty look all with a 7-inch TFT touchscreen and Renault’s very own R-link multimedia system. The Kadjar gets a navigation system, voice command Bluetooth telephony and more.
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Suzuki iK-2 and iM-4 compact SUV concept unveil ahead of Geneva Motor show
The Suzuki iK-2 premium hatchback pre-production concept and iM-4 compact SUV design study will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2015 early next month. The duo have been teased ahead through dark silhouette images.
A short glace of the iK-2 Concept’s teaser image is more than enough to know that it indeed previews the Maruti YRA (Hyndai Elite i20 rival) premium hatchback which was already spied without any camouflage. With a body length and profile in a territory between a regular hatchback and an estate, the iK-2 concepts attempts to strike a balance between compactness and practicality.
It’s reported that the YRA will debut a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine while inheriting the 1.3-litre diesel motor from the Swift. More details on the technology and powertrain are expected to surface at the world premiere.
While the iK-2 is a production ready concept, the iM-4 is a design study. The concept previews a compact 4×4 SUV which is designed under the theme ‘Shape the Inspiration’. The fresh design proposal from Suzuki is compact, has a bold stance, flared wheel arches and a humongous C-pillar.
The company says that the vehicle is packed with new technologies and distinctive design that will give inspiration to the drivers. The size suggests that the design study could potentially lead to creation of the aging Suzuki Jimny’s (closely related to Maruti Gypsy) replacement.
It’s reported that the YRA will debut a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine while inheriting the 1.3-litre diesel motor from the Swift. More details on the technology and powertrain are expected to surface at the world premiere.
While the iK-2 is a production ready concept, the iM-4 is a design study. The concept previews a compact 4×4 SUV which is designed under the theme ‘Shape the Inspiration’. The fresh design proposal from Suzuki is compact, has a bold stance, flared wheel arches and a humongous C-pillar.
The company says that the vehicle is packed with new technologies and distinctive design that will give inspiration to the drivers. The size suggests that the design study could potentially lead to creation of the aging Suzuki Jimny’s (closely related to Maruti Gypsy) replacement.
McLaren 675LT supercar to debut at Geneva
Geneva always gets the best Europe has to offer, especially when it comes to sports cars. McLaren for the 2015 Geneva Motor Show has a Longtail Version of the 650S, christened the 675LT.
As the name suggests, the 675LT will be longer than the 650S and Asia-only 625C. Despite an addition in length, the 675LT, according to the British Supercar maker, will be the lightest, the quickest, and the purest version in the range. Weight reduction aside, McLaren has also worked on improving aerodynamics of the 675LT and has increased downforce, which we suppose will be courtesy a massive rear wing.
The 675LT will be the flagship in the McLaren Super Series when the Series is launched in the second half of 2015. If you haven’t guessed it by now, the 675LT makes 675PS of power, 25PS more than the 650S and it will be a lot more track focused. Further performance figures will be revealed closer to its global unveiling in March. Expect torque in the range of 700Nm, a sub 3 second 0-100kmph sprint and a top speed around 330kmph.
As the name suggests, the 675LT will be longer than the 650S and Asia-only 625C. Despite an addition in length, the 675LT, according to the British Supercar maker, will be the lightest, the quickest, and the purest version in the range. Weight reduction aside, McLaren has also worked on improving aerodynamics of the 675LT and has increased downforce, which we suppose will be courtesy a massive rear wing.
The 675LT will be the flagship in the McLaren Super Series when the Series is launched in the second half of 2015. If you haven’t guessed it by now, the 675LT makes 675PS of power, 25PS more than the 650S and it will be a lot more track focused. Further performance figures will be revealed closer to its global unveiling in March. Expect torque in the range of 700Nm, a sub 3 second 0-100kmph sprint and a top speed around 330kmph.
Mitsubishi teases new SUV concept for Geneva
The Japanese carmaker has released a teaser image of its new SUV concept which will premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
The Japanese car maker promises that the unnamed concept is a 'declaration of intent' for the company's future.
The company has stated that the all-new concept is a smart combination of engineering, fluency with a high-output electric motor, low environmental impact, dynamic agility and athletic design.
Mitsubishi is still coy on the specifics of its upcoming concept, but states that the model previews the next generation 2WD plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) technology and a ‘bold design renaissance’.
Not much is known about the concept at this stage, but reports suggest that the Japanese carmaker is preparing an updated version of the Concept XR-PHEV, revealed during the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013.
The Japanese car maker promises that the unnamed concept is a 'declaration of intent' for the company's future.
The company has stated that the all-new concept is a smart combination of engineering, fluency with a high-output electric motor, low environmental impact, dynamic agility and athletic design.
Mitsubishi is still coy on the specifics of its upcoming concept, but states that the model previews the next generation 2WD plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) technology and a ‘bold design renaissance’.
Not much is known about the concept at this stage, but reports suggest that the Japanese carmaker is preparing an updated version of the Concept XR-PHEV, revealed during the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013.
Suzuki iK-2 and iM-4 concepts leaked ahead of Geneva show
Suzuki had earlier released teaser images of the two concept cars that it will unveil at the Geneva motor show 2015. Now, images resembling the Suzuki iM-4 and iK-2 concepts have been leaked prior to their global debut at the show next week.
The iM-4 is a compact SUV that rivals the likes of the Ford EcoSport and the Renault Duster in terms of size. But, mind you, this is not the new compact SUV that Maruti is developing for our markets. Maruti’s compact SUV has been spotted testing, and it seems different from the Suzuki iM-4 concept.
The iK-2, on the other hand, is a crossover. It is larger than the Swift, and rivals cars like the Fiat Avventura, Toyota Etios Cross and Volkswagen Cross Polo. This car comes across as the YRA hatchback, which Maruti is developing, and has also been spotted testing on Indian roads. Maruti’s crossover will also rival the upcoming Hyundai i20 Active.
Suzuki says the iK-2 concept has been developed with the theme of ‘harmonised force' and “raises compact car values to their limit”. As for the iM-4, Suzuki describes it as “an iconic mini 4x4”, and says that it will come with “distinctive styling that will give real inspiration to drivers”.
The iM-4 is a compact SUV that rivals the likes of the Ford EcoSport and the Renault Duster in terms of size. But, mind you, this is not the new compact SUV that Maruti is developing for our markets. Maruti’s compact SUV has been spotted testing, and it seems different from the Suzuki iM-4 concept.
The iK-2, on the other hand, is a crossover. It is larger than the Swift, and rivals cars like the Fiat Avventura, Toyota Etios Cross and Volkswagen Cross Polo. This car comes across as the YRA hatchback, which Maruti is developing, and has also been spotted testing on Indian roads. Maruti’s crossover will also rival the upcoming Hyundai i20 Active.
Suzuki says the iK-2 concept has been developed with the theme of ‘harmonised force' and “raises compact car values to their limit”. As for the iM-4, Suzuki describes it as “an iconic mini 4x4”, and says that it will come with “distinctive styling that will give real inspiration to drivers”.
BMW 2-series Gran Tourer MPV revealed In Geneva Motor Show
BMW has revealed the new 2-series Gran Tourer prior to its global debut at the Geneva motor show 2015. It is a larger version of the 2-series Active Tourer sold in international markets, and is more like a versatile hatchback-cum-MPV. The Gran Tourer gets seven seats unlike the Active Tourer which is a five-seater.
The 2-series Gran Tourer shares its front-end styling with the Active Tourer. Its silhouette differs dramatically from traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW models, with a short bonnet and heavily angled windscreen, giving it a distinctive cab-forward influence. At 4550mm long, 1800mm wide and 1610mm high, the 2-series Gran Tourer is a considerable 214mm longer and 53mm taller than the 2-series Active Tourer, but exactly the same width. The majority of the extra length is concentrated within the wheelbase, which has grown by 110mm to 2780mm, to provide the new BMW with longer rear doors and a generous opening to access the rear seats.
Inside, the 2-series Gran Tourer uses the same dashboard and fittings as the 2-series Active Tourer – alongside which it will be produced at BMW’s factory in Leipzig, Germany. The boot capacity is 645 litres with the rear-most seats down, rising to a copious 1905 litres when the second row of seats, which split and fold in a 40:20:40 configuration, are stacked away.
The lightest of the launch models is the 1395kg 218i, with the 1565kg 220d xDrive's four-wheel-drive hardware making it the heaviest; it includes an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch that is used to apportion drive to each wheel depending on the amount of traction. The same set-up will be used by the upcoming second-generation X1, which is described as being closely related to the 2-series Gran Tourer.
The new BMW will be sold overseas with the choice of five turbocharged petrol and diesel engines along with a standard six-speed manual and optional eight-speed automatic gearbox. The petrol units include a 134bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder in the 218i and a 189bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the 220i. Among the diesels is a 114bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine in the 216d and a 148bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in the 218d. The range-topper is the powerful 187bhp diesel unit in the four-wheel-drive 220d xDrive, which is available in automatic guise only. It goes from 0-100kph in 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 217kph.
The 2-series Gran Tourer shares its front-end styling with the Active Tourer. Its silhouette differs dramatically from traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW models, with a short bonnet and heavily angled windscreen, giving it a distinctive cab-forward influence. At 4550mm long, 1800mm wide and 1610mm high, the 2-series Gran Tourer is a considerable 214mm longer and 53mm taller than the 2-series Active Tourer, but exactly the same width. The majority of the extra length is concentrated within the wheelbase, which has grown by 110mm to 2780mm, to provide the new BMW with longer rear doors and a generous opening to access the rear seats.
Inside, the 2-series Gran Tourer uses the same dashboard and fittings as the 2-series Active Tourer – alongside which it will be produced at BMW’s factory in Leipzig, Germany. The boot capacity is 645 litres with the rear-most seats down, rising to a copious 1905 litres when the second row of seats, which split and fold in a 40:20:40 configuration, are stacked away.
The lightest of the launch models is the 1395kg 218i, with the 1565kg 220d xDrive's four-wheel-drive hardware making it the heaviest; it includes an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch that is used to apportion drive to each wheel depending on the amount of traction. The same set-up will be used by the upcoming second-generation X1, which is described as being closely related to the 2-series Gran Tourer.
The new BMW will be sold overseas with the choice of five turbocharged petrol and diesel engines along with a standard six-speed manual and optional eight-speed automatic gearbox. The petrol units include a 134bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder in the 218i and a 189bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the 220i. Among the diesels is a 114bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine in the 216d and a 148bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in the 218d. The range-topper is the powerful 187bhp diesel unit in the four-wheel-drive 220d xDrive, which is available in automatic guise only. It goes from 0-100kph in 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 217kph.
Annual Vintage and Classic Car Club of India's Pune Rally to be held on 14-15 February
February seems to be packed full of vintage and classic car events dotting the country. From successful rallies in Calcutta, Rajkot and Mumbai, it is now Pune’s time to hold their annual vintage and classic car rally. The rally, to be held on February 14 and 15 in assocoation with the Radisson Blu Hotel at Kharadi will see over a hundred participating cars and bikes taking to the streets of Poona with their shiny paintjobs and spotless chrome.
The Pune rally has seen the likes of the famed Poonawalla and Jasdanwalla collections showcased in all its glory amongst other large notable collections like those belonging to the Sanghis and the Badamikars. A few notable cars include a pristine example of the Mercedes 190SL and a stunning selection of Rolls-Royces from the Poonawalla stable.
Also expect a selection of classic motorcycles ranging from Nortons to Triumphs to the Indian heritage classics like the Jawa and Yezdis. The Pune rally, due to its proximity to Mumbai also sees several classic car owners from Mumbai drive down in their beautiful cars to participate. All in all, expect Pune to be transported to a bygone era with oodles of chrome and white wall tyres taking to the streets in style.
Also expect a selection of classic motorcycles ranging from Nortons to Triumphs to the Indian heritage classics like the Jawa and Yezdis. The Pune rally, due to its proximity to Mumbai also sees several classic car owners from Mumbai drive down in their beautiful cars to participate. All in all, expect Pune to be transported to a bygone era with oodles of chrome and white wall tyres taking to the streets in style.
EICMA 2015: Suzuki unveils new SV650 street fighter
Suzuki has re-ignited the SV Series by unveiling the new SV650 at EICMA 2015, Milan. The Japanese manufacturer aims to returns to all the elements that made the original SV a street fighter classic, but with a big list of upgrades. The dedicated and reliable 645cc liquid-cooled V-twin mill has been updated with more than 60 new components, improving the bike's performance and economy. Like the two spark plugs per cylinder setup to optimize combustion, and the race-proven Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder plating that reduces friction and improves heat transfer and durability, thus improving the efficiency. Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel injection system also makes an appearance on the new SV650, providing better efficiency and throttle response through a butterfly valve system with the primary valve controlled by the rider and the secondary throttle valve controlled by the engine management system.
The SV’s multifunction LCD instrument panel consists of a gear position, digital speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, average fuel consumption, driving range, clock, water temperature gauge and fuel gauge. Backlight is adjustable in six levels of brightness and can be set to your preference.
Suzuki has not yet disclosed the price-tag for the SV650 yet. The Suzuki SV650 has immense appeal and practicality for everyday riding. Should Suzuki possibly introduce the SV650 to India, it would complete against the Triumph Street Triple, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Benelli TNT600, and the Ducati Scrambler.
Mercedes AMG GLE 63 to debut at Detroit motor show
It was known that the Mercedes GLE will debut at the Detroit motor show 2015, but the German car maker has now confirmed that the AMG version of the new car, the GLE 63, will also be gracing the motor show. Mercedes gave a glimpse of the AMG GLE in a video on its official Facebook page.
From the looks of it, it seems the AMG flavor on the GLE is prominent yet not flashy. The body kit is more aggressive. It has a ventilated hood, sidesteps with metallic accents, spoiler on the tailgate, quad exhausts and also the red brake calipers as is typical of AMG.
Although Mercedes has not revealed the mechanical details, the GLE 63 is likely to get AMG’s latest 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. This is the same motor that does duty in the GT and the C 63. In its ‘S’ avatar, this engine is capable of churning out up to 503bhp. At launch, the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 will have the BMW X6 M in its sights. Complete details will be available once the car has been officially unveiled.
Although Mercedes has not revealed the mechanical details, the GLE 63 is likely to get AMG’s latest 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. This is the same motor that does duty in the GT and the C 63. In its ‘S’ avatar, this engine is capable of churning out up to 503bhp. At launch, the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 will have the BMW X6 M in its sights. Complete details will be available once the car has been officially unveiled.
The German manufacturer has also revealed that a couple of its cars will be seen in the upcoming Hollywood film Jurassic World. Although details are sparse, the company has confirmed that a GLE has been specifically created for use in the film.
From the looks of it, it seems the AMG flavor on the GLE is prominent yet not flashy. The body kit is more aggressive. It has a ventilated hood, sidesteps with metallic accents, spoiler on the tailgate, quad exhausts and also the red brake calipers as is typical of AMG.
Although Mercedes has not revealed the mechanical details, the GLE 63 is likely to get AMG’s latest 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. This is the same motor that does duty in the GT and the C 63. In its ‘S’ avatar, this engine is capable of churning out up to 503bhp. At launch, the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 will have the BMW X6 M in its sights. Complete details will be available once the car has been officially unveiled.
The German manufacturer has also revealed that a couple of its cars will be seen in the upcoming Hollywood film Jurassic World. Although details are sparse, the company has confirmed that a GLE has been specifically created for use in the film.
EICMA 2015: Hyosung GD450 concept grabs eyeballs
The concept bike, which is set to be the Korean manufacturer’s new street naked, is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC 449cc engine, which could mean a relatively affordable price tag when it launches. The 96mm bore, with a pretty high compression ratio of 11:8:1, is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The makers claim that it could generate up to 50 PS of power at 7,500 rpm and 47.7 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.
The 41mm upside down telescopic forks takes charge of the front suspension duties, along with the dual-arm with an offset gas charged hydraulic shock absorber at the rear, adjustable for preload.
The GD450 gets a four-piston radial calliper 300mm petal disc in the front, while the 2-piston 230 mm counterpart is installed in the rear. The 17-inch wheels add to the masculine appeal of the Hyosung with a 120-section on the front and a 160-section on the rear.
EICMA 2015: Hyosung launches GT650R with a fresh look
Hyosung, the Korean manufacturer, has unveiled the GT650R with a completely new design at EICMA 2015. This time round, the manufacturer has mainly concentrated on the design aspect of the fully-faired sports bike. At first glance, one can immediately notice the use of twin pod headlamps as compared to the existing vertical capsule shaped arrangement in the current model. Moving to the body of the GT650R, we can see the designers at Hyosung have opted for a more smooth flowing design concept. Air scoops and vents have been re-sculpted to allow proper air flow around the bike providing stability at triple figures. The GT650R get a new fuel tank which goes well with the overall appearance of the bike. The tank of the new GT650R will have the capacity to hold 15 litres which is apparently 2 litres less compared to the existing model.
Moving to the rear section of the Hyosung, the seat of the GT650R has been extended towards the tank to improve comfort for the rider. For the pillion, the GT650R continues to have a split seat with a slightly rounded shape. The grab rails have been mounted flush to the tail body panels. The foot pegs for the pillion now are bolted to the centre portion of the chassis.
Hyosung has upped the aesthetic appeal of the GT650R by providing petal discs to the existing setup. Adding to that, the GT650R will also come with new multi spoke alloys. The exhaust can apparently has not received any change.
On the engine end, the Hyosung GT650R will be powered with the same existing 4-stroke, DOHC, 8 valve, 90 degree V-Twin 647cc, water cooled power plant which will produce 74.4PS in power with 54.5Nm of torque. Mated to the engine will be a 6-speed constant mesh transmission. The new Hyosung GT650R is claimed to be lighter by 10 kgs, which will improve the power to weight ratio in terms of performance figures.
Along with the GT650R, Hyosung has also unveiled the GV300 and the GT300R at EICMA 2015. We expect Hyosung to showcase the GT650R at the 2016 Auto Expo held at Delhi in the beginning of the New Year.
EICMA 2015: Triumph unveils 2016 Tiger Explorers
Triumph has unveiled six new motorcycles in its 2016 Tiger Explorer line-up at the EICMA show in Milan.
Just the like the different variants in the Tiger 800 line-up, the 2016 Tiger Explorers will also get different XR and XC variants – XR for on-road use and XC for off-road use. The entry level XR and XC variants will be equipped with WP suspension for 2016 year models, and the up-spec variants will include the XRx and XRt for pavement and the XCx and top of the line XCa for off-road adventure use.
All variants will be powered by an updated 1,215cc three-cylinder engine, now with more power and torque and with shaft final drive. Triumph says the 2016 Tiger Explorers will also get a clutch with a lighter pull.
The XCx, XCa, XRx and XRt will come equipped with a new, five-mode electronics package which includes semi-active suspension, with ABS and traction control which will work in association with an onboard computer, called the Inertial Measurement Unit.
The IMU will send the motorcycle movement data to help control the new cornering optimized ABS and traction control system. The base XR and XC models have standard mutli-channel switchable ABS and traction control but no high-end electronics.
The 2016 Tiger Explorers will also come with the Hill Hold Control feature, helping keep the bike from rolling back when starting on a steep incline. The 2016 Tiger Explorer will also have an electronically adjustable touring windscreen.
EICMA 2015: 2016 KTM Duke 690, 690R unveiled
KTM has unveiled a revised 2016 model year Duke 690 and Duke 690 R at the ongoing EICMA show in Milan.
Both the Duke 690 and the Duke 690 R are powered by a 690cc single-cylinder motor, which makes 73PS of power and 74.5Nm of torque. Additional tweaks on the 2016 model include new steering geometry for improved stability and better cornering precision. ABS is standard and the Duke 690 also gets an optional track pack which includes sport and rain mode, traction control and Motor Slip Regulation (MSR).
The 2016 models also get 1000rpm of extra revs, thanks to a new cylinder head, refined exhaust and inlet systems. A new, ultra light piston and connecting rod, a new crankshaft with new bearings, and twin spark plugs with individual mapping also adds to the superior performance of the new Duke 690. Then there’s a balancer shaft as well to make the single-cylinder motor more refined.
The Duke 690 R makes more power at 75PS, and gets an Akrapovic exhaust, fully adjustable WP suspension and a Brembo monoblock front caliper. The R model also adds cornering ABS, traction control, three selectable power modes and the Motor Slip Regulation. The R version also gets an additional Supermoto riding mode.
Like the standard Duke 690, the R comes equipped with a full-colour TFT display dash. The only visual changes on the Duke 690 R are the Akrapovic exhaust system, orange frame, LED indicators and different graphics. There’s no official word yet, on whether the KTM Duke 690 or the Duke 690 R will be launched in India anytime soon.
EICMA 2015: Benelli Tornado Naked T and Leoncino unveiled
Not to be outdone by Ducati’s exhaustive range of Scramblers, Benelli has taken the wraps of the Leoncino, its very own scrambler at the ongoing 2015 Milan Motor Show. And it is quite a striking machine, this Leoncino. It looks good without being too flamboyant, and retro without being too nostalgic. Designed by CentroStile Benelli, the Leoncino is actually a reimagination of one of the marquee’s most beloved brands of the same name, and it shows in the styling.
Powering it is a twin-cylinder four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 500cc mill, with wet sump lubrication, electronic injection, overhead double camshaft timing system, 4 valves per cylinder, hydraulic clutch and a 6-speed gearbox, producing a peak power figure of 48 PS and max torque of 45 Nm.
Suspension duties upfront are handled by an upside down 50mm fork, mated to 4 piston brake calipers gripping 320mm discs. The rear swingarm’s movement is controlled by a laterally mounted shock absorber and braking is handled by a 260mm disc with a two piston caliper. The spoked rims are of aluminum, 19" at the front and 17" at the rear, which accommodate wide-sectioned tyres: 110/80-ZR19 at the front, 150/70-ZR17 at the rear.
The front features an all-LED headlamp and Benelli says ABS will be standard on the Leoncino.
Then there’s the Benelli Tornado Naked T, a new duo of models that we believe could be specially suited for India. Powering it is a single cylinder, 4 stroke, air cooled 4 valves, double spark, available in 125cc or 135 cc guises, the former offering 11.7 PS of power and 10Nm of torque. The slightly larger model – we still don’t understand the rationale behind two engine options so close to each other – offers marginally higher figures at 12.6 PS of power and 10.8Nm of torque.
Both the 125-cc and 135-cc versions of the Benelli Tornado Naked T will ship with 12-inch wheels, with 120/70 and 130/70 tyres at the front and rear, respectively. Suspension is via a 41mm upside-down front fork and a rear swingarm with lateral shock absorber with spring pre-load adjustment.
Braking duties are handled by a 220 mm steel disc upfront, with a smaller 190mm disc taking care of the proceedings at the rear. The fuel tank has a capacity of 7.2 litres.
Both the Benelli Leoncino and the Tornado Naked T are slated to be launched in the latter half of 2016, with competitive pricing, but we reckon they just might show up in India before that at the upcoming 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi.
EICMA 2015: Benelli TRK 502 unveiled
The Benelli TReK 1130 that the Italian manufacturer unveiled earlier this year at the India Bike Week in Goa? Well, Benelli is at pains to underline that the TRK 502 is not a smaller iteration of that machine. And it does look different, quite akin to some large adventure tourers from BMW and Triumph, albeit a bit smaller.
The traditional Benelli steel trellis frame may be conventional, but the engine underneath it is also all-new: a freshly developed twin-cylinder four-stroke liquid-cooled 500cc with electronic injection, overhead double camshaft timing system, and 4 valves per cylinder. That is good enough for 48 PS of peak power at 8,500rpm and 45 Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. The gearbox is a 6-speed affair controlled by a hydraulic clutch. Fuel capacity is a mammoth 20 litres.
As befits an adventure tourer worth its name, the TRK 502 comes with a raft of touring-friendly features that will enable it to chew up the tarmac for days on end. Suspension duties upfront are handled by an adjustable upside down front fork, and at the rear, a swingarm with monoshock, providing suspension travel of 150mm at both ends. Braking is via two front discs, 320 mm in diameter, and two-piston floating caliper upfront, and a twin piston calliper gripping a single 260mm disc at the rear. Tyres are Pirelli Angel 120/70-17 and 160/60-17 at the front and rear, respectively, mounted on 17” alloy wheels.
Benelli is also offering an “off-road” version of the TRK 502 with wire wheels, 19” at the front and 17” at the back. Expect the Benelli TRK 502 to be launched in India sometime later next year.
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