Well-known GT drivers Rob Bell, Alvaro Parente and Alexander Sims burned up the track at the home-base of McLaren Automotive, Dunsfold Park. Find out how the McLaren MP4-12C fared with the pros on their GT Track test.
Bentley Continental GTC V8 Makes North American Debut At New York Auto Show
Press Release From Bentley Media
(New York. 4 April 2012) The new Bentley Continental GTC V8 convertible will make its official public debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show.
The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged Continental GTC V8, and its coupe counterpart the Continental GT V8, achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.
This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.7 seconds for the GTC (0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).
At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800 km) on a single tank of fuel.
The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.
The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.
The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.
Expressing their potent, muscular character, both new Continental V8 models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.
At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s. The new Continental V8 models can be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard or an optional 21‑inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.
Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.
The new Continental GTC V8 model will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre, 12‑cylinder engined GTC, which continues to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631 bhp (640 PS).
Both Continental V8 models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.
Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.
Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, said:
“With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine has all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.”
Three Reasons To Choose Park Place BodyWerks For Collision Repair In Dallas/Ft. Worth
What makes Park Place Bodywerks superior to some of the other big chain, highly advertised body shop and collision repair centers out there? You know – the ones that insurance companies try to send all their repairs to? Competitors like Service King and Maaco? We’ve got the top three reasons to choose Park Place BodyWerks over the rest.
Number Three: A major difference that sets Park Place BodyWerks apart, is our state-of-the art equipment and technologically advanced facilities that the other shops don’t (or wont’) make the investment in, to insure that vehicles are returned back to factory specifications after a collision. We are held to a higher standard, because of our brands. And of course – we are certified to do repairs on all of them and more. Which brings us to….
Number Two: One more key advantage that we have that no independent shops have is our manufacturer training for all the brands we represent. Each one of our brands are constantly putting out new models made with more and better technology as well as being made with newer and lighter and in many cases exotic materials. We are at a distinct advantage to the independent shops since we get constant repair information updated direct from our manufacturers, and have the unique ability to send our technicians to the most current training available.
Number One: The number one difference is the quality of our members. We’re Experts in Excellence. And it’s not just a tagline. From the professionalism of our front office staff to the expertly trained technicians repairing the vehicles, you won’t find better talent than right here at Park Place to handle your collision claim.
Park Place Celebrates Community Partners – Plano ISD Education Foundation
“Park Place Lexus Plano has been an instrumental partner of the Plano ISD Education Foundation. They have invested generously in the teachers of Plano ISD and through their support we have been able to award thousands of grants to teachers and recognize our teachers’ excellence in the classroom. The Education Foundation would not be able to offer such critical support to our teachers without wonderful community partners such as Park Place Lexus.”
–Monica Shortino, Executive Director
3 Reasons To Love The New 2013 Lexus ES
The all-new 2013 Lexus ES is due to hit the showroom this August – and what can we say – other than WOW. It’s got everything, and then some, and it’s got the new, distinctive styling that is setting Lexus apart for 2013. There will be a hybrid version of the ES as well. It’s going to be quite easy to love this car, just like all the other powerhouse redesigns Lexus is sporting this year – and we’ve outlined the top three reasons we’re excited to see it roll onto our showroom floors.
DESIGN: The all-new ES is going to have lots of updates – but the first and most noticeable is the signature spindle grill, seen on the recently released Lexus GS. The car also is bigger – sporting a wider and lower, and to us – sportier – stance, as well as a longer wheelbase for more comfort and room inside. There will also be lighting and numerous interior and options updates.
TECHNOLOGY: Just like the 2013 Lexus GS – this car comes equipped with Lexus ENFORM®, which is the most innovative and technologically advanced on-board concierge, information, navigation and now – pretty much – computer system – complete with your favorite phone apps. New features such as Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert will also be available and are completely unique and one-of-a-kind.
PERFORMANCE: Everything is tightened up here. Everything is more efficient. The 3.5-liter V6 engine and transmission are both retooled to provide higher performance and higher efficiency a the same time. Couple this performance with the new, lightweight design – and you will have the ride of your life.
And of course, Lexus is known already for luxury and reliability. Two very important features – that – the passionate pursuit of perfection would always include. The 2013 Lexus ES is no different. Here’s a video from Lexus.com to show you more about the changes on the all-new design of this signature luxury sedan.
Jaguar Announces New F-Type Production
We’ve been showing you the sleek Jaguar C-X16 concept car for several months. Enthusiasts and car pros were super excited about this car, and we caught wind in February that it might not be a concept any longer. Now, we have an affirmative. This super sports car – a full-size, (and convertible at launch) will be dubbed F-TYPE. It’s expected to be available for purchase in 2013. Target dates and production schedule to be announced later this year. The exciting news was announced last week at the New York Auto Show last week.
The C-X16 debut last September as a concept vehicle was exciting and so well-received – that Jag execs sprang into action to get the car into production. Jaguar’s Director of Design, Ian Callum, Director of Design, said: “A true sports car needs to be pure in both its purpose and its form; to have the opportunity to produce such a car for Jaguar has been a privilege both for myself and for my team. The C-type, D-type and E-type Jaguars were all sports cars that held true to this principle in their era, and the F-TYPE will hold true to that same principle in its time, a time that is soon to arrive.”
Ferdinand Porsche, Designer of the Iconic Porsche 911 – Dies at Age 76
Today we say goodbye to the designer of the legendary Porsche 911 – Ferdinand Alexander Porsche.
Porsche announced today that the grandson of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, who founded the company in the 1930’s, died today in Austria at the age of 76. The cause of death was not mentioned.
Ferdinand Porsche designed the classic 911 in the 1960’s died today in Austria at the age of 76. The sleek elements of his design have been the cornerstone for seven generations of Porsche 911, and now are also very prominent in the brand’s other models such as the Cayenne, the Panamera and the Cayman.
“The creator of the Porsche 911 has founded a culture of design in our company that distinguishes our sports cars even today,” Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller told the Associated Press today.
Photo, USA Today/AP
Dallas Storms Bring Major Dent Repairs On Local Vehicles
Dallas was hit hard by the storms this Tuesday. Tornadoes, major winds and huge, (even horizontal) wrecked buildings, yards and cars for several hours this week. As Dallas folks start to pick up pieces and clean up – insurance companies are busy too, with storm claims.
The same thing is happening in our business with hail damage repairs and windshield repairs. We expect our body shop to be extremely busy over the next few weeks. And, we just wanted to remind all of our clients (and anyone who needs help with their car or has an automotive insurance claim on their car) that we are here to help, now serving you from our Dallas Body Shop as well as our Grapevine Body Shop.
We offer full collision repair, and will walk you through the entire process start to finish. We’ll work with your insurance company, to make sure that your car will be as good as new. We also offer auto glass repair – using the finest quality equipment. We can replace your windshield or repair chipped glass.
Perhaps your car was not damaged extensively, ad only requires paintless dent repair. There are any dents we can fix without paint, sanding or extended stays at the body shop.
Call us or come by for more information – we are happy to help you!
The Car Pro Jerry Reynolds Reviews The 2012 Volvo XC70 – Video
The Car Pro Show pro and host, Jerry Reynolds, took some time this week to review the 2012 Volvo XC70.
Jaguar Plano wins Pride of Jaguar Dealer Award
Jaguar Plano ha
s been awarded the Pride of Jaguar Retailer Excellence Award. The award is the highest honor a Jaguar dealer can receive. It is only bestowed on dealers who take the ideals of excellence and turn them into a way of doing business for every customer, every day. Earning the Pride of Jaguar requires that all areas of a Jaguar dealership’s business are focused on the customer. There are three key components to achieving Pride of Jaguar: providing an exceptional customer experience; exemplary sales satisfaction performance; and excellence in service quality.
“To achieve this accomplishment is a tremendous success, but to receive the award in our very first year of eligibility is truly outstanding,” said Stephen James, General Manager of Jaguar Plano. “Our staff dove right in, learning everything they needed to know about Jaguar, while adhering to Park Place’s stringent standards of excellence in every phase of our business. This is a great honor.”
Pride of Jaguar winners are dealers who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and the Jaguar brand. Evaluation was based on customer satisfaction, sales performance and staff training during the 2011 calendar year. Only 16 select dealers are honored with this award each year. Jaguar has a network of 164 dealers across the U.S.
“The Pride of Jaguar award annually honors those select dealers who exceeded expectations in customer satisfaction, sales performance, and overall business excellence. These dealers are key elements in Jaguar’s continued success,” says Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC.
Photo by David Alvey: Left-to-right: Mike Cotroneo, Jaguar Plano Sales Manager; Daniel Syvrud, Jaguar Plano Sales Manager; Angela Adams, Jaguar Plano Parts Manager; Kevin Boles, Jaguar Plano Service Manager; Stephen James, Jaguar Plano General Manager; and Mike Mykeloff, Market Manager, Jaguar Land Rover North America