Mazda Releases UK Pricing and Specifications on New CX-5

Following its launch in several markets around the world, the new Mazda CX-5 is now available for pre-order in Britain with first deliveries to take place this spring. The compact crossover model, which is Mazda's first production model embody its SKYACTIV technology, will be offered with a choice of three engines including a 2.0-liter petrol producing 165PS (163bhp), and a 2.2-liter turbo diesel with either 150PS (148bhp) or 175PS (173bhp).
The CX-5 is also available with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions, front- or all-wheel drive and four equipment levels (SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav).
Prices for 2.0-litre petrol versions start from £21,395 (OTR) for the CX-5 SE-L and rise to £23,995 for the CX-5 Sport NAV.
The 2.2-litre 150PS models begin at £22,995 for the SE-L and £24,295 for the SE-L Auto, to £25,595 for the Sport Nav and £24,695 for the entry-level AWD model. Finally, pricing for 2.2-litre 175PS diesel versions start at £27,195 for the CX-5 AWD Sport.
According to Mazda, depending on the model, the CX-5 return will a combined fuel consumption figure of 61.4 to 47.0mpg UK (4.6lt/100km to 6.0lt/100km) with CO2 emissions ranging from 119 to 144g/km.
The base SE-L models will come equipped as standard with 17-inch alloys, front fog lights, dual‑zone climate control air-conditioning, Smart City Brake Support and privacy glass, plus front and rear parking sensors.
The Sport grade models add 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Front Lighting System, full leather trim, heated front seats, powered driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

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2013 BMW X6 Facelift

We've been following the development of the facelifted X6 through our scoop section for a while now and today, BMW officially revealed the 2013 model year version that goes on sale worldwide this spring. The big news on the 2013 X6 is the introduction of the diesel-powered X6 M50d of the M Performance series, but we've already covered it in our previous post, so let's see what else is new about BMW's so-called Sports Activity Coupe.
The styling updates throughout the range are quite subtle and include a new set of headlamps, more pronounced kidney grilles with bars that are angled in the lower section, repositioned fog lamps set in matt finish surrounds and new LED tail lamps, while BMW also offers adaptive LED headlights as an option.
The 2013 model year also brings new exterior colors including the Marrakesh Brown metallic featured in the pictured vehicle, plus the option of Vermilion Red and Ivory White leather upholsteries and new alloy wheel designs.
The X6 comes as a four-seat model with a three-seat rear bench being available as an option.
The basic engine range remains the same, with the U.S. lineup including the xDrive50i with a 400hp 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 and the xDrive35i with a 300 hp 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. Both engines are mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission. The X6 M with a V8 engine delivering 555 bhp linked to a 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission tops the range.
While the X6 M50d won't be making it in the States, BMW offers an M Performance Package in the U.S., which adds 15hp and 30 lb-ft of torque on the X6 xDrive35i giving it 315 hp and 330 lb-ft respectively, while the increase on the X6 xDrive50i is +40 hp +30 lb-ft of torque for total peak output of 440 hp and 480 lb-ft.
Along with the engine upgrades, the M Performance Package adds 20-inch light alloy wheels, black chrome exhaust tips, stainless steel pedals, M footrest and door sills, shadowline exterior trim, anthracite headliner, and optional Carbon Black metallic paint.
In Europe, the modestly refreshed X6 will also be available with a pair of 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engines, producing 245bhp on the xDrive30d and 306bhp on the xDrive40d.
The 2013 BMW X6 will receive its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

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Corvette ZR1 Taken to the Max by German Tuner TIKT

In pure stock form, the Corvette ZR1 is a performance beast with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine pumping out 638-horses and 604 lb-ft (819Nm) of peak torque. However, German tuning firm TIKT believes that there's plenty of room for improvement so it introduced a new take on the ZR1 with its Triple X package. It all starts with the ZR1's eight-cylinder powerhouse that gets modified cylinder heads, camshafts, valve springs and compressor ratios plus a larger throttle valve, a completely modified exhaust system, a reprogramed ECU and changes to the cooling system.
The tune sees the 6.2-liter unit deliver an output of 758HP (769PS) and a peak torque of 671.2 lb-ft (910Nm).
TIKT then moves on to better the Corvette ZR1's handling through the use of new race shocks, a lowered suspension by a claimed 50mm (1.9 inches), more powerful brakes and a new set of Zerra Ultralight Evo 2 alloy wheels.
The final touches come in the form of an aero package that includes a new front bumper with a splitter, side skirts and an oversized rear wing, all made from lightweight carbon fiber.

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How Much Does a Nissan 370Z Coupe Cost Where You Live?

During a trip abroad or while surfing on the internet, at one point or the other you probably compared prices of goods offered in your own country with those in other regions. And naturally, you may have noticed that prices can vary greatly from one country to the other. Being that for most of people, a car is the second most expensive purchase you will ever make after you house; it's interesting to see the price differences between various countries around the world.
To make a fair comparison, we had to pick a model that was available in only one engine option globally. For those of you that have been with us for a while, you may remember that we made a price comparison with the Nissan 350Z back in late 2007.
Some four years later, we decided to revisit the subject with the 350Z's successor, the 370Z Coupe, in its base version and not taking into consideration the possible equipment variations in each market. The exchange rates are from January 16.
The price chart that follows makes for an interesting read as let’s just say that, in the least expensive market, you could buy six (!) 370Zs for the price of one in the most expensive country.
On a side note, if you don't see your country listed below and you happen to be aware of the base price of the 370Z Coupe in your region, feel free to add it in our comments section.

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