The new BMW M3 Sedan is powered by a six-in-line engine, as used on the second and third generation BMW M3 models. However, unlike those preceding models, this new one is turbocharged. Reaching a maximum 7,600 rpm, it is unusually high-revving for a turbocharged engine.
The new BMW 4 Series Coupe have arrived to replace the old 3 Series Coupe. Compared to the preceding model, the new coupe is 26 millimetres longer and 43 millimetres wider. The roofline now runs 16 millimetres lower which makes the car look even wider.
The 2014 Audi RS 6 Avant is an unbelievably fast machine, but performance isn’t all what this car has to offer. What the test drive reveals, is how versatile the RS 6 actually is. This ultimate family performance wagon comes standard with two sportily molded rear seats. A three-person bench seat is available as an option. The new RS 6 is only available as an Avant model offering a bit boot which holds up to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft).
Kia has added two completely new GT models to its European lineup. Before this, there hasn’t really been any performance-focused Kia models in Europe. The two new models are 5-door Kia cee’d GT and 3-door Kia pro_cee’d GT. We took a test drive with the Kia pro_cee’d GT, which is the tastier looking of these two.
If you want a sportier version of the Fiat 500, then your choice is the Abarth 500. We took a test drive with the Abarth 500C Competizione which is equipped with a robotised manual transmission. This kind of system always raises questions, so let’s see how it works.
Volvo has updated its best-selling model, the Volvo XC60 for the model year 2014. We took a test drive with the XC60 D5 AWD which is the top-of-the-range of the diesel lineup. There are many new features and new looks, but Volvo XC60 still still feels very familiar. What makes all Volvo cars great is that it always welcomes you warmly. Even if you haven’t driven one before, Volvo is very easy to get acquainted with.
Audi just keeps pushing more power out from its 2.0 TFSI engine. In the new 2014 Audi S3, the four cylinder engine delivers whopping 221 kW (300 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque. Actually, this 2.0 TFSI in the new Audi S3 isn’t the same power source as used before, but a completely new engine which have been developed specifically for the new Audi S3.
Excluding the Audi S6 and RS 6 models, the most powerful petrol engined Audi A6 is the 3.0 TFSI. It is powered by the 3.0-litre V6 producing 228 kW (310 hp) and 440 Nm. This V6 engine is charged, but this time the T doesn’t stand for turbo. This can be a bit misleading because the 2.0 TFSI is turbocharged, but this 3.0 TFSI is actually supercharged.
BMW 3 Series’ entry level model is the 316i. It is powered by a four-cylinder, 1.6-litre petrol engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, high precision injection, Valvetronic fully variable valve control and Double-Vanos variable camshaft control. The engine produces 136 horsepower, which might sound a bit modest for the sporty 3 Series Sedan. However, with the twin-scroll turbocharger the engine delivers nice amount of torque from its considerably small displacement of 1598cc. The maximum torque of 220 Newton metres is delivered at 1,350rpm.
Mercedes-Benz has updated the E-Class with new looks, new engine choices and new or optimised assistance systems borrowed from the new S-Class. Mercedes-Benz E-Class is also available with a wide range of engine variants. The most economical choice is this E 300 BlueTec Hybrid with an average fuel consumption of 4,1 l/100km and the CO2 emissions of 107 g/km.
Charles Stewart Rolls
BMW Motorrad’s new Helmet Race
Road Test: 2011 Nissan Navara 3.0 V6 dCi Double Cab
Road Test: 2012 Volvo XC70 D5 AWD Ocean Race Edition
BMW M3 Sedan (E36) (1994-1999)
Volkswagen Beetle (1938-2003)
BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible reach end of their career
Road Test: 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 220 CDI 4Matic
Hartge engine upgrade for BMW 330d
Beautiful Bridges: The Replot Bridge (Finland)
Manclusive Suomi