McLaren MP4-12C, 2013

 

 McLaren MP4-12C, 2013

McLaren Automotive, rather than resting on its laurels, has instead announced a package of enhancements that will make the McLaren MP4-12C high performance sports car even more invigorating to drive yet even easier to live with.

Headlining the changes is a 25PS (25hp) power increase. It takes the maximum output of the mid mounted, twin turbocharged V8 engine to 625PS (616hp) to give yet more vivid acceleration at track speeds with no loss in efficiency. Modifications have been made by McLaren's engineers to the 12C's engine and SSG transmission increasing responsiveness. Ease of use, a phrase not often associated with cars of this type, is further improved through a host of detail changes while a wider variety of paint, leather and wheel options give customers yet more scope for personalisation. The McLaren MP4-12C's unique Intake Sound Generator (ISG) system, which controls the amount of engine intake sound heard in the cabin, is now programmable across three levels in all three Powertrain modes allowing the driver to select the amount of aural drama he or she wants to enjoy, whatever the road. But one aspect that hasn't changed is the McLaren MP4-12C's purposeful styling… apart from a subtle revision to the McLaren Speed Marque badge, that is.

The latest iteration of the McLaren MP4-12C, which at launch set a new benchmark among its competitors for power, efficiency and pioneering technology, is available to order now. Customers who have already taken delivery of a 12C are not being neglected, though. Every 12C owner is being offered a package of upgrades, including the extra 25PS (25hp), at no cost, underlining McLaren's commitment to its customers ensuring they enjoy owning their 12C as much as they do driving it.

The Detail: enhanced 12C overview
The suite of upgrades to the McLaren MP4-12C specification from October 2012 includes enhancements to the 12C's engine and transmission, in addition to other functional attributes.

A focus on drivetrain development has given McLaren Automotive's engineers the opportunity to increase the McLaren MP4-12C's 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 output from 600PS (592hp) to 625PS (616hp). The redesigned engine mapping has not altered the remarkable efficiency of the M838T engine, with 12C CO2 emissions remaining at just 279 g/km, and fuel economy recorded on the EU combined cycle at 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100km).

Modification of the 7-Speed SSG transmission to which the McLaren MP4-12C's high-powered engine is mated has resulted in crisper throttle response and improved clutch control for gear changes that are both faster and smoother.

The McLaren MP4-12C features an innovative Intake Sound Generator (ISG). This system works by controlling engine intake noise within the cabin at differing levels, depending on the Powertrain mode selected for the car. Moving up through Normal, Sport and Track Powertrain modes enhances the aural drama and driving experience of the 12C, with engine noise in the cabin changing when throttle power is applied and revs increase. With the 2013 specification 12C, the driver will be able to select the level of engine noise delivered in each mode through an electronic menu accessible via the instrument cluster.

Improved usability and occupant comfort
A new door entry system is a feature of the new MP4-12C. A small button mounted on each door replaces the 12C's touch sensor system. In line with customer feedback, the modification is intended to simplify the user experience. The ability to unlatch each door using the 12C key fob will be retained.

To improve safety, an enhancement will be made to the headlight activation settings of the McLaren MP4-12C. With the 'AUTO-lights' mode selected, the 12C's headlights will be automatically switched on when rain is detected by the windshield-mounted rain sensor.

The McLaren MP4-12C's Climate Control System will be modified exclusively for 2013 models. In addition to the standard 'AUTO' function of the system; new cars will be supplied with systems inclusive of 'AUTO LO' functionality. This new setting enables the desired cabin temperature to be reached in the quietest way possible, using lower fan speeds.

New options to personalize the ultimate McLaren MP4-12C
McLaren Automotive is committed to innovating through technology and design, and presenting customers with an exciting range of opportunities to specify their ultimate 12C. Along with the power upgrade and technical revisions announced for the 2013 model year McLaren MP4-12C, comes a selection of tempting aesthetic and functional options which may be added to the comprehensive standard 12C specification.

A stunning new high quality paint finish will be added to the options list for the new McLaren MP4-12C. Volcano Yellow joins the 'Elite' set of paint finishes available for the revised model, and promises to be as spectacular as the popular Volcano Orange and Volcano Red finishes selected by many MP4-12C customers since the car was launched in 2011.

A new wheel design and wheel finish available on multiple wheel designs will be offered to future McLaren MP4-12C owners. A new 5-spoke lightweight-forged wheel may be specified for the 12C and is available in multiple finishes. Standard Silver, optional Stealth and eye-catching Diamond Cut finishes are available on this new wheel design, as well as forged wheel designs available to order from the existing range. The Diamond Cut wheel finish is first finished in Graphite Grey, then diamond cut to reveal the forged metal surface. The entire wheel is then finished in a protective coat, which adds a high quality gloss to the appearance.

An exclusive new McLaren MP4-12C interior trim has been developed by McLaren Automotive for 2013 model year 12Cs, which is a higher quality and more naturally textured leather than that in the current MP4-12C options list. If selected, exclusive semi-aniline leather is applied to all major interior surfaces including doors, seats, dash and the centre console. The new interior option includes flat piping around the perimeter of the seat and along the edge of the door card insert. The piping finish will be in Carbon Black unless requested in McLaren Orange, Harissa Red or Stone Grey. Three levels of this new interior trim will be available to order from June 2012:

•     Full Semi-Aniline Leather: Carbon Black Leather on all surfaces, along with optional colour-matched flat piping
•     Semi-Aniline Leather with Colour Perforated Inserts: As Full Semi-Aniline, with the addition of colour perforated door inserts, seat inserts and matching piping
•     Semi-Aniline Leather with Alcantara Inserts: Carbon Black Leather to all major surfaces, with black Alcantara seat inserts and optional Alcantara door inserts, along with optional colour-matched flat piping

Racing Green, which to date has been an option for McLaren MP4-12C buyers, and 'Driver Zone' interior options, will now be reserved for clients of McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Selecting the 'Driver Zone' option will see a customer meet with MSO stylists to create a colour and trim scheme in the area immediately around, and including, the driver's seat. This is specified in contrast to the interior trim specified elsewhere in the cabin.

One Touch Seat Return is an added function of optional heated and electric seats for new cars, and will be available as an update to existing vehicles. With the pull of a lever, the seat will return to its position when the driver last exited the 12C. Easy-Exit - whereby the seat retracts to its most rearward position to allow for unhindered exiting of the 12C - will remain a feature.

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Mazda 3 MPS, 2013

 

 Mazda 3 MPS, 2013

One of Europe's most powerful compacts just got a bit sportier. Featuring assorted new body accents, the 191 kW/260 PS Mazda 3 MPS stands out with richer contrasts and a more dynamic overall look for the new model year.

The upgraded Mazda 3 MPS retains the previous model's exceptionally responsive handling and performance, and highlights the stunning exterior design by sporting new gunmetal finish for the 18-inch alloy wheels, whilst the inner roof spoiler (beneath the unique MPS wing), door mirror housings and lower rear bumper trim are finished in a sleek Black Mica finish.

"Visual upgrades to the Mazda 3 MPS compliment its strikingly bold design, which boasts a dynamic, aggressive and assertive look, that sets it apart from the rest of the Mazda 3 line-up and encapsulate the 'defy convention' philosophy of our brand," comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda UK.

"Mazda 3 MPS delivers a unique combination of exhilarating driving fun and everyday compact car practicality. Its distinctive bonnet air-intake, gunmetal 18-inch alloy wheels and large rear wing with the new inner spoiler create a muscular, athletic appearance. Delivering sensationally spirited performance, the Mazda 3 MPS boasts 'stand out' looks which give it a great road presence, plus exquisite handling and incredible dynamics. It is the ultimate expression of driving excitement and Mazda's defy convention attitude, in a sophisticated super-hatch. Alongside sensational performance it provides all the accessibility, practicality, reliability and build quality of its Mazda 3 sister models," adds Allibon.

Each Mazda 3 MPS is fitted with the immensely powerful and responsive 2.3-litre MZR DISI Turbo petrol engine. It generates maximum power of 260PS and 380Nm of torque (at just 3,000rpm) and drives the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission with wider spaced gear ratios and a Limited Slip Differential. The dual exhaust pipes deliver a suitably sporty rasp at low revs, but give a 10dB noise reduction at engine speeds over 5,000rpm for improved levels of comfort when driving on open roads.

For enhanced 'active' safety appropriate for a high-performance model, the Mazda 3 MPS comes with Bi-Xenon headlights with swivel-type Adaptive Front Light System (AFS), front fog lamps, a radar-based rear vehicle monitoring (RVM) system and larger, 320mm diameter ventilated front disc brakes.

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Maserati Gran Cabrio MC, 2013

 

 

 Maserati Gran Cabrio MC, 2013

Exterior
The new, sporty look can be seen in each stylistic element of the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC's bodywork. Inspired directly by the cars of the Maserati Trofeo MC World Series and the GT4 version, the new design perfectly blends sportiness, dynamism, the search for aerodynamic perfection, elegance and style. These stylistic elements already partly characterised the Gran Turismo MC Stradale and the Gran Turismo Sport, and seamlessly unite form and function.

The car, 48 millimetres longer than the Gran Cabrio and GranCabrio Sport, is characterised by a front end which is inspired directly by the MC Stradale, adopting a profile designed to optimise the aerodynamic lift and flow. These differ from those on other versions of the Gran Cabrio due to the increased car length and other aerodynamic elements at the rear end.

The bonnet incorporates two generous air outlets at the centre to optimise cooling of the powerful V8, and two more air outlets to cool down the brake discs have also been added to the two front wings.

Initially introduced on the Gran Turismo Sport the new headlights, which adopt LEDs for the daytime running light (DRL) function, complete the new look of the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC. Though they maintain the external shape seen on the other three versions in the Gran Cabrio range, the new headlights adopt the most modern technology, perfectly enhanced with an extremely sporty look thanks to the matt black colour of the structure.

The bi-xenon unit inside the headlight also incorporates Adaptive Light Control, which follows the movement of the steering by up to 15 degrees.

The rear is characterised by the large spoiler, for greater negative lift at high speeds. Inside the spoiler, built into the luggage compartment, is the third brake light. The standard version comes in the same colour as the body and it is also available, within the various car customisation packages, with a carbon finish.

The bumper has been completely redesigned at the bottom to make the new model even sportier and at the same time ensure optimal aerodynamic efficiency. The circular exhausts have been moved to the centre of the bumper and the specific layout of the air ducts, built into the lower part of the bumper, ensure greater streamlining, stabilising the air flow from the underbody.

Finally, the dynamism of the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC is accentuated by the 20" MC Design rims, available in glossy Titanio or matt Grafite, and made using flow-forming technology. In addition to being lighter, they feature the traditional Trident, skilfully worked into the double-spokes.

The Interior
The interior of the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC has received a thorough overhaul with particular attention paid to ergonomics.

The new seats, completely redesigned from both an aesthetic and functional point of view and enhanced with high-quality materials, now ensure the optimum balance of comfort and performance, elegance and functionality. The new structure of both the front and rear seats now incorporates the headrest and is enhanced by an upper, central trim, with a design inspired by the car's front grille.

Particularly important, especially with convertible cars, is the attention paid to the rear passengers. For this reason, the frame for the front seats, which is also available in a completely carbon-fibre version, has been completely redesigned to ensure 20 mm more legroom for the rear passengers.

Particular attention has been paid to the ergonomic and comfort-related aspects of driving. The seats, with an increased profile to enhance their wrap-around structure and lateral containment, ensure sporty driving while guaranteeing superior comfort, even on very long journeys.

The steering wheel features a new design, with the rim flattened at the top and bottom for greater manoeuvrability, also for sports and high-speed use, without interfering with the driver's legs.

The rear seats have been redesigned according to the same logic: maximum comfort, maximum passenger restraint in sports driving and ample use of quality materials.

To complete the new, super-sporty look of the new Maserati Gran Cabrio MC, it incorporates the Trofeo-design steering wheel paddles as standard, with increased dimensions as seen on the Gran Turismo Sport, and an aluminium pedal unit.

The Engine and performance
As with the most sporty Gran Turismo in the range (the Gran Turismo Sport), the Gran Cabrio MC also adopts the new 4.7-litre V8 engine, which delivers 338 kW (460 HP) together with substantial torque of 520 Nm at 4,750 rpm.

The pistons, positioned at an angle of 90°, are made of reinforced, hardened aluminium, as is the engine block. The crankshaft, with five-point balancing, is made of high-strength steel.

The timing system, with a system of two chains per bank, features dual variable valve timing.
The new power unit, in combination with the MC Auto Shift transmission, is now able to propel the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC, in closed soft top configuration, to a top speed of 289 km/h (179 mph) with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

Automatic transmission (MC Auto Shift)
Like other sports models in the Maserati range, the Maserati Gran Cabrio MC also adopts an automatic six-speed ZF transmission able to transfer all the power of the 460 HP V8 engine to the ground. Calibrated specifically for application on the sportiest version in the Gran Cabrio range, the MC Auto Shift transmission features five operating modes. It can be used in Auto-Normal, Auto-Sport, Manual-Normal, Manual-Sport and Ice modes.

In Manual mode, gear changes are carried out directly by the driver through the steering wheel paddles, as with a truly manual gearbox. In Manual-Normal mode, the driver can change gear until the threshold value is reached, while in Manual-Sport mode the gear is maintained until the driver next changes gear, even if this may result in over-revving and the intervention of the limiter.

On the Gran Cabrio Sport, Sport mode includes super-fast mode, which derives directly from the Gran Turismo Sport and the Quattroporte Sport GT S and permits gear changes that are 50% faster.

The mode includes automatic blipping (short burst of acceleration) when downshifting with the Launch Control system, called MC Start Strategy(which operates only with MSP deactivated).
Using the MC Start Strategy, the driver holds down the brake pedal, presses the accelerator pedal and then releases the brake pedal when the optimum engine speed is reached (2,300-2,500 rpm).

Chassis and suspension
Performance, safety and comfort were the guidelines that Maserati engineers followed when designing the chassis for the new Gran Cabrio MC. In light of the experience gained with the GranTurismo MC Stradale, it is fitted with single-rate dampers, to give maximum emphasis to the car's sporty character, which guarantee greater rigidity in order to ensure optimum road holding in all driving conditions, without detracting from maximum passenger comfort.

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