Automobile News

Audi has revamped its entire A3 line-up in the UK with the launch of new Black Edition models which will join the brands highly acclaimed three-door, five-door Sportback and Cabriolet ranges. The models display an imaginative combination of dark and menacing looks and are assisted by an amazing array of exceptional features. The models are based on the company’s top S models, and are expected to go retail in the UK somewhere in early February, 2009.

The Black Edition models, in particular look invariably chic, and come equipped with the de-chromed front grille feature, while its equally enticing counterpart the Cabriolet versions, have its roll bars and the shoulder lines encompassed by black surrounds. Each of the three variants has an identical 18-inch S line design alloy wheels with exclusive dark titanium finish meaning that they basically thrive on similar themes. Then in the hatchbacks privacy glass is found extending from the B-pillar. To optimise the above specifications, they are discreetly combined with a Brilliant Black paint, which is free of charge, in addition to the chic no-cost option of Ibis White and the extra cost metallic options Phantom Black, Misano Red and Monza Silver.

The Audi A3 Black Editions are a surefire head turner, not only because of their sporting S line body styling treatments, but also because of the incorporation of the revolutionary standard fit Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps.

The S line package has a lot to offer as well, with the prominent being a sports suspension, part leather-upholstered sports seats, and the ability to automatically sync the engine depending on the climate. An Audi Concert audio system with single CD player and MP3 compatibility meanwhile pacifies you with some amazing sound quality. Of course you can also upgrade the in-car entertainment system with an in-car DVD player, or car speakers like the JBL P 550. Meanwhile, Cabriolet Black Edition models are available with a black acoustic hood, and a fully automatic hood operation and a wind deflector.

Tags for this article: audi, Cabriolet, car, sportback

The French manufacturer is pushing the generational car model change way forward with the new coupe cabriolet Peugeot 308 CC: the Cabrio, with a metal convertible roof, will first be showcased at the Parisian Auto Show in October, and roll onto dealer lots in early 2009.

The convertible variant of the 308 series maintains much of the looks and appearance typical of the series. The shark mouth front appearance, with the headlights as the eyes and the grill as the teeth, as well as a higher back than front, both highlight two of the car’s distinctive features. The new LED taillights are also quite noticeable. The transformation from coupe to cabrio takes around 20 seconds, and the driver can follow this metamorphosis on the colour screen in the middle console.

The four seater’s interior is focused on providing comfort: the seats are equipped with devices that warm the driver’s and passenger’s necks. Seat heaters and air conditioning are also on board. With the top down the boot room is 226 litres, but with the roof closed the space expands to 403 litres.

A 2.0 litre diesel engine with a performance of 103 kW/ 140 HP will power the car when it is released early next year. A model will follow later with a 1.6 litre petrol engine, featuring a turbo charger and direct petrol input, and an engine performance of 110 kW/ 150 HP. Both engines come with a manual six gear transmission, although an automatic is optionally available. An electronic stability programme helps provide added security. Prices have yet to be released for the 308 CC, but we can expect the upcoming diesel model to be going for around £23,000.

Ferrari has shown us the first pictures of the California, which is not available until autumn this year, with the roof closed. The three seater – yes, there is third seat behind the driver and front seat passenger – manages 460 HP and is 4.56 metres long.

The California is the first Coupe-Cabriolet from Ferrari. The electric fold-away hardtop closes in 14 seconds. This is the first time the Italian sports car manufacturer is including a seven gear double clutch transmission in a street legal vehicle. Ferrari puts the consumption at 8.1 litres per mile.