Acura MDX Concept, 2013

 

 

The 2014 Acura MDX Prototype made its world debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, offering a strong indication of the styling and design direction for the third generation of the popular, 7-passenger Acura MDX performance luxury SUV, launching by mid-2013 in both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts.

"Our goal is to advance on MDX's already great dynamic performance while improving fuel economy and luxury comfort," said Mike Accavitti, vice president of national marketing operations. "Building on the great momentum we established in 2012 with the launch this year of our flagship RLX, followed later this year by a terrific new luxury SUV in MDX we are very excited about the direction of the Acura brand. And we are truly looking forward to a great 2013."

The "Aero Sculpture" styling of the 2014 MDX Prototype pursues the direction of a smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions; a clean, efficient and uncluttered design; and elegant, premium detailing, including the signature Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights. This "aero" image also reflects significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency, up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX, achieved through extensive testing in Honda R&D Americas' new wind-tunnel laboratory in Raymond, Ohio - where the vehicle is being created.

The 2014 MDX Prototype's sculpted exterior and arcing roofline (1.5-inches lower than the outgoing model) encase what will be an even more spacious and versatile cabin compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX. The 2014 MDX Prototype features a longer wheelbase that enhances ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access.

In response to strong demand from consumers in warm weather markets Acura also will, for the first time, offer a front-wheel drive version of MDX in addition to the all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) model that has earned MDX a reputation as a leader in dynamic handling and all-weather performance for a luxury SUV.

The 2014 MDX will also feature an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis, including new front and rear suspension designs that deliver a more refined, confidence-inspiring, and sporty driving character. An all-new, direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) will deliver improved torque and more spirited performance while realizing a significant increase in fuel efficiency to class-leading levels. Special attention was also paid to improving cabin quietness, which is greatly enhanced by the vehicle's all-new chassis and body design and new sound-deadening techniques.

The 2014 MDX also will be equipped with a broad array of advanced safety technologies, including the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and the available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems, as well as visibility technologies such as the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow. Further, the 2014 MDX is designed to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS. All 2013 Acura models other than the outgoing ZDX achieved at least a TOP SAFETY PICK safety rating, while the TL sedan was one of the first two vehicles in the industry to achieve TOP SAFETY Pick+ status.

The new MDX also feature a full array of advanced information technologies, including the next-generation AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system featuring Pandora connectivity, SiriusXM™ radio, SMS text messaging, and cloud-based Aha™ by Harman connectivity that brings thousands of personalized news, information and media feeds into the vehicle via the customer's compatible smartphone and data plan. A premium Acura/ELS® audio system will be available on the new MDX. Next-generation AcuraLink will also be available with a host of fee-based convenience, assistive and security features, such as automated crash notification, remote locking/unlocking, emergency "SOS" call feature, and live-operator concierge services.

With the introduction of the all-new 2014 Acura MDX production will move from Alliston, Ontario, to the company's vehicle and V-6 engine manufacturing facility in Lincoln, Alabama. Using domestic and globally sourced parts, the MDX is built exclusively in North America.

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Ascari A10

A lot of super cars are produced almost every year by the most famous car giants in the world. No wonder the competition to come out with the fastest breed of super cars becomes more interesting. British car manufacturer, Ascari, produced the powerful Ascari A10 in commemoration of its 10th anniversary in the industry. The Ascari A10 is a road car version of the KZ1-R race car that competed in the Spanish GT Championship. Former F1 designer Paul Brown penned this third road car that Ascari has produced in Banbury, England. The first two super road cars were the KZ1 and the Ecosse.

Engine Performance

The new A10 will have drivers enjoying the performance of a modified BMW 5.0 V8 engine that produces 625 bhp that is delivered by a six speed manual gearbox and standard manual transmission. With the same carbon chassis like the KZ1, it features a new bodywork and suspension that is racing derived. It also has a fire suppression system and is lightweight at 1,280 kilograms. The A10 accelerates at 60 miles per hour in less than 3 seconds and runs at a top speed of 220 miles per hour.

Exterior

Its body is a bit similar to its cousin but is not entirely identical. The single headlights were swapped and now sports three projector style lamps with the lower driving lights gone. It has a lower front skirt and wider apertures. The curvy carbon fiber wing is large and its meshed louvres were cut into the rear for cooling purposes. A radiator that is centrally located just above its rear venturi duct adds a fresh look.

The alloy spokes and carbon fiber rims have center lock fittings. Michelin Tires provided the rubber for this super car with a 265/35 front ZR18 and 345/50 ZR 18 for the rear. Brakes are ventilated by ceramic discs and are clamped by racing calipers on the front and back. The mid-mounted machine is similar to that of the Kz1's naturally aspirated V8; however, with the reprofiled cams and brand new rods and pistons, the A10 produces 625 bhp at an rpm of 7500. The A10 also features lightweight racing seats, carbon fiber door panels, electric windows, climate control and a remote central lock system. The super car proves to be more than just a revamp of the racing model KZ1.

Limited Edition

Ascari announced that only 50 units were to be produced for this version and will be sold with a price tag of 350,000 GBP. This limited availability certainly puts the Ascari A10 on the list of many collectors' items. The engineers of Ascari Banbury ensured that the 220 mph car will deliver a world-class performance like that of the Pagani, Mosler and Koenigsegg. The next generation dream drive from Ascari underwent rigorous testing prior to its 2006 release.

Although it lacks the luxuries of soundproofing and air conditioning the car still features hardcore fire extinguisher kits and FIA approved integral roll cage. Unlike the FXX Enzo, you can legally drive this beauty on the road.

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