Auto For Speed

Kia has a lot of experience producing alternate fuel vehicles. The manufacturer has produced its first electric vehicle (EV) – based on the Besta van – as long ago as 1986, and an electric version of the Sportage in 1999.

At the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show, Kia revealed a petrol-electric hybrid version of the new Optima saloon, which is now on sale in both the USA and Korea. It is powered by a a 2.4-litre petrol engine and a 30kW (48 PS) electric motor driving through a hybrid-specific six-speed automatic gearbox. The combined power is 206PS (151 kW) 263Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.

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When Fiat set to conquer the US market with the 500, we placed our money on the Abarth version, which we also think will change American customers’ view on small cars.

So far, all we’ve received were pieces of online information, but the wait is almost over, as the US version of the Abarth 500 will make its debut at the upcoming LA Auto Show and we now have a pair of images of the vehicles.

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Over the past few months we’ve brought you pictures of camouflaged prototypes, the loosely disguised concept and even the patent designs of the next 2012 Honda CR-V, but today, thanks to our tipster Andy Ye, we bring you the first official images of the final production model.

Not surprisingly, the styling changes over the concept CR-V we saw this summer are restricted to the matte finish of the plastic cladding on the body, the smaller wheels and the clear graphics on the headlamps and tail lamps.

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2012 Subaru Impreza is going to seep into hearts of many with its performance oriented features and a style worth flaunting. The coupe will be offered in five trim options that includes base, Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited. The curvy ride is fuel efficient and will emerge as a winner on roads. The inside volume is commendable but the car still manages to look compact from the outside.

What does it offer?

The overall look of Subaru Impreza manages to create an impression. It is much more efficient and has been refined for delivering a much better performance. This is the fourth generation Subaru Impreza that will come with a start/stop engine technology which stretches through the entire range that will be made available. The driver-friendly coupe will stand out of the crowd, all because of its all-wheel drive system.

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The Hyundai Veloster has been awarded the maximum five-star safety rating by independent vehicle assessment organisation, Euro NCAP.

The results of the rigorous test process include class-best scores for the 1+2 door sports coupe. 2011 Veloster has achieved a rating ot 96% in the adult occupant category and in the child occupant category it managed to gather 89%. The electronic stability program and seatbelt reminder systems contributed to the car’s score of 71% in the safety assist category.

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