Friday, June 15, 2012

Top Gear Stunt School REVOLUTION!

Almost two and a half million players downloaded the Top Gear Stunt School app from their iPod Touch or iPhones and with such success comes with a much awaited sequel to Stunt School. It's called Top Gear Stunt School REVOLUTION!

Available now as a free download, Top Gear Stunt School is jam packed with new cars, wilder stunts, and new locations such as Sydney, Grand Canyon, Alcatraz, and New York.

Trailer: 

Forza at 2012 Le Mans

Audi R18 TDi at La Sarthe


Forza Motorsport is now the proud sponsor of the 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans. What's expected is the "Forza Motorsport" logo on display at the entrance to the Hunaudières (Mulsanne) Straight, along the Straight itself, and at the first chicane, which has been officially renamed as the “Forza Motorsport Chicane”.  Wow, looks like the hit XBOX 360 is taken over the Circuit De La Sarthe!

Aside from having the corner officially named after the game, well, during the Le Mans 24 hour race, there's a special tent where you can demo out a new Forza spin-off game, titled Forza Horizon, sample the 2013 SRT Viper, games, and prizes.

For something special, during the Le Mans 24 Hour weekend, there will be a Game With Dev on Le Mans weekend and Turn 10 Track Days at the same day. Two events in one Le Mans weekend! Wow! In addition, there will be a Le Mans-dedicated online hopper and, for the hairy chested, a Le Mans Prototype challenge that will take 360 laps in La Sarthe! Get it? 360 Laps in La Sarthe!

Driving Music (What is the name of the song on car commercial?) Vol. 37

Earlier, Davao and GenSan got rattled by an earthquake. No wait, gets worse. I picked up something that Miami won Game 2 against Oklahoma. No no! Wait a minute. This is way worse than those, MY BLOG'S BEEN UNDER ATTACKED, AGAIN!!!

Earlier, those assailants stealthily attacked my website. Those cyber-assassins quietly attacked my blog with words like "bmw 6er gran coupé f06 werbesong" and "skoda advertisement 2012 song with a girl in a drivers seat". Recently, my blog's been attacked by some cyber-assassin and it left a word saying "song from scion fr-s commercial"

If you were looking for something like "skoda advertisement 2012 song with a girl in a drivers seat" or "song from scion fr-s commercial", I'm afraid we don't have those. We tried looking but nothing worked.

As for the "bmw 6er gran coupé f06 werbesong", I have an answer to that. Anyway, because my blog's been attacked, time to fix it with another set of five Driving Musics (Car Commercial Songs).

5. Base Camp by Somment - from the Renault Laguna "Imported from France" TV Commercial

4. The Clapping Song by Shirley Ellis - from the Volkswagen 21st Century Beetle TV commercial

3. I Wanna Be Loved by You by Marilyn Monroe - from an Autorama Ford Festiva Japanese commercial

2. True Love by Elton John and Kiki Dee - from the Honda S-MX Japanese Commercial

1. New Dawn Fades by Moby - from the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe commercial

..and there you have it. Another set of five driving musics. I can see why, for a new model launch comes with a commercial and with a commercial of a new model comes, petrolheads want to know what's the song from a new car commercial. I always said that but when will they stop! Instead of doing that, why don't you keep in touch with me? Like me on Facebook, tweet me on Twitter, or email me. That's it. Nice and easy.

Nissan NV350 Caravan E26

For almost four decades, the Nissan Caravan (known to most Filipinos as the Urvan) has been highly rated as a full-fledged, versatile commercial vehicle that can be used not only for business but also for hobbies or leisure, with its basic performance as a commercial vehicle continuously improved throughout four previous model generations. Meet the new 2013 NV350 Caravan, the latest installment of the legendary Caravan that promises best-in-class fuel efficiency for both gasoline and diesel engine models.

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan

If you seen this one at last year's Tokyo Motor Show, then you're good but for some, let's talk about the design. At first glance, this new NV350 has a very robust design despite its boxy proportions. The front end and corners are rounded, with larger surfaces used for the body sides. This is going to be the best looking of the Japanese commercial vans that were made not just for business use but for private use as well.
2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan interior

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan




If you think that the new NV350 Caravan is going to be "bigger on the inside", well you'd be right because the all new NV350 offers ample load capacity with cargo space length of 3,050 mm, the longest in the four-series grade for light commercial vehicles. The interior of the new NV350 takes advantage of the larger cargo space for both occupants and cargo. One example is the 50/50-split folding seat is adopted so that one person can be seated even if a long item is loaded. On the side panel of the cargo space, Luggage Utility Nuts are placed for customers to personalize cargo space for their convenience. To make it unique, the NV350 comes with Advanced technologies not available on current commercial vehicles such as Intelligent Key (standard on Premium GX/GX), Push Engine Start (standard on Premium GX/GX), Premium Fine Vision Meter and a vehicle information display showing average fuel economy and cruising range to support eco-driving, and foot-operated parking brake that significantly improves usefulness (equipped in 5-speed AT models).

Depending on the variant you'll choose, you could expect to go for the Van that carries up to 6 people or for the wagon that carries up to 10 people. There are various NV350 models that suits various needs. For instance, a 2-seater variant is made for small business use because the back will be strongly needed for cargo space. Imagine if the folks from FedEx, UPS, DHL, and others would use that. This is "Ur Van, Ur Business" redefined for the new generation of Japanese entrepreneurs.

The new NV350 Caravan comes with the all new YD25DDTi engine with clean diesel technology that achieves the class-leading fuel economy of 12.2 km per liter based on Japan's JC08 mode test cycle. Most petrol engines take advantage of its fuel saving technology for class leading fuel economy - QR20DE engine with 9.9 km per liter and QR25DE with 9.1 km - calculated based on JC08 mode. Those engines achieved either a 10% or 5% improvement in fuel economy over Japan's 2015 fuel economy standard. Most NV350 van models are qualify from Japan's ECO CAR GENZEI system for eco cars. Most models will come with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

For safety, the NV350 comes with the Xenon headlights, Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors, Rear View Monitor, Auto light system, LED High-Mount Stop Lamp, anti-lock brakes, Front ventilated disc brakes, High-strength body construction, SRS air bags, Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts on the front seats, and Three-point seatbelts with Emergency Locking Retractors on the rear seats.

Autech NV350 Caravan Rider

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan Autech Rider

If you want an NV350 Caravan a bit more stylish to wow the Daikoku parking area crowds, consider the Autech Rider version of the all new NV350 Caravan. Same specs as the standard model but the Autech-modified version stands out with its front grille, front protector, front bumper, LED Daytime running lamps, and RIDER AUTECH emblem.

Prices start at around 1,894,200 yen to 3,511,200 yen, including consumption tax. The one with a diesel engine nd super long body will be on sale beginning July 13, 2012, and the wide version model is planned for launch in winter 2012. Available colors are Tiger Eye Brown (PM), White, Brilliant Silver (M), Super Black, Brilliant White Pearl (3P), and Aurora Mauve (RP).

My comment:
So, the new NV350 Caravan, it was now made to be the most fuel efficient Japanese commercial ever made and also it's stylish. For a commercial van, a Japanese entrepreneur would be pleased to have one of these for business purposes but as a recreational vehicle, the NV350 Caravan is a fitting choice for an average Japanese family. As told, this is "Ur Van, Ur Business" redefined for the next generation of Japanese entrepreneurs but sadly, Universal Motors has no plans of bringing the new one as the new Urvan to the Philippines for now. Also, Edaran Tan Chong from Malaysia also has no plans to sell one, meaning that will fuel smugglers to smuggle one, that's a shame.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Audi S7 Sportback

2013 Audi S7 Sportback


Back in 2010, Audi revealed what it could be a direct competitor to the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, the Audi A7 Sportback, but sadly, I really don't like the back because, it's far too eccentric. If a kid sees one during the nighttime, he might say "DADDY! DADDY! THERE'S A MONSTER IN THE BACKYARD!" Get it?

Now, it gets even more scarier than ever with this S7 Sportback. Of course, it looks the same as the eccentric looking A7 even the weirdest rear view known to man, but because it has the S, some body kits were equipped to make the scary even more scarier. What's even scarier is the S7 Sportback's new 4.0 TFSI engine.

This new 4.0 TFSI engine produces 420PS of power, 550 Nm of torque, 9.6L/100km of fuel economy, 225 g/km of CO2 emissions, 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds and top speed limited to 155mph. It was all down to this quick-shifting 7-speed S tronic transmission but wait. When you talk about 9.6L/100km, one such reason is the 4.0 TFSi engine's variable cylinder management that deactivates four of the eight cylinders when it senses full power isn't needed. Right?

Standard equipment includes xenon plus headlights with daytime running lamps that kill vampires (so long vampires!), driver information system with color display, and the MMI radio plus audio and operating system. If you want to blow all your pockets, you have a choice to go with options such as driver assistance and infotainment systems, Bluetooh online car phone, and much much more.

Available colors are Eissilber Metallic, Brillantschwarz, Ibisweiß, Gletscherweiß Metallic, Mondscheinblau Metallic, Havannaschwarz Metallic, Oolonggrau Metallic, Quarzgrau Metallic, Estorillblau Kristalleffekt, and Phantomschwarz Perleffekt.

My comment;

The scary-looking Audi A7 Sportback gets even more scarier with the new sportier S7 Sportback that addresses the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG but I think its cool if you're a mad doctor because it has the meanest power you want to abuse with. Sadly, I am not impressed to have the Audi S7 because this is just another way to scare your kids even in the back.

Photo: AUDI A.G.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Let's Do The News! (June 13, 2012)

Now we will do the news and we begin with this...

ULTIMATE MADOKA

This is the ULTIMATE MADOKA 1/8 scale figure. It was remodeled from Madoka Kaname's final, ultimate form as seen from the final episode of the hit 2011 anime, Puella Magi Madoka Magica. From every angle, this figure can be the last figure you'll ever have before you die. The price for this outrageous curtain call is 14,800 Japanese Yen (Tax Included) so that is somewhat costly to put this ultimate figure on your bucket list. This figure will arrive on late 2012 but you can preorder one now and for a bonus, you will receive a B3 Size Ultimate Madoka Original Poster.



This figure is the ultimate swan song...literally. A swan song for the diehard Madoka fans.

(laughing)

Now, have you guys watched Game 1 of the NBA Finals? Miami vs. Oklahoma?

Yes.

Me too.

YAY!!!!

What?

Oklahoma wins game 1 against Miami! 105-94! Thunder defeats Heat!

WOO-HOO! GO OKC! GO OKC!

Aw no....I kinda feel pity to Miami Heat. I thought they're leading but the Oklahoma City Thunder's catching up and OKC win the game!

Take it easy Captain Conscious. Besides, Miami Heat's too useless. They're useless. Anyway, Oklahoma has won that battle but will they keep up on Game Two this Thursday (Friday if you live in Asia) or will Miami Heat has a new tactic? Find out soon!

Gosh, I really want to see (mmpphh mphhphph mmmmmhphpphph)

OKLAHOMA! OKLAHOMA! OKC! OKC! THUNDER THUNDER THUNDER!!!!

(applause)

Now anyway, enough about the euphora about OKC won Game 1 against MIA. I got some bad news. I got reports that there's a new typhoon coming in the Philippines under the name Butchoy. Funny name but poses a serious threat. So better buy something before the storm comes and when the storm comes, stay indoors okay?

Oh, and if you're an idiot student who really wish to have classes suspended because of Butchoy...fingers crossed.

(laughing)

NOBODY'S GOING TO BELIEVE IN THAT HAM!

So...um...move on to the next?

Yes! Moving on!

Right um...So, METAL GEAR ONLINE is gone, right? It's gone last night. June 12, 23:54 JST.

(awwww)

Yeah, Slow, sad to see METAL GEAR ONLINE come to an ending. It's sad to see loyalists shedding tears of MGO's demise. But guess what? They're now busy playing online multiplayers on CALL OF DUTY or BATTLEFIELD 3.

(laughing)

Now anyway, I picked up some info about the upcoming Rinne No Lagrange Kamogawa Days OVA/PS3 game hybrid disc. Here's the clip of what you can expect...



So...um...what you can expect here that it comes with the Kamogawa Days OVA and the Kamogawa Dream Match PS3 game all bundled into one blu-ray hybrid disc. It will come this August 23 only on Playstation3.

(oohhh)

Uh...you know what I like about those hybrid discs is because you can do two things; you can watching something and play a video game, all in one disc. That experience was occurred since the TEKKEN HYBRID. You know what? HYBRID DISCS ARE COOL

(laughing)

Yeah, hybrid discs are cool. I just think that most video game makers will do the same thing but in the meantime, only NAMCO BANDAI will do that.

(laughing)

Now, um...HEICO SPORTIV, famous Volvo tuner, they've tuned the new Volvo V40. Check it out...

Volvo V40 by Heico Sportiv
HEICO Sportiv V40

So, what they done from here that HEICO beefed up the ECU for the turbo five that boosts output from the car's standard 237 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque up to 266 hp and 269 lb-ft. For the looks, some quad exhausts, seven-spoke rims, and a body kit were included to complete the tuning process.


I was very impressed to see the guys from HEICO tuned up the all new V40 and for the better, they even made a V40 Touring Car of some sort...

Volvo V40 by Heico Sportiv
HEICO SPORTIV V40 Touring Car

Some say, this one's a bio-diesel racer. You wouldn't guess that this V40 Touring car's gone eco.


Amazing! But is it worth a wait?

I don't know. Still a bit of concept but this looks like the perfect alternative to the whole Top Gear BMW diesel touring car as seen from the 24 Hour race in Silverstone a few years ago.

(laughing)

Now anyway, bad news. I found reports that a Lamborghini Aventador smacked down a bike while they were at Imola

(awwww)


Well, luckily, no one was hurt except for the Aventador's front. What a shame for this....Lambo.

(laughing)

Yeah...What a shame for the Aventador's pretty face. It got some dents on it!

(laughing)

Quite unlucky. You have to be careful driving the Lamborghini Aventador because this car's worth more than what you expect to be. I only liked the Aventador because...this is brilliant for track day purposes. I saw that on Top Gear when Jeremy Clarkson drives one while James May drives an MP4-12C and Richard Hammond's in the Noble M600. On a result; the M600 is good at top speed, the MP4-12C works on city streets, and the Aventador works on racetracks (even though it didn't beat the lap time set by The Stig's Italian Cousin).

Uh, really? Remember the part that the M600's transmission broken?

(laughing)

Yeah. Maybe this M600 wasn't a bit reliable. Perhaps it can be difficult for a car raised by a small Leicester-based carmaker. He he he....

(laughing)

Speaking of Top Gear, there was a special Top Gear Festival coming to Durban, South Africa this Father's Day Weekend and I heard that they will be doing the most insane stunt of all time, involving some loop de loop on a buggy. 


(whoa)

Yeah, you have to be careful with this stunt. As it implies, a driver has to be about 24-26mph on the first loop. Slower and you're dropped but faster and you're gone, kind of....This whole 720 attempt needs only concentration to master this. A slight mistake can be deadly. Don't forget that and please, don't try this at home.

(laughing)

Now anyway, Karen Gillan, Amy Pond from Doctor Who, she was named Scottish Fashion Awards in Glasgow. Hooray for Amy Pond <3

(applause)


Yeah, hooray for the Scottish-born actress who played one of my favorite Doctor Who partners. Kinda cool for someone who was hailed from Scotland, right?

Yeah...but it kinda made me sad...

Why?

Well, Karen Gillan's Scottish. Any other famous personalities who were hailed from Scotland?

Let's see um...there was former Bond actor Sean Connery, former Doctor Who actor David Tennant, Ewan McGregor, Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid from Harry Potter movies), 300's Gerald Butler, folk singer Julia Fowlis, musician John McCusker, Kaye Adams...

..okay I have to stop here but it kinda reminds me of something...You know Scotland has two languages; English and Gaelic. How come they don't speak Gaelic? Do those Scottish personality speak Gaelic?

(laughing)

Is there a Scottish movie with Gaelic language? I wanna see one...

I'm afraid there were only few. There were only just a few Scottish Gaelic movies using Gaelic language. An encyclopedia told me that Scottish Gaelic make up about 1.3% of the Scottish population so it's rare to see some Scottish people speaking Gaelic, but if you live in Scotland, there is a channel that is too Gaelic to watch and it's the BBC Alba.

(laughing)

I give a challenge. Find me a Scottish celebrity, male or female, who can speak Gaelic.

(laughing)

I can't because it's hard to find one.

(laughing)

See? Remember, 1.3% of the Scottish population speak Gaelic! He he he....

AND THAT'S THE NEWS!!!

I'm talking about the Chevy Volt....

Chevrolet Volt runs deep...


I'm talking about the Chevrolet Volt. Unlike the Toyota Prius, this is more than just a hybrid because a Chevrolet Volt can be plugged in and offers an EPA-estimated 35 miles of zero emissions driving per full charge with the option and flexibility of a gas engine when you need it. Unlike the Nissan Leaf, the Volt offers 35 miles of gas and zero emissions driving and up to 375 total miles on a full charge with a full tank of gas. It's about more than the Nissan Leaf which offers a range of 73 miles on a full charge without the flexibility of a gas engine. Really?

Recharge side goes here

Refuel side goes here

Sure the Chevrolet Volt can't compete against the likes of the Nissan Leaf because both of them are in a very different league. While the Nissan Leaf is a full-fledged zero emissions electric vehicle, the Chevrolet Volt is a PLUG IN HYBRID vehicle. PHV, right? PHV! A PHV is a different kind of eco car that you can refuel it with petrol or recharge the batteries. This is somewhat more of a multi-tasker. This is designed for long trips and mostly, most eco-conscious drivers want to have one even though this is much more expensive than the Toyota Prius and the Nissan Leaf.

As told, the Chevrolet Volt has an electric drive unit and a 1.4L Internal Combustion engine combined for various purposes. The electric drive unit has a power output of 150HP and the torque output of 273 lb-ft. The Internal Combustion engine has a weaker power output of 80HP and if the electric drive unit's battery is out of charge, this engine will serve as a backup. While an electric charge was its first priority, the gasoline engine equipped on the Volt will serve for emergency purposes only.

When it was launched, the  initial availability starts at California (Los Angeles, San Francisco), Washington D.C., Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Texas. Later on, the Chevrolet Volt is now sold nationwide but sadly, where I came from, I can rarely see a Chevy Volt cruising around the streets of Seattle. In my point of view, it seems that there are most Leaf vehicles roaming around than the Volts.

Here in Forza Motorsport 4, this Chevrolet Volt is...um...let's be honest, it's hopeless. This was made for cruising, not for racing, and that's it.