Author: Katya Mikova

  • JE Design Presents Their Widebody Kit for the Seat Leon Cupra

    JE Design has introduced their upgraded tuning program for Seat Leon Cupra 5F Five-door.

    The tuned hatchback conveys more dynamism, sportiness and sophisticated elegance.  JE DESIGN loads the agile sports car with an additional dose of racing virtues by boosting its power to a new level.

    Precisely, on the performance front, we see the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an output increased by 70 PS (51 kW) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft). As a result, JE Design Seat Leon Cupra jumps to 350 PS (258 kW) and a peak torque of 440 Nm (324 lb-ft). The tuning program allows the hatchback to speed up from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds before rocketing to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The cost of the tuning pack is estimated at €2,299.

    Additionally, JE Design takes care of the bodylook of the Spanish compact car. With the new widebody kit, available for 6,188 Euro, the compact car turns into an eye-catcher that is able to turn heads across the country. The widebody kit includes a three-part bumper attachment, massive wheel arch flares front and rear, side skirts in carbon look and a rear apron with two molded diffusers. There are also twin tailpipes integrated in the rear apron with the dimensions of 105 x 85 millimeters. All of those enhancements make the family-friendly vehicle seem more brutal, aggressive, sporty and powerful.  The overall exterior improvement costs €6,188.

    The sporty look of the hatchback is further underlined by the JE DESIGN Y-Spoke wheel set which is available in size 9.5 x 19 inches. Available tires, for example, are the Dunlop Sport Maxx GT in 255/30 R19. The price for the complete wheel set is €2,052.

    Source: JE Design

  • Facelift for Expression ML w166 wide body R2Z

    Expression Motorsport has designed its wide body R aero body kit for the 2012 ML model (w166) with the purpose to improve not just the racing esthetics but also the track-performance of this Mercedes model.

    The new facelift to the ML w166 wide body R works in accordance with the new lines of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The tuner sets the car with larger openings in the front bumper and hood vents which ensure better engine cooling process. We all know that the Mercedes-Benz ML w166 wide body R has that sporty look but with the new carbon fiber front spoiler lip (which is also the reason for the wider opening in the front bumper) and carbon fiber inserts, it becomes even sportier and racier. The front bumper set is fitted with LED daylights that contribute to the overall aggressive look of the car.

    All of these parts are available in carbon fiber or ready for painting. What is more, they are fitted on the Expression front bumper without bodywork.

    The Expression Motorsport Mercedes-Benz ML w166 wide body R has a set of fender flares 10 pieces with air intakes which really allows the use of wider wheels in 22″.

    The full list of the new ‘attachments’ includes:

    Widebody front bumper
    Carbon fiber front lip
    LED indicators
    Micro DE foglights
    Side-shorts set L+R 4 pieces
    Widebody rear bumper with carbon fiber diffuser and F1 break lamp
    Dual exhaust pipe set L+R
    Fender flares set 10 pcs
    Hood

    Source: Expression Motorsport

  • Porsche Macan Models Upgraded by TECHART

    At this year’s Essen Motor Show 2014 TECHART Automobildesign presents new upgraded features for the Porsche Macan and 911 Targa 4 models. TECHART injects the Porsche models with more power, new exhaust systems, refined suspension options, and, finally, distinguishable TECHART wheels, thus putting emphasis on the sporty lines of the vehicles in question.

    TECHART Power Kit TA B95/T1 for the Porsche Macan Turbo gives the car additional 50 HP (37 kW) and 70 Nm. Based on 3.6l V6 Twin-Turbo engine that initially produces 400 hp (294 kW) with 550 Nm of torque, now with the upgraded TECHART power Kit, the Porche Macan Turo is able to deliver 450 HP (331 kW) at 6,200 1/min and a peak torque of 620 Nm at 2,700 1/min. TECHART TA B95/T1 improves the driving performance, thus, enabling the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds with Sport Plus (standard model 4.6s with Sport Plus) and from 0-160 km/h in 10.6 seconds with Sport Plus (standard model 10.9s with Sport Plus). The top speed is estimated at 271 km/h (standard model 266 km/h).

    Porsche Macan S Diesel demonstrates some spectacular improvements too with the TECHART Power Kit TA B95/SD1. In terms of driving dynamics TECHART Automobildesign boosts the power of the 3.0l V6 turbo diesel engine with additional 42 HP (30 kW) and 90 Nm of torque. Hence the maximum power output increases to 300 HP (220 kW) at 3,300 to 3,700 1/min and 670 Nm of maximum torque at 2,400 to 3,100 1/min. With operating TECHART Power Kit TA B95/SD1 the compact SUV is able to speed up (in Sport Plus mode) from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds (standard model 6.1s); and from 0 to 160 km/h in 15.7 seconds (standard model 16.5s). The top speed is 237 km/h (standard model 230 km/h).

    For further individualization, the Porsche Macan models benefit from original TECHART Wheels. They come in three wheel designs, available in 21- and 22-inch as well as in various surface finishing combinations.

    TECHART Formula light-alloy wheel in 21-inch
    FA: 9.5 x 21 ET 60
    RA: 9.5 x 21 ET 63
    incl. wheel spacer adapter
    colours: silver, gloss black, custom colour

    TECHART Formula II light-alloy wheel in 22-inch
    FA: 9.5 x 22 ET 60
    RA: 10.5 x 22 ET 56
    incl. wheel spacer adapter
    colours: silver, gloss black, custom colour

    TECHART Formula III forged wheel in 22-inch
    FA: 9.5 x 22 ET 60
    RA: 10.5 x 22 ET 61
    incl. wheel spacer adapter
    colours: silver, bi-colour, burnished, custom colour

    Source: TECHART

  • Nissan Introduces its New Generation NV200 Taxi in Japan

    Japan is getting its new generation taxi which will start operating very soon. Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of the NV200 Taxi throughout Japan in June 2015.

    The NV200 Taxi is set to provide citizens with bigger convenience when they travel which will change the sedan-based taxi’s virtues. The vehicle is built on the popular base model Nissan NV200 (also known as NV200 Vanette in Japan). It represents a multi-purpose commercial vehicle which has embraced a global recognition by winning a number of various awards in different markets and sectors.

    The NV200 Taxi Gasoline car is equipped with HR16DE engine and comes in two variants: with standard (2,196,720 yen) or panoramic roof (2,391,120 yen). The NV200 Taxi LPG Bi-Fuel is powered by HR16DE LPG Bi-Fuel engine and it also arrives with a choice of either standard roof (2,816,640 yen) or panoramic roof (3,011,040 yen).

    What really makes the Nissan NV200 Taxi stand out is the adoption of a unique theme which is complemented by a certain spaciousness on the inside with enough room to fit up to 4 big suitcases. There are also large automatic sliding doors for easier and simple access. The panoramic moon roof offers passengers the opportunity and convenience to observe spectacular views above them. In addition, the car is also equipped with an optimized suspension system and seats that have received a new design.

    The NV200 Taxi takes care not only of the riders but of the driver too. Thanks to the high driving position (line of sight) the person who is driving is enabled to observe the traffic situation ahead without any difficulty. Moreover, the striking headroom and supple ride quality are able to decrease stress and exhaustion during long shifts and driving. The easy handling character of the NV200 Taxi, safety, excellent value and running cost performance turn the car into a dream come true for every taxi-driver.

    Source: Nissan

  • Market Launch of the Updated Sports Tourer from 29 November

    Since its reveal, the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class Sports Tourer has been scoring some really remarkable results. Customers would be pleased to find out that the upgraded Sports Tourer is going to be delivered very soon. The first units of the vehicle are starting on 29 November. This best-selling model has received a major facelift, including exterior and interior changes. The car also undergoes design alterations and equipment lines like the Electric Art line (exclusive for the B-Class Electric Drive) and AMG Line.

    The family car arrives with a rich choice in terms of possible engines: four economical diesel models with consumption statistics varying from 3.6 to 5.0 l/100 km, four efficient petrol engines at between 5.4 and 6.6 l/100 km, as well as the B 200 Natural Gas Drive (3.3 to 6.0 kg/100 km) and B-Class Electric Drive (0 g CO2/km) and an optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The starting price for the B 180 is 27,102.25 Euros and the B-Class Electric Drive costs 39,151 Euros. Among other features there are the advanced assistance systems COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS and ATTENTION ASSIST.

    As it seems the B-Class segment gains quite some recognition with satisfied high customers’ demands. In 2014 the Mercedes-Benz B-Class won the J.D. Power satisfaction survey in its specific range and, with a figure of 82.4 percent, got the highest satisfaction rating in the customer satisfaction survey. Moreover, in Europe’s biggest comparative test based on practical in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class was selected as the company car of the year in the “Small and Compact Vans” category. Finally, the DEKRA used-vehicle report 2014 defined the B-Class as the vehicle with the smallest number of defects in the “Vans” category and later on it won the prestigious title “Vehicle of the Year”.

    Well done B-Class!

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • KW Coilovers for the New Audi A3 Notchback Sedan [VIDEO]

    The market and automobile innovative leader KW has been succeeding in providing Audi with the best upgrades possible. Now the tuner’s most recent target is Audi A3. The positive launch of the four-door sedan is taking a level up and climbs one step up in its segment thanks to the new KW coilover suspension kits.

    There are three different coilover variants, each of which offers thrilling handling and driving dynamics. The Variant 1 KW coilover kit equips the new Audi A3 notchback sedan with extra rebound damping adjustment and adds a significant value on a variable lowering. With Variant 2 and Variant 3 (the latter comes with separate rebound and compression adjustment), customers are enabled to adapt the damper setup even more depending on their preferences. Thus, the KW coilover suspension Variant 2 allows the driver to meet his or her individual driving demand by changing the handling and ride comfort with 16 exact clicks with the integrated rebound damping adjustment.  Variant 3, on the other hand, allows via the separately adjustable compression damping with twelve clicks to take influence on rolling motions of the body, without having the need to alter the rebound damping.

    What makes the new KW suspension kit so special and very desirable is the fact that the rebound and compression damping can be adjusted separately from each other. All three versions of the coilovers are made from stainless steel. With them, there is available a continuous lowering of up to 60 mm. As a result, at the front axle, the German TÜV-tested adjustment range for the gorgeous Audi A3 sedan is between 30 and 60 mm and at the rear axle between 30 to 55 mm.

    If you want to see the complete KW technology, check the link bellow.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pNojyUJjZs

    Source: KW
    Video Source: KW via Youtube

  • STI Releases Subaru “Forester tS” Exclusively in Japan

    Today Subaru Tecnica International Inc unveiled the limited-edition Forester tS SUV which is going on sale on November 25. The car will be built in a limited series of 300 units specifically for the Japanese market. The new Subaru Forester tS arrives with a rugged design, responsive handling, high-class quality feel and improved driving performance.

    The Subaru Forester tS is powered by the most powerful version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged Boxer engine available in Japan. It is able to boost 276 HP (205 kW) and a peak torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). The power unit is mated to a Lineatronic CVT automatic that sends power to all four wheels. The starting price is that of 4,350,000 yen ($36,800).

    On the outside the car is defined by a black grille with cherry red pin stripe and STI logo, STI front and rear bumpers, black roof spoiler, fog light bezel in metallic silver, black door mirror cases, black side window trim and sill cladding, cherry red pin stripe on the red bumper, as well as tS logos on the front fenders. The car benefits from 19-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels with Brembo 17-inch ventilated disc brakes, STI-tuned suspension lowered by 15mm, dedicated ECU and TCU (transmission control unit), as well as a recalibrated VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) system.

    The interior of the 2015 Forester tS is equipped with luminescent speedometer (up to 260 km/h) with STI logo, exclusively-made multi-function display, leather lapped steering wheel (quality-feel leather with “STI” ornament and red stitching), STI-designed push button ignition (red) with STI logo again, STI-designed leather lapped gear knob, unique seats in black leather with black punching, accentuated with red stitching and red elements, carbon-toned instrument panel, AC controls comprising silver dials and piano black-toned switches with red bezel, Black interior (trims on pillars, roof, and window sills) and, finally, an exceptional side sill plate with STI logo.

    Source: Subaru

  • Infiniti “Synaptiq”: A Futuristic Interaction Between Human and Machine Charactersitics

    Infiniti has designed a racer of the future which, in my personal point of view, looks like a race car which can compete with a Batmobile. The name is Infiniti ‘Synaptiq’.

    This unique model was made for this year’s Los Angeles Motor Show Design Challenge with the initial goal to answer to the theme of “Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact With Us In 2029?” In the process, this jaw-dropping car managed to scoop the “People’s Choice” award almost without any difficulty.

    Infiniti’s candidate received the most online votes from visitors to the LA Auto Show Design Challenge’s Facebook® page. It, respectively, resulted in ensuring the manufacturer the first-ever People’s Choice Award in the program’s 11-year history.

    In relation to this, John Sahs, interior design manager at Infiniti, and leader of the Syntaptiq team explains that; “Our designers loved participating in the LA Auto Show Design Challenge, conceptualizing how Infiniti drivers could interact with their vehicle in the coming decades. It’s extremely gratifying for the public to also dream a bit with us and identify with such ideas that may seem a bit futuristic, but may just not be that far away from reality.”

    The futuristic Infiniti ‘Synaptiq’ incorporates the idea of implementing 3D hologram and wearable technologies ( SYNAPTIQ S.U.I.T.,or in other words, Symbiotic User Interface Technology) into everyday driving experience, thus merging human and machine characteristics on a new interface which controls the vehicle. Furthermore, in order to turn driving into more interactive activity, Infiniti Design team of professionals sculptured a fictional vehicle triathlon, named the A.R.C. Race which includes air, rally and circuit competitions.

    Source: Infiniti

  • SsangYong Announces the Name of its Newest B-Segment Crossover

    South Korea-based automobile manufacturer SsangYong Motor Company has finally revealed the name of the company’s all new B-segment crossover – Tivoli. This is the automaker’s first new car in four years now. The time seems to be just right for its debut for the SUV market is really craving some fresh meat.

    The new sport-utility vehicle has been under development for the past three years and was only seen in concept presentation at recent international auto shows, presented with the mysteriously-sounding project name X100. Interestingly enough, the name of the car derives from Tivoli, an Italian town near Rome which is known for its style, cultural heritage and gorgeous location.

    The 2015 SsangYong Tivoli, with a 1.6-liter gasoline-powered engine, is going to be part of Ssangyong’s popular Korando C model lineup which is equipped with a 2-liter diesel engine. Surprises do not stop here because Ssangyong Motor Company also plans to launch a diesel-powered Tivoli model next year.

    Nevertheless in relation to the up-coming Tivoli, the name of the car is not all that has been unveiled. Along with it, SsangYong has also released the latest images of the car’s exterior and interior. On the one hand, as we can see, the exterior shapes a dynamic, urban SUV with a modernized and rhythmical silhouette. On the other hand, the interior features very stylish living space, with an elegant and contemporary appeal. The overall conception of the car seeks to enable the driver and passengers take advantage of easy and simple connectivity to their IT devices. Finally, it brings a sense of practicality, spaciousness and comfort.

    The Tivoli is going on sale in Korea in January and globally during the second quarter of 2015.

    2015-SsangYong-Tivoli-03

    Source: SsangYong 

  • 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: The Fifth Member of the Successful Compact Models Family

    Mercedes-Benz is really pumping up its powers for after the unmistakably dynamic and sporty CLA 45 AMG there is now another iconic model which carries almost the same name: Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake. Can you spot the differences?

    The new CLA Shooting Brake arrives with an extensive range of engines: there are two diesel and three petrol units available. All engines are able to amaze with their dynamic and lively performance, low noise levels and low emissions. The CLA 200 CDI unit bursts out 136 HP (100 kW) and it is really efficient. The model has a top speed of 215 km/h and a combined consumption figure of only 3.9 l/100 km, with emissions of 101 g CO2/km. CLA220 CDI generates 177 HP (130 kW) at 3600-3800 rpm.  It has combined CO2 emissions of 112 g.

    The petrol engines are: CLA 180 which boosts 122 HP (90 kW) at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 200 with 156 HP (115 kW) at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm at 1250-4000 rpm; CLA 250 that produces 211 HP (155 kW)  at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm; CLA 250 4MATIC developing 211 HP (155 kW) at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm at 1200-4000 rpm.

    The car moves on sporty-looking 45.7 cm (18-inch) AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in black with an orange rim flange.

    This sexy fifth iteration of Mercedes-Benz demonstrates distinctive profile, sensual purity and high unity of valuable charactersitics. It features a tapering roofline, four doors, frameless side windows, long bonnet and of course, the powerdomes on the bonnet which are an absolute hallmark of Mercedes coupé models. The position of the light modules and LED behind the headlamp lenses definitely highlights the indicative “eyebrow” effect for the daytime running lamps and indicators.

    On the inside, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake features twin-tube instrument cluster that has two large round dials. Each of them come with a small round dial set inside it. Something that highlights the interior is the new generation 3-spoke steering wheel in different variants, including a multi-function sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and red or black top-stitching.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake to Debut in 2015

    After the successful launch of A 45 AMG, CLA 45 AMG and GLA 45 AMG models, the fourth high-power compact model named Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG has been finally revealed. It arrives with a specific avant-garde design, individuality, thrilling driving performance and a trendsetting style.

    The new CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is fitted with a striking engineering package which helps it produce impressive dynamic performance. This is perhaps the most powerful series-production AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine around the globe which produces 181 HP (133 kW) and 450 Nm of peak torque at 2250-5000 rpm. The car speeds up from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel consumption is of just 6.9 liters for every 100 kilometers (NEDC combined) which sets mind-blowing standards of efficiency achieved by Mercedes-AMG. Some other technical features include the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, absolutely sophisticated AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, significantly powerful braking system and a purpose-developed chassis.

    The sporty and highly progressive appearance of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is outlined by an original roof line that very subtly slopes down towards the rear. There is also a low-set cabin, long bonnet, dynamically designed tail end, and a certain everyday practicality. The five-door newcomer impersonates the form of a sports car with five seats and large tailgate which offers plenty of space and convenience for the driver and passengers. The vehicle benefits from different light-alloy wheels in 8 x 19-inch format with size 235/35 R 19 tires which are available as another option to the usual 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, sized 8 x 18 inches with 235/40 R 18 tires.

    The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG is all about distinctive dynamism. The Performance seats and steering wheel are wrapped in leather/DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting contours. Besides the CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake, the CLA 45 AMG Coupé is available in OrangeArt Edition guise as well.

    The CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake is going to make its premiere in March 2015 at the Geneva International Motor Show. The market launch is planned to begin in March 2015.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • B&B Automobiltechnik Improves the Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI

    Despite the fact that the third generation of the iconic Audi TT has not been around the sales rooms for too long, the performance professionals of B&B Automobiltechnik from Siegen are delivering a tuning portfolio for the progressive Audi TT vehicle.

    Following several progression-steps, the B&B provides the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI with a power-boost from 230 PS to 360 PS. The initial 370 Nm of torque jumps to the very impressive 500 Nm of peak torque. The acceleration time is ready to score some mind-blowing rates too for the car can speed up from 0 to 100 in the screaming 4.8 seconds. What is more, the 0-200-km/h-value is improved from 24.3 to 17.4 seconds. With a maximum speed increased from 250 km/h to 276 km/h, the tuned Audi TT is able to rock your world!

    The B&B motor programme for the Audi TT 8S is firstly marked by the stage 1K (Comfort, 1,198 Euro). It increases the power output of the 2.0 liters four-piston turbo motor to 300 PS and 420 Nm. Next, the TT gains even better dynamic highlights with the B&B-stage 1S (Sport, 1,698 Euro) which mobilizes the power to 310 PS and 435 Nm.

    326 PS and 450 Nm are possible in B&B-stage 2 (3,950 Euro) by installation of an enlarged and cross-section optimized B&B-special exhaust tube, comprised of sport catalyser and increased charge pressure by approx. 0.25 bar with adjustment of the electronic injection parameters.

    Finally, stage 3 includes the currently developed performance pack of the B&B programme for the new Audi TT 8S 2.0 TFSI (9,950 Euro) at 360 PS and 500 Nm. This power package includes B&B special turbo charger with in-house charging air cooler, brand-new air intake system and a B&B sport exhaust system with exclusive exhaust pre-tube and racing sports catalyser.

    The tuner B&B offers a sports spring set (from 298 Euro upwards) to lower the car body by approx. 30 mm at the FA and by approx. 25 mm at the RA, or, as another option, a B&B-threaded chassis for the new Audi TT. The driving dynamics are perfected and finalized with weight-optimised rims in the 10×20 inch format with tyres sized 265/30R20.

    Source: XMedia-Group