Author: Lidia Todorova

  • BMW M Performance Parts For BMW X5 xDrive35i

    BMW-X5-xDrive35i-M-Performance-THUMBBMW M Performance parts will be available from March next year for the all model variants of the Sports Activity Vehicle, giving the new BMW X5 even more aggressive and athletic look. The power kit will be available for the BMW X5 xDrive35i giving it more power than before.

    The powerful appearance of the vehicle is additionally accentuated via black decorative grid for the BMW kidney grille, a front splitter and exterior mirror caps in carbon, air ducting elements, a diffuser insert for the rear apron and side sill foils with M Performance inscription.

    The interior of the X5 includes BMW M Performance sports steering wheel with red central marking, gear lever with carbon surface, accelerator, brake pedal and driver footrest in high-grade steel and BMW M Performance floor mats. In terms of suspension, the kit gives the vehicle M Performance brake system with brake calipers finished in blue and 21-inch BMW M Performance light alloy wheels in Bi-Color finish.

    There is also an increase in the power output: the engine has been modified and it now generates 20 hp more than the standard one, resulting in to a total of 236 hp (240 kW), while the maximum torque is likewise raised by 50 Nm to 450 Nm (333 lb-ft). The increase in power however does not affect the fuel efficiency.

    The response of the X5 M Performance is more spontaneous than before thanks to the optimised accelerator pedal set-up. This is noticeable both when accelerating from standing and in terms of elasticity, and when the driving experience switch is set to SPORT mode it is accompanied by a striking engine sound. As an optional feature, there are also offered a BMW M Performance silencer system and tailpipe trim elements in chrome or carbon.

    Source: BMW

  • Seat Releases Leon Eurocup As One Make Series

    Seat-Eurocup-Leon-THUMBSeat Leon Cup Racer is a high-performance race car and it contributes to brand’s motorsport tradition. The car will enter a total of six race events in six European countries, where the car will be renamed as Seat Leon Eurocup.

    The Eurocup vehicle will offer customer teams a great driving experience for the 2014 season. It runs on 18-inch wheels and sports a new front end which has been specifically designed for optimum aerodynamic efficiency and maximum airflow to the engine and brakes.

    At the rear, the wheel arches with their vents improve the cooling effect on the four-piston brake system. The flared sills work in combination with the front spoiler, thus smoothening the under body, rear diffuser and two-stage roof spoiler mounted on a single support in order to provide optimal down force for high cornering speeds.

    In addition, the car is equipped with full-LED headlamps that include daytime-running-light signature as well as with LED rear lights. What is more, the interior has undergone a substantial reduction in weight and for the motorsport purposes is equipped with a high-strength roll cage.

    The latter works in terms of safety which is further improved by the bucket seat with HANS system for head and neck protection. Driver’s information and operating controls in this sports-vehicle are located in the multi-function steering wheel, while the high-resolution TFT display -behind it.

    Leon Eurocup is powered by a two-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine which has a maximum power output is 330 hp (243 kW) and a maximum torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The power transmission to the front axle is courtesy of a six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox and is operated from the steering wheel and an electronically controlled locking differential.

    Source: Seat

  • Citroen Introduces DS3 DS World Paris

    Citroen-DS3-DS-World-Paris-THUMBCitroen has just unveiled a limited edition DS3 DS World Paris model which is specifically created in order to celebrate the opening of brand’s new flagship showroom – DS World Paris. The latter is located in the heart of the Parisian Golden Triangle on Rue François, which is in the vicinity of Champs-Elysées.

    The venue is unique for Europe and commemorates DS models from the past and present. In fact, it showcases the line’s heritage, which dates back to 1955. For instance, there will be showcased the 1956 Citroën DS19.

    The limited edition Citroen DS3 DS World Paris is an exclusive model which is inspired by Art Deco architecture. Of course, it is carries a DS World badge inlaid on the dashboard insert. More importantly, what makes the vehicle even more unique is the fact that its production will be limited to only 15 examples.

    Furthermore, the model has an exquisite matte ash gray paint finish which is complemented by Trinitario brown finish on the exterior mirrors and the roof. The car runs on 17-inch alloy wheels.

    The interior of this DS3 limited edition features seats wrapped in Trinitario brown Nappa leather with contrast beige stitching. The same Nappa leather can be seen also on the central armrest, gear shift and dashboard insert.

    Throughout 2014 at the DS World Paris showroom, Citroen will host a range of artistic and cultural events, ranging from fashion and gastronomy to art and design.

    Source: Citroen

  • 2M-Designs Updates Jaguar XF

    2M-Designs-Jaguar-XF-THUMB2M Designs embarked on a project with the aim to tune the exclusive Jaguar XF and it definitely turned out fantastic. The Jaguar is equipped with 3.0 D-S bi-turbo engine matched to an eight gear paddle shift automatic transmission, and delivers 275 serial horsepower (202 kW)

    First of all, the tuners decided to wrap the XF with PWF Diamond White foil in combination with Black Brushed one. The window tinting is dominated by a green tinge. Then they have equipped the masterful car with a special body kit which comprises of custom built diffusor in original carbon and exhaust system with the four end pipes delivered by Loder1899.

    To make it even more exclusive, 2M-Designs has equipped the Jaguar XF with hollow spoke rims in 21 inches with 255/30ZR21 tires on front and 295/35ZR21 on the rear axle. In addition, the team also lowered the car by 35 mm thanks to the use with Eibach suspensions. The front and rear lamps were slightly tinted.

    The 275 hp weren’t enough, so the designers have decided to make an increase of the power-output of the wildcat. The result is 340 hp, 5.4 seconds acceleration time for the 0 to 100 km/h sprint and 280 km/h top speed. To go even further into details, after the power-boost the car accelerates from 60 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and from 80 up to 120 km/h in 4.0 seconds.

    Source: Miranda Media

  • HRE Performance Enhances Dodge SRT Viper Twin Turbo

    HRE-Performance-Dodge-SRT-Viper-Twin-Turbo-P106-THUMBHRE Performance Dodge SRT Viper Twin Turbo P106 is a visual perfection. Not only because it carries the spirit of the SRT Viper, but also because this spirit is perfectly and harmoniously complemented by the glamorous wheels delivered by HRE Performance.

    Undoubtedly, HRE is performance-driven company. The design of the wheels it produces combines strength, lightness and superior engineering. In this project the tuners have been inspired by the three-piece Series S1 line, and have created specifically for the Viper Monoblok interpretation of the Series P1 called P106.

    To go further into details, the P106 is a split-six spoke design with a six lug bolt pattern. It is offered in diameters ranging from 19 to 22 inches and widths from 8.5 to 13 inches. Other design features here include sculpted spoke geometry and lightweight pocket machining, aggressive conical profiles and spokes that extend all the way to the wheel lip.

    HRE P106s perfectly match the latest generation Viper. They also minimize unsprung mass and rotational inertia in order to deliver maximum acceleration, handling and braking performance. SRT Viper is powered by 8.4 liter all-aluminum V-10 overhead-valve engine.

    The latter delivers exactly 640 horsepower (471 kW) and 813Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it the one with most torque of any naturally aspirated power units in the world.

    Source: HRE Performance Wheels

  • AC Schnitzer BMW 5 Series Touring LCI Debuts At Essen Motor Show

    AC-Schnitzer-BMW-5-Series-Touring-LCI-THUMBAC Schnitzer BMW 5 Series Touring LCI is celebrating its world premiere at the 2013 Essen Motor Show, which will happen between 30th and 8th of December. For this project, the tuning specialists at AC Schnitzer have developed a complete product range for the BMW 5 Series Touring model.

    The enhancements include performance upgrades, exhaust systems, wheel and tyre combinations, aerodynamic bodystyling components and accessories for the interior. In addition, the tuners also offer a power boost for the diesel or petrol engines, in both rear-wheel and xDrive variants.

    In fact, the enhancements in power, depending on the engine, are estimated between 34 and 94 horsepower. In addition, the sports rear silencers made of stainless steel include chromed tailpipes and deliver harmonious accent.

    There are also a lot of wheel-tyre combinations offered for the 5 Series LCI series. For instance there are available alloy wheels in BiColor or silver, forged racing rims in BiColor, or a Type V forged alloys in 20”.

    The accessory range offered for this BMW includes a complete aerodynamic bodykit, aluminium accessories such as pedal sets and gear knobs, and velours foot mats.

    Available parts for AC Schnitzer BMW 5 Series Touring LCI:

    Engine: AC Schnitzer performance upgrades

    • for BMW 520d with 135 kW/184 HP to 160 kW/218 HP
    • for BMW 525d with 160 kW/218 HP to 190 kW/258 HP
    • for BMW 530d with 190 kW/258 HP to 227 kW/309 HP
    • for BMW 535d with 230 kW/313 HP to 264 kW/360 HP
    • for BMW 528i with 180 kW/245 HP to 216 kW/294 HP
    • for BMW 535i with 225 kW/306 HP to 265 kW/360 HP
    • for BMW 550i with 330 kW/449 HP to 386 kW/525 HP
    • AC Schnitzer instrument display, expansion up to 330 km/h
    • AC Schnitzer engine optics
    Exhaust:
    • AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer with 2 chromed “Sports Trim” tail trims or the brand new, round “Sport” tail trims
    • AC Schnitzer “Racing” tail trims, chromed
    • AC Schnitzer “Sport” tail trims, chromed

    Brakes:
    • AC Schnitzer 8-piston high performance brake system for the front axle, consisting of:
    • 8-piston brake calliper, left – right
    • brake discs, left – right (depending on the basic engine)
    • brake pads, set
    • brake calliper mounting bracket, left – right
    • brake pipes, left – right (country specific)
    Suspension: AC Schnitzer spring kit, lowering approx. 25 mm
    Aerodynamics:
    • AC Schnitzer front spoiler
    • AC Schnitzer side skirts
    • AC Schnitzer rear spoiler for saloon
    • AC Schnitzer rear roof spoiler
    • AC Schnitzer bonnet vents
    • AC Schnitzer rear skirt insert
    • AC Schnitzer rear skirt protection foil
    Interior:
    • AC Schnitzer “Evo” sports airbag steering wheel
    • AC Schnitzer gear shift knob, illuminated
    • AC Schnitzer gear shift knob with digital shift display
    • AC Schnitzer aluminium gear shift knob “Black Line”
    • AC Schnitzer aluminium foot rest and pedals
    • AC Schnitzer trunk mat, velours
    • AC Schnitzer floor mats, velours
    Wheel/Tyre sets:
    • AC Schnitzer Type VIII Lightweight Forged Wheels BiColor
      • front: 9.0 x 21″ offset 26 with tyres 255/30 R 21
      • rear: 10 x 21″ offset 37,5 with tyres 295/25 R 21
    • AC Schnitzer Type VIII Racing Forged Wheels BiColor
      • front: 9.0 x 21″ offset 26 with tyres 255/30 R 21
      • rear: 10 x 21″ offset 37,5 with tyres 295/25 R 21
    • AC Schnitzer Type VIII Wheels BiColor Black or Silver
      • front: 8.5 x 18“ offset 27 with tyres 245/45 R 18
      • rear: 8.5 x 18“ offset 23  with tyres 245/45 R 18
      • front: 8.5 x 19″ offset 27 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • rear: 8.5 x 19″ offset 23 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • front: 8.5 x 19″ offset 27 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • rear: 9.5 x 19″ offset 33 with tyres 275/35 R 19
      • front: 8.5 x 20″ offset 15 with tyres 245/35 R 20
      • rear: 10.0 x 20″ offset 34 with tyres 285/30 R 20
      • front: 8.5 x 20″ offset 27 with tyres 255/35 R 20
      • rear: 8.5 x 20″ offset 23  with tyres 255/35 R 20
    • AC Schnitzer Type V Lightweight Forged Wheels BiColor or Anthracite
      • front: 9.0 x 20″ offset 19 with tyres 245/35 R 20
      • rear: 9.0 x 20″ offset 33 with tyres 285/30 R 20
    • AC Schnitzer Type IV Wheels Silver
      • front: 8.5 x 19″ offset 27 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • rear: 8.5 x 19″ offset 23 with tyres 245/40 R 19
    • AC Schnitzer Type IV Wheels BiColor Black
      • front: 8.5 x 19″ offset 27 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • rear: 8.5 x 19″ offset 23 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • front: 8.5 x 19″ offset 27 with tyres 245/40 R 19
      • rear: 9.5 x 19″ offset 33 with tyres 275/35 R 19
      • front: 9.0 x 20″ offset 32 with tyres 255/35 R 20
      • rear: 9.0 x 20″ offset 32 with tyres 255/35 R 20
      • front: 9.0 x 20″ offset 32 with tyres 245/35 R 20
      • rear: 10.0 x 20“ offset 40 with tyres 285/30 R 20
      • front: 9.0 x 20″ offset 32 with tyres 255/35 R 20
      • rear: 10.0 x 20“ offset 40 with tyres 285/30 R 20

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • End Of Production For The Iconic Lamborghini Gallardo

    Last-Lamborghini-Gallardo-THUMBThe very last Lamborghini Gallardo has left the production line in the historic factory buildings of Sant’Agata Bolognese. The final model is a Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante colored in the red paint finish Rosso Mars and which is already destined for a private collector.

    In fact, the Gallardo has been produced with a total of 14,022 units which makes it the most successful super sports cars. It is literally an icon of Italian design. The first Gallardo model appeared ten years ago at Geneva Motor Show in order to mark company’s 40th anniversary. The name of the Gallardo was inspired by the world of bullfighting. Gallardo was a bloodline of bulls known for its exceptional courage and undaunted nature.

    Another interesting historical fact is that in the first four decades of the existence of Lamborghini, an average of just 250 vehicles were built per year. Since the appearance of Gallardo, the production grew to a whole new dimension with volumes of around 2,000 cars per year on average.

    The first ever 2003 Gallardo mesmerized the public with its extreme design, phenomenal lightweight dynamics and outstanding quality, and also included amazing handling and safety provided by permanent all-wheel drive. Later in 2005, the Gallardo Spyder joined the lineup, followed by Gallardo Superleggera in 2007. The latter had reduced weight, thanks to the extensive utilization of carbon fiber components; it also delivered 530 hp (390 kw).

    2008 marked the debut of the second generation Gallardo, that had a redesigned front and rear, a new engine with gasoline direct injection pushing out 560 hp (412 kW), and it carried the name LP 560-4. In the same year was the premiere of the second-generation Spyder as well.

    Two years later was introduced the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera with an increase in output to 570 hp (420 kW), as well as the open-top Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante. LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni limited edition and the LP 550-2 Spyder, featured a rearwheel drive and appealed to sports car fans.

    The pinnacle of sporting performance among the total of 32 Gallardo variants was marked by the Super Trofeo Stradale and, finally – the Gallardo Squadra Corse, which boasts a dry weight of 1340 kilograms and has a power-toweight ratio of 2.35 kilograms per horsepower. This only means a breathtaking performance: the sportscar manages to cover the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration sprint in 3.4 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 320 km/h.

    The Gallardo was sold in 45 countries. 2013 marks Automobili Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary, and also the last ever built Gallardo with car number 14,022. Since the company has found in 1963, almost half of all 30,000 Lamborghinis are Gallardos.

    Source: Lamborghini

  • 2014 Morgan 3 Wheeler Officially Revealed

    2014-Morgan-3-Wheeler-THUMBAn updated version for the MY 2014 of Morgan 3 Wheeler has just debuted at Motorcycle Live on 23d November. The outstanding British manufacturer has introduced the 3 Wheeler for the first time in 2011 and since then more than a thousand vehicles have been delivered to their proud customers.

    The iconic status of the vehicle is now further strengthened via the enhancements made for 2014. In fact, Morgan is of those brands that have the policy to continuously improve its vehicles. This in turn has resulted into a comprehensive review of the vehicle’s characteristics and in some important updates.

    First of all, the chassis of the car has been improved and now delivers increased torsional stiffness and improves handling. Next, the Centre Drive Unit sports enhanced durability and smoother power delivery, while the bevel box is isolated to reduce the overall noise vibration harshness (NVH).

    Furthermore, the steering has been engineered in order to satisfy a broader range of international markets internationally by the removal of bump steer and enhancement of high speed stability. Then, the engineers at the brand have added Urban Cooling Pack which provides cool air to the engine in urban driving conditions.

    It is important also to mention that the styling of the 3 Wheeler has been also improved and now offers even more exclusive stance. To be more precise, it includes comprehensive new graphics list, colour combinations and vented body work. More exclusive pictures of the 2014 Morgan 3 Wheeler are expected soon.

    Source: Morgan

  • Lexus Adds New Hybrid Engine to the GS 300h Range

    Lexus-GS-300h-THUMBLexus will add to GS 300h vehicle line-up four drivetrains by doubling the hybrid offering. The new drivetrain comes to improve the active safety and driveability while at the same time delivering higher levels of standard equipment.

    The GS 300h is being offered in Luxury, F Sport and Sports Luxury trim levels equipped with a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain. The latter produces 223 hp (164 kW) and at the same time manages to deliver fuel efficiency of 5.2 litres per 100km and 121 grams of CO2 per kilometre on the combined cycle.

    What is more, the luxury brand has also boosted the overall range offering with new and improved specification. To be more precise, Lexus GS 350 receives a new eight-speed transmission which improves drivability and response.

    In addition, there is also enhancement in terms of safety thanks to the Lane Keep Assist which now comes as a standard across all GS Line Sports Luxury variants and is featured as an option on GS 350 and GS 450h F Sport models.

    An upgrade to the head up display (HUD) is present. HUD projects navigation, audio and vehicle speed information onto the windshield in full colour. Next, Sports Luxury variants run on brand new 19-inch alloy wheels and sport LED fog lamps.

    With the addition of GS 300h brings the total number of Lexus hybrids on sale up to seven. Lexus GS Line now consists of four different models – the hybrid four-cylinder GS 350h, the V6-engined GS 250 and GS 350, and the hybrid V6-engined GS 450h.

    Lexus GS Pricing and Model Line-up:

    Drivetrain Model RRP^ Notes
    GS 450h Sports Luxury $123,500 +$1,600
    F Sport $112,100 +$200
    Luxury N/A N/A
    GS 350 Sports Luxury $111,600 +$2,555
    F Sport $99,900 +$855
    Luxury N/A N/A
    GS 300h Sports Luxury $102,000 New
    F Sport $87,000 New
    Luxury $79,000 New
    GS 250 Sports Luxury N/A N/A
    F Sport $85,000 -$45
    Luxury $77,000 -$45

    Source: Lexus

  • BBR Shows Most Powerful Mazda MX-5 GT270

    BBR-Mazda-MX-5-GT270-THUMBBrodie Brittain Racing or simply BBR proudly presents its latest and most potent creation – Mazda MX-5 GT270. The car is based on the 2013 MK3.5 (NC) 2.0-litre Sport Tech Roadster Coupe, and now features a breathtaking turbocharged engine.

    Other enhancements here include advanced electronic upgrades and chassis improvements, and they contribute towards Mazda’s dynamics. The car’s production is limited up 100 numbered cars.

    To main focus in this tuning here is the BBR GT270 2.0-litre engine, which has been subject to extensive development by BBR’s engineers. The unit produces 268 hp (197 kW) at 7350rpm, and has a peak torque figure of 308 Nm (227lb.ft) at 5100rpm.

    The top speed here is 150 mph, while the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at 4.9 seconds. In addition, the unit sports quick spooling Garrett GT25 ball bearing turbo which provides superior torque, power and throttle response.

    Another interesting fact about this car is that the tuners at BBR have worked together with the specialists at EcuTek in order to debut unique suite of ‘Starchip’ calibration software, which offers a greater range of functionality and control for the GT270 owner.

    Of course they serve in terms of enhancing performance and functions like launch control, auto throttle blipper on the downshift and a full throttle gearshift. In detail, the EcuTek ProEcu system on the BBR GT270 offers four driving modes selectable via the MX-5‘s cruise control stalk, which activate the following functions:

    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode One – 98 Octane fuel maps for every day use (designed for use where fast road driving is the priority for the user.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Two – 98 Octane. Features include launch control set at 3800rpm, full throttle/no lift gearshift above 40% throttle, auto downshift throttle blip above 3500rpm (optimised for pure no-compromise circuit driving.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Three – 95 Octane cruise map (economy mode for longer motorway journeys.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Four – Valet mode, the engine is limited to 3500rpm in all gears (security mode to prevent unwanted third party driver abuse)

    The exterior of the vehicle has a discreet ‘BBR turbo’ badging and BBR branded exhaust tailpipe trims. BBR Mazda MX-5 270 also offers other available options such as BBR Performance Suspension Upgrade, BBR Performance Braking Upgrade that includes EBC ‘Yellow Stuff’ pads, stainless steel brake lines and Castrol SRF brake fluid and BBR Performance Exhaust System Upgrades. The latter is suitable for those searching for a sportier exhaust note

    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270 Technical Specifications:

    • Bespoke BBR Garrett GT series ball bearing turbocharger (360BHP+ capability) – optional polished compressor cover available
    • BBR cast iron GT25 stainless steel turbo manifold (tubular option available)
    • BBR stainless steel downpipe (optional BBR stainless steel performance exhaust available)
    • BBR Hi-flow lightweight front mounted aluminium intercooler with factory look black intake pipes (polished and custom colour options available)
    • BBR high flow custom silicone turbo pipes in factory look black finish with stainless steel hose clamps (custom colour options available)
    • BBR lightweight aluminium battery tray in factory black finish (custom colour options available)
    • BBR Recirculating piston type dump valve in factory black finish
    • BBR / Bosch MAP sensor
    • BBR / Bosch high flow fuel injectors
    • BBR turbocharger heat shield (carbon fibre option available)
    • BBR high flow airbox (carbon fibre option available)
    • BBR stainless steel / Teflon oil and water lines
    • BBR Starchip EcuTek Pro ECU calibration software with driver switchable modes
    • BBR branded exhaust tailpipe trims
    • BBR / Exedy uprated clutch
    • BBR build number plaque

    Source: BBR

  • 2014 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec Gets Sporting Equipment

    2014-Hyundai-Veloster-Turbo-R-Spec-THUMB2014 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec has been just added to the linep of exclusive Hyundai sport vehicles. The R-Spec offers not only more responsiveness but also ports aftermarket-tunable 1.6-liter direct-injected turbocharged engine coupled with the six-speed manual transmission, and a short-throw B&M Sport Shifter.

    Not to mention its unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning and B&M Racing Sport Shifter. In fact, the Veloster Turbo R-Spec is the fourth R-Spec model in Hyundai’s lineup. It comes to add to the exquisiteness of the Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec, Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec and Genesis 5.0 R-Spec.

    In this case, car’s sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for maximum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. Next, the exterior of the model adds a sporty red-accented front splitter and side blades, with R-Spec badging on the rear hatch.

    Veloster Turbo R-Spec will be offered in four colors: Elite White, Ultra Black, Marathon Blue and Sprint Gray. The performance-oriented theme is continued throughout the interior which includes red leatherette bolsters with red/black cloth insert sport seats and embroidered floor mats. The cabin has also received Active Sound Design, which provides richer in-cabin powertrain resonance for an even more involving driving experience.

    What enhances the focused driving experience is the Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This feature uses the capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, and enhances dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. In addition, TVC also utilizes wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms. This serves in terms of application of the braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering.

    2014 Veloster Turbo R-Spec Highlights:

    Unique R-Spec suspension and steering tuning for enhanced agility and feel

    6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with new shift knob design

    Short-throw B&M Racing Sport Shifter for a tighter, high-precision shift feel

    Red exterior accents on front splitter and side blades (optional; later availability)

    Red leatherette bolsters with red/black cloth insert sport seats (in lieu of standard leather on other Veloster Turbo models)

    R-Spec embroidered-logo floor mats and R-Spec exterior badging

    2014 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec has been priced at $22,110 USD and its production will begin in December this year.

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2014 Chevrolet Sonic RS Added To Lineup

    2014-Chevrolet-Sonic-RS-THUMBAfter the unveil of 2013 Chevrolet Sonic Dusk at the SEMA Show in October, Chevrolet is ready to introduce a new sedan in the Sonic lineup – 2014 Chevrolet Sonic RS. The car is performance-inspired and is therefore powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine.

    The unit is capable of producing 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm), and is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic one. EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission.

    The car is equipped with a sport-tuned suspension and lowered ride height. One of the most prominent accents in the Sonic RS is the front fascia which includes deep air dam design. What also reinforce the wide and low stance of the car are the vertical intakes at the edges and fog lamps.

    The interior is also sport-themed and features aluminum sport pedals, three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting stitching and leather-appointed front bucket seats with red RS accents.

    2014 Sonic RS sedan will be offered in three color combinations: Black Granite Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic or Summit White, all with Jet Black leather-appointed interiors. In addition, this Sonic version will be the first model in Chevy’s family to offer Siri Eyes Free integration.

    Other technology features are the optional BringGo navigation app, which includes 3-D maps with lane suggestions and live traffic data. The model will go on sale in the spring of 2014 and will have a starting price of $20,530 USD.

    Source: Chevrolet