Author: Lidia Todorova

  • “Less is More” is True in Case You Are Driving AC Schnitzer BMW M235i ACL2 [w/video]

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Side View“Less is more” is a motto valid in not so many cases, isn’t it? However, this particular BMW Concept delivered by AC Schnitzer is one of those rare examples. Based on the BMW M 235i the project can show-off with 2.54 kg per hp. The car has another name, ACL2, with L standing for lightweight. In addition, it is so much more powerful, that it produces 570 hp with an ease.

    The additional power is due to a radical engine substitution, where the standard one has been changed with upgraded M4 power plant. In addition, the Vmax limiter has been removed, while the rear limited slip differential with Drexler diff lock from 25 to 95 percent allows quick cornering.

    SEE ALSO: Fresher Than Ever: AC Schnitzer Upgrades the Recently Premiered BMW 3-Series

    What do we have here? In short: a concept BMW M235i based model which unfortunately is not for sale. But will be in display at the Geneva Motor Show. Here are the details.

    Suspension & Handling

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Rear View

    Regarding this matter, AC Schnitzer specialist have added 6-pot fixed caliper brakes on the front with 400 x 38 mm carbon ceramic brake discs and 4-pot brakes on the rear with 380 x 28 mm carbon ceramic discs. Additional power is further ensured by the in-house made downpipe, which further boosts power and torque. The AC Schnitzer sports exhaust system with special catalytic converter (200 cpsi) combined with AC Schnitzer “Racing EVO Carbon” tailpipes delivers the unique acoustic performance.

    Furthermore, the tuners replaced the standard axles on the M 235i and then upgraded them to M4 technology. This change was accompanied by height-adjustable AC Schnitzer Clubsport suspension. M4 carbon strut braces bring motorsport experience on the road.

    On the Outside

    The suspension configuration mentioned above is additionally supported by a skirt, which optimizes air flow, new carbon front spoiler elements, front splitter and carbon front side wings. The rear also features some changes like the in-house made carbon rear diffuser and carbon “Racing“ rear wing with Gurney flap. Wheelarch extensions on the front, with air outlet openings in the wheelarch and three air deflector wings on each side also contribute for the powerful look. There are similar rear wheelarch extensions, too. These conversions add 140 mm to the width of the standard vehicle.

    The bonnet of ACL2 is made of carbon fiber but includes styling enhancements like the Bonnet Vents in black, the special paintwork in Classic Racing Green and the AC Schnitzer special “Racing” sports mirrors.

    Interior

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i  Interior

    The exclusivity is continued on the inside, and in fact the interior has been entirely modified. Here we see BiColor leather interior in green and perforated Nappa leather in combination with black suede with green stitching. There are also interior trim strips in matt Classic Racing Green, in-house made carbon racing bucket seats, “Evo” 3-spoke sports airbag steering wheel in Nappa and perforated leather, green suede indicator as well as carbon door handles and centre console.

    Other tuning components on the inside include AC Schnitzer keyholder, aluminium pedal set and foot rests with illuminated AC Schnitzer logo, “Black Line” aluminium gear knob and “Black Line” aluminium handbrake handle, together with velour foot mats with AC Schnitzer logo.

    Riding on 20-inch alloys fitted with appropriately sized Michelins, the ACL2 need 3.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h on the way to a higher top speed of 330 km/h.

    AC Schnitzer BMW M 235i ACL2 is going to officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Now here’s the teaser video that AC Schnitzer has released to promote the car:

    httpv://youtu.be/jU-lXyUi6Ok

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • JMS to Exhibit the Exclusive Caractere Range Rover in Geneva

     Caractere Range Rover Front ViewCaractere’s latest project featuring the Range Rover is heading to the Geneva Motor Show next week. The pain-striking styling- and aero-kit by the tuning company has been revealed in scarce details in the end of the year. Now it is time for the tuner to give those visiting the event a real experience of the class that only Caractere would deliver. So, we can say that this Range Rover is another reason to visit Geneva Motor Show this year in case you are still hesitating.

    An interesting fact is that the model will be presented at the stand of Caractere distributor for Germany and Austria. You might have heard about JMS Fahrzeugteile, haven’t you? Well, if you are going in Geneva sometime next week and are eager to see the project, then you should go to JMS’ stand with number #2144 located in Hall 2.

    SEE ALSO: One-Off Range Rover Sport is Caractere’s Gift for the Winter Holidays 

     Caractere Range Rover Rear View

    Speaking of the special aero kit for the Range Rover, it really adds more individuality and exclusivity of the rugged forms of the vehicle. To go directly into details, the new aero kit comprises of a front bumper, rear apron with integrated tailpipes, four wide wheel arches and deeper side sills.

    And don’t worry about the widened wheel arches, because they have been filled out with huge in-house made alloy wheels. Precisely, the alloys are 22-inches big at all four corners and are of the CW1 model. Additional spacers have been added, measuring 50mm up front and 70mm at the rear.

    Stay tuned, because more exclusive announcements regarding Geneva are to be published soon!

    Source: Caractere 

  • Larte Design Previews Exterior Details of Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Front VIewDo you remember when we talked about Larte Design’s Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Project shown a month ago? Well, the tuning company is “teasing” it again before its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next week. In fact, the Russian brand has revealed the exterior pictures of the model, which you can view in the gallery below after the pictures of the interior.

    The vehicle basically expresses the way Larte Design experts envision the future of luxury business trips. If you ask why, then they would probably tell you: “because a tailor-made van might be an even better choice than a limousine because it can offer the comfort level of a premium private plane”.

    SEE ALSO: LARTE Design V-Class Black Crystal Stands for VIP Luxury

    Based on the Mercedes V-Class, the van offers huge space inside and the ultimate comfort level.  The name Black Crystal is not coincidental. It actually pays homage to the identically named Mercedes GL-Class, which like a precious diamond attracts attention with its luxurious body and refined performance.

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal Side View

    In the case of the V-Class, the Black Crystal pack adds new front and rear bumpers made of composite materials. For more expressive effect, they have been decorated with carbon elements. By the way, the front bumper has two inlaid crystals, which even further link the car to the name of the tuning kit.

    Other updates here include: fog lights with dual optical element, LED daytime running lights and a set of business wheels. We can’t skip the logo with the company’s horseshoe, which (as the brand says) is a symbol of good luck and serves as a talisman to the owner.

    We have spoken about the interior in the previous article linked above. In short, it complements the exterior perfectly with its luxurious surfaces and has been created by Klassen.

    Larte Design Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal will be displayed in Geneva at booth # 5042.

    Source: Larte Design 

  • Mercedes-AMG Offers Exclusive Body Kit for All A-Class Models

    2016 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Body Kit front ViewMercedes-AMG has revealed its new offer for the cute A-Class, which will make it even sportier, and it is an exclusive AMG body package. The accessories featured here are similar to those who have been recently launched for the C-Class. This could make a reality the sporty ambitions and individual appearance of the A250 Sport 4MATIC as well as of all A-Class models equipped with the AMG-Line.

    The company applies the same approached used on the C-Class with the aim to create more dynamism and to rejuvenate the models. The secret behind AMG’s success is that their particularly sporty products support the fascination that comes with the brand.

    SEE ALSO: Powerful and Stylish, Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe Is Finally Here!

    To go into details, the exclusive AMG body kit comprises of four attachment parts for the bodywork and also sporty side strips that are attached as a foliation below the dropping line of the vehicle. Here have been added the following parts: new front splitter, side-sill extension, rear apron trim with diffusor-look and rear flics, which are all AMG-made.

    2016 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG Body Kit Rear View

    These elements are actually add-on parts, and they have been produced through thermoforming technology. The standard color they come in is glossy black. And who doesn’t associate black with the real sporty look? Even better, the surface finish is of highest quality so it eliminates the need for a paint coating.

    And let me tell you a secret: AMG’s exclusive accessories program is going to be also offered for the C-Class Cabriolet and for the face-lift version of the CLA saloon as well. This will happen as soon as June this year. Currently the exterior AMG add-on body kit is available to order in all dealerships of the brand worldwide.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • Next Gen 2017 Acura MDX to Stun Visitors at the New York Auto Show

    2017 Acura MDX TeaserAcura MDX is America’s best-selling three-row luxury SUV. Now it is going to be released in its MY2017 variant thus receiving substantial design changes, wide range of features and new drivetrain technology. Besides the teaser that has just been unveiled, the company also stated that the SUV will be making an international debut at the New York Auto Show on March 23. So we are eager to see the redesigned and reengineered MDX.

    Scarce information has been disclosed so far, but we know that the model will feature substantial design enhancements, improvements in terms of luxury comfort and convenience features, as well as advanced powertrain technology that is absolutely new. By the way when speaking about drivetrains we must also mention that the new one featured in the MDX will be in concert with the Acura brand’s focus on Precision Crafted Performance.

    SEE ALSO: Acura Reminds Everyone Why NSX and Precision Concept Are so Awesome 

    John Mendel, the executive vice president of American Honda, also confirmed that the company is currently sharpening the focus on the Precision Crafted Performance DNA. This is the reason why 2017 MDX will integrate all styling enhancements and innovative powertrain technology. The goal is to bring Acura closer to the next step in that direction.

    An interesting fact is that the MDX is actually the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time and Acura’s best-selling SUV. It has been sold in more than 50,000 units in each of the past three years. Just like it is now, 2017 Acura MDX will continue to be designed by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California and to be produced at the company’s Lincoln auto plant, but the East Liberty, Ohio auto plant will also aid the process. The car is slated for production in early 2017.

    More information to be revealed near official debut.

    Source: Acura 

  • Kahn Teases Special Jeep Wrangler Black Hawk Edition for Geneva

     Kahn Jeep Wrangler Black Hawk EditionKahn Design and its sub-brand called Chelsea Truck Company will be present at the Geneva Motor Show with an exclusive lineup of vehicles. The most prominent impression will be making the Vengeance, but there is also another project which has been just teased and it is named Black Hawk Edition.

    We don’t know much about the car except for it is based on the Jeep Wrangler and is a result of the joint work of Kahn and Chelsea Truck Company tuning experts. There is a teaser sketch released too, which reveals its military visual stance. Kahn said that further details will be available soon, and we hope that this will happen prior the exclusive official reveal of the Wrangler.

    SEE ALSO: Kahn is Going to Geneva and This is Why You Should Be Excited About It 

    The next exclusive news is that the impatiently expected Vengeance will be unveiled by Afzal Kahn himself. The project is based on the Aston Martin DB9 model but has “slightly” different design. The wide body two door coupe has a muscular and aggressive design due to its new front grille, hood and front fenders. Furthermore, the Vengeance will have a limited production run and will be entirely hand built.

    Other vehicles at Kahn’s Hall (#6) at the show are going to be: the famous Flying Huntsman 110 6×6 Defender Double Cab Pickup which will be also making an international debut; the Black Kirsch over Madeira Red Range Rover Vogue and the Imperial Blue Project Kahn Range Rover Sport. Further details to be revealed very soon. Stay tuned!

    Source: Kahn Design 

  • Vorsteiner Releases One-Off Aero Program for BMW M4 F8X

    Vorsteiner BMW M4 F8X Frozen Gray Side ViewThis Frozen Gray BMW M4 F8X is a very special edition of the model and this is due to the additional treatment it has received from the California-based customization company called Vorsteiner. The tuners have released aero program, which has been specifically developed for the M4, being one of BMW model range’s most highly respected automotive platforms.

    We must also remind you that the BMW M4 does not joke when it comes to power.  Driven by its potent 3.0 Liter BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, it produces 425 horsepower (313 kW) and allows the vehicle to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph (250km/h). And this is the reason why many regard it as the best mid-range luxury performance coupe on the market today.

    SEE ALSO: Vorsteiner Releases Aero Program for Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

    To go into details, the aero kit comprises of the following components that have been all made in-house: V-FF 102 Flow Forged wheels, EVO Front Add-On Spoiler, GTS Rear Diffuser and EVO Rear Decklid Spoiler. The last three parts were made out of autoclaved 2×2 Pre-Preg Carbon Fiber and come with UV Inhibiting Clear Lacquer Coating for added protection. But if you are keen on seeing the fibers of the carbon, then you can order these parts in fully visible carbon fiber weave. And this will undoubtedly make your BMW look unique.

    Vorsteiner BMW M4 F8X Frozen Gray Wheels at the Rear

    At last but not least, we must say something about the highly contrasting Candy Apple Red wheels, since they are the first thing about this project that grabs the attention. They are of the Vorsteiner V-FF 102 model variant and have been custom painted. This is probably the best color, which accentuates the Frozen Gray exterior scheme of the BMW M4. In terms of size, the V-FF 102s come in 20×9.5 at the front and 20×10.5 at the rear. Due to their lightweight and contemporary multispoke design, they make a perfect accentuation touch for this M4’s aero outfit.

    Source: Vorsteiner  

  • You Can Now Order Infiniti QX60 MY2016 [w/pricing included]

    Infiniti QX60 MY2016 Exterior Not only did Infiniti announce the pricing of the MY2016 QX60, but it also surprised us with the news that the model has been substantially refreshed. Precisely, this includes revised exterior styling, a refined interior, improved dynamic performance and an enhanced list of available safety, security and driving technologies. The vehicle will be still offered in four model variants: QX60, QX60 AWD, QX60 Hybrid and QX60 Hybrid AWD and their pricing is listed below.

    Let’s talk about the changes here. Starting with the exterior, the new QX60 fully embodies the new design language of the brand. This means that it carries the signature grille, headlamps, turn signals and a choice of 18-inch or 20-inch wheels in different designs. In addition, there are two new exterior colors are added for the new model year, namely: Jade Green and Hagane Blue.

    SEE ALSO: Infiniti Releases More Details For 2016 Q50 and QX60 Models

    The interior on the other hand adds new graphite weave accents, stitched upper dash and a new shift lever. By the way, the latter is the same found in the new Q60 coupe. In terms of dynamics, Infiniti improved the steering system, added new tires and enhanced the chassis.

    Infiniti QX60 MY2016 Interior

    When it comes to drivetrains all remains the same. Like previous years, the 2016 QX60 is driven by the standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6. It produces 265 horsepower (195 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 336 Nm (248 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. It also features fuel-efficient Continuously Variable Transmission.

    An optional drivetrain is the hybrid one that includes supercharged 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder and an electric motor powered by a compact Lithium-ion battery pack. It is rated at 250 horsepower (184 kW). Both models are offered in front-wheel drive and with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.

    In terms of technology, the MY2016 QX60 can be equipped with the optional Deluxe Technology Package. It comprises of a Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection and Predictive Forward Collision Warning.

    Other available technologies include Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system; Infiniti Connection™ telematics system and Infiniti Personal Assistant; Around View® Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD); Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP); Blind Spot Intervention® (BSI) system; Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range); Distance Control Assist (DCA); Active Trace Control; Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts; and a Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding.

    2016 Infiniti QX60 can be currently ordered at a starting price of is $42,600 USD.

    2016 Infiniti QX60 US Pricing:

    QX60 Model Variant Engine/Drive MSRP
    • QX60
    3.5-liter V6 / FWD $42,600 USD
    • QX60 AWD
    3.5-liter V6 / AWD $44,400 USD
    • QX60 Hybrid
    2.5-liter supercharged I4 / FWD $52,050 USD
    • QX60 Hybrid AWD
    2.5-liter supercharged I4 / AWD $53,450 USD

    Source: Infiniti

  • Volkswagen Teases SUV Concept Ahead of Geneva Premiere

    Volkswagen SUV Concept First TeaserVolkswagen will premiere a brand new SUV concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Initially, I though that in this news there is nothing interesting for telling. However, I looked at it for a second time and made up my mind, since the controversies with Volkswagen (and the emissions) were strong last year.

    Basically, two models will take a center stage at the Volkswagen’s stand at the Geneva International Motor Show. The first one is VW up!, which we spoke of lately and that will come with impressive range of variants and powertrains, and the second one is the new concept car, which will “brings mobility to a whole new level”, says Volkswagen.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Volkswagen up! Will Make its Global Premiere At Geneva Show 

    Here my interested grew, since the brand also confirmed that this “exciting concept car” will liven up the compact car class and will actually be a trendy and affordable SUV. In addition, this will be the beginning of a large SUV development and this concept will serve as an example of the “completely new model series”, meaning that it will showcase a brand new future production model.

    Volkswagen SUV Concept Second Teaser

    Volkswagen also revealed that the new SUV operating concept doesn’t feature any switches. And with this fact it also states that the vehicle will create a conceptual bridge to the BUDD-e. Remember it? This is the one that debuted at the CES in Las Vegas. This is probably the way of Volkswagen to say sorry to those customers that felt deeply hurt by the “fumes-scandal”. And I bet that the SUV concept will also emit less emissions of CO2 and will be fuel efficient.

    Furthermore, the German company also sent us three teaser pictures to show us glimpse of the way the concept looks. The front of the car for instance looks exactly like a production model, since there are LED headlights and LED DRLs. It will be obviously painted in yellow exterior paint scheme, but what’s interesting is that this color of the body will be combined with plastic cladding on the bumper and wheel arches. The SUV will be also riding on bi-colored alloys, which will probably be sized above 20-inches.

    If we got your interest, stay tuned because Geneva Motor Show is coming near.

    Volkswagen SUV Concept Third Teaser

    Source: Volkswagen

  • DMC Releases Rather Strange “LOVE” Rolls-Royce Ghost SaRangHae

    DMC Rolls Royce Ghost SaRangHae  Front View DMC has just tuned a Rolls-Royce Ghost, which eventually received a very special name and was commissioned for a very important person. It seems that the (so called) “stars” of the East like to dwell and be transported in luxurious limousines… but hey, who doesn’t? The difference between us and them is of course the money, and when it comes to $cash$ many seem to brake loose. Vanity comes in many forms and almost always affects the personal accessories.

    The case with this gorgeous white Rolls-Royce Ghost is pretty much described above. The star for whom it was commissioned is the so called The Asia Prince or Jang Keun Suk, a Korean based singer, who obviously has some resources to spend. And things quickly escalate, when one understands that the car has been named with the pompous “SaRangHae” (사랑해), meaning literally “love”.

    SEE ALSO: DMC Shows Winged Huracan LP610 Cairo Edition 

    Whether “the strongest feeling of all” is the best name for such project, I would rather remain silent. A very pleasant fact about this car is that the DMC tuners did not overdo it, meaning that they kept the “job” simple.

    DMC Rolls Royce Ghost SaRangHae  Rear View

    And so it is. We only see minor trim changes on the front fascia, straight lined skirt in line with the original design at the sides, and a rear with a brand new trunk spoiler and diffuser. Good news is that under the hood the modifications have been stronger, thanks to the ECU tuning and high performance exhaust system.

    Due to these changes, the twin turbo V12 adds the substantial 70 PS and 80 Nm, making it possible for the Rolls-Royce produce a total of 650 HP and to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The top speed was increased to 295 KM/H.

    New shiny and huge wheels are almost preliminary, especially when it comes to “star”-tuning. The 24-inched diamond forged rims fitted with Pirelli tires here carry the DMC Rolls-Royce Ghost SaRangHae. For this size, the tuners actually had to modify in the wheel housings to ensure a continued smooth ride and steering ability. (But let me reveal you a practical matter: bigger wheels won’t make you look cooler, so keep that in mind).

    Although Jang Keun Suk did not allow DMC to publish the interior (which I’m sure will be as magniloquent as possible), they disclosed that was adorned with Italian leathers, rare materials like Sting Ray and a lot of carbon fiber. Nothing surprisingly unusual.

    If you dig this project, then the videos below will show you more about it. Enjoy!

    httpv://youtu.be/cvnqr2HRGHQ

    httpv://youtu.be/byaJ96Zhd_4

    httpv://youtu.be/RwbUQmOpD9A

    httpv://youtu.be/o6zAnhGQ0sM

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: DMC 

  • Geneva Debuting Fourth Generation Renault Scenic Offers Glimpse of … Mediocrity

    2017 Renault Scenic Front and Side ViewScenic is probably one of the best known models around the world and especially in Europe since it is largely associated with mediocre lifestyle. Since it was created back in 1996 the compact MPV soon became extremely famous and for exactly twenty years, Renault has managed to produce three generations of it. Note that it has been sold in nearly 5 million units already, and like it or not it is constantly being resold on the “second-hand” market.

    Despite of the wish of many for the immediate death of the model, Renault “has been poised to introduce the new SCENIC”. And even more: it will premiere it officially at the Geneva Motor Show.

    SEE ALSO: Renault Launches a Limited Run of the Successful Captur Model 

    The “fresh approach” on the traditional cues of the “redefined” MPV actually means that the design of SCENIC is nothing different from the Captur(e). And this is despite the words Renault says that the guiding principle behind the fourth-generation SCENIC was to provide a completely fresh take on the compact MPV. Well, maybe applying the same design is a fresh take-on… especially when compared to the disastrous previous generation.

    Renault Scenic Front view

    Another “innovation”, this time taken from the Espace model, is the three-part windscreen that provides a panoramic view and enhanced visibility. I have to admit however, that compared with the third generation SCENIC, the latest one has significantly raised ground clearance and shortened rear overhangs. The car seems to be wider, both at the front and rear. Well, it is a matter of opinion whether these changes make it look more solid. Furthermore, the “distinctive” front of the new SCENIC comes with lighting signature in the form of C-shaped head lights that feature LED Pure Vision technology.

    Renault did not aspire to disclose any other details, but I can say that they won’t be unexpectedly enthusiastic and even ecstatic. Maybe it is time for the French brand to step out from mediocrity, but by producing cars like the one featured it won’t happen any time soon.

    Source: Renault 

  • MINI Open 150 Edition Celebrates the Exclusivity of the Convertible Kind

    MINI Open 150 Edition Front View MINI Open 150 Edition is limited and so exclusive that it will be produced only in 150 units specifically intended for the UK market. The special edition car is based on the MINI Cooper S convertible and celebrates the actual launch of the latter.

    Unique about this limited edition MINI is the wide range of standard equipment as well as the exclusive interior it sports. Speaking of the cabin, it is wrapped in Leather Chester Malt Brown upholstery, while the dashboard is mounted a specially designed Open 150 Edition plaque. Badges signifying the exclusivity of the model can be seen on the door entry strips.

    SEE ALSO: Vilner Creates the Most Eccentric MINI One Cabrio in the Universe

    A lot of standard equipment is included here, precisely the heated seats, MINI Yours Soft-top and 18-inch MINI Yours Alloys. The Chili Pack and Media Pack are too featured as a no cost option on the model as they offer popular options including satellite navigation and LED headlights.

    MINI Open 150 Edition Interior

    MINI Convertible and this limited edition also feature MINI Rain Warner function and MINI Always Open Timer, which have been developed exclusively for their type of model. How do they work? If the roof of the car is left open and the forecast is bad, MINI Rain Warner sends a message to warn the driver via their smartphone. This happens in cases the MINI is parked.

    When one drives it and the weather is still bad, then the driver will be alerted on the centre console. On the other hand, the digital Always Open Timer registers the time spent driving with the roof down.

    Other standard equipment features are just like those included in the MINI Convertible range, namely the MINI Connected, MINI Visual Boost Radio, Rear Parking Distance Control and Rear Reversing Camera.

    MINI Open 150 Edition will be available to order this March. It will be priced from £29,990.

    Source: MINI