Victor Ivanov – Page 141 – Automobiles Review

Manhart Racing BMW E92 335i – Engine Conversion

Manhart Racing has released some pictures and details for their latest project based on BMW E92 335i. A facelifted version powered by N55 3.0 liter twin scroll-turbo I6 with 306HP (225 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque has been converted to N54, which is basically the same engine but with different turbochargers.

Of course, the engine is going to have a MHR Stage 5 Power Upgrade. This boosts the N54 to over 500HP (368 kW). This will happen thanks to a number of upgrades.

A stock 335i accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. After the tuning, the expected acceleration will be around 4.5 seconds and top speed of over 300 km/h. This turns the regular coupe to a real sports car.

Stay tuned for further details!

Source: Manhart Racing

January 15, 2013

2014 Infiniti Q50 [first images]

Infiniti has introduced the 2014 Q50, which will make its official appearance at this year’s North American International Auto Show.

The car reminds to BMW F30 (the 2012 3-Series). It features a new evolutionary design with an aggressive front bumper, an enlarged grille and distinctive headlights. The aerodynamics is also improved, so the car will return more mpg than the previous model with the same engine. Speaking for them, the range includes an upgraded 3.7-liter V6, a hybridized 3.7-liter V6 and probably a turbocharged petrol in the IPL model.

The manufacturer will release full information for the new Q50 tomorrow.

Stay tuned!

Source: Infiniti

January 13, 2013

Honda Civic Mugen Styling Package

Mugen has announced a special styling package for the European Honda Civic. The hot hatchback will not feature any performance upgrades.

The aerodynamics upgrades include a new front spoiler, a revised grille and a pair aerodynamic side skirts. There is also a rear diffuser, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and 3 different sets of wheels that are available in a different of finishes.

This is not everything, you can also order a carbon fiber rearview mirror cover, Mugen badging and anodized aluminum oil caps in Silver Grey, Red, Blue, Black or Champagne Gold.

Source: Honda

January 13, 2013

Volkswagen Passat Performance Concept

Volkswagen has detailed the Passat Performance Concept, which will make its official debut at the Detroit Motor Show, next week.

The saloon is powered by the well-known 1.8 liter TSI four-cylinder petrol – 253HP (186 kW). The modified engine will replace the 2.5-liter inline-5 in United States. The smaller engine has more power and torque and lot lower fuel consumption. The 1.8 liter TSI is coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The Passat Performance Concept comes with slight exterior modifications – a set of 19” alloy wheels, lowered sports suspension, a revised front bumper, bi-xenon headlights with LEDs and LED rear lights. At the rear, there are dual exhaust pipes

The interior boasts two-tone leather upholstery and a number of carbon fiber elements.

Source: Volkswagen

January 11, 2013

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid

Honda US is planning to invest $23 million and hire approximately 50 new associates at its Marysville, Ohio auto plant to add production of the new two-motor Accord Hybrid Sedan, scheduled to go on sale nationwide this fall.

“With more than 30 years of continuously building eight generations of the Honda Accord close to our customers, our team now is using its experience and flexibility to add this sophisticated Accord Hybrid model,” commented Jeff Tomko, plant manager of the Marysville Auto Plant.

“At the same time, we are continuing with our commitment to manufacture new models in Ohio, along with the resulting growth in jobs.”, he added.

The new 2014 Accord Hybrid Sedan joins the 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan in incorporating Honda’s first two-motor hybrid system. Both the Accord Plug-In and Accord Hybrid team a new Earth Dreams™ Technology 2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine with a powerful 169HP (124 kW) traction electric motor that can function as an electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) and a 143HP (105 kW) electric motor for power generation.

In the last three years, Honda has announced investments at its Ohio manufacturing facilities exceeding $800 million. They include projects to establish on-site parts consolidation centers, renovate auto assembly and painting operations, and major investments at the Anna Engine Plant, as well as its transmission plant in Russells Point, to manufacture continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

Standard Features:

Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

USB/iPod® connectivity

Dual-zone automatic climate control

Pandora® internet radio compatibility

Smart Start and Smart Entry

Honda LaneWatch™

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition2

Multi-view rearview camera

HondaLink™ EV telematics system

Heated front seats

Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Driver’s 10-way power seat with 2-position memory

HomeLink®

Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)

Audio with touchscreen interface

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Bio-Fabric seating surfaces

Expanded-view driver’s mirror

LED mirror-mounted turn signals

LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)

LED headlights

Fog lights

Chrome-plated door handles

Decklid spoiler

Source: Honda

January 11, 2013

Toyota Concepts at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon

Toyota will present several interesting concepts at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon. The range includes GRMN Yaris Turbo Concept, Aqua G Sports, GT86 concepts, Gazoo Racing LFA and GT86,

Yaris Turbo Concept

GRMN, Gazoo Racing’s customisation and tuning arm, is showing its new Yaris Turbo Concept, a race-fettled version based on a three-door Australian-spec’ model (known as a Vitz in Far Eastern markets). It’s powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine driving the front wheels that produces 150HP (110kW) and 205Nm of torque.

The aluminium wheels, sports seats and pedals and modified rear bumper, headlights and rear clusters are visual clues to its racing character, but it’s under the skin where most of the work has been done. Tuned suspension, uprated disc brakes and a more powerful drivetrain have been added and the bodyshell has been strengthened for track driving.

GRMN is also unveiling its Sports FR Concept Platinum, a turbocharged and supercharged concept based on GT86

Aqua G Sports

Proving that hybrid technology is no barrier to creating eye-popping custom concepts, G Sports is showing is new take on Aqua – a compact, Prius-based hatchback that has quickly become one of Japan’s best-selling cars since its launch last year.

While it retains its standard full hybrid powertrain, G Sport’s concept gains sports styling inside and out, plus re-tuned suspension and body reinforcing braces to strengthen its sporting character and handling.

Another G Sports special lined up for the show is its sporting interpretation of the Japanese market’s Marx X saloon, complete with a lightweight carbon fibre roof.

GT86 concepts

The road-going GT86 in its standard form has attracted worldwide praise for its sporting looks and character, but it is only the start for some of the customisation world’s top design houses who have produced exciting new concepts based on Toyota’s coupe – know simply as “86” in Japan.

Four will be taking the spotlight at the Tokyo Auto Salon: the 86 x style Cb, 86 Modellista, 86 TRD Griffon and TOM’S N086V

Gazoo Racing

Gazoo Racing’s Lexus LFA and GT86 complete the Toyota line-up at the show, appearing at the same time as the team confirms it will again be entering both cars in the Nürburgring 24 Hours this year – its seventh successive participation in the event since 2007

The Tokyo Auto Salon, the world’s largest vehicle customisation show, opens today and continues until 13 January.

Source: Toyota

January 11, 2013

Sinister Blacktop Package – Durango, Grand Caravan and Journey

For the 2013 calendar year, the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan, Durango seven-seat SUV and Journey mid-size crossover join the Challenger, Charger and Avenger to complete the Dodge brand’s offering of sinister-looking Blacktop packages.

“Our Blacktop packages have been so well received on Charger, Challenger and Avenger that we’re expanding it to our innovative Grand Caravan, Journey and Durango,” commented Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand.

“All three of these Blacktop vehicles offer class-leading attributes with seating for up to seven and a customized one-of-a-kind appearance package starting at just $295 MSRP.”, he added.

Dodge Durango Blacktop will start arriving at dealers in the first quarter of 2013. The Journey and Grand Caravan Blacktop editions arrive in the second quarter of 2013.

The Blacktop package for Dodge Grand Caravan SXT models and adds 17” polished aluminum wheels with Gloss Black pockets, a Gloss Black grille, black headlamp bezels (late availability) and fog lamps. The interior receives a customized all-black interior, including the headliner, door panels and class-exclusive Super Console. Silver accent stitching adorns the Grand Caravan Blacktop’s black cloth seats, door trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel. A leather shift knob finishes off the interior enhancements.

Customers can order the Grand Caravan with the Blacktop package in Billet Silver, Brilliant Black, Maximum Steel, Redline and Stone White exterior colors.

Available on the sportiest Dodge Durango models – the Rallye and the R/T – the Blacktop package comes with a distinctive Gloss Black crosshair grille and Gloss Black 20” aluminum wheels with gloss black center caps for the special price of only $295 US MSRP.

Adding to the already sporty looks of the Rallye, the interior can be upgraded to the R/T’s trim with premium Digital Suede seat inserts, complemented by Capri bolsters and red accent stitching, Black Comodo Elm trim and a power 12-way driver’s seat, including power lumbar, for a U.S. MSRP of only $595.

Customers can order the Durango with the Blacktop package in Bright White, Brilliant Black, Granite Crystal, Billet Silver and Redline Red paint colors.

Available with four-cylinder or V-6 engines, five- or seven-passenger seating, and front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and a color palette consisting of Bright Silver, Bright Red, Brilliant Black, Brilliant Red Tri-Coat, White, Pearl White Tri-Coat and Storm Grey, customers are offered a lot of choices on Journey SXT Blacktop editions.

Exterior enhancements include 19-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels and center caps, a Gloss Black grille, Gloss Black bezel headlamps, Gloss Black lower front fascia accent and Gloss Black exterior mirrors. The award-winning 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen is also included. All of these distinctive features are included in the Blacktop package for only $995 U.S. MSRP, representing a package discount of $400. Journey SXT Blacktop models are available with premium black cloth seats or available black leather heated seats with heated steering wheel.

Source: Chrysler

January 11, 2013

2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz has presented the new 2013 CLS 63 AMG – Coupe and Shooting Brake variants. The high-performance luxurious vehicles have unmatched performance and complete the AMG line-up.

“The S-Models in particular represent the most attractive proposition in the segment,” commented Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“With its superlative power and torque ratings and the new performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the CLS 63 AMG is without parallel in its Coupe and Shooting Brake variants. Our AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine in the world. The new, customised model variants provide greater scope than ever for individual solutions.”, he added.

The world premiere of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake took place at the “Night of the Stars” at the Formula 1 German Grand Prix in July 2012. This unique high-performance vehicle from AMG is a fascinating new embodiment of an innovative vehicle concept. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines performance with style and utility value as a highly appealing alternative for design-oriented automobile enthusiasts. In essence it represents an unprecedented embodiment of a sports car with five seats and a large tailgate.

Mercedes CLS 63 AMG is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 557HP (410 kW) at 5,500RPM and 720Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds for the RWD versions and just 3.7 seconds for the 4Matic AWD models. There is even faster option – CSL 63 AMG 4Matic S – 585HP (430 KW) and 800Nm (593 lb-ft). The acceleration is sensational – 3.6 seconds to 100 km/h.

All models come with AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. It offers four modes – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual). An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.
The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive distributes the engine torque at a ratio of 33% to 67% (front/rear axle). The 3-stage ESP has been tailored specifically to the permanent AWD system.

The CLS 63 AMG S-Model sees Mercedes-AMG going one step further. True to the “Driving Performance” philosophy, a differential lock is fitted on the rear axle. This high-tech package results in a further increase in traction, ultimately leading to even greater driving dynamics and enhanced driving enjoyment, especially on the race track.

All CLS 63 AMG models feature the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping system.

The CLS 63 AMG is fitted as standard with triple-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey and featuring a high-sheen finish. Tyres in size 255/35 R 19 are fitted to 9.0J x 19” wheels at the front and 10J x 19” rear wheels have 285/30 R 19 tyres. Only the high-performance S-Model features exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in matt titanium grey with a high-sheen rim flange.

AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system is available as an option. It includes 402 mm discs, 6-piston front calipers and 4-piston rears.

In terms of exterior design, the CLS 63 AMG S-Model is differentiated from the other models by brake callipers in a red painted finish and the AMG logo on the trunk lid sporting an “S” in contrasting black.

The interior of the S-Model features grey contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the door centre panels, the door armrests and the centre console. Silver seat belts are also on board in conjunction with a black interior. The rim of the AMG Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather is flattened at the top and bottom and boasts grip areas in Alcantara® and grey contrasting stitching. The front head restraints of the AMG sports seats incorporate exclusive embossed AMG emblems. The AMG instrument cluster in a new design features an “S AMG” logo on the 320 km/h speedometer and red applications. AMG door sill panels illuminated in white round off the exclusive range of equipment and appointments.

A very special highlight among the optional equipment and appointments for all CLS variants is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. The sound system includes 14 high-end loudspeakers – total output of 1200 Watts.

	CLS 63 AMG Coupé/ Shooting Brake	CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC Coupé/ Shooting Brake	CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Model Coupé/ Shooting Brake
Displacement	5461 cc	5461 cc	5461 cc
Output	410 kW (557 hp) at 5500 rpm	410 kW (557 hp) at 5500 rpm	430 kW (585 hp) at 5500 rpm
Max. torque	720 Nm at 1750-5250 rpm	720 Nm at 1750-5250 rpm	800 Nm at 1750-5000 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	9.9 (10.1) l/100 km	10.4 (10.6) l/100 km	10.4 (10.6) l/100 km
CO2 emissions	231 (235) g/km	243 (248) g/km	243 (248) g/km
Efficiency class (in Germany)	F	F	F
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.2 (4.3) s	3.7 (3.8) s	3.6 (3.7) s
Top speed	250 km/h*	250 km/h*	250 km/h*

* electronically limited; values for CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake in brackets

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 10, 2013

LUMMA Porsche Cayenne II GTS

Lumma Design has presented their tuning program for Porsche Cayenne II GTS. The CLR 558 GT-S bodykit is especially made for those customers who like to combine sporty dynamics with understatement. The tuning specialists aim to create the Cayenne GTS “hotter” than its big brother Turbo S.

The body kit includes a new front spoiler bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper fit all models from V6 to Turbo S and can be installed with all currently available wheel widenings. The front bumper is priced at 3,510. A pair of modified side skirts is 1,725 and the rear apron bumper is 2,670.

The Sports Activity Vehicle rolls enormous 10J x 22” wheels at the front fitted with 295/30 R22 and 12J x 22” with 335/25 R22 tires at the rear axle. The set is available in matt black, glossy black, or silver and can be furnished with designer stripes upon request. The price is 5,400.

Lumma can also install in exhaust pipe deflectors with four 90 mm chrome tailpipes for 950.

All conversion parts are TUV-certified and can either be delivered after painting in in-house facility or installed by LUMMA Design upon request.

Source: Lumma

January 10, 2013

2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class BlueEFFICIENCY Edition

Mercedes-Benz is now adding two particularly fuel-efficient and eco-friendly BlueEFFICIENCY Edition models to the range: the 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition petrol.

The fuel consumption of the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition models is even lower than for the basic vehicles– by 0.2 (diesel) and 0.3 l/100 km (petrol) respectively, representing an improvement of five percent in each case. This means – 3.6 liters / 100 km with CO2 of 92 g/km for the CDI and 5.2 liters / 100 km with 120 g/km CO2 for the petrol variant.

The 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is a 1.5 liter diesel with 109HP (80 kW) and the 180 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol is a 1.6 liter naturally aspirated engine with 122HP (90 kW).

Factors contributing to the lower fuel consumption are: better Cd value of the A-Class from 0.27 – already a record for hatchback vehicles in this segment – to 0.26. Additional aerodynamic optimisation measures include, for example, the partial covering of the upper section of the radiator grille, aerodynamically shaped spring link coverings that improve the flow of air along the underbody at the rear axle, and a suspension that has been lowered by 15 mm.

The generator management system has also been revised, as has the manual transmission, which now features longer gear ratios in the higher gears. Visually, the BlueEFFICIENCY Edition models are differentiated by round LED daytime running lamps set into the bumper, assuming that customers have not selected either of the available options of bi-xenon headlamps or the Intelligent Light System.

The models will go on sale on 1 February 2013, while the first vehicles will reach customers in March 2013.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 10, 2013

DMC Lamborghini Gallardo SOHO [video]

DMC has announced Lamborghini Gallardo SOHO. The tuning company has also published a video in Youtube presenting their new tuning program for the sports car.

The styling kit is created specially for the models produced from 2003 to 2007. The design is very similar to the new LP570, but according to us – it looks better. The body kit includes a new front bumper, a pair of modified side mirrors, side skirt extensions and a new rear diffuser. All components are made from carbon fiber.The interior boasts leather and carbon elements.

There is also a performance package boosting the engine with 68HP (50 kW) and 80Nm (59 lb-ft) of torque. The result is thanks to an ECU re-map and complete stainless sports exhaust system. Nothing is mentioned about the acceleration, but the top speed is more than 322 km/h (200 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtVjEgjv6lw

Source: DMC

January 9, 2013

HARTGE BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11 – Test Drive [video]

Hartge has published a video with their tuned BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11. The mighty diesel is doing several accelerations from 80 km/h to 200 km/h. It is really impressive, what a big station-wagon can do on the highway.

BMW M550d xDrive Touring F11 is powered by a 3.0 liter three-turbocharged diesel with code name N57D30. The engine also features high-pressure piezo injectors and a lot of aluminum elements. It delivers 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The fuel economy is just 6.3 liters per 100 km. The engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox and the power is put on the road through AWD system.

The Hartge version boosts the engine to 438HP (322 kW) at 3,000RPM and 870Nm (642 lb-ft) of torque at just 2,900RPM. The price of the performance package is 2,689.40 including 19% VAT.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRAOo4UTAd0

Source: Hartge

January 9, 2013

Author: Victor Ivanov