Victor Ivanov – Page 204 – Automobiles Review

Vath Mercedes-Benz SLK R172

Vath has unveiled their tuning program for the Mercedes-Benz SLK R172 including both style and performance modifications.

The exterior package includes a new front lip spoiler and modified rear diffuser. There are also a set of lowering springs to improve the stance and huge 20” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior boasts carbon fiber elements, aluminum pedals and velour floor mats. Vath also offers a revised speedometer graduated up to 330 km/h (205 mph).

Other goodies feature high-performance brake system, a LSD (limited slip differential) and a stainless steel sport exhaust system.

There are performance packages for the 200 CGI, 250 CGI and 350 CGI. The SLK 200 CGI is boosted to 210 PS (154 kW) and 310Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque, while the tuned SLK 250 CGI has 244PS (179 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft). The mighty SLK 350 CGI boasts 330PS (243 kW) and 390Nm (288 lb-ft) of torque.

Source: Vath

November 24, 2011

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20

AC Schnitzer has announced another tuning program, but this time for the BMW 1-Series F20. The striking appearance suits to the small hatchback and the performance upgrades make it a lot faster and more pleasant to driving.

The exterior comes with aerodynamics package including a new front spoiler, rear roof mounted spoiler, Racing exhaust tailpipe and big 18” or 19” light alloy wheels in new ACS design.

The interior boasts aluminium Black Line gear knob, a gear knob with digital gear display, or an illuminated leather gear knob. There are also ACS Black Line aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium handbrake with chrome accents or fully in Black Line, aluminium foot rest and sport pedal set, and velours floor mats.

The tuner also offers a lowering suspension spring set, which cuts 25mm from the ride’s height and gives better stance and handling.

The performance packages boost the 118d and 120d. The 118d now delivers 171PS (126 kW) and the 120d is boosted all the way to 210PS (155 kW).

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front Angle View

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Rear Angle View

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front view

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series - rear view

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front Angle View

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front Angle

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Rear Angle

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Side

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Rear View

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series F20 - Front Angle

Source: AC Schnitzer via BMW Blog

November 24, 2011

BMW ///M at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show

BMW will exhibit several legendary ///M models at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show held from 3^rd to 11^th December, this year.

The Motor Show is hosted by the Japanese capital’s International Exhibition Center, where BMW will showcase the latest F10 M5, E90 M3 as well as X6 M.

The fifth-generation of BMW M5 is powered by a hi-revving 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) at 5750RPM and 680Nm(502 lb-ft) at just 1500RPM. The most powerful ///M engine boasts twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold.

The performance is overwhelming – 4.4 seconds to 100 km/h and just 13 seconds to 200 km/h. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

Despite the brutal performance, the engine needs just 9.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle (28.5 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.

The engine is mated to a new 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic and Efficient Dynamics technology, including engine Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration.

The E92 M3 has also hi-revving V8, but it is naturally aspirated developing 420PS (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M-DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission). The acceleration to 60 mph is in 4.5 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

Finally, BMW will exhibit the X6 M, which also features the same hi-revving 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 as the F10 M5, but it is slightly underpowered – 555PS (408 kW) at 6000RPM and 680Nm (500 lb-ft) between 1500RPM and 5650RPM.

The power is put on the road through 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission with aluminum paddleshifters on steering wheel. 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

X6 M also comes with 10 mm lower Adaptive Drive suspension, 4-piston calipers at the front with huge 396mm brake discs.

The vehicle stands on 20” alloy wheels with fitted with 275/40 R20 at the front and 315/35 R20 at the rear run-on-flat tires.

Source: BMW

November 24, 2011

MR Car Design Volkswagen Girlz Style-Eos

Do you really believe that tuning is a macho-thing only? Well, if you do you are wrong! And VW Girlz Style-Eos will prove you wrong! Nowadays some women are even more interested in making their car look prettier than ever! And we all have rights about it, haven’t we.

What’s so unique about this automobile? Well, first of all is to be mentioned that the Barracuda Wheels wheel rim producer had offered a dedicated “Girlz Style” light-metal wheel collection. It is so special that it captures the attention of all the ladies, especially those ones who are keen on the sparkling Swarovski stones, with which the rim wells are colourfully decorated. This “Sparkling VIP” wheel set with “glitter & glamour” tape of rose-coloured Swarovski stones integrated in the outer wheel rim edge on a VW Eos was carefully produced by MR Racing from Eschweiler near Aachen. They have installed this Barracuda Karizzma with the dedication “Girlz Style”. And yes, every girl will fall in love with it – there’s no second thought!

MR Car Design Volkswagen Girlz Style-Eos Rear

And moreover – this “Beauty” has the 8.5J x 19-inch wheel rims all covered with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres, size 225/35R19. To bring more comfort, MR special racing springs provides a good lowering of about 50 mm. Even the brake callipers are also painted in pink as are some covers below the motor hood! This is where a “KW-unit”-power box is installed as well. It has the function to increase the output of the charged 1.4 litre TSI-four-cylinder motor in connection with an accumulation pressure optimised stainless steel exhaust system (70 mm as of Kat) with four 84 mm end pipes by approx. 28 HP (18 kW). Therefore the maximum torque now increases by amount 50 Newton meters (37 lb-ft) in parallel.

In this tuning the additional instrument console is installed in the middle console (also made from KW-System), displaying charge pressure and oil temperature. It has a “PushToPass” button for spontaneous interim sprints, as well as a “Sports” button for more aggressive gas pedal reconciliation. And what the ladies will love for sure is the gearshift lever and the pedal set of a VW Golf 6 GTI. Yes, MR Racing, VW Eos made this unique and classy cabriolet a dream-come-true for a lot of women around the world!

MR Car Design Volkswagen Girlz Style-Eos

Source: MR Car Design

November 23, 2011

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet

Great news for Porsche lovers: The new 911 Carrera Cabriolet with innovative folding roof makes a debut.

The latest convertible edition of 911 Carrera is on sale in March 2012. What’s new about this edition is that the new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet offers sporting drivers the option to enjoy the renowned dynamic qualities and iconic design of the 911 Coupe combined with the added versatility and driving pleasure offered by its folding convertible roof.

The 911 Cabriolet has a high tech aluminium steel body with the Coupe, and the convertible extends this innovation to its all new, unique hood. This new Porsche offers an intelligent lightweight design, including the use of magnesium in the hood frame. It also ensures reduced weight for increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. The innovation here, and I am sure you’ll love it, is that the brand new Coupe model, is significantly lighter overall than it’s the former one.

And that is not all. The newbie 911 Cabriolet models have a longer wheelbase, wider front track and the new electro mechanical power. This of course is made to ensure the open-roofed models. The compact footprint on the other hand is accomplished by the shortening of the front and rear overhangs. Furthermore, there are additional standard or optional active control systems, for the overall improvement of the driving dynamics.

And for those who still like the classic look of the Porsche, I have to assure you that the new 911 Cabriolet models offer the same charismatic line-up of rear-mounted, flat-six engines as the Coupé equivalents of the benchmark sportscar. What is impressive is that the 911 Carrera Cabriolet features a 3.4-litre engine generating 350 hp (257 kW). With it the driving of the rear wheels are taken through a 7-speed manual transmission. More to come: you cannot underestimate the fact The Carrera S Cabriolet offers a 3.8-litre engine developing 400 hp (294 kW). It is also coupled to a 7-speed manual transmission as standard. Therefore the open-top 911 models share the characteristic efficiency for which the 911 is very well known!

And if you want to experience even lower fuel consumption and shorter acceleration time, the choice is only the new 911 Carrera Cabriolet (which for that sake offers the 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch transmission as an option).

The starting sale-date for the new 911 Carrera Cabriolet models is March 3 2012. But this goes only for the lucky people in the United Kingdom. There the 911 Carrera Cabriolet is priced from £79 947, and the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet – from £89 740.

All customers will have the opportunity to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone. And to make it even better Porsche has given a thought about the security of the automobile: fitted to every 911 Carrera Cabriolet is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), which is a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard.

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet Rear

Source: Porsche

November 23, 2011

Range Rover_e – 20 miles with zero emissions

If you want to be a green-oriented person, you no longer need to ride a bicycle. Why, because the new Range_e is at hand. The Jaguar Land Rover’s technology concept for a plug-in hybrid diesel-electric powertrain just received the 2011 Award for Automotive Innovation by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). And there are many reasons about this accomplishment. The innovative system was first revealed at the Geneva motor show in March. It has been acclaimed by the auto industry as the most significant achievement of the year and as a great development for the world-wide market.

The first reason for all these achievements is that the Range_e marks the globe as a luxury all-wheel drive vehicle, which is powered by a plug-in hybrid system: equipped both with a 94PS (69kW) electric motor and 14.2kWh lithium-ion battery with Land Rover’s 245PS (180 kW) 3.0-litre TDV6 diesel engine. This fascinating eco-friendly vehicle is based on the Range Rover Sport and what is important it can be driven for more than 20 miles on its electric power creating zero tailpipe emissions(isn’t it stunning). Furthermore, to optimize the CO₂ emissions, the diesel hybrid drivetrain takes care about it. Can you even imagine that the overall CO₂ output is only 89g/km and all goes with 85mpg fuel economy, while at the same time the system’s combined power of 339PS (249 kW) delivers a top speed of around 193 km/h (120mph). And if you wonder about the battery recharging – it can be accomplished simply and efficiently by connecting the system to an external 240V power source!!!

The award that has been given is sponsored by GKN, was presented to Jaguar Land Rover at the SMMT annual dinner by Norman Baker (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport), and Rob Rickell (GKN Global Engineering Director).

May be you don’t know that the Range_e is one of a number of Land Rover projects supported by the UK Government’s Technology Strategy Board. In addition five more prototype models are currently engaged in a test program with Land Rover’s fellow members of the CABLED (Coventry and Birmingham Low Emissions Demonstrators – consortium). There’s no doubt that this technology is the future and it is destined to be deployed in production vehicles. For this reason Land Rover is planning an introduction of its first diesel-electric hybrid model in 2013. Stay tuned … and eco!

November 23, 2011

2012 Tata Nano

The new Tata Nano comes with a number of improvements: better fuel efficiency, new premium interiors, new vibrant colours, best-in-class air-conditioning, lowest CO2 emission, among cars in India and most important all this at the same price.

2012 Nano is powered by a 624cc engine with 38PS (28 kW) and 51Nm (38 lb-ft), which is an increase of 3PS (2 kW) and 3Nm (2 lb-ft). Seems like nothing, but in car with such dimensions, it is a lot. The fuel efficiency is 59.7 mpg – 3.9 litres per 100 km. The top speed is 105 km/h, which is just enough for everyday city driving.

The ride and handling are also improved by revising the suspension with a front anti-roll bar, new steering system and booster-assisted brakes. All this comes as standard on the entry-level model.

The exterior is now available in different 10 colours, 8 of them new – Pearl White, Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Neon Rush, Serene White, Meteor Silver, Mojito Green, Papaya Orange, Sunshine Yellow, and Champagne Gold.

There are three trim levels: Standard, CX and LX. It is priced from just 1.40 lakhs (€1 980) and comes with 4-year warranty. Check out the full equipment, below!

2012 Tata Nano equipment:

Tata Nano Standard: The standard version comes with three colour options — Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Serene White — along with clear headlamps, tubeless tyres and tip-tap driver side mirror, booster-assisted brakes and front suspension with anti-roll bar. The interiors comprise dual-tone vinyl seats and fold-down rear seat.

Tata Nano CX: The Nano CX comes in six colour options — Rouge Red, Champagne Gold, Neon Rush, Meteor Silver, Papaya Orange and Serene White. The interiors have been refreshed with trendy black fabric seats, ebony black interiors, fold-down rear seat with nap rest. Besides these, the variant offers best-in-class air-conditioning with heating (optional), parcel shelf, booster-assisted brakes, tip-tap mirrors on driver and passenger side and half wheel covers.

Tata Nano LX: The top-end variant comes loaded with features like premium beige fabric seats, central locking, door handles, front power windows, cup holder in front console, provision for 12V socket, body coloured bumpers, fog lamps, electronic trip meter, rear spoiler, full wheel covers and tip-tap mirrors on driver and passenger side and booster-assisted brakes. The Nano LX comes in six premium colours — Pearl White, Papaya Orange, Mojito Green, Sunshine Yellow, Meteor Silver and Champagne Gold.

Source: Tata

November 23, 2011

2012 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

2012 VW Passat Alltrack will make its official debut at the 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show next week. The vehicle will hit the market in the beginning of the 2012. Alltrack is based on Passat Estate and features some very useful improvements.

2012 Passat Alltrack comes with 4MOTION four-wheel drive and a raised ride height that give it greater agility off-road, along with stylish body enhancements. There are stainless steel-look front and rear underbody protection panels and flared side sills. Other highlights are matt chrome roof rails, window surrounds, grille and exterior mirror casings.

The suspension is raised to increase ground clearance from 135 to 165 mm.

On the Passat Alltrack, the front axle is usually driven, with only 10% of propulsive power going to the rear axle. This saves on fuel, but if necessary, almost 100% of power can be sent to the rear wheels, through use of an electrohydraulic Haldex clutch.

The new Alltrack has hill descent assist, ABS and EDS. For vehicles fitted with DSG dual-clutch transmission, the shift pattern is also altered when off-road mode is engaged, with higher shift points to give more power, a flatter and easier to manage accelerator pedal movement and no automatic upshifting in manual mode.

The engine range includes a 2.0 liter TDI with 140PS (103 kW) and a 2.0 liter TDI with 170PS (125 kW) mated to a 6-speed manual and 6-speed DSG gearbox, respectively.

Standard equipment includes Alcantara upholstery, 2Zone electronic climate control, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system, MDI iPod connectivity, Bluetooth telephone preparation and 18” alloys.

The first deliveries are scheduled for next July. Price list is not announced, yet!

Source: Volkswagen

November 23, 2011

Mansory Audi R8 V10 Spyder

Audi R8 V10 Spyder has received special refining program from Mansory tuning. The company’s latest stroke of genius impressively proves that once again.

The performance is also boosted by Mansory. The mighty 5.2 liter V10 engine from Gallardo now has 552PS (406 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque, which is an improvement of 27PS (20 kW) and 20Nm (15 lb-ft).

The exterior modifications include a complete aggressive body kit consisting of a new front spoiler, modified side skirts, a nice rear wing, a new rear apron and perfectly integrated rear diffuser.

The stance is completed by a set of huge 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low-profile performance tires – 8.5J x 20” up front with 245/30 ZR20 tires and 11.0J x 20” at the rear with 305/25 ZR20. There is also a lower suspension setting of the sports drop-top.

The interior is even more stunning, than the exterior. It comes with complete reupholstered seats, steering wheel and some carbon fiber elements. There are also personalised floor mats, aluminium pedals and illuminated sill plates.

Source: Mansory

November 22, 2011

Koenigsegg Agera R with MOV’IT

Koenigsegg Agera R was introduced at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The hyper-car is set to dethrone the Veyron Grand Sport on every known discipline.

Agera R is powered by a unique 5.0 liter twin-turbo V8 with 1115PS (820 kW) at 6900RPM, which is a bit less than the mighty Veyron Grand Sport, but the Agera R is much lighter. The maximum torque is 1200Nm (885 lb-ft) at 4100RPM as over 1000Nm are available from just 2700RPM. The performance is brutal – from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and to 200 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The top speed is theoretical 440 km/h (273 mph), but the car is electronically limited to “just” 375 km/h (233 mph).

Other impressive result is 0-200-0, which is covered in 12.7 seconds and the stopping distance from 100 km/h to stand still is just 30.5m. However, this is improved by MOV’IT GmbH from Ottersweier in Baden-Wuerttemberg. The manufacturer produces braking systems for Formula 1, so the expectations are huge.

“We are pleased to present both our system expertise and our ability to be an industry partner once again. It is underpinned by our new strategic direction which began together with our reorganization in 2010. The MOV’IT got its name making high-performance braking systems in the field of tuning and aftermarket in the past, but we have managed to gain confidence of small volume manufacturers and special series of major automobile manufacturers as the real alternative in the course of a very short time. Current accounts, numerous interviews and projects with the most premium German manufacturers emphasize this.” said Frank Scherer, director of the MOV’IT GmbH and CEO of the MOV’IT Group.

The MOV’IT-ceramic braking system helped Agera R to set a new world record for the shortest stopping time from 300 km/h to 0 km/h – 6.66 seconds.

Source: MOV´IT

November 22, 2011

CoverEFX Mini Cooper

The CoverEFX & CFC StylingStation company in Erftstadt has two tuned MINIs.

The first one is foiled in Sunflower yellow and the second is finished in Smurf-blue. Both MINIs have all attached parts painted black, including the interior lights and Wiecher’s cage. The plastic wheel arches had to be reworked after the assembly of the suspension and brakes.

The performance upgrades include a modified PreKat and an ECU re-map giving the engine additional 17PS (13 kW) and 22Nm (16 lb-ft). The hand-crafted and dynamic pressure-optimized exhaust system with stainless steel manifolds and down pipe by the KBR Motorsports.

The stance is thanks to a Bilstein B16 suspension. There are also n OMP strut brace and a supporting arm, and an adjustable rear stabilizer – 17 mm by H & R. Both MINIs stand on Crono rims by OZ Racing 7J x 17” fitted with 205/40 R17 Toyo tires.

The interior boasts RECARO seats upholstered with Alcantara.

Source: CoverEFX

November 22, 2011

DMC Ferrari California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber

German Luxury Tuner DMC has announced their tuning package for Ferrari California. The name of the project is 3S Silver Carbon Fiber. It boasts unique body kit and performance package.

The aerodynamics package includes – a silver carbon fiber splitter, a silver carbon fiber rear diffuser, refined license plate bay, which now includes a silber carbon fiber apron.

The engine of DMC California is boosted to 606PS (446 kW), which is an increase of 146PS (108 kW), so the performance is extreme – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). Impressive results for a big four-seater GT car. The additional power is thanks to a number of mods – a turbo-loader in combination with physically enlarged injection nozzles and a new tailor made crankshaft. It is supported by a new exhaust sytem that is made if T309 stainless steel. It comes with 200 cell catalysts and an improved X-Pipe and is fully controlable via an on-board valve control system.

The California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber stands on enormous ADV1 wheels – 9J x 21” at the front and 11.5J x 22” at the rear fitted with ultra-performance tires.

This combination adds an aggressive wedge look to the overall appearance, accompanying the dynamic look of DMC’s styling package.

DMC Ferrari California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber

Source: DMC

November 22, 2011

Author: Victor Ivanov