Author: Victor Ivanov

  • Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convetible

    Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible is on its way. The vehicle is based on open-top 6-Series with 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8. The stylish convertible received both styling and performance upgrades.The engine is boosted to staggering 507PS (373 kW) at 5500RPM and 700Nm (516 lb-ft) at 3000RPM. This is an improvement of 100PS and 100Nm over the stock 650i Convertible. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 311 km/h (193 mph). Still, the engine is not thirsty at all – 10.9 liters per 100 km on combined cycle and 225 g/km of CO2.The exterior package includes modified front bumper, perhaps a bit different rear one and some badging.Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible will be exhibited at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

    Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convetible
    Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convetible

  • ABT 2012 Audi RS3

    ABT Sportsline has announced a special tuning program for the hot hatch – Audi RS3.

    The tuned vehicle is powered by a 2.5 liter five-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 470PS (346 kW) and 630Nm, instead of 340PS (250 kW) and 450Nm. The results are thanks to a new ABT turbocharger and a modified motor management.

    However, the tuning company offers slightly less powerful version – 420PS (309 kW) for a lot less money.

    Furthermore, you can order the 2-pipe stainless steel ABT exhaust system, ABT light alloy wheels – 19” fitted with 255/30 R19 on the front axle, 225/35 R19 on the rear one.

    ABT 2012 Audi RS3 FrontSide
    ABT 2012 Audi RS3 FrontSide

    ABT 2012 Audi RS3

    • ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGYEngine:                        2.5 TFSI, 2.480 ccm capacity
      Performance tuning:   ABT POWER
      Performance:              420 HP/309 kW (standard: 340 PS/250 kW)

      Engine:                        2.5 TFSI, 2.480 ccm capacity
      Performance tuning:   ABT POWER S
      Performance:              470 HP/346 kW (standard: 340 PS/250 kW)

    • ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGYABT stainless steel exhaust system
    • ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGYABT BR, CR or DR in 8,5×19 inch
      Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres

    Source: ABT

  • VATH Mercedes CL63 AMG

    The new Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG – C216 received another tuning package, but this time from VATH. The tuner offers both – styling and performance upgrades.

    The V63S package includes an ECU re-map and a sport exhaust system, which boost the mighty 5.5 liter twin-turbo V8 to whopping 630PS (463 kW) and 930Nm (685 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 86 PS (63 kW) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft). Not bad at all. This reflects to 4.3 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of over 330 km/h (206 mph).

    Other performance upgrades are a sport suspension module and a high-performance braking system.

    The styling boasts – 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile high-performance tires and a carbon fiber styling package.

    Also, the leather interior gives the car a prestigious looks. By the way, the carbon or precious wood lining is available in accordance with your desire.

    VATH Mercedes CL63 AMG FrontSide
    VATH Mercedes CL63 AMG FrontSide

    Source: VATH

  • 2012 Honda Pilot Price – $28 470

    Honda has officially revealed the eight-passenger SUV – 2012 Pilot, which come with a sleeker front-end design, enhanced interior features and an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 25 mpg.

    The exterior modifications include a three-bar grille and restyled headlights. There are also a new windshield and big 18” alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tires.

    The interior boasts revised instrument cluster, new dashboard, power windows and locks, a 7-speaker premium audio system and 4-way air conditioning.

    The SUV comes in four different trim levels – LX, EX, EX-L and Touring.

    Standard comfort and convenience features on the Pilot LX include a front and rear air conditioning system with air-filtration system, keyless entry with simplified operation, tilt and telescope steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver’s and passenger’s window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Radio Data System (RDS), trip computer, heat-rejecting tinted glass, integrated Class III towing receiver, and more. For 2012, the Pilot LX adds AAC audio file playback capability from data discs to the CD player.

    2012 Honda Pilot Interior
    2012 Honda Pilot Interior
    • Pilot EX

      The Pilot EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a power driver’s seat with 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support, security system, XM Radio®5, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® Remote System, and more. For 2012, the Pilot EX now also features Bluetooth HandsFreeLink (previously exclusive to EX-L with Navi and above models), Bluetooth audio streaming and a new 2 GB CD Library (CD-L) replaces the previous 6-disc CD changer.

    • Pilot EX-L

      Additional Pilot EX-L features include leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, 4-way power front passenger’s seat, one-touch power moonroof, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and the availability of either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 or the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. The addition of either the navigation or the entertainment system also adds a 115-volt power outlet. New for 2012 is the addition of a power tailgate to the Pilot EX-L, a USB Audio Interface, and an intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with QVGA resolution. The i-MID includes a rearview camera display, iPod album artwork display and a user-loadable wallpaper function.

    • Pilot EX-L with Navigation

      The Pilot EX-L with Navigation adds an upgraded navigation system with higher VGA resolution replacing the previous QVGA display and an internal hard drive that replaces the previous model’s DVD-based system. New features include FM Traffic, Song by VoiceTM, rearview camera with a 3-mode display and a Multi-Information Display in the center of the gauge cluster.

    • Pilot Touring

      The top-of-the-line Pilot Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 with rearview camera, a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink4 and Audio Streaming (with selected phones), the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System, two-position memory seats, roof rails, corner and backup sensors, side-mirror integrated turn indicators and more.Colors available for 2012 include Alabaster Silver Metallic, Bali Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic, Taffeta White, White Diamond Pearl, new Dark Amber Metallic (replaces Mocha Metallic) and new Glacier White (Pilot Touring). Fabric and leather interior color choices, which are matched to selected exterior colors, include beige, black or gray.

    2012 Pilot comes with 3.5 liter V6 petrol engine delivering 253PS (186 kW) and 343Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque. The engine manages to return up to 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway on two-wheel drive. If you have 4WD – 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

    The 2012 Honda Pilot is priced at $28 470.

    2012 Honda Pilot FrontSide
    2012 Honda Pilot FrontSide

    Source: Honda

  • Land Rover DC100 Concept

    Land Rover will exhibit the DC100 Concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The manufacturer also confirmed, that production of a new Defender is intended for 2015.

    The Land Rover DC100 concept builds upon the essential elements of the car’s character and allows Land Rover to open the debate and inspire people to dream about the Defenders of the future.

    “Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a car that inspires people worldwide.  This isn’t a production-ready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century.”, commented Gerry McGovern, Director of Design, Land Rover.

    “Loved the world over for its simple, honest and distinctive design, we are determined that the new Defender will be true to its heritage, while meeting the requirements of a changing global market.”, added John Edwards, Global Brand Director, Land Rover.

    We plan to engage with existing and potential customers to help us finalise the details of the new vehicle.  One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be an exciting journey, and we can’t wait to get going.”, Mr. Edwards finished.

    Land Rover DC100 Concept Offroad
    Land Rover DC100 Concept Offroad

    Source: Land Rover

  • Infiniti FX50 Performance Concept

    Infiniti will exhibit FX50 Performance Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13. The vehicle is designed with contributions from Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel.

    The vehicle is based on the FX50 facelift, which is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 with 390PS (287 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque.

    FX50 Performance Concept boasts revised front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lights, carbon fiber side skirts, a roof spoiler and different rear bumper.

    The crossover stands on enormous wheels in new design fitted with low profile tires.

    There are no roof rails, which is a part of enhanced aerodynamics.

    Stay tuned for more information!

    Infiniti FX50 Performance Concept FrontSide
    Infiniti FX50 Performance Concept FrontSide

    Source: Infiniti

  • Alfa 4C Concept

    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept will be also presented at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt next month. It now boasts fluid metal exterior colour that dynamically enhances the smooth lines of the car.

    4C Concept has a total weight of 850 kilos and a power unit with more than 200BHP, which means less than 4kg per HP, not bad at all.

    The Alfa 4C Concept uses technology and materials derived from the 8C Competizione – carbon, aluminium, rear-wheel drive – and technology from Alfa Romeo models currently on sale: the 1750 turbo petrol engine with direct injection, the ALFA TCT twin dry clutch transmission; and all the best of Alfa’s DNA technology, obviously including the Alfa DNA dynamic control selector.

    Other cars on display will be – Giulietta and MiTo.

    The Giulietta is equipped with the next generation ALFA TCT twin dual dry clutch semi-automatic transmission. This innovative transmission ensures greater driving comfort and a sportier feel than conventional automatic gearboxes, combined with improved efficiency and lower fuel consumption levels. The ALFA TCT transmission will be available with a choice of two engines : the 1.4 TB MultiAir 170BHP engine and the 2.0 JTDM-2 170BHP diesel engine.

    The MiTo will showcase two new engines – a revolutionary 0.9 TwinAir TB 85bhp and a new 1.3 JTDM 85bhp .  The award winning TwinAir engine developed by Fiat Powertrain, develops 85 bhp at 5,500 rpm and torque of 145Nm at 2,000 rpm. By using the Start&Stop device and the smart alternator, the MiTo Twin Air engine has the lowest value of CO2 emissions with petrol engines in its class : 98g/km.

    Alfa 4C Concept RearSide
    Alfa 4C Concept RearSide

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Peugeot RCZ Asphalt HDi

    Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Limited Edition will be also available with diesel powered engine. The petrol version with 1.6 liter turbocharged power unit was introduced an year ago and now it is turn to the more economical variant.

    Peugeot RCZ Asphalt HDi is powered by a 2.0 liter diesel engine with 200PS (147 kw) and a lot of torque. The engine is well-known with its qualities and low fuel consumption.

    The limited edition RCZ boasts matt black exterior, sleek 10-spoke 19-inch lightweight alloys wrapped in high-performance Continental tires, as well as special ‘Asphalt’ badging.

    No further information is released, but the car will be introduced at the Frankfurt IAA in September.

    Stay tuned!

    2010 Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Rear
    2010 Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Rear

    Source: Peugeot

  • 2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

    2012 Acura TSX Special edition will be exhibited at the Orange County International Auto Show. The model is created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the popular sports sedan. It will add even more sportiness to the TSX lineup thanks to numerous exterior and interior upgrades for Acura’s entry-level sedan.

    The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper, revised rear bumper, a pair of new side skirts and nice 17 alloy wheels fitted with low profile performance tires.

    The interior boasts exclusive seating surfaces with perforated black Lux Suede® inserts with red backing. There is also red lighting for the instrument cluster gauges, overhead lighting and footwell lighting.

    The saloon is powered by a 2.4 liter four-cylinder petrol with 204PS (150 kW) and 230Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic gearbox.

    “The Acura TSX has long been known for its high-revving 4-cylinder engines and sporty driving nature,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales.

    “With the new Special Edition, the TSX becomes even more youthful and sporty in character, furthering its appeal to performance-minded buyers.”, he finished.

    2012 Acura TSX Special Edition FrontSide
    2012 Acura TSX Special Edition FrontSide

    Source: Acura

  • Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59

    Porsche has announced a new special edition of 911 Carrera. The model is Carrera GTS B59 coming with a lot exterior, interior and performance upgrades. It is specially built to celebrate Hurley Haywood’s five overall wins at the 24 Hours of Daytona.

    “Our special B59 Edition project is nearing completion and soon the driving fun will begin,” said Ray Shaffer, Brumos Porsche General Manager.

    “It is an honor and a pleasure to be involved so closely with the Porsche factory in Germany and here in the States during the creation of these special 911s – the last of the popular 997 model line and a fitting tribute to Hurley Haywood’s amazing record of overall wins at the Daytona 24 Hours (1973, ’75, ’77, ’79 and ’91).”, he added.

    B59 is powered by a 3.8-liter flat-six with 408PS (300 kW) and 420Nm (310 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a Vmax of 306 km/h (190 mph).

    The model will be run in limited production of just five units as each is priced at $133 540.

    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Side
    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Side

    Porsche Carrera GTS B59:

    – Brumos Red/Blue stripe design for the front hood and rear deck
    – Brumos Red/Blue stripe “PORSCHE” door decals
    – Exterior mirrors in Black
    – 19″ Sport Classic Wheel (Fuchs style)
    – Interior limitation badges
    – Door entry guards in Stainless Steel with “Hurley Haywood” engraved signature
    – Deviating (dual stripe) stitching in Red/Blue on steering wheel and gear/brake lever
    – Carrera White painted interior accents including Adaptive Sport Seat Backrests

    Performance and comfort options include;

    – Sport Chrono Package Plus
    – Sport Shifter
    – Sports Suspension including PASM and Limited Slip Rear Differential Lock
    – BOSE Surround Sound System
    – XM Satellite Radio Receiver
    – Extended Navigation Module for PCM 3.0
    – Heated Front Seats

    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Rear
    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Rear
    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Interior
    Porsche 911 Carrera GTS B59 Interior

    Source: Porsche

  • SsangYong Concept XUV 1

    SsangYong has introduced the Concept XUV 1, which uses large glass areas along with carefully curved bodywork to look imposing without seeming to appear aggressive. Furthermore, the wraparound windscreen visually extends the glass area virtually uninterrupted to the large C-pillars, perfectly complemented by a full length glass roof.

    The Concept XUV1 is a premium CUV – Crossover Utility Vehicle having unique interior design – 1+1+2 or 1+3 seating layouts. Of course, the vehicle offers plenty of inner space and has latest automotive technology, leading to the show car’s name: Concept XUV 1 is derived from Excellent User Interface Vehicle 1. All major cabin functions are controlled via mobile devices and smart instruments, while the coach style door offers easy access to the futuristic cabin.

    All this versatility comes within the confines of a compact B segment sized vehicle, a sector which has experienced rapid growth in crossover models in recent years.

    Definitely, the XUV 1 will be very interesting vehicle on the market and many will find themselves in it.

    SsangYong Concept XUV 1 FrontSide
    SsangYong Concept XUV 1 FrontSide

    Source: SsangYong

  • Infiniti JX Concept

    Infiniti JX Concept is exhibited at the 2011 Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California. The vehicle is a new 7-passenger/3-row luxury crossover that joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012.

    The JX Concept was unveiled by Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura.

    “The JX Concept advances the Infiniti design language, sharing design cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover,” said Mr. Nakamura.

    “From the dramatic front grille and headlight design to the crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse shape, the JX Concept shines as a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the three-row luxury crossover segment.”, he added.

    The interior offers class-leading roominess, along with a 2-nd row seat design that tilts and slides forward providing exceptionally easy 3-rd row access. There are also a 14-speaker Bose Studio Surround system and Infiniti Connection Telematics.

    The safety is granted by Blind Spot Intervention and Backup Collision Intervention.

    Still, this is a concept and the production version will make its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this November. 2013 Infiniti JX is expected to hit the market in the spring of 2012.

    Infiniti JX Concept Front
    Infiniti JX Concept Front

    Source: Infiniti