Author: Victor Ivanov

  • Twingo Renaultsport 133 and Clio Renaultsport 200 Silverstone GP

    Renault has recently introduced the flagship 265PS Trophy version of Megane Renaultsport and it is time for the two smaller performance siblings – Twingo and Clio Renaultsport.

    The Silverstone GP limited editions have been already on sale – the prices are 14 995 and £19 995, respectively. However, only 50 units will be produced of each model.

    Both cars sit on lowered Cup Chassis with a striking combination of silver metallic paint and contrasting Deep Black details, 17” alloy wheels (Speedline on the Clio), roof and door mirrors.

    There are also tinted rear windows and Silverstone GP B-pillar badges inscribed with the new grand prix circuit map. The Twingo also benefits from a matching Deep Black rear spoiler and fog light surrounds.

    The pocket-rocket Twingo boasts an all-new Renaultsport full stainless steel exhaust system, providing a suitable throaty soundtrack to match its visual presence.

    The Twingo is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 133PS, while the Clio has naturally aspirated 2.0 liter 16 valves petrol with 200PS.

    Twingo Renaultsport 133 Silverstone GP and Clio Renaultsport 200 Silverstone GP  Renault
    Twingo Renaultsport 133 Silverstone GP and Clio Renaultsport 200 Silverstone GP Renault

    Source: Renault

  • 2012 Audi TT-RS Price – $56 850

    Audi US priced the 2012 TT RS at 56 850 -excluding destination charges, taxes, title, options and dealer charges.

    It is powered by a 2.5 liter turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine with 360PS (265 kW) and 465Nm (343 lb-ft) between 1 650 and 5 400RPM. The engine comes with forged six-bearing crankshaft, weight optimized connection rods, sodium cooled exhaust valves and lightweight pistons with specifically adapted ring assembly.

    The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and quattro all-wheel drive as standard. 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) takes just 4.1 seconds, so the 2012 TT-RS is the fastest in its class.

    The suspension features magnetic ride, which constantly adapts to the current driving situation. A sport mode stiffens the magnetic ride, enhances throttle responsiveness, and activates a more striking engine sound via flaps in the exhaust system.

    The aluminum and steel hybrid ASF® technology also found on the TT and TTS models, reduces weight while helping increase rigidity and safety. The total weight of the car is  1500 kg (3 306 lb) .

    2012 Audi TT-RS
    2012 Audi TT-RS

    The exterior features high gloss black diamond-patterned Singleframe® grille and large front air inlets giving notice of the vehicles performance, as does the fixed rear wing spoiler that provides increased down force. There are also oval exhaust pipes, rear diffuser, unique 19” rotor wheels, prominent body sills and exterior mirror housings in matte aluminum finish round out the RS-specific design elements.

    The interior boasts contoured 3-spoke sport multifunction steering wheel, aluminum door sills with the RS logo, and RS-specific interior door handles. Other interior features include 10-way power sport front seats with three-step heating, leather seat coverings, brushed aluminum interior inlays, and available LED ambient lighting.

    The Audi TT RS offers electronic features one expects from Audi, including Audi concert radio with single CD player and MP3 reading capability, and AM / FM / SAT radio with a complimentary 3-month subscription to SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. Available advanced electronics offer an increased level of sophistication for the premium sports car, including technologies like Audi navigation plus with real time traffic, MMI® inspired controls, a BOSE® sound system, and Audi music interface.

    The 2012 Audi TT RS is a unique car that will appeal to Audi enthusiasts and performance vehicle purists alike. The Audi TT RS goes on sale this summer.

    Check out the specs, below!

    2012 Audi TT-RS Interior
    2012 Audi TT-RS Interior

    2012 Audi TT-RS Specifications:

    ENGINE:
    Type: 2.5 liter turbocharged, in-line five-cylinder, spark-ignition engine with TFSI direct injection, four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts [DOHC], turbocharger with intercooler.
    Arrangement: Front mounted, transverse
    Bore: 3.25 in (82.5 mm)
    Stroke: 3.65 in (92.8 mm)
    Displacement: 151 / 3.25 / 3.65 (2480 / 82.5 x 92.8)
    Compression ratio: 10:01
    Fuel: Unleaded Super, 95 RON (unleaded regular, 91 RON, as an alternative with slight reduction in performance)
    Horsepower (SAE): 360 hp @ 5,500 – 6,700 rpm (265 kW)
    Max. torque: 343 lb-ft @ 1,650 – 5,400 rpm (465 Nm)

    ENGINE DESIGN:
    Cylinder block: Cast iron
    Cylinder head: Aluminum
    Valve train / intake: DOHC, 4 valves/cylinder

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:
    Battery: 380 amp, 80 amp/hr
    Alternator: 140 amp

    DRIVETRAIN:
    Transmission: 6-speed manual, fully synchronized
    Gear ratios:
    1st      3.570
    2nd     2.160
    3rd     1.890
    4th     1.430
    5th     1.160
    6th     0.097
    Reverse     4.500

    STEERING:
    Type: Eletromechanical steering with speed-dependent power assistance
    Ratio: 16.9 : 1
    Turns (lock-to-lock): 2.9
    Turning circle
    (curb-to-curb): 35.96 ft (10.96 m)

    SUSPENSION:
    Front: MacPherson strut (gas charged) with aluminum 3-point lower control arm, aluminum sub frame, tubular anti roll bar, track stabilizing steering roll radius
    Rear: Four-link rear suspension with separate spring/shock absorber arrangement

    BRAKES:
    Service brake: Dual-circuit brake system with diagonal split, ESC, hydraulic brake assistant, front and rear disc brakes ventilated
    Front size: 14.6 in (370 mm)
    Rear size: 12.2 in (310 mm)
    Parking brake: Mechanically actuated at the rear wheels

    WHEELS (standard only):
    Size: Aluminum, 9Jx19

    TIRES (standard only):
    Size: 255/35 R19 Y

    BODY:
    Material: Hybrid ASF construction: Lightweight construction concept, which is a mixed construction using aluminum and steel
    Corrosion protection: Multi-step anti-corrosion protection

    CAPACITIES:
    Engine oil: 6.9 qt (6.5 l)
    Fuel tank: 15.90 gal (60 l)

    EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS:
    Wheelbase: 97.2 in (2,468 mm)
    Track front / rear: 61.2/ 60.9 in (1,555/ 1,546 mm)
    Overall length: 165.3 in (4,198 mm)
    Overall width: w/o mirrors 72.5 in (1,842 mm)
    Height: 53.1 in (1,348 mm)
    Curb weight, quattro: 3306 lb (1500 kg)
    Drag coefficient: 0.32

    INTERIOR DIMENSIONS:
    Seating capacity: 2 + 2
    Head room
    front / rear: 37.7/ 32.6 in (957/ 829 mm)
    Shoulder room
    front / rear: 53.2/ 47.5 in (1,352/ 1,206 mm)
    Leg room
    front / rear: 41.1/ 29.3 in (1,044/ 743 mm)
    Int. vol. (EPA)
    front / rear: 47.7/ 26.2 cu ft
    Luggage capacity
    standard / seats folded: 13.1/ 24.7 cu ft (290/ 700 l)

    PERFORMANCE:

    0-60 mph 4.1
    Top speed 174 mph

    EFFICIENCY/ENVIRONMENT:
    EPA estimate:
    City mpg: Not available at present time
    Highway mpg: Not available at present time
    Combined mpg: Not available at present time

    Source: Audi US

  • KICHERER CLS Edition Black

    Kicherer now offers a performance package for the latest CLS 500 Coupe, which is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 engine with 408PS (300 kW) and 600Nm (444 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h takes 5.5 seconds and the top speed is limited at 250 km/h (155 mph).

    However, the tuning company installed a software update and a sports exhaust system to increase the power of the CLS with 62PS and 90Nm. There are no performance data, but a tenth or two of a second will be cut off.

    The car stands on hand-made KICHERER RS-1 20” forged wheels fitted with high-performance tires. There are also 6-piston callipers at the front and 4-piston at the rear of the high performance braking system. With its compound discs and the flexible stainless steel hoses this ensures the appropriate negative acceleration for the performance is produced.

    The interior boasts highest quality materials like door sills in piano lacquer.The chassis was refurbished to match the exterior character of the car with a HighEnd Foliation in matte black and carbon.

    Kicherer CLS looks stunning and it is a great way to improve your boring Merc.

    KICHERER CLS Edition Black
    KICHERER CLS Edition Black

    Source: KICHERER

  • Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz CL W215

    Prior Design has introduced a special styling package for an old Merc – CL W215. The coupe is completely redesigned and now it has even better stance on the road.

    The aerodynamics package includes a new Prior-Design front bumper, a pair of Prior-Design side skirts, a Prior-Design rear bumper with diffuser, which houses the 4-pipe sport exhaust system. There are also Prior-Design front fenders and all mounting material needed for the installation of the parts.

    All parts are tested and come with TÜV certificate.

    Package includes:

    • – Prior-Design front bumper
    • – Prior-Design side skirts (2X)
    • – Prior-Design rear bumper
    • – Prior-Design front fenders
    • – Mounting material
    • – TÜV parts certificate included.
    Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz CL W215
    Prior-Design Mercedes-Benz CL W215

    Source: Prior-Design

  • Black Pearl Volkswagen Golf VI GTI

    SIEMONEIT RACING has unveiled a special tuning package for the new Golf VI GTI. The name of the project is black pearl.

    The exterior tuning package consists of  a carbon-fibre bonnet, in-house sport exhaust system and a set of nice wheels.

    The performance package consists of a special air intake which forces cooler air into the combustion chamber for better efficiency. There is also an ECU re-map and the results are more than satisfying – 355 PS and 485 Nm. However, Hardware modifications will transform the R20 Golf into a beast producing about 530HP.

    At SIEMONEIT RACING the stainless steel SR20.500.1 exhaust system for the current Golf R20 was developed for performances well above the 500 HP limit. The system starts out at 76mm at the turbocharger with a 100 cpi (or optionally a 200 cpi) metal catalytic converter and from there it goes straight through to the two 90-mm exhaust outlets. The system is made of US405.409 marine quality stainless steel and is indispensable for performance of 330 HP and above. It goes without saying that the system is ready for the TÜV Inspection.

    Black Pearl Volkswagen Golf VI GTI
    Black Pearl Volkswagen Golf VI GTI

    PRICING:

    ECU Modification:                         698€
    DSG Modification:                        298€
    Exhaust System:                         1749€
    Intake System:                               449€
    Center Intercooler:                      1199€
    High Pressure Fuel Pump:          499€

    Source: SIEMONEIT RACING

  • Citroen C3 e-HDi Airdream VTR+ 93g Price – £15 490

    Citroen will attract customers with several new great offers like the full-electric C-Zero city car to the spacious New C4 hatchback. drivers can take advantage of both the financial and environmental benefits of owning a stylish new, sub-100g Citroen.

    C3 models with e-HDi 90 micro-hybrid powertrain, including second-generation Stop & Start can achieve CO2 emissions of as low as 93g/km and to return up to 78.5mpg.

    The C3 HDi 70 manual VT has been rehomologated and now offers more efficient fuel consumption and lower emissions – 99g/km and 74.3mpg, instead of 112g/km and 65.7mpg.

    If you need bigger car – New C4 e-HDi 110 Airdream EGS6 VTR+ is a perfect solution with sub-100g/km emissions thanks to a new Aerodynamic Pack and Michelin Energy™ Saver tyres with ultra-low rolling resistance.

    Not only do drivers of these low-CO2 models benefit from improved efficiency to combat rising fuel prices, but there is also free V.E.D and central London commuters could save up to £2,500 a year with congestion charge exemption.* Business users can also enjoy the lowest possible B.I.K tax rates – 0% for C-Zero and just 13% for the nine other diesel powered models.

    “Citroën is committed to improving the efficiency of all its vehicles, minimising running costs to benefit drivers and reducing emissions to help the environment.  With 10 Citroën models now emitting between zero and 100g/km of CO2, new car buyers have an even greater choice of environmentally-considerate models to suit a variety of driving preferences.”, said Linda Jackson, Citroën UK’s Managing Director.

    Citroen C3 e-HDi Airdream VTR+ 93g
    Citroen C3 e-HDi Airdream VTR+ 93g

    2011 Citroen e-HDi Price list:

    MODEL MRR PRICE
    (OTR)
    CO2 EMISSIONS
    (g/km)
    C-Zero £28,155.00† 0
    C3 HDi 70 manual VT £13,390.00 99
    C3 HDi 90 manual Airdream+^ £15,190.00 99
    C3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual VTR+ 93g (NEW) £15,490.00 93
    C3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual VTR+ (NEW) £15,490.00 98
    C3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual Exclusive (NEW) £16,090.00 98
    DS3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual DStyle 95g £14,600.00 95
    DS3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual DStyle £14,600.00 98
    DS3 e-HDi 90 Airdream manual DStyle Plus £15,195.00 98
    New C4 e-HDi 110 Airdream EGS6 VTR+ £19,845.00 98

    †Including £5,000 Government subsidy
    ^ Subject to stock availability

    Source: Citroen

  • BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet

    Brabus has released a stunning tuning package for the latest E-class Cabriolet. The name of the project is BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet and as you may suggest it is just staggering.

    It is powered by a 6.3 liter V12 Bi-turbo based on the three-valve engine of the current Mercedes S 600 model. Further modifications to the engine’s inner workings include cylinder heads optimized for mixture flow and sports camshafts.

    The results – 800PS (588 kW) at 5500RPM and a whopping 1420Nm (1047 lb-ft) of torque, limited electronically in the car to 1 100 Nm (811 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h in 9.9 seconds and the 300 km/h mark is reached in 23.9 seconds. Depending on the final-drive ratio the BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet has a top speed of up to 370 km/h (231 mph). This is officially the world’s most powerful and fastest four-seater cabriolet.

    BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet
    BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet

    The exterior is completely revised – all BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement components were fine-tuned in the wind tunnel, and like in Formula 1 racing they are made from ultra-light yet high-strength carbon fiber.

    The car stands on ultra-wide 9.5J x 19” wheels mounted with size 265/30 ZR 19 tires. At the rear, special carbon-fiber fender flares add 60 mm (2.4 inches) to the width of the BRABUS E V12 Cabriolet. They create space for 10J x 19” wheels mounted with high-performance tires up to size 295/30 ZR 19, supplied by technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.
    The suspension was developed together with Bilstein and features ten selectable settings for bound and rebound front and back. The ride height can also be adjusted by up to 35 mm to suit each driver’s personal preferences.

    The high-performance brake system includes 380 x 37 mm vented and grooved steel brake discs and 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the front axle and 360 x 28 mm discs with 6-piston aluminum fixed calipers.

    The interior matches to the exterior completely. The cockpit is clad in a perfectly finished combination of lipstick-red and black leather. The ergonomically shaped BRABUS steering wheel and inlays made from genuine carbon fiber on dashboard, center console and side trim add sporty highlights. The speedometer with 400-km/h (250-mph) dial bears witness to the unique performance potential of the open-top four-seater car even while it is standing still.

    BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet is priced at EUR 478 000.

    BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet interior
    BRABUS 800 E V12 Cabriolet interior

    Source: Brabus

  • Perodua Myvi Jet and Sport Silver Limited Edition

    Perodua has announced two exciting new limited edition Myvis – the Myvi Jet and the Myvi Sport Silver. However, the cars will be run in limited numbers.

    The Myvi Jet comes with chrome door handles, side mouldings with a stainless steel capping and Myvi motif, remote central locking and 10 spoke 14” silver alloy wheels. The car is finished in ebony black and can be ordered with a manual or automatic gearbox. The price is just £7 499, which is great value for money.

    The Myvi Sport Silver is based on Myvi Sport and comes with a stylish aerodynamic kit, colour matched side mouldings, chrome door handles and interior carbon fibre finishes and also includes 10 spoke 15” titanium alloy wheels. Myvi Sport Silver is finished in glittering silver and is available in manual transmission for just £7 999.

    Both limited editions include the same high level of specification as seen on the standard Myvi including air conditioning, power steering, four electric windows, electric door mirrors and an integrated radio/CD player.

    Perodua Myvi Jet and Sport Silver Limited Edition
    Perodua Myvi Jet and Sport Silver Limited Edition

    Source: Perodua

  • Suzuki SX4 X-EC Special Edition

    Suzuki has announced Special Edition SX4 model – the X-EC will hit the market later this month. It is based on SZ4 grade and competitively priced at £13 430.X-EC comes with metallic paint and is available in two wheel drive format with 120PS 1.6-litre petrol engine and manual transmission only.

    Among the other extras, there are including colour SAT NAV system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB Port, unique alloy wheels, electric folding door mirrors with built in turn signal lamps, rear privacy glass and a new design seat fabric.

    The 1.6 litre petrol engine complies with EURO 5 regulations and returns 45.6mpg with emissions of just 141g/km. It accelerates the SX4 2WD with manual transmission from 0 to 62 mph in 10.7 seconds.

    X-EC is available in three metallic colours; Galactic Grey, Cosmic Black Pearl and Cool White Pearl.

    Suzuki SX4 X-EC Special Edition
    Suzuki SX4 X-EC Special Edition

    Source: Suzuki

  • Infiniti JX Concept [teaser]

    Infiniti has released a teaser picture of the JX Concept model, just ahead of its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18. The Seven-Passenger Luxury Crossover will start the “Power of 7” Campaign.

    The JX Concept is inspired by the FX and Etherea Concept car both looking fantastic. In typical Infiniti style, the JX boasts aggressive styling with sharp curves and recessed headlights.

    “Families don’t have many luxury vehicle options today. The new Infiniti JX will be the 7-passenger antidote to the ho-hum luxury crossovers that are out there right now,” commented Ben Poore, vice president of Infiniti Americas.

    The manufacturer will introduce the production model at the Los Angeles Auto Show, before launching in the spring of 2012.

    Infiniti JX Concept
    Infiniti JX Concept

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2011 Chrysler Grand Voyager

    Chrysler has introduced the new 2011 Grand Voyager.

    The people carrier features more premium looking front end, featuring a revised grille, bonnet and lower fascia. It also boasts LED tail lamps, new rear bumper and revised tailgate.

    2011 Chrysler Grand Voyager offers comfort for 7 adults, because of the new second row Stow ‘n Go seats, which are larger, more comfortable captain’s chairs and feature a new fold-into-the-floor one-touch mechanism.

    The interior boasts a new leather wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel audio controls and cruise control as standard.

    As an option, you can order Uconnect Phone bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, auto dimming rear view mirror, AM/FM/CD/DVD radio with a 6.5” touch screen, 30Gb hard disk drive and rear reversing camera. Limited models also receive blind spot monitoring, crosspath detection and new Nappa leather upholstery.
    The new Grand Voyager is powered by a 2.8-litre CRD diesel engine with 161BHP (118 kW) at 3800RPM and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 12.8 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (115mph). Still, the car can return 33.6mpg (combined) fuel economy, and has a CO2 figure of 222g/km.

    “The sales figures speak for themselves – the Chrysler Grand Voyager has been a hugely successful story,” commented Nigel Land, brand director, Jeep Chrysler UK.

    “This latest list of features and enhancements will further increase the desirability of this powerful, versatile and luxurious vehicle.”, he finished.

    2011 Chrysler Grand Voyager
    2011 Chrysler Grand Voyager

    2011 Chrysler Grand Voyager price list:

    LX £27,995
    Touring £29,995
    Limited £35,995

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2011 Volkswagen Polo Match

    2011 Volkswagen Polo Match joins the model’s range and offers perfect value for money. The new Match model replaces the existing SE and Moda trim levels and also provides £650 worth of equipment.

    2011 Polo Match is priced at £11 300 for the 1.2-litre 60 PS manual

    The exterior boasts 15” “Castille” alloy wheels, front fog lights and heat-insulating tinted rear windows. Inside, there are air conditioning, an RCD 310 radio / CD player, multifunction computer and MDI (Multi Device Interface) with iPod connectivity. The model is also fitted with electric windows and a comfort pack, incorporating remote central locking and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors.

    The safety is granted by four airbags, ABS and ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme).

    The engine range includes two petrol units – a 1.2-litre three-cylinder with 60 PS and a 1.4-litre 85 PS. The diesel is a 1.2-litre 75 PS. All engines come with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard.  A 7-speed DSG option is also available with the 1.4-litre petrol engine.

    2011 Volkswagen Polo Match
    2011 Volkswagen Polo Match

    Check out the pricelist, below.

    2011 Polo Match pricelist:

    Model CO2 emissions,
    g/km
    RRP
    ‘on the road’, £
    1.2-litre 60 PS 3-door 5 spd manual 128 £11,300
    1.2-litre 60 PS 5-door 5 spd manual 128 £11,920
    1.4-litre 85 PS 3-door 5 spd manual 139 £12,605
    1.4-litre 85 PS 5-door 5 spd manual 139 £13,225
    1.4-litre 85 PS 3-door 7 spd DSG 135 £13,865
    1.4-litre 85 PS 5-door 7 spd DSG 135 £14,485
    1.2-litre TDI 75 PS 3-door 5 spd manual 102 £13,520
    1.2-litre TDI 75 PS 5-door 5 spd manual 102 £14,140

    Source: Volkswagen