Author: Victor Ivanov

  • Extreme Turbo Systems Nissan GT-R – World Record 1/4 mile in 7.81 seconds [video]

    Extreme Turbo Systems are proud to state that they have the world’s fastest Nissan GT-R. The modified car is able to cover ¼ mile in just 7.81 seconds with a terminal speed of 294.5 km/h (183 mph). The tuning company didn’t specify any performance figures, but the project is prepared almost entirely from them.

    The previous record belonged to AMS Alpha Omega Nissan GT-R, which crossed the ¼ mile finish line in 7.984 seconds with a terminal speed of 299.3 km/h (186 mph). We must note that the AMS Alpha Omega Nissan GT-R is completely street legal, which can’t be said for the Extreme Turbo Systems GT-R, which by the way uses RWD (rear-wheel drive), instead of AWD (all-wheel drive).

    Of course, AMS Performance won’t leave the situation like this and we have to expect even faster GT-R. The tuning company is the home of the first 9-,8- and 7-second Nissan GT-R, so they know exactly what to do in order to beat that record. Other interesting records held by AMS Alpha Omega GT-R are 60-130 mph (96-209 km/h) in 2.67 seconds and 100-150 mph (160-240 km/h) in 2.42 seconds. It also set 0-60 mph in spectacular 1.72 seconds.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeFTaWtkgqQ#t=197

    Source: Extreme Turbo Systems

  • Bentley at the 2014 New York International Auto Show

    Bentley is going to present the upgraded performance of the Continental GT Speed and the acclaimed V8 engine to the Flying Spur luxury sedan at the 2014 New York International Auto Show.

    “I’m excited for the new Flying Spur V8 and 2015 GT Speed models to make their North American debut in New York,” commented Christophe Georges, President and COO, Bentley Motors, Inc.

    “2013 was a record year for Bentley and demonstrated the high level of performance the brand is capable of. I look forward to seeing that success continue as the depth and breadth of our model lines continue to expand. All of our new products and initiatives will continue to embody the spirit of Bentley’s heritage while delivering effortless performance.”, he added.

    Bentley Continental GT Speed Coupe is powered by an uprated 6.0 liter twin-turbo W12 engine with 626HP (460 kW) and 820Nm (607 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 332 km/h (206 mph).  The GT Speed Convertible is the fastest four seat open top car in the world, capable of 324 km/h (203 mph).

    The flagship comes with sharp front splitter, discrete side skirts and elegant rear diffuser of the Mulliner Styling Specification are finished to match the exterior paint color. The 21” Speed wheel design, headlamps and tail lamps are given a dark tint finish. The exterior modifications are completed with red-painted brake calipers and chrome “Speed” badge.

    The interior boasts a dark mono-tone scheme, accent stripes in a contrasting color are applied across the doors, rear panels, fascia wings, inner console and gear lever. “Speed” branding is sewn to the headrests, while a chrome “Speed” badge enhances the passenger side fascia panel.

    Bentley’s renowned 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine develops now has 500HP and 659Nm (488 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 295 km/h (183 mph). The Flying Spur is capable of covering more than 800km (500 miles).

    Source: Bentley

  • TopCar MINI Cooper S Bully

    Russian tuning company TopCar has unveiled their latest project based on the previous MINI Cooper S. It is named Bully and features a full customization kit.

    The exterior boasts a new front bumper, front and rear fender extensions, two-piece side skirts, an aluminum radiator grille and a new rear bumper apron with diffuser. The complete package costs €4,375, but provides unique aggressive look for the small car. TopCar also offers a REMUS rear silencer with large exhaust tips for additional €592. There is a new set of 18” forged alloy wheels fitted with proper low profile tires – €2,500. Last, but not least is the Brembo big brake system for the front wheels – €2,375.

    The interior is revamped thanks to Mansory. It boasts Nappa leather, green carbon fiber accents and crocodile leather and headrests. The price is spectacular as well as the interior itself – €7,000. All prices exclude 21 % VAT.

    MINI Cooper S is powered by a 1.6 liter supercharged petrol with 163HP (120 kW) at 6,000RPM and 210Nm (156 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox powering the front wheels. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 238 km/h (148 mph). The curb weight is just 1215 kg.

    Source: TopCar

  • 2015 Volkswagen Jetta – US Spec

    Volkswagen US has unveiled the 2015 Jetta Facelift, which will make its official debut  at the 2014 New York Auto Show. The new Jetta Sedan comes with a lot of styling changes for the exterior and the interior. The engine range is also updated as well as the optional equipment.

    The exterior boasts new optional bi-xenon headlights featuring LED DRLs (daytime running lights). There is also a new trunk lid with a ducktail spoiler along with LED taillights for the GLI and Hybrid models. 2015 Volkswagen Jetta also has slightly reworked body in order to be more aerodynamic. There are new underbody panels and modified rain gutters near the A-pillars.

    The interior features new chrome elements for the dash and gauges as well as a new multi-function steering wheel. The air conditioning controls are also new and last, but not least there are some black accents. The manufacturer is also introducing new seat fabric colors and designs and ambient lightning.

    2015 Volkswagen Jetta Facelift still rides on the PQ35 platform (Golf V), but the engine line-up now features a four-cylinder 2.0 liter TDI with 150HP (112 kW), which 10HP more. It will return 32 mpg US in city, 45 mpg US on the highway and 37 mpg US on combined cycle.

    Lastly, the new Jetta can be ordered with a wide range of safety assistance systems including blind spot detection, frontal collision warning and rear cross-traffic alert. Pricing will be announced in the beginning of the summer.

    Source: Volkswagen US

  • 2015 Volkswagen Golf VII SportWagen – US Premiere

    Volkswagen US has presented the all-new 2014 Golf VII SportWagen model with 4MOTION all-wheel drive system and the new EA288 TDI Clean Diesel. The concept version will be presented at the 2014 New York Auto Show and the production model is expected in the beginning of the next year.

    Based on the new MQB (modular transverse matrix) architecture, the Golf SportWagen will continue the trend introduced by the seventh generation Golf whereby it is lighter, bigger, roomier, more fuel efficient and more powerful than the outgoing SportWagen model.

    The new Golf SportWagen is 1.1” longer and 0.7” wider than the current SportWagen model. It is also 0.9” lower, which benefits both aerodynamic performance. The CdA is reduced by almost 10% compared with the previous generation. The interior package has been optimized to give more rear-seat leg- and shoulder room. Although the new SportWagen’s overall height was lowered by nearly an inch, front and rear headroom has been improved by 0.4”.

    There will be two powertrains – a 1.8 liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI – 170HP (125 kW) and the new EA288 2.0 liter common-rail, turbocharged and direct-injection diesel with 150HP (110 kW).  The gasoline model comes with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, while the diesel has 6-speed manual or DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

    The new features include a panoramic sunroof, 12-way power driver’s seat, Climatronic automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs and the Advanced Front-lighting System, Park Distance Control, and available 18” aluminum-alloy wheels.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • 1,000,000 Dacia Dusters in Four Years

    A lot of people used make fun of Dacia, but the Romanian manufacturer has proven that they actually can build cheap and reliable cars. Especially, when they start cooperating with Renault several years, ago. Now, when Duster reached 1 million sales worldwide in more than than 100 countries, nobody laughs.

    “Duster is a truly global success story,” said Arnaud Deboeuf, the Renault Group’s Entry Programme Director.

    “With Renault branding, it perfectly meets the demands of our international customers and is contributing to Renault’s expansion in emerging markets. At the same time, the Dacia-badged version sold in Europe and our Mediterranean Basin markets has succeeded in attracting a new clientele to the brand thanks to the styling and genuine all-terrain capability it delivers for an affordable price. Duster is definitely a model that is winning us new customers.”, he added.

    The facelifted 2014 Dacia Duster now has a new engine, better equipment and improved material quality. The options list has grown a lot and more and more customers want it.

    Duster’s five biggest markets

    Market Brand Total sales since launch
    Russia Renault 151,633
    France Dacia 145,612
    Brazil Renault 117,303
    India Renault 85,974
    Germany Dacia 70,159

    Source: Dacia

  • 2015 Volkswagen Golf VII GTI – Best Interior

    2015 Volkswagen Golf VII GTI is selected to take place in “Ward’s 10 Best Interior” competition for this year.  The editors of the magazine tested more than 40 vehicles and recognized the refined, upscale, and functional new interior of the Golf GTI, which is completely redesigned and scheduled to arrive in dealer showrooms in June.

    The all-new GTI boasts high-quality materials used for the interior as well as a sport steering wheel, GTI shift knob grip and instrument cluster. Other highlights include special trim inserts, and stainless-steel pedals and foot rest. The Golf GTI also features sport seats that are covered with distinctive plaid seating surfaces in the S trim and leather on the SE and Autobahn models.

    Although the new Golf is quite small hatchback, it boasts more interior space – 0.6” more rear-seat legroom; In front, the shoulder and elbow room were increased by 1.2” and 0.9” inches, with commensurate improvements in the back by 1.2” and 0.8”.

    The interior is entirely redesigned compared to the previous model. The wide center console is now oriented towards the driver, a feature that’s more typical of premium vehicles rather than compacts. In the middle of the console, beneath the hazard warning light switch, is the infotainment screen. For the first time, Volkswagen is using touchscreens with a proximity sensor, allowing users to change functions with a swipe of the hand, just like a smartphone.  All Golf models receive a standard 5.8” touchscreen. The available new navigation systems are DVD-based with a 3D display.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Nazionale

    Lamborghini is going to exhibit the Aventador Nazionale Special Edition at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show starting this month. The hyper car is created by the manufacturer’s Ad Personam division and it promises to be a “highly exclusive and appealing configuration”.

    “We entered China in 2005 and for us, today, in terms of sales China represents the second largest market in the world. Therefore we are especially looking forward to present to the Asian public both models, the new Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 and the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 in the special Ad Personam configuration Nazionale.”, commented Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann.

    As a reminder, the Aventador is LP700-4 is powered by a a 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 with 700HP (522 kW) at 8,250RPM and 690Nm (511 lb-ft) at 5,500RPM. The engine is connected to a 7-speed ISR transmission sending the power to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds and 0-300 km/h in 24.5 seconds. The top speed is 350 km/h (218 mph). ¼ mile in 10.2 seconds with 219 km/h and 1 km in 19.1 seconds with 281 km/h.

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Jon Olsson with Rebellion R2K – Snow Drift [video]

    Betsafe has published a nice video on Youtube featuring Jon Olsson and his Rebellion R2K race car drifting in Storlien, Sweden. The spectacular footage was taken with the help of a helicopter and a number of HD cameras.

    “This crazy idea turned out to be one of the most exciting mornings that I have ever had. Pushing full gas while sliding sideways on the top of an empty mountain while the sun is just dipping over the horizon is just hard to beat!”, commented Mr. Olsson.

    He is preparing for the upcoming Gumball 3000 rally in June 2014 and obviously the training includes a lot of fun.

    The Rebellion R2k is based on the Ultima GTR. There is no much information about the street-legal race car, but it has a curb weight of around 1,000 kg and a 600HP (441 kW) engine powering the rear wheels through a sequential gearbox. The car is made almost entirely from carbon fiber. It comes with a Le Mans style body kit and rides on Ohlins ultra-performance coilover suspension. Last, but not least are the ADV1 alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

    No data about 0-100 km/h and a top speed, but with that power and weight, it will be around 3.0 seconds or less and a top speed of over 322 km/h (200 mph).

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPkYb7_rMaA#t=51

    Source: Betsafe

  • ABT Sportsline Audi RS5 Convertible

    ABT Sportsline has unveiled their latest project based on the stylish Audi RS5 Convertible. The cabriolet comes with a number of styling upgrades and new top speed.

    Audi RS5 Convertible has a brutal 4.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 450HP (331 kW) at 6,000RPM and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) at 4,000RPM. The redline of the engine is all the way up to 8,250RPM. It is connected to a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox, which sends the power to Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

    The performance – 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) with speed governor and 280 km/h (174 mph) with optional package. ABT raises the top speed to 290 km/h (180 mph).

    The exterior of ABT RS5 Convertible features new fender inserts, a set of enormous wheels – 8.5J x 19” at the front and 9.5J x 20” at the rear fitted with 255/35 R19 or 275/30 R20 sport tires, respectively. The height adjustable suspension springs can lower the ride height between 15 and 40 mm. The tuning company also offers wheel spacer kit – 4 x 15 mm or 4 x 25 mm.

    Last, but not least is the ABT muffler system including new mid and rear mufflers giving sensational sound to that powerful V8 engine.

    The ABT RS5 Convertible is thus always a fresh breeze – be it closed or open.

    ABT RS5 – Data and Facts

    ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
    Engine: 4.2 FSI, 4163 cc capacity
    Speed Limit now: about 290 km/h

    ABT AERODYNAMICS
    ABT fender inserts

    ABT SUSPENSION
    ABT height adjustable suspension springs (lowering approx. 15-40mm)
    ABT height adjustable suspension kit (lowering approx. 50 mm)
ABT wheel spacer (4 x 15 mm or 4 x 25 mm)

    ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
    ABT muffler system (mid and rear muffler)

    ABT WHEELS
    in design ER-F, ER-C and DR in 8.5 x 19 or 9.5 x 20 inches
    Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tires in sizes 255/35 R19 or 275/30 R20

    Source: Abt

  • 2015 Kia Sedona [teaser]

    Kia has published two teaser images of the upcoming 2015 Kia Sedona (Carnival), which will make its official debut in New York, next week. The passenger vehicle looks pretty good and takes styling cues from other models.

    The mid-size MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) has an almost flat roofline so there will be lots of headroom available. The 2015 Sedona will have rear sliding doors making the entry easier. There will be space for up to eight passengers (7+1), which makes the new Sedona a perfect family vehicle.

    There will be also a new engine – a 3.3 liter V6 GDI delivering a lot of power and returning very good mpg. Other innovations include a new generation UVO Infotainment and Telematics system including some new eServices features. The Korean manufacturer has previously mentioned that the model is going to target “adventure seekers”, so the cabin will have a versatile configuration with numerous storage spaces and the possibility of modifying the seating arrangement.

    More details and official pictures will be released close to vehicle’s official public debut scheduled for 2014 New York Auto Show.

    Stay tuned!

    Source: Kia

  • Peugeot Exalt Concept – Full Details

    Peugeot has released full details about the all-new Exalt Concept, which will make official public debut at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show, this month. With Exalt, the French manufacturer shows their imposing vision of the saloon car by following the approach in 2012 with the Onyx Concept. Peugeot Exalt boasts radical styling choices and high-quality materials. Actually, it looks pretty good.

    The Exalt Concept is pretty big car with an overall length of 4.7 meters and curb weight of 1,700 kg (3,750 lbs). Still, it is only 1.31 meters in height, so the stance is spectacular. Despite that, it has quite spacious interior boasting high-quality materials and nice extras. Speaking about the interior, it comes with a leather and wood trimmed steering wheel as well as a digital instrument cluster featuring two folding touchscreen displays. The first one is for the infotainment system and factions, while the second controls the Pure Blue air purification system and climate control.

    Other nice features include bucket seats manufactured from a wool-based fabric and leather. There is also black ebony wood and carbon fiber trim finishing the unique look of the interior.

    The most important in Exalt Concept is the powertrain – HYbrid4 includes a 1.6 liter THP turbocharged petrol engine with 273HP (201 kW) and 330Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque and a rear-axle mounted 68HP (50 kW) electric motor. The total output is 344HP (253 kW) delivered to AWD system through a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The gasoline engine is taken from Peugeot RCZ R.

    Source: Peugeot