Auto News – Page 193 – Automobiles Review

SPEED-BUSTER celebrates the 30th anniversary of BMW M5 with unique tuning program

SPEED-BUSTER offers comprehensive power upgrade for the entire BMW M5 range

BMW 5-Series is 44 years old! Can you believe that? It is almost impossible to grasp that one of the most iconic models in BMW’s lineup has debuted back in 1972 and ever since then it has been praised as being one of the best middle class prestige saloons. Fourteen years later, in 1986, BMW released an M version (M5) of the model, topping a 286 hp of performance and taking the crown as the fastest production saloon in the world! How cool is that actually!

But what happens with the current M5 series. BMW is celebrating 30 years of its introduction with the release of a special edition model. What is more, it has added the unique Gran Turismo variant, which in our opinion shows even better the capabilities of the outstanding Bavarian company.

The current series, M5 F10, has a power output between 560 and 600 hp depending on the variant one chooses. The horsepower is pretty much enough, but for those who want even more there is always someone who will offer “even more”. In this case, such someone is the renowned chip tuning company SPEED-BUSTER. The experts there have prepared a muscle-building program for the German blockbuster.

Speed Buster BMW M5 F10 front view

They have developed a special Chiptuning-Box, which re-maps the electronic brain controlling the TwinPower Turbo V8 engine. If one has chosen to go for the “30 Years” anniversary model, then after the modification he or she will be getting up to 695 hp, which is an increase of 95 hp. The torque has been uprated from 700 Nm to 844 Nm.

Owners of the of the M5 Competition Package variant are getting even more. The power increase has been estimated around 108 hp, thus making the numbers increase from 575 hp to a rousing 683 hp, with peak torque up from 680 to 839 Nm.

The least powerful variant among the M5s is the standard one which comes with “only” 560 hp and 680 Nm. After the SPEED-BUSTER Chiptuning-Box intervention, it is now capable of 631 hp and 820 Nm.

Source: Speed Buster

July 11, 2016

Mazda MX-5 race teams prepare for a big race in September

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car British MX-5 racer Oliver Allowood secured a neat seat in the Mazda MX-5 Global Cup car for this year’s Global MX-5 Cup race that took place this year at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Oliver, who raced with a Mk1 MX-5, is one of just five European racers that have won fully-funded trips to race at the legendary American track.

As we have told you, with the support of Mazda UK, the championship leaders of the British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC) MX-Championship, 750 Motor Club, MX-5 Club and some more joined the intense knock-out competition at the ParcMotor Circuit. And there were five racers that have proven worthy: Moritz Kranz (Germany), Kamil Franczak (Poland), Erik Blixt (Sweden), Oliver Allwood (UK), Gabriele Gardel (Switzerland).

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car

Based on the well-known and award-winning Mazda MX-5, the Global Cup car has been created in order to deliver this same road capability, but with some track-oriented improvements. It is built by Long Road Racing in North Carolina USA and offers the aid of the standard 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G power unit with sealed racing ECU, FIA-approved safety cage, AIM data system and special radiator. Of course, there are race springs, Brembo brakes and neat 17-inch RAYS wheels with slick tires. Long story short, racers will compete with a slightly improved road car.

The standalone global MX-5 Cup Race will be held at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca circuit in September. There will be racers from all around the world: America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car

Stick with us for further information!

Source: Mazda

July 11, 2016

2016 smart BRABUS Xclusive: launching and advertisement campaigns

2016 smart BRABUS Xclusive BRABUS’ new smart vehicle got famous for two thing: unique agility and incredible dynamics. Available as smart BRABUS or smart BRABUS Xclusive, the vehicle will also be available in fortwo, cabriolet and forfour variants later this year. And as it seems, BRABUS team decided to go for a advertisement campaign.

The team has already launched a video, named “Most Xclusve Test Drive”. It showcases how special and different the driving experience is. Or, at least it tries to be. The film shows three different groups of people who want to try out the BRABUS: a family, a couple and a group of friends. Of course, as you may have already expected, there is a plot twist. The ride gets more exclusive than anyone expected.

2016 smart BRABUS Xclusive

Also, in order to support the market launch of the vehicle, smart will be launching a mobile Live Escape Game in Hamburg, Vienna, Barcelona and Rome from September. What we know so far is that participants will be randomly selected people that will be divided by groups of four and two and the task is to get out of the maze with a BRABUS Xclusive vehicle.

To support the market launch of the new smart BRABUS on an international scale too, smart will be staging a mobile smart BRABUS Live Escape Game in Hamburg, Vienna, Barcelona and Rome from September onwards. The participants are randomly selected people in the respective cities who are interested to play. In groups of two to four people, they will be trapped inside the BRABUS Live Escape Game with the smart BRABUS Xclusive and given a set length of time to escape. Within this set time, the players must solve interactive puzzles with and about the smart BRABUS to liberate the car from the garage. The participans will get a small prize, but that is going to be a surprise.

2016 smart BRABUS Xclusive

Source: Daimler

July 11, 2016

A legendary Jaguar E-Type has returned to us! Check the story here!

1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster Chassis 62 A missing Jaguar E-Type vehicle, considered to be one of the most sought-after early examples of the model has been discovered in the depths of Scotland. It will be offered at auction by Silverstone Auctions at the Silverstone Classic on the 30th and 31st of July.

This 1961 Series 1 Roadster, Chassis #62 has a rather interesting story. It is one of the first 92 hand-crafted models and had mysteriously disappeared at a certain time. Historians and experts were trying to know more about this Jaguar’s whereabouts for decades, but without any feasible result. Also, the first 20 units of this particular lineup have been fine-tuned to offer some sporty character and were believed to be the “Holy Grail” of E-Types and unarguably, for vehicle collectors.

1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster Chassis 62

And this particular, Chassis #62, was dispatched to Scotland in July 1961 via Henleys of London for use as a demonstrator vehicle in the whole Edinburgh area. Funny thing is that, it was expressly forbidden for the car be sold until September of the same year, but was purchased by its first owner right in the beginning of September.

Through the years the Jaguar vehicle was passed from owner to owner within Edinburgh area and back in 2013 it has passed in the dominion of its fifth and current owner who was completely unaware of the fact that he possesses a sort of the “Holy Grail” of vintage sports cars. I can imagine the excitement the felt.

1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster Chassis 62

And with this interesting story to be told for generations, the E-Type will be offered at the auction with its original Jaguar Heritage Certificate with a starting price between $180,000 and 220,000 USD.

Luckily, the car is still in impeccable visual and performance condition, thanks to the meticulous cares of its last owner. Finished in Carmen Red with black-dominated interior, the vehicle still has some original features and this so-called “fat floor”, split-link throttle linkage, thicker screen chrome mouldings and smooth cut-away groove at the top of the A-post capping.

Source: Silverstone Auctions

July 8, 2016

The latest Tiguan will rely on heavy personalization: from engines to floor mats and pedal caps

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan We have yet another Tiguan. But this time Volkswagen team has decided to heavily rely on personalization and additional tweakable features. Available in a total of five trim levels, the latest addition in the lineup will definitely try to please every single customer. But is it going to succeed?

The Tiguan shows sharp body language with neat lines and confident expression. Just like all Tiguans, in fact. Muscular in its stance, the vehicle demonstrates sharp-edged and straight-lined front fascia, direct side lines, and muscular and minimalistic rear styling. Some of the optional features include protective strip for the tailgate, high quality sill trims to protect the bodywork, and front and rear mud flaps. Sweet.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

The inside will definitely fit all family people out there and people who have already seen enough of the automobile world. The class-leading appearance is still here, but this time with some additional goodies. Optionally, buyers can gear the new Tiguan with different floor mats, pedal cap set and.. some more practically useless tweaks. Good thing is that the SUV remains well-equipped with numerous safety features and technologies.

Also, in terms of load capacity, VW team offers flexible boot liner to prevent items from sliding, luggage net, upper partition grille and metal barrier for families with pets. And as we talk about families, we should also mention that Tiguan can also be specified with roof load bards, bicycle holder, ski and snowboard holder and more.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

Of course, we also get anti-theft system, engine immobiliser as standard features, but for all of those who seek even greater protection, engineering team offers optionally CobraTrak Plus vehicle tracking system.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

So, how do you find the flexibility of the new Tiguan? We like it! Write your opinion down in the comment section!

Source: Volkswagen

July 8, 2016

Acura NSX GT3 Racecar is hot and sweaty on the racetrack

Acura reveals first official images of NSX GT3 Racecar

The first official images of the Acura NSX GT3 racecar have been revealed, showing the car sexy and sweaty on the racetrack. The twin-turbocharged NSX GT3 was shot with its exposed carbon fiber bodywork at GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, MI. This happens at the time of continuous development at circuits throughout the United States. Acura is actually preparing to campaign the vehicle in North America in 2017 and at the same time it is slated for homologation as an FIA GT3 class racecar this fall.

But we believe that this time the task Acura has undertaken is way easier, since the racer is built over the very solid basis of the production NSX. As they both share many similarities, the most major one is the 3.5-liter, 75-degree, twin turbocharged DOHC V-6 engine. In both cars are used the same design specifications, including the block, heads, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons and dry sump lubrication system. However, the GT3 comes equipped with 6-speed, sequential-shift racing gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels.

To go further into details, the Acura NSX GT3 racecar has been given custom bodywork and aero components, namely large deck wing spoiler and underbody diffuser. We spot enlarged hood vents, which serve to cool down the (probably) uprated engine.

Acura NSX GT3 Racecar side view

By the way, the NSX GT3 has abundant legacy of Acura sports car racing campaigns and championships. These include the 1991, 1992 and 1993 IMSA Camel Lights as well as the 2009 American LeMans championships. Acura is currently campaigning a couple of TLX GT cars with Real Time Racing in the Pirelli World Challenge.

The first development stages of the NSX GT3 racecar were conducted on race circuits in Europe and Japan. Besides the additional development testing, the racer is under final homologation to FIA GT3 global racing specifications. Acura NSX GT3 will be produced by company’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, which is also responsible for the birth of the production NSX. More details to follow soon.

Source: Acura

July 8, 2016

Skoda Kodiaq is here. First images and details reveled!

Skoda Kodiaq SUV breaks cover under military disguise

Skoda Kodiaq has been finally revealed as the company stars its major advertising campaign. Being 4.7m long, the SUV has the largest boot capacity within its class. In addition, it will be offered with the option of a third row of seats. Skoda fans must be excited right now and what they need to know is that the new model will go on sale in the beginning of next year.

Of course, the company did not disclose the entire specification list, but instead put a strong emphasis on the key advantages of Kodiaq. Here is what we know so far.

It seems that Skoda’s way to be future oriented is to include more technology and connectivity features. So, it promises that the Kodiaq will sport a variety of infotainment and online connectivity treats. Precisely, the SUV will be given Volkswagen’s second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix, which offers numerous functions and interfaces, and what Skoda calls “capacitive touchscreens”.

Columbus and Amundsen systems are featured as an option and they come with a WiFi hotspot as well as LTE module for faster mobile services. In addition, the Skoda online services run via the Skoda Connect App, which is also helpful in cases of checking, configuring and finding the car from afar via a smartphone. The SmartLink platform, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLinkTM and SmartGate are all there.

Skoda Kodiaq SUV rear view

The Kodiaq also comes equipped with a wide range of driving assistance system like the Area View cameras, the Tow Assist system and Front Assist, Parking Distance Control and more. But besides the technology and assistance systems, Skoda says that probably the most important asset of Kodiaq is the design, which is “full of character and emotion”. Furthermore, the SUV can be specified as five- or seven-seater, offering a capacity of up to 2,065 litres or the largest boot within its class.

In terms of engines and chassis, the new model in Skoda’s line-up can be specified with two TDIs and three TSIs. At the top of the range stands the 2.0-litre TSI petrol with its 180 hp (132 kW). The transmission options available are the six-speed manual gearbox, DSG transmission, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. One can also go for an off-road ride with the four-wheel drive specification just at the touch of a button specifying the preferred Driving Mode.

Detailed information and more images are going to be unveiled soon as Skoda is starting a major Kodiaq campaign. Stay tuned!

Source: Skoda

July 8, 2016

Mercedes G500 becomes a stylish icon handcrafted by Carbon Motors

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 front view

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 got thorough interior, exterior and engine upgrades

Carbon Motors is probably one of our favorite tuning companies and the reasons for this are many, but mostly because of the exceptional and worthy projects they make. This time under the spotlight is the iconic Mercedes G-Class, which has received substantial interior intervention, and some minor but noticeable exterior updates.

To start with some facts from the history, you might be unfamiliar with the fact that the G in the name of this model comes from the German word Geländewagen, which means “cross-country vehicle”… or simply an off-roader. It was firstly introduced back in 1970s as a military vehicle after an order from the Shah of Iran. Eventually the 4×4 model became a production one, becoming an extremely cherished machine by the automotive enthusiasts all over the planet. Reasonably, some regard it as a fashion icon, too.

But getting back on topic, the less interesting part, the exterior, has received suspension and engine upgrades, which were done with the help of the experts at MD Commerce. On the inside is where the magic has happened. When one steps in, he or she will be amazed by the thorough sophisticated modification.

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 rear view

The experts at the Bulgarian tuning studio Carbon Motors dared to substitute all plastic elements of the G-class W463. Literally everything was handcrafted – from head to toes. What you can see in details on the images featured in the gallery is that the entire door covers, dashboard, central console were upholstered in black leather. For a little bit of contrast, hand stitching was added too. They have even further emphasized the interior through the black Alcantara upholstery for the pillars and headliner.

Turning on the engine, especially the one of the G-Class, might be deemed as noisy. For this reason, Carbon Motors fitted the 4×4 off-roader with noise and vibro-isolation. At last, for a more pleasurable ride, they have installed 500 watt hi-fi sound system.

Carbon Motors Mercedes-Benz G500 W463 interior

Hope this G-Class excites you as much as it excites us.

Source: Carbon Motors

July 7, 2016

Yaris Orange Edition: necessary or unneeded summer toy?

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition Yaris, one of Toyota’s most popular models received a summer refresh. The Orange Edition will be recognized by the new orange (you don’t say!) metallic body finish and some noticeable and other not so noticeable tweaks made on the outside and the inside of the vehicle.

The bright exterior coloring completely matches the black details that include door mirror casings, rear pillar and side sills. In fact, the sills also feature a sweet chrome flash. The honeycomb-shaped grille is also covered in black matte, just like the sweet 16-inch machined-face alloys.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

The interior also received some tweaks. For example, the whole cabin is dominated by the so-called black-on-black theme: there are black headlining and instrument panel, fresh black and grey cloth upholstery and matching piano black finishes for the air vents, central console and gear knob. And the most important thing in a vehicle’s cabin, the mats welcome you with contrasting orange stitching. Sweet.

You may notice that the whole facelift is based on the Yaris Icon lineup, but with some slight changes and exclusive additions. Orange Edition buyers will be granted with Cruise Control System, Automatic Air Conditioning (hybrid model only), LED rear lights and rear spoiler. Of course, Toyota lovers won’t be deprived by Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, rearview camera, projector headlights, LED daytime lights and front fog lights.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

And the drivetrain system? The “Orange” can be ordered with three engines: a 1.33 VVT-i petrol with six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel power unit with manual transmission and a 1.5-liter VVT-i petrol hybrid unit.

Toyota Yaris Orange Edition can already be ordered, but deliveries can be expected in August of this year. Prices start from $20,450 USD.

Source: Toyota

July 7, 2016

Renault proudly presents the new RS 200 EDC sporty beast. Check it out!

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC Renault team unveiled a fresh new Clio with tons of neat features! Incorporating the best of the R.S. lineup, along with adding some new tweaks, the Clio R.S. 200 EDC seems to be an honorable candidate to the R.S. family lineup!

Jumping right into the drivetrain specs, we like what we see: a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol power unit with a choice of two output levels (200hp or 220hp for the Trophy model), paired to a six-speed EDC dual-clutch with steering wheel paddle shifters.

What is also special about the new R.S. machine is that it can be specified with three different types of chassis, giving buyers the opportunity to customize their personal vehicle. The choices are indeed a variant with 17-inch wheels, one with 18-inch wheels, and a special Cup chassis variant with 18-inch wheels with some track fine-tunes.

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC

Also a neat feature is that the Trophy version can be specified with exclusive exhaust, which is based on the Clio R.S.16 Concept car. The system is especially developed in collaboration with industry specialist Akrapovič and what it does is to enhance engine’s acceleration and contribute to that distinctive roar.

Also exclusive for this particular vehicle is the addition of a Launch Control System, R.S. Drive System with three driving modes, R.S. Monitor application and hydraulic compression bump.

Styling

We see a distinctive vehicle with confident stance. The front end is visually widened with new bumpers and incorporates new LED multi-faced lightning system. The sides of the vehicle are defined by 18-inch wheels and notable sills, while the rear proudly shows a new spoiler, diffuser and neat twin exhaust tailpipes.

2016 Renault R.S. 200 EDC

Also, there is an optional GT Line pack that adds Dark Metal air scoops in the front bumper, lateral sills and 16- or 17-inch wheels. There is also an exclusive exhaust with chrome tailpipe and Dark Metal rear bumper panel.

The new Clio will be available for order from September and customer deliveries will begin from the autumn of this year.

Source: Renault

July 7, 2016

How to make your old E-Class look like a Nissan GT-R? Piecha Design answers!

Piecha Design releases GT-R aerodynamic set for the Mercedes-AMG E-Class W212

We are announcing Piecha Design for tuner of the month, because of its unstoppable projects that keep coming to us. More importantly they are all great and rather unusual, and we are more than happy to share them with you! After making a modern variant of the iconic SL Roadster (link below), the designers are ready to introduce something rather special and a little bit strange. They have released a GT-R set (yes, like the Nissan GT-R) for the Mercedes AMG E-Class W212.

You won’t see the latter in dealerships nowadays, because it was produced from 2009 until 2013. Although there has been some time since it went off production, the car still looks contemporary with its four angular eyes and prolonged posture.

What really impressed us here was the name of the kit the tuning studio added: PIECHA GT-R aerodynamic set. We immediately rushed to read more about what it features. So, here are the details, which you might find intriguing too.

Piecha Design Mercedes-AMG E-Class W212 rear

First, the kit is available for limos and T-models. It underlines the dynamic stance of the E-Class with the following in-house made parts: front flics and trims for the AMG side skirts, four-spot skirt LEDs, GT-R inspired rear diffusor (the star here) with its aluminium grid and GT sport-type exhaust (which also comes with various deflectors). The latter includes four oval QUADRO tailpipes sized 118 x 85 mm.

Packed with these goodies the Mercedes runs on 20-inch MP5-LXM alloys. The racing posture of the car is further supported by the new suspension parts. To be more specific, it is the digital electronic Airmatic module, which lowers the ride height by up to 50mm. Controlled by the CANBUS steering-wheel control panel, each axle can be eight-level-adjusted. The necessary details will be displayed on its screen.

Last, but not least, the E-class GT-R has been also given the PIECHA Power-Converter, but the tuner decided to keep the enhanced numbers a secret.

So, which one’s next Piecha? Maybe the SLS AMG?

Source: Piecha Design

July 7, 2016

Jaguar revives nine mythical vintage vehicles! Check them out!

2016 Jaguar XKSS Jaguar Classic announced that the Jaguar XKSS will make its global debut in November this year in California, North America. We believe that this will happen at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

This ultra-exclusive lineup consists only 9 units that are hand-crafted by Jaguar Classic experts and all of them were produced in the same way and with the exact same specifications as the original vehicles from 1957. Cool.

2016 Jaguar XKSS

As you might know, XKSS is believed to be world’s first supercar. Jaguar team has created this model as a road-legal version of the Le-Mans winner D-type and all of the units that were built in ’57 were to be exported to the US, but after a disaster, many of the vehicles were severely damaged and lost to the Browns Lane fire. And 59 years later, Jaguar team decided to revive the nine lost XKSS sports cars specially for established collectors and customers.

The vehicles have been created to be fully compliant with FIA homologation for historic motorsport purposes and all of the “missing” units are created to period-exact dimensions and specification that ensure a 100% authenticity and highest standards in terms of quality and craftsmanship.

1957 Jaguar XKSS