Auto News – Page 261 – Automobiles Review

This Custom Mercedes CLA45 is a Real Turbo Sapphire

Loewenstein Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is also popular under another name, which is the SAPHIR LM45-410 Turbo. The car has been customized and now features extensive wide body kit and enhancement for its engine. CLA is actually one of the newest additions in Mercedes line up of vehicles, which has powerful characteristics and in fact is capable of stock 360 hp (265 kW) and a maximum torque of 450 Nm (333 lb-ft). These numbers make the engine driving the CLA the most powerful cylinder unit worldwide.

Power Uprating

Loewenstein were impatient to do more for the CLA and therefore they have created a Plug&Play system, which is fully reversible in less than 1 hour work. The module helps the powertrain produce 410 HP (305 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. But there is more, precisely: in-house made downpipe with sport catalytic converter and a full carbon fiber engine hood with integrated induction air-intake with sport air filters. As a result, the peak performance jumps to 425 hp (313 kW) and maximum torque of 540 Nm (399 lb-ft).

Optical Refinement

Loewenstein Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Rear

Besides the engine modification, Loewenstein gave the CLA an optical refinement with carbon fiber aerodynamic program, which includes the following details. First, the widebody is made of the lightweight carbon fiber. There is a 20 mm widening per side on the front axle, which is completed with a carbon fiber RS front spoiler. At the rear we see a huge tail with its 40 mm widening per side, which is further highlighted with a three piece carbon fiber trunk spoiler. Carbon RS rear diffuser and the milled design exhaust end tips are rounding out the optical modifications here.

CONCAVE wheels in sizes 8.5×20 and 10×20 inches at the front and rear were coupled with slip-proof Michelin Pilot Super Sport high-performance tires of the dimensions 245/35 ZR20 on the front axle and 285/30 ZR20 on the rear axle. And therefore they perfectly fill out the enlarged wheel arches.

Details Inside

Loewenstein did do something special for the interior. The passenger compartment now features a lot of carbon fiber on the steering wheel, the door decorative strips and the dashboard appliances, including the middle console. Floor mats and baggage compartment protectors were also added and they were made of soft velour, and they basically round out the extensive tuning program for the CLA.

Source: LOEWENSTEIN

December 2, 2015

Carlex Design Refreshes The Interior Of a Lucky R-Class Car!

2015 Carlex Design Merdeces-Benz G-Class Carlex Design decided to give some spark to that not-so-popular Mercedes R-Class model with some tuning and visual refreshments. The R-Class, especially made for the Chinese market, underwent comprehensive tests and experiments. For example, the interior is now refreshed and fits better the glossy all-black exterior appearance. Offering Alcantara leather and enhanced comfort, the cabin is really a sweet place for one to be. Just look at the driver’s seat, the front console and the overall calming and cozy ambience that the team created.

2015 Carlex Design Merdeces-Benz G-Class

In fact, there is also a hippopotamus leather incorporated in the front seats, which ultimately enhances the feeling of quality and exclusivity. Also important element is the dominating color. The always-modern and stylish black scheme is the preferred choice by the team. We should immediately mention that it does not bring that much of “dark” in the cabin, but just the opposite. The dominating dark tones really contribute to that feel of warmth and comfort and also fits well with that well-known and notorious Mercedes-Benz style and appearance.

Apparently focusing mainly on the interior style, Carlex Design definitely went for that comfort-delivering approach. And frankly, the combination of a trustworthy Mercedes vehicle and exclusively enhanced cabin design would make any Merdeces-Benz skeptic reconsider his opinion about the brand and what it has to offer. Especially with some attention by professionals like Carlex Design.

2015 Carlex Design Merdeces-Benz G-Class

Source: Carlex Design

December 2, 2015

Ford’s Latest GT Supercar Is Named Official Vehicle of CES 2016

2016 Ford GT Ford returns to CES in January with a ton of news and demonstration of brand’s new approach towards latest Ford products and strategies. Ford team will make a special conference of CES 2016 on Tuesday, January 5 at Mandalay Bay. Furthermore, CTA has named the special and ultra-high performance Ford GT the Official Vehicle of CES 2016. Sweet, right?

The new supercar depicts Ford’s commitment and passion to deliver innovative technologies and improved levels of driving experience through never-ending developing process. Now, the special Ford GT offers advanced and light weight carbon fiber components, along with next-gen technologies that will surely show how the future looks. Under the bonnet, there is a powerful 600+hp (461kW) twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 unit that surprisingly shows and incredible fuel efficiency. This beast is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle that provides ultra-fast gear shifts and enhances the overall drive control.

The vehicle also offers aerodynamic and beautiful exterior design whose every slope, shape and small detail is designed to minimize drag. At the same time the rear spoiler deploys and adjusts its height and pitch angle depending on the road conditions with one single purpose: to contribute to vehicle’s superior performance.

The interior is fully driver- and performance-oriented. It comes with F1-style steering wheel with all the needed controls and knobs, while the transmission paddle-shifters are placed on a more comfortable place for smoother and faster driver response. Of course, there are fully digital and configurable instrument cluster and ton of driver-focused information components.

The supercar will start production in 2016 and will arrive in markets to celebrate Ford GT’s 50th anniversary. As you might know, back in 1966 Ford GT race cars placed 1-2-3 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

Source: Ford

December 2, 2015

TUNE IT! SAFE! Brings a Special Chevrolet Corvette Model

TUNE IT! SAFE! Chevrolet Corvette One-of-a-kind Chevrolet Corvette will support policemen in Germany. Especially sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Transport and Association of Automobile Tuners, this beast is ready to show who is the boss in the neighborhood and beyond. So, apart from being a Chevrolet vehicle and apart from looking great with the special police livery, what makes this vehicle so fearsome and awesome?

TUNE IT! SAFE! Chevrolet Corvette

First of all, it was built by TIKT Performance and now proudly demonstrates a carbon-fiber body with carbon-fiber front lip spoiler, extended fenders and special side skirts. This vehicle is both sexy and aggressive. And surely will serve the police well. In fact, it also features a special lightning pack that adds everything needed in order to make this vehicle look like a police car. And on top of that, the special Chevy machine is geared with 19- and 20-inch RR-1 forged alloy wheels with grey fihish and Hankook tires.

And what about the performance features? The sweetie is capable to go from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.2 seconds and offers a top speed of 290km/h (180mph) thanks to the monstrous 6.2-liter power unit that produces a total of 466hp (343kW) and 464lb-ft of torque. It works in perfect harmony with the seven-speed manual transmission and offers enhanced flexibility and versatility.

TUNE IT! SAFE! Chevrolet Corvette

It looks like bad guys will have some hard time escaping that beast. We wish that this vehicle brings even more justice around German streets and contributes to all people’s happy and safe life.

Source: TUNE IT! SAFE!

December 1, 2015

Meet Manhart’s MHX5 700 Project Based on the X5 M F85

MHX5 700 Front view This special project called MHX5 700 is based on BMW’s X5 M F85 model. We are definitely satisfied what Manhart Performance has achieved with it and therefore we impatiently wanted to share it with you. Although we have seen even stronger X5s by he same tuning company (visit the link below for more information), this one here is surely one-off because it also adds some other cool equipment features.

Engine Optimization

The current X5 M F85-series is factory-fitted with the 4.4 liter V8 engine, which produces 575 hp (423 kW) and 750 Nm (554 lb-ft) as a standard. These numbers weren’t enough for the tuner and therefore it felt the urge to introduce the MHX5 700 program to this BMW model.

The modification began after installing in-house made downpipes and stainless steel sport mufflers with valve control and 100-millimeter twin tailpipes. Then the modification of the engine software began, thus making the datasheet show full 700 hp (515 kW) at 6500 RPM and a brute torque of 900 Nm (665 lb-ft) at 5700 revs.

After the maximum speed limiter was removed, the SUV can even show-off with beefy 315 km/h into the airstream. And if you aren’t keen on that much power, Manhart is offering a “small” Power Stage with 640 hp (471 kW).

Looking Good or Better?

MHX5 700 Rear View

In terms of exterior appearance there hasn’t been done much. But it is in fact sufficient. First we should pay attention to the custom-built foil coverage that comes in Grey Matte. And then we should look lower and spot the 10.5×22 and 11,5×22 inches BBS SV rims. They were fitted with Vredestein Ultrac Vorti high performance tires dimensioning 295/30ZR22 front and 335/25ZR22 rear.

In order to sit lower to the ground, the modified X5 M received H&R lowering springs. They bring it 35mm closer to the ground but also maximize its cornering performance. Even better, there is no loss of the offered comfort.

Inside there is a single change and it includes a new extra AWRON display, which informs the driver about all important MHX5 700 operating parameters and driving dynamics values.

So, which one is your favorite tuning from today?

Source: Manhart Performance

December 1, 2015

Bugatti Is Almost Ready With the Exclusive Chiron Model

The latest Bugatti vehicle will bear the name Chiron, after Louis Chiron, the legendary racing driver who won all the major grand prix events for the luxurious brand back in 1920s and 1930s. In fact, he is connected to Bugatti’s history more than anyone else. The world debut of the super car is scheduled for the 86th Geneva Motor Show in 2016. Bugatti Chiron will continue brand’s successful affair of delivering premium and exclusive vehicles to customers.

Louis Chiron at 1931 Monaco Grand Prix

At this stage, the Chiron is undergoing through its final tests and there are some prototypes on the road for fine-tuning and further experiments that make tests for the variety of road and weather conditions and situations. In fact, there is no other super car that was put to such comprehensive and exhaustive tests and programs.

Meanwhile, there is a special pre-marketing campaign going around for the Chiron model. Bugatti has already invited selected customers to make private reviews. What is also known is that the feedback is mainly positive, even “outstanding”, according to the words of the developing team. There are even some exclusive pre-purchases made that are more than 100. By all it looks like this particular model has something really special to offer. But we will see about that.

Louis Chiron at 1931 Monaco Grand Prix

So, what do you expect from the latest Bugatti vehicle?

Source: Bugatti

December 1, 2015

xXx Performance Ferrari 488 GTB Makes Furore at the Essen Motor Show

xXx Performance Ferrari 488 GTB Front and Side View Another premiere at the Essen Motor Show, this time by the well known tuner xXx Performance. They are currently exhibiting uprated Ferrari 488 GTB, which is so stuffed with power that we can hardly grasp it. And since the first 488 GTBs have just been delivered to their owners, this is the perfect time for launching such an extensive program, isn’t it?

The Body Kit

The first thing to highlight about this Ferrari is its aero body kit. It is of course made of high quality carbon-fibre. You can see a brand new aggressive front spoiler, rear diffuser at the back, side skirts, absolutely new aerodynamically shaped mirrors and air vents next to the rear lights. So this is how the tuners have granted the sports car its even more exclusive looks. And by the way the taillights, the side markers and the rear fog lamps were substituted with shaded ones.

xXx Performance Ferrari 488 GTB Rear and Side View

Filling out the wheel arches are the forged Vossen VPS-315T wheels that come in sizes 9.0×21 and 12.5×21 inch at the front and rear, respectively. They were coupled with 245/30ZR21 and 325/35ZR21 rubbers.

Taking car for the better sports-handling is the specially calibrated set of springs. They lower the ride height with 35 mm. In addition, the experts ensured that there is a hydraulic lift system for both axles, which improves the ground clearance at the touch of a button.

Three Stage Program for the Engine

xXx Performance Ferrari 488 GTB Engine with Carbon Fiber Elements

Driving the 488 GTB is the 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 unit, which has a power output increased via several means. Precisely, the xXx Performance have applied intake, exhaust and ECU upgrades to offer a three-stage tuning programme for this engine. To make a good comparison of the achieved results, we should remind you that the powertrain has standard 670 hp (493 kW) and 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) of torque.

Stage 1 takes these numbers up to 750 hp (551 kW) and 830 Nm (613 lb-ft). The next stage offers 850 hp (625 kW) and 930 Nm (686 lb-ft). At the top of the performance program is the Stage 3, which pushes the engine to unimaginable 1,000 hp (735 kW) and 1,250 Nm (923 lb-ft) of torque!

For the good and loudly soundtrack has been installed flap control sports exhaust system, which features larger downpipes for lower back-pressure. And have you spotted that the engine compartment was embellished with various carbon parts. How cool is that!

Up next is a ‘wild’ tuning program by MANHART and including BMW.

Source: xXx Performance

December 1, 2015

Carbonfiber Dynamics Releases One-Off BMW M4 with 3DDesign-Bodykit

Carbonfiber Dynamics BMW M4 Front View BMW M4 and modified variants of its kind aren’t a rare publication in our blog. We know that there are a lot of crazy-about-BMW fans out there and this is why it is important for us to support your passion with more good cars of this brand. And this is why today we have prepared two. The first example is this M4 tuned by Carbonfiber Dynamics. By the way, if you are living in Germany and are near a city called Essen, then you should definitely go see this custom project. It will be exhibited until 6^th of December at company’s stand at the Essen Motor Show.

One of the most captivating things about this car is that it features new body kit designed by the Japanese BMW specialist at 3DDesign. Of course, the kit is made of nothing else but carbon fiber, although it might be covered with paint here and there.

The Details.

Carbonfiber Dynamics BMW M4 Rear View

The full body kit comprises of some special equipment worth mentioning. The front and rear aprons were substituted with carbon fiber ones, which were additionally partially painted. The other parts in the aprons were left uncovered and can be still recognized as the lightweight material.

The sides are governed by ‘gracile’ side skirts and, furthermore, the rear also received very effective rear spoiler on the trunk edge. All these elements reduce the weight of the car significantly and so are the brand new exhaust system and the rims. They were all produced by 3DDesign as were the hand brake grasp and the pedals in M4’s cabin.

Although this is a not abundantly modified project, we like it because of its simplicity and moderation. Want to share your thoughts about it?

Source: Carbonfiber Dynamics

December 1, 2015

Porsche and the Fairytale for 2017 911 Turbo Models

2017 Porsche 911 Turbo Porsche will make a powerful start in 2016 when the 2017 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. The vehicles will be offered in coupe and convertible body style and will feature sharper and more aggressive design, enhanced driving capabilities and extended list of standard equipment. The 911 Turbo will be geared with a 3.8-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder power unit that produces a total of 540hp (397kW), whereas 911 Turbo S will produce 580hp (426kW) and will further benefit from turbochargers with larger impelle. The meaning of all these numbers is that they contribute to incredible 0 to 100km/h (62mph) acceleration: 911 Turbo S finishes the sprint in 2.8 seconds and has a top speed of 369km/h (205mph), while 911 Turbo offers 2.9 seconds and top speed of 356km/h (198mph).

In fact, the engines also offer a dynamic boost function that improves throttle response during more aggressive driving. What it does is to maintain the boost pressure during load changes which results on better engine responds and enhanced engine flexibility.

Bold and sharp design

2017 Porsche 911 Turbo

The new generation of 911 Turbo models come with restyled front air blades and narrow LED front lights with double fillets. There are new door handles without recess covers, while the rear fascia has also received some attention: it proudly demonstrates three-dimensional lights with four-point brake lights and aura-like illumination. The models also feature dual tailpipes and exhaust tips. And the sporty, yet beautiful exterior affair is finished with stylish 20-inch wheels with seven double spokes.

Additional equipment

The well-known Sport Chrono Pack is now a standard feature for the 2017 editions. It offers some drivetrain tweaks, enhances the driving dynamics and can be used to change the driving character of the vehicle in four ways: Normal, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. Another cool feature is the Sport Response button. When it is pressed, it preconditions the engine and gearbox and offers some boosted performance for up to 20 seconds.

2017 Porsche 911 Turbo

And as we talk about performance, we must mention the PASM feature that delivers even better balance between performance and comfort. Furthermore, 911 Turbo S offers a full array of performance gadgets like the active roll stabilization program and Porsche Composite Ceramic Brake. The vehicles will also benefit from Park Assist front and rear cameras, LED headlights, 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats Plus, two-tone leather interior and carbon-fiber elements.

It gets better and better, right? I wonder, what do you think about Porsche’s 2017 models?

Source: Porsche

December 1, 2015

Volkswagen Expands Scirocco Lineup With Two Special Edition Models

2016 Volkswagen Scirocco Special Edition Volkswagen’s “kerb appeal” of the incredible new Scirocco sports coupe has caught audience’s eye since its release. And there is no other way: with its distinctive exterior appearance and massive, wide and low stance, this third-gen model really deserves its attention. And now Volkswagen team boosts Scirocco’s desirability with two special editions that add extra styling features and enhanced performance rates.

The two additions to Scirocco’s lineup are indeed the Black Edition models: the GT Black Edition and R-Line Black Edition that offer painted alloy wheels, black painted contrast roof, door mirrors and rear spoiler and tinted rear windows. These additions, along with the exclusive ones for every model significantly empower the rich visual appeal of the sexy-looking coupe.

Scirosso GT Black Edition comes with 18-inch Black Lisbon alloy wheels, while the R-Line proudly demonstrates 19-inch Black Lugano alloys. Other styling highlights include special LED tail light design, front bumper with aerodynamic blades, while the inside benefits from a dashboard with stylish instrument panel above the central console and spacious and comfortable ambience.

Under the bonnet, there is one of the six turbocharged direct-injection petrol or diesel units, all of which are EU6 compatible and return between 67.3 and 35.3mpg. The new GT and R-Line editions can be geared with the petrol 1.4-liter 125hp (91kW) or the 2.0-liter 180hp (132kW) units, while the diesel engines are 2.0-liter that offer either 150hp (110kW) or 184hp (135kW) of power output. The 1.4-liter TSI unit comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, while all other combinations are geared with the standard six-speed manual transmission or the optional six-speed DSG gearbox.

Furthermore, the standard equipment includes Composition Media System with 6.5-inch color touch screen, Bluetooth telephone and audio connection, DAB digital radio receiver, MDI via USB connection, automatic headlights and wipers, auto-dimming rear view mirror, height-adjustable sports seats and multifunctional steering wheel.

And the top of the range Scirocco R models add and a bit of sporty and luxury features and components. For example, the Dynamic Chassis Control, Special R sports suspension lowering, Bi-xenon headlights, automatic range adjustment, static cornering function and headlight washers.

Long story short: there is really a reason why Scirocco lineup deserves so much attention given by customers and fans. What do you think about the latest model additions?

Source: Volkswagen

November 30, 2015

Renault Demonstrates the Special and Exclusive “Iconic” Lineup

Renault launches a special hi-tech and performance-oriented trio that is available on Twingo, Clio and Captur as “Iconic” special edition. The upgrade includes interior and exterior tweaks, extended list of goodies and some drivetrain tweaks. The special editions will be available for purchase from 1st December. So, let’s check out what the sweeties have to offer.

Twingo Iconic

Renault Twingo Iconic - Front Angle

Twingo Iconic is built on the Dynamique version of Renault’s trustworthy and versatile city car and includes cruise control, speed limiter, DAB radio, Bluetooth, R&GO smart phone-based navigation, electric front windows and electric heated mirrors and front fog lights. It also features 16-inch Ultraviolet Emblem alloy wheels and a total of four colors that include the new Ultraviolet and Lunar Grey.

The interior offers black part-leather upholstery with white and ultraviolet piping, special door sill plates, floor mats with ultraviolet Twingo motif and additional high-quality components.

The Twingo Iconic can be geared with two engines: the SC3 70 and the turbocharged TCe90 that is available with manual or EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission. The vehicle offers relatively low emissions, measured ad 95g/km and 67.mpg.

Clio Iconic 25 Nav

With a celebration for its 15th anniversary in UK, Clio Iconic 25 Nav supermini comes is available with TCe90 Stop & Start, dCi90 Stop & Start and dCi90 EDC units. Based on the Dynamique S specification, the special edition offers 17-inch “Desire” alloy wheels with black inserts, chrome window sills, extra-tinted rear windows and tailgate and cool cross-hatch-style wing mirror decals as part of the standard equipment. There are also exclusive exterior colors for this model that include Ivory, Diamond Black, Oyster Grey and Mercury. In order to add to the unique presence, customers will have the opportunity to choose additional features, for example black and white cross-hatch-style roof decal.

The inside of the vehicle offers part leather upholstery with front heated seats, leather armrest, leather handbrake and aluminum gear lever. The special black and white design is seen and in the inside.

This Iconic sweetie is based on the top-of-the-range Dynamique S Nav trim that offers automatic climate control, rear electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors. This model offers emissions of 82g/km CO2 and 88.3mpg on the combined cycle.

Captur Iconic Nav

Like the Signature Nav, Captur Iconic Nav is based on the trim levels above Dymamique S Nav. This model comes with two-tone exterior color scheme, but the customer can also choose between six differen body color options: Diamond Black, Ivory, Cappuccino Brown, Oyster Grey, Stone or Mercury – with either a Black, Ivory or Cappuccino roof. There are 17-inch “Explore”alloy wheels with Cappuchino inserts as a standard feature that enhanced the overall exterior look.

The interior of the Captur Iconic Nav is geared with Cappuccino part-leather upholstery with front heated seats and bronze-tinted chrome interior pack. The vehicle also offers customers a number of driver aids and special technologies like Renault’s Techno Pack that includes R-Link Evoluton, rear parking camera and European Mapping and electochrome rear-view mirror. The vehicle also offers rear parking sensors, electrically adjustable mirrors and extra tinted rear windows.

Captur’s range of four engines offer emissions of 95g/km and returns up to 78.5mpg on combined cycle.

Source: Renault

November 30, 2015

Land Rover Discovery and Defender Models Earn Prizes and Recognition

2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport Land Rover secured its positions in the prestigious Scottish Car of the Year Awards by participating with the Discovery Sport model. In fact, this sweetie was also named Best Diesel of 2015 and even claimed the Best Used Car award. All the awards were given by judges from the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers.

Discovery Sport has a fresh 2.0-liter four-cylinder Ingenium diesel power unit that is especially created to deliver class-leading torque and power output and incredible refinement with reduced CO2 emissions and lower fuel consumption, thanks to its lightweight construction and better engineering solutions. This EU6 compliant Ingenium unit is available with 150hp (110kW) and 180hp (132kW) variants.

Furthermore, Discovery Sport is geared with a range of segment-leading safety technologies like pedestrian airbag, Autonomous Emergency Braking and expanded list of driver assistance features all of which contributed to earn the Five Starts Euro NCAP rating. Cool.

2016 Land Rover Discovery

In fact, this year Land Rover Defender celebrates its 67th birthday and with the 2,000,000tn unit the brand has special plans. The lucky model will undergo comprehensive changes and will participate in a special event for funding charity organizations like the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Born Free Foundation.