Auto News – Page 409 – Automobiles Review

Techart Porsche Targa 4 in Lime Yellow [Yes or No?]

2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4 model debuted at the beginning of the year at the Detroit Auto Show. And as we remember it, we get genuinely excited being a reinterpretation of a classic. Now Techart is ready to show us its take on the car through (as they say) sharpening its character. They have created an aero kit, dedicated wheels and unique interior! Starting with the aerodynamic kit, the Techart’s Targa 4 receives wide body with active taillight strip and of course a glass roof with iconic aluminium bar. The kit was made of lightweight fibre composite of carbon and polyurethane RIM, and its characteristics include high levels of load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability with a low tare weight.

Next, it also adds two-part front spoiler I with integrated splitter drags, which serves in terms of lowering the vehicle. It is combined with new rear spoiler II wing profile and new diffuser add-on. Going further, we can’t miss the aero wings, which are integrated into the front air inlets, and create a dynamic shaft outline. They work in concert with the air outlet grille at the front apron.

911 Targa 4 also get exclusive alloys, which are called Techart Formula IV light-alloy wheel and that come in five-twin-spoke design. They are offered in 20- and 21-inch size in various colors. The tuners also offer suspension options for the car. The sport spring kit brings the vehicle closer to the asphalt, while the noselift system generates an additional 45mm of ground clearance by lifting the vehicle level at front axle.

Exhaust systems sport and sport muffler racing deliver the acoustic performance of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models with a touch of a button. The valve-controlled system can be used even when closed under full load across the entire speed range.

Inside, this Porsche gets enhanced with in-house saddlery. The illuminated aluminium door entry guards, the ergonomically shaped thee-spokes multifunctional sport steering wheel with paddle shifters and aluminium sport pedals are all there. The company ha also provided aluminium foot rest, decorative stitching, backrests for sport seats plus in leather, safety belts. There is also the option of Techart Carbon Interior Styling Packages.

Source: Techart

December 4, 2014

Hennessey GMC Yukon Denali HPE650 Runs 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds [VIDEO]

The latest video of Hennessey is exciting! Why? Because it shows how a big American vehicle can sprint as fast as some of the popular sportscars. Of course, behind this performance hides tuning company’s expertise and craftsmanship. The vehicle we are speaking about is the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with the 6.2 liter EcoTec3 V8 engine. The model recently got new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission instead of its six-speed automatic.

With this production engine, and hence before the power-tuning, the vehicle was capable of producing 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. It achieves best 0 – 60 mph run of 7.0 seconds with the Four-Wheel Drive turned “OFF” and the Traction Control switched “ON”.

However, when the engine of the GMC Yukon Denali was supercharged and equipped with Hennessey HPE650 upgrade, the car shows incredible results. It covers the 0 – 60 mph acceleration sprint in mere 4.5 seconds! And the video below confirms that!

To be more precise, the refinement also results in better power output: 665 hp (489 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 892 Nm (658 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The HPE650 supercharged upgrade includes the following: 2.9 liter supercharger and high flow intercooling system, high flow cylinder heads, HPE camshaft and engine management calibration.

Of course all of the necessary gaskets, fluids and hardware were also provided as well as the dyno tuning and road testing. To show its uniqueness the car was equipped with serial-numbered dash and engine plaque, Hennessey and HPE650 exterior badging, supercharged badging and Hennessey embroidered headrests.

httpv://youtu.be/b1qCYz6aEB8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey Performance

December 4, 2014

Reiter Engineering Prepares Powerful Gallardo Extenso for Blancpain GT Series

Reiter Engineering has plans to enter new racecar in the Blancpain GT Series, the US Pirelli World Challenge and the SRO GT Sports Club. The car is based on Lamborghini’s model Gallardo and it has received a comprehensive facelift, after which it is proudly called “Extenso”. At the back, the car seems significantly wider: the rear has received carbon fibre rear quarter panels. In addition, the track width of the rear axle was extended by 13 cm thanks to the utilization of the new wishbones. The result is a total width of 205 cm and of course – better handling.

The torque curve was improved via race camshafts, while the Mahle pistons reduce fuel consumption and increase reliability. At the front we see new front headlights, but at the rear there are new tail lights and considerably wider carbon rear.

At last, but not least we must mention the sound of this Lambo, which stands at the top of the new specifications along with the visual packaging.

Reiter Engineering also disclosed that they will focus clearly on the performance levels which are to be expected for 2016 and beyond. And due to the exemplary history of the company that includes over 100 cars built, over 200 race wins and more than 400 podium results, the redesign of the Gallardo GT3 is a strategic move.

The specialists will create only 10 Reiter Gallardo Extenso for customers. Depending on thei personal taste, the vehicles can be manufactured in “Carbon-Black” or “Titanium-Grey”. If the first is hosen, then the entire skin will be left in carbon-black except for the Aluminium doors and the roof skin. In the other case, the titanium-grey impresses with its aggressive military appeal.

Source: Reiter Engineering

December 3, 2014

McLaren Special Operations Introduces MSO Defined Division

McLaren Special Operations or more commonly known as MSO has announced the release of MSO Defined division which offers individual personalization options for the McLaren 650S and the 625C. This marks the start of the first of five personalization and support options offered by MSO. The newly formed division joins the MSO Bespoke, which specialises in one-off models, MSO Limited that produces limited-edition series production cars, MSO Heritage, focused on the maintenance and storage of historic cars and the MSO Programmes that includes the McLaren P1 GTR.

MSO Defined line will enable customers to truly express themselves through their vehicles. To be more precise, the program includes aerodynamic kit, which was created in order to improve the design of 650S and features subtle carbon fibre interior upgrades.

On the outside, there is additional carbon fibre rear diffuser option as well as extended side door blades. Weight can be saved via the full carbon fibre rear deck and mirror arms. At the same time the interior options include extended carbon fibre shift paddles and a redesigned instrument cluster with Formula 1 inspired shift lights mounted on the instrument cluster.

MSO Bespoke is what provides customers with limitless level of customization in terms of paint, leather and stitching colours and upholstery and body. The MSO Limited has already designed limited-run and special edition examples of the 650S and 12C. The models produced include the McLaren 50 12C and 12C Spider, built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the McLaren brand in 2013 and theMSO 650S, which debuted at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

MSO Heritage offers an unrivalled level of knowledge and expertise on the McLaren F1, while the MSO Programmes division encompasses the upcoming McLaren P1 GTR Driver Programme. Each car will be built, maintained and prepared by MSO in advance of the rack days held at the F1 circuits.

Source: McLaren

December 3, 2014

Eco-Friendly Honda N-Box Slash Debuts in Japan

Honda N-Box Slash is a new mini passenger car which is specifically created for Japanese customers. Its strange forms and “box-like” shape is what makes this model truly distinctive. The N-BOX Slash is scheduled to be released on 22nd of December and until then no detailed information will e revealed. We have only received scarce data and some photos which you can view below.

As visible, the car s based on the layout of the N-series, but if you look carefully thorough the images you will see that it includes exclusive packaging and excellent features. It is better looking in comparison to the 2013 N-One and undoubtedly looks more interesting.

Take for instance the fact that Honda has prepared five distinctive exterior and interior designs. Furthermore, the car weighs less than its predecessor. It also includes range of innovations and is built upon the concepts of retro lightweight passenger hatchback, comfort and excellent economy.

The N-series currently feature the following range of models: N-BOX or NTT box, “N-BOX + or NTT box plus, N-ONE or Enuwan and the fourth model – N-WGN or Enuwagon. The N-Series are also built to fit the rigid Kei car class, which means that they shouldn’t be longer than 11 feet and wider than feet.

We do expect to see this mini powered by the same 600cc three-cylinder engine, which drives front wheels, and that we have already seen in the already released four cars in the lineup.

Source: Honda

December 3, 2014

Novitec’s Spofec Refines the Refined Rolls-Royce Wraith

Do you remember Novitec’s Spofec Rolls-Royce Wraith? The company has refined the car luxury further and with custom components, 22-inch wheels and lowered suspension. But this is not everything: there is also carbon-ceramic high-performance braking system and more importantly – boost for the engine, which now produces more than 700 horsepower. Spofec’s stainless-steel sports exhaust system on the other hand features electronic sound management.

To go into details, tuning company’s newly developed front carbon fiber bumper replaces the production one. Thanks to this it not only gives the Rolls-Royce more distinctive face, but also minimizes negative lift on the front axle. Two front flaps upgrade the grille in the bumper and make the car with more muscular appearance.

Next, the rocker panels are also new and they come to ensure lower and longer visual stance. The stylized air extractors behind the front wheel arches and the sweeping light-catching contour complement the sporty look.

At the rear we see carbon spoiler and new rear bumper as well as spoiler lip on the trunk. The mentioned wheels are under the designation SP1. They are with ten double spokes offset in two planes and come in sizes 9Jx22 at the front and 10.5Jx22 on the rear axle. The wheels are available in silver, matte black or titanium and are wrapped in Pirelli performance rubbers in sizes 265/35 ZR 22 and 295/30 ZR 22 for the front and rear, respectively.

The new air suspension features a special control module which lowers the ride height of the car by 40 millimeters at speeds below 140 km/h. At higher speeds the body automatically reverts to its original level.

In addition, the carbon-ceramic high-performance braking system includes vented discs that measure 405 x 30 and 395 x 38 millimeters respectively offers total weight savings of 38 kilograms.

What also has to be mentioned is the 6.6-liter V12 engine which received a boost and now involves the integration of a processor-controlled plug-and-play N-TRONIC module into the engine electronics. The result is a maximum power output of 717 hp (527 kW) and 986 Nm (728 lb-ft).

This of course means faster acceleration which in this case is measured at 4.2 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. The top speed remains limited to 250 km/h. At last, the stainless-steel sports exhaust systems saves up to five kilograms and features electronic sound management which can be remotely controlled from the cockpit.

Source: Novitec

December 3, 2014

Vauxhall Reveals First Pictures of VIVA

Vauxhall has revealed its brand new model called VIVA via first official photos. The car is scheduled to be launched in the spring of 2015. It will be powered by specially-developed 1.0-litre ECOTEC powertrain and will offer comfortable and practical with room for up to five people. Seamless smartphone integration is secured via the addition of IntelliLink connectivity. The five-door entry-level model will join ADAM and Corsa in the small-car range.

The vehicle is named after the original Viva which was in production from 1963 to 1979. It also shares the same clean lines, durability and practicality, and is designed for modern, everyday life. With its length of 3.68 metres it provides more than enough room for up to five people.

Three strong feature lines swoop down the sides with the signature ‘blade’, slicing through the doors. The two others run through the front and rear door handles. The front end of the model includes distinctive winged chrome bar and the Griffin badge.

The front and rear have one thing in common and this is the large head- and taillights. In addition, VIVA will be available in ten exterior paint colours with a variety of 14- to 16-inch wheels.

As mentioned, the car will be powered via the new ECOTEC engine, which produces 75 horsepower (55 kW) and is mated to a five-speed transmission. In terms of equipment, the mini gets the IntelliLink infotainment system that allows integration of Apple iOS and Android devices.

Other technology features include ESP with traction control, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Hill Start Assist. Safety options feature Lane Departure Warning, City mode which reduces steering effort and Park Assist.

Source: Vauxhall

December 3, 2014

“Ring your Setup” – Adaptive KW DDC ECU with Smartphone App for Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series is a pure driving machine which offers pure driving pleasure. With its power output of 517 HP (380 kW), deriving from its powerful 6.2-litre-V8 engine, the car demonstrates a certain amount of sophistication, sportiness and convenience. Now with the adaptive KW DDC coilover kit and app, the experts from KW automotive set improved characteristics and virtues which result in maximized comfort and excellent experience on the road.

There are three different modes which the KW DDC ECU coilover kit offers so that the driver can alter the damping characteristics to the road conditions. The options include: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+” all of which are just one button away from the person who drives the vehicle. The free KW DDC App via iPhone or any other iOS or Android compatible Smartphone also allows such configuration.

Right in the heart of the development of these KW DDC ECU coilovers is situated the „Comfort“ mode and its soft dampings. Being the primary focus, it serves the purpose to provide comfort-oriented setup (which is pretty obvious by the name). Furthermore, the KW DDC control module is able to scan the vehicle data while driving the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Black Series and automatically adapts the damping characteristics to the driving speed. The “Sport” mode is defined by more agile and lively move. When in “Sport+”, the sporty damping characteristics double the lively sporty performance of the C 63 AMG.

In case there is a technical error, the KW DDC ECU coilovers automatically switch into a mechanical failsafe mode. In consequence, a proportional valve is adjusted instantly to a neutral middle position and the dampers continue to work in the KW basic setup.

Completely mounted KW coilover struts replace the original struts when installing the KW DDC ECU kit. The new ones come in “inox-line” stainless steel finish and allow a continuous lowering of 0 – 20mm at the front and rear axle.

Source: KW

December 3, 2014

World Debut of Ferrari FXX K

Ferrari has officially revealed the FXX K ahead of its debut in Abu Dhabi during the Finali Mondiali event. The car is formerly known as the LeFerrari XX and is based on Maranello’s first hybrid machine. The K in its moniker refers to the “KERS” kinetic energy recovery system which it adopts in order to maximize its track performance.

Now to the basics. The FXX K is equipped with the basic V12-plus-electric engine just like the road-going LaFerrari. This time around, though, it generates more power. Presicely, 101bhp more power. As a result, the car shows off with a total output of 1036bhp. Thus, there is 848bhp that derives from the 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine and 187bhp from the electric motor. Combined maximum torque is estimated at 664 lb-ft.

Even though Ferrari hasn’t announced any performance inormation for the LeFerrari, it is expected to dazzle with an amazing 0-62 mph sprint time of no more than three seconds. As it seems, it is going to be really fast. And furios. (Those just cant exist separately.)

The new Ferrari FXX K has attained a number of additional devices and features. At the front there is a 30 mm lower twin-profile spoiler, with vertical fins which tranmist air over the car’s flanks, and propels the efficiency of the aerodynamic underbody. The verticle fin-winglet arrangements on each side of the retractable rear spoiler function as guide vanes and boost the spoilers efficiency in optimized downforce mode.

According to Ferrari, this results in 50% improvement in downforce in the low drag configuration and a 30% improvement in the more aggressive downforce configuration with a final figure of 540 kg at 200 km/h.

Finally, the dynamics of the FXX K are enhanced even more by the use of Pirelli slicks complete with sensors that monitor longitudinal, lateral and radial acceleration, as well as temperature and pressure.

Source: Ferrari

December 3, 2014

New Year, New Technology Equipment for Toyota Prius+

Fresh look, top-level technological advancements, improved safety and quality is what the 2015 Toyota Prius+ is offering now. The car manufacturer, Toyota, took the wraps off the refined Prius+ at the Paris motor show and with the wraps any doubts related to the standards of the car also fell off . The restyled seven-seat hybrid depicted a new model line-up, Excel Plus, which joined the established Icon and Excel models.

All versions are equipped with LED headlamps, new LED rear light clusters and an edgier front-end treatment. The entry level Icon model receives the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio and reversing camera, as well as a tyre pressure warning system. The interior is redisigned too. There is an altered center console, dark trim finish and perfected seat fabrics. A color TFT screen has been added to the upper instrument panel too.

Moreover, the Toyota Touch 2 with Go system is available on Excel and Excel Plus models. It contributes to the technological comfort of the cars with navigation and connectivity functions, including access to live traffic information. In addition, there is also a touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, reversing camera, and a tyre pressure warning system. Toyota’s Pre-Crash Safety system is included too and it helps the driver avoid a collision or reduces the consequences if an impact actually occurs.

Parking becomes easier than ever thanks to the integrate Toyota Intelligent Parking Assist. It scans free parking spaces and provides automatic steering which directs the Prius+ when if finds an available parking spot.

Prius+ retains its highly efficient hybrid powertrain, which produces combined cycle performance figures of 68.9mpg and (road tax-exempt) 96g/km when fitted with 16-inch wheels and 64.2mpg and 101g/km with 17-inch wheels.

The arrival of the new 2015 Prius+ is also marked by the addition of two new metallic paint options: Sienna Bronze and Galaxy Black.

Source: Toyota

December 3, 2014

Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Enhanced by Posaidon

There are always numbers of high-speed and more-power-connoisseurs who simply never get enough from what they receive. The constant demand for more and more ushers tuning companies to push their craftsmanship and abilities to their limits and produce something that will have the ultimate WOW-factor.

Such is the situation with the current Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Its sufficient serial output of 557 PS does not seem to be satisfying enough. For this reason, Posaidon is taking care of the performance improvements of the car, thus answering the needs of a large number of performance enthusiasts.

With the additionally generated PS in the E-class by Posaidon, the car turns into a real driving machine. Due to fine coordination of the motor electronics, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG “RS 850” demonstrates an expanded power output of 853 PS. Respectively, the torque jumps from 720 Nm to the impressive 1,300 Nm which will leave you dumbfounded. The maximum speed is 345 km/h, electronically limited. The gearbox and the rear axle are optimized as well in order to resist the increased stress. In addition to this, Posaidon professionals offer less extreme performance stages, varying from 630 to 749 PS for all model series with M157 63 AMG biturbo motors.

The performance treatment includes two upgrade turbochargers installed in connection with a changed charging air cooling, optimized suction paths of the 5.5 litres V8-biturbo drive and completely new exhaust technology which replaced the old one. The brand-new exhaust system is comprised of turbo downpipes, racing sports catalysers and flap control.

Undoubtedly, with such improvements, Posaidon definitely manages to unleash the full potential of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG “RS 850”.

Source: XMedia-Group

December 3, 2014

Vorsteiner Flow Forged V-FF 102 Wheels for Audi B8 S4

If you have a German car, some of the key characteristics which you would like to highlight on the car are: style, reliability and quality. Hence, in order to contribute to the overall appearance of the driving machine, Vorsteiner keeps coming up with original and high-class products. The tuner is known for its innovative body pieces but it also has a great variety of forged wheels that it offers. Now, the tuning company is pleased to release its latest photos of the brand-new V-FF 102 Flow Forged Wheels.

The model which is able to take advantage of the new sets is Audi S4. It is pictured in Vorsteiner’s impressive wheels in Carbon Graphite finish sized 20×9.5 in all four corners. The Concave profile of these V-FF 102’s utilizes a 255/30/20 tire for a rub-free fitment even after a moderate drop.

With the new Vorsteiner Flow Forged wheels, this Audi definitely makes a statement. It looks even more sophisticated and ready to conquer the streets.

The Vorsteiner Flow Forged series represent the entry level performance wheels which have almost all of the advantages of the company’s forged wheels at only a fraction of the cost. Compared to a conventional cast construction, the implemented Flow Forged Technology is approximately 25% lighter. Nevertheless, it is much stronger. At Vorsteiner they know how to satisfy the requirements and expectations of drivers while providing them with some of the best products in the market.

V-FF 102 Flow Forged Wheels
• Wheel Finish: Carbon Graphite
• Wheel Size: 20×9.5 Front, 20×9.5 Rear
• Tire Size: 255/30/20 Michelin Pilot Super Sports

Source: Vorsteiner

December 3, 2014

Category: Auto News